Book II of The Lilac Princess

By Lady Dante

Chapter 7

            It was finally over.

            Lieutenant Zechs Merquise walked along the battle field, surveying the havoc wreaked by the twelve mobile suits under his command. Smoke rose from the ground in a sickening mist, dulling the clarity of the gruesome scene before him. There was a town there only an hour ago and now all that remained were dead bodies strewn haphazardly among the rubble. Dead bodies, fleeing survivors and the stench of war. This was victory. This was his destiny.

He did this.

“You’re not the one who invaded this town, Zechs. That terrorist group took these people hostage. We had no choice.”

Zechs didn’t turn to see who spoke. There was no need. His fellow pilot, Lieutenant Lucretzia Noin, was the only one  in the unit brave enough to speak to him after a battle. It had been well over a year since they joined Johnny’s elite company of mobile suits. A year of almost constant battle. Johnny was the battalion commander with Zechs, Noin and two other Specials lieutenants each in charge of a separate platoons. Their company was the best in the Specials, awarded more commendations than any other in the history of the organization. Their defeats were few and far between, mainly due to the high level of leadership and teamwork among the group’s officers.

Today’s battle was a prime example of the exceptional strategic skills of the young officers. A terrorist cell retreating from a previous battle ensconced themselves in a settlement near the French border. Zechs’ response was a two pronged attack, his troops storming the town and flushing out the enemy, sending them straight into the waiting sites of Noin and her troops. It worked brilliantly. The terrorists were captured or killed, their victims liberated. And a third of the town’s population lay bleeding or dead. Victory once again and once again at the cost of innocent lives.

“Is that what you’ve been telling yourself ? That there was no other way?”

“Pretty much, yeah.”

“Is it working?”

“Not really, no,” Noin answered quietly as she stepped to his side. “I thought saying it out loud might help.” 

They stood in silence for some time, simply looking at the carnage before them and remembered a time, not so very long ago when they were refugees from war instead of its instigators. Zechs never knew what to do in those moments after a battle, when calm began to descend once again, even as the fires lingered. His men were always dispatched to clean up, securing the prisoners and aiding survivors, but as their leader, Zechs was relegated to observe from a distance. He did so now, watching the scene through the dark lenses of his sun glasses. The shades were unnecessary this late in the day, in fact, they were quickly becoming a hindrance to his vision. The sky was growing increasingly dark with the setting sun, as was Zechs’ mood. He hid behind those glasses, unwilling to see the devastation in its full intensity.

“We should get back and report to Johnny.”

“Yes,” Zechs agreed but neither moved. They remained as they were for several more minutes, staring out at the same wasteland they traveled as children.

“Zechs…”

“I know.”

=================================

            A hundred miles away, Johnny and the remainder of the company were in the process of securing a base of operations at a sprawling chateau in the French countryside. As was his privilege as a Specials officer, the young lieutenant colonel was empowered to commandeer any structure and supplies necessary to support his company’s operations. Unlike his counterparts in the Alliance regulars, Johnny took advantage of the dispensation only when absolutely essential and took care that his officers were no more of a nuisance than necessary. Anyone under his command who dared treat any inhabitant of an occupied town with disrespect was punished severely, not that the situation ever arose. He was careful in his choice of junior officers. Zechs Merquise and Lucretzia Noin held themselves to a standard even higher than those imposed by OZ.

The only luxury Johnny allowed himself at the lush estate he now occupied, was free run of the wine cellar. He did ask, however, before taking anything, though a denial was hardly likely. He stood in the courtyard of the estate with a particularly fine selection of local wine and smirked at the reaction such a fine collection would extract from His Excellency.

Johnny scoffed. His Excellency. The grand Duke Treize of house Kushrenada. Golden boy of Romefellar. Hypocrite extraordinaire. His brother. It seemed the closer they came to achieving their goals, the further he and Treize grew apart. They had never totally agreed on anything, whether it be battle strategy, politics or how to mix a perfect martini, but until recently, the brothers had always managed to work around their difficulties. Lately, however, it seemed all of their conversations, no matter how trivial, ended in argument. That day’s long-distance dispute was about a more serious subject. The crimson mobile suit.

Johnny had last piloted the suit six months previous. The attempt was successful, but once again the operating system had created a problem with the young officer’s ability to reason. He had used the suit in several battles, but never officially. It was important to Treize that Romefellar not learn of the suit, so he was careful of the time and situations for its use. Although he agreed that the suit should not fall into the hands of the old half-wits, Johnny could not see why he should not be allowed to use the suit at his own discretion. It was a remarkable instrument when placed in the proper hands, and those hands should be his. The current disturbances that broke out with alarming frequency these days would be no problem for him. If he had that suit. At the moment he didn’t even know where it was. Treize had taken to hiding it from him, only sending it when he felt a special mission warranted its use.

The lieutenant colonel poured himself a shot of whiskey and smirked to himself. Unbeknownst to his dear big brother, Johnny had a couple of his best operatives tracking the suit. Any moment he expected to receive a report as to its current location. He kept constant tabs on its whereabouts, waiting for the opportunity to take it. He felt no qualms about stealing it. That suit belonged to him, not Treize. It was Johnny who conquered the damned thing. He almost died for it, he would die for it. Johnny abruptly started pacing. His movements became progressively frantic and irrational. The suit spoke to him, no one else. Treize kept the suit hidden because he was jealous. Yes, that was it. Treize wanted to pilot that suit himself. He even named it. Epyon. What the hell kind of name was Epyon? Johnny was the one who unlocked its mysteries, who heard its call. Now Treize wanted all of the glory, as usual.

Johnny stopped and hurled his glass to the smooth stoned surface of the courtyard. He would not tolerate it. Treize could have the glory, the recognition, their father’s name, but he damned sure wouldn’t have that suit. The young man rushed back into the mansion, barking orders at his stunned staff. He made arrangements for a private plane to be ready for take off within the hour. His last act before storming out was to contact Zechs and instruct him to take temporary command of the unit. With that, Johnny left France to confront his brother.

That mobile suit would be his, one way or another.       

===============================

            Nighttime again and once again he couldn’t sleep. It had been years since Zechs had such trouble with his nightmares, but it seemed the terrors of his past refused to lay dormant indefinitely. Once more he took up the habit of wandering the halls in search of a peaceful place to pass the dark hours and wait for dawn. Insomnia did have one advantage. His nightly vigil had given him the opportunity to view the beautiful structure without the hindrance of young Specials staffers scurrying about. He was not on duty, his uniform left behind in favor of a simple pair of pants and a button down shirt. Alone in the stillness, Zechs could at last allow the artist that lurked in his heart to enjoy the exquisite creations that dripped from every ornate wall. Almost a millennium of war had some how missed this great place. The collection of paintings and sculpture defied the cold reality of war with their soulful display of human creativity. The building was a work of art itself. Every detail, from the peak of the roof to the etched hinges on the doors, spoke of beauty and grace.

            This night, his wandering led Zechs to the music room on the east side of the mansion. In it sat twin grand pianos, polished and perfect, surrounded by rows of antique arm chairs. It reminded him very much of another conservatory destroyed long ago. His mother’s piano was her prized possession and sat in a place of honor among the fine instruments that populated the Cinq royal residence. Zechs walked to one of the pianos and plunked a few keys. One of his earliest and most treasured memories was of lying beneath his mother’s piano while she played. The sound was all together different from underneath. It seemed to radiate through his bones into his very heart. Years later, when he finally had the opportunity, Zechs learned to play the piano so that he could recreate that feeling.

