Part Three
Sank Kingdom, AC 182
Unbeknownst to the five soldiers, they were being watched. At first, the interloper made no attempt to leave his hiding place. He was frozen in place from shock from everything he saw in the last few moments. The shock was overwhelmed after only a few minutes by fury and grief and guilt. How could he stand by and let such an evil thing happen?
Removing the gun which he accepted from the king, Andrew Pagan left his hiding place and fired the pistol once, firing into the air. It got the attention of the five rutting monsters, and he levelled the gun at them. He said in a cold voice, "You will leave her alone. Now. Move away from that girl, or the next shot I fire will render you unable to have children. Not that this would be a great loss to the world in general."
"You and whose army, old man?" one of the men laughed, running his hand along the young girl's thigh. She whimpered, her eyes glazed over, and Pagan's heart almost stopped. He realized for the first time that it was Lady Natasha. And only a few yards away was the queen. . .it didn't take much imagination for Pagan to figure out what happened.
"He doesn't need an army. Get the hell out of here, before we open fire," a feminine voice said from just behind Pagan's shoulder. He wanted to weep for joy, recognizing that voice. But he heard a gun being cocked behind his ear as Kit Rogers continued, "You have thirty seconds to scramola. After that, say good-bye to the family jewels."
"You don't have the guts to shoot us, you stupid bimbo!" another man hooted. Pagan never took his eyes from the men. But he did move to his right, making sure Kit had a clear shot. She did, and she took it. The man doubled over with a scream, holding his private parts.
"Don't. . .tell. . .me. . .I don't have the nerve. I do. I know how to use a gun, and after what I've seen in the last seven hours, there's no way I'd hesitate to use it. I won't tell you again. Get your asses out of here, while you still have them. Because if you don't move away from that child right now, I'll shoot each of you in the balls. . .and make sure you can't be re-attached. I'm a doctor. I know how to do that," Kit answered.
From inside, Pagan heard Stefan Khushrenada shouting for someone named Guelich. The four men remaining looked at each other uneasily, then a third man said, "He wants the commander. We better go see what's going on." The other two nodded, and they picked up their injured comrade between them, dragging him inside.
Kit lowered her gun, trembling, but shifted the safety before replacing the pistol in the waistband of her jeans. She hurried to the barely conscious girl, murmuring soothing noises. Pagan knelt at her side, removing his own bathrobe before Kit even had to ask. She smiled at him gratefully and gently wrapped the bathrobe around poor Lady Natasha's violated body.
"Let's get her to the shelter. . .can you carry her? It's all right, baby, it's all right," Kit asked Pagan, comforting Lady Natasha as she conferred with the fencing master. He nodded and carefully scooped the fragile, slight body into his arms. Kit tenderly stroked the girl's hair and they carefully headed toward the sanctuary which was set up.
Kit was murmuring under her breath, it sounded as if she was making a list in her mind. Pagan barely paid attention. He had to get this poor child to the sanctuary. She needed medical care. She needed her family. They found the body of her little brother shortly after Alexei and Nathalie Galinov carried Prince Milliardo into the shelter. The little boy was coughing so hard, Pagan feared he would damage his lungs. And his clothes smelled of smoke. The ambassador explained that they found Prince Milliardo just outside the blazing tunnel.
"There won't be a trial, Pagan, for the war crimes which occurred today. My first order of business will be to bathe Natasha. If this was an ordinary rape, I would follow the guidelines. But if there is justice for what happened today, it won't happen immediately. And Natasha cannot wait for that justice," Kit observed. Pagan nodded. He concurred.
. . .
Christina Rogers became a doctor to alleviate suffering. She chose gynecology, because her mother died following a botched operation. How such things could happen in these times, Kit never understood, but that event led her to her destiny as a doctor. And she truly believed that medicine was her destiny.
Never was that more true than today. While gynecology was her specialty, Kit fell naturally into being a 'GP' as she tended to the wounded and the stunned. Some of her patients, following the sneak attack, had no physical injuries, but went into states of shock. They needed help. Kit had the knowledge, the patience, the desire to help them. It was a part of her identity.
As soon as the attack begun, Kit was in the middle of an evacuation effort. Led by herself, Senator Dorlian and his wife, and Pagan, they evacuated people from the palace at the order of the king. He was searching for his wife, but he extracted a promise from Pagan that they would save as many as they could. Kit still didn't know how the man kept from losing control, as so many others, then she remembered. He *was* the king, after all.
She learned during one of her early runs back to the sanctuary that Petyr Galinov was murdered. His small body was found under a large tree, covered by his older sister's bathrobe. Nathalie Galinova immediately fell to pieces.
They retrieved the little prince from his hiding place only moments before a fire set by the soldiers would have overcome him. Fire was such an iffy thing. And with a child, who knew how long before the smoke was too much for small lungs? Especially when Milliardo spent so much strength in trying to open the door himself after the fire was set. But he was safe, now curled in the arms of Alexei Galinov.
His small face was sooty, from the fire, and his clothes smelled of smoke. He looked tired, and Kit noticed that he was desperately trying to fight back tears. He understood, even if his little sister did not, what today meant. In more ways than one. But he was safe. Something which could not be said for little Petyr Galinov.
Kit vowed to find Natasha Galinova at her first opportunity. She went back to the palace, using another underground tunnel to search for survivors of the attack who wasn't captured by the Alliance soldiers. But it wasn't Kit who originally found her. . .it was the man now carrying her toward the sanctuary. Kit's heart twisted in her chest as she thought of what that child must have endured today. For what she would live with, for the rest of her life.
Once they were inside the shelter, Kit ordered two of her new helpers, one of whom was Renata Dorlian, to start running water. The first, a young servant named 'Sofie,' bobbed her head and fetched a tub. When Renata saw Natasha's state, she protested. They couldn't wash her, the younger woman cried, they needed evidence for the trial. To prove who did such a vile thing. All of this said while Natasha was sitting right in front of them. As if she didn't exist.
Kit whipped around and glared at the younger woman, snarling, "WHAT trial? There will be no trial, Mrs. Dorlian! Don't you understand yet? The EarthSphere Alliance attacked the Sank Kingdom! And this is only the beginning. They killed Heero Yuy seven years ago, because he was a threat, because he was too popular."
Kit was trembling, remembering her conversation with Katerina at the time of Heero Yuy's death. It was only a matter of weeks after Katerina learned she was pregnant with Milliardo. And she feared for her unborn child. Oh Katerina. Kit focused on the present, continuing, "It's happening again. There will be no trial. The Alliance will sweep this under the rug, saying how terrible it is that the rebels killed King Raoul before they died themselves!"
The young woman took a step back, but Kit wasn't finished. She continued, her voice low, "And even if there was a trial, I don't give a damn about that right now. That child feels unclean. She feels like a piece of human waste. I can't bring back King Raoul. Nor can I bring back Katerina. But I can damn well make sure that girl has some sort of healing, even if it's as small as a bath. Is that clear?"
"Perfectly," Renata Dorlian answered in a subdued voice as Sofie dragged a tub into the room, which was almost the same size she was. The pair began running water into buckets, testing the temperature with the backs of their hands. Meanwhile, Kit turned back to her shuddering patient and looked into her hazel eyes. Dear gods.
Kit was a gynecologist, trained in women's medicine. But at the moment, she felt completely out of her depth. She was training in medicine, yes, but how did she go about healing someone's heart? This child lost a part of herself that she would never get back. She was raped, and in all likelihood, saw her brother's death. Her parents would be of no help at the moment. Maybe later, but not now. Right now, it was all up to Kit.
She said in a soft voice, "Natasha, honey, it's Kit. Remember, we met at the ball last night?" The girl's dark head bobbed unsteadily, and Kit went on, "That's good. Now, we're getting a bath ready for you, so you can clean up. But before we do that, I need to get these clothes off you. Can I take off your nightgown? It's just us girls. . .no men in this room." Natasha stared straight ahead, but she bobbed her head again.
Kit gently stroked Natasha's cheek, and the girl's breath hitched in her throat, her eyes widening ever so slightly. Even from another woman, touch was an iffy thing at the moment, Kit observed. She would have to be careful. With gentle hands, she began to undress Natasha. She talked to the girl in a low voice as she did so, reassuring her that Kit would not leave her, that she was safe now.
