Chapter 5 – Wild Heart (Kira)

[ONOGORO ISLAND]

As planned, the day commenced on Onogoro Island, home to the military headquarters of the Orb Union. Renowned for its formidable security measures, Onogoro Island remained elusive even to space satellites attempting to map its terrain. Donning her decorated uniform as chief commander, Cagalli prepared for a day of official duties. When she was younger, it never crossed her mind that she would be celebrating her birthday just like this one. She's turning 20 this year, but her responsibilities just keep on getting bigger and heavier.

The morning began with a land exhibition featuring the latest technology and equipment developed by Morgenroete, Inc., a state-run entity of Orb. With military technology and weapons production under state control, decisions remained insulated from private interests. Following the exhibition, Cagalli led a march of officers and soldiers and engaged in meet-and-greets with personnel spanning soldiers, scientists, engineers, and civilian staff. Subsequently, she convened for a lunch meeting with high-level officials.

[ATHRUN'S APARTMENT; KIRA's PLACE]

Athrun observed the proceedings from his apartment, noting that Cagalli was adorned with the rose pin he had gifted her last year. Recognizing her busy schedule, he understood that direct communication was improbable, necessitating several intermediary channels. He phoned Kira, reminding Cagalli's itinerary and the forthcoming banquet at the Athha Estate, "After the airspace, Cagali will return to the main island for the banquet, which will be held at the Athha Estate. See you there," he said.

On the other end of the line, Kira replied, "Got it." After ending the call, he turned towards his companions—Lacus, Shinn, and Luna, he said, "Let's go."

They walked to one of the jets given to them by Cagalli. Their first objective is to rendezvous with Meyrin and Myrna at the Athha Estate before the banquet.

As for Athrun, he aims to discreetly access the Athha's hangar. While an alternative option was the helipad, it posed the risk of exposure in an open area. Leveraging his security clearance as an Orb colonel, Athrun planned to access the hangar and utilize the stealth jet with minimal detection. Unlike Kira's previous abduction during her wedding, this operation required utmost discretion to avoid stirring controversy in the Orb nation.

[KAGUYA ISLAND]

The next stretch was a visit to Kaguya Island, home to the spaceport and the memorial. Cagalli paid respects at the Kaguya Memorial, honouring those who had perished in battles against the Blue Cosmos and other countless wars. Overseen by Mwu and Murrue from a distance, security measures were meticulously managed, with Kisaka personally overseeing the security personnel. Cagalli's every move was scrutinized by the media and broadcast live.

Back on Kaguya Island, Mwu and Murrue talked about their time with the younger Cagalli as they monitored all aspects of the celebration's security.

"Our Princess has truly grown up. Look how she's handling all those meetings and greetings. I remember how fiery and stubborn she was when she was with us on the Archangel," Mwu reminisced.

"Cagalli and Kira, both 20 years old, with major responsibilities on their hands. They represent the youth of today. I'm happy to see how these kids have developed into people we can depend on," Murrue added.

"But I hope all goes well today," Mwu replied, feeling a bit hesitant about the rushed plan.

"Well, that would be up to Kira, Athrun, and the rest," Murrue replied.

[YALAFATH ISLAND]

After her solemn visit to the Kaguya Memorial, Cagalli changed into her council uniform. This time, she boarded a flight back to Yalafath Island, heading for the bustling city of Olofat, where crowds eagerly awaited her arrival to extend their heartfelt wishes on her birthday.

"Long live Princess Cagalli! Long live Chief Representative Cagalli!" echoed through the streets as she marched by. This interaction with her people was always the highlight of Cagalli's celebrations, earning her the endearing title of the People's Princess.

Amidst the thronging crowd, a young girl caught Cagalli's attention as she timidly offered a flower. Cagalli graciously bent down and took the Casablanca lily. "What's your name?" she asked.

"Aurora," the girl shyly replied.

"Thank you for the lovely gift. Always take care of yourself," Cagalli smiled warmly.

