Aloha =)

Ahhh, doesn't that greeting make you immediately think of warm beaches, palm trees and paradise? *sighs longingly*

Anyhoooo, rolling right along *rolls*

Yzak- '…'? Did I do something bad? I'm sorry, I hope I didn't offend you some how in my writing =( or if there's something wrong with my story, pleasse, pm me or review and I'll try to fix it.

Mage666- hopefully good depending on the view of it *scratches head* ehhhh, thanks for reviewing =))))))

Precious1421- thankyouuu =) and thanks for re-reviewing, it shows that you thought it was worth it and that's an even higher compliment thankyouuu!

WritingKnightmare- hahaha, well I'm glad that your week was good =) and I know what exams are (btw, I have nothing against publicschoolers ;) and thanks ( I didn't even know I had a writing style! Thanks!)

Thanks for the comment about the changing perspective, things sorta go through my mind so I never think of the small things. Oh duh, well I added them in the chapter, and will hopefully get time to do so to the earlier ones =) And yeah, it's intentional lol

And wow…..just wow. THAT IS SO COOL THAT YOU ARE RUNNING A WRITING CLUB! (I'm so jealous!) you must be a super amazing writer! And thanks! I would have been glad to help new members ( love love love writing ^_^ ) And I hope you enjoy this chapter =)

The3pleA- heeheheheh glad you enjoyed them =) I'm trying not to move 'their' story along to fast but at the same time I want to add in those moments so hopefully it's going smoothly. And I know it might seem like Cagalli is the center of everyone's attentions (maybe? Idk) but hopefully that will be changing in a couple of chapters =) I just like writing about Cagalli cause she is someone whose personality I can identify with (sorta scary, huh?) And meer… Hmmm, in a waaayissshhh she's like Meer for GSD? I have no thought about that since I'm just making my own little story so I didn't give much thought to that. But I will say this, Meer is sorta important. Enjoy =3

Jodeist- whoot for paramour! Yay for misery business X) and here's your update, thanks for reading =)))

Memeylupht- ooh pheewww *wipes forehead* well, I haven't had time as much since I've started really really studying for a math test, (ugh). And I'm glad you like it, and in fact, they will =). And I'm glad you're loving it =D that makes my daaaay lol, enjoy enjoy enjoy

Falconrukichi- yay for updates, right? And thanks, I wasn't sure if I was getting a little to political/moral blabla in that chapter, but that's good *sighs*. And I know what you mean. In my head, Cagalli will never be a 'Juliette' nor a 'Bella Swan' or a 'Mary Sue'. She's just rash tempered, easily antagonized, stubborn Cagalli. Athrun on the other hand. *roll eyes*

Kira the shadowed figure? Maybe, maybe not ^_^ we shall see =3

Enjoy!

*Disclaimer- I do not own GUNDAM (only in my dreams =)

Hope you enjoy this chapter and thanks for reading =)

CHAPTER 5

The day was beginging to draw close, our time till Lady's Clyne's dinner drawing closer and Athrun and I were sitting on opposite ends of a park bench eating. Athrun munching on French fries while I cooled off with refreshing lick after lick of soft vanilla ice cream.

"So then what happened?" I couldn't help but ask.

Athrun paused, swallowing and continuing the story of how he had over come his fear of water. "Well, the next day my father took me out into the middle of a PLANT lake and threw me in with the promise that he wouldn't help me out until I learned to swim."

I made a face, feeling irritated at the mention of Patrick Zala, the aggressive chairman of ZAFT. "Well obviousy you didn't drown. But that still is a pretty nasty thing to do." I noted.

Athrun shrugged. "I guess in his eyes it's no different then a parent letting go of their kid on his first attempt at riding a two-wheeled bike by himself. Almost always they fall and scrape their knees or something."

"Oh gee, a scrapped knee, a drowned son, whats the difference." I mumbled rather scathingly to myself, feeling a certain disgust for Athrun's father. I looked up but when I saw the far-away uncertain expression on Athrun's face I sighed. How could I judge Athrun for following his father with such dedication when I did so with my own. In our eyes our father's, though with their flaws, could do no wrong.

"So I guess you… doggy-paddled?"

Athrun made a face. "Well when you put it like that it rather takes away that sense of triumph I remember filling me back then."

"Oh please, just finish the story already."

He eyed me oddly me for a moment before adding. "Well, anyway, I ended up having to… as you put it, doggy-paddle my way back to shore, and, by the way, are you aware that there is ice cream on your nose?"

I scowled. "Thanks, Lieutenant." On an impulse, my hand shot forward and I dabbed his nose in my ice cream, smearing it all over his face. Of course, now my ice cream was ruined. "There, much better."

Athrun stared at me in astonishment, which I realized was only a distraction as he withdrew the French fry he had been stirring in his ketchup and wiped it on my cheek.

"Meh" I grunted, reaching up to paw at my cheek before realizing that wouldn't be the greatest idea ever.

Athrun roared with laughter- that is- until I darted forward and jammed my entire ice cream cone in his face, rubbing it all over. "There, now we're even."

