Though the Heavens May Fall

Chapter Three

By: DamageCtrl

All Standard Disclaimers Apply: I do not own Gundam Seed/Gundam Seed: Destiny. They belong to their respective creators, owners, licensees.

She looked so peaceful when she was sleeping; with her head against soft pillows and her golden hair framing her vulnerable face. To Athrun, watching his wife sleep was a rare and deeply appreciated event. It meant that Cagalli was right next to him, comfortable and safe. She wasn't off at some meeting, pulling her hair out because of foreign representatives that drove her mad. She wasn't in the process of leaving him and heading back to Orb or off training a squad of female warriors along the coast.

She was asleep in his arms, in his bed, in his house in the middle of Zaft, and the feeling that it left him was nothing short of fulfillment. If only he could wake up every morning to find her sleeping against him. Smiling to himself, Athrun nestled back beside her and buried his face against the back of her head. Only the sounds of the birds outside the half open balcony doors and Cagalli's blissful snoring filled the room.

He would've happily laid there beside her longer, had a small knock not echoed from the door. For a moment, he laid in bed, mentally debating whether or not to go answer it. Finally, after remembering why Shinn had come all the way to Orb, he forced himself out of his niche beside Cagalli and headed for the door.

As he tiredly pulled it open part way, he saw Lunamaria standing dutifully in front of the door. "Good morning, Luna," he said as he stifled a yawn. "Is there a problem?"

"I am sorry for disturbing you, my lord," the woman said as she bowed her head apologetically. "However, Lord Joule has just arrived and requests a moment of your time."

Immediately, Athrun's eyebrows furrowed. His lips tightened into an irritated line. Yzak really did have the worst timing. He let out a heavy sigh and nodded. "Please have him wait a few moments longer and inform him that I will be downstairs to meet with in him a few minutes in my study."

"Yes, my lord." Lunamaria bowed her head once more as Athrun closed the door. The blue-haired man looked back at the sprawling bed and the lovely blonde woman still sleeping on it. Silently, he cursed Yzak before walking to his closet to gather a change of clothes.

When he emerged and headed downstairs, he found Yzak standing in his study, aimlessly skimming over the spines of the assorted books that lined the study's walls.

"It's rather early for you to come and bother me, isn't it?" Athrun asked as he leaned against the doorway. He crossed his arms over his chest as Yzak froze in his spot. "Or is it that you simply wanted to make sure that I really had returned?"

The silver-haired man's narrowed eyes merely settled on his friend's as he turned to face him. "While I do have valid reason to doubt the message of your return, especially after you simply vanished for a month without warning, I didn't come here only to check up on you."

"Is that so?" Athrun mused. He stood up straight. "I notice Dearka isn't here. Has he finally driven you completely mad, as you've predicted?"

"Hardly," Yzak grumbled. "It is my mother."

For a split second, Athrun grimaced. Those four words easily explained the situation after years of knowing and growing up along side of Yzak. Lady Ezalia Joule was a strong, proud woman, but she was a very over-bearing and, at times, smothering mother. Her position as head of the Joule family and a Supreme Council member made her orders difficult to ignore, and Yzak, more than anyone else, knew that.

"I see," Athrun nodded understandingly. "And where is Dearka?"

"Do not mind him," Yzak stated. "He is still behind on his work and needs to finish soon, so I left him back at the house."

The corner of Athrun's lip curled upwards, amused. "Was he even awake when you left?" He would gladly bet his entire fortune that the moment Yzak had left, Dearka had returned to his room for more sleep.

"He was; however, whether or not he stayed that way is questionable," Yzak replied.

"He's probably sleeping as we speak." Athrun let out another yawn and waved for his fellow knight follow him as he turned back towards the hall. "Have you eaten yet? Join me for breakfast."

"I've already had the morning meal, but I'll join you in the hall," Yzak told him. He followed Athrun towards the dining hall and wandered towards the windows as Athrun took a seat at the head of the table. "You're not going to wait for heir?" the white-haired man asked casually. "I thought you enjoyed your breakfasts with the children."

Athrun placed the napkin on his lap. "We arrived late last night and I'm sure Cagalli, Shinn, and Mayu would prefer to sleep in rather than join me for breakfast. It is fine. They will come down when they are hungry."

Yzak turned from the window, a half questioning, half surprised look on his face. "Captain Athha is here?"

"Didn't you read the message?" Athrun asked.

"Dearka reported to me."

"I see," the green-eyed nobleman took a sip of his drink. "Cagalli has been temporarily banished from Orb due to her stress. She has collapsed and blacked out numerous times already. Queen Murrue, her advisors, and the rest of the Haumea Elite captains decided that it would be best for her to be relieved of her duties and sent away to rest for a while."

"Then it is true," Yzak murmured as he took a seat at the table. "Dearka had mentioned something about her."

The blue-haired man raised an eyebrow. "Through Captain Haww, I assume."

Yzak let out a small snort. "Who else?" He leaned back against his chair, his eyes fastened on the table.

Athrun chuckled as he cut through the meat on his plate. "It is both a blessing and a curse that Dearka isn't Plants nobility. If he was, then we would have another Haumea Elite as a citizen, but at the same time, Orb would be two capable captains short, instead of one."

"Speaking of Orb," Yzak began carefully. "Hahnenfuss went there."

"I'm aware," Athrun nodded. "Cagalli and Captain Haww have been assisting her with her citizenship issue."

The other nobleman glanced up. "Will it all go through?"

"Everything should go smoothly. There is no reason she cannot get her citizenship," Athrun explained. "Cagalli and Captain Haww were rigorous in making sure all the papers and legalities were taken care of." He paused and looked up at Yzak. A small grin crossed his face. "There is no need to worry about Shiho, Yzak. She'll be back at your side soon."

Blue eyes narrowed and shot a vicious glare at Athrun. He sat up straight in his chair. "What is that supposed to mean?"

The other man shrugged. "Nothing," Athrun said casually. "Only that it must be difficult for you being parted from her for the first time."

Yzak settled back against the cushions of his seat. "She'll return soon," he murmured as his eyes looked away. Beside him, Athrun let out a small chuckle. "What?" Yzak growled.

