Opening Theme : Sixth of June – It Dies Today

Phase 08 – Secrets and Preparations


October 3rd C.E.73, 0400 Hours - Carpentaria Military Base, Lacus's Room

Kira's eyes shot open as it was time. He slowly crawled out of bed, so not to wake Lacus from her sleep, and went into the bathroom. He turned on the shower lightly and took his time as he had to get to the ship to collect a few things before starting the day. After thoroughly washing he dried himself and put on his uniform. They still smelt of the alcohol he had. He sighed annoyingly and knew he had to put these in the wash, but now it was time to get to the Minerva.

He left quietly and made his way to the dockyard. Saluting back to soldiers who had their marks of respect to the officer, he ventured to the cold air outside. The strong breeze blew his brown dreadlocks everywhere. Making his way towards the Minerva, he past several officers from the ship, one of them was Arthur. The executive officer of the ship looked quizzically at his superior.

"Morning Arthur. Why are you up at this time?" asked Kira curious.

"I could ask the same Commander" laughed Arthur just after yawning.

"I'll explain after you"

"Well, the ship had be checked overnight and I was with the Marine Engineers, to see the defects rectified. We could get the call to go out anytime. Of course not with the kids in the cells at the moment" Kira nodded to his answer. "Yourself Commander?"

"I'm preparing to punish those kids" he replied smiling.

"This early?" Arthur rose an eyebrow to his Commander.

"Its part of their punishment" laughed Kira as he left to the ship to collect a few things.

The Marine Engineer officer standing next to Arthur looked at Kira strangely as he left, Arthur saw it and laughed as they walked away. "Well no one likes being shaken this early"

Inside his cabin, Kira undressed and pulled out another uniform, his usual crimson shirt. Black tunic jacket with his rank wings on their shoulders, and the badge of the squadron he belonged to, the top part of the jacket was undone to present his shirt. Long black trousers, which were tucked into his black boots, covered by the clear white gaiters. Then applying his white belt with his white combat knife cover attached to the back of the belt. He stood back and admired his uniform then flipped the jackets collar up to cover-up his neck. The traditional uniform he had came to like, it was almost like his civilian clothes. Happy how he looked he turned around and quickly made his way to the Military Police Station.


Carpentaria, Military Police Holding Cells

Kira made his way to the holding cells where he was greeted by the Chief MP of the base. "Morin' Commander. What business do you have with today?"

"I came to bail those trouble makers from my ship. If that is alright with you Chief MP?" replied Kira.

The chief nodded. "Of course Commander! I just hope they'll learn their lesson"

"They will. Believe me" replied Kira as he made his way to the cells. Walking in he was happy to see then still asleep. He grinned evilly as he pulled out one of his two large pistols, which he came to name them as Raptures, due to the fire power it had to rip his targets apart. He aimed his pistol just above Shinn's head, to miss him of course and fired. The immediate sound of gunfire woke up the crew which they looked around like rabbit in headlights.

Rey and Shinn bolted up as they instantly thought that they attacked, whist the others jumped in shock. They looked in the direction to Kira to see him lighting a cigarette for the MP, laughing, as were the MP.

"Wha-what the fuck sir?!" fumed Shinn.

"Manners Shinn please" tutted Kira.

Shinn growled, "...What was that for sir?"

"Your wake up" he answered. They looked at him with annoyance but that was nothing to how annoyed Kira was with them. "Get ready! And met me at the ship, in my cabin! Your punishment will begin this morning!"

"But sir...(yawn)...quarter to five in the morning" moaned Meyrin rubbing her eyes after looking at the clock on the wall.

"Stop wining! Just hurry up or I'll make you do this punishment for as long as I'm your commanding officer!" barked Kira. Then he nodded to the MP to let them out as he walked away.


0459 Hours - Minerva, Kira's Cabin

Sitting behind his desk, Kira tapped lightly on his desk as he waited for the kids to arrive. Soon enough his team arrived huffing and puffing as they ran to this very cabin. Shinn, Luna and Rey weren't too bad, but the others showed the exhaustion their in. "I think some of you need to retake your ZAFT Fitness Test" Kira said as he sat up in the chair.

"Sir! Don't be so cruel!" moaned Meyrin.

"Silence!" snapped Kira, which she followed that order. "Good. Now as you're here, I might as well as tell you the situation you lot are in" Kira picked up the report, which he got from the Chief MP before he left. "Violent clashes with Military Police personnel, which led to twelve injured" Kira looked up to the direction of Rey and Shinn, the perpetrators. The two remained still, but Kira sensed their shame. "Several injuries were also inflicted upon the offenders, such as a a cut to the head of Rey Za Burrel, and to Lunamaria Hawk's arm. Also three scratches to Rey Za Burrel's face" He looked at the injured two and sighed. "Finally criminal damage to the rec room, of the cost of 4200 PLANT Dollars"

"WHAT?!" cried out Shinn in disbelief. "4200 PLANT Dollars?!"

"That was a high ranking rec room Shinn. I ain't writing these figures for fun" replied Kira calmly.

"Sir" interrupted Luna, which the Commander looked at the red violet haired girl, wondering what she was asking. "The report states what we done. But what are you going to do due to the circumstances?"

Kira placed the file back on his desk and tilted back in his comfortable leather chair. "The report states that you should go to military prison" Everyone's faces lowered at the statement in the document. "However, because I'm good friends with Rau and the Chairman, I'll get them to let you off" Their faces brightened up at the news. "And I have no intention of punishing you really. However..." The team looked back wondering what the compensation would be. "I will deal with you my way. And by that I think that we should discuss the situation about this team. Meet me at the Command Planning room in 30 minutes" said Kira which he dismissed them.


0530 Hours - Command Planning Room

As the team sat down waiting for their commander, they went over the fight in their minds, which evil glares darted everywhere until Kira arrived. "Attention!"ordered Rey which they stood up and saluted him. He waved them off as he came to the center of the screen.

"Good Now, that we're here. I think its finally time we have a chat" he began. Which everyone looked at him strangely. "Well I never got your introductions properly. So lets begin...Shinn! You first"

Shinn stood up and made his way to the center. Kira walked off and sat in the officers chair in the room. "Well...I'm Shinn Asuka. I'm the pilot of..."

