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TITLE: Fragile Things
SERIES: My Otome
AUTHOR: Dreiser
EMAIL: dreiser7@yahoo.com
YAHOO ID: dreiser7
MY WEBSITE: http://www.dreiser.org/
CONTENT: F/F romance. F/F sex. Haruka/Shizuru.
WARNING: Major character deaths, angst, violence, and extreme situations.
SUMMARY: In a single moment of violence, those who matter most to Haruka Armitage and Shizuru Viola are lost. Together they try to restore the broken pieces of their lives and learn to exist without the person they love.
DISCLAIMER: I own nothing but my desire to write angst.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Writing Intents and Purposes made me want to write a fanfic for Haruka and Shizuru. There's not a lot of ways to logically have them together in the series and this is what I came up with. This is not a sequel for Intents and Purposes although I'm using that story and the canon of My Otome as a back story for this one. Please read the warning before reading the fic.
Fragile Things
By: Dreiser
The Founder was fickle when it came to choosing the five Columns of Garderobe. Sometimes Fumi-sama took weeks to choose a Column, sometimes months, and sometimes years. When Maya Blythe announced her retirement, much to the relief of Meister Akane Soir and Emperor Kazuya Krau-xeku, it took just one day for the Founder to reveal who would replace Maya as the new 5th Column. There was just one problem, in order to inform the chosen of this honor they would have to interrupt a long delayed honeymoon.
Which was something that didn't go over well at all with the former Continental Orb Topaz of Aries. At least, that's what Principal Natsuki Kruger discerned from the way her office doors flew open and Haruka Armitage stomped in with Yukino Chrysant right on her heels. Two months had passed since Yukino's final term as President ended and Haruka chose to retire rather than serve another Master. During the events involving Yuma and Haruka being subsequently petrified along with Shizuru there had been several moments of intense worry and fear on Yukino's part. Worry that Haruka couldn't be revived, that she would have to suffer a future without her, and she was miserable at the prospect.
This caused Yukino to act. Shortly after the blonde was revived Yukino proposed and they were married in a small private ceremony that still managed to be all the toast of Aries. Perhaps because the wedding reception was broadcasted for the general public as part of Haruka's weekly television program, This Week's Armitage, which was already one of the highest rated shows in the country.
Since they were married while Yukino was still in office, serving her second and final term as President, they weren't able to take a honeymoon. It was only within this past week the couple was finally able to start their planned trip across Earl on a rented luxury liner but that was interrupted by Natsuki's sudden and insistent call for Haruka to come to Garderobe. A situation that the blonde wasn't pleased with in the least, something apparent from her scowl and the way her foot tapped on the floor as she glared at them.
"Principal!" Haruka said this in nothing short of a roar. "Six years, two months, five days…" Haruka trailed off, looking to Yukino who gazed at her with a bemused expression. "What's the hours it took for us to get here?"
"Seven," said Yukino with a smile in her voice.
"Seven hours!" Haruka continued, waving her hands and pacing about the office. "That's how long we've been waiting to have our honeymoon and we're on it for just three days! Three days and you call! Everything looks finicky to me so what's the problem?"
"Fine, Haruka-chan," corrected Yukino, a genuine smile on her face as she hooked her arm through the blonde's, the gesture causing Haruka to turn to her. Once she did, Yukino touched Haruka's cheek softly and murmured, "Why don't we let the Principal answer? I'm sure she has a very good reason for calling us." Yukino looked around Haruka, peering at Natsuki and offering a friendly smile though there was a definite weariness on her features. The vacation had clearly been needed. "Don't you, Principal?"
"Maya has retired," said Natsuki and at this, Haruka grumbled, wanting to know what that had to do with them. Heaving a sigh and pinching the bridge of her nose, wondering about the wisdom of Fumi-sama for not the first time, Natsuki went on, "We instructed the Founder to provide us with her choice for the next 5th Column and after a lengthy rumination period which lasted precisely one day, she gave us your name, General."
Nothing from Haruka, no reply, no expression, nothing. It was an entirely unexpected reaction from the normally demonstrative Otome who had never been one to hold back, particularly when it came to speaking her mind. Even Yukino appeared surprised by it.
"Ara," remarked Shizuru, a playful look on her features. "Haruka-san has been shocked into silence."
This snapped Haruka out of her daze and she focused on the brunette with a scowl. "Bubuzuke," she grumbled in a warning tone. "Don't mess with me. I don't have time for your games. This is a joke, right? I'm not an Otome anymore. I gave up my GEM."
"It appears Fumi-sama wants you to have another," Natsuki replied, saying this as if she wasn't sure why exactly that was.
Frowning now, Haruka didn't say anything, and Yukino moved to stand in front of her, dipping her head so their eyes would meet. "Haruka-chan?" she said her name in an encouraging inquiry, looking up at her with soft green eyes.
"It was supposed to be about us," Haruka muttered, meeting Yukino's gaze. "No more President, no more Otome, just you and me, remember? Yukino and Haruka. But if I do this… how could we be together like we planned?"
"Haruka-chan never really wanted to retire though," murmured Yukino, stroking her cheek and giving an understanding smile. "You just didn't want us to be apart again and I understand that but accepting this GEM, what the Founder apparently wants for you, doesn't mean we can't be together like we planned." Shifting her gaze over to Natsuki, she said, "I'm sure the Principal will be more than fair in how she chooses your assignments, taking in regard that you'll be the only married Otome out of the five Columns."
When Haruka joined Yukino in her stare, Natsuki reddened slightly, somehow caught off guard by this, and she coughed as she nodded vigorously. "Of course, I will!" she said enthusiastically, all too aware of Shizuru's amused expression. The couple continued to focus on her and Natsuki shifted in her seat, offering an awkward smile as she said, "Do you accept the position?"
Haruka turned to Yukino and a silent exchange occurred between them then Haruka turned to Natsuki, wrapping an arm around Yukino's waist and pulling the brunette close to her as she formed a jaunty grin. "Try and stop me," Haruka declared.
"If we did who knows who Fumi-sama would choose next," teased Shizuru and Haruka scowled once again at the other woman.
"Shizuru," Natsuki said her name fondly but there was a plea in there, to not begin the usual bout of competitiveness that always seemed to emerge when Haruka and Shizuru were together. Rising to her feet, she crossed over to the blonde and opened a small velvet case to reveal the Swirling Dance Fluorite GEM that had once belonged to Maya. "It's all yours."
A moment passed and Haruka stared dubiously at the GEM, her mind whirling as she recalled her reading and lessons from Garderobe when it came to Fumi-sama choosing the five Columns. The Column was always chosen along with the GEM they would use, there were several hidden deep in the underground of the academy, guarded and kept safe, waiting for Fumi-sama to name which Otome was their owner. While it was true, being chosen as the 5th Column did come as a shock for Haruka, she never thought herself clever enough, smart enough, to be counted amongst their numbers but it wasn't nearly as shocking as the idea that the Founder wanted her to use the Swirling Dance Fluorite GEM. Particularly since Fumi-sama was known for assigning the right GEM to the right Otome and Haruka hardly thought that Maya's flimsy robe and her element, which consisted of a pair of maracas used to summon a giant sand monster, were right for her. They presented quite a difference from Haruka's chosen fighting style, to say the least.
"Principal," said Haruka reluctantly, dragging the word out, and rubbing the back of her head.
Before Haruka could say anything more, a snort of laughter escaped Natsuki and soon the Principal burst into full on laughter while Haruka stared at her with wide eyes. Unable to stop laughing and hunched over, as if in pain, Natsuki looked up at Haruka and could only keep laughing while a dark look formed on the blonde's features. "Sorry," Natsuki wheezed. "Just… picturing you… in the outfit… dancing with the maracas…" At this comment, Haruka scowled deeply. "Sorry, sorry," Natsuki huffed, standing up at her full height and pulling another velvet case out of her jacket pocket. "This one belongs to you."
Opening the case, Haruka was met with a dark green GEM and looking at it, she somehow had the same feeling as when she was presented with the Continental Orb Topaz. Her fingers drifted over the surface of the GEM, which was cool to her touch, and Haruka looked at Natsuki then said, "I don't recognize it from any of our books. What's its name?"
"The Broad Breaker Garnet," Natsuki smiled. "It's one of the lost GEMs. Professor Gall found it on a recent expedition."
"It fits," murmured Haruka, removing the GEM and contemplating its name as she placed it in her ear. Just a moment then a familiar heat, as if she had a fever, formed in her earlobe, exactly like the times she put in her previous GEMs. She looked up at Natsuki and there was a challenging look in the Principal's eyes and Haruka grinned rakishly in response. Clenching her right hand into a fist, Haruka called out, "Materialize!"
The transformation was swift and in moments, Haruka felt that swell of power, but this was stronger. Much stronger than she felt with the Topaz and it made Haruka wonder about this new GEM and its true capabilities. Her robe was similar in style, but the colors were a forest green and dark blue, matching the outfit that Haruka had been wearing which consisted of a dark blue jacket, pants, and a forest green shirt. It was as if the robe matched itself to her clothing and Haruka wondered at that ability. Certainly it happened when she chose Chie Hallard to replace her as the Continental Orb Topaz since the robe that Chie wore looked nothing like Haruka's.
Flexing the fingers in her right hand, Haruka summoned her element, curious at what would emerge and violet eyes widened as she looked down at the weapon that formed in her grip, taking in the sight of a large double bladed axe. Her grin becoming that much wider as she held the axe in both hands, enjoying the weight and feel of it, she muttered, "Fumi-sama definitely knows what she's doing." Out of instinct, she turned to Yukino, wanting her opinion, her thoughts, and she was met with a sweet and loving smile. "Yukino?"
"I think it suits you, Haruka-chan," said Yukino, a proud look on her features.
Violet eyes gleaming with excitement, Haruka rested the large axe on her shoulder, grinning at Shizuru who raised an eyebrow in response. "Bubuzuke," Haruka drew the word out in a friendly sort of dare. "How about you help me test this GEM out?"
Shizuru's rust colored eyes flashed with interest and amusement but she immediately shifted her gaze to Natsuki in a silent question. The Principal heaved a sigh and waved her hand absently at the two Otome. "Go on," Natsuki said with dry humor. "Just try to not completely destroy my campus, would you? We just got it looking close to normal again." Haruka and Shizuru both gave their replies of agreement then were immediately out the door, leaving Natsuki and Yukino to their own devices. Turning to the former President, Natsuki smiled at the other woman and wore an apologetic expression as she said, "President. I can't say how sorry I am for interrupting your honeymoon."
"I'm not the President anymore. Please, just call me Yukino," said Yukino kindly. She sat down on the couch and peered up at the Otome. "I must admit, while I wasn't happy when Haruka-chan received that summons, it more than makes up for it on discovering the reason why. Fumi-sama is right, you know. She'll make a wonderful Column."
"Akane's ecstatic," revealed Natsuki with a grin, sitting across from Yukino. "She's already planning her wedding to the Emperor."
"Well, she has been waiting for far too long, hasn't she?" Yukino murmured with a smile. Her expression became more serious, almost introspective, as she continued, "I am glad to see you, Principal. There's something I wanted to talk with you about, something I couldn't speak of while I remained the President of Aries. It has to do with the Strategic Otome Limitations Talk and your plans of reducing the number of Otome."
"Oh?" Natsuki responded, lifting an eyebrow, looking intrigued. "What's that?"
"I'm not certain it's the wisest decision," said Yukino, wearing a grave expression and folding her hands in her lap. "I think rather than reducing the number of Otome, their loyalty to their Masters ought to be shifted. Instead we should have the world leaders join together in a peace keeping organization and it would be that organization which has control over the Otome rather than individuals. Certainly world leaders should maintain their personal Otome for the need of a bodyguard but I think the issue with Artai arose from the excess of nobles with Otome. People with enough wealth and privilege who can pay to have a personal army produced at Garderobe and handed over to them. If we were to create an organization that all the countries in Earl were part of, no matter their size and wealth, and all had a stake in, and it was that organization, instead of individuals with selfish desires in charge of the Otome, things would fair much better don't you think?"