"Nothing, nothing…" Athrun smiled. He continued to eat his breakfast. "Honestly, Yzak. What are you going to do when you have to return to Orb to find a bride?"

Beside him, the silver-haired man tensed. Pale hands dug into the wood surface of the table as Yzak sat up straight. That was the other reason he had come to the Zala Estate in the first place; to tell Athrun about the current situation and the decision Plants had made regarding the international marriages. His eyes moved away from his companion as he tried to find a way to explain it.

After a few moments, the silver-haired nobleman exhaled and decided to just tell his companion. "I'm going back to Orb in a few days."

Athrun let out a small sound of disbelief as he chewed on his eggs. He swallowed his food and looked over at the other nobleman. "It's a bit soon, isn't it? Shiho has only been gone a few days-"

"It has nothing to do with her!" Yzak snapped suddenly. He slammed his hands on the table as he stood up. He glared at Athrun, irritated that he didn't seem to realize what was going on. Didn't Athrun understand the severity of the situation or how important the decision to move up the marriages was? Now was not the time to be concerned with his female secretary! "I'm being sent to Orb immediately to find and marry a Haumea Elite!"

"What?" Athrun narrowed his eyes. "But…you are supposed to have about a year after I married Cagalli…why?"

"The war, Zala," Yzak spat out as he waved his hand out the window, towards some unseen battle ground. "Because Plants has to pick a side and it has picked Orb's."

Silently, Athrun lowered his utensils and listened as the silver-haired Red Knight paced beside him, spouting off an explanation for his sudden rushed wife hunt. Every so often, Yzak would run his hand through his shoulder length silver hair; a sign that he was frustrated, tired, and possibly at a loss of what to do. He seemed to be battling with himself on his decision to go through with his duty.

"So, then," Athrun said as he looked at his friend. "What exactly do you plan on doing?"

"What do you think I plan on doing?" Yzak growled. "I plan to go to Orb and get married! It is what has been ordered and as a nobleman of Plants, it is my duty to do so! You, of all people, should understand the situation I am in!"

Athrun's lips tightened into a line. He slowly rose from his chair and faced the other knight. "It is not that I do not understand, Yzak, it is that you are being rather cruel in your decision."

"Cruel?" Yzak scoffed. "What non-sense are you talking about, Zala!?"

"Do you think it will make Shiho happy to return to Plants and live under the same roof as you and your wife?" Athrun demanded. He watched as his words sank into Yzak's mind and observed the emotions quickly flash through blue eyes. A blank stare, followed by concern, hurt, and then finally overwhelmed by frustration.

"You are thinking too much into this! Do not forget that it is simply an arranged marriage," Yzak countered. "The Elite I wed will be my wife in name only and her time at the Joule Estate will be two weeks at most, as is the same condition as you and Captain Athha."

Athrun narrowed his eyes. "So her presence in your home, your and Shiho's home, is only for fourteen days," Athrun frowned. "Do you think that makes it better?" he asked coldly.

Subconsciously, Yzak took a step back. "I do not like what this conversation is insinuating about Hahnenfuss and myself," he said warily.

"At least you acknowledge that it has something to do with the both of you," Athrun frowned.

Yzak's eyes hardened into a glare. "Do you think I am the sort of man who would have an affair with another woman when married?"

Across from him, the other nobleman raised an eyebrow curiously. "I never said that," he told Yzak carefully. "You said so yourself that your wife would be your wife in name only. There would be no feelings shared between you two; however, that is not the case with Shiho. You cannot deny her importance to you-"

"She is a valuable secretary and knight!" Yzak defended. "Other than loyalty towards a fellow knight, I-"

"Whatever you feel for Shiho is deeper than what you will feel for any other woman, your wife or otherwise," Athrun cut him off calmly. "Whether it is loyalty or whatever you want to call it. Everyone sees that, but you. It would not be fair to Shiho, or to your wife, that another woman shares her life so intimately with you."

Yzak stood in front of Athrun, his eyes wide as the statement struck him. His heart beat quickly in his chest as his fists tightened at his sides. Athrun was wrong. Shiho was his secretary. She was a loyal knight and a good friend, at the most. That was all she was. His wife would be his wife.

For a moment, Yzak stood still in front of Athrun. His mind mulled over the seriousness of his marriage. He would be married. It may be only on paper and for political purposes, but the Elite would still be his wife. He would be expected to care for her, to share his life with her, and to have children with her.

His chest tightened at the thought. He would be expected to start a family with her. He had never even entertained such thoughts in his life! Even if it was not immediately after the wedding, sooner or later, the Haumea Elite that would bare the title of Lady Joule would need to be the mother of his children. To his horror, he could not see himself as the husband to anyone else but his brown-haired, red uniformed secretary.

He silently shook his head. No, he was imagining things. All of Athrun and Dearka's ridiculous babblings regarding himself and Hahnenfuss were merely planting ideas in his head.

"I've had enough of this," he spat out as his eyes returned to their usual glare. "I only came to make certain that you did arrive and to remind you to get your paperwork for the Red Knights ready."

"They're already done. I sent them out when I was still in Orb," Athrun countered. "Yzak-"

"I have to return to my family's estate," Yzak said sharply as he swept past Athrun. "I must ready my things for the trip to Orb."

"Yzak!" Athrun frowned as he turned around and began following after Yzak. The silver-haired man made his way to the large doorway of the dining hall. He didn't notice the petite blonde rounding the door to enter and slammed right into her.

"Ah!" He looked down and reached out, just in time to grab Cagalli's hand before she fell backwards.

"Captain Athha," Yzak cringed. Just how long had the woman been there? And why didn't he hear her if she was standing there? "Forgive me, I did not see you."

"It's all right, Lord Joule," Cagalli said as she steadied herself. Yzak released her hand and gave her a curt bow of his head. "Thank you for the assistance."

"My apologies, once again," Yzak said. "I trust your journey back to Plants was enjoyable."

"To be honest, I slept most of the way," Cagalli chuckled. She looked past Yzak and smiled at her husband warmly. "Good morning, Athrun."

