Z'Gok's Midnight Sojourn
[Post-GSF, AsuCaga]. This one-shot is divided into three acts mostly detailing their reunion, anticipation and sexual exploits with the Z'Gok bearing witness.
Act 1: Before Midnight
The two jets landed at Orb's port, greeted by a throng of cheering citizens eager to welcome back their heroes, led by their Chief Representative and Supreme Commander, Cagalli Yula Athha. The air was filled with jubilant shouts and applause as Cagalli's plane touched down, followed by Athrun and the rest of the crew.
As Cagalli's cockpit opened, the cheers from the crowd swelled even louder, matching the joyous atmosphere as each pilot disembarked their aircraft. Cagalli raised her hands in salutation to the people and soldiers who had fought alongside her, her expression radiant with gratitude and determination.
As Athrun watched the citizens cheer for Cagalli, his heart swelled with pride, resonating with the rhythm of their applause. Yet beneath the surface, a twinge of loneliness lingered, a poignant reminder of the barriers that kept them apart. He yearned to embrace her in that moment, to share in her triumph, if only circumstances allowed.
As the applause echoed around them, Athrun's longing intensified. Despite the distance between them, he couldn't help but yearn for closeness with her. However, his thoughts were interrupted by the sight of Cagalli walking toward him.
Cagalli saluted him. The cheers of the people echoed around them. But it was clear as day for him when she uttered, "Later," a mischievous grin evident in her tone. It may escape others, but not him. He can recognize the smallest change in her face, a slight twinge of the lips, raised eyebrows, sorrows in her eyes. Far from before, he learned to read her emotions and behaviours. It was the only way to be close to her, by observing her every move physically, on the computer monitors or television when she broadcast.
Cagalli proceeded towards where Secretary Touya and the other Council Members were waiting.
"Welcome back, Chief Representative Athha," Touya greeted with a salute, acknowledging her return respectfully.
Returning the salute, Cagalli extended her gesture to the people, the soldiers, and the Orb Council who stood by her decision. Her authoritative demeanour was softened by the warmth of her smile. "Tonight is a celebration," she instructed Toya with determination. "Provide a feast for everyone. I'll cover the expenses," she declared.
Athrun watched with resignation as Cagalli disappeared into the building, the moment slipping away like sand through his fingers. The ecstatic crowd revelled in victory around him, their cheers drowning out the echo of their brief exchange. Later. What does that mean? He contemplated and followed the delegation.
Later that night, as the festivities unfolded, the atmosphere was charged with exuberance and camaraderie. The Banquet Hall was adorned with vibrant banners positioned prominently throughout the venue, bearing the distinguished Orb insignia—a symbol of unity, strength, and resilience. Laughter and music filled the air, mingling with the scent of delicious food and the clinking of glasses.
Amidst the crowd, Athrun stood tall in his Orb uniform, the crisp fabric accentuating his strong physique. Despite the celebratory mood, he remained composed, his gaze occasionally drifting towards Cagalli, who exuded authority and grace in her own Orb uniform. Her youthful appearance belied her newfound wisdom as a ruler. His feelings began to waver as he realized the stark contrast between their positions. She was a wise leader now, occupying a prominent place in the hearts and minds of the people, while he felt like a mere footnote in her life.
"Hello Athrun," Meyrin said, appearing beside him. "Cheer up. Did you know that even outside, people are cheering for her? She's a beloved ruler."
"Yes, you're right," Athrun replied, forcing a smile.
Out of the corner of his eye, he caught Cagalli stealing a glance in their direction albeit briefly.
Meyrin noted his mood shift. "It only took one glimpse," she giggled. "Enjoy the rest of the evening," she added then joined the other crew members.
Athrun nodded, spending the rest of the night watching as people gradually indulged in the revelry. High-ranking officials took turns conversing with Cagalli.
It seemed like I couldn't even talk to her tonight.
He took a glass of red wine from a passing server. He swirled the glass, smelled it and finally tasted it. He loved the complexity and depth of flavour. "Pinot Noir," he noted.
His thoughts were interrupted by a commotion in front of the stage. "Excuse me, everyone," announced the MC, drawing the crowd's attention. "The Chief Representative of Orb, Princess Cagalli Yula Athha, is about to address us."
