War can be a Beautiful Thing.
Chapter 10 : A change within.
Disclaimer: I own nothing.
" Talking"
' Thinking.'
Heavy breathing could be heard inside of a cockpit. The pilot gulped as his machine warned him about an enemy attack. The pilot braced himself as his enemy came into a view. The pilot made his machine dodge an assault before attacking to the best of his abilities. The enemy machine moved out of his way before releasing an attack on the pilot. Warning signs came to life as the pilot began to cave under the pressure and the fear he was feeling towards his enemy. He quickly scanned the area hoping to find his attacker only to be assaulted from behind. The screen flashed red before an explosion engulfed the cockpit.
" Kuzzey you died." Miriallia said as she helped her friend out of the simulator.
" Kira made these newer programs harder than before." Kuzzey said as he watched Tolle, Sai and Flay attempt to take down the G units they were going to fight. Kuzzey had been using a GINN with Alliance coloring to label him as an ally.
" Shit!" Tolle yelled as his mobile armor was shot down... although he had been able to finish off the Blitz.
' It won't be long now...' Kuzzey thought before looking at the Buster. He could see Kira talking to the mechanics about the work they were going to start on. ' Kira, you truly are incredible fighting off these monsters on your own.' Kuzzey thought as Sai and Flay died nearly at the same time. Sai had been using a mobile armor and Flay to everyone's shock used a mobile suit.
" The brats got killed again." An Alliance pilot said with a smirk making Kira's friends to glare at him. They had been transferred over by the Commander of the Advance fleet. They were clearly jealous of Kira's skills since he had wiped them out in seconds after their battle started in the simulators. The Archangel and later on the Commander and leaders of the escort fleet filled with shock at how easily Kira took on the most promising Rookies the Fleet had to offer.
" They're nothing but children playing the newest game their friend made for them." Another one said making Eve smile at him.
" I see your mouth moving but all I hear is a fool whining about how he lost to a better pilot." Eve said making the Alliance fighters upset.
" That brat rigged the simulators there is no way he is that good." The leader of the Mobile Armor pilots said making Eve to look at them with pity.
" You didn't make a scene when Lieutenant La Flaga defeated you." Eve said making the men upset. They would have taken a step forward if the mechanics of the Archangel hadn't caught their attention.
" Kira already informed you that he is willing to take you on again, but you guys aren't man enough to face him in battle." Eve said as her friends looked at the Alliance fighters. They were clearly being pushed on the edge but restrained themselves since they didn't want to face Kira.
" That's enough Eve... its their choice to do whatever it is that makes them happy." Flay said making her friend nod her head.
" Oye Kira." Mwu said as he entered the hanger. He waved at Kira's friends and nodded at the saluting squad under his command. He wasn't a fool and could see they were not adapting to the changes the Commander of the Advance Fleet had made. Murrue had tried to advice him agaisnt it but the man had refused to budge in the help he was offering.
" What can I help you with Lieutenant?" Kira asked making the man chuckle.
" Its about the Mobile Armors belonging to my squad." Mwu said making everyone pay attention to him.
" I want to ask you to upgrade their OS like you did mine. They might not have Gun Pods but I'm sure you can work something out." Mwu said making Kira think.
" Sure, but I'm going to need Flay's help again since she is the one that knows the most on Armors and ships since that's her specialty." Kira said making the red head to blush.
" No problem the Captain has already approved her temporarily reassignment. At the rate you keep pulling her from her regular duties we might as well assign her as your assistant." Mwu said with a teasing tone making Kira blush. The Coordinator shook his head as his hormones created a fantasy with Flay playing the role of a naughty and willing assistant. Flay also blushed since the idea of working under Kira wasn't so bad.
" I don't think that's a good idea." Kira said making Mwu smirk.
" Lieutenant you can't be serious in letting those kids mess with our machines." The leader of the small group of pilots said making the blond look at the pilot.
" I am, and Kira will work on the Mobile Armors. They are property of the Alliance not your private play things. We decide what to do with them, its your job to fly them to the best of your abilities." Mwu said making the pilots upset but they wouldn't go against their orders they were soldiers after all.
" Kira, how long do you think it will take you to improve the four mobile armors?" Mwu la Flaga asked.
" What do you think Flay?" Kira said as he looked at the teen that knew the most about fighter jets.
" We need atleast two hours to take in all the specs on these mobile armors. The Commander did inform us that they are the newest machines to come off the assembly line. Also another hour to see what immediate changes we can make and maybe half an hour per machine to finish the first upgrades." Flay said with a serious thinking face.
' God she is sexy when she talks about jets.' Kira thought as he controlled his body from drooling at the image Flay was projecting.
" In other words less than six hours?" Mwu said making Kira lock eyes with Flay.
" Yes sir, that would give us plenty of time to work. In fact once the original upgrades are created I can install them in the mobile armors so that Kira can focus on his other tasks." Flay said making Kira give her a grateful nod.
" That's good to hear. Since we will be meeting up with the Eight Fleet soon. We want the Mobile Armors, and the Buster ready for Sortie by then. Along with having you pilots nice and rested." Mwu said making Flay and Kira to nod their heads as the Mobile Armor pilots saluted their Squad leader.
