With me
Chapter 9: Birthday Party
Author's note: Yar, now comes the difficult part, showing Fate to his family who loved Umi a lot. Will they accept Fate? Please read and review, thank you.
After Colony 202, 28th February
Earth, Japan , Human world
It's been more than a week after the welcome party... And well, Heero have invited Fate to the birthday party of Aaron and Angel. And likewise, Fate wondered what to give them and worse of all... how to face his family. Heero told her that he was going to present her to them as Fate, and he will tell them the truth about her. Minus the part she cannot love and feel pain. But he warned that they may test her and asked her to be prepared for the worst. She was depressed by what she heard and hence asked her dear friend, Arabella out to go shopping for a present with her.
" What's with that look?"
Fate turned to look at Arabella, they were taking a lift up to the 16th floor of the shopping centre.
" What look?" Fate asked.
Arabella sighed and raised an eyebrow at her.
" You are unhappy. Umi always does that same look."
Fate smiled a little, it must be tough on Arabella to continue to befriend her, when she was so close to Umi.
" Are you invited?" Fate asked.
Arabella nodded.
" They invited me because of my contact with Umi."
They were silent as they looked through the glass walls at the busy streets below.
" What do you plan to give them?" Fate asked.
" Nothing, but a card." Arabella told her softly.
" Why? Do... you normally give that?" Fate asked.
" No, I admit I don't. But what can you give two royal people when they have almost everything? Let me tell you what the situation at the party is like."
Fate blinked and the lift came to their floor. They walked out and she started talking.
" First off, the party is held at the castle in the Kingdom of Hope. It's a totally different dimension as it is part of the magic finder universe. Yes, it's a rather grand place and all, since it's a castle. And... a lot of important guests are invited. They are either families of the people that work for the royal family or are their friends. People who made the top 10 list of magicfinder ranking are also invited. Yes... even though it's a birthday party, most guests are adults."
" I see... that hardly makes it fun for the two of them." Fate whispered.
" Well... they do invite their friends and their family. Anyway... there's a distinct break between the children and adults. The children have a corner of their own, where there are special services like games and facilities for them to enjoy themselves. They also have a different menu and all. And they aren't able to leave that area until it's the cake session."
" They are trapped in it?" Fate asked.
" It's to make sure they stick to their world sort of thing. And not wonder off on their own."
" They cannot mix with their parents?" Fate asked.
" No, and that's the point. They enjoy themselves without any adults aorund as well. It's weird at first but only members of the royal family can cross through. And yes, King Carlton will be there."
" Master's father?" Fate asked.
" Yes, he only appears in the major events, and since Angel and Aaron are four this year and it's their first leap year... it's considered a special event." Arabella told her.
" I see..."
" And there's this tradition in the family."
" There is?" Fate asked frowning.
" Since all guests are magic finders, magic is allowed to be used, but no duels or magic fights. Anyway... every guest is supposed to turn up with a present. And they will place it on this table. And it will soon stack up to a very large pile. And Aaron and Angel will only open every present at the end of the entire day, at 12 midnight."
" But it's after their birthday."
" That was the point, that they shouldn't open their presents until the end of their birthday."
" That's... saddening... people will want to peek and look at what their present it."
" Yes... normal people will. But not Aaron and Angel. They have too many presents and most of them are similar items. Hence they aren't really interested in opening them. Except when they were 1 maybe... Then the guest can choose to stay or leave. But everyone stays to see who is the one with the worst present each year and of course the best." Arabella told her.
" It's... a weird tradition."
" Maybe, but the best present is always from Heero Yuy, hence it's not much of a surprise. But adults go there to socialise and meet the royal family. It's the only chance you actually get to meet and talk to them."
" I see... they sound like superstars."
" Yes... they do."
Meteor jumped up and down, trying to get Fate's attention.
" Fate?" Meteor called out.
" Yes?" Fate asked.
" Look at that."
They walked past a bridal shop and the photo showed in the photo album was a photo of Umi in a wedding gown.
" She..."
Fate looked at Arabella.
" Umi... does model a little, but only gowns. I mean... it's not like her husband will find out. He doesn't care anyway." Arabella muttered.
Fate turned the pages of the album, there were a few photos of Umi. And she looked so beautiful, except her smile was rather forced, she wasn't happy at all.
" What do you plan to get them?" Arabella asked.
" Soft toy." Fate whispered.
Arabella turned and smiled a little.
" I guess it's really hard to come up with a nice gift, no?"
Fate closed the photo album and they continued walking.
" It's not the problem with the gift, it's the meeting of the family."
" Yes... I wonder how they will react. But I will be there, Fate. So don't worry."
Fate looked upset.
" What do you think will happen?" Arabella asked.
" I don't know... but Master made them sound horrible."
Arabella turned and paused.
" Is that..."