Aurora beamed at the unexpected interaction with the People's Princess. "Someday, I want to be just like you. I want to become a strong woman who serves her people. Happy birthday, Princess Cagalli!" she exclaimed, her words rushed, as if she didn't have time left.

Cagalli smiled back, gently patting Aurora's head. The little girl blushed with excitement as she waved goodbye. It was a simple yet meaningful exchange that illustrated Cagalli's profound influence as a leader, inspiring young girls like Aurora.

[ATHHA ESTATE]

As the day approached its culmination, the delegation finally arrived by car at the Athha Estate for the grand banquet party, where all of Orb's people, from all walks of life were in attendance. This part of the celebration was marked by the strictest security measures due to the presence of Orb's most important families and figures. For Cagalli, this marked the final leg of her birthday festivities, a journey that had seen her traverse various islands.

In her private chamber within the estate, Cagalli sank into the soft cushions of the sofa, feeling the weariness of the day settling upon her. The relentless schedule of ceremonies, exhibitions, and meet-and-greets had begun to wear her down, exacerbated by the constant changes of attire required for each occasion.

"Would you like some tea, Cagalli?" Myrna asked gently as she entered the room, carrying a fresh gown for Cagalli. Moving to Cagalli's side, she began to massage her tense shoulders.

"Thank you, Myrna," Cagalli replied, her eyes still closed in exhaustion. As she opened them, she gazed at the midnight blue gown laid out before her. Despite her fatigue, she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief knowing that wearing this dress signalled the end of the day's celebrations. With a sigh, she delicately clasped the ring hanging around her neck, taking a moment to draw strength from its familiar touch.

She removed the rose pin from her official uniform and started undressing. Underneath those official uniforms, lies a well-toned body. With Myrna's assistance, Cagalli slipped into the elegant gown—a simple yet regal ensemble befitting her more as a queen rather than a princess.

"Look how grown up you've become," Myrna said, she said as she wiped away her tears. With gentle hands, she zipped her back, which emphasized her figure. This dress was a spectacle in itself. Its midnight blue fabric cascaded like a river of silk, hugging Cagalli's curves in all the right places. The intricate design of the dress, adorned with subtle shimmering patterns, caught the light, adding a touch of ethereal elegance to her attire. Myrna then assisted Cagalli in fastening the delicate shoestrings of her high heels, their long straps elegantly complementing her dress.

"These shoes and the dress suit you perfectly," Myrna complimented, a fond smile playing on her lips. "Do you remember when I had to practically chase you down to get you into a dress two years ago?" she chuckled, reminiscing. "And fixing your hair into a knot was a whole other ordeal," she added with a laugh.

As Myrna brushed Cagalli's hair until it gleamed, she adorned her head with a single row of exquisite, master-cut diamonds, lined up like a headband. Tears fall in her eyes once more. "Now, you carry yourself like a queen," she praised.

Cagalli blushed at the compliment, not entirely accustomed to such praise. "You're just biased," she teased, before enveloping Myrna in a heartfelt hug. "Thank you for always being by my side. you are like a mother to me," she whispered gratefully.

Myrna's tears continued to flow freely. "I'm so proud to have watched you grow from a mischievous child into the compassionate and wise leader you are today," she said, her gaze filled with pride. "I only wish for your happiness."

"I am happy," Cagalli assured her.

Myrna nodded, her expression serious. "Yes, you may be content with the state of Orb, but how about as a person with specific wishes? I hope you get the personal happiness you so deserve," she added, her tone earnest. "No matter what it takes."

"What do you mean, Myrna?" Cagalli asked, puzzled.

"Oh, just an old woman's musings," Myrna replied, leading her to the large mirror. "I was thinking back to the sadness in your eyes when you were about to marry Yuna. You were forced into decisions for the sake of Orb, but now, you've emerged stronger and wiser from those experiences, like a diamond polished from the rough."

Overwhelmed with emotion, Cagalli embraced Myrna once again. "Thank you, Myrna," she said softly, her heart full to bursting.

Cagalli felt immense gratitude toward Myrna and Kisaka. Besides her father, they had been the two constants by her side since childhood. They had witnessed her every step of growth, providing unwavering support and guidance, never judging her decisions, and always hoping for the best.

