|
"Baby Series 2"Written By: Karina
Spoilers: None Disclaimer: I don’t own Gundam Wing or the
Characters from the series but the baby is mine. Notes: Special Chapter for the Baby Series 2.
This completes the second series and fills / precedes the third in
the series. Many thanks to ShenLong Deb for her work as beta
on this one. This is a special chapter to close out Baby Series 2. It is a bridging chapter set between Baby 2 and Baby 3. The unanswered questions in the second Baby series will be answered in Baby 3 as will the courtship of the King be tackled by Duo and Wu Fei. Hope you enjoy. Karina
“Is Milliardo alright?” The old man inclined his head formally to the Princess, a small twitch of his moustache evidence of his smile. “His Majesty is in fine health.” “I’m worried, Pagan. About this fireworks spectacular they have been touting as the greatest thing since Swiss cheese. I am not sure Milliardo is up to it… or many of the people in the city for that matter.” “My concern mirrors your own, Your Highness, to the extent I have looked into the matter. I believe it may not cause as much concern as we feared.” Relena eyed the old man for a lengthy moment, one hand absently smoothing her crimson gown. The deep red velvet was made darker by the snowy white fur trimming the neck, sleeves and skirt. She was the image of her long dead mother and Pagan wondered how many people who had survived the long ago massacre and were of an age to remember the Queen, would think the same. “What did you do?” She dropped her voice to a whisper. “I had the program adjusted, Ma’am.” “Adjusted?” Again the moustache twitched and Pagan bowed slightly, inclining his head to the one who entered the room behind Relena. “Your Grace.” Dorothy Catalonia, resplendent in midnight blue, dropped a curtsy to Relena and joined the Princess. Beyond the Palace the sun was nearing noon, the snow blazing white beneath in winter glory. The grounds were a hive of activity as the final preparations were laid for the Gala. The guests would begin arriving within the hour; the gates would be thrown opened to the public at the stroke of one. Pagan was far from happy with the security given the recent scare, but there were limits as to what they could do when much of Sanc would present itself in a tradition almost as old as the House of Peacecraft. On Christmas Day the people of Sanc were feted by the King and it was one tradition Milliardo would not be talked out of hosting. “Good afternoon, Dorothy. You are looking well.” Relena quickly hugged her friend, aware there were people moving constantly past the door and she should not be seen to be favouring Dorothy above the other candidates for her brother’s marriage. “I am wondering if we have not all gone insane to voluntarily expose ourselves to that chill for hours on end,” Dorothy returned, smiling widely and winked. “You should hear the grumbling going on about wet feet and how the gowns will be soggy and heavy and it is an invitation to pneumonia, don’t you know?” Pagan bowed to Relena and took the opportunity to fade away and attend to other matters. He had done what he could to reassure the Princess the fireworks display would not cause pandemonium throughout New Port City. It was not only the King who experienced disturbing flashbacks to that long ago night, but this night there would be no scenes of chaos. Relena smirked, glancing at the open door. “It will separate the girls from the women. Sanc’s Queen needs to be made of hardy stuff. The people and traditions of Sanc come before her own comfort. I am afraid Milliardo would have it no other way.” Dorothy caught the glint in Relena’s eye and knew at least one of the candidates had passed the doorway in time to hear. ——————————————- “It looks like something out of a fairytale.” Duo looked about him with delight. Wu Fei considered the ice sculptures gracing the grounds, the white carpet of snow interspersed with defined paths where people hurried about their business and the icicles hanging from the branches of trees. The household servants were in the traditional dress of Sanc and the gardens looked like something out of a history book. It was only when he turned his head to take in the palace that the picture jarred a little. The palace was not the graceful turreted building he had seen in paintings and photographs. They had done what they could to soften the hard outlines of the more modern building, giving it a more graceful look than was its norm. The erection of a faux facade for the speeches and presentations did much to lend the building some style, as did the