Heads up!
Weeee, chapter four.
Oh right sooo just a heads up, cuz I'm rather a Hurricane Azetta when it comes to these ANs. To spare you readers I will have section thingies.
This will be my Heads up Section before the chapter starts. Here I will reply to people and add some blablabla like I always do. You can skip this.
Then at the bottom I'll have an AN which I will keep to only things I think are important. Then I'll say good bye…. THEEEEN, if you're still reading (heck I probably wouldn't be…) you'll get hit by the Jabber Bomb. ^_^ You can definitely skip that. That's stupid. XD
Anyhoo, you don't care about that, I'm not writing this for me to talk (at least.. I don't think I am *raises eyebrow* lol) I'm writing this for my fanfiction so continue and enjoy enjoy and THANKS =3
-Falconrukichi - hope this chapter is fun, it's a little bit more on Akira/Cagalli's view of war so hopefully it doesn't bore anyone ... thanks for reading =)
FushionAC- Kira wasn't OC though? I was worried about that, its hard for me to write sweet gentle charecters since most of my characters tend to be sarcastic snazzy people lol
the3pleA - hmm guess we'll have to find out, thanks for R&ring! =) (kimi-hime actually gives me the creeps, I hate writing people like her)
Writingknightmare- awww, *big hug* hope this week is better , kay? And thankyouuuu =)))) now if only I could substitute this for my school writing...hmmm
Precious1421- thanksies =) and whoot! Go homeschoolers! XD
memylupht- thankyou! ahhaha here's your update =) enjoy =)))
Thanks again everyone for reading and R&Ring =))
(I always forget this part- I wonder why… ) *Disclaimer, I don't own Gundam Seed, or it's characters. (However this plot, and the OCs are mine, steal them and I will hunt you down like a dog… jk have fun =)
*Claimer, oddly enough, despite this lame chapter, the poetry is not that bad and it is mine (whoa, did...did I do something coolish?=O) so I hope you like it=)
CHAPTER FOUR
The next day
Athrun sighed, feeling a tad disgruntled as he watched Akira Yamato walk from the bathroom wearing green cargo pants and a red tee-shirt. He sat up yawning in bed. "Just how do you manage to get up so early before me? I'm starting to feel shown up!"
She glanced at him, a slight pink hue in her cheeks. "It's not a competition…" she murmured, picking up her bag from her bed.
And yet the sun just beginning to rise, Athrun wondered what could prompt the young girl to get up so early when there was still time to kill. It wasn't like she went to bed early he had noticed. The tired circles around her eyes revealed her lack of sleep and she was beginning to look exhausted.
"Still…" he flopped backwards into his pillows. "Oh, right." He added, his eyes half close, ray of light making pictures on the inside of his eye lids. "My fiancé, Lacus Clyne was wondering if you were interested in having dinner with us tonight."
The sounds of her shuffling through her bag froze and Athrun peeked his right eye open all the way to watch the silent pilot through his shaggy blue bangs.
"Lacus Clyne, the daughter of Seigal Clyne is your fiancé?" her expression was one of 'it's messed up world after all' and Athrun flushed, feeling slightly cross and indignant.
"She is," he stated slowly, now fully alert, watching Akira's reaction, daring her to elaborate further on the irony she hinted at. Lacus was important, and Athrun wouldn't let nobody, whether female or no, pilot or not, insult his or his fiancé's reputation.
Akira watched him straight back, her face devoid of thought. "I would be honored-" she at last stated, a slight bow at the waist. "What time?"
"seven sound okay?"
"Sure."
They traded wary glances one last time before she shrugged her shoulders and jerked her chin towards the door. "I'll leave you to get dressed then."
Athrun swung his legs out of bed- he was wearing a gray tee shirt with dark navy blue boxer shorts- he dragged a hand threw his tousled hair, yawning deeply. "Where are you heading?" he asked with out thinking.
Akira hesitated in slinging her bag over her shoulder. Her expression became guarded. "No where in particular. Just walking around."
You would think that I was asking her a state-secret. Athrun thought dryly. "Well I need to head to the office first to pick up a post from my fa- the chairman. After that, if you have time to kill want to head out and get lunch and I can show you around Octus five till dinner?"
To say that Akira looked thrilled with that offer would be over kill. In fact she looked bummed and Athrun was quite positive she would turn him down. You, he thought watching her carefully, are puzzling.
Suddenly, as if realizing he was acting suspicious of her, she raised her chin and frowned. "Fine. But I think you'll find I'm not very good company."
He grinned. "Just wait outsides until I'm done getting dressed, kay?"
As she walked out he heard her mutter. "No freaking duh, leave the pervyness to you!"
A wicked grin split his face. Now, I wonder how this day will go.