"Yes, they would," said Natsuki slowly, a look of consideration on her features. "But do you really think the nobles would surrender their Otome? They would never agree to such an organization, no matter what good it might do for Earl as a whole, not if it reduced their own personal power. The protests to this would be incredible."
"That's why it's necessary to win over each and every world leader," said Yukino wisely. "If that is accomplished the nobles can protest all they want but it will have little use in the end, not when those who control the nations of Earl are united in this agreement." There was silence as Natsuki continued to contemplate this idea. "Principal," Yukino said this in a quiet and serious murmur and Natsuki lifted her head to look at the other woman. "The SOLT talks didn't go well when I was in office and I doubt that has changed. Nobles don't want to surrender their Otome. At this rate, you'll never reduce the numbers like you want, and this plan… it has a chance of succeeding. I truly believe that and it would eliminate the need for reducing numbers while keeping a secure world peace, which is what we all want, isn't it?"
"This organization," said Natsuki in even tones, studying Yukino with lidded eyes. "What would you call it?"
"The Earl Defense Force has a nice ring to it according to Haruka-chan," said Yukino wryly. "Will you give my idea some thought?"
"More than some," Natsuki replied, nodding her head. "I plan on giving it a lot of thought. Of course," her lips quirked up in a smile. "It would help if you explained the organization further."
Returning the smile, Yukino scooted forward on the couch and began to elaborate on her concept, answering Natsuki's questions as she went along, and finding her own ideas altered and improved from the feedback she received.
---
"I like this element," Haruka remarked, grinning widely and recklessly, watching as the double bladed axe's handle extended several feet as she swung it at Shizuru who transformed her double edged naginata into a series to chains to hold it in place. "It's got a nice feel to it."
"Haruka-san must be careful, I don't need a haircut quite yet," Shizuru teased, pulling the chains forward and sending Haruka flying towards her. With a grin, she caught the blonde up in her free arm, holding her close and smiling winsomely. "You haven't told me," she murmured, lifting an eyebrow, her eyes filled with curiosity. "How was your honeymoon before our unwelcome interruption?"
"Great, what we had of it," said Haruka with a grumble, flying away from Shizuru, reducing her element to its normal size. Haruka rested the axe on her shoulders, hanging her arms over it. She narrowed violet eyes, studying the other Otome. "Bubuzuke," she drew her chosen nickname for Shizuru out slowly, a grin forming on her lips. "What about you and the Principal? Shouldn't you have given her a ring by now? You've been together nearly as long as I have with Yukino. Or don't you want to marry the kid?"
"Natsuki is hardly a child and must I remind you that Yukino was the one who proposed, not Haruka-san?" said Shizuru smartly.
Following after Shizuru, who landed on the school grounds, Haruka got rid of her element, and dematerialized her robe, unable to help grinning at the idea she would be able to materialize whenever she pleased now, without having to wait for certification. "You know," Haruka remarked, shoving her hands into the pockets of her jacket. "I don't see why everyone thinks I should've proposed to Yukino. Why did it have to be me? After we woke up from being petrified, her asking to marry me…" Haruka trailed off, a blush tingeing her cheeks, and she continued in a mutter, "I can't explain how happy it made me. I think it's good that she asked, I love that she did."
"Haruka-san," said Shizuru quietly, a soft smile on her features. "I understand."
Studying Shizuru with a frown, Haruka said, "You want the Principal to propose, don't you?" Rocking back on her heels and observing Shizuru who kept her features purposefully neutral, Haruka continued, "I get that. You've been chasing after her from the start, haven't you? Having to prove how you weren't like you pretended at the start of things. It'd be nice if she did something in exchange."
"My Natsuki loves me," said Shizuru stiffly, giving Haruka a look of deadly warning.
"I never said she didn't, bubuzuke," said Haruka with a snort. "I'm just saying you want her to ask you, not the other way around, and there's nothing wrong with that. I think you've more than made up for how you botched things in the beginning."
Silence then Shizuru's jaw seemed to clench, only to release moments later as she said in a whisper, "Is it selfish?"
"No," said Haruka, soft and solemn. "It's not. You know," she began, shifting uncomfortably, and rubbing the back of her head. "I could always ask Yukino to talk to her. She and the Principal get along really well. They've been pals since they met, right?"
Before Shizuru could reply to this awkward offer, Nao's sardonic drawl filled the air, "There's our new Swirling Dance Fluorite."
"Nao," Haruka growled her name more than said it, rather like it was a curse, or something unpleasant to say. Cracking her fingers as she flexed them into fists, she said, "That's not my GEM and you know it. You ought to have better respect for your fellow Columns."
"The Principal couldn't pull off the prank?" Nao pouted before forming a devilish smile on her lips. "Figures."
"Haruka-oneesama," Sara's distinctive sing song tones called out and Haruka groaned, rolling her eyes as Sara came bouncing in front of her, grinning as she tapped the older blonde on the nose. "Technically Nao is your sempai when it comes to being a Column."
"You're right," drawled Nao who looked greatly interested in this fact. "What do you think about that, General?"
"I'm not a General anymore," said Haruka with a scowl. "And you're not my sempai." Haruka had read about the roles of the Columns quite extensively while attending Garderobe and she was well aware that the 1st, 4th, and 5th Columns sat at equal status while the 2nd and 3rd were in the leadership roles. As 5th Column she was responsible for the aspects of law enforcement and defense, protecting the contracts and rules long established for the Otome, ensuring that both Otome and Master never strayed outside the law. She felt this role suited her perfectly, much better than 1st Column which was dedicated to diplomacy and 4th which had a focus on espionage. Her eyes narrowing at Nao's sly expression, Haruka thought that role fit the redhead disturbingly well. Moving her gaze to Sara who beamed at her and Haruka's scowl seemed to lighten though she grumbled as she tugged Sara's hat over her eyes. "You either."
"Ara," Shizuru exclaimed, wearing a playful expression. "What about me, Haruka-san? Am I your sempai? I did rank higher than you in school."
"Bubuzuke," Haruka did growl now and Shizuru released a delighted squeal, materializing her robe and flying off. Haruka was hot on her heels, leaving Nao and Sara alone on the ground, staring after them.
"Our newest Column," Nao snickered, arching an eyebrow and turning to Sara who was watching Haruka's disappearing figure with a wistful look on his features. Releasing a chuckle at this, Nao shook her head and remarked, "Hopeless."
---
The news of the Earl Defense Force soon spread quickly and as predicted, the nobles in every country were in an uproar at the idea of surrendering their Otome to others control. More and more, Yukino and Natsuki were gone on trips, explaining to all of Earl the purpose of the EDF and how it would secure the safety for everyone in the world, instead of just the few nations who possessed Otome. After weeks of travel, it was decided that a conference was needed, where all the world leaders could meet and they could hash out the problems each had with the formation of the EDF and the restructuring of the Otome contract system.
Settling into her new position as 5th Column was made easier for Haruka thanks to Yukino's constant presence as she planned and worked with Natsuki on the details of the EDF. It soon became common place for Haruka and Shizuru to sit in on their meetings, giving them greater knowledge of how the organization was taking form. They were in one such meeting when Natsuki ended a phone call with an aide of King Nguyen Bao of An Nam. Heaving a sigh and wearing a disappointed expression, Natsuki said, "The King's illness hasn't improved. He's not fit for travel, they'll apparently be sending his nephew, Regent Kai Quan." There was a pause and Natsuki leaned back in her chair, a frown forming. "I don't like it though. The King is one of the few who seems willing to give this idea a chance. I'm sure we'd have much better luck if he got to hear the details personally rather than through his nephew who might be against the EDF as so many nobles already are."
"Perhaps we should send an envoy?" suggested Yukino from where she sat with Haruka on the couch.
"That's a good idea," said Natsuki thoughtfully. Her eyes drifted over to Shizuru and Haruka, considering both Otome before she continued, "Haruka, why don't you visit King Nguyen Bao? Speak to him about everything we'll be covering in the conference. Shizuru," she turned to the brunette. "I want you to stay here, take care of the school while we're gone."
"If that's what my Natsuki wants," said Shizuru easily, picking up her empty teacup and setting it in the sink on the far side of the room.
"Why me?" questioned Haruka, her tones genuinely perplexed and not argumentative in the least. "Bubuzuke's close with Anh-oneesama and the King's her father. Wouldn't it make more sense for her to go? Not that I think I'd do much better being in charge of the school."
"Other than Yukino, you know the most about the ideas behind the EDF," said Natsuki simply, shrugging on her jacket. "She's the one who thought of the concept behind the organization itself and if I'm not mistaken, she's discussed every detail of it with you. Since she'll be at the conference with me, meeting with the other world leaders, you're the best choice to go see King Nguyen Bao."
A frown on her face, Haruka rose to her feet and looked to Yukino who smiled sweetly. "You'll do fine, Haruka-chan," she murmured in reassuring tones and she held out her hands for her blonde. Haruka carefully pulled Yukino up so they were standing just a breath apart. Cupping Haruka's face, Yukino kissed her lightly, still smiling as she said, "Just tell the King everything we spoke about. All the reasons why the creation of the Earl Defense Force would benefit not only An Nam but the entire world."
"I'll do it," said Haruka strongly, kissing Yukino again, and she focused her gaze onto Natsuki whom she was quite aware was her leader in this situation, not Yukino. "I'll contact you soon as I arrive in An Nam, Principal."
"Thanks, Haruka," said Natsuki with a smile.
Giving Yukino one last kiss and telling the brunette she loved her before she headed out the door, Haruka shot a look over her shoulder at Shizuru and grinned. "Take good care of the school while I'm gone, bubuzuke," Haruka drawled.
"I'll do my best, Haruka-san," said Shizuru dryly, lifting an eyebrow.
Haruka's laughter echoed in the office as she walked out and Natsuki shook her head, walking over to Shizuru. "I don't know how long this conference is going to go on," Natsuki confessed with a wry expression. "It should only last the day but we might have to extend our plans depending on how things turn out."
"However long it takes, I'll be waiting here for Natsuki," said Shizuru, an affectionate look on her features as she reached out to push a stray lock of hair behind Natsuki's ear. Tugging her closer, she kissed Natsuki's cheek and whispered in her ear, "Natsuki should concentrate on the task at hand. I'll make sure things remain exactly as she left them at Garderobe, if not improved."
"Improved?" questioned Natsuki sardonically.
Pulling away, Shizuru smiled playfully, curling Natsuki's hair around her finger. "I do have skills," she informed.
"That you do," Natsuki chuckled and she looked over to Yukino, seeing the former President packing her briefcase. Thinking back to Haruka's goodbye and the easy show of affection, she found herself feeling envious. Despite her love for Shizuru she had never been the demonstrative type and she was aware that the other Otome would have appreciated things like that. Which is why she found herself turning back to Shizuru. Natsuki stepped closer and ducked her head, so their lips were almost touching, the tips of her ears reddening as she said, "I love you, Shizuru."
Then Natsuki captured Shizuru's lips in a kiss, slow and tender, and Shizuru melted into her embrace, allowing the smaller Otome to pull her closer and take control. Usually she was the instigator in these situations, she was the one who craved physical affection and the fact that it was Natsuki who had done this, who kissed her, who spoke her love first, was enough to have quite an affect on Shizuru.
"Okay," said Natsuki, her ears bright red along with a good amount of her face. "I have to go now."
"Natsuki is so aggressive," Shizuru murmured, an almost dreamy tone to her voice, though there was a playful quality as well. "I enjoy it."
"Shizuru," said Natsuki in warning tones and Shizuru pouted, causing Natsuki to roll her eyes. Shaking her head and giving Shizuru another quick kiss, she said, "I'll see you tonight."
"Have a good day at work," said Shizuru impishly.