" But sir why would we need to rest, we won't be doing work since our machines won't be going into battle any time soon?" The youngest transferred pilot asked.
" Because you four will be taking on Kira's friends." Mwu said making the hanger fill with shock.
" The Captain feels it would be a good experience for you to train in the simulators. It will be a two on two battle with you guys representing the Alliance and them representing the Archangel." Mwu said as he nodded at the Civilians since their duties had been cut thanks to the transfer of personal by the Alliance Fleet. Murrue and the crew of the Archangel had been expecting to be relieved of their command by a senior crew only to have Rookies transferred over, while the crew of the Archangel was being given battlefield promotions. The volunteers from Orb had been drafted into the military to prevent any political backlash and were now getting pay with benefits.
Kira was the only one to remain a mercenary since he refused to join the Alliance. He would work for them until he felt that he wasn't needed or comfortable within the Archangel. By the time he got around to offering the same option to his friends they had already ripped apart their discharge papers. Making them have to serve four years in the military before being able to request a dismissal. Kira had nearly strangled them because they didn't wait to consult with him. He couldn't help but blame Flay since she had been convinced by her father to join the Archangel, since it was the safest place she could be with Kira on board. Her sudden joining of the Alliance had caused the group of friends to join her since they refused to abandon her.
" Don't worry guys we promise to take it easy on you." Tolle said making his senior pilots to glare at him.
" That isn't nice Tolle you know how our Sempai fear the big and scary simulators." Sai said with a light smirk making the females around them to giggle.
" Your on. Mackenzie your with me." The leader of the four pilots said making the second best of the group to join him.
" Kuzzey since you use a mobile suit you'll take on the other two in the next round." Tolle said to his friend.
" What? By myself?" Kuzzey asked his friend before getting a nod.
" Otherwise it wouldn't be fair." Sai said making Kuzzey sigh before nodding his head.
" What about me? I wanted to fight someone too?" Miriallia said making her friends laughing lightly at her since she wasn't that good in using the Mobile Armors or the Mobile Suits.
" Don't worry Miriallia I have some changes in mind for you. I'll make sure to have them installed by tomorrow morning." Kira said making his friend nod her head. Kira's eyes locked with Flay before the two went to download all information available on the mobile armors they just gained. Lucky for them Murrue had requested them when the Commander had transferred the machines over.
+-*/\*-+
" Here's the data on today's pilot simulations Captain." Eve said as she handed a data chip to Murrue.
" How are the pilots adapting to your friends. Private Eve?" Murrue asked.
" As best as we can hope. Tolle and Sai lost to their seniors but Kuzzey was able to destroy his opponents with his GINN. The Alliance fighters said it didn't count since the Archangel doesn't have an active GINN. And the chances of a Natural piloting one is non existing. They seem unable to understand that Kira has not only studied the OS of our captured GINN, but also obtained lived combat data. If anyone can recreant such a machine for training purposes its Kira." Eve said making the Captain frown.
" Whether we have a GINN or not isn't what matters. The simulations are to help them stay on their toes like it does with Kira and MWU during their Dinner Scrimmage." Murrue said making Eve nod her head. " By the way who was today's victor?" Murrue asked.
" It was Kira ma'am, he had installed Buster's newest specs to the simulator before the battle. The Lieutenant's squad felt he cheated so Kira took them all on. He decided to make the battle a quick one and went into battle with Buster in Siege mode. They didn't last long, but Kira did receive massive damage before destroying the Lieutenant." Eve said with pride making Murrue nod her head. She had wanted to watch the fight but unfortunately the Commander of the Fleet had requested her presence in a meeting. The man had been impressed on the reports of the improvements Kira performed on the Zero with the help of Murdoch and his crew. He had been trying to see if Murrue could get the upgrades from the Coordinator.
" Inform Kira and Mwu that if they plan to be taking on groups then they need to make the battles more challenging for themselves. I'm sure they can come up with a few scenarios." Murrue said making Eve nod her head.
" Anything else worth reporting?" Murrue asked.
" A few complains from the refugees." Eve said making the woman get serious.
" Mr. Alster has been trying to teach them why its wrong to believe in Kira. He's already been banned from their residential areas." Eve said making Murrue to raise an eyebrow.
" I hope his actions haven't resort to violence." Murrue said making Eve smile.
" There was a case of a little girl kicking his shin." Eve said making Murrue laugh.
" I'm sure he deserved it... how is Kira handling this?" Murrue asked.
" He is ignoring the man and his body guards, although one was restrained, the man had tried to steal Kira's laptop when Kira left it in his room." Eve said making Murrue upset. " The man has been detained by our security force and Kira has already informed Mr. Alster that he plans to sue him for employing thieves." Eve said making Murrue laugh some more.
" Any other problems?" Murrue asked.
" No Ma'am, but Kira has given me some good news." Eve said making the Captain tilt her head in confusion.
" He has finished creating the Archangel's first major upgrade. He plans to install it as soon as he gets the chance." Eve said making Murrue smile.
" That is some good news. You are dismissed private... tomorrow is going to be a big day for us." Murrue said making Eve nod her head before the teen left.
+-*/\*-+
" Seems like they are struggling with the G forces." Kira said as they watched Mwu's squad fly in their mobile armors.