He wiped the ice cream from his face and we glared at each other for a moment. And then I couldn't help it, the sight of his furious vanilla-white expression framed by ice-cream dripping midnight locks of hair made me laugh. Mirth bubbled up in me and my lips parted in a burst of amusement.

It was only a couple beats of laughter and I snapped my mouth close as I realized what an idiot I was being but by then it was too late and Athrun was grinning.

"See, now I knew you could laugh!" he chuckled and I ducked my head, feeling disappointed with myself.

But it had felt so good to laugh, to find something amusing. And whether or not their intentions, the people of PLANT were good, many of the people aboard the Demi-god were good and that was what hurt me the most. Because, I felt like a wolf in sheep's wool. Was it honestly very fair of me?

Trying to distract Athrun and myself I searched wildly for something to say. "Oh crap, we need to get to Lady Clyne's don't we?" I noted, alarmed and Athrun paused in wiping his face with a handkerchief.

"Indeed we do," he frowned. "Here, take this, we'll have to finish cleaning ourselves up once we get to her house." He handed me a spare handkerchief and I rubbed it on my face, hating the stick residue that still clung to my skin despite my efforts. Athrun smirked slightly as I shook my head like a wet dog, irate.

"You missed a spot." He informed sweetly and I glared at him.

"And you'll have a new one if you don't watch it." I snarled, raising a fist and Athrun sighed.

"Right, listen Akira, I was going to mention this to you."

My shoulders came up slightly, my head half cocked, tense.

"You really need to be careful about your anger. Especially in battle."

I turned to face him, his blue hair hanging slightly over his emerald eyes and he gazed at me seriously.

"As your Lieutenit, I expect you to start holding your tongue and your anger other wise I may have to restrain you in battle."

I exhaled slowly as his words struck a cord in my mind.

Flashback*

"Kisake! I will not wear a dress! You can't make me! And don't you wave those pair of high heels at me,Mana! These are all stupid inventions that I will not take part in!" I roared furiously at my offenders from across my room.

"Lady Attha. You must work on your temper otherwise it will get the best of you." Kisake warned. "A true warrior doesn't fight with anger or hatred clouding their mind. They fight with their mind as the arm, and their heart as the sword."

"I'm not acting on anger!"

"You alllwaays blow up though!" called in an amused voice as Kira stepped into the room. There was to be a ball tonight that everyone in ZAFT Pilot Academy was invited to and I had invited Kira, as friends, to be my dance partner even though I wasn't too keen on 'dancing'. "Remember that time you punched a hole in the screen because your favorite show got cancelled?"

I glared at him. "Thank you Kira!" I snapped, but Kisake only shushed me.

"Listen, Cagalli, you have a strong heart. But you act to much with out thought. It is good to have feelings, to love and be strong. But do not confuse yourself in your anger and temper. Be yourself, but be wise and fair. You are, after all, the Peace Princess of ORB. And I know you, Cagalli, that on your heart nothing means more to you then ORB and peace when it comes down to it. So don't ever be confused. Don't ever lose yourself in someone else."

"Akira?" Athrun had stopped walking to watch me as I gaped at him feeling a flood of sadness in me.

"I…I understand Lieutenit." I whispered weakly, my arms circling around my waist.

Why had everything fallen apart? Junis Seven, peace, my life. I, in nature, did rise to the bait easily, but why… why was I showing so much of myself to him? To this boy, my enemy? I had never done anything like this before, always silent, cold Akira.

And yet neither was I so violent, which I was becoming more so… ever since I lost people that were dear to me.

Athrun's eye brows raised. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine… Thank you for letting me know… I had forgotten…" I rubbed the bridge of my nose, turning to resume walking once more.

My hair was curling and frizzy from the humidity and I could bet that I looked like crap- of course the Prince of Zala was his ol' charming self.

We began walking towards the direction of the Clyne Mannor again, delving into silence. It had been like that all day. Silence. Athrun providing chit chat. And then silence again.

But Athrun's expression when I talked is what surprised me, made me want to talk more in fact. He looked as if he was listening… and not only just listening but watching me carefully, taking in every little thing I said and trying to fit it all together in the puzzle of Akira.

But I wasn't Akira and I could never be other for him.

And yet, who was Akira? I thought acted differently for ZAFT, but lately I couldn't tell for sure. My personality and the one I had constructed for Akira were starting to meld together, the Akira's personality slowly fading.

I glanced at Athrun from the corner of my eye, his cheeks slightly red from the scrubbing, his hair slightly tangled together, his green eyes gleaming.

He persisted to try and draw me into conversation, didn't he realize that we couldn't be friends? But… but if we could. In another world where ZAFT and ORB were allies, if we could make peace then what would Athrun become to be to me? And Dearka? And any others I had met. Would they have been dear people to me?

Could they be important to me now if I let them become close, to know the real me?

Did I want them? Could I let them?

Or would it hurt to much when it came time for the Peace Princess to take up her crown? ORB was my world, my family, my life. But now, I felt lonely.

"Well?" I asked Athrun after rubbing at the spot on my face. "Is it gone?"

