(AN): I want to thank all who reviewed.

Disclaimer: I don't own Gundam Seed or Destiny.

Chapter Fifty-One

Invited

Two days before the Ball

Josh-a

It was morning of the second day before the ball, and Nicol had finished all business needed for his departure. He was looking forward to this ball, and he was hoping that he would get a chance to play some music as well. As with Onogoro the town of Josh-a had also got wind of the recent ZAFT attack, but they also heard of ZAFT's failure so things were calming down. Nicol gathered his equipment and gave the order for the Blitz guards to stand by to escort him to Onogoro. Nicol was walking out of his estate when he saw the commander.

"Are you leaving now my lord?" the commander asked.

Nicol smiled, "Yes I am, I leave matters here to you, I should be back in about a week."

The commander smiled, "I will handle everything sir."

Nicol nodded and smiled as he walked out of the estate and got on his horse. The Blitz knights stationed near the gate were ready to escort him. As soon as Nicol arrived in front of them they rode out of the estate, the people noticed he was leaving and waved him off. Nicol got to the edge of the towns limits and left Josh-a. Nicol knew that if he took a couple different routes he would be able to get to Onogoro by the evening and have a full day to relax in Onogoro before the ball.

Boaz

The situation in Boaz was similar this morning. Athrun wanted to leave for Onogoro days ago, especially since there fort was fully repaired in those two weeks. However Cagalli would always make an excuse to try and get out of going. It was down to the wire and Cagalli knew she couldn't get out of it anymore so she was preparing to leave. Athrun went over a few last situations in Boaz before he would head out. When he finished all his documents he wanted to get on the road so he could arrive before night. His escort was already prepared as it was bigger than Nicol's since the princess was with them. Athrun was getting impatient and went to the room Cagalli was sitting in. He opened the door and found her ready but not moving

"Cagalli if we are going to make it by night we have to leave," Athrun told her.

Cagalli looked at him, "I don't want to."

Athrun sighed, "We have no choice this is a King's order that you attend."

Cagalli frowned, "Fine but I will not enjoy it." she said as she started getting up.

Athrun smiled and embraced her as she was about to leave.

"I think I can get you to enjoy it," Athrun said.

Cagalli blushed, "Unlikely."

Athrun leaned down and kissed her passionately, Cagalli melted into it and returned the kiss fully, after about three minutes they broke it.

"Know lets get going," Athrun said as he motioned for a few servants to grab her things, they quickly entered the room and gathered all of her belongings.

Cagalli looked at him, "You planned this didn't you," she said as Athrun wanted to get on the road fast.

Athrun smiled, "I am caught my princess, but I did enjoy it," Athrun said as Cagalli smiled and they both started heading out of the estate.

Once they got outside, the captain of the Aegis squad was waiting for them, "My Lord everything is prepared."

Athrun looked at him, "Thank you, I leave Boaz in your hands."

The captain smiled, "We will make you proud My Lord, see you in a week."

Athrun smiled and helped Cagalli get on a horse, after she was up he got on his own and they started riding out of the estate. The Aegis squad escort was waiting for them by the gates of the estate to help them get through the city. The gates opened and the people were already gathered as they wanted to see the leader of their city off, it was the least they could do for him since he always put their interests first and was never unfair, much like there King.

As soon as the escort reached the fort gates the Boaz guards opened the gates and all rode out. Athrun smiled as he looked at Cagalli, and was hoping that they could make their scheduled time of being in Onogoro by evening.

Onogoro Lacus' Families Mansion

Lacus paid a visit to her family that day, as Kira would be handling all the remaining matters needed so he could focus fully on the ball in two days. Lacus arrived at her family's house and went inside. As soon as she got in she could see her whole family preparing for the ball that they were invited to. Lacus walked in the room and she looked at her mother.

"I am glad everybody is excited," Lacus said.

All turned and saw Lacus standing their.

Bill and Rachel ran up to her showing her what they wanted to wear to the ball, they didn't have many fancy clothes for such a ball, but her and Kira had sent a few things for them the other day. Lacus smiled as she saw how happy her siblings were.

Lacus greeted her siblings until her mother walked up to her.

"Why don't you two go in the other room, I have to speak to your sister alone," Eileen told them.

Bill and Rachel frowned but did what they were told.

Lacus watched them leave and then looked over at her mother.

"How have things been going?" Eileen asked.

Lacus looked confused.

Eileen smiled, "Have you set a date for your wedding yet?"

Lacus blushed, "We have not got that far yet."

Eileen looked at her, "Have you decided on anything yet?"