The blue-haired man smiled intently at her. Yzak could see Athrun's softened face and adoring eyes and momentarily wondered if he would ever be able to look at a woman like that. He hoped not.

"I beat you this time," Athrun told her. "I was up first…and you still look like you're ready to return to bed."

Cagalli looked down at her clothes. She was still wearing her night clothes beneath one of Athrun's robes. Being taller than her meant that the robe nearly dragged along the floor. She even had a small blanket wrapped around her shoulders. She cracked a small smile. She wasn't the least bit presentable, but such trivialities never bothered her.

"I plan to sleep some more after I satisfy my hunger," she admitted. She looked back at Yzak. "Lord Joule, will you be joining us?"

"No," he told her quickly as he stepped around her. "I've already eaten and have to return to my family's estate to finish some work. Thank you for the invitation, though, Captain Athha."

"Lord Joule, you may call me Cagalli," she offered as Athrun joined her at her side. "It is not necessary to be so formal. Look at how I am dressed." Athrun let out a small chuckle and Yzak merely offered her a forced smile.

"Then only in informal settings…Cagalli," he said, wincing as he said her first name. He simply wasn't used to such informal things.

"Don't worry about him," Athrun said as he wrapped his arms around his wife's shoulders. "He still calls me Zala and has been doing so since we were children."

"I should be going," Yzak insisted as he took another step away from the couple. "We shall meet again, after things have settled down. Please have a good rest, lady captain."

"I will, thank you," Cagalli smiled. "Lunamaria is in the foyer. She will see you out."

"Thank you," Yzak gave them a bow of his head before making his exit. As he vanished from the hall, Athrun placed his chin atop Cagalli's head.

"How much did you hear?" he asked.

Cagalli let out a heavy sigh as she turned around and headed for the table. "Enough," she replied.

Athrun pulled out a chair for her and she sat down. "What do you think?"

"I think," Cagalli said as a servant melted from the sides of the dining hall to place a silver tray of food in front of her. "That you should not get involved."

"What?" Athrun jerked his head back. He was sure Cagalli would have jumped at the chance to bring Shiho and Yzak together. In fact, he was sure that all of the Haumea Elite would've wanted to help, considering the gossip he had heard from them.

"It is Yzak's life and he should feel free to do what he wants," she said as she pushed her mug forward and had a servant fill it with coffee. "We did our duty, Athrun. He will do his as he sees fit."

"Temporarily banished?" Shiho's eyes were wide with surprise as she was informed of the current situation of the Rouge Captain. "Is there even such a thing?"

Across from her, Miriallia poured her a cup of tea. After spending most of the morning resting from her cross-country trip, Shiho had been invited to have tea out in fountain lined gardens of the Azure Seray Estate. Dressed in simple civilian clothing, she met Miriallia outside.

The Azure Captain was dressed in her usual purple and white suit with the adorning blue arm bands. The woman's brown hair had been tied up into a neat bun at the base of her neck as she leaned back against her chair.

"It is not new that an over worked and stress-filled Elite has been sent away on mandatory leave to recuperate; however, no one has been sent to another country before and no one of a captain's rank has ever been put on such a leave," Miriallia explained. "It took an order from Queen Murrue, approval from the Advisors, and orders from the rest of the captains to get Cagalli to go."

"Dearka was telling us that she was stressed from work, but I had no idea it was so serious," Shiho admitted. "How long will she be gone?"

"A month," Miriallia replied. "I'm sure Athrun is keeping an eye on her and making sure she gets some rest. He, probably more than anyone, has been concerned for her deteriorating health during the negotiations."

Shiho's lips curled into a small smile as she sipped from her cup. "He did leave without warning or regards to his position in Plants for her," the brown-haired knight mused. "At least now, Cagalli will be able to fulfill that provision of two weeks in Plants."

"Oh, yes, that reminds me," Miriallia smiled as she placed her tea cup back on the saucer. "Regarding your citizenship. Cagalli and I have already prepared everything for you. All you need to do is show your Plants birth records and passport to verify your identity and sign the documents at the Naturalization Department at the Orator's Hall in town."

"That is all?" Shiho asked, somewhat surprised. "What about the documents regarding my grandmother's citizenship here?"

"We've already taken care of that," Miriallia assured her. "Because she was part of the Haumea Elite, she is well documented and it was no trouble to find and submit her records."

"What about processing?" Shiho asked. "How long will that take?"

"Not long at all," Miriallia told her. "Just a day or two at the most to get the official documents ready."

"I thought it would take much longer than that," Shiho admitted. "I had asked for a month's leave."

"A month?" Miriallia chuckled. "That isn't so bad. You are welcomed to stay that entire time. You may also want to travel to see the property your grandmother left you."

"That sounds like a good idea. I'll definitely have time to go." Shiho agreed.

The Haumea Elite nodded. "If you leave after you complete the paperwork, you will probably be able to return by the time Lord Joule arrives."

The Red Knight tensed in her seat. "Lord Joule?" she asked as her eyebrows furrowed. "Why would Lord Joule be coming?" For a split second, her mind entertained the thought of him coming for her. She quickly shook such a ridiculous thought away. They may have been close, as knights, but she was always just a loyal, dutiful subordinate in his eyes.

"Ah, Dearka sent the messenger hawk, most likely after you left Plants, so you probably didn't know that the dates were moved," Miriallia told her. "He says that Plants is concerned about the Orb-Federation conflict and wants to strengthen ties with Orb. As a result, the marriages that were planned to go over the span of five years have been condensed and moved up, so they are supposed to arrive soon."

Across from her, Shiho sat still in her chair, her cup hovering over the saucer. "Then…Lord Joule is coming to find his bride?"

The Haumea Elite slowly hesitated before she nodded her head in confirmation. "I thought you knew about the decision."

Slowly, Shiho shook her head. "I must've left before the official order was given." She placed her cup on the saucer and stood up. "I apologize for my rudeness, Miriallia, but I just remembered there are some things I have to prepare."