OOOOOO
As we walked to the captain's office I watched Athrun's poised, straight back in front of me moodily. That glance he had shot me back in the room. Curious… or suspicious? I gnawed on my bottom lip, worried.
Athrun just didn't become a lieutenant for nothing, he was smart and the son of the chair man. Could it be that he was figuring out I was hiding something? I had been so careful too!
Once he had received his folder he flipped it open, reading what ever message had come from his father. I gave up trying to read it over his shoulder and settled for walking along sides him hoping he would tell me what it said.
He sighed, dragging his hair back from his face only to have it flop back down. "My fa- Chairman Z ala…" he stated slowly and if I had cat ears they would have perked straight up. "He is worried about the Blue Cosmos- we haven't heard a thing from them in weeks which is indeed unusual. He doubt that they have seen the wrong in their actions or on holiday."
"And?"
"Just a warning. But he has changed our mission. We are to seek out the Harmony, find the princess and bring her back alive so that she and Chairman Zala may…peacefully… negotiate her and her country's political stance between ZAFT and the Earth Alliance. The Harmony and her crew are to be destroyed."
"Negotiate… huh?" Mentally I was already making my own plans, my hands clenching. I can't let ZAFT get Kimi-hime, no matter how much I despise her. As long as they consider her ORB's princess then she poses a terrible force. One with out a clear motive too She is dangerous. I'll have to take care of her myself!
"Yes…" Athrun replied quietly, continuing to read whatever his father had messaged him.
Chairman Zala. Despicable. The whole lot of you!
"Also, after that mission is complete and the Harmony is destroyed then we are to begin targeting all of ORB's primary attack and defense ships and bases."
Like hell that would happen. "You can't just attack ORB like that!" I snapped with out meaning to.
Athrun paused, raising an eyebrow. "We do as we are ordered, Yamato. Is there a problem."
Struggling to retrace my steps I added. "Well… I mean, why are we attacking ORB when the EA is causing us the most trouble? Shouldn't we focus our forces on them?"
Athrun blinked, still gazing at me oddly before he shrugged, folding the letter and sticking it deep into his red trench coat's pocket. "We're soldiers- leave the thinking for them."
I gritted my teeth, struggling not to yell at Athrun and tell him just what exactly his daddy-o was and how big of an idiot both ZAFT and the EA were and why exactly Athrun Zala needed a spine of his own.
Dumbasses!
"So where do you want to go eat?"
In my kitchen, in my home, in ORB, on earth and far away from you.
Man was I grumpy in the morning. And I still needed to figure out how to get in contact with Kira today before he did something crazy. Fingering the anklet-now-bracelet that Kira had given me I resumed walking, Athrun hurrying to keep up with my brisk trot.
"Okaaay, I guess I'll choose the place."
We left the military base, Athrun checking with me if it was fine to just to just walk around – I said yes- before heading out into the bustle of the town.
After walking in silence through a chattering crowd for at least ten minutes, Athrun asked, hesitant. "Your family… they died?"
A twinge settled in my chest, the corners of my eyes tightening and at last I flicked him a curious glance. "You read my bio?"
He raised his chin a fraction. "Of course- what kind of lieutenant would I be if I didn't read my pilot's bios?"
"Oops, what I mean to say was- It took you this long? Dumbass."
He shot me a sour look. "You could at least act cordial."
The corners of my lips twitched slightly in a smile with out my meaning them to. "Nah, you just don't know me grumpy." I grinned then before nodding towards a slight garden path behind the store fronts. " Want to cut through there?"
We headed through the bushes, light shining on our faces and I reached out a hand to stroke the soft flower petels as we walked.
"It's a nice day." Athrun commented after a long moment.
I snorted. "That's the funny thing about PLANT- every day is a nice day."
Athrun made a face then cocked his head. "You act as if you lived off of PLANT before? But you're a Coordinator?" his eyes glanced at my violet ones.
Swallowing tightly I responded. "Never been to earth- if that's what you're asking."
He shrugged. "It's not like it's unusual. Almost everyone here hasn't been to earth."
"But I think it would be nice to go. And not on ZAFT business." I added, turning my face away, over come with a wave of nostalgia. I had left more then memories behind in ORB.
"I suppose- ahah, let's eat there!" grinning Athrun pointed to a rather empty looking restaurant that had tables sitting out side.
Warmly, he greeted a young woman who was busy cleaning outside tables. Behind her a young, pink haired girl peeked out, her eyes flicking past me to rest on Athrun, a small smile curving her lips. Then she disappeared back into the shadows of the restaurant.
"Akira, this is a friend of my late-mother's- Juane-San, this is Akira Yamato."
Curiously I met the laugh-lined silver eyes of Juane. She was an older woman, just entering her forties at the most, her brown chestnut hair pulled back into a messy bun.
I bowed at the waist in a mark of respect. "Pleased to meet you Juane-san."