As if unaware of what he was doing, Athrun reached forward instinctively with his handkerchief. "There, now it's gone." He said after wiping my right cheek bone below my eye, his thumb pressing gently against my face through the thin white fabric.

I ducked my head down. Too close. Way to close. And yet… "Um, thanks. Um," I peeked at him from below my lashes and he seemed surprised with himself as well, his cheeks slightly redder then they were before. "I guess we should hurry to Lacus's." I finished lamely, kicking at a rock on the side walk that for some sudden reason offended me greatly.

My cell phone vibrated rather suddenly then in my pocket and I hopped in the air slightly with a yelp. "Ah! Oh, oooh." I sighed, ignoring Athrun's smile before drawing out the cell phone. Not recognizing the number, I flipped it open slowly.

'He-hello?" I asked hesitantly.

"Hello?" issued an unfamiliar voice with a slight vibrato tang to it.
I glanced at Athrun who was politely looking the other way. I snapped my fingers at him, holding up a single finger to represent 'give me a moment' before walking a bit a ways.

"Akira Yamato speaking, who is this?"

"Ahah, Kira said that was your alias. This is Yuna Roma speaking, Princess Cagalli."

I froze, my expression deadening. "Yuna Roma?" I murmured. "I'm afraid I do not know you. Nor Kira and am certainly not this Princess."

"No worries, m'lady. I am with your friend here on Octus five. Kira and I are here to get you out of ZAFT"

I froze. "Home…" I whispered the word as if it was sweet caress and it felt like honey on my lips. I sank unsteadily to the ground and Athrun darted to my side.

"Akira? Are you alright?" his hands hovered around my shoulders as if he was debating whether it would impolite to touch me or not.

"Ah, I see that you are busy." Roma paused. "If it is possible, m'Lady if we could meet outsides the Remington Inn at eleven tonight then perhaps we can coordinate a plan? Kira will be there of course. Kira, say hi to your princess, you dolt!"

"Hey Cags!" Called a thrilled familiar voice and a feeling of joy blossomed in me washing away all pangs of pain and loneliness. Kira was here! Kira would take away, even if it wasn't too ORB.

I glanced at Athrun's worried face, wondering if mine was as cold and as pale as it felt in my shock, or perhaps amazed in my excitement. "Um. Yes. Of course, I'll be there." I whispered. I flipped the phone shut and slid it into my pocket, feeling confused and breathless. I didn't have a clue who Roma was, whether or not he was to be trusted. But… Kira! If Kira was there I would risk it. I would risk ZAFT for my closest and dearest friend. There was no way I would miss a chance to be with him. And take me away? Was I returning home? Or at least somewhere else? I sighed longingly.

"Akira, are you alright?"

I smiled up at Athrun, a smile so genuine that I could tell it totally threw him off. His green eyes widening and his head snapping back slightly. "I'm fine, Athrun. I'm perfectly fine."

A little bit later at the Clyne Manor

Night finally drawing its curtains upon PLANT, Athrun led me into the Clyne Manor, greeting his fiancé with a smile. "Lacus, I'm pleased to introduce you to Lady Akira Yamato, a mobile suit pilot."

Slowly I turned to meet the beautiful, graceful Lacus Clyne. I felt intimidated by her looks, her aura of confidence in love and peace, and her simple yet gentle smile that made her expression glow. My father always said that Lacus Clyne was a fellow Peace Princess, to be respected and honored even from afar and so she was always spoken of in high regard at my home in Junis Seven. I felt instantly bad as I remembered what I had said about her and her father earlier to Athrun. It wasn't true and hadn't been called for.

PLANT loved their princess dearly and in a single glance I could understand why. She carried that presence, the feeling that she really did care about you, that she would be honest with you and support you even if you were a stranger.

"Welcome, Akira-chan! I'm so glad that you could come!" Lacus smiled and my eyes widened as she skipped the normal terms of respect. Her voice was clear and sweet like bells singing under water, the rippling water melding their ringing tones together and forming it into one smooth dancing song.

"Lady Lacus-san." I fumbled with my words, unsure of what to say to this awe-inspiring singer.

"Please, call me Lacus." She smiled, taking both of my hands in hers. Her eyes penetrated and searched mine and I felt as if she was shining a tremendous light upon me, and flooding me in purity, seeing me to the soul.

"Come! We shall have dinner out on the veranda beneath the stars."

Unable to not say anything as Athrun and I followed the skipping princess, I said. "There are no stars, Lad- Lacus."

She glanced at me, her kimono twisting about her legs. "Surely you have seen the stars enough to imagine them where they belong, Akira?" her tone was rather innocent but at the possible- no, it couldn't be!- hint in her voice I stiffened.

"I haven't been out in space before enough to see the stars, Lacus, nor have I seen them from a ground view. I am… after all, your aaverage Coordinator." I said steeily in a tone that I had picked up from Gladys. Athrun shot me a warning look and I bit my lip remembering our previous conversation. It wasn't so much that I was angry, but more rather defensive and worried of what the Princess thought of me or what she was trying to figure out.

