New Romance

by Jolly Bean

Shiho knew all along her feelings for a particular silver-hair Commander will not be returned. What if she is wrong? Yzak probably needs more time to put it all together. Plus, a couple of shoves from their friends and a series of incidents to make him realise. R&R please :)

7. Chapter 5

HI EVERYONE! I'M BACK, LIKE FINALLY! HUGS & KISSES to you all, xoxo

Very sorry about the much delayed update because I wanted this story to be exactly as how it played out in my mind. Plus, it is to serve the purpose of setting the foundation for what it is to come in the coming chapters.

To Pandora154085: I'm glad that it was a Christmas gift you enjoyed :D I hope you will find this one a good update, write to me when you are done reading this chapter ya? I wanna hear your thoughts about it, hugs!

To Monkeyheart3: OMG! HAPPY (BELATED) BIRTHDAY TO YOU! hahaha, you bet Chloe will definitely throw a fit when Yzak chooses Shiho, will for it. It will come :P and yes, Cagalli and Athrun will make an appearance in this chapter but... I don't know, it wouldn't be as what you expected (I think). I hope you won't be mad with me after reading this chapter. Yeah, about that stupid purple head... they are officially married though. Guess Cagalli will have to make a clean cut in the coming chapters, right? hehe, see you in the next chapter~ leave me your thoughts, ya?

To Sybretooth: TADA! here you go, read away, hahah! Sorry about the long wait, hope you find this chapter worth it! let me know what you think :D

To Sandyx5: Hi there! Welcome to this little fanfic :D I hope you enjoyed this chapter's pacing and not too pissed with the pacing between Yzak and Shiho. I believe the next or following few chapters will bring them closer. Distance makes the heart grow fonder... hear from you soon~

DISCLAIMER: I do not own Gundam SEED and Gundam SEED Destiny.

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New Romance: Chapter 5

"Your Highness."

Hearing Murrue Ramius' address, Cagalli reluctantly looked away from the window, from the stars.

Meeting the warm eyes of Archangel captain, the Princess of Orb nodded to the file in her hands. "You know I've developed an allergy to file, folders… even a tablet. All that."

"This will supplement the briefing I am about to conduct." Ramius offered a small smile at the Princess' slight joking tone.

The young ruler of ORB returned the smile. Ramius took that as a sign that she could proceed and walked in.

Cagalli nodded to the leather sofa in front of her, silently telling her to take a seat. Ramius smiled her thanks and got comfortable. The blonde royalty prefers her and those whom she regarded as friends to drop the title and formality when they are alone.

All except one. A particular blue-haired Coordinator male.

One wrong move triggered another, and many others after. The older woman felt her heart clenched in pain to see the lingering loneliness in Cagalli's eyes. While the world held her in high regards as one of the youngest royalty in power, and a royalty well-loved by her people, Ramius and those who knows the Lioness of ORB personally felt the suffocating void in the Princess' heart.

"What is it? I'm not keen in photos of their units in display." Cagalli clipped. "The news mentioned about it and I will be seeing them later… dammit, I have to put up with the VIP tour when we land."

The captain of Archangel pursed her lips to can the sigh that almost slipped.

The young woman in front of her was tired. Her soul was weary. She has been. Ever since she stepped forward, and wrestle back the control over ORB.

Ramius couldn't remember the last time she saw the sparkle in those honey orbs. There was only absolute authority in the Lioness' piercing gaze when she was in Office. Unspoken sorrow and resignation whenever she looked out of window or up at the stars.

Eyes closed in remembrance of the warmth and love she lost, when children stepped forward to hug Her Royal Highness. A sad smile etched on her young face as she returned their innocent endearing gesture, while their parents or guardians took photo and voiced their gratitude and respect towards Her Royal Highness.

The Lioness of Orb has never said it but everyone close to her knew. She missed her father. She missed those carefree days. Most importantly, she missed Athrun Zala.

The man who almost killed her when they first met. The man who gave up everything in PLANTS to remain by her side.

The man who turned around and left.

The man whom Cagalli Yula Athha could not welcome back into her heart. Because she was now Her Royal Highness, Ruling Princess of ORB. Soon-to-be Queen. Soon-to-be ex wife of the late Yuna Roma Seiran.

"Unless… you are saying they have some new 'toys' and they actually put it up for show." The Princess shifted her body to face her. Although she leaned back against the seat, Ramius knew better. The Lioness somewhat knew the reason behind her presence in this room.

"After all, Ezalia Joule is still the largest shareholder of Martius Arsenals, and Maius Military Industries." Cagalli shrugged as she folded her arms. "Rolling out new 'toys' has always been a priority. Keeping ZAFT's fighting capability in her hands has always been her utmost priority."

With a wry smile, she continued. "Ezalia Joule maybe under House Arrest but she is still active… And she's buying time for her son, who happens to turn 21 in a couple of hours."

Seeing the confused look on her captain, Cagalli went on to fill her in. "Yzak Joule turned 21 today. Whatever that belongs to Ezalia Joule and everything that her late husband willed to her, will become Yzak Joule's. If I'm right about her, she will release just a portion of it to him until he is able to stand on his own… until he has his base of supporters or shows he has the calibre for her supporters to work for him, just like what they have been doing for her."

Ramius stepped forward with disbelief on her face, "there's Lacus -"

"Lacus… was never a player in the game." The Princess of ORB said in a tired breath. That was also the reason why her brother gave up a quiet residence in ORB and followed the ex-songstress to PLANTS. The pink-haired Coordinator was stepping into the lion's den. One that her late father, Siegel Clyne, was unable to maintain a stable footing on.

"I don't know what is going to become of us, especially her…" Kira said quietly, his long fingers clasped firmly, while his face crumpled into a worried mess. "Her father was assassinated. There was one on her too… what's next? pause and there is Yzak Joule."

"You aren't sure about him…" Cagalli looked into her brother's lavender orbs and saw a hint of deep-seated fear and worry for his significant half.

The slight twitch in his posture told his sister all she need to know.

"No, you don't trust him." She nailed it. Kira is worried because of Lacus' rumoured right-hand man, Yzak Joule.

"Because he is the son of Ezalia Joule." She added, voicing her thought aloud. "You think he will come after Lacus."

The Ultimate Coordinator swallowed. "Lacus is aware of the possibility but she told me that she trust him. It's Ezalia Joule… Lacus said that he has no choice in his current predicament. Everyone in the Supreme Council and National Defense Committee knew that he was strung along. And that it wasn't his choice to hold those two positions."

Cagalli couldn't help but to let a sarcastic chuckle slipped, earning a puzzled look from her brother. "People change, Kira. I didn't have a choice or a say in becoming what I am today and what I've done in order to be where I am today."

The frown on Kira's face etched deeper into his youthful face. Guilt in his eyes. Looking away, she continued. "If Ezalia Joule or those against her drives Yzak Joule to a corner…"

Her brother turned sharply towards her, "what do you think he will do?"

The blonde princess meet her brother's worried gaze squarely, "it's like taking your feet off the tiger's throat, after stepping on it and choking it the whole time."

Kira swallowed. "Lacus will be a civilian casualty…"

A sarcastic chuckled slipped from Cagalli. "You can't consider Lacus as a civilian casualty. Not when she is the Chairwoman. Supporters of her late father wanted her in the Supreme Council, and Lacus could have walk away after ORB has agreed to the ceasefire agreement with ZAFT. But she took it, Kira. She should have back off when she had the chance."

Her brother pursed his lips in frustration, "have you worked with Yzak Joule before or enter a discussion with him?"

The blonde has a slanted smile as she shook her head, "I'm sure you have noticed his absence whenever I'm in PLANTS."

The male blew out a breath of exasperation.

Although Kira has yet to work with Yzak Joule, he knew all along that guy was a tough nut to crack, regardless his fiery temperament in the past or current mellowed ways. Yzak Joule is nowhere near friendly with him. No. Yzak Joule is not even conversational with him. The platinum blonde was cordial at best. Kira is very sure it was on the account of Lacus, being the Chairwoman, his boss.

"He's like his mother. People like them don't play well with others. They don't even bother to try." Cagalli noted aloud.

"Chairman Durandal benefitted from Ezalia Joule and her supporters… so much that he can't touch her son, even if the law expects him to. Dearka Elthman was just lucky that he was Yzak Joule's best friend."

Kira's face crumpled with confusion, while his twin sister gave him a pointed look. "Dearka Elthman turned his back against ZAFT, while Yzak Joule shot down a civilian shuttle, and defied ZAFT orders later too. Dearka Elthman should be serving life sentence in prison, and his family would have gone down with him. Yzak Joule should be sentenced to death for what he has done."

Her younger brother pursed his lips as he pondered quietly. He must be wondering how the hell could Chairman Durandal disregard the law and excused them. Especially Yzak Joule's sentence. Taking over Ezalia Joule's positions was not even a punishment in any sense.

"Chairman Durandal. Think about it. How was it possible for someone from a Representative's office climb the ladder so fast?"

"He was from the Moderate faction." Kira responded, looking more lost than before. He noticed his sister had a sad smile on for a brief second before smirking at him.

Kira Yamato may have fought two wars and survived but he has no idea how deceiving and despicable the world is. "The Radical faction is filled with powerful people like Ezalia Joule. What makes you think they will cooperate and obey someone just as powerful as themselves?"

When she was met with silence, Cagalli continued. "Ezalia Joule is not someone who put all her eggs into one basket."

Kira turned sharply at her with shocked widened eyes, "are you saying the Moderate faction has her supporters too?"

She meet her brother's eyes squarely, "She was stripped of her titles and positions. Yet, her son was selected to take over her positions, instead of nominating someone out of the circle. Sure, there are a handful who disagree with the move but in the end, Chairman Durandal signed the papers with blessing from the Moderate Faction. Or most of people in it. What do you think?"

"So it's not him. It's his mother."

"You mean… it's just a matter of time before the mother or the son get rid of Lacus?" Ramius gasped slightly, bringing her back to reality. She knew the political world was a dog-eat-dog world. However, should anything happen to Lacus, it will feel as if shit happens at home. Before the second war happened, the quiet time spent at Lacus' residence and orphanage brought them closer.

"The mother, a definite yes… the House Arrest is like a temporary wheel clamp on her. No one can keep a lid on Ezalia Joule. The house arrest was the best move for whoever wasn't in her camp."

Ramius pursed her lips and kept to herself. No doubt wondering how Ezalia Joule was so formidable.

"Killing Isaac Joule, her husband, was the worst mistake Earth Alliance has ever made." The Princess muttered.

"Isaac Joule wasn't a usual KIA case?" Ramius asked, looking rather confused.

Before Ezalia Joule rose as a prominent political figure and a force not to be trifled with, she was known for her marriage to Isaac Joule. She was a surgeon, the heiress of old money and one of the world's finest supercar manufacturer. While Isaac Joule was a decorated ZAFT officer, who was also a heir to old money and two arms manufacturing giants. Martius Arsenals, and Maius Military Industries. Two of the three that made up ZAFT's Integrated Design Bureau.

"There were many speculations behind the death of Isaac Joule…. Everything pointed to a covert operation against Earth Alliance, Atlantic Federation in particular."

"No wonder her radical stand against Naturals. Especially against Atlantic Federation."

"Isaac Joule's death made her to be the Ezalia Joule all of us came to know." Cagalli couldn't help but to wonder if that was the reason behind Yzak's hostility towards Athrun. Patrick Zala was Isaac Joule's second-in-command back then. Patrick Zala, just like the rest of the team, came back alive even though they were badly injured. However, Isaac Joule was the only casualty from the team.

"As for her son… we will wait and see. The whole world is, especially when the term is ending and he isn't talking." The blonde princess folded her arms and gave an amused look.

Her bet is Yzak Joule will run for election, to become a full-time Supreme Council member and keep a tight grip over his position in the National Defense Committee. Otherwise, the shares of Martius Arsenals, and Maius Military Industries, which Ezalia Joule will hand over to him, will go to waste. No point being the largest shareholder of the two manufacturing giants, thus, being the largest shareholder in ZAFT's Integrated Design Bureau, when one has no political power or influence to complement it. The situation could not be more perfect than that.

If Cagalli was right about Ezalia Joule's plan, this is it. The perfect situation for her son to take over her reins, and to keep ZAFT and its fighting capability within the Joule's control. Instead of the Chairperson's or anyone else. It will be an arrangement that Yzak Joule has no choice but to follow and push it to the next level. Becoming the next Chairperson of the Supreme Council. This will put him head to head with Lacus Clyne, whom had no chance in keeping her position as The Chairperson.

While the blonde princess was absorbed in her train of thoughts, Ramius can't help but to notice that her young friend has changed. She was no longer than helpless, confused, naive princess. The power struggle against the other three families had taught her much, if not, all she need to know about the world they lived in. All man for themselves. The departure of her father, her love and her brother had affected her in more ways than she admits. Ramius didn't know it was for the better or for the worse.

"Let's start the briefing." The Princess sounded, shifting on the plush seat of her chartered flight.

Ramius nodded and flipped the folder open. "This folder is nonexistent after this meeting." Cagalli gave her amused look, before she shifted her attention to the content on display.

A frown appeared. "They have upgraded several experimental units-."

"And they are put up for public viewing. Surprise, surprise." The blonde princess muttered under her breath. "I wonder whose idea was that."

"Intel has it that ZAFT intends to make their fleet ... 'adaptive'."

That line made the royalty's frown etched deeper into her young face. "Do you mean what I think you are going to say?"

"We know that FAITH officers who are more skilled have their own units of customised capabilities. Such units can be 'adapted' and be deployed to anywhere, any terrains on Earth."

The Princess arched an eyebrow at Ramius, "on Earth? Funny, how they saw it coming already."

The ex-captain of Archangel nodded grimly. The situation on Earth was deteriorating faster than anyone expected. Once again, between Earth Alliance and PLANTS.

After the First Alliance-PLANTS War, both Earth Alliance and PLANTS were supposed to 'return' or reinstate all territories captured during the war, back to its respective government of the countries.

Upon 'returning' Carpentaria Base and Gibraltar Base to ZAFT, Earth Alliance redrew its boundaries causing the base's territory - land, airspace and maritime space to be significantly smaller than what the base occupied prior to Earth Alliance's capture.

In response, PLANTS refused the Eurasian Federation's request to hand over of its asteroid fortress, Artemis. Including the removal the Neutron Jammers delivered immediately after the massive damage caused by Le Creuset team, which was in pursuit of the Archangel back then. With its infamous Lightwave Barrier shut, ZAFT sent a fleet over, wiping the fortress clean of Earth Alliance' control.

PLANTS also refused to hand over one of Earth Alliance's moonbase, the Daedalus base, which was also occupied and controlled by ZAFT.

The Princess said with a hint of disbelief at the end, "so they are going to roll out this 'adaptive' feature or technology to the main fleet."

Ramius shook her head, "Intel is still digging but ZAFT never had a history of allocating resources likes this to the main pool."

A cynical chuckle slipped as Cagalli recalled how ZAFT tricked Republic of East Asia, right after the newly-minted alliance, to be its shield against Atlantic Federation. "The main pool is just a mean for them to buy time when shit happens."

Making the fleet 'adaptative' in order to fight on any terrain of Earth is a big investment. If she has such a technology in her hands, it will be a privilege for the brightest and best fighters, with the highest kill-counts within a reasonably short deployment period in the frontline. No doubt this fleet which ZAFT will roll out the 'adaptivity' is small but very capable.

"It's said that ZAFT will bring this feature to the Red Coats." The brunette continued, while Cagalli corrected her. "It's a big group, considering the investment on a single unit. Rather than all of the Red Coats, it will just a few. The more capable ones. Red Elites."

Ramius looked confused, "do you know them?"

She didn't mean in person but rather 'on paper'. Intelligence gathered by the Hive, ORB's very own CIA. The most unique fact is that it's formed to serve The Lioness only. The late Chief Representative was held in high regard for many things. One, which she came to know after working for Cagalli, was his protectiveness and love for his adopted daughter.

"Aside from the seniority that comes from number of deployments, there is no form of segmentation or rank among the Red Coats." Ramius voiced, while Cagalli smiled at her.

"It was never put in paper but Red Coats like Shinn Asuka and the one piloting The Big Blue are Red Elites."

"Shinn Asuka… and the Big Blue?"

"Yes, Shinn Asuka. He and his girlfriend both are Red Coats but he outranked her. Any FAITH officer or higher ups will know. Red Coats like Lunamaria Hawke herself, doesn't know but it doesn't matter."

"Shinn Asuka has a girlfriend? I thought -"

"The Extended is dead. Not too sure if Lunamaria Hawke and Shinn Asuka are an official couple... They are still in the same team though. ZAFT is strict about such matters. Even though PLANTS, as a whole, need more babies."

"Lunamaria Hawke… that name sounds familiar."

"She had a younger sister, Meyrin. She's a Green. CIC." The clipped tone in Cagall's voice as the name rolled off brought a familiar face to Ramius' mind.

That was the girl whom Athrun saved while he was away, and was with him when he met up with Kira and Lacus. When Cagalli was nearby. She saw and heard everything.

"Do you want to speak with Cagalli? I can-"

"It's fine, for now."

"Athrun. The both of you can't go on like this-"

"I've got to go."

Sunset has always been a mesmerising sight to behold, in normal circumstances. That particular one, was the most suffocating one Ramius has encountered. For a moment, she was certain that Cagalli did not breathe. The Princess stood there frozen and looked at Athrun's retreating figure.

The Princess did not speak for the rest of that evening and next day. Following day, she commenced plans to tighten the noose around the necks of remaining three royal families, and roadmapped the massive overhaul of her Cabinet.

The journey was stormy in simple words. Ramius and the rest of the group considered it as a mean for the Princess to distract herself from the troubled relationship.

When Athrun's application to enlist into ORB's military was brought to light by Andrew Waltfeld, who was a Captain like her, who also knew about the complicated ties, everyone was certain that the Princess will make sure he was not accepted.

Much to everyone's surprise, she did. However, he was posted out of Earth and into space, to Heliopolis. Those who knew of Athrun's involvement in the war, knew that Princess was punishing him. The blue-haired Coordinator was part of the team that infiltrated Heliopolis and stole the 4G units. That was where all of this started.

Andrew Waltfeld said the Princess was hitting him under the belt, while exacting revenge. He is stationed at a place where his close comrade was shot down in front of his eyes. Revenge because the Princess' residence was once shared with Athrun, when he took up the identity of Alex Dino and lived with her. No doubt she will be reminded of all the times they shared together. The place where he is stationed at, held horrible memories, reminding him of how he was part of it. Because it was the place where recent two wars started.

"Never underestimate the punishment dished out by the Lioness. Harsh is the word." Andrew Waltfeld drawled as he sipped his coffee.

"As long as Shinn Asuka and The Big Blue are not deployed, it's not my concern." The Princess clipped. She didn't need to be reminded how close she was from being killed by Shinn Asuka. Most importantly, she didn't want to be reminded of her conversation with Meyrin Hawke. She didn't want to revisit that encounter. It had hurt a lot to look into her eyes.

She saw everything in her greyish-blue eyes.

The surprise from her appearance, a Royalty, in front of her.

The fear of why she, Lioness of ORB, wants to speak with her.

The admiration for him, which the younger girl tried to hide, at the mention of his name.

The pleasant surprise, confusion, and then, joy when she (Cagalli) told her to take care of him.

The blonde unknowingly drew a shaky breath as her heart slowly and painfully tore open at same scar she had tried so hard to close and forget it's existence.

She, the Princess of ORB, had once chained him to the ground. She have to let him go.

He had made it clear that his wings were irreparably damaged and clipping them was his choice, but she knew better. He wanted to remain by her side. He knew she was dragged into the adult world overnight, and of all places, it was the dark and terrifying world.

He knew she needed a sanctuary to go after daily battles among the snakes. He knew she needed to surround herself with people she could trust. He had been the first. He had volunteered, when he could have return to PLANTS and negotiate for a favourable arrangement. Afterall, he was the son of Patrick Zala. The sole heir to Asimov Design Bureau, the third arms manufacturing firm, which made up ZAFT's Integrated Design Bureau.

She should never approve his enlistment papers. She tried convincing herself that she accepted it for the future of ORB'S military. By keeping the son of PLANTS' late leader, who will become one of the two key holders to ZAFT's technology, close to her. One day, she will figure a way to leverage on it. For the sake of ORB. In fact, she doesn't have a single clue on how to use that to her or ORB's advantage.

She refused to admit to the quiet little voice at the back of her mind. She misses him.

Ramius pursed her lips at the Princess' sudden change of topic. From Meyrin Hawke and back to the Red Elites. She doesn't want to talk about the girl.

The brunette decided to go along with it and nodded in response.

She was right. If Shinn Asuka, a Red Elite, is not deployed, it shouldn't be a huge matter. Unless ZAFT is bent on an absolute wipe out or confident that they can win or desperate, it doesn't deploy the Red Elites. An image of a tall, bulky, blue machine flashed in her mind.

"The Big Blue…"

Cagalli blinked and shifted her gaze back to Ramius, prompting her to continue.

"Do you mean the experimental unit, DEEP ARMS?"

The Princess nodded, "that machine who got rid of the roaches." She remembered the countless of failed attempts upon the infamous Sakura Burst.

Until that day. A clumsy-looking blue machine went after the EA trio like a hellhound and striked off one by one, like swatting houseflies. She has never seen someone so aggressive and hell-bent before.

For a moment back there, she was glad that the blue machine wasn't after her. 'The Big Blue' was what ORB's military personnel have been calling it. 'The Roaches' was what everyone use on the infamous trio.

Child-like curiosity twinkled in her honey orbs. "The pilot must be some VIP's child. I have yet to find out his or her identity. Whoever it is managing the pilot's secret identity did an impressive job."

"It seems that The Big Blue has undergone several upgrades."

Cagalli started flipping through the file in front in search of the machine, "will it be on display for public viewing?"

"According to the Intel I've got, no."

The Princess shut the file a little too loudly to be considered as normal.

"The prototype, the version which was used to fought the war, will be on display though." Ramius added, giving the Princess a knowing look.

"Then that is enough for us to take it as Prototype, Ver 0.0 is decommissioned."

The brunette nodded, "would you like to take a closer look when they are hosting you?"

Cagalli smiled, "Yes, make that request. Continue digging for the identity of the pilot. It's strange. It's almost as if Ezalia Joule is one behind it. All sneaky and secretive."

A knock on the door sounded. "Your Highness, Captain Waltfeld is here to see you."

The blonde raised an eyebrow at Ramius, "I don't remember having a meeting with Waltfeld."

Ramius inhaled and a shaky breath, "it was my idea, Your Highness. I need a favour, for a friend who has been there for me when I, all of us thought La Fllaga was gone."

Cagalli frowned but decided to listen to what she has to say. "Make it quick. He is on the other side of the door. You know him." Ramius chuckled, knowing the big guy will knock everyone out and burge into the room if Cagalli grant him an access soon. He is paranoid of the Princess' safety, who he had came to care for as a younger sister.

