A/N: Ack, this chapter was just begging me to finish it so I had to! ((notes everyone looking)) Don't look at me like that, I do not talk to my computer. Sorry, lack of sleep driving me crazy. I couldn't sleep because I wanted to get this chapter done and everytime I closed my eyes, I pictured all the scenes and just had to boot up my computer. Ack! I think I'm going crazy!
((Laughs crazily)) Man, I really do think I've gone crazy! Just not even five seconds ago, I wrote a twelve page epilogue to the story, without finishing the chapter that leads up to it ((sheepish look)) Awkward I must say...Now I have to follow up! Damn it...ho hum, what to do! Ack!
So, first things first, just wanted to say that I was mildly surprised that so many people took an interest in guessing when I said there was a lack of it in the last chapter. Made me laugh tho. Here are your reviews answered!
The Angels' Princess: Sorry, I won't die ((looks odd)) Don't really know why you said that, but that's okay. Now, Cagalli had to go through with the wedding (or almost) because she feared that if she didn't her father would die. And thank you for the admiration comment ((beams)) Don't get much of em.
Anon: Thnx for the support ((eyebrow raise)) Lol. Well, we have really evil teachers at our school, who just enjoy making the grade 10's lives living hells. ((sighs)) Relaxing...I've been relaxing all summer vac and I'm going crazy! Well, keep reviewing!
Cagalli Yula Attha Fangirl: I think everyone was a little mad that I killed off Stellar so fast ((cringes)) But it had to be done! And I think everyone wil be content with how I killed off Yuuna. Now, onto your guessing! 1. correct 2. Dearka 3. Miriallia, so correct 5. correct. 6. Athrun 7. Dearka so correct 8. Some person I made up :P 9. correct! You got 6/9, awesome score! lol, keep reviewing!
ZGMF X-19A Infinite Justice: I'm glad you like the plot! And about your chapter question, there are two more chapters, including the epilogue, and in the next chapter (or I might even put it at the bottom) is the big question I must ask ALL my reviewers. Lol, actually, like I will explain, Destiny wasn't excatly the Mobile Suit in SEED Destiny; I modified it. Keep it up!
IYGU: Hello! I think this is the first time I have put you on here! Sorry I didn't catch your latest review before I updated; I would've put you on there and answered whatever questions you had. Now, onto the guessing! 1. correct 2. Dearka, not Yuuna. 3. Miriallia. 4. correct. 5. correct. 6. Athrun. 7. correct. 8. Actually, you're really close! It was this person I made up to amuse me. 9. lol yes correct. Athrun does say those things, especially when around Cagalli!
Digital-Dragon-Master: I'm glad you liked the last chapter! Hopefully this one you will enjoy as well? And as for your guesses, you forgot number 9, lol. Anywho. 1. correct. 2. Dearka. 3. Miriallia. 4. Athrun. 5. It was Athrun, so correct. 6. Athrun. 7. Dearka, so correct. 8. Well, you were close! It was an Earth Alliance person...I think... and 9. Athrun! Keep reviewing and keep being emotional in the reviews!
Now, onto my summary. This chapter mainly deals with Destiny. Like I said in my last definition, it is not the mobile suit from GS Destiny, though you might think it has similar characteristics. Now, Cagalli sorta loses it here, there is a big intimate moment (yes I put it in writing, but it ain't a lemon so don't freak) You find out what the 'New Technology' Dearka and Athrun were talking about in previous chapters is, and Cagalli gets to scare people! Yeah! So, read on!
Chapter 9
Destiny
"Cagalli!" cried Athrun, rushing forward, dodging through the Naturals that were screaming. He was almost to her when the shot was fired.
She dropped the gun and fell, crying, into a heap. The rain came then, pouring down in buckets as Cagalli looked up and let it wash over her face.
Yuuna touched the wound on his chest, eyes glazing.
"So…this is what the pain …that I inflicted upon you…feels like," he coughed and a slight smile tugged on his lips. "Now…I know how you felt, Cagalli…Forgive me," He coughed again and the breath left his shattered lungs. His head slumped to the side and his dead gaze focused on Cagalli.
"You bastard!" she screamed, hands trembling as she tried to get to her feet. She failed and fell back down, legs crumpling. "You cannot die happy! Not after all the pain you have inflicted on me! Why did you die with your life complete!"
Athrun slowed as he neared Cagalli, watching her wedding dress cascade around her form. He saw her hands tremble and he desperately wanted to hold her.
He turned when he heard something behind him and found Dearka and Miriallia standing in the archway, watching them. Miriallia's hand was over her mouth and there were tears in her crystal eyes. Dearka had his arm around her shoulders, holding her close to his side. She didn't protest, but instead moved closer to him, holding his hand tightly.
"Cagalli…" Athrun whispered, carefully kneeling beside her. "Come on, we have to go."
"He died with his life complete! Why? Why does he get to escape while I'm stuck here, suffering?" cried Cagalli, looking up at Athrun. She was pissed, her eyes molten fury.
"Hush, we have to get you out of here," Athrun said softly, putting his hand on her shoulder. She slapped it away and stumbled to her feet. She nearly fell, but Athrun caught her, and she leaned heavily on him, not trusting her legs. Athrun put his hand under her legs and picked her up. She let her breath leave her with a hiss and stared back at Yuuna, his body being washed by the rain.