"Don't cry, Cagalli. You'll ruin your makeup," Myrna gently patted her back.

"Please, enjoy the banquet. Dress up and look stunning," Cagalli replied, her tone infused with warmth. "Having you there would mean the world to me," she added, a genuine smile gracing her lips. With a deliberate movement, she picked up the rose pin, pressing it until it transformed into the familiar Orb emblem.

Now adorned with the Orb emblem, she silently hoped Athrun would notice. It was her way of signaling to him that he could communicate with her. After the formalities of the ceremony, the event would transition into a social gathering, a prospect she found less appealing. She longed for the presence of those closest to her, wishing the celebration felt more personal and less like a state affair. Nevertheless, she reminded herself that this was part of her duty, a commitment she had willingly embraced.

With a resigned sigh, she acknowledged the final stretch of the day. "One last push, and it'll all be over," she thought to herself, solidifying her resolve for the hours ahead.

The banquet at the Athha Estate commenced with the presentation of gifts to Cagalli as per protocol. Secretary Touyah took the microphone, addressing the crowd. "May I have your attention please," he began.

The guest focused their attention in front.

Secretary Touyah was in his tuxedo. "Thank you. Today, we celebrate the birthday of our present leader, Cagalli Yula from the Athha Family. As the representative from the Mashima Family, I present this gift to Chief Representative Athha for her invaluable contributions. Having worked closely with her for the past two years, I've come to realize her greatness as a leader. Traditionally, the Reception area of the council room in the Administrative Building featured a portrait of the current chief representative alone. It used to be adorned by Lord Uzumi. However, when I proposed replacing it with her own portrait, she initially dismissed the idea. But after some convincing, we reached a consensus that all council members should be depicted. After all, she doesn't work for Orb nation alone," Touyah explained as the audience applauded.

Passing Cagalli a pair of scissors, she cut the red ribbon, unveiling a large canvas covered by a curtain. Cagalli felt deeply satisfied with the gift. She whispered her gratitude to Touyah, "Thank you for considering my perspective."

The painting depicted all the Orb Council members, with Cagalli seated in the center, flanked by Touyah, and surrounded by the other members. "This is perfect," she murmured to him. Other families presented their gifts to her.

Then, Touyah escorted Cagalli toward the banquet hall. The Murasame guards were on high alert as the party progressed.

The party kicked off with flowing drinks and aperitifs. Cagalli was met with a flood of birthday wishes from guests spanning all socio-economic classes, filling both the main hall and the garden area with celebratory energy. The entire staff of the Athha Estate worked tirelessly to accommodate the influx of attendees eager to join the festivities.

Although Murrue, Mwu, and Kisaka had already greeted her, Cagalli sensed a hint of tension in their demeanour. She playfully teased them, suggesting they should relax since the day was almost over. Mwu jokingly remarked that he wished it were that simple. Afterwards, she found herself engaged in conversation with various officials while security personnel were on high alert.

During rare moments of silence, her thoughts drifted to her family, friends, and lover. She imagined how enjoyable it would be to have them all together celebrating her birthday, mingling with the other guests. Their presence would surely elevate the party, regardless of how many dignitaries and officials she encountered.

As her gaze swept across the hall, she spotted Myrna in the festivities. It warmed her heart to see Myrna enjoying herself, engaged in lively conversation with Kisaka. When Kisaka caught her eye, he raised his glass in a silent toast, and Cagalli reciprocated with a warm smile.

Feeling the need for a moment of respite, Cagalli decided to retreat to the Lord's Hall.

The vigilant Kisaka followed her.

"I'm heading to the Lord's Hall to have a chat with my dad," she explained with a smile. "No need to worry. We're in the Athha Estate. Nothing will happen," Cagalli reassured him.

Kisaka nodded and instructed the Murusame guards to allow her to proceed alone.

In a very subtle way, Mwu and Murrue exchanged knowing glances.