Fate looked and realised that it was Quatre and he wasn't alone.
" Quatre!" Fate called out.
Quatre turned and removed his sunglasses to look at them. He smiled and approached them.
" Hey Fate, Arabella."
" What brings you to Japan?" Arabella asked.
" Oh... mission." Quatre muttered, eying the lady who walked into the shop.
" Are you going to the birthday party?" Fate asked.
" Yes... Heero will drag me there personally if I didn't turn up."
" Have you already bought your gift?" Fate asked.
" Er... no. To tell you the truth, the four of us decided to share one this year. Yet... we aren't good at getting presents for children."
" Last minute?" Arabella asked.
" Something like that I guess."
" Mr Winner!"
" Sorry ladies, I have to attend to my charge. See you there."
Quatre waved and walked back to the lady. Fate frowned and watched as Arabella stared at Quatre.
" What's wrong?" Fate asked.
" I... used to think he likes Princess Isabelle." Arabella told her.
" Does he?" Fate asked.
" I'm not sure about now. But he doesn't seem excited to go to the party."
Fate thought about Isabelle... she was a good friend of Umi's as well. And that made her heart sink, it was going to be a tough night.
" I suggest you don't dress too well."
" Why not?" Fate asked.
" They may splash water over you and ruin it."
Fate blinked, she wasn't going there in a business suit.
" Then what do you suggest?" Fate asked.
" Something not that eye catching."
Fate wondered if she have a gown or dress like that.
Magic Finder Universe,
Kingdom of Hope,
Heavens of Hope
Heero walked slowly towards his father, he didn't like to have a one on one talk with him. Looking at him reminded him of himself. And today, Carlton was golfing.
" Watch out!"
The ball went right through Heero's head as it flew past. Heero stopped and watch as it rolled and went into the hole. He rolled his eyes and made his way down the hill. His father was golfing, yes, under the huge umbrella and Walter, the head butler was standing there.
" Your highness." Walter greeted, bowing.
Heero nodded and approached his father. Carlton swung the club and off the gold ball flies.
" Nice shot, your majesty."
Heero hated it when he heard that word, it reminded him that his rank was below his father's... in the Kingdom of Hope.
" Yes... oh look."
Likewise, it fell into the hole directly. Heero suspected that Carlton cheated but didn't comment.
" Ah, there you are son. I was wondering what was taking you so long to come."
Heero walked on foot on purpose, since he wanted to delay time, normally he will teleport over but he dreaded meeting him.
" As you know, tomorrow is Aaron and Angel's birthday."
Carlton waved once and Walter left them alone.
" What about it?" Heero asked.
Carlton snapped once and a piece of paper appeared in thin air. Heero took it and looked down, it was the guest list.
" May I ask who Fate de Camden is?" Carlton asked.
Heero stared at the last name on his list.
" Why are you asking me that?" He asked.
" Because it's your handwriting, son. And do not deny it."
Heero have to admit, he sneaked into his father's office to write it. He did his best to forge in his father's handwriting.
" You were confused then."
Heero eyed Carlton.
" Normally you can forge quite well without people knowing that it's a fake. However, your E gave you away, it's a bit longer than usual." Carlton told him.
Heero magiced the paper away and watched as his father kept his clubs.
" Your answer, Heero?" Carlton asked.
" You will know tomorrow."
" I do not like unanswered questions, Heero." Carlton said in a rather serious tone.
Heero debated, there's 50 chance they will fight it out over it. But since it's Aaron and Angel's birthday, he wouldn't injure him that badly. And 50 he will walk away.
Heero turned and walked away.
" Not working this time, son."
" I already answered."
" You left it hanging."
" Then wait and you will know." Heero told him.
" Heero, is there something you aren't telling me?" Carlton asked.
Heero hated it when he does that, he's not a kid anymore.
" Think what you like."
" Should I tell your mother?" Carlton asked.
" Do what you like."
Heero disappeared as he teleported, Walter chose to return at that exact moment with the drinks.
" I believe he's gone, Walter." Carlton told him.
" Yes, your majesty, I think so too."
Carlton sighed and wished he could whack his son.
" He's too used to getting his way."
" I believe there's only one man who can discipline him on that." Walter answered.
" Yes... only Belmont can, indirectly."
29th February, Night time
Kingdom of Hope, Heavens of Hope
Guest were arriving and yes... it seems like a lot of people were invited as well. Heero was in the waiting room, they have to be announced together as a family. He was wondering if his friends turned up and, if Fate was here. Since he couldn't go out and meet her, he hoped she arrived late, after they were already announced.
" Heero!"
He turned and watched as the double doors flew open and Angel came running in. She was dressed in a light purple dress and then Aaron followed behind, in a tux. Heero bent down to hug her.
" Oh, it's so good to see you again." Angel told him and kissed him on his cheek.
He haven't met them that day till now. He nodded at Aaron and Aaron joined them.
