Disclaimer: Most characters in this fiction are not mine unless stated otherwise. Every effort is made to keep this fiction satisfactory; hence, the chapters published are subjected to minor changes without prior notice. I do NOT own Mobile Suite Gundam SEED and Gundam SEED Destiny. SUNRISE produced it and it was directed by Mitsuo Fukuda.
AN: This story took place FOUR YEARS AFTER the Second Bloody Valentine War. To identify their present age, just add four years from their GSEED Destiny age.
Acknowledgement: hira-nera. animelover101. Freyris. falconrukichi. orb90. Xx Meisha xX. itsmesassy. Arkangel87. Nina. OPrincess ShinigamiO. alyceinchocoland. Ahalyna. gundamalchemist01. BooCha. kiralulu. arika518. elgnis rekresreb. Cammile Isabelle. Twinklefeather. littlemsstrawberry. ProserpineHell. Shiho Juuri. Azetta. asucagafan. lili. aurelian620.
HER LITTLE WARRIOR
Chapter Five: Project Entwine
oooooooo
Orb Union: Athha Estate
The night was crisp and clear. The round full moon was visible behind the tinted large windows of the estate. Cagalli was silently walking along the hallway of the West Wing. She had her hair tied in a messy pony tail. She was wearing a matching white tank top and green, flimsy, striped boy-shorts beneath her knee-length green sleeping robe. Cagalli was not a promiscuous woman, but she felt attractive in wearing an underwear bottom when sleeping. Of course, not many people knew about that, and she preferred it that way thank you very much!
She entered the wide double doors of the Royal Family Suite, and then walked towards the door labeled Prince Chamber. Cagalli slowly turned the knob and poked her head inside the room. The wide room was dimly lit with bedside lamps. Situated at the center of the room was a queen-size platform bed. Sleeping beneath the red, farm animals design comforter was little Ade. He was sprawled out of the bed, pushing away his comforter with his feet. Cagalli was about to cover him with his blanket, when Ade sprung from his pretend sleep, scaring the daylights out of her.
"BOO!"
"What the FU―DGE!" Cagalli exclaimed, changing her last word at the last minute. She had her hands over her heart in surprise. "Little prince! You scared the wits out of mommy! I thought you were asleep." Cagalli checked his bedside digital clock. "It is already 10 o'clock in the evening. It's your bedtime already, you little mister."
Ade pouted at her mother. "But mommy! You'll be leaving for Heliopolis Dos tomorrow! Can we play our favorite song, before I sleep?"
Cagalli pursed lips. "Not now, baby boy. If you want to see mommy before I leave tomorrow for Heliopolis Dos, you have to wake-up early in the morning. And for you to wake-up early, you need to sleep now. So come on, I'll tuck you in."
"Mommy, please! Please pretty please? With cherry on top..." Ade trailed off, standing on his bed and staring at her mother with his wide dark green eyes. He had his hands clasped together under his chin, protruding his bottom lip for added bonus.
Cagalli swallowed her words when she saw her little prince's puppy dog eyes. There were only four puppy dog eyes in her 22 years of existence that could weaken her resolve, namely: a dark green-eyed puppy dog eyes, an amethyst-eyed puppy dog eyes, a ruby-eyed puppy dog-eyes, and an emerald-eyed puppy dog eyes. The first two were the cutest of all, making them hard to resist. The last two could render her in a stupefied state because she was only graced by those puppy dog eyes once in a blue moon.
Ade's dark green eyes turned glassy. He still had his clasped hands under his chin, pleading for the blonde princess to reconsider. "Please, mommy, please? We will only play once, I promise! You'll be gone for one day and I am going to really, really, really miss you," the charming four year-old prince requested in his pitiful and soft voice.
Cagalli sighed and rolled her eyes in amusement. "Alright, alright! I surrender." She affectionately tapped his button nose. "Your antics will be the death of me."
"Huh?" Ade tilted his head to the side.
"Nothing. Don't mind mommy," she said, shaking her head from side to side. "Come on! Are we playing our favorite song or not?"
Ade's eyes widened in excitement. "REALLY? Yay! Thank you, thank you, thank you, mommy!" He leaped into his mother's opened arms, and showered her face with his kisses. "Thank you!"
Cagalli laughed as she carried her little prince in her embrace. They went out of the Royal Family Suite, and then went downstairs to the music room.
When they entered the music room, Cagalli put down the squirming Ade in her arms. From the time that his little feet had touched the carpeted ground, Ade ran to a small table with a black violin case on top of it. He opened the case and delicately grabbed his dark green violin and bow, which was given by her mother for his 3rd birthday. He walked towards the white semi-concert grand piano situated at the center of the music room.
Cagalli sat on the white piano bench and played a random tune. When Ade stood beside the piano, Cagalli signaled for her little prince to be ready. "Are you ready, baby boy?" she asked, smiling at him.
"YUP!"
Cagalli pressed on the keys and played the intro. When the first verse started to play, little Ade held his dark green violin under his chin and played using his bow. Cagalli started to sing with the tune as they continued to play their favorite song. Little did they know, a figure was peering behind the oak doors. As the oblivious mother and son continued playing their instruments, the intruder silently invited himself inside the music room. He stood behind the unsuspecting pair, and then leaned his back against the wall as he listened to them.
ooo
Athrun was alone in the kitchen, sitting on a bar stool. He had been stressed out for the whole week, since Shinn appeared from a confidential mission. All throughout the week, Shinn and Cagalli had been joined at the hip. They were always together, making it difficult for Athrun to talk with Cagalli.
