So because I have been studying tons of Mandarin- 你 好!
This, my darling readers, is a very important chapter. I'm sure some of you saw it coming, hopefully I'll surprise most of you:P
I know a lot of you are wondering where the heck I have been- and I'm deeply sorry, I'm trying to graduate highschool earlier which means I have twice the work load now =_=.
By the way, if it seems like I'm fast forwarding things now, I am. I have enlisted into the Marines, and though they haven't picked my ship date yet, I will probably be sent around late spring/early summer next year.
I want to finish this story before I leave though:)
Thank you so much for all your support and I hope you stick with me to the end:)
ANONYMOUS REVIEWERS: THANKS!
To the anonymous reviewer who wrote "Thats nowhere near rape", you are correct. The original version of that part was much more..uh,,,, descriptive ..but I changed it because I'm trying to keep this semi-light. I apologize though for that blunder.
To the other guest reviewer *cough* yennefer- you're such a nut hahahhaa, there will be some more Kitalla- Athrun interaction. I don't know, but I love writing her with Kira and athrun cuz she annoys Kira and baffles Athrun so it's just...fun ^_^ OMG Hhahahahha, "meer as zaft's new weapon" hahhaha. they are still whole! and I don't get the huge attraction everyone seems to have to the Castiel- explain this to me?
Now go and enjoy this chapter! (and review!)
*Disclaimer- nom nom nom nom
SPECIAL SHOUT OUT TO AnimeGIRL2014 :)
Chapter 21: Every Masquerade comes to an end.
Orb castle. NPV
The crowds were wild with joy. All over Orb, people were celebrating the return of their princess as the news played over and over again of her coming home.
And it wasn't just in Orb, but all over earth and space-the miraculous appearance of Orb's leader was causing shock waves of either fear or delight.
"Is this what you wanted. To be loved by everyone." Kira asked quietly as he stood beside Kimi-hime on the balcony that over looked hundreds of ecstatic Orb citizens.
Wide smile painted across her face, Kimi-hime beamed, waving and blowing kisses.
She continued to ignore Kira's presence and he narrowed his purple eyes, sickened. He felt ashamed that he had let it come to this- but what could he do? Who would believe him? That there was two Cagalli's and one was a clone; and not to mention that he was a prince by birth right?
No. Trying to over throw Kimi-hime or kill her would not solve anything. I need Cagalli. Before it's too late. He looked up at the clear blue sky, praying for the ship to come. "Damn it, Cagalli, where are you?" he whispered.
"Right here?" chirped Kimi-hime, a satisfied smile on her face as she waved one last time to the crowd before turning to face him. "Please, escort me. I have an important meeting to attend."
Brooding, Kira studied her, reluctantly extending his arm in an invitation. She tucked her arm under his and they began walking back into the castle's hall ways.
"Or to steal everything away from Cagalli. Is that what you are after?"
Her nails dug slightly into his arm and the sunny smile that brightened her face soured. "Steal? I am not a thief, Kira. I am a ruler."
"No you are not- you are a creation of Blue Cosmos. But what they could have over you, I don't know." He stopped, desperation causing him to face her fully. He stared into her tawny eyes and shuddered slightly. "Why, why are you like this? You can change- you are out of their hands. You are safe to pursue a better life. Why are you doing this?"
Her eyes narrowed to slits. "Because, I want to." Her cold hands reached up to stroke his face, the edge of his jaw, down to his neck where they circled about it. He swallowed. She smiled. "Because I hate this country, it's people and the precious Cagalli!"
With every declaration she would squeeze his neck and it took all of Kira's resolve to remain calm, never breaking gaze with her.
"I hate you, Kira. Though you already knew that." She laughed emptily. "God, how I hate you and your darling Cagalli. The "Wonder duo"" Her nails scraped his skin, causing goosebumps to travel down his neck.
"You will never succeed. "Kira said flatly. "Cagalli will come. You will be over thrown. And you will die. Alone." Anger seeped into his voice but his expression of fury melted into that of pleading.
Kimi-hime smirked. You still can't and leaned closeer to him, hissing in his ear. "Let me make myself perfectly clear. This is my throne. And if I can't have it. Then no one can."
And just like that she released him- Kira took a huge breath- watching as she smiled cunningly.
"What are you planning?" He demanded.
She laughed- a tinkling of chimes. "A war, Kira. I am sick of this peace ful country- it is time this Princess show's the world the Queen she really is."
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
The next day.
World news:
"Cagalli Yula Attha, recently returned Princess of Orb, has announced her joining with the Earth Alliance. The treaty was signed this morning by the head leaders of either country. Including that of the Princess, her council, the EA's president and military leaders, including the esteemed Natarle Badgiruel and Mwu La Flagga. With this treaty they hope to secure a healthier relationship and join together the countries of the world step by step to become the United Earth.
Two days later.
Breaking news, the recently sired United Earth has declared war on ZAFT, and have entreated them to surrender their countries on earth or be completely wiped out by the end of next week. All countries are on high alert- and military conduct has increased in every region of the world. The chairman, Gilbert Dullindal has requested a meeting with United Earth but to no reward. He also warns the earthen nations that a threat will not be taken lightly. Lady Lacus Clyne beseeches the leaders of earth to rethink their decision. However Orb's newest stance on world involvement remains unchanged. The clock is ticking. War is brewing.
"Dammit!" Bang!
Kitalla paused upon entering the gallery, her eyebrows raising at the sight of myself, the smoking gun, and the broken TV. "Normally I just use the off switch." She remarked before setting her tray of food down on a table.
Seething, I flipped the safety back on and turned to take my ire out on the too-calm Captain.
"What the hell is wrong with you?!" I demanded. "The whole fricken world is about to be torn apart and we're sitting on our fricken asses doing nothing to stop it!" I took a deep breath. "And you! YOU ARE JUST SITTING THERE EATING A BLOODY SANDWICH."