"Can you grant him a couple of hours off the moment we land in Armoury One? I'm sure that he will be back in time for your VIP tour."

The blonde released a tense breath she unknowingly held back. She was certain that it got to do with Waltfeld's late lover, Aisha. And knowing Waltfeld, he didn't speak of her to anyone, except Ramius who also lost her lover, La Fllaga, in the war. He didn't want anyone to know he was still grieving over her death. Even though it was pretty clear with his annual application of leave for a trip back to Armoury One. A visit to a quaint coffee house hidden in an alley along the busy street leading to the main square. That was where the legendary Desert Tiger met his Desert Rose many years back.

Cagalli got to meet her in person during the first war. She applied make up on her and made her wear a dress! If only, they met on a different circumstance, outside of the war… then again, she wasn't sure if she can handle her lovey-dovey antics with Waltfeld. She remembered the look in Waltfeld's eyes whenever he looked at the blue-haired woman. She was the only one for him. He was completely and irrevocably in love with her.

"You seemed pretty sure that he will visit the coffee house." Cagalli folded her arms.

Ramius looked surprised that Cagalli knew about his story but decided to leave it as it is. "La Fllaga and him chatted yesterday… didn't know how the conversation ended up about coffee. Andrew mentioned about drinking coffee at Armoury ONE was one of the best decisions he had ever made. La Fllaga found out that it's where Andrew met his late wife."

The Princess straightened up in surprise, "wife? Wasn't she his girlfriend or something? I didn't know they were married."

Ramius scratched her head in awkwardness. "Well… he wanted to propose to her after the war ends. I heard they were inseparable and ZAFT let it slide because they gave results on the battlefield."

Cagalli pursed her lips as she recalled the report. Aisha, the famous gunner and support for the Desert Tiger, didn't survived the blast. Until now, no one knew how Waltfeld survived the blast. Then again, the Princess didn't know which ending was worse. Both are alive but can't be together. Like Athrun and herself. Or the other half is gone, leaving the other behind to grieve. The case of Aisha and Andrew.

"Heard they couldn't find her body when they pulled him out." Cagalli added quietly.

The brunette nodded in silent sadness for her friend. She knew how it felt. She was struggling to come to terms with La Fllaga's demise back then. And Andrew had been a dependable support for her. She remembered those late night talks with him in the balcony of Reverend Malchio's house.

Those sleepless nights. Both of them couldn't sleep. Every time they close their eyes, memory of their lovers came back. Especially scene of their demise. Aisha's death was an immense blow to the big guy. He once admitted that he didn't head to bed until he was dead exhausted.

"Every time I lay on the bed, I think of her. How she likes to take up ¾ of the bed, but she's half my size. Now I have it all to myself."

Ramius saw the longing in his reminiscence. He misses her very much.

"She is the most stubborn woman I have ever met. She refuse to leave when I told her to go." He chuckled to himself as he shook his head.

"If only I hit the emergency button… at least she will have to deal with the current me. Rather than me having to deal with her absence."

Ramius swallowed at the cold truth behind his words.

"If there is one thing I regret in my entire life, going into battle that day was it…"

The brunette placed a hand to his shoulder. "Andrew, don't go there. She wouldn't want you to be like this."

He sent a slanted grateful smile. "I must be losing my mind."

"What is it?"

"This hunch … that she isn't dead. That she is somewhere out there. Probably lost…" He exhaled an exasperated breath, "... I can't help it. Her body wasn't there when Loewe Guele pulled me out. ZAFT said the finishing blow was closer to where she was, so it's likely that most of explosion got her."

He turned to look at Ramius, no doubt he saw how worried she was about him.

He had a sad crooked smile. "I'm alright. I miss her, that's all."

Ramius gave his shoulder a comforting squeeze.

"You know, if she does appear in front of me one fine day, I will resign right away. And kidnap her to Kingdom of Scandinavia. Live out the rest of our lives there."

"I understand. I will approve it. Bring him in." Cagalli nodded towards the door as Ramius sent a grateful smile to her.

Taking a quick look at her wrist watch, Ramius quickly retrieved the file and head towards the door. "Thank you, Princess."

.

.

.

(Armoury One, ZAFT, Lagrange 4)

*rustle of bedsheets*

A brush against warm skin. A full body contact.

She was resting against someone, body was very warm, almost like a heater, and firm.

"Andy." (It sounded like her voice.)

Deep groan echoed, followed by a muffled yawn. It sounded familiar.

"Hmm?" A low mumble drifted to her ears, while warm callused fingers tracing random patterns up and down her back.

(Firm body. Deep voice. Rough hand. … I-Is she sleeping with a man? Naked?)

"What's your plan for the future?" (What's going on? Why was she asking someone else about future and plans?)

The fingers stopped their lazy yet sensual administration for a second before they wrapped around her shoulders. The person pulled her close. She felt warm. Sound of steady heartbeat echoed into her ear. (This warm bubbling feeling exploded in her heart, slowly spreading through her entire body, making her feel all cosy and relaxed. It felt familiar.)

"I have not thought about it." The deep voice rumbled. (A man. The voice definitely belongs to a man. And he sounds familiar too)

She felt him kissed the top of her head. (He feels familiar.) She giggled. (Wait. She giggled?)

"Then think about it now!" She felt the sudden contact of her fisted hands against his solid chest repeatedly. She was playfully hitting his chest. (Why was she snapping him? Why was she pressing him about the future? For a plan?)

*chuckles*

His hands circled around her tighter and held her closer against him. His arms - one around her shoulder and another on her lower back were comfortable weight. It tugged on her heartstrings. A sense of belonging and calm washed over her. She knew this stranger… but she just can't remember his name. All she remembers was...

"Andy! You can't keep playing in this giant sandbox." She looked up and a tanned manly face came to view. (So this is 'Andy'.) Prominent cheeks, large brows, straight nose, strong stubborn-looking jaw. ('Andy' is … handsome.) He had a mischievous lopsided grin, while giving her a teasing look.

"Who says I was playing?" He planted a loving peck her on the nose while stifling a laughter. (Her heart skipped a beat and started to race. What was he doing to her?)

"I make look like it because you are here." He pecked a quick kiss on her cheeks, effectively earning giggles from her again. (What was the relationship between the mysterious man and her? Why the endearing gestures? Are they lovers? Was that why they were naked? He seemed to be comfortable with her. She felt the same too. Why can't she remember anything?)

"What has it got to do with me? You sneaky overgrown kitten." She playfully nudged against his chest in a show of tantrum and a attempt to escape his gasp. (Was she always like this? Playful and spunky, with him?)

He burst into laughter and held her still. Leaning in, she got a good look at his eyes. Purple. A rich shade of purple. Like amethyst.

"I have to impress the girl, no?" And there was it. He smiled at her. Purple eyes filled with tease, warmth and… something else.

She could feel her cheeks heating up at his show of affection. Her heart was about to beat right out of her chest.

"Shut up." She looked away in defiance, only to be greeted with the sight of her bare legs over his. Both tangled up in bedsheets. She was sprawled on top of him, in an… awkward position. (It can't be. She had an intimate relationship with this man? Who is he? Why is this coming to her now? Why can't she remember his name or him or anything about them?)

"What? You are not impressed?" He mocked an upset expression before it morphed into a predatory smirk.

She yelped as he flipped her over. Her back against the warmed bedsheet and as he positioned himself on top of her, his weight pushed her further back into the bed. She could feel herself holding her breath in anticipation as the man leaned in.

"I have never thought about planning for future because I have you. And that is enough for me."

With that, he captured her lips with his. She felt the sincerity of his words in the kiss. The depth of his feelings for her. The heated tangle of her lips and his. The slow, unhurried exploration along her jaw, peppered with playful nips and random pecks. All of it felt familiar and strangely, comforting.

"Aisha" He whispered into her ear, as his callused hand slid to her neck, angling her face to the side and left a trail of open kisses from her shoulder, along the length of her neck and finally returned to her lips. His other hand was roaming all over her body, setting her on fire. Before she catch her next breath, he deepened the kiss.

She couldn't decide whether her moan sounded muffled or strangled. But one thing was for certain, he filled her completely. She felt full and stretched by this mysterious handsome man. And something tells her that it wasn't the first time they made love. From the sensory overload to the undercurrent of excitement and anticipation lacing the flames licking her skin. From the way her body moved in sync with his. She felt it.

"I love you, Aisha. Don't leave me."

Her body froze and her eyes flew open. She sat up straight away. Hands to her racing heart. What just happen? Was it all a dream? But it felt real. Too real to be a dream. Could it be… her memory? The memory which they have stolen from her.

Her name was Aisha.

She had someone who cared for her. Andy.

What had happened?

Is Andy still alive?

Is he looking for her?

Sound of automated door sliding open. She immediately wipe all emotions from her face. They mustn't know about this. The memories they have erased are coming back. And they want it. Or a part of it. Which of it - is something she needs to figure out.

"Dreaming again?" A voice cold as steel cut through the tensed silence.

The Commander.

She stood up immediately and salute, like reflex. "Sir."

"What do you see?" He asked, as usual.

"White walls. Grey ceilings." She replied straightaway. She can't let them know that 'Andy' appeared in her dream. And she was in there too. And they were lovers.

He tilted his head to the side, eyes still fixed on her. He was waiting for more information.

She will play dumb. Like how she always did. She was supposed to be new to the team. So she will behave like one. Wait for orders. Do as she was ordered. Like a typical newbie.

"Anymore?" He asked.

"No, sir." She replied.

"She shouldn't be deployed with the rest." A voice of someone whom she was not a fan of, drifted into her ears. Sound of boots against the tiled floor came to a halt. A tall, well-built figure appeared.

The Squadron Leader.

"She might jeopardised the entire mission." He clipped, right after he saluted the Commander.

The superior had a smile that didn't reach his eyes. He held her gaze for full 3 seconds before he directed the dark upturn of his lips to the Squadron Leader. "She will perform."

The hulking man frowned. He didn't like the idea. He never liked her. He made it clear that she was a redundancy. She was of no use to the team.

She was a new recruit, which was literally unheard of. All of them are together since they were children. They have never speak to her, eat with her, train with her, share the same quarter. Except for Ren. There is always a ghost of a smile on her porcelain-like face whenever their eyes met.

The Commander, The Squadron Leader, and The Doctor were who she see regularly and spoke to. It doesn't bother her. Having extra pairs of eyes watching her was last thing she wanted. She need to get out of here but not in a dramatic fashion kind of way. She needed to disappear. Then again, there are medicines they feed her. They made it clear that her life depended on it. A tiny red pill on a daily basis. A jab everyday for a week, once a month. She have no idea what those are for but she needed to find out for herself. Whether they are really life support or for something else.

"10mins to drop." The Beta appeared, not even sparing a glance at her direction. See. She doesn't belong here. Even without this treatment, she knew. She felt it.

"You know what to do, Rose?"

That flower rang a bell yet it felt as though it was missing something. Incomplete. Andy.

"Separate Shiho Fumiko Hahnenfuss from Yzak Joule."

.

.

.

"You know the drill." The Squadron Leader said, giving her a scrutinising stare.

"Why am I free to roam around?" She asked, keeping her voice leveled and her face straight. Everyone else is waiting for the supposed window to roll out.

He took a step forward, putting himself face to face with her. "Be useful and gain your memory back."

"All clear." Ren spoke as she appeared behind the Squadron Leader. She shifted her gaze at her. A ghost of a smile appeared. She was the only one in the team who looked at her this way, as if she was a normal human being. No averted gaze. No indifferent look. None of it. She felt a little less lonely when Ren was in the room. Ren has always look at her the way she did. It made her feel as though they could be friends.

"Ren will meet you at Mark X. She will pass you the equipment. Until then, don't get lost." The Squadron Leader clipped before walking away.

Once he was out of sight, she reached for her mini crossbody bag. Despite her question, she was excited to wander around. It was privilege extended to her only. Even though it wasn't out of goodwill but more of getting her memory back, she liked it. She could find out more about the outside world and plan her escape. She knew she don't belong here.

Andy.

She need to find him… but she need to know the kind of person her old self was.

"I love you, Aisha. Don't leave me."

Aisha. She was Aisha before she ended up in this place.

"Rose, you have go now." Ren urged softly.

She took a good look at the petite woman with jet black hair. This peanut sized human was the first in the group to talk to her. And nicely too. It almost felt... friendly.

"See you later, Ren. Mark X." She smiled at her.

Ren looked surprised, even taken aback at first.

.

.

.

She didn't know why she would follow the aroma of fresh coffee brewing but here she was. At the mouth of a quiet alley, branched from a lively street.

It started the moment she hit the street level. A faint smell of coffee drifted to her noise, and the aroma stirred her heart in a strange way. The same way the dream she had earlier.

Andy.

It made her feel at ease. Despite the calm, it triggered a giddy mix of anticipation and exhilaration in her. Coffee must have meant something significant in her past.

As she continue to follow the fragrant note, the blue-haired woman soon find herself outside of a European style coffee house.

She was supposed to just roam around, hence, she was not given cash. Except for a travel ticket, which allows her to take public transport to get around the city. Going into the coffee house was not an option. However, she couldn't help to take step forward to stop right in front of the huge glass window and look in. She just had to. The urge was too strong. Her instinct was screaming at her to do.

"Today really is a special day! Both of my favourite customers came to visit!" A tall lanky man in the European black and white barista attire appeared beside her.

She turned to him in surprise. No one has ever speak to her when she was out on the streets. He was the first and she didn't know what to say.

"Hi, I'm Rose." She said softly, hands to the sling of her bag. This is awkward.

The man eyed her amusingly before he laughed. "Of course! You are the Desert Rose! You and Mr Waltfeld are so mean! I didn't know I was serving coffee to ZAFT's top pilots until I saw the papers about how the two of you and team were holding the line on Earth during the First PLANTS-ALLIANCE war!"

She felt her body went rigid, while her mind went blank at what he had just said.

She… was a ZAFT officer.

She fought on Earth.

She fought in the First PLANTS-ALLIANCE War.

She and Mr Waltfeld?

She was known as the Desert Rose?

No wonder it rang a bell whenever her current name was called. No wonder it sounded incomplete.

Desert Rose was her alias in ZAFT. Then…

She was a Coordinator.

Why is she in Earth Alliance now?

What was going on?

Before more questions popped up, she felt a hand wrapping around her wrist and her entire being jerked forward. The friendly and happy man, whom she assumed was the owner of this coffee house and doubled up as the waiter, pulled her into the shop.

"Come! Come! You must be here to meet with Mr Waltfeld. Were the two of you separated during the war?"

As they approached, she noticed a man was already seated by the table but his back was to her.

Brown chestnut shade of hair. Thick neck. Broad shoulders.

She felt her blood ran hot and laced with giddy anticipation as she entered the coffee house heading towards a particular table at the far back.

The skin tone. She saw it somewhere.

Where did she saw it?

"Mr Waltfeld! You are at it again. You didn't tell me that you are meeting Ms Aisha here today." The man let go of her hand and stepped in front of the male seated at the table, who was sipping his coffee.

"I could have arranged for her favourite dessert to pair with the usual cuppa she likes." He chided playfully, exclaiming with his hands in the air.

A soft clink of the coffee cup against the plate as the mysterious man set his cup down.

"What are you talking about?" He spoke.

A chill ran down her spine. That deep yet smooth voice. It sounded exactly like how it was in her dream. Could he be who she thinks he is?

"Aisha is-"

Oh God. The way 'Aisha' rolled off his lips. It sounded identical how he pronounced in her dream.

"Ms Aisha is here! Behind you!" The man in barista chirped happily, pointing to her repeatedly. He was beaming ear to ear.

"I hate to break it to you, Bobby… she is -" He stopped as soon as his eyes landed on her when he turned around, as gestured by the happy man.

Her dark green orbs meet his rich purple ones.

She felt her breath stuck in her throat and the ground held her feet and legs locked in a death grip.

Prominent cheeks, large brows, straight nose, strong stubborn-looking jaw.

The colour of his eyes. Like amethyst.

Andy in her dream is Mr Waltfeld in front of her.

Like Aisha, he was a ZAFT's top pilot.

She was the Desert Rose.

First PLANTS-ALLIANCE war.

A sharp pain pierced through her head. As though someone slammed a nail from the top of head past her skull and hitting the centre of her brain.

The pain hit her the second time and it manage to knock her off balance. One of her hand held her head in desperation for it to stop, while her other hand desperately reach out to anything before she hit the floor.

The Desert Tiger.

Commander Waltfeld.

Andrew Waltfeld.

Andy.

"What today, Mr. Waltfeld?" The barista beamed, just like how he did earlier.

At the corner of her sight, she saw him taking a seat beside her at the bar. He was stealing a glance at her.

"I'll have whatever roast she's having."

As the barista scurried away to make the order, she decided to glance up from her drink. Letting her long, flowing blue hair slide past her shoulder. Her eyes met his and she felt the corners of her lips turned upwards into an inviting smile.

The colour of this man's eyes rivals the most expensive amethyst. Such vibrant hue with amusement, interest and curiosity swirling in them. She didn't need to scan him further to know that he found her intriguing. Most men did. Blue hair with 2 random orange streaks. Emerald-hued eyes. Too tall for a Coordinator female but a nice figure nonetheless.

He raised his eyebrow as their eyes met. He must be thinking along the line of "Never seen her before. She must be new around here."

Men.

Yes, she is new around here. She was assigned to a new team. She was instructed to join them at Armoury One, where a sub-team led by the Desert Tiger himself will be picking up new 'toys', and bringing it back to the base where the team is located, on Earth.

She is likely not to see him again. Might as well have a little fun and play with him. He seems smart. The twinkle in his eyes. She likes guys with brains.

"Are you sure you want the same as me? It could be a nasty surprise," She remarked, still keeping the smile on.

He shrugged. He had broad shoulders. She likes men with broad shoulders. Judging from the slope of it, he had a firm, strong physical trait she like.

"Surprises in life are what make it worth living."

Ah, he is smooth too. Interesting. He might be doing the same as she is doing with him.

Her red lips quirked into a wider smile, "So what's your name, stranger?"

"Andrew," He extended a hand, "And you?"

A quick glance before she placed her hand in his. Boy he is tanned. Honestly, his is too dark for her liking but he carried off well. Big, callused hand with the typical veins hinting on his strength or the job he has or maybe, the time he spends at the gym. Perhaps, with that tan, it could also mean that he is frequently out under the sun. Again, more ticks on her checklist. Wondering what he does for a living.

"Aisha," She let her hand linger an extra moment, "So what brings you here, the brews or the solitude?"

Although she doesn't station in Armoury One, she will purposely make a trip to this beautiful coffee house whenever she is near Laranage 4. The coffee is to die for and the European interior. She would love to go Europe someday but in another identity. Who know what Atlantic Federation will do when they found out ZAFT's top gunner is vacationing in Europe.

Perhaps, with a bodyguard too.

She immediately eyed the tanned and well-built man in front of her. Perhaps his callused hands and supposed strength would come in handy.

Speaking of hand, hers was still in his. It was no longer clasp in a manner of handshake but her hand was resting on top of his while his long fingers held it firmly in place. He was warm. Very warm.

Strangely, she didn't find it irritating or offensive. Maybe it is because he wasn't groping her hand like some slimy bastards do whenever there was a handshake. Salutes are still the best, especially when male officers salute to her. She enjoyed the constipated look on their face very much.

She couldn't find the strength in her to remove her hand from his firm and warm gasp. She liked it. A bit too much for a first meeting.

"Well it used to be both, but now the solitude doesn't seem as appealing," Andrew replied smoothly, offering a lopsided smile.

The barista returned, placing a white mug before him on the counter.

"Here's your…"

He held up his free hand to stop him, "Let me guess."

Much like a seasoned wine taster, he slowly swirled the coffee, sniffing it before taking a small sip.

"Jamaica Blue Mountain, brewed fresh."

"Right as usual, Mr. Waltfeld," The barista flashed him a toothy grin before heading towards the customer who'd just entered.

She couldn't help but to laugh. "So you're an expert, Andy?"

"Andy?" He smirked, "I like that. Never had a nickname before."

"But there's one more thing, Mr. Expert."

He blinked, glancing back to the mug, "There is?"

"It was grown at five thousand feet above sea level, therefore giving it a richer taste than the Jamaica Blue grown at two thousand feet."

The brown-haired man quickly took another sip, smiling as he sat the mug back down.

"Miss?" Someone was gently shaking her.

"Ms Aisha?"

As her vision re-focused, the barista was in front of her looking worried. Funny, she was sure she was falling down. Her he'd was spinning from the sudden pain and yet, here she was standing upright.

"Bring her a glass of warm water, with a slice of lemon and 2 slices of oranges. The fruits go in first." The familiar baritone voice sounded from behind.

"Oh, the usual like she always have it?" The barista asked, already stepping away.

"Yes." The deep voice sounded again.

She felt two hands firmly on her upper arms near her shoulders. Warmth seeping through her cloth and sunk into her skin and slowly spreading through her entire being. It was comforting.

It felt the same as the dream. She was snuggling up to him. Andy. Andrew Waltfeld. Desert Tiger.

The sharp pain was gone but the pounding at the back of her head was kicking in. Testing her feet, which was still wobbly from the sharp pain, she unknowingly placed one of her shaky hands on top in his in attempt to steady herself. He stiffened for a second. She felt it. Then his fingers twitched once. Now, it froze.

"Are you alright, Miss?" He said again, successfully raising the hair at the back of her neck.

She didn't know what to say or how she should respond. Just nod? Or reply him without saying his name? Wait. Which is it? Mr Waltfeld? Like how the barista addressed him. Andrew Waltfeld? Like how it came back to her moments ago? Andy? Like how she called him in the dream? No, wrong. It wasn't a dream. It felt too real to be a dream. It was a piece of her memory, of her old self. Andy was part of it.

When her vision refocused, she found herself lost, dazzled by an orb of rich purple. However, it was just one. The other was closed. How eyelid was covered by a scar stretching across it and upward to the side of his forehead.

Before she could registered what she was doing, she felt his warm skin under her fingertips.

"What happened, Andy? What happened to you?" Her shaky voice drifted into her ears. She was almost whispering. Her heart clenched tight her by an invisible hand as she traced the length of the scar.

An almost inaudible gulp echoed into her ear. His eye darted left and right. Disbelief was clearly written all over his handsome yet exhausted face.

"Aisha?" The name rolled of his lips as though it hurt him to speak of her old name. No. Her real name.

"Are you real?" Caution evident in his voice. And yet, it was laced with bewilderment and disbelief.

Before she could reply, a sudden chilling jolt of pain shot down her spine from the back of her neck. A strangled hiss slipped from her gritted teeth as she flung her hand to the back of the neck where it started.

"Are you alright? Is your neck acting up again?"