ice sculptures mounted on the roof. Scarlet bunting further softened the harsh lines of the building while garlands and wreaths of holly and mistletoe festooned the windows. “I would have thought the Governor appointed by the Alliance would have built something a little more in line with the scheme of his fetish for secret passages. He seemed to think of himself as an old style Lord of the Manor.” “There are too many places where an assassin could lurk.” Wu Fei was scowling as he surveyed the grounds. “I know Pagan has stretched the security as far as he can, but when I think of how many people are expected, I shudder.” “I have loaned House Security the Maguanacs.” “Winner.” Wu Fei turned, nodding stiffly. “Hey, Kitty Kat.” Duo fairly pounced on Quatre. “Looking good. You too, Trowa.” Winner looked more than good and so did Trowa, Wu Fei decided. They were dressed in dark grey and deep blue respectively, form fitting suits of exquisite cut and neither looked to feel the bite of the chill. “Making use of the thermal undies, huh?” Duo grinned. “I could have kissed Pagan when he had them delivered this morning.” “The people of Sanc know their climate.” Quatre smiled. After a moment of consideration he turned to Wu Fei.”I will not apologize for what I did, even now. I am certain it was the right thing to do, though I know it was the last thing you wished to happen. However,I deeply regret that my actions caused a rift in the friendship we enjoyed and I would like to restore something of our old camaraderie.” Duo beamed at Quatre and turned his bright blue eyes, their colour tinged with the violet that emerged only under intense emotions. It distressed Duo that he was at odds with Quatre who was perhaps Duo’s closest friend amid the pilots. There were eyes on him, watching, waiting expectantly. Winner’s aqua blue, Duo’s intense blue/violet and the emerald green of Trowa. He was not at peace with what had happened, far from it in fact. He loathed the current circumstances, but how long did he hold on to his anger over the unfairness of what had come to be? Duo had shown him what it was to pursue a dream, though in his darker moments it looked hopeless. Maxwell had, it seemed, loved him for a long time and was willing to share. They both desired Milliardo and Duo had no problems with what Quatre had done, but then Duo had not loved the King as long as he. Wu Fei wondered if Duo truly understood what they could not have far outweighed what meagre crumbs they would garner, if they succeeded. If he wanted Milliardo he would have to be content with what he could get. “I will make no attempt to disguise my displeasure at what was done, but it is in the past and one must move on.” Wu Fei bowed formally to Quatre. “From this point on we should view each day with fresh insight and set aside the disappointments of the past, whilst striving to work together for the future.” ————————————— “It would appear peace has been restored to the Fellowship of the Gundam.” Relena arched an eyebrow and looked quizzically at her friend. Dorothy, standing before the French doors leading onto the balcony inclined her head. Relena stepped closer to look out over the grounds and noted Duo, Wu Fei, Quatre and Trowa standing near the frozen fountain. Quatre and Trowa looked resplendent in modern suits, but Wu Fi and Duo wore the traditional long coat Milliardo favoured, Duo in deep blue and Wu Fei in black. Wu Fei wore a white sash trimmed in gold thread with an embroidered Oriental Dragon, a gift to him from Milliardo delivered with a note by Pagan. Relena was delighted to see Wu Fei had chosen to wear the sash, a clear statement he would take up the mantle of Chang of Chang. As she watched Winner and Chang shake hands, Duo being Duo pounced, drawing them into a group hug. For a moment Relena feared Wu Fei would pull away but he did not, instead circling an arm out to draw Trowa into the moment. “Ah. About time peace was made. He can be so infuriatingly stubborn.” “I am sure Trowa is relieved. Quatre has not been himself since the rift and many have noticed it.” Dorothy moved to settle herself into a seat. “So, who will the lucky woman be Milliardo will choose as his partner for the afternoon and evenings entertainments?” Relena sighed and turned from the window. “I have no idea. He set the palace in a tizzy this morning by roaring at the liaison that he would go with no partner if the man did not give him peace to have his breakfast; and summarily ordered him out of the breakfast room. To my knowledge he has not announced who he will choose.” Dorothy’s eyes