"It's jelly, not blood." The Captain replied, absorbed in her task of consuming her creation.
My hands clenched as every cell in my being demanded I take a swing at her.
As if sensing my weakening self-control, Kitalla nodded to the seat across from her. "Sit."
I gritted my teeth, glaring at her.
"Oh stop being a stubborn hot-tempered ass." She snapped.
Slowly I took a deep breath and sat. A few minutes passed during which Kitalla took a crunchy bite- "Damn, I told them to get the creamy peanutbutter!"- and I reflected.
We had arrived in Orb yesterday, and barely managed to slip past all the military guard everywhere. We went into hiding in an old tiny ship-ware house with what crew the Chariot could afford to lend us. And that wasn't much. We had barely ten men, not including, Yuna, the Captain and I, and unfortunately that wasn't nearly enough to accost the castle gates which were so heavily guarded since the 'princess's' return.
And if that wasn't enough, instead of trying to find a way to slip by or some other fool-hardy mission, Kitalla had lazed about, hardly showing her face to me.
"Oh spit it out already." Kitalla rolled her eyes. "You know you're dying too."
I was in fact. Ever since Kimi-hime first appeared in Orb, hundreds of outbursts begged to be screamed but I fumbled, trying to decide whether to yell or ask questions.
I decided to do both. "WHAT THE HELL ARE WE DOING HERE?!"
Kitalla wrinkled her nose. "Inside voices, princess."
There wasn't a word in the world that could describe just how badly I wanted to punch her. Taking a slow, steely breath I growled. "Why are we here? Orb is about to risk everything and go to war and that ef'ing pauper of a princess is leading it. We should already have a plan, already be sneaking in and –"
"And what?" Kitalla interrupted. Her eyebrows raised. "Should I remind you that both you and Kimi-hime are nearly twins- that nobody here has seen you in years. And showing up out of the blue during an assassination attempt with a strange crew, and telling people you're the real princess isn't exactly convincing."
As much as I hated every word she said- I knew the truth that rang out. How the hell was I going to usurp my own throne? "What are we going to do?" I asked quietly, my anger gone in the realization that I was at a loss. "What…can we do?"
Quick as a flash, Kitalla slapped me across the face. "Ouch!" I yelped, startled and staring at her in resentment. "What the he-" the words died on my lips at Kitalla's cold, disgusted expression.
"Don't. you. Dare." She snarled. "Start getting all hopeless. You are a Princess, Cagalli! Up till now, I am aware that you have been many things, a teenager, a pilot, a love sick idiot, a useless prisoner- but now you are a princess. And whether your ass is on a bench or a throne you will act like the princess you were raised to be!" She panted slightly at the end of her speel, glaring at me. "If you can't handle this- then I'll take care of the bitch myself!"
There was a silence. A reflective one where Kitalla waited for my reply and I realized again why she was a highly-respected Captain. For all her flaws and short comings, she was loyal and never backed down. Sometimes, I thought, it's hard to remember I once hated you.
"And believe me, I'm not going to replace one bitch with another, so get your act together." Kitalla added.
And other times, I wonder why I stopped. I frowned then sighed. "I understand."
"Do you?"
Taken aback by her intense gaze I furrowed my brow in confusion.
"It's been years, Cagalli. Years. The people want a princess- not a hot tempered, free-spirited warrioress. Yes, these are all parts of you- but what must be your top concern is your people. And that means putting yourself second."
"I know that." I huffed. "I have been doing it all my life. You don't need to remind me!"
Kitalla shrugged indifferently, the tenseness in her shoulders melting away along with the coldness of her expression.
A minute passed. And then.
"When were you planning to tell me I had a brother, by the way?"
Kitalla chocked on her last bite of her sandwhich. "Ahem- excuse me?" she coughed.
I sighed. "Ya know, Kira."
She shifted nervously. "And where did you hear that from?"
"You in fact. When you were hung over." I smiled broadly at the opportunity to rub that little memory in her face.
Instead of the sneer I expected Kitalla looked uncomfortable.
"What?" I asked.
"What, what?" she repeated back innocently.
Suspicion grew in me. "You look like you have something to say. Where did you find it out anyway?"
Kitalla hesitated then sighed. "Look, I gleaned it from some of the files on that laptop of Azrael's okay."
"Why would he have that information?"
She shrugged. "Maybe he had wanted to clone Kira too?"
"No," I shook my head. "That's stupid, why would he have done that? Nobody knows that Kira's my brother, and technically the crown prince." I paused, thinking over my words again. "Gah-" I rubbed my face in my hands. "I still can't believe we're actually related! All this time... Why didn't my parents tell me? Where was he for my childhood? Does he know?!" I looked up to meet Kitalla's gaze. She narrowed her eyes, guarded, though I had no idea why. "Did you find anything else? Like why Blue Cosmos was interested in him, if they had him- or anything of importance that we can use?"
"Unless you count the file titled "Kinky noodle soup for the single's soul", then no."
I stared at her, my jaw popping open slightly. "…what?"
Kitalla raised an eyebrow. " Yeah, I know. Who the hell names a porn file something like that-"
"Kitalla!"
"I'm kidding." She said dryly and I sighed and then cringed again. "It was just "XXX"." She muttered. I choked.
"Moving on, I'm serious. You didn't find anything?" I bit my lip, staring at her desperately.
She hesitated, then shook her head. "No."
I stared at her suspiciously and she raised her eyebrows, her expression blank.
"Why do I have this feeling you're not telling me something." I said softly.
Kitalla stood up stiffly and bowed. "Eat, I will attend to plan making and report to you as soon as I have a strategy, your majesty." She picked up her empty plate, and briskly left the room.
For a moment I sat there speechless. Caught in between frustration that there was something she wasn't telling me- and the fact that she had called me 'your majesty'. Though it had been far from sounding praise-worthy, or sincere, it did lack it's normal sarcasm.