She froze at his question. How the hell did he know about the issue with her neck? Did she had it when she was Aisha? When she was in ZAFT.

He took a step closer until there was almost no space between them. His good eye looking straight into hers.

She felt his warm hand covered hers on the neck, slowly edging hers away, while his finger pressed against the point where the jolt started. The sharp ache throbbed away, and was replaced with a heated stinging sensation.

Thankfully, that uncomfortable sensation was starting to ebb away too because he was working on the point where the pain started. His fingers were alternating between pressing directly on the point and gentle kneading of the back of her neck. It only meant that the pain had occurred before, when she was Aisha. He was working on the accurate spot.

"Feeling better now?" His voice echoed into her ears, even though it was almost a whisper. A secret exchange of words. In his eyes, there was a heated mix of reminiscence, longing and something that she couldn't put a finger on, but thugs on her heart painfully nonetheless, it almost felt scandalous. The kind that makes her skin tingles with anticipation, giddy excitement.

Surprised by his closeness, she lost track of time until an almost inaudible beep sounded.

"And this?" The tall stranger held up her wrist and frowned at the slim fitness tracker-and-smart watch. A small dot of red light was on. Her time was up.

No doubt that Ren and the Squadron Leader were already tracing her location. Correction, they have locked in her position. Ren was probably on the way to retrieve her, instead of waiting at Mark X.

If the red light wasn't on, she could have stayed for a while more. She could have asked him about Aisha. About her old self. No, the real her. About how she was separated from him. How they have met. What had happened to his eye. How they ended in this situation. Separated.

No. None of that now. She had to go. She cannot afford letting them know she remembered her real identity and him. She flung her hand out of his gasp and took one last look at him before turning her heels, heading towards the door. A big hand circled her wrist in a firm grip, stopping her. "Aisha!"

She can't have Ren coming here. None of them.

"I got to go." She sounded broken. Pain stabbed her heart at the look on his face as his hand tightened around her wrist.

His purple eye shifted to the red light. Recognition, realisation and worry contorted his face. She wanted to walk over and hug him, wiping that heart-wrenching look off. The memory of him smiling and smirking flashed in her mind. Yes, that expression suited him much better.

Suddenly, he pulled her into the storeroom, hidden beside the door to the kitchen. Once the light came on, he quickly locked the door behind him and looked at her from head to toe.

Surprise and disbelief reappeared in those hypnotising purple orbs.

A frown, followed by a quiet defeated sigh, he finally spoke. "Do you mind if I take a look at your back?"

Purely on instinct and reflex, she immediately took a step back in attempt to put distance between herself and the him. Only to find her entire self pressing against a storage rack, jabbed by items on it.

Could it be… ? He knew about the scar behind her right shoulder blade and the strange arrangement of dot-like marks on the edge of her hairline, running down her neck and along the length of her spine.

"Aisha is supposed to be dead. KIA."

She froze while her mind starring spinning with questions. Killed In Action. What had happened? Why was she killed in action? Why was she supposed to be dead? And yet, she is here in front of him now. What is going on?

Before she registered her thoughts, her lips moved. "They call me Rose. They want my memory… it's coming back but not much… and I saw you."

If it wasn't the subtle rise and fall of his broad chest, he would have been a life-like statue.

"Andy? Is this what Aisha called you?" She spoke softly, eye watching him. As though she was testing out the name.

"Is this what I used to call you?"

Her voice shook as those words left her lips and it stabbed deep into his racing heart. He wanted very much to take one step towards her and close the distance between them.

If this was a dream, he doesn't want to wake up. How he have missed her. His heart told him to take one step towards her and close the distance between them, but his head him to turn her around and check for the mark which only his late beloved will have.

The tiny moles on her back, dancing along the entire length of her spine.

"Too bad I'm not into tattoo. Otherwise I would have get lines inked across my back, to join the 'little stars." Aisha joked, her red painted lips twitched into a lopsided smile.

An almost inaudible beep sounded again, and the red light was was no longer lit but blinking rapidly. Ren and the Squadron Leader were close by.

"I have to go. I really have to." Those desperate words slipped past her lips and earned her a look of utter concern from him. "Please, Andy!"

Taking one last look at her and the sheer panic in her eyes, he stepped aside and unlocked the storeroom door. "Once you exit this room, turn left and go straight all the way. Exit through the door. It will lead you to the back alley."

She let her cold slender fingers ghost over the length of the scar on his eye before having one feet out of the storeroom. His big hand locked onto her wrist, "will I see you again?"

The chirpy greeting of the barista echoed from a distance, "welcome! What would you like to have today, Ms, Sir?"

The tall woman in front of him immediately flung her hand out of his gasp and push him into the storeroom, "stay here until you are sure they are gone. They must not know we met."

With that, she close the storeroom door with haste, though silently and make a run to the door he mentioned, down the back alley which brought her back to the lively street.

Her heart threatening to beat out of her chest.

Her heart threatening to explode with the suffocating mix of confusion and overwhelming sense of loneliness and lost.

She miss him already. She didn't want to go, to leave him. But she didn't have a choice. They must not know of today's encounter.

"will I see you again?"

She have to find a way. To escape. To find her way back to him… but will she survive if she makes a run for it?

"I hope so, Andy."

.

.

.

"Commander Zala."

"Lac- Chairwoman Clyne." The blue-haired Coordinator greeted and extended his hand for a formal handshake, as Lacus approached him with her entourage of Supreme Council members and bodyguards.

Yzak Joule was to her right, looking smart and sharp in the Council formal attire. Noting the ZAFT pin on one of the high collars and the white-black bar underneath the pin to signify his rank, Athrun wondered how his ex-comrade manages all that responsibilities.

Athrun is a Commander and paperwork alone is crazy. He can't imagine the amount of work for the platinum blonde. That guy has a colony of 12 super structures with facilities and citizens living in it to run and represent. A military team of two battleships to manage. He wasn't surprised at the news that Yzak Joule has yet to confirm his run for the election.

"Councilman Joule." He greeted, bringing his open palm towards his ex-comrade, after he was done with Lacus.

The platinum blonde offered a small yet formal smile as he held his hand in a firm grip. "Commander Zala, it has been a while."

Athrun couldn't help but felt a wide smile on his face. After all this while, Yzak Joule is still so tense around him. He never knew or get the reason for his behaviour.

The platinum blonde emerged as the PLANTS' most eligible bachelor in annual report by PLANTS-equivalent of Forbes. Yzak Joule has the look, the wealth, and the calibre.

Yzak Joule lost considerable weight ever since he took over his mother's positions in both Supreme Council and National Defense Committee.

With the lost of weight, the pretty boy look disappeared completely. Instead, the masculine features hidden beneath the 'baby fats' emerged. His features now are striking. His jawline was prominent and slight angular. His lips were slight pout with the considerable rundown. His blue eyes became piercing now. They no longer held that youthful wholesomeness. They were unwavering, stoic, and watchful. It reminded him of someone.

A particular brunette with blunt cut bangs and the same stare.

Shiho Hahnenfuss. His ex-comrade who served in the Le Creuset team, like him and Yzak Joule.

An image of Nicol flashed across his mind. Oh yes. She was also Nicol's secret fiancee.

"Have you visited Nicol?" Yzak spoke as he withdrew his hand. His tone softened, less formal at the mention of a lost friend. The platinum blonde may have fiery temper and ruthless with words but everyone knew Nicol was a friend first, followed by a comrade.

"Not yet. I just got here." Athrun revealed and received a nod from Yzak. With an easy smile, he continued. "Shall we visit him later?"

The piercing blue orbs lost the lethal glint as Yzak nodded again. "I will ask Elthman along."

Athrun felt his smile widened at the mention of the live wire. If only they came together outside of the war…

A short beep of announcement system sounded. In an instant, everyone at Armoury One hangar went into position.

Chairwoman Clyne, flanked by men in black and top officials of ZAFT, followed by the members of Supreme Council made their way to the marked spot, where the distinguished guest from ORB will make her way down from the space shuttle.

The representative teams of ORB's military positioned themselves along the length of the short elevated ramp disengaged from the space shuttle.

Silence filled the entire Armory One hangar as everyone held their breath in anticipation. The Lioness of ORB was PLANTS' VIP today. ORB, together with Kingdom of Scandinavia, Equatorial Union accepted PLANTS' invitation to attend the celebration of its Independence.

The remaining superpowers on Earth, Atlantic Federation, Eurasian Federation, Republic of East Asia, and South Africa Union, and United States of South America, were invited too but none had accepted the invitation. It was highly condemned by PLANTS' media and commented by every other media.

"Her Royal Highness, Princess of ORB, Cagalli Yula Attha."

The space shuttle door unlocked and the Lioness of ORB stepped out with Murrue Ramius following close behind.

Representative teams of ORB military straightened up and salute sharply at their Crown Princess. Loud cheer from the crowd gathered outside, by the parade square could be heard. It echoed steadily into the highly secured location. Most of them were citizens of ORB stationed or living in PLANTS, who have gathered to witness the arrival of their leader via a live telecast. As expected, the young woman was well-loved by her people.

She smiled warmly and directed her attention to ORB military officers and nodded. Upon Ramius' quiet whisper on where the live telecast cameras are, the Princess raised her hand and waved. While doing that, she looked straight into the cameras.

The sound of clapping and joyful cheer grew louder and the crowd responded to Cagalli.

Her smile grew wider before taking a step forward and pulled gently at the drapey ends of her kimono, in preparation to descend down the ramp.

Ramius held her by the elbow. Athrun couldn't help but to take in the sight of the blonde, in the junihitoe, a 12 layer kimono worn only by Japanese court Ladies and female of the Royal Family in olden days.

He had seen her in the traditional Japanese attire many times but he will never grew tired of it. Although her blonde hair clashes with the oriental piece of art draped over her in 12 layers, she wore it with grace of a Royalty. Her shoulder straight and posture upright. If they were alone, she is likely to curse and swear saying how in the world people move around in this. Followed by saying 'Thank God I don't have long hair.'

Athrun quickly clenched his jaws together to can the chuckle on the edge of his lips. Longing and hurt quickly sank in as he noticed the physical distance between them at the moment. It reminded him of their troubled, or perhaps, non-existent relationship.

If only they could go back to those days…

If only he had not left…

He wouldn't be stationed at Heliopolis, while she is on Earth.

He had the slightest hope that she would forgive him by accepting his enlistment back to ORB military. Never had he foresee that it was an opportunity for her to hold him at a distance. She became the figure, whom the late Chief Representative will be proud of.

Whenever there is a opportunity, with her being on the same grounds as him, he would request to be in her presence in private. Be it a surprise site visit or for official matters such as this event, all his requests has been rejected. As expected, Murrue Ramius and Andrew Waltfeld didn't manage to get the Lioness to budge.

At the corner of his sight, Cagalli has descended from the space shuttle. Blinking away his thoughts, the blue-haired Coordinator noticed the Princess has a pink Tiger Lily pinned to her hair slightly behind her right ear. It was her insignia, the striking pink Tiger Lily with white trimming along the edge of each petals, giving it a distinctive appearance.

Lacus stepped forward with a bright smile and bowed , a formal 90 degree down, to her friend, whom she had fought the two wars with. "My warmest greetings to you, Your Highness."

Cagalli, as expected of her, leaned her upper body forward slightly in a small, almost unnoticeable, bow in acknowledgement.

"Thank you for having me and People of ORB in mind for the celebration."

As she is a Royalty, she does not need to bow or to the same extent as Lacus did. However, she did the small bow out of courtesy and her friendship with the new Chairperson of PLANTS.

"Your Highness and her people will always be welcome here in PLANTS." Lacus smiled brightly, the same smile she will offer when she drops by for a personal visits.

Cagalli wondered how the woman in front of her remains unchanged when she was in the same position as herself. A nation's leader. The weight of it. It drowns her. It drags on to her every step. She, like her, was just out of her teens but Cagalli felt drained and exhausted beyond her years.

Before she knew what happened, she was held in a warm comforting embrace. Soft waves of pink hair greeted her re-focused line of sight. Lacus hugged her. "You are doing great, Cagalli. Your people love you. Be happy… Kira and I, we miss you."

Being held was something she had missed.

Her mind went to a particular Blue-haired Coordinator standing at a distance with the rest of her officers, she couldn't help but to give in.

How he always steal a hug from her whenever no one was looking.

How those strong arms wrapped around her stiff shoulder and back at the end of each day.

How he had always hold her until she fell asleep. But all of that are in the past.

She can never have those days back. No matter how much she missed being held by him. She closed her eyes and placed her hands on the back of Lacus' shoulders. Gently patting, she spoke into her ear. Softer than a whisper. Only for their ears.

"I miss both of you too… I miss everyone. Thank you for having me, Lacus."

Her heart clenched in pain for the young Princess. She sounded so broken and defeated. The responsibility was killing her, surely but slowly.

The pink-haired Coordinator gave a gentle squeeze before she released her and held her hand Cagalli's hand firmly. "Kira and I will be here for you. Always."

She nodded, honey orbs filled with gratitude.

"Let's start the tour, shall we?" Lacus tilted her head slightly to side and nodded. Cagalli took a moment to see who she was signalling to and soon felt her breath stuck in her throat. She almost couldn't recognise the platinum blonde behind Lacus.

He had lost weight, grew taller, and looked different. Appearance, physique and vibe. Previously, she found him to be fiery and intense. How wrong she was. The Yzak Joule in front of her now is intense. There is something about his striking facial feature, firm stare, his clenched jaws, set shoulders and straightened back. Although his hands were at ease by his side, she couldn't help but to feel as though she looking straight into the eyes of a tiger. As if she has accidentally wandered into a tiger's lair, and the supreme master of the domain was watching her from afar, whom she has locked gaze with by chance. Unpredictable, raw, and fierce.

The Yzak Joule now made his younger self looked like a hissing kitten.

Meeting her surprised-yet-contained stare, Yzak stepped forward and did the same formal 90 degree bow to Cagalli. "My sincere greetings to you, Your Royal Highness." Cagalli almost wanted to smirk. Drop a tone down and it will sound as though he clipped the greeting. And that he was reluctant.

"Thank you. I see you are doing well, Commander…" Cagalli paused to take in his attire, which was the Surpreme Council clothing. Yzak Joule was here today as a politician, not a military man. "Councilman Joule." The platinum blonde nodded in response and was about to step back until she continued. "I thought you would show up in your white uniform. Or should I say, purple."

Lacus turned sharply and glanced at her, while Yzak straightened up and meet the Princess' egging gaze squarely. He took a step forward and Murrue Ramius matched his move. So did the men in black from Cagalli's side.

"Councilman Joule." Lacus spoke softly, watching the platinum blonde warily.

A disturbing uptown of the corners of his lips as Yzak spoke. "I'm flattered, Your Royal Highness." He then gestured to the tensed Lacus and offered her his best smile. "However, purple suits Chairwoman Clyne much better. White has always been my colour."

Cagalli offered a small laughter at his response and the sudden tension diffused. Yzak Joule was indeed the son of Ezalia Joule. That woman let Patrick Zala front everything, while she was the one who pulls the string and had the role that really matters.

"If I may, Chairwoman, Your Royal Highness, ZAFT officers are ready for inspection." The platinum blonde spoke, his hands directing to the neatly lined of ZAFT officers. Officers in front row was not in uniform. They were decked in traditional attire of their roots. Followed by a massive sea of red, white, black and green.

'Those in traditional attire must be the Red Elites.' Cagalli coyly nodded to Yzak Joule and turned to meet Ramius knowing gaze. Hence,the subsequent arrangement of Red Coats, Commanders, Captains and Ground officers.

"This way please, Your Highness." Lacus gestured, and with help from Ramius, the Princess of Orb started her walk down the straight line of top ZAFT officers.

"As you are aware, Your HIghness, this year's celebration is to celebrate everyone's united stand in recent war." Lacus started, matching the Lioness' pace. Cagalli stopped in front of an officer decked in the tropical hued dress decorated with familiar patterns. Kingdom of Scandinavia, a neutral colony too, like ORB. ORB's one and only worthy ally. "I see you have Scandinavian roots." Cagalli smiled.

The female officer, who has olive skin tone, stepped forward. She acknowledged the Chairwoman and Supreme Council member with address, finally did the formal bow to Cagalli. "yes, Your Royal Highness. My grandparents migrated here from Scandinavia."

The Princess of ORB nodded in acknowledgement and returned with a warm smile, which she was famous for, especially when young children stepped forward to hug her. "Are they well?"

"Yes they are. Thank you for your kind concern, Your Royal Highness." The officer replied with a small smile before Yzak Joule nodded and she returned to line.

As they are approaching the midpoint, Yzak couldn't help but to notice a particular female officer who was a head taller than more than the neighbouring female officers. She had a big, bright red flower clipped into her dark chocolate hair, behind her left ear. It was in a similar fashion as the Princess.

Just then, Cagalli stopped in front of the female officer. A never-seen before mix of bewilderment, surprise and confusion was written all over the Princess' face. Yzak turned to take a good look at the female officer, whose purple orbs were fixated at the spot on the floor. Instead of looking straight ahead, to the front.

The female officer looked familiar. She was a sight to behold. The barely-there makeup she had on gave her face a soft dewy natural glow. As she was still looking down, he noticed a thin red line sitting perfectly on top of the black, thin, almost unnoticeable winged eyeliner.

The thin winged eyeliner. Where did he seen it before? It looks awfully familiar.

Even the hint of rosiness on her cheeks and the almost-nude tint of peach on her lips look familiar.

Have they met before? His instincts were screaming at him that they have met. She looked really familiar.

"You…" Cagalli spoke. "Are you-"

Everything happened within a blink of an eye. The Princess shakily reached out towards the female officer, who swallowed nervously and kept her eyes down. The moment her fingers touched the bottom of the officer's chin to tilt her face upwards, the officer's hand immediately shot out and circled the Princess' wrist - taking everyone by surprise.

The men in black by Cagalli's side quickly jumped into action and pointed their gun at the female officer. They were already giving her the first warning to let go of The Princess. The men in black flanking Lacus were no less slower. Guns pointing at Cagall's, also telling them to drop the gun directing at ZAFT's officer.

At the same time, the Princess, unfazed by the sudden death grip on her wrist, reached for the officer's hand and jerked the huge sleeve of the kimono backwards, revealing a thin line of tattoo of stars surrounding the scar at her wrist, stretching all the way down and disappearing under the thick heavy kimono sleeve.

Cagalli almost choked at the sight that greeted her. It was made up of dainty little dots of stars connected with more noticeably-sized ones. It resembled a constellation, formed by connecting different stars in the sky. There is only one person she knew who had this tattoo.

Her school mate and only friend at the Royal Academy of Arts.

Her best friend, who disappeared right after the burial service. Burial service of Miyako, her best friend's mother.

"S-Shiho? Shiho Fumiko Hahnenfuss?" The blonde spoke the name she had not called for many years. She felt the grip on her wrist loosened.

Yzak's eyes widened in absolute surprise. "Housenka?" Just when he thought she was beautiful in the poster, she was stunning in real life. She looked like a doll.

As Cagalli glanced at the female officer from head to toe, a sudden longing and reminiscent held her beating heart hostage, threatening to suffocate her.

"Why Shiho? I mean… it's rare. I've never heard of a name like yours."

It was a pleasant day, They were taking a break from their lessons, lying on soft cool grass, under a giant sakura tree.

"Granny told me that I was -"

"Supposed to be name as Shino, meaning Stem of Bamboo." Cagalli spoke aloud from memory and the female officer immediately looked up at her. Finally, she saw the officer's eyes.

Those familiar, bright lavender orbs.

"But wanted it to sound more feminine, so it was changed to Shiho. Your late mother wanted you to grow into a wise, peaceful, resilient woman. A character of ..."

Her lavender orbs were slowly welling up with tears as finally speaks up, joining her recalling what she had said all those years back. "... stability, will and quiet strength - all are qualities of a bamboo and its stem."

"It's you..." Cagalli breathed in relief and utter disbelief that she would find her long lost friend at a place like this, ZAFT Armoury One. At an event like this, an official visit. "It's really you, Shiho." Both women let go of each other.

The brunette held back her tears and gave Cagalli a quick smiled before she pulled the heavy kimono sleeve to cover half the length of her fingers.

"No. You don't have to..." The Princess stepped forward, her voice no longer carrying the dignified tone of a Royalty.

The brunette shook her head and gently held one of Cagalli's hand as she went down a knee as she bowed her head, cutting off all eye contact with her friend. As the highest level of respect given to a Royalty, from a commoner, in the most traditional form of bow.

"Hai, watashi wa Shiho Fumikodesu. Watashi no kenkyona aisatsu, hime-sama.

Anata ga umaku iru koto o ureshiku omotte imasu." (Yes, I am Shiho Fumiko. My humble greetings to you, Princess. I am happy to see that you are well.)

Before she could take another breath, Shiho felt herself being yanked upright and forward, only to hit against soft yet stiff material of the junihitoe. "You silly girl! You don't have to bow me." Cagalli spoke into her ear.

The brunette stiffened for a couple of seconds as she realised her friend, who is the Princess of Orb, had hugged her.

She miss her too.

She missed all those days, where she would go over to her room and spent the rest of the day there, with her. They cooked, ate and studied together. Occasionally, they would leave campus ground, go cafe-hopping, and return to campus with full stomach. They would bunk in together at times.

She released the breath she didn't know she was holding, as she loosened up. "I'm sorry for going under the radar, Cagalli. I didn't have a choice." Shiho whispered, her voice cracked at the memory of her dying mother and her request for her to join ZAFT.

She felt a gentle pat on shoulder and soothing rub up and down her back. "It's ok. I will help you. I promise. Everything will be fine."

The brunette closed her eyes and brought her hands to Cagalli's back, returning her friend's hug. "It's good to see you again… after so long. I wanted to…"

"You are the silliest! My residence is yours too! You are always welcome. ALWAYS!" The blonde chided and shook Shiho to prove her point. The taller woman laughed at the familiar line. She offered her quarter to the Princess for meals, study, and even rest, whenever the blonde felt suffocated by all the surveillance. "You remember huh? After so long…"

"Of course, I do! How about reminding you about your horrible sleeping antics? I remember all of it."

Shiho immediately slapped her back, unknowingly earning gasps of shock from everyone. Afterall, she hit ORB's Princess."Don't you dare! I will reveal what a messy person you were!"

Cagalli burst into laughter and so did the brunette. Both slowly stepped away from each other as the laughter ended. The blonde, with a bright smile plastered on face, reached for her best friend's hands. Holding it, she beamed. "Please make some time to catch up with your friend here before the parade okay?"

The brunette chuckled and flashed a toothy smile at Cagalli's antics. Giving her hands a little squeeze, she nodded. "See you later, Your Royal Highness."

The blonde shot her a mock irritated stare before she nodded. With each second, she morphed back to the dignified, graceful Ruling Princess of ORB. A complete opposite of the free-spirited girl moments ago. Shiho returned to line, looking straight ahead now.