            The young man sat on the upholstered bench in front of the marvelous instrument and began to sift through a small stack of sheet music. He selected a charming, but relatively simple piece and began to play. After glancing over the piece to memorize the melody, Zechs allowed his eyes to flutter shut and let his instinct guide his fingers. He was not as good as his mother, few were, but he played as Queen Katrina played. With his heart. He concluded the piece, leaving his eyes closed until the last whispering note faded. Zechs finally opened his eyes once more when he sensed someone watching him. Noin stood at the far end of the piano, smiling softly. Her head was tilted slightly and she was dressed in a pair of jeans, a tee shirt and, Zechs noted with amusement, no shoes.

            “Mind if I join you?”

“I’d be honored, milady.”

“Zechs,” Noin warned as she plopped down on the bench, “cut the ‘milady’ crap.”

“As you wish, milady.”

She scowled in his direction, but Zechs noticed that her attempt to look annoyed was half-hearted. He enjoyed teasing her about her newly conferred title, particularly when the result was a charming blush. The term ‘knight’ was not metaphorical any longer. She was, indeed, Lady Lucretzia Noin, a card-carrying member of Romefellar, though she took no pleasure in the honor. Zechs, on the other hand, took great pleasure in harassing her about her new station. To make up for his snide remark, he launched into a quiet rendition of one of Noin’s favorite songs. His ploy had the desired effect and Noin smiled.

“Treize called while you were on patrol.”
            “Oh? What instructions did His Excellency have for us this evening?”

“He is, quote, ‘pleased with our fine leadership and wish to hold out our efforts out as a beacon and an example to our comrades-in-arms.’ End quote.”

“In Treize-speak, that means he wants us to throw a ball.”

“Yep.”

“Well, as little as I enjoy such functions, they do serve a purpose. It will be our first chance to play host to the upper ranks.”

“Your first chance. You are in charge remember? If this doesn’t go over well, you’re on your own.”

Zechs gave Noin a sideway glance and caught the playful smirk spread across her face. “Come now. You wouldn’t abandon a comrade on the eve of battle would you? What the hell do I know about caterers?”

“More than me. How about you arrange the food and I arrange the entertainment?”

“All right then. Canned cheese on crackers it is.”

“Accompanied by the finest accordion players money can rent.”

Zechs enjoyed the familiar, but all too rare, joking with his friend. It was one of the rare moments when he actually felt his age. He and Noin were barely seventeen, but their lives were so full of responsibility and obligation that he sometimes forgot. There were days Zechs felt so old, so ancient that he wondered at his ability to live another day. The crush of time so dominated his spirit in those moments that it seemed impossible to go on. But just as he felt he was nearing the end instead of beginning his life, something always happened to bring out the youth within. Something to remind him that he was still a young man with a future. Whatever the event or thought, it generally came about because of Noin. She would crack a joke at just the right moment or peek out at him from behind her hair, smirking at some secret they shared and for a brief instant, they were just Zechs and Noin. Friends, not uptight, honor-bound knights of OZ.

Refueled by his friend’s presence, Zechs began to play a happier tune, an old folk song he and Noin learned in their travels. Noin grinned happily then began to sing. It had been a very long time, Zechs realized, since he accompanied Noin, or even heard her sing for that matter. He was pleased to hear that her voice was as lovely and light as ever. It was a welcome change from the harsh commands and shouted replies they exchanged during the heat of battle. They had so little time together anymore and when they were together, it was usually tainted by the formalities of rank and duty. The song concluded and Zechs turned to the young woman sitting by his side. Behind her, a vast picture window allowed full view of the stars. Her eyes picked up the same deep violet hue of the midnight sky, or, Zechs mused, did the sky take its color from her eyes?

Noin smiled and looked down in her charmingly shy way. Tilting her head forward sent her thick dark hair tumbling forward to cover one of her eyes. Deprived of the lovely view, Zechs reached forward to tilt the young woman’s head back up to meet his gaze. How long had it been, he wondered, since they sat like this? So close, alone. No pressing matters tearing one or both away. Probably not since they graduated from Lake Victoria Academy. The thought of their old school combined with the glint of bright moonlight illuminating his friend’s face reminded him of another such evening a couple of years back and a few stolen moments under the stars. Zechs reached up slowly and pushed Noin’s hair from her face, once again affording him a full view of her incredibly deep eyes.

“Bonne nuit.”

Zechs and Noin both started, turning to see the source of  the unexpected greeting. Upon seeing the lady of the house, Madame Dupuis, standing in the doorway of the conservatory, Zechs stood and Noin spoke up.

“Forgive us, Madame. We didn’t mean to disturb you.”

The elderly woman waved away Noin’s apology as she approached. “Think nothing of it, ma chere. I was captivated by your duet. You are both quite accomplished. I am pleased to hear that ancien piano can still sing so sweetly. And you, jeunne fille, put me in mind of an opera diva I once heard in Paris.”

“Still. This is your home,” Zechs interjected. “We should not have presumed to wander about without asking.”

Zechs stepped forward as he spoke and pulled a comfortable chair out for Madame Dupuis. She was the last member of a once great family and had accepted the Special arrival with grace and even a little wit. As long as les enfants, as she liked to call the young officers, treated her staff with respect, she would not complain. Over the several weeks that Zechs and Noin had been staying at the grand mansion, Madame had taken it upon herself to befriend the two young people.

“I insist you do not trouble yourselves. I have lived through many wars and many different régimes.” She made herself comfortable and patted the young count’s arm in appreciation. “But I must admit, I was not expecting such polite invaders.”

“We regret the inconvenience our presence has caused, Madame Dupuis. Hopefully it will not be much longer.”

“You are very kind, Monsieur Merquise, but I have actually enjoyed having young people filling the house once more. The chateau has been too silent, too long.”

“In that case, Madame, might we prevail upon you for a small favor?” Noin stepped forward and caught Zechs eye, raising her eyebrows in silent question. Understanding this as a suggestion that they ask about hosting the ball, Zechs took up her train of thought.

“Yes, Madame, we would ask if you might allow us use of your ball room for a night?”

“The ball room?” The old woman’s eyes lit up with something akin to childish glee. “You wish to give a ball?”

“With your permission, of course.”

“Oh, merveilleux! Tres, tres merveilleux!” Madame Dupuis clapped in delight. “Oh, it has been far too long since that hall has been used…and I know the perfect chef! Of course the symphony will allow me the use of their first chair strings for the evening….”

As Madame Dupuis made her plans for the grandest ball of the season, Zechs leaned towards Noin and whispered, “Guess I’m off the hook for the spray cheese.”

“Darn. I was looking forward to a rousing rendition of ‘Lady of Spain’ for us to dance to.”

“Life is full of these little disappointments, milady.”

Noin’s response was a quick elbow to her friend’s ribs.

===================================

Duke Treize Kushrenada was about to pour himself a night cap when his brother burst into the room.

“I want it now, Treize! Where the hell is it?”

“Good Evening, brother. This is a surprise. I thought you were in…”

The rest of Treize’s calm statement was interrupted as Johnny grabbed the front of his coat.