But wh-unless. It's because I am a princess. She's preparing me. A pair of green eyes flashed through my mind followed by a familiar ache. Furious with letting myself break the streak I had of keeping him out of mind, I shook my head like a wet dog trying to rid it's self of water. Damn water.
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Kitalla
Once out of the suspicious gaze of the princess, Kitalla relaxed. Raking a hand through her black hair she sighed "No more drinking." She chided herself. She passed one of the other Peace soldier's and he saluted her.
"Captain."
"Sergeant Growski." she nodded in return. "Any recent developments from the Pauper and the council?"
"None, Captain."
She frowned. What is her motive? "And everything is fine in the ware house- no suspicion or anything?"
"We did have an Orb officer past by a few times- so we probably shouldn't risk staying longer then a few days."
Her frown deepened. "Thank you, carry on with your business."
Upon reaching her room, she closed the door, shed her military jacket and threw herself into her chair, letting herself spin about idly. "Lights." She said absentmindedly. The room remained dark and she blinked, remembering that she wasn't on a state-of-the-art ship anymore. Her chest tightened and she sighed. "I'm getting sentimental over lights." But it wasn't the lights, it was just the simple reminder of everything she had lost. Shaking her head in despair of herself the weary Captain turned to her desk, flicking on her computer. At the same time, Azrael's also turned on as it was hooked up to hers and the files she had already cracked began opening.
She ignored them, having already spent all morning working on them with out any luck. "I'm an engineer, not a hacker." She muttered, bringing up her secure communication system.
First she noticed a message from Aisha. Clicking it, she began reading aloud under her breath: "Due to the recent threats from the United Earth, here and in other countries we have been drafting, training and preparing a larger, more powerful ZAFT military. Aside from nearly doubling in size, we have been rather suspiciously complacent. Though no word has reached Andy, we suspect that ZAFT is planning something. Be prepared. Watch your back. And take care. –love, your sister." She paused. "P.S. Our family will always remember yours." At this she became solemn, her chest tightening again. It was a common phrase between military sections when one lost a great number of comrades.
Closing that she noticed an untitled message with an anonymous sender.
Unease rippled through her before she clicked it.
The screen blacked out, the only illumination coming from a single word that was 'Transferring".
"What the-" Kitalla jolted to her feet , knocking her chair back. Panic seized her and she began hammering at the keys of her laptop in complicated serials. "Shit!"
OOOOOOOOOOOOO
Kira Orb castle
"What the-" the brunette shifted nervously in his seat. "The stupid woman- what is she doing?" furiously he began typing back, over riding her attempts to protect herself. "It's me, moron," he muttered, though aware she couldn't hear him. A few minutes later the screen lit back up and he found himself staring at the worry-lined Kitalla. The first thing he noticed was the darkness around her eyes. Belatedly he remembering the small report he had received on the destruction of the Harmony. Biting his tongue, he instead began; "You got a lot tanner." She had indeed- probably from being under the sun for the first time in a long wihle.
Kitalla stared at him stunned. "Kira?" True to her quick nature, her face smoothed over and she straightened. Irritation flashed through her eyes only to be swiftly replaced by curiosity and awe.
"How? You're with the princess aren't you? … I saw on the news the Archangel's arrival." An accusatory tone darkened her voice.
Kira's eyes widened at the glint in her eyes. "What are you hinting to?"
"I read the file, Kira. I know why you weren't with Cagalli during her first seven years of her life."
Kira blanched, surprised. "How have you come to this information?" He demanded.
She shrugged. "I got ahold of Azrael Muruta's laptop, including all of it's encrypted information. But that isn't the point. I know that you were with them for seven years."
"It was nothing." He said quietly, his purple eyes seemed to haze over with memories as if he was seeing something not there.
"Nothing." She hissed. "They were training you to be a super soldier. When your mother had the C-section- they thought you were died. When in reality Blue Cosmos took you after hearing about the advanced bio-engineering they performed on you."
"Captain," Kira interrupted. "We have more important things to disclose!"
"And I would love to hear them after I ask you this- Can I trust you, Kira… Attha?"
Kira's eyes met her eyes straight on, unwavering just like his loyalty. "I love Cagalli. She is my sister. It is true they were training me. I was meant to be the pilot of the Alpha. But the brainwashing wasn't as effective with me as it was with the others…" he paused. "That or I just didn't have anything to fight for. I escaped one night-"
"So easily?" Kitalla interjected, doubtful.
"It wasn't." Kira murmured. "But neither was living there."
A silence ensued.
At last- quietly he asked. "I assume you know the rest…the whole truth then if you read my file…"
Kitalla's eyes widened for a split second in understanding. She nodded shortly. "I do."
"Who else knows?"
"No one." She replied.
Relief swept through Kira. "Good. It must stay that way. No one… can know."
"Of course. It would destroy everything we're working for."
Kira glanced at his watch. "We only have a few more minutes before someone grows suspicious of my use of this secure line."
"I understand. Then simply- what news have you learned on Kimi-hime?"
"She was in a war council this morning- she plans to give three fourths of Orb's military into the EA control."
"What?" Kitalla yelped. "That will weaken Orb severely!"
Kira nodded. "I believe she is trying to disassemble Orb's forces. Make Orb out to be a target for ZAFT."
"To eliminate a world power and half of the United Earth leader ship in a blink of an eye." Kitalla murmured. "She's presenting both the EA and ZAFT an opportunity. But what could she possibly want for herself…?"
Kira shrugged. "No idea yet. By the way, we have the real Mwu La Flagga locked in the Archangel."
Kitalla's eyes widened. "This is tremendous!"
"But it doesn't do us much good. He's under guard 24-7 and she has a mask locked around his face so no one knows who he is*."
"She's probably keeping him alive to keep the doppleganger in check." Kitalla reasoned. "It's what I would do."
"That's what I thought." Kira agreed.
"Kira, we need to take to switch the princess's before it's too late."