Lacus only smiled at me, her eyes sparkling. "I'm sure though, that perhaps you dream of seeing them? Either of you?"

I shrugged, refusing to comment further and Athrun turned his head slightly away. I wondered if he felt uncomfortable.

When neither of us replied Lacus continued. "I think it would be wonderful to go to earth! And perhaps make friends with all the countries there."

I smiled, unable to resist that belief that we shared. "I can not help but hope for that future as well, despite being a ZAFT pilot."

"Is that all you are?" Lacus asked. She opened two doors in front of us and brought us out into a garden, the grass lush, the flowerbeds over blooming with life. A simple yet elegant four-seat table was set up with food already in place, four black floor lamps surrounding it and basking it in a soft, yet bright-enough glow of light. We took our seats, Lacus and I across from each other.

"Is there not more to you then being ZAFT's soldier?" she asked gently.

My fingers grazed my napkin's satin cloth absentmindedly. Just what was she getting at? "Of course," I murmured, my gaze trailing away to stare into the blank darkness that stretched above, hiding the true heavens from sight. This was not my world and yet some how they welcomed me into it. How could the EA want to destroy this serenity, however created it may be?

"We are all different, with different choices. How we choose our paths and make our decisions defines us, shapes us. We are like clay that must be molded through the years with flaws and perfections, truth and mistakes. And we must take it all, never restart- that's impossible- but continue on to chase our dreams wherever they might lead us." I stopped, blushing slightly as I realized I had gone on talking. "Er, um, sorry." I rubbed my the edge of my jaw in embarrassment and Lacus smiled.

"You have a good heart despite what you are given in life." She murmured as if she knew that I had lost my crew in Junis Seven, left my father and home in ORB along with myself before joining ZAFT years later as some one else. How could she know? Why would she care outsides of promoting ZAFT?

I peeked at Athrun who was being rather silent and I realized that he was watching me from the corners of his eyes, an unsettled expression on his face as if my words had hit him like a block and he wasn't sure what do, what to think, what to believe.

Lacus glanced between us and I noticed her chewing her bottom lip uncertainly. I shook my head, breaking from my trance and smiling up at her, a true smile.

We were two long lost friends finally being reacquainted. Peace Princesses finally meeting under the veil of secrecy and night.

"Well, I'm hungry." I chirped, trying to lighten the odd mood that was settling and I carefully picked up one of my forks.

Why I had three forks was beyond me cause one was good enough.

"I didn't know what you would like, Akira, so I hope this fits your taste." Lacus added, sitting up, her face shining.

I glanced at the food that lay waiting on the table and my mouth watered. It…. Looked. Great.

"Lobster!" I squeaked, over come with an obsession to eat. "That is quite the delicacy, and specially bred too!"

Lobster was only eaten on earth and I realized my mistake in being able to notice it's fancy-schamancy'ness when Lacus tilted her head and smiled.

"How knowledgeable," she noted aloud and I flinched visibly, feeling Athrun's watchful gaze flicker to me. "I am glad though, that it is to your liking."

"Your hospitality is more then I can deserve." I said at last and I could feel confusion growing in Athrun at my icy tone. I had to hand it to his fiancé though, if she really had figured out who I was- but how?- then she was one smart pink cookie.

Lacus only smiled, her expression softening. "It is wonderful though, to finally meet you. Athrun has told me much about your short history aboard the Demi-god."

I shot a glare at Athrun who suddenly seemed over come with a bout of coughs as he choked on his food. "Oh really?" I said with a huge smiling, wondering if I could chance kicking at him underneath the table with out hitting Lacus.

Athrun clapped a hand over his mouth as if he was trying not to laugh. "I couldn't help it- don't glare at your lieutenant so!"

"Yes Lieutenant!" I hissed between my teeth before taking a huge bite of whatever I had put on my plate, chewing it roughly.

Lacus laughed and we stared at her in amazement. Honestly, the whole day I had been chewing on my nails in worry that she would be upset because I was rooming with her fiancé but now she only seemed pleased. Probably because of my obvious disdain for Athrun and I shifted feeling weirdly uncomfortable with that thought.

"So, Lacus, I heard that you are making a memorial trip to Junis Seven." I began again, surprised at myself for starting conversation back up.

Lacus smiled, delighted with my interest.

"Oh yes," she clapped her hands together. "My father is arranging a memorial service to take place for those who were lost in Junis Seven."

I put a hand in my heart as she spoke, mourning my crew and Kisake and Mana. "That's a wonderful thing." I murmured.

"if you are close by at the time then perhaps ZAFT will let you join me?"

I paused, blinking at her in shock at the honor of accompanying her to a memorial service. Athrun leaned back in his chair, smiling at Lacus before turning to grin at my confounded expression. "Me? I mean, I'm only a pilot, I'm nobody special."

"Only a pilot?" Lacus scolded. "Didn't we just have this conversation, Akira? You aren't just a pilot. And you are special in your own ways."

