Dear Comet

Disclaimer: I do not own Gundam Seed and Gundam Seed Destiny. I also have no association and therefore no rights on MTV, Arashi, HEY! HEY! HEY! Music Champ and Oricon Charts.

Chapter Two: Preparations


Dear Comet,

She continues to taunt me. She continues to haunt me. I feel like a little ball being played by a dog back and forth. I want to ask her to stop with this madness, but everyone knows I don't have the guts to do anything.

I hate this feeling, yet, I can't escape from it. I wish-no, want- a miracle. Do you think God will be gracious enough to give one to me?

-GundamStrike


MONDAY


"Strike?"

Kira snapped out of his daze as he gazed up at the confused ocean blue eyes staring back at him. He would blush, but he was currently too speechless to do anything anyway. He was surprised at himself when he managed to speak...well, squeak out. "Did you say something?"

Flay gave a sigh and placed a finger under his chin. She could feel him tense up, but ignored it anyway and said, "I said to tilt your chin a little so I can apply your concealer." The man meekly nodded before doing what he was told. She smiled at his shyness. She thought of him as an adorable little kid though they were the same age. She dabbed her brush against a tan colored cream and started to dab it against his skin, covering the blemishes on his neck. She stifled a giggle when he tensed under her fingers yet again.

If it were not for the concealer, Kira was sure that his whole face would be as red as a tomato. From the dimly lit mirror, he could see his cheeks were tinted a light pink...now he looked like he had blush.

"Flay, did you put blush on Strike? You know very well the company discourages using blush on guys."

Kira blushed harder. Kill me now.

Sai clucked his tongue when Flay shook her head. He dismissed the whole issue however when his girlfriend stuck her tongue out and he could do nothing but chuckle. He then approached Kira whose blush somehow vanished and now looked a little sullen...or was it just him? He and Kira had been classmates in college and it just so happened that Sai had been Tolle's friend since high school, so introducing them was no problem for Tolle. He had followed Tolle into the company as the light technician.

He handed a couple of papers to Kira who took them and tried not to move when Flay tugged on his hair for him to stay still. "What is it about?" Kira instead asked, his eyes on the mirror, looking at the blonde's reflection. Sai adjusted the glasses on his nose and explained, "Apparently, there was a small problem with the lights and the crew can't make out the problem. What you have there are the checklist we did..."

"Have you guys checked the interior panel controls? There's a faulty wire in there that needs replacing."

Sai blinked in realization. "Why, no...we haven't."

Kira smiled. "There you go." Then he froze again when Flay gave him a disapproving glare as he had jerked his head when she tried to apply wax on his hair.

Sai shook his head. If Kira wasn't a star, he would make a fine computer engineer or software developer. Seeing as he had taken a computer-related course and graduated with top honors, he always wondered what had made him take up music instead as a career.

"Strike! Stop moving!"

He also wondered when he will tell Flay his real name. Sai had always known that Kira had a crush on his girlfriend. He felt a little guilty about it as he had learned about it only after Flay had already agreed to be his girl. Over time though, he realized that Kira was still too shy to do anything.

Otherwise, he would have already revealed his real name to Flay.


"Director...this letter just arrived for you."

The man looked up from the paper he was writing on. His secretary was by the door, holding a white envelope on his outstretched right arm. The man looked at it suspiciously first before plucking it out from the secretary's hand. He placed small black rimmed glasses atop his nose and read the letter as the secretary waited.

Ledonir Kisaka stood faithfully by the door, still as a rock. He patiently waited for a response from the director. Normally, Kisaka wasn't Uzumi Nara Attha's secretary but more of his bodyguard and friend. However, with his current secretary running late, he had no choice but to take charge of the desk and the position.

"Kisaka."

He stood up straight and replied, "Yes, sir."

"What is this?"

"A letter, sir."

"Why do I have this letter?"

"I don't know, sir. I just delivered the mail."


TUESDAY


Lacus was still very much mortified over the sent letter, but then, what could she do about it?