" Unfortunately that is the one thing that our simulators can't mimic." Flay said making Kira sigh.
" And we don't have the material to create such accurate simulations." Kira said making Murdoch to chuckle.
" All you need to do is grit your teeth a little longer. I'm sure the money the Alliance gave us is more than enough to get things started." Murdoch said making Kira sigh.
' Yeah and there is the OS I plan to sell to Orb. Along with a few more things that will bring me the money I need.' Kira thought as he watched the pilots fly in basic patterns and formations.
" What does he mean by a little longer?" Flay asked the coordinator that she learned to respect.
" I won't always be working for the Alliance." Kira said making Flay's eyes to grow. " I've said it before Flay... I only agreed to do mercenary work to keep the refugees safe. Once they are off the ship there is no longer a reason for me to pilot Buster." Kira said making Flay feel a bit of betrayal.
" But what about us? We signed up and now you won't be here to protect us." Flay said making Kira sigh.
" I had wanted to offer you guys the same deal I made with the Captain. But you guys tore those discharge papers before I could talk to you or the others. Besides with a squad of Mobile Armors the Archangel will be prepared for combat. We now have a real crew to keep the Archangel running." Kira said making Flay shake her head.
" You know better than I do that those jerks won't be able to replace you." Flay said making Murdoch nod his head.
" It wasn't just ZAFT that put me inside of the Gundam." Kira said making Flay and Murdoch to look at him with shock. " I can't ignore the fact that the Alliance forced Orb to put itself in danger. They are just as guilty as ZAFT... but it was Orb's decision to do the work... so I can't really blame them. However that doesn't mean I have to like working for them." Kira said making Flay feel bad, she had not thought of the things that happened like he did.
" I guess that's the real reason you didn't accept that high level promotion if you signed up." Murdoch stated making Kira nod his head.
" If I had joined the Alliance I would be forced into working as a Weapon Engineer... I don't plan to be someone else's puppet when I can work for myself." Kira said making Murdoch nod his head.
" Then this means you will be leaving with the Civilians in the Shuttle?" Flay asked.
" No... that shuttle is going to be used to send the refuges into Orbit. While that happens I'm going to be sitting in the Buster ready to keep them safe. If I'm not needed I've been given a spare Mobile Armor to fly after the shuttle enters the earth's atmosphere." Kira said making Flay's eyes to grow.
" I have some friends that have agreed to give me a lift back to Orb once I land on the Earth. They're good friends that I know will be able to find me no matter what." Kira said making Flay look away.
" What about the Archangel? The Buster doesn't do anyone any good if it doesn't have a pilot to use it." Flay said making Kira cough to get her attention.
" The Alliance is already screening someone to pilot it. I'll be installing my experimental Natural OS. The rest will be up to them." Kira said making Flay not like his words but accept them. Although it sounded to her that Kira was doing everything in his power to help, in then she knew that the Buster wouldn't be the same without him.
+-*/\*-+
Kira calmly sat in Lacus's room. She was using a spare laptop to watch some of her favorite videos. They had just finished dinner and long ago Kira had accepted Lacus's Invitation to stay a bit longer in her room. It helped both of them stay a little saner than usual.
" What are you working on tonight?" Lacus asked with a smile.
"The Archangel." Kira said making her pink eyes to grow.
" I've been meaning to improve its targeting systems. What I'm doing is adding the flight patterns of the CGUE, GINN and the G-Units in the service of ZAFT. This in theory will help our defense system to drive off if not eliminate most threats presented to it." Kira said as he worked with a serious face.
"Oh my... how much easier will this make things for those that attack the Archangel?" Lacus asked.
" Hopefully we can see a twenty percent growth in targeting accuracy. At the worst ten but its still an improvement, compared to the thirty percent enemy damage we have delivered. In fact the only mobile suits the ship has shot down was because Lieutenant La Flaga was manning the guns." Kira said making Lacus fill with disbelief.
" Perhaps this will allow us to travel to our destination without problems?" Lacus asked.
" I wish but unfortunately the G-Units are still too unpredictable. Buster has surpassed its factory settings long ago but, I doubt it will be long before the others do the same. I need to do everything in my power to keep everyone safe, the more I work the better everything will be." Kira said making Lacus feel sad for the burden he wished to carry. A burden his own people have forced on him.
" All hands battle stations we have detected an enemy ship!" Miriallia said making Kira's eyes to grow with disbelief. He quickly closed his laptop and rushed to the hanger. To save time Eve would always leave a clean pilot suit and helmet in the Buster when he was off duty. This way he could react faster than others.
" It's looks like your abilities as a programmer, pilot and human being will once again be tested. Haro let us pray for as little death as possible." Lacus said as she held her mechanical friend.
" Buster is armed and ready!" Murdoch said as his mechanics worked on preparing the Mobile armors for launch. Unfortunately a few hours earlier the pilots had drained their machines by flying out in space to improve their skills. Only the Mobius Zero was ready for sortie.
" Thanks!" Kira said as he began to remove his shirt. He quickly jumped into the Buster as Birdie closed the hatch to give its master some privacy. Once he finished securing his clothes Kira activated his machine and opened its com link to the Archangel.
" They sent the three machines that ZAFT stole from Orb." Miriallia said with worry.