“No games! I want to know what you did with it!”

Treize calmly gazed into his agitated brother’s bloodshot eyes. If he ever needed proof that hiding the Epyon was the proper course of action, here it was. His normally relaxed younger brother was threatening him, screaming in a maddened rage. The suit was Treize’s best secret weapon and one he had no qualms in using, but the only one who seemed to be able to survive the machine was Johnny. Every other test pilot had suffered brain damage or succumbed to a heart attack. Johnny was always left in an irrationally violent state after piloting Epyon, but he survived. If he went mad, there would be no one left to pilot the suit. It wasn’t an easy decision, but Treize decided the suit was best used sparingly.

“Let go, lieutenant colonel.” Treize spoke coolly, emphasizing his brother’s rank.

“I’m not leaving here without that suit!”

“Then, it would seem, you are not leaving.
            With a growl, Johnny swung wildly. Treize easily ducked and gave the young man a shove to disengage himself. The missed punch only served to infuriate Johnny more and he charged, knocking them both off their feet. He pulled away enough to attempt another punch, but the calmer Treize acted first, landing a sharp blow to his brother’s nose. The younger man toppled backwards and lay on the floor panting. Treize scrambled to his feet and stood looking down at his brother, his friend, the one person he held in closest confidence. Johnny’s anger seemed to evaporate as quickly as it started. He simply lay there pinching his bloodied nose closed.

Certain now that the altercation was at an end, Treize straightened his uniform. It was then that he noticed a smear of blood staining the white lapel of his formal coat. He quickly removed the soiled garment, dropping it on a chair as he walked to the bathroom for a washcloth to offer Johnny. He splashed some cool water on his own face, reminding himself that Johnny was still suffering from the effects of piloting Epyon. He grabbed a cloth and wet it before returning to his office. As he entered, he saw Johnny move the jacket so that he might sit, just as a small item fluttered from the inner pocket. Treize stepped forward quickly, hoping to retrieve the  photograph before it was noticed, but he was not fast enough. Johnny picked up the photo and looked at the image with wide eyes. He turned the small snapshot over, obviously looking for a name, but found none.

“Treize?”

The duke simply handed the wash cloth to the young man and walked over to the bar. He poured two drinks in silence and walked back to join his brother. Johnny took a big gulp, his face barely registering the burn of alcohol as it traveled the length of his throat. Treize took the photo and sat down in a chair opposite. He watched his brother’s expression change from shock, to confusion, and finally to recognition. Nodding, Johnny supplied the answer to his own unspoken question.

“That nurse on X-18999.”

“Leia Barton.”

“And the baby?”

“Mariemaia.”

Johnny remained silent for several moments, swiping at the blood on his face as he considered this new knowledge. “You’ve kept a family in space all of this time and you didn’t tell me?”

“No. I have had no contact with Leia since I left the colony.”

“You mean…how long have you known about the baby?”

“About a year.”

“You’ve never even seen her?”

“No.”

“You bastard.”

Treize looked up from the crystal goblet in his hand and eyed his brother. He offered no protest, no justifications for his behavior. There was no need. Johnny knew. Every choice Treize made since he was twelve, every cold calculation and heartless order, it was all for one reason. Peace. Johnny was angry now, but Treize knew that his younger brother would understand in the end. They sought the same conclusion to this grotesque play, but by different means. Johnny’s reaction now lay in the deeply buried wounds he had suffered in his own childhood. The younger son of their lecherous father, Edmond Kushrenada, was never openly acknowledged by any of them, not even Treize. It was a fate Johnny understood all too well and had no wish to see his niece suffer. That was the cause of his anger now.

“You are right, brother. I am both a bastard and a coward.” Treize drained the rest of his drink to fortify himself before continuing. “But we both know I’m doing the right thing. I can not afford to have an exploitable weakness now. The world…”

“Screw the world, Treize. To hell with your grand plans and noble causes. We’re talking about your child.”

“Yes…my child,” Treize’s voice became soft, almost a whisper, and thick with regret. “My beautiful daughter…would you wish this life on her? To be the daughter of His Excellency. Constantly under the watchful eyes of the world, of my adoring fans as well as my hated enemies…all waiting for one moment of hesitation on my part, the one instant when my guard is down…”

Treize paused unwilling to finish the thought. If anything happened to Mariemaia, especially because of him, Treize could not even imagine what he would do. It was the one thing--the only thing—he truly feared. Those feelings were the precise reason he avoided forming deep bonds with anyone. Loving left one vulnerable to attack. He had to be willing to give up everything and everyone to his cause. He was even willing to give up his own brother, his best friend, if it meant building a better future. Ultimately, it took only that one tiny, innocent life to wreak havoc in his careful plans. Treize drew in a deep, slow breath, recapturing his calm demeanor and willing away the fear.

“Or would you prefer to see her become another hothouse flower put up for bid on the marriage block? Leia will care for her and Mariemaia will have a life of hope and honesty. She will determine her own destiny, not have it laid out for her by old men in the moth-eaten regalia of a time long dead.”

“You could leave all of this, Treize. You could still go to Leia, there’s still time. It’s easy to disappear in space, I could help you. We could stage something, take you out of the public’s eye. After a while they’ll forget you.” Johnny paused and offered a weak grin, “Given enough time, the public can forget even the great and powerful Treize.”

“What of Romefellar and our dear old uncle?”

“What about them?” Johnny set his glass down on the table rather forcefully, an angry scowl returning to his fine features. “I’ll run interference. I can handle the old man and his senile, pasty-faced puppets.”

“You would, wouldn’t you…” Treize murmured, mostly to himself. It was a statement, not a question. “Despite what it would mean for your career.”

“To hell with careers. Our family comes first, Treize, it has to. I want peace as much as you do. I want to send those Alliance dogs back to hell where they belong and I’m willing to sacrifice almost anything to see that happen, but what I am not willing to sacrifice, big brother, is you or that little girl you helped create. If our family is lost, then what is the point of any of this? Why fight for a new era if there is no one left to share it? We’re it, do you realize that? You, me, Mariemaia…we’re all that’s left of the Kushrenada family.”

“I am aware of that.” Treize looked into his empty glass, unwilling to meet his brother’s disapproving glare, “Which is why I want to protect our legacy.”

“So you mean you’ll do it? You’ll leave…”

“No, I mean I want you to leave. I want you to go to Mariemaia and raise her for me.”

“Treize…”

“Please, Johnny. I don’t see any other way. I can’t…”

“You won’t.”

“Very well, won’t, leave my responsibilities here but Mariemaia will need someone to protect her…to tell her about her heritage, when the time comes.”

“Damn it, Treize. You should be the one…”

“Do this one last thing for me.”

“Is that an order, Excellency?”

“No…it is a plea from your brother.”

Johnny stood, followed by Treize. They eyed each other for quite a long time in silence, each trying to come to terms with what was happening, with the changes they now faced. Whatever Johnny said in the next few minutes, their relationship was forever changed. They would always be brothers, always offer the unconditional bond a family should provide, but no longer would there be an easy going camaraderie between the two. That had been damaged beyond repair. Perhaps one day, if they survived the coming apocalypse, they could build a new friendship, but not now. The best they could hope for at that moment was to let go of the anger and disappointments of the past and forgive each other’s mistakes.