"Of course," the other woman replied as she stood up. Despite their words, both understood the situation. Shiho wanted to be alone. Miriallia placed her own cup back on the table. "I should get going, as well. I need to finish some paper work. Will you be joining us for dinner?"

"Yes," Shiho nodded, distractedly. "Thank you again for your hospitality."

"It is a pleasure to aid a friend," Miriallia smiled warmly.

Shiho gave the Elite a small bow of her head before heading up the path to the house. She quickly made her way into the large building before entering her room and closing the door behind her. Suddenly feeling drained, she leaned back against the door and closed her eyes.

A heavy breath escaped her lips as she ran a hand down her face. Lord Joule, no, Yzak was getting married. Married. Her heart twisted at the thought. Odd. She had known for some time that he was going to be married. A year, a month, what did it matter? She had known it was coming.

As she leaned back against the wood door she let out a heavy breath. Because in a year, something might have changed…now the time for change as been drastically reduced. She shoved those thoughts away as she stepped from the door and headed to the desk, where assorted folders, organized neatly, lay across its surface.

He was a nobleman, the only son of a respected councilwoman. She was of an inferior birth, nothing more than another knight in his world. She sat down on the chair in front of the desk and slowly looked to her side at the bed. She could almost see him lying across it, his head using an open book as a pillow. She could remember the feel of his perfect, silky silver hair against her finger tips as she pulled the book away.

Shiho's hands clasped the material of her pants tightly. He was coming to where she was, but at that moment, she missed him more than she did when she had left him behind.

Red eyes settled on to the blonde woman sitting on the back veranda of the Zala Estate. Her pink lips were pulled into a tight, displeased line as she stared out past the gardens, to the Zala Forest. Shinn tilted his head to the side. The scene before him seemed almost unnatural.

Cagalli seemed dressed in her normal Haumea Elite training clothes, but seeing her slumped back against a chair, with a blanket over her shoulders, made him think otherwise. Normally, she would've been up and active. Cautiously, the heir stepped outside the hall.

"Cagalli?" he asked carefully. The woman casually looked over her shoulder and raised an eyebrow as he approached. "What are you doing out here?"

"Being prohibited from going riding," the woman reported flatly. "It seems that your master is being obscenely cautious and won't let me set foot past the veranda."

For a moment, Shinn was surprised. Either Athrun had tied her to that chair to keep her in place or Cagalli loved him enough to stay put and 'rest'. "Where is Athrun?" he asked curiously. He looked over his shoulder and around the veranda. The blue-haired master of the house was no where to be seen.

Cagalli let out a heavy breath. "In his office," she told him. Shinn took in a knowing breath and nodded. From Athrun's office, he could see the veranda and, therefore, see Cagalli. He wouldn't be surprised if Athrun was distracted from his work and was sitting by the window, staring at her as they spoke. "Say…" The blonde woman smiled as she looked at the young man. "Would you care to go riding with me?"

Shinn tensed. Riding with Cagalli meant racing with Cagalli in order to keep up with her. Memories of the rainy day he had cut through an Onogoro forest with her on their way back to the Rouge Seray filled his mind. She was almost careless at times. He knew that. She knew that. Athrun knew that.

"Err…" He took a step back warily. "Actually, Cagalli, I'm on duty right now. I was just passing by-"

"We can bring Mayu and go look at the deer!" Cagalli said as she began to stand from her chair. "Oh, and we'll have Miguel pack some deer food for us so we can feed them."

Shinn winced. Mayu would definitely want to go if she heard the plan and Shinn would inadvertently be pulled into their little adventure. If Athrun found out…

"Cagalli!" a voice shouted to their left. The blonde haired woman's hopeful face immediately scowled. Shinn turned his head towards the building and saw Athrun standing by his open window with a worried look on his face. "Why are you standing? Are you cold!? Do you want me to get you another blanket!?"

"I'm not cold!" Cagalli shouted back, irritated. "I'm bored and I want to go riding!"

"No!" Athrun denied easily. "What if you pass out and fall off the horse!?"

"I'm not going to fall off of anything!" Cagalli insisted. She wasn't in the same state she had been in Orb. Rather than lacking sleep, she had been sleeping so much; she began to grow bored of it. Instead of having to deal with the stress of fruitless negotiations with the Federation, she had to deal with fruitless negotiations with Athrun. While they were not exactly stress inducing, they were frustrating her. "It's just a ride into the forest, Athrun-"

"The forest!?" the blue-haired nobleman gasped, almost horrified that she had even suggested such a thing. "Cagalli, what if something happens!?" Shinn raised an eyebrow. Lately, Athrun did seem to become almost smothering in his attempts to help his wife 'relax'.

"Like what, a deer attack?" Cagalli grumbled under her breath. Shinn took another step back as the couple yelled at each other. "I have been trapped in this house for almost a week now, Athrun! I would like to do something other than sit around and stare at the garden! You won't even let me read because you think I'll get a headache and collapse!"

"You need to give your mind a rest!" Athrun insisted. Cagalli continued to glare at him and he shifted awkwardly under her gaze. He was beginning to falter. Perhaps, he was being unnecessarily careful. "Fine! Wait right there!" He reached up and grabbed the handles of the windows. He pulled the glass and metal panes closed before his figure disappeared from behind them.

"Now is my chance!" Cagalli gushed. Shinn whirled around and let out a surprised gasp as Cagalli rushed down the steps of the veranda.

"Wait!" Shinn choked out as he took a step forward. "Athrun said to wait here!"

"I refuse!" Cagalli shouted without looking back. Shinn grimaced. He found himself rooted in his spot as he watched the blonde woman scurry across the gravel path to the stables.

"Cagalli!" Shinn shouted once more. Athrun would not be pleased. Shinn turned around to try to escape before his master returned, only to find Athrun emerging from the doorway of the house.

"Caga…" His voice trailed off as his green eyes scanned the vacated veranda for his wife. Immediately, his lips pursed into an irritated frown as his eyebrows furrowed. Shinn took a step back. "Where did she go?" Athrun asked in a low voice.

Shinn swallowed the lump in his throat. "To the stables."