The Principal groaned at this and walked out of the office with Yukino, leaving Shizuru alone and she surveyed her surroundings before sitting at the desk. This wasn't the first time Shizuru had been left in charge of the school but the feeling was always the same. She had a strange feeling of discontent sitting behind this desk, in this office, giving the orders. It wasn't her place, it was Natsuki's, and she felt ill suited to the task. It wasn't that she didn't think herself capable, it was part of her job as the 3rd Column to take over the duties of the 2nd Column when they were incapable or indisposed, after all. Shizuru just didn't think the role particularly suited her, especially when she could see how naturally these things came to Natsuki. Releasing a sigh, Shizuru sat in Natsuki's chair and stared out at the grounds.
As always, she couldn't wait for Natsuki's return.
---
Although Haruka had sat in on numerous meetings that Yukino conducted as the President of Aries with the leaders of other nations, she didn't consider herself at all skilled in diplomacy. She was well aware of her own limitations and Haruka was definitely someone who was more comfortable with actions rather than words. Which was why Fumi-sama had chosen her as the 5th Column rather than the 1st who had the focus on foreign affairs. Unfortunately, Sara was already gone, speaking with members of the Schwartz and that meant duties usually left to her were completely open. By the time she landed in An Nam, Haruka was terribly nervous about her competency in this role, doubting how she would be able to pull it off as she followed Anh Lu through the elaborate corridors of the Royal Palace.
The fact that she was in An Nam with her former sempai made things easier though. It also helped that Anh's father, King Nguyen Bao, was a stalwart ally of both Aries and Garderobe, and was always more than wiling to take part in discussions for their plans involving the other nations of Earl. Haruka wouldn't be facing someone who would greet her with wariness or open hostility like she would have to face in countries such as the United Kingdom of Lutesia or Artai.
"Your jacket is very handsome," Anh remarked in a teasing manner that reminded Haruka so much of Shizuru. Though she had known Shizuru from her first day at Garderobe and roomed with her for almost their entire time at the academy, she often wondered how much of the other Otome's personality came from Anh being her oneesama. Certainly she didn't think Shizuru's flirting was entirely Anh's fault but Haruka was certain it was honed to an expert level under Anh's tutelage. Haruka reddened as Anh ran her index finger down the back of Haruka's jacket and across the gold number five that was embroidered onto it. "Was it a gift from the President?"
"I've had it for awhile, just never got to wear it much as the Topaz," said Haruka, the blush clinging to her cheeks. "Yukino got the Column symbol added on the back for me though. I told the Principal there's no way I was going to wear another dress."
Forming a pout as she led Haruka through the palace, Anh looked over her shoulder and remarked, "I rather liked you in that dress."
"I looked ridiculous," Haruka snorted derisively and she shuddered as she thought of the clothing she had to wear for the past sixteen years as the Otome of Aries. "It was too puffy. Hallard was smart, changing it when I got her to take over as the Topaz."
"Why didn't you do the same?" asked Anh curiously.
"Don't know," admitted Haruka, a thoughtful frown on her features. "Respect for Meister Blomquist? Not really sure."
"She is your idol, isn't she," said Anh with an almost indulgent smile. When Haruka scowled at her, she clucked her tongue and tapped the blonde on the chin. "Don't make that face! It doesn't suit you, at least if you're not making it while Shizuru is hanging onto you. It was always such fun, watching the two of you together at Garderobe. Rather like seeing an endless comedy routine take place."
"I'm glad we entertained you, Anh-oneesama," Haruka grumbled, looking thoroughly disgruntled.
Anh chuckled at this, appearing immensely pleased before she nodded at the guard who opened the large doors to the King's study which Haruka knew from previous visits with Yukino was where he received guests and political envoys. Calming her nerves and taking a fortifying breath, Haruka straightened her shoulders and thought about Yukino. What she would say to King Nguyen Bao if she was here and with that foremost in her mind, she walked into the room. Preparing to explain the benefits of the Earl Defense Force and why it was necessary that he support its formation for the future of not just An Nam but the entire world.
---
Natsuki thought that nothing could surpass the Strategic Otome Limitation Talks when it came to sheer aggravation it caused in terms of the world leaders speaking over one another and the general chaos it created across all of Earl. She was greatly mistaken though as just the idea of the EDF caused an uproar among the nobles of countless nations. The nobles relayed their feelings to the leaders of their countries who came with an air of reluctance and not completely open minds. Adding to the annoyance was the loud protest that was being led by those same nobles. They were gathered outside the hall in Windbloom Palace which Queen Mashiro had leant them for this meeting.
They weren't a threat to anyone's safety as far as Natsuki could tell, there were Otome surrounding the palace and the Windbloom Royal Guard were out in full force, but it made the situation uncomfortable to say the least. She knew there would be people opposed to the formation of the Earl Defense Force and the removal of Otome from the power of nobles. Eradicating their right to essentially buy an Otome by providing them with the funds to attend the academy but she hadn't expected the opposition to reach this level of crazed fervor.
Nothing was resolved during the initial meeting that lasted well over ten hours and, with the agreement of each country's leader, they decided to extend the talks by two more days and stepping out of the hall, greeted by the darkening night sky and the sound of protestors, Natsuki winced. She turned to Yukino who murmured, "We knew this idea wouldn't be popular with everyone but I think perhaps we underestimated how much."
"I've received worse threats than the nobles are currently giving us when I was in Garderobe," Natsuki responded with an easy humor. When Yukino frowned, Natsuki questioned, "What is it? You don't agree?"
"I don't think it's wise to assume they're harmless, Principal," said Yukino in solemn tones. They walked through the hall to the private car provided by Garderobe and Yukino continued, "In Aries, we've experienced first hand how dangerous the nobles can be. Especially those who are convinced what they're entitled to by birthright has been stolen from them. Two hundred and thirty six years has passed since Aries escaped from Artai's control and we still have nobles who are part of terrorist groups like Fidelus Altus who seek to regain control of the country. Taking away the nobles Otome is removing a great source of their power and most people in power would do anything to prevent that from happening, no matter the benefits to everyone else in the world." Her frown deepening, Yukino said, "We should take the threats seriously."
"All right," said Natsuki, looking pensive. "I'll get Nao to investigate. It's part of her duties as 4th Column and she's got a talent for that sort of thing anyway and I can always call in a favor from Midori as well. Garderobe and the Aswad have created a joint exchange of technology thanks to Professor Gall and I'm sure as their leader she would be willing to lend us some aid in looking into these threats from the nobles." Walking up to the private car, she smiled at the figure of former Pearl student, Greta Schulte, who stood in front of them and opened the door to the back seat. "Greta," Natsuki greeted her with a smile. "How have you been doing with all this noise?"
"Fine, Principal," said Greta politely though there was an obvious discomfort in her expression.
Studying Greta with a skeptical look on her features, Natsuki decided to let it go, recalling the girl's history and how she was sponsored by a noble back in her homeland of Artai. When she failed to graduate from Garderobe her sponsor didn't take the news well and she had nowhere to go. Feeling sympathy for her plight, Natsuki gave her a job working as part of the academy staff. Certainly seeing the legions of protesting nobles outside the hall at Windbloom Palace had to remind her of a past she would rather forget. Following Yukino into the car, she sat in the back seat next to the other woman, keeping her gaze on Greta as she moved into the front seat and started the car.
"This is all out of fear," Yukino said quietly, her gaze drifting over the crowd of protesting nobles. "Fear of losing their status and power, of having their place in the hierarchy reduced somehow. They can't see beyond that to the advantages it will provide Earl as a whole."
"Nobody who has power likes giving it up," said Natsuki in a droll remark.
While there was a humorous tone to her voice, mostly because she wanted to lift Yukino's spirits, reduce the worry that she knew the former President was feeling, Natsuki had a strange sensation of dread. There was a knot in the pit of her stomach and it seemed to get worse with every moment that passed, the further their car drove from Windbloom Palace, and looking at Greta Schulte's features, which were unnaturally pale and constricted, the hairs on Natsuki's neck stood on end.
Something isn't right, that was Natsuki's final thought. Then the click of a button and the flames engulfed them all.
---
Although Shizuru had a natural talent for charm and negotiations, she didn't particularly enjoy it. She didn't like spending her time convincing others about how her position, her thoughts, were right. That was a large portion of Natsuki's duty as Principal of Garderobe though. Garderobe was seen as a nation onto itself and Natsuki was its leader. As such, much of her time was devoted to dealing with the leaders of the countries of Earl along with the sponsors of the various Garderobe students.
Whenever Natsuki was gone on the more complex negotiations and she left Shizuru in charge of the school, the brunette found herself somewhat in awe of Natsuki's ability to do this job. The 2nd Column seemed like tedious work to many, the paperwork, the meetings, the fact you spent most of your day in an office rather than off on missions using your considerable powers as an Otome. It was the least glamorous job out of all the Columns but it was the most important. Natsuki was their leader, the one who held the academy together, who kept the future of the Otome foremost in her mind and that was what she was doing now, with the creation of the Earl Defense Force. With it she would ensure that Otome no longer fell victim to carrying out horrible deeds from selfish Masters, that they would become true defenders of the peace and while it was controversial to say the least, Shizuru couldn't have been more proud.
She was sifting through the piles of paperwork, trying to determine which were in most urgent need of completion, when she heard the distant sound of an explosion. Frowning as she rose to her feet, Shizuru looked at the skyline, towards Windbloom where the sound originated. An odd feeling seized her, one of foreboding and sickness, and Shizuru felt dizzy, as if she might pass out. Then the door flung open and Youko was in front of her. How much time had passed, Shizuru didn't know, she just knew something was horribly wrong.
"Meister Shizuru," said Youko and she was white as a sheet, her eyes wide and panicked. "It's the Principal. She---" Youko released a choking noise and she couldn't continue on as Shizuru stared at her, expression scarily bereft of emotion. Then suddenly she moved forward, faster than the eye could see, gripping the collar of Youko's jacket in her hands.
"Natsuki," Shizuru said her name in a barely discernable whisper and she felt it as something in her snapped. She always knew who she was and what she was capable of doing. How her charm and her smiles were nothing more than an act. How she had a capacity for darkness that others simply couldn't understand, an ability to be ruthless beyond comprehension, but she held all those impulses back. Reigned them in thanks to the acceptance and love she received from Natsuki and in this instant, Shizuru could feel that mask slipping, that restraint falling away and that hidden self, that dark self, rising to the surface like a terrifying beast. Something was wrong with Natsuki, something happened to her, something terrible. She knew that by the way that Youko was acting, was looking at her, right now. There was no other explanation. Still grasping the doctor's jacket in her hands, just a space in between them, shaking Youko in her grip as if she was nothing more than a rag doll, Shizuru demanded, "What's happened? What's happened to Natsuki?!"
"That sound," said Youko brokenly, her voice just a rasp. "The explosion in Windbloom… it was the Principal. She was coming back from the meeting, in her car, they don't know how it happened…"
"What happened?" asked Shizuru, hysteria in her voice and on her features, the hold on her sanity slipping further and further away. When Youko didn’t reply, Shizuru shook her again, screaming as she said, "What happened?!"
"She's dead," Youko finally said, looking at Shizuru with endless sympathy. "Her and the President. They think it was a bomb hidden in the car, activated before the Principal could react." Silence. No movement. No reaction. There was nothing except Shizuru's fingers numbly slipping from Youko's jacket and her staring out the window at the billowing smoke in the distance. "Meister Shizuru," Youko began softly, reaching out to the Otome who released a sound of pure anguish and absolute rage, then she materialized her robe, smashing through the glass of the windows and leaving the doctor alone and fearing what would happen next.
---
They had taken frequent breaks throughout the day because of the King's poor health and had just finished eating dinner, settling back into the study where Haruka was finishing off the final merits of the Earl Defense Force. She thought nothing of Anh leaving the study as she had done it several times already. Haruka was focused solely on King Nguyen Bao and ensuring he understood exactly what Yukino and Natsuki hoped to accomplish with creating the EDF and the new system for Otome. Yes, Haruka was completely focused on her duty and the task at hand. That's until Anh returned looking more grim than Haruka had ever seen her.