Cagalli gave a small smile to Ramius and the men in black became at ease and stepped back. So did Lacus'.

"It is turning out to be a great day. A meaningful celebration, Chairwoman Clyne." She nodded to Lacus, who was rather surprised that both of her friends knew each other. And from the looks of it, they are close. Very close.

"I'm glad that you felt this way, Your Highness." Lacus smiled, before directing her attention to a bewildered Yzak. It took him full 3 seconds to recover. "This way, Chairwoman, Your Royal Highness."

.

.

.

(Television) "Yzak Joule, interim Supreme Council Member for Martius City, was sighted with a couple of friends at the popular hangout spot, The Attic Place…"

Hearing his colleague's name brought Kira to an abrupt halt.

"What's wrong?" Lacus asked.

"Heard Commander Joule's name being mentioned on television. Didn't you hear it?" The young ZAFT commander replied.

He could have use the platinum blonde's name but they aren't close. Cordial because of Lacus and work but nowhere close to friendly. Not to mention that Yzak Joule is not the easiest person to hang out with. Sure, he has mellowed and not as hot-headed as before. However, the air Yzak had is… intense, in simple words.

And he is not much of a talker.

The platinum blonde clearly had no interest in being friendly and chummy with him. Maybe because he is best friends with Athrun. He never knew why Yzak dislike Athrun. He did ask the blue haired Coordinator on several occasions. Apparently, Athrun is as clueless as he was. His best friend could only brush it off as the extreme competitive streak Yzak had.

Television "what got us interested was the brunette who was with him."

Judging from Lacus' slight widened eyes, she must have caught it too. "It can't be Shiho, right?"

He gestured towards the door leading to the cafeteria, "let's take a look."

Lacus nodded and both of them stepped in to find everyone looking intently at the nearest television screen. Seems that everyone is curious about the mysterious woman too.

Female broadcaster: "While we have yet to confirm, but some netizens pointed out that the girl resembled this lady on ZAFT's poster, which is part of the many posters rolled out today in celebration of our founding day and the war that has recently ended."

Male broadcaster: "That's right. ZAFT mentioned in a statement previously that this year's celebration revolves around the unity shown by all during the war. Posters featured existing staff of ZAFT who served in the previous wars – both volunteers and full-time commissioned officers."

Female broadcaster: "Yes, it revolves around the unity of all citizens of PLANTS and members of ZAFT, whom everyone stemmed from diverse ethnic background and heritage, coming together and got through the war together. ZAFT decided to roll out a campaign in appreciation of all ZAFT personnel and volunteers. Also, in remembrance to those who have passed."

Male broadcaster: "And this is where it gets really interesting. The lady spotted with Yzak Joule yesterday seems to be of Asian descent and many said that she looks like the mobile suit pilot in this poster. Let's take a look."

(Image of two posters appear on screen)

Female broadcaster: "As you can see both posters present very contrasting sides of Major S. H. of the Joule Team. This is the lady whom netizens are referring to."

The first poster was rich and vibrant in colours. Shiho had very light and natural-looking makeup applied, which hinted her young age. She was in a beautiful light blue kimono with extensive embroideries of Japanese flowers and two ancient-looking lions. Her hair was tied in usual fashion, a low ponytail held together by a plain purple ribbon a couple of inches above the hair-ends. A big red camellia flower was tucked behind her left ear, which instantly see one associating it with the big red flower insignia on right shoulder of DEEP ARMS – featured in the second poster.

Back to the first poster, it reveals that she was walking over a giant root made from three intertwined roots of a toppled tree. Half-dried cherry blossom petals littered the cobblestone floor, which leads to a massive flight of stairs. She was at the bottom of stairs, leading up to an old Japanese shrine. Together with her kimono, one is likely to realise she is of Asian descent, Japanese blood to be specific. Lining the massive flight of stairs was bushes of bright red camellia in full bloom, similar to the one tucked in her hair. However, the brunette was not looking up the flight of stairs. At first glance, she appears to be taking a whiff of the white fennel flowers held in her hand. However, at a closer look, her eyes was glancing sideways with small almost-unnoticeable smile. It felt as if she was aware someone was behind or approaching her and taking a whiff of the flower was just an act or a move to have the person come closer.

In an instant, the message was clear. The poster was reference to the epic battle between DEEP ARMS and the infamous Sakura Trio. However, it was loaded image. The shot was designed to mock at Earth Alliance's lost in one of the fiercest mobile suit operations launched by ZAFT. It was a quick yet intense fight. Amidst the usual mass offensive firing of warheads and frantic attempts of deterrence fires, the rest of the world was watching one tall bulky blue machine with a bright red flower insignia on its right shoulder going up against three lean and agile black-pink machines, which tried desperately to trap the blue giant with their usual moves

In the poster, the blue machine was represented by Shiho, who was in blue kimono and with the bright red camellia tucked behind her right ear. Whereas, the giant root made of the three intertwined roots of a toppled tree referred to the fallen Sakura Burst. The half-dried cherry blossom petals that littered the cobblestone floor referred to how the Sakura Burst was defeated – Shiho blew up her already overheating beam cannons immediately after the remaining two black-pink machines fell into her trap, where she made a false opening for them to stab DEEP ARMS. She needed them to be close enough for the explosion of beam canons to end them instantly. That battle was on live telecast and recorded by ground forces of both ZAFT and Earth Alliance. The latter lost their best mobile suit team and their stronghold under 30 minutes.

ZAFT's victory can be reflected with the abundance of bright red camellia flowers that lined the massive flight of stairs leading up to the old Japanese Shrine. The small cluster of white fennel flowers in Shiho's hands was referring to Yzak Joule, who was Commander since she was in his team, when she faced the Sakura Burst. As the flower was half of the Joules' family crest, which was made up of a small cluster of white fennel flowers clipped with a trimmed stalk of the Tudor (red English) rose. It pointed to young Commander's English roots.

"No wonder she doesn't look like most of us. She has Asian blood."

"Don't think it is because of her mixed heritage… she could be a First Generation Coordinator."

Everyone gasped again, some in horror, while some made sounds of disgust.

"If she turns out to be a First Generation Coordinator, wouldn't someone like Yzak Joule mind? He is a Third Generation Coordinator. His genes are almost perfect."

"Agree. Why would someone like him settle for a First Generation? Unless. . ."

"Obviously, it is because of the fertility issue. The progressive generation of Coordinators are increasingly sterile. Yzak Joule is already the Third Generation. Ezalia Joule is a Second Generation, and she only manage to have one kid."

"Right. The late Isaac Joule was a Second Generation too."

"Look on the bright side. If she turns out to be a First Generation Coordinator, her fertility is probably the same as a Natural female. Yzak Joule will have a better shot at starting a family."

"That's right. He needs to hand his shares to the next generation someday."

"Oh yes! He turns 21 today. Does that mean he will become the biggest shareholder of the Martius Arsenals, and Maius Military Industries?"

"Biggest shareholder of two of the three engineering firms that made up Integrated Design Bureau."

"Doesn't that means he has solid power? He hold position in the National Defense Committee and in the Supreme Council. Now the largest shareholder of not one but two weapons firms. And he has his very own team."

"Pft. Please, he only has 1 team. He doesn't have multiple teams directly under his command."

"He is in the National Defense Committee, no? If he has enough support, whatever he says will become our orders."

"Ezalia Joule may be retired because of her house arrest but she still has ZAFT in her hands."

"It's not a bad thing, you know… Heliopolis housed the 4 G units. Scary part is that it's a space colony of ORB. The 4 G units were commissioned by Earth Alliance."

"Do you want ZAFT manufacturing division to be controlled by non-citizens of PLANTS? I rather not... don't want our machines to be design and build out of ZAFT."

Male broadcaster: "Even though we have yet to receive confirmation, it seems logical to me."

Female broadcaster: "What do you mean?"

Male broadcaster: "As we all know, Yzak Joule called off his engagement with Hotel heiress Brenda Jesek, who happens to be the daughter of another Supreme Council Member, Parnel Jesek. There were conflicting reports on the reason behind the sudden decision."

Female broadcaster: "some sources pointed that he wanted to carve a career out of his military service and didn't have time for his fiancé. And there were some saying that, well, Brenda Jesek was cheating on him."

Male broadcaster: "Yes. That drama. The Jesek came to learn about the cancellation through news."

Female broadcaster: "Exactly. I see what you mean now. Let's say the lady who was with him last evening turns out to be this ZAFT personnel. It's good news. No need to explain about career goals. She is a top gun."

Male broadcaster: "Really? How do you know?"

Female broadcaster: "I think so. The big blue machine isn't a regular unit and it has the red flower insignia. Regular Joes don't have a regular unit of their own, much less an insignia."

Male broadcaster: "Right. They are assigned units but they can't call it their own…"

Female broadcaster: "If you take a closer look at her suit, the high collar is lined red."

The second poster came into focus and reveals the hangar. Major S.H. was in the new pilot suit - matte black with glowing blue piping. Her silky locks pulled into a neat no-nonsense ponytail while her blunt bangs covered part of her doe-like eyes, showing her signature intimidating Ice Queen look. She appeared to be walking towards an upgraded DEEP ARMS, in mid stride, when she did a half turn, as if someone called her from behind. Her insignia, the big red Housenka flower, sewn onto the black material covering her upper arm, for all to recognise that she was hero who took down the infamous EA trio, Sakura Burst.

Right below her insignia was a very noticeable 'JOULE TEAM' iron-on patch.

Female broadcaster: "Did you see it? The red trimming is an indication that she is a Red Coat. They graduated at the top of their cohorts. And you know what?"

Male broadcaster: "What?"

Female broadcaster: "They are not exactly bound to the orders of the team's Commanding Officer. If it's valid or the Commander and Captain are not in condition to take charge, they can overwrite it or assume commanding position."

Male broadcaster whistled in disbelief, "she must be really something. A special machine. An insignia. A Red Coat."

Female broadcaster: "I know! If she turns out to be this mysterious lady, my God, I think they are a perfect match. We know that Yzak Joule is still active on the frontline as a Commander of his team. With the help of his best friend, Dearka Elthman, who is the Captain aka his second-in-command. This also means Major S.H., with all that credential we talked about, is very likely the Squadron Leader."

Male broadcaster: "whistle If all these turns out to be true, she is really something. That blue machine with the big red flower. She took down the infamous trio! Unbelievable."

Female broadcaster: "I remembered watching the showdown with the three EA machines. It was intense! I was with the broadcast team and everyone in the room was holding their breathe. I remember watching how the Blue Machine reacted slower and the next thing I know two Black-Pink Machines had their blades in the Blue Machine. Then, the screen was showing a massive explosion. Before the smoke came, there was red, orange, flashes. The screen shook and there were multiple smaller explosion afterwards."

Male broadcaster shook his head.

Female broadcaster: "The atmosphere in room was horrible. I remember all of us were crying in silent. The tears just flow down. I prayed that the pilot in the Blue Machine did not have to suffer… that he or she passed on swiftly and without any pain. The pilot was alone against three and had blew up to end remaining two. The feeling was horrible. I couldn't imagine how the family must have felt. Thank God, she made it."

Male broadcaster: "I agree with you a 100%. I remembered that explosion very clearly too. My mind went blank. I couldn't believe what I saw. And yes, thank God she is alive. That machine sure had a thick hull, which is a good thing."

Female broadcaster: "Yes, thank God she made it. I don't know about you but she's a hero to me. She's a fighter, she's tough and I think she's beautiful. Not in a typical soft, damsel-in-distress, cookie cutter kind of beautiful. There is something subtle about her yet you would not consider has weak. You wouldn't dare try to be funny with her. How should I say this? I mean, just look at her! Just look at her eyes in the two poster. And her posture."

Male broadcaster: "She reminds me of Ezalia Joule and the Princess of ORB. That commanding air of authority and strength both of them exude. It's like how an Alpha walks in and you know your place immediately and step aside. That is the vibe I get, looking at both posters."

Female broadcaster: "You nailed it. That was what I was getting at. Not to mention that I find her to be quite a natural beauty. If you noticed, her features aren't as defined as most of us."

Male broadcaster: "I have to agree with you. If the girl in the photo is in fact Major S.H., and it is confirmed that they are seeing each other, I'm happy for him. She is a national hero. She is a top gun, meaning, she's smart. And I think she is beautiful too. Judging from the smiles of everyone in the photos, she seems to be a nice person."

Female broadcaster: "Yes, the photos! Here are some clearer photos of our mysterious girl."

Photo 1: Yzak had a hand extended to her and helped her out of the supercar.

Photo 2: A closer shot of Yzak handing the car key to valet with Shiho's hand still in his.

Photo 3: Shiho smiled and waved to the valet, while Yzak had a small tilted smile as he looks tenderly at her.

Photo 4: All of four of them in the queue for bag check. Shiho was happily chatting with Miriallia, who was laughing.

Female broadcaster: "Hold on. brings her hand to the earpiece she was wearing Well, it seems that we have interesting updates or additions to this topic."

Male broadcaster: "It seems that one of our writers, who is at Armoury One for the Media Tour, has updates on this mysterious brunette."

Females broadcaster: "Let's connect with her."

(On Screen)

"Hi John. Hi Mel." A redhead appeared on screen, grinning ear to ear.

Male broadcaster: "You seemed really happy. Any interesting news for us?"

Redhead: "As you can see, I am here at Armoury One. The media tour has just ended and I must say that I am very lucky. I get to take a selfie with the female officer on the beautifully-shot posters depicting Japanese lineage and the famous blue machine. I know everyone is speculating that she is the brunette with Yzak Joule last night, I really think she is. The facial feature and height are similar. And I have to tell you, she is friendly and a total sweetheart. If she is really the brunette, I think Yzak Joule picked the right girl. She is a freaking mobile suit pilot, meaning she is kick ass smart. And goodness, she was so nice and such a natural beauty. It's refreshing."

Female broadcaster: "Oh my god, you took a selfie with her? How? Show us! Tell us!"

Male broadcaster: "Yeah, I want to know how you do that. Shouldn't you be writing and taking notes for the station's coverage of the celebration? (Jokes)"

Redhead: "The media pass I had around my neck slipped from the lanyard and fell to the floor. If it wasn't her, who was just passing by from behind the group of us, I swear I will be in some security room under interrogation. She tapped my shoulder from behind and when I turned around, my mind went blank"

Male broadcaster: "Why?"

Redhead: "She is tall, like a model. And she was smiling at me. She has really nice, warm gentle smile. She casually said that she saw the pass dropped on the ground, from my lanyard. When I registered that, I was so shocked, afraid and then relieved. I blurted that she just save my life and she laughed. There is no stranger kind of awkwardness. The atmosphere was really relax."

Female broadcaster: "Yeah, she sounds like an easygoing person."

Redhead: "I am sure! (shows selfie-shot on her phone, facing the camera)

Female broadcaster: "Lucky you, I'm so envious now."

Male broadcaster: "I can't believe she is the one piloting the kick ass Blue Machine. She looks so young. She looks like a doll in that get-up."

Female broadcaster: "Agree. Now that we have an up-close, I really think she is mysterious girl with Yzak Joule yesterday. I hope his representative confirms it and better yet, that he is seeing her. They are a perfect match!"

Male broadcaster: (Nodded) "You be the judge. Tell us what you think about this!"

Photo 5: All of four of them in the queue for bag check. Shiho was happily chatting with Miriallia, who was laughing."

Photo 6: Yzak took off his sweater and placed it over Shiho's shoulder, pulling them close over her sleeveless bralette-like peplum top. He had a disapproving look, directed at Dearka, while Shiho had an almost unnoticeable smile.

Photo 7: Four of them joined the table where young crews were seated.

Photo 8: Shiho and Miriallia left the table and headed to the bar.

Photo 9: Shiho and Miriallia talking at the bar

Photo 10: Close up of Shiho, side profile.

The chatter among shocked military personnel escalated and was on the verge of chaos.

"Oh my god. It really is her. Major Hahnenfuss!"

"I can't believe this. Commander Joule and his third-in-command?"

"Terror of ZAFT and his work wife… real-life couple?"

"What if she turns out to be a First Generation Coordinator?"

"It beats having a Natural as the next Mrs Joule, doesn't it?"

Some nodded in agreement while others still have the contorted look at the possibility that Shiho is First Generation.

The Chairwoman was about to step forward, not condoning the unnecessary prejudice against First Generation Coordinators, and comments about her friend. However, a firm hand on her wrist held her back.

As her line of sight refocused, it was Kira. The young Commander shook his head slowly, not to draw attention to them. He took a step closer and spoke in a hushed tone. "Leave it, Chairwoman. Let Commander Joule's PR team handle it."

She clenched her fist in reign of the sudden anger that burst through her. "Yzak or Ezalia won't be able to do much. It is up to the Hahnenfuss -"

"Then let them look into it -" Kira cut her off and quietly led her to exit the cafeteria. Once they exited and the door slid shut, Lacus freed herself from his grip. Frustration and worry were all over her face.

"You don't get it. The Hahnenfuss won't step in. They never wanted the world to know about her. They have never place her under any spotlight. Now this… they will never see this as an opportunity to introduce her to world."

"There is nothing you can do about it, Lacus. It was her choice to hang out with Yzak. She should have saw that coming." Kira pointed out with an exasperated breath. That is the thing with Lacus. She worries too much about her friends and felt obligated to help them. Especially Shiho Hahnenfuss. The pink-haired Coordinator's guilt towards the brunette caused her to forget about her current position as PLANTS' Chairwoman.

There are issues which someone of her position can't meddle with. While it was personal, this is the harsh reality they live in. Everything that you do matters, especially when you are a public figure. One wrong or questionable move and everyone jumped onto the Character Assassination wagon.

While the adoration and respect from the public for the Chairwoman remains unshaken, Lacus has yet to form her team of supporters. Many were followers of her late father.

And there is Ezalia Joule. What the officer said in the cafeteria was the truth. The former Second-in-Command of Patrick Zala still has a firm grip on ZAFT through her shares in two weapons manufacturing firms that form ZAFT's Integrated Design Bureau. If she wants to, she could easily replace Lacus. Furthermore, the former Supreme Council member still has her base of supporters. The only issue was having them to support her son. If only Yzak Joule was keen in politics, Ezalia Joule could easily call the shots through her son, who will end up being her puppet.

Although the younger Joule did his duty as Representative of Martius City and took care of the colony, he has not announced intention to participate in upcoming election. Not a word when James Frigore has spoken about his interest to campaign for Yzak's position. Rumors going around saying that the platinum blonde is not participating, citing possible reasons such military career, and lack of interest.

"Likely, she didn't see it coming at all." Her quiet voice took him back to reality.

.

.

.

Same time as Shiho approached the Redhead on her dropped pass, within the same venue but of a distance from them

"Hmph."

He picked up an annoyed grunt. The black-haired ZAFT Red Coat glanced to his right to find his girlfriend's arms crossed and looking pissed. "What it is?"

"You have been looking at Major Hahnenfuss ever since she walked in. She reminds you of Stellar again?"

A soft giggle sounded. It was Meyrin, his girlfriend's younger sister, standing beside her. "I didn't know you will get jealous of Major Hahnenfuss. You don't look like the one, you know, those easily jealous kind of girlfriend."

"You don't get it, Mey! He was also staring at Major Hahnenfuss after the mass test-demonstration of the new pilot suit!" The older red-violet haired female pointed at the woman caught her boyfriend's attention. Unknown to her, it got the attention of her superior, who walked over.

"You can't blame him, Lunamaria. Shiho is stunning in that traditional get-up."

Hearing the familiar deep voice from behind, the young mobile suit pilot turned behind and quickly added respectful distance between herself and her Commander. So did Shinn and Meyrin. All three of them saluted to their superior, Commander Frigore. "Sir."

Like many military officers present for today's celebration and Memorial Service, he was dressed in attire which reflected his roots. The dark grey sack suit gives his tall and well-built physique a softer silhouette with its loose yet modern slim cut. Single-breasted having three buttons out of which only the middle one has fastened, the young Commander looks both classy and sophisticated in the suit which showcased his American roots.

He waved it off with an easy smile before it morphed into a confident one, almost on the verge of being cocky. "But I have to add that she is out of Shinn's league…"

"She's not in yours too." A voice, which he was all too familiar with, sounded before he could speak further. Joining their circle and conversation was Yzak Joule and a Red Coat in his team, Laura, who happens to be Dearka's prodigy.

Yzak Joule was also decked in personal attire, a tailored British Cut suit which showcased his English roots with a modern touch.

"I doubt she's in yours too." He retaliated with an eyebrow raised, "don't forget, you are her Commander. She is your subordinate." Unknown to him, it ticked the platinum blonde off but he was smart enough to hide it.

"Strange, she was once in your team but it seems you aren't aware that she holds her own." The platinum blonde smirked as he held James Frigore's subtle stare squarely. The tension between them started to suffocate, until a smug look replaced the stare.

"Of course, but I'm surprised that she agreed to go off with you last evening."

How the hell… Caught off guard, Yzak let his smirk fade away and smiled. Just how the hell did he know?! It couldn't be the bar since they know better to circulate materials, which may potentially harm his image. Unless… Fxck. The other patrons. Social media. The netizens.

F.X.C.K.

"I'm sure Commander Joule was being a gentleman… sending a colleague home after a long day." A very familiar voice sounded from his side. Judging from the surprised look that wiped the smugness of James Frigore's face, it could only be…

"Athrun Zala." The American man nodded to the ex-citizen of PLANTS.

"Commander Frigore." The blue haired Coordinator, who came into Yzak's line of vision, returned the acknowledgement.

"Putting on the kimono is an extremely tedious task. Major Hahnenfuss will need at least 2 helpers. If she did it herself, well, that explains why she accepted Commander Joule's kind gesture to send her back." Athrun continued, tilting his head towards the brunette who was chatting with a young woman, a distance away from them.

"I see you are familiar with the get-up. Didn't know your time away from PLANTS allows you to be acquainted with the traditional attire donned by the Princess too." The man of American descent implied, with a deceiving gentle smile. The two Red Coats of the late Le Creuset team were taken aback at what he was implying. He knew about Athrun's stay in ORB, as Her Royal Highness' personal bodyguard.

"ORB's uniform looks good on you." James continued.

"PLANTS' celebration theme doesn't apply to guests. I don't look good in Slovenia's traditional attire anyway." The blue-haired Coordinator replied, acting along.

'Typical of him.' Yzak rolled his eyes mentally.

"Her Royal Highness has an interesting sense of humor… to bring one of her Commanders, who was a defector of ZAFT, for PLANTS' celebration of its Independence Day."

Sharp silence fell upon the group.

"You, have an interesting level of intelligence, Commander Frigore." Yzak started, coming to the blue-haired guy's defense. His pointed tone at the word, Commander, was a big swipe - wondering aloud on how he became a Commander. "Why remind everyone how twisted the previous Higher Command was on such an occasion? Higher Command of you too, no less."