"Wait. Skip the stuff I know Shinn, like your job. I want to know about your past"

"...Sir" Shinn felt uneasy but that was an order. However Shinn thought that telling Kira what happened at Orb...would also help the commander, figure him out better. "I originally came from Orb. Until it was attacked by the Atlantic Federation, which the Athha's failed to stop them" Shinn's blood began to boil, but he had to control it.

"You blame the Athha's?" asked Kira, tapping his pen on the notebook he had.

"Yes, their ideals brought the war to Orb. They create Mobile Suits even though they're neutral. They didn't even try hard enough to save the civilians. Because of that, my family were...killed in the cross fire...you know the reason to that sir" said Shinn as he strangely still held back the anger.

"Yes I do. However Shinn, may I say something and it is up to you to understand it and take it or reject it" said Kira, which the Impulse pilot nodded. "The Athha's could be to blame for that. But I don't think so. Don't take it that I'm defending them. But put yourself in their situation, the battle was short noticed in reality. And the Atlantic Federation army were totally against Coordinators, regardless if you were a civilian, they weren't think twice to kill you. Muruta Azrael was the one leading it also"

"The Blue Cosmos leader at that time?" Luna asked.

"Yes. So Shinn if they didn't fight, and let them in, you would be probably be dead now and the PLANTs would maybe be destroyed also. Consider the Orb attitude for neutrality was a small delay and setback in the attack on the PLANT's"

"But it doesn't change anything" muttered Shinn.

"How so? I just told you the differences. By the way Shinn, I wanted to know why do you carry a pink phone. You ain't gay are you?"

Shinn eyes widened in shock and embarrassment. "NO!!" he shouted in total defense.

"Alright, alright! You don't need to shout at me! But seriously, why do you have that phone?"

"It was my sister's. Mayu" said Shinn quietly. Kira felt the sadden and troubled heart of the pilot through his senses. Kira also realised something, which he wrote down the name of his sister and the events taken place as they could be useful information. "I saw my dead parents. They were on the destroyed hillside. Blood was everywhere"

"What about your sister?" asked Vino.

"Her body was never found but I presume she died by being caught in the blast somehow" replied Shinn.

"Shinn" began Kira which Shinn turned to his commander. "May I have a picture of your sister?"

"Why?"

"The image will go along the ones that perished in war. Do you know the wall of innocents up in the PLANTs?"

"Yes" Shinn really didn't know where the Commander was going with this.

"Give me a picture of her which I'll e-mail it to some of my men in the PLANT's. They'll print one out and put in on there for you"

"You would do that for me sir?"

"Of course" smiled Kira. Shinn then sent a picture of Mayu through his phone to Kira's. They have after all since the attack, were told to keep each other's numbers in case. With that Shinn could now sit down and allow the next to speak. "Meyrin Hawke. Your next"

Meyrin stood up and made her way down which she stood in front of the small crowd. She searched for her words before beginning. "Well before I joined ZAFT, I lived with my mom and my sister. And we lived in a nice flat overlooking the city at Aprilius One"

"Sorry Meyrin to interrupt, but what about your father?" asked Kira which he rested his head on his hand.

"He...died. At the operation Spitbreak" Kira jolted up and looked at the girl. "He was killed in the self-destruct of the base by the Cyclops system"

Kira looked away. "I'm terribly sorry to hear that"

"Its okay sir. He was one of the first pilots into the base. Our family remains proud of him" Saying that Meyrin caught the attention of her older sister, smiling proudly at her younger sister.

After an explanation on her background Kira let her to sit down. "Rey Za Burrel" called out Kira.

Rey looked at Kira wide eyed and nervous. It was strange to see the blonde like that. Rey quickly got up and went to Kira whispering to him. "Kira. I can't tell them"

"You don't have to mention about your birth, just what you did in your childhood and talents. But say about being a Newtype, and I'll back you" promised Kira.

Rey grunted and made his way to the center. As he stood there he didn't know where to start.

Luna looked worriedly at Rey as his secret was about to be told. 'What are you doing Commander?! You know he can't tell anyone!', she screamed in her head hoping Rey will tell a lie.

"Come on Rey. They would like to know" encouraged Kira.

"If he has a past" muttered Meyrin. Rey immediately glared at the little girl.

Kira didn't know what she exactly said but decided to defend Rey, after all this little discussion was a part of the plan. "Meyrin, its that kind of attitude that led to that fight in the rec space. I will not have that repeated. Understand?"

"But sir! What has anything to do with Rey and me is nothing of your business!"

Now, people would say that was brave, however others will say that was 'fucking stupid', especially when your talking to Kira in a foul mood. Kira's eye twitched with anger clearly seen on his face. "I fucking think it id my business!!" boomed Kira, now Meyrin realised her mistake. "It is that attitude that landed you in trouble before!!"

With the force and sure anger in his voice it terrified Meyrin which she quickly sat down and shivered. Luna although scarred, had blush on her cheeks at the mention of Rey and her. "I-I'm sorry sir" she said holding herself together.

"I fucking hope so" snarled Kira. "Carry on Rey, tell them"

Rey frowned and prepared the story. "Well I didn't have much of a childhood really. I was abandoned when I was five. Alone and afraid, I feared that my life was short. That was until I met and was saved by Rau Le Creuset"

The audience were shocked by this. Rau Le Creuset was known as a cruel, merciless, cold hearted bastard. Why would he save a life such as Rey's? They then assumed that there was more to Le Creuset than everybody thought.

"He became my teacher of some sort, which he also taught me the piano. Eventually he left me to some foster parents to go to fight the Valentine War"

Shinn thought about this, according to Rey, Rau was a nice person before the war. Did that change him? Does that mean that it might change Rey or anyone else in this room?

"Afterwards I joined ZAFT, which I met everyone here"

"Say Rey" asked Yolant, "How talented are you on the piano?"

"Pretty good. As I've been told"

"I would like to hear some of your work sometime Rey" Kira said, with interest on how talented he really was.

"Thank you sir" replied Rey.

The next one was Luna, she took to the stage and smiled happily as Rey kept his darkest secret. "Well, how shall I begin?"