"Haruka," Anh said her name in a way the blonde could have never imagined it. With such a sound of sadness and a deep sense of apology and regret. The look she wore, it clearly revealed she would rather be doing anything but this. "There's been an attack."
"What?" said Haruka, her eyes going wide and rising to her feet. "Where? In Aries?"
"No, Windbloom," said Anh, shaking her head and she paused, seeming to steel herself for a moment. "Haruka, it's the President. She and the Principal… their car was attacked after leaving the meeting. There was a bomb." At this Haruka stumbled backwards, her skin turning a sickly ashen grey, her eyes lost and disbelieving as Anh finished, "They were both killed in the explosion."
Haruka looked as if she might fall, collapse into herself, even shatter into a million pieces but instead she stood there, wobbling unsteadily from foot to foot and she didn't say anything. She just looked straight ahead, into nothingness, and finally she said, "Who was it?" When Anh didn't reply, Haruka clenched her jaw, her hands bunched into fists. "Who's responsible?"
"I don't know, the Captain didn't tell me," said Anh quietly, referring to Sakomizu Cardinal, Captain of Windbloom Royal Guard.
"I don't believe it," said Haruka insistently, shaking her head, and looking at Anh with wild eyes. "I don't believe the Principal wouldn't fight back. That she'd let something like that happen to her and Yukino. It's not true, it can't be."
"Haruka," Anh said her name again, this time pleading, and seeing the stubbornness in the blonde's eyes, the refusal to believe this awful thing happened, she turned to one of the rare televisions they kept in the palace. An Nam was a country that was very much steeped in the old ways and preferred a simpler existence, one lacking technology that was seen as common place in other nations. The television was one of those things. Though they did have a few in the palace mostly for diplomatic and international reasons, to get a sense of what was going on in the rest of the world. Walking over to the set, Anh turned it onto a station she knew was dedicated to world news. Instantly a reporter came on screen, speaking about the accomplishments of former President Yukino Chrysant while they panned to the image of a burned out vehicle, surrounded by members of the Windbloom Royal Guard. "They're already reporting it across Earl," said Anh and she stepped closer to the Column who was frozen, staring at the image on the screen, a look of horror and incomprehensible grief forming on her features. "I'm sorry."
"Sorry," Haruka croaked and she ripped her gaze away from the television onto Anh. She gave an insane sort of laugh, one that was hollow and filled with a type of misery that someone couldn't possibly understand unless they were the one experiencing it. "You're sorry," Haruka repeated and she went back to staring at the television, at the burned car, at what remained of the woman she loved. Her hands were bunched into fists again and her nails were digging into the palms of her hands, cutting into the skin, and she could feel the blood against her fingertips, she could feel it but she didn't care. It didn't matter that it hurt, nothing mattered anymore. Yukino was gone. She watched the Royal Guard move about the scene, scattering like roaches, and then suddenly the figure of Shizuru appeared. Haruka didn't want to believe it was real, even though she saw that car, she knew it was Natsuki's car, the same car Yukino had gotten into this morning but she didn't want to believe all the same. It was too hard but then Shizuru appeared and she had a look of rage and madness, like she would destroy anyone who got in her way, and suddenly Haruka knew it was real. This nightmare wasn't something that existed in her sleep but instead in the waking world and she wasn't alone in her suffering. Shizuru was there too. "I have to go," she muttered.
Unclenching her fists and materializing her robe, Haruka found herself flying out of the palace. She had to get out of here, she had to return to Windbloom, to what was left of Yukino, she had to go, she had to be with her, just like she should have been. Haruka had never been apart from Yukino for twelve years and the moment she did, the moment she stopped protecting her, stopped doing her duty… this happened. It was all her fault. If she had been there, if she had protected Yukino like she promised, like she was meant to do, then she would be safe right now. Haruka hated herself for it. She hated herself and she had to go, she had to see for herself because she couldn't believe it, no matter what the television said, what she saw, what Anh told her, she couldn't believe it until she saw for herself.
They were supposed to have a life together, they planned it since they were children. It wasn't supposed to end this way and Haruka knew herself, she knew she couldn't believe it, wouldn't believe it, until she was there, looking at the proof, no matter how horrible it would be, as much as it would hurt her. She had to do this and the thoughts, the misery, the hopelessness of a world without Yukino consumed her on the flight from An Nam to Windbloom until it was all that she knew. Nothing else existed in her mind, she was entirely focused on the monstrosity of this event.
Knowing full well if it was true that her life would never be the same. That the life she would have wouldn't even fit that description, it would be existing and nothing more, no happiness, no dreams for the future, they would all die with Yukino and she would be left alone to mourn.
---
Two hours passed by the time that Haruka arrived in Windbloom. The streets were blocked and there was a bleak feeling in the air, one that gave her very little hope when it came to Yukino's survival. Landing amidst the Windbloom Royal Guard who looked at her with varying degrees of panic and sympathy, Haruka grimaced and focused on their Captain, Sakomizu Cardinal, standing before the pile of burnt wreckage. Haruka moved forward, pushing through the Royal Guard, and she vaguely heard Cardinal greet her but she didn't reply, she couldn't reply, all she could do was focus on what remained of that car, her eyes searching through the ruins.
"General," Cardinal said again, his voice somber. "I'm so sorry."
She wasn't a General anymore. If she was a General and Yukino was her President, her Master, this wouldn't have happened. She would've been with Yukino. Protecting her, keeping her safe, instead of flying off to another country for some diplomatic mission she wasn't at all suited. Haruka clenched and unclenched her fists, staring at the debris, trying to see something of Yukino in there. Something to give her hope, something that could keep her from believing what she knew in her heart was true.
Walking forward, her eyes fixed on the destruction, Haruka dimly noticed the guards scattering out of her way. There was a glint in the sunlight, something small, but it caught her attention and she knelt down, tears forming as she picked the object up but she blinked them away. She couldn't cry, not in public, not right now. No matter how horrible this was, no matter how much pain she was in, she had to know, she had to know who did this. Staring at the item in her hand, Haruka took in the sight of it. How it was broken and melted from the heat of the explosion but utterly recognizable all the same.
Yukino's glasses.
Holding them in her hand, swallowing the grief, the sheer misery, the complete rage, Haruka stood up and faced Cardinal, her expression severe and unwavering. "I want to see Yukino," Haruka said roughly.
"What?" asked Cardinal, thoroughly shocked to hear this.
"I want to see Yukino," Haruka repeated, stone faced and a flinty look in her eyes. "I need to see her to be sure."
"General," Cardinal said this in lost tones, not sure how to respond. "The explosion caused so much damage… you don't want to see. It won't help you, it won't prove anything, it will just cause you more pain."
Why did he keep calling her a General? She wasn't a General. She left the Aries army, she wasn't a soldier anymore, she wasn't Yukino's protector, she was a failure, a worthless shell of a person. Haruka wanted him to stop calling her that. "How do you know it's her then?" she said harshly, watching as he squirmed under her unwavering gaze. "She could have escaped with the Principal. They could be in hiding."
"There are scientific tests," said Cardinal and he had that sympathetic look again that made Haruka want to punch him. "We know it's them, General. I'm sorry, I wish I could tell you something different. No one wants this to be true."
Sorry, sorry, everyone was sorry. Anh, the Royal Guards, Cardinal, they were all sorry but Haruka didn't want to hear it. She wanted Yukino back, she wanted her to be alive, she wanted to save her. Looking away from Cardinal, fixated on the burnt out wreckage, Haruka said, "Who is responsible for this attack?"
"We believe it was Fidelus Altus," said Cardinal quietly. "There is evidence that the car's driver, Greta Schulte, was one of their agents. Our theory is that she was compelled to attach a bomb to the car and she activated it herself."
"Fidelus Altus," Haruka repeated and she could feel the glasses crack in her grip and she looked down at them, forcing her fingers open and staring at Yukino's glasses resting in the palm of her hand. She couldn't destroy these, not when it was the last thing she had of Yukino. They had to be kept safe, like she should have done for Yukino. She knew why they did this. It was because of the Earl Defense Force. No doubt in their simplistic and merciless way of thinking the easiest way to rid themselves of this threat to their status and power as nobles would be to kill the leaders of the EDF, those who wished to create it, namely Yukino and Natsuki. For years she dealt with them in Aries, these nobles who attacked her homeland over and over again, trying to return it to monarchy rule, these men who felt they still owned a country that had broken away from their rule more than two hundred years ago. When Yukino first told her about the idea for the EDF she knew the nobles wouldn't take it well, that there would be trouble, protests, and even threats of violence but she had never suspected something like this. Why hadn't she suspected? Why didn't she know? It all seemed so painfully obvious that something like this would happen. Haruka stared at the glasses in her hand, wondering if Yukino had known, had imagined what was coming. She hoped not. "Where are they?"
"We're working on locating them, General," said Cardinal and Haruka lifted her gaze.
"Working," echoed Haruka bitterly, a deprecating smile on her lips that was etched with pain. They could work around the clock and they wouldn't get anywhere with locating all of Fidelus Altus. Some of them could be found, maybe even the ones who did this, but all of them? Haruka knew that would be nearly impossible. She worked sixteen years as the Topaz doing just that and she didn't come anywhere close. Looking back down at the glasses, Haruka vowed, "I'll get the ones who did this."
Silence and Haruka knew that the Captain didn't know how to reply and she was strangely glad for that. She didn't want to hear the sympathy in his voice, for him to offer assistance. This was something she had to do alone. Although, there was another. Someone who deserved to find these killers as much as she did, someone who she knew wouldn't rest until they saw them punished.
"Where's Shizuru?" Haruka questioned bluntly. "I know she was here. I saw her on the news."
"Meister Viola," said Cardinal, paling significantly and swallowing hard. "She left as soon as we told her, General."
"Where did she go?" asked Haruka in low tones.
"I don't know," Cardinal said, shaking his head, and for the first time in all the years that Haruka knew him, she saw real fear in his eyes. "No one could have kept her here. Not when she had that look."
"What look?" Haruka frowned and she wondered what happened to her friend, how she was dealing with this, if she was dealing with this at all. Shizuru was often a mystery to Haruka, she kept her true feelings so veiled, her emotions hidden beneath a mask, but she knew for certain that as horrible as she was feeling, as miserable, as enraged, and wanting revenge, Shizuru felt it just as much.
"She had death in her eyes," said Cardinal in a whisper. "General," he continued, stepping closer to her, a look of great worry on his craggy features. "She's going after every last one of them. I can promise you that."
A chill going down her spine, believing with every fiber of her being this was the truth, Haruka made no reply because part of her wanted it to happen. She wanted Shizuru to succeed in her mission, to exact a gruesome and brutal revenge, and that same part of her wanted to be there when it took place.
---
One by one, Shizuru tracked down leads, she followed the crumbs of information, hunting through night until it turned into day, taking no food, no sleep, there was nothing but the chase. She would find them, she had to find them, Fidelus Altus, the people who murdered her Natsuki. No matter how long it took, how much she lost, how many hours and days and months she had to devote to the search, she would find them because that was all she had now. Her life had died as surely as Natsuki did and the only thing left was the hunt to find her killers, those who took Natsuki from her and once she found them, once she had them in her grasp, and in her sights…
She would kill them all.
To be continued...
SERIES: My Otome
AUTHOR: Dreiser
EMAIL: dreiser7@yahoo.com
YAHOO ID: dreiser7
MY WEBSITE: http://www.dreiser.org/
CONTENT: F/F romance. F/F sex. Haruka/Shizuru.
WARNING: Major character deaths, angst, violence, and extreme situations.
SUMMARY: In a single moment of violence, those who matter most to Haruka Armitage and Shizuru Viola are lost. Together they try to restore the broken pieces of their lives and learn to exist without the person they love.