While walking, Cagalli couldn't help but note how quickly Kisaka had acquiesced. Perhaps, this alone time was his gift to her. "Thank you, Kisaka. I appreciate it!" she whispered gratefully.

"Happy birthday, Princess. I hope you have a meaningful chat with Lord Uzumi," he replied warmly. As she walked away towards the Leaders' Hall, her elegant midnight blue gown drew admiring glances from both the guests and the guards, who were accustomed to seeing her in formal attire.

[LORD'S HALL]

In the Lord's hall, Cagalli found herself surrounded by portraits of past lords and ladies. She made her way to the grand portrait of her father. Whenever she feels lost or lonely, she strolled here and "talked" to her father. His father's portrait was painted in the traditional Orb uniform of a politician. His eyes is determined but warm.

"Hey, father," she murmured, her gaze fixed on the painting. "I turned 20 today. Myrna says I've grown into a respected leader... I wish you were here to witness it…" Tears welled up in her eyes.

"I miss you so much… Kira has been amazing. He's proven to be a dependable brother after all," she smiled through her tears. "I always thought I had to protect him, but in the end, he protected me too. He stood up to Yuna, he rescued me on my wedding night... he even lent me his strength... Together with Athrun and the others, we've rebuilt Orb... And today, like in the past, Orb stands strong... There's still much to be done, but I've made a vow to fulfil my duty…"

Her fingers instinctively sought out the necklace she wore, its pendant holding the ring Athrun had given her in their youth. "Sometimes I wonder if personal happiness is attainable in these tumultuous times... You dedicated your entire life to protecting Orb... I'm doing my best, so please, keep guiding me," she murmured softly.

To her surprise, a familiar voice broke the silence. "I'm sure Lord Uzumi would be proud to see you, Cagalli," the voice said.

Turning around, Cagalli's heart swelled with joy at the sight of Kira. Her tone was genuinely happy. "Kira! You're here!"

"Well, yes! To give well wishes to my little sister," he chuckled as he approached. His tone was warm and gentle, reflecting his contentment at finally agreeing to celebrate this special day with her, yielding to Athrun's persistence. Kira enveloped his twin in a hug.

"I'm so happy that you're here," she exclaimed. Returning his embrace, Cagalli smiled. "Happy birthday to us."

"Happy birthday to us," Kira echoed, sharing in her sentiment.

Kira approached the portrait of Lord Uzumi, paying his respects. "Hello, Lord Uzumi. Cagalli and I are celebrating our birthday for the first time in 20 years, but as they say, better late than never," he began. "We have so many things to work on now, but I'm sure you understand. Please forgive this one act and consider it a birthday gift for both of us," Kira said before bowing respectfully.

"Kira?" Cagalli looked at him in surprise.

"You know me, I'm not one for big parties, but a certain someone insisted on coming here," he replied.

"A certain someone," Cagalli echoed, raising an eyebrow.

"Ah uh, and I heard that what we are about to do was YOUR idea," Kira emphasized.

Just then, Lacus and Shinn entered the hall.

She had thought the party was winding down, and she could finally rest, but surprises kept coming one after another. "Lacus? Shinn?"

Lacus approached her and embraced her. "Happy birthday, Cagalli," she said with a smile. "Well, Athrun finally convinced Kira to visit you. Kira wanted a simple celebration."

"Thank you, Lacus! Thank you for being here," Cagalli smiled. The day was starting to look up. She waited a little while, expecting Athrun to emerge from the door. "I don't see Athrun around," she said, a little disappointed.

Kira turned to her. "You will, soon. We don't have much time. Do you remember the story of Harry Potter?" he asked.

"Huh?" Cagalli remained confused. Why was Kira bringing up Harry Potter?

"When they were trying to snatch Harry from Privet Drive to take him safely to Sirius Black's House, his friends drank a Polyjuice Potion, and they changed into Harry so that they could confuse the enemy."

Cagalli vaguely remembered that part of the story but felt more confused. "Uh, I think I remember some parts of it. Kira… What is this all about?" She felt that something was about to happen.

Shinn walked towards the two but was unable to look or speak at her, so instead, he addressed Kira, "Kira, time's up. We need to leave now."