"I know." His voice grim. "It's difficult. She's under constant watch. Not to mention, someone on the council is on her side."
"Probably the one who paid Blue Cosmos. Aside's taking advantage of all the chaos, what do you think Blue Cosmos is doing with all that money anyway?"
"I don't know but I'm afraid to find out."
"Look's like we'll have to. But when can we strike at Kimi-hime?"
"Tonight is your best chance."
"Tonight?" Kitalla winced at the thought of how little preparation time there would be.
Kira nodded.
"But isn't tonight her coronation ball?"
"Yes, but it will be the easiest way to sneak in. It's a masquerade and everyone will be dressed up. We'll get her alone, switch the princess's, take care of Kimi-hime and no one will ever know."
"You make it sound easy- but how the hell are we to get past the front gates?" Kitalla demanded.
Kira checked his time nervously. "Do you have still have Yuna with you?"
"Who?" Kitalla's eyebrows went up. "Oh, you mean Painintheass? Yeah…yeah unfortunately he's still with us."
Kira grinned. "He's your ticket in. Use him. He's the son of a council man. Pose as his body guard and slip in. But at all costs try to avoid letting him in conversation. We don't need anyone asking him where he was or how he got back."
Kitalla allowed herself an eye roll. "Great. Babysitting duty… But then we'll have him call out Kimi-hime to some recluse." She hesitated. "I don't know… The castle is going to be swarming with security for the ball not to mention we'll be putting the civilians at risk."
"It's our best chance." Kira hissed. "The following morning she is having a new personal escort hired. Trained Orb Coordinators; top of their class. Then it will be even harder! At least now her personal escort is a few Naturals and myself."
"Daaaamn it." Kitalla scrubbed at her face in frustration. Looking up her eyes hardened. "We'll be there!"
Relieved Kira forced a smile. "Alright, I will try to find all the details I can to send you… Dress appropriately and remember to bring a mask."
She rolled her eyes again. "No kidding." She bowed her head slightly. "Thank you for risking yourself to tell me this."
"Anything for my sister." Kira murmured.
Kitalla's eyes flashed darkly at that but before she could say anything Kira cut the connection off and the screen went dark. Leaning back in his chair to stare up at the ceiling, Kira sighed. He hated the war games, the blood shed, the strategizing, and all the senseless death. It weighed down on him like nothing else and he just wished he wasn't who h e was. That he was some random unimportant face. A nobody.
The thoughts stirred a memory and he closed his eyes, relishing it. He could almost see her. The angel of his dreams. "Lacus." Kira wasn't an idiot, he knew he barely knew her aside the few days they spent together. However he didn't think he had ever seen someone as beautiful, kind and charming as her. Nor did he think he would ever again. "I must find her." He whispered to himself though knowing it was futile. He was stuck beside the Orb throne, and Lacus was somewhere in EA territory, alone. Helpless. And nothing ate a man alive worse then the feeling of helplessness that he couldn't protect her. Couldn't save her. Couldn't love her.
* Tribute to Gundam Seed Destiny. I couldn't resist... hahaha.
OOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Cagalli pov
I sat, motionless in my chair as a hired private cosmetician smothered me in cosmetics, hairspray and perfumes.
"Has anyone told you that you look just like the Princess with extensions?" The woman babbled cheerfully.
Kitalla exchanged a glance with me from the mirror. In that moment I let her know just how much I hated the position I was forced to take, no matter how willing I was to do it.
She smirked.
I sighed, although I wasn't thrilled about it- this was the best strategy.
"What do you think, up or down, sir?" Michelle, the cosmetician asked Kitalla.
Kitalla blinked once at the 'sir' but smiled fluidly and said in the lowest male voice she could produce. "You said she looks like the Princess? What is the princess doing?"
"Up!"
"Then up it is." Another smirk flashed at me. Kitalla crossed a leg over the other. She looked like a young man with her hair pinned up in a shaggy up do and the black suit she wore tailored to help make up for her femininity. Her chest was bandaged tightly –and uncomfortably beneath her clothes. Her shoulders padded to be broader. Beneath the security of her jacket I knew she wore a chest-holster for two guns and knives.
Michelle pulled at my hair and I winced. In the mirror I saw an elegant, poised young woman. Eyes mysterious and beguiling- shimmering. Pink lips teasing with a secret laugh. A gaudy gold necklace adorned my neck, glittering in the light. It accented strongly against the red, full length gown I wore that flowed like water, clinging with promise to my body. This woman was beautiful, smart, charming, friendly, dainty and everything I was born to be.
A princess.
"I'll be right back." Michelle chirped, bouncing out of her salon room into a back room.
Kitalla watched her leave. "Your Majesty," she said once it was safe. "As we rehearsed you'll be posing as Roma's date. A giggly, airhead of a girl."
"I know." My voice brittle.
"The rest of us ten will be dressed as body guards. Five of us will protect Roma-"
More like make sure the stupid idiot doesn't ruin everything. I thought.
"And the rest of us, including me, will protect your Majesty. Please don't do anything rash."
"I won't." I huffed. Kitalla frowned, not pleased. She stood up and came to stand behind me, placing her hands on my bare shoulders. "Your Majesty," she began. "Tonight is the night you reclaim your throne." I looked up in the mirror to meet her cat eyes. "Remember who you are. And remember that you are not Kimi-hime. You are Cagalli Yula Attha, daughter of Val and Uzumi and rightful heir to the throne." The utter conviction in her voice helped bolster my own nerves and I smiled gratefully.
A leader of the people. A woman who led by love and not power. I was different from Kimi-hime. Where she ruled with the authority of a queen- I would lead with the grace of a princess. It is what I was raised to do.
Michelle came out hardly a heart beat later with a hum and finished my hair into an intricate curly bun. Upon standing, I twisted about to view myself from all angles in the mirror.
"So beautiful." Michelle gushed. "I am so envious that you get to go to the ball!"