"How about, why do you like Rey?" asked Kira scribbling away on his notebook.

Luna turned bright red and shot around to the Commander. "Sir!" she whined. "I don't think that's appropriate!" Luna thought that her feelings for Rey, were private and not anyone else's business.

"Luna, I wasn't asking. That was order" said Kira not looking at her.

"F-fine!"

Kira had done it, he was going to get the feelings between the two out and in the open. The crew would only guess to why he was asking this. But it was simple. Kira wanted to get the backgrounds of the team out, Shinn was asked about his family, to know his background a little better. Meyrin was to get the picture of her family out, it was directly aimed at Rey. And it was vice-versa with Rey, but not to reveal his complete past. And Luna's was to let her little sister know why she loved him, if Luna didn't hold in her feelings, then Meyrin might understand.

"Well...", Luna began but stopped to think. 'Shit how can I explain this?' "I like blonde guys" '...What the fuck was that?!'

Everyone fell out of the chairs in the worst reason they heard. Kira got back onto his seat with his eyebrow twitching. "You sure that's it?"

"N-no! It's hard to explain..."

"What do you mean?" asked her sister not convinced in her excuses now.

"Like I said it's hard to explain!" stressed Luna but she calmed down a little as she looked at Rey. "It's like I feel a dark pressure around him, and deep down there was a little boy who wanted to be held and loved. I don't know why it feels like that, it just...does"

Everyone looked at Luna shocked for her words. Not as much as Kira was, his eyes were wide and he couldn't believe what he actually heard. 'If what she says is true...but that's impossible! I can't even feel a slight presence of Newtype powers around her!'. Kira was unaware of her being one, the report showed her to be a Coordinator, Shinn was an exception, he was informed by Durandal that he was a Newtype. But Kira had no indication of Lunamaria being one. He would have to investigate later on the matter.

Luna then smiled and rubbed her head. "Strange huh?"

"You can say that again!" said Vino.

However Shinn and Rey remained quiet. Shinn didn't know what this meant but it had something to do with him as well.

"Well, that was interesting Luna" thanked Kira, "Now next one, Vino..."

For Vino and Yolant they explained that they were highly interested in Mobile Suits, no matter how old or new they were. Kira thought despite their young age they were keen on their job. They were also Lacus Clyne fans which Vino asked if Kira could get her autograph for him.

After the discussion, the young ZAFT soldiers had mixed feelings with themselves in the room. And Kira could sense it, he smiled at which they hopefully settled that fight aside and be friends again. Because he needs a team in unity against the enemies they would encounter.

"Now that that is over I wish to..."

"Sir!" interrupted Shinn. "What about you?"

Kira blinked twice and realized he hadn't told them of his life. "Okay then" he smiled which he placed the notebook down and looked back at them. "I guess the first thing that comes to my past was when I was living on the friendly moon colony. That is where I met Athrun..."


0841 Hours - Lacus's Room

Lacus moved slowly to reach for the person who was in her bed but felt noting she opened her eyes only to see although blurry, that Kira wasn't here. She sat up and rubbed her eyes. "I guess Kira got up and went for breakfast" she said through her yawn. She jumped lightly out of the bed and went for a shower. She later dried herself and got dressed. Then a thought entered her mind. "I don't have any other clothes than these ones..." She then looked at her panties on the floor that needed to be washed. She sighed as she couldn't wear then, their still dirty after the foreplay last night. She then walked out hoping to meet Kira, Cagalli and Athrun at the officers dining hall.


0836 Hours - Cagalli's Room

Athrun was first up which he went to take a shower. The beating sound of the shower awakened Cagalli from her sleep, she stirred a bit before attempting to get out of the bed. She then looked at the clock next to her. "WHAT?!" she cried out, "It's this early!" she moaned.

Believing Cagalli had hurt herself, Athrun shot out of the shower without a towel. Cagalli starred at her lover with a sly smile. Athrun looked at himself and realized why she was smiling. He glared at her, "Its nothing that you haven't seen before" he muttered before walking back to the bathroom.

"Athrun!" she called out as she made her way into the bathroom.

"What?" he replied rinsing his hair.

"I just realized that we have no other clothes than our uniforms"

Athrun stopped his rinse and realized also. "Dammit!" he cursed.

"What is it?"

"You're right. We don't have anything else besides our uniforms. I guess we have to go to shopping for some new clothes"

"I can't believe that I realised this before you! Even though I was worst off last night" Cagalli said in some triumphant tone.

"Yeah, and despite you threw up in the toilets several times" teased Athrun.

"Shut up!"


0836 Hours - Minerva Command Planning Room

Kira had finished his story with the conclusion how he escaped from Orb and joined the Fallen Angels. To choose the words to express what the team were feeling, would be astonished. Shinn never knew that the Commander would have once been peaceful person to become what he is now.

Kira looked at his watch. "I think thats enough from me. The story took its toll really badly. Now to conclude this, I want you lot to clean the flats outside the officers quarters, from top to bottom. And when your done, met me at the officers dining hall. There I will allow you to dine there, for your breakfast". Kira left as he gave out the punishment, which the crew looked at him with heads low and in a foul mood.


0843 Hours - Carpentaria Officer's Dining Hall

Lacus entered the dining hall with very little personnel in here. There was a few ZAFT officers and one or two Fallen officers. Then she noticed Gilbert Durandal and Rau Le Creuset sitting at a table with four ZAFT guards around them. She walked up to them to see them watching the news on the television. It showed images of the defeated Earth fleet that attacked the Gibraltar base. Many of the victorious Mobile Suits were Fallen Angel SINN units. However Gilbert smiled regardless, Gibraltar was safe.

He then turned his attention finally to Lacus with his smile still holding. "Good morning Miss Lacus. How fare was your sleep?"

"It was good thank you Chairman" she replied politely, and then the images from last with Kira played in her head. She shook them out as to continue a conversion with the two men. "Excuse Le Creuset, where is Kira?"

"He's behind you" he replied looking at her.

She spun around to see Kira getting his meal and walked towards the table where the three waited for him. "Excuse me Chairman for being late. I had to punish my members of the ship, due to last night" said Kira as he sat down and started to eat his toast.

