Gundam Seed: The Federation

by Blackshadow999

Different telling of Gundam Seed. With the conflict between Naturals and Coordinators getting worse as time passes, some nations have banded together and formed the organization known as the Human Federation. Will the Federation be able to help bring peace or will the hatred between Naturals and Coordinators destroy everything and bring extinction of humanity? Cover by SaddlePatch

34. Phase 34: the Seeds of Doubt

A/n

This is a Phase that things will start to be different and diverge once again from the path that canon. But I hope you readers enjoy the Phase, and my standard disclaimer applies.

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Phase 34: The Seeds of Doubt

November 25th, 73 C.E.

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-Tyler's pov-

The Republic

It was the day after the Minerva headed out and travel for Carpentaria, when something came up for me. The situation started, when I came across a piece of data on the Information Network. The file I found was a report, which didn't identify whom it belonged to 'official', but from what I read, I could give a very educated assumption as to who it was for. The report was an intel document that noted that a 'target' had been found. The location coordinates in the report… well, it was where Kira and Lacus live right now. That made me think that someone had not just figured out where Lacus was living, but also had confirmed it. That is a potentially dangerous problem as were some individuals might use this information to try and harm my friends.

Then, the last line in the report, seriously set off alarms and raised the bloodiest red flags possible! The line was 'location acknowledged, group will be sent to do black dusting of the individual'. That single line told me two things, the 'group' was more than likely going to be a well-trained team, and that this report was almost certainly done and being used by ZAFT. The terms 'black dusting' were code for assassination with ZAFT, normally special forces or their black opts. And with the target mentioned probably being Lacus, this report was far too realistic to ignore!

So, I got down to getting ready to do whatever it would take to protect Lacus, Kira and the kids living with them. The first thing I did, was to contacted Carlos, for I had been called to see if I could test some equipment for them while I was around the Republic. The equipment was heavily implied to be a mobile suit of some kind and that would be helpful for what I was soon going to dive into. Next, I retrieved a large duffle bag, then started packing the bag with a variety guns, explosives, stuff meant for fighting and combat in the bag organized to be tight as possible. So, by the end, I had a decent arsenal to work with, which I might just need if I indeed go against ZAFT Special Forces as I fear I will.

After packing my 'goodie bag' of toys and tools, I called Lisa and told her that I would be unreachable for a bit in order to cover my bases and rear end if things go bad. I did explain to my friend and second in command, about the developing situation and she understood why I was racing over to Orb. Once I hung up from talking to Lisa, I headed over to Teswa to pick up whatever they wanted to test for them. What it is I'll be testing, I don't know, but I've learned not to say no to such requests as more than half the time, it means I get to see and use the newest and greatest equipment! And I certainly won't refuse such opportunity when I'm asked to help out in that.

When I arrived at Teswa, explaining to the security guard that my bag's contents, was not something to worry about was a hell of a chore. I ended out having to tell them it was for a special operation that I couldn't talk about and I was picking up something from Teswa. After showing my military ID and the security personnel checked it heavily, I was finally allowed to pass. From there, it didn't take me long to come into the same area as Carlos works in, which is one of the places I figured I might end out.

I've been curious what direction scientific development had and would go after the Treaty of Junius Seven. From current evidence, both ZAFT and the Alliance have still been working on improving nuclear technology, even though one of the point of the Treaty of Junius Seven is that such technology is not to be used by military groups or organizations. But then, within the last year, it has become clear that parts of the treaty had started being ignore and nothing be said about it. However, from what I've learned and understand, Federation scientists have been seriously looking into alternative energy that could possibly replace nuclear power. Unfortunately, I haven't much on details on if there's been progress on such ideas, but then I've been rather busy until recently. And oh boy, was I in for a surprise beyond what I was hoping for and didn't even know it!

I had moderately entertained the chance that I might get to test a mobile suit, I've gotten to do it once before and that had been a blast! Yet, I wasn't prepared for what I was getting to play with! The mobile suit that Carlos brought me to stand before, was somewhat over eighteen meters in height from the top of its head to the floor. It wasn't the grey like machines that have phase shift armor when its deactivated, but it was slate grey overall, but the torso and shoulders were a dark dull blue. It was clearly a Gundam-type mobile suit, had enough of the identifiable features to say that, its head being the most telling. After taking in the suit's appearance, I turned to Carlos, "So my friend, give me the spiel you got on this mobile suit, for I'm all ears," I said.

"This mobile suit is the GSR-001 Exia Gundam, one of the prototypes of the next generation of mobile suits. It has been a collaborative effort between many to develop and construct this, and the other prototypes," Carlos began.

A collaborative effort he says? "When you say collaborative effort Carlos, what do you mean and whom," I asked.

"Koovos did the work on the defenses and weapons, we here at Teswa did OS and internal systems. But, the majority of the develop and construction was done by those at Valhalla Research," Carlos answered me.

I've heard of the name 'Valhalla Research', its supposed to be a newer scientific research complex or facility whose work is not made public right now. Other than that, I don't know much about the place, just scarce rumors. "Um Carlos, I don't know much other than the name when it comes to Valhalla Research. So, could you fill me in a bit please," I suggested.

Carlos nodded after a moment, "Valhalla Research is a station where advance theoretical research without interference. The location is not said often, but it is not on Earth or among the colonies or the moon. Although, its position plays a part to the work that it does and the very idea that made this machine possible."

I folded my arms, "Okay, what is so different with this mobile suit that has come before now?"

A smile formed on Carlos' face, "The power source this suit has, is revolutionary in many ways. This machine has a GN Solar Reactor, the GN standing for Genolos Nucleus. It's a semi-perpetual generator which harnesses the byproducts of baryonic decay as an energy source which comes out as light particles."

I blinked, not understanding around half of what Carlos had said, lots of scientific terms and I ain't the scientific type, that had been my dad. I held up a hand, "Carlos, I've said it before and I'll say it again, I'm not science savvy, smart as I am. So please, dumb down your explanation so that I can actual have a chance had comprehending what you're talking about."