That earned him a surprised look from Athrun, Laura, Shinn, Lunamaria and Meyrin. Yzak Joule was annoyed or irritated with Athrun Zala over many things but it was clear that the platinum blonde saw him as a friend. To blatantly throw his weight as someone of a higher position on James Frigore like that.

"Right, you turned your back on ZAFT too. Funny, how your punishment was to take over your mother's position. It doesn't come across as a punishment to me, no matter how I look at it." The well-built man spoke, implying the Higher Command aka the Supreme Council was still as twisted as before.

Five pairs of eyes directed to the platinum blonde, all holding their breath in fear that he will blow his top at James Frigore's implication. Athrun was aware that this conversation had went offtrack because Yzak stood up for him. Hence, he ain't going to watch the platinum blonde make a fool of himself at such an event. The huge group of writers, production crew, who were here for the media tour and live coverage, was there too.

The blue haired Coordinator quickly cleared his throat and stepped forward to put himself between the two men, "I would like to speak with Meyrin, if that's ok. Commander Frigore."

The blonde ZAFT Commander smirked, "sure." With that, he turned around and walked away.

Athrun quickly shifted his attention to the silent but fuming Yzak behind him. "I heard from Captain Ramius that Her Royal Highness will be meeting with Major Hahnenfuss before the commencement of the Memorial Service."

"I am aware of it. Chairwoman is with her at the moment. We will be relocating her to meet with Major once their conversation is done." The platinum blonde replied, eyes glued to the retreating rival. If he has laser vision, Athrun was very sure Yzak would have burn holes into James Frigore's expensive American Cut suit. Or better yet, fry him dead on the spot. Yes, the look on Yzak Joule's face was screaming murder, in cold blood.

Athrun nodded and shifted uncomfortably. Noting this and knowing the Athrun Zala he knows is rarely fidgety, Yzak decided to drop his murderous rage. "What is it? Spit it, Zala."

Everyone was jumped slightly at his snapping. Noting their reaction, the platinum blonde cleared his throat and shrugged his shoulder in order to relax his tensed shoulders. Directing his gaze to Shinn, Lunamaria, Meyrin and Laura, he cleared his throat. "We are done here, let Commander Zala and I speak in private."

Laura nodded and saluted before leaving, so did Shinn but only to be held back by Lunamaria. "What is it?"

"He wants to speak with Meyrin, remember? We shouldn't leave her alone." The female Red Coat said, giving Athrun a stink eye, which she did not expect both the blue haired Coordinator and Yzak to catch it.

The platinum blonde frowned at her antics. He knew from Dearka that Athrun's secret relationship with the Princess was in a huge mess, and one of the cause was standing right in front of him. Meyrin Hawke.

In his honest opinion, the Princess suits Athrun better. She is capable of whipping that soft-hearted man into shape, whereas the younger of the red-violet haired sisters appears to him as someone who have feelings for Athrun like how fans worship their favourite idols.

Athrun Zala needs to snap out of it and make it clear to the teenager soon, before his chance of getting back with the Princess drops to an absolute nil from the current low-but-not-impossible. The platinum blonde was thoroughly surprised that the Princess accepts his application to join ORB's military after the war. This means one thing, Athrun still has a chance.

"I…"

Bloody hell. This man is such a wuss. The Princess is definitely right for him. Yzak thought, before he cut in. "I will see you at the lobby in 15mins. Don't make me wait, Zala."

Athrun nodded awkwardly, "thank you."

Just before he leaves, Yzak put himself face to face from the blue haired Coordinator and look into his eyes squarely, while speaking softly, just for their ears only. "I don't know the details… but don't ruin your chance with the Princess any further. It's bad enough as it is now, don't make it worse by letting whatever that is going between you and Meyrin drag on."

The blue haired Coordinator looked at him with eyes widened in shock. Yzak nodded as he turned around and left.

Shifting his attention to Shinn and the two sisters, Athrun cleared his throat, feeling guilty that he had forgotten about what he said to Commander Frigore earlier. Honestly, he didn't need to speak with Meyrin. He said it to diffuse the tricky situation between Commander Frigore and Yzak. In fact, he wanted to speak with Yzak.

He need a favour from him. He need to speak with Cagalli, alone. Ramius and Waltfeld were unable to arrange. She refuse to see him and he suspected that it was because of that time him not wanting to see her, as offered by Kira. If it was arranged by Yzak, and given his words earlier, the platinum blonde may be able to device a plan or excuse and help him.

"I need to speak with Meyrin… alone."

Lunamaria stepped forward, only to be held back by Shinn, with a firm grip on her wrist. With a unwavering stare, Shinn shook his head at his girlfriend slowly. He was warning her with his eyes before offering a small smile to her younger sister. "We will be at the cafeteria. Find us there when you are done, alright?"

Meyrin nodded meekly.

As the couple retreated, Athrun stepped forward and stood in front of the teenager. "Shall we go to somewhere less crowded?"

.

.

.

The sound of the highly secured door slid open got Shiho out of her seat excitedly, "Cagalli?" As she turned towards the sound of footsteps, her entire being froze. Her throat went dry, while her heart started to race at top speed.

It was Yzak, and he was out of his Council attire. Neither was he in the usual white Commander uniform.

He was in a tailored suit that was more shaped around the waist than the one donned by Commander Frigore. Yes, she spotted the both of them at the hangar earlier but she was held up by a media personnel and ended up rushing here. She did not want to be late for a quick catch-up with Cagalli.

The suit's unique blue-grey shade complements Yzak's fair skin tone and brings out the piercing blue of his eyes. It was a slim fit, creating a very distinct toned yet lean silhouette for the platinum blonde. Unbuttoned, it revealed a crisp white shirt underneath a fitted waistcoat constructed from the same material of his jacket. His trouser was of a matching colour, slim fit too, cut off at his ankles. It made him appear taller than he actually was.

Throw in the insignia of the Joules, a small cluster of white fennel flowers clipped with a trimmed stalk of red English rose, Yzak Joule looked every bit of a typical suave, good-looking Englishman. The knowledge of him being a heir of old money, a member of the Supreme Council and National Defense Committee, and the largest shareholder of Martius Arsenals and Maius Military Industries will make any girls' knees go weak. Including herself. However, the weight of the kimono she was wearing at the moment kept her legs straight and upright. While being a Red Coat saw her being tougher than a Green, the kimono was of a considerable weight compared to her uniform and new pilot suit.

The platinum blonde felt his breath hitched midway. The overwhelming awe he felt now was more intense that what he felt earlier during the Princess' inspection with Lacus. He still could not believe what he was looking at.

The woman in front of him was beautiful. No, stunning. He recalled Chloe's revelation about the brunette's mother, who was from Japan. Lacus' words started replaying in his head. The attire must be what they called Kimono.

Light, almost pale, shade of blue that resembles the morning sky was the primary colour of the attire. It would have been plain, if it wasn't for the thick sash wrapped around her midsection and the massive elaborate embroidery work starting right below the sash till the end of the kimono.

A soft looking cloth in a pale shade of violet was loosely wrapped around her chest like a tube. Holding it in place was a stiffer material, which made up the largest portion of the thick sash. It was pulled tight, starting from beneath her bosoms to the middle of her stomach. It was reddish-orange in colour, with a metallic sheen to it. Small and mid-sized uncoloured peony flowers, outlined with silver and white threads, filled the entire material.

Cutting across the red sea of flowers was a thin satin ribbon tied into a complicated knot. It was the most striking and rich shade of ultraviolet he has ever seen. A scarf-like sash, which the colour resembled liquid gold, was tied into an ordinary ribbon. It was twice the complicated knot's thickness and was draped loosely, almost at the end of the thick reddish-orange sash.

With all that cloths, anyone can expect the likelihood of bulging stomach or straight figure. However, that was not the case for Shiho. He caught a very, almost unnoticeable, inwards curve that indicates her waist and hips.

Beneath the multi-fabric and coloured sash, giant uncoloured peonies outlined with glittery gold thread and small petals and flower of cherry blossoms were strategically wind-scattered.

The two flowers combined to serve as a bridge for the pale blue to flow nicely to the masterpiece.

Embroidery of red, pink and yellow-coloured peony flowers fills the remaining area until the end. The variety of coloured threads used and skilfully sewn together made them appeared as though real flowers were sewn onto the kimono.

The entire transition of colours was replicated on both ends of her sleeves, which was rectangular in shape and almost the same length as the kimono.

Completing the traditional look was a pair of ancient yet ferocious-looking ancient stone lions. One has its mouth open with fangs bared while the other's mouth was close.

Located slightly beneath below her thick sash. The pair appeared to be stepping out of a huge bush of peony flowers, with petals of pale pink cherry blossom dancing in the wind.

He has very limited knowledge on Asian culture but the kimono Shiho is wearing seems very expensive. The needlework rivalled the ones applied on the kimono donned by the Princess of ORB, today and during its annual National Day.

Since the nation was founded by pioneer generation of Japanese Coordinators during the early years of Cosmic Era, the Lioness of ORB pays tribute to the founding group of people by donning the kimono.

As she was a royalty, hers was a twelve layer. Although the multiple layers signifies her status, he felt it made Princess look smaller than she really was and very cumbersome.

However, Shiho's kimono envelopes her with an air of regal. The brunette looked like a daughter of a wealthy merchant or a minister serving the royal family. Throw in her dark chocolate, almost black, locks which was common among Asians, she carried off the kimono much better than the Princess. The twelve-layered ones wore by the Princess of ORB, today and during its National Day, can't hold a candle to the vibrancy of Shiho's kimono.

The brunette's kimono and its origins might have answered a likely question about her subtle, or as said by his mother, soft features and her genetic makeup.

The kimono, which is from Japan, part of Asia, highlighted her Asian roots, the likely reason behind her soft subtle features. Round child-like face with a dainty button nose, and small pouty lips. Her eyes were bright and doe-like, they weren't hooded.

Aside the colour of her eyes, the rest were opposites of the typical sculpted face and features of most Coordinator female. Shiho is a Coordinator who received modified genes and the perks, but physical attributes were of a Natural, determined by laws of Nature.

Since she is half-sister with Chloe, the brunette must have inherited Jordan Hahnenfuss' height together with the eye colour. As she was tall for a Coordinator woman. Give her a pair of killer heels and she will be at the same height as he is. While everything else was from her mother.

He couldn't decide whether 'exotic' or 'oriental' was a better word to describe her.

"Commander Joule?"

As soon as the words rang in his ears and clicked in his head, he found himself looking at her end of her blue kimono and what a great contrast it was from the white floor of the meeting room reserved for political guests of PLANTS. Registering the silk-like material underneath his hand, he realised he was holding her in his arms. Before he knew what he was doing, the words that left his lips drifted to his ears. "You look beautiful in this."

He heard a surprised inhale of breath, and couldn't resist the temptation of her pressing her closer against him and tightened his arms around her. Closing his eyes, he buried his face at the crook of her neck, inhaling the familiar scent of her shampoo on her hair. A sweet yet tempting mix of white chocolate, raspberry, and pink orchid. If her intention was to drive him crazy with need, she did it beautifully, without any conscious effort. He missed having her against him, how his body warmth lingers and warms up her chilly one.

(Flashback)

He shifted in his sleep, attempting to tighten his arms around Shiho's waist, only to realise his hands were resting on the slight warm bedsheets. Strange, it should be her soft, slightly warmed body.

"Shiho?" He murmured absentmindedly, voice thick with sleep.

A sudden sneeze cut through the silence. Touching his nose, he figured that it wasn't him. That's right, it can't be him. He is too warm to feel cold or sneeze. If it wasn't for Shiho, he would have sleep in his birthday suit. Just like how he usually would. He never likes wearing clothes to sleep but he didn't want to make her uncomfortable, so he tolerated his sweatpants. That was the max. He can't stand sleeping with a top. The extra layer of cloth irritates hims. He likes the feel of soft cottony sheets under his skin.

After the last couple of hours, he likes the feel of Shiho's lean yet soft body against his. How her soft curves fitted perfectly with his body. How her cold skin warmed slightly from being held by him. How her satin smooth skin brushed against his heated ones as she draws quiet breaths, while her warm exhale caressed his chest like a silk sliding over his skin in a teasing manner. How she groaned and snuggled closer when the blanket shifted and cold air touched her exposed skin. He realised that the brunette, who was chilly to touch, was afraid of cold. Throughout her slumber, she pressed herself against him and cuddled up to him like how a koala would attached itself to a sturdy branch of the tree and sleep. Not that he was complaining. He liked it. It has been awhile, holding a woman until she falls asleep and to join her in slumberland later. The last time was with his ex-fiancee, but that was a long time ago.

Another sneeze sounded but it sounded muffled this time. Wait a minute, he didn't sneeze. It wasn't him… His eyes shot open. Sitting up straight, he started scanning his bedroom for a particular brunette. "Shiho?"

Chilling jolt of fear ran through every fibre of his body. She's left?

He jumped out of his bed and ran downstairs, only to be greeted with the sight of her by the kitchen counter. Her back was to him, wiping her nose with tissue napkins. Steam raising from the cup beside her. Her crossbody bag was also there. No doubt that she was trying to get herself of a hot beverage before she leaves.

Taking in the view of her back and her partial bedhead, she must have tried to comb through with her hands earlier, the urge of hugging her from the back, pressing her soft body against his slammed him like a massive wave. Next thing he knew, there was the scent of his pillow and shampoo. As soon as the murky depths of sleep cleared from his mind, he realised he was indeed back-hugging her. His face was buried in her silky dark chocolate strands, and his voice cut through the thick silence of the night.

"Sneaking off is not the wisest choice, especially when we are going to see each other later." He tightened his hands around her, while angling his face to have his lips ghosting the edges of her ear. "It makes things more awkward than necessary."

He caught her shaky breath before she stiffened and squared her shoulders.

Damn, he really hate it when she does that. It was the same as having her arching an eyebrow at him. He wasn't going to like whatever she was going to say following those moves.

"There's nothing to be awkward about. We just bunk in together. That's all."

What the -

She took the opportunity and stepped out of his embrace. Her back still facing him as she cleared her nose and picked up the cup of hot water. She avoided any eye contact with him as she took a few sips. No doubt that it was uncomfortably hot, almost scalding - given that she always downed the cup of hot chocolate freshly out from vending machine.

He took the cup out of her hand and gave her an evil eye. "Sure, there's nothing to be awkward about bunking in together. Half naked."

Her lavender orbs scanned him from head to toe immediately and she froze for a second. Soon, her cheeks turned a shade rosier. Shutting her eyes, she took a deep breath and exhaled an exasperated breath and refocus her line of sight on the cup of hot water in his hand.

Realising that he won't be getting a response on that matter, he handed it back to her reluctantly. "Housenka-"

"Thank you." She clipped as she quickly took the cup of hot water from him and started sipping. Her doe-like eyes avoided his completely.

He took a step forward and removed the cup of hot water from her hands. This time, he placed it on the counter and out of her reach. Just before she stepped away and towards the cup, he quickly placed his hands on her shoulder. Lowering himself, blue eyes locked onto her purple ones. "Stop it, Housenka."

She frowned at him. "No. You stop it."

Good God. He hated that tone too. Then again, no time for that. He need answers. He need to know why she refuse to see him beyond his job as her Commander. Just what the hell was holding her back?

"Is it because of my positions in Supreme Council and ZAFT? Or because I am Ezalia Joule's son?"

He felt her went rigid as her eyes widened in utter surprise for a second. "What? No."

Taking her reaction was an indication that neither mattered, he felt his body relaxed. He didn't know he tensed at either one of the fact being the answer. While many women out there like him for that, he knew Shiho wasn't one of them. And moments ago, he got confirmation he had secretly hoped for..

"I know what the rest are saying about me…"

"It's not that, and I don't care -"

"Good, then -"

"It's me. I am not-"

"You are not keen?"

"No. It's not that."

"Then what is it? Don't tell me that it's just a crush or admiration. I'm not buying it. You waited on me all these while. I felt it when you kept silent. I felt it when we kissed last night."

"I don't know how to speak to you about this, Yzak. This thing between us is not going to work out, okay? Because of me."

"Why? Why is it because of you? Is there a crazy psychopath ex-boyfriend?"

The brunette exhaled an exasperated breath, while she dragged a palm over her face.

"Lacus said that you never had a boyfriend. Even if you did, she didn't know and turns out that he is stalking you, it is not an issue. I am going to find him and put an end to him. If that is what it takes, I will do it."

She had her fingers rubbing her throbbing head. "No, Yzak. Please, just drop it."

"Chloe. She and Mrs Hahnenfuss has a hold on you, isn't it? That is why you and your mother are separated. That is why she is in Japan now. Isn't it?"

The mention of two people she disliked very much, together with her late mother reminded Shiho of Miyako's death. And how it was written off as a suicide case. All the injustice her mother had to go through, even in her death.

The brunette snapped.

"My mother is dead, Yzak! What else could those two hold against me? They wanted my mother gone, ever since the day she showed up with me. And they got what they wanted that evening. She was murdered that evening! On the eve of my birthday! But it became a suicide case! How can it be a suicide case when I fought with the intruder? How was that even possible? What could those two hold against me?!"

She wasn't aware that she was yelling until she noticed the ringing in her ears and the shock expression on Yzak's face.

Oh no… she told him. Blinded by anger and injustice buried deep within her for all these years.

Releasing an exasperated breath, she gathered her crossbody bag on the kitchen counter and made her way to the door. Retrieving her shoes from the hidden cabinet, and putting it on in record speed, she pressed the emergency access button to unlock the door.

In a blink of an eye, she was gone.

(End of flashback)

"Don't push me away, Housenka… you agreed not to." He said quietly as he continues to hold her.

Her heart broke at his defeated voice. Unknown to her, she returned his embrace with her hands on his back.

Just then, scenes of her mother's murder started playing in her mind. Her blood ran cold.

Her background. The moment the media manage to get hold of her full name, they are going to start digging. It won't be long before they found out her mother was a Natural, a renowned Geisha from Kyoto, Japan. While her father was from one of PLANTS' powerful families, rivalling the Joules and the Zalas.

That won't be the end of it. They are going to find out how she came about - yes, the shocking news of what Jordan Hahnenfuss did to her mother in his drunken stupor. It is going to be one massive media storm, which might potentially end her career in the military and perhaps, dragged the entire Hahnenfuss clan down. Not that she cared what happen to them but there was Granny. She didn't want the elderly matriarch, who took care of her, to witness all these. Her health has been deteriorating over the years. Shiho wasn't sure whether Granny could take the blow.

When the storm hits, it is likely to be the last time she will see Yzak in person. For a long time. ZAFT will separate the two of them, by removing her from the Joule team.

When it happens, there is nothing Yzak can do about it. Even though he made it clear that he doesn't want her to leave his team ever again. He wouldn't be able to pull strings to save her from the media's scorching glare.

He had to save himself first. He had to complete his term at the Supreme Council and National Defense Committee in exchange for a pardon for Ezalia, the end of her house arrest, and a pardon for his crime - when he shot down a civilian spacecraft.

In eyes of the public, Yzak Joule is impressive. Being one of the youngest yet powerful man in PLANTS. What they didn't know is that he never had the choice. He never once had the upper hand. He was strung along. Doing what was expected of him was his only way out.

There's also the promise she made to her late mother. She wanted her to join ZAFT, to be safe. From what? How long does she need to stay in ZAFT? The war was over. However, something tells her that it has nothing to do with the war. It was about her. She didn't know in specifics but there was no denial. Her early years. The headaches, the sudden occurrence of fever and backaches. The incident at her late mother's place.

What is going to happen when she finally found out about herself? Will she be able accept the truth? Will her friends, especially Yzak, be able to accept it and stick with her?

"I didn't agree on anything." She tried to wriggle away but he held her in place. "Silent means consent, no? You didn't object or say anything about it last night."

"Even if you are never going to tell me anything about your past, I don't care... And I'm sorry about what happened to your mother."

Opening her eyes, she tilted her head back a little to look at him. "You are a public figure... You should be with someone who can help you in your career-"

He silenced her by pressing his lips on hers.

Her heart stopped for a second, and it started to race. She will never get sick of this feeling - her heart threatening to beat out of her chest and the lightheadedness, but it has to stop. She brought her hand to his chest to push him away but only to have him drew back slightly to shower her with gentle, soft kisses, each with its own flicker of warmth.

The way his warm lips captured hers in between his as he eats her in a giddy heart-stopping motion of tender nibs and tugs. She wasn't surprised if they ended up on the table. Him pinning her down. From last night's escapade, she noticed Yzak tends to be the one in control, pinning her down or caging her, as he worked magic with his hands and lips.

(Flashback)

"I think I like you, Housenka."

Yzak gently swept a stray hair away before cupping her face with one hand and took a moment studying her face. This woman has been waiting on him. For God knows how long.

The war ended not far back in time. That evening when she held him was not too long ago. The time they grew closer, the shifting dynamic between them, beyond a Commander and a subordinate was awhile back, at the end of first PLANTS-ALLIANCE war. Has she been waiting on him since then?

He remembered how long it took for him and his ex-fiancee to befriend each other, before the feelings kicked in eventually. And that took them quite a while, with conscious effort from both. If Shiho had those feelings for him since the end of the First War, and has been until now…

Bloody hell, that was a fxcking long time.

He remembered his days as a recruit in the military academy. The long stretch of time as he counted down the days towards book out, which he will able to squeeze some time to spend with Brenda. Every minute feels like an awful long time. How Shiho waited on him for so long was beyond him.

A possibility struck. Could it be the reason behind her return to Frigore's team? Because he wasn't reciprocating.

That must be it. Then again, how would he know? How the hell would he have known that Ice Queen had romantic feelings for him? Just because she was less frosty towards him ever since he bandaged her up and offered some tips on fixing DEEP ARMS' battery consumption and cooling system? It was no brainer to think that it could be her way of showing her appreciation. And probably, the start of seeing him as coworker or a comrade, rather than royal pain in the ass.

Sure, he was surprised to find out for himself that she had a nice smile and her voice was actually soft and warm. In contrary to the stoic unimpressed look and the cold, almost stern tone she always use when speaking to anyone who is of same or higher rank than her. Except Nicol.

He will never forget how chirpy Nicol was, when Commander Le Creuset introduced her to the team. Nicol, who always follows the book, stood up in utter surprise when the brunette entered the briefing room. What got to Yzak the most was the pianist's action when the late Commander was out of the room leaving them to mingle with the newcomer.

Nicol was on his feet immediately, and hugged her in a blink of an eye. He will never forget that scene. The green-haired boy was never like that.

"You drank too much earlier." She clipped, or tried to. The shaky end of her voice brought him out of his mental ramblings. As his vision refocused on the brunette underneath him, he couldn't help with the slight upturn of his lips.

The brunette's usual almost unnoticeable rosy cheeks were red now. His fingers glided down her face to her soft pouts, ghosting over it in a lazy yet scorching trail. Her face burning up under his scrutiny.