"Ah! What is it with you ZAFT soldiers? Always so formal! I'm not that old!" Juane San winked at me before slapping two menus on the circular table. "Now I can take your orders!"
After the two of us ordered, Mrs. Juane-san hurried back into her restaurant.
I sighed, standing up, unable to bear the day's heat anymore. "Let's see." I stuck my tongue between my teeth and began working at the umbrella that stood up from the center of the table, trying to open it.
"No please, Akira, don't ask me if I mind." Drawled Athrun, sarcastically, before standing up with a heavy sigh. He reached up, his warm, slightly rough fingers brushing my own. I glanced down, feeling slightly cross eyed for an inexplicable reason before jumping as there was a flap sound.
"Ahah! Got it!" cool shade enveloped the two of us and we settled back down in satisfaction.
I flashed Athrun a quick look from the corner of my eye. I felt the oddest urge to smile- well it was a gorgeous day, programmed or not!- and ended up pursing my lips and mumbling. "Thanks."
"What was that?"
"I said thank you!" I kicked him lightly in the shin underneath the table only to realize that he had moved his legs safely out of harms way in time.
Open-mouthed I turned to gaze in shock at him. He grinned, his eyes sparkling in delight at my astonishment. "I'm a quick learner,"
"hmph!" I snorted, crossing my arms and legs at the same time.
Athrun snorted back and then laughed.
My eyes flicked to his delighted green ones with out my permission and I snapped. "What's got you all giddy?"
"Hahah! You should see your face. I've never seen your face change so much in the past couple days has it has in the past hour."
I turned to watch him directly, meeting his deep green eyes uncertainly. He didn't necessarily find my face funny, I realized, but he was trying to break the ice, the con! And he is! My natural response now was to lighten up.
I shook my head then leaned forward, a smirk on my face. "Alright, Athrun. As long as you got me busy for the whole day, you got me."
Athrun watched me suspiciously, his dark blue bangs dropping over one of his eyes. "Huh?"
"Well, I was determined to ignore you but I can tell that you're making that a tad hard at my expense."
He rolled his eyes. "You, Yamato, are just a leeettle too up tight." He measured about my face with two of his fingers, squinting at me with one green eye. He blinked.
"Oh foo! And here I thought you were the welcome wagon aboard."
"You could at least act grateful to be assigned."
I frowned. "I didn't wanna be! I wanted to be assigned to the Avenger, but ooooh nooooo, I got stuck on the Demi-god."
Athrun wagged a finger. "Haven't you ever learned? 'You don't always get what you want'?" he leaned his elbows on the table, scrutinizing me again with both eyes. "You realize how fast you'll shoot up through the ranks, how many awards you'll get and honor if we complete this mission?"
I leaned forward just as closely on the small circular table, our noses only inches apart- if I wish to I could kiss him we were so close. My violet eyes narrowed. "I…" I stated slowly. "Did not join ZAFT for medals, and praise or a higher rank!" my voice quiet, burning with fervor and I felt my self blush as I realized how much of myself I had put into those few words. Gazing at his challenging yet rather mesmerizing green eyes – or at least I thought I they were challenging and I dunno where the hell 'mesmerizing' came from- I felt a sudden burst to prove myself. To declare myself equal; to show Athrun that I wasn't just a quiet cold person, a sharp knife of ice, but a strong yet compassionate person who fought with her heart just as much as her mind- like a knife of fire that spread through all those that it cut, even consuming it's wielder at times.
But, you are a person of cold and silence, Akira. Said my mind.
But I am also Cagalli, whispered my heart. And I will always be me.
However, for now you must stay Akira.
But this one… this troubling, dangerous, intelligent Coordinator. Staring deep into his eyes exhilarated me for reasons I can't explain, I wanted to say something, say anything to break that stretching silence. It was getting uncomfortable and I was having a hard time trying to read Athrun's expression.
Bang!
Both Athrun and I jumped into the air as two plates crashed down in front of us.
Repeatedly I shook my head back and forth like a wet dog, glaring at Athrun furiously from underneath my thick eyelashes. What the hell?
We looked up to meet the cheerful yet… rather irate face of a young girl.
"La-Lacus? Lady Clyne?" I squeaked, recognizing the pink-haired young woman from the multiple music videos. But there was something off. I moved to get up from my seat when Athrun touched my forearm. He waved me back down.
"Akira Yamato, meet Meer Campbell. Juane-san's daughter."
Juane is the mother's first name? I studied this girl carefully. But this girl isn't Lacus? Just…just a look alike?I shot Athrun a confused look and he shrugged slightly. Apparently he didn't know any better for Meer's close resemblance.
Something tugged at my mind then. Something that begged to be heard, like a message. Listen to the facts!
Something about this? Lady Campbell and Lady Clyne?