Carlos nodded, "Fair enough, the reactor generates particles that have some similar qualities to solar energy from the sun. Like other power sources, an individual reactor has a limited moment-by-moment output. However, due to its design and nature, the GN Solar Reactor continues to supply power for a theoretically infinite period of time, so long as the reactor's rate of production isn't outdone by the power consumption or pushed to breaking limits. The reactor powers the mobile suit and acts as its propulsion, is utilized in supplying the weapons and defensive systems," my friend iterated.

My friend then began going into more detail about the Exia Gundam. The mobile suit was overall designed to excel at close quarters combat and was geared toward such an idea. The range of motion and movement had increased from previous suit and to ensure and assist that range of movement, the pieces that made up its armor is separated into much finer pieces. And said armor was made up of a newly developed synthetic alloy Carlos called E-Carbon. The alloy, had been proven capable of withstanding, if not proving to be entirely impervious against, projectile shots. Carlos even showed me some recordings of testing that was done at Koovos and let's just say that even with phase shift armor, I wouldn't want to have what weapons were used for testing used on a mobile suit I was in! That, combined with the phase shift armor the Exia was equipped with, it gave both exceptional resistance and defense against both projectiles and beams.

With the Solar Reactor acting as the suit's propulsion, the machine's mobility was apparently much better than thrusters could ever provide. I'll believe it when I see it myself, so I'm keeping the jury out on that for the time being. The feature that didn't make complete sense to me, was the numerous grayish purple cables that extend from the shoulders to the arms and the ones visible on the upper legs. According to Carlos, there were power lines, with the purpose to transport large amounts of particles to and from various parts of the body. The Exia also possess head antennas which controlled particle distribution, though most of the actual particle control responsibility is taken up by the antennas at the shoulders and neck. What that actually means, I really don't know, Carlos was clearly trying to dumb down the explanation, but it wasn't enough. Anyways, the Exia's head also has other antennas that function as communication and sensor devices.

The last system that Carlos told me about was what he called a "GN Reactor Burst Mode" function, that can temporarily increase the output of the GN Reactor by a sizable margin. However, the drawback, is that its unstable and is still "in development" and was not perfect. There was an optical camouflage system onboard, much like any other Federation mobile suit.

For weapons, there was the weapon system that was mounted on the right arm. The weapon system also served as the primary offensive option that the Exia had. The system was made up of a large solid blade attached to a miniature forearm shield, which serves as the defense other than the armor systems. The blade by what Carlos said, worked by applying GN particles over the solid sword which greatly increases the sharpness and cutting power, though the sword can still be used when there are no particles applied to it as well. Carlos' compared the blade's cutting ability being like a hot knife cutting through butter. Although the blade looked to be devastating were it to come against a mobile suit, I can still see situations where using it would be more difficult due to its size. The system also had a rifle mode, whereby the blade returns to its idle folded state exposing the muzzle of a beam rifle. That would counter long-range attackers and that would be a helpful.

The other weapons that the Exia had, was an array of four beam sabers, two mounted on the back of the shoulders and the other two attached to the rear skirt. The sabers put out particle-based beam sabers, which made the difference in the fact that in theory, the new shielding technology being used and improved currently, mostly by the Alliance, wouldn't affect the blade, like the reflector or shield weren't there. The other weapons available, were small guns installed in both arms of Gundam Exia that were similar to vulcan guns or CIWS guns. They were purely secondary weapons meant for defense and diversion due to their low powered shots that they put out. Although, the power of their beams are weak, their high firing rate means that they can be a threat to conventional weapons that lack phase shift armor.

Overall, I was freaking impressed with mobile suit, it had technology that had serious potential in future. The GN Solar Reactor alone, by what Carlos said, was the best potential alternative to solve dependency upon nuclear energy that a portion of the world still has. The problem apparently, is that the reactors couldn't be mass produced at this time and didn't have the best prospect of being able to do so efficiently in the near future. But, like I said before, I don't say no when as to test new equipment and the Exia is a prime example as to why. I get to have fun testing the capabilities of this machine and I'm looking forward to doing so!

"Carlos, once again, you don't fail to make an impressive presentation. I look forward to delivering valuable data to help improve this machine, I'll certainly do my utmost at least," I said.

Carlos laugh, "I don't doubt you will Tyler, uh by the way, should I ask what you have in that rather full looking duffle bag?"

I glanced down at my goodie bag, then chuckled softly, "Well honestly Carlos, it would probably be better that you don't ask what's inside my friend, the security guards didn't appreciate the contents. But, for what I might be dealing with on my trip, it's what I consider insurance, which I hope I don't have to use, but fear that I likely have to before I get back."

After saying my farewell, I hefted my goodie bag, which wasn't light, but with what I'm expecting, will pay off in spade and got into the cockpit of the Exia Gundam. The cockpit layout was different than I was used to. There was the of course the two side screens that made up the panoramic view. The main system display was in the area that it normally, but I was connected to the forward screen that had feeds to the suit's optics. There were two smaller system displays on either side of the forward screen. For the suit's controls, there wasn't a 'throttle and control stick' instead, the two ideas seemed to have been combined into two control sticks, one for each hand. Most of the non-main controls were either on the forward system display or a console just below it. The two com-screens were still in the forward top area on both sides, like was standard in most mobile suits.

I activated the OS and watched it as it came up, which I noted that the sounds that accompanied startup were slightly different.

MOBILE SUIT S1 OPERATION SYSTEM
Generation
Unilateral
Nucleus-Drive

Augment
Mode-Solar

G.U.N.D.A.M Defender
_Series GND100-O5 SR 01-21126_
Human Federation

The theme of "Gundam" was one that had stuck since the Atlantic Federation kind of thought of it originally, which was before the prototypes were even fully constructed. I did notice that the operating system's boot-up was pretty quick and was ready to go before I expected it to be from habit of the mobile suits I've worked with. On one of the side displays, readout on the Solar Reactor came up and I saw that all of the readings ranged from green to blue, which I believe meant things were good, as red normally signaled issues and problems.

