Hope was always a word that I attached much significance to. A new life, maybe even a new world could be summed up by that one word. The possibility exists that this meeting with the delegates could form a new kind of hope for mankind and I am proud to be a part of it. Only one person stands in my way, Miss Relena Peacecraft. Whenever I hear her ramble on about pacifism and her utopian society it makes me want to vomit. Although in theory pacifism would create peace, there are still those out there who oppose the method. Not one time in human history was anything resolved by sitting back and pretending the conflict didn't exist. How can one person expect to go against human nature and millennia of evolution? It is simply not logical, but yet she presses on. You must admire courage like that, or is it better termed stubbornness? I'm not quite sure which it is.
"Mel, they're ready for you". I look at my loyal advisor and trusted friend, his young face hiding the large stores of data held in his brain. He always knew how to look at me to spark my confidence. I assume that special trait comes from the implant.
"How do I look?" I ask as I adjust my hand-tailored gown.
"As beautiful as always my queen" he replies while offering his arm. I gladly accept as we turn to build a new hope.
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The auditorium is decorated in a divine manner and as I enter my full name is echoed through the hall. Queen they call me, though I've never felt less like royalty at this moment when I lock eyes with my foe. She sits there looking so smug, almost mocking me in that pacifistic way she has. I tritely smile back with a slight bow of my head, must keep up my manners. Mother always taught me that appearance is everything, sometimes I doubt it, but I fear mother would roll over in her grave if I wasn't courteous. I watch her return the gesture as I take my seat. 'Time for the excitement to begin'.
After hours of listening to various delegates speak of possible paths to universal peace my name is called. I carefully take my place behind the podium. I keep my face as stern and unfaltering as possible, but inside I'm shaking. No matter how many speeches I recite I still feel nervous before each and every one.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I have come here today to offer a new solution in obtaining peace. As all current methods have not been successful I propose a new approach." The words flow from my mouth, meticulously pronounced as mother had always taught me. "...to bring upon plausible solutions..." I search out those blue eyes. They're staring right through me. "Although no absolute guarantee for peace can be offered I believe that this route will be the most effective approach." Our eyes never leave their icy stare throughout the speech, only separating as I return to my seat.
Another tedious hour passes before we adjourn. Walking down the aisle to meet up with my advisor I was abruptly stopped by the last person I would have liked to speak with at that moment. "Hello Miss Relena Peacecraft." I solemnly state.
"Queen Asher, so glad you could join us at this meeting. I wanted to offer my condolences to you. I thought that you might not attend..."
"My personal life has no significance with my royal duties. But I do accept your condolences. If you'll please excuse me." I gently force my way out of the crowded hall and enter the deserted bathroom on the main floor.
My eyes threaten to spill the tears I've held for so long. Controlling my breathing to calm myself, I look at my reflection. Staring back at me was an innocent girl of 14 who had yet to see the influence of battle. My long ashen locks held tightly back, my blue eyes framed by long lashes and dark eyeliner. A face of a pure child. But looks can be deceiving.
A series of knocks come from the door. I can tell from the rhythm that my advisor has watched my every move and was worried I was taking too long. It could possibly be because he would not want to miss the chance of being my knight in shining armor. I know that he dreams of that day when he can come to my rescue and he wouldn't want to miss it for the world.
I slowly open the door and look up into those concerned, gray eyes.
"Are you alright Mel?"
"Perfectly fine Kit. I’ve probably had enough excitement for one day. I believe that I should go back to the hotel to rest." I know that mother wouldn't approve of my letting Kit call me by my nickname, but we've know each other for most of our lives...almost as if we had an actual friendship.
"As you wish."