Gundam Seed - OVA: Conspiracy for Love [AxC] [KxL]

[aieki]

DISCLAIMER: I do not own Gundam Seed or any of the characters, unless the Character is which you do not recognize; such as Alexander Yufer, and Arthur Yufer. I slightly changed Meer?s role from the anime, so please pardon if she?s still around. I find her annoying, but her role here is somewhat pleasing toward Athrun and Cagalli. The song at the end of the chapter is REASON by Tamaki Nami, which I do not own. English version used for the story, also with a Japanese translation for the song. If you want to download it, you can at this site: Gundam Seed ~DESTINY

COUPLES: Story directed towards Athrun [x] Cagalli; also Kira [x] Lacus.

<center>Conspiracy for Love
Chapter One: ?Bitter Pain?</center>


It had been two years, hasn?t it? Two long years, fading into the past?along with the dreadful memories of which had been part of it.

She sighed, looking at the sky. ?Should I say this is an anniversary??

What was worth celebrating? Keeping track of? The days since the war had been over? Or how many people that had died in the war? She couldn?t help but feel guilty for the wrong na?ve choices she had made two years ago. If she had known better, maybe not as many people would?ve died. They would still be here, and live their lives happy. No one would feel pain?sorrow?regret.

?Cagalli?? Someone spoke her name, hoping to get her attention.

She turned her head slightly to face a twenty-year old ex-ZAFT pilot. ?Hello?Athrun.?

He took a seat next to her uninvitingly, but they were friends after all. Friends.

?What?re you doing here? Shouldn?t you be downstairs with everyone else??

The blonde looked away from him, and turned back to looking at the stars. ?What for? It?s useless celebrating something like this??

?Why?? He asked her, in his pacifist tone. ?Don?t tell me you?re still regretting over what happened over the war. It?s been two years. You weren?t like this last year, so why are you moping around up on the roof now??

?Because?? Cagalli?s eyes casted down on the floor. She didn?t know what to really say, it wasn?t as easy as people thought, explaining their feelings...not to her anyways. Especially when she wasn?t at all like Lacus, someone who could express everything she felt; her ideals, her thoughts, her?emotions.

?Because?? Athrun stared at her, ?Cagalli, what?s really wrong??

?What else is wrong?? She asked herself.

She felt her long-time friend pat her shoulder reassuringly. ?It?s been two years, and I know you?re not the type to mourn over something which everyone else learned to accept.?

?He?s right. Maybe?it?s because everyone has moved on that I?m wondering what reason have I found to move on?? Of course Lacus and Kira had a reason. Her friend was now engaged to her brother, Kira. They were happy now, they had always been happy together. The others, Murrue Ramius, captain of Archangel were also living life safely with Andrew Waltfeld?were they in love? She wasn?t sure, but they seemed to be. She wasn?t one to judge, but to be in love, was a great reason to move on. Viewing Lacus and Kira?s relationship, what reason did she have to move on from the war? What had changed her these past two years; other then being the Representative of Orb? ?Nothing really.?

?It?s really nothing??

This time, it was Athrun?s turn to sigh. ?Cagalli??

?No, really Athrun! Just give me some time?I?ll be able to forget about this.? She smiled reassuringly, though fidgeting with the ring on her finger.

It had become a habit for her to play with the ring since the war. She didn?t know why, but it made her relax?think. Since now, she wasn?t really sure if the ring had meant anything anymore. After what happened in the war, a lot of confusion was stirred up between Athrun and herself. Did they like each other, or did they love each other? Even she couldn?t tell for herself, ?What does Athrun feel??

Athrun seemed to have his eyes on the ring that he had given Cagalli awhile back also. ?She still keeps it?? He didn?t expect her to hang onto something like that till now. Then again, her hanging onto the ring made him happy. At least she considered his feelings, and didn?t throw it away. Did it mean she accepted him?

?Alright, but?if it?s still on your mind, come to me. I don?t want you to do something foolish.?

The Orb Princess rolled her eyes. ?You really think I?m that stupid??

Only a chuckle came as a reply.

<center>---</center>

They had exited the roof and walked down the stairs together. Heads turned as the two appeared, becoming the next topic of conversations. Many of the guests filled up the ball room, while some moved about the mansion. Cagalli nodded respectfully to some she knew, while others did the same to her. Athrun smiled and shook hands with the guests, proceeding to the corner of the ballroom with his friend.

?Are they together??

?Seems like it?but if it concerns Cagalli Yula Attha then probably their just friends.?

?Do you think so? They look like quite a nice couple though.?