“Of course I’ll go, Treize.”

Johnny held out his hand, smiling the crooked grin he was known for. Relieved Treize set down his goblet and grasped his brother’s hand. “I’ll arrange for you to go on leave tomorrow while I work out a transfer to an administrative position on MOII. My personal shuttle will be on standby…you can leave tonight.”

“Sure. I’ll go grab my stuff.” Johnny started for the door, but Treize called him back.

“Wait. I have one other item for you to take.” His Excellency unlocked a large drawer in his ornate desk. He hesitated a moment before pulling out a small stuffed teddy bear dressed in a pink tutu and ribbons. Shaking his head, Treize handed it over. “I bought this several months ago…I don’t know what I was thinking…”

Johnny smiled affectionately at his brother and took the toy. “I’ll make sure she gets it, Treize.”

======================

            To Noin’s secret delight, the ball she, Zechs and Madame Dupuis planned was an complete success. Well, perhaps not a complete success. There was the game of hide and seek she was playing with the aging Duke Dermail. So far, Noin had effectively avoided the old man. It had been years since he saw her and she had changed quite a bit, but Noin was unwilling to risk being recognized, so she avoided the old man. His infamous snobbery worked to her favor as Dermail ensconced himself among the “true” nobles of Romefellar and paid no mind to upstart commoners such as Noin. Whether on purpose or simply neglect, His Excellency had not demanded that she attempt to mingle with the older members of Romefellar, simply that she pay cursory respects to a select few young noblemen who had inquired after her specifically. Basically, Treize asked her to do some power flirting with a few young counts who were rising through the ranks of the political wing of OZ.

            The other small mar to the otherwise charming fete concerned Zechs. Many of the older members of the aristocracy were in attendance, most of whom knew King Stefan Peacecraft personally. Given his now uncanny resemblance to his late father, Treize thought it wise for Zechs not to show his face…literally. The name Zechs Merquise was banded about more often now that he was a veteran of mobile suit battle. His record, family connections, and title all combined to form a romantic image for the tradition-bound nobles of Romefellar. He was a rising star among them, but in order for that star to continue to rise, Zechs must keep his true identity a secret. Which meant hiding his face around those who might remember the Peacecrafts.

            Treize went so far as to have a custom helmet designed just for Zechs. It was a striking piece, to be sure, glittering in the light and adding a hint of mystery to the already intriguing young man. It was a beautifully crafted work of art. Noin hated that mask, especially since Zechs didn’t. In fact, he seemed to be quite comfortable with it now. She knew her friend took refuge behind that mask in the same way he hid behind his sunglasses. It was one more defense, another wall, another method of punishing himself. Noin wasn’t about to let that go unchecked.

            Noin disengaged herself from two overly eager young nobles and made her way across the ballroom to the massive windows overlooking the garden. Zechs was there, as he had been periodically throughout the evening. As she walked up behind him Noin realized what it was exactly the mask resembled.

            “Well, nice to see the Eagle has finally landed.”

            Noin smiled, obviously expecting Zechs to respond with some scathing remark of his own, but he simply turned from her back to the window. A knot quickly formed in the pit of her stomach. Another thing she hated about that mask was that it prevented her from reading her friend’s mood. With practice, Noin would certainly be able to adjust, but now, she was left feeling awkward.

            “I’m sorry, Zechs. It was just my awful attempt to lighten your mood.”

            “I know, Noin…I’m sorry, too. I should lighten up.”

            “Well, you know we got this kick-ass party going on back here…” Zechs turned to her, a smile playing at his mouth. Noin inclined her head in the direction of a knot of elderly women. “those chicks look like they could party all night.”

            “Chicks?”

            “I heard Captain Damon say that about some of the nuns once.”

            “What did Marguerite do?”

            “Chased him with a ruler.”

            They laughed lightly at the mental image of petite Marguerite chasing Damon. They talked for quite some time, ignoring their guests in favor of a few moments of mirth. They stood with their backs to the crowd, looking out at the evening sky. At some point, Noin wrapped her hand around Zechs’ elbow. The young man bent his arm, gently and purposely trapping his companion’s hand and lightly rested his own over the young woman’s fingers. Neither made any indication that they noticed the actions of the other.

            Across the room, someone did notice. His Excellency, Duke Treize Kushrenada, scouting for his young protégé, spied the two huddled together in an intimate conversation. If it had been any other two officers under his command, His Excellency would have been inclined to politely ignore the scene. But these weren’t just any officers, they were his best. With Johnny in space, most likely permanently, leadership of the best mobile suit division in the Specials would naturally fall to Zechs. The last thing Treize wanted was to have another member of OZ distracted by a claim upon his heart. He had been lax with those two in the past year. A mistake he had no intention of allowing to continue.

            Watching Zechs and Lucretzia together now tugged at the man’s heart, but Treize refused to give in to sentiment any longer. He had sacrificed his own family to his cause, he had no compunction about requiring the same from his two best pilots. It would hurt them both at first, but in the long run, Treize was convinced it was a kindness. Severing their connection now would be much easier than finding themselves in his predicament later. Treize excused himself from the conversation he had been ignoring and made his way to a communications relay in the next room. He sat down and prepared new orders for both Lieutenant Zechs Merquise and Lieutenant Lucretzia Noin.

            First, he made arrangements for Noin to take up a temporary assignment in Rome. The diplomatic corps had been after him for months to allow a representative to recruit Lucretzia to their ranks. Her uncanny ability with languages along with her high academic achievements made her a perfect candidate for the political wing of Romefellar. It was an idea he had resisted, unwilling to give up one of his best mobile suit pilots, but now it seemed the perfect assignment.

            Zechs’ skill was far too great to give up, however, and Treize decided to have the young man test several new models of mobile suit ready for production. It would only be for a few weeks, but it was a start. By the time Treize was finished, the two would only be indifferent acquaintances. He sent the last order and shut off the comlink. Tomorrow morning, both Zechs and Noin would wake up to new orders. Treize returned to the lavish ball with an unencumbered mind.

======================

            Johnny took a deep breath and prepared to knock on the door in front of him. He had been standing outside in the hall way for at least thirty minutes, trying to muster enough courage to knock. He spent part of that time practicing what he would say, the rest fidgeting with his clothes and the stuffed teddy bear he held. He was not a nervous person by nature, but the prospect of meeting his young niece was daunting. Just as he was about to knock the door suddenly swung open. A lovely young woman stood in framed in the doorway, a bag of garbage in one hand and a startled look on her face.

 “Treize?” Leia breathed in shock.

“No, Miss Barton, I’m…”

“You’re Johnny, of course,” Leia put a hand to her forehead, as she recovered from the shock. “Of course. Treize’s brother….forgive me. Do come in.”

Leia Barton stepped aside as Johnny walked in. As she recovered, the young woman noticed the trash bag still in her hand and hastily set it just outside the door.

“May I offer you a drink?” Her words were gracious but did nothing to hide the stunned tone of Leia’s voice.

“No thank you, Miss Barton…”

“Please, call me Leia.”

“Leia.” Johnny smiled and nodded. “I think you know why I am here.”

“To meet a certain young lady, I assume.”

“If you don’t object.