"Athrun," called Dearka. "We have to go. Kira's waiting with Lacus."
Athrun nodded and hurried down the aisle, ignoring Cagalli's protests. He didn't notice the news crew, catching the whole moment, or the fact that the bodyguards were coming around. He only noticed the blonde in his arms, the feeling of her trembling and trying not to cry.
"He cannot die like that! Bring him back to life, Athrun! I want to kill him again!" she shouted. Athrun shook his head and walked past Dearka and Miriallia.
"She…shot him," whispered Miriallia, eyes still watering. Dearka stared blankly at Yuuna's body and then looked at the scared girl beside him.
"She wanted to be free," said Dearka. Miriallia nodded, and pushed closer to him, her skin cold from the rain that poured down upon them. He wrapped his jacket around her shoulders and kissed her forehead softly before steering her away from the scene. She followed after her, her fingers still intertwined with his.
Athrun was standing by the shuttle, Destiny. He was staring up at it, the rain still pouring down on his midnight blue hair. Cagalli was hitting him softly, all her strength gone. Her eyes were dry though; all her tears spent in the last two weeks. He was ignoring her rants, ignoring her demands and looking at the shuttle.
"She wanted to be free," repeated Miriallia, pulling Dearka, and the jacket, closer to her. "Why did she go through with it anyway?"
Dearka sighed and stopped, pulling Miriallia to his chest. He hugged her tight and pulled her back to look at him.
"I want to ask you something before we get on the shuttle," said Dearka. He took a deep breath, "Am I a rebound?"
Miriallia looked shocked, eyes wide. He thought he was a rebound?
Answer the question.
You again! What are you doing talking to me again?
I'm making sure you don't make the biggest mistake of you life. Take the advice your friend Cagalli gave you and tell him he isn't! Or…are you afraid of the commitment?
I'm…not sure. Part of me wants to say no, and another wants to say yes. Tolle is dead, he's never coming back, I know that, but I still can't get over it. What do I do?
We're the same thing, except I'm the invisible being inside your head. Now, think this through. Tolle is gone, Dearka's here. Choose now: your life alone, or with someone who cares for you.
But he's a Coordinator!
Athrun is a Coordinator, yet Cagalli still admitted that she loves him. Now, choose!
Miriallia bit her lip and closed her eyes, thinking of all the times Tolle had held her. She then imagined the same thing, but with Dearka. He had been gentle, not pushing her too much to let him touch her. He had made her laugh, comforted her when she cried, and was easy to talk to, more than Tolle was.
"No," she whispered. Dearka raised an eyebrow and she opened her eyes. Smiling at him, she said, more boldly, "You are not a rebound; you never were. I've…been stupid, keeping up an icy wall between us. I want to apologize."
Dearka sighed and whispered, "You want me, yet you hate me. Is that why you are erected that barrier? To protect against what you are afraid of?"
Dearka shook his head at his own question and gazed at her with a slight smile before gently kissing her, lips lingering, but pulled away before it became deeper. He then released her and walked over to Athrun and Cagalli. Miriallia stared after him in shock, his words echoing in her head.
It's true you know. You do want him, yet you are afraid of what he will bring to your life, what he will fill that Tolle could not.
No!
Liar. So you decided?
I don't know.
Then, what was that all about? You told him he wasn't a rebound, yet you still aren't sure? Man, you're stubborn, but I am your mind, so I guess it runs through us.
What should I do?
Well, he understood you when you told him he wasn't a rebound, so, you're half way there. Now, just work on it.
But does he care?
If he didn't care then he wouldn't have asked if he was a rebound, nor would he have said you were afraid of him, now would he? I'm going to have to leave you, to think on your own, seeing as how you're not listening to me.
Miriallia sighed and shrugged deeper into the jacket. She then wandered over to the other three. Cagalli had finally worn herself out; she had nestled against Athrun's neck and was sleeping, eyes closed tightly. Athrun was talking softly with Dearka.
"We need to get back to the PLANTs, quickly. This wedding was a disaster, and we need to get away fast. Lord Uzumi has most likely heard all of it by now." Athrun sighed.
Dearka nodded slightly, eyeing the blonde girl in Athrun's arms. Her dress was drenched, and mud splashed up the sides. Her veil was nowhere to be seen, and her makeup had washed away with the rain.
"You're lucky," said Dearka, softly.
"What do you mean?"
"I heard her, she told you right out that she loves you," Dearka smiled slightly. "It's not everyday that you find your soul mate."
Miriallia stopped in her tracks, noticing the sad, deprived look in his amethyst eyes. She didn't move, didn't breath as she listened to Dearka's calm explanation.
"You have the love of your life in your arms right now, whilst mine doesn't notice my care, or my clues. She is lost in a world of the past, leaving me in the future to wonder. I don't know what to do about it either. She tells me I'm not a rebound, yet she still keeps the barrier intact." He sighed. "How did you do it?"
Athrun shook his head slightly, giving his friend a sympathetic look, "She just needs time. She still hasn't gotten over it in the time she was given."
"It's been four years. How much time do you need?" growled Dearka, fists clenching. "I haven't forgotten her since that day four years ago, when we parted ways on the Archangel. Yet, I fear she has forgotten me." Dearka looked away. "And it's all because you killed her Natural boyfriend. She thought it was I at first, yet she got over it slowly and even became your friend. Why does she hide behind an icy wall with me, yet opens up to you?"