Whispers formed within the ladies of guests, causing rumors to spread and questions to form, searching for specific answers. Cagalli wasn?t deaf, and neither was Athrun. She didn?t want though, to cause the man beside her to go down with her in gossip, so she quickened her pace. It was quite difficult though, wearing the green satin dress of hers. Athrun blinked and hurried along beside her, only to receive another few more paces from Cagalli.

?What?s she trying to do?? He shook his head, only to figure out that they were already nearing their group of friends.

?Cagalli! Athrun!? Lacus smiled softly, ?Where were you two??

The Orb Representative shook her head, returning the radiant smile. ?Oh nothing, we were just?talking.?

?I see,? the pink haired singer replied slyly, only to receive misunderstanding shakes from both of her friends.

Kira chuckled softly, ?We weren?t thinking that. But now that you put it like that??

?Kira!? Cagalli smacked her twin brother, not taking the joke lightly as her cheeks turned crimson.

Athrun coughed, to only meet a slight nudge by Kira?s fianc?e. ?So?when do you plan to start making us think like that, ne Athrun? No ones going to wait forever for happiness?and it did seem like something was bothering her. Maybe it was this?? She whispered to him, an eyebrow rising.

This time, the Gundam pilot also blushed. ?W-Well??

Cagalli flashed her dangerous green eyes at her friends, ?Now what are you talking about now? Seems like you guys are interested in talking about me tonight.? She stated with an attitude, but in her head she didn?t find it a surprise; seeing that she swore she could hear her name now and then around her. People did seem fond of talking about her tonight, but about what? She was about to figure that out.

?Excuse me,? Cagalli said while walking away, ?I?ll be right back.?

Athrun watched her walk away, meaning to follow, but maybe she wanted her time with other guests. Lately, she did act out of herself. He was hoping to figure it out up on the roof when they had the time together, but that was a failure. All she told him was that she was feeling guilty about the war two years ago. It didn?t occur to him though why she would feel guilty now, after all; she was pretty happy last year that the war was finally over. ?Maybe something else is wrong.?

?Eh?? Kira questioned, ?What do you mean??

Athrun shook his head, needless to answer Kira?s question. He didn?t know that he had spoke out loud.

?Looks like Cagalli?s trying to fit in,? Lacus laughed softly, ?though she?s having a difficult time not showing her anger.?

All head?s turned to where Lacus was gazing over. There, stood the fussy Orb Representative keeping her mouth shut as the lady?s gossiped about other people. It caused the two men to laugh, seeing that it was obvious that Cagalli didn?t want to be over there. ?Then why is she over there?? Athrun thought.

Kira and Lacus had gotten themselves into a conversation a bit later on, while Athrun still kept an eye on the Princess. He wasn?t worried about sudden ambush or some terrorist; there were bodyguards and certain ex-ZAFT ops for that around here. He just?felt more comfortable looking at her, keeping an eye on her. He didn?t like it though, when a young man walked up to her with his ?sparkling gentlemen? smile. Hands out, Athrun recognized that the certain man was asking her to a dance. A feeling rubbed against him, jealousy. But to his dismay, Cagalli nodded and took his offering hand; proceeding to the dance floor.

?Look?s like someone asked Cagalli to dance,? Lacus pointed out.

Athrun was about to say something, until Sai Argyle appeared upon the group. He didn?t know Sai that well, other then that he helped coordinate the Archangel during the first war. He did remember that his ex-girlfriend was Flay Allstar, but was killed during the war. ?It?s been three years though; of course he might or should?ve moved on.?

?Hey Sai, long time we haven?t talked.? Kira was the first to greet his long-time friend. They partially hugged, and Lacus was next to embrace. ?How?re you Sai??

Athrun nodded slightly to the blonde, as he did the same. ?I?ve been doing well,? he answered Lacus?s question. ?Well, after the Bloody Valentine Tragedy I chose to become a Professional Engineer towards Mobile Suits. But then in the C.E. 71 War, things became harsh, and they needed technicians; with experience I had for the Archangel I joined Orb and did that. I?m still stuck with that job though, seeing that I like it better then being an Engineer,? Sai explained laughing slightly. ?What about you three??

Athrun looked at the dance floor with the corner of his eyes, but Cagalli and the man asking her to dance wasn?t there any longer. Where did they go? He felt like leaving and looking for her, but that would be impolite towards everyone here already over here. ?Still, where could she have gone? Did she go with that man?? Unreasonable conclusions started to form in his mind, and he tried to shake it off. The previous feeling of jealousy was still itching on him, combined with the feeling of worry.

?Athrun??

?Oh, what?? He turned his head back to the group.

?Sai asked what you were doing these days.?