Another problem was his fiancé. Three weeks in Orb had made him realize that he never had an inkling romantic feeling for Meyrin. He was now very sure that the reason why he accepted Meyrin's proposal to be her boyfriend and fiancé was because he was in denial. He did not want to accept the fact that he had been wrong in leaving Cagalli behind. Now that he wanted to talk to Meyrin and clear things out, his bubbly fiancé would always make every possible excuse to avoid their impending 'serious talk'.
To relieve his frustrations in life, Athrun went out from his room and raided the fridge exclusive for desserts. Athrun almost drooled when he saw his favorite strawberry cheesecake. Contrary to popular belief, his favorite dessert and stress reliever food was strawberry cheesecake, and not chocolate cake. He placed a slice of cake on his saucer and almost devoured it like a starving man.
When he was satisfied and full, Athrun strolled back to his room. Before he could climb up the grand staircase, he heard a soft and beautiful tune somewhere to his left. He followed where the tune came from and ended in a closed oak door labeled Music Room. He slowly opened the door and peered inside. What he saw amazed the hell out of him.
Inside the music room, Cagalli was playing beautifully on a white semi-concert grand piano. Standing beside her was little Ade, clad in a matching blue giraffe print pajamas, skillfully playing a dark green violin. His amazement escalated to total enchantment when Cagalli started to sing softly.
Heart beats fast
Colors and promises
How to be brave
How can I love when I'm afraid to fall
But watching you stand alone
All of my doubt suddenly goes away somehow
One step closer
He never knew that Cagalli could sing, much more play the piano. For the two years that he was her bodyguard, she never hinted that she had these hidden talents. Athrun silently went inside, leaning his back against the wall. He crossed his arms against his muscular chest and listened to their music. As he looked at them, he could feel their love and care as they smiled and stared at each other. Their music was their way of embracing each other, and reminding them that they will always be together.
I have died everyday waiting for you
Darling don't be afraid I have loved you
For a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more
Athrun observed little Ade. The little boy could play the violin very well. At the age of four, his skill was remarkable. He believed that the little boy was a violin prodigy. There was something unique in the way that he played the green instrument. Athrun could tell because he was a violin prodigy at 6 years old himself. Although he was a violin prodigy, only few people knew about his talent. Even Meyrin did not know about it. Some of those people who knew his talent in playing the violin were his parents, all members of Team Le Creuset, Kira, Lacus, and Cagalli.
Time stands still
Beauty in all he is
I will be brave
I will not let anything take away
What's standing in front of me
Every breath
Every hour has come to this
One step closer
The emerald-eyed Coordinator shifted his gaze to Cagalli. Even though she was wearing her sleeping robe, she looked beautiful. Her delicate fingers were gliding expertly from one key to another. While Lacus had the soft melodious voice of a seasoned cultural pop icon, Cagalli had a rougher tinge to her voice, suitable for pop rock genre. He thought he knew everything about the blonde princess, but she surprised him again and again. Seeing her now with Ade made him fall in love with her more and more.
I have died everyday waiting for you
Darling don't be afraid I have loved you
For a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more...
Athrun was brought back from his thoughts, when the last notes of the song and Cagalli's voice softly faded to end. He saw both mother and son stared tenderly at each other, while grinning in delight. The two did not notice him yet, so he decided to announce his presence by clapping his hands in admiration.
Simultaneously, Cagalli and Ade jerked their heads to where the clapping sound came from. Cagalli hurriedly stood up from her seat as she stared wide-eyed at Athrun.
"Athrun!"
"Uncle Athrun!" Ade yelled in delight as he ran towards the emerald-eyed man, while holding his violin carefully.
Athrun laughed heartily. "Woah! Slow down," he said as he crouched down and playfully ruffled the little boy's hair. "You played your violin wonderfully. Great job there, buddy!"
"You like it?" Ade asked expectantly. His dark green eyes widened in anticipation.
"Absolutely! I like it very much," Athrun praised. "How about one of these days we play the violin together?" he suggested.
"YOU can play the violin?" Ade exclaimed in wonder. He was staring at the emerald-eyed man before him with admiration.
"Of course. I started playing the violin when I was very young like you. I even have my own violin in PLANTs."
Little Ade's dark green orbs widened even more. "COOL!"
Cagalli watched the two in front of her, trading stories about their passion and experiences in playing the violin. Her amber eyes softened as she stared fondly at them. She waited for a few more seconds, before she cleared her throat and interrupted their conversation.
"Little prince, it is past your bedtime. You promised that you will sleep after this. Put back your violin inside its case, and then let's go upstairs so I can tuck you in."
"Yes, mommy!" With the help of his mother, Ade placed his violin inside its case. Meanwhile, Athrun stood up from his crouched position and decided to speak up.
"I'll walk you two to your rooms," Athrun offered.
"No need, Athrun. We can manage," Cagalli refused his offer. "Actually, it should be the other way around. We will pass your room first, before ours," she continued.
Athrun shook his head. "I insist. Please Cagalli. I want to do it."
"But―"
"None negotiable. I will both escort you to your rooms and that's final."
"Fine!" Cagalli huffed in surrender, raising her arms exasperatingly.
Athrun smirked discreetly in triumph, glad that he would have a few more minutes with Cagalli. After securing his violin case inside the cabinet, Ade ran excitedly in front of Athrun.
"Up! Up!" Ade demanded as he raised both his short arms towards the tall man, while jumping in his place.
Athrun laughed at the energetic child, while Cagalli stared at her son in mortification. "Ade! What are you doing? Ask your Uncle Athrun first if it is alright for him to carry you! Don't just demand it from him."