I beamed at her, suddenly full of gratitude for the Orb woman who came at the last minute to help me dress and prepare, and swore to secrecy.
"I'm sure you will some day," I told her, a promise I would keep.
She laughed. "Ratty me? In the ball room? Hah!"
I grinned but before I could say anything, Kitalla touched Michelle on the arm slightly. "You would be the star of the show." She smiled. I coughed, hiding a laugh.
Michelle- unaware of Kitalla's true sex- blushed at the compliment the young, handsome- if slightly feminine- man gave her. She twisted a curly brown lock around her finger before curtsying. "Thank you!"
"No, thank you." I said. "For helping us."
I helped her gather her things up and wished her a fare well. After she left, Kitalla gathered everyone into the room.
"Corporal Jenson has gone to fetch the limo. The second we leave these doors, we become Orb soldiers." She turned to face Yuna Roma whose hair was slicked back, and wore a tailored modern tux. "A good deal of this rides on you and your acting ability. Remember, you were gone on vacation, met –" she glanced at me.
"Akira." I gave her the fake name, figuring no one in Orb would recognize it.
"And have returned. Since you don't have a proper invitation, show them your family ring."
Yuna nodded. He was unusually quiet and nervous. His arrogant confidence and bluster gone.
Is he finally manning up? I thought, narrowing my eyes.
"Finally." Kitalla reached down to pick up a bag by her feet. Fishing around in it, she began pulling out random masks and handing them to everyone. "It is a masquerade and this will help protect your identity." She turned to face me and handed me a half-mask. Turning it over I realized it was that of a lioness. Rather then simple it was beautiful and well-crafted.
"Figured it was fitting." She said with a shrug and I smiled, tying it around my face. It covered the top-half of my face, unlike the bodyguards who wore plainer, full-faced masks. I looked at Kitalla's and found myself staring at the face of a cunning fox, complete with an elongated snout and ears. Her eyes grinned wilily at me and I found the animal more then suiting to her nature.
"You are having way too much fun with this." I said, shaking my head.
"And you're not having enough." She chortled.
"Why am I stuck with this?"
We turned to face Yuna and I coughed, choking on a laugh.
He wore the half-mask of an unattractive warty bullfrog.
Kitalla bit her lip, trying to remain tactful. "I don't know," her voice dry. "I thought it was fitting."
I coughed again.
"The limo's here!" Another woman-dressed as a man- called from the door way and we filed out. Walking out into the crowded Orb street I looked around. Since arriving in Orb and fleeing to the warehouse, it was my first time freely walking in Orb.
"Beautiful." I whispered.
"What?" Yuna asked, annoyed. "This? This is common, normal."
"No it's not." I disagreed. "It's beautiful. It is home."
The 'body guards' parted the people milling the streets in the evening so that we could pass easily.
Orb citizens watched us excitedly, trying to figure out what Orb nobles hid beneath our masks and little children giggled, clapping their hands together in glee.
At the street waited the limo and upon reaching it, Kitalla opened the door for me, extending a slight bow as I, and Yuna entered. Her eyes met mine as I slid in and she blinked once.
Once belted in the door shut and I breathed in relief behind the tinted windows.
"And that wasn't even the hard part." I muttered to myself. The limo trip was ridden in silence, which was surprising since I had assumed Yuna would take advantage of the moment to pester me as he had on the Chariot.
I glanced at him from the corner of my eye, but he didn't notice. Leaning against the window, he gazed listlessly out, absorbed into his own thought.
I smiled slightly. Perhaps he was bettering. This was good.
I looked down at my pale hands that lay folded in my lap. I wished I had something to hold in them, feeling defenseless with out any weapons.
Upon reaching the first gate to the castle, the limo paused. I forced myself not to ball my hands into fists as guards approached.
In front I could hear the driver announce us. Through the window I saw the guards exchange a suspicious glance.
"Are you ready, Yuna?" I whispered as they approached our door, one resting his hand on his gun and the other on a communicator.
Yuna suddenly flashed me a slippery smile. "Acting is what I do best, princess." And he winked before rolling down the window. "Is there a problem, sir?" The guards look at eachother before one cleared his throat. "You are Yuna Roma? Son of Sr. Roma, a council official?"
"None other." Yuna smiled widely, lowering his mask so that they may recognize him. "Notice my family ring?"
The guards hesitated, their suspicion crumbling. The oldest took another step forward, his eyes hardening.
Before he could say something, Yuna went on. "I was soooo insulted when I didn't receive an invitation from her Majesty- we grew up together as children and she forgets me? I know I've been gone but regardless, shouldn't bestfriends remain sacred?" His shallow conversation made the guards relax and shrug. The other one peered at me through the window.
"And this lovely lady?"
"Akira. I am of small nobility from Europe." I said quickly.
"And my darling bunny," Yuna gushed, leaning forward to smack a wet-one on my face. Though revolted and wanting to claw the abused skin off my face I forced a simpering smile.
"Darling!"
The guards looked sickened and one waved to the gatesman. "Let them through." He called and I glanced, relieved at Yuna.
The tall gates opened and the limo carried us the rest of the way to the front steps of the castle where a red carpet had been laid out. Here, reporters stood, cameras flashing as they took as many pictures of the nobles of Orb and other countries that had gathered in celebration.
"Ready?" this time it was Yuna who asked the question and for the first time ever, I gave him a thankful look before the door on my side opened and I was momentarily blinded by cameras.
"Milady," Kitalla's voice soft and low, and I accepted the hand she offered me. Standing up, I felt my heart freeze in my chest as I gazed up at the beautiful castle before me. Without meaning to I whispered, "Father. ", the first thought that the majestic building had invoked. Memories. So many of them. Playing in the castle with Kira, and Yuna. Learning academics from my teachers; Court business from my father; Femininity from my mother. "Home." I said this time, absentmindedly taking the arm that Yuna proffered me. I ignored the onslaught of reporters who called out to Yuna and I as we climbed the steps up. I ignored the bodyguards and Kitalla who stood at all sides, masks hiding all but their eyes as they looked about watchfully. I ignored Yuna who was swallowing me into the side embrace of his body, smiling broadly at the attention he was receiving and the longing looks of the single women. No, all I saw were the memories that played out into the castle before me as I walked through those front doors. Warmth rushed at me as I entered the glorious ball room, where candels flickered brightly from the golden chandeliers and people danced, music sang, and servants crossed about with platters steeped high with drink and food.