Renata Dorlian joined them, her eyes flickering from Kit to Natasha, and Kit said as she pulled the nightgown over Natasha's head, "Renata is right here, Natasha. We'll help you to the tub, and then we'll get you washed up. Sofie is getting clean clothes for you, good clothes. There's no need to be afraid. We won't let them hurt you again."
"Listen to Dr. Rogers, Lady Natasha," Renata said softly, "there's no way she, or my husband, or myself, or Pagan would ever allow anyone to hurt you again. I'll take your hand now. . .are you ready?" The girl nodded and Renata gently picked up the small, slender hand, then put a supporting hand under her elbow. Together, Kit and Renata eased the girl down from the table. Kit glanced over at Renata as they led her to the tub. . .the younger woman's eyes were burning with rage.
However, she kept her voice gentle as Natasha picked up one foot and put it into the tub, telling the girl, "That's right, Natasha. Is the water all right?" Natasha bobbed her head. Renata looked at Kit helplessly, but the young doctor just sighed. She wasn't really surprised by Natasha's silence. Given what happened during the last few hours, she actually expected this.
She told the younger woman, "Stay with her. . .talk to her, don't leave her alone for a minute. She can't be alone, for any reason. If she wants, let her wash herself. If she just sits there, then ask if she wants you to do it for her. Whatever you do, if you want to do something for her, ask her first. Give her control over something."
"I understand. Where are you going?" Renata asked, her eyes flickering from the mute girl in the tub to Kit. The doctor's eyes shifted to the next room, and Renata continued, "Talk to her father. Talk to her mother. Right now, they're lost in their own grief, and she'll need them when she finally starts talking again."
"Exactly what I was planning to do. Look after her for me," Kit replied and Renata bobbed her head, then returned to Natasha's side. Kit looked at the mute girl one last time, her heart breaking for the teenager, then set out in search of Natasha's parents. They lost one child today. . .she didn't want them to lose the other. But she couldn't do that without their help. Especially Alexei Galinov. He would be a key to Natasha's recovery.
. . .
The Great Divide, AC 196
"I do not understand something. . .Petyr told me that Milliardo escaped from the tunnel himself. And yet, I just saw in the images. . .can you explain this, Queen Katerina?" Treize Khushrenada asked, interrupting the memory play. Petyr scowled at him, but remained silent. The images faded from sight, and the queen turned to face him.
She was smiling as she explained, "Petyr only thinks he knows everything. The truth is, Petyr never knew how my son escaped from the burning tunnel. He simply made up the story. . . filled in the blanks himself, so to speak. While he has taken on the body of a man, in many ways, he is still a child. It was a child's fantasy, nothing more."
"But it was a good one, yer Majesty," Petyr wheedled. Queen Katerina rolled her eyes, her lips twitching. The young Russian/Scot all but snarled at Treize, "And why couldna ye be keepin' yer big yap shut? It was a bloody good story, and exactly what I would have done in that position!" Treize started to speak, but Katerina held up her hand.
"It was a good story, Petyr, but it was not true. My son was only six years old, as you were. Neither of you were strong enough to open the door from the inside. That was something which Natasha hadn't taken into consideration when she told him to hide in the tunnel. However, that is neither here nor there," the queen told them.
Petyr was pouting now, and Treize realized that the queen was right. While Petyr wore the body of a man, he was a child inside his heart. In his soul. He was an innocent. Katerina looked back at Treize and asked, "Are you ready to continue?" He bobbed his head and Katerina went on, "Then we shall see this through to the end."
The images lit up the screen as Kit Rogers determinedly strode into the main room of the guesthouse. Renata Dorlian would remain with Natasha, and Sofie was now returning with clothes for Natasha, while Kit tried to talk some sense into Alexei Galinov, as she put it.
Sank Kingdom, AC 182
Talking sense into Alexei Galinov was at the top of Kit's priority list. As she entered the main room of the guesthouse, though, she felt the earth tremble under her feet. She glanced over at Pagan, who said softly, "We must get these people out of here. The Alliance will continue the bombing. There's a series of underground tunnels, leading out of here. It's completely separate from the palace."
"All right. Find three people who are in better shape, and we'll get started with the evacuation. I have to talk to Alexei Galinov. Just out of curiosity, have you seen Quinze Barton? I know the king invited him to the ball last night, and he stayed over rather than travel back to the colonies," Kit observed.
Pagan grimaced and replied, "Yes, I have. And he seems terribly interested in Prince Milliardo. I do not trust that man, Miss Christina. I know the king sees. . .saw. . .him as an ally." Here, his voice cracked and Kit couldn't bring herself to speak. They were all mourning for King Raoul.
"You disagree with Raoul's analysis of the man?" the doctor asked and Pagan looked around nervously. Kit took his point. She put her hand on his shoulder and said softly, "Keep an eye on him, Pagan. I don't trust him, either. I wouldn't put it past him to try to use a six year old boy to avenge the death of Heero Yuy."
"Nor would I. See if you can talk sense into Galinov. He's been muttering about Lady Natasha. Keeps saying that she should have died instead, that she didn't protect her brother properly," Pagan said.
Kit smiled tightly and replied, "That would be the plan. As soon as I can, I'll start helping with the evacuation. For the moment, just get as many people moved downstairs as possible. If you can, keep Milliardo with you. I have a feeling my tete-a-tete with Galinov may get nasty, and I don't want Milliardo to get caught in the crossfire."
"Yes, Miss Christina. But it may already be too late," Pagan said, and nodded toward the six year old now sitting on the floor. Quinze Barton was headed in his direction. SHIT! Now what! Pagan said softly, "I have an idea. Leave it to me. Talk some sense into Galinov."
. . .
But that didn't happened. Alexei's rage grew, along with his mutterings. Natasha failed her little brother, it should have been her who died, instead of Petyr. What use was a daughter? Petyr was to be his legacy, he was to have carried on the family name. Now, he had nothing left. Kit was no psychiatrist, but she was willing to bet that he was lashing out because he couldn't handle his own guilt. Regardless of who was with Petyr at the moment of his death, it was Alexei's idea. How would it feel, believing that you caused the death of your youngest child?
She knew he was devastated. There was no question about that. The entire family was devastated, the whole family was in pain. And Alexei's pain was compounded with guilt and rage. Toward himself. That didn't make it any easier for her to keep her temper with him, however, as they argued. Alexei refused to speak to his daughter, refused to comfort her. He once more repeated his litany that it was her fault Petyr was dead. She obviously failed to protect him. She should have died, not his precious little son.
Kit countered that the people responsible for Petyr's death were the ones who ordered the attack and the one who shot him. While she learned in the last few hours that Stefan Khushrenada was one of the commanders, he had not planned the attack. Had not given the order for the bombs to be dropped. She had not yet learned the names of the men who gave the order, who shot Petyr. The ones ultimately responsible for his death.
Which, she was sure, he considered as well. But he was too angry to care. As Alexei vowed he no longer had a daughter, that she should have died, rather than Petyr, Kit noticed a movement from the corner of her eye. Renata Dorlian emerged from the kitchen, her arm wrapped protectively around a damp Natasha. Sofie stood on the other side of the young Russian girl, her own stance protective.
It was clear from the faces of everyone in the room that both Renata and Natasha heard every word that was said in the last five minutes. This was made even more evident when Renata said in an icy voice, "Sofie, I understand they're evacuating people to downstairs. Could you escort Lady Natasha to the safe room and stay with her? She needs someone, and you're the best choice. The only choice."
It should have been one of her parents. Natasha just endured one of the most devastating assaults any female could face. It should have been the people who created Natasha who were with Natasha now. It wasn't. It was a young maid who knew her for less than a month. The girl nodded and put a hand under Natasha's elbow, replying, "It would be an honor, Mrs. Dorlian. Come along, Lady Natasha."
The Russian girl flinched at the touch. Everyone in the room saw it. There was no doubt left, Kit saw, in anyone's mind. What was done to Natasha. Milliardo rose suddenly to his feet from his position beside Alexei. While he was too young to understand rape, he obviously understood pain. But even as Milliardo approached the two girls, a devastating explosion rocked the sanctuary. Their refuge was no longer safe. Kit was thrown to the ground, as were the others. Screams of pain and terror echoed through the refuge, and Pagan yelled, "Downstairs, two at a time, now! Able-bodied people, help the injured!"