" Everything is going to be okay Miriallia... Kira Yamato... Buster Gundam Launching." Kira commanded as the Catapult sent his machine flying. He could see the three machines he was going to fight heading his way.
" You ready?" Mwu asked as the Mobius Zero flew next to the Alliance G-Unit.
" Only one way to find out..." Kira said making the Eagle of Endymion to smirk.
" Archangel... I am now switching the Buster into Burst Mode." Kira broad casted making his allies confused.
" Yamato this isn't the time to be testing out theories for the G-Units." Natarle said making many listening to roll their eyes.
" I approve the system change... however if you see the slightest signs of problems disengage and return to standard operating mode." Captain Murrue said making Kira nod his head. He struck a few key buttons on the Archangel's Cockpit. The Long range Gundam began to shift its system to begin operating in the new Mode its pilot had programmed.
" Transition to Burst Mode Complete... System Synchronization is now reading at eight five percent and slowly rising. Phase Shift Armor is now operating at a hundred and thirty percent." Kira said before watching as the G Units began to raise their weapons. The Strike once again wielding armament that was originally made for GINN.
" Captain what's Burst Mode?" Sai asked as the Buster reached for a device that was attached to its hip. Kira attached it to the left arm of the Buster.
" Is that a wrist mounted Mini gun?" Dearka asked with disbelief as the barrels of the new weapon did a quick spin to load itself.
" Its design is similar to the one that the CGUE of Commander Le Creuset is known to use." Nicol said with worry.
" Its smaller making it a lot less dangerous... I'm getting sick and tired of these Naturals copying us." Yzak yelled as he fired up the Duel into battle. It flew at full speed ready to engage its enemy.
" I'm sure some of you know that the Buster was mainly designed as a long range support unit." Murrue said making the crew around her to nod their heads. " To fill this role Morgenroute added a special option to the Buster. A form of battle that is simply called Siege Mode. Once in Siege Mode the Buster's offensive power can easily out gun any mobile suit ever produced. Its range, penetration and the damage it can cause is nearly doubled. Its only flaw being the limited amount of time available to use such a mode and its great drop in its speed and armor." Murrue said making the crew quiet down.
" Because most of its energy is being used to attack." Natarle said making Murrue nod her head.
" Yes, which is why Kira has been going into battle in Buster's Battle Mode. Which allows its ability to be evened out, but even with such a drop in power it still can deliver more damage than the other G-Units. Launcher Strike might be able to match it but we are in possession of all the Striker Packs. In the end our machine can easily overpower any GINN sent to face it in battle." Murrue said making the bridge crew to relax.
" But if the Buster is capable of fighting Mobile Suits why did Kira create this Burst Mode?" Miriallia asked.
" Because the G-Units were never designed to face other G-Units. Due to Phase Shift Technology the machines that were stolen can not only dodge most of Buster's attacks but they can also take a greater beating than standard Mobile Suits. This is especially true when concerning Buster. It wasn't designed to be a defensive unit, that machine was made to attack its targets from a safe distance. Allow its allies to close in and the take out any units it can pick off from a distance. It's spread cannon in reality is nothing more than an attack to buy it more time so that another machine can come in an allow it to escape to a safe location. It's missiles are programmed to take down mobile suits but they are nearly ineffective agaisnt Phase Shift Armor. Then you must remember that it is the slowest machine of all the G-Units. If they begin swarming in like Vultures it won't take long for them to pick the Buster apart. Its the reason why Kira refuses to be forced into a defensive position." Murrue said making Kira's friends to worry.
" But isn't those the reasons why Yamato worked so hard to upgrade the Buster's OS. Isn't that why Murdoch and his crew worked so hard to modify the Buster to a level that makes it the greatest of all the G-Units? Isn't that why Kira stole enemy weapons and made them better." Natarle said as she watched the Duel close in on the mobile suit protecting them.
"The Buster Blade is as strong as any GINN sword yet has been remade in such a way that it can be carried with ease. The Buster Gun itself is a weapon that will bring fear to any pilots forced to face it. And now Burst Mode will allow the Buster to face the stolen G-Units not only as their equal but as their superior." The Raven haired woman said making Murrue to smile.
" Yes, Kira went out of his way to give us a real fighting chance. Murdoch and his crew nearly slaved away to help Kira with his plans. And now we will finally be allowed to see what Buster can do while in Burst Mode." Murrue said making Natarle nod her head before ordering how she wanted the Archangel to prepare when the G-Units would come after them.
" But what makes Burst mode so special?" Sai asked.
" From what I understood Yamato has taken the Siege program and warped it to turn its flaws into its greatest weapons. Instead of using Buster's ability to redirect its energy to its Hyper Impulse Cannon. It is now putting that energy into improving its Phase Shift armor and allowing its booster to perform at a speed that could match most of the G-unit. Leaving only Aegis and Blitz faster due to their lighter frames."Murrue said making awe fill the crew that didn't know about the changes in the Buster's fighting style.
" The plan of Kira Yamato is to one day allow Buster to be able to switch within its three modes to make it a machine in battle like no other. Imagine a machine that can move faster than anything the Alliance and ZAFT has created suddenly come to a halt and deliver an attack that can rival the main guns of a large Battle ship." Natarle said making one of the Alliance soldiers to whistle with awe.