I took a few minutes to dive into the suit's systems to get a look at what there was to work with for the Exia. There was nothing that Carlos hadn't already mentioned to me, but I've the habit of checking. After I did that, I stated that I was ready to go and the Exia was moved to the open area of Teswa. The large shutter opened and I took-off in the Exia on my journey to protect my friend, whose life was likely in danger.

I activate the optical camouflage the Exia had as soon as I got out of Teswa. There is no reason to display the Exia off for ZAFT and the Alliance to get a picture of, and closely examine. Upon reaching the ocean, I decided to test the versatility of the GN Reactor that Carlos had talked about. For he had specifically said that the Exia should be able to travel underwater with little penalty to performance overall. The transition from air into water came from a jerk, but then things smoothed out and I continued forward. Interestingly, the speed didn't take as much of a hit that I would have expected to come when traveling underwater.

It was late afternoon by the time I got into range of Orb and the place that Kira and Lacus lived with the kids, Kira's mom and Malchio. There was a cave a distance from the property I was heading for, and as a bonus, the way into the cavern was underwater. I came into the cave before having the Exia surface and come to land in non-deep water. After locking the reactor which was called "GN Repose", that cut down particle production and didn't let the particles be detected. Opening the cockpit, I found that the spot I had chosen for the Exia to stand, put the hatch at nearly the same level as the floor that led out of the cavern. I grabbed my goodie bag and got out of the Exia and moved to the floor. I closed the cockpit hatch, just in case someone might come into this cave, unlikely as it was as the tunnel out of this cave wasn't the easiest to find.

Glancing back at the Exia, seeing that its coloration was duller, the effect of the phase shift being off. Once confirming that the Exia was secure, I headed down the tunnel opposite of where I exited the mobile suit. The tunnel was not easy traveling, the changing slope was inconvenient, more so as I was carrying a 'heavy' duffle bag, though I knew that I would wish the bag was heavier sometime tonight. It took me a couple of minutes to come out into the fresh air and I was breathing hard, hands on my knees. After catching my breath, I walked towards the house Kira and Lacus lived in.

I met no one along my way, but I wasn't idle along the way. I was placing… "surprises" up for those who I was confident would be stopping by tonight, and my surprises were one of two things, detectors that would alert me, and the other was proximity mines. That's how serious I saw this threat to Lacus as, it's me and my allies or them that will be alive to see tomorrow, period. My assumption is that the assassination force will come from the south more than likely, so I set up mines more heavily in that direction.

Once I got to the house, I got some real interesting stares when the front door open and I was standing there. The kids quickly became all excited at seeing me, I'm popular with them, but all the adults and my two friends were looking at me with strange expressions. I set down my goodie bag and told the kids that there was nothing in the bag for them or of interest and that it would be best if they not open it. Lacus and Caridad Yamato moved to calm down the children while Kira approached me, "Tye? What are you doing around here," he asked.

I shrugged my shoulders, "Well, I had some free time and thought it has been a while since I've swung around here and checked on everyone. I would hope that I'm still welcome around here, if not, then what did I do for that to have that be the case, for it was not intended to be mean or malicious in anyway," I replied.

Kira waved his hands, "No no, you're still welcome around her Tye, just didn't expect you to show up out of the blue like this."

The rest of the afternoon and early evening, was spent with me and the rest of the adults wearing down the kids. I volunteered to sleep on the sofa for the night, even though I was offered the spare room. I didn't say the reason was that I wanted to be ready for the unwelcome visitors that I expected will come around tonight. I simply said that the sofa would be just fine for me and made sure that my goodie bag wasn't that far from me. Even when I laid down, I didn't fall into a deep sleep with the nerves I had right now, so I was more resting my eyes.

It was close to midnight, when the remote receiver that was connected to the sensors I placed began going off softly, which got me up in seconds. I rolled off the sofa and grabbed the receiver and looked at its display and saw that the troublemakers were coming from the south, which I had thought they would and setup 'surprises' heavily to counter that. I went over to my goodie bag, opened it up fully and glanced over the arsenal that I had packed. Of course, I had guns, couple of rifles and a pistol or two and at least one other gun that the visitors better hope I don't take out, because they'll be in trouble. I also had a collection of explosives of multiple types to work with, so with what I had, then I should be able to hold off those coming long enough for everyone else to get to the bunker.

I grabbed the assault rifle I'd packed and pulled my goodie bag over to the sofa that I was using as a kind of shield. Plus, I put on ear protection that would filter sound wonderfully and a visor to help my vision in the firefight I was about to get into. I just ducked behind the sofa, when the first dull thud came to my ears through the filters the ear protection had. A smile formed on my face at knowing whoever was coming had encountered the first of my 'surprises' I laid out to slow them down. They would rapidly discover that I made their approach path a literal minefield for them. It would be my goal and pleasure to make the job they were here to accomplish much harder than originally expected. While I'm here, I'll do my utmost to make it a living hell for them, I won't be fighting nice or clean if I don't need to, my opponents have the advantage of numbers and that's all they get from me!

Within less than a minute later, the sounds of explosions began ringing out at random as the intruders entered the minefield. I dug into my goodie bag and retrieved a flash bang cluster grenade, then peeked over the sofa. I spotted a number of people a distance away, they were in black suits with bullet-proof vests and what appeared to be helmets with infrared optics. They also each had a gun with a suppressor and other tools for what they were here to do. After sizing up my enemy, I lobbed the flash bang hard and it made a hole as it went through the window. The sounds from down the hallway from deeper within the house from the other inhabitance caught my attention briefly, before I focused back on the intruders.

The flash bang released its cluster of charges, which shortly went off and deployed both a blinding flash, but also gave of solid thuds. Hearing that, I sprung up, whipping my assault rifle up and took aim, flicking off the safety and picked my first target. I fired bursts of three shots, my first shots struck the bullet-proof vest of the person, my next shots hit the guy in the face, dropping him to the ground. Bullets started coming my direction, but the flash bang had thrown off the unwelcome visitors enough that the bullets were not finding their mark. I kept shooting, until I ran out of ammo on the clip I had in the rifle, then ducked behind the sofa as bullets flew past the area I had been. I ejected the ammo clip and grabbed the other one I packed, and as I was loading my rifle, I caught sight of the lady that was Waltfeld's partner at the end of the hallway.

