Vanille's PoV:

Last night I had a dream.

I was barefoot in a beautiful garden, wearing a dress made of ancient Pulsian cloth. The dress was modest and purple—pretty and laced with white silk.

There was something about my smile—déjà vu almost. I smiled like I was happy. I smiled like there was nothing to fear. This smile . . . I'd forgotten this smile.

If my life were my own, why did not feel so? Why did I always feel the pressure of Fang's watchful eyes—her watchful, red eyes. I was not an anxious person, but lately I had been looking over my shoulder. I felt like I didn't have a choice. I felt trapped. At first I was just scared, but to be honest . . . the present had twisted me into thinking that I could somehow bring my Fang back—the Fang who loved me . . . not the Fang who aimed to control me.

Was I to blame for her sudden changes? Her powers were so dark and strange . . . did no one else know about them? I had hoped not.

All I knew was that I was reaching out . . . I was desperately reaching for something—someone to help me. But I couldn't . . . if Fang would've found out, who knew what she would've done. I couldn't put someone else in danger. That would've been selfish, would it not?

But no. No, no. I did nothing wrong. I didn't deserve to be the victim. This dream made me realize that I never deserved that. For once, I had to be brave . . . not naïve. 'Fixing' her was not my problem. I wanted out . . . but could I have possibly done it alone?

Not likely.

But should I take a chance? Should I reach out to the person that I want to.

I kept smiling. In this dream, there was no faking, no pretending, just genuine happiness as I walked through this garden. Pyreflies—souls of the dead—encircled me and decorated my surroundings as they flew angelically through the air. There was something so peaceful about them. They whispered to me, and they were so gentle.

My smile may have been faint, but my smile was real. My view suddenly widened, I could see where I was walking . . . straight to Lightning.

Pyreflies surrounded her imposing figure—a waterfall cascaded behind her.

It was beautiful to behold.

Lightning had a faint grin appearing from the corner of her mouth.

I found myself in her arms.

I latched onto her strong body and allowed myself to rely on her to keep me standing. We said nothing. We exchanged no kiss, but we held each other with complete adoration. I lifted my head from her chest and met her azure eyes.

The Pyreflies continued whispering to me, and they gave me hope. Even though I treated it with skepticism, they made me feel like I had the strength, that I had the courage to break this cycle, and take control of my life again.

Lightning couldn't hear them, but it didn't matter. My uneasiness faded by the sensation of being trapped in her arms.

But to my dismay, I felt myself distancing from the scene. In a short bout of time, Lightning and I were nothing but a speck blending with the distant garden, and from the garden, faded to wandering Pyreflies, and from the Pyreflies . . .

I awoke to reality—wishing I could venture back to the beautiful garden where I found myself again.

The secret to happiness is freedom. The secret to freedom is courage.

Lightning's PoV:

It was half past four, and I was in a rush. I hastily applied the finishing touches to my suit. The fact that I was to appear like a civilian brought a surprising amount of relief. As a bodyguard, blending in with the crowd was something I didn't get to do often, so I really wanted to enjoy tonight.

I applied my golden cuff-links to my white dress shirt. My suit was black with white pin-stripes. My suede shoes were black as well. My ruffled white dress shirt, I figured, would serve as a joke. Although, I was probably the only one who would find humor in it.

I picked up my tie. It was a rich shade of Persian blue, nearly identical to my eyes. I laced it firmly in a Windsor knot and then put on my snug fitting vest— black silk. Last and most importantly, I fastened my 9mm glock harness, which allowed me to conceal a pistol by my rib cage.

I threw on my pin-striped blazer while checking the time on my watch.

4:40— shit.

Vanille's PoV:

I scrutinized the reflection in the mirror.

I look . . . beautiful?

I wore a moderate length, gold, woven dress with cap sleeves, a sweetheart neckline, pleated crossover panels, and a stud and beaded embellishment. I was adorned with fancy diamond necklaces, bracelets, and my engagement ring—all gifts from Fang.

With the little curves I had, the dress accentuated them. I completed my outfit with strappy, modest, golden heels. My apricot-colored hair looked as long and wavy as ever.

Meanwhile, there were so many different scenarios swirling around in my head, but I couldn't have that. Not now. I kept reminding myself, one thing at a time.