?Oh,? he cleared his throat, ?I?ve been?? Looking after Cagalli? ??trying to run for Chancellor.? He decided that was a good enough answer.

?Chancellor, you mean at Plant?? Sai asked, receiving a nod from Athrun. ?I think that if I try, I could help maintain the peace for the Earth Alliance and ZAFT.? His eyes wandered to the different areas of the ballroom as he said this, trying to catch a glimpse of Cagalli. It seemed like she wasn?t in the room though, maybe she had went to the restroom?

?I see,? Sai smiled, ?Well I hope you win the election. It must be easy for you and Cagalli then, if you do win, you?ll be Chancellor of Plant and she?s already the Representative of Orb.?

Lacus nodded, ?Then there will certainly be peace.?

Kira encircled his arm over his fianc??s waist, ?That would be nice for once?then no one would have to worry about any further war.?

Athrun, trying to keep his mind straight, suddenly said, ?That would be nice, keeping the peace aligned. But there are always remnants of people who don?t like Naturals or Coordinators. After all, that was what caused the second war.? His tone was deep, showing his feelings toward the topic. ?I just want to keep the peace as long as possible, and have people understand that no matter what, we?re all still humans. Nothing is different from us Coordinators to Naturals; we?re just another type of race to mankind, not some different specie.?

?Well said Athrun Zala.? Everyone turned to face the Chairman of Supreme Court, Gilbert Dullindal. Athrun saluted while Kira and the others nodded for his respect.

?Chairman,? Athrun began.

Dullindal shook his head, ?I was looking over here when I noticed that you kept looking around, Athrun. If you?re wondering about the Princess, she left with that young man she was dancing with to the balcony.?

Athrun blinked, had he been that obvious? And they went to the balcony? ?What is she doing??

?Thank you?Chairman.? Athrun gazed down, ?I?ll?? He was about to say ?go find Cagalli? but Dullindal shook his head. ?Now, now, Athrun, give her some time to talk with someone else other than you.? There was a mischievous look in his eyes, and Athrun seemed to notice. ?And we were talking about the war, weren?t we?? It seemed like the Chairman was trying to challenge the 20-year olds feeling toward his blonde friend. ?Give her some time to talk with someone else other than you.? But with a man, who she didn?t even know?

?So, when is the wedding? I hope I was sent an invitation,? Chairman Dullindal changed the subject, looking at Kira and Lacus.

The couple blinked and Sai?s eyes widened, ?You two are engaged??

?Well, it?s not announced yet?and we haven?t sent the invitations yet, but your all on our list of guests,? Lacus explained, her fingers touching the engagement ring Kira had given her. Kira smiled as he looked at his fianc?, ?We planned to have our wedding two months from now, the anniversary of when we first met.?

?That?s fantastic,? Dullindal beamed with his straightforward face, ?Let?s all commemorate this with a drink.? He waved his hand in the air, and a waiter came by balancing a plate which carried half a dozen cups of champagne. Taking four and passing it around, he raised his cup, others following suit. ?To Kira Yamato and Lacus Clyne,? he announced, with the repeat of Athrun and Sai. They all tapped their glasses together and the couple smiled sheepishly. ?There was no need for that??

?Kira, you should feel honored,? Sai stated; drinking the champagne, ?Chairman Dullindal is wishing you luck.?

?We are honored,? Lacus smiled happily, ?Thank you Chairman.?

?It?s really nothing, just something I had to do. Really now, I would?ve thought you two would?ve gotten married sooner though; probably right after the war.?

?I agree,? Athrun nodded.

?And I would?ve thought you would?ve gotten married this time too,? Dullindal exclaimed, ?Athrun Zala.?

?I?,?

The others looked at him with laughing faces, knowing that the Dullindal got him good.

?What?s wrong Athrun, not ready? Or are you afraid?? There it was again, the look of mischief in the Chairman?s eyes.

?I...well?? What was he to say now?

?She still kept the ring, didn?t she??

Was he talking about Cagalli? Before he could say anything in return, the Chairman dropped in a few more words of thinking. ?Don?t take things for granted. Things may be taken away from you before you may have the chance to reach for it. Goals?dreams?love.? Now what was he talking about? ?Don?t think that just because it?s before your eyes means that it?ll be there for long.?

Kira and Lacus looked at each other, a look of sadness. Sai stood there, seeming to soap in all of what the Chairman had said.

?Before you know it, you might be regretting about it in the near future. Live life without regrets, live life without feeling guilty for now and the future.?

Was the Chairman indulging him to take a chance and tell Cagalli how he felt?

?Well now, it was nice speaking with you all,? Chairman Dullindal waved, ?Hopefully we?ll be able to speak again.?