"Lighten up, Cagalli," Athrun said as he scooped the little boy and placed him above his broad shoulders, and then secured the boy by wrapping his hands behind his knees. Ade squealed in delight as he held his uncle's head. "I'm so tall!" the blonde-headed prince exclaimed.
"Gah! I knew it! All of you are going to spoil him to the nth level. I knew it!" Cagalli complained beside Athrun as they started walking towards the West Wing.
"It's your fault. You did not inform us about him for years. Spoiling him is our way of making up for those years that we were not able to know and see him," Athrun said in a matter-of-factly.
"I already told you my reasons!" Cagalli whined in annoyance, pouting at him childishly.
The emerald-eyed Coordinator chuckled at her adorable expression. Annoying Cagalli was a refreshing and enjoyable habit of him. She looked adorable and irresistible with her big amber eyes and pouting petal-like lips. He was tempted to swoop down and capture her protruding bottom lip, and then nibble it between his teeth and lips teasingly.
'Relax, Zala. Get a grip of yourself,' Athrun chastised himself. 'Control your raging hormones before you loss all your sanity and pounce on the poor woman. You were raised by your wonderful mother as a gentleman, Zala, so act like one!'
Athrun turned his head away from Cagalli to hide his slightly blushing face and lustful emerald eyes. To distract his mind from thinking some perverted thoughts about the gorgeous woman beside him, Athrun firmly held little Ade's dangling legs in his hands and jogged playfully towards the Royal Suite. Ade was laughing loudly, and having fun bouncing on top of Athrun's shoulders. Cagalli watched the male duo ahead of her. She had a small smile on her face, with longing painted on her big amber orbs. She had this faint nostalgic expression on her face as she stared at Athrun and Ade.
'If only...' Cagalli thought in wishful thinking. She sighed and shook her head to clear some unwanted thoughts from resurfacing unintentionally. She jogged after the two laughing males and called after them. "Hey, you two, wait for me or else..." she trailed off in mock anger. The only response that she got from them was their loud laughter.
When they got inside the Prince Chamber, Athrun and Cagalli tucked little Ade on his bed. Cagalli was seating on the right side of Ade, while Athrun was leaning on the left side of the bed. Both adults said their goodnight to the sleepy little prince.
"Goodnight, my little prince," Cagalli said softly to the yawning little boy as she slowly combed his dark blonde hair with her hands. "Sweet dreams and sleep tight. Don't let the bed bugs bite," she teased softly, and then kissed both his chubby cheeks and forehead.
"Goodnight and―yawn―sweet dreams, mommy. I love you LOTS," murmured the drooping little boy.
Cagalli smiled tenderly. "I love you LOTS, too, baby."
"G'night and sweet dreams, Uncle Athrun." Ade slowly turned his head to the left, facing the emerald-eyed man beside him. His dark green eyes were glassy due to sleepiness.
"Good night and sweet dreams, too, buddy." Athrun kissed his forehead, and then ruffled his dark blonde hair.
Cagalli and Athrun silently went outside of the room. Cagalli slowly closed the door so that she would not disturb the slumbering little prince inside the room. Cagalli faced Athrun and said, "Well...thank you for escorting us and good night, Athrun. See you tomorrow."
Athrun raised an eyebrow. "Why are you thanking me this early? We haven't arrived at your bedroom door yet."
"Huh?" Cagalli asked in confusion.
"I intended to walk the both of you to your own bedroom doors. Since we are done with Ade, our next stop will be your room," Athrun slowly explained to the slightly mortified woman before him.
"You don't have to escort me," Cagalli squeaked. "I can manage."
"No. I'll bring you to your room. As what I said earlier, it is none negotiable. I'll escort you to your room, whether you like it or not. If I have to carry you on my shoulders for you to comply, then so be it," Athrun insisted as he narrowed his emerald-eyes in to slits.
"Really, Athrun, I insist. No need to escort―"
"Why are you protesting so much? Are you afraid of me?" Athrun cut her off.
"I am not!" Cagalli denied vehemently.
"So if you have nothing to be afraid of, then I will escort you now to your room, your highness."
"Athrun―"
Athrun caught Cagalli's arm and pulled her towards her room. Cagalli continued to protest on their way to her chamber, digging the soles of her feet against the carpeted floor. However, her protests were useless because Athrun was without question and beyond doubt stronger than Cagalli. He was still able to pull her slender body effortlessly, despite of her protests.
When they arrived in front of her room, Cagalli shook his hold on her arms aggressively. "Athrun!" Cagalli bellowed in annoyance.
"What?" Athrun asked off-handedly, feigning innocence and raising both of his arms in surrender as he tried to suppress his wide grin.
"I TOLD YOU I CAN MANAGE ZALA!"
"It's too late now. We're here already," he informed her arrogantly.
"Argh! You're so...so insufferable!" Cagalli huffed grumpily, while crossing her arms against her chest.
"And you are a very stubborn woman, princess."
"Stop calling me that! I told you a thousand times already. Do. Not. Call. Me. Princess." Cagalli hissed at him, jabbing her finger to every word that she said into his hard chest.
Athrun raised an eyebrow at her, ignoring her useless assault to his chest. "You're changing the topic here. Why are you really against my offer to escort you here? Are you hiding something from me?" Athrun asked curiously.
"Of course not!" She crossed her arms and stuck her nose in the air haughtily
"Are you afraid of me?" he continued to ask, while slowly backing her up against the wall.
"What the hell! No!" Cagalli answered frustratingly as she slowly stepped back away from the advancing Athrun.
"Are you avoiding me?"
"Of course not! Why will I avoid you?" Cagalli said, trying to not stutter, and managed.
"I don't know." Athrun shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly. "Possibly you still held a big grudge against me?" he speculated.