There was a knock at the door accompanied by Yarika's voice. "Milady, it's 4:45! You don't want to be late!"

Shit! I lost track of time.

I hurried out to the maidens, making a quick right and stopping at the bottom of the staircase. Yarika stood at the forefront bearing a smile. She hugged me tightly, "Congratulations, Milady, I know you'll do well tonight," she whispered in my ear.

I nodded in approval and left her grasp. I glanced down the row of people. Lightning was at the end. I caught her staring. Her eyes softened. She looked incredibly charming, and I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed—again.

I briefly hugged all the maidens and waved goodbye. Lightning was already at the door. She opened it for me. The sun was still high in the sky, but sunset wasn't far off. She walked complacently beside me. I couldn't stand the tension, so I broke it—I grabbed her arm with my hand. She slowed her pace and eyed me sharply.

"I—don't want to fall," I quickly explained.

Lightning smirked at me. "I am your escort after all."

"Yes, you are," I smiled back.

It was as though all the hurtful words of yesterday faded.

At least I thought so until . . .

"But I'm not your fiancée," she said with a mixture of hurt and coldness under her breath. I didn't know how to respond, so I squeezed her arm a little tighter.

Shortly after, we made it to the pod. I examined the vessel before glancing up at Lightning. She had this look on her face.

"What are you smirking at me for?" I playfully asked while releasing her arm.

She looked at me, then to the pod. She looked at me again, then back to the pod. Then, she did something so tacky that I had to make fun of her— she positioned her arms under my knees and gently lifted me. She then placed me on the foremost pod seat.

"As if I wasn't capable of seating myself, Lightning," I taunted her.

Her smile widened as she mounted the pod behind me, "Well, tonight is your big night, and I thought it'd be very mannerly for me to seat you," she laughed.

God, I love her laugh.

She indirectly put her arms around me as she ignited the pod, and in seconds, we were airborne. The journey to the New Sunleth Base was silent. She didn't take her eyes off of the destination that could be seen in the distance. I felt slightly uncomfortable, only because there were so many things I wanted to say.

Where do I start?

"—Uh, Light . . ." I uttered hesitantly.

"Hmm?" she replied, attention still centered on our destination.

"I just want to apologize for yesterday, I didn't mean—"

"Don't worry about it, Vanille," She interjected.

"Lightning, can I at least tell you what I have on my mind?"

"I don't think now is such an appropriate time."

She refused to look at me. I couldn't see her beautiful blue eyes, and it bothered me to the point where I could no longer bear it. I took her jaw in my hands. Immediately, she tensed, but her stare was now on me. I briefly swiveled to the flight controls and pressed 'auto-pilot'.

I cupped her face again and demanded, "Listen to me. If I don't say some things now, I might not have the strength to do it again."

Her eyebrows furrowed.

"There is something I've wanted to share with you. I know now isn't the best time but," I bit my lip, "I don't know how much longer I can wait."

I opened my mouth. I had planned what I was going to say hours beforehand, but to my misfortune, I could not repeat it. I could not pull myself to do it. Creeping doubts swarmed upon me, and I froze on the spot.

Maybe I shouldn't put this on her. It's not fair of me . . . but she's the only one who can help. I might be beyond saving, but if there's any chance left, the person I'm looking at right now is my only hope.

The pace of the pod changed drastically. It began its descent as we arrived at the New Sunleth Base. As soon as we touched down, Lightning dismounted the pod and extended her hand to me.

"We'll finish this later," she said delicately.

Lightning's PoV:

The luxury aircraft from the New Sunleth Base was comfortable and open. Whilst in transit to New Palumpolum, I sat with my regional, commanding officer in a secluded corner of the craft. He debriefed me about the rules of engagement for the event.

I don't mean that lightly.

Heavy infantry was sanctioned to strike down any airborne terrorist assault. Checkpoints were necessary for every passage into the Forum. Bulletproof ground vehicles were assigned to transport the politicians.

If a terrorist launched an invasion, it would be suicide.

The officer spoke very fast. He seemed nervous.

I forget his name already.

I was unconcerned with his professional annotations.

I know more than this amateur.

I nodded my head intermittently to appease him, but really, my attention was on Vanille. She was seated several paces away, on a couch, with Senator Yaj Adias and her husband. She extended her hand to Senator Yaj's husband whom took particular interest in the precious gem on Vanille's ring finger. It killed me.