"But, I," Athrun stepped on my foot underneath the table and I clamped my mouth shut to get a hold of my stammering before I made myself look like a bigger idiot. At last, with a dip of my head, I said. "Thank you, it would be an honor. If I can make it- however I don't wish to ask more then what is able. Would I be allowed to come?"

She smiled a slow smile. "I have my ways, Akira." She winked, looking every bit of the political figure that she sometimes was. "They won't have a problem with you coming. My father won't mind either."

I sat back stunned. "It is an honor." I repeated. "I hope I can make it."

She beamed. "I hope you can come as well."

"Of course," Athrun broke in, ever the pessimistic. "It will depend on the mission."

I coughed, trying not to roll my eyes. Yeah, that mission. Well, with out my cover blown to bits, there wasn't a snowball's chance in hell they would actually ever find the real Cagalli.

The image of Kimi-hime flashed through my head with all the terrible memories with it and I frowned, wiping my mouth as daintily as I could- not very much then. Compared to how the other two ate, I ate like a pig, quicker and larger bites that supported my vast love for food.

"Well if you do come we simply must find you a gown." Lacus declared, a determined expression on her face.

I choked on the non-existent food in my throat. "Wh-what?" I stared flabbergasted at the amused couple. "No,no. No dresses." I shook my head, my golden hair that I had tucked neatly back becoming unraveled from their tidy twists and flocking around my face.

"Every girl must wear a dress at one point of time. From a party, to a funeral, to a state meeting."

Lacus's eyes shined oddly at me, too inquisitive for my tastes and I swallowed hard. "We-well, I doubt I'll ever be going to a state meeting so that knocks one off the list. And I'm not much of a party person. And I think I can slip by at a funeral."

Lacus watched me carefully a moment longer, absentmindedly playing with a slim golden band on her left ring finger- one that matched the ring on Athrun's left hand.

This girl was starting to frighten me.

I got to my feet, checking my watch. Time had flown since I had talked to Roma-san and it was drawing close to eleven, I had twenty minutes to get there.

"Well, I really must go. I have an obligation to meet, so please continue eating and I am deeply sorry." I bowed at the waist, feeling Lacus's amused expression and Athrun's confused gaze settle on me. Hurriedly I exited from the room, dialing up a taxi number on my phone as I did so.

Tonight I would see Kira.

OOOO

Narrator POV

"She left in quite the rush." Noted Athrun, feeling slightly disappointed at the disapearence of the female pilot.

Lacus smiled. "We all don't like to be late to our obligations."

"I suppose, I didn't even know she had one."

"Hmmm."

"Well, you would think that she would have mentioned it earlier if it interfered with the dinner."

"It is late, Athrun. Aren't soldiers to report back to base by tweleve unless they have notified ahead of time."

Athrun made a face. "You mean under the age of nineteen?"

Her laughter tinked prettily. "PLANT or not, terrible things still happen. We are no different then Naturals."

Athrun rolled his eyes. "Ya'know, outsides the whole fact of how we were made."

Lacus made a slight pouting face. "You would be surprise how many Naturals pass Coordinators tests with flying colors."

"Oh really? Name one." Athrun leaned back, folding his arms across his chest.

Lacus bit her lip. She wanted to tell her rather arrogant and foolish fiancé that he was missing a huge fact. Well, Akira Yamato, or should she say, Cagalli Attha, was certainly accepted into the ranks of Coordinators! And as pilot for a GUNDAM, none the less!

"There have been many." She at last stated simply and Athrun sighed. One debate they had shared for months. Lacus was convinced that Naturals were just as equal to Coordinators, Athrun tended to follow his father's thoughts that Coordinators and Naturals were better off separated or Naturals might become envious of Coordinators. Envy led to hate, hate led to anger, anger led to violence, and violence led to death.

A maid appeared, stepping through the double doors into the glow of the light. "Lady Lacus, there is someone wishing to speak to you."

Lacus glanced at Athrun, standing up. "One moment," she promised before turning to follow the maid back in. She picked up the phone that sat on a small table in a corner of the hall.

"Lacus speaking."

"M'Lady. We have arrived earlier then we had thought. I never knew that you could take a short cut through the astral-rock feel field outsides Octus five." A laugh resounded and Lacus smiled in recognition of her friend.

"Kitalla-dono. It is wonderful of how swift you have come. Lady Akira has actually just left."

"Oh I know." Kitalla-dono responded, sounding amused. "I was just walking up your street when I saw her. She does quite resemble the girl known as Cagalli Yula Attha. So I took it upon my self to follow her. You are aware of course, that if I am here, then so is the strange scout ship."

"You think that they are connected."

"I wouldn't be surprised."

"Well, then continue to follow her, but mind her privacy, stay safe and report back to me. I must return to my dinner."

"Sure thing, m'lady. Have a good night."

"You as well, Kitalla-dono."

With a click, the phone settled back into it's cradle and Lacus sighed, brooding in the silence, Things were stirring the relatively peaceful waters of the world.

"M'Lady. Is everything all right?" everyone who worked in the Clyne's home were trusted by the family and Lacus grimaced to small, maid with the short black hair.

"Troublign things are arising. But who is behind it?"