Leia studied him for a moment. Johnny stood still, just as he had when he was in grade school. He felt as though he were being inspected. It was natural. She had never met him, had barely known Treize, it was right that she should be suspicious. Johnny, however, was determined to see his niece.

“I know my visit is unexpected, but my intentions are the very best. I only wish to be of service to you and my niece.” Johnny gulped at the conclusion of his statement, hoping he had not presumed too much by calling Mariemaia his niece.

“Yes. I can see that.” Leia smiled and a relieved Johnny took note of how the young woman’s beauty increased with the softer expression. “Wait here, Johnny.”

She left the room and returned a few moments later, taking strange, small steps. Leia came to a stop at the far end of the room and stood still, glancing behind herself a few times. Johnny held his breath as he spied a small red head peek out from behind Leia’s knee. He only saw one eye, but that was enough. The child was indeed Treize’s daughter, there was no mistaking that Kushrenada shade of blue. He sank to his knees and smiled. Upon realizing she had been noticed, the toddler ducked back behind her mother, but only for a few moments. Evidently her curiosity superceded her fear and she looked again, this time boldly stepping from her hiding place and peering at the new big person. Johnny smiled warmly and held out the stuffed toy to the girl. After considering the man for a few minutes, the little girl finally walked forward and took the offering, examining it critically before hugging it to her small body.

The child turned her attention back to the person who brought the gift and stared. They regarded one another for several moments in complete silence before Johnny hesitantly touched the baby’s soft hair. Mariemaia mimicked the action, lightly patting the man’s dark blonde curls then running her chubby hand along his cheek.

Johnny finally felt compelled to speak, to explain himself to the curious child. “Hello Mariemaia. I, uh… I’m…”

“Mummy’s fend.”

“Yes. I hope I can be your friend too.”

“Okee,” She replied simply holding her arms out. “Fie now!”

Johnny swooped Mariemaia into the air and eagerly obliged, swinging the girl around and making the appropriate airplane noises. Mariemaia squealed in delight, laughing in that joyously trusting way only babies can. By the end of the evening, Mariemaia was demanding that Uncle Johnny be the one to put her to bed and tell her a story, a request her uncle readily granted. He told her of faraway lands, of pauper’s and princes, of a little red-haired princess who would one day be a great queen.

Over the next few weeks, Johnny visited the Barton apartment everyday, each time bringing some new surprise for Mariemaia. After the first few visits, these surprises expanded to include Leia. Nothing extravagant. A bundle of flowers picked on the way to her apartment, a small handkerchief to replace one lost on an outing to the park, a small charm in the shape of a stethoscope. Trivial things that slowly endeared Johnny to the young nurse. In the evenings, after Mariemaia’s bedtime, the two often found themselves lingering over a last cup of coffee, talking.

That evening he said goodnight shortly before dawn and began a meandering walk back to his hotel. Johnny’s long separation from Epyon began to show in the young man’s behavior. Gone was the obsessive need to fight, the angry, jealous rages. He was himself again. Just Uncle Johnny. He enjoyed his new life with his new family. Johnny stopped an looked up at the sky, noting lights of another portion of the city glittering through the artificial clouds. Family. Damn that word felt good.

======================

            As the Specials transport landed smoothly on the massive private airstrip in Rome, Lucretzia Noin mused at the difference in accommodations from the last time she visited. Rather than the stark troop transport, she now occupied a plush seat in a private jet chartered specifically for high ranking officers. The plane came to a stop at the hanger and the few passengers began to disembark. Noin hung back, remaining seated for a few moments. She had not been back to Rome since being drafted by the Alliance five years ago. Now, here she was, a respected officer and seasoned pilot, on her way to attend diplomatic training. The assignment had been a surprise but not entirely unwelcome. She was looking forward to a break from the continuing hostilities in Northern Europe. Though she did wish Zechs could have shared in the little vacation instead of taking part in new suit tests.

            Noin took a deep breath and finally exited the plane, walking slowly across the tarmac with her bags. The trip was bittersweet. She was glad to be in Rome again, especially under better circumstances, but she still had not decided whether to make it a real visit. Should she see Sister Marguerite? There was little chance that her presence would bring Sister grief at this point. She was an Specials officer, member of Romefellar, whatever reason the Alliance had for hunting her was long forgotten and now irrelevant. Wasn’t it? Noin had trouble shaking the image of that soldier striking Marguerite. She didn’t want to risk having anyone hurt on her account.

            “Lucretzia!”

            Noin came to an abrupt halt and looked around until she spotted two arms waving wildly. She quickened her pace and made her way through the crowd to find Paolo waiting for her. She had told him in her last letter that she would be in Rome for a few weeks and hoped they could meet. Paolo was in university there, almost graduated, and she looked forward to seeing her old friend. As Noin approached, Paolo took her bags and set them aside then proceeded to wrap the young woman in a fond embrace. Unaccustomed to such greetings, Noin stiffened a bit and hesitated before returning the gesture, smiling softly as she relaxed into the hug.

            “Welcome home, Lucretzia.”

            “It’s good to be home, Paolo.”

            “Come,” he said pulling away and grabbing Noin’s bags, “my car is just outside.”

            They stepped out of the airport and walked toward a sleek red sports car, Italian of course, and Noin commented, “That thing big enough for the both of us or am I going to have to ride on the roof?”

            “You don’t think that would be fun?”

            “Yes, but it would muss my hair.”

            Paolo reached forward as he opened the door for Noin and ruffled her hair, “Your hair is easy to muss.”

            Safely seated, the two started off through the congested streets of the beautiful city, zooming precariously through traffic. Noin found herself gripping the door handle on more than one occasion. She had forgotten what Rome’s streets were like. Street, sidewalk, any flat surface was game. She preferred the safety of her mobile suit. After a few minutes of championship driving, Noin noticed they were not heading in the right direction.

            “Paolo, the hotel is the other way.”

            “Yes, but you won’t be staying there.”

            “Excuse me?”

            Paolo smiled at the annoyed tone in his companion’s voice. “I canceled your reservation. I found a place I think you will like much better.”

            “How very kind of you.” Friend or not, Noin didn’t like the presumption, but she was willing to go along for the time being.

            “Just give it a chance. If you do not like it, I will take you back to the hotel…ah, here we are.”

            Noin turned to look out of her window and gasped softly. They were parked in front of Marguerite’s convent. Noin stared in shocked silence, taking in every crumbling brick, every ivy covered wall, every dilapidated iron gate. It had not changed one bit. The grass was a little too high, the windows a bit dirty, but just the same.

            “If you are not ready, I can take you back to the hotel.”

            Noin turned back to her friend, suddenly concerned. “You didn’t…”

            “No, I didn’t tell Sister Marguerite you were here. I’ve been checking on her like you asked, but she doesn’t know we are acquainted…yet.”

            Noin returned her gaze to the antiquated building before her and tried to make sense of what she was feeling. At length, the young woman opened her door and got out, slowly ascending the row of narrow stairs that led to the front entrance. She stood staring at the heavy wooden door, worn by time and the touch of many hands, trying to decide if she was ready. Paolo came to stand next to her, smiling as he took her hand in his. Noin looked up at her generous friend and simply nodded. Paolo knocked. It seemed like forever before the door creaked open to reveal an aging woman in nun’s garb.