Renata helped Kit to her feet, and the doctor could see that Eric Dorlian was already carrying Relena from the room. That was all she could see. Renata told her as they evacuated everyone else, "Sofie has already taken Natasha downstairs. They weren't that far from the door when the bomb exploded." Kit nodded, barely able to hear the younger woman through the ringing in her ears.
"Where is Milliardo?" she asked. Kit saw him briefly, as she pushed herself to her knees after the explosion, then lost sight of him. Renata began looking around. Kit shook her head a few times, to clear it, but the ringing was still in her ears. Damn the Alliance anyhow. Absurdly, she found herself on the point of tears. She could barely hear, dammit! But there were people who lost their lives today, who lost people whom they loved. And she was crying because she couldn't hear? What the hell was wrong with her?
"I'm not sure, Dr. Rogers, but I'm sure he's here somewhere," the younger woman replied. Kit frowned. She couldn't do anything until everyone was downstairs. In the meantime, she had to hope and pray that Pagan was able to keep the little boy away from Quinze Barton. The man was an ally. That didn't mean King Raoul wanted him anywhere near either of his children.
The Great Divide, AC 196
"So that is how Milliardo was separated from Relena, and from the people who were meant to raise him. Alexei Galinov was lost in his own rage and guilt, while Nathalie was lost in her grief. Pagan was trying to get everyone to safety," Treize mused. Katerina nodded sadly, and Treize asked, "If Milliardo was not separated from the Galinov family, if he grew up with Relena. . .?"
"Who can say? I cannot. There are so many possibilities, Treize. Kit never forgave herself for not keeping a better eye on my son. I suppose that's why she joined the Alliance afterward. She changed her specialty from gynecology, began studying other things, and in time, learned that Milliardo was a cadet at Lake Victoria. She became Sally Po's mentor, tried to change the Alliance from the inside out. Then Oz took over," Katerina explained.
"And. . .the Galinov family? Did they ever heal? I know Natasha eventually went into outer space, I could glean that from what was said. She made a reference while her hair was being cut that she had not set foot on Earth for nearly fifteen years," Treize said, then blinked. The main screen was devoted to Ciara's encounter with the bullies and the Gundam pilots in the arcade. . .how did he notice Natasha getting her hair cut on one of the smaller screens?
"Ahhh, my father," Petyr said before Katerina could answer, and now there was real bitterness in his voice, "quite the hero. He could snatch a little boy from a deadly fire, but he wasn't man enough to admit he was wrong. Father couldn't forgive Natasha for livin,' and I can't forgive him for not forgivin' her. It was his idea, yer Majesty. He wants to blame someone, someone aside from the Alliance, he can damn well blame himself."
"He has never forgiven himself, Petyr, he has already forgiven your sister. In truth, he never blamed her. Unfortunately, his pride and grief and guilt got in the way. . .and, as Kit foretold, they lost both children that day. There is one other thing which must be addressed, although you may have realized this from listening to Kit's thoughts," Katerina replied. Treize raised an eyebrow questioningly, and the queen went on, "Natasha believed your brother Stefan was in command that day. He was, but only of one unit. You already know who planned the attack, and who actually led the attack." He nodded. Yes, he knew. And he saw to it that Milliardo was the one who took out the general in question.
"So. . .what happens now?" Treize asked quietly as the screen slowly faded to black. He guessed that he would see no more of the past. That he saw what he was supposed to see. He just wasn't sure what he would do with his knowledge yet. Or if there was anything he could do. He was dead, after all.
"Now? Now we wait. As I said, the Creator is not yet ready to speak with you. While we wait, you remember what you saw today. What you did not see. And you remember. You remember how the smallest thing can result in a huge change. Destiny turns on small wheels, Treize Khushrenada," Katerina replied.
Treize nodded in acknowledgment, and Katerina went on, "Where we are now, as I believe Petyr told you, is called 'the great divide.' It is the division between the physical world and the metaphysical, between nature and the supernatural. But that is actually a description, rather than an actual name. Each person develops their own name for this place. Some see it as hell. Some as Heaven, some as Limbo."
"I understand that the rules state you cannot. . .that there can be no contact between the living and us," Treize observed.
Katerina glanced at Petyr with a mischievous grin, replying, "As I said. Petyr only THINKS he knows everything."
"Bloody hell, ye ruin all me fun," Petyr grumbled and Katerina laughed aloud. Treize managed to keep from smiling himself, and the man- boy went on, "Well, ye do! Ye tell Khushrenada how Julian really escaped, when I had a perfectly good story, perfectly good explanation, and now this!"
"Poor child," Katerina said, laughing, "We always have abused you, have we not? Now, I want you to return to the others. I have more things which I must discuss with Treize." Petyr glared at Treize, then simply vanished from the young general's sight. Treize blinked in surprise, and Katerina said, "You will become used to it, in time."
"I have no doubt that I will. In time, one can accustom oneself to almost anything. You said there were other things you wished to discuss with me, your Majesty?" Treize asked politely. Katerina nodded, and held out her hand to the young man. Not quite sure what else to do, Treize took it.
"Yes. First, I want to apologize for Petyr. He seems to become a child when my husband and I are nearby. Perhaps because he was a child when he left the physical plane, perhaps because we were authority figures. But I truly want to apologize if he was unkind to you before my arrival," Katerina answered.
Treize raised his eyebrows, and Katerina explained, "Petyr is very protective of those he loves. He is unwilling to admit that Milliardo made his share of mistakes. Like a child, he wishes to blame you, and your brother, for everything that hurt Milliardo, Relena, and Natasha. He cannot forgive his father for hurting Natasha. He. . .sees things in black and white. He does not understand, even now, shades of gray."
"There are many who never learn that lesson, your Majesty, no matter how many years they live and breathe. I took no offense, once I realized the source of Petyr's anger and resentment," Treize answered. The queen smiled, and Treize continued, "But I am sure that is not the only reason why you wished to speak with me."
"It is not. As I explained, Petyr does not know everything. It is true, we are not encouraged to interact with those among the living. Or more properly, those of the physical plane, since we live as well. However, nor is it forbidden. We can interact with them in their dreams. And, if the need is great enough, we can actively take part in their lives. But the need must be great, and the Creator must permit it," Katerina explained.
Treize started to speak, but demonstrating the same ability which Petyr showed earlier, Katerina read his mind. She shook her head, telling him, "No. I would not recommend that you visit my son in his dreams as yet. Milliardo is still having nightmares of you. Of the last days of the war. It is not yet time. I cannot stop you, but if you care for my son, you will wait."
Treize hesitated, then nodded. Katerina smiled gently, then said, "However, if you would like to visit your Lady Une, that would be quite permissible. The poor girl has been through quite enough. And Treize, may I suggest that you consider speaking to your daughter Mariemeia at some time?" Treize stared at her. How. . .?
"How did I know about Mariemeia? I exist on a different plane of existence. I can watch over more than one person. I can watch over my son, my daughter. My sweet friend Natasha. Even your daughter. You were wondering earlier why you picked up on Tasha's remark, concerning being back on earth. That is how. Even though your attention was focused on the main screen, you can also learn and see the other screens," Katerina explained.
That made sense. Sort of. Treize asked, "What should I say to her? To Mariemeia, to Lady Une?" He knew what he wanted to tell Milliardo. That all was forgiven, that he understood so much better now. But he caused Milliardo enough anguish during his life. . .he would give his eternal friend time to heal.
"To your daughter? The same thing I tell my daughter every night when I kiss her. The same thing I tell my son when I tuck him into bed. I stand behind Tasha as she arranges the covers around his shoulders and touches his hair. Tell her that you love her, that you believe in her. That there will be times when her life will be difficult, but you have faith she will eventually make the right decision," Katerina answered.
She smiled impishly, then added, "And your Lady Une? I am sure you know exactly what to tell her. Off with you now!" Treize started to speak, then found himself. . .fading. Or was the queen fading? He couldn't be sure. And he was so tired. So. . .very. . .tired. Treize gave himself up, surrendering without further battle.
. . .
"What now, sister?" a soft voice asked, materializing where Treize Khushrenada was a few minutes earlier. Katerina smiled, reaching out to touch her sister. Touch was so different here. She had no words to explain it. . .just that it went far beyond physical sensation. She tucked a strand of honey blonde hair back behind Annika's ear and smiled again at her younger sister. There were times when she wished she named her daughter 'Annika.' The resemblance between her daughter and her sister took her breath away. . .