I chewed my lip, bothered but unsure as to why. It was important whatever it was.
"So? How may help you?" I met Meer's rather taunting blue eyes and watched her sway her weight gracefully side to side.
Just what was this girl's problem?
"I'm sorry," I said politely as you please- and knowing me, trust me that was quite a lot. "But we already ordered."
Her eyes flickered from me to Athrun and she smiled a slow…wide…seductive smile.
I could almost see the light bulb flicker above my head in my own imagination. Though rusty, my girl intuition-radar still managed to work.
Hullo, could we be any more obvious?
"Are you suuure, Athrun-sama that there isn't annnything you would like to order?" her voice husky and suggestive, leaning over slightly so that her shirt dropped in a… unneeded manner.
I rolled my eyes. Meer liked Athrun… Very much so indeed.
Her back was to me and maybe that was a good thing as my face was covered in shock at Athrun's calm expression. Was he used to this kind of treatment? Aw, hell, I have a playboy for a roommate?
And then as cheerful as you please Athrun replied. "With eyes as big as Akira has, maybe we should order more food after all?"
Caught by surprise, Meer and I stared at him, dumbfounded by his audacity and sheer density as he twirled a plastic knife in his fingers, lazily watching the sky.
"You think you'll be good, Akira?" Athrun teased and I coughed, quickly ducking my head then as I felt Meer's eyes glower as if she was trying to fry my brain right through my skull.
"I'll be fine." I chirruped, struggling against the laughter that was building in my chest. Oh. My. God.
"We're out! I'll see if I can speed things up then!" she snapped, stalking off, her butt twitching beneath her tu-tu pink skirt.
"Any shorter and we'll be seeing another tanline!" I mumbled into the table top.
"What was that?"
"I said, 'between a one and a ten in warm welcome, I'll give her a nine.'." I lied easily. Damn, Kira was right, I'm too good for words!
"Oh…" Athrun seemed to drift off for a moment then snapped to attention. "Yeah, me and Meer have known eachother for the past couple years. She is pretty nice and she seems to really like Lacus."
I stared at him and he watched me back, smiling as ever. "Yup. There's some people you can't reach no matter how hard you try."
"Huh? What's that supposed to mean?"
I sighed, rubbing the back of my head irately before lurching forward in my seat till I was practically laying across the table, my face only an inch or so from his. Athrun's musky warm scent filled my mind in a single breath and I throatily purred in a perfect copy of Meer, minus the revealing shirt.
"Are you suuure, Athrun-sama that there isn't annnything you would like to order?"
Athrun's eyes widened, his pupils enlargement slightly in astonishment, a slight pink in his cheeks and I forced a cool grin, flopping back into my seat. Oh yeah, he got it.
"Do you get it now?" I asked, looking away, my own cheeks a bright red. My mind was in a tornado. Just what the HELL made you do THAT you freaking idiot! I screamed at myself inwardly, my ears still burning at the intensity our closeness had been. But honestly, naïve people piss me off. Somebody needs to teach them to wisen up.
Including myself now too, baka!
"A little too well, now, thanks." Athrun muttered dryly. "But she wasn't that close- you did that on purpose."
"Did what on purpose? Get close? Athrun, you didn't get it from a few feet away so I only did what her mind was thinking. Now you got it."
Athrun shook his head. "Meer doesn't like me like that." He looked annoyed. "And I would appreciate it if you didn't do things like that."
I had been lazily relaxing till that point when I jumped, one finger pointing at him. "Ahah! I figured it out! You're a playboy! You only came here to get the 'Meer' service! Admit it!"
Athrun watched me coolly, and seeing him play the regal look I instantly felt my own cold mask slide right into place.
"Even if it were so- which, no, it isn't,- I have no reason to admit anything to you."
We settled into a cold silence, Athrun's arms crossed over his chest as he watched me as only a pet owner who was scolding their misbehaved pet could. I guess that makes me the misbehaved pet. Well damn, I'm in the doghouse.
"I'm sorry." I sighed, brushing my hair back. "I… I didn't meant to insult your…" I paused, searching for a good word then deciding it wasn't worth it. This, after all, was an apology; words like…*ahem* did not belong in it. "your friend." I finished lamely.
"You were only trying to be a friend." Athrun replied calmly.
My fists clenched and I turned my head away. "You're wrong." I murmured through gritted teeth, ignoring the twinges in my chest.
"Hmm?"
"I'm not your friend, and I never will be." I snapped, hating how I sounded like a pouting child sulking to herself.
The rest of the meal was eaten in silence.
But damn! Juane-san could cook!
OOOOO
Lacus Clyne stared at herself in the mirror, wondering what the – assuming it was her- princess of Orb would wear that night.
"Pretty! Pretty!" sang her pink haro and she smiled.