As he continued to gaze at her lovingly and fingers caressing the side of her face, she couldn't help to look into those piercing blue eyes. There was calm and wonder, softening with tenderness before sparkling with something else.

Those orbs flickered down to her lips and her body went rigid with surprise as trembles shook her body and the euphoric warmth blossomed within her. Sliding back up to look into hers once more, he drew back a little.

With her cheeks still blushing hotly, she glanced back up into his captivating blue eyes. He leaned down, resting his forehead against hers. Shiho watched breathlessly as his eyes studied hers with silent intensity. His warm breath ghosted across her face.

On instinct, the brunette closed her eyes, unknowingly giving him the permission he was waiting for. She stifled a surprised gasp as his soft lips captured hers, causing her body to flush with heat.

The heat seemed to travel through her veins, warming her. Just as she felt a rush of euphoric bliss envelop her entire being, her grip on the surroundings began to disappear with the gentle, soft kisses he was showering her with. She remained still for a few seconds before her tense nerves began to relax. Not knowing when it happened, her lips were locked with Yzak's, she was kissing him back.

His lips felt so gentle, so warm. Her hands begin to slide up his chest and encircle his neck, while his hand slid off her face to the back of her head. Fingers tangling in her long, dark chocolate hair, while the other hand stopped propping him up to tighten around her waist instead, pulling her closer against him. Shiho felt a smoldering heat deep within her as Yzak's grip tightened, crushing her body to his. With him on top of her, she felt herself being pushed further into the bed. Their lips parted for a brief moment before his clasped onto hers once again with more pressure. Moving in perfect sync, the kiss began to grow heavy, becoming more passionate by the second.

Her right hand flowed onto his bare chest as her left hand began exploring the heated dips and raise of his firm back. Her kiss grew greedy, her mouth locking tighter. The heat flowing throughout her body began to grow as she felt his hand untangled from her hair and slid smoothly onto her neck, down her back and circled her waist.

Reluctantly breaking the kiss, he buried his heated face at the crook of her neck. Inhaling the familiar and comforting scent of her shampoo. He couldn't contain the contented sigh. How he wish morning doesn't come. How he wish they could remain like this. Just in each other's arms and not having to care about the rest of the world. That would be nice.

"Let me hang around, Housenka." He said softly into her silky locks, feeling the slight twitch of her body beneath his, he tightened his arms around her.

"Just like how you hang around all this while." He pressed a kiss behind her ear, effectively earning a hitch in her breath.

"Why me, Yzak?"

This woman has to be kidding him. She may be frosty to be acquainted with, too independent and strong-willed to be approached on casual or friendly terms, but it doesn't cover the fact that she was good person. Thank God all the other guys are blind enough not to notice her.

He couldn't contain the chuckle that bubbled in his chest, as he drew away to look at her youthful face again. "Why me, Housenka? Of all guys, you pick the Terror of ZAFT. The meanest and loudest guy in ZAFT." Yeap, he knew what others spoke about him behind his back.

A small burst of laughter slipped from the brunette. Damn, the sound of her laughter. He smiled, any resistance against that beautiful sound and the twinkle in her purple eyes was futile.

He planted a chaste kiss on her nose before getting off her to rest on his back. Tugging an arm under his head, he turned to his side and pulled the brunette in. While she didn't resist, he felt her entire being went rigid as his free hand adjusted her head to rest comfortably on his tugged arm.

Noting her lower body temperature and sensitivity to cold, he pulled the blanket up to her shoulders. Her eyes widened in surprise.

"You," his free hand returned to her waist, pressing her snuggly against him in a comforting embrace, "need to keep warm."

Before she could say anything about it, he rest his cheeks on top of her head. "Sleep well, Housenka."

(End of flashback)

She pushed and surprisingly, he pulled away.

"I need you to stop seeing me as Yzak Joule… but as an ordinary guy who wants to know more about a girl. A guy who wants to hang out with the girl he likes."

"Did you hear what you've just said?"

"Loud and clear."

"Are you out of your mind?"

"No."

Just then, the door slid open, revealing a very surprised Chairwoman and Princess of ORB, who was accompanied with her entourage of bodyguards and ladies-in-waiting

Realising the position he and Shiho was in, he quickly let her go and stepped away. Clearing his throat, he nodded to Lacus and did a formal bow to the Royalty beside her. "Chairwoman. Your Royal Highness."

Both leaders nodded awkwardly before stepping in. With a small cough, Cagalli coyly titled her head to the side and Murrue Ramius, the captain of Archangel stepped to her side.

"We will await your presence here, until the designated time, Your Highness." With a formal bow, she and entire entourage took a step back. The door immediately slid shut, separating Lacus, the Lioness of ORB and her team.

Shiho stepped forward and bowed formally to the blonde but was quickly stopped.

"You! How many times do I have to tell you not to bow to me?" Cagalli had her hands on each of the brunette's arm and shook her gently.

The latter laughed as the blonde shook her and gritted her teeth in frustration. "Why are you still so un-Princess like?"

The line earned her light smack on her arm from the Princess. "I can see that you are still a B-"

Just before the 'bitch' word sounded, Shiho waved her index finger in mock disapproval. "No, Princess. No."

A very entertained Lacus turned to her side to see a rather confused Yzak. "I think they are close…"

"Asshole." Cagalli rolled her eyes as the brunette's disapproving facade cracked into a laughing fit.

It then struck the platinum blonde that it has been awhile since the brunette laughed like this. Her purple eyes were bright and twinkling. Her laughter reminded him of the gentle pleasant sound of wind chimes in the garden of the Joule Manor. Cheery yet soothing.

The platinum blonde nodded to his pink-haired superior. "I'm aware that Housenka knows the Princess but to be this close… it's a surprise."

"It really is."

"I'm happy to see her like this… laughing and … almost carefree."

At his last line, Lacus shifted to face him fully. She was certain that her ears aren't playing tricks on her. He said almost carefree. It could only mean one thing.

He knew about Shiho's story or part of it. A wishful part of her hoped that it was Shiho who let him in. However, the rationale part of her assumed that he or Ezalia Joule ran a check on her. Typical of anyone who is rich and powerful.

Nevertheless, she was glad. He was glad to see Shiho happy. It sounded personal, beyond how a boss would, towards a subordinate. There was a hint of softness and maybe, content, lacing his words. And the way he look at her. How his ice blue eyes locked on the brunette. The endearing glint and small lopsided smile as he take in the sight of her laughing and teasing a friend.

"I think we should let them have a moment." Lacus urged softly. Yzak nodded and gestured to let Lacus move first.

"Pardon me, Your Royal Highness. I will leave you with Major Hahnenfuss. Councilman Joule and the security team will be outside." The pink-haired Princess smiled and did a small bow, deciding to keep the formality as Yzak was around. He is of no acquaintance to the Lionness.

Cagalli seemed to catch it right away as her gaze shifted to the platinum blonde who did a formal bow following Lacus'.

"I would like that." She spoke, donning the mask of the Royalty she was instantly. "Thank you for this arrangement, Chairwoman Clyne. Councilman Joule. The gracious hospitality is deeply appreciated."

Lacus smiled and made her way to the door, accompanied with Yzak.

The moment they stepped out and the door slid shut once again, Cagalli threw her arms around the brunette in free-spirited Cagalli Yula Attha fashion. "You woman!"

The ZAFT soldier chuckled as she returned the hug, "I miss you too." The woman holding her in bear hug was definitely her friend from the Royal Academy of Fine Art alright.

Knowing her, it was Cagalli's way of saying that she missed her. The blonde was never one with soft and gentle words. Blatant, crude and tomboyish were what people will use to describe her. Straight-talking and determined were what Shiho would say of the woman. It was something she admired and respect about her.

"You are in so much trouble for disappearing without a goodbye!" The blonde shook her again. It was something she do whenever she's frustrated or upset. Her hands shook. Or she grabbed the person by the collar of the top. Or she shakes them, like what she has been doing. Shiho was glad that this side of Cagalli didn't go away. Otherwise, she wasn't sure how to approach her if she was all proper and ladylike, as expected of a royalty, and a public figure.

"I'm sure you went straight to the Immigration and Cross-Border team to run a check whether a Coordinator, brunette, by the name of Shiho Fumiko Hahnenfuss, has left ORB." The brunette laughed and gave her the stink-eye as the blonde loosened her hold and both stepped away.

Not one bit guilty or amazed that she got caught, Cagalli grabbed Shiho by her shoulders and started shaking her again. "Of course I did! One moment you were at your mother's funeral. And the next moment you are gone! Uncontactable! Of course I have to find out for myself. Even if you left the country, I need to know that you are safe… especially after what had happened to your mother."

Upon the mention, Shiho's face fell a little. The smile she had earlier shrank. The light in her doe-like eyes dulled. She turned her attention to the floor beneath her feet. Cagalli felt a stab of guilt and hurt in her heart.

Guilt, because she wasn't able to be there in person, with Shiho, to bid Ms Miyako the final farewell. Her father, the late Uzumi Yula Attha, had forbid her to do so. Her late father feared people might figure out that she was the Crown Princess of ORB. Back then, until the halfway through the First PLANTS-Alliance war, no one knew how the Crown Princess of ORB looks like. Except for Kisaka and a handful, only for purpose of keeping her safe or keeping an eye on her on behalf of her father.

Pain because her friend is still very much affected by the murder of her mother whom Shiho spent years looking for. Only to reunite briefly before they were separated again, permanently. Yes, she too, believed that it was a murder case. A carefully orchestrated one to appear as suicide case, only to be ruin by Shiho, who was an unexpected variable. There is no way it was a suicide case. Shiho said she fought with the intruder and Cagalli believed her.

The Police Force, a part of the Republic of East Asia's Inland Security, was corrupted. That, together with most of the legislative arm of the government, are compromised. It was out of her reach as Japan was part of the Republic of East Asia and that was not her territory. She was not their leader.

However, in exchange for her obedience not to attend the funeral, her father offered Cagalli an option. Should Shiho wants to pursue the matter, Cagalli will be able to help. On the condition that Shiho must explicitly express her intention, in presence of both Cagalli and Kisaka only. She doesn't what it means or entails but she tried to make Kisaka spill the beans. The key word is tried. That man won't budge and repeated spoke that it was one of the orders by the late Uzumi Yula Attha.

"I'm sorry, Shiho… for not attending and being there for you when you needed a friend the most." Cagalli confessed quietly, reaching out and held her friend's chilly hands in hers.

The brunette looked up and the corners of her lips quivered to an awkward small smile. Although Cagalli wasn't able to attend, something that was expected - given her background, Shiho remembered receiving a bouquet of white lilies from Kisaka. It was on Cagalli's behalf.

"You are one of the privileged few to know her identity. And it must remained that way, for now." She will never forget those words. They were the first she heard from the man.

"Don't say that… the lilies were beautiful. I'm sure Mother likes it, especially if it's from the Princess of ORB."

Cagalli shook her head in guilt, recalling the day she lost her father, right in front of her eyes. "I know how all of that feels…nothing really helps."

She felt a slight squeeze as Shiho held her hand in return. "I'm not in the team that took out the mass-driver with your father there… but I'm sorry, Cagalli."

The blonde nodded in response. Funny how her best friend ended up in ZAFT, an enemy of the state, then an ally, and back to being an enemy.

"If you want to, I am able to help."

Her friend's purple eyes widened in surprised.

The blonde stepped over and hugged her again. "Think about it… you know how to reach me."

Shiho closed her eyes and held her friend in return. "Thank you"

They remained in each other's company until Cagalli noticed the time showing on the digital clock, on the wall. "We will have to catch up on another day it seems."

"So soon?" Shiho asked in disbelief as the door slid open to reveal a stoic Yzak with a straight-faced Murrue Ramius. Something was off. The tension between them was so thick that she could cut neatly with a knife.

"Your Royal Highness-" Yzak started, only to be cut off by the woman standing beside him. She shot him a warning glare just before bowing to the blonde Princess.

"Your Highness, it is time to make your way to the Parade Square for the Memorial Service."

"I humbly request an audience with you, Princess." The platinum blonde stepped forward, much to everyone's surprise. Especially with the change of address to her. Yzak has never being interested to meet with her. Why the sudden change in behaviour now?

The blonde royalty raised an eyebrow in a small display of surprise, while her honey orbs had a certain smugness in them.

'Athrun Zala, you owe me a bloody big one for this. You Asshole.' Yzak mentally cursed at the blue-haired Coordinator.

He should not have agree when he requested to speak with him. Bloody hell. He needed an audience with the Princess, who has been refusing to meet him, despite numerous request through Murrue Ramius and Andy Waltfeld.

"She will never see it coming, especially from you."

Yzak remembered that stupid smile on Athrun's face. He must have thought it was a genius plan. That crazy wuss. It was a shit-grade plan.

"Granted, but I must say you are running very short of time. Councilman Joule." Cagalli clipped, nodding to Ramius to excuse herself and remained outside until further notice.

"I will take my leave, Your Highness." Shiho sounded and bowed formally, much to Cagalli's dislike. "I wish you well and a safe trip back to ORB." The brunette offered a warm smile before stepping towards the door.

"Wait outside, Major." Yzak instructed, eyeing the brunette.

"Yes, Sir." She nodded.

As the door slid shut and secured, the platinum blonde shifted his attention to the royalty in front of him.

"Thank you, Your Highness." Yzak started, looking straight into her eyes. Luckily he dropped the usual coldness in his gaze. Otherwise, Cagalli will deal with it as a outright disrespect to her.

"Your request had my attention, Councilman Joule." She started, with a sarcastic smile. "I believe this is the first time we are conversing, after numerous visits to PLANTS that is."

She was expecting a tic at his jaw or clenched fist but Yzak Joule was behaving a lot better than what she had expected.

He smiled. "Indeed. I was assigned to other duties, hence, the inability to offer my greetings to you. It was of with much regret, Your Highness."

A small laughter of disbelief slipped from her lips. Yzak Joule has grown up quite a bit. He wasn't the petty and loud-mouth brat anymore.

"Is Chairwoman Clyne aware of this?" She asked.

"Maybe." The platinum blonde managed a smile, when a puzzled look appeared on Cagalli's face. "Maybe not."

Before she could snap at him for egging her, he quickly continued. "I would like to humbly request for an audience with you in private, during the upcoming meeting at your Office."

The Princess blinked. That meeting. To discuss, and perhaps arrange for an understanding to work together to flush out the remaining figures of influence in LOGOS.

The only connection she can think of behind Yzak's request was his latest and massive development in his portfolio. He turned 21 today and became the largest shareholder of Martius Arsenals, and Maius Military Industries as of today. Maybe, he intends to explore a deal with ORB's armament manufacturer, Morgenroete Inc.

No. Highly unlikely. ZAFT would rather steal than share, look what happened during the G Project. And a member of the team was standing right in front of her now. The other member, Athrun Zala, sole heir to Asimov Design Bureau, was in ORB's military. As one of the Commanders.

She quickly hid her bewilderment with a chuckle. "So it won't be now but at a later time, am I right?"

"Yes, Your Highness."

"Very well. I look forward to it." Cagalli nodded, while Yzak thanked her and bowed, effectively ending the conversation.

As she turned to walked towards the door,Yzak followed suit at at a respectful distance. Just before the final step to the door, Cagalli titled her head to the side and looked at the platinum blonde, surprising him.

"Please send my regards to your mother, Councilman Joule."

Yzak went rigid and his piercing blue eyes immediately met her expectant gaze. As soon as it came, the surprise disappeared instantly. "Yes, Your Highness. On behalf of my mother, I thank you for your kind concern."

Cagalli offered him a small smile, one that was lopsided. One that was not supposed to be seen on someone of her status. "Of course. Mrs Joule has been a great friend to ORB. We" The change in tone was on purpose, "look forward to her release. And return, perhaps?" She raised an eyebrow at him.

Who are 'we'? A chill ran down his spine as Yzak pondered at the implication.

Everyone knew his term was ending, and all of them were at the edge of their seat wondering what is to happen next.

Ezalia Joule, who is a force to be reckoned with, will be released from her house arrest. Will she return to politics? Or will be remained retired? Will she return and helm Martius Arsenals, and Maius Military Industries? And what is going to happen to her son? Will he run for election to become a full-fledged member in the Supreme Council and the National Defense Committee?

The whole world was watching, waiting. He ain't giving any information, not even to the Princess of ORB, who was egging answer out of him.

"Thank you, Your Highness. I will relate your kind regards to my mother."

He smiled and gestured at the door, which began to slide open at his motion and verification.

The moving door revealed a straight-face Murrue Ramius and a stoic Shiho. Both were right outside of the door, a respectful distance between the two. However, he knew better.

His squadron leader was the domineering one here. The Ice Queen has made herself known. Her lips were pursed, in a no-nonsense straight line. Her head and chin was slightly higher than usual. If it wasn't for the elaborate needlework of the kimono and Shiho's cold and almost haughty expression, one would have thought she was the Princess' leading lady-in-waiting with that posture. However, with the elaborate kimono, she looked like someone of significance. Yes, she look every bit of the Ice Queen she was known as.

If it wasn't for the big sleeves, he has no doubt that Housenka will fold her arms, and straightened her back and shoulders in a silent warning to Murrue Ramius to keep her opinions about his meeting with the Princess to herself. And not to think about directing it at her.

Typical of Housenka. Her indignant face was enough to shut people up. Throw in the icy stare of hers, and people back off or think twice. She has that kind of effect on people.

He was sure she has a list of questions running through her head. Same goes to Murrue Ramius. She rejected his request to speak with the Princess the moment his words left his lips.

"Your Highness." Murrue Ramius greeted. The blonde princess nodded and started walking, "let us make our way to the Parade Square."

Yzak did a small bow and waited for the royalty and her entourage to leave, accompanied by a team of ZAFT security officers.

"Commander -"

"Come on, we need to make our way to the Parade Square too."

"I'm not seated in the same zone as you."

"I know -"

"Then why are we going there together? There is a shorter route to my zone, and Dearka is waiting to escort me there."

"Dearka is waiting for us at our seats."

"Our seats? Yzak, don't push -"

"What? Don't push my luck? My mother is unable to attend, so there is an empty seat-"

"So I am a seat filler. Thanks but no thanks. I have a designated seating arrangement to follow -"

"Woman, let me finish, will you?"

She just pursed her lips and stared at him.

"You wouldn't want to be seated at your designated seat. Councilman Hahnenfuss is the Supreme Council member for Maius City -"

The brunette rolled her eyes at Yzak. Of course she knew Jordan Hahnenfuss is the Supreme Council member for Maius City. He was elected by the Moderate Faction to take over Yuri Amalfi, who was the previous Supreme Council member and representative for Maius City.

Although Yuri Amalfi switched to Moderate Faction following the death of Nicol, he was not spared from the house arrest sentence for all members of the Radical Faction. Hence, Jordan Hahnenfuss, the right hand man of Yuri Amalfi was the ideal candidate to take over as an interim Supreme Council member and representative for Maius City. Like Yzak, taking over his mother for Martius City.

"I was from Maius City before I went to ORB. It's only right that I-"

Yzak exhaled in sheer frustration, the brunette really love to interrupt him when it comes to non-work matters.

"It won't help with the situation." He clipped, before she cut off him and tested his patience.

"What situation?"

"The woman you helped earlier. She was from the press."

"So?"

"She is one of the many, who is dying to find out what is our relationship."

A frown creased her perfectly stoic face. "We are just co-workers-"

Argh. There she goes again.

"The entire world found out that we went out, even though it was a team outing. And you being on the ZAFT posters aren't exactly helping. The only thing left is to figure out your full name. For now, you are 'the brunette with Yzak Joule' or Major S.H."

"Fxck." The brunette cursed under her breath.

If she went to her designated seat, alone, it will be a breeze for the media to zoom in on her identity. All seatings were arranged based of the city they were from.

As she is military personnel, and on top of it all, she was a Red Elite, she will right be in the same row as the Commanding officers and higher ups of ZAFT who originated from Maius City.

All of them will be right behind the row of Supreme Council and other PLANTS committee members, who are seated at the most front. Given the attire she was wearing today, she was like a walking beacon. People are going to notice her, followed by her uncanny similarity in height and eye colour to Jordan Hahnenfuss. The shade of purple is not a common shade. Plus her soft features, people are going to start questioning on her genetic origins. Either a Generation 1 Coordinator or a Generation 1 Coordinator with one of her parents is a Natural.

All of it are bad news.

"Maybe she can sit with us?" A gentle, womanly voice sounded.

Both Commander and Major turned towards the direction where the voice came from to be greeted with the sight of Yuri and Romina Amalfi, who were flanked by their bodyguards.

"Mr and Mrs Amalfi." Yzak greeted in surprise, earning amused smile from the couple.

"We didn't mean to eavesdrop but this is the route to our designated seats." Yuri Amalfi clarified, indicating to the small team of armed ZAFT officers by his team of bodyguards.

"If you don't mind sitting with us, Shiho," Romina Amalfi spoke, smiling warmly to the brunette, "we would love to have you at our area." The wife of Yuri Amalfi was known for her gentle disposition, from which Nicol takes after.

The brunette offered a small hesitant smile, not moving an inch forward. "I'm not sure if it will be alright, Mr and Mrs Amalfi." Although the couple will not be seated at the same rows where present Supreme Council committee (Representative and administrative teams) are seated, still.

Yzak blinked in confusion, looking back and forth the Amalfi and Shiho. "All of you know one another?"

Yuri Amalfi throw a small smile at him and Shiho as he nodded.

"Shiho is Nicol's playmate, since they were children." Romina had that warm motherly glint in her eyes as she looked at the brunette. It was the same kind of smile his mother had when she invites a prospective daughter-in-law for afternoon tea, and conveniently forgot to inform Yzak that there will be a guest.

Playmate?

Wasn't Lacus, who was Housenka's childhood friend and neighbour, her only playmate?

Nicol was Housenka's playmate too? Does that mean both of them came a long way?

A series of flashback started replaying. Yes, he remembered seeing Nicol hanging out with Shiho often - ever since she joined their team. Nicol was more smiley, and was more of his usual self, soft-spoken yet cheery, rather than being quiet and serious.

Could she be… ?

"It has been awhile since your last visit, Shiho... We were getting worried about you." Romina's gentle voice cut his train of thoughts. His vision refocused, revealing the older woman holding one of Shiho's hand in hers, and had another hand endearingly caress her head, sliding down to adjust the big red flower behind her ear.

A sense of shock and cold dread washed over him, as it clicked in his mind. The more he looked at the both of them, the stronger it is.

Could Shiho be Nicol's secret fiancee?

(Flashback)

"I'm sorry to hear about the cancellation of your engagement." Nicol spoke cautiously as he placed his meal on the table and sat down.

Yzak can feel many pairs of eye on him at the moment, but the ones that got on his nerves are the three pairs in front of him.

Dearka, Zala and Amalfi were staring at him. Concern, worry and a tinge of fear, of him losing his shit.