flashed. “Oh I do hope it is me. I could get some good mileage out of that. I’m the dark horse, you know, the unexpected arrival who was just a fill in. Imagine the hoo-ha if I was on his arm? I could present the breeding stock to the mountain delegation, the stallions, of course. I’d allow Milliardo to deal with the cattle and sheep.” Relena giggled. “It would be almost as entertaining as if Maxwell and Chang marched Brother out before everyone and announced they claimed him for Christmas.” “Directly beneath a sprig of mistletoe.” Dorothy laughed, waving a hand delicately. “I would so want to be there. So where is His Majesty?” “Possibly with Stephen, if he could manage it. I’m worried, Dorothy, he does not seem to even consider the dangers inherent in today. So soon after the security breech it is begging for trouble.” “What did he say when you fronted him with your concerns?” “Exactly what one would expect, that he will not allow petty political bitchiness to dictate to him what he does; and Sanc needs this.” Dorothy nodded. “Yes, I can see him saying that.” ————————————— “Well damn, that is one fine looking man.” Wu Fei could only agree. It seemed the man could only improve as he matured. Milliardo Peacecraft was enough to stop conversations in a crowded room. The King was dressed in the traditional styled great coat he favoured, deepest crimson offsetting his moon pale hair. His blue eyes were sparkling as he talked to Stephen. The toddler was dressed in white fur and velvet, the traditional colour of the Crown Prince. It was all red and white, this Christmas festival, with the Sancian royalty traditionally wearing the colours of crimson and white. Stephen looked like a baby shaped snow sculpture as he clung contentedly to his father’s wool coat. “Hey, Fei?” “Yes?” Duo turned thoughtful eyes on his companion. “Are you sure we can’t just march up there, plant one on him and announce to the whole world he’s off limits?” Wu Fei sighed. “Would that we could. It is simply not done to embarrass the King before his people.” Duo smirked. “You know what I think of what is not done, don’t you?” “Only too well. Resist the temptation, or Pagan will have us out of here faster than we can blink.” “Point.” Heero appeared beside Chang and motioned to the party assembling to one side of the King. “Pagan suggests you take your places.” “Okay, let’s get this circus on the road then.” Duo fairly bounced in place. “So who did he pick of the vultures to partner him?” Heero snickered and grinned. “I’ll leave that as a surprise. You will find out in a few minutes anyway.” “So who gets to walk the walk with the Princess?” Again Heero grinned and added a wink as he walked away. “Not who you think.” “He’s not being helpful,” Duo commented. “Come. As members of the court we have appearances to maintain. What ever happens, whom ever walks at his side, do not allow it to visibly affect you.” “Yeah, I know. This sucks, man.” “It is for Sanc this day and we should not forget. Today the King fete’s his people and we are required to recall our duties to him and to the people.” “It would be a hell of a lot more fun if we could just look forward to bundling ourselves into his bed tonight and really enjoying Christmas.” “Maxwell, it is about more than sex.” Wu Fei scowled. “Oh hell yea, no argument from me there, but sex sure is fun. I don’t think he’s going to be getting much enjoyment out of today. He’s going to have them fawning all over him and whoever gets to be Queen for a day will be draping herself over him and lauding it over everyone. He should get to enjoy Christmas too.” He wished he did not see Duo’s point, but he did. He was not going to find it easy to watch the woman on the King’s arm, gaining his attention, preening that she had been chosen for the Christmas gala. “We are Gundam pilots. We are made of stern stuff and no onna is going to win him, we know that.” //Yeah, right.// Duo sighed. //I don’t know about you, Chang, but I know Parliament will not let up on Zechsy. They want a Queen for Sanc. They want one bad.