I smiled as I shoved the new clip in, saluted with my assault rifle, retrieved a tear gas grenade and was about to pull the pin and chuck, yet an object crashed through the window before I could. The object hit the floor and rolled to a stop, I identified the object as a grenade, upon reflex, I rushed forward and grabbed the explosive, then twisted and chucked it back out the window, which exploded shortly after I threw it. I heard the shrapnel shoot through the window, completing the shattering of the glass, but somehow, none of it hit me. I moved back to where I had been picked the tear gas grenade, pulled its pin and lobbed it outside and prepared myself to return fire. The tear gas began pouring out into the air and the storm of bullets let up somewhat, which came with the sound of coughing… so these intruders have no gas masks, interesting. I grabbed a pistol from my goodie bag and popped up and started shooting bullets back at the punks that I wanted to cause hell for!

I used both my assault rifle and pistols in tandem, switching out the two pistols and then the magnum when they ran out of on their magazines/ammunition. Once I spent the full clip for the assault rifle and the small arms I had, I ducked back down and tossed away the assault rifle as it was out of ammo. I dug in my goodie bag and brought out a decent powered rifle, and with the weapon in my hands, I stood back up and started firing rounds. Those that I hit anywhere other than the torso gave reactions of being hit, and the shots to the torso were stopped by the vest, but the individual still stumbled. I didn't miss even one shot, some were more effective than others true, but as I'm limited supply of ammo and my opponents likely have more a supply than me. Still, I had no extra clips for this gun, so when I ran out, I had to duck down again. I chucked a couple of more grenades out the window to keep the intruders on their toes. One of those grenades was a good smoke grenade which not only blinded my enemy, but got them coughing for air too.

My problem now, was that this group I was fighting against had gotten closer to where I was dug in that ranged weapons were less effective. I cast aside the rifle, and extracted the shotgun that I packed, keeping down as bullets came my way. The shotgun was loaded with forty-five caliber slugs, so those bullet proof vests will be hard pressed to block these shots. I rolled out from behind the sofa, got to my feet, leveled the shotgun and began unloading at the closest individuals. Each shot hit somewhere on those I aimed at, less than half end out being lethal to the receiver, but hey a hit is a hit. During my shotgun usage spree, I did feel a sting on my upper left arm and took that to mean that a bullet had grazed me, if not worse. The injury didn't change or deter my efforts in slowing and stopping these people from killing the individual they were here to eliminated.

When my shotgun was empty, I dropped to the floor and returned to my goodie bag and I took the final large gun I had packed. The largest weapon, took up a good portion of the bag and definitely the heaviest one that I had stuffed into my goodie bag, was a M125 Gatling Gun, which was M134 Minigun variant. The six-barreled gatling gun could fire up to three-thousand rounds per minute, though I didn't have that much ammo, only a belt of five-hundred-fifty. With the rounds being fifty-six-caliber, if my opponent's bullet-proof vests had issues before with the ammo I'd used, they'll be as good as paper against these bullets.

I rose up again, bringing the gatling gun's barrels to bear on those being stubborn and trying to kill Lacus. I pulled and held the trigger, and the buzzing of the gatling gun quickly drowned out the sounds of the other guns. Some of the approaching intruders were mowed down, while others dove out of the stream of bullets. The fifty-six caliber bullets ripped through the vests like they weren't even there and continued through the person the vest was worn by. I took me around a minute to unload all my gatling gun had in short bursts.

After I ran out of bullets, I dropped the gatling gun and grabbed a cluster grenade and threw it out the window and then ran to the kitchen and took stock of my current situation. I found that the sting on my upper left arm, was a graze that a bullet had made, but it wasn't serious. I did find a rag and tie it around the wound the best I could, then I grabbed two fair sized knives to work with. Before I left through the back door, I set my final present for this group. Then I headed for through the back door of the house, with my destination the cave that the Exia was hidden in.

-Line Break-

-Neutral pov-

A dull thud jolted some of the adults awake, Andrew and Aisha sitting up and looking around for the cause of the sound. They both grabbed pistols they had in reach and quickly got dressed and headed out into the hallway. Murrue Ramius was shortly out in the hallway as well, "Who do you think could be visiting at this hour," she asked.

Andrew smiled a bit, "I'm more interested on where our guests might be from," he said. Then he gained an air of business-like professionalism, "Murrue, get the kids, Lacus and the others to the shelter. Aisha, would you go and check on Tyler, I wouldn't doubt he is aware of the situation. I'll go and head them off before they have the opportunity to cut off a path to the shelter."

The women nodded and the three split up heading off to do their parts in dealing with this situation. The thuds of explosion started coming every once and a while punctured the silence of them night. Murrue managed to get to the room that Lacus and children, seeing Lacus awake and comforting the children as the noise was scaring them. Murrue had them quickly get the children moving towards the underground armored shelter. Caridad and Malchio joined the group along the way towards the shelter that was built into the mountain the house was constructed into.

Kira exited his room, glancing around, trying to figure what was going on with the noise that was being heard. Then, Andrew came down the hallway that Kira was in and Kira noticed the pistol in the man's hand, "Mr. Waltfeld, what's going on," he asked.

"We got company kid, and they're not here to be nice, but I do believe your friend prepared some things for our guests by the sound of it," Waltfeld returned.

Suddenly, from the windows that faced the front of the house, a blinding light appeared and lit up the night for a moment. That was followed by the sound of a rifle echoed through the house, from the direction of the living room. That got Kira and Andrew to get moving and put the conversation on hold for the time being.