Miriallia felt tears well up in her eyes. He hadn't forgotten her, even for the four years they had been apart. Athrun had looked away and shook his head, confused. Miriallia took a deep breath and walked forward, touching his shoulder lightly. He turned, eyes wide and then coughed.
"We should be going," he said stiffly. Athrun nodded and they walked aboard the shuttle, Dearka taking a set of controls. Athrun lay Cagalli down gently and then moved to sit in the captain seat.
"Chairman Zala," greeted the numerous men aboard the ship. They all stood and saluted him, before returning to their appointed tasks.
"What's so great about this shuttle?" asked Miriallia as she sat down behind the two. Dearka's hands flew over the control panel and Athrun looked over the computer screens.
"It looks like a normal shuttle, yet it isn't," replied Athrun, turning to look at her. "This is the new technology that we have been working on. Destiny, being a shuttle, can also become one of the largest and most adept mobile suits."
"You've made a weapon like this?" gasped Miriallia, eyes wide.
"We have two more: Infinity, and Fate. They both transform as well," said Athrun, turning back to Dearka and the rest of the crew. He pulled a keyboard from beside his seat and let his fingers fly over the keys, eyes darting from side to side.
"Two more?" Miriallia sounded faint. She gulped and moved forward. "Is there any way I can help?"
Athrun stopped and glanced at her. "How are you with electronics? Some of our men here are only good at updating certain things."
"Quite good. Remember, Kira went to the same technological school as all the rest of us Naturals. I graduated second to him."
"That's pretty good. Sit, and try and figure out how to get the main weapons up to date," Athrun turned and began to type once again.
Miriallia nodded and folded her dress slightly so she could be more comfortable. Sitting down heavily in the grey seat, she quickly typed in her destination and was mildly surprised to find it so out of date. She began to type, eyes darting like Athrun's, Dearka's and the rest of the crews. Nothing could be heard for minutes, nothing but typing.
Cagalli woke in the silent minutes they were absorbed in and moved forward, eyes roaming over the computers. She noticed Miriallia sitting as well, her fingers flying just a little slower than the rest. Her mouth was moving as she silently typed in the commands.
"Where are we?" asked Cagalli suddenly. Athrun jumped and Dearka stiffened, but then relaxed when he realized it was Cagalli.
"We're aboard Destiny," replied Athrun, looking up at her. "How are you?"
Cagalli shook her head, eyes wavering and then looked at Athrun. "What's Destiny?"
"It's a mobile suit/shuttle," said Miriallia, looking back at the two. "How you feeling?"
"A mobile suit and shuttle?" asked Cagalli, eyes wide. "Is this the technology you were working on?"
Athrun nodded. "Yes. Like I told Miriallia, we have two more suits. The Infinity and the Fate. We need to do some minor updates on some of the weapons, but they are the most adept weapons we have right now."
Cagalli shook her head and sat down in one of the seats, eyes darting from Dearka's computer screen to her own. One of the men beside her cast a sidelong look at her but ignored her for the most part.
"Are we almost ready to launch?" asked Athrun.
"Yes; just need to update one last thing…there. We're ready," replied Dearka. He glanced at Miriallia. "How you doing over there, Milly? Got it under control?"
"Almost done," she replied, not looking up.
"Start the engines. The PLANTs are our destination," said Athrun, eyes gliding over the various computer screens in front of him. He carefully made a few adjustments and nodded. "Let's go."
The shuttle began to move slightly, its dimensions shifting as it prepared to lift off. Dearka moved two more various items to the side and then clicked softly on the button.
"Move all personal to the chambers. Only four may reside in the cockpit of the mobile suit while launching." He looked pointedly at Miriallia, Cagalli and Dearka. "You know which ones you are. All of you, return after we have entered space."
The few men and woman on the bridge nodded and rose from their seats, trekking outside the doors. She watched the dots move and noted them all moving into one room.
"Is everyone where they should be?" asked Athrun. Dearka nodded. "Then, let us get a move on."
The shuttle began to fluidly change, and Cagalli stared in amazement as the whole structure of the shuttle changed into that of a mobile suit.
Dearka than pushed four more buttons before they lifted off. He then typed in various commands and the mobile suit seemed to hover just a few inches above the ground before the jets kicked it. Then, they were flying towards space.
"Change phrase shift armour to heat gel. Quick," commanded Athrun. Dearka nodded and began to type. "How are the weapons doing, Miriallia?"
"They're up-to-date. Just need to update the Destiny's mobile weapons and I'm done," replied Miriallia.
Dearka watched the slow procedure as a coat of blue gel began to form over the thick armour. The room began to heat up as the gel inched forward.
"Can you speed it up?" asked Athrun, noticing Cagalli wipe her hand over her forehead.
"Done," said Dearka, fingers flying and the gel finished its process. Immediately, the temperature returned to normal and Cagalli sighed. Miriallia did as well, shrugging off Dearka's jacket and rubbing the sweat from her arms. Neither Dearka, nor Athrun had a speck of sweat on them.