// ——————————————- “Grandfather.” Relena presented her cheek for the old man to kiss and enjoyed the hug he offered. He was proficient in hugging young ladies without mussing a single hair on their elaborately coiffured heads. Not a wrinkle on her gown or smudge of her makeup, but she felt thoroughly hugged. “My dear, you look radiant.” “Thank you for doing this.” “This old man is delighted to be of service.” Relena stepped back from him and half turned at the rustle of fabric. “Grandfather, you know my mother, of course.” “Lady Alice, it is a pleasure to meet you again.” Relena watched, delighted with the way her foster mother and maternal grandfather were treating each other. Marquis Weyridge bowed gallantly before touching his lips to the back of her mother’s hand. “It has been a long time.” “It has indeed and I admit I never thought to see this day come. I thought Sanc was lost forever,” the old man admitted. “It appears we do not know as much as we think. The young people have determined to bring it back.” “The best of the traditions at least,” Relena murmured. “We should go.” “Of course. Ladies.” The Marquis offered an arm to each and mother and daughter took their places, smiling and sweeping through the double doors to enter the great hall where the preparations were almost complete. Milliardo stood to one side of his court, the Crown Prince a white bundle against his chest. As Milliardo turned his head to speak to Helen, who was looking lovely in pale blue, Relena noted the heavy dark ruby suspended from the earring, a startling contrast against the paleness of his hair. “Stephan refused to have his ear pierced and that piece was too heavy to use with a clip,” the old Marquis commented. “It has been a long time since I saw it.” “Milliardo knew where the Crown Jewels were hidden and returned them to Sanc. I did not know he would pierce his ear; he just appeared with it one day. I think it suits him.” “Stephan grumbled he was not going to look like a pirate,” Mrs. Darlian commented. “I think he would have looked good.” “On with the pageantry,” the old man sighed, escorting both women to the King and bowing to him. “Your Majesty.” Milliardo’s blue eyes were intense as he greeted his grandfather, aware of the stares of the court and the rising noise from outside the manor. The gardens were filling quickly with their guests and this day everyone inside the borders of Sanc was a guest. “Grandfather. It is a pleasure to see you within Sanc once more.” “It has been a long time. Stephan would be proud.” “One can but hope.” Milliardo turned and passed the Prince to Helen. “Are we ready?” “I believe so.” Relena murmured. “We had best be, here comes the Master of Ceremonies and he is looking anything but pleased.,” Lady Alice sighed. “Tough bickies,” the King murmured, sotto voiced, inciting giggles from his sister. “Yes, Horatio, we are ready. Get on with it man.” The affronted dignitary drew himself up to his full height, which unfortunately left him head and shoulders shorter than Milliardo. “Sire, if you and the Princess would please take your partners.” Milliardo grinned, unable to control himself and drew Lady Alice to his side. “Why Sir, I already have my partner.” “As have I.” Relena smiled prettily and drew the Marquis to stand a little behind the King. “Shall we go?” ———————————- Duo cackled gleefully at the consternation running through the young women on learning who would have the honour and prestige of partnering the King before the people of Sanc. The Christmas celebration was the perfect time to win their way into the people’s eye and they seemed none too pleased to see Relena’s foster mother take Milliardo’s arm. “Oh, well done.” He glanced behind him and noted Dorothy grinning in a most unladylike fashion, her blue eyes dancing. “Well done indeed,” Duo agreed. “Where is Chang?” “Attending to business,” Duo murmured, inclining his head. Following the direction of his eyes, Dorothy had to snicker. Chang Wu Fei was taking the arm of the Dowager Duchess Anastasia. The woman was considered to be the Matriarch of Sanc and it was no secret she was delighted to see the monarchy restored. Dorothy suspected much about the formidable old woman, whom she suspected of being the nominal head of an ancient Order. “Tell me Duo, have you ever heard the story about the Order of the Moon?” The chestnut braid swiped enticingly across his neat backside as he spun to face her. “Eh?” “It was mentioned in passing that you were searching for secret passages in the manor. I was wondering if Pagan mentioned the Order?” He vaguely recalled Pagan mentioning something odd when he had expressed his concerns outside the nursery, but events had progressed rapidly and he had forgotten to query someone on the reference. “What is the Order of the Moon?” “Grisselda is the Order of the Moon. Perhaps you should consider a chat with the Dowager Duchess? She is a woman of many talents, and storytelling features right up there will her other innumerable skills.” He rather liked Dorothy. Shocking thought, he knew, but he did. She was multi layered, not just a pretty face and impeccable