"Your absolutely right, the kimono would be better." Singing to herself, Lacus slid into the cool, soft pink and yellow fabric.
"Birds sing sweetly in the sky. Have they found the promise?
Fine feathers make a fine bird, but true love seals the kiss.
Beauty is as beauty does, but only do truth and grace
Reveal that kindly smile and alight a happy face.
The promise of tomorrow, the promise of hope we all must bear.
A fire within us, that we must tend and share.
So that it may grow and spread and fill every heart
So hold it close from wind and rain that it may never have to part.
Birds sing sweetly in the sky, to do so every day for all around.
And that is part of the promise, so beautiful and loving that promising sound."
She paused, considering her words. "Beauty is as beauty does. Not my best but what did you think, Haro?"
"Very nice! Very nice!"
She beamed. "Thank you!" She danced and twirled about for a moment, loving the feel of how the air carried her hair and her skirt as she spun. When at last she got too dizzy she flopped into her seat at her desk, opening her computer with a gasp of mirth.
She loaded up a terminal link and when it was answered a shadowed figure appeared in the screen.
-M'Lady?- asked a quiet, soft voice of the stranger on the screen.
Lacus saluted. "Kitalla-dono. My apologies for the random call."
-We are friends, are we not? M'lady? You only need to ask and I will be happy to help. As you have done much for me I will repay to you.-
"Well, this may not make sense but please keep a close eye on our important friend. And also, if you would please stop by Octus five tomorrow, I would very much like to see you then."
-We will fly swift and true, m'lady.- The figure in the screen paused, cocking their head slightly. "But… what is it that has upset you so?"
Lacus hesitated, wondering what to say. "I have… talked to Athrun."
-And how are the both of you?-
"Fine, thank you for asking," she said quickly, feeling strangely uncomfortable at the mention of their relationship in that slight way. "Yet… he is bring a guest with him tonight." Lacus's brow furrowed. "And she looks like Lady Attha!"
-The Princess of ORB?- the figure stated slowly, leaning forward slightly. Brilliant cat-slitted yellow eyes glittered in the shadowed-darkness of the screen.
To some those unnatural – and they were as most things were with Coordinators- eyes were unnerving, but to Lacus, they were simply another part of her friend just as much as a hand or a foot was to her.
"Yes, and I'm rather perplexed as to what to do."
-Indeed this rather troubling. I understand now your fears. Especially because there can't be two Cagallis'!- The speaker paused, turning their head as if to examine something.
-Captain!- called another voice, this one distinctly male, though off screen. – there is a scout ship just ahead of us, flying at incredible speeds!-
-Now, now… What's all the rush then? Seems to me they are heading in the same direction as we are… What identification do they bear?- the shadowed figure asked, amusement lingering in their voice, their golden eyes gleaming with a sparkle of excitement.
-They have none! A fugitive ship?- called back the same male speaker.
Lacus sat up a little straighter in her chair. "And they are headed for here?"
-It seems so.- the yellow eyes glanced back at Lacus and a smile with pointed white teeth shined. –I don't suppose we could chase them? Eh? I haven't been on a hunt in ever so looong.-
Lacus nodded, thinking about it for a moment. "Please do, Kitalla-dono.
The person nodded. –Follow this scout ship, but keep out of their sensors.-
-stealth mode initiating- reported a female voice, the speaker also off screen.
"Kitalla-dono…" Lacus began slowly.
-Yes, m'Lady?-
"Please don't purposely get into danger."
That rather chilling sharp smiled gleamed again. –Danger? I? I never associate myself with that word!-
-Yeah, cause you tend to be so much worse.- muttered another voice in the back ground and there was a sharp hushing sound.
Kitalla-dono chuckled.
"Just stay safe? Don't get involved in battle with any strange ships with out consulting me please?" Lacus asked hopefully.
-Yes, we wouldn't want to run into the dreaded Harmony now would we?- murmured Kitalla-dono dryly.
"Not funny, Kitalla."
Kitalla-dono snickered. –You mustn't worry so much. You're too young to get gray hairs! Now, relax, we have everything taken care of and I'll be down to meet you tomorrow. I too… am interested in your new friend. Farewell and best of luck for your dinner.- The link ended and Lacus sighed, falling back into the cushy comfort of her chair.
Things were getting complicated. ZAFT was constantly putting up new alerts, drafting people into the military as the EA's threats loomed over PLANT.
War… why must we always fight to settle things? Lacus thought sadly, reading multiple reports on what was happening on the borders of the earth and on earth.
Cities destroyed, lives lost, and only emptiness left.
"Is it too much for you all to realize?
Is it too much to see clearly with your eyes?
That we are all the same just with different dreams
Different kinds of cloths yet sowed together at the seams.