" Thanks to the new external batteries Kira has added to the Buster it now carries enough energy to fight in either mode with a reasonable amount of time. In Battle mode it can outlast any G-Unit in existence. In Burst Mode it can operate at twenty percent longer than the standard G-Unit, while in Siege mode it can last eight percent as long compared to the former thirty percent limitation Morgenroute had created." Murrue said making the soldiers exited.
" That's the reason why Kira is going to start the battle in Burst mode. Since the machines he is facing don't have any real long range capabilities. It was dodging the Strike's GINN Cannon before but now it can close in and quickly disarm it." Miriallia said making the Captain nod her head.
" Since Kira doesn't want to push the Buster's limits he is only going to operate in Burst mode for a limited amount of time. Or until he runs out of Live Ammunition, after that he will either enter Battle or Siege mode and engage our enemies while using beam projectiles."Natarle said as she pictured the damage the Burst will cause.
" In other words Kira is going to engage and get a feel of our enemies by using Burst mode to weaken them with bullets and missile. He will also use the Buster Blade to deal extra damage if the chance present itself. Then some point in the battle he will switch into Battle mode to conserve his power, or go straight into Siege to wipe them out, is that correct Captain?" Tolle asked.
" That it is... Although Burst Mode has the potential to be as draining as Siege, it isn't since Kira decides when to max out his speed. Allowing him to battle in Burst mode over fifty percent longer than what could normally be accomplished with Siege mode. Unless he is forced to move a lot." Murrue said making her crew nod her head.
" But such a thing won't be happening since ZAFT's target is the Archangel. They will either face him to destroy us or be forced into a retreat. Because I doubt they will be willing to ignore him and give the Buster a free kill shot on their carriers." Natarle said with a smirk.
" We'll just have to wait and see what happens." Murrue said as Buster pulled out its collapsible blade. The three separate segments flicked into a lock position.
" That blade won't be doing me any damage." Yzak yelled as the Duel swung its beam sword. Mwu's Zero quickly blasting off to engage the Strike.
" Nicol take out the Archangel!" Dearka yelled as he traded fire with the smaller and more mobile machine.
The Buster quickly activated its boosters and neatly side stepped the Duel. Its blade swinging and striking the machine in the back. Sparks flew as the metal of the Buster Blade collided with the Duel's phase shift armor. Yzak growled as he turned his machine around to slash. The buster flew back while narrowly dodging the attack. Its left arm already raised and releasing a triple round burst into the face of the Duel. The heavier rounds making the machine shake from the impact.
" It's not using standard rapid fire shells!" Nicol said with disbelief as the Buster Gun reloaded by spinning again.
" We've analyzed the size of those rounds. They're Anti-Mobile Suit rounds usually used on defensive guns on Alliance battle ships. One of those rounds can easily tear into a GINN like if it was made out of paper." The Captain of the Alexandra said making Duel gain some room.
" So it's a big Slug thrower for mobile suits... our Phase shift armor can easily stand agaisnt it." Yzak said as he put up his beam sword and reached for his beam riffle. The Buster quickly unleashed four missiles making the Duel race to dodge them. It would use a few shots to take them down.
" Nicol look out!" Dearka yelled as the Buster caught up to the Blitz and was in mid swing from a higher angle.
The Blitz was able to raise its shield and block the hit. Only to have the missiles on the Buster's shins to open and unleash six warheads into its unguarded torso. Nicol yelled in pain as the attack hit making his machine fly back. Kira then used his new Buster Gun to once again trigger the larger missiles the Blitz carried under its arm.
" Nicol!" Yzak yelled as a second explosion engulfed the Blitz. It flew out of the smoke with tits right arm missing.
" Blitz you are free to disengage." A ZAFT soldier yelled making Yzak fill with rage since the black gundam was now pretty much worthless in battle with its main gun and missiles gone.
" When did he get those additional missile launchers?" Dearka asked with envy as the Buster turned to face the Duel. The Strike quickly dodged a shot from the Zero's Linear Cannon and attempted to fire back.
' Can't use my gun pods at the moment. They will just slow me down in this dog fight.' Mwu thought as he continued to dodge and fire at the Strike.
' The Blitz's missiles carry enough power to heavily damage ships and bases. Yet the Buster keeps making them destroy that limb.' Yzak thought with rage. He quickly began to fire at the Buster making it dodge. Yzak frowned as he saw the Buster getting closer as it evaded its fire.
" Calculating the best moment to boost in." Kira mumbled as he worked and fought in the battle. " Now!" Kira yelled as he fired Eight missiles. He hit the Booster's of the Buster to its new limit making close in while the Duel was temporarily distracted with shooting down the missiles.
" Damn it!" Yzak yelled as the Buster Blade cut into his beam riffle and effectively destroying it. Kira then made the Buster Gun to bombard the Duel in its exposed chest. Yzak yelled as his machine took the hits, while he was disoriented Buster kicked it in the head making it fly farther back. Then it was hit by the remaining missiles that had been forgotten. Three war heads came from behind the Duel and smashed into it making Yzak hit his counsel.
" Yzak!" Dearka yelled as he tried to break free from Mwu's attack.