Athrun turned to look at the Chairman of Supreme Courts depart from them, his long hair swiftly moving as he took each step. His graceful figure walking away with such pride and honor he held all these years. Yes, Gilbert Dullindal was quite a great man for Plant, and the world. That was why he joined ZAFT in the 2nd war, because of Dullindal?s words. The way he said things, the way he had said it, how he said it, it never bemused Athrun how the Chairman could influence so many people. After all, he was also one of the people Gilbert Dullindal had changed.

?Chairman Dullindal?s words ran deep, ne Athrun?? Lacus asked him.

Thoughts still rushing in his head, Athrun nodded.

<center>---</center>

The afternoon breeze brushed slightly against Cagalli?s face.

?The moon?s beautiful tonight, isn?t it Miss Cagalli??

She nodded, closing her eyes for a second. It felt good to be outside; at least the air refined her from the staleness of the house. Especially when everyone was inside, trying to pick a conversation with her. No good came from gossiping; all there was from it was second hand information that had a possibility of not even being true. From what she knew already, the ladies were just making things up from what they saw. And of course, that just made Cagalli angry; she wasn?t the type to listen to such trash. How could these ladies be saying such things without feeling guilty one bit? Trying to get information out of her, and trying to swarm her with questions about her an Athrun.

?You?re beautiful Miss Cagalli, just like the moon.?

The Orb Princess opened her eyes to look at the young man, redness appearing on her face. ?N-Not really?? she denied.

?Don?t say that, you are beautiful Miss Cagalli. It?s an honor for me to acquaint with you, such a beautiful yet mature lady who has leaded Orb the last three years.? His blue eyes sparkled in the nightly sky, causing her to blush more. Such flattery was not used to her, and she couldn?t help but turn away and look at the ocean view. ?I?ve heard so much about you from everyone, it seems like you?re quite adored with the citizens of Orb.? This guy sure knew what to say, Cagalli noted.

He moved to stand right beside Cagalli, his hands resting on the bar which safely protected them from falling down the ocean. Cagalli tried not to look at him, but it felt uncomfortable to have his eyes on her. She could feel him looking at her, and she couldn?t help but look back. He was quite a man, a lean body with blue navy hair matching with sky blue eyes. Somehow, she couldn?t help but think of Athrun. If she stayed with the group, would she and Athrun be out here standing to watch the moon together as well? Other then now, with her and this gentleman she just meant a few minutes back?

?You?re twenty, Miss Cagalli??

The blonde nodded, ?Yeah?and you can just call me Cagalli. You didn?t tell me your name?? She felt embarrassed for not asking for his name earlier, when he had asked her to dance.

?Oh, I apologize for not introducing you to who I am.? He made a face which looked repentant enough for her to shake her head, ?My name is Alexander Yufer, son of Arthur Yufer.?

?So?he?s a Yufer.? Cagalli didn?t find it a shock, the Yufer?s had a talent for flattery and sweet-talk, but they also the experience of persuading many of the nations when it was time for war. Weren?t they the Naturals who also convinced the nations to join the Atlantic Alliance in the 2nd War? She couldn?t remember, but now it didn?t really matter. War was war, and those in war changed because of it. No one wanted the ones who sacrificed their lives for peace to die in vain after all, and that was the last thing Cagalli wanted. ?Nice to meet you, Alexander Yufer,? she acknowledged.

?Nice to meet you too, Cagalli Yula Attha.? He smiled, ?You know, your words transformed me into a new person. You hold so much power and influence, Cagalli. It?s surprising that a girl like yourself is already having Orb weigh on her shoulders, with so many stress and troubles. How can you manage, Cagalli?? His voice was unfathomable, sounding as if he could understand what she was going through. The tone urging her to tell him everything, so he could help lift the troubles away. Was there someone like this? A stranger who she didn?t know at all, telling her that he wanted her to be free of stress and troubles? She looked at him suspiciously, only to obtain another grin from him. ?I just want to help someone that has changed me, Miss Cagalli.?

?Really?? Cagalli looked away, ?Well, aren?t we getting friendly.?

?I would hope so,? he replied, ?It would be an honor to be friends with the woman who has changed Orb.?

?How is it an honor to be friends with me? You don?t even know what I?ve gone through, who I really am.? ?How my words caused so many to die, make them lose hope and turn against us.? Even though it had been years, Shinn?s words still echoed in her mind. At that time, she didn?t want to believe it. That her words, and that her father?s words killed so many people. But there was no choice for them, seeing Orb?s condition at that time. Still?now, did it really make a difference? Did people really accept her principles?