DISCLAIMER: I own nothing but my desire to write angst.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Writing Intents and Purposes made me want to write a fanfic for Haruka and Shizuru. There's not a lot of ways to logically have them together in the series and this is what I came up with. This is not a sequel for Intents and Purposes although I'm using that story and the canon of My Otome as a back story for this one. Please read the warning before reading the fic.
Fragile Things
By: Dreiser
The Founder was fickle when it came to choosing the five Columns of Garderobe. Sometimes Fumi-sama took weeks to choose a Column, sometimes months, and sometimes years. When Maya Blythe announced her retirement, much to the relief of Meister Akane Soir and Emperor Kazuya Krau-xeku, it took just one day for the Founder to reveal who would replace Maya as the new 5th Column. There was just one problem, in order to inform the chosen of this honor they would have to interrupt a long delayed honeymoon.
Which was something that didn't go over well at all with the former Continental Orb Topaz of Aries. At least, that's what Principal Natsuki Kruger discerned from the way her office doors flew open and Haruka Armitage stomped in with Yukino Chrysant right on her heels. Two months had passed since Yukino's final term as President ended and Haruka chose to retire rather than serve another Master. During the events involving Yuma and Haruka being subsequently petrified along with Shizuru there had been several moments of intense worry and fear on Yukino's part. Worry that Haruka couldn't be revived, that she would have to suffer a future without her, and she was miserable at the prospect.
This caused Yukino to act. Shortly after the blonde was revived Yukino proposed and they were married in a small private ceremony that still managed to be all the toast of Aries. Perhaps because the wedding reception was broadcasted for the general public as part of Haruka's weekly television program, This Week's Armitage, which was already one of the highest rated shows in the country.
Since they were married while Yukino was still in office, serving her second and final term as President, they weren't able to take a honeymoon. It was only within this past week the couple was finally able to start their planned trip across Earl on a rented luxury liner but that was interrupted by Natsuki's sudden and insistent call for Haruka to come to Garderobe. A situation that the blonde wasn't pleased with in the least, something apparent from her scowl and the way her foot tapped on the floor as she glared at them.
"Principal!" Haruka said this in nothing short of a roar. "Six years, two months, five days…" Haruka trailed off, looking to Yukino who gazed at her with a bemused expression. "What's the hours it took for us to get here?"
"Seven," said Yukino with a smile in her voice.
"Seven hours!" Haruka continued, waving her hands and pacing about the office. "That's how long we've been waiting to have our honeymoon and we're on it for just three days! Three days and you call! Everything looks finicky to me so what's the problem?"
"Fine, Haruka-chan," corrected Yukino, a genuine smile on her face as she hooked her arm through the blonde's, the gesture causing Haruka to turn to her. Once she did, Yukino touched Haruka's cheek softly and murmured, "Why don't we let the Principal answer? I'm sure she has a very good reason for calling us." Yukino looked around Haruka, peering at Natsuki and offering a friendly smile though there was a definite weariness on her features. The vacation had clearly been needed. "Don't you, Principal?"
"Maya has retired," said Natsuki and at this, Haruka grumbled, wanting to know what that had to do with them. Heaving a sigh and pinching the bridge of her nose, wondering about the wisdom of Fumi-sama for not the first time, Natsuki went on, "We instructed the Founder to provide us with her choice for the next 5th Column and after a lengthy rumination period which lasted precisely one day, she gave us your name, General."
Nothing from Haruka, no reply, no expression, nothing. It was an entirely unexpected reaction from the normally demonstrative Otome who had never been one to hold back, particularly when it came to speaking her mind. Even Yukino appeared surprised by it.
"Ara," remarked Shizuru, a playful look on her features. "Haruka-san has been shocked into silence."
This snapped Haruka out of her daze and she focused on the brunette with a scowl. "Bubuzuke," she grumbled in a warning tone. "Don't mess with me. I don't have time for your games. This is a joke, right? I'm not an Otome anymore. I gave up my GEM."
"It appears Fumi-sama wants you to have another," Natsuki replied, saying this as if she wasn't sure why exactly that was.
Frowning now, Haruka didn't say anything, and Yukino moved to stand in front of her, dipping her head so their eyes would meet. "Haruka-chan?" she said her name in an encouraging inquiry, looking up at her with soft green eyes.
"It was supposed to be about us," Haruka muttered, meeting Yukino's gaze. "No more President, no more Otome, just you and me, remember? Yukino and Haruka. But if I do this… how could we be together like we planned?"
"Haruka-chan never really wanted to retire though," murmured Yukino, stroking her cheek and giving an understanding smile. "You just didn't want us to be apart again and I understand that but accepting this GEM, what the Founder apparently wants for you, doesn't mean we can't be together like we planned." Shifting her gaze over to Natsuki, she said, "I'm sure the Principal will be more than fair in how she chooses your assignments, taking in regard that you'll be the only married Otome out of the five Columns."
When Haruka joined Yukino in her stare, Natsuki reddened slightly, somehow caught off guard by this, and she coughed as she nodded vigorously. "Of course, I will!" she said enthusiastically, all too aware of Shizuru's amused expression. The couple continued to focus on her and Natsuki shifted in her seat, offering an awkward smile as she said, "Do you accept the position?"
Haruka turned to Yukino and a silent exchange occurred between them then Haruka turned to Natsuki, wrapping an arm around Yukino's waist and pulling the brunette close to her as she formed a jaunty grin. "Try and stop me," Haruka declared.
"If we did who knows who Fumi-sama would choose next," teased Shizuru and Haruka scowled once again at the other woman.
"Shizuru," Natsuki said her name fondly but there was a plea in there, to not begin the usual bout of competitiveness that always seemed to emerge when Haruka and Shizuru were together. Rising to her feet, she crossed over to the blonde and opened a small velvet case to reveal the Swirling Dance Fluorite GEM that had once belonged to Maya. "It's all yours."
A moment passed and Haruka stared dubiously at the GEM, her mind whirling as she recalled her reading and lessons from Garderobe when it came to Fumi-sama choosing the five Columns. The Column was always chosen along with the GEM they would use, there were several hidden deep in the underground of the academy, guarded and kept safe, waiting for Fumi-sama to name which Otome was their owner. While it was true, being chosen as the 5th Column did come as a shock for Haruka, she never thought herself clever enough, smart enough, to be counted amongst their numbers but it wasn't nearly as shocking as the idea that the Founder wanted her to use the Swirling Dance Fluorite GEM. Particularly since Fumi-sama was known for assigning the right GEM to the right Otome and Haruka hardly thought that Maya's flimsy robe and her element, which consisted of a pair of maracas used to summon a giant sand monster, were right for her. They presented quite a difference from Haruka's chosen fighting style, to say the least.
"Principal," said Haruka reluctantly, dragging the word out, and rubbing the back of her head.
Before Haruka could say anything more, a snort of laughter escaped Natsuki and soon the Principal burst into full on laughter while Haruka stared at her with wide eyes. Unable to stop laughing and hunched over, as if in pain, Natsuki looked up at Haruka and could only keep laughing while a dark look formed on the blonde's features. "Sorry," Natsuki wheezed. "Just… picturing you… in the outfit… dancing with the maracas…" At this comment, Haruka scowled deeply. "Sorry, sorry," Natsuki huffed, standing up at her full height and pulling another velvet case out of her jacket pocket. "This one belongs to you."
Opening the case, Haruka was met with a dark green GEM and looking at it, she somehow had the same feeling as when she was presented with the Continental Orb Topaz. Her fingers drifted over the surface of the GEM, which was cool to her touch, and Haruka looked at Natsuki then said, "I don't recognize it from any of our books. What's its name?"
"The Broad Breaker Garnet," Natsuki smiled. "It's one of the lost GEMs. Professor Gall found it on a recent expedition."
"It fits," murmured Haruka, removing the GEM and contemplating its name as she placed it in her ear. Just a moment then a familiar heat, as if she had a fever, formed in her earlobe, exactly like the times she put in her previous GEMs. She looked up at Natsuki and there was a challenging look in the Principal's eyes and Haruka grinned rakishly in response. Clenching her right hand into a fist, Haruka called out, "Materialize!"
The transformation was swift and in moments, Haruka felt that swell of power, but this was stronger. Much stronger than she felt with the Topaz and it made Haruka wonder about this new GEM and its true capabilities. Her robe was similar in style, but the colors were a forest green and dark blue, matching the outfit that Haruka had been wearing which consisted of a dark blue jacket, pants, and a forest green shirt. It was as if the robe matched itself to her clothing and Haruka wondered at that ability. Certainly it happened when she chose Chie Hallard to replace her as the Continental Orb Topaz since the robe that Chie wore looked nothing like Haruka's.
Flexing the fingers in her right hand, Haruka summoned her element, curious at what would emerge and violet eyes widened as she looked down at the weapon that formed in her grip, taking in the sight of a large double bladed axe. Her grin becoming that much wider as she held the axe in both hands, enjoying the weight and feel of it, she muttered, "Fumi-sama definitely knows what she's doing." Out of instinct, she turned to Yukino, wanting her opinion, her thoughts, and she was met with a sweet and loving smile. "Yukino?"
"I think it suits you, Haruka-chan," said Yukino, a proud look on her features.
Violet eyes gleaming with excitement, Haruka rested the large axe on her shoulder, grinning at Shizuru who raised an eyebrow in response. "Bubuzuke," Haruka drew the word out in a friendly sort of dare. "How about you help me test this GEM out?"
Shizuru's rust colored eyes flashed with interest and amusement but she immediately shifted her gaze to Natsuki in a silent question. The Principal heaved a sigh and waved her hand absently at the two Otome. "Go on," Natsuki said with dry humor. "Just try to not completely destroy my campus, would you? We just got it looking close to normal again." Haruka and Shizuru both gave their replies of agreement then were immediately out the door, leaving Natsuki and Yukino to their own devices. Turning to the former President, Natsuki smiled at the other woman and wore an apologetic expression as she said, "President. I can't say how sorry I am for interrupting your honeymoon."
"I'm not the President anymore. Please, just call me Yukino," said Yukino kindly. She sat down on the couch and peered up at the Otome. "I must admit, while I wasn't happy when Haruka-chan received that summons, it more than makes up for it on discovering the reason why. Fumi-sama is right, you know. She'll make a wonderful Column."
"Akane's ecstatic," revealed Natsuki with a grin, sitting across from Yukino. "She's already planning her wedding to the Emperor."
"Well, she has been waiting for far too long, hasn't she?" Yukino murmured with a smile. Her expression became more serious, almost introspective, as she continued, "I am glad to see you, Principal. There's something I wanted to talk with you about, something I couldn't speak of while I remained the President of Aries. It has to do with the Strategic Otome Limitations Talk and your plans of reducing the number of Otome."
"Oh?" Natsuki responded, lifting an eyebrow, looking intrigued. "What's that?"
"I'm not certain it's the wisest decision," said Yukino, wearing a grave expression and folding her hands in her lap. "I think rather than reducing the number of Otome, their loyalty to their Masters ought to be shifted. Instead we should have the world leaders join together in a peace keeping organization and it would be that organization which has control over the Otome rather than individuals. Certainly world leaders should maintain their personal Otome for the need of a bodyguard but I think the issue with Artai arose from the excess of nobles with Otome. People with enough wealth and privilege who can pay to have a personal army produced at Garderobe and handed over to them. If we were to create an organization that all the countries in Earl were part of, no matter their size and wealth, and all had a stake in, and it was that organization, instead of individuals with selfish desires in charge of the Otome, things would fair much better don't you think?"
"Yes, they would," said Natsuki slowly, a look of consideration on her features. "But do you really think the nobles would surrender their Otome? They would never agree to such an organization, no matter what good it might do for Earl as a whole, not if it reduced their own personal power. The protests to this would be incredible."