She had felt well enough to be let out on a stroll this morning. The doctor had surprisingly given his OK with little reluctance and Hannah was carefully and slowly walking with her. They had stopped to rest on a bench under a large oak tree. The tree was located around a small rose garden that the hospital director had planted for patients. It was trimmed and properly cared for by the young gardener, Kuzzey.

She always admired looking at the sun through the big tree's leaves, the little spots of light that seemed to dance with each sway of the wind as the trees rustled about. She giggled to herself. Sounds almost poetic.

As of now, she was alone in the garden. She had been feeling thirsty and Hannah, in fear of her passing out, had firmly told her to stay in her spot and swiftly ran back inside to grab her a glass of water. Lacus never knew that Hannah could run so fast...even at her age. She leaned her head back against the wooden headboard of the bench. It has been a while since she was able to enjoy going outside.

The early morning sun was pleasing and the cool breeze coming from the right wasn't bad as well. She waved to a few other patients out on one of their strolls. The relaxing and peaceful atmosphere was slowly lulling her into a deep sleep.

"GANGWAY!"

Lacus jolted awake as her head turned to perceive where the voice had come from. She caught sight of somebody running fast towards the gates of the hospital. The person was already by the open gates when she stopped to catch her breath. Lacus giggled under her breath when she realized who it was.

"Running a bit late today, aren't we, Cagalli?"

Said person looked up with a glare. She panted, "You have no idea." When she had finally caught her breath, Cagalli stood straight and fixed her blonde hair which had been tousled by her run. She looked over at Lacus and said with a grin, "I see someone is well enough to soak in some sunlight."

Lacus giggled, "Well, I'm pale enough to resemble a ghost."

"And I'm tanned enough to resemble a barbeque." Cagalli remarked, pulling up a sleeve of her blouse to demonstrate her point. While the tan line could clearly be seen, Lacus knew that Cagalli had been exaggerating about being dark. She had seen patients with skin darker than hers from sunbathing in the beach. However, compared to her pale self, Cagalli did seem darker...

"Dear, shouldn't you be getting to work?"

Both women looked at Hannah who had just come out from the hospital door and was holding Lacus' cold drink of water. Cagalli lifted a sleeve to look at her watch. The other two watched as her eyes slowly grew wider and she was off yet again. She hurriedly said her goodbyes before pushed open the doors.

Her screams could be heard as she ran through the building. Lacus and Hannah could only chuckle. The old woman gave Lacus her water which Lacus graciously finished and she sighed tiredly.

"My goodness, where does she get all that energy?"

Hannah could only frown. Cagalli and Lacus were after all the same age.

'You should have the same energy she does, poor child.'


Now, Uzumi Nara Attha was a man known for his principles. He heavily emphasized following the rules he had laid out for his employees and if one were not to follow these said guidelines, that person will receive equivalent punishment. He narrowed his eyes at the girl before him.

He will not make an exception to her...even if she was his daughter.

"Cagalli, what time did I ask you to be present in the office?"

She gulped, "9 o'clock, sir."

Uzumi tapped his foot against the ground and crossed his arms, venerating his authority. He said a little louder this time, "And exactly what time is it now, young lady?"

Cagalli bowed her head and managed to say, "Ten thirty."

Uzumi gave an exasperated sigh and continued, "Cagalli, pray tell, what exactly have you been doing these past few days? This is the third time this week you've been late."

His daughter sheepishly scratched the back of her neck, "Err...I overslept."

Kisaka sighed as Uzumi began to start lecturing his daughter of the importance of punctuality...especially in a hospital. It was a sermon that Kisaka and Cagalli had heard numerous times before and the lecture was always directed to Cagalli. Kisaka was just there as a casual listener.

Kisaka headed out of the door quietly, thinking of bringing tea to the director once it was over.


WEDNESDAY


"Okay, boys. That's a wrap."

The GUNDAMs simultaneously dropped their instruments and slumped to the floor, exhausted and relieved that it was finally over. For the past 28 hours, they had been filming nonstop for their special performance on HEY! HEY! HEY! Music Champ.

"Alright, guys. Get home and rest up for tomorrow's schedule." Tolle announced, clapping his hands together.