?I understand though, believe me. You?ve gone through harsh times; nothing can match up to that. But that is the past, and this is now the present. You can?t just sulk about the past now, and think of yourself basing on the past. You have to think about who you are now, and judge yourself by what you do in the future.? The son of Yufer exhaled a sigh, taking in a deep breath of fresh ocean air. ?What would your father think of you, Miss Cagalli? If he knew that you were feeling guilty of what you had done in the past??

?Father??

She forced herself to glare at him, ?Don?t bring up my father.?

?But I am correct, am I not??

She didn?t want to admit it, but what he had said made sense. ?He lives up to the name Yufer.? Cagalli cocked her head, ?I know. I don?t want my father to scowl at me for doing such a thing if he was still alive?but at times, I can?t help but feel bad for the poor choices I?ve made during the war.?

?Then it?s a lesson well learned,? he exclaimed, ?for you to understand that means you have to make better choices in future situations, right Cagalli??

He was right; ?I have to learn how to make the better out of situations. Not to make mistakes I?ve done in the previous wars, or else I wouldn?t forgive myself.?

?You seem to know plenty, Mister Alexander Yufer.? Cagalli implied, ?After all, coming from a Yufer who despised Coordinators.?

?Call me Alex, and I, along with my family, do loathe Coordinators.?

Her eyes widened in surprise, ?Then??

??But,? he interrupted her, ?It?s just a personal sentiment to us Yufer?s.?

?I see?? Cagalli let her body relax slightly, ?so they do still hate Coordinators?but why?? Cagalli was about to ask the question, when she felt a third parties present. Turning around, her eyes met Athrun. It had seemed like Alex already knew the other man was there, and he smiled respectively. ?It?s nice to meet you, Athrun Zala.? For some reason, Cagalli thought his voice changed somewhat, but maybe that was just her. ?Or is it because Athrun?s a Coordinator??

?Well, seeing you have another guest Cagalli, I?ll be going now.? The Yufer then winked, ?I hope we see each other some other time.?

Athrun and Alex walked past each other, a tense atmosphere rising. The Zala?s face grew stern, but softened as the other man left the balcony. ?You were here for awhile,? he stated. ?What were you doing here without a bodyguard??

?Just smelling the air,? she replied.

?And talking to a stranger,? Athrun added.

?How do you know he?s a stranger?? She raised an eyebrow. Athrun seemed irritated at the moment, which she could tell. But she wasn?t about to let that mood of his rub it on her. She didn?t do anything wrong, and just because he was a stranger didn?t mean she couldn?t make friends with a stranger.

The ex-FAITH member sighed, ?Because I haven?t seen you talk to him before. I was?? he looked down at the beach, ?just worried.?

Cagalli smiled, ?Thanks?but I?m not that person you?ve known back in the war Athrun?I think that I?m ready to face danger for myself.? She pushed a strand of blond hair back behind her ear, as the wind blew softly. ?I don?t want to hide behind you always Athrun, if something happened to you I would?,?

?If something happened to you, I wouldn?t forgive myself.? What he said caused her to flush. ?Athrun?? She felt his arms wrap around her slim figure, his beautiful eyes looking down on her. ?Cagalli, I?? he didn?t know how to articulate to her, so he touched the ring on her hand with his finger. She looked down and looked up at him, ?I?Chairman Dullindal told me something.? His eyes met hers, ??don?t take things for granted. Things may be taken away from you before you may have the chance to reach for it. Goals?dreams?love.? I?don?t want to let you go before I tell you how I feel.?

His warmth comforted her, and she felt herself think of what the Athrun repeated from the Chairman said. ?He?s right??

?So?Cagalli, I?,?

?Miss Attha, Mister Arthur Yufer and his son would like a word with you before they depart,? one of the waiters reported, holding a tray of snacks for the guests. Cagalli and Athrun instantaneously took their distance and Cagalli nodded, looking disappointedly at Athrun. He just nodded at her, accepting the waiter?s request, ?Just go and see what they have to say.? He followed her out of the balcony, when he was about to leave her, he whispered in her ear: ?I don?t trust this ?Arthur Yufer and his son? so be careful.? Cagalli was about to return a remark but Athrun was already walking back to Kira and Lacus.

She shook her head, and followed the waiter boy, the event that happened just in a few minutes replaying in her mind.

?Athrun??

<center>---</center>

?What happened?? Kira questioned Athrun, as they saw him approaching them. They saw his face, and wondered if he just got rejected, but they were certain that Cagalli?s feelings were similar as his. ?We couldn?t have been wrong?? Lacus whispered to Kira, hushing as Athrun looked at the two.

?Nothing really happened; Cagalli was talking to Alexander Yufer.?

?Alexander Yufer?? Kira repeated, ?Why would she be talking to him??