Aisha, after splitting up from Andrew and Murre, had made her way towards the living room, her pistol at the ready for any intruder that she should come across. Yet, what she found when she got to the living room, frankly surprised her. Tyler McGregor was hunched down behind the sofa which was close to the large window, an assault rifle in his hands, ejecting a clip and loading a new one. When Tyler glanced over at Aisha simply staring at him, he smiled and saluted with his assault rifle, then dug around in the bag that he had brought and took out a tear gas grenade. Aisha was about to turn and go assist getting everyone else to the shelter as it was clear that Mr. McGregor was prepared to fight against the intruders, but then came a crash. Through the window came a small object that Aisha focused on and saw was a grenade. She spun around the corner and hunkered down for the explosion, but there was a scuffling, but the blast was farther away than she expected but the sound of shrapnel hitting was audible. Aisha glanced around the corner to see Tyler pull the pin of the tear gas grenade, and then throw it out of the hole that had been the window. Then the young man popped up and began shooting back at the group trying to get inside the house.

Aisha then left Tyler to do what he was and headed to meet up with those heading for the shelter. She reached the group and joined Murrue with looking around corners to make sure it was safe, for she had encountered a few of the group attacking. The sound of a higher-powered rifle firing echoed through the halls, leaving Murrue and Aisha to wonder just what Tyler had exactly brought to work with for this event.

Kira and Andrew soon met up with the rest and they all made their way towards the shelter. Kira was worried about Tyler as he was fighting by himself, but Andrew told him that Tyler was buying time for the rest of them and Aisha confirmed that by telling him what she had seen. There might have been more conversation, but a loud buzzing of rapid gun fire which caused pause. "That sound," Murrue uttered in growing shock, "Does Tyler have a gatling gun?!"

Andrew snorted, "With that kid, I wouldn't be surprised if he packed one, he does always have interesting tools for a situation."

The group continued forward, those with military training keeping themselves between attackers and those they protected. Nonetheless, the finally reached the shelter, and they all quickly filed in, the bunker being locked behind them, including the control panel being made inaccessible. Murrue collapsed to the floor, "Those attacking us are Coordinators," she stated, having recognized how out classed she had been with just one-on-one.

"It's not just that, they're no novices, they are experience and well-trained, and few get that kind of training normally," Waltfeld remarked.

Kira was in shock at hearing that, for that implied that the group attacking was from ZAFT, which made little sense. "Wait, they're from the ZAFT organization," Kira uttered.

Andrew nodded, "More than likely," he answered.

"But why would ZAFT attack any of us," Kira questioned.

Andrew looked at Lacus, "I believe their target was her," he said gesturing at Lacus, "But, I couldn't say why they were after her. Perhaps Tyler might know more about why this group is here for the task, though I would imagine this situation was the reason Tyler popped up."

Outside the shelter, part of the ZAFT special forces team were cautiously approaching the house. The heavy resistance they had been met with, and by what could be figured, it was being done by few if not one individual, who had a lot of guns and explosives to use. Whoever they were, they had been impeding their progress in accomplishing their mission of assassinating Lacus Clyne. A third of the team that had come to do the job had been killed by either explosives or gun fire. The leader of the special forces had quickly become frustrated at the resistance they were dealing with, for there had been nothing said about this much of a problem. Yet, caution was warranted by what they had been going against, their target had a protector that was well-armed.

But, by the time the team had gotten close enough to the house to get a better view of the situation, the countering weapon fire ceased. So, the team leader ordered a few enter the house and handle those who were in the way, but to be on-guard.

-Line Break-

-Tyler's pov-

The second I was out of the house, I was running as fast as I could go, the reason I was, I had set the rest of the explosives I had left to detonate around a minute after I pushed the activation button. I did that just before getting out of the house, so I didn't want to be around when 'boom time' comes. But, it serves those that come in and find the last surprise for them, and honestly, those from ZAFT's special forces were asking for this.

However, I was forced to slide to a halt when I spotted two of figures in path. I hunched down, a kitchen knife in each hand, before I rushed forward at the two. They noticed me as I came at them and they raised their guns and began shooting. I felt a stinging sensation on my left thigh, but I kept going forward, jamming one knife right in the closest guy's groin. And like any man, the guy I nailed in the family jewels cried out in pain, until I rammed the other knife into his neck through his jugular. I scooped up his gun as it fell towards the ground and used the dead man as a shield against the incoming bullets, before I dived and fired the gun and scored a hit in the head of the other man and he dropped.

I looked down to see how bad I had been hit and saw that I had a gunshot wound that was clean but more serious than the one on my arm. The sound of a hearty explosion drew my attention, and when I twisted around to see a fireball going up and debris flying. I sure hope the punks enjoyed my 'boom' I left for them, for it looks like I took out the whole common area of the house. After seeing the boom, I took the combat knife of one of those I'd just killed and cut a strip out of my pant-leg and used it to wrap up the graze. After I'd wrapped up my thigh, I continued toward the cave that would get me to the Exia. The trek through the tunnel was more difficult in the dark and my leg injury, but I I got to the Exia, I opened and then entered the cockpit and activated the suit's OS, closing the hatch after doing so. I disengaged the GN repose, and had the Solar Reactor outputting particles and flowing through the mobile suit. After switching on the phase shift, I backed the Exia up and had it sinking into the water and then headed for the cavern entrance. The Exia came out of the cavern and then I tilted upward to move towards the surface, turning on the optical camouflage before my suit broke the surface of the water. And if the situation wasn't as serious as it is, then I would be in awe of the capabilities of the Exia's Solar Reactor for it was awesome.

By the time I got back into visual range of the house, I saw that there were a number of mobile suits that I hadn't seen before. The suits were new models, and they look kind of similar to ZAFT's GOOhN underwater mobile suit, but these appeared much meaner. It had a more humanoid design which would make it more effective on land. They were green overall but had yellow on the shoulders and above it's primary optical sensor. From what I saw, each mobile suit had two sets of missile launchers, beam cannons on the shoulders. Then on the arms, I saw machine guns and a claw for each arm.

After taking in what my opponents were using, I landed near two of the ZAFT suits and focused on the task at hand. I raised he Exia's weapon system, in its rifle mode configuration, then I aimed at the closest mobile suit and fired a shot, which took off an arm. The two ZAFT machines took notice when one them lost an arm and were looking around for the cause, seeing no reason to hide, I disengaged the Exia's camouflage. After all, the groups from ZAFT was never officially here by what I would assume, so logically if they die, only those who sent them will know they were ever here and they'll never admit it. So, if the punks here get killed, that will be the end of this situation and there will be no investigation from ZAFT, since that would require they admit they ordered an assassination.