A unison of groans sounded in the room. Kira tiredly rubbed his eyes, arm resting on the electric guitar hanging around his neck. Athrun, on bass, was looking no better, while Shinn was already sleeping on his drum set.

"Aw, c'mon, guys. Don't be like that. You were the ones who requested that we dump everything this week and leave next week free for your break." Tolle said, frowning.

"Yeah, but we really didn't expect that it would be this much work." Kira complained, but started fixing their equipment. Athrun had been trying to wake Shinn up for a good five minutes, but the young brunette would not even budge and continued snoring away.

"By the way, Tolle-san, what do we have scheduled for tomorrow?"

Tolle whipped out the dreaded black planner and flipped through the pages, only stopping when he got to a certain date. He said, "Let's see...you have to talk with Arashi for a collaboration with them, a radio show and then a meeting with the boss for your contracts. And then, on to MTV for your filming and you guys start choreography with Prepix as well."

When Tolle finished, he noted that both Kira and Athrun had turned quite pale. He shrugged and added, "You said I could do anything to make up for your absence next week and therefore, I'm going to work you to the bone. You're lucky that the company head is such a softie. Most groups would kill to have a break like that."

This was going to be a very long week.


Lacus was busily typing away on her keyboard before finishing with a sigh. She smiled, proud at her work and almost lovingly she saved it to her documents. This was her greatest masterpiece yet. Since Hannah was not always around to keep her company, she had to do something in her free time. She decided that song writing was the way to go, because many have complimented her singing voice, including the usually silent hospital director.

As she closed the documents window, she thoughtfully tapped on her finger before gleefully logging unto the internet. First thing she visited was the official GUNDAMs website. As she read through the news, she gleefully squealed when she saw that they would be making a collaboration with Arashi and mentally noted to look out for it. Next, she went to the Pilots forum, a special forum where fans can share everything concerning the GUNDAMs.

Finally, she visited Dear Comet and furiously began typing yet again.

"Dear Comet,

I guess I wasn't as a lucky as I was yesterday. Waltfeld-sensei didn't even allow me out of my bed, because of a fever. Honestly! I'm too babied here."

She stopped typing and pouted here. Sure, she was sick, but she allows has a fever at this time. Sometimes, the doctor was too hysterical for his own good. Sh continued.

"I recently notice that a young girl has been moved to the room next door. I would visit if I can...but then, not when I'm stuck in bed I guess. I'll greet her when the doctor gives the okay."

She then smiled.

"The GUNDAMs are doing quite successful right now, but I'm too afraid that they will wear themselves out one of these days. I've also recently read a rumor that they actually have Dear Comet accounts as well. I was so happy, then I realized that no one knew their usernames.

But I guess it's enough for me to know that we at least have something in common. I can hardly wait for their new song. Astray was wonderful though. That's all for today I guess, unless you want me to narrate all the things I saw on my window today.

Goodnight.

- Pink Songstress"


THURSDAY


"Cagalli."

Said girl froze as she stopped settling her bag on the floor and turned to face her father who was staring down at her with stern eyes. She gulped. She wasn't late was she?

After that lecture, Cagalli had tried her best to be early in the past two days and have succeeded though barely. She wondered what her father had to say as she stood up from her chair.

Uzumi fished something out from his coat before handing it to the blonde woman. She blinked in confusion, but accepted the envelope anyway. She could plainly see that the letter had already been opened and read.

"Please do read this letter, Cagalli and see me afterwards." was all Uzumi had to say to his daughter before promptly going through the door beside her desk to his office.

Curiously, Cagalli flipped the envelope over and over before finally pulling out the letter and reading its contents. Her eyes grew wide.

"What the-?"


"Great news, guys. Your single "Astray" is still number one on Oricon." Tolle cheerfully announced, holding up a piece of paper and waving it enthusiastically. He stopped being so jolly though when three glares were sent his way. Yes, he even got a glare from the usually calm Athrun Zala. He could feel sweat running at the back of his head.

Flay was busy fixing Shinn's hair and even she was evidently tired. Kira and Athrun were ready to go, but were lounging around the couch provided for them. "C-Cheer up, fellows. R-Remember, break next week. You guys are up in twenty." Tolle said this hurriedly before quickly the door, barely missing a flying water bottle.