"Why? What have they done?" asked Lacus concerned to those crew involved. Kira explained after swallowing the chewed toast. Lacus was shocked by this development. "I hope you didn't give them such a harsh one"

"It's not that serious. Because if this is fine with you Chairman, I didn't fancy with the crisis we're at the moment, to send them to prison, or place them in the brig. Don't you agree?" Kira looked at the long black haired man which still smiled.

"Of course. They'll be pardoned and I hope they'll be properly sorted out" replied Gilbert picking up his cup of tea and slowly drank from it.

"They will sir, without a doubt you can trust me"

"Good"

Then after a couple of minutes later after Lacus got her breakfast, Cagalli and Athrun entered in their uniform getting their meal, and sat down with the rest of important figures. "Good morning Athrun and Miss Athha. I hope you enjoyed your sleep" asked Rau feeling in a good mood.

"Yes thank you Le Creuset" replied Cagalli somewhat annoyed. The rest didn't know why but left it at that. The meal went silent, making those at the table feel uncomfortable.

Lacus wanted to break the icy silence so she asked her blonde friend. "What's wrong Cagalli? Your in such a foul mood"

"We need new clothes but we don't have any money. All the money we had was at Orb and now the Seirans have confiscated it. We're broke" Cagalli explained resting her head on her arms.

"We'll get some money somehow" Athrun tried to pick up her spirits but a failed attempt.

"How Athrun?" shot back the golden haired girl.

Athrun just sighed in defeat, its true how were they going to get money? They were also a rouge crew now.

"I'll pay for what you need" replied Kira. Which his sisters head perked up sharply and then got out of her seat and hugged her twin brother.

"Thank you Kira! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" she cheered thankful.

"Its alright" said Kira as the grip his sisters hug tightened around his neck. "Can you let go of me now?"

"Er! Sure!"

A few minutes then past which the mood was greatly improved. Gilbert couldn't exactly believe this. 'That's strange. Just one person's foul mood effected everybody else's. It's like she has some sort of control', he thought.

Just then the small punished group, entered exhausted. They were stopped by the guards near the door, but Kira insisted to let them in that they then approached Kira.

"Commander, we finished the task you gave us" said Rey.

"Good" replied Kira looking at his watch. "That was certainly quick"

"Yes sir. But it was a large area you got us to clean"

Kira lightly laughed. "True. Now get something to eat. I want you lot to get some energy in you, and have a shower and change of civilian clothes. I got a task for you three, Shinn, Rey and Luna afterwards. I want you to met me outside in about an hour" The group sighed in annoyance. "Don't worry. Its nothing compared to the one I just gave you" he reassured them.

After they all finished their meals. Gilbert excused himself with Rau as they had to get on with the war situation on earth. Kira got up with Lacus, Cagalli and Athrun and left to get ready to go out. Whilst the rest enjoyed their meal, going for second's.


Outside, An hour Later

Kira waited outside in his civilian clothes, overlooking the events of last night. 'There was certainly something there last night', he thought to himself. 'Her eyes cried out for the love she missed'.

Just then the three arrived in their civvies. "Your orders sir?" asked Luna ready and waiting to go.

"Good. I want you three to help escort, Lacus, Athrun and Cagalli to the shopping district on the base. I think that as the pilots of the Minerva, you should get as much free time as you can as well. Especially when we had a bad run in Orb. Right?" Kira asked which the three nodded. "Good. Now who can drive?" Only Rey rose his hand. Kira sighed. "Okay Shinn, I want you to come with me and Lacus. I'll drive. Rey and Luna, you take Cagalli and Athrun"

The three nodded and followed their Commander to the Aston Martin borrowed cars, that they were lent to by ZAFT. Kira opened the passenger seat to the leading vehicle, to let Lacus in. She smiled happily and walked over to the car and got in. Athrun did the same with Cagalli. After all Kira and Athrun think on the same wavelength when it comes to romance, even though Kira is slightly shyer. Shinn got in the backseat and muttered to himself, "Its like being a kid again"

Rey and Luna got into the back seats which the two cars sped off to the mall.


1011 Hours - Carpentaria Mall

Kira stood there with everyone else as they looked amazed to the style the mall was. It was high class and looked expensive. Kira lifted his stylish sunglasses from his eyes and looked around. "Clothing store..." he said to himself. "Ah! There it is" he said as he went straight to it, which they followed him in.

Lacus instantly went to the underwear section which Shinn caught her going into. 'Is she in short supply or something?', Shinn asked himself.

Cagalli went to shirts, which Athrun and Kira looked at her with a sweat drop on their heads. "Cagalli...you aren't going for the tank tops again are you?" asked Athrun irritated.

"Why not?" she shot back picking up a shirt she liked.

"Cagalli your too old for that now" said Kira. "That's for rebellious kids. Like Shinn" teased Kira as Shinn shot a look at his officer.

"So what? How are you going to stop me?"

"Well for starters I'm paying remember?"

"...Shit!" she ferociously chucks the shirt onto the railing. "Well what do you want me to wear?"

"Something normal" joked Athrun, making the two friends chuckled.

"I'm going to get you back for that" she muttered. "Well then fashion experts! What shall I wear?"

Athrun walked to another section which Cagalli followed. Kira just stood there and sighed. "Its going to take a miracle to get her to wear something else" he said to no one in particular.

Meanwhile Lacus had chosen the clothes she wanted and went to try them on. Luna showed up with Rey to help her out. "How can we help you Ms. Lacus?" asked Luna smiling brightly.

"Erm, can you go and get Kira for me?" she asked politely.

"Sure! Just wait here a minute. Wait here with Rey okay?" and with that Luna was off, which the clone and the infamous ex-singer starred and each other in an awkward silence.

'This is awkward. Why isn't he talking to me?'

'She ain't saying anything. What's the problem?', thought Rey.

"So Rey...how is the relationship between you and Lunamaria?" asked Lacus desperately wanting to break the silence.

"...Well..." started Rey but stopped as he searched for the correct words to use. "It is fine I suppose Miss Clyne-"

"Please Rey, call me Lacus. We aren't informal now. Remember last night?"

