Disclaimer: Inputs found here are mine and do not reflect the author's original intent (UNLESS STATED). So if you do not agree with me or if I am talking nonsense ... it is entirely my fault.

Background:
Natsuki Kruger being a favorite historical figure and national hero was very popular and the mystery surrounding her relationship with Shizuru Viola before the year 7700 was the only thing not written vigorously about throughout the years. In view of this, a history student of Windbloom University, when given the assignment "A fresh perspective yet historically correct paper on Natsuki Kruger and Shizuru Viola" decided to take a new and daring approach (in fact, after her stunt... this became a popular method for writing history papers within the walls of Windbloom University). She wrote it ... FANFICTION style! (Of course.. making sure it wasn't anyway OOC and definitely not AU - least she be labeled a national traitor)

Little was known why Miss Maria, their history teacher, who was known for her strict and utterly unforgiving marking antics would tolerate and even (god forbid!) graded it an A+! (a never before occurrence throughout whole history of Windbloom University ... B being the highest ever before that). Unvoiced speculations were that she was an avid fan of Natsuki Kruger.

As an after note, although was awarded an A+ for her effort, she now had to hide herself from the many ShizNat fans wanting to draw blood for her bold work.

Burning Questions:
1. WHY IN THE WORLD WOULD SHIZURU ALLOW THOSE PIGS TO TOUCH HER!
Before we answer this we have to look into Shizuru's character. She is one would not hesitate to sacrifice herself (no matter what the price) to get what she wants. (OR to help/protect the one she wants)
a. The 1st PIG was probably mainly because of her mother... but also to protect Natsuki. 1st PIG was influential and powerful (plus, he knew about Natsuki) and Shizuru is not one to take chance where Natsuki was concerned.
b. The OTHER PIGS ... she wanted know of Natsuki... her achievements... her stories... her everything. And the only way she can do that was to survive... To live under the same sky (same space and time) as Natsuki was probably her main driver at that time. She'll grit her teeth to "stick" around.

In conclusion? Shizuru in this fic is definitely NOT OOC.
(TOTALLY IMHO)

2. WHY DIDN'T SHIZURU JUST ACCEPT NATSUKI's PROPOSAL?
a. Initial rejection. The main reason should be because she felt unworthy and unclean. Plus, she being Shizuru, would never want to jeopardize Natsuki's career in anyway. (even though Natsuki wouldn't mind)
b. Afterwards. By this time, rejection out of worrying for Natsuki's career should be non-existence. Reason? Even though Shizuru was not officially Natsuki's wife, Natsuki made sure it was clear that she treated her as such. (Plenty of historical data pointing to their intimate relationship during and after 7700. They being a couple was never a secret) So that leaves us a Shizuru who was not entirely healed? But I am guessing the wound factor should not be a big problem anymore (Natsuki here is very strong and adamant to give her happiness. She never wavers nor give room for Shizuru to doubt about her love for her even for a second. I am sure she was very much healed by then if not completely). If you ask me, its just one of her little thing to play with Natsuki ... whenever Natsuki proposes... she will playfully refuse. Because she knows Natsuki loves her and that is enough for her. Marriage itself do not bring much meaning for her. (Its more fun to keep being proposed to year after year. LOL)
c. Acceptance during the last moments. The acceptance here is more for fulfilling Natsuki's wishes and also to assure Natsuki that she's completely healed and will be ok (even with Natsuki's absence). And of course to declare her desire to continue their love in the next life.

In conclusion? Shizuru in this fic is definitely NOT OOC. -grin-
(sorry.. just TRYING to be funny here... hehehe...)

3. WHY DIDN'T SHIZURU GO INTO BERSERK (OR SUICIDAL) MODE WHEN NATSUKI DIED?
a. Shizuru's berserk mode is only seen in My-HiME when she couldn't have Natsuki's love. I do not think Shizuru would simply go berserk without a good reason other than that. The major difference here is Natsuki's acceptance. Natsuki in this setting is more mature and knows what she wants. She is not confused and she is confident enough to express her love for Shizuru. In addition, Natsuki died peacefully and contented. I am sure Shizuru was proud of Natsuki's achievement and I would see her feverously protecting what Natsuki had built than go berserk and start killing important ppl (or to kill herself).

In conclusion? Shizuru in this fic... -Bonk- Ouch! -WHAP-

4. SO THIS MEANS... NATSUKI IS OOC?
Natsuki here was not consumed with the desire to avenge her mother. She was consumed with the need to love/help/save Shizuru. Plus, being in the army and in those chaotic times... one tend to mature early. Thus her not being as shy was understandable. She was still simple, pure and ever so mission-minded. What she have in mind to do... she'll do it. Never backing down because it was difficult or dangerous. Doing what she could with all her might, pushing herself to the limits to achieve her goals.
(Eg. To secure the nanotechnology for Shizuru's mother, she pushed herself really hard to quickly raise among the ranks)

She was forgiving, benevolent and has tendency to protect the weak. All these traits were also present in Natsuki of My-HiME albeit always hidden behind her blushes and seemingly uncaring words... hehehe...

I feel this part of her is what makes her different from Nao. (I personally do not think Natsuki equals Nao no matter what ppl say... they are SIMILIAR in some parts I agree)
Natsuki simply reacts differently than Nao. I don't think Natsuki is capable of malice whereas I don't see Nao having problems with that. Natsuki is also more readily to forgive and is more self-sacrificial compared to Nao. I am NOT saying that Nao is unforgiving and selfish. I am just saying she is no where near Natsuki's level of capability (or lack of control) on that subject.

In conclusion? Natsuki in this fic... -BANG!-

5. How did Natsuki died?
Natsuki died from sickness. She was constantly pushing herself to the limits, working REALLY long hours and she puts a lot of pressure and stress on herself. She wanted to bring peace and order back into the empire and her efforts paid off for she managed to bring law and order back into the land. However, her health suffered greatly due to this.

How long were they together you might ask. Well, long enough for ppl to know they are an inseparable couple, long enough for ppl to brand their love as THE LOVE STORY, long enough for YOU so you won't feel too sad... :P
(It had to be somewhat long though... to be able to turn a whole country around and all)

Finally. It is completed! Whew! -relief-
Thank you for your time. I am honoured to be able to share such a wonderful piece with you guys. Hope you enjoyed reading as much as I enjoyed butchering err I meant... translating it. :P And as per sharichan1990's suggestion, I'll stick to using crimson red for Shizuru's eyes in the future.

HRMM... maybe I SHOULD consider translating fluff for a change... -grins-