            “Oh hello, Paolo, how are….” A small gasp interrupted Marguerite’s greeting as she recognized the young woman. “Luie?” Marguerite immediately flung her arms open wide and rushed towards the young woman. “Oh, my dear little wild child.” Marguerite began sobbing in joy, stroking the young woman’s hair as she had when Noin was a small child, soothing and rocking. “I’m so glad to have you home.”

            Noin tightly embraced the woman she thought of as a mother, five years of separation and sadness suddenly bursting forth in a flood of tears. She hated to cry, rarely allowed it, but this was Sister. This was her family. This was her home.

            “I’m home, Sister,” she wept happily, “I’m home.”

=======================

“I’ll take care of the rest! Go after the leader!”

“Roger!”

Zechs turned his new Aries model mobile suit and flew after the escaping terrorist. A small faction of rebels had attempted to infiltrate the testing ground and steal some of the experimental suit designs. Within a few hours, the incident escalated into a full assault. Treize himself led the mobile suits into battle with Zechs in the forefront. The lieutenant sped after the ringleader, expertly avoiding the air-to-ground missiles the other man’s comrades fired and followed the rebel into a residential area of the city. The enemy suit disappeared from the radar for a few moments, but a bright flash of light and loud boom gave away the man’s whereabouts. He had crashed into a nearby park.

Zechs set his suit down, aiming carefully at the man attempting to escape. Suddenly, the man stopped and whirled around to face Zechs’ Aries. He had his pistol trained on a young girl in front of him. Damn. The suit’s weapons were far to destructive to take out the terrorist without hurting the child, so Zechs quickly climbed out and dropped to the ground. The terrorist barked warnings as Zechs approached and pushed the pistol menacingly into the girl’s neck. Zechs stopped, a swirl of horrid memories twisting his brain. In an instant he was back on a balcony twelve years prior, watching a soldier threaten his mother in the same manner. He had been helpless to stop that soldier. He was not helpless any longer.

“You are making a huge mistake.” Zechs’ voice was calm and low despite the peak in his emotions produced by the parallel with his mother’s death. The girl stood with her hands over her face, shivering in fright.  Zechs drew his weapon and took careful aim. “Let the child go.”

“Stay back or I’ll…”

A shot rang out, echoing through the otherwise quiet park. The terrorist yelped in pain as the bullet ripped through his hand, blowing the weapon from his grasp. He ran away, leaving a trail of blood behind. Zechs did not bother to pursue, but instead holstered his weapon. He could find the man easily enough. He was more concerned with the little girl.

“You’re safe, now. He’s gone.”

The girl slowly moved her hands from her face and opened her eyes. It was all Zechs could do to stifle a gasp. The honey-blond hair, deep blue eyes, perfect complexion. He stood staring a younger version of his mother’s face. Baby Rena, though not a baby any longer. The lieutenant removed his dark glasses and really looked his sister. Relena had grown so tall and beautiful, just as he knew she would. He searched her eyes, looking for any spark of recognition, but found none. She didn’t remember. That was good. That was what he wanted…wasn’t it? He realized that the silence had drug on too long and that staring at her might make the girl uncomfortable, so he inquired after her well being.

“Are you all right, princess?”

It didn’t dawn on Zechs that he used Relena’s title until she cocked her head and looked at him strangely.

“Princess? So you’re…a knight in shining armor?” Relena supplied with a pretty smile.

Zechs smiled softly, happy to know she still enjoyed playing pretend. “I’m the prince who fell from the clouds.”

This answer seemed to amuse the girl a great deal and she beamed up at her rescuer. Zechs wanted to say more, to ask her about her life, if she was happy, if she was loved, but the rest of her household finally caught up and rushed to her side. A few short explanations and the group was reassured that Relena was well. The adults thanked Zechs profusely, offering to have him come back to the house for a meal. He refused and bowed slightly just as John Dorlian rushed up and embraced Relena.

“Relena! Are you all right, my dear? I was frantic.”

“I’m fine, father. This boy saved me,” she began turning back to Zechs and smiling. “He fell from the clouds and rescued me.”

“Did he? Well, now, I must thank…” upon looking into the face of his daughter’s savior, Dorlian stumbled over his sentence. For one brief agonizing moment, Zechs held the man’s gaze and saw a fleeting recognition blaze across the man’s face. Quickly putting on his sunglasses, Zechs turned to leave.

“No need for thanks, sir. I was happy to assist the young lady. I must return to my duties now.”

Zechs walked back to his mobile suit as fast as he could without breaking into a run. Grabbing the cable, he hoisted himself back up into the cockpit and  allowed himself one last look. Relena’s entourage fussed and fretted over her for several moments before Mr. Dorlian led the group back to the house. The lieutenant watched his sister leave with her surrogate father and her new friends. She was safe and happy. There were people to love her and for her to love in return. Zechs secured the hatch and started the suit, closing his eyes briefly as he regained control of his emotions. A smile tugged at his lips as he thought of what a happy life Relena was enjoying, one she would not have known if she stayed with him.  Zechs put a hand to his chest, rubbing the small bump in his shirt indicating his mother’s locket.

“I kept my promise, Mama.”

=======================

“You do know that I had the absolute worst crush on you, don’t you?”

“Me?”

Noin laughed at Paolo’s suggestion as they strolled leisurely around a large fountain. They had just shared another of many fun evenings together since Noin had returned to Rome. She was staying at the convent, with Sister Marguerite, attending diplomatic training sessions during the day and spending her evenings with Paolo. It had been a wonderful few weeks, better than any she could remember since being forced into the military. There was very little evidence of her military ties in her present circumstances. She had not even worn her uniform since her arrival. All in all, it was a lovely break from combat.

“Don’t sound so shocked. All the boys had a crush on you. Why do you think Mil was always getting into fights?”

“I always assumed it was because the other boys teased him when Ingrid and I called him Milli.”

“Well, perhaps sometimes, but most of the time he fancied himself protecting your honor.”

Noin smiled, shaking her head. “That sounds like him.”

Paolo escorted her to a dry spot on the fountain’s edge and they sat. “Mil was always a little overprotective, but I supposed that was because he had lost so much and was afraid of losing more…as were you.”

Noin looked up, studying Paolo’s fine features as he lightly draped an arm about her shoulders. She looked into his deep black eyes and, as she always seemed to do, compared them to a set of ice blue eyes, now hidden from the world. Once again she was struck by the stark difference in the two young men. Zechs and Paolo were as different as daylight and darkness, both walking contradictions. One of rich, dark complexion yet possessing the lightest spirit Noin had ever known. The other pale as the distant star light, yet harboring dark passions and consuming sorrow. One offering his friendship as a gift while the other always tried to protect her from the burden of  his companionship. Zechs always pushing her away, Paolo always standing with arms wide open.

Paolo’s arm tightened around her shoulders slightly as he leaned forward. He brushed the tips of his fingers across her forehead, moving her thick hair to the side as he gently kissed her forehead. Noin allowed herself to lean into the embrace, enjoying the warmth of  another human being. It was a simple gesture, but powerful in its effect. Such small comfort was a rarity in her ordered existence and she reveled in the feeling of closeness. A quiet evening, a handsome young man’s laughter, it was all so nice. Paolo leaned forward a bit more and gave her a gentle peck on the lips before pressing forward for a more lingering kiss. He didn’t hesitate, didn’t ask, simply took Noin’s body language as confirmation that he was correct to do so. Noin tentatively returned the kiss, reaching up to finger a lock of wavy black hair. She allowed the kiss to become bolder but pulled away before Paolo had a chance to envelop her in his arms completely.