" Happy Birthday, Aaron and Angel."
Both of them beamed at him, they looked happy as usual. Except Angel seemed extremely happy. He had no idea why. He raised an eyebrow at Aaron, who shrugged.
" You seem extremely happy, Angel." He commented.
" Oh, it's nothing really." She told him and smiled back.
He frowned, something was wrong. Wait... was Rachel up to something? No, not on their birthday.
" Tell me Angel, does it concern me?" He asked.
Angel shook her head and they were interrupted when Isabelle strolled in.
" Oh, Angel and Aaron!"
The twins turned and went over to Isabelle and hugged her. Isabelle's been busy looking over one part of the kingdom. It was her test to see how much she can manage her own town and all. And her result will reflect if she was fit to be Queen. Hence Isabelle was under a lot of pressure as well.
" Happy birthday!"
The two smiled at Isabelle and hugged her.
" You two are now four. So, are you two excited about the party?" Isabelle asked.
The two of them nodded.
" Who planned it this year?" Isabelle asked.
" Mummy." Aaron answered.
" Oh..."
The door opened and they turned to see Marcus pushing Felicia into the room.
" Good Evening, everyone." Felicia greeted.
Heero turned a little, he still felt responsible and hence was guilty each time he saw Felicia. Since she was born blind and handicapped, her chances of being queen was zero. And hence Felicia spend her days doing what she wanted, with Marcus, at times. Felicia was turning 19 this year.
" Your highnesses." Marcus greeted, bowing.
Heero nodded and then Joshua came in. Joshua was turning 18 this year and was still studying in university. However Heero knew what was going on with Joshua, except he didn't want to disclose it to his family members.
" Hey Aaron and Angel."
Aaron frowned, he hated Joshua, since Joshua always bullied him. But stopped recently because he was too busy with school, or rather that was what he claimed he was doing. Angel hugged Joshua and he wished them happy birthday.
" So, everyone is here?" Marcus asked.
They nodded and then Marcus left to inform Matthew. Heero walked over to Joshua.
" Doing well?" Heero asked.
Joshua looked at him, Heero knew, Joshua knew that he found out about what he was doing.
" Are you scolding me, brother?" Joshua asked.
" No, I will not tell them about it. But do not go overboard, Joshua. If you do, I will disclose your secret."
" It's not like it's that wrong."
" Sleeping with practically every girl you see is." Heero hissed.
Joshua rolled his eyes and turned to look away. Heero couldn't believe it at first, but he knew he have to accept the truth. Joshua have changed when he was 16. He was sleeping with every girl or woman he saw. Heck, he doesn't know the risks involve. Even though diseases like HIV doesn't affect magic finders, there are non-curable virus that are fatal to magic finders. And they are spread through sexual intercourse.
" You will die Joshua, if this continues." He told him.
" Why do you even care?" Joshua asked.
" Because you are a member of the royal family and what are you doing is not only disgracing yourself, but the entire family as well. Do you know why some illness are not cured? Do you know why there are so many other diseases that magic finders have compared to normal humans?" Heero asked.
" Because the ones normal humans have do not kill us?" Joshua asked.
" Because it's a balance, Joshua. Many of us can live forever and can have so huge families that it will tip the balance off. People aren't dying enough, when the birth rates are so high. That's why there are diseases and virus that are not curable, to make the universe balanced."
Joshua rolled his eyes, obviously displeased that he was being lectured by G.I.
" I do not want you to die, Joshua. Think about it, this has to stop." He told him.
" Are you lecturing me because you aren't that successful in your sex life?" Joshua asked.
" Do not push it Joshua." Heero warned, his eyes flashing silver once.
Joshua looked angry, but he ignored him. The doors opened and Marcus came back, so did Matthew. And then Rachel and Carlton came in.
" Let's go then, children."
They walked out of the room and stood infront of the door, waiting to be announced. They usually go by the order of the family, starting with the smallest.
" Ladies and gentleman, boys and girls, may you all rise to welcome the arrival of the royal family."
Applause was heard outside, Heero felt someone touch his hand. He turned to see Felicia.
" Are you alright?" Felicia asked.
" I'm fine." He whispered.
Felicia smiled and released his hand.
" May we welcome the birthday boy and birthday girl."
" Oh, it's them."
Fate tried to tiptoe and managed to catch a little of what's going on. The door opened and Angel and Aaron came out together, hand in hand.
" Princess Angel Yuy, and Prince Aaron Yuy."
Everyone applauded, Fate noticed that they stood at the side of the stairs and the foutains around them started spraying water.
" May we welcome Prince Joshua Yuy."
Applause was heard and a man who looked like he was 18 came out.
" Next, welcome Princess Felicia Yuy."
More applause was heard and Fate was a bit shocked, when a man pushed a lady who was sitting on a wheelchair out.