"Now? Now we wait, little one. We wait and we watch. I have been given permission to go to Tasha, once the little one is asleep. Oh, she will not be aware of my presence. But I will be there. And is that not the more important thing?" Katerina asked and her sister nodded, smiling. Katerina touched her sister's hair again, and asked, "Would you like to come with me, love? I received permission on your behalf."
Annika's eyes lit up and she nodded eagerly. Katerina smiled sadly. Tasha was no longer the seven year old girl who held Annika's hand as she died. No longer the sixteen year old girl whose innocence was shattered. At the same time, those two girls remained. No matter how many years passed, no one ever completely lost the child they were. It was a fact. It was only a matter of whether a person was willing to admit it. Both her son and Tasha. . .well, neither of them were willing to admit it. Milliardo believed he had. Tasha. . .was not yet ready.
Not yet, at least. Milliardo was always stubborn, even as a toddler. Tasha's determination was much more quiet. But made all the more intense by that silence. Katerina knew, just because she knew them, that they would have to acknowledge the children they were, together. Because, when all was said and done, Milliardo and Tasha were mirror images of each other. They both died and were reborn in the ashes of the Sank Kingdom. The Phoenix.
Katerina took her sister's hand, focusing on her children. Focusing on Milliardo. On Tasha. She felt Annika's hand, her sister's fingers curling around her own. Felt the young girl's focus on her best friend. And together, the sisters learned to fly, guided by their faith.
L-2, AC 196
Talia Malloy sighed heavily and deposited her body on the swing which adorned the porch of the house. It was a busy day. She learned from Ciara while she was tucking in her daughter that the girl encountered trouble at the arcade. The gundam pilots, except Heero Yuy, came to her aid. Ciara now wanted to learn self-defense, so she would never be helpless again. Talia flinched, hearing herself in those words.
After the fall of the Sank Kingdom, she returned to Russia with her parents. It was two weeks before she could even speak again. Her father's rage stole her voice. He hated her for letting Petyr die. Hated her for allowing the rape. She simply accepted it. It was her fault, after all. She should have protected her little brother better. Should have found some way to defend herself and the queen. It took several years before she finally accepted that she was defenseless, at least against the rape. She still considered herself damaged goods, though.
Everyone at the boarding school heard about the fall of the Sank Kingdom. And as soon as Talia returned to the school, Beatriz insisted that Natasha accompany her home for weekends and holidays. The Russian girl agreed. She no longer had a home. And for the next few months, Beatriz and her family took care of her. They became her family, including Beatriz's adorable little sister, Julia. Or, more appropriately, most of all, Julia.
After she was shipped off to the boarding school, she never saw her parents again. When the school year ended, Beatriz begged her to stay in Spain with them once more. But Natasha was finished with earth. While she was only sixteen, she had an education which surpassed that of many high school students. It was time to go.
Before she left Earth, Natasha agreed to tell her friend's father what happened on that day. The day before she left for L2, Natasha told Don Tomas everything. Somehow, Talia got through the entire recital without bursting into tears. Once she was finished, Don Tomas left his seat and knelt in front of her. She stared at him, terrified. Would he hate her? Tell her that she should have never entered his house, become his daughter's friend? Instead, the man wrapped his arms around her, murmuring, "Mi hija. Mi hija valiente."
The following morning, she learned from Beatriz that it meant, 'my daughter. My brave daughter.' Two days after her departure from Earth, Talia remembered, Don Tomas Escalante resigned his position inside the Romefellar Foundation. The following month, he was assassinated and Dona Francisca fled Spain with Beatriz and Julia. That was the last Talia heard of the Escalante family. She hoped they were all right.
Being here. . .with Zechs. . .the attack against Ciara. . .all of it brought back memories. So many memories from that night. She wondered about Kit Rogers. Talia knew that Eric Dorlian was dead, assassinated the previous year. According to the reports she received, Treize Khushrenada was behind that. Surprise, surprise. Treize Khushrenada. He became the man his brother hoped for, in some ways. Talia sighed and shook her head.
At the same time, Talia wished Stefan Khushrenada learned some things from his younger brother. Wished. . . She shook her head. She thought at first that her prayer for deliverance wasn't answered for Khushrenada's younger brother, but perhaps she was wrong. She knew that he left the Romefellar Foundation, returning only when Zechs was revealed as the leader of White Fang. Talia sighed. All water under the bridge. She did know that between Treize and Stefan, she would have preferred that Stefan died six weeks earlier. Treize was only twenty-five. Too damn young to die, just like everyone else who died in that damn war.
Talia leaned her head back, staring up at the moon, and allowed her mind to drift. //That's one thing I miss about earth,// she thought, //the way the moon looks in the night sky. // She didn't know a Gundam pilot, namely Duo Maxwell, once said something similar. She would have been amused if she did know. She would have also agreed with his assertion that the moon did indeed look like a graveyard from L2.
Talia closed her eyes. So many memories. She pulled her jacket around her shoulders a little more tightly. She thought of them all tonight, as she had every night for the last six weeks, ever since they rescued Zechs. Mother, Father, Petyr, King Raoul, Katerina. Everyone who died that day, everyone whose life was turned upside down.
Annika. Kit Rogers. Renata Dorlian. Beatriz Escalante. Sofie. Talia smiled suddenly, remember the young girl who held her protectively in the shelter as the bombs continued to fall on Sank. Where was Sofie now? Had she survived? Talia hoped so. So many deaths, so much destruction, so much pain. Was it worth it? Talia doubted if she would ever know. She did know that war hadn't ended. It wasn't that easy. No matter what happened six weeks earlier, there would be another war. She didn't know when, or where. She didn't know who would fight it. Who would start it. She only knew that this time, she wouldn't be watching.
She spent enough time watching. Enough time avoiding her past. Enough time being a coward. It was time she remembered why her brother died. Not just to save the prince, though that was part of it. Her brother died because there was no one to protect the Sank Kingdom. There had to be someone willing to fight, in order to preserve peace. Preserve freedom.
Shawn agreed. They discussed this very topic at lunch, while Ciara was dragging Zechs around the malls on L2. Shawn believed there would be another war. Sometime after the Gundams were destroyed, when the new government was unprepared for it. He was a soldier once. He knew about attacking when an enemy was vulnerable.
//There will be another attack,// Talia thought. //Sometime when no one sees it coming. Or, if they do, it will be too late. Relena, bless her heart, is an innocent. She doesn't understand that wars don't end when all the arms are destroyed. That peace isn't attained by not fighting. This isn't over. Zechs doesn't realize it yet, but his part of history hasn't been finished. There will be another war. Shawn thinks it will be within the next year. He knows more about war than I do. Pitiful, isn't it? The attack on the Sank Kingdom ended my life as Natasha Galinova, but I have no ideas about strategy. I've spent the last fifteen years hiding. No more.//
She rose to her feet. No, Zechs wasn't finished fighting yet. None of them were. It was time to start preparing. Now. She looked up at the sky and whispered, her Russian accent slipping into her speech for the first time since her departure from earth, "It was not in vain, Petyr. Your death, and those of the Peacecrafts. I shall see to that."
She swallowed hard, but lifted her chin proudly, and added, " I have been a coward these last fifteen years, but I will run away no more. I cannot face Mother and Father yet. But I will not run away from war, as I have been. I have failed you, my dearest little brother. I hope you can forgive me. I hope you can all forgive me."
She slid her hand inside her jeans pocket, where she carried the diskette given to her by King Raoul all those years ago. Then she looked up at the sky again, adding, "I will give this to him, your Majesty. To your son. I should have sought him out years ago, but I was wrapped up in my own pain. In my own grief. For that, I hope you can forgive me. For failing to look after your children, I hope you both can forgive me. King Raoul. Katerina, my dearest friend."
She remembered the broadcast of the battle between Chang Wufei and Treize Khushrenada. The tapes which were broadcast. She smiled faintly, remembering Khushrenada's last comment to the young Gundam pilot. She whispered, "Katerina, my dearest friend, my eternal friend. My sister."
She sighed, closing her eyes. And imagined that she heard Katerina whispering, "There is nothing to forgive, sweet little sister. Go to bed. You must rest. You must rest." The wind blew softly against her face and Talia nodded. Yes. It was time to rest. Time to rest before the war, whatever war that was coming, began.