Kira draped a beautiful white coat around Cagalli. "Consider this your Polyjuice," he said as he tied the coat. "By the way, you looked beautiful tonight and that Orb pin looked so good on you," Kira complimented.

Cagalli smiled at him, seeming to forget what was happening.

Just then, two more people entered the room.

Cagalli was surprised to see two women who looked like her. She recognized the Hawke sisters.

"Hello, Cagalli-sama, happy birthday," Meyrin greeted. She was wearing a different dress, but also in the shade of midnight blue.

"Happy birthday, Chief Cagalli," this time it was Luna, also wearing a different dress, but in the same color.

These dresses sparked a familiar recognition in Cagalli's mind. They were part of the four reserves of dresses that Myrna had shown her. If they were wearing these dresses, did this mean they had met with Myrna?

"Shinn, I entrust my sister to you," Kira said, his voice low and urgent. "Now, go. Escort her to the hangar as fast and quietly as possible. Remember the plan. Refrain from engaging with Orb soldiers and guards."

Shinn nodded and looked at Cagalli, but was struck dumb by Cagalli's beauty in the midnight blue dress. It was his first time seeing her in such attire, and she looked absolutely stunning! He became more aware of her as a woman, realizing there was a different side of her that this dress had been able to showcase. The lady in blue, he thought. This moment would be etched in his memory. It was more than he had bargained for. And though he did not want to admit it, this was all because of Athrun's plan and determination.

For the first time, he began to understand the depth of Athrun's feelings toward Cagalli, going to lengths to craft this plan just to be with her. It was a little selfish, satisfying his own desire, that was what he thought. However, as he saw how happy she was when she saw Kira and Lacus, he was convinced that it was actually for Cagalli's happiness. Well, he could give him that credit, for sure. Devising and implementing a plan in such a short while was truly something. At this point, he began to doubt himself. Was he really the right man to make her happy? Well, whatever. I just have to finish my task.

His heart raced faster and stronger as he neared her, struggling to contain the rush of emotions. He felt weak in the knees. Keep still. There is something important to do, he thought. Why did he feel nervous now? He was okay just a while ago. "Okay, Kira," he said, feeling that his voice was coming from a distance.

Then he walked towards her and offered his hand, which was shaking a little, but he tried to calm himself. "Let's go, Princess," he said.

In his rush to maintain composure, Shinn even forgot to offer her a simple greeting. He had rehearsed exuding confidence in front of her, even practising a few hours ago, but all his preparation crumbled the moment he laid eyes on her. It was true! Despite the people and two other women wearing a different version of the midnight blue dress, his attention was solely focused on her, as if the rest of the world had faded into insignificance.

"What is happening?" Cagalli felt confused as she stared at Shinn's hands. Her trust in them was unwavering, but she was puzzled about what was happening right now.

Lacus gently pushed Cagalli. "Go on," she encouraged.

As Cagalli glanced back at them before taking Shinn's hand, it seemed like she saw the Astray girls waving back at her. She became teary-eyed. Are you here to send me off as well? she thought. Okay then.

Shinn felt a tingling sensation as Cagalli's hand covered his, and he held her gently. Soon, they disappeared from view.

"Do you think this will work?" Lacus asked, moving towards Kira.

"We can only buy them some time," Kira replied, then addressed the three women in the room. "Now. It's time to go back to the party." The others nodded.

[HANGAR]

Athrun smiled as he read the message from Kira.

[Red Lion initiated]#

A/N: High five if you got the two references XD This chapter built on three themes: the twins' reunions, Athrun's plan and Shinn-Caga encounter. Read, review, and leave a kudos/fave if you like the story.

longlivecagalli - Oh, Shinn's releasing his frustrations and stuff... XD

Deedums - Yes, loved Shinn, but he was too grumpy in GSD. ShinnCaga should definitely fix their issues

Keep the reviews coming, love reading and replying to them. You can also find me in X (shameless plug). The next chapter will be released this Wednesday. Ciao! ShadowcLite, 13.05.2024