" Princess Felicia was born with an illness that made her blind and handicapped. They couldn't cure her then, nor can they cure her now."
" Next, welcome Princess Isabelle Yuy."
Fate watched as the woman came out and smiled, then she took her place by the stairs.
" Let's put our hands together to welcome the Crown Prince, Heero Yuy. As well as God Impossible."
Cheers and more applause was heard as Heero came out and nodded at the crowd.
" Prince Heero!" Some ladies shouted, which made Fate flinch... was he that popular?
" Hahas, He helped a lot of people in the kingdom, hence everyone knows him. And since Umi died, Heero's still single and hence most of the ladies here want to be next crown princess. After all, he's a great catch."
" I cannot believe... that there are people aiming to be... the future Queen." Fate whispered.
" It's a big universe Fate. Some wished Umi dead the first day they announced her as Heero's wife."
Fate couldn't imagine why people will do that.
" And parents will do anything to match make Heero with their children. Who doesn't want to be royal?" Arabella whispered.
" And finally, let us welcome King Carlton Yuy and Queen Rachel Yuy."
Fate's heart sank... she remembered Rachel. She saw her often though Umi's eyes. Rachel... comforted and advised Umi a lot on Heero. And they were really close... Fate wondered if she will survive through the night. The applause died down and King Carlton gave his speech.
" Thank you everyone for turning up tonight. As you know, today we are celebrating the 4th birthday of my son, Aaron and my daughter, Angel. And it's their first birthday on their actual date, the leap year. Hence I hope everyone enjoys themselves tonight, especially the birthday boy and girl. Thank you." Carlton told them.
Everyone applause and Fate watched as Angel and Aaron beamed at the crowd. Then the royal family joined the crowd and the party began. She noticed that Angel and Aaron were escorted through a door.
" That's where the children goes, there are lot of guard around to make sure no one leave or try to hurt Angel and Aaron." Arabella explained.
Fate nodded and noticed that a lot of people were crowding around the members of the royal family. A lot of males were crowding around Isabelle and a lot of females were crowding around Joshua and Heero. Fate have a bad feeling when she looked at Joshua.
" I feel that something weird is coming from Prince Joshua."
Arabella blinked and shrugged.
" Umi always have a bad feeling when she's near him too. I sometimes notice that Joshua stares at Umi."
" He did?" Fate asked.
" But... I have to admit, he's too young for her. A 3 year difference, plus... Umi never stopped loving Heero, so, he doesn't stand a chance."
" Fate."
Fate turned and smiled as Duo came over.
" Hi."
Duo smiled at him then at Arabella.
" Hi, it's good to see you again."
Arabella nodded, she was here to support Fate.
" Do you want to join us?" Duo gestured to a table far away, Fate saw Trowa, Wufei and Quatre there.
Arabella looked at Fate, Fate nodded and then the moved over.
" Evening ladies." Trowa greeted, raising his class of wine, signaling a toast to them.
Fate smiled at them while Arabella was talking to Wufei.
" You look... beautiful tonight, like during the welcome party. Except, there's no ring." Duo told her and smiled at her.
Fate smiled a little and thankd him for his compliment.
" Are you all busy lately?" She asked.
" Yes... missions here and there. But it's a good thing we got a day off to attend this party. I'm starting to miss the atmosphere of magic." Duo told her.
Then he waved his hand once and a red rose appeared, yes magic indeed. He held it in front of Fate and changed into 2 roses. Fate blinked and he offered one to her.
" One for the beautiful lady before me." He offered, smiling.
Fate smiled and thanked him for it, then he offered the other to Arabella. Arabella looked a bit shocked but smiled at him anyway. Fate wondered why Duo's hair was so long, but then... guess it's his style. Trowa cleared his throat rather loudly, as if trying to warn them or something. Fate felt someone behind her and hence she turned to look who it was.
" Umi?"
Fate blinked, who was that woman before her.
" Oh my... I didn't believe it when I spotted the same hair colour of yours from far. Clow Reed did mention you are the only one who has that hair colour in the whole universe." The lady exclaimed.
Fate blinked, looking at Arabella who looked speechless. Then the woman took Fate's hands.
" Is it really you? I didn't believe it when they said you died... They even built you a grave, how... bad of them to do so without even confirming if you are dead or not."
Then the woman started crying and was squeezing her hand.
" It's been tough to know that my dear friend have died... To think that you are still alive."
Fate blinked, who was this? She didn't remember her, but she seems to know Umi.
" I... am sorry, Madam... but I'm not the person you think I am."
The woman stared at her, surprised that Fate said that. Fate froze... was she supposed to admit she was Umi? But she wasn't and she didn't want to be Umi...
" There's no way I cannot recognise you, Umi. You are her, no?"