"Damn it, Cagalli!" Athrun let out a growl as he marched after his wife. "Shinn, there is a stack of reports in my room!" he shouted as he ran down the path. "Have them sent to the main office for me!"

"Yes, sir!" Shinn said dutifully. He turned around and headed indoors. Even as he walked through the doorway, he could hear Athrun's yells of protest and Cagalli's taunts. He let out a heavy sigh and shook his head.

In the last week, it surprised him just how cooperative Cagalli was when it came to Athrun's unreasonable requests for her to remain inside the house or in bed or wrapped in a blanket. She wasn't the type to just sit down and obey orders she disagreed with. She could probably see just how worried her husband was. Had Athrun not needed to get work done, he probably would've remained glued to his wife's side.

Lunamaria had told Shinn that it was like seeing a different side of Athrun. Before Cagalli, after Lady Meer's death, Athrun was much colder and seemed to distance himself from everyone. Cagalli seemed to have softened him. Shinn had silently thought that it wasn't that Cagalli softened Athrun, but that she brought him back to the kind of person he was before his late wife's death.

"Shinn!" a voice said behind him as he walked down the corridor. He looked over his shoulder and saw the pink-haired Red Knight jogging towards him. "Shinn! Rey's here!"

"What?" Shinn jerked his head back and furrowed his eyebrows. "He didn't tell me he was coming."

"He just arrived," Lunamaria said as she reached the black-haired heir. "He said he has something to tell you and was quite excited."

"Right now?" Shinn grumbled. Lunamaria nodded and Shinn sighed. "Okay, where is he?"

"He's waiting in the library," the woman replied.

"Fine, I'll meet him," Shinn sighed. "Can you do me a favor? Lord Zala has some documents in his office that need to be sent out to the main office. Can you send for a courier and have them sent?"

"Of course," Lunamaria nodded. "Tell me what Rey said later!"

Shinn nodded his head half-heartedly as he headed in the direction Lunamaria had come from. As he neared the library, he could hear voices coming from past the half open doors. He peeked inside and saw Rey standing with Meyrin and Mayu. Mayu was nodding enthusiastically as Rey handed her a brown package.

"They're from Orb's Haumea Temple, apparently. It has the largest documented collection of classical Orb music in the country," Rey was telling her.

"And they're all for the piano?" Mayu asked curiously. She tugged at the strings of the package.

"I think some have been translated into scores for the piano," Rey admitted. He caught the sight of Shinn at the doorway and stood up straight. "Shinn! There you are!"

"This is a surprise," Shinn said. "Have you been transferred to Lord Zala's division?"

"No, I'm still under Lord Joule's," Rey said. "This is a personal visit."

"Where are the lord and lady?" Shinn asked as he glanced around.

"They're at the estate," Rey said, a wide smile never leaving his face. "Do you have a moment?"

Shinn raised an eyebrow. Rey seemed excited and Shinn nodded. "Yes. Meyrin, can you get us something to drink?"

The pink-haired servant bowed her head. "Is tea fine?"

"Yes…and some pastries. Bring some for Mayu and yourself, too," Shinn added. Meyrin bowed her head once more and scurried down.

"I'm going to try some of these," Mayu said as she fingered through the stack of scores on her way to a piano in the corner of the room. As she sat on the bench, Shinn ushered his fellow knight on to a seat in front of the hearth.

"What brings you here?" Shinn asked as he sank into the couch. Rey sat across from him and smiled.

"I'm getting married."

Immediately, the black-haired knight sat up straight. His eyes widened as he leaned forward and looked at the blond. "What!? When…when was this decided? And who, exactly, are you marrying!?"

"I don't know, yet," Rey blushed sheepishly.

Shinn's jaw nearly dropped. "How can you not know!?" he gasped. "Is this an arranged marriage? Did Lord and Lady Durandal find someone for you? What's her name? Where is she from?" Shinn gushed. He paused and looked at Rey. "You have met her, haven't you?"

The blond knight shook his head. "That's what I wanted to tell you," Rey began. "I'm going to Orb to marry a Haumea Elite."

"What?" Shinn spat out in disbelief. "The only ones who are marrying Haumea Elite are the grooms that were selected along with Athrun!"

"There is a little problem with that," Rey said as he sat on the edge of his seat. "Apparently, the Canaver family's son, who was one of the original grooms, ran off with a servant and eloped," Rey explained. Shinn's eyes widened with surprise. "The entire council was apparently in a panic about it since all the grooms are being sent to Orb immediately, to help strengthen the ties with that country."

"But…how did you get involved?" Shinn asked. "Did they volunteer you?"

"No," Rey shook his head and smiled proudly. "I volunteered myself."

For a moment, Shinn was at a complete loss for words. "You…" he began carefully. "Volunteered?"

"Yes!" Rey affirmed happily. "What do you think? Do you think I'm ready for such a step?"

"Why are you asking me that?" Shinn gasped, still in shock. "Do you know how big a decision this is? You can't just decide to get married all of a sudden! Are you crazy!?"

"I did spend some time thinking about this," Rey insisted. "When I was informed of the opening, I didn't just jump at the chance, Shinn. I talked it over with my parents and decided that it was a good decision. I am helping my country and bringing in an honored Haumea Elite into the family."

"Rey, you have no shortage of admirers here in Plants," Shinn stated. "It isn't as if you can't find a wife here."

Rey drew his head back, somewhat insulted. "Are you saying that marrying outside of Plants is a bad idea?"

"What!? No, of course not!" Shinn insisted as his face reddened. "I've seen first hand the success of such a marriage and know there isn't anything wrong with it."

"Oh, yes, I heard that Captain Athha is here," Rey smiled once more. He casually glanced around the room. "Is she present? I would like to ask her about the prospective brides."

Shinn ran groaned. Wasn't Rey listening to him? He ran his hand through his hair and met his friend's gaze once more. "She is off riding with her husband."

"Then what do you think?" Rey asked as he looked at Shinn earnestly. "You've met some the Elite during your stay there, haven't you?"

Shinn let out a heavy breath. "I spent most of my time at the Rouge Seray and most of the Elite were busy. It wasn't as if I was able to spend hours with individual ones, aside from Cagalli and Stellar."