Fire burned around them, making them look like a comet in the sky. Many onlookers gaped at the bright star, at the sheer size and unnatural appearance of it. One such person tried to zoom in on the fiery mass, yet the glare from the fire damaged the lens. However, one man managed to get a picture and was shocked at what he saw: a blue mobile suit, the size of most shuttles, shooting towards the atmosphere and to space.
They escaped the atmosphere and Athrun immediately sighed. The shuttle had done well in its first attempt at space. He wondered how long it would hold in battle and stood.
"Change the heat gel back to the phrase shift armour and make our destination towards the PLANTs. I want to get there soon," commanded Athrun. Dearka nodded and again began to type.
"I wonder how many people saw us?" mused Cagalli, looking out at the screen. Athrun stiffened and glanced at her.
"Saw us?"
"Well, this thing is huge, the same size as the shuttle we came here on, I would say, and we were burning like a comet. I'm sure everyone in the eastern hemisphere saw us!" replied Cagalli. "Also, I wanted to ask you something. How come it was down on Earth? And how did it get there?"
"You remember the shuttle that we took to Earth?" asked Athrun. Cagalli nodded. "They followed us on my commands and finished preparations down on Earth. I wanted to test its compatibility on Earth and so far it has proved useful."
Athrun walked away, but not before asking Dearka to change the suit back to a shuttle. He opened one of the doors and stepped out. Half the crew he had asked to leave floated back in, taking their seats once more.
"How does it do that?" questioned Cagalli, following him.
"Do what?"
"Well, it was like a normal mobile suit before, with only the cockpit. Now, it's more than just that; it has rooms and a cafeteria."
She nodded to a few soldiers passing by and they stared at her. She was still wearing her wedding dress, and was trailing after the Chairman. Eyebrows raised, they talked in hushed whispers as they floated down the corridor.
"The mobile suit carefully folds all of these compartments into what make up it's arms and legs. If we were to engage in battle, all personal would move to a certain area, and that area would be in the area on the backside of the cockpit. The cockpit can only carry four people at a time, as you had seen. The area is then surrounded with some type of metal – the details are sketchy about the type – and the area is then stronger than that of the mobile suit, making it damn near impossible to break," explained Athrun.
Cagalli nodded, absorbing all the information. She knew, somewhere in the back of her mind, that the Coordinators would be making such weapons. She just didn't know the sheer length they would go to.
Athrun opened another door and floated in. Cagalli, once again following, found it to be filled with food.
"Cafeteria?" she questioned. Athrun nodded and placed his hand on a small pad beside the food dispenser. It noted who he was and then gave him the food he desired.
"Try it. It's the most efficient way to eat," said Athrun, turning away with his food. Cagalli walked cautiously up to the machine and put her hand on it. She was awed as the machine worked and spat out the food she had thought about. She then carried her tray over to Athrun and sat down.
There were few people in the cafeteria, and those few stared. Eyes summing Cagalli up, and the dress that hung from her, they presumed she was a stow away, running from a man whom she didn't love. In some ways, they were right, but they also thought that Cagalli was just another pretty girl, throwing her heart at their Chairman. Instead, Cagalli had captured his heart before turning and giving hers.
"Is there any possible way to find another set of clothes?" asked Cagalli, picking up the burger she had thought about. Athrun raised an eyebrow and she glowered. "I don't like dresses, okay?"
"We have ZAFT uniforms onboard, yet the uniform consists of a skirt," explained Athrun, his eyes laughing at her.
"A skirt? Don't you have any pants, or maybe shorts?" begged Cagalli, desperate now.
Athrun laughed, a deep chuckle and gazed at her. "I think it would be amusing to see you in a skirt."
"Pervert," she growled and tossed a piece of her salad at him. The dressing that was on it smacked him in the forehead and his eyes went wide. He glared at her as she burst out laughing and wiped it from his forehead.
"Now, now, princess, I think you'd be used to skirts and dresses. You are of royalty, are you not?" asked Athrun, trying to hide his grin.
"Why are you so keen on seeing me in a skirt?" fumed Cagalli.
"You should know the answer to that."
"You are a perv."
"Am not."
"Are too."
"Not as much as you."
Cagalli huffed and bit into her burger again, eyes smouldering yet a small grin tugged at her lips.
Someone coughed behind them and Athrun started. He forgot they weren't alone, where their conversation couldn't be overheard. He looked back at the two soldiers who were blushing bright red and his eyes turned cold. They quickly scrambled to their feet, saluted him, and rushed out.
Athrun turned back to her and found her watching him. In turn, he watched her eyes, searching them with his own, and wondering if she still felt the pain of the wedding. It had all happened so fast. Much faster than Athrun had anticipated. Yuuna was now dead, Cagalli was free, and Athrun was still as confused as hell.
"I know you want to ask me about the wedding, so go ahead," said Cagalli suddenly, jerking Athrun away from his thoughts.
"No – I just–" began Athrun hurriedly.
Cagalli smiled softly, eyes pained. "I had told myself before the wedding, right after I had talked to you, that I would not marry Yuuna, but kill him. Though I can't believe he would shoot a gun at all; he seems like too much of a git to understand that type of weaponry," Cagalli shook her head. "But when the pastor said those words, the words I knew would bind me to that horrible man, I couldn't take it. Then, I saw you. I just couldn't…" She swallowed and looked away. "I couldn't take it. He had hurt me, and I wanted to inflict that pain upon him. But then he died with his life complete," Her fists clenched and her eyes turned to liquid fire. "It's not fair."