Fate shook her head and the woman stepped back looking shocked. Fate felt a weird feeling in her heart... what was going on? She noticed that they have drawn the attention of a few people and all of them were staring at her. And she could hear that they were whispering Umi's name around. She looked down, feeling out of place and uncomfortable to be the center of attention. Why did everything think she's Umi? Umi was a part of her... Fate never wanted to be Umi's shadow... or substitute.
" Madam, I believe you are mistaken." Arabella told her, touching Fate's shoulder.
Fate turned to look at her, she nodded.
" But... she looks... like her."
" Many people think so too."
Then with that, Arabella tried to lead Fate away, but the crowd they had drawn was blocking their way. And Fate panicked a little.
Heero didn't respond when one of the woman in front of him tried to talk to him. These women were definitely desperate. He was... crowded with a whole lot of them form the start till now. And every step he take, a new one will come in introduce herself and he will ignore her, because he wasn't interested in anyone of them.
" Your highness, it's a lovely evening no?" One asked.
He continued walking, ignoring her. The woman look disappointed but he didn't care.
" Heero!"
He turned and saw Trowa walking briskly towards him.
" Yes?" Heero asked.
" Ah, Mr Barton."
Trowa gritted his teeth as a woman tried to conversate with him.
" I'm sorry, I'm busy at the moment."
" Oh..."
Then Heero and him walked over to another side.
" What's wrong?" Heero asked.
" Fate... she's getting noticed."
Shit... He forgot about her, after all practically every parent was throwing their single daughter in front of him and the single woman themselves are throwing themselves at him. Trowa led him to a crowd and Heero tried to push through, he caught a glimpse of Fate's golden blonde hair.
" Oh my... is that The Crown Princess Umi?"
" That can't be, she's dead!"
" Could it be that God Impossible revived her?"
" Brought her back from the dead? Impossible!"
" That's his name, no?"
Idiots who love to jump to conclusion. He pushed through the crowd and saw that Fate was trying to leave but people were closing on her and she looked scared.
" Fate."
She turned and saw him. Well, everyone turned to look at him too. He felt the tension that was in the air.
" Fate?"
" He knows her?"
" She's not Princess Umi?"
He walked over to her and she forced a very weak smile for him. Minus the crowd, he really wanted to take his time to study her. She looked gorgeous in almost everything. But he like the fact that she was wearing light pink tonight. And he liked the way she styled her hair, she was so beautiful...
" Master?" She whispered, her eyes wide.
" Let's go, we are creating a huge scene."
She nodded and touched his hand and they turned to get out of the crowd, his friends cleared a path for them, holding back the people around them and so, He broke into a run and walked though, with Fate behind him. People looked shocked and surprised as they ran past them.
" Is that... Umi?"
" Oh... my..."
He didn't care them, the only safe place was the castle itself. He did a turn and they made a way through the trees before reaching the double doors. The guards looked shocked as well but they opened the doors for him. And he dragged Fate in with him, he led her along the hall.
" Master, where are we going?" she asked.
" Somewhere they can't see us." He told her.
" Wait."
He felt her restrain and stopped to look back at her. She released her own hand and stared up at him.
" I... I'm not allowed inside the castle." She whispered.
Heero didn't say anything but merely stared at her.
" We... should go back... we are causing a huge fuss already. And it's Prince Aaron and Princess Angel's birthday. You have to go back." She told him.
He couldn't believe her... she was so scared just now and now she wants to go back? No... she wants him to go back for his family's sake, as well as his guests. He turned, considering what to do.
" I'm... fine really. Maybe I should leave... I... should have come as Amethy." She whispered.
An image of Amethy, Fate's fake identity flashed into his mind. No... she wasn't going back to being Amethy, she cannot hide under that identity forever.
" No, I didn't want to show you to my family in fear of what will happen. But I know, it cannot be avoided. It's my fault that I invited you here, I should have known that the guests knew Umi too." He whispered.
Fate looked away as if depressed, Meteor turned visible and she held onto Meteor.
" Let's go then." He told her.
" Go back?" She asked.
" No, out." He told her.
She looked shocked.
" No, Master, I should be the one leaving."
" Let's go."
He took her hand, but she pulled free.
" No, I can't... People will suspect where we are... and they will think... I'm Umi." She whispered.
She was depressed.
" Let's go together."
She looked up at him, surprised that he suggested that they leave.
" I'm sick and tired of dealing with desperate women." He muttered, removing his bow tie.
Fate blinked and watched as he undid the first button on his shirt.
" Let's go, Fate."
" What about your family? Your parents?" She asked.
" Another day then." He told her.
Fate shook her head and stood back.
" I... can't go with you." She whispered softly, looking at the floor.
Heero wanted to pick her up and throw her over his shoulder and carry her away with him. But he sensed someone and he turned. Carlton...
" Heero, is that you?"
Heero turned and stepped in front of Fate, hiding her from his view.