Yet still we tear our threads, we try to re-sow our lives
We cut at each others cloths, with scissors, and sharp knives
This isn't how we're supposed to be, alone and scattered
Trying to pursue our dreams when we are frayed and tattered
But why can't we see? Just open our eyes
See the bigger picture if only one tries
That we are all apart of the world, the fabric that holds it all together
And severed we won't survive, for being alone wasn't meant to last forever
So re-sow the thread through us, redo what has been undone
Remake the tapestry of life, and soon our dreams will meld to one."
OOOOO
"You're positively dying to go in there aren't you."
"What? No! I'm not a child, Athrun!"
"Look! Don't deny it! You want to go in!"
"No!"
"We have hours to do nothing with- so why not?" Athrun grinned sweetly at his fiery companion who was glaring at him as if she wanted to knee him in the gut- not that that would be a first.
They were standing out sides a carnival and Athrun had noticed while they had walked by in silence how Akira's eyes strayed numerous times to watch the moving rides, the dressed up clowns and the multiple brightly colored booths. Obnoxious music played, echoing about them in the park they had been strolling through.
"Have you ever been to one before?" Athrun asked curiously. Oddly enough, despite their steely silence, he had been enjoying the morning out. It had been amusing, and rather refreshing.
"No…I was going to go to one on my eighth birthday… but…"
"but?" Athrun prodded. He didn't know why he was so vastly interested in the mysterious, guarded pilot, but he was. Of course this would be the interest any friend would have for another… or… any … not friend?
She sighed, running her hands through her blond hair as if the world's weight had fallen on her shoulders. "But my father was…was busy with work. So he couldn't take me. And my mom…"
Athrun fell quiet. He knew what it was like to always have a father who was busy, or away, only wanting to hear good things from his son. His father never called for his presence unless there was something he needed Athrun to do. But at least, Athrun thought, I had my mother, Lenore Zala… before… she died in Junis Seven. He glanced at the quiet Yamato who was gazing the carnival with an expression of pained nostalgia as if she too was reminiscing in a sorrowful past.
But what about Mrs. Yamato-san? Hadn't she been there for her daughter at least while Akira was young?
"Er…" Athrun began, unsure of how to ask a rather thorny question of 'where was your mom' when Akira interrupted.
"You're right."
"I..I am?" Athrun gaped, stunned at the unveiled expression she wore. A little bit determined, a little bit sad, and a whole lot steely. That was Akira.
"Let's go." Though her expression was one a shark might wear if it was lazily circling it's prey – that's ridiculous! How does that even make sense? – her eyes, her strange violet eyes revealed a rather puzzled but excited look.
"We got time to kill so come on." With out even thinking about it, she reached back and grabbed Athrun's left hand, dragging him along ruthlessly towards the front gate.
Stumbling over in his own surprise, Athrun hurried to keep pace
Once they got in the park, Akira's eyes only grew wider.
"Like a kid at Christmas!" Athrun teased, laughing as he dodged a lightning fast punch to his chest.
"So why didn't you go to one after that with someone else?" Athrun asked.
"Nobody could be spared to take me." Akira said quietly, leading him into the line for a steep-dropping roller coaster.
"Not even a friend?" Athrun pressed, remembering the previous night's event.
She glanced at him, her expression ever so icy. "I don't have any." She stated carefully.
"What, you afraid to be social?"
She snorted. "Obviously not, Mr. Nosy." She glared at him. "And I would like it if you didn't ask me about my life, alright? Leave what is alone- and don't be bothered, my 'friendless' status isn't changing anytime soon."
Athrun bit his bottom lip. "What are you? A masochist? Or a drama queen with a pity party?" he snapped, feeling oddly edgy.
He got ready to dodge whatever attack came at him then but when Akira made no attempt to move he froze, watching her tensely.
"Just leave it alone, I came out here with you to kill time. Not to get all close and cosy."
Of course that when out the window when the two were forced to share the roller coaster's two seater bench.
"Remind me again why we're doing this? It's not like you don't drive mobile suits." Grumbled Athrun.
"This is different." Insisted Akira who was straining as far away from Athrun as she could get- which really wasn't that far. The two were stuck together, a bar pressing down on their laps, their legs and arms brushing. "And it's not like we're the only sixteen or so year olds here! There's adults riding the rides too!"
Athrun shrugged, relaxing back. "Alright. So, question, what is your views on ZAFT's military role in the world right now?"
Akira paused, her head turning to him, her violet eyes guarded yet puzzled. "From whose view?"
Athrun's eyebrows raised. "Ohhh, I get what you're saying. Alright, your view as a Coordinator."
She narrowed her eyes, seeing past him as she thought. "ZAFT should protect PlANT," she began slowly. "But… all the negative feelings to Natural's is stupid. ZAFT shouldn't blame Naturals in general for one person's misdeeds."
"The EA and Blue Cosmos aren't exactly one person." Athrun frowned.