Vanille entertained them with subtle reluctance.

I'm dense when it comes to relationships, but I sense Vanille has finally come to terms with her feelings for Fang . . . maybe . . . I hope.

The entire ride to New Palumpolum, Vanille and I snuck glimpses at each other.

"Do you have all that, Captain?" The rookie officer inquired.

"Mhm," I disinterestedly mumbled.

I can't take my eyes off Vanille.

Lightning's PoV (Cont. 5:45 p.m. Palumpolum Base)

"Jesus, Farron! Could you cut it any closer?" Sargent-Major Amador called from the opposite end of the hangar.

He was suited like me, two agents at his sides. Vanille, Senator Yaj and husband, and I hustled our way over to Amador. He had a satisfied smile plastered to his face.

He seems pleased.

Upon reaching him, I shook his hand firmly. He gave me a wholesome slap on the shoulder.

I swear, people find endearment with slapping me.

"Captain, I suggest we make haste. We're a tad late as is," He said nonchalantly.

"I understand, Sir. I apologize for the untimely arrival."

He accepted my apology, and then nudged the agent on his right. The agent reached into his left pocket and pulled out a Comm Device, "All military and guard personnel on stand-by, we have subjects ready for escort, t-minus 12 minutes and counting for arrival. This is not a drill, standby."

Sargent-Major Amador faced us sideways and indicated to the ground transportation we'd be traveling in. Ground Transportation Vehicles (GTV) somewhat resembled pods, but they're made to never exceed hovering over three feet. Our vessel was platinum armored.

I ushered Senator Adias, her husband, and Vanille towards the GTV. SM Amador and the two agents followed. We entered the vessel, leading to a luxurious leather interior. The seat patterns went in an oval around the interior of the GTV, and the driver could be seen through a small panel in the front. Vanille sat next to Senator Adias, and the two agents sat juxtaposed to her husband. Sargent-Major Amador pulled me into a corner.

"Any funny business at all, you get the Lady out of there. Understand?" he asserted

"Of course, Sir," I replied adamantly.

"Good, I've been meaning to tell you, Farron . . . Blanche's been leeching me to arrange a meeting with you. I expect you'll accept his request?"

I shot him a confused look before replying "Yeah, sure . . . but what exactly does he want?"

"Haven't a clue, but just be prepared for him to summon you to his table tonight."

I nodded and then proceeded to play with my hands and fidget nervously.

Tonight's been so hyped up. With this much happening at once, something interesting's bound to happen.

I glanced over at Vanille. She seemed to be taking long breaths. Obviously, she was deep in thought. A few minutes later, we arrived.

"All military and guard personnel on full alert, this is not a drill. The subjects have arrived. The protection program is now – fully – activated."

Lightning's PoV Cont.; The Forum (6:00 p.m.):

So far so good, except for this fucking mask. I can barely breathe.

Escorting Vanille into the Forum was easy. After progressing through the checkpoint, Vanille was instantly swept away by swarms of cutthroat diplomats. While waiting for the hysteria to cease, I marveled at the extravagance of the newly erected Forum. Marble, gold, marble, gold, Pulsian dyes, all these factors clashed together when creating this beautiful building of trade and commerce.

Inside the Forum, the celebration gallery was a massive, open, square compartment. A few staircases adorned the side walls leading off to unknown locations. The enormous, glass chandelier was dangling ominously down the middle of the gallery, where a wide-opened center was designated for dancing. Tables were set up along the sides. Servers in fancy uniforms held plates of wine and champagne. An orchestra was playing softly in the upper right hand corner of the gallery, and a stage with an ornamented podium lay on the far central wall.

The gallery was completely saturated. Masks, masks, and more masks. There was a considerable amount of people merrily dancing, while a few others assembled in groups at the side tables. It was a real medieval sight.

I can see why Vanille was so upset about this . . . It's a bloody fun-house.

Standing at the top of the gallery stairs, I observed the circus in front of me. Standing alone, I had a complete bird's eye view. I carefully assessed each guest as they passed by. Despite the congestion, I finally spotted Vanille.

Where's Fang?

Vanille's PoV:

I'm feeling light-headed.