" Yar, it's me."
" Why aren't you outside?" Carlton asked, stepping into light.
Heero was cautious, he couldn't let Carlton see Fate.
" I... got tired of women throwing themselves at me." Heero muttered.
" Yes... that can be frustrating."
" Carlton? Who's that?"
Heero sensed movement behind him, shit... He turned... it was none other than his mother Rachel. And she... was staring at Fate. The worst thing was trying to hide Fate, but in the end, get ambushed by his parents on two sides. He was trapped, he looked at Fate who was looking at Carlton then to Rachel.
" Umi?" Rachel asked, Heero could see the tears in her eyes.
Fate looked away, depressed that they only saw her as Umi...
" No she's not Umi!"
" Meteor." Fate whispered looking at Meteor, who was jumping up and down beside her.
Star became visible as well and started jumping next to Meteor as well.
" She's not Umi." They were telling them.
" She's... not?" Rachel asked softly.
Heero closed his eyes and then he stepped aside for Carlton to see Fate. Carlton seemed shocked, but he calmed down a little.
" Heero... what's the meaning of this?" Rachel demanded, walking over towards them.
" If you are willing to listen, I will explain it to you."
Rachel looked at Fate, who was trying to hide behind Heero.
" She looks like Umi, your... dead wife."
" Yes and I know very well who Umi is, thank you Rachel." He nearly shouted.
" Is she that guest you added?" Carlton asked.
Heero turned and nodded to Carlton.
" Guest? You invited her, Heero?" Rachel asked.
" Yes, I did."
There was a moment of silence, then Heero was thinking that they were going to question him further and then Carlton turned and walk away.
" Where are you going, Carlton?" Rachel asked.
" I'm leaving."
" Why?" Rachel asked.
" Because... I already got my answer. I expect to see you later in my office, Heero." Carlton called out and walked away.
Heero thought that Carlton was going to scold him, but he didn't for Fate's sake.
" Explain yourself this instant, Heero." Rachel shouted.
Heero looked down at Fate and that's when he sensed more company... Oh dear... Voices filled the hall and then they stopped suddenly.
" Mother, what are you doing inside?"
Rachel turned and Heero saw Isabelle with Felicia. Somehow he was glad that Felicia was blind, but that doesn't mean he didn't owe her an explanation.
" Er... I was taking a break, where's Aaron and Angel?" Rachel asked.
" They are still inside." Isabelle told her, moving closer as she pushed Felicia's wheelchair.
That's when Isabelle stopped as she saw Fate. Fate turned and looked away instantly, Felicia sensed Isabelle's shock and hence she turned to look at where she thought Isabelle was.
" Isabelle, what's wrong?" Felicia asked.
" No... nothing."
" Is that... Heero?" Felicia asked, picking up Heero.
" Yes it's me." He told her.
" And... who's that? I'm picking up someone I don't know... Wait... she..." Felicia paused as if she just realised something.
" I really should go." Fate whispered to Heero.
" Don't." Heero told her.
" But..."
" She has a similar sense to Umi." Felicia told them.
Felicia was depressed, even Felicia thought she was Umi... and she was blind...
" Heero... I believe we need to have a family meeting." Rachel whispered.
" After the party." Heero told them.
" Yes, definitely after that. I suggest you keep her indoors until the cake session, people will definitely ask questions. Did she come here with a friend? She can keep her company till then." Rachel told them.
Heero looked at Fate, there was Arabella...
Fate sank down on the sofa and buried her face in her hands... no it wasn't the way she imagined it to be. No... actually it was much better than what she thought... but they looked as if they were controlling themselves because of the party that's going on and of course because of the guests that were outside the castle. The doors opened and she looked up to see Arabella come in.
" Oh Arabella."
The door closed after her and Fate walked over and hugged her friend.
" Hey, it's okay Fate... Prince Heero told me that Rachel and Carlton saw the two of you when you two were trying to escape." Arabella whispered.
Fate didn't want to cry but she didn't say anything.
" People outside are spreading rumors... I hope Prince Heero goes back outside."
They broke apart and Fate sat down. Arabella moved over to the curtains and drew them back.
" Yes... I see that he's back inside. He's talking to Prince Aaron and Princess Angel." Arabella whispered.
" What am I going to do?" Fate asked softly.
" Just stay calm and don't break down or something."
Arabella looked at the door, there were 5 guards outside when she was escorted by Matthew here. And she was sure, they were locked in for now. Arabella walked over to the sofa and sat down next to her. Somehow, Fate's expression reminded her of Umi's expression the time when she found out that Heero was injured in the battle of the million. Yet that time Umi was shaking so badly, as if wondering if she should go and meet him. And she remembered, she did go... but she didn't get to see him. Thinking back now, the atmosphere when they do meet is always tensed.
" Will they hate me?" Fate whispered.