"Blue Cosmos?"

Lacus leaned back against the wall, rubbing her forehead. "I did think that, but it doesn't make sense. What would they have to gain with a 'fake Cagalli'. Even though they are barely on a neutral status, Blue Cosmos and ORB have nothing against each other."

"The EA then?"

"Perhaps." Lacus stopped messaging her head, her slender fingers combing back her pink hair. "It is quite possible. But then, they would risk offending ORB which is a neighboring nation."

"And what of ZAFT?"

"ZAFT is never innocent of wrong doing." Lacus frowned, troubled with the distrust she felt to her own born nation. "But then that would make the 'Cagalli' on the Harmony the real one and this one the imposter."

"How do you figure that, m'Lady?"

"The GUNDAM technology that ZAFT stole…" Lacus paused. "It can only be operated by Naturals."

The maid's pink green eyes widened. "And Harmony is a rouge ship after all." She finished slowly, Lacus nodding in agreement.

"Does ZAFT know though, m'Lady?"

"About the GUNDAM operation? No, not at all in fact. And that is good." She smiled. "And that also proves something else though, that makes me disbelieve the theory that this ZAFT's planning, Zandra-chan."

"How so?" Zandra Mi Lee asked.

"Because, whether or not who she really is, Akira Yamato is a Natural." Lacus turned to walk to the veranda, her shoulders straight and her chin rose. "After all, she pilots the Huntress. I wouldn't be surprised if Athrun is slightly suspicious of that fact."

"Indeed, m'Lady. Athrun is a sharp fellow, a good one too." The maid regarded Lacus with a funny look and Lacus sighed.

"No, Zandra. I have not yet 'fallen in love' with my fiancé."

The maid sighed, curtsying farewell. "Not that is any of my business. I just wish that your marriage will a joining of love and not a union of peace between two council members. But at least you like eachother, that is a start."

"Good bye, Zandra. And speak to no one of what we spoke of. If Kitalla-dono calls again, notify me immediately."

"Have a goodnight." The maid bowed again and then departed, her black skirt swishing around her feet, a Haro that had turned the corner chasing after her.

Lacus re-opened the doors, stepping out into the cool air. She looked up at the empty darkness above and exhaled deeply. "There are not stars to trace after all," she murmured.

"That's why we must find our own." Athrun smiled and Lacus's heart ached with the wish that she could feel more then friendship for him. He was definitely handsome, with angled face, though rather femine in all, but muscular and defined, with smoky dark green eyes that were like deep pools, clear yet bottom less.

"Very well, we shall." Lacus took his hand, tugging him upright from his chair. She led him out of the soft glow, wondering if perhaps tonight, by building the romantic atmosphere she would feel that special feeling that many girls had for Athrun.

"Where are you taking me?" Athrun asked, his expression one of patience. More as a brotherly face for his little sister then a lover to a lover.

A pang resounded in Lacus's heart as she remembered that one glance she had caught him looking at Akira Yamato. That expression of delight and interest that he regarded the girl with.

Always the Romeo he had been, ever since she had met him. He had a poetic heart, a dedication to all he called dear and yet he carried the stubbornness of his father. If he thought he was right then he was right. If he set himself in his ways, then he would remain with ZAFT he would hunt down 'Cagalli' and he would marry Lacus with out a second thought for his father, no matter what he himself might feel.

But he did not love Lacus, though he pursued her. His smiles were heart felt, his gifts of jewelry and flowers beautiful and kind but it did not contain him in it.

And yet, even after a few days he had found this strange pilot amusing. Not taken an interest in her, for sure, but he did consider her differently.

Lacus had confidence in her ability to read people and she wasn't sure whether she was happy or hurt and she only felt more confused as Athrun regarded her deeply with that deep green gaze of his.

"Here," She flopped back into the soft grass, tugging him down with her. "There." She pointed into the darkness. "There is a star there, and many more."

"And what shape do they make?" Athrun asked, ever patiently and Lacus bit her lip.

She traced the shape intended. "A young warrior holding a broken shield and a rusted sword."

"He needs new equipment." Athrun noted.

Lacus shook her head, spreading her arms out, her fingers just grazing Athrun's, the distance between them was so great. "Maybe, or maybe he just needs to remember what he is fighting for. The weapons do not kill people."

"Tell me another."

Lacus paused, thinking. A story grew in her mind. "There, there's another star-shape."

"Really?"

"Of a lonely dragon, living in the darkness of the skies, forever trapped to travel in the stars."

"Is the tired knight sent to kill the lonely dragon?"

"No." she whispered and she felt Athrun's gaze turn to stare at her.

"No… he is sent to save the poor dragon from the dragon's loneliness."

"But it's a dragon?"

"It depends on how we see it. To us, he is obviously a man, and the dragon a beast- two creatures that in the world's eyes shouldn't socialize. But to the man and the dragon, they are friends."

"So I guess there is no damsel in distress." Athrun grinned. Typical guy.

"Of course there is. But rather then being in distress she is sly and clever, meant to trick the knight."

"Trick him how?"

Lacus hesitated, confused. Where was she going with this anyway? "I do not know."