Rey's memories shot back about the events last night, he was actually laughing and talking a lot with everyone last night. He blushed slightly. "I remember"

"So what's the problem?"

Rey sighed and scratched his scalp of his long blond hair. "It's her sister" he began. "She's...well she doesn't like me very much, in fact the word despise is better to describe what she feels. She might speak ill of me her parents"

"Do you love her?" asked Lacus going serious on the issue.

"Yes. I would gladly give my life for her. She is...my first love" Rey admitted embarrassed.

Lacus noticed his blush, and giggled. "There's nothing to be embarrassed about Rey" said Lacus as she sat down on the cushion seats near her. She gestured Rey to sit next to her which he did but he was uneasy about it. "I think its kinda amazing that something like that happened"

Rey turned to her with a slight shocked expression. "You do?"

"Yes! Rey it sounds like fate. You were fated to fall for her"

Rey looked away and thought that it was nice for something like that to be said, but it sounded too unrealistic. He knew when people said that about couples, they eventually break up. 'Is that also fate? No'. Rey was determined not to lose Luna. He promised himself that ever since the Junius 7 incident.

"Do you think she loves you?" asked Lacus. Rey looked at the pink haired lady, a little taken back by the question. "Well I suppose..." he replied uncertain. He knew she loved him. But deep down inside he felt that she will still drift away from him.

"You suppose? I believe she loves to the very end Rey. You know why I ask that?"

Rey shook his head to her question.

"Her arm's bandaged right?" she continued, which the blond nodded. "She took that hit for you. Doesn't that mean anything like she holds you in a very special place?"

Rey looked astonished. "I-It does sound something like that"

"That's because I believe that you were destined to be together. Like me and..." she stopped herself, thinking of Kira.

Rey sensed this. He knew the relationship must be a little shaky with Kira in the Fallen Angels and the recent attitude change in him. "He still loves you Lacus" said Rey snapping Lacus back into reality. "He still loves you and probably from what I can tell, you can never be replaced"

Rey's words struck cords in her heart. It was like a symphony played inside. She smiled brightly at the clone with slight tears coming through. "Thank you Rey"

Rey then sensed this sudden change of emotion and seeing the tears. Rey's eyes widened and he slightly panicked. "No! No! Lacus don't cry" Rey didn't want Kira to see her crying as it made a bad impression.

"I'm sorry" she said still smiling. "Anyway, like I said. If she risked to take a hit for you. That means something Rey. And I doubt that even her sister or parents would stop that"

Rey smiled brightly. "Thank you Lacus" He was sure now, he was sure that she did feel the same as him. Talking to Lacus like this made it feel like a mother and son discussion. But to fit the picture perfectly, she was like a sister in law, to him through Kira. After all Kira was like a brother to him.

Just then Luna returned with Kira. "Sorry it took so long Miss Lacus. I had to drag him away from Miss Athha and Athrun" Luna explained.

"Well if I wasn't there Athrun would have been through all the store's windows" replied Kira.

"She ain't being picky about clothes again is she?" asked Lacus sighing.

"Yep. And she refuses to wear clothes that we're trying to chose for her. It is kinda difficult when she's a tomboy" replied Kira looking at what Lacus held onto to. "They're nice clothes you have there Lacus"

"Thank you. It's the reason why your here" she replied.

Kira tilted his head as she went into the changing room. The Commander looked at the two young pilots which the two shrugged their shoulders. Kira allowed them to go and enjoy themselves. After one or two minutes the curtain swung open which Kira turned to his look at her, his eyes widened at what he saw.

"What do you think Kira?" she asked. She wore a black dress that had a pink outline running on the edges. It looked like a tight fit, making her breasts push outwards, looking bigger. She also had a mini skirt. "So what do you think Kira?"

"...Yeah!" he said happily.


With Cagalli and Athrun

"Well how about this?" asked Cagalli coming out wearing a jeans and a tight shirt. Athrun was more pleased with this one. At least it was different. He nodded his head approval and she went behind the curtain again. After a while she reemerged wearing something Athrun totally wasn't expecting. She came out wearing another tight shirt but a white with a sky blue skirt just above the knee.

Athrun was stunned to what he was seeing. Was it a dream?

"Well?" she asked annoyed as she wore it.

"You look great!" he said happily.

The compliment caught her completely off guard which she blushed. "Athrun!" she hissed embarrassed.

"What can't I compliment you when you look beautiful?"

She then shone a deeper red. "Athrun!"

He stood up and took her into his arms. And kissed her. After they parted she gave him a playful slap.


The three ZAFT pilots

The three sat around a table drinking smoothies as they relaxed. Shinn let out a sigh of relief and as the cold smoothie tasted great. "This is our punishment?" asked Shinn to the other two smiling.

"I know. More like he's spoiling us!" giggled Luna. Luna looked down to her bags that she...well Rey bought for her.

"Everyone thinks he's hard and scary but deep down he's a nice guy"

"Too right!"

"Like he said we better make the most of it" said Rey. The other two nodded. "Excuse me. I'll be back in a minute" Rey stood up and made his way to the toilets. Luna watched him as he went.

"Sorry Luna, I gonna check out this motorbike shop down there", said Shinn as he went off.

She was literary alone, as there was hardly anybody here, as it was during the working hours. She then looked in the direction of the male toilets. She smiled evilly as she got up and made sure no one saw her sneak in.

Rey finished his relief and he was washing his hands until he felt someone's presence coming in, a one familiar to him. He breathed out heavily as he guessed who it could be. Luna's face perked around the door which she walked in as the coast was clear. "You have a nasty habit of getting into the men's toilets don't you?" said Rey as she wrapped her arms around him.

"Come here Rey" she said as she pulled on his hand to cubicle which she closed it and locked, resting her back on the door. The violet redhead gently pushed him onto the toilet behind him. She starred at his ice blue eyes, smiling faintly. She knelt down and unzipped his trousers pulling out his big pulsing cock in her hand.

"Luna...what-" he was cut off as she devoured his manhood in her mouth. Licking the top and then sucking slowly on it. He just groaned happily with a slight smile on his face. 'I ain't going to argue'.

She picked up the pace which Rey enjoyed the experience. Just then two people walked in. Rey didn't even notice them coming in as he was, well distracted.