Akira shook her head. "But you got to keep in mind, Athrun, that just as I joined ZAFT to protect people, most of the men and women that join the EA do so to protect the Earth Federation. And the Blue Cosmos need to be stopped. I never said anything about that."
"But, the Blue Cosmos is considered a part of the Earth Federation, and they have had alliances with the Earth Alliance before! So couldn't the EA be considered in the same league?" Athrun crossed his arms.
Akira waved a finger back and forth. "ORB is part of the Earth Federation but not necessarily the EA. The Blue Cosmos is closer akin to Harmony as a fugitive group that just likes killing Coordinators. And it's not like ZAFT doesn't try to pick up allies when they go to war with the EA."
"So you're saying all is fair in war?" Athrun asked, leaning forward slightly now
"Well it's not like there are any rules to war, out sides the rules of engagement and honor. But is EA necessarily always the bad guy in the war?"
"You're a soldier of ZAFT, how can you fight and kill with ideas like that?" Athrun demanded.
"How can Lacus Clyne promote peace when her dad is part of the PLANT/ ZAfT council? Like I said before, I joined ZAFT to protect, not to accuse."
"You wanted to join the Avenger. And Seigal Clyne promotes peace in the council, stupid." Athrun noted.
Akira ignored him, answering only his first question. "To stop them, just as I would want to stop ZAFT if ZAFT's ideals became too outrages and effected our stance in the world."
The carts below them jerked forward and they started slowly moving, picking up speed quickly.
"So you believe that ZAFT has the right to protect them selves, but not to attack Natural's in general?"
"Wouldn't you say the same of the EA?" asked Akira- the carts began slowly moving up a hill and the two were lurched back against their seats.
Athrun bit his bottom lip. "And if you could change the world?"
"If I could I would want peace."
"Ah, you belong in ORB."
Akira looked stricken but Athrun didn't have time to dwell on her expression as the cart turned over the crest of the first coaster hill and the wind slapped against their face as they were rushed down.
Grinning wide grins, they held tight to the bar, their hair blowing back as the the coaster spun and flew up and down at swift speeds. Once it was over and they were standing outside the ride, combing their fingers through their wind-swept hair, Akira poked Athrun.
"See, now I knew it would be different!" she grinned, she spun, looking rather happy though it was quite hard to tell with Akira, before walking off.
Athrun sped up to join her. "So as I was saying before."
The sparkle in her violet eyes dulled and she replied flatly. "Yes?"
"Why aren't you ORB? With beliefs and reasons like that?"
She turned her head away. "I don't belong there. I'm a Coordinator, remember?"
"But-"
"Why do we war, Athrun?" She interrupted, her expression shadowed by her golden bangs, her arms crisscrossed behind her back.
"To resolve matters."
"Why not resolve them with words? Words don't kill."
"To punish those who have wronged us. To protect." Athrun amended trying to hit her weak spot in her armor.
"Ah, from the Defender's view. But from the Instigator's view… why attack in the first place? Why start a war if things can be resolved in more friendly manners?"
Athrun stared at her. Akira wasn't like any normal soldier he had ever known. "Because… sometimes people won't listen."
"So we must kill them? Hurt those that they are close to because they can't see our line of reasoning?"
Athrun dropped his head. "Yes… I never said war was a blessing or that I enjoyed taking part in it, Yamato."
"I'm not accusing you. Nor anyone in fact." He looked up, Akira had her head thrown back, her blond hair rustling in the wind as she brooded.
"You're leading me in circles. What's your thought?'
"I believe that anything can be resolved in peace if we are all willing. And when those few some people aren't we must protect ourselves." Akira said thoughtfully. "But I must believe in peace just as I must believe in war. You can't fight wars unless you believe in them, just as you can't promote peace if you don't believe in it."
Athrun thought about it. Honestly, he was completely getting confused. Akira was leading him circles. War. Peace. Peace. War. It was an endless cycle.
"So do you ever believe that the world will achieve that peace?"
Akira looked at him and he never thought he had stared so deeply into her eyes. It was unnerving, yet at the same time… breathtaking. "Perhaps, if everyone will listen." She sighed, brushing her hair back. "Come on, let's get off this subject. I'm starting to confuse myself, I'm talking in circles."
Athrun rolled his eyes, flicking her slightly in the arm in punishment. "Alright then, want to tell me where you learned your fighting style?"
"A…family friend taught me."
"I'm surprised though. Most Coordinators don't learn to fight like that." Athrun noted. "But you seem pretty comfortable with it even though it's more so styled for Naturals."
Akira looked tense. She always get's like that when ever I start asking things bout her past, Athrun realized. What was Akira's past? What could it be that it would inflict upon her present life so much?
"I'm just a whole puzzle of different things." She at last replied, leaving Athrun only more bewildered.