" I don't know, but I hope not."
Sometimes... the truth can be harsh...
" Heero?"
He looked at Quatre who was looking worried at him.
" You have been staring at that for ages." Qautre told him.
Heero sighed and placed the wine glass down. He hadn't touch it. How was he going to explain Fate to his family? The clock struck 11.30 pm, everyone stopped what they were doing and went over to the huge fountain in the middle of the whole Then guards came and surrounded the whole fountain as the ground opened and the fountain slowly descended downwards and was replaced with a stage. The members of the royal family were invited on stage. Then they brought out 2 huge cakes, likewise Aaron and Angel looked excited as they looked at the cake.
" Let's all wish the two of them happy birthday!"
They lighted the candles, 4 each on both cakes and then Angel and Aaron will smile and position themselves in front of the candles. Then everyone started singing the happy birthday song, except Heero. Heero looked to the window of the room Fate and Arabella were kept. The lights were still on... they didn't even let them out. Loud Applause filled the place as they finished the song. Then Aaron and Angel smiled at each other and made their own wish. Angel took a longer time and then, holding each other's hands they blew out the candles. And everyone clapped and some took pictures. Then they took the cake knife and made a cut on the side of the cake, before the servants took over to cut the cake so that everyone has a slice.
" Heero!"
Angel jumped over and Heero hugged her.
" Happy Birthday." He told her.
She smiled and then Heero hugged Aaron and wished him the same. Then the servants served them the cake. Heero took it but stared at it, he wasn't a fan of cakes. And everyone sat down at the table made specially for them. Heero was still thinking about how to tell them about Fate when Felicia noticed.
" Heero, you aren't moving, is something wrong?" She asked.
" I'm fine, just..."
" Heero, you must eat at least one slice, after all it's Aaron and my birthday." Angel told him.
He sighed and picked up the fork... cakes and cream and sugar... He took one bite and that's it... he pushed it away and realised that Carlton was watching him.
" Hey, I saw something." Aaron told Angel.
" What?"
Angel turned and Aaron was pointing to the window of the room where Fate was. But luckily, no one was there at the time.
" What did you see?" Angel asked.
" Nothing, I must be tired." Aaron lied.
Then at 12, after the clearing up of plates, Angel and Aaron went to their present pile and it was... a little shorter than usual. People had changed to giving cards instead. Likewise, they opened a few and some guests started to leave.
" Hey Heero, what's your present?" Angel asked.
Heero have to admit, he didn't put much effort this time. Then he saw that Aaron was digging under the pile, where the cards were all sorted. Aaron was careful and he took out a card.
" It's from your friends." Aaron told Heero.
Heero turned to look at his friends who were... trying to escape.
" Oh, what's this?" Angel asked.
She have pulled out a box from underneath and it was directed to her. After she opened it, it revealed a little crystal ball. She took it out and examined it, then she saw the note and smiled at Heero.
" Thank you, Heero." She told him and he nodded, it was... something he made, he gave an instruction manual to her, incase she needed to know how to use it. Likewise, Aaron received the same gift, but of a different colour. Yes... guests were leaving already and Aaron and Angel claimed that they were tired and wish to open them in the morning.
" One last present." the remaining people pleaded.
They agreed and chose one from the bottom. It was a box, Aaron opened it while Angel read the card.
" Dear Princess Angel and Prince Aaron..."
Then she trailed off as she continued reading it in silence. Aaron was surprised when he saw what was in the box. Heero sensed that people were getting curious and so he went over.
" What is it?" He asked.
Angel stared up at him and then traded the card for the box from Aaron.
" My goodness." She exclaimed, sounding shocked.
Heero took the box from her and lifted the cover, the first photo was a photo of Umi with the two of them. He quickly closed it back, it was Fate's present.
" What is it?" People asked.
" Nothing, just photos." Aaron lied.
" Ah... we thought it was something bad..."
With that, the guard came and escorted them back to the castle, after they had bid goodbye to the remaining guests.
" I'm beat." Joshua muttered, pulling off his tie.
Heero eyed him, he knew where he went to and likewise didn't want to mention it in front of his other siblings. Isabelle nodded and they made the way up the stairs before Carlton appeared coming down from them.
" I hope you all will freshen up first, we are having a family meeting in 5 minutes." He announced.
Joshua, Angel and Aaron groaned and looked at Heero.
" I'm tired... can't we go back?" Angel asked.
He noticed that she was holding the box and the card from just now. She and Aaron wanted to view it in private.
" 10 minutes." Carlton corrected.
" Can we... come in our pajamas?" Aaron asked.
" No, a guest is joining us."
They frowned, but Heero and Isabelle knew what was going on. Likewise, Heero helped Felicia to her room.
" Heero." She whispered, touching his hand.
He knelt down to look at her.
" There was someone back then, next to you, no?" She asked.