"So you got everything?" asked a voice similar to Kira's.

"Yeah. What shall we do now?" asked the other sounding like Athrun.

"Don't know. Play arcade games?"

"Sure why not. Those two are going on a shopping spree with your card"

Kira chuckled at the thought. "I know"

Luna regardless continued to amuse Rey with her talent that Rey was now panting but he tried to hold it back until the two left. They washed their hands and left chatting what they should play on. Rey relaxed and let his groans out. Luna then squeezed lightly on Rey's balls, making him jerk a little. He was enjoying this, as would any other person would.

She then deep throat his cock, which Rey released his load. The sound of small chocking nosies was filled with Rey's powerful grunt. Luna got some air back into her lungs and drank the load before smiling and winked at him. Rey looked a little flustered but he quickly composed himself and cleaned up before heading out with Luna. If it weren't to Rey's Newtype powers, he wouldn't know if someone was coming or not. They left the bathroom as if nothing happened.


1217 Hours - Outside the Mall

After Cagalli and Athrun got new clothes, they instantly changed into them. Athrun wore a black and white jacket, with a lime green shirt underneath, and black trousers and shoes. He then placed his orange shades on as the sunlight shone on him. Cagalli went to wear the skirt and shirt that Athrun liked. The two with Lacus approached the cars with their shopping. Kira leaned against the car, waiting patiently with his shades in his hand.

"You guys finished?" asked Kira looking at them.

"Yep. And thanks for lending us your card Kira" smirked Cagalli as she handed it back to him. Kira had a small shiver down his spine at the thought of the bill he would have to pay.

"Let's get going then" replied Kira as he placed his shades back on. The bags were in as were the passengers, which they drove back to the base's sleeping quarters.


1221 Hours - Commander's Office

Gilbert as always had paperwork to work with as well as reports on the front lines of ZAFT battles. Although outnumbered so far, the Fallen Angels had helped keep the Atlantic Federation at bay. ZAFT was fairing fine but how long will they last until the Atlantic Federation calls upon its so called earth allies? Gilbert listened to his military aide as he described the numbers and losses of their current forces in Gibraltar.

Gilbert rested his head on his hand looking bored. He did care but he was worried about how did the Atlantic Federation get their nukes. They and other nations made sure that those weapons were confiscated and destroyed. How did they get them?

"So sorry to interrupt you" said Rau as he approached the two. "But I think Mr. Chairman that you need to have a look at this"

"How important is it?" asked Gilbert raising his head.

"Very. It is about the nuclear weapons that were used against the PLANT's" Rau smiled holding up a disc.

This certainly got Gilbert's attention. He excused the aide and sat up straight to hear what the clone had to say.


1225 Hours - Outside the Sleeping Quarters

The two cars pulled up next to the large building which they all instantly got out. It wasn't long until Kira was approached by a Fallen Angel soldier. He ran up to the officer, coming to attention and saluted him. "Saint Commander Yamato sir! You have been requested along with everyone in your ship to bring yourselves to the Command briefing room immediately"

"What's this all about?" asked Kira with slight annoyance.

"Deity Commander Le Creuset said he will explain everything there sir. I don't know the details I'm afraid" replied the soldier.

"That's alright. Be on your way. We'll head there now" replied Kira, and the soldier left. He turned to everyone else. "Whatever this is, it ain't good"


1234 Hours - Command Briefing Room

Everyone in the large room were discussing what could this meeting be about. Kira along with Talia and the rest of the important officials sat patiently as required. Shinn, Luna and Rey sat just next to Kira. Why were they told to sit next to the highest ranking officer of their ship was a mystery, but they did as they told. They were back in their military rig much to their disappointment.

"Sir, do you know whats this about?" asked Talia, turning to the CO.

"I have as much of a clue as you do Talia" replied Kira.

"I see. I have to thank you sir" said Talia making Kira look at her. "You could have punished the those kids badly. But you gave them a slap on the wrist and then you treat the pilots a day out in the shopping area"

"Well, they need to relax. Because they aren't going to get the chance when we have to go to fight. Pilots out of everyone else suffer the worst. Because they are the one's actually risking themselves in the open"

"I see" Talia didn't know what being a pilot was about, but if Kira, an ace in a Mobile Suit said so, then she couldn't argue with that.

"Besides, expect the flats to be very shiny when we get back" smiled Kira.

Talia only gave him a puzzling look.

Just then a ZAFT soldier entered. "All come to attention and salute, Chairman Durandal and Deity Commander Le Creuset!" shouted the soldier. Which they did and Gilbert and Rau entered with a Fallen Angel soldier. But then followed by Cagalli, Athrun, Lacus, Mu and Murrue. A little discussion went on but they were silenced. "Be quiet and be seated!" And again they followed the order.

Gilbert stood out in front of Rau to brief them. "I glad to have you all here. You have been called here due to an interesting piece of information that we gathered about the nuclear weapons the Atlantic Federation had. As you all know the weapons after the war was taken off them as they had a greater risk to the PLANT's than any other earth nation. But something was discovered that I believe you all would be interested in" explained Gilbert as this certainly got their attention. "Deity Commander Le Creuset will explain" finished Gilbert as he sat down in front of everyone else.

Rau took the stage. "As the Chairman had said, this is information we got about the attack on the homeland. So listen carefully" Rau took the disc out of his uniform's coat and gave it to the Fallen soldier. He went to the computer nearby and inserted the disc and opened, and presented it on the projector. "The location where we found the nuke storage is here"

The first slide showed an image of a military base, taken from the sea. Snow and ice was everywhere, which meant that it was in an arctic area. The picture also showed various hangers, Earth Alliance mobile suits and a Mass Driver. The bottom right corner also displayed the name. 'Fort Iceblade'

Kira instantly noticed it and spoke up. "So our intelligence boys had found something there?"

Rau turned to his young officer and smiled. "Indeed. This ladies and gentlemen is as it says Fort Iceblade. It's located on the Severnaya Zemlya Islands"

"Severnayra Zemlya Islands? You mean it's in Eurasia?" asked Talia remembering the name. She remembered it as it was rumored to a secret base there for a while but no proof was ever discovered.