Lacus frowned, "We want to wait a little while mother."

Eileen chuckled she loved to tease her daughter.

"You're still coming to the ball right?" Lacus asked.

Eileen smiled, "We would not miss it for the world dear, and things have gotten so lively around the city these past few days."

Lacus looked at her, "Things have been a little crazy at the castle, but it is for a good cause."

Eileen smiled, "Will you be able to stay awhile?"

Lacus looked at her, "I was actually stopping by, I have to head to the orphanage, and I want to see Miriallia, I haven't spoken to her in awhile."

Eileen looked at her, "With all your doing Lacus, your father and I are proud of what you accomplished."

Lacus smiled, "I haven't done it alone mother, but thank you, I will see you at the ball in two days."

Eileen smiled and watched her daughter leave; Eileen was looking forward to seeing what went on at one of these castle balls.

Outside Lacus ran into Bill and Rachel again.

"You're leaving already?" Rachel asked.

Lacus smiled at them, "I'm afraid so, but I will see you in a few days."

Bill looked at her, "Can't you take us with you."

Lacus looked at him, "Not this time, the castle is in full preparation for the ball, and it is awfully busy around their, we will do it another time."

Bill smiled at his sister as she would never break a promise to them.

Lacus left with the guards Kira assigned and headed to the orphanage.

Onogoro Castle

Lacus was certainly right about the castle being busy, servants and maids were all chipping in to set up for the ball. They cleaned the massive ballroom to a shine, instruments were polished to perfection, and the castle was truly in a rush to get everything done with only one more full day to achieve it. They prepared a spot for the royal family as well in the ballroom; it was well off the dance floor and to the side. It looked like a pedestal; there was a large spot on top which seated two thrones where Kira and Lacus would sit. On the right a lower pedestal was placed also with two chairs, which would be where Athrun and Cagalli would sit. Finally on the left was the other pedestal the same size as the second one with one chair, which would be for Via. It was in perfect view straight across from the upper balcony which would remain empty. Preparations were almost complete as all worked hard to achieve this goal.

On the other side of the castle Mu knew Kira was in a meeting so this would be his big chance to get Murrue to fulfill her promise of a date with him. He saw her coming down the hall and he knew it was know or never.

Murrue saw Mu and sighed, "What do you want?"

Mu smiled, "Don't be like that, and besides it is time for you to pay your debt to me."

Murrue looked at him, "What are you talking about?"

Mu hung his head, "You didn't forget and I know that, you said you would go out with me once and I want that fulfilled."

Murrue was tired of his constant nagging about it, "Fine, when and where."

Mu looked shocked and almost jumped ten feet in the air, "I knew you couldn't resist forever."

Murrue glared at him, "Do you want me to change my mind?"

Mu quickly looked back at her, "Alright, I want you to go with me as my date to the ball."

Murrue sighed; it just had to be the place with the largest crowd in ORB. "Alright I will go with you."

Mu raised his hand in victory, "Great I will see you there, and we will tear up the dance floor." Mu said as he saw her leaving but he was just glad she agreed.

Murrue walked away with a little smile, she did have a soft spot for his moronic behavior.

Onogoro Orphanage

Lacus and her guard visited a bunch of orphanages Lacus helped set up, and they were know at the last one. Lacus walked in and found her sister attempting to help the people in charge with the children.

Lacus walked in and laughed, Mear heard her and turned around as did all the children and they ran up to her, after greeting them they immediately returned to their past activities and Lacus spoke to her sister.

"Hard at work I see," Lacus said.

Mear looked at her, "You're telling me they will put twenty years on my life."

Lacus giggled, "You seem so good with it though."

Mear looked at her, "How is everything going at the castle?"

Lacus looked at her, "Very hectic but I believe the end result will be worth it."

Mear smiled, "What happens at these balls, I have no idea how to act."

Lacus smiled, "I have only ever attended a celebration and that was a small one in Josh-a so I don't know what to expect either."

Mear frowned and than looked back at her sister, "Miriallia said she was coming here today, in fact I expect her any minute."

Lacus looked at her, "Good I was going to go and look for her."

After that was said Miriallia walked in the door. Lacus and Mear turned to look at her.

"Is that you Lacus?" Miriallia said as she walked up to them. Lacus had not seen Miriallia since she was first brought back and it was only for a few minutes.

Lacus smiled, "I apologize for not being able to see you sooner."

Miriallia smiled, "It's alright you are an important person know, but we have time now."

Lacus smiled and looked back at her sister, "I will see you at the ball Mear."