My heart seemed to explode at the sight, the richness of color and reality. After so many years of pain, devastation, loneliness, anger, toil and despair. Finally, I was here. Finally I had come home.
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
NPOV Orb ball room
Kitalla waited observantly for the princess to overcome her initial awe and happiness at arriving. Truthfully herself, she felt happy inside at having completed this mission to bring Cagalli home. Despite the haughty, arrogant manner she sometimes wore on her sleeve, she was still a servant to the people and bringing them happiness brought her joy as well.
But the mission isn't complete. She thought idly, eyes sweeping the crowd. Towards the front of the room she noticed a procession of men and women making their way up to a blonde woman.
"Kimi-hime." She hissed in recognition. The pauper wore a very tight, form-fitting blue gown. On her head she bore the Orb circlet that gleamed.
"She has my crown." Cagalli also noticed, irked.
"And probably your family ring." Kitalla added, her voice muffled slightly through her mask. She turned to Cagalli. "I am going to go locate Kira. While I do this, socialize. Act normal. Be…girly."
Cagalli's lips twisted down and Kitalla snickered. "Go on, the others will be at bay, but they are still watching out for you." The Captain bowed at the waist before weaving through the crowd, seeking the princess's brother.
Cagalli nodded then looked to Yuna who stood at her side, her arm still clasped in his. "Er," she began and his eyes rolled behind his mask.
"Perhaps I should go fetch you something to eat… and a drink to lighten up?"
She nodded, relieved. "Yes, please. I'll wait here."
He inclined his head before departing towards where a waiter stood taking orders; loosely followed by five of Kitalla's guards.
Cagalli sighed, left alone, with naught but the rest of the guards who stayed silent and distant. A few men, that were walking around her, flashed appreciative looks that she did her best to ignore. She wasn't here to be merry after all however after turning down three man's invitations to dance, she realized standing, doing nothing, probably wasn't the best idea. Especially considering the fourth was coming up to her now. Clearing her throat to catch her guards attention, she picked up her skirts slightly and turned away, making her way to a balcony- her favorite one, she remembered, for get aways. It was a small one, not one of the fancier ones, and it was hidden by the massive ceiling-to-floor drapes. She parted them then paused to glance at her guards. "I'll be safe." She said, before walking through to the other side. Here she froze, remembering the many boring meetings and balls she had escaped from out here. Often to meet Kira and play jacks or cards in their secret hide away.
The sun had finally set and the stars twinkled down from the heavens and she smiled, walking forward to lean against the balcony rail. The balcony over looked a portion of the castle's gardens, and red rose bushes bloomed thickly up to the rail, within reach of being picked. In the distance a swan swam upon a clear pond, it's thick white feathers standing out starkly in the darkening world. Cagalli could see already a few couples retreating out into the mysterious fold of the gardens, giggling and whispering secrets between kisses. "So much more beautiful then Plant." She murmured, taking a deep breath of earth air, happiness swelling through her.
"Are we that bad?" The masculine voice jolted her out of her reverie and she spun about, heart hammering, to face a tall masked man.
"Ex-excuse me?" she stammered, raising the pitch of her voice slightly to help recover her act of a shallow girl.
The man, his face hidden behind the full-mask of a black wolf, held up a hand to show her he hadn't meant to surprise her. "Sorry," his voice low and muffled sounded slightly familiar and Cagalli bit her lip uncertainly. "I had meant to escape the crowd by coming out here, but I see you have already taken safety here." He turned to go, but Cagalli said quickly.
"It's alright, I'm going to be leaving in a few minutes anyway."
"Ah, I see."
They stared at eachother, Cagalli feeling more then uncomfortable as she fiddled with her bracelet.
"You look stunning." The man said then, roving her with his eyes. She wondered what color they were and had to restrain herself from taking a step forward to see. "It makes me sorry that I can not see your face."
"Thank you," she tipped her head graciously, looking him up and down. He wore a classy tux with tails, elegant, refined and prince-like. "You look handsome yourself."
He chuckled. "I have never heard so forced a reply. For someone who should be dancing around in the gaiety you are rather stiff."
Cagalli narrowed her eyes. He's smart. "My apologies." She said dryly, eyeing him warily.
He shrugged slightly before asking. "But I believe you were denouncing my birth place a moment ago,"
"You are from Plant?" she asked suspiciously. What would a Plant Coordinator be doing in Orb?
"I was born there, but I came over as a child." He explained. "But from my memories it wasn't that bad."
Cagalli smiled. "Regardless, it has nothing on earth where true originality is born."
He cocked his head, his longish black hair curling about his mask slightly. "Are you also in agreement for the war on ZAFT?"
Cagalli flushed, realizing how her words had been taken. "Not in the slightest." She admitted. Why am I talking so much? She wondered. I feel so comfortable with him, as if I can trust him. Why?
"I believe in the peace Orb stands for." She declared.
"Stood for." The man corrected but she shook her head furiously, glaring at him in her own passion.
"Never. In the end, Orb will always remain true to it's desire for peace between all the nations."
"The Princess seems pretty determined." The man's voice became sour.
Is he displeased with the country's actions? Cagalli wondered before replying. "People can always change. Just have faith."
The man hesitated. "I…" he paused, tilting his head. He took a step closer to her. "I feel like we have met somewhere before…" His hand reached up slightly as if to grasp hers.