"We talked about this already. We're cool with each other. We're good friends. Ring a bell, Athrun Zala?" Cagalli said exasperatingly at the man towering before her.
"So..." Athrun drawled, "If you're not hiding something, nor avoiding me, and you consider me as a very good friend...then perhaps you're just uneasy when I'm very near you and when we are alone together," he concluded as he stared at her amber orbs with his smoldering emerald eyes. Athrun had one hand propped beside her head against the wall, boxing her in and blocking Cagalli from opening and entering her room.
"Wha―?" Cagalli choked out.
"Admit it, princess." Athrun's voice dropped a little lower, his lips were a few centimeters away from her petal-like lips. "The reason why you keep on insisting that I leave you alone is because I still affect you...tre-men-dous-ly."
Through the years that they were good friends and one-time lovers, Cagalli discovered two major personalities of Athrun Zala. A 'knight-like' Athrun was definitely swoon worthy and very ideal for tender-loving and feel good moments. As a woman, you would feel cherished and protected, like no harm would befall you because he would always protect and support you. The 'knight-like' Athrun was handsome, gentle, calm, serious, and definitely husband material. On the other hand, his second personality was extremely opposite of his 'knight-like' persona and rare to be seen. A 'sensual' Athrun was way different from the former. He was confident and commanded everyone's attention. His charming and alluring personality, coupled with his good-looks and oozing sex appeal, enamored most women that he encountered. The 'sensual' Athrun was gorgeous, seductive, playful, bold, and dangerous in a very good way, making it difficult to resist him.
Unfortunately for the amber-eyed blonde princess, 'sensual' Athrun decided to show his 'unexpected' presence at this moment.
Athrun was wearing a snug fit white, V-necked T-shirt, accentuating his broad shoulders, well-defined chest, and upper extremities. His navy blue pajama bottom hung low on his narrow hips and firm buttocks, while he cushioned his feet with a pair of matching navy blue slippers. His blue hair was tousled in a sexy 'just-got-out-from-bed' manner. With his tempting physique, penetrating emerald orbs, and sexy and soft deep voice, Athrun Zala was definitely hotter than hell and the devil himself.
Cagalli tried to control her breathing so that her slightly heaving chest would not touch Athrun's hard one. She unconsciously licked her dry lips, her amber orbs were wide open. She tried to focus her attention at Athrun, but she was lost in her thoughts as she stared intently at her ex-lover's lips.
'Haumea, please help me, but I miss kissing and nibbling those tempting lips,' Cagalli thought dazedly. 'Will it taste the same as before? Will I be addicted again if I indulge myself with his mind-blowing kisses? If I raise my head a little bit higher, maybe...maybe...mayb―STOP! For the love of God! Cagalli Yula Athha CONTROL YOURSELF! Wake-up! Wake-up! Get a hold of yourself, you blonde bint!'
Cagalli was brought back from her thoughts as soon as her train of thoughts turned a little bit perverted. She mentally slapped herself for thinking such foolish things. 'Athha, you idiot woman!' she mentally berated herself.
"Am I correct, dear princess?" Athrun asked again, his voice dropped much lower than before to the point of almost seductive. He was busy staring alternately on her parted plump lips and her darkened amber orbs. He was tempted to close the tiny gap between their lips, but he agonizingly stopped himself. Those annoying lips of hers just begged for attention.
"N-NO!" Cagalli sputtered loudly, and then she swooped down his propped arm, and dashed towards her room. Unfortunately for her, of all times that she would have a klutz attack, the fates decided to choose that moment.
Cagalli tripped as she tried to escape Athrun. With natural soldier and Coordinator reflexes, Athrun impulsively encircled his arms around her waist and hips, and then maneuvered the falling princess against his chest to stop her from falling face flat on the floor. Plastered together, Cagalli stiffened in his arms as she instinctively placed her hands on his broad shoulders to brace herself.
''Oomph!" Cagalli grunted in surprise.
Emerald clashed with amber like opposite poles of a magnet.
Their breaths mingled as they exhaled through their parted lips. Cagalli unconsciously licked her dry lips, attracting Athrun's darkened emerald orbs to her wet lips. Slowly, Athrun angled his head and lowered his mouth towards her tempting lips. Before their lips could meet in a sinful kiss, Cagalli abruptly pushed Athrun away from her and...
"ACHOO!"
Silence.
Time stood still as they stared at each other. Cagalli had both of her hands on Athrun's shoulders, arms stretched to create a distance between them, while Athrun had his hands loosely placed on her hips. Both of them froze on their spot, one in mortification, while the other in shock. Athrun gaped at Cagalli in shock and confusion, while Cagalli opened and closed her mouth like a fish, unable to form a word.
"S-SORRY!" The blonde princess squeaked in chagrin as she clumsily escaped from his embrace. "I-I have to go! Good night!" she said hastily, and then entered her room, closing her door with a bang.
Athrun blinked. He remained unmoving on his spot. He closed his eyes for a moment, and then opened his emerald eyes, staring at the closed door. The hallway remained quiet for a few seconds, when the lone Coordinator released a soft snort, and then chuckles came out from his mouth that escalated into an amused laughter. When Athrun calmed down, he sauntered back to his assigned room, with a scheming glint in his emerald orbs, and a pleased smirk on his handsome face.
Inside the Princess Chamber, Cagalli was leaning her back heavily against the massive double doors. Her eyes were wide and her hands were clenched tightly at her side, as she tried to process what happened between her and Athrun a few minutes ago. She covered her heart with her hand to steady her heartbeat and glared blindly at somewhere on the corner of the room
"Whew! What the hell had just happened back there?" Cagalli muttered to herself as she fanned her flushed face with her hands. "Get a hold of yourself, Athha! The man is engaged for Haumea's sake!" she berated herself, ruffling her ponytail in confusion and frustration.