Athrun pushed away his plate; appetite lost and stomach clenching. He wondered what would have happened if Cagalli had married that bastard; if she had said those two fateful words that would bind her to the man. His thoughts turned to turmoil and he again felt his stomach turn over.
"Come on," he said, standing. She looked at him questionably, but followed.
"Where are we going?"
"Just follow, don't ask questions," he said, floating down the corridor.
Cagalli stopped and glowered at him and he turned, confusion written upon his face.
"I don't like people bossing me around. You, of all people, should know that," she said through gritted teeth. "Don't start up another war with me, Zala, you won't win."
A soldier passing by, eyes wide, started at Cagalli's sudden words. He couldn't believe what he was hearing! Chairman Zala, his Chairman, the leader he had so loyally followed, was being talked down to by a Natural, not to mention a girl!
"Cagalli," he said warningly, eyes watching the young man stop not a few inches behind her.
"Don't 'Cagalli' me, Zala. I'm in no mood. I just killed a man, confessed to you, and am slowly becoming pissed about this whole plan to return to the PLANTs. My father is probably worried as hell, and you won't let me find some goddamn clothes so I can change out of this repulsive wedding gown!" she ranted, eyes livid with rage.
"Hush," he said softly, floating forward. He grabbed her elbow and pulled, yet she didn't move. "Cagalli, don't start. You're still in shock over the–"
A reverberating slap sounded through the corridor and Athrun's head snapped to the side. They had slowly drawn a crowd; men and women alike were staring in awe as Cagalli slapped Athrun again.
"You jerk! Don't you dare say I'm in shock! That bastard got what was coming to him and I'm glad I killed him. Now, I can finally stop worrying about it, yet you continue to baby me like I'm…I'm…" Her hands shaking, she lifted her hand to strike him again but he stopped her. Staring into her eyes, he noted the pain and the raging anger.
"You need to calm down right now, Cagalli, or I'll personally toss you off this ship," snapped Athrun, anger boiling through his blood.
"You can't do that to me, Athrun! No matter what you say, I know you would never harm me because you love me too damn much!" she screamed right back, tears swimming in her eyes. She pulled her arm to the side and brought up her other hand, hoping to catch him off guard. He stopped it simply, holding her arms high over her head, away from his body.
"Enough!" he roared, but she didn't cringe, nor did she flinch as all the others did.
"No!"
"What the hell is the matter with you?"
"You!"
"I just saved you from making the biggest mistake of your life!"
"What mistake? I shot Yuuna, I told you my feelings, and now I'm aboard a ship, surrounded by soldiers and I'm yelling at you in the middle of the freaking corridor!" shouted Cagalli.
One of the female soldiers glanced at the person beside her and leaned over. "Seems like Zala is losing."
"I agree. That chic is tough," replied the other.
"Who is she?"
"I don't know, but she said that he loved her. I didn't know Chairman Zala had a lover."
Athrun, breathing hard, felt something flow through his veins, a resounding desire that refused to die and heightened as he noted her breasts heaving up and down, the dress barely hiding the beautiful skin beneath it, and her eyes molten fury. The familiar beast in his chest gave a slow purr and he swallowed, hoping to mask the desire that he knew was filtering into his emerald gaze.
Cagalli glared, but she couldn't help noticing the hungry look in his eyes and she felt her breath quicken. He was looking at her the same way he had when he had first taken her, and the next day, when he had said he could finish in four hours. This was exactly the same. She tried to pull her arms away, but he held them in an iron clad grip, his mouth a thin line as he fought a losing battle inside himself.
"Don't argue with me anymore, princess. Follow me, now, or I swear I'll toss you over my shoulder," said Athrun through clenched teeth.
Cagalli finally nodded in agreement, eyes staring deep into his, into the familiar pools she lost herself in. He turned, releasing only one arm, and she hurried after him, keeping stride with him. She heard a collective sigh behind her and couldn't help smirk. They had drawn quite a crowd, that was for sure.
Athrun opened the nearest door to them and steered her inside. She followed him in only because of the insistent hand on her wrist. He closed the door, and turned, searching.
"Why did you pick a fight with me in the middle of the hallway?" he hissed, pushing her backwards. She went easily, letting his hands on her waist guide her.
"Because you ticked me off and I wanted to see you squirm," she replied smugly.
Athrun chuckled, a deep rumble in his chest. Cagalli felt her pulse quicken. "I can make you squirm in more ways than one, princess, so don't push your luck."
She licked her lips, her heart beating so wildly she was almost positive that he could see it in her neck. She suddenly stopped, and his body crashed into hers, all the hard planes and ridges of his body molding to her soft curves. His hands circled her waist tightly and his lips sought out hers, taking them in hungry desperation to drive the desire from his blood. But it didn't drive it away; it fuelled it.
"Damn," he whispered against her mouth. Cagalli wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled his attention back to her. He stumbled forwards, and she nearly fell, only catching her balance when her back hit the wall.
"We shouldn't…" she gasped as his lips left hers and moved to her neck. "Not on the ship…where everyone can hear."
He bit the sensitive spot between her shoulder and neck and listened to her groan before pulling away, the hunger still burning in his eyes, his hands squeezing her hips and causing her to lean into him. She looked up at him and felt his mouth descend once more, capturing her in a torment of desire and need.