"I see- oh watch it!" Athrun darted forward as Akira tripped, his hands out-stretched and he wrapped his arms around her slim waist, hoisting her safely back to her feet. Akira's eyes flicked up to meet his, her violet eyes wide in alarm and worry.
"Um, sorry." She mumbled, pushing lightly on his chest to make him release her.
And even as she ran ahead to another ride, Athrun stared bewilderedly at his forearms. He could still feel the warmth of her slim, delicate, yet firm body pressed against his from that heartbeat of a moment
Just ahead of him Akira tripped again over a nonexistent rock, falling face first into a clown who was selling balloons.
"Ahhh, you idiot." He sighed, unsure of who he was calling one- her or himself… or maybe the two of them together.
Authors Note Importantish –Read meeee plz ^.^
First of all- Hope yyou weren't bored by the poetry -.- It's some scraps of mine and I actually do write poetry when I get the rare inspiration to and I was bored so …yeah…
Second: Okay, so incase you were disappointed, I was going to have this chapter and the next be one whoooole chapter. But I started having too much fun writing Cagalli's and Athrun's day out before dinner. Sorry if it was boring, but I wanted to start their relationship with a political base so that Cagalli's character wouldn't feel like she was breaking her code to not get friends and let people get close to her.
Also I had a mind block for over half the week on what they would do while they were out and then boom! It hit me, I was hungry for kettle corn popcorn and funnel cake (which I have neeeverr had before -.-) so Athrun and Cagalli should go to the Carnival! (Yay for logic!) So the finish of their day and the dinner with Lacus will be in the next chapter so please forgive me for this terribly short and lame chapter =(. I'm happy to say though that things should be picking up in the next couple chapters- the reason for this one is that I did want Athrun and Akira to have their day off in a way. lol
Though I was reading the last chapter over and it occurred to me just how long it was… oh wow. So, I was worried about boring people or something (not to mention I jabber and jabber on forever, oh my God, I annoy myself!) sooo, unless you don't want me to, I'm going to shorten the chapters down and make moooore chapters ( The peace offering is laid upon the alter- shorterchapters + more chapters = sacrifice) =3.
If you like the long chapters then R&R same if shorter chapters are better. Thanks =)
Oh wait, I'll spare you my usual talk right now. I'll write my sorrowful farewell and then do my 'second AN after' yay!
Anyway, thanks for reading I hope you liked this chapter R&R me what you think and I promise I will get back to you whether at the 'first AN' or via PM. (fyi, Never mix PM with PMS in a conversation with your family XP )
Please please please, R&R though? Pleeeeasies? Cherry on top? Sprinkles? ATHRUN'S MUSTARD YELLOW SHIRT? (oh wait, I don't own that do i…)
*Disclaimer- I do not own Athrun's mustard yellow shirt (oh gee, how will I go on?)
Hahaha
Well, lots of love
-she-who-should-not-be –named (harry Potter =)
-Azetta
And behold: The Jabber Bomb
Moving on, the rest is my… 'jabber' so feel free to skip and for those who want to keep reading, mucho gracias, I can't stand myself half the time so I can't begin to wonder how you guys can do it. Anyhoo…
My Playlist for the chapter
Kudos to Linkin Park, Kelly Clarkson and Paramore who have been keeping me hyper while I write these chapters. PARAMORE IS STILL A BAND HECK YEAH! … had to get that out (Paramore + Linkin Park + Kelly Clarkson freak? Yup, that's me. =)
Honestly, I'm not much of a music with writing person, but when you're up to three in the morning and the idea of coffee or energy drinks makes you gag you neeeeed something! (besides sleep ;)
Paramore- Brand New Eyes ( don't have it? Oh shame shame *tsk tsk* =PP jkkk, I don't have it either -.- borrowed it… =3 ma' ma' iPod… yeah it's pretty cool)
Ignorance
Playing God
Turn it off
The Only Exception
Where the lines overlap
Paramore- Riot
Misery Buisness
Fences
Linkin Park- Meteora
Numb
From the inside
Lying from you
In the End
Kelly Clarkson – All I ever wanted
My life would suck with out you
Long Shot
Some others: (IPod Shuffle moments! LETS BOOGIE! XD )
Owl City- Ocean eyes
On the wing
Vanilla Twilight
Reliant Kay- two lefts don't make a right but three do (congrats for longest album name ever *rolls eyes* … at least that I know of D= )
Forward Motion
Lady Gaga-
Alejand – oh wait I skipped that song XP whoops, muwhahhhaah
Francesca Battistelli – My paper heart
Beautiful, Beautiful
Free to be me
The Band Perry-
If I die young
Tons more. Too tired to write, must finish this chapter tomorrow and post it then get started on next chapter to post it up sooner. Nyah. *sleeps*