"That's why it's necessary to win over each and every world leader," said Yukino wisely. "If that is accomplished the nobles can protest all they want but it will have little use in the end, not when those who control the nations of Earl are united in this agreement." There was silence as Natsuki continued to contemplate this idea. "Principal," Yukino said this in a quiet and serious murmur and Natsuki lifted her head to look at the other woman. "The SOLT talks didn't go well when I was in office and I doubt that has changed. Nobles don't want to surrender their Otome. At this rate, you'll never reduce the numbers like you want, and this plan… it has a chance of succeeding. I truly believe that and it would eliminate the need for reducing numbers while keeping a secure world peace, which is what we all want, isn't it?"
"This organization," said Natsuki in even tones, studying Yukino with lidded eyes. "What would you call it?"
"The Earl Defense Force has a nice ring to it according to Haruka-chan," said Yukino wryly. "Will you give my idea some thought?"
"More than some," Natsuki replied, nodding her head. "I plan on giving it a lot of thought. Of course," her lips quirked up in a smile. "It would help if you explained the organization further."
Returning the smile, Yukino scooted forward on the couch and began to elaborate on her concept, answering Natsuki's questions as she went along, and finding her own ideas altered and improved from the feedback she received.
---
"I like this element," Haruka remarked, grinning widely and recklessly, watching as the double bladed axe's handle extended several feet as she swung it at Shizuru who transformed her double edged naginata into a series to chains to hold it in place. "It's got a nice feel to it."
"Haruka-san must be careful, I don't need a haircut quite yet," Shizuru teased, pulling the chains forward and sending Haruka flying towards her. With a grin, she caught the blonde up in her free arm, holding her close and smiling winsomely. "You haven't told me," she murmured, lifting an eyebrow, her eyes filled with curiosity. "How was your honeymoon before our unwelcome interruption?"
"Great, what we had of it," said Haruka with a grumble, flying away from Shizuru, reducing her element to its normal size. Haruka rested the axe on her shoulders, hanging her arms over it. She narrowed violet eyes, studying the other Otome. "Bubuzuke," she drew her chosen nickname for Shizuru out slowly, a grin forming on her lips. "What about you and the Principal? Shouldn't you have given her a ring by now? You've been together nearly as long as I have with Yukino. Or don't you want to marry the kid?"
"Natsuki is hardly a child and must I remind you that Yukino was the one who proposed, not Haruka-san?" said Shizuru smartly.
Following after Shizuru, who landed on the school grounds, Haruka got rid of her element, and dematerialized her robe, unable to help grinning at the idea she would be able to materialize whenever she pleased now, without having to wait for certification. "You know," Haruka remarked, shoving her hands into the pockets of her jacket. "I don't see why everyone thinks I should've proposed to Yukino. Why did it have to be me? After we woke up from being petrified, her asking to marry me…" Haruka trailed off, a blush tingeing her cheeks, and she continued in a mutter, "I can't explain how happy it made me. I think it's good that she asked, I love that she did."
"Haruka-san," said Shizuru quietly, a soft smile on her features. "I understand."
Studying Shizuru with a frown, Haruka said, "You want the Principal to propose, don't you?" Rocking back on her heels and observing Shizuru who kept her features purposefully neutral, Haruka continued, "I get that. You've been chasing after her from the start, haven't you? Having to prove how you weren't like you pretended at the start of things. It'd be nice if she did something in exchange."
"My Natsuki loves me," said Shizuru stiffly, giving Haruka a look of deadly warning.
"I never said she didn't, bubuzuke," said Haruka with a snort. "I'm just saying you want her to ask you, not the other way around, and there's nothing wrong with that. I think you've more than made up for how you botched things in the beginning."
Silence then Shizuru's jaw seemed to clench, only to release moments later as she said in a whisper, "Is it selfish?"
"No," said Haruka, soft and solemn. "It's not. You know," she began, shifting uncomfortably, and rubbing the back of her head. "I could always ask Yukino to talk to her. She and the Principal get along really well. They've been pals since they met, right?"
Before Shizuru could reply to this awkward offer, Nao's sardonic drawl filled the air, "There's our new Swirling Dance Fluorite."
"Nao," Haruka growled her name more than said it, rather like it was a curse, or something unpleasant to say. Cracking her fingers as she flexed them into fists, she said, "That's not my GEM and you know it. You ought to have better respect for your fellow Columns."
"The Principal couldn't pull off the prank?" Nao pouted before forming a devilish smile on her lips. "Figures."
"Haruka-oneesama," Sara's distinctive sing song tones called out and Haruka groaned, rolling her eyes as Sara came bouncing in front of her, grinning as she tapped the older blonde on the nose. "Technically Nao is your sempai when it comes to being a Column."
"You're right," drawled Nao who looked greatly interested in this fact. "What do you think about that, General?"
"I'm not a General anymore," said Haruka with a scowl. "And you're not my sempai." Haruka had read about the roles of the Columns quite extensively while attending Garderobe and she was well aware that the 1st, 4th, and 5th Columns sat at equal status while the 2nd and 3rd were in the leadership roles. As 5th Column she was responsible for the aspects of law enforcement and defense, protecting the contracts and rules long established for the Otome, ensuring that both Otome and Master never strayed outside the law. She felt this role suited her perfectly, much better than 1st Column which was dedicated to diplomacy and 4th which had a focus on espionage. Her eyes narrowing at Nao's sly expression, Haruka thought that role fit the redhead disturbingly well. Moving her gaze to Sara who beamed at her and Haruka's scowl seemed to lighten though she grumbled as she tugged Sara's hat over her eyes. "You either."
"Ara," Shizuru exclaimed, wearing a playful expression. "What about me, Haruka-san? Am I your sempai? I did rank higher than you in school."
"Bubuzuke," Haruka did growl now and Shizuru released a delighted squeal, materializing her robe and flying off. Haruka was hot on her heels, leaving Nao and Sara alone on the ground, staring after them.
"Our newest Column," Nao snickered, arching an eyebrow and turning to Sara who was watching Haruka's disappearing figure with a wistful look on his features. Releasing a chuckle at this, Nao shook her head and remarked, "Hopeless."
---
The news of the Earl Defense Force soon spread quickly and as predicted, the nobles in every country were in an uproar at the idea of surrendering their Otome to others control. More and more, Yukino and Natsuki were gone on trips, explaining to all of Earl the purpose of the EDF and how it would secure the safety for everyone in the world, instead of just the few nations who possessed Otome. After weeks of travel, it was decided that a conference was needed, where all the world leaders could meet and they could hash out the problems each had with the formation of the EDF and the restructuring of the Otome contract system.
Settling into her new position as 5th Column was made easier for Haruka thanks to Yukino's constant presence as she planned and worked with Natsuki on the details of the EDF. It soon became common place for Haruka and Shizuru to sit in on their meetings, giving them greater knowledge of how the organization was taking form. They were in one such meeting when Natsuki ended a phone call with an aide of King Nguyen Bao of An Nam. Heaving a sigh and wearing a disappointed expression, Natsuki said, "The King's illness hasn't improved. He's not fit for travel, they'll apparently be sending his nephew, Regent Kai Quan." There was a pause and Natsuki leaned back in her chair, a frown forming. "I don't like it though. The King is one of the few who seems willing to give this idea a chance. I'm sure we'd have much better luck if he got to hear the details personally rather than through his nephew who might be against the EDF as so many nobles already are."
"Perhaps we should send an envoy?" suggested Yukino from where she sat with Haruka on the couch.
"That's a good idea," said Natsuki thoughtfully. Her eyes drifted over to Shizuru and Haruka, considering both Otome before she continued, "Haruka, why don't you visit King Nguyen Bao? Speak to him about everything we'll be covering in the conference. Shizuru," she turned to the brunette. "I want you to stay here, take care of the school while we're gone."
"If that's what my Natsuki wants," said Shizuru easily, picking up her empty teacup and setting it in the sink on the far side of the room.
"Why me?" questioned Haruka, her tones genuinely perplexed and not argumentative in the least. "Bubuzuke's close with Anh-oneesama and the King's her father. Wouldn't it make more sense for her to go? Not that I think I'd do much better being in charge of the school."
"Other than Yukino, you know the most about the ideas behind the EDF," said Natsuki simply, shrugging on her jacket. "She's the one who thought of the concept behind the organization itself and if I'm not mistaken, she's discussed every detail of it with you. Since she'll be at the conference with me, meeting with the other world leaders, you're the best choice to go see King Nguyen Bao."
A frown on her face, Haruka rose to her feet and looked to Yukino who smiled sweetly. "You'll do fine, Haruka-chan," she murmured in reassuring tones and she held out her hands for her blonde. Haruka carefully pulled Yukino up so they were standing just a breath apart. Cupping Haruka's face, Yukino kissed her lightly, still smiling as she said, "Just tell the King everything we spoke about. All the reasons why the creation of the Earl Defense Force would benefit not only An Nam but the entire world."
"I'll do it," said Haruka strongly, kissing Yukino again, and she focused her gaze onto Natsuki whom she was quite aware was her leader in this situation, not Yukino. "I'll contact you soon as I arrive in An Nam, Principal."
"Thanks, Haruka," said Natsuki with a smile.
Giving Yukino one last kiss and telling the brunette she loved her before she headed out the door, Haruka shot a look over her shoulder at Shizuru and grinned. "Take good care of the school while I'm gone, bubuzuke," Haruka drawled.
"I'll do my best, Haruka-san," said Shizuru dryly, lifting an eyebrow.
Haruka's laughter echoed in the office as she walked out and Natsuki shook her head, walking over to Shizuru. "I don't know how long this conference is going to go on," Natsuki confessed with a wry expression. "It should only last the day but we might have to extend our plans depending on how things turn out."
"However long it takes, I'll be waiting here for Natsuki," said Shizuru, an affectionate look on her features as she reached out to push a stray lock of hair behind Natsuki's ear. Tugging her closer, she kissed Natsuki's cheek and whispered in her ear, "Natsuki should concentrate on the task at hand. I'll make sure things remain exactly as she left them at Garderobe, if not improved."
"Improved?" questioned Natsuki sardonically.
Pulling away, Shizuru smiled playfully, curling Natsuki's hair around her finger. "I do have skills," she informed.
"That you do," Natsuki chuckled and she looked over to Yukino, seeing the former President packing her briefcase. Thinking back to Haruka's goodbye and the easy show of affection, she found herself feeling envious. Despite her love for Shizuru she had never been the demonstrative type and she was aware that the other Otome would have appreciated things like that. Which is why she found herself turning back to Shizuru. Natsuki stepped closer and ducked her head, so their lips were almost touching, the tips of her ears reddening as she said, "I love you, Shizuru."
Then Natsuki captured Shizuru's lips in a kiss, slow and tender, and Shizuru melted into her embrace, allowing the smaller Otome to pull her closer and take control. Usually she was the instigator in these situations, she was the one who craved physical affection and the fact that it was Natsuki who had done this, who kissed her, who spoke her love first, was enough to have quite an affect on Shizuru.
"Okay," said Natsuki, her ears bright red along with a good amount of her face. "I have to go now."
"Natsuki is so aggressive," Shizuru murmured, an almost dreamy tone to her voice, though there was a playful quality as well. "I enjoy it."
"Shizuru," said Natsuki in warning tones and Shizuru pouted, causing Natsuki to roll her eyes. Shaking her head and giving Shizuru another quick kiss, she said, "I'll see you tonight."
"Have a good day at work," said Shizuru impishly.
The Principal groaned at this and walked out of the office with Yukino, leaving Shizuru alone and she surveyed her surroundings before sitting at the desk. This wasn't the first time Shizuru had been left in charge of the school but the feeling was always the same. She had a strange feeling of discontent sitting behind this desk, in this office, giving the orders. It wasn't her place, it was Natsuki's, and she felt ill suited to the task. It wasn't that she didn't think herself capable, it was part of her job as the 3rd Column to take over the duties of the 2nd Column when they were incapable or indisposed, after all. Shizuru just didn't think the role particularly suited her, especially when she could see how naturally these things came to Natsuki. Releasing a sigh, Shizuru sat in Natsuki's chair and stared out at the grounds.