breeding. This girl you could live with all of your life and never really know. If you did not murder her, or she you; he had no doubt marriage to her would never be dull. He wished some lucky man well, thankful he was not a contender. He had his sights firmly set elsewhere. “I believe your designated partner is trying to attract your attention,” Duo murmured. “We really should make the time to talk.” “We will have to, yes.” With a wide smile Dorothy made her way to her assigned partner, wondering how long it would take her to scandalize him. And the poor dear was stuck with her for the remainder of the day and evening. What fun. —————————————— “I believe we are ready to begin, Mr. Yuy.” Hunter’s voice through the earpiece drew his attention from gloating over the consternation of the suitors at Relena’s choice of partners. The inclusion of the Marquis Wayridge had been inspirational and he believed he had Milliardo to thank for it. The King had refused categorically to choose one of the vipers pursuing him, threatening to choose Dorothy if he had to choose at all and the Parliamentary representative had had a conniption fit at the very suggestion. It appeared Parliament did not wish Duchess Catalonia to become Queen. It was known where Relena’s preference lay and Parliament had wished to exclude him from the festivities in any capacity as a suitor, another matter of contention between the King and that august body who professed to rule Sanc. Milliardo had refused to change his mind, gaining the cooperation and approval of Pagan and both Mrs. Darlian and Marquis Wayridge had consented to their roles. In Milliardo’s considered opinion, and Heero agreed with him, it was too soon for a Queen to be chosen. There were countries threatening the newly reinstated monarchy and insulting them at the moment was not a good idea. Not choosing a Queen wisely would threaten Sanc’s independence. It was more than his wishing Duo and Wu Fei well in courting the King. He did not feel it was the right time for Sanc to leap into alliances with other countries. Time was needed and he wanted the chance to court Relena. He was only too aware there would be others seeking to interest her but that was alright, he needed to be sure she was secure in her choice. She needed to know what others could offer her before she could make an informed decision. He could only trust she would choose wisely. He had checked on the alterations made to the evening’s program, the so called fireworks display of the century. After this evening he expected there to be a hue and cry over the sabotage of the program, but personally he was looking forward to the light show. In his opinion they had performed for the good of Sanc and he would do the same when the New Year came around. Parliament should listen with more attention to the suggestions made to them. Yes, it was traditional to have the fireworks display, but given the reaction of those who had survived the massacre and war, another style of light show was in order. They would see the results tonight and they would agree to making such changes for the New Year Celebrations. He was sure of it, or they would run the emergency services ragged answering the calls of panicked people. He could always sabotage the New Year display if they thought to deny the success of the Christmas display. “Give the order to the Master of Ceremonies to begin.” Hunter’s voice came through clearly. “We have the entrance to the palace covered and cleared.” Taking a deep breath Heero signalled the Master of Ceremonies security had cleared the entrance of possible threats. Personally, he would not relax until the night was over. As the great doors of the palace opened a rousing cheer arose from outside and with Lady Alice on his arm Milliardo strode forward, Princess Relena and Marquis Wayridge following them two steps behind. The third couple in the line made him smile as Helen and Prince Stephen, escorted by Duo Maxwell, made their way outside and they were followed by the Dowager Duchess Anastasia and a sombre looking Chang of Chang. This was his family and he was proud of them. He had no idea what the coming year would hold, but he was looking forward to it. He would court Relena and see where fate would take them and he would watch and perhaps occasionally jog his friends in the direction of the King. Milliardo was not blind to what was happening, for all he gave the appearance of being ignorant of their regard. The man was too intelligent and people wise to be unaware. Yes, it would be an interesting year. He was quite looking forward to it. End
|