Since she was blind, she couldn't exactly see Fate...
" Yes, there is." He whispered.
" Do you know her?" She asked.
" Yes, I do."
She nodded and he pushed her to the door of her room, where the maids greeted him and then they took her inside. Heero walked back to his own room and closed the door behind him. His watch showed that he only have 6 minutes left, to the meeting. He sighed and pondered what to say.
The door opened and Fate turned to see Matthew come in with Marcus.
" Miss, you are to come with us."
Fate stood up and so did Arabella.
" I am sorry, but she's to come alone." Matthew whispered.
Arabella opened her mouth to speak but Fate stopped her.
" It's okay. Why don't you return home first? I will... see you in the morning." Fate whispered.
She squeezed Arabella's hand before walking past her and followed behind Matthew. Arabella watched Fate leave with Matthew, there must be something else that she can do... But what?
Matthew escorted her to a double door. He bowed and left her alone. Fate placed her hand down on the handle. Was it possible for her to turn and run away? Will they let her escape? No... she have to face them, no matter what happens... she was ready for what will happen.
" Fate?"
She looked up and turned to see Heero walking towards her. She looked away, her hand still hesitating on the handle. Heero noticed, he closed his eyes and sighed.
" It's up to you Fate, whether you want to be present or not."
Her hands tightened around the handle, she closed her eyes and shook her head. She turned the handle and the door clicked opened. Heero walked over and pushed the door open further. He turned and looked back at her. She nodded and then followed after him.
1st March
The clock tower struck, signaling and telling everyone that it was 1 am, in the morning. Likewise, the sun wouldn't rise till it was 7am. The wind that was blowing through the air was strong... Fate stared up at the clock tower and watched the second hand move. She closed her eyes and sighed as she looked at the surface of the lake. She caught her own reflection on it and... she looked sad...
She heard footsteps behind her, she turned and watched as Heero walked up to her, followed by Star floating behind him. She stood up and watched him. He closed the gap between them and handled her a cloth. When she didn't move to take it, he reached out and grabbed her hand and wrapped the warm cloth around her fresh wound. It didn't go very well... Carlton was the only one who didn't over react... Likewise, Rachel slapped Fate, and Isabelle threw a vase at Fate, Heero deflected it, but Fate was still cut in the arm.
Fate turned and looked at the lake. Heero could tell, she was very depressed with what they said to her as well as how they reacted to her. She couldn't feel physical pain, but he have no idea how much pain she was actually feeling inside.
" Fate..." He started.
She looked up at him with those sad eyes, and then she turned and looked away. Heero sighed and looked up at the night sky.
" It didn't go well didn't it?" He asked softly.
She closed her eyes and looked away. Heero sighed and picked up a stone on the floor and tossed it on the watter. It jumped on the surface 5 times before sinking down to the bottom of the lake.
" Fate, there's something I want you to do."
Fate slowly turned to look at him. Heero looked at the lake and picked up another pebble and started playing with it in his hand.
" As you know, the 3 years are coming to an end. I want you to find Orihime and befriend her." He told her.
He tossed the pebble and it jumped 7 times before it sank down.
" Meaning, I want you to live with her and look after her until the 3 years really come to an end." Heero told her.
Fate just stared at him, Heero picked up another pebble, this time, a flame was lighted on the pebble. Heero looked up at Fate.
" She's Umi's friend, likewise you will have to befriend her to gain her trust. And you can take these time to do what you want." Heero told her.
Her eyes was on the lighted pebble on his hand, the flame wasn't hurting him at all. But the reflection in her eyes was hard to miss. He closed his eyes before looking at her again.
" Meaning, we won't see each other for about a year. And I want you to remember what you are supposed to do while you are there." He told her.
" In the human world?" She asked.
" Yes, and don't go as Amethy, go as yourself Fate. You have no reason to hide yourself from anyone."
With that Heero tossed the lighted pebble across the lake. This time it jumped 10 times before sinking down into the bottom of the lake, likewise, the flame was extinguished the moment it sank into the water. He turned to look at her, she was quiet, as if she was thinking of something. He walked back towards her and as he walked past her, he paused to look back at her. He closed his eyes and reached out to pat her on her head.
" Till we meet again, Fate." He whispered before walking away.
He didn't look back, because he knew, she wasn't moving. They were going to be separated for now, he hoped that Orihime will learn to accept Fate and not react like what his family did. 1 year Fate... And in the meantime, he will have to catch up with his work, as well as his family... It will take them some time, but whether they will accept Fate was out of his hands. Only time will tell...
" Fate?" Meteor asked.
Fate looked down at the cloth that was stained silver.
" Till we meet again, Master." She whispered softly.
Author's note: So finally, the match making is about to start, As to whether his family will accept Fate, only time will tell. Likewise, what will the two come up with? And how has the 3 years changed the two friends of theirs?