As always, she couldn't wait for Natsuki's return.
---
Although Haruka had sat in on numerous meetings that Yukino conducted as the President of Aries with the leaders of other nations, she didn't consider herself at all skilled in diplomacy. She was well aware of her own limitations and Haruka was definitely someone who was more comfortable with actions rather than words. Which was why Fumi-sama had chosen her as the 5th Column rather than the 1st who had the focus on foreign affairs. Unfortunately, Sara was already gone, speaking with members of the Schwartz and that meant duties usually left to her were completely open. By the time she landed in An Nam, Haruka was terribly nervous about her competency in this role, doubting how she would be able to pull it off as she followed Anh Lu through the elaborate corridors of the Royal Palace.
The fact that she was in An Nam with her former sempai made things easier though. It also helped that Anh's father, King Nguyen Bao, was a stalwart ally of both Aries and Garderobe, and was always more than wiling to take part in discussions for their plans involving the other nations of Earl. Haruka wouldn't be facing someone who would greet her with wariness or open hostility like she would have to face in countries such as the United Kingdom of Lutesia or Artai.
"Your jacket is very handsome," Anh remarked in a teasing manner that reminded Haruka so much of Shizuru. Though she had known Shizuru from her first day at Garderobe and roomed with her for almost their entire time at the academy, she often wondered how much of the other Otome's personality came from Anh being her oneesama. Certainly she didn't think Shizuru's flirting was entirely Anh's fault but Haruka was certain it was honed to an expert level under Anh's tutelage. Haruka reddened as Anh ran her index finger down the back of Haruka's jacket and across the gold number five that was embroidered onto it. "Was it a gift from the President?"
"I've had it for awhile, just never got to wear it much as the Topaz," said Haruka, the blush clinging to her cheeks. "Yukino got the Column symbol added on the back for me though. I told the Principal there's no way I was going to wear another dress."
Forming a pout as she led Haruka through the palace, Anh looked over her shoulder and remarked, "I rather liked you in that dress."
"I looked ridiculous," Haruka snorted derisively and she shuddered as she thought of the clothing she had to wear for the past sixteen years as the Otome of Aries. "It was too puffy. Hallard was smart, changing it when I got her to take over as the Topaz."
"Why didn't you do the same?" asked Anh curiously.
"Don't know," admitted Haruka, a thoughtful frown on her features. "Respect for Meister Blomquist? Not really sure."
"She is your idol, isn't she," said Anh with an almost indulgent smile. When Haruka scowled at her, she clucked her tongue and tapped the blonde on the chin. "Don't make that face! It doesn't suit you, at least if you're not making it while Shizuru is hanging onto you. It was always such fun, watching the two of you together at Garderobe. Rather like seeing an endless comedy routine take place."
"I'm glad we entertained you, Anh-oneesama," Haruka grumbled, looking thoroughly disgruntled.
Anh chuckled at this, appearing immensely pleased before she nodded at the guard who opened the large doors to the King's study which Haruka knew from previous visits with Yukino was where he received guests and political envoys. Calming her nerves and taking a fortifying breath, Haruka straightened her shoulders and thought about Yukino. What she would say to King Nguyen Bao if she was here and with that foremost in her mind, she walked into the room. Preparing to explain the benefits of the Earl Defense Force and why it was necessary that he support its formation for the future of not just An Nam but the entire world.
---
Natsuki thought that nothing could surpass the Strategic Otome Limitation Talks when it came to sheer aggravation it caused in terms of the world leaders speaking over one another and the general chaos it created across all of Earl. She was greatly mistaken though as just the idea of the EDF caused an uproar among the nobles of countless nations. The nobles relayed their feelings to the leaders of their countries who came with an air of reluctance and not completely open minds. Adding to the annoyance was the loud protest that was being led by those same nobles. They were gathered outside the hall in Windbloom Palace which Queen Mashiro had leant them for this meeting.
They weren't a threat to anyone's safety as far as Natsuki could tell, there were Otome surrounding the palace and the Windbloom Royal Guard were out in full force, but it made the situation uncomfortable to say the least. She knew there would be people opposed to the formation of the Earl Defense Force and the removal of Otome from the power of nobles. Eradicating their right to essentially buy an Otome by providing them with the funds to attend the academy but she hadn't expected the opposition to reach this level of crazed fervor.
Nothing was resolved during the initial meeting that lasted well over ten hours and, with the agreement of each country's leader, they decided to extend the talks by two more days and stepping out of the hall, greeted by the darkening night sky and the sound of protestors, Natsuki winced. She turned to Yukino who murmured, "We knew this idea wouldn't be popular with everyone but I think perhaps we underestimated how much."
"I've received worse threats than the nobles are currently giving us when I was in Garderobe," Natsuki responded with an easy humor. When Yukino frowned, Natsuki questioned, "What is it? You don't agree?"
"I don't think it's wise to assume they're harmless, Principal," said Yukino in solemn tones. They walked through the hall to the private car provided by Garderobe and Yukino continued, "In Aries, we've experienced first hand how dangerous the nobles can be. Especially those who are convinced what they're entitled to by birthright has been stolen from them. Two hundred and thirty six years has passed since Aries escaped from Artai's control and we still have nobles who are part of terrorist groups like Fidelus Altus who seek to regain control of the country. Taking away the nobles Otome is removing a great source of their power and most people in power would do anything to prevent that from happening, no matter the benefits to everyone else in the world." Her frown deepening, Yukino said, "We should take the threats seriously."
"All right," said Natsuki, looking pensive. "I'll get Nao to investigate. It's part of her duties as 4th Column and she's got a talent for that sort of thing anyway and I can always call in a favor from Midori as well. Garderobe and the Aswad have created a joint exchange of technology thanks to Professor Gall and I'm sure as their leader she would be willing to lend us some aid in looking into these threats from the nobles." Walking up to the private car, she smiled at the figure of former Pearl student, Greta Schulte, who stood in front of them and opened the door to the back seat. "Greta," Natsuki greeted her with a smile. "How have you been doing with all this noise?"
"Fine, Principal," said Greta politely though there was an obvious discomfort in her expression.
Studying Greta with a skeptical look on her features, Natsuki decided to let it go, recalling the girl's history and how she was sponsored by a noble back in her homeland of Artai. When she failed to graduate from Garderobe her sponsor didn't take the news well and she had nowhere to go. Feeling sympathy for her plight, Natsuki gave her a job working as part of the academy staff. Certainly seeing the legions of protesting nobles outside the hall at Windbloom Palace had to remind her of a past she would rather forget. Following Yukino into the car, she sat in the back seat next to the other woman, keeping her gaze on Greta as she moved into the front seat and started the car.
"This is all out of fear," Yukino said quietly, her gaze drifting over the crowd of protesting nobles. "Fear of losing their status and power, of having their place in the hierarchy reduced somehow. They can't see beyond that to the advantages it will provide Earl as a whole."
"Nobody who has power likes giving it up," said Natsuki in a droll remark.
While there was a humorous tone to her voice, mostly because she wanted to lift Yukino's spirits, reduce the worry that she knew the former President was feeling, Natsuki had a strange sensation of dread. There was a knot in the pit of her stomach and it seemed to get worse with every moment that passed, the further their car drove from Windbloom Palace, and looking at Greta Schulte's features, which were unnaturally pale and constricted, the hairs on Natsuki's neck stood on end.
Something isn't right, that was Natsuki's final thought. Then the click of a button and the flames engulfed them all.
---
Although Shizuru had a natural talent for charm and negotiations, she didn't particularly enjoy it. She didn't like spending her time convincing others about how her position, her thoughts, were right. That was a large portion of Natsuki's duty as Principal of Garderobe though. Garderobe was seen as a nation onto itself and Natsuki was its leader. As such, much of her time was devoted to dealing with the leaders of the countries of Earl along with the sponsors of the various Garderobe students.
Whenever Natsuki was gone on the more complex negotiations and she left Shizuru in charge of the school, the brunette found herself somewhat in awe of Natsuki's ability to do this job. The 2nd Column seemed like tedious work to many, the paperwork, the meetings, the fact you spent most of your day in an office rather than off on missions using your considerable powers as an Otome. It was the least glamorous job out of all the Columns but it was the most important. Natsuki was their leader, the one who held the academy together, who kept the future of the Otome foremost in her mind and that was what she was doing now, with the creation of the Earl Defense Force. With it she would ensure that Otome no longer fell victim to carrying out horrible deeds from selfish Masters, that they would become true defenders of the peace and while it was controversial to say the least, Shizuru couldn't have been more proud.
She was sifting through the piles of paperwork, trying to determine which were in most urgent need of completion, when she heard the distant sound of an explosion. Frowning as she rose to her feet, Shizuru looked at the skyline, towards Windbloom where the sound originated. An odd feeling seized her, one of foreboding and sickness, and Shizuru felt dizzy, as if she might pass out. Then the door flung open and Youko was in front of her. How much time had passed, Shizuru didn't know, she just knew something was horribly wrong.
"Meister Shizuru," said Youko and she was white as a sheet, her eyes wide and panicked. "It's the Principal. She---" Youko released a choking noise and she couldn't continue on as Shizuru stared at her, expression scarily bereft of emotion. Then suddenly she moved forward, faster than the eye could see, gripping the collar of Youko's jacket in her hands.
"Natsuki," Shizuru said her name in a barely discernable whisper and she felt it as something in her snapped. She always knew who she was and what she was capable of doing. How her charm and her smiles were nothing more than an act. How she had a capacity for darkness that others simply couldn't understand, an ability to be ruthless beyond comprehension, but she held all those impulses back. Reigned them in thanks to the acceptance and love she received from Natsuki and in this instant, Shizuru could feel that mask slipping, that restraint falling away and that hidden self, that dark self, rising to the surface like a terrifying beast. Something was wrong with Natsuki, something happened to her, something terrible. She knew that by the way that Youko was acting, was looking at her, right now. There was no other explanation. Still grasping the doctor's jacket in her hands, just a space in between them, shaking Youko in her grip as if she was nothing more than a rag doll, Shizuru demanded, "What's happened? What's happened to Natsuki?!"
"That sound," said Youko brokenly, her voice just a rasp. "The explosion in Windbloom… it was the Principal. She was coming back from the meeting, in her car, they don't know how it happened…"
"What happened?" asked Shizuru, hysteria in her voice and on her features, the hold on her sanity slipping further and further away. When Youko didn’t reply, Shizuru shook her again, screaming as she said, "What happened?!"
"She's dead," Youko finally said, looking at Shizuru with endless sympathy. "Her and the President. They think it was a bomb hidden in the car, activated before the Principal could react." Silence. No movement. No reaction. There was nothing except Shizuru's fingers numbly slipping from Youko's jacket and her staring out the window at the billowing smoke in the distance. "Meister Shizuru," Youko began softly, reaching out to the Otome who released a sound of pure anguish and absolute rage, then she materialized her robe, smashing through the glass of the windows and leaving the doctor alone and fearing what would happen next.
---
They had taken frequent breaks throughout the day because of the King's poor health and had just finished eating dinner, settling back into the study where Haruka was finishing off the final merits of the Earl Defense Force. She thought nothing of Anh leaving the study as she had done it several times already. Haruka was focused solely on King Nguyen Bao and ensuring he understood exactly what Yukino and Natsuki hoped to accomplish with creating the EDF and the new system for Otome. Yes, Haruka was completely focused on her duty and the task at hand. That's until Anh returned looking more grim than Haruka had ever seen her.
"Haruka," Anh said her name in a way the blonde could have never imagined it. With such a sound of sadness and a deep sense of apology and regret. The look she wore, it clearly revealed she would rather be doing anything but this. "There's been an attack."
"What?" said Haruka, her eyes going wide and rising to her feet. "Where? In Aries?"