"Stellar…" Rey looked thoughtful as he tried to place the name. "Wasn't she…the girl who arrived with Captain Athha the first time?"

"Stellar is her adopted sister and a Haumea Elite of the Azure Seray," Shinn explained. "But she is not one of the selected brides. Those Elites are volunteers."

"Cagalli didn't volunteer," a voice said behind them. Shinn looked past Rey and at his little sister. "Remember? Lt. Caldwell was telling us when we were in Orb. Cagalli wasn't one of the volunteers."

"Then it is possible to wed someone who isn't a prospective bride?" Rey asked. "They will allow that?"

"I think that their case was a special one," Shinn insisted. "You won't have time to meet with every Haumea Elite there, Rey. Nor are they all willing to get married. That is why they have volunteers."

"Didn't you meet any of them?" Rey persisted.

"I believe they are all older than you," Shinn frowned as he crossed his arms. Rey wrinkled his nose.

"How much older?" he asked weakly.

Before Shinn could answer, Meyrin walked in with a tray of tea and pastries. She placed them on the table before the two knights and began pouring them some tea. "I'm not saying I'm against this, I just think that it's sudden," Shinn stated. "I don't know what you're thinking, agreeing to it all of a sudden."

"My parents were impressed with Captain Athha and think very highly of the Haumea Elite," Rey explained. "After meeting Captain Athha at her welcome ball, I can't help but feel the same. I spoke to Stellar a bit, too, and she spoke very highly to of her sisters. This will not be a bad match."

Shinn reached forward and brought a cup to his lips. "Do what you want. If you really want to get married, I can't stop you," the brunette grumbled. "When are you leaving?"

"Later this week."

"Oh…well, I'll come by before you leave. Stellar asked to send some Plants cookies for her and Kira. Do you think you can bring them over to her?" Shinn asked.

"Of course," Rey nodded. "I'd like to ask her for her thoughts on the prospective brides as well."

"I don't like it," Yzak frowned as he paced in front of his house. The servants were finishing preparing the carriage as the guards that would escort him and his mother to Orb were preparing their rides. He rubbed his chin worriedly as Athrun watched from the steps. "It seems suspicious to me. I can't help but wonder what they are talking about."

"She told you what they are talking about," Athrun sighed. "Your mother wanted to speak to Cagalli regarding the marriage provisions as Cagalli was the one who oversaw most of it."

Yzak stopped his pacing and looked back up at Athrun. "Is that what my mother told her?"

Athrun thought for a moment and nodded. "Yes."

"Then, there must be another motive," Yzak deduced.

Athrun let out a heavy sigh and crossed his arms. "How can you be so suspicious of your mother? You know she wouldn't do anything that would harm you. You're her only, precious son."

The corner of Yzak's eye twitched at the title. Athrun was grinning, amused. "She's probably asking about the Elite volunteers," Yzak explained. "I wouldn't put it past her. She knows that your wife is familiar with all the volunteers. She must be seeking out a particular volunteer that would match me well enough."

"It isn't as if that is a bad thing. She only wants to find a good match for you, Yzak," Athrun insisted.

"I don't want her to find a match for me!" Yzak growled. "I am perfectly capable of finding a wife for myself!"

"Yes," Dearka said as he arrived with his horse in tow. "In the two decades or so, you've certainly proved that." Athrun let out a small snort as Yzak seethed in his spot.

"Simply because I do not chase every woman I see does not mean I am incapable of finding and marrying a suitable woman!" Yzak argued.

"Your history speaks against you, my friend," Athrun smiled. "You've scared off practically every noble's daughter from here to December City. If you will be competing for the affections of a woman against young Rey, do expect problems."

"Rey?" Dearka asked as he looked over his shoulder from where he was fixing his saddle.

Yzak's eye narrowed. "The Durandal's boy?"

Athrun nodded. "Shinn told me after Rey came by the estate earlier this week. Apparently, the Canaver's son, who was one of the original grooms, eloped with a servant. Rey volunteered to take his place."

Yzak let out a small scoff as Dearka let out a low whistle. "They say women like younger men because they can keep up better," Dearka mused aloud. Yzak sent him another glare. "That, coupled with his notorious good looks and kind personality…I wouldn't be surprised if he became engaged as soon as he arrived."

"I would say he is a bit too young, but at his age, I was already engaged to Meer," Athrun admitted. "Still, this is a rather large step for a young man to take."

"If he were Yzak's age, there would not be a problem." Dearka grinned.

"I would appreciate it if you two would cease speaking as if I was not standing before you," Yzak hissed behind gritted teeth. "It does not matter to me that he will be there. This is not some sort of competition."

"Of course not," Athrun agreed. "I am sure the next time we meet, you will have a lovely bride at your side."

"Be sure of that," Yzak nodded with affirmation. Even as he said it, he wasn't so sure.

"Is everything here ready?" a voice asked from the top of the steps. Athrun immediately straightened up at the sound of his wife's voice and turned to face her.

"It looks like it," he replied as he raised his hand and clasped Cagalli's as she descended. "Where is Lady Joule?"

"She said she will come out in a moment," the blonde woman replied.

"Cagalli," Yzak said cautiously as he took a step forward. "I apologize if my mother was rude or demanding in any way. I am afraid it is just her nature."

"What are you talking about, Yzak?" Cagalli asked as she raised an eyebrow. "Your mother had some tea with me and we discussed the marriage provisions and the Haumea Elite."

Blue eyes narrowed. "What about the Haumea Elite?"

"The dangers of the occupation, what our standard procedures are during pregnancies and special occasions, our education, things like that," she told him. Yzak gave her a suspicious look, but accepted the answer.

"Very well," he murmured. He looked over at the carriage as the servants stepped aside. "It seems we are ready to leave."

Cagalli raised an eyebrow as she looked up at the light blue and gold trimmed carriage. Compared to the rather simple brown one she had arrived in with Athrun, this other carriage was extremely extravagant. Then again, it did belong to Supreme Councilwoman and head of the Joule Noble House, Lady Ezalia Joule.