Sank Kingdom, AC 182
Unbeknownst to the five soldiers, they were being watched. At first, the interloper made no attempt to leave his hiding place. He was frozen in place from shock from everything he saw in the last few moments. The shock was overwhelmed after only a few minutes by fury and grief and guilt. How could he stand by and let such an evil thing happen?
Removing the gun which he accepted from the king, Andrew Pagan left his hiding place and fired the pistol once, firing into the air. It got the attention of the five rutting monsters, and he levelled the gun at them. He said in a cold voice, "You will leave her alone. Now. Move away from that girl, or the next shot I fire will render you unable to have children. Not that this would be a great loss to the world in general."
"You and whose army, old man?" one of the men laughed, running his hand along the young girl's thigh. She whimpered, her eyes glazed over, and Pagan's heart almost stopped. He realized for the first time that it was Lady Natasha. And only a few yards away was the queen. . .it didn't take much imagination for Pagan to figure out what happened.
"He doesn't need an army. Get the hell out of here, before we open fire," a feminine voice said from just behind Pagan's shoulder. He wanted to weep for joy, recognizing that voice. But he heard a gun being cocked behind his ear as Kit Rogers continued, "You have thirty seconds to scramola. After that, say good-bye to the family jewels."
"You don't have the guts to shoot us, you stupid bimbo!" another man hooted. Pagan never took his eyes from the men. But he did move to his right, making sure Kit had a clear shot. She did, and she took it. The man doubled over with a scream, holding his private parts.
"Don't. . .tell. . .me. . .I don't have the nerve. I do. I know how to use a gun, and after what I've seen in the last seven hours, there's no way I'd hesitate to use it. I won't tell you again. Get your asses out of here, while you still have them. Because if you don't move away from that child right now, I'll shoot each of you in the balls. . .and make sure you can't be re-attached. I'm a doctor. I know how to do that," Kit answered.
From inside, Pagan heard Stefan Khushrenada shouting for someone named Guelich. The four men remaining looked at each other uneasily, then a third man said, "He wants the commander. We better go see what's going on." The other two nodded, and they picked up their injured comrade between them, dragging him inside.
Kit lowered her gun, trembling, but shifted the safety before replacing the pistol in the waistband of her jeans. She hurried to the barely conscious girl, murmuring soothing noises. Pagan knelt at her side, removing his own bathrobe before Kit even had to ask. She smiled at him gratefully and gently wrapped the bathrobe around poor Lady Natasha's violated body.
"Let's get her to the shelter. . .can you carry her? It's all right, baby, it's all right," Kit asked Pagan, comforting Lady Natasha as she conferred with the fencing master. He nodded and carefully scooped the fragile, slight body into his arms. Kit tenderly stroked the girl's hair and they carefully headed toward the sanctuary which was set up.
Kit was murmuring under her breath, it sounded as if she was making a list in her mind. Pagan barely paid attention. He had to get this poor child to the sanctuary. She needed medical care. She needed her family. They found the body of her little brother shortly after Alexei and Nathalie Galinov carried Prince Milliardo into the shelter. The little boy was coughing so hard, Pagan feared he would damage his lungs. And his clothes smelled of smoke. The ambassador explained that they found Prince Milliardo just outside the blazing tunnel.
"There won't be a trial, Pagan, for the war crimes which occurred today. My first order of business will be to bathe Natasha. If this was an ordinary rape, I would follow the guidelines. But if there is justice for what happened today, it won't happen immediately. And Natasha cannot wait for that justice," Kit observed. Pagan nodded. He concurred.
. . .
Christina Rogers became a doctor to alleviate suffering. She chose gynecology, because her mother died following a botched operation. How such things could happen in these times, Kit never understood, but that event led her to her destiny as a doctor. And she truly believed that medicine was her destiny.
Never was that more true than today. While gynecology was her specialty, Kit fell naturally into being a 'GP' as she tended to the wounded and the stunned. Some of her patients, following the sneak attack, had no physical injuries, but went into states of shock. They needed help. Kit had the knowledge, the patience, the desire to help them. It was a part of her identity.
As soon as the attack begun, Kit was in the middle of an evacuation effort. Led by herself, Senator Dorlian and his wife, and Pagan, they evacuated people from the palace at the order of the king. He was searching for his wife, but he extracted a promise from Pagan that they would save as many as they could. Kit still didn't know how the man kept from losing control, as so many others, then she remembered. He *was* the king, after all.
She learned during one of her early runs back to the sanctuary that Petyr Galinov was murdered. His small body was found under a large tree, covered by his older sister's bathrobe. Nathalie Galinova immediately fell to pieces.
They retrieved the little prince from his hiding place only moments before a fire set by the soldiers would have overcome him. Fire was such an iffy thing. And with a child, who knew how long before the smoke was too much for small lungs? Especially when Milliardo spent so much strength in trying to open the door himself after the fire was set. But he was safe, now curled in the arms of Alexei Galinov.
His small face was sooty, from the fire, and his clothes smelled of smoke. He looked tired, and Kit noticed that he was desperately trying to fight back tears. He understood, even if his little sister did not, what today meant. In more ways than one. But he was safe. Something which could not be said for little Petyr Galinov.
Kit vowed to find Natasha Galinova at her first opportunity. She went back to the palace, using another underground tunnel to search for survivors of the attack who wasn't captured by the Alliance soldiers. But it wasn't Kit who originally found her. . .it was the man now carrying her toward the sanctuary. Kit's heart twisted in her chest as she thought of what that child must have endured today. For what she would live with, for the rest of her life.
Once they were inside the shelter, Kit ordered two of her new helpers, one of whom was Renata Dorlian, to start running water. The first, a young servant named 'Sofie,' bobbed her head and fetched a tub. When Renata saw Natasha's state, she protested. They couldn't wash her, the younger woman cried, they needed evidence for the trial. To prove who did such a vile thing. All of this said while Natasha was sitting right in front of them. As if she didn't exist.
Kit whipped around and glared at the younger woman, snarling, "WHAT trial? There will be no trial, Mrs. Dorlian! Don't you understand yet? The EarthSphere Alliance attacked the Sank Kingdom! And this is only the beginning. They killed Heero Yuy seven years ago, because he was a threat, because he was too popular."
Kit was trembling, remembering her conversation with Katerina at the time of Heero Yuy's death. It was only a matter of weeks after Katerina learned she was pregnant with Milliardo. And she feared for her unborn child. Oh Katerina. Kit focused on the present, continuing, "It's happening again. There will be no trial. The Alliance will sweep this under the rug, saying how terrible it is that the rebels killed King Raoul before they died themselves!"
The young woman took a step back, but Kit wasn't finished. She continued, her voice low, "And even if there was a trial, I don't give a damn about that right now. That child feels unclean. She feels like a piece of human waste. I can't bring back King Raoul. Nor can I bring back Katerina. But I can damn well make sure that girl has some sort of healing, even if it's as small as a bath. Is that clear?"
"Perfectly," Renata Dorlian answered in a subdued voice as Sofie dragged a tub into the room, which was almost the same size she was. The pair began running water into buckets, testing the temperature with the backs of their hands. Meanwhile, Kit turned back to her shuddering patient and looked into her hazel eyes. Dear gods.
Kit was a gynecologist, trained in women's medicine. But at the moment, she felt completely out of her depth. She was training in medicine, yes, but how did she go about healing someone's heart? This child lost a part of herself that she would never get back. She was raped, and in all likelihood, saw her brother's death. Her parents would be of no help at the moment. Maybe later, but not now. Right now, it was all up to Kit.
She said in a soft voice, "Natasha, honey, it's Kit. Remember, we met at the ball last night?" The girl's dark head bobbed unsteadily, and Kit went on, "That's good. Now, we're getting a bath ready for you, so you can clean up. But before we do that, I need to get these clothes off you. Can I take off your nightgown? It's just us girls. . .no men in this room." Natasha stared straight ahead, but she bobbed her head again.
Kit gently stroked Natasha's cheek, and the girl's breath hitched in her throat, her eyes widening ever so slightly. Even from another woman, touch was an iffy thing at the moment, Kit observed. She would have to be careful. With gentle hands, she began to undress Natasha. She talked to the girl in a low voice as she did so, reassuring her that Kit would not leave her, that she was safe now.