Mear smiled, "I plan on it."

Lacus smiled and walked out of the orphanage with Miriallia, not forgetting to say goodbye to the children who all did the same and watched her leave.

ORB ZAFT Border

As the evening hours were approaching Rau had been waiting at the border since morning. He knew he could not attempt to cross until night hit so he surveyed the ORB patrols that protected the borders. The new plan the ORB King put in place sure did seem to make security tighter. Rau was memorizing their movements as he watched from afar. He wanted to be able to cross as soon as night hit so he would be able to make it to Onogoro by the morning. This would give him plenty of time to prepare for his task. Rau was pleased at what he saw and he knew he would be able to make it once night fell on the sky.

Onogoro City

Lacus with Miriallia along with her guard just walked the streets on Onogoro talking like they used to. People would recognize Lacus and all would stop just to get a glance at her.

Miriallia looked at the crowd, guards and then back at Lacus.

"This is certainly different, I never really expected to be the center of attention," Miriallia said.

Lacus smiled, "I know, it is like this wherever I go but it is a small price to pay."

Miriallia smiled, "How have you been? We didn't talk much the last time."

Lacus looked at her, "It was rough being in Messiah, just like the old days, but it is over with and I want to move on."

Miriallia smiled again, "That's good, and know that your our next Queen, I think things will go even better for you."

Lacus looked shocked for a second like she maybe found out somehow but it was just Miriallia being Miriallia, Lacus then changed the subject.

"How is everyone else?" Lacus asked.

Miriallia smiled, "Both Tolle and Kuzzy were ordered to return to their lands, apparently some new security procedure was put in place and all knights whether they were cadets or squires were all called back." she told her but she knew Lacus probably new more about that.

Lacus nodded her head, "It's true but I believe it's necessary."

Miriallia looked at her, "I know especially after what happened at Boaz, but enough about this stuff, how is life at the castle?"

Lacus smiled, "Hasty at the moment, but it is going great."

Miriallia smiled, "I can tell, you have never been happier and I'm glad everything is working out for you."

Lacus smiled, "That reminds me here," Lacus said as she handed her something.

Miriallia took the card and looked at it, "Is this…"

Lacus finished for her, "Yes it is an invitation to the ball, I really want you to come, it is really important."

Miriallia took that as a favor asked and Lacus had done her plenty in the past so she would not refuse.

Miriallia smiled, "I will come, but I don't think I have anything to wear."

Lacus looked at her, "I sent something to your home, I really look forward to you being their."

Miriallia smiled again, "I will come."

Lacus seemed to notice that evening was approaching so she wanted to return.

"I really have to be getting back, but I really look forward to seeing you their," Lacus told her as she and the guards started returning to the castle.

Miriallia smiled and was happy for her friend.

Onogoro Castle

Lacus arrived back at the castle to find it still being readied for preparations for the ball. She went inside and decided to wait until Kira was done with his matters, so she headed for his studies room.

Kira was busy all day trying to finish up any remain state business that would needed to be handled. It was a long day but he did finish, and know he could focus fully on the ball that would be taking place in just about a day since he realized it was evening. Kira wrote the last signature and handed them over to messenger that would take them where they needed to go. Kira watched the messenger leave and was glad all that was over with. He got up and left his study only to find Lacus waiting for him.

After Lacus walked into the castle she immediately went to his study and as soon as she arrived the door opened revealing a messenger and then Kira.

Kira saw Lacus and immediately the two embraced.

"Did you take care of everything?" Kira asked her.

Lacus looked up at him, "I finished everything, what about you?"

Kira smiled, "As did I, so I guess that means we can have time alone." Kira told her softly.

Lacus blushed and their lips were about to touch when a guard rushed up to them.

"Your Majesty, we have another arrival," The guard said.

Kira sighed, and Lacus giggled as they were once again interrupted.

Kira looked at the guard, "I see, thanks for informing me, set them up he they need to stay here." Kira told him as the guests that were arriving most had homes in Onogoro, while others stayed at the castle since it was big enough.

The guard looked at him, "Actually sire, I believe they are Blitz escorts."

Kira looked at him again, "Ah…I see, good show them to the castle I will greet him myself."

The guard nodded, "As you wish Your Highness." the guard said as he left.

Kira looked over at Lacus.

"Does that mean it's…?" Lacus said but Kira cut her off.

Kira smiled, "Yes it is Nicol, and he is late which is not normal for him."

Lacus smiled, "Even for your sister?"

Kira sighed, "If I didn't issue that order she wouldn't show up."