They fell quiet, enjoying the silence.

"Akira." Lacus at last said.

"Hmm?"

"She is nice. I like her." She smiled, her eyes staring steadily above. "But there is much, Athrun that you must come to learn about her."

"Right, because Lacus's never betrays ones privacy." He poked her in the arm.

Lacus chuckled. "Of course."

"Assuming what you figured out about her is right."

"You would be surprised."

Athrun sighed. "But can I trust her?"

"Trust her? As a comrade?" Lacus dared to ask.

He snorted, pulling his hair back from his face. "Yes. She doesn't want to be friends."

Is she afraid of betraying people? If she is part of ORB? Lacus wondered and her solemn respect for the girl rose.

"Yes, of course." Lacus said truthfully. From her impression of the young pilot, there was no doubt that she would stand for Athrun in a battle, no matter the fact that he was her true enemy in life.

They fell quiet again and Athrun wished he knew what Lacus was thinking Since the phone call, Lacus had seemed troubled and he wondered if there was some way he could provide help. Taking a deep breath, he reached over and took her hand in his, rubbing the back of her slim hand with his thumb.

Lacus flushed, and she desperately felt for a spark, a promise that this would lead to a more intimate promise. But as soon as the moment had come the moment was over, Athrun rubbing his own hand with his other, trying to figure out why the slenderness of Lacus's hand had bewildered him. Was it because it was so small compared to his? Or perhaps so different from a certain blonde's whose hands were slightly rough and callused from years of work.

They lay there, in the grass staring into the darkness, confused, unsure, and wishing that there was more to the two of them then 'friends'.

OOOOOO

Cagalli POV

I was standing timidly in the corner of an alley way on the side of the slightly run-down hotel. Bouncing on the balls of my feet to keep warm, I shoved my hands into my jean pockets, shivering in the slight breezes, wondering when Kira and his friend would show and hoping I hadn't been somehow misled.

Out of the corner of my eye I noticed two figures approach slowly into the flickering streetlight. I turned to gaze more fully at them. Brown hair glinted in the light accompanied by deep, rich brown eyes that beamed at me.

I gasped then burst into a run, throwing myself hard at the person, tackling them to the ground. "Kira!" I buried my face into his shoulder, inhaling his musky scent. My friend, my closest friend was here!

The pangs of loneliness that always tugged at my heart vanished in barely a heartbeat as his laughter rumbled in my ears.

Grinning, I pushed myself up, grabbing his hands as I did so, pulling him to his feet with a strong yank.

He dusted off the back of his pants. "Akira." He teased back, rumpling my yellow hair- something I always hated but cuoldn't help but love at the moment- and I laughed, punching him lightly.

"What are you doing here? You idiot." Though I meant to sound angry and annoyed, I couldn't stop the mile wide smile from breaking my face. "I told you not to come!"

"Sure thing, mom!" he punched me lightly back in the shoulder before turning and nodding to his friend. Curious I held out my hand to the light purple haired stranger.

"So, you must be Roma-san." I stated and the man nodded. His rather squinty eyes holding no depth to them but rather layers after layers like…like… an onion.

I tried not to giggle as the thought flickered through my mind.

"Lady Attha, it is an honor."

I waved my hand dismissively. "No matter, I'm glad to meet you but," I met Kira's eyes, biting my lip. "What are you guys doing here?"

Kira's grin grew wider. "Tomorrow night we're taking you home! I told you I would come and get you!"

"Home?" I repeated, my hands locking together. "Kira! I can go home!"

He laughed. "Yes, Princess."

I was too happy to punch him and I grabbed his hands in mine and danced in a happy circle.

Kira was the one who ended, it pulling me into a tight hug. "I haven't seen you in years." He murmured in my ear. "I missed you so much."

I wrapped my arms around him, enjoying the warmth and comfort his embrace offered me.

Roma-san grinned, breaking the silence with a rather awkward comment. "You would think the two of you are long lost lovers."

We broke apart and Kira looked at me, amusement in his eyes and I snorted. "Way to go, Yuna." Kira remarked. "Could you be any more tactless?"

Roma-san laughed. "you aren't the one with view from over here!"

I shook my head, grinning but clutching Kira's hand tightly in mind. "Well, sorry, but you're mistaken. Kira and I are just good friends."

Kira nodded. "Is that really that weird?" he mused.

"Yeah, a little bit." Roma-san said politely with a slight shrug, showing that he didn't mean to be offending.

Kira and I exchanged amused glances. We could care less what the paparazzi, what the world thought of our relation ship. We knew where each other stood in our lives and that was all that mattered. I would trust Kira with my life, no matter how annoying he could be at times and I was confident that he did so for me as well. We would always have each others backs, no matter the situation.

"It's a good thing that we got here though before your ship left for space again." Kira sighed in relief. "I don't even want to think about the idea of having you in danger."

"Kira," I rolled my eyes in an exaggereated motion. "Isn't that the whole reason I left ORB in the first place? Idiot. It seems to me though that no matter where I am I'm in danger."