Renata Dorlian joined them, her eyes flickering from Kit to Natasha, and Kit said as she pulled the nightgown over Natasha's head, "Renata is right here, Natasha. We'll help you to the tub, and then we'll get you washed up. Sofie is getting clean clothes for you, good clothes. There's no need to be afraid. We won't let them hurt you again."
"Listen to Dr. Rogers, Lady Natasha," Renata said softly, "there's no way she, or my husband, or myself, or Pagan would ever allow anyone to hurt you again. I'll take your hand now. . .are you ready?" The girl nodded and Renata gently picked up the small, slender hand, then put a supporting hand under her elbow. Together, Kit and Renata eased the girl down from the table. Kit glanced over at Renata as they led her to the tub. . .the younger woman's eyes were burning with rage.
However, she kept her voice gentle as Natasha picked up one foot and put it into the tub, telling the girl, "That's right, Natasha. Is the water all right?" Natasha bobbed her head. Renata looked at Kit helplessly, but the young doctor just sighed. She wasn't really surprised by Natasha's silence. Given what happened during the last few hours, she actually expected this.
She told the younger woman, "Stay with her. . .talk to her, don't leave her alone for a minute. She can't be alone, for any reason. If she wants, let her wash herself. If she just sits there, then ask if she wants you to do it for her. Whatever you do, if you want to do something for her, ask her first. Give her control over something."
"I understand. Where are you going?" Renata asked, her eyes flickering from the mute girl in the tub to Kit. The doctor's eyes shifted to the next room, and Renata continued, "Talk to her father. Talk to her mother. Right now, they're lost in their own grief, and she'll need them when she finally starts talking again."
"Exactly what I was planning to do. Look after her for me," Kit replied and Renata bobbed her head, then returned to Natasha's side. Kit looked at the mute girl one last time, her heart breaking for the teenager, then set out in search of Natasha's parents. They lost one child today. . .she didn't want them to lose the other. But she couldn't do that without their help. Especially Alexei Galinov. He would be a key to Natasha's recovery.
. . .
The Great Divide, AC 196
"I do not understand something. . .Petyr told me that Milliardo escaped from the tunnel himself. And yet, I just saw in the images. . .can you explain this, Queen Katerina?" Treize Khushrenada asked, interrupting the memory play. Petyr scowled at him, but remained silent. The images faded from sight, and the queen turned to face him.
She was smiling as she explained, "Petyr only thinks he knows everything. The truth is, Petyr never knew how my son escaped from the burning tunnel. He simply made up the story. . . filled in the blanks himself, so to speak. While he has taken on the body of a man, in many ways, he is still a child. It was a child's fantasy, nothing more."
"But it was a good one, yer Majesty," Petyr wheedled. Queen Katerina rolled her eyes, her lips twitching. The young Russian/Scot all but snarled at Treize, "And why couldna ye be keepin' yer big yap shut? It was a bloody good story, and exactly what I would have done in that position!" Treize started to speak, but Katerina held up her hand.
"It was a good story, Petyr, but it was not true. My son was only six years old, as you were. Neither of you were strong enough to open the door from the inside. That was something which Natasha hadn't taken into consideration when she told him to hide in the tunnel. However, that is neither here nor there," the queen told them.
Petyr was pouting now, and Treize realized that the queen was right. While Petyr wore the body of a man, he was a child inside his heart. In his soul. He was an innocent. Katerina looked back at Treize and asked, "Are you ready to continue?" He bobbed his head and Katerina went on, "Then we shall see this through to the end."
The images lit up the screen as Kit Rogers determinedly strode into the main room of the guesthouse. Renata Dorlian would remain with Natasha, and Sofie was now returning with clothes for Natasha, while Kit tried to talk some sense into Alexei Galinov, as she put it.
Sank Kingdom, AC 182
Talking sense into Alexei Galinov was at the top of Kit's priority list. As she entered the main room of the guesthouse, though, she felt the earth tremble under her feet. She glanced over at Pagan, who said softly, "We must get these people out of here. The Alliance will continue the bombing. There's a series of underground tunnels, leading out of here. It's completely separate from the palace."
"All right. Find three people who are in better shape, and we'll get started with the evacuation. I have to talk to Alexei Galinov. Just out of curiosity, have you seen Quinze Barton? I know the king invited him to the ball last night, and he stayed over rather than travel back to the colonies," Kit observed.
Pagan grimaced and replied, "Yes, I have. And he seems terribly interested in Prince Milliardo. I do not trust that man, Miss Christina. I know the king sees. . .saw. . .him as an ally." Here, his voice cracked and Kit couldn't bring herself to speak. They were all mourning for King Raoul.
"You disagree with Raoul's analysis of the man?" the doctor asked and Pagan looked around nervously. Kit took his point. She put her hand on his shoulder and said softly, "Keep an eye on him, Pagan. I don't trust him, either. I wouldn't put it past him to try to use a six year old boy to avenge the death of Heero Yuy."
"Nor would I. See if you can talk sense into Galinov. He's been muttering about Lady Natasha. Keeps saying that she should have died instead, that she didn't protect her brother properly," Pagan said.
Kit smiled tightly and replied, "That would be the plan. As soon as I can, I'll start helping with the evacuation. For the moment, just get as many people moved downstairs as possible. If you can, keep Milliardo with you. I have a feeling my tete-a-tete with Galinov may get nasty, and I don't want Milliardo to get caught in the crossfire."
"Yes, Miss Christina. But it may already be too late," Pagan said, and nodded toward the six year old now sitting on the floor. Quinze Barton was headed in his direction. SHIT! Now what! Pagan said softly, "I have an idea. Leave it to me. Talk some sense into Galinov."
. . .
But that didn't happened. Alexei's rage grew, along with his mutterings. Natasha failed her little brother, it should have been her who died, instead of Petyr. What use was a daughter? Petyr was to be his legacy, he was to have carried on the family name. Now, he had nothing left. Kit was no psychiatrist, but she was willing to bet that he was lashing out because he couldn't handle his own guilt. Regardless of who was with Petyr at the moment of his death, it was Alexei's idea. How would it feel, believing that you caused the death of your youngest child?
She knew he was devastated. There was no question about that. The entire family was devastated, the whole family was in pain. And Alexei's pain was compounded with guilt and rage. Toward himself. That didn't make it any easier for her to keep her temper with him, however, as they argued. Alexei refused to speak to his daughter, refused to comfort her. He once more repeated his litany that it was her fault Petyr was dead. She obviously failed to protect him. She should have died, not his precious little son.
Kit countered that the people responsible for Petyr's death were the ones who ordered the attack and the one who shot him. While she learned in the last few hours that Stefan Khushrenada was one of the commanders, he had not planned the attack. Had not given the order for the bombs to be dropped. She had not yet learned the names of the men who gave the order, who shot Petyr. The ones ultimately responsible for his death.
Which, she was sure, he considered as well. But he was too angry to care. As Alexei vowed he no longer had a daughter, that she should have died, rather than Petyr, Kit noticed a movement from the corner of her eye. Renata Dorlian emerged from the kitchen, her arm wrapped protectively around a damp Natasha. Sofie stood on the other side of the young Russian girl, her own stance protective.
It was clear from the faces of everyone in the room that both Renata and Natasha heard every word that was said in the last five minutes. This was made even more evident when Renata said in an icy voice, "Sofie, I understand they're evacuating people to downstairs. Could you escort Lady Natasha to the safe room and stay with her? She needs someone, and you're the best choice. The only choice."
It should have been one of her parents. Natasha just endured one of the most devastating assaults any female could face. It should have been the people who created Natasha who were with Natasha now. It wasn't. It was a young maid who knew her for less than a month. The girl nodded and put a hand under Natasha's elbow, replying, "It would be an honor, Mrs. Dorlian. Come along, Lady Natasha."
The Russian girl flinched at the touch. Everyone in the room saw it. There was no doubt left, Kit saw, in anyone's mind. What was done to Natasha. Milliardo rose suddenly to his feet from his position beside Alexei. While he was too young to understand rape, he obviously understood pain. But even as Milliardo approached the two girls, a devastating explosion rocked the sanctuary. Their refuge was no longer safe. Kit was thrown to the ground, as were the others. Screams of pain and terror echoed through the refuge, and Pagan yelled, "Downstairs, two at a time, now! Able-bodied people, help the injured!"