Athrun shrugged, ?She agreed to dance with him?? He dropped his gaze, ?So I don?t really know.?

?But?Alexander?? Kira?s voice filled with doubt, ?Maybe she didn?t know or something. Isn?t he??

?Yeah, his family?s an anti-Coordinator, or so I overheard,? stated Athrun. ?Cagalli just went to offer the two goodbye; or they wanted to have a word with her before they left.? He ran his fingers through his soft blue hair, thinking of what to do. He didn?t even have time to confess to Cagalli, and then the people wanted to speak with her. He could feel something suspicious arousing; and it had to do with the Yufer?s. ?I should?ve followed her,? he told himself.

?Well,? Kira began, ?don?t worry about it?she?ll be fine.?

?I?m not that person you?ve known back in the war Athrun?I think that I?m ready to face danger for myself.?

?That?s what she said,? Athrun muttered, ?but it?s hard to not be worried about her. She?s so careless??

?Who?s careless?? A voice piped up, to anyone else they would?ve thought that it was Lacus Clyne, but they would?ve only realized that it was the once-impersonator,

?Meer Campbell,? Kira uttered vaguely. It wasn?t like they didn?t like her, but in the war, what she did to Lacus was unforgivable. Or it was, but still?to Kira, anything that jeopardized Lacus was not merciful at all; especially when Meer began to think of herself as Lacus, and bringing chaos among their group of their friends and the people of Plant. If it wasn?t for her, his sister and his best-friend would?ve been together a long time ago. But with her around, anything dire could happen.

?Oh, hello Kira,? she smiled, saying his name so as if they were friends; than turning to the true Lacus Clyne, ?Hello Miss Lacus.?

Lacus returned the same resembling smile, ?It?s nice to meet you, Meer.?

Meer nodded happily, and then beamed, ?Athrun!? It wasn?t mistaken that she had grown fond of this certain ex-soldier; after all?she was all over him in the war. She just found that he was easy and comforting to be around with, and the ?acting? when she was Lacus Clyne towards her fianc?e caused her to think that it was for real. So in the end, she was very affectionate towards him. ?I haven?t seen you for a long time, Athrun! I?ve miss you very much!? She hugged him and grinned, only to cause him to want to get away from her grasp.

He didn?t want to hurt her feelings, but he didn?t want Cagalli to come back and take another misunderstanding. ?Meer?can?t you stop hugging me?? he tried to mutter out, as he was being gripped by the pink-haired girl. She looked at him questionably, as in ?Why Athrun, sweetie?? He couldn?t help but brush her hands off him, and he coughed to clear his throat. ?Eh?yes, it?s been awhile Meer?um?? he had to keep his distance from her, and stop her from touching him, ?how?re you Meer??? he asked, while moving to stand in-between the engaged couple. He looked at the two apologetically, but it was the only way to keep Meer away from him.

Meer pouted, but answered his question. ?I?m fine, busy really. They actually asked me earlier to sing for the anniversary of the war in Plant. In the war, being--,? she met eyes with Lacus and silenced herself. ?I mean, in the war?I had great chances to sing like you, Miss Lacus. I was so happy, and now?being able to sing being Meer, makes Meer more joyous,? she beamed. ?Thank you for leaving me an opportunity!?

They three standing side-by-side didn?t know what to really think, was that a compliment at all? But Lacus shook her head, ?it was talent that others recognized, not with my help.?

Meer stepped forward, looking at Lacus head to toe. Everything about Lacus seemed to radiate, but Meer realized she herself beside Lacus would make her look so plain?even if they really did look alike. She felt envious, but didn?t say anything. As she looked at the pacified goddess yet again, a sudden slight flicker of light caught the corner of her eye. ?A ring?? She realized that it looked comparable to a wedding wing. ?Is she engaged?? Meer?s eyebrow rose in curiosity. ?That?s a beautiful ring, Miss Lacus. Are you getting married??

Lacus moved her hand into view, showing her wedding band Kira had given her. ?Yes, I?m engaged to Kira.?

?Kira??that wasn?t a surprise, was it? ?When?s the wedding?? She inquired.

?In two months,? Kira stated.

?Hm?I see. Congratulations, you two.? She smiled, ?Well?it was nice meeting you all,? she turned to Athrun, ?you too Athrun. I hope to see you again.? And with that, she turned to leave.

He knew that Kira didn?t like her, and he knew Lacus understood Meer?s role in the war. But that didn?t make up for what had happened?and how she acted towards them. He couldn?t speak of Meer to them, couldn?t help fix their ideas on each other. It wasn?t like they saw each other constantly to make the circumstances troublesome. He knew that deep inside, Meer was a good girl; a girl that wanted to be needed by the people?and through the war, she had treasured her time being Lacus; someone who?s words reached everyone?s hearts, and songs who comforted the people who?s lives were affected by the war. But, he was certain that Meer knew Kira didn?t like her either.