The two ZAFT machines noticed me, one of the suits zoomed off towards the other, while the one-armed unit rushed forward, its remaining arm in the motion of attack. I switched the 'sword rifle' over to its close quarter configuration, so that the blade swung forward. The claw was aiming for the Exia's torso, but I brought the sword to bear on it and struck in between the claw's pincers. However, the sword didn't stop, it was cutting through the arm of my enemy with relative ease. Needless to say, I sliced off the arm, to which my opponent leapt back from me and started shooting missiles in my direction. As the missiles came, I moved forward and though they struck the Exia, no damage was incurred, thanks to the E-Carbon and phase shift armor.

Once the missiles effectively created a smoke screen, I zoomed forward, sword set in the same position as a spear or lance. That in mind, my opponent didn't have the time to move before I rammed the sword through the optic sensor. I cut a path out with the sword and kicked the ZAFT machine away before it exploded. Wasting no more time, I hurried over to where the other intruders were causing havoc. I found the machine that had ran to its fellow when I had gotten closer to the house. Drawing on of the Exia's beam sabers, I lopped off one arm with the Exia's heavy physical blade, following that with slicing off one of the two missile pods with the beam saber.

I was forced to spin away from my enemy as the swung their remaining claw at me with some kind of beam saber between the claws. I switch from heavy blade to Exia's particle rifle, wishing to have a gun-type weapon to work with. The enemy mobile suit lunged at me, but I simply jammed the beam saber I had into the lower part of the torso. Then, I squatted down and used the machines momentum to help me get under it and lift it up. I had to use more of the Exia's particle supply to lift and carry the ZAFT mobile suit as I walked forward, but the supply was okay. My reason in carrying the mobile suit instead of chucking it away, was I wanted to scare the hell out of those here to kill Lacus. And seeing an ally not just beaten and kill, but out done by a mobile suit they haven't seen before, I think will achieve that nicely!

When I came into view of the other ZAFT suits, I found there were ten of them working on getting into the shelter. They had destroyed the house structure that had been in front of the shelter and had revealed the outer bunker wall. Oh, but when I stepped into view, they all quickly looked at me, more so when I tossed the suit I beat in their direction that now had a neat hole in its lower torso. It wasn't long before a couple of the suits surged forward to attack me. I shot at two of them before I had to move out of the way of oncoming strikes. Yet, once again, I was impressed by the capabilities of the Exia, for its incredible mobility made evading easy like I was floating, and my opponents' attacks became almost comical.

Nonetheless, the fight got even better when after an explosion came from one of the hills close by and the Freedom appeared. I mean, the ZAFT group fighting me in the Exia had been harsh for ZAFT already, but with Kira in the Freedom joining in, our opponents' chances of getting out alive, let alone winning, essentially go to zero. Long story short, Kira and I whipped the rest of the ZAFT machines efficiently, the real difference between Kira and me, Kira didn't aim for the cockpits, where I just didn't care if I hit them. I was certain that even if the pilots were alive now, if they lost, then they would self-destruct, killing themselves anyways. I was proven right when the mobile suits that Kira had disabled, exploded after the battle was over.

-Line Break-

-Neutral pov-

Andrew, Aisha and Murrue guided everyone through the tunnel that led out of the shelter to the outside. With the ZAFT force using mobile suits with lots of firepower, the shelter wouldn't take it very long for them to break through the armored walls. When they had all gotten outside, it was instantly clear that the battle was over and all the ZAFT suits were either destroyed or down. The machines that were disabled shortly exploded from their self-destructs being activated. The real surprise was the unknown blue and white mobile suit that assumedly Tyler was piloting. The suit was obviously a Gundam-type, but it appeared so different from previous mobile suits, mostly due to the particles of light that was coming from something on its back. Then the only visible weapon that it had was mounted to its right arm and was a combination of a physical sword and gun.

The Freedom and the Exia closed the distance between one another and faced each other, while everyone else made their way down to them. The children were awed at seeng what they called, "the pretty light" that the unknown mobile suit was letting off. Then the light that had been coming from the Exia's reactor stopped when the reactor's vents and other openings were closed before a hatch on the front around the lower torso opened and Tyler stepped out. One of the Exia's hands moved up to the level of the cockpit and Tyler hopped onto it, before it lowered down to the ground with the Exia shifting to a kneeling position. At the same time, Kira came out of the Freedom and took the zip-line to the ground to meet his friend. "Tyler, you have some explaining to do," Kira greeted.

"I suppose I do, but I think there are other things to do first," Tyler replied.

For the next couple of hours, work was done to make sure everyone was safe. Tyler moved the Exia onto the Archangel in its dock far below the water, while Kira flew the Freedom back to the dock it had sat in. Reverend Malchio and Caridad Yamato looked after the children while a discussion was held between the others, Tyler joining them after storing the Exia on the Archangel. Andrew started the conversation, "Those mobile suit that attacked us, they're known as ASH-types," he stated.

"ASH-types," questioned Murrue.

"Yes, Andrew and I have seen some data on them, but last night is first time either of us has seen them," remarked Aisha.

"They're a new model that's just come off the assembly lines for ZAFT, so only those within ZAFT should have them," Andrew added.

Tyler exhaled, "Meaning that Lacus is being targeted by ZAFT," he said.

All turned to Tyler, "And where do you come in Tyler," asked Murrue. "You're not one to normally just pop up unannounced."

"I came across some data on the Information Network, referred to the house's coordinates and had a very bad reference," Tyler replied.

Lacus was worried with what Tyler had just said, "What do you mean very bad reference Tye," she inquired.

Tyler gained an expression of irritation and anger, the latter being kind of rare for the young man for those who knew him. He didn't answer Lacus' question right away, but all waited, wanting to know what Tyler knew about this incident. Finally, after a few minutes, Tyler spoke up, "The reference in the final line of the 'report' was; 'location acknowledged, group will be sent to do black dusting of the individual'. The reference 'black dusting' is code used pretty much exclusively by ZAFT and it is code for assassination."