"I'm fine. I was the one who called it off. Not her." He grumbled.

"Buddy." Dearka was about to start when Yzak sent a death stare, silently warning him to can it.

"We know about it, Yzak…" Athrun started, only to look awkwardly at the green-haired Coordinator beside him.

"It's her lost. That's what we wanted to tell you… I'm sure your better half is somewhere out there." Nicol came to Athrun's rescue and threw in his signature smile.

Damn. He can't find a single cell in him to be annoyed or irritated when Nicol does that. He should have been been a girl. No guy looks so serene smiling like this.

"You are lucky that you don't have to put up with this shit, Amalfi. Look at how Dearka and I end up. One is running away, while the other just got cheated on. Bloody hell." Yzak grumbled, sounding really sour.

The three guys sitting in front of him laughed, relieved that Yzak was back to his usual self. Grouchy.

"That's why I told my parents not to do all that meetings and formal stuff. It would be better if she doesn't know about it. At least, we can be friends and see how it goes." Nicol revealed casually, earning surprised look from Dearka and him, while Athrun had a look of concern.

"I don't know about this… I mean, it's really risky."

Dearka nodded, "it's all on you, dude. What if she doesn't reciprocate? Your efforts are down the drain."

Athrun shot the tanned blonde a slightly pissed look, while Nicol laughed it off.

"She and I are already friends. In fact, we knew each other since we were kids. We went to the same school too."

Dearka flashed a toothy grin, "you sneaky little fella."

"But… what if all goes well? And one day, she found out, you wouldn't know if she's going to take it well." Athrun added, the look of concern is back.

"Yes! Girls! I swear they over react and think too much. If she finds out, I bet that she is going to accuse you that you got close to her because of the secret engagement. And it's not because you like her." Dearka carried on for Athrun with his usual dramatic antics.

"I am very certain that even if you confess that you like her and she is your childhood sweetheart, she ain't going to buy it. She is going to say that you are telling all this rubbish because you and your family couldn't afford to lose her. Because of her genes are good match with yours and the chances of her having your kid are much higher than other girls on the list." Dearka continued with Athrun nodding with much fervor.

Nicol grew uncomfortable when Dearka touched on the topic of genes and fertility. "I don't think she will think that far. You know, the thing about having kids."

The tanned blonde rolled his eyes, while Athrun shook his head. "My man. If you are not Nicol AMALFI, whose father is a Supreme Council member and married a famous songbird, SURE! The girl will believe that she was engaged to you because you fell in love with her at first sight and your parents pulled the string from there. Rather than the other way around."

Athrun's eyes widened in surprised, while Nicol's cheeks were slowly but surely turned red. "Well… she is a nice girl. Next thing I know, my mum told me that her grandmother was agreeable to the engagement. And they have arranged for us to meet formally."

Dearka burst into laughter, "I should be a fortune teller or something."

"Wait a minute. Her grandmother? Your secret fiancee is an orphan?" Yzak cut in, with many questions already popping in his mind.

Nicol is an Amalfi, one of the respectable families like his (Joule), Zala, Elthman, and Clyne. The girl is likely from a reputable family, but he don't remember any of the families has a daughter, who is an orphan or living with grandparents.

"Well… it's kind of complicated but her grandmother is the guardian." Nicol hesitated, while Athrun was being extremely quiet.

"Is she from one of the families?" Dearka asked, leaning forward. Eyes shining with curiosity.

"You are going get both of them into trouble." Athrun suddenly spoke, with a serious expression on his face telling Dearka to drop the subject.

The tanned blonde raised an eyebrow at both of them, while Yzak couldn't help but to frown. Nicol's good friend seems a little more protective today. "Is she a Generation 1? Or perhaps, one of her parents is a Natural, isn't it? That's why you are so tight-lipped about it."

Nicol nodded.

"You must like her alot and your parents really love you big time to be fine with that." The tanned blonde muttered, recalling his current situation.

He joined ZAFT not because he wanted to play his part in protecting PLANTS. He enlisted into the army to buy time for himself, from the impending arranged marriage. While at it, stay alive and think of a plan to cancel it permanently. He ain't marrying a girl he doesn't know. He is not going to make himself like the girl who was shoved to him, by their parents, just like what Yzak did. Tad Elthman, his father didn't care about his happiness. His parents came together from arranged marriage anyway. Legacy, Reputation, Social Standing, and its nonsense.

"Could it be your genes 'have room for improvement'? Or do you need that 'extra chances' of a Nature or Generation 1 to father a kid?" Yzak added quietly, recalling the situation he faces. He is a Second Generation Coordinator. His genes were almost perfect but the chances of him fathering a child is questionable. He was the only child of his parents. Some said the issue lies with his mother. Some said it was his father.

Brenda, his now ex-fiancee, was his best bet among all the daughters of the remaining reputable families. Then again, he can't find it in him to forgive her. He can't even look at her without thinking of what she did. With Frigore. That rat.

"Yzak! That's not very nice." Athrun snapped. It was a much calmer version, compared to the platinum blonde's standards.

The newly single Coordinator shot a dark look at the blue-haired man. "Don't tell me your engagement with Lacus Clyne has nothing to do with what I've just said. You are the only child of your parents too. Just like me."

Athrun kept his mouth shut, much to his surprise, but the frown on his face and the ball-up fist was enough to tell him that he hit a sore spot.

"Strange, Lacus Clyne is a Second Generation Coordinator, like you and I, but she's engaged to you. Could it be her mother is a Natural? Her being the daughter of Siegel Clyne was a convenient excuse, isn't it Zala?"

The blue-haired Coordinator lost his cool, slamming a tightly clenched fist hard against the table. Next thing he knew Dearka and Nicol were struggling to hold both of them back. While everyone in the cafeteria was looking on in utter surprised and horror. Athrun Zala rarely, correction, never loses his cool.

The Captain's annoyed voice cut across the cafeteria. "Joule! Zala! -" Followed by Commander Le Creuset's cold voice, "in my office. Both of you."

(End of flashback)

It made sense.

Nicol mentioned the grandmother was his fiancee's guardian. Recalling Chloe's revelation, Shiho's mother pleaded with old Madam Hahnenfuss to take care of the infant.

Throw in the fact that her mother was from Japan, and Shiho's soft features and height which was inconsistent to most Coordinator females. Yzak was sure that her mother was likely a Natural, and the pregnancy was unplanned.

Otherwise, the patch-workers would have been able to peg Shiho's features and physique to the usual standards of a Coordinator female, and leaving slight resemblance to both father and mother. Aside from the colour of her eyes, and her height, Shiho looks nothing like Jordan Hahnenfuss. Neither does she have the siblings resemblance with Chloe. It could mean that she resembles her mother. What was the relationship between Jordan Hahnenfuss and Shiho's mother?

No wonder Nicol said it was complicated. There was no way he could reveal the identity, no, the name of his fiancee because everyone knows the Hahnenfuss only has one daughter, Chloe Hahnenfuss. Everyone was going to ask who Shiho Hahnenfuss is? Why the family name? What had happened? How was it possible?

No wonder the Amalfis kept quiet about their only heir's engagement. How on earth are they going to announce without revealing Shiho's identity and background? Were they planning to have a quiet wedding and keep Shiho out of the spotlight? As long as Nicol was happy?

Yes, Yuri and Romina Amalfi seemed to be that kind of parents.

"I'm sorry, Mrs Amalfi. I meant to visit more often but-" Shiho's voice brought him out of the long train of thoughts.

"Don't be. I'm happy that you are doing well but please eat more," Romina gave her small disapproving frown, "you have lost so much weight ever since you enlisted into ZAFT. Your face isn't as chubby as before..."

Yuri Amalfi chuckled as he placed a hand on his wife back, "Romina… she's in the army, frontline nonetheless."

Romina's frowned etched deeper, as she lovingly touched the young woman's face. Yzak couldn't bear to look at the hurt on her face and the grief in her hazel-brown orbs. No doubt, Shiho reminded her of Nicol's demise.

If he was still alive, they would be busy preparing their wedding. Hell, if Yuri and Romina Amalfi were half as anxious as his mother (Ezalia), they were probably married. Perhaps, Shiho was already expecting Nicol's child.

The platinum blonde's fists clenched at that thought. His blood ran hot with anger, a tinge of jealousy and disbelief. He know he shouldn't behave this way but he can't help it. He didn't know how he should feel about it. He can't believe Shiho was Nicol's secret fiancee. She was the girl whom Nicol had liked since he was a kid. And to top it of, the brunette is oblivious to all of it.

"Sir, Madam. We have to get moving." An armed ZAFT officer stepped forward with two bodyguard.

"It will be better for you to sit with us, Shiho." Romina urged gently, while the brunette hesitated. "I don't wish to be of any inconvenience, Mrs Amalfi."

Yuri Amalfi, knowing how much his wife adore the young woman, how her long-time wish of having her as part of the family was dashed with the death of their only son, offered a small reassuring smile to the brunette. He too, was fond of her. She was more proper than most girls from similar privileged families, even though hers was slightly more complicated.

"You will never be, Shiho. I'm sure this arrangement will be of some help to the situation and Yzak." Aside from matters that affects the citizens of Maius City or PLANTS, the media rarely talks about the Amalfis. The only time was Romina's retirement from the entertainment industry because of her marriage to Yuri Amalfi.

After all, no one with the right frame of mind will want to be on the bad side of the Amalfis. The brain behind ZAFT'S fighting capabilities. The Joule and the Zala built them, and occasionally, designs, but the most of blueprints came from the Amalfis. Strangely, Patrick Zala and Ezalia Joule were at the forefront of PLANTS' politics and military.

The platinum blonde blinked in surprise, while the older man nodded with a knowing glint in his eyes.

Yzak immediately felt his blood went cold. It only means one thing. Shit. If the Amalfis know about such nonsense from the media and offered help, it only meant it was out of hand. It also meant…

His phone rang. Removing from his pocket, the screen showed 'Mom'.

Damn. He will have to speak to his PR manager about it. Why the hell would his mother be calling him on such matters?

"Yzak, it's better you take that call. Unless it's huge, your mother doesn't call personally." Yuri urged with with a knowing smile and he was spot on about it. "Shiho will join you during the Service. We will arrange someone to escort her over."

Romina looked at her husband, bewilderment was all over her face. So was the brunette.

Yzak nodded, "thank you Mr and Mrs Amalfi. I will make a move first." He offered a small smile to the brunette as he quickly past didn't want to keep his mother waiting or he is going to get it real bad.

"Mom, listen, I know-" He finally answered, almost breaking into a run as he was still a distance from the pickup point, where the escort will see him to his seat.

"Your PR manager is seriously incompetent, and I can't believe I'm on the phone with you because of this." Ezalia sounded bored, not not a good sign.

"She knows what to do when such situation arises. This isn't the first time the media and netizens speculating about my personal life. Don't worry -"

Before he could finish, his mother cut him off. "She didn't stop the netizens from zooming in to Shiho's identity in time."

And his mother was right. That was enough but still, he need her to stop worrying. Given the free time she has now, who knew what she will do.

"I know I told you to give me grandchildren and I'm fine with Shiho being the mother, but with the media involved, it's different now."

What the. She was serious when she said not to use protection?! He can't believe his mother meant it. Early retirement must be getting to her now.

"I know it's different with the media and netizens meddling into this but I'm sure ZAFT is going to step in and can all that."

"Exactly. Now that everyone is talking about Major S.H., ZAFT is going to intervene and what do you think they will do once they settle the media?"

He froze. Shit.

"They are going to call you and Shiho in for questioning." Ezalia voiced the start on a long nightmare on his behalf.

"There's nothing much they can do. Housenka is going to deny any relationship beyond us being co-workers." He replied with reluctantly. The last line left him sour. As much as he didn't want Shiho to deny and he was tempted not to deny as well, he didn't have a choice.

Now that he is largest stakeholder of the 2 of the 3 munition firms that made up the Integrated Design Bureau, it does nothing but add fuel to the situation he was facing in the Supreme Council and the National Defense Committee. When he picked up what's left of Commander Le Creuset's special units project as a newly promoted Commander and helped Lacus' to restart the beam weaponry project, it left a considerable number of people within the Supreme Council and National Defense Committee uncomfortable.

Some of them went as far to speculate that he was out to be the next Patrick Zala, whom wield control of PLANTS through military force, ZAFT.

What a joke.

"Yzak." His mother called him by his name. It felt almost as if he was about to get it bad from her. Those days when he was a bad-tempered kid, who was everyone's worst nightmare, especially when Dearka was with him. The duo was infamous.

"There's nothing much they can do about YOU but you forgot about Shiho." Ezalia revealed.

"What do you mean?" Before he knew what he did, the question rang loud and clear in his ears.

"They can't touch you as much as they would like to… but there's Shiho. I'm certain that they are going to remove her from your team, under the excuse of protocol. That both of your statements are not convincing enough and they have reasonable doubts that both of you have crossed the professional boundaries." Ezalia elaborated sounding bored as hell. When his mother sounds bored, it could only mean one thing.

"Mom, why do I have the feeling that you are going with the flow? Why are you calling me anyway?" If she isn't going to help, then he would rather end the call and start thinking how to not implicate Shiho.

"Yzak Matthias Joule." Her tone dropped with each word. Did he mention that if Shiho was the Ice Queen, then his mother was the Empress Dowager of Winter Nightmare-land? Not winter wonderland.

"You will have to stand down on this one. Whatever they decide to do with Shiho." With that icy tone of hers, Yzak knew well enough that she meant it. No buts accepted.

"She's in my team and DEEP ARMS just got upgraded. They need a new set of data. They can't transfer her to another team. They might as well just hand this project to someone else."

"You just answered your question."

"I'm not getting you Mom."

"How am I going to remain retired when you are so slow, my dear boy? God, how do you expect me to not worry about you?" Ezalia said with an exasperated breath.

"Mom, answer me."

"Tsk. They are going to transfer her BACK to Frigore's team. With the upgrade and the transfer, they are going to take the project as Phase 2. What you have done and gathered will be wrapped up as Phase 1."

"Fxck. Frigore!"

"Yzak Matthias Joule, your language."

"Sorry."

"Sit this one out, Yzak."

"But Mom -"

"It's just a small project. You have a bigger fish to fry. No, not fish, FISHES. Your term is ending."

Yes and no. Yes, he was aware that his term is ending, so is his mother's house arrest. Ezalia go back to work she wants to, well, indirectly, via the two munitions firm which she has stakes in.

No because he has no interest in politics. It's easily worse than hearing his mother nag and go on and on all day about how he is not being a filial son by not marrying and giving her grandchildren. After the war, he was starting to become sick of the military. A little voice at the back of his mind was talking him into going to one of his great grandfather's firms, which produces super cars. Yes, now he is talking.

"Mom, we talked about this."

"Yes, you said that you will think about it when your term is ending. Now it is the time. All the interim Supreme Council members have announced their decision to run for election or not -"

"Not everyone, Jordan Hahnenfuss is keeping quiet about this."

His mother chuckled, sending chills down his spine. What's up with her today? All her antics were scaring him.

"Being a stand-in for Yuri Amalfi doesn't make him a Representative of Maius City. He was never one. If Yuri Amalfi decides to run for election, who do you think the people of Maius City will choose? Someone who has represented them for a decade or someone who stood in for, what? A couple of months? Close to a year maybe?"

"He switched to Radical faction, Mom. The media is not going let it rest."

"The media doesn't touch the Amalfis, son. What makes you think they will now? Even if they do, it's just for show. To show the people that they are being impartial. But you and I know media was Never impartial." Ezalia chuckled.

"Besides, he can always play the sympathy game, aka the death of his only son, and bank on his switch back to Moderate faction and his time serving house arrest. You know, reflecting and all that stuff."

"Are you going to do that too?" Yzak asked, because the case was too similar to Ezalia situation.

No one has ever been successful in challenging his mother at the elections since she became a Representative of Martius City.

Her contributions during PLANTS' journey to independence and self-sufficiency still resonates with the Generation 1 Coordinators and the group whom were parents of Generation 1 Coordinators.

Her ongoing efforts and charity work in support of widows and families of ZAFT personnel, especially those KIAs and MIAs, which began with the lost of her husband, was still widely praised and appreciated by the society as a whole. Especially the women community. This includes the many Second Generation Coordinators like himself, who made up a significant part of the frontline fleet.

Despite the fact that his mother was a key figure of the Patrick Zala's Radical faction, her hard decisions, Yuri Amalfi's works, Patrick Zala's control over ZAFT were crucial for PLANTS' survival during the wars. In eyes of most people of PLANTS, they were able to made it out of the war because of the Radical Faction, even though the methods deployed were questionable. Overall, Ezalia Joule is still held in high regard by most, all three Generations. Parents of Generation 1, Generation 1, and the Second Generation. Ezalia Joule has support from 3 generations.

If she wants to run for election after the house arrest ended, no doubt she will either win or go uncontested. Martius City is one of the best cities to live in among all 12 cities. It is also one of the cities with highest citizens' satisfaction rating.

However, her running for the election will make him look bad, which in turn will affect her as well. The naysayers will be the first to jump onto the Character Assassination wagon - saying he was just as expected of a typical spoilt rich kid, who couldn't take the pressure of politics and filling up his mother's shoes.

If he is to run for election, the media is going to scrutinise him. Just like what they are doing now. First, 21 years of age, inheriting majority stakes of 2 out of 3 munitions firms that made up the ZAFT's integrated Design Bureau. Second, a brunette was with him last evening. Funny how everyone conveniently forgot about Dearka, Miriallia, and his team.

A wave of tiredness washed over. He didn't know how his mother put with all that. It's annoying and draining.

"I'm not going to. You are running for the election, son."

"Mom."

"Don't make the mistake I did. Have the power in your hands, rather than sitting around and hoping someone will come along and give you the answers and help you need."

"Mom."

"Did you forgot what happen to your father,Yzak?"

The grip on the cellphone tightened dangerously.

"Your father wasn't a regular foot soldier. He was the Captain of Special Ops. Why everyone came back but not him? Why did Lenore's husband came back and not mine? Why did Athrun's father came back and not yours?" His mother added quietly, voice dangerously strained with years of unspoken anger and grief.

"I hope the day you feeling helpless and regretting not being in control won't come. Think about it, son." With that, the call ended.

The platinum blonde looked at his phone and the white knuckles of his hand.

How he wished his father came home, walking through the door that evening, and many evenings following after. Rather than his mother and he walking out of the door to attend his father's funeral. Seeing him off the last time.

"Councilman Joule!" Looking up, a small team of armed ZAFT officers came running towards him.

"We were looking everywhere for you. You weren't at the pick up point." The leader of the small squad gave a sharp salute.

Yzak nodded in acknowledgement, "my apologies." Everyone looked surprised at his words. "I was held up elsewhere."

Gesturing to the direction they came from, he offered a small smile of appreciation, putting on his formal-yet-approachable 'Supreme Council Member game-face' on. "Please Gentlemen, lead the way."

.

.

.

Master of Ceremony "And here comes the present and past members of Supreme Council!"

"Let's put our hands together and welcome them." The masters of the ceremony rallied the excited crowd seated in the makeshift parade ground.

The armed ZAFT officers in black began to take two steps closer towards him, putting him at the centre of a formation which allows the officers in front of him to take the first hit and remaining officers behind him to get him to safety.

A quiet sigh left Yzak. This is one of the many reasons he didn't want to run for the upcoming elections, to become a full-time Supreme Council member. He didn't want people to die on him, for him. He didn't want to be a public figure. He didn't want people knowing or wanting to know about his personal life. He just want to be an ordinary folk. One of the soldiers. One of the guys. One of the citizens of Martius City. One of the many people living in PLANTS.

The officer in black to his left turned sharply to look at him , immediately scanning him from head to toe for signs of distress. It must have been his sigh a couple of seconds ago.

His game-face was back on as he lifted his left hand and gave an assuring pat to the officer. "I'm fine, thank you." The man nodded and went back to being the alert guard he was, eyes fixated straight ahead as they stepped into the glaring lights of the parade ground and loud cheers of the crowd which mainly made up of PLANTS' citizens.

Master of Ceremony "Interim Supreme Council Member and Representative of Martius City. Interim National Defense Committee Member, and a Commander of ZAFT. Yzak Joule."

As soon as the almost blinding lights hit him and the roaring cheers and claps of the people rang in his ears, he put on the camera-friendly smile and put up his right hand and started waving to the front, left and right.

He remembered practising all of it in front of the mirror, with his mum standing beside him correcting his posture, how he should wave to the people and working on his smile.

'The people must see and feel that you are not the rumoured bad-tempered and socially-awkward son of Ezalia and Isaac Joule… but the sensible, maturing, and warm young gentleman of the Joules.'

'The support from the different committees within ZAFT is important, son… but always remember, the people's support is equally important.'

Halfway to his designated seat, he did another round of waving to all directions, earning an even louder cheer from the crowd. He felt a genuine upturn of the corners of his lips as he said 'Hello', which was drowned out.

He was sure his mother was watching this scene from home. No doubt she will be happy. He didn't know what to feel about all of these. Sure, the new roles were exhausting but if the crowd's display was genuine - their appreciation of his mother's long-standing efforts and his recent ones, their satisfaction with what his mother has done and what he has been doing in his mother's absence, those long days in the Office, draining sessions at the Circle Table (Supreme Council meetings), and putting up with the scathing comments by naysayers and critics were worth it.

The warm fuzzy feeling of being appreciated and encouragement bubbled in his chest.

Just before he seated down, he mouthed the word 'Thank you' and did a small, almost unnoticeable bow. It was something his mother will always do at the annual Memorial Service-cum-Independence-Day celebration, prior to her forced retirement. It was reminder to citizens, especially those of Martius City, that the respected and powerful Ezalia Joule is humbled and thankful to their unwavering support. The cheers and claps became almost deafening.

The announcement and arrival of the remaining interim, present and past Supreme Council members / representatives continued.

Seated, the platinum blonde couldn't help to look be drawn to the empty seat to his left, which was meant for his mother. The Supreme Council voted against the attendance of Ezalia Joule for this year's event. Well, not all of the members / representatives, but most of them. Then, he was shocked. He can't believe what his eyes were showing him and what his ears were picking up. The Supreme Council actually did a vote on something as insignificant as to whether his mother should attend. It was ridiculous on all possible counts.

Have all of them, those who voted against it, clean forgotten his mother's contributions?

How she and the late Patrick Zala chaired every session, throwing out hard and sensitive but necessary topics or issues on to the table, pressing and pushing everyone, as leaders of their colonies, respected figures in their academic speciality and positions in PLANTS, to make a decision and work toward a solution.

Master of Ceremony "And last but not least, Chairwoman of PLANT Supreme Council. Lacus Clyne."

The pink-haired woman appeared with the warm smile she was known for and waved, making her way to the raised platform for her speech.