?Kira?? Athrun rotated to glance at his friend, who looked at Lacus.

He realized that Sai wasn?t around. ?Did Sai go anywhere??

Lacus nodded, ?I think he went to look around or something.?

<center>---</center>

?It was nice of you to come bid us farewell,? Arthur Yufer bowed slightly. ?We had quite a time here, and I?m hoping that things will do well for you. You have quite a future being Representative of Orb.? Cagalli looked at him, thanking him for his present at the party. She kept in mind that he didn?t look like an old man of sixty, while it had seemed like he was a strong and will-minded gentleman at forty, if one was to look at him. He had less wrinkles on his face then an aged woman, and his faded blue eyes showed youth. Blue hair with strands of grey was neatly brushed across his some-what bald head, and it caused Cagalli to giggle in the inside. Like father and son, the two Yufer?s looked alike. ?Cept one has more hair.?

?Well?Cagalli,? Alex walked up to her, ?It was nice talking to you?that was the best time of my life.? He took her hand and kissed it, only to meet eye-level with the ring which was placed on her ring finger. His eyes widened for a split second, but he turned back to looking calm. There was no rumor or news that the Orb Representative was getting married, ?So that can?t be an engagement ring,? he deliberated.

?Um?? She mumbled, ?It was nice meeting you too.?

?Well, we can?t make you wait with us any longer,? Arthur Yufer told the Princess, ?You can go on ahead while we wait for our driver.?

She nodded, glanced at the two, ?I hope you have a safe trip.?

?We will,? Alex commented, ?Bye Miss Cagalli! Oh and, I hope you remember what I told you earlier. Don?t reminiscence in the past!?

She nodded and walked back to the ballroom. ?After what you told me?I might not. Father,? she looked up at the ceiling, ?I hope I can make better choices in the future.?

<center>---</center>

Sai had his hands in his pocket as he looked at the ocean. The waves rushed in as the wind blew against his face, reminding him of the first time he meant Flay. There was no use remembering such memories, but he couldn?t help but reflect on it these times of years. She had betrayed him, yet he couldn?t help but forgive her?no matter what. He had tried to move on, but it all resulted in him bearing in mind that no one could replace her, and that in some point of their relationship, she had loved him.

He chuckled, it was love after all?and that was why he would never hate her.

/ / The further we are apart, the nearer I feel you are.
Even my loneliness turns into strength... when I think of you. / /

Sai turned to leave, only to stop when he heard some suspicious movements up on the hills.

/ / In a time where streets, people and dreams change,
I could only oppose them.
I still did not realize,
That there are things that can't be conveyed even with words. / /

He stopped to look, creeping into the bushes. He could only recognize one of them talking, but he didn?t know who it was. He looked like a guest of the party though, dressed in expensive yet high-class garments.

?I think we deceived her enough.?

There was an old man?s voice. ?You think so? She didn?t look so into you when we turned to leave.?

?Heh, it takes time Papa.? The man stated.

So their father-son? Sai asked himself, surely they had to be.

?Still?you have to find a way to win her heart, or there?s no way this plan will work.?

?I know Papa,? the young man responded, ?but?she had a ring on her.?

/ / My lost dreams of wanting to hold you by my side,
For them, you said, "Don't give up!" / /

?I saw,? the other man seemed annoyed. ?You?ll have to find out who it?s from, and what the meaning of that ring is. There?s no time for such outsiders to come in and become the victor of her feelings.? A sound of movements, they were probably looking around to see if anyone else was present.

/ / The further we are apart, the nearer I feel you are.
Even my loneliness turns into strength... when I think of you.
The thing that pierces the gentle chest, that's a fragment of my dream.
Believe once more in the miracle that is our chanced meeting. / /

?I know Papa, she?s an easy listener, and I wouldn?t be surprised if I?m able to persuade her to marry me.? There was laughter between them, ?I?d love to see those damn Coordinator?s face once I regain the power that girl doesn?t even know how to use. Pity, really??

The father nodded, ?But you know we can?t kill her until quite some time after you marry her.?

?Who were they talking about???

?I know, but it wouldn?t be a waste to marry someone like her. She does live up to what those stupid housewives say at home, she?s really gorgeous. Just bang her a few times, and that?ll satisfy me.?

?Now, now, Alex, don?t say such impolite things about our Princess yet.?