Aisha and Andrew had been horrified at hearing 'black dusting' for they knew what it mean, and the horror was shared by everyone else once Tyler explained what the terms meant. But Tyler wasn't finished, "Which, when you combine the other evidence from last night, says that our attackers were from ZAFT and were likely special forces. At least that's my take on it, especially after the effort I had to put forth to fight them."

"What do you mean Tye," asked Kira.

Tyler gazed at Kira, "Whenever I'm forced to utilize the SOLAS training I received, it normally means that I'm going against others who've had similar level training."

There were soft gasps at that reply, though it was Murrue that found use of her voice first, "Wait Tyler, then does that mean you are actually a part of SOLAS," she asked.

Tyler twisted his head towards her, "I would have thought you would have figured that out, I mean, the Alliance suspected that. I would bet you were at one time or another regaled with the reasons the Earth Forces have wanted to take me down," Tyler shot back, then he sighed. "But yes, I'm a part of SOLAS, I kind of can't forget that with the boss that I have."

Blank looks were what Tyler got in response for his reply, specifically the last line of it. Tyler merely shook his head, "Don't ask, words can't explain what I mean with my boss, the woman is scary, that's the best I can say." Tyler then changed the subject, "Moving on, knowing that those who assaulted us last night were from ZAFT, that implies some very worrying things, or perhaps it's just me."

Kira frowned, "No Tye, it is not just you that sees worrying implication," he said.

Andrew hummed, "You make a good point Tyler, none of us will deny that. For ZAFT to wish to assassinate Lacus, it leaves the question of who was the one to order this, as I have a hard time think of anyone that would want to do that. Kidnapping Lacus, I could imagine, but killing her is harder to fathom," he mused.

Tyler once again made his voice heard, "I would agree with you Waltfeld, if not for one point I was made aware of a few days ago."

Everyone focused on Tyler again, "What point is that Tye," asked Lacus.

Tyler appeared to be thinking for a bit, "I had the opportunity to catch up with Athrun a few days ago. He mentioned that while he was around the PLANTs, he came across someone that 'looked like Lacus'. Athrun then told me something to the effect that the look-alike was 'standing in' for Lacus to help keep the masses calm," Tyler iterated. That bit of information was unexpected, but that would make some sense in light of recent events. Yet, Tyler wasn't finished, "However," he started, which the single word redrew all attention to the young man. "For such a fact to be told to Athrun by Chairman Durandal implies seriously dangerous possibilities and creates major doubts in my mind at least."

"Tyler, you can't seriously think that Chairman Durandal had something to do with this," Lacus uttered.

Tyler shook his head slowly, "I wouldn't say that I'm accusing the man for this necessarily, but nor am I saying that he had nothing to do with this. Honestly, there's not enough evidence to confirm or dismiss involvement on that man's part. Nevertheless, for the sake of argument, let's say that Chairman Durandal doesn't have anything to do with this," Tyler posed.

All were thinking upon the idea Tyler had mentioned, and Aisha spoke first, "If that is the case, then someone or a number with fairly high access to information are responsible."

Tyler shrugged, "It's possible, but my guess, regardless of whom is responsible for this assassination attempt, would be someone or a group of people, wants Lacus gone, probably to prevent the chance that their stand-in being discovered as a fake. Perhaps this look-alike is easier to manipulate than Lacus would be, I don't know."

The conversation kept going, moving onto what should be done next going forward. Lacus had to "disappear" and those that had lived in the house would need to be taken to safety. Tyler made some calls and managed to arrange a place for the other inhabitance of the former house. Yet, the discussion was paused as an older woman was led into the mobile suit docking area by the children and Kira's mother. "Master Kira," she greeted.

"Murna," Kira questioned.

The woman came up and after some chatting, she gave Kira an envelope, "This is for you. Lady Cagalli asked that I give it to you, though she wanted to give it to you personally. However, due to current circumstances, she is unable to do so and gave me the task to deliver it to you in secret."

That caught Tyler's attention for there were clearly facts missing, he moved forward and glanced over Kira's shoulder. "Is Cagalli okay, she isn't injured is she," inquired Lacus.

Murna shook her head and looked away, "No, she's never been healthier, it's just she's getting married," she returned.

That reply took everyone by surprise, but the woman continued, "She has been moved into her fiancée's house and the wedding date has been moved forward. Lord Uzumi is being swamped with work involving the Representative Council and so hasn't been able to do much for her. In fact, the Seirans haven't told anyone of the full arrangements going forward and are adamantly insisting that they will handle everything." The woman paused, gave an expression of pain, "This arrangement was made long ago, and I would normally be fine and happy with this as long as Lady Cagalli was okay with it. However, with how the Seirans are rushing things bothers me greatly, like they are trying to get around Lord Uzumi so that they can control Lady Cagalli."

The woman went on, but Kira had opened the letter, and he, Lacus and Tyler focused on reading what Cagalli had written.

Sorry Kira,

I was hoping to be able to possibly come and visit, so that I could talk to you in person. With things as they are now, I'm not as free to move around as I used to be. I'm sure by now, you've heard about my arranged marriage with Yuna Roma Seiran, which was panned years ago to improve the relations between the two families. In a world where things are so uncertain, if this marriage can help provide stability for Orb, then I'll be fine with it.

I have enclosed the ring that Athrun has given me, because I won't be able to wear it anymore. Yuna and those here would likely taken it from me if they saw it and I cannot throw it away, so I'm sending it to you so perhaps you can get it back to him for me. I hate to ask this of you, but please tell him that I'm sorry, and that I wish him the best and that he might find happiness. I'm doing what I am so that Orb may have peaceful lives and a good future.

The letter was signed by Cagalli at the end, and there were tear splotches on the lower half of the letter. Kira was silence, but his expression was pained at what he read, for he did care about Cagalli. Lacus was looking worriedly at Kira as the pained expression hurt her as well to see him like this and also to know Cagalli was in a situation that she had no control or say in.