Renata helped Kit to her feet, and the doctor could see that Eric Dorlian was already carrying Relena from the room. That was all she could see. Renata told her as they evacuated everyone else, "Sofie has already taken Natasha downstairs. They weren't that far from the door when the bomb exploded." Kit nodded, barely able to hear the younger woman through the ringing in her ears.
"Where is Milliardo?" she asked. Kit saw him briefly, as she pushed herself to her knees after the explosion, then lost sight of him. Renata began looking around. Kit shook her head a few times, to clear it, but the ringing was still in her ears. Damn the Alliance anyhow. Absurdly, she found herself on the point of tears. She could barely hear, dammit! But there were people who lost their lives today, who lost people whom they loved. And she was crying because she couldn't hear? What the hell was wrong with her?
"I'm not sure, Dr. Rogers, but I'm sure he's here somewhere," the younger woman replied. Kit frowned. She couldn't do anything until everyone was downstairs. In the meantime, she had to hope and pray that Pagan was able to keep the little boy away from Quinze Barton. The man was an ally. That didn't mean King Raoul wanted him anywhere near either of his children.
The Great Divide, AC 196
"So that is how Milliardo was separated from Relena, and from the people who were meant to raise him. Alexei Galinov was lost in his own rage and guilt, while Nathalie was lost in her grief. Pagan was trying to get everyone to safety," Treize mused. Katerina nodded sadly, and Treize asked, "If Milliardo was not separated from the Galinov family, if he grew up with Relena. . .?"
"Who can say? I cannot. There are so many possibilities, Treize. Kit never forgave herself for not keeping a better eye on my son. I suppose that's why she joined the Alliance afterward. She changed her specialty from gynecology, began studying other things, and in time, learned that Milliardo was a cadet at Lake Victoria. She became Sally Po's mentor, tried to change the Alliance from the inside out. Then Oz took over," Katerina explained.
"And. . .the Galinov family? Did they ever heal? I know Natasha eventually went into outer space, I could glean that from what was said. She made a reference while her hair was being cut that she had not set foot on Earth for nearly fifteen years," Treize said, then blinked. The main screen was devoted to Ciara's encounter with the bullies and the Gundam pilots in the arcade. . .how did he notice Natasha getting her hair cut on one of the smaller screens?
"Ahhh, my father," Petyr said before Katerina could answer, and now there was real bitterness in his voice, "quite the hero. He could snatch a little boy from a deadly fire, but he wasn't man enough to admit he was wrong. Father couldn't forgive Natasha for livin,' and I can't forgive him for not forgivin' her. It was his idea, yer Majesty. He wants to blame someone, someone aside from the Alliance, he can damn well blame himself."
"He has never forgiven himself, Petyr, he has already forgiven your sister. In truth, he never blamed her. Unfortunately, his pride and grief and guilt got in the way. . .and, as Kit foretold, they lost both children that day. There is one other thing which must be addressed, although you may have realized this from listening to Kit's thoughts," Katerina replied. Treize raised an eyebrow questioningly, and the queen went on, "Natasha believed your brother Stefan was in command that day. He was, but only of one unit. You already know who planned the attack, and who actually led the attack." He nodded. Yes, he knew. And he saw to it that Milliardo was the one who took out the general in question.
"So. . .what happens now?" Treize asked quietly as the screen slowly faded to black. He guessed that he would see no more of the past. That he saw what he was supposed to see. He just wasn't sure what he would do with his knowledge yet. Or if there was anything he could do. He was dead, after all.
"Now? Now we wait. As I said, the Creator is not yet ready to speak with you. While we wait, you remember what you saw today. What you did not see. And you remember. You remember how the smallest thing can result in a huge change. Destiny turns on small wheels, Treize Khushrenada," Katerina replied.
Treize nodded in acknowledgment, and Katerina went on, "Where we are now, as I believe Petyr told you, is called 'the great divide.' It is the division between the physical world and the metaphysical, between nature and the supernatural. But that is actually a description, rather than an actual name. Each person develops their own name for this place. Some see it as hell. Some as Heaven, some as Limbo."
"I understand that the rules state you cannot. . .that there can be no contact between the living and us," Treize observed.
Katerina glanced at Petyr with a mischievous grin, replying, "As I said. Petyr only THINKS he knows everything."
"Bloody hell, ye ruin all me fun," Petyr grumbled and Katerina laughed aloud. Treize managed to keep from smiling himself, and the man- boy went on, "Well, ye do! Ye tell Khushrenada how Julian really escaped, when I had a perfectly good story, perfectly good explanation, and now this!"
"Poor child," Katerina said, laughing, "We always have abused you, have we not? Now, I want you to return to the others. I have more things which I must discuss with Treize." Petyr glared at Treize, then simply vanished from the young general's sight. Treize blinked in surprise, and Katerina said, "You will become used to it, in time."
"I have no doubt that I will. In time, one can accustom oneself to almost anything. You said there were other things you wished to discuss with me, your Majesty?" Treize asked politely. Katerina nodded, and held out her hand to the young man. Not quite sure what else to do, Treize took it.
"Yes. First, I want to apologize for Petyr. He seems to become a child when my husband and I are nearby. Perhaps because he was a child when he left the physical plane, perhaps because we were authority figures. But I truly want to apologize if he was unkind to you before my arrival," Katerina answered.
Treize raised his eyebrows, and Katerina explained, "Petyr is very protective of those he loves. He is unwilling to admit that Milliardo made his share of mistakes. Like a child, he wishes to blame you, and your brother, for everything that hurt Milliardo, Relena, and Natasha. He cannot forgive his father for hurting Natasha. He. . .sees things in black and white. He does not understand, even now, shades of gray."
"There are many who never learn that lesson, your Majesty, no matter how many years they live and breathe. I took no offense, once I realized the source of Petyr's anger and resentment," Treize answered. The queen smiled, and Treize continued, "But I am sure that is not the only reason why you wished to speak with me."
"It is not. As I explained, Petyr does not know everything. It is true, we are not encouraged to interact with those among the living. Or more properly, those of the physical plane, since we live as well. However, nor is it forbidden. We can interact with them in their dreams. And, if the need is great enough, we can actively take part in their lives. But the need must be great, and the Creator must permit it," Katerina explained.
Treize started to speak, but demonstrating the same ability which Petyr showed earlier, Katerina read his mind. She shook her head, telling him, "No. I would not recommend that you visit my son in his dreams as yet. Milliardo is still having nightmares of you. Of the last days of the war. It is not yet time. I cannot stop you, but if you care for my son, you will wait."
Treize hesitated, then nodded. Katerina smiled gently, then said, "However, if you would like to visit your Lady Une, that would be quite permissible. The poor girl has been through quite enough. And Treize, may I suggest that you consider speaking to your daughter Mariemeia at some time?" Treize stared at her. How. . .?
"How did I know about Mariemeia? I exist on a different plane of existence. I can watch over more than one person. I can watch over my son, my daughter. My sweet friend Natasha. Even your daughter. You were wondering earlier why you picked up on Tasha's remark, concerning being back on earth. That is how. Even though your attention was focused on the main screen, you can also learn and see the other screens," Katerina explained.
That made sense. Sort of. Treize asked, "What should I say to her? To Mariemeia, to Lady Une?" He knew what he wanted to tell Milliardo. That all was forgiven, that he understood so much better now. But he caused Milliardo enough anguish during his life. . .he would give his eternal friend time to heal.
"To your daughter? The same thing I tell my daughter every night when I kiss her. The same thing I tell my son when I tuck him into bed. I stand behind Tasha as she arranges the covers around his shoulders and touches his hair. Tell her that you love her, that you believe in her. That there will be times when her life will be difficult, but you have faith she will eventually make the right decision," Katerina answered.
She smiled impishly, then added, "And your Lady Une? I am sure you know exactly what to tell her. Off with you now!" Treize started to speak, then found himself. . .fading. Or was the queen fading? He couldn't be sure. And he was so tired. So. . .very. . .tired. Treize gave himself up, surrendering without further battle.
. . .
"What now, sister?" a soft voice asked, materializing where Treize Khushrenada was a few minutes earlier. Katerina smiled, reaching out to touch her sister. Touch was so different here. She had no words to explain it. . .just that it went far beyond physical sensation. She tucked a strand of honey blonde hair back behind Annika's ear and smiled again at her younger sister. There were times when she wished she named her daughter 'Annika.' The resemblance between her daughter and her sister took her breath away. . .