" Oh no you don't!" Mwu la Flaga yelled as his Gun Pods came to life. One hit one of the assault riffles attached to the Strike's back. It exploded while taking out the one next to it. Dearka growled from the attack and quickly turned to attack once more.
" Curse you Buster!" Yzak yelled as he got control of his machine and charged again. The Buster almost seemed to dance out of the range of the Duel's beam swords. Duel tried to fire some of its rounds from the CIWS on its head only to have them harmlessly bounce off the Buster's Missile Launchers. The Buster then flew in and delivered a slash to the Duel. The hit forcing the Duel to recoil from the blow. Using the improved reactions time of his machine Kira then delivered four additional blows with his Buster Blade. Then he fired a single round from the Buster Gun at the the beam sword in hopes of destroying it.
The Dark Blue colored Gundam went into a spin hoping to slash his opponent in half. Only to have the Buster fly out of its reach and cover its retreat with missiles that smashed into the machine.
" Don't worry Yzak... I'm going to end this!" Nicol yelled as he appeared on top of the Archangel. Its maimed right arm had been completely removed to allow it to cloak with ease. It had faked its retreat before using its Mirage Coat to sneak up on the Archangel that was shielding the Advance Fleet that was undergoing repairs.
The eyes of the crew grew with disbelief, while the eyes of Murrue and Natarle narrowed. Nicol didn't like it when his monitor saw the smirk grow on Natarle's face.
Faster than most could react the Anti Mobile suit guns turned and fired into the legs of the Blitz forcing it to fall to a knee. The spare Beam Sword he got from Athrun was instantly dropped as he was forced to use the Blitz arm to stop its fall. It quickly took off flying as the defensive guns began to bombard his unit with multiple hits.
" Ahhh!" Yzak yelled when he had tried a sneak attack on the distracted Buster. Kira had made his machine turn to look at what was going on. Unfortunately for Yzak, Kira had never stopped paying him any attention. When the moment was most convenient he caught the arm swinging the beam sword and used some missiles on its shins to knock the beam shield away. Then with a quick flip of the Buster Sword it collapsed into its smaller form. Which was now a thicker blade and able to deliver a wider cut. The Buster then jabbed the blade into the cockpit of the Duel. Because of its Phase Shift Armor pushed to the edge the Buster Blade had been able to cut into the Duel with ease. Some last minute boosting allowed the pilot to escape the majority of the attack. However it was more than enough to make the cockpit to start exploding making shrapnel to hit the silver haired teen.
The moment the Phase Shift Armor left the Duel, Kira flicked the Buster Blade to its full form. He quickly swung straight down and severed the right arm holding the Beam Sword. Dearka at that moment had managed to destroy two of Mwu's Gun pods out of desperation and quickly flew to save his friend. The Strike fired its GINN Cannon making the Buster twist into another attack on the helpless Duel. Dearka watched with fear as the Second Arm was nearly surgically cut off along with its Beam Shield.
" Dearka we need to get out of here!" Nicol yelled as he suddenly caught the armless Duel and flew from the Buster. The Strike quickly began to fire at the Duel in hopes of keeping it from his friends.
" We did it!" Satella cheered as she watched the battle with her friends and some of the braver refugees. They watched as the Buster placed its Blade into its designated holder. Then it quickly took the severed arms of the Duel and flew to the Archangel.
" Somethings just won't change." Murdoch chuckled as he saw Kira land with his trophies. The man already had an idea why the boy wanted them. A Mobile Pod already flying out to retrieve anything else Kira might find useful. He watched with hope and pride as the ZAFT ship retreated.
+-*/\*-+
" It's safe to say that the Buster succeeded in operating in Burst Mode." The Admiral of the advance Fleet said as his ships watched form a safe distance. They had been fortunate enough that the Archangel had been able to place itself between the members of ZAFT and the Alliance ships in need of desperate repairs.
" With such a machine we can't lose." An Alliance soldier said making those around him to cheer.
' Perhaps but I would have preferred to keep Kira. He is the only one capable of piloting the Buster to such a degree without him our pilots can only take it so far.' The man thought as he wondered what he could do to change the mind of the Coordinator that refused to be anyone's tool. In the end he prayed that ZAFT never got their hands on him. Atleast with him in Orb they don't have to worry over having to fight him as an enemy.
+-*/\*-+
" Only two days until we meet up with the Eight Fleet." Murdoch said as he stood with Kira and his crew in the hanger.
" I've already gotten permission from the Captain... from this moment on the Hanger is under lock down." Kira said making the Mechanics nod their heads. None of the ones present had been part of the transfer from the Alliance's Advance Fleet. Those individuals had been given time off until the Archangel reached the Eight Fleet.
The mechanics quickly began to seal off the hanger doors. Kira pressed a button on his laptop making it be closed off from all outside communications. Flay, Kuzzey and Eve watched as Kira worked with the crew with perfect coordination. It made them feel like they had all been working together for many years instead of the short time they had on the Archangel.
" You two should get to work... I'll keep an eye on the monitors." Eve suddenly said to Flay and Kuzzey. Flay quickly nodded her head and left as Kuzzey hesitated before gaining courage from his friend.