"That is…quite an entourage…" Cagalli murmured as she stood at the steps with Athrun. There were at least a dozen guards on horseback, as well as one seated in front and another seated at the back of the carriage. Dearka stood beside the vehicle, readying his horse as he hummed happily to himself.

"Cagalli! Do you think she'll like them?" Dearka asked as he tightened the strap of one of the bags. He looked over his shoulder, eagerly, at the blonde woman. "I know she said not to bring her anything, but I know she likes crème puffs. Do you think I brought enough?"

Athrun let out a heavy sigh as Cagalli chuckled. Yzak glared at the back of Dearka's head. "Did you buy out an entire bakery, Dearka?" Cagalli asked as she glanced up at the box that had been strapped to the roof of the carriage. "I think you brought more than enough."

"I couldn't decide on the flavors," the blond admitted. "I bought at least a dozen of every flavor I could find, just to be sure. She likes tea, but she's always drinking different ones, so I don't know if she has a favorite. I just decided to get every tea flavor they had."

"You're being ridiculous!" Yzak growled. "How could you buy an entire crate full of crème puffs!? And who said you can pack it with our things!?"

"Yzak, don't yell at him," a stern, female voice sounded above them. Yzak visibly winced at the sound of his mother's voice. "He only wants to please his lady captain. There is nothing wrong with that."

"Mother, he is taking up precious cargo space," Yzak argued as he motioned to the box atop their carriage. "Surely, you think it is a bit much to bring so much for one woman?"

The silver-haired noblewoman lifted her hand to chest and let out a sharp, shocked gasp as she stared at her son. "Are you really your father's son?" she asked. "Your father was never shy or hesitated in showering me with gifts when he was courting me. Honestly, Yzak, it is no wonder you are not yet engaged at your age."

The blue-eyed man's face reddened as his mother swept past them regally. To the side, Athrun and Dearka muffled their snickers as Yzak tried to glare at them. "Mother, do remember that Dearka is older than me."

"And Athrun is younger," Ezalia countered smoothly. "He is happily married. I wouldn't be surprised if dear Cagalli is already heavy with child."

"Mother!" Yzak gasped, mortified as he looked over at the Zala couple. Cagalli merely raised an eyebrow and looked at the silver-haired man questioningly. Part of her had expected him to start another tirade, but instead he had silenced in the presence of his mother.

What a powerful woman Ezalia Joule must be…

"Cagalli, my dear," the woman said as she stopped in front of the blonde woman. "Thank you for your assistance. It is no wonder you are the Captain of the Rouge Seray."

"It is my pleasure, Lady Joule. Should you need any more assistance, Captain Miriallia Haww will gladly be of service. We will be returning Orb within the month's end," Cagalli replied. "Please look forward to meeting again when I return to my homeland."

"Of course, thank you," Ezalia smiled warmly. She looked over at her son as he stood to the side of the carriage and held his hand up in preparation of escorting his mother into the carriage.

"Have a safe trip, Lady Joule," Athrun said as he stood beside Cagalli and gave the woman a small bow of his head.

"We will, Athrun, thank you," the woman replied. She placed her hand in Yzak's and allowed him to help her into the carriage. As she settled down within, Dearka mounted the saddle of his horse, and Yzak turned back to give the Zalas a bow of his head.

"I assume you will be joining your wife in Orb?" Yzak asked, somewhat irritated. He silently hoped that Athrun would not make a habit of alternating months in Orb and Plants.

"Shinn and Mayu will be escorting her to Orb," Athrun replied. "I need to go do my rounds of the bases; however, I will make my way to Onogoro as soon as I can."

The corner of Yzak's lip curled upwards, smugly. "I'm glad to see that you haven't forgotten your duties."

"Hardly," Athrun replied. Yzak climbed into the carriage and took a seat across from his mother. The footman closed the door before climbing to his spot on the back of the carriage. As the carriage began to move forward, Athrun looked over at Dearka. "Make sure he doesn't do anything rash."

The blond Red Knight nodded and gave Athrun and Cagalli a bow of his head. "I know."

Miriallia stood in front of the circular table surrounded by half-dozen Federation representatives and her Queen and advisors. For the last several months, they had waged a silent war with the Federation representatives and had been losing. Miriallia was certain that they were only there for show.

According to Natarle's work, the representatives that had been sent were members of six noble families that ruled the Federation. They were all fiercely loyal to their nation and it was no surprise that they had rejected every offer that was given. Five younger men were lead by Lord Djibril, who had been the first to arrive and lay the foundation for the negotiations.

Despite his 'efforts', nothing had changed. They still continued to reject the offers. As they did so, reports arrived from the border with the Federation about an army lingering on the horizon. Orb's navy reported more and more activity in Orb territorial water. However, it would not work in their favor if they brought the reports to the visiting representatives.

"Lord Djibril," Miriallia began as she stood up straight. "You have had a week's time to go over our latest offer. I believe you will find it very fair and generous to the Federation-"

"Regarding the proposal," Lord Djibril cut her off casually. "I am afraid it still does not meet the requirements that the Federation has put forward."

It took everything in the Haumea Elite not to lunge across the table and throttle the man. Was he insane? The Federation wasn't 'requesting' anything! It was demanding to be given complete trade control! There was no way Orb could agree to such a demand. Having to deal with them practically every day was so frustrating and emotionally draining, it was no surprise that Cagalli had been in such a state when she left.

"We have tried our best to meet the requirements, Lord Djibril," Miriallia said carefully. "However, I am afraid that it is impossible for us to meet those requirements."

She could almost feel the tension in the air rise. Lord Djibril made a motion to speak, but was quickly cut off by Advisor La Flagga. "It seems that the presented requirements are unattainable by Orb and will require further assistance, Lord Djibril. I understand your hesitation to alter such requirements given by His Highness, King Murata; however, with the circumstances as they are, we would like to humbly request that the requirements be…re-evaluated."

"I agree with Advisor La Flagga," Advisor Simmons voiced. "In order for us to come to a peaceful resolution, I am sure that the Federation would be willing to re-evaluate the original requirements."