Athrun was about to run a hand to his face but a soft click from Flay stopped him from doing so. He especially did not want this particular woman's mood sour. He looked over at Kira who was trying to get as comfortable as he could without messing up his hair and make-up. Flay did an excellent job as usual to cover up the heavy bags under their eyes.

Athrun settled for a sigh instead. Mindful of the woman in the room, he called out, "Strike."

The brunette answered him with a small "hm."

The blue-haired man continued, "Do you think this will be worth it?"

A smile from Kira. "Of course."


FRIDAY


Uzumi settled his glasses on his desk, pinching the bridge of his nose. He wondered if they had received their letter by now. He sincerely hoped that it had already reached their laps.

After all, they would be arriving next week.

He managed the clutter of paper on his desk, all in preparation for next week. It was a lot to do and very tedious, but he was sure that it will all worth it.

He smiled, his wise eyes crinkling. The young woman deserved some happiness once in a while.


Kira and the rest of his companions were feeling empowered. It could have something to do with the fact that their fans were screaming their heads off for them or that this performance was jammed pack with audience.

Or perhaps, their looming visit.

Kira settled on that and continued singing his heart out with a giant smile on his face. His fingers strummed against the strings of his guitar and his voice echoed throughout the room. Athurn joined him as they harmonized and Shinn let out a fast and furious beat.

Their fans continued screaming.


Konna ni tsumetai tobarino fukakude
Anatawa hitori de nemutteru
Inori no utagoe sabishii noharawo
Chiisana hikari ga terashiteta

Lacus tapped her chin thoughtfully, maybe if she made the key a note lower? Would it sound any better?

She tried yet again and sang it carefully and slowly, trying to feel the lyrics. This was her first attempt in actually making a melody for one of the songs she was writing. She chewed her lip worriedly, perhaps she should make start with in e minor?

She wouldn't deny that starting from scratch was a problem for her as she did not even have a proper piano, only using the virtual one on her laptop. She did, however, take lessons from a private tutor who thought her not only music, but other subjects as well.

She sighed. Maybe she should just start all over again. She sadly looked at the jumbled up scribbles on her paper. She crumbled and trashed it to a nearby waste bin at her bedside which was already overflowing with paper and broken pencils.


SATURDAY


It was a rare sight to see Cagalli humming happily and even rarer for her to be doing so on an early Saturday morning. Cagalli was never a morning person and therefore, she's always in a sour mood when she comes in on Saturdays. True, she should be a lot more chipper on Saturdays as it was her day off, after all, but that usually didn't change her mood in the morning.

Hannah who as usual was waiting beside the receptionist, a young woman by the name of Meyrin Hawke, was happily chatting with the new recruit until Cagalli strolled by with a wide eyes and an even wider grin. Her bright mood startled the younger woman, but made Hannah cock an eyebrow. The nurse excused herself from the red head and followed Cagalli's lead to the cafeteria.

It had somehow become a routine among them. Cagalli would drop by every other Saturday morning at the hospital to visit Lacus without the time interfering with her work and she would accompany her best friend until visiting hours were over. Hannah would then wait for her by receptionist desk and they would both fetch Lacus' breakfast and medicine before waking the girl up.

Hannah continued to observe the blonde who was actually giddy enough to start marching to a silly song. The older woman finally got her nerves together for a question. "What on earth made you this happy, luv?" Not that Hannah was complaining, but it did still make her wonder."

Cagalli whirled around, walking backwards while facing Hannah. Her amber eyes gleamed with joy, "I have marvelous...no, brilliant...stupendous news! And I'm just going to burst. I can't wait to tell Lacus." When Cagalli bumped into something, she turned around yet again, apologizing to the person first before continuing on her way. Hannah chuckled and shook her head, balancing the metal tray as Cagalli carried the medicine.


"Two days, men. Two more days of hell."