' He's scared but his heart will grow stronger as time goes on... I hope everything will be ready for when the Archangel needs them.' Eve thought before sitting down in front of Kira's Laptop. It had three open windows. One showing outside the Archangel's Catapult, another showing the hall way leading to the Hanger and the last was in case the Captain needed them.
+-*/\*-+
Many in the Archangel wondered what was going on since the Hanger had been suddenly cut off from the world. Mr. Alster being the main one to cause trouble trying to demand Murrue to let him see what was going on. Unfortunately for him the Admiral of the Advance Fleet had placed a restraining order on him to help protect Kira's chances of staying with the Alliance. Which made it impossible for the man to enter the hanger if it wasn't for an official reason.
The Majority of the Alliance soldiers not assigned to the Archangel felt something bad was going on but had no way of proving such a thing. Their careless words causing a few rumors to go around.
Lacus felt a bit sadden that Kira was unable to visit her but was happy that his friends were taking the time to talk to her because of his absence. The only one not joining them was Sai since he was upset that Flay was going to be once again working with Kira.
Natarle didn't really care since she was going over the data Kira had given her that involved the Archangels changes in their targeting system. She had been a little worried when the Blitz had nearly gained a kill shot. But luckily Kira's work had proved true. She was simply amazed at the subtle but more than wanted changes he had created. The Archangel's newest abilities were something she was trying to learn by heart to become better at her job.
Murrue on the other hand was making sure that all preparations to evacuate the refugees were being fulfilled. She would have originally have them transferred to the Eight Fleet but the Admiral of the Advance Fleet informed her that they would be better off in the Archangel until the last possible moment. Murrue couldn't doubt the fact that her ship was the safest thanks to the Buster guarding it.
+-*/\*-+
" It's the Eight Fleet." Satella said with Joy as the Alliance and the Advance Fleet fell into formation with the large gathering of ships.
" I still can't believe it but it looks like we finally made it." An Archangel soldier said as he watched all the friendly ships flying around them. They could already see worker pods rushing to help the damaged ships that came with the Archangel.
" That's great... but what I want to know is if we have found someone to replace Kira." Sai said making the joyous atmosphere to leave the cafeteria.
" Attention all Orb Refugees..." Natarle said through the intercom of the ship. " You are to begin entering the shuttle bay to prepare for your trip to Orb's mainland." The normally serious woman said with a tone of relief.
She knew that with the civilians gone the Archangel can now focus on doing what it was made to do. Destroy ZAFT soldiers without worrying about needing to provide for so many mouths that have no real military training.
" Looks like this is going to be the last time we fly together." Mwu said as he shook Kira's hand.
" It was an honor fighting at your side lieutenant, perhaps one day we can fly again without all the pointless fighting." Kira said making the blond smirk.
" Maybe but I want you to wait for me to drop in and challenge you once again to another simulator battle." Mwu said making Kira nod his head.
" It will be the only way to break our tie." Kira said making Mwu nod his head.
" Kira its time." Eve said as she stood with the mechanic crew and Murdoch.
" The refugees are already finishing boarding the shuttle. The Captain wants you out there until they safely enter the Earth." Murdock said making Kira nod his head.
" We'll be joining you if ZAFT shows up, until then your flying solo kid." Mwu La Flaga said as he stood with his squad of Mobile Armor pilots.
" You guys take care." Kira said making many in the hanger to nod their heads as he got in the Buster.
" For luck." Eve said after kissing Kira on the lips leaving many speechless. Flay who had been quietly watching everything didn't understand the bit of pain she felt in her heart.
" Just make sure to get into the Shuttle before it takes off." Kira said making many confused.
" Don't worry Kira, as long as you are out there to protect us everything will be fine." Eve said before stepped out of the Gundam's Cockpit. She watched with a smile as the Buster closed and began to move out.
" Why are you getting on the Shuttle... you're a part of the Alliance like the rest of us." Flay asked her greatest friend.
" I am... but I've been approved by the Captain for Maternity Leave. Since I was born as a citizen of Orb I'll going to be allowed to leave with the refugees. I was even given an honorable discharge by the Commander of the Advance Fleet." Eve said making the eyes of Flay to grow along with any of those paying attention to them. Eve was blushing and placing a hand over her stomach. Flay couldn't help but focus on her friends stomach and notice the small but growing changes to it.
" How?" Flay asked as her gut and heart already knew who the father was.
" Before the fall of Heliopolis... Kira and I..." Eve said making Flay's eyes to grow.
" It was during the party... you two played us." Flay said making Eve shake her head.
" I wanted Kira to be my first... I was desperate and a little drunk... but I'll never regret it." Eve said with a serious tone.
" Then are you and Kira going to get married?" Flay asked.
" I don't know... Kira's heart still belongs to you... but I do know he will be an excellent father. He's already promised to provide for us even if we don't end up together." Eve said making Flay fill with disbelief.
' My best friend is pregnant thanks to the man everyone says loves me... what am I suppose to do?' Flay thought.
"Do the others know?" Flay asked.
" No... Kira didn't want to say anything since he wants very few people to learn about... you know." Eve said making Flay nod her head.
" We need to go now... the shuttle will be leaving soon." Murdock said as he walked with two of his mechanics and a pair of Marines. They were going to protect Eve until she reached the shuttle thanks to the orders of the Captain.