"Correct Captain Gladys. This is the location where the Atlantic Federation got their nukes from" replied Rau. The next slide showed Earth soldiers and Mobile Suits moving nukes onto a platform. The next one showed it to be a vessel. And the next showed it launched into space by the Mass Driver. Another showed the stock pile of nukes in a hanger.

Soon people within the room were discussing what sneaky bastards the Eurasian Federation were. Pretending to be neutral in all this but in fact helping the Atlantic Federation. They were all silenced by the ZAFT soldier.

"Now this is all the proof we need to strike back on the Eurasians" stood up Gilbert. "We must launch an attack on the facility to stop anymore of these diabolical weapons reaching space that will threatened our people again. Saint Commander Yamato"

Kira stood up. "Yes Chairman"

"I want you to lead the attack on the facility along with Le Creuset. You will have eight Vosgov class submarines to assist you"

"We will also have some of the Doom Angel squadron to assist as well" added Rau. "They will provide us with three Neptune submarines and their Deity Commander will also assist"

"Sergei is coming with us?" Kira asked again.

"Yes"

"Good. I owe that bastard back for the vodka he gave me"

Athrun chuckled along with Rau and Gilbert. Everyone else were shocked to hear a lower ranking officer call a higher like that. But it occurred in Talia's mind that the Fallen Angels were like friend's of some sort.

"Well, now that this is settled. Prepare to launch for the attack tomorrow at 1400" ordered Gilbert.

"Yes sir!"


1324 Hours - Outside the Base's Hangers

After the meeting, Kira had brought Rey and Luna with him to the hangers. Whilst Luna was totally unsure what this was about, Rey had a very good idea what it was. They were driven in a jeep by a Fallen soldier. Luna looked at the skies which she could see drop pods coming through the skies, which she could only guess to be the Doom Angel squadron. She easily guessed that the smaller pods were their Mobile Suits whilst the much larger ones to be the submarines, three which would participate in the operation tomorrow.

"We're here" said Kira as the soldier pulled up to a hanger, and he jumped out of the passenger's seat. He walked up to the hanger with a key card in his hand. Rey helped Luna out and they caught up to their officer. He stopped by card reader, and turned his head to them.

"What is this we're here for sir?" asked Luna.

Kira smiled, "Let's just say, its a present" replied Kira and he swiped the card. The large clank sound for the locks meant it was unlocked. Another one sounded and the doors slowly opened. "Come on" Kira walked in with the lights out, but the sunlight beamed in. Luna and Rey followed, which they stopped half way in to see a Mobile Suit, no, a Gundam stood there.

"W-what is this sir?" another question Luna threw at Kira.

Kira stood on the bridge to the cockpit of the unit and looked back. "This...is your new unit Luna. ZGMF-X23S Saviour, a unit derived from the GAT-X303 Aegis and the ZGMF-X09A Justice. It can transform into a mobile armor for aerial combat with extra speed and mobility. It also has two large plasma beam cannons on its back and it has two beam sabres. I believe its an excellent unit for you Luna also..." Kira opened the cockpit and climbed in turning on the Phase-Shift Armour. "It's colour is red"

Luna screamed in joy, jumping up and down happily. "Thank you sir! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

"I wouldn't thank me" replied Kira, which she stopped. "I would thank your boyfriend behind you. He asked me to get you a new, powerful unit"

Luna bolted round to see Rey scratching his head, blushing slightly and looking at the floor, smiling. She sprinted to him and wrapped her arms around his neck kissing him.

Rey remembered back to what Lacus had told him.

"Do you think she loves you?" asked Lacus.

Rey looked at the pink haired lady a little taken back by the question. "Well I suppose..." he replied uncertain. He knew she loved him. But deep down inside he felt that she will still drift away from him.

"You suppose? I believe she loves to the end Rey. You know why I ask that?"

Rey shook his head to her question.

"Her arm's bandaged right?" she continued, which the blond nodded. "She took that hit for you. Doesn't that mean anything like she holds you in a very special place?"

Rey looked astonished. "I-It does sound something like that"

"That's because I believe that you were destined to be together"

Rey knew that this was love, true love. The love that he knew was true and real.

"Lunamaria" called out Kira, which she broke off the kiss and looked at Kira, a little annoyed by the interruption. "Before your kiss becomes a little too passionate, take your unit back to the Minerva. I need to take Rey to his"

Luna looked back at the blonde, which he nodded to let her carryout her order. She then walked quickly to her unit which Kira walked down from the bridge and towards Rey. "Lets take you to your unit"

Kira walked out with Rey following to the next hanger, which again Kira swiped his card through the reader and the doors unlocked and opened. There standing was the unit Rey requested. "The TSA-462 SINN" said Rey with a smile.

"And its yours" replied Kira. "I had it painted white for your own personal colour. Also the attachments to the unit is in a large crate being boarded onto the Minerva as we speak. Take your new sword Rey. And lets make a new future"


Minerva Bridge

Talia and Arthur were busy going over the specs on the situation of the ship and its supplies needed before the operation. Talia was told that a large crate was being lifted on by the order of their Saint Commander. Talia noted that but she didn't know what it was, nor told. All she knew it was being lifted into the Mobile Suit hanger.

Bart Heim was checking on his sensors and secondary systems. He looked at his screen showing Fallen Angel SINN's flying to their positions for landing on the base and some boarded the Neptune subs. There was other units such as the new ZAFT BABI's doing capability tests and DINN's going on patrol. However something caught his eye, a new unknown unit and a SINN unit heading towards the hanger.

"Ma'am! There are two units heading straight for us. I believe they're going to enter the hanger" alerted Bart.

Talia sighed. Kira was probably bringing units on board without her consulting. "Let them on. I'll go to the hanger. Arthur finish up here will you?"

"Yes ma'am!" replied Arthur as she left.


Minerva Hanger

Meyrin had finished her checks on her side and was with Yolant and Vino discussing what they expected from the battle in the cold north. Shinn was in his Impulse checking the Operating System over again and changing the settings he would prefer for the upcoming battle.