"Idiot, hamster-brain! Aargh! Tempting me like that."
oooooooo
"Our space shuttle will depart within an hour, so please take good care of Ade for me. I was able to say goodbye to him last night, but he might be saddened that he was not able to say goodbye this morning. Please take care of him Mir, since you know him better than the others," Cagalli told Mir while they held hands.
"Don't worry about Ade. We will all take care of him." Mir smiled reassuringly.
"Mir is right. We will cheer him up when he wakes up, so don't you worry, princess!" Dearka added, raising his thumb up. "Besides, Ade will be very busy collecting some gilla coins from Yzak, with the number of curses our platinum-haired friend could produce."
"ELSMAN!" Yzak warned, narrowing his eyes dangerously at his blond-haired best friend.
Everyone laughed at the scowling Yzak. The whole gang was outside the Athha Estate to say their goodbyes to Cagalli, Lacus, Kira, Shinn, Admiral Kisaka, and Captain Waltfeld. Little Ade failed to wake-up early because of his late night bonding with his mother in the music room. The departing party for Heliopolis Dos hugged and shook the hands of their friends. Admiral Kisaka and Captain Waltfeld were waiting beside the limousines that they would be riding on their way to Onogoro Space Shuttle Port.
Admiral Kisaka cleared his throat to get everyone's attention. "Lady Cagalli and Lady Lacus, it is time for us to go. We only have less than an hour before departure," he reminded the young political leaders.
The two women nodded their heads and said their last reminders and goodbyes to their friends. Kira guided Lacus to their assigned limousine with Captain Waltfeld, while Shinn guided Cagalli towards Admiral Kisaka to their own limousine. Before the departing party could walk a few more steps, they heard someone shouting behind them.
"MOOOMMY! MOMMY WAIT!"
"Little prince! Slow down, dear boy."
Everyone turned their heads to the running little prince. He was still clad in his blue giraffe print pajamas that he wore last night. They could see that the little boy had just woken up, with his disheveled dark blonde hair, sleepy dark green eyes, and rumpled pajamas. Ade went down the entrance stairs as fast as his short legs could do. Myrna was trailing not far behind him.
"MOMMY! PAPA SHINN! Please wait!"
Before Cagalli could prepare herself, little Ade launched his small body to his mother. Good thing that Shinn was standing behind Cagalli as he was able to steady the blonde princess.
"Ooof!" Cagalli grunted. "Good grief! You are so heavy Ade. Mommy can't catch you easily like before. You have to slow down next time."
Ade hugged his mother's neck like a baby monkey. He was staring at her with his big dark green eyes, pouting miserably. "You did not even wake me up and say goodbye! I was not able to say bye-bye and take care to Papa Shinn, and to Uncle Kira, and to pretty Auntie Lacus, and to Uncle Ledonir, and to Uncle Andy, and to YOU!" he exclaimed in one breath.
Cagalli, Lacus, and all the women melted as they heard what the adorable little prince had said, while the men were shaking their heads in amusement. 'This little guy will surely break every woman's heart when he grows up,' the men thought.
Ade tightened his hold around Cagalli's neck. "Your little prince will miss you lots and lots and LOTS, mommy!"
"Aaaw..." Shiho and Mir cooed, placing their hands above their heart.
Cagalli pecked her son's nose. "I will miss you too baby boy. Be good to your uncles and aunties, okay?"
"YUP!" Ade nodded in affirmative. He switched his gaze to the ruby-eyed man behind Cagalli, and then raised his short arms to him. "Papa Shinn! HUG!" the little prince demanded.
Shinn chuckled behind Cagalli as he scooped the young boy from his mother's arms. "Behave, you squirt or else..." he trailed off as he lightly tickled the squirming dark green-eyed boy.
"Stop―gasp―stop!" Ade gasped out as he squirmed and laughed in his papa's arms.
"Ha! You'll receive more tickles if you don't behave while we are gone. Am I clear?" Shinn narrowed his eyes playfully.
"Yes, sir!" Ade saluted mockingly. After giving Shinn a final hug, Ade squirmed out of his papa's embrace, and then ran to his Uncle Kira and Auntie Lacus. "Uncle Kira, you promised yesterday that you'll buy me LOTS of chocolates from Heliopolis Dos" he stated commandingly as he stood in front of his uncle.
Lacus stood behind Ade and gently placed her hands on his shoulders, while Kira crouched down in front of the little guy and ruffled his dark blonde hair. "Yes, I did promise, and I don't back down from my promises. So expect boxes of chocolates when we return."
"YAY!" Ade jumped and raised his arms in excitement.
"Yes, you'll have your chocolates, but a SMALL box. And that is none negotiable," Cagalli reminded sternly.
"B-But mooom...!"
"No 'buts' little prince. It's either your uncle will bring home a small box of chocolate or no chocolate at all."
"Cagalli, don't be a spoil sport. Allow me to buy some things for my only nephew, who I did not meet until three weeks ago," Kira told his twin sister.
"I'm not a spoil sport," Cagalli denied indignantly. "Ade is very hyperactive if he consumes a lot of chocolates. It will be very difficult for us to control him if that happens. Trust me Kira. A chocolate induced Ade is like handling all the children in the orphanage at the same time."
Kira sighed in resignation and faced Ade. "You heard your mommy, squirt. Only a small box of assorted chocolates is allowed," Kira said as he patted his head. Ade only pouted in defeat.