With some hesitation the two teens hugged since this was going to be the last time the two get to spend time together.
" Take care Flay... and I wish you luck with Sai." Eve whispered to Flay's ears making her eyes grow at the hidden tone of satisfaction in her friend's voice. The red head watched her raven haired friend walk away while radiating an aurora of joy and satisfaction.
" Looks like she was one bullet Kira couldn't dodge." Mwu said making Flay look at him. " She'll be good for him... and I know he'll make her happy... its time for you to get back to your old work. With Kira gone you aren't needed in the hanger anymore." Mwu said making Flay upset.
' After everything I've done they don't need me... just because he's leaving doesn't mean I can't help anymore... its not fair he's leaving... he didn't even tell me good bye... after all the time we spent together he just leaves like it didn't matter... all he has to worry about now is Eve and their baby.' Flay thought with jealousy.
+-*/\*-+
" Hello Eve..." A soprano like voice said making the pregnant teen to look at a figure she hadn't paid much attention to before. Her eyes studied the person with the high collar coat and the big brown hat. She couldn't figure out who the person was thanks to the large round shades hiding nearly half of her face.
" Lacus?" Eve asked with disbelief. She made sure to whisper the name as she sat next to the heavily dressed pop star.
" Kira sneaked me in here thanks to the Captain. They over heard the leaders of the fleet arguing about what to do with me. Kira refused to give them any say and decided to get me out of the Archangel as fast as possible." Lacus said making Eve nod her head.
" What are you doing here? Last time you told me you were a part of the Alliance." The pinkette said making Eve nod her head.
" Kira got me pregnant before we got stuck on the Archangel... I didn't learn about it until a few weeks ago and we've been keeping quiet ever since." Eve said making Lacus's eyes to grow with disbelief.
" Oh my... I wish you both a great deal of happiness and luck." Lacus said making Eve smile at her.
' Who would have known that Kira of all people would perform one of the most common mistakes of youth... and normally he is always ready to prevent any form of mistakes.' Lacus thought as she clutched Haro because of the light pain she was feeling. She knew Kira promised to protect the shuttle but now she figured out the real reason Kira would fight with all his might. She began to wonder if her and Athrun were compatible enough to have children one day. Her mind filling with different possibilities as the Shuttle began to take off for its decent towards the Earth.
" Look mommy its our Guardian Angel." A cute little girl with brown hair said as she sat near a window. Eve's eyes grew as she recognized the girl as being the one that gave Kira an Origami Flower before they're evacuation.
The civilians of Orb watched with awe as the Buster Stood on the Archangel with its Hyper Impulse Cannon ready to fire. It was an inspiring and relaxing sight to the machine that was nearly finished protecting them on their long voyage home. Eve figured the sensors of the Buster had picked up the Shuttle as it turned to look towards them. Its eyes flashed with power before gently flying towards them. The citizens of Orb gently cheered their gratitude even if they knew Kira and his machine couldn't hear them. What they didn't know was that Kira was going to hear their words later thanks to Eve.
The Buster gave the shuttle a quick air show as its flew around it in a defensive manner. The few children in the ship cheered with awe as they saw the special entertainment the Buster was more than willing to give them.
A bit of fear filled their hearts as the Buster suddenly stopped and rushed towards the front of the Fleet.
" Everyone please strap yourselves in." The Shuttle Pilot said as he began to make the ship fly faster.
" ZAFT has commenced an attack on the Eight Fleet. We'll now begin reentry faster than what was schedule." The man said before cutting of communications to focus on his work. He took Kira's words to heart and hurried to enter the Earth.
" There is no need to worry." Eve said making the civilians to look a her. " As long as Kira is out there he will protect us. As long as we believe in him he will have the strength to fight." Eve said making the uncertain citizens of Orb to relax.
" She's right our Guardian Angel will make the bad guys go away once again." The brown haired girl said with a smile as she clutched a small and thin rectangular device. It was a new data pad Kira had been working on during his time off. Nothing too complicated but it would be more than enough to help the girl with her future school work. On its touch screen was a picture she had been more than happy to take. Eve, Kira, Murdoch, the mechanics and the little girl were standing on the bridge in front of Buster. In her hands was the happily chirping birdie While Kira carried her with Eve snuggling up on Kira. The entire mechanic crew of the Archangel smiling in pride that Kira had made them be a part of the girls memories forever. Flay unfortunately had been the one forced to take the picture. She also had a complete picture of the Buster, along with one with every member of the mechanic crew and a few multiple ones with Kira. She also had one with Eve and Flay holding her like they were her big protective sisters. There was even one with her in the Buster pilot seat with her messing with the controls. And one with Kira in the cockpit, the girl on his lap holding his helmet with a great big smile, as the older brunette smiled along side of her. The images were of high quality thanks to the advance and one of a kind data pad Kira had given her as a thank you for her faith in his skills as a pilot.
Kira looked down at the Origami flower in Buster Cockpit. It was neatly tucked in the counsel after Murdoch had coated with a special hardening coat of clear plastic that would prevent it from deteriorating over time.
' I'll protect all of them.' Kira swore to himself before making the Buster boost towards the GINN engaging the fleet.