Kira groaned slightly. "The depressing truth of being the Princess of ORB."

I checked my watch. Damn, I only had thirty minutes to get back to the military base before twelve and it was a twenty minute drive.

"Okay," I clapped my hands together. "So what's the plan?"

Kira glanced at Yuna and he nodded. "Tomorrow you are to meet us at docking systems 4, we'll smuggle you out on our ship."

"Time?"

"Six o'clock."

I nodded. "Alright then." I shook Roma-san's hand again then hugged Kira tightly. "Thanks for coming to get me, even if I'm still going to kick your butt for it later."

He grinned. "Can't wait to go home?"

I grinned as I spun around, walking backwards down the street waving. "Like you wouldn't believe!"

OOOO

Narrator's view

"M'Lady, the important call came in!" Zandra tugged Lacus's arm and she rolled over in her sleep. "M'Lady?"

"Mmmmm." Lacus sat up yawning, rubbing her bleary eyes. Dazedly she held out a hand, fumbling with the phone before raising it to her ear. "La-La-" she paused to yawn deeply again. "Laaacus Clyne speaking.

"My apologies for calling so late, but you did ask me to respond asap." an amused voice issued.

"Oh!" Lacus sat up straighter in her bed, waking up. Her pink hair hung around her tangled and knotted. "Oh! The girl! Right, so what happened?"

"It seems we are correct, she is connected with the pilots of the scout ship. From what I over heard they are planning to take her back to ORB tomorrow night."

Lacus considered those words. "Hmmm, well that would be good then, I guess."

"Does this mean she is the real one?"

"I'm not sure about that... she could just be fooling the pilots too."

"Indeed. In that case, I will return to my ship and pursue them, if your ladyship wishes it?"

Lacus nodded before remembering that her friend couldn't see her. "We can't chance an imposer leading ORB astray."

"Then I shall follow them from a good distance and will try not to attract too much attention." the person on the other end laughed. "Well, i'll leave you to your sleep. If you can please contact me tomorrow."

Lacus nodded again then palmed herself in the face at making the same mistake. "I will; Akira and her new friends aren't out of danger yet. It's easier to get into PLANT then it is to get out. Good night, Kitalla-dono." The maid took the phone and Lacus flopped back into her pillows, tired circles under her eyes. The curtains around her bed drew close shrouding her in complete darkness that used to always be comforting but now...felt suffocating.

"Please," she whispered. "Please let everyone be safe." and her eyes slipped close as she fell into a troubled sleep.

Authors Note

Hoo boy, this chapter was a toughie to write. Characters like Lacus are so impossible for me to understand. I guess this was more of an opening into the next chapter, just as the chapter before this was supposed to be an opening into this. *rolls eyes* honestly, this chapter and the next were supposed to be combined *dejavu* but then somehow this one turned out longer then I thought (why does this keep happening to me?). Anyway, that's not what this Author Note is about, because, guess what, next chapter I have a whole half a day before 'Cagalli leaves with her brother' so…so… what should I do with that half a day? =3

Another day out with our current favorite twosome? But where should they go, what should happen? Asucaga moments or more political/moral battle?

Or perhaps we should have Dearka and Yzak show up again? Or any other charecters? Hmmm?

R&R what you would like to happen for that half a day if you want, and I'll see what I can do =)

Hope you enjoyed this, sorry for any OOC, stupid things, lameness and spelling/grammar mistakes.

R&R your thoughts, comments, criticism, problems and I'm bound to reply

Yours cheerfully,

-Azetta

Da' Jabber Bomb

Ello' people who make my life super awesome!

Btw, did you know that you can give yourself a hickey if you do it right? -.- I do now. NEVER EVER THINK TO YOURSELF "I'm bored, there must be something I can do to kill time" AND THEN ARRIVE AT THE CONCLUSION THAT YOU MUST FIND OUT IF HICKEY'S REALLY DO LEAVE MARKS. Omg… worst idea…EVER.

Anyhoo, I now have a mark on my shoulder that has been here for a couple days. No more tank tops till it's gone (oh poo). Jeezums, do I feel stupid. I'm so dumb sometimes ahhh . it's okay if you now think I'm weird.

Oh, but the worst part was when I called my friends, and I tricked them into doing it…THEY DIDN'T HAVE MARKS LEFT (I hate my life sometimes…)

Honestly, things are never fair for me .

Oh well, hahahhahaa, that was actually the highlight of my week, I never laughed so hard after I did something stupid. ( and I have done some pretty stupid/funny things in my life XD )

Anyway, the moral of this pathetic story is to never, NEVER, do an 'Esther'.

(Esther is my real name, =3 ) But anyway, hope you had a laugh at my expense ^_^

Playlist:

I'm only me when I'm with you –Taylor Swift

Live like we're dying – Kris Allen

Beautiful, Beautiful- Francesca Battistelli

Tidal wave- Owl City

We R who We R- Ke$ha (Got Jesus on my necklace- so true =)

Looking up –Paramore

Never again – Kelly Clarkson

If I can't have you- Kelly Clarkson

Love song –Sarah bareilles