Especially Lacus. He could not believe that she voted against her mother's attendance too. Yes, her vote was the one that got to him the most. The moment he saw her fair hand raising, it felt as though the blood flowing through his veins froze immediately. He couldn't breathe. He was speechless.

Why would Lacus do that?

She was already the Chairwoman of PLANTS Supreme Council, a position, which everyone has reckoned that Ezalia Joule would one day helmed. There is no way his mother would be a threat or a challenge to the pink-haired woman.

It was something he couldn't comprehend and yet, he couldn't speak to his boss (Lacus) about it. It was inching too close on being a personal matter. Something which he didn't want to touch on with his boss. Especially since she made it clear that she didn't want his mother to appear, or in fact, to be in her presence.

Worse, he had to suppress his disbelief and anger. Especially earlier when Lacus welcomed the Princess of ORB, as he was part of her entourage of Supreme Council members.

'Does mom's presence affect you that much?' He thought as he look straight ahead and coincidentally, locked gaze with her just as she finally ascended the platform and faced the cheering crowd .

She offered him a small smile and nodded before she commenced her Memorial-Service-and-Independence-Day speech.

"Good afternoon, fellow people of PLANTS, colleagues, and distinguished guests. Today…"

Not too far away from her was Kira Yamato. He was looking ahead, straight at him, looking not too pleased.

(Flashback)

"I hope you don't take it personally, Councilman Joule." Kira Yamato's firm voice wavered towards the end. Yzak can't help but to think how convenient it is to bump into him at carpark lobby.

Yes, Kira Yamato knew about the voting on Ezalia Joule's attendance.

"Tell me, Commander Yamato." Yzak took a step forward putting himself face to face with his once-enemy. Staring into his purple orbs, he let him have a good look at the anger and utter disbelief that were eating him inside. "What concern does Lacus have about the attendance of a retired politician at a national celebration?"

Kira Yamato was obviously taken aback by his reaction, especially with the use of his boss' name, as he took a small step back.

"Councilman Joule…"

The ace pilot shouldn't have taken that tiny step back. He should have remain at where he was.

"I won't take it personally if Lacus' reason is not."

Yzak took a step forward to put himself dangerously close to Kira Yamato. Invading people's space is either threatening or plain rude. The platinum blonde knew if it was coming from him, it was sheer threatening. He scared the living daylight out of both new and seasoned officers when he did that. Kira Yamato was no exception.

The platinum blonde may not be the tallest of the lot but the air around him was intense. And he knew it. And he knew how make full use of it.

"Otherwise, don't blame me for what happen later."

The young Commander's eyes widened in a satisfying mix of absolute terror and shock.

Yzak stole a quick glance at his uniform lapels for a pin to signify his political appointment only to find none.

"I don't know why you enlist into ZAFT, Yamato. If it's to protect Lacus, go get yourself a political appointment."

"Y-you!"

"Your sister, can only do so much."

As if he had just exposed Kira Yamato's dirty secret, his shocked expression morphed into a dark frown. "That's far enough, Joule."

A sarcastic chuckled slipped from the platinum blonde. He hit the jackpot. The stupid man was pinning on Cagalli.

"The Lioness of ORB can't reach for Lacus as much you think. Especially now that she is the leader of PLANTS. Imagine what a scandal it will be."

The sudden though faint footsteps echoed from afar. Yzak wiped his face clean of the deep seated anger and the suffocating disbelief.

Nodding to the young Commander, he side-stepped him and made his way to the car.

He hoped Lacus has a good reason to vote against his mother's attendance.

There was a brief moment, something in him snapped loudly apart at the moment he saw Lacus' fair hand was up in the air, voting against his mother's attendance.

For a split second, he wanted to get rid of Lacus.

He wanted to remove Lacus from the highly regarded position.

He wanted to be the Chairperson of PLANTS.

(End of Flashback)

Before he figure what to do with the staring competition with Yamato, a familiar tanned blonde was moving towards him.

"Dude-"

"How's the family reunion? You should be seated at Februarius City zone."

Dearka rolled his eyes, and hook an arm around the platinum blonde's, pulling him up to his feet. "Isn't is obvious? It went so well that I'm here with my best friend, and not with Tad Elthman and family."

Before Yzak could get any word out, his friend gave him the pointed look. "Just shut up and say your thanks in silence, ok? I have had enough to last me for a couple of days already. Just be thankful that I came along to sit with you."

The platinum blonde almost rolled his eyes at his unusually grouchy friend but remembered about the roaming cameras. He pursed a tight-lipped smile at his friend, "self-righteous asshole." He discreetly peeled his friend's arm off his own, while he start to wave to crowd who cheered and clapped as soon he was up on his feet. He didn't need another round of stupid rumour about him being gay.

"Why isn't Shiho standing? Lacus is asking all officers to show their faces."

Yzak was this close to roll his eyes at his blonde friend. "Doing that isn't exactly helping the situation."

"That cloak she is not helping either."

"It's a Kimono, you grouch. Can't you see that it's hundred times nicer than an oversized cloth?" The platinum blonde snapped through a toothy smile.

Dearka raised an eyebrow at his friend who became snappy out of the blue. Who cares about the name of the attire?

"Does it matter? Apparently, she split the Internet into 2 camps. She has her own fanclub now. And there is another group of people who has nothing better to do, talk so much shit about her. You better do something about it."

The last two lines got Yzak's attention. "My PR manager and team is looking into it. Bloody hell, even my mom is on top of it. Her name is not spelled out. It should be fine."

Dearka gave him a plain bored look, "Mrs Joule is on top of it? Damn. If she's looking into it, means it's out of control. Your soon-to-be ex-PR manager should switch trade after this. She is going to be unemployable."

Yzak hate to agree with his best friend on this but the fact is his mom actually called him about it is a really bad sign. Most likely, his mom had the entire team replaced.

"You should take a look at the hate she is receiving from the opposing camp. How convenient, the entire universe forgot about myself and Miriallia and the team."

Before he register what he was doing, his line of vision shifted and landed on a doll-like brunette who was seated it the Maius City area, opposite of where he was seated, at the other end of the parade square. She was dressed in an elaborate embroidered oriental attire.

Kimono.

She was engaged in small chit chat with Romina Amalfi. Both of them were all smiles and small laughter. The brunette looking every bit of the young, beautiful, and filial daughter-in-law, fit for the Amalfis. Fit for the soft-spoken Nicol Amalfi.

Yuri Amalfi looked on both women, and the smile on his face spoke volume of his love for his wife and the grief over the death of his must have been a while since the last time he saw his wife this happy. No doubt, Shiho's presence brought joy to his wife but yet, it reminded of their only son's demise.

He couldn't help but to take in the seat where the brunette was seated on. It was meant for Nicol.

If he was not KIA, there won't be three of them seated but four. Shiho will be seated beside Nicol. Maybe, she could be having a baby bump even, and the thick sash tied snugly around her waist now may have to loosen up.

He quickly blinked that thought away.

Yzak still couldn't believe the brunette was Nicol's secret fiancée. How could he be so slow not to notice? Unlike Zala, Nicol was an open book. Reserved and soft-spoken, yes, but it was definitely easy to catch his thoughts or predict his reactions.

Nicol likes her, so much that his parents arranged for her marriage to their only son. Regardless of whatever complicated background she may have.

Nicol and Shiho.

The senior ZAFT officer seated next to Yuri Amalfi stood up and urged the ex Maius City Representative to do the same with a seemingly hearty laughter. It interrupted the conversation between Romina and Shiho. The green-haired woman smiled at both men and nodded to her husband, gently placing her hand over her husband's. With a small smile of encouragement from Romina, Yuri Amalfi stood up and unexpectedly drew a series of applause from the surrounding crowd of political and military personnels, followed by cheers from citizens who were seated further away but within the designated area for Maius City.

The respected husband and wife, especially Yuri Amalfi, was noticeably surprised with his fellow colleagues, coworkers and people's support. Romina looked around and gave a thankful smile and nod in acknowledgement, while Yuri Amalfi had a hand up in mid air, and waved. The crowd went crazy, many of the common folks waved back. Some even stood up, with their infants in arms and waved in response.

Yzak look at the scene unfolding in front of him, and felt his breath hitched in his throat in stunned astonishment. His mother was right.

The people of Maius City remembers Yuri Amalfi, as the person who represented them and took care of their welfare for many years.

Will Yuri Amalfi run for elections? Can this, a showcase of people's appreciation and good feeling towards Yuri Amalfi, be indicative of people's preference for Yuri Amalfi as their representative?

If so, what is going to happen to Jordan Hahnenfuss? Will he run for elections too? If he does…

Yzak find his sight shifted to the Hahnenfuss, who were seated a couple of rows in front of the Amalfi, given Jordan Hahnenfuss' position as interim Representative of Maius City. With a smile, he was clapping with the crowd. There was no way to figure if he was sincere about it. Whereas his wife, Mrs Hahnenfuss, had a smile that was expected of her, camera-friendly. However, Yzak noticed it was too wide to be considered as sincere. No doubt, she would prefer her husband to run for election as the next Representative of Maius City.

It will greatly improve her odds against her older brother, who was in line to inherit their father's space shuttle empire. The Hahnenfuss is one of the biggest port owners around and it includes a handful of space shuttle ports, which serves as stopovers. Although these space shuttle ports owned by the Hahnenfuss are smaller in scale and aren't in direct competition with the ones owned by Mrs Hahnenfuss' father, these stopovers are necessary for the long journey between Earth and the space colonies.

At the end of the day, Chloe benefits the most. Just like Yzak, she is the only child. Everything will be hers, it was just a matter of time.

What about Shiho?

Chloe was upset that old Madam Hahnenfuss, the elderly matriarch of the Hahnenfuss who happens to be both young women's grandmother, had willed a portion of the inheritance to the brunette.

His vision returned to the brunette seated beside Romina. With a small, almost unnoticeable smile on her doll-like face, she was looking down at her hands on her lap. No doubt, she was trying not to have her face captured by the cameras that were going around, putting the faces of ZAFT officers on the giant screen. Especially with ongoing cheers for Yuri Amalfi. She was trying desperately not to draw any attention to herself, by keeping her face down and remaining still.

"… All ZAFT officers - commissioned and volunteers. Present and retired. Please rise, I want everyone to know the faces who fought PLANTS' independence."

A small hand covered one of hers. Looking up to meet Romina's warm hazel eyes, Shiho felt her racing heart calmed a little with the older woman's warm encouraging smile. "It will be alright, child. Go on, stand up."

The brunette felt the blood coursing through her veins froze at the thought. The adrenaline was back, her heart is threatening to beat out of her chest. "It's too big of a risk."

"You are seated with us (the Amalfis). No media will write about us, even if you are seated here. ZAFT won't allow it." Romina briefly nodded to her husband, who gave her a smile in agreement.

"You are ZAFT officer too, Shiho. You should be proud of yourself, what you have done." The brunette glanced at Nicol's father, who nodded to her.

The older man was a father-figure to her during her childhood days. She remembered spending more time on the grounds of the Amalfi and the Clyne combined, than in the Hahnenfuss. In avoidance of Mrs Hahnenfuss and Chloe. The only time she was home, was to have meals with Granny and accompanying her on daily walks in the garden.

"Your mother will be proud, Shiho. Seeing you in this." Romina's small hands ghosted over the embroideries on the kimono's big sleeve. Taking in the elaborate needlework of the peonies flower, cherry blossoms and the pair of ancient lions, the green-haired woman smiled in memory of herself receiving a similar-styled kimono from her mother many years ago.

It was a gift from a mother to her daughter, illustrating the mother's wish for her daughter will grow up well. To be a woman of gentleness, kindness (cherry blossom), bravery and honour (peonies). To be blessed with good fortune, and to marry off well (pair of ancient stone lions).

Shiho Fumiko. Romina said the younger woman's name in her mind. Shiho, reinterpreted from Shino - Stem of the bamboo. Fumiko - Child of treasured beauty. Without a doubt, Shiho's late mother wished for her beautiful child to have a good character and one day, her daughter to find a husband who will treasure her beauty, both inner and outer.

Realisation shone in the brunette's tender purple eyes. With a small smile, Shiho held Romina's hands, "thank you, Mrs Amalfi."

In a blink of an eye, the brunette stood up.

Gasps, whispers, and sound of awe can be picked up from all directions of the parade square.

"Major Hahnenfuss is stunning in that attire."

"She… doesn't look like a typical Coordinator female."

"I didn't know the pilot of DEEP ARMS is of Asian descent."

"Mummy, look! It's the pretty lady in the poster!"

"She's so young…"

"Daddy, daddy! Do you know her? She is the big blue machine isn't it?"

"No sweetie. She is the pilot. She operates the big blue machine."

"Just like what you do in the big white machine?"

"Yes, the same."

Those are some words both Yzak and Dearka picked up from surrounding officers and those who brought their children.

"I didn't know children watch the news or the live feeds" The tanned coordinator spoke in amazement, while the platinum blonde nodded quietly.

Yzak will always have mixed feelings about the live broadcast of the battles. While it serves a secondary purpose in recruitment and a primary purpose of showing the importance of ZAFT, it also exposes children to acts of war.

He wouldn't want his children to see any of it. If they have to know about what he does for a living, they only need to know his job was to keep PLANTS safe, but not the details. Children need their childhood - all that active imagination and outdoor playtime. The harsh and grey adult world can wait.

As his eyes took in the sight of the brunette standing with her back straightened and shoulders squared, he couldn't help but to wonder what drove Shiho to enlist into ZAFT. Why would someone from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts joined the war? Becoming the first female Red Elite and first female marksman.

What had happened, Shiho? What's your story?

The big and lengthy sleeves flowed downwards to its full length nearing Shiho's ankles in a mesmerising display of wind-blown cherry blossoms and peonies in full bloom, while the extensively sewn cloth wrapped around the tall woman straightened into a showcase of oriental embroidery masterpiece.

Holding her head high while keeping a poker face, Shiho looked every bit of the pilot behind the famous 'Big Blue Machine'.

"Everyone, take a look around you. The men and women who are on their feet now are some of the many ZAFT officers - active, retired and those we have lost during the two wars." Lacus began.

"Be it commissioned or volunteer, their efforts and sacrifices are the keys behind the peace we are enjoying now. Today, let us celebrate PLANTS' independence, show our appreciation to one another for standing together and supporting one another during the difficult times, and pay our respect to those who have unfortunately left us."

.

.

.

Something was off. For unknown reasons, she felt as though she was being watched.

And something was wrong with her too. It started when she stepped into the parade ground.

Something suddenly clicked in her. It felt the same as back then, when she walked into her late mother's house only to find her unconscious on the floor.

The small buzzing sound began to ring in her head. It was getting louder by the second. And there was a presence tagged to this soft but buzzing sound.

Just then, the back of her head began to throb in pain. With every wave, the pain seared deeper into her head, and down to the base of her skull where it meets her neck.

The pain continued southwards down her neck and her back, where dainty little moles dusted along her spine. It felt like a lethal mix of cold, scorching flames and static, all mixed into one.

What was happening to her?

"Are you alright?" She went rigid at the familiar voice. Looking up, the sight of Yzak greeted her. He had a firm grip on her arm, while she had a hand firmly around the arm of the ZAFT officer who escorted her down to the centre of the parade square where a giant wall with vines was positioned. It was for representatives of various ZAFT teams and unit, and Supreme Council members to weave their token of appreciation and respect, in the form of flowers.

Once done, it will transported to the centre of Armoury One for the public to weave their flowers, where the spot will be the permanent location of the giant wall, serving as a Memorial Ground.

Noting that she was national television and not wanting to draw attention, she nodded as she released her hand on the ZAFT officer.

"Come on." Yzak tilted his head in the direction of the giant wall, which they have to weave the flowers in tribute and memory of the ZAFT officers and civilians killed in the recent war.

Reaching for the red flower tugged behind her ear, the hairs at the back of her neck stood on its ends. The feeling that they are being watched hit her like a truck this time.

She looked to her left and right immediately. All the alarms bells in her are going off. And she found her attention keep returning to the nearest watch tower. The moment she felt the 'presence' at the back of her head, she turned to the particular watch tower. Her sight and attention always locking on the roof of the watch tower, to be specific.

Painted in grey and standing at a much taller height compared to the concrete wall and fence that surrounds the whole Base, the watch tower was one of the four covering the different sides of the base. It was also the one that towers over the parade square. This one is at her 9 O'clock, from where she and Yzak was standing, while waiting for his turn to weave a flower on the tribute wall.

There won't be anyone at the roof, so why does she feel drawn to it? What is wrong with her? This has never happened before. Why now?

"It's our turn." Yzak gently nudged her by the elbow as they walked towards the tribute wall with a flower in hand.

As they reached the wall, the buzzing sound went quiet. She no longer felt any presence at the back of her mind too. The air suddenly felt chilly and still. It felt like the calm before a storm.

Just as she was about to weave her red flower, Shiho turned to the watch tower. For a split second, she thought she was overreacting and being ridiculous, until she saw a faint outline.

Silhouette of human, who was well camouflage against the huge shadow cast by the sun shining on the tower's tip.

There was something protruding in their direction.

Fear, adrenaline coursed through her veins as it struck her. The next second went by in a blur. She quickly step into Yzak's position only to shove him roughly sideways and as far away as possible from her. Something hit her from behind, throwing her forward. It hit her again for the second time, and she fell on the ground.

Chaos erupted. Everyone was screaming and yelling but all she hear was his voice. He was calling her but there was nothing she could do.

Her head started to throb. Air was knocked out of her when she was struck twice at the same area. In between her left shoulder and breast was a sickening burning sensation and something warm and sticky oozing, wetting her inner kimono and making it cling to her skin. A faint scent of copper hit her. Red was slowly seeping outward and staining the ground where she lay.

Blood. That was her blood. She was shot. Her lids felt heavy. The vision was starting to blur.

Someone was carrying her, running. He was yelling or speaking to someone. The bobbing made it difficult for her to stay awake. She was slipping. Her vision of the surrounding were in flashes.

Something slammed shut. Soft hum of engine became a deafening roar in a second. Yzak's car. He boasted about its speed, 0 to 300kmph in 2.8 seconds. Screeching sound of tires rang in her ears.

Something firm yet warm descended on her burning wound and pressed against it, jolting her awake briefly. "Hang in there, Shiho. You are going to be alright." His voice echoed in her ears.

Despite the burning sensation and the searing pain, she struggled to raise her hand. "Yzak..." She felt colder by the second.

A quick switch, the hand on her shoulder holding her was pressing on her gunshot wound. While his bloodied hand caught her shaky hand in mid-raise. She felt weaker. She could barely tilt her head up slightly to see his handsome face, his beautiful piercing blue eyes.

"Save your energy, Shiho. I need you to keep your eyes open." His voice was shaky. He sounded unsure and scared. Like that evening... Requiem.

Her lids were getting too heavy. Everything was getting darker. She was slipping again but this time, the pull was much stronger. Not wanting, not allowing her to be conscious of her surrounding.

"Don't you dare die on me, woman!" He yelled, his voice briefly cutting through the murky waters she was sinking deeper and deeper.

A shaky breath. A kiss on her forehead. "Please, Shiho. Please, don't do this to me. I was thinking of ways to convince you to go on a date with me..."

A small bubble of laughter stuck in her chest. She wasn't sure if she was actually smiling or think she was smiling. Guess Dearka was right after all, Yzak does like her. She couldn't be any happier. Those words he said, it was good enough.

Tears rolled down her eyes. She wasn't sure if they were of joy or of disappointment that it was only now that she knew.

She then felt his warm soft skin under her cold finger tips. She gathered whatever that was left in her to open her eyes, forcing them to focus on his beautiful face contorted into an upset scrunch, gritted teeth and tears threatening to slide down his cheeks. At least, he is alive. It was worth it. Just then, the truth dawned upon her.

She looked at him, and she just love him, and it terrifies her. It terrifies her what she would do for him.

Yes... all because I fell in love with you, Yzak Joule.

End of Chapter 5

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Hi there, I hope you have a blast reading this chapter.

I hope you particularly liked the return of Cagalli, Athrun, Andy Waltfeld, Aisha (aka Rose), Murrue Ramius, Shinn Asuka and the Hawke sisters. All of them, including the irritating Commander Frigore, are necessary for the story's progress. Yes, the next couple of chapters!

I wanted it to be as realistic as possible so 1) the situation between Cagalli and Athrun is not as rosy as what most fanfictions of them would have painted. And 2) the situation with Cagalli vs Yzak, Yzak vs Kira, and Yzak vs Lacus - is necessary.

To be honest, I was very surprised that Lacus became the Chairperson of PLANTS. While I know she wants the best for everyone and anti-war, overall a good human being, but I felt she is not tough or capable enough to the Chairperson, given that the past leaders were tougher, more powerful, and more 'despicable' than her. And the impression I have of Ezalia Joule, wow. She is Patrick Zala's second in command after all… I mean, she seems to be the kind of character who would be gunning for the Chairperson position. Hence, I painted her the way it is in this story, let's see how it plays out. Will she succeed convincing Yzak to run for elections to be a full-time Supreme Council member (first step to the Chairperson position)?

I know you are not going to enjoy this chapter's ending with the cliffhanger but not to worry, Shiho won't die… you will see. I think you will freaking hate me more in the next and following chapters to come.

By the way, if you are wondering what does Shiho's middle name, Fumiko, means, it stands for the Japanese meaning of 'child of treasured beauty'. I wanted to show Shiho's late mother, her wish for her daughter, a beauty, to grow up well, to marry off well and that her husband will treasure her. Hence, the meaning of treasured beauty and the symbols on Shiho's kimono. But it's ruined now… Hmm.

If you are wondering how the attire worn by Commander Frigore and Yzak look like, head to my tumblr account. It's updated with photo references.

Now, allow me to give credit to the 2 fanfictions and the author, whom I've borrowed from and used as 2 flashbacks of Andrew Waltfeld and Aisha in this chapter

First is the bedroom *ahem* scene, which came to Rose (aka Aisha) when she was sleeping. This is lifted and adapted from 'Love and Coffee' Chapter 1: For the Future, written by Abarero.

Second is the coffeehouse scene, where our lovebirds finally met. This is lifted from 'Love and Coffee' Chapter 3: Meeting, written by Abarero.

I love the fanfiction big time. It was so well-written and I just have to use it. It was perfect for this chapter too.

If you are seeing this, Abarero, a big thank you to you and I hope you like this story. If you are offended - First, let me apologise. My sincere apologies. Please let me know if you would like the scenes & reference removed. I will do so.

To all of you lovely readers, leave a comment / review ya? It has been a while and getting reviews from you has always been a lovely experience for me. I enjoyed the conversations, and hearing your thoughts, or even answering your questions!

Things are about to get interesting for Yzak and Shiho. You do notice I dedicated a sizeable chunk to the current situation in PLANTS internally and PLANTS vs Earth Alliance right?

If you are sharp enough, you would have also picked up what is going to happen to our favourite couple in the next and/or following chapters.

I will see you soon, until then, take care! HUGS!