The crowd fell silent. Taking the podium, Cagalli spoke to the crowd with gratitude and humility. "Thank you, everyone," she began. "The fighting may have ceased, but the battle continues in many forms. Tonight, let us celebrate the victory we've achieved together. I've received my share of gratitude, but tonight, I want to extend that gratitude to every soldier, combatant and non-combatant alike, who played a role in defending Orb. To the unwavering support of our citizens and the Orb Council. And a special thanks to people who helped us along the way, to COMPAS and-" she smiled and the crowd followed her gaze, "to Lieutenant Colonel Athrun Zala for his outstanding service."
Surprised by the mention of his name, Athrun raised his glass and smiled at the crowd. The cheers swelled, echoing both within the room and on the large monitors displaying the huge crowds outside celebrating in triumph.
Cagalli's acknowledgment of Athrun in front of Orb carried significant weight, reflecting not only their personal relationship but also Athrun's importance within the nation. While Athrun didn't necessarily seek public affirmation, Cagalli's gratitude and trust meant more to him than any accolades. His decision to remain in Orb was driven by his desire to protect its future, a future that he envisioned alongside Cagalli. As they stood together amidst the cheers of the crowd, Athrun couldn't help but feel a sense of purpose and determination to safeguard the path they were forging together.
With that speech, people began to gather around Athrun, and soon he found himself surrounded by a crowd. Cagalli smiled at him, and he couldn't help but wonder if she was signalling something to him. Could it be that she wanted to speak to him later? Is he reading the situation correctly?
Just before midnight, most people had either gone back to their homes or their quarters or passed out in the large banquet room. Finally, Athrun was glad to bid goodbye to the last person talking to him. He scanned the area. But he couldn't see Cagalli.
Instead, he noticed Secretary Touya preparing to depart. "Good evening, Secretary Touya, how are you?" Athrun greeted.
"I'm well, Lieutenant. What can I assist you with?" Touya responded.
Athrun admired Secretary Touya's keen perception of people, a quality that earned Cagalli's trust. "Have you seen the Chief Representative?" he inquired.
"We were conversing a short while ago, but I believe she returned to her quarters," Touya replied.
"Relax, Lieutenant Zala. I observed her heading towards the private chambers," Kisaka added.
"In that case, I'll retire for the night as well," Athrun replied, acknowledging Kisaka's response. Kisaka nodded in return.
As Athrun made his way towards his room, thoughts raced through his mind, perplexed by Cagalli's words. "Why did she say 'later'?" he mused, feeling a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty. Feeling a bit tipsy, Athrun's curiosity got the better of him, prompting him to check if Cagalli was indeed in her room. That would be a good excuse to see her.
As he made his way to her private chambers, he noted the absence of guards, reassured by the protection of the three-level security system, accessible only to Cagalli and her trusted circle. He smiled as he pressed the code for the first level, 08037105201027; and another set of codes for the next two levels.
Passing through the security measures smoothly, Athrun hesitated before pressing the doorbell to announce his presence. "Cagalli, it's me. I would like to check if you are already in your room, just routine checks," he called out, secretly hoping for an invitation to stay. But minutes ticked by with no response.
"Is she sleeping already?"
Growing increasingly anxious, Athrun repeated his gestures, waiting in anticipation for any sign of activity. Yet, after another few minutes of silence, he made a bold decision to enter the room. "I'm going in." Navigating through the darkness, he quickly realized that Cagalli was not present. Panic seized him as he contemplated her whereabouts.
Fully alert now, Athrun embarked on a frantic search, scouring every possible location. He checked the Command Office, but she wasn't there. Racing to the Chief Security Room, he scrutinized the CCTV cameras until he spotted her in the area where the Z'Gok Gundam was stored.
A/N: This was initially planned as one of the later chapters of "Chasing Aurora." However, I couldn't resist and ended up writing it in advance. Originally, I intended it to be a one-shot, but it turned out to be too long (14 pages!). Consequently, I've decided to split it into three acts. The second act will be uploaded shortly before midnight tomorrow. I haven't watched GSF yet, am still waiting for its screening in my country of residence. Any wrong references are all mine. RxR
22.03.2024, Genf