Just then the alert to clear the deck for two Mobile Suits was on the broadcast and everyone followed. Soon the hanger doors opened and the two units landed. One was a white SINN which looked like it was carrying something in its right hand and the other one was a red Gundam. The audience gasped and gazed at the units. Talia then entered to see the units.

The two then stood in their respected locations where Rey's and Luna's ZAKU units once stood.

"I wonder who's in those" wondered Vino.

Just then they saw their CO stand up on the white SINN's hand and leapt off, landing perfectly. Soon the two pilots climbed out of their cockpits, that which the crew were shocked to see it to be Luna and Rey. The two pilots walked to Kira happy with their new units.

"How were they?" asked Kira.

"Awesome!" Luna replied happily. "I never used a Gundam before!"

"Its what I wanted" Rey agreed.

"Good" said Kira.

"Commander!" called Talia which he turned around to see her. "Are these..."

"Ours? Of course. They are Rey's and Lunamaria's" he looked at the Saviour and smiled. "That" said Kira pointing at the Gundam. "Is Rey's present to Luna"

Everyone gasped. At the two. Rey looked slightly embarrassed while Luna hugged him. Meyrin saw the two and couldn't help but feel uncomfortable with him still, despite everything that happened this morning she couldn't get used to him. Shinn walked up and whistled with amazement at the Saviour and the SINN.

"They look cool" complimented Shinn looking at the two.

"They will surely back you up better now Shinn" added Kira. He turned his attention to the large container. "Rey that large container there holds all the SINN's attachment packs. Your anti beam shield with its twin beam claw, plasma artillery, missile pods and beam hookshot. But that is nothing compared to the system on your unit"

"The DRAGOON system?" guessed Rey smiling.

"Yes. It yet has to be upgraded but I'll make sure you'll get the new version as soon as its tested"

"I thought it can't be used on earth" asked Vino intrigued to what Kira meant by new version.

"Well it can't. For now" replied Kira smiling.


1856 Hours - Carpentaria Commander's Office

Gilbert and Rau were going through the final details on the operation for tomorrow, when they got a call saying that Cagalli, Athrun, Lacus, Mu and Murrue wanted to speak to them. Unsure what they wanted they allowed them. The five came in and stood before the two men.

"How may I help you Miss Athha?" asked Gilbert.

"Chairman, the operation tomorrow. I was wondering if the Archangel could participate with your attack fleet tomorrow" requested Cagalli, catching both men off guard.

The two men looked at each other confused. Athrun stepped forward, "We wish to help. You were tricked by the Atlantic Federation with Eurasia. We wish to give a little payback for the rebellion they did at Orb"

"I can see why" began Gilbert. "But you aren't with any nation nor do you belong to us as a military group"

"Then we are mercenaries" said Lacus, that the two men looked at each other again.

"You could need a little more fire-power with the mission and we need to get paid for our own little revolution against the Seirans" added Mu.

"We want to help. You had taken us in and helped us. Its the least we can do" Murrue also added.

Gilbert leaned back and thought about it. He smiled and looked back. "Of course you can help us. The legendary Archangel is welcome to help us bring peace to this war"

The Archangel crew smiled and thanked them, before leaving before preping themselves for the mission tomorrow.

"I told you brining them to the brief today will lead to them helping us" said Rau as they were gone.

"I never said they wouldn't. Now what is the situation with the Doom Angel's?" asked Gilbert.

"They have all the weapons and men they need. They're ready to sail tomorrow and to take that base" replied Rau looking out the window, at the orange sky that bestowed itself over the subs and two warships.

"Good. Once you have that base you can do whatever you want with it for your own plans"

"Thank you Chairman"

"Just make sure you do you part and I'll do my own"

"I wouldn't think of it any other way" replied Rau before going back top the details of the plan tomorrow.


1907 Hours - Archangel Bridge

"We're going to war tomorrow and I can't help but feel awkward around the Fallen Angels" said Miriallia. "They're bringing their own weapons and Kira is leading the Minerva into battle"

"Let's not forget to add that Le Creuset is leading the whole operation" added Mu.

"Now that is awkward" said Athrun as he had the thought of serving his ex-Commander again.

"What's plan after the operation?" asked Murrue. "I doubt we'll head back here"

"We would most probably head to Gibraltar" replied Lacus. "They need the most help there after we attack this facility at Severnaya. Eurasia and the Atlantic Federation would be after that base"

"Well, we'll sort this out later. I think we should rest for tonight and prepare for launch tomorrow. Its a long trip to Severnaya. We'll be going through various patches of icebergs there" said Mu stretching.

"Agreed. We'll meet back here tomorrow at 0900" declared Cagalli, and the bridge agreed and broke off ti their sleeping quarters.

Lacus and Cagalli remained to talk amongst several things. "Well Lacus..." Cagalli started. "What are you going to do with Kira?"

Lacus gave a puzzling look at her friend.

"I mean what are your plans? Are you going to stay by him or come with us to fight for Orb?"

Lacus really didn't know. Although she loved Kira with all her heart she couldn't abandoned her home at Orb. "I don't know"

Cagalli lowered her head. "If you stay by him, you'll be dragged into battles and I know you don't want to see him kill people. But coming with us, I know you'll just worry about him"

"Cagalli...for the first time in my life. I really don't know what to do" Lacus replied with her eyes watering. "I don't want him to be alone, and I don't him to hurt people"

Cagalli went to her friend and embraced her for comfort. 'Poor Lacus...she's in a vicious circle about that idiot. If this is how destiny works. It has a strange way of dealing it'.

To Be Continued...

Ending Theme : Shadow of the Day – Linkin Park

A/N: This chapter was to slowly build itself to the next chapter which features the battle of Severnaya. It was meant to show the two couples Kira/Lacus and Rey/Luna, their emotions and opinions of their relationship with each other. Rey having his first love, was unsure of the relationship as he thought that Luna was using him somehow. Lacus is unsure if her relationship with Kira will work out. But Rey now believes in Luna, whilst we leave Lacus on a cliffhanger of some sort.

We will also met Sergei Petkov, the Doom Angels squadron's Deity Commander. And we will have a big battle for the control of the nuclear facility. We will also bring the Extended into the battle and Rau will pilot again. So prepare yourself for the next chapter...