"Now, now, don't be sad little prince. How about your uncle will buy you a small box of chocolate, while I buy you a very special toy," Lacus offered behind the still pouting little guy.
Little Ade stared at Lacus with wonder. He was staring at her upside down, head bent backwards. "Promise, Auntie Pinky?" he asked. Ade started calling Lacus 'Auntie Pinky' due to her long pink hair, and her pink haro, Mr. Pink.
Lacus tweaked his button nose. "Promise."
Ade turned around and hugged Lacus' legs, and then he went to Admiral Kisaka and Captain Waltfeld to say his goodbyes and reminded them to take care of his special people. The two older men chuckled at the little prince in amusement, and then promised him to bring back his special people safe in Orb, while ruffling his dark blonde hair playfully. Ade ran back to Cagalli to give his last big hug for the meantime. After the hug, Cagalli scooped her little son in her arms, and then went in front of Athrun.
Emerald and amber stared intently at each other, while dark green eyes stared at them in wonder, darting his dark blonde head from one person to the other.
Athrun and Cagalli remained silent, as if communicating silently through their eyes. Meyrin was fidgeting beside Athrun as she felt awkward standing close to her fiancé and his ex-lover, while their friends around them were staring at them with curiosity and bemusement. To break their staring match, Meyrin decided to interrupt, and then cleared her throat.
"Uhmm...Miss Cagalli...?" Meyrin diverted their attention to her.
Cagalli reacted first, turning her head to Meyrin, and then to little Ade, and lastly to Athrun. She cleared her throat and spoke. "Zala, listen to me and listen carefully. I demand that you take good care of my son while I am away. We know that aside from Kira, Shinn, and Kisaka, he trusts you more than anyone in this world. If I see a single bruise on his tiny and chubby body, I will hurt you where the sun don't shine and make sure that the Zala line will end with you. Do I make myself clear, hamster-brain?" she ordered him, punctuating every word of her last sentence with a jab on his chest.
Athrun quirked an eyebrow. 'She's not acting strange...at all. Did she forget what almost transpired last night? What are you playing at, Cagalli Yula Athha?' he thought, a little bit irked at her nonchalance. Despite of his inner struggle, the emerald-eyed man replied to his amber-eyed ex-lover. "You're doing a good job in ordering me to look out for Ade by calling me 'hamster-brain'? Tut, tut, tut, Miss Athha, aren't we a little bit demanding and brattish, hmm?" he taunted.
"Don't try my patience―" Cagalli started to retaliate, but Ade interrupted her with his indignant voice. "I'm not CHUBBY!" he exclaimed. His cheeks puffed as he pouted, and tried crossing his arms with difficulty against his chest.
Before another argument would start, Admiral Kisaka decided to interrupt and remind his ward about their flight to space. "Lady Athha, as much as I enjoy your mock banters with Athrun and Ade, I would like to remind you that we have less than an hour before our space shuttle departs. I insist that we start traveling to Onogoro Space Port, or we might be late for your meeting at Heliopolis Dos."
Cagalli sighed, and then handed Ade to Athrun's embrace. The hyperactive little prince immediately wrapped his arms around his Uncle Athrun. Cagalli, Kira, Lacus, and Shinn bid their farewell to everyone as they entered their assigned limousines with Admiral Kisaka and Captain Waltfeld. Ade exaggeratedly waved his hand 'bye-bye' to his mother, while Cagalli threw a flying kiss to her son. She narrowed her eyes lightheartedly at Athrun and said, "Athrun. Take care of Ade or else..."
Athrun only chuckled, and then smirked at her. "Definitely, your highness," he drawled, winking at her.
Cagalli almost choked in surprise at his bold action. 'Is that idiot hamster-brain flirting with me in broad daylight, and with his fiancé beside him NO LESS!' she shrieked in her head, appalled at his audacity to act like that in front of their friends. Fortunately, no one saw their exchange. Cagalli frowned. She shook her head to clear her thoughts, and then pressed a button to close her window as their limousine started to roll away from the estate.
When the convoy of the Chief Representative of Orb and the Supreme Council Chairwoman of PLANTS left the Athha Compound, the remaining guests went inside the estate to do whatever they want to do.
"So..." Dearka started, linking his hands behind his head, "What will be our agenda for today?" he asked his friends.
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Heliopolis Dos: Heliopolis Dos Research Institute
"Good day ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for sparing one day of your time from your very busy schedule. After almost three years of in-depth studies and development, Classified File Serial No. 8945CN01 Project Entwine has been COMPLETED," Chief Representative of Orb Union, Cagalli Yula Athha, announced to the board members.
Excited and curious murmurs erupted around the large executive board room of Heliopolis Dos Research Institute. All political representatives of each country that signed the Valentine Peace Treaty were present, sitting in a circular arrangement. Sitting on the elevated platform behind them, were their bodyguards and escorts, and then seated in a platform in front of the board room, were Cagalli Yula Athha, and the researchers and the scientist in-charge of the project.
Cagalli cleared her throat and continued, "Yes. You heard right. The project is ready for launching in two months' time. So without further ado, please help me welcome Dr. Eirik Olsen, Head Researcher, and Dr. Nobu Morri, Head Scientist and Geneticist for the project to explain in full detail about Project Entwine."
All political representatives and their escorts politely clapped their hands to the two doctors standing on the platform. Cagalli went back on her seat between Lacus, and the Crowned Prince of Sweden. When the clapping subsided, Dr. Olsen stood in front of the speaker podium, facing his audience, while Dr. Morri waited near the projector controls to prepare their presentation slides.