"Now? Now we wait, little one. We wait and we watch. I have been given permission to go to Tasha, once the little one is asleep. Oh, she will not be aware of my presence. But I will be there. And is that not the more important thing?" Katerina asked and her sister nodded, smiling. Katerina touched her sister's hair again, and asked, "Would you like to come with me, love? I received permission on your behalf."
Annika's eyes lit up and she nodded eagerly. Katerina smiled sadly. Tasha was no longer the seven year old girl who held Annika's hand as she died. No longer the sixteen year old girl whose innocence was shattered. At the same time, those two girls remained. No matter how many years passed, no one ever completely lost the child they were. It was a fact. It was only a matter of whether a person was willing to admit it. Both her son and Tasha. . .well, neither of them were willing to admit it. Milliardo believed he had. Tasha. . .was not yet ready.
Not yet, at least. Milliardo was always stubborn, even as a toddler. Tasha's determination was much more quiet. But made all the more intense by that silence. Katerina knew, just because she knew them, that they would have to acknowledge the children they were, together. Because, when all was said and done, Milliardo and Tasha were mirror images of each other. They both died and were reborn in the ashes of the Sank Kingdom. The Phoenix.
Katerina took her sister's hand, focusing on her children. Focusing on Milliardo. On Tasha. She felt Annika's hand, her sister's fingers curling around her own. Felt the young girl's focus on her best friend. And together, the sisters learned to fly, guided by their faith.
L-2, AC 196
Talia Malloy sighed heavily and deposited her body on the swing which adorned the porch of the house. It was a busy day. She learned from Ciara while she was tucking in her daughter that the girl encountered trouble at the arcade. The gundam pilots, except Heero Yuy, came to her aid. Ciara now wanted to learn self-defense, so she would never be helpless again. Talia flinched, hearing herself in those words.
After the fall of the Sank Kingdom, she returned to Russia with her parents. It was two weeks before she could even speak again. Her father's rage stole her voice. He hated her for letting Petyr die. Hated her for allowing the rape. She simply accepted it. It was her fault, after all. She should have protected her little brother better. Should have found some way to defend herself and the queen. It took several years before she finally accepted that she was defenseless, at least against the rape. She still considered herself damaged goods, though.
Everyone at the boarding school heard about the fall of the Sank Kingdom. And as soon as Talia returned to the school, Beatriz insisted that Natasha accompany her home for weekends and holidays. The Russian girl agreed. She no longer had a home. And for the next few months, Beatriz and her family took care of her. They became her family, including Beatriz's adorable little sister, Julia. Or, more appropriately, most of all, Julia.
After she was shipped off to the boarding school, she never saw her parents again. When the school year ended, Beatriz begged her to stay in Spain with them once more. But Natasha was finished with earth. While she was only sixteen, she had an education which surpassed that of many high school students. It was time to go.
Before she left Earth, Natasha agreed to tell her friend's father what happened on that day. The day before she left for L2, Natasha told Don Tomas everything. Somehow, Talia got through the entire recital without bursting into tears. Once she was finished, Don Tomas left his seat and knelt in front of her. She stared at him, terrified. Would he hate her? Tell her that she should have never entered his house, become his daughter's friend? Instead, the man wrapped his arms around her, murmuring, "Mi hija. Mi hija valiente."
The following morning, she learned from Beatriz that it meant, 'my daughter. My brave daughter.' Two days after her departure from Earth, Talia remembered, Don Tomas Escalante resigned his position inside the Romefellar Foundation. The following month, he was assassinated and Dona Francisca fled Spain with Beatriz and Julia. That was the last Talia heard of the Escalante family. She hoped they were all right.
Being here. . .with Zechs. . .the attack against Ciara. . .all of it brought back memories. So many memories from that night. She wondered about Kit Rogers. Talia knew that Eric Dorlian was dead, assassinated the previous year. According to the reports she received, Treize Khushrenada was behind that. Surprise, surprise. Treize Khushrenada. He became the man his brother hoped for, in some ways. Talia sighed and shook her head.
At the same time, Talia wished Stefan Khushrenada learned some things from his younger brother. Wished. . . She shook her head. She thought at first that her prayer for deliverance wasn't answered for Khushrenada's younger brother, but perhaps she was wrong. She knew that he left the Romefellar Foundation, returning only when Zechs was revealed as the leader of White Fang. Talia sighed. All water under the bridge. She did know that between Treize and Stefan, she would have preferred that Stefan died six weeks earlier. Treize was only twenty-five. Too damn young to die, just like everyone else who died in that damn war.
Talia leaned her head back, staring up at the moon, and allowed her mind to drift. //That's one thing I miss about earth,// she thought, //the way the moon looks in the night sky. // She didn't know a Gundam pilot, namely Duo Maxwell, once said something similar. She would have been amused if she did know. She would have also agreed with his assertion that the moon did indeed look like a graveyard from L2.
Talia closed her eyes. So many memories. She pulled her jacket around her shoulders a little more tightly. She thought of them all tonight, as she had every night for the last six weeks, ever since they rescued Zechs. Mother, Father, Petyr, King Raoul, Katerina. Everyone who died that day, everyone whose life was turned upside down.
Annika. Kit Rogers. Renata Dorlian. Beatriz Escalante. Sofie. Talia smiled suddenly, remember the young girl who held her protectively in the shelter as the bombs continued to fall on Sank. Where was Sofie now? Had she survived? Talia hoped so. So many deaths, so much destruction, so much pain. Was it worth it? Talia doubted if she would ever know. She did know that war hadn't ended. It wasn't that easy. No matter what happened six weeks earlier, there would be another war. She didn't know when, or where. She didn't know who would fight it. Who would start it. She only knew that this time, she wouldn't be watching.
She spent enough time watching. Enough time avoiding her past. Enough time being a coward. It was time she remembered why her brother died. Not just to save the prince, though that was part of it. Her brother died because there was no one to protect the Sank Kingdom. There had to be someone willing to fight, in order to preserve peace. Preserve freedom.
Shawn agreed. They discussed this very topic at lunch, while Ciara was dragging Zechs around the malls on L2. Shawn believed there would be another war. Sometime after the Gundams were destroyed, when the new government was unprepared for it. He was a soldier once. He knew about attacking when an enemy was vulnerable.
//There will be another attack,// Talia thought. //Sometime when no one sees it coming. Or, if they do, it will be too late. Relena, bless her heart, is an innocent. She doesn't understand that wars don't end when all the arms are destroyed. That peace isn't attained by not fighting. This isn't over. Zechs doesn't realize it yet, but his part of history hasn't been finished. There will be another war. Shawn thinks it will be within the next year. He knows more about war than I do. Pitiful, isn't it? The attack on the Sank Kingdom ended my life as Natasha Galinova, but I have no ideas about strategy. I've spent the last fifteen years hiding. No more.//
She rose to her feet. No, Zechs wasn't finished fighting yet. None of them were. It was time to start preparing. Now. She looked up at the sky and whispered, her Russian accent slipping into her speech for the first time since her departure from earth, "It was not in vain, Petyr. Your death, and those of the Peacecrafts. I shall see to that."
She swallowed hard, but lifted her chin proudly, and added, " I have been a coward these last fifteen years, but I will run away no more. I cannot face Mother and Father yet. But I will not run away from war, as I have been. I have failed you, my dearest little brother. I hope you can forgive me. I hope you can all forgive me."
She slid her hand inside her jeans pocket, where she carried the diskette given to her by King Raoul all those years ago. Then she looked up at the sky again, adding, "I will give this to him, your Majesty. To your son. I should have sought him out years ago, but I was wrapped up in my own pain. In my own grief. For that, I hope you can forgive me. For failing to look after your children, I hope you both can forgive me. King Raoul. Katerina, my dearest friend."
She remembered the broadcast of the battle between Chang Wufei and Treize Khushrenada. The tapes which were broadcast. She smiled faintly, remembering Khushrenada's last comment to the young Gundam pilot. She whispered, "Katerina, my dearest friend, my eternal friend. My sister."
She sighed, closing her eyes. And imagined that she heard Katerina whispering, "There is nothing to forgive, sweet little sister. Go to bed. You must rest. You must rest." The wind blew softly against her face and Talia nodded. Yes. It was time to rest. Time to rest before the war, whatever war that was coming, began.