“I am sorry, Lucretzia, I thought you wanted me to kiss you.”

“I did.” Noin responded hastily as she gave his arm an affectionate squeeze. “It was nice.” Paolo nodded, but still looked a little uncertain. She couldn’t allow Paolo to believe he did something wrong. She did want it to happen. Actually, Noin wasn’t quite certain why she made it stop. “It’s late, that’s all. I have to report to the base at seven in the morning.”

“Of course. May I escort you home then?”

Paolo stood and offered his hand, smiling. Always smiling. Noin took his hand and they began to leisurely make their way back to the convent.

======================

            Another long day at Romefellar. Treize entered his study and sat wearily near the raging fire his servants kept continually burning in the grand fireplace. The weather was perhaps not quite cold enough to warrant such a blaze, but the relaxing effect of the dancing orange and blue flames was worth a little too much warmth to the man. Particularly now. It seemed his life had grown so cold of late. Treize spent most of his days arguing for more funding to develop new mobile suit technology instead among his men on the battlefield as he should. Even Johnny was not here to throw out an off color and perfectly timed joke designed specifically to make His Excellency smile. Zechs was at the new testing facility, Une was on a mission. No one was here.

            Treize reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, worn photograph. He finally succeeded in ridding himself of every last chain on his heart. Indeed, he felt he no longer had a heart at all. It was a sacrifice worse than death, surrendering his soul, but he felt it correct. The world would thank him one day. One day, after Alliance domination had been replaced with the gracious benevolence of OZ, the world would hail him as a hero, their savior. The Kushrenada name would no longer labor under the stigma of Edmond’s licentiousness,  his grandfather’s addictions, his ancestor’s treachery. No. Once more the Kushrenada name would be held in esteem. Kushrenada would be a name worth bearing once again. Treize leaned forward and tossed the photograph into the fire, watching the slick paper curl and blacken. Until then, Treize would have to call upon every Machiavellian instinct he inherited from his predecessors. He would have to give up his heart.

It was a small price to pay for his daughter’s future.

======================

“She was right there. Three feet away from me and….and…”

“And she didn’t recognize you.”

“No.”

Lucretzia Noin sat at the small desk in her quarters, staring into the comlink screen at the flickering image of  Zechs Merquise. Despite the bad connection and three thousand mile separation, the young woman could tell her best friend was having a great deal of trouble coping with the unexpected reunion with his beloved little sister, Relena. It was two a.m. when Zechs called but Noin didn’t mind. He needed to talk. She wanted to listen. Two hours later they still sat at their comlinks, hunched forward as though they were sitting across the table from one another.

“I’m sorry she didn’t know you.”

“I’m not sorry. She has a good life now. She doesn’t seem to remember anything about Cinq or how Mama…”

A long pause followed which was finally broken by Noin. “You’re right. Maybe it is for the best just now. One day you can…”

“It’s for the best, period. She has friends, a real life…a father. I’m not going to barge in one day and ruin that.”

“But Rena is your sister.”

“And I promised my mother I would protect her. I’m a soldier now. My life is dangerous…it’s about battle, service…revenge. I can’t expose her to that.”

Noin did not respond. She knew there was no sense in arguing with him when he was in his typical, I’ve-disgraced-my-family-and-I’m-not-fit-to-live mood. One day, when it was possible to find little Rena again, Noin could talk to Zechs and convince him of his error. Right now, all she could do was listen. She listened as he told her about how much the girl had grown, how pretty she was becoming, how self-possessed. He spoke with the familiar pride of a big brother, something Noin hadn’t seen in her friend for a long time. If nothing else, Zechs now knew for certain that the person he held most dear was well and safe. Relena had a good life and that was enough. Perhaps, one day, Zechs could be convinced that he had a right to share in that happiness.

They spoke for another hour before Zechs finally signed off. He had been unsure when he first called and almost hung up twice. It had taken a half hour of gentle prodding on her part to get her friend to tell her why he felt the need to call at such an hour. He was always like that. He never wanted to burden her with what he saw as his shortcomings, but in the end, Zechs always trusted her with what he felt. By the time they ended the conversation hours later, Zechs was feeling better about the incident with Relena and Noin was feeling better as well.

Her kiss with Paolo had left the young woman a bit confused. All the weeks she spent there, among dear friends, living a somewhat normal life, had raised some doubts in Noin’s mind. She felt her commitment to the military slipping in favor of the idea of living with Marguerite, attending college, having a real life. It was possible, a dream within her grasp now that she was legally of age. The military no longer had a claim upon the orphan from the gutters of Rome. She was old enough to choose for herself, which was all she ever wanted. Her conversation with Zechs help put some of those doubts into perspective. As attractive as the idea was, Noin no longer felt capable of leading a normal life. Deep down she knew the decision was already made. When her assignment was completed, she would leave Rome. She would return to OZ, to her duty and her place among the future liberators of the world. She and Zechs still had a dragon to slay.

Noin gazed through the window as she pondered her life and realized that the sun was beginning to peek above the horizon. She stayed as she was for a few minutes, enjoying the quiet glow of the pre-dawn sky. The young woman smiled softly to herself as the sky slowly lightened from a deep grey-violet to the pink glow that signaled the sun’s approach. The clouds streaked across the impossible colors like stokes of paint across an artist’s canvas, blending and connecting the most improbable combinations of gold, purple and blue. All of it dancing slowly before her as though God intended the display just for her. She loved mornings. The beginning of a fresh, clean day full of possibility.

=========================

 Well, this was it. Johnny straightened his jacket for the thousandth time and took a deep breath. In the time he spent on X-18999, he had become quite attached to the Barton ladies. At first, it was merely out of duty to Treize, to honor his brother’s request, but over time Johnny had come to genuinely love little Mariemaia as though she were his own. He thought himself infinitely well suited for the duties of an uncle. He knew all the best stories and silliest songs. When Mariemaia sat on his shoulders, she was much taller than any of the other children at the park. He knew how to help her get rid of those pesky green beans her mother insisted she ate without tipping off Leia. He enjoyed his role as an uncle immensely, but found he wanted more. He wanted to be a real father for Mariemaia.

Deciding this also brought up another issue, one that Johnny had shied from for some time. He cared for Leia as well. Not just as his niece’s mom, but for who she was. Leia, he discovered was quite remarkable. Upon finding out she was pregnant, Leia immediately broke off her engagement, told her old man where to shove it and left. She set herself up in a modest apartment near the public hospital where she worked and set about building an new, independent life for herself and her daughter. It took a lot of guts to walk away from the Barton family. Johnny knew now why Leia had such an affect on Treize. She was having the same affect on him. After a few days of careful deliberation, Johnny finally made a decision. One that would change four lives forever.

“Johnny? You going to stand in the hall all day?” Leia’s pretty voice floated out from the now open doorway. Simply hearing the sound of her voice quelled some of the apprehension Johnny was suffering and he stepped inside.

“I wasn’t expecting you so soon. Mariemaia’s with my brother this morning.”