The man across the table narrowed his eyes. He mulled over their words for a few moments before leaning back against his chair and bringing his hands together on his lap. "I believe that the requirements the Federation has issued are more than fair. Both countries benefit greatly should the requirements be filled."

Miriallia could feel her fists shaking at her sides as she subtly hid them in the folds of her coat. What an arrogant man!

"I understand," a female voice said. Several pairs of eyes moved to the woman who had been silent throughout the meeting. Queen Murrue remained seated as she folded her hands in front of her. "As it is believed that the requirements benefit both countries greatly, I would like the said requirements to examine for all the benefits of both Orb and the Federation. Should the benefits favor one country over the other, regardless of which country is favored most, we will request that they be re-evaluated. If a re-evaluation is not accepted, then we have no choice but to reject the requirements and call off our negotiations."

Beside her, the Advisors didn't seem at all surprised at her words. It was an ultimatum. Miriallia had prayed that it would not come to it, as they had discussed it shortly after Cagalli left. Now, it seemed that had no choice.

Across the table, several men stirred in their seats. Murmurs spread amongst the younger men as Lord Djibril lapsed into silence. His eyes were narrowed as his jaw locked.

"Very well," he said after a few moments. His eyes rose and met Queen Murrue's daringly. "We accept your terms."

"We will meet again in a week's time," Advisor Waltfeld said. "This meeting is dismissed."

With that, Miriallia gave the representatives a modest bow of her head before gathering her things. She silently left the room, clutching various papers against her as she took one deep breath after another in hopes of calming herself.

"We were all hoping it wouldn't come to this, Miriallia," a voice said behind her. She looked over her shoulder and saw Advisor Simmons walking after her.

"I don't know how you all can stand it," the Azure captain exclaimed. "I'm surprised Cagalli wasn't driven mad by them."

"We've told them where we stand. They understand that we are willing to enter a war to defend our country, if need be," the older woman told her. "Let them think over that for a bit."

"I hope they come to their senses," Miriallia grumbled.

Advisor Simmons smiled softly and lifted hand to pat Miriallia's shoulder. "Go back to the Seray and get some rest. We can't have another captain out of commission."

"I understand." Miriallia gave the older woman a small nod before rounding the corner. She let out a heavy breath as she walked down the corridor. She couldn't wait to return to her Seray and simply collapse on her bed.

"Captain!" a voice shouted ahead of her. Miriallia looked up and smiled slightly at the sight of the purple suited blonde waving at her. "Captain! Stellar has come to pick Captain up!"

A small laugh escaped Miriallia's lips. She had left early that morning on horseback, as the Azure Seray's carriage was under repair.

"Whose carriage did you bring with you?" Miriallia asked as she approached the young Elite.

"Captain Waltfeld's," Stellar replied cheerfully. "Captain Waltfeld said that Miriallia would be tired, so Stellar got to bring the carriage!"

"I will thank her the next time I see her," Miriallia sighed happily. "Come, Stellar, let's return-"

"Stellar!" a voice shouted, echoing off the vaulted ceiling of the palace. Miriallia instantly turned around, just as Stellar looked over her shoulder, curiously. A man with bright green hair stood at the crux of the halls, his eyes wide as he held back another man with light blue hair. Their eyes were settled on the young Haumea Elite.

"Stellar," Miriallia said as her lips tightened into a frown. She took a step forward to shield the younger woman. "Do you know them?"

The blonde's eyes squinted as she looked at the approaching men. She shook her head. "No, Stellar doesn't recognize the men."

"They are from the Federation," Miriallia said in a low voice. "Two of the representatives."

"Stellar! It has to be her!"

"How do they know you, Stellar?" Miriallia asked sternly. The blonde shook her head frantically.

"Stellar doesn't know the men!" she insisted.

"Stay behind me," Miriallia ordered. Obediently, the younger Elite slipped behind her as the two men reached them.

"Move out of the way, Captain Haww," the man with the light blue hair demanded. "Stellar!"

"Stellar," the green-haired man began earnestly as he tried to weave around Miriallia. "It's me! Sting? Do you recognize me!?"

"I am afraid you are mistaken," Miriallia said sternly as she held her arms out to hold back the two men. "She doesn't know who you are."

"Auel, go get Lord Djibril!" Sting told the other man. "Bring him here immediately!"

"Don't let them leave!" Auel shouted as he ran back up the corridor.

"Please, Captain Haww," the green-haired man said as he took a step back to keep from seeming too aggressive. "We haven't seen her in years!"

"How do you know her?" Miriallia demanded as Stellar's hands grasped the back of her jacket.

"We were playmates!" Sting insisted. "We were playmates as children in the Federation!"

Miriallia narrowed her eyes. She knew Stellar's story well; how Cagalli found her, how she was adopted into the Athha family. She was also well aware of the years Stellar had forgotten before Cagalli found her. "Stellar," Miriallia asked quietly. "Do you remember him at all?"

The blonde peeked out from behind Miriallia and surveyed the green-haired man. He met her gaze hopefully. Stellar squinted, wracking her mind for any memories of a green-haired man. "No-"

"My lady!" a shocked voice shouted from the hall. The two women looked past Sting and at the sight of a middle-aged man running towards them, a look of near elation his face. The other Federation representatives were at his feet. "Lady Stellar Loussier!"

Miriallia tensed. Behind her Stellar shook her head. She didn't like what these people were saying. Why were they calling her and acting so familiar? She had never seen them before!

"It's Athha!" Stellar frowned. "Stellar is Stellar Loussier Athha!" Papa Athha had her named changed. She was Cagalli's precious little sister and Papa Athha's youngest daughter.

"No, Stellar," Sting said intently. "You are Lady Stellar Loussier. His Majesty's half-sister."

A.N. – Le gasp! It's a cheesy plot device! I'm very busy at work, so everything was written in a messy rush. I'm too lazy to go back and check, so have I used Auel, Sting, Lord Djibril, Orga, Shani, and Clotho, yet? I think I've used a few of them, but I can't remember…If I did, they were probably small bit parts, so pretend they never happened in LJBD, okay? Anyway, thank you very much for reading!