The GUNDAMs were huddled together as if they were planning a strategy on an American football game. Shinn had placed both arms over Kira's and Athrun's backs and was talking in hushed tones. Athrun chanted repeatedly, "This is for the fans. This is for the fans. This is for the fans..." Kira had stopped talking altogether and weakly nodded. Anyting for the fans was the GUNDAMs' motto...anything even if it meant humiliation.

Kira's eyes wandered a bit as they broke off from the previous circle and it widened considerably when he spotted something. He quickly turned away, blushing. A pained look soon dawned on his face. It did not take long for Athrun to notice this as his gaze looked at where Kira was previously looking.

Sai's lips were on Flay's in a tight lip lock with his hands in her hair. Her hand on the other hand ventured lower and lower...

"C'mon, Strike. We start in five." Athrun called, placing a hand on his best friend before dragging him away from the scene. He grimaced though when he remembered what they were about to do. He sighed, still guiding Kira.

"The Pilots want an ab wave...an ab wave they will get."


"Lacus...oh my, she's still sleeping." Hannah said, stepping further into the room.

Lacus' bed was strewn with paper and pencils, her laptop half-hazardly placed on the side table. She seemed to be in a deep sleep and Hannah suspected that she may slept later than her assigned bed time schedule. With a sigh, she placed the tray in a corner table and gestured for Cagalli to come in.

"Looks like she won't be able to get your message, dear."

Cagalli's bright mood dampened visibly as she slumped her shoulders, but then it came back as she looked at Hannah instead.

"Hannah-san, do YOU want to hear what I have to say?"


After two humiliating yet fun hours, the three celebrities were finally done with the show. They gave each other pats on the back and passed around the bottles of water. They loved their fans really, but sometimes, they could be a handful.

Tolle never stopped laughing on the side stage when a Pilot requested for some bromance between Athrun and Kira. Shinn barely contained his giggles, but was shut up when the same girl requested the same from him and Athrun. The three shuddered at the thought.

"Seriously, Tolle. You can stop laughing now." Kira remarked, sipping his water bottle to cool down his heated face.

Tolle was laughing so hard he had tears in his eyes. "T-Time." More laughs. "...Okay...okay, I think I'm done." He continued but still his shoulders quaking. He wiped a tear away. "A-anyway, I received a letter from the hospital."

The three visibly stiffened. They never considered the fact that the hospital might reject their visit.

Tolle unfolded the paper, but before he read it, he told the three as they struggled to gather the paper from his hands, "Chill, guys. It isn't anything bad."


Cagalli whispered quietly into Hannah's ear. It wasn't long before Hannah's eyes also widened and she was smiling brightly.

"So, you want to keep this a secret from Lacus? It would make a wonderful surprise. Father is going to brief the staff today for preparations."

Hannah nodded, "I think it would make a lovely gift for her. I shall inform the other nurses not to say a word."

Cagalli frowned, "What about father? He asked me to tell Lacus as soon as possible."

"Not to worry. This is will be the staff's dirty little secret."


Tolle's voice rang clearly.

"...Provided that no pictures or videos of any sort will be made as well security from the paparazzi, Orb General Hospital will allow the GUNDAMs to do a charity concert and a personal fan meet with the patients next week.

Sincerely, Uzumi Nara Attha, Director of Orb General Hospital."

Cheers of joy clearly rang out from both ends that morning.


Author's Note: Gah. Finally an update...I sincerely apologize for the super late update. I'd blame it on college, but then everybody's busy too. I guess a factor of the previous hiatus is the loss of interest. After watching the four SEED Theaters though, I was empowered to finish this chapter. Chibi everybody was sooo cute! Especially when Shinn dressed up like Lacus. Hee hee

HEY! HEY! HEY! Music Champ - a popular music TV program in Japan

Oricon - the Japanese equivalent of Billboard's Top 100 in America

Arashi - famous JPop boy band.

Ab Wave - literally the showing of abs of all members, thus forming a wave of sorts. (Yes, Kira, Athrun and Shinn have abs.)

Ugh. For some reason, I don't really like this chapter. But an update is an update. Sorry for any grammatical and spelling errors. Hope you enjoyed! Reviews and constructive criticisms are loved. Next update will probably be soon as we're nearing the end of the semester.