"Project Entwine is the primary essence of the Valentine Peace Treaty between Coordinators and Naturals. Four years ago, this project was proposed by all neutral nations to act as a binding force, and a major proof that Coordinators and Naturals could live harmoniously. The goal of this project is to bind both races together in every possible way," Dr. Olsen started. A four-dimensional holographic projection appeared at the center of the board room. The room was dimmed so that the audience could appreciate clearly the holographic presentation.
"Who will benefit this project?" Dr. Olsen continued his presentation. "Both Coordinators and Naturals are the target beneficiaries of Entwine, specifically: 1) second, third, and the succeeding generations of Coordinators with major infertility and birth rate problems; 2) organic disorders and complicated pregnancy for Natural women, and the most important target of this project; 3) a possible and successful Coordinator and Natural conceivability."
"Project Entwine is an extensive medical and scientific research project for the benefit of the whole human race," he paused, sweeping his gaze to all Coordinator and Natural political leaders and representatives present today.
"Let me expound again the problems of each beneficiary and how will this project help them." Dr. Olsen continued to talk as the holographic figures changed from one image to another to expound and support his explanations.
"First on the list are the common problems of all second and the next generations of Coordinator, which is infertility and very low birth rate. It is widely known that Coordinators had difficulty in conceiving a child due to their modified genes. Second-generation Coordinators and so forth had 15 to 20% probability of successfully conceiving a child, and only 8 out of 10 successful pregnancies are carried to term."
"If and only if the Coordinator couple is able to have a child, another problem that they have to face is a low probability of another pregnancy. While few are blessed with two children at most, majority are still having difficulty in conceiving more than one child, resulting to a very low birth rate. This low birth rate will cause a large impact in the Coordinator populace."
"With Entwine, there will be additional 20 to 40% chances of successfully conceiving a child, and a high probability to conceive an additional of one or two more offspring," the Head Researcher informed them.
"Our next targets are the Natural mothers with complications during their pregnancy. Albeit the Natural couples have lesser problems in conceiving and producing as many offspring as they want, 30 to 40% of these expectant mothers are experiencing pregnancy complications or illnesses that will make their pregnancy a little bit difficult."
"Another pregnancy related issue of some Natural women between 20 to 35 years old is an early detection of an organic disorder. Yes, these young women are very fertile, but these disorders will hinder their chances of conceiving naturally. To be cured of their disorder and to prolong their lives, they are advised or required to eliminate their reproductive organs by means of surgical removal. This process will cause premature sterility, totally eliminating the chances of conceiving."
"With Entwine, Natural mothers will experience less complications and less difficulty during their pregnancy. Young Natural women with reproductive organ disorders will need to undergo a specific treatment, so that surgical removal of their organs would less likely happen," Dr. Olsen paused, giving an ample time for his audience to process the information that he had given to them.
"Lastly, the primary beneficiaries of this project are the Coordinator/Natural couples who wish to conceive successfully a normal child," Dr. Olsen started again, while he discreetly glanced at Cagalli, before he faced back his audience. It went unnoticed by almost everybody in the room, except for Cagalli, Shinn, Admiral Kisaka, and Dr. Morri. "Aside from discrimination and jealousy, one big issue on why Coordinators and Naturals are prohibited to be together is their inability to conceive successfully a normal child. According to studies, there is only 5% or less chances to conceive a Coordinator/Natural offspring. Ninety percent of these pregnancies are not carried successfully to term. Most mothers will experience miscarriage on their 1st trimester, and worse, some mothers die in blood intoxication due to the foreign gene composition of the embryos, which they got from their fathers."
"If and only if the baby is carried up to term and delivered alive, it is expected that the mother will die after birth. Unfortunately, the live baby will always be abnormal, and will soon die within a week or two. In conclusion, Coordinator and Natural blood do not mix very well together."
"Under Entwine, a Coordinator/Natural pairing is acceptable. They will be able to conceive naturally and successfully, with minor but manageable liabilities. The infant will either be a dominant Coordinator or a dominant Natural at birth. If the infant is a dominant Coordinator, there will be miniscule traces of a Natural gene as part of the infant's DNA composition, and vice-versa with the dominant Natural," Dr. Eirik Olsen ended the first part of his presentation.
The Head Researcher of Project Entwine continued to present and explain in finer and simple details of the differences and similarities of genetic make-up of Coordinators and Naturals, and also the theories behind it. As he continued to talk, the representatives were listening to him attentively. Some were nodding their heads in understanding or agreement, while others were taking notes. Dr. Eirik Olsen continued to present his part for an hour and a half, before they had a 30-minute break.
After their break, Dr. Nobu Morri replaced Dr. Olsen on the podium to present his part of the project. He presented some of their studies and experiments that they had conducted all through-out the years, and the current effective treatment that they had discovered. Dr. Morri presented the pros and cons of the therapy, and the statistical data of effectiveness and success. He discussed about the procedures and treatments developed that the couple, or the woman with conceiving problems should undergo if they decided to submit themselves for Entwine Therapy.
"What is the procedure for Entwine Therapy? The patients will receive a solution developed by our scientists via intravenous infusion. The whole procedure will only take an hour per session. The time period of therapy and rehabilitation varies from one person to the other," Dr. Morri informed them. "The expected time period of therapy for Coordinator couples and Natural women with reproductive illness will be 4 to 18 months at most if they are very committed to their treatment sessions, twice every month. While for a Coordinator/Natural couple, it will take a longer treatment for them to conceive. It will take approximately 6 to 30 months, but highly effective nonetheless. If the couple successfully conceived, the expectant mother will continue the treatment once every trimester, until the baby is born. After their first successful delivery, the couple or the mother will only need to undergo one session per year if they want to conceive more children in the future."