Nervous at his sudden direct attention, Cagalli began stepping back. "I do not believe so." She said glancing about nervously. She wished she knew what he looked like beneath the mask, but she couldn't even see his eyes with his back to the light. His voice seemed so familiar- velvety and soft, but at the same dark and cryptic.
"Yes, you remind me of…" his voice twisted slightly, as if he was in pain.
Suddenly the drapes parted and Yuna walked briskly through. "Ah, at last, my darling I have found you!"
Grateful for a second time at his presence, Cagalli accepted his proffered arm. Let's go! She thought, eager to be out of the stranger's scrutiny. However Yuna paused, glancing at the man in curiosity.
Before he could ask the man said softly. "My apologies, miss. I did not realize you already had company for the night."
Quickly, Cagalli replied. "No, I apologize for reminding you of whomever you miss. They seem very important to you and I hope you find that person one day." She turned to Yuna. "We must leave, Yuna."
Yuna nodded but before he could take her another step the man said quietly. "Yuna…As in Yuna Roma?"
Yuna paused, glancing at him. "Yes?"
The man's dark eyes sliced towards Cagalli and she froze at the sudden anger radiating from him. "May I ask," though his voice was caressingly sweet, she could feel the smooth razor edge that accompanied it. "What your name is?"
Cagalli swallowed nervously, tugging on Yuna's arm to go. "Akira. My name is Akira." After that she half-dragged Yuna out of the man's glare, and back into the commotion that filled the ball room.
The drapes fell shut behind her and the light that for a second illuminated the man's brilliant green eyes went dark again as the man stood still. His fists clenched at his sides and his body trembled, whether with fury or sudden despair, one could not be sure. He bowed his head as if in sorrow but the voice that shook with rage said otherwise. "Akira. It seems our fates our tied together still." He straightened, envisioning the lioness-masked woman. He could no longer appreciate the beauty that she became, only recognizing her for who she truly was behind the mask.
A spy. A traitor. And the woman who mercilessly broke his heart.
"I will end you." He vowed. "You, your princess and Orb will fall." He removed his mask, gripping it tightly. "If it's the last thing I do, I will make sure of that." The dim light of the moon above glowed on his face. The face of a killer, a lover; the face of Athrun Zala.
OOOOOOOOOOO
Watching the partiers over the rim of her glass, Kimi-hime sipped her wine. Pleased with the life she had secured here, proud of her accomplishment, eager to tear it all apart. That is, the happiness and peace on the people's face, unaware that their only defense had been given into the control of the EA. That soon they would be burning alive. "Orb will burn." She purred to herself in delight.
"Your Majesty,"
A servant had come up to her, bowing.
"Yes?" she asked imperiously, placing her drink down at the table she sat at.
"Roma requests your private presence in the back room."
"Roma?" She asked suspiciously. Her eyes swept the crowd, but Sr. Roma was no where to be found. This feels… unsettling. She thought before shaking her head. If Roma requires of me, I can not turn him down. He rules over me.
"He says it's dire. Something to do with a warehouse containing a rouge Captain and her crew."
"Ah! Thank you!" At this the Princess stood. I remember I told him to keep an eye out for Cagalli- he has found her then! This is fantastic! Her unbridled joy at the triumph couldn't even be marred as a waiter accidently tripped and sloshed wine over her.
Terrified the boy looked up at her and the people around fell quiet at the spectacle.
"Your Majesty!" he bowed, trembling. If it had been any other day that someone spilled wine on her, ruining her dress, Kimi-hime would have had them severely punished. This works out though. She thought. It gives me a reason to be excused. Though it is a shame this lovely dress was ruined. "It is no matter, I'll simply go change." She announced before proudly making her way out, not noticing the smirk on the lioness-masked woman's lips. The one who had tripped the waiter in the first place.
With quick steps, Kimi-hime made her way out of the ball room, the music fading behind her as she walked down the hall and then turned to the closed door. The ten guards that had accompanied her awaited her command.
"Stay out here." She instructed. "Allow no one to enter, especially Kira."
She walked into the dark room, carefully shutting the door to let no sound escape the room. "Alright, Roma, what have you to tell me?" she asked, turning to face the figure that stood by the flickering fire place, where the only source of light came from. The masked man life his head.
A fox? She thought confused.
"I'm not Roma." Came the purred answer and her eyes widened in horror as the man- no, woman,- removed her mask. "Remember me?"
"Kitalla!" she spat.
"Kimi-hime."
She whirled at the new voice, to see the lioness-masked woman from before. Who could be no other then- "Cagalli." This time her voice was a snarl. "How did you get in?"
"With a little help." Cagalli smiled, walking closer to the angry fake princess. "It is my castle after all."
"Hah! Your castle? You truly believe that? But in reality-" before Kimi-hime could finish speaking though, Kitalla had tackled her, pulling out a gun equipped with a silencer.
"It's time to say goodbye." Kitalla hissed, aiming the gun at the princess's face.
"No, Kitalla!" Kira burst out from where he stood at the door with six other guards.
"Kira!" Cagalli gasped as Kira darted forward and shoved Kitalla off. A bang sounded and a bullet whizzed aimlessly into the wall.
"You fool! What the hell are you doing?!" Screamed Kitalla, her eyes becoming slits of rage. She scrambled to her feet, across from Kira. Kimi-hime lay stunned between them.
"Your majesty?" The guards from outside called, panicked. They forced open the door despite Kitalla's guards attempt to block them, taking in the sight before them. Immediately they fell on Kitalla and her guards. "Protect the Princess!" They cried.
"Take care of them quickly!" Kitalla snapped the order.
"No!" Cagalli refuted. "They're Orb Citizens!"
The look of loathing Kitalla shot Cagalli send a tremble down her side. "Then you take care of the bloody princess!" she tossed her gun to Cagalli before pulling out a knife and charging the guards.
Swallowing, Cagalli turned looking for the princess only to duck just in time to avoid the fire poker swinging at her head. The metal-pointed rod glowed hot at the end and Cagalli had no wish to be on the receiving end.