"No," she moaned against his mouth, trying to push him away. Her arms were weak; legs almost jelly. He didn't give up, only deepened it more. His hands braced himself on either side of the wall as he leaned against her, and she gasped, pulling away.
"Not now, Athrun," she whispered in words barely heard. He looked at her, eyes a mingle of desire and desperation. She didn't know what to say, didn't know how to stop the feelings that welled up inside of her.
A sudden knock on the door forced Athrun off of Cagalli. He walked over to the closet and threw it open before someone could walk in. It would have just looked like Athrun was looking for clothing, except that Cagalli's swollen, full lips somewhat gave it away. She fell back on the bed, sighing and the door opened.
"What are you two doing?" barked Dearka, looking over at Cagalli. He then saw Athrun digging in the closet, shifting clothing aside.
"I'm searching for some decent clothing for our princess here," muttered Athrun, trying to sound normal. He had glimpsed Cagalli fall back on the bed and a lump had formed in his throat. Thoughts swarmed in his head, making him have to blink a couple of times to remember what he was doing.
"Oh. Well, we're nearing the Earth Alliance base so you might want to join us soon," drawled Dearka, clearly seeing through Athrun's lies. He leaned against the wall and watched the two through hooded eyes. Athrun was sweating, eyes trying not to glimpse the woman on the bed. He swallowed hard every time his gaze wandered over to her and blinked a considerable amount of times. Dearka couldn't help but grin. Lust was a funny thing.
"Well, I'll just leave you two to go at it – er – I mean to find some decent clothing," laughed Dearka, his hands behind his head as he left the room.
Athrun sighed and leaned his head against the door. He had never felt like this before, never, and it bothered him greatly. He shifted the last few pieces of clothing aside before finding the ZAFT outfit. He tossed it to Cagalli, who caught it and immediately walked over to the door. She whispered a low 'lock' command and then turned, walking back to her place.
She then pulled the soft cords from where the dress was connected to the top and pulled out of it. She shoved the gown away, disgust lining her features and stared at the skirt in her hand with an evil look, giving Athrun a good look at her bottom. Athrun's face heated up and he crossed the room, twirling her. She gave a strangled squeal as his lips found hers.
Needless to say, she automatically melted against him. He felt a streak of male pride, knowing he could do this to her and she would melt whenever it happened.
"Not this time, Zala," she whispered and pushed at him firmly. His hands, however, grasped the front of her gown and he felt it give away.
"You perv!" she shouted, slapping him.
Athrun tried not to stare, really he did, well, maybe just a little, but he didn't want to and was even more panicked when the half naked girl kicked him in the shins. Athrun turned quickly, not wishing to disturb what he knew was already on dangerous waters.
"It's not like I haven't seen you naked before!" said Athrun hotly, cheeks burning.
"If you turn around, I swear you'll never see this body, or touch me, again," hissed Cagalli.
He heard the rustle of clothing against skin and didn't move until he saw Cagalli walk by him, hands firmly attached to the bottom of her skirt, pulling at it firmly. Her glare could strike people dead and she took out her anger on Athrun once they were nearing the bridge.
"I told you no, yet you didn't listen. Just for that, you can sleep by yourself tonight, and every night until we reach the PLANTs," growled Cagalli before opening the door. Athrun watched as she stalked in, eyes drilling holes through those that dared look upon her. Athrun sighed and waved a little white flag in his head, smiling slightly at the image.
"Athrun," said Dearka, turning. "The base wants to know who we are. We can't necessarily tell them you're the Chairman."
"I'll do it," grumbled Cagalli, stalking forward. Her face heated as Dearka eyed her, eyebrows raised. He then felt a stinging pain in the back of his head and turned to see Miriallia, hand raised, eyes deadly.
Cagalli sighed and sat down in the Captain's seat, legs slightly to the side and hands resting easily on the arms of the chair. She looked up proudly and then waited for the screen to turn on.
"Identify yourself at once," said the man once he appeared on the screen. Cagalli bit her the side of her cheek in frustration. It was enough that Athrun bossed her around; but she wouldn't – no she couldn't – let this man take over.
"I am Cagalli Yula Attha, daughter of Uzumi Nara Attha. I am on a special mission to the PLANTs and wish for your utmost cooperation. I do know that Orb is neutral and has refused to be aligned with the Earth Alliance, yet I wish for you to let us pass in peace."
The man on the screen seemed to blink several times. "Cagalli Yula Attha? Is she not on Earth, marrying Lord Yuuna?"
Cagalli glared, eyes turning to fire and spat, "I will not marry that bastard in this life time or another. Now, let us pass!"
"She must be Lord Uzumi's daughter. I heard she has a wicked temper," said one of the men softly to the commander on the screen.
"You may pass, Miss Attha. But be aware that we are on the lookout for the Chairman of the PLANTs. It is said that he has made a rushed decision to go to Earth. Please, inform us if you have seen him."
"Last time I saw him, he was being per – I mean, doing work at the PLANTs. He is not there?" asked Cagalli, faking her concern.
She was still utterly pissed at Athrun, forcing himself on her like that.
Ass. Jerk. Pervert. Gah! She wanted desperately to strangle him and it was more than enough for her to keep her temper under control. She looked around, searching for something to throw at him, anything that would cause bodily harm.