Lacus laughed and they both started heading towards the castle entrance to the courtyard.

Once they arrived they had found both Mu and Via already there to greet the guests as well. All stopped and acknowledged their Kings presence. Kira and Lacus smiled as the gates opened and revealed Nicol.

Onogoro

It was evening when Nicol and the Blitz escort arrived at Onogoro. Nicol was glad to see the city again; it has been years since he saw it. He always worked on his own land which made it difficult to come to Onogoro much.

They approached the front gate of the city and the guards saw the Blitz symbol and they recognized some of the escort members.

"Lord Nicol it is an honor to welcome you back to Onogoro," the city guard said.

Nicol smiled at the man, "It's good to be back."

The guards got out of the way and Nicol rode into the city with his escort. As soon as they were inside they stopped to look around, it was a little different since they were last there.

"It sure looks different sir," an escort member said.

Nicol looked at the city and smiled, "Your right, but His Majesty has been doing a wonderful job with the expansion."

The guards looked around again and then back at Nicol.

"Well let's head to the castle," Nicol said as the escort members and himself rode towards the castle.

Many of the citizens recognized Nicol but others did not. Nicol greeted those that greeted him and they did that until they reached the castle.

The guards at the castle stopped them, but they recognized who it was.

One guard looked at another, "Inform His Majesty of this."

The other guard agreed and went to inform the King.

The remaining guard walked up to Nicol.

"It is an honor sir," the guard said.

Nicol looked down at him, "It has been awhile." Nicol said as the two knew each other, they talked for a minute or so and then they let him in the castle.

Nicol smiled at the guard one last time and then rode into the castle and he smiled again as he saw the crowd waiting to greet him.

Fifteen minutes after Nicol arrived at the city gates

Athrun and Cagalli were also near the castle, but they came in a different direction than Nicol so they missed him by a few minutes.

"Glad to be back?" Athrun asked Cagalli.

Cagalli looked at him, "It makes no difference but I don't like what we have to do." she said as she was trying to cover up how glad she was to see the city again, she loved Boaz, but she spent most of her life here.

Athrun smiled as he knew she was hiding it, they continued riding until they arrived at the front gate. The guards all knew who it was and didn't even stop them. Athrun gave them a nod as they rode in, and the crowd that greeted Nicol didn't leave yet so they saw who was coming.

The crowd was glad to see Athrun and the princess again as they greeted them. Athrun and Cagalli returned it and they reached the castle.

The castle guards did the same as the city guards and let them in immediately. As soon as the gates opened they saw the people gathered in the courtyard and were happy to be back.

Onogoro Castle

Nicol got off his horse alone with his escort and walked up to Kira.

"It is good to see your well sire," Nicol said.

Kira smiled, "Thanks for coming, things in Josh-a going alright?"

Nicol smiled, "Things are progressing nicely."

Kira smiled again.

Nicol looked around, "It is good you're well My Lady," Nicol told Lacus

Lacus and the rest of them greeted him, and they were about to go in when the castle gates opened again revealing Athrun and Cagalli.

They saw the gates opening and Kira smiled as he saw his sister glaring at him.

"Athrun is here, and the princess as well, but she doesn't look to happy," Nicol said.

Kira nodded, "I made her attend this, but she will come to enjoy it."

Nicol laughed.

Athrun and Cagalli both stopped and got off their horses, Cagalli was still glaring at her brother but she greeted her mother first, and then walked over to Kira.

"Nice to have you back," Kira told her.

Cagalli glared at him, "I wouldn't be back if it wasn't for you!" she shouted at him.

Kira couldn't help but laugh.

"How can you put up with him?" Cagalli asked Lacus.

Lacus just smiled.

"It has been awhile Athrun," Nicol greeted him, as Athrun returned it.

It went on for awhile, but it was getting late and all were exhausted, Kira offered them a feast but they just wanted to rest after all the traveling and would make it up tomorrow. All went into the castle and retired to their rooms. Kira and Lacus did as well.

ORB ZAFT Border

As soon as night hit the sky, Rau smiled as he made his move. The ORB defense at the border did impress him, but it was set up to stop invading armies, not a lone person. Rau timed the patrols out in his head and when a patrol passed his position he easily waited until they were out of sight and he hastily crossed the border. Rau smiled as he took a few routes he knew of that would not be patrolled and he hastily made his way to Onogoro. Rau knew with no distractions he would make it to the city by morning, with a full day to spare before he was needed to do his task.

To be continued…

(AN): I hope you liked this chapter, the next one will be one day before the ball, and it should be up by Thursday. See you later.