"However, in very rare occurrences, if the Coordinator/Natural pairing is able to conceive without submitting themselves for Entwine Therapy, the expectant mother should undergo an emergency treatment during and after the pregnancy so that both mother and child will survive healthy," the Head Scientist and Geneticist ended.
Dr. Eirik Olsen joined Dr. Nobu Morri on the podium to conclude their presentation. "Project Entwine is still on-going and very open for more innovations. As of now, these are the best results and treatments, and we are doing our best to improve it better. With this advancement, we should always remember that Project Entwine is for the good of the human race, whether you are a Coordinator or a Natural," Dr. Olsen concluded their presentation.
"Ladies and gentlemen, if you have any questions, you are free to ask and we will try to answer them as simple we can," Dr. Morrie informed the political representatives in the room.
Questions and clarifications from the representatives were asked left and right. The board of political leaders and representatives discussed and debated the pros and cons of Project Entwine. After almost two hours of deliberation, the Valentine Peace Treaty Board of Members made the final decision to launch Project Entwine two weeks before the Peace Treaty week celebration. Every member of the treaty signed a contract of agreement to legalize the authentication of the project and its launching.
After the meeting, Cagalli, Kira, Lacus, Shinn, Admiral Kisaka, and Captain Waltfeld drove their way to one of the Athha condominiums in Heliopolis Dos. They would be staying there until the next day. They would travel back to Orb after lunch. The six of them were riding in a long limousine.
"Hmm...I'm looking forward to the launching of Project Entwine," Captain Waltfeld said to them. "Many Coordinators and Naturals will surely be delighted when they hear the good news. Aaah…I was thinking, I am in my prime and eligible, too, maybe I should submit myself for therapy?" he asked mischievously.
Kira, who was drinking his water in a bottle, sputtered in surprise. "Cough. Cough. C-Captain―cough―Captain Waltfeld! What are you insinuating? Aren't you a bit old for that?" he almost squeaked in mortification. Lacus was patting his back gently to relieve his coughing fit.
Captain Waltfeld raised a brow. "What are you talking about, kid? Of course I am still qualified for the treatment. For your information, I'm still in my late 30's. And as far as I know, men are able to procreate as long as they are healthy and alive. I can assure you I am still capable and can perform...very well I might add."
"Will the two of you stop talking about Andy's performance?" Cagalli grumbled in disgust. "Goodness! I don't mind this kind of topic, but please don't forget that Lacus is listening to your conversation. Spare her of your perverseness, especially you Kira."
Lacus blushed like a tomato. Kira choked on his saliva as he opened and closed his mouth like a fish. Captain Waltfeld and Admiral Kisaka chuckled in amusement, while Shinn grinned and shook his head from side to side as he enjoyed the scene before him.
"C-Ca-Cagalli...!" Kira sputtered.
"Shut-up, Kira! Your annoying voice is making my headache worse," Cagalli grumbled as she massaged her temple with her fingers.
"Do you want some medicine for your headache, Lady Athha?" Shinn asked her. The five of them stared at Cagalli in concern.
"No. No." Cagalli waved her hand carelessly. "I'm fine. I can manage. Just continue your talk, but please lower your voice a bit." She smiled at them.
"Are you sure?" Lacus asked her softly, genuine concern painted on her beautiful face.
"I'm alright. Don't worry about me, future sister-in-law." Cagalli winked at the pink-haired woman.
The other five in the limousine, excluding Cagalli, continued to talk about the Project Entwine. They shared their opinions about the benefits of the project to human race. They were almost near the condominium building when Kira asked loudly in wonder.
"You know what? After all these excitement and overwhelming information about the Project Entwine, I wonder why it was never mentioned who really proposed this brilliant idea. All I can say is whoever he/she is, and what is his/her basis for this project proposal, I salute that person for having this idea," he said.
Lacus and Captain Waltfeld nodded their heads in agreement. No one noticed that Cagalli slightly stiffened on her seat, except for Shinn and Admiral Kisaka who were trying to divert their topic to avoid suspicion.
'If you only knew that I was the one who initiated the project and what are my real reasons in proposing it, my brother dearest,' Cagalli thought a bit gloomily as she stared outside the car window.
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AN: HOLD IT RIGHT THERE! I have my reasons on why I updated this SUPER late and I want you to read it:
1) LOTS of outing moments with family & cousins every week, since I got my laptop from the computer center a few weeks ago. No time to type.
2) I read some new & interesting fictions since last week about these pairings: dramione; sasusaku and; kagomesessh. I need to read my favorite fictions, too.
3) I was outlining the topics for every chapter of this fiction. Spoiler: I'll have 18 chapters for this fiction, plus Prologue and Epilogue. (20 chapters all in all)
PS: Please continue reviewing. REVIEWS are very much appreciated. I need your REVIEWS for inspiration and for the will to continue this fiction with vigor. THANK YOU! If you REVIEW, I'll be giving an exclusive update/spoilers about the next chapter and its tentative posting schedule.
Notes:
* Song: Christina Perri - A Thousand Years: Listen to YouTube = Copy then search: Christina Perri - A Thousand Years - Jun Sung Ahn Violin Cover
* Entwine - tr. v. To tie around or link together. I named the project as Entwine because its main purpose is to link both Naturals and Coordinators together.
* Project Entwine is a research and treatment project under Valentine Peace Treaty for infertile and expectant Coordinators and Naturals.
* The treatment developed under Project Entwine is called Entwine Therapy.
* Valentine Peace Treaty - I decided to name the treaty for peace as Valentine because it was created in remembrance of the two Bloody Valentine Wars.
- boink! -
14 May 2012
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NEXT CHAPTER: Chapter Six: Heart Strings