She could feel his eyes on her, watching as she talked down to these men as if they were nothing more than dirt.
"No. We lost contact with him once Chairman Yamato took over. If my reports are correct, he is your half-brother?" the man made it a question, and Cagalli clenched her fists.
"Yes, he is my half-brother. Please, cooperate with us, sir, or I will have no choice but to force my way through you," she snapped, eyes dancing with rage.
"Fine, fine, Miss Attha. Please, proceed." The screen went blank and Cagalli sighed softly, relaxing in the chair.
"That is my chair, Miss Attha," said Athrun, coming up beside her. She turned her furious orbs on him and he couldn't help but flinch.
"Do not push it, Zala. I'm in no mood," she hissed, turning back.
Freaking Jerk. She desperately wanted to throw something, or hit him, or anything! A butcher knife would satisfy her desire to kill him at the moment.
Truly, she didn't understand why she was so pissed. She just didn't like the fact that he thought he owned her; that he could take over her at any time he wanted. She also wanted to see how much she could humiliate him, just so she could get revenge for the room incident.
Athrun noted the few people staring and glowered at them. He then sighed and picked Cagalli up in a fluid motion.
"What the hell are you doing!" she screamed as he hoisted her over his shoulder.
"You're in no position to talk to the Chairman of the PLANTs that way, so I suggest you simmer down in your room," replied Athrun, ignoring her furious fists on his back. He began to walk towards the door.
"You let go of me this instant you bastard, or, for the love of God, I will never, and I repeat, never, let you touch me again!" she howled, still hitting him with her fists. He stiffened; he didn't expect her to say anything of the sort, especially on the bridge. He saw Dearka's eyes twinkle with mirth and the eyes of his crewmen weighing him.
"Calm down!" he snapped at her softly. "Do you not realize we are not in private? These people still have yet to see the news, so stop pushing it Cagalli, or, by God, I'll leave you out here in a life pod!"
Cagalli immediately quieted and stopped squirming, letting him take her. She shot death glares at all who passed and was dropped – literally – on the floor of the cabin they had been in before.
"Now, stay in here and be a good little girl while I take over matters you can't seem to comprehend."
That had torn the last thread that kept Cagalli from blind rage. She stood in one fluid motion and carefully smoothed her skirt. She was pissed, now more than ever, especially at what he had called her. But she wouldn't let him see that. Oh no, she would show him what this 'little girl' could truly do.
She walked by him, head held him, eyes cold. She then turned, closed the door behind her and muttered a soft 'lock' before smirking. He pounded on the door, calling her name, yet she said nothing as she walked away.
"Damn you," he muttered, stepping back. He had seen the last thread on her control snap, and had half expected for her to yell at him, but she did no such thing. Instead, she had looked at him like he was dirt, smoothed her skirt, and locked him in the room when he had intended to do the same to her.
He raised his foot to slam it against the door when the whole shuttle seemed to shake. He fell backwards, hard, and then the door opened. He stumbled to his feet and was barricaded by people as they poured in. He was pushed back, landing heavily on the bed and stared around. So this was the room used for the persona. Athrun frowned. He needed to get to the bridge before they decided to transform. Not good.
"What the hell just happened?" called Cagalli, opening the door and staggering inside. Her anger defused, she stared in amazement as the Earth Forces sent out their mobile suits.
"New models," grumbled Dearka, typing furiously. Miriallia was at his side, watching what he was doing. He slammed his fists against the computer and then glanced back at Cagalli. "Where the hell is Athrun?"
"Athrun?" asked Cagalli, momentarily stunned. "Damn! Don't transform until I return, understood?"
Dearka nodded, dumbfounded, and Cagalli rushed out, eyes searching frantically for the room on which she had locked Athrun in. Another blast rattled the ship and she was thrown to the side. She hit hard, and felt something crack in her lower calf. She cried out, stunned, and slumped to the ground. The door to her right, just shy of where she was sitting, opened and Athrun stormed out. People were crying for him to come back, yet he paid no heed.
"Cagalli?" he asked, rushing to her.
"Damn leg. I think it's broken," she said softly, touching the tissue just above the wound. Athrun carefully placed his hands on her flesh and felt gently. He found the rebellious bone, yet it wasn't broken, only slightly twisted.
Athrun picked her up quickly and pushed off from the floor. She cringed at the sudden movement and gripped his shirt tightly, eyes shut in pain. The ship suddenly turned to the side and Athrun slammed into the wall, arms wrapped still protectively around Cagalli. She almost screamed when she felt her leg tap against the metal wall, yet said nothing as Athrun once again moved forward.
"Dearka!" called Athrun, opening the door and rushing in. He locked it and nodded to his friend.
"Preparing transformation sequence. All personal report to main room. Will begin transformation in thirty seconds," said Miriallia into the microphone. She then glanced at the screen, where it showed many people huddled into one room. There were a few stragglers, but they quickly moved to the main room and soon Miriallia nodded.
"Commencing transformation sequence. All personal prepare for sudden movement."
Dearka let his fingers fly over the keys and soon the shuttle began to transform. Athrun placed Cagalli in one of the seats and took his position in the pilot seat.
"Dearka, you take over the firing procedure of the Destiny. Miriallia, you take over keeping our weapons in check and equipping them whenever we wish to change. I'll take movement. Now," Athrun's face hardened. "Attack!"