Tyler was dubious at what he had read, for he knew about some of the subject that was inferred. When he had been younger, Tyler had accompanied his mother on some of her visits to other places including Orb. During some of those trips, Tyler had been around Yuna Roma Seiran and had quickly grown to dislike many qualities he possessed. To understand that the Seirans were skirting around most if not everyone else to get their way, was not nice. "Kira, that twin of yours is something else with some of the stuff she does, and I'm saying that nicely my friend," Tyler said.

"I wouldn't say it like that Tye, Cagalli has had a lot on her mind lately with recent events," Kira replied.

Tyler gazed at Kira, "You can say it in any way you like Kira, but even you have to admit that Cagalli getting married to Yuna Seiran isn't a good idea," he challenged.

"Well," Kira uttered.

Tyler sighed, "Okay, let me rephrase what I said, tell me how Yuna Roma Seiran treats you when you're around him?"

Kira hesitated at being asked the question, for Yuna had not treated Kira nicely even if Cagalli was around. It was usually worse when Cagalli wasn't in earshot, but overall, Kira had ignored the things that Yuna had said to him. "He could improve," Kira said finally.

Tyler rolled his eyes, "Oh Yuna could improve a great many things, but he won't change anything about himself as he thinks he can do whatever he wants and get away with is. He's a spoiled brat and a whiny jerk," Tyler returned.

After more discussion moving to what could be done for Cagalli, but no one could come up with anything. Yet, a minute passed by, Tyler got a growing grin that told of mischief coming to his mind. Kira saw the expression and instantly was on-guard as the look was one that came before trouble followed with Tyler. "Tye, you've got the look again, what crazy stunt are you cooking up in your head," Kira asked tiredly.

Tyler painted a look of innocent on his face, "Me? Cooking up crazy stunt? Why would you say something like that Kira?"

Kira nodded, "Because you always get a particular grin when you're thinking up crazy ideas and stunts."

Tyler snickered somewhat evilly, "So, you've noticed the particular grin my friend? Yes indeed, I have an idea of not only helping those here that are out of house and home, but also assist that twin sister of yours out of the dumb decision she's setting up to make," Tyler stated, then he focused on Kira alone. "How do you feel about party crashing, specifically crashing a wedding party?"

The plan that Tyler explained to everyone else, was seen in many ways by those listening to the iteration. It was crazy, and should any of them be caught, the consequences could be very bad, depending on who would be judging. And yet, the plan that Tyler came up with could actually work and Kira also agreed that the idea was fair. Tyler even knew the location that the wedding itself would very likely be held as apparently it was tradition for weddings of any of the noble families of Orb to be held.

After the explanation of the 'plan', everyone agreed to it and went off to do their parts, leaving Kira, Lacus and Tyler alone. "Tye, I have a feeling Cagalli won't appreciate what you suggest," Kira said.

Tyler waved a hand, "Maybe not at first, heck I'll be surprised if she isn't mad for a time, but rest assured my friend, your twin sister will thank us later on. That whiny jerk she's being set up to marry is a horrible choice and, in her heart, she knows that. We're just giving her a way out," Tyler reasoned, before he chuckled darkly. Then he leaned closer to Kira, "And between you and me, Athrun is a MUCH better choice and match for Cagalli than Yuna could hope to be."

Meanwhile, Murrue got down to contacting the other crew member of the Archangel that she knew the whereabouts of, calling them back. Lacus, Caridad and Revered Malchio herded the children onto the Archangel, as they would be dropped off in the Republic to the place that Tyler had arranged. Andrew and Aisha got down to the job of making sure the Archangel would be ready to fly out when the time came. Kira moved the Freedom to the Archangel and stored it in the hanger with the other three mobile suits. The mobile suits that the Archangel carried at this time were the MBF-02 Strike Rogue, which was made from the design of the X105 Strike, the OIS-X209 Shadow and the GSR-001 Exia. With Tyler's help, Kira got the Freedom in a suit dock and then the two went to help Andrew and Aisha with the checking over the Archangel.

By midday, much of the crew had appeared and joined in the preparations being done. When the decision of who should fill the vice-captain position, Murrue had first thought to have Andrew Waltfeld do so. However, after the first hour of the Archangel getting her checking over, Murrue had seen that Tyler had quite a knack for getting things done and delegating the work to others very well. So, in the end, she asked Tyler to fill the position, something that she would have never thought to do before during the First Alliance-PLANT War. Tyler was kind of taken aback but did accept the job for the time before the Archangel would swing by the Republic.

Those that were on the Archangel, besides the children, Caridad and Reverend Malchio, were in Orb military uniforms. Most had junior grade ranking uniform markings, varying in the markings and rank. Murrue, Andrew, Aisha and Tyler were wearing senior officer uniforms, with Andrew and Aisha had markings of the rank of Commander on their uniforms, while Murrue and Tyler had markings of the rank of Captain. Tyler was overseeing the full system check for the Archangel and handing out assignments to those there. Murrue was waiting for the final members of the Archangel's crew to arrive, since all responded to the call she put out.

Once everything was ready with the Archangel, everyone took their seats. Andrew taking the copilot chair, Aisha manned the mobile suit control in the CIC, Lacus took the communication console. Tyler was sitting in the vice-captain's chair in the CIC that Natarle had once occupied and Murrue came onto the bridge, looking around at everyone working. The mechanics were making sure the engines and three out of the four mobile suits were ready to launch out. The children were divided into the some of the crew quarters and were being managed by Caridad and Reverend Malchio. Murrue took the captain's chair she had thought she vacated more than a year ago.

After the dock was flooded, the restraining arms were released the ship and the bulkheads in front of the Archangel opened. "Proceed forward slowly, engines at 20%," ordered Murrue.

"All sections, report current status immediately. Helm, keep a close eye on the walls so that we don't bang into them," added Tyler.

The Archangel moved forward and into the tunnel that led out into the ocean. "Once we're clear of the tube, climb thirty-degrees and put engines to maximum," Murrue said as the