Sai could imagine those two smirking right now?cruel people they were. They were planning to kill someone, which was all he knew from this conversation; someone with a high position, a female to be specific. But who could it be? If he knew, maybe?just maybe he could prevent it from happening. ?They can?t use that girl?like how those people used Flay??Flay; no?he didn?t want anyone?s outcome to be like what had happened to Flay.

Sai crept deeper into the bush, to listen clearly to what those two were saying?and maybe he?d be able to catch a glimpse of the father of the man.

/ / In the days without you, I've stopped moving.
But now I am walking out of here.
All the coincidences we shared, certainly
They all have their meanings. / /

?Well, lets hope this will plan will work, yes son? Get rid of the damn Coordinators?and get back on what they did to us.?

?Absolutely Papa,? the son agreed.

?Lets hope that this plan works, even if she is a Natural; she?s been helping the Coordinator?s just too long.?

Sai moved slowly closer?brushing a branch away from his sight. ?She?s a Natural??

/ / I can see with my eyes closed, I know you are here without our hands touching. / /

A sound broke the silence. It was a crack of a branch.

/ / Even if I can't see the astrayed answers tomorrow,
I carry the truth known as "today" in order to meet you. / /

?Who?s there?!? The younger man screamed, looking around quickly.

?It?s coming from the bush!? The father shouted, to only make his son retrieve the gun inside his coat.

?Come out or I will shoot!? He shouted dangerously, but quietly enough for only the people in the area to hear. Sai realized that they were quite a distance away from the mansion, and he wouldn?t be able to run that quickly for safety if they had a gun. He closed his eyes, there were only two choices. Come out and surrender him self, or take a run for it. ?What would you do Flay???

Sai crept out, his eyes staring hard at the two men. Blue hair?blue eyes?they did resemble father and son.

?You chose a bad time to listen to us, boy,? the man holding the gun growled. ?Hopefully you?ve done good stuff in your life to go to heaven. Sorry, don?t take this personal.? And with that, he pulled the trigger.

The fire of the gun echoed throughout the area, piercing through Sai?s body. It went through his chest, and for a minor second, he thought he saw his love.

/ / The further we are apart, the nearer I feel you are.
Even my loneliness turns into strength... when I think of you.
The thing that pierces the gentle chest, that's a fragment of my dream.
As it is, believe once more in the miracle that is our chanced meeting. / /

The pain was unbearable, but he felt his brain still operating. There was only a little time left, until he would die. Would those two men shoot him again?to let him die completely?and quickly?

Seconds past, and still nothing came. He gasped, feeling his blood flowing out of his wound. It hurt?it hurt very much.

?W-Would?you have done the same thing?I did?F-Flay???

And with that?

It was the end.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------To be Continued.

Japanese version of the song REASON by Tamaki Nami:

tooku hanareteru hodo ni chikaku ni kanjiteru
samishisa mo tsuyosa eto kawatteku... kimi wo omottanara

machi mo hito mo yume mo kaeteiku jikan ni
tada sakaratteita
kotoba wo kasanete mo wakari aenai koto
mada shiranakatta ne

kimi dake wo dakishimetakute nakushita yume kimi wa
"akiramenaide" to itta

tooku hanareteru hodo ni chikaku ni kanjiteru
samishisa mo tsuyosa eto kawatteku... kimi wo omottanara
setsunaku mune wo sasu sore wa yume no kakera
arinomama deaeteta sono kiseki mou ichido shinjite

kimi ga inai hibi ni zutto tachitomatta
demo arukidashiteru
kimi to wakachiatta dono guuzen nimo imi ga
sou kanarazu atta

sorezore no yume wo kanaete mata meguriau toki
guuzen wa unmei ni naru

yabureta yakusoku sae mo chikai ni kaetanara
ano basho de deau toki ano koro no futari ni nareru kana?
"yasashisa" ni niteiru natsukashii omokage

me wo tojite mieru kara te wo furezu arukoto wo shiru kara

tooku hanareteru hodo ni chikaku ni kanjiteru
samishisa mo tsuyosa eto kawatteku... kimi wo omotta nara
setsunaku mune wo sasu sore wa yume no kakera
arinomama deaeteta sono kiseki mou ichido shinjite

Author?s Note: I liked how the story went?but I feel deeply sad having it end like that. I just?yeah, Flay and Sai always intrigued me somewhat and now?I think its best to end it like this. I wanted to know what had ended up of Sai after the 1st war, and I guess?well he seemed to have loved Flay very much in Gundam Seed?so I just wanted him to end like this, for the sake of the story. And, well?Sai?s a friend to all of them, so if he dies?of course havoc will rise. Alexander and Arthur Yufer?what are you up to??