Publicity wasn't the cause. Important people talked to me, but I couldn't pay attention. I simply made eye contact, nodded, and smiled, refraining from actually partaking in their conversation. I had the sudden urge to run out of the Forum—to run, to not care about any of this.

I'm not ready.

"Oi, sweetheart," came my fiancée's sultry voice.

I felt Fang's arm slide around my waist. Thankfully the people surrounding me were so pleased to see Fang that they didn't notice me shudder. She was generously welcomed to the small group. The chairman of agriculture eagerly greeted her after she planted a light kiss on my forehead. My eyes went to the floor. I couldn't even look at her.

"Why ya' lookin' depressed. This is your big day," she urged while gently leading us away from the group. I could hear the sweet melody of violins drowning out her voice.

She was being gentle, which was comforting. Her arm around my shoulder felt warm even, but I knew that it wasn't sincere. She was only putting on a show.

"I've waited so long for this, darling. I'm glad it's finally happening."

I managed to smile. She went for a kiss, but I ducked out, "I'm sorry. I'm just a little nervous. I—er, I just—it's nothing personal, sweetheart."

Frowning, Fang kissed me on the forehead. My eyes remained on the floor.

"Well, I'll give you some space. Let you think a bit," and with that, she reluctantly let me go as she exited the gallery.

I sighed in great relief, but it was short lived as I felt someone's strong hand pull me around.

"You look upset, Milady."

I met those beautiful, blue eyes.

Not even the mask could hide Lightning's beautiful features.

Her deep voice shattered every wall I'd put up upon arriving at the Forum. "Let's leave the scene for a bit," Lightning suggested. "It'll do you some good."

I earnestly agreed. My anxiety could wait. I wouldn't let myself have a care in the world. This was my chance. We were disguised, and the gallery's population continued expanding with every passing minute.

—to be honest, I just want to be alone with Lightning.

Lightning's PoV:

I needed her to myself, if only for the moment.

"Lead the way," Vanille urged while gripping my arm.

I weaved us through the growing crowds of people until we ended up at the right wall. Vanille and I crept up the staircase and out of sight. When we crossed the threshold at the top of the landing, we took off down a long, red-carpeted corridor. Before we could get far, I felt a sharp tug, stopping me in my tracks.

"Lightning," she whispered.

It killed me to hear her sound so sad—she was far too beautiful to be sad about anything.

I turned my body, so I could see her face. She searched my eyes with her own, and then she grabbed my arms. Slowly and sensually, she slid her hands up, over my shoulders, up my neck, and to my face, where she determinedly removed my mask. Before I knew it, I was removing hers as well. I dropped my hands to my sides, nervous from her caressing my jaw and cheekbones.

She slid her hands back down to my biceps, traveling even further, to my forearms. She grabbed them and deliberately wrapped my right arm securely around her lower back. She intertwined her right hand with my left hand. Then she placed her left hand around my neck. I shuddered at the sensation of being so close to her. She peered up at me with those eyes—

"Hold me," she whispered.

She didn't have to ask twice. I wrapped my arm even more firmly around her. She sighed contentedly with my actions. In the background, we could hear the faint sounds of beautiful, orchestrated music.

She was waiting for my lead, and I wasn't going to disappoint her.

Vanille's PoV:

I need to be as close to her as possible.

I rested my head against her warm chest as she led our slow movements. I felt so safe and yet so vulnerable, but I was all right.

"I should apologize to you," I slowly lifted my head from her chest to examine her puzzled look. "I haven't been fair."

"What do you mean?" she replied.

The reflection of fire from the hallway torches burned vividly in her ocean eyes. I felt the waves of desire knock me down and drag me into sea. I couldn't resist her anymore. I trembled from her touch and whimpered at her words, and I was utterly done with denying myself of her.

I kissed her.

I forced both of my hands into her hair, and to my reassurance, I felt my waist being fully enclosed by her powerful arms.

I was trapped by her, and I adored every second of it.

I kissed her for the first time without the contingency of Fang prior to, during, or after the fact.

The passion ensued.

I unbuttoned her blazer and vest, and then I pulled her down hard into the kiss, both of my hands desperately tangled in her shirt collar. I felt the strength of her rough hands grabbing my hips and pressing me to her.

And everything was all right.

Any previous perceptions of predicament melted away on Lightning's amorous lips.