Athrun felt sick at the thought of once again killing people. Destiny flew forward, the movement so fluid that Athrun felt like he was once again making mothers cry, making wives worry, making children parentless. He looked away, afraid that he could see their terrified faces mirrored in the flashing blade of his sword, or the powerful rays that emitted from Dearka's gun as it slammed into the cockpit of the mobile suit.
"Athrun," whispered Cagalli, watching his face change from pain, to horror, over and over again.
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Back at the Earth Forces base, the men looked on in awe. The mobile suit was huge, taking down as much as ten newly remodelled Strike Daggers' in one swipe. One commander couldn't help but gawk openly at the screen. The Princess of Orb had warned them, but for their shuttle to become a mobile suit…?
"Commander! What should we do?" asked one frantic man, his face popping up on the screen.
"Call all forces back! Let them pass! By God, let them pass!" screamed the commander, scared and confused. "And get Miss Attha back up on the screen!"
Cagalli's face appeared on the screen, her jaw set, eyes determined.
"I warned you, yet you chose not to listen," she said coldly. "Do you still wish to lose some of your men, or are you going to cooperate and let me pass?"
The commander knew his face was a mask of pure shock, pure horror. He watched as two more of the new mobile suits went down and grimaced.
"Pull back! Let them pass without fuss," snapped the commander.
"Thank you," she said sincerely, and the commander felt his face pale as he saw a certain blue haired young man step up to her before the screen was terminated.
"She wouldn't…"
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Cagalli slumped once they had passed by the Earth Forces base. She was tired, scared (though she wouldn't mention that to anyone!) and not to mention in pain.
Dearka changed the mobile suit back and then leaned back in his chair, eyes closed. Miriallia sighed heavily and let her hands rest on the keyboard, eyes momentarily shut.
Athrun looked down at the young blonde and then carefully picked her up. She didn't protest, nor did she fight as he carried her out.
"Your hurt," he said simply when she gave him a questioning glance. He carried her down the hallway and into a small medical room. Placing her on the chair, he reached into the cabinet and pulled out gauze, two red pills and a small vial.
"What's in the vial?" she asked, eyeing the green liquid.
"It's to stop the pain," replied Athrun, as he carefully dropped to drops onto her skin. "And these pills will help subdue it when the liquid wears off."
Cagalli nodded and swallowed the two little red pills and immediately she felt sleep pang at her brain.
"You…gave me sleeping…pills…Zala. Really...strong...ones," she managed before she slumped over his outstretched arm, fast asleep. He smiled down at her form as he gathered her up in his arms and carried her back outside.
He made his way to a cabin connected to his own and placed her gently on the bed. Removing her hat and shoes, he pulled the blanket to her chin and kissed her forehead.
"Good night, princess. Everything will be all right in the morning."
To Be Continued...
Next Update:
31/08/05
A/N: Yes, yes, I hope you all loved this chapter! I made it all purdy and long! ((grins like a little kid))
Now that I have successfully (and hopefully) answered the questions and responded to the guesses, you will now see the latest to my purdy next chapter (second to last) It's called... Meer's Hasty Decision. Now, now, what could that mean? Instead of giving you some dialogue, I shall give you the first two or three paragraphs of the chapter! Just to warn you, it's a dream, yet I shall use bold italics okay? Tell me if you like it!
The first part to the chapter Meer's Hasty Decision...
No street lights showed the path on which he travelled; no stars or moonlight shone on the pavement beneath his shoes. But he knew where he was going; he knew what he must do. And he needed to do it soon, or something precious to him, more precious than his own life, would be lost to him forever.
Suddenly, he heard the footfalls cease and paused, curiosity overcoming his common sense. Looking back, he noticed nothing but darkness. Darkness that seemed to swallow the little light that came from the windows farther into town. He felt fear slid up his back and make his breathing ragged, as he turned, eyes widening.
Something ahead made him quicken his steps and soon he was full out running. His strides brought him deeper into the darkness he so despised; yet he knew he was almost there. He could hear the screams, hear the ragged breath. Just a little farther.
Bursting from the fog, the light that shone directly on his face blinded him. He shielded his eyes and gazed in horror at the sight in front of him. Two woman stood, one with cold eyes and a gun pointed at the temple of the other. The other looked frightened and her eyes widened in relief as she saw him.
The young woman with the gun turned to him, eyes wild, teeth bared in a snarl. She pushed off the safety on the gun and made the other woman walk forwards, towards him. She then made her kneel and stare into his eyes. Chuckling softly, she brought his furious gaze to her and he saw her smile.
"I wanted to be yours, yet you turned me away! I did everything for you, but now it's too late. Too late for you, too late for your little Natural girlfriend. Say goodbye!"
The trigger was pulled.
The gunshot echoed throughout his mind and he felt a scream erupt from his throat as his heart shattered.
"Cagalli!"
Now whatcha think? I love it, but I need feedback! Well, you know the drill, review, tell me all your purdy opinions and I shall work my butt off in school and on this lovely story!
OOO Almost forgot! The question I must ask all of you before you review! WOULD YOU LIKE A SEQUEL AFTER THIS STORY ENDS? It would be R/M rated, yet I need to know your opinions! SEND IN YOUR ANSWERS! Please tell me! Adios!