Kimi-hime swung again with a scream. "Die, you bitch!" This time Cagalli couldn't dodge and the blow hit her on her gun arm. The gun flew from her hand, skittering towards the fire place. Pain blossomed and Cagalli gritted her teeth.
The princess and the pauper exchanged a glance before they both darted towards the gun, colliding in a tangle of a dresses, nails and hair.
"Bitch!" Kimi-hime shrieked. Cagalli landed a punch on her face, feeling a satisfying crunch come from her nose. "YOU BITCH!" except it came out more like 'NYOU BEACH!'.
They wrestled eachother, rolling over the floor, dangerously close to the fire as they both attempted to stun the other with raining blows and biting nails. "That's mine!" Cagalli snapped, ripping her crown loose. For a moment she had Kimi pinned, and she wrestled her ring from the other girl's finger. "No clone has the right to bear this!" But the tables turned as Kimi-hime flipped her and forced her down, her hands encircling her throat. "How right you are!" Kimi snarled, her tawny eyes glittering with loathing. Confusion flashed through Cagalli at the words.
"Cagalli!" Kira cried in desperation from across the room, engaged in a fight.
Cagalli choked, unable to breathe her vision began to swim. "No-" she gasped, clawing at the woman but Kimi-hime remained fixed above her, her hands tightening. "No!" out of the corner of her eye, Cagalli then noticed a piece of half-burning wood hardly a foot away that had rollen from the fireplace. Reaching out, she grabbed the end that wasn't yet on fire, -the heat scorching her palm, splinters gouging her- and swung it with all her might at Kimi-hime.
Seeing her action, Kimi-hime went to dodge the blow by moving to the side, but Cagalli hit her still.
Carried by the force of her motion, and unable to catch herself right away, Kimi-hime fell forward. Right into the fire place.
Her scream of agony split the room and everyone froze to stare at the woman who had bolted to her feet, clutching the right side of her face that had been burned. Blindly, she stumbled from the room and Cagalli staggered up after her, breathing harshly. She swiped up the dropped gun in her shaking left hand.
"STOP HER!" Kitalla ordered as she fended off the Orb guards. Cagalli needed no further permission, chasing after the false princess.
"Cagalli!" Kira cried, he knocked down his last opponent and ran out of the room in pursuit.
Cagalli ran as hard as she could; though her ribs pained her and her right shoulder ached. Bloody scratches ran along her face and skin and her hair was mussed from being pulled. But she could care less as she charged after the fleeing, crying fake-princess.
Where is she going anyway? Cagalli thought, as Kimi-hime zig-zagged down the halls. The garden! To escape! She realized a moment later. Knowing it would be a lot more difficult to catch her in the dark and confusing garden, Cagalli lifted her gun and shot.
The shot missed- Cagalli had never been very good with her left hand- but it made Kimi-hime falter and trip.
The girl fell to the ground, twisting about to stare at Cagalli.
Cagalli gasped in horror at what the fire had done to the girl's face.
All long the right side of her face, like wax the red skin had melted, dripping off, and her right eye was sealed shut. The left side however was contorted in rage and pain. She opened her mouth and screamed, blood running down from one corner of her lip. "I AM THE QUEEN!"
Cagalli raised her gun, re firming her resolve. In another world. She thought. We could've been sisters. Her finger began to tighten on the trigger and Kimi-hime howled. And so it ends. "Then long. Live. The Queen." Cagalli spoke icily.
"NO CAGALLI!"
Kira's voice made her hesitate, but her surprised turned to shock, and then denial as Kira ran to stand between her and the princess.
"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" she yelled. "That girl is the fake princess! The clone! She is evil!"
Kira nodded in agreement, tears in his eyes. "SHE'S MY SISTER!" he cried helplessly. She may be evil but I can't let her die. I can't.
Cagalli's shoulders slumped, the gun slipping from her fingers to clatter on the ground. "What…" she whispered. She couldn't make sense of this. She couldn't understand! What was he saying? What were his eyes trying to convey.
"KIRA!" gasped another voice, and Cagalli saw Kitalla limping weakly towards them, bleeding heavily from her side. "Don't!"
"What are you saying, Kira?!" Cagalli demanded, feeling tears rise up in her eyes. "You're my brother! She's the clone!" Behind Kira, the barely recognizable pauper crawled to her feet, running away. "MOVE! She's getting away!"
Kira shook his head.
"KIRA!" Kitalla warned again, limping faster but still a few yards away.
"SHUT UP KITALLA!" He burst sick of the deceit. "She deserves to know."
"Know? Know what?" Cagalli whispered. She felt like heaving. This wasn't right. This wasn't how it was supposed to go. Her brain felt like it was moving at the speed of a slug as she looked back and forth between the three.
Her eyes met Kira's purple ones that begged her to trust him. But how could she? He stood between her and the clone. He was protecting Kimi-hime!
"She's not the clone, Cagalli." Kira said in a hushed tone and Cagalli took a step back, her heart pounding in her ears in time to the NO! NO! NO! that screamed in her mind.
Sorrowed shined in his eyes. I'm so sorry! I love you so much, and I'm so sorry!
"How can she not be the clone?"
Kira broke, his voice a mere breath of win. "Because you are."
And her world shattered.
Soooo, anyone see that coming? :D What did you guys think?
By the way, I have to admit, the scene with Cagalli and Athrun on the balcony together at the ball is one of my favorite scenes I have written of them together. The angst and tension! GAH! I just could picture the whole scene in my head and it was beautiful! *wipes eye*
BTW - THE NEXT CHAPTER IS HALF-WRITTEN SO I WILL BE UPLOADING IT SOON!
Please review:)
love,
ReflectedShadows
Current Addictions:
The most Popular Girls in School (youtube)
PewDie Pie (youtube)
Supernatural
Legend of Zelda Fiction (yes, I am just that nerdy lol)
Plants Versus Zombies 2 (app )