"No, Windbloom," said Anh, shaking her head and she paused, seeming to steel herself for a moment. "Haruka, it's the President. She and the Principal… their car was attacked after leaving the meeting. There was a bomb." At this Haruka stumbled backwards, her skin turning a sickly ashen grey, her eyes lost and disbelieving as Anh finished, "They were both killed in the explosion."
Haruka looked as if she might fall, collapse into herself, even shatter into a million pieces but instead she stood there, wobbling unsteadily from foot to foot and she didn't say anything. She just looked straight ahead, into nothingness, and finally she said, "Who was it?" When Anh didn't reply, Haruka clenched her jaw, her hands bunched into fists. "Who's responsible?"
"I don't know, the Captain didn't tell me," said Anh quietly, referring to Sakomizu Cardinal, Captain of Windbloom Royal Guard.
"I don't believe it," said Haruka insistently, shaking her head, and looking at Anh with wild eyes. "I don't believe the Principal wouldn't fight back. That she'd let something like that happen to her and Yukino. It's not true, it can't be."
"Haruka," Anh said her name again, this time pleading, and seeing the stubbornness in the blonde's eyes, the refusal to believe this awful thing happened, she turned to one of the rare televisions they kept in the palace. An Nam was a country that was very much steeped in the old ways and preferred a simpler existence, one lacking technology that was seen as common place in other nations. The television was one of those things. Though they did have a few in the palace mostly for diplomatic and international reasons, to get a sense of what was going on in the rest of the world. Walking over to the set, Anh turned it onto a station she knew was dedicated to world news. Instantly a reporter came on screen, speaking about the accomplishments of former President Yukino Chrysant while they panned to the image of a burned out vehicle, surrounded by members of the Windbloom Royal Guard. "They're already reporting it across Earl," said Anh and she stepped closer to the Column who was frozen, staring at the image on the screen, a look of horror and incomprehensible grief forming on her features. "I'm sorry."
"Sorry," Haruka croaked and she ripped her gaze away from the television onto Anh. She gave an insane sort of laugh, one that was hollow and filled with a type of misery that someone couldn't possibly understand unless they were the one experiencing it. "You're sorry," Haruka repeated and she went back to staring at the television, at the burned car, at what remained of the woman she loved. Her hands were bunched into fists again and her nails were digging into the palms of her hands, cutting into the skin, and she could feel the blood against her fingertips, she could feel it but she didn't care. It didn't matter that it hurt, nothing mattered anymore. Yukino was gone. She watched the Royal Guard move about the scene, scattering like roaches, and then suddenly the figure of Shizuru appeared. Haruka didn't want to believe it was real, even though she saw that car, she knew it was Natsuki's car, the same car Yukino had gotten into this morning but she didn't want to believe all the same. It was too hard but then Shizuru appeared and she had a look of rage and madness, like she would destroy anyone who got in her way, and suddenly Haruka knew it was real. This nightmare wasn't something that existed in her sleep but instead in the waking world and she wasn't alone in her suffering. Shizuru was there too. "I have to go," she muttered.
Unclenching her fists and materializing her robe, Haruka found herself flying out of the palace. She had to get out of here, she had to return to Windbloom, to what was left of Yukino, she had to go, she had to be with her, just like she should have been. Haruka had never been apart from Yukino for twelve years and the moment she did, the moment she stopped protecting her, stopped doing her duty… this happened. It was all her fault. If she had been there, if she had protected Yukino like she promised, like she was meant to do, then she would be safe right now. Haruka hated herself for it. She hated herself and she had to go, she had to see for herself because she couldn't believe it, no matter what the television said, what she saw, what Anh told her, she couldn't believe it until she saw for herself.
They were supposed to have a life together, they planned it since they were children. It wasn't supposed to end this way and Haruka knew herself, she knew she couldn't believe it, wouldn't believe it, until she was there, looking at the proof, no matter how horrible it would be, as much as it would hurt her. She had to do this and the thoughts, the misery, the hopelessness of a world without Yukino consumed her on the flight from An Nam to Windbloom until it was all that she knew. Nothing else existed in her mind, she was entirely focused on the monstrosity of this event.
Knowing full well if it was true that her life would never be the same. That the life she would have wouldn't even fit that description, it would be existing and nothing more, no happiness, no dreams for the future, they would all die with Yukino and she would be left alone to mourn.
---
Two hours passed by the time that Haruka arrived in Windbloom. The streets were blocked and there was a bleak feeling in the air, one that gave her very little hope when it came to Yukino's survival. Landing amidst the Windbloom Royal Guard who looked at her with varying degrees of panic and sympathy, Haruka grimaced and focused on their Captain, Sakomizu Cardinal, standing before the pile of burnt wreckage. Haruka moved forward, pushing through the Royal Guard, and she vaguely heard Cardinal greet her but she didn't reply, she couldn't reply, all she could do was focus on what remained of that car, her eyes searching through the ruins.
"General," Cardinal said again, his voice somber. "I'm so sorry."
She wasn't a General anymore. If she was a General and Yukino was her President, her Master, this wouldn't have happened. She would've been with Yukino. Protecting her, keeping her safe, instead of flying off to another country for some diplomatic mission she wasn't at all suited. Haruka clenched and unclenched her fists, staring at the debris, trying to see something of Yukino in there. Something to give her hope, something that could keep her from believing what she knew in her heart was true.
Walking forward, her eyes fixed on the destruction, Haruka dimly noticed the guards scattering out of her way. There was a glint in the sunlight, something small, but it caught her attention and she knelt down, tears forming as she picked the object up but she blinked them away. She couldn't cry, not in public, not right now. No matter how horrible this was, no matter how much pain she was in, she had to know, she had to know who did this. Staring at the item in her hand, Haruka took in the sight of it. How it was broken and melted from the heat of the explosion but utterly recognizable all the same.
Yukino's glasses.
Holding them in her hand, swallowing the grief, the sheer misery, the complete rage, Haruka stood up and faced Cardinal, her expression severe and unwavering. "I want to see Yukino," Haruka said roughly.
"What?" asked Cardinal, thoroughly shocked to hear this.
"I want to see Yukino," Haruka repeated, stone faced and a flinty look in her eyes. "I need to see her to be sure."
"General," Cardinal said this in lost tones, not sure how to respond. "The explosion caused so much damage… you don't want to see. It won't help you, it won't prove anything, it will just cause you more pain."
Why did he keep calling her a General? She wasn't a General. She left the Aries army, she wasn't a soldier anymore, she wasn't Yukino's protector, she was a failure, a worthless shell of a person. Haruka wanted him to stop calling her that. "How do you know it's her then?" she said harshly, watching as he squirmed under her unwavering gaze. "She could have escaped with the Principal. They could be in hiding."
"There are scientific tests," said Cardinal and he had that sympathetic look again that made Haruka want to punch him. "We know it's them, General. I'm sorry, I wish I could tell you something different. No one wants this to be true."
Sorry, sorry, everyone was sorry. Anh, the Royal Guards, Cardinal, they were all sorry but Haruka didn't want to hear it. She wanted Yukino back, she wanted her to be alive, she wanted to save her. Looking away from Cardinal, fixated on the burnt out wreckage, Haruka said, "Who is responsible for this attack?"
"We believe it was Fidelus Altus," said Cardinal quietly. "There is evidence that the car's driver, Greta Schulte, was one of their agents. Our theory is that she was compelled to attach a bomb to the car and she activated it herself."
"Fidelus Altus," Haruka repeated and she could feel the glasses crack in her grip and she looked down at them, forcing her fingers open and staring at Yukino's glasses resting in the palm of her hand. She couldn't destroy these, not when it was the last thing she had of Yukino. They had to be kept safe, like she should have done for Yukino. She knew why they did this. It was because of the Earl Defense Force. No doubt in their simplistic and merciless way of thinking the easiest way to rid themselves of this threat to their status and power as nobles would be to kill the leaders of the EDF, those who wished to create it, namely Yukino and Natsuki. For years she dealt with them in Aries, these nobles who attacked her homeland over and over again, trying to return it to monarchy rule, these men who felt they still owned a country that had broken away from their rule more than two hundred years ago. When Yukino first told her about the idea for the EDF she knew the nobles wouldn't take it well, that there would be trouble, protests, and even threats of violence but she had never suspected something like this. Why hadn't she suspected? Why didn't she know? It all seemed so painfully obvious that something like this would happen. Haruka stared at the glasses in her hand, wondering if Yukino had known, had imagined what was coming. She hoped not. "Where are they?"
"We're working on locating them, General," said Cardinal and Haruka lifted her gaze.
"Working," echoed Haruka bitterly, a deprecating smile on her lips that was etched with pain. They could work around the clock and they wouldn't get anywhere with locating all of Fidelus Altus. Some of them could be found, maybe even the ones who did this, but all of them? Haruka knew that would be nearly impossible. She worked sixteen years as the Topaz doing just that and she didn't come anywhere close. Looking back down at the glasses, Haruka vowed, "I'll get the ones who did this."
Silence and Haruka knew that the Captain didn't know how to reply and she was strangely glad for that. She didn't want to hear the sympathy in his voice, for him to offer assistance. This was something she had to do alone. Although, there was another. Someone who deserved to find these killers as much as she did, someone who she knew wouldn't rest until they saw them punished.
"Where's Shizuru?" Haruka questioned bluntly. "I know she was here. I saw her on the news."
"Meister Viola," said Cardinal, paling significantly and swallowing hard. "She left as soon as we told her, General."
"Where did she go?" asked Haruka in low tones.
"I don't know," Cardinal said, shaking his head, and for the first time in all the years that Haruka knew him, she saw real fear in his eyes. "No one could have kept her here. Not when she had that look."
"What look?" Haruka frowned and she wondered what happened to her friend, how she was dealing with this, if she was dealing with this at all. Shizuru was often a mystery to Haruka, she kept her true feelings so veiled, her emotions hidden beneath a mask, but she knew for certain that as horrible as she was feeling, as miserable, as enraged, and wanting revenge, Shizuru felt it just as much.
"She had death in her eyes," said Cardinal in a whisper. "General," he continued, stepping closer to her, a look of great worry on his craggy features. "She's going after every last one of them. I can promise you that."
A chill going down her spine, believing with every fiber of her being this was the truth, Haruka made no reply because part of her wanted it to happen. She wanted Shizuru to succeed in her mission, to exact a gruesome and brutal revenge, and that same part of her wanted to be there when it took place.
---
One by one, Shizuru tracked down leads, she followed the crumbs of information, hunting through night until it turned into day, taking no food, no sleep, there was nothing but the chase. She would find them, she had to find them, Fidelus Altus, the people who murdered her Natsuki. No matter how long it took, how much she lost, how many hours and days and months she had to devote to the search, she would find them because that was all she had now. Her life had died as surely as Natsuki did and the only thing left was the hunt to find her killers, those who took Natsuki from her and once she found them, once she had them in her grasp, and in her sights…
She would kill them all.
To be continued...
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I am entertained by the contrast of Shizuru and Haruka's reactions, also. You write Haruka so well, and yet she is so hard to write...
Last paragraph is a little stand-offish compared to the rest. Hope that was more like a 'preview' than an actual entry to the work.
I should note that the Otome is actually who chooses the weapon as I recall, it isn't restricted to the GEM type. The Robes are designed to follow a general pattern or color-style, but may change from Otome to Otome, so that's good. (Hope that didn't sound like pontificating... I fansubbed the series so...)
I really look forward to seeing what's going to happen to the Column makeup now. With Shizuru AWOL, are they going to consider her possibly needing to be replaced too? How long will she be away, really? Does Shizuru really expect them to leave her with that power, or is it maybe restricted by Fumi? Who would be replacing the Column(s)? And how will the other Columns react -- Nao in particular, might be interesting to have her show a little regret. And well, I imagine Haruka will probably have a bit of a hard time fending off Sara with a bat if you really intend this to be Shizuru/Haruka when all's said and done. ^^;
Well that's really all long-winded and winding, but... mostly it was to say, "looking forward to more~".