“That’s all right, Leia…actually, I came here to talk to you.”

“All right.”

Leia led the young man to her living room and they sat on the small sofa in silence. Johnny, nervous again, stood and paced for a few moments before seating himself across the room.

“Leia, you know how much I care about you.”

“You’ve been a great friend to me, Johnny.”

“Yes, I want to be your friend, I want us to always be friends, but…Leia have you ever considered what might happen if we let this become something more? Would you be willing to consider letting me become part of your family?”

“You are a part of our family…”

“I’m asking you to marry me, Leia.”

Leia, obviously stunned, remained quiet for several agonizing moments. “Johnny, I…we barely know each other.”

“I’m not suggesting we run off together tonight. We can get to know one another during the engagement.”

“I won’t marry you just to give Mariemaia a father or to satisfy your promise to your brother.”

“That’s not why I’m asking, Leia. I did come here because Treize asked me to see Mariemaia, but it’s more than that now.”

“I appreciate what you are trying to do, but you don’t have an obligation to me or my daughter…”

“Leia,” he interrupted quickly and stood. He paced a moment collecting his thoughts. “I know what it’s like to grow up under a stigma, without recognition from the one person who should have been there for me. I don’t want that for Mariemaia. As for obligation, she is part of my family, too. She’s my niece. I know you and I don’t love each other yet and I’m a poor substitute for Treize…”

“You’re not a poor anything, Johnny. You are a wonderful, honorable man and if we did do this, you would be no one’s substitute.”

Johnny covered the distance to Leia in two strides and knelt before her, smiling hopefully. “Is that a yes?”

“I can’t believe I’m saying this, but…I’m willing to consider your offer. But we need to talk about what this means, what we expect here. I don’t take marriage lightly. If I did, I would be married to the Governor’s aide right now.”

“Of course. I understand completely.”

“I don’t know if…Johnny, I’m not certain I can be an soldier’s wife…”

“I’ll quit.”

“Just like that?”

“Just like that. I can find other work. If it’s what you want, I’ll turn in my resignation today.”

“I do…want you to quit, I mean.”

Johnny grinned. “Consider it done.” He took Leia’s hands in his own and looked into her eyes, his expression becoming suddenly serious. “Leia, I don’t take marriage lightly either. I’ve see what can happen when a commitment isn’t taken seriously, when vows are ignored. I wouldn’t ask you this if I didn’t think I could make you happy. I’ve given my life to the Specials. My duty there is very important to me, but it means nothing compared to you and Mariemaia. All I have ever wanted is a family, a real family. I know I can be a good husband and a good father. I promise you that I’ll try as hard as I can. Just give me a chance.”

Leia cocked her head, studying his earnest face for a few moments. “How did two men who look so much alike end up so very different?”

“Different mothers.” Johnny grinned and pulled Leia to her feet. “Come on. We can talk more over lunch.”

He released the young woman’s hands and moved his own to her waist, pulling her to him. He smiled down at the startled look on Leia’s face and gently kissed her forehead, then the tip of her nose and finally her lips. Leia hesitantly entwined her arms around Johnny’s neck and returned the kiss. The young man pulled away a few inches, just enough to give Leia another patent Johnny smirk before kissing her again. This time she returned the favor with sincerity. They eventually separated and left the apartment. They made their way to the parking garage and, as they approached Johnny’s rental car, the couple passed a boy casually walking in the opposite direction. The kid’s head was down, long dark bangs obscuring his face, and his fists were jammed into his pockets. Johnny was feeling more light-hearted at that moment than he ever had before and  found himself having to fight the urge to ruffle the kid’s hair.

Johnny held the car door open for Leia, bowing dramatically as she seated herself inside. He then leapt up, sliding over the hood to the driver’s side and plopped inside. His antics earned him the reward of a laugh from his companion. As they settled in, fastening seatbelts and adjusting mirrors, Johnny chuckled.

            “Funny.”

            “How that letter led to all of this. I’m sure it’s not what you expected, but…”

“What letter?”

            “The letter you wrote to Treize…telling him of Mariemaia.”

            “I didn’t write a letter. I would never have prevailed upon Treize like that…”

            “You didn’t write…”

Johnny looked blankly at Leia for a moment, puzzled, before the full impact of what she said hit him. Cold realization began to seep into Johnny’s mind. The letter was meant to get Treize to the colony. Suddenly the memory of that boy walking away from Leia’s car came rushing back into Johnny’s head. It was a set up.

“Out of the car.”

            “Wha…?”

            “Get out! GET OUT OF THE…” Frantic, Johnny attempted to shove Leia out of the vehicle before it was too late.

            The explosion blew the car several feet into the air and off to the side. The fireball that resulted ignited the gas tanks of several surrounding cars, the resulting blast breaking windows a mile away. Within moments, the blaring sirens of rescue crews could be heard in their approach. Stunned pedestrians stood their ground, bearing witness to the carnage. The fires burned bright as the fuel was quickly consumed and spent. Ambulances arrived to tend to survivors and retrieve the dead. The remains of two bodies were recovered from the ashes and sent to the medical examiner’s office for identification. A few hours later, all that was left on the scene were the charred shells of several cars, a sea of broken glass and the stench of death.

================================

Treize Kushrenada woke from a sound slumber with a violent start. He sat bolt upright in his plush bed, panting for air as beads of sweat stained his silk pajamas. He rubbed his face, trying to determine what had awakened him. A startling beep from his nightstand answered the question. His Excellency took a deep breath to steady himself before answering the vid phone.

            “Yes.” Treize did his best to sound as calm and unconcerned as he ever did, but could feel a tightness in his throat as the screen flickered to life.

            “Sir!” The image of a young Specials lieutenant saluted the duke.

            “What is it, Lieutenant?”

Treize’s voice was beginning to hint at the his increasing annoyance. The young lieutenant hesitated for a extraordinarily long moment before continuing. The young man’s posture was rigid, his voice strained. It was obvious that he bore news he would rather not impart.

“Your, Excellency. I regret to inform you…”

=================== End Chapter 7 ===================

I have a bet going on which scene will get the most flames: Johnny’s death or Noin kissing Paolo.

Thanks to Johnny Rage for once again helping me beat out some details, specifically the part about the car bomb [ducks flying toasters]. I know, I know! I create another character everyone likes, then kill him off again. It was necessary! Really! In the next chapter, Treize will have a bit of a breakdown & Une will be there to take care of him. Some sap, some angst, lots of confused Une. Don’t worry, still plenty of Zechs/Noin moments, though not what you might expect …hehehe…uh….put down the pointy sticks….nice readers….no, wait….where do you people get all of these toasters?!

Disclaimer: [Takes out Lawyer-shaped Voodoo doll, picks up pin] I do not own Gundam Wing [jabs pin in doll’s head, cackles at resulting screams in distance]. It belongs to Sunrise, Sotsu, Bandai, & a whole bunch of people with names I can’t pronounce [jabs another pin in doll’s leg, ignoring pleas for mercy]. Don’t sue me.

Special note from Lady Dante’s Christian Ethic:  She doesn’t really have a voodoo doll, just an overactive imagination combined with that pesky free will thingy which is constantly getting her into trouble. [Jumps at the sound of lawyer screams]. Uh…really, she’s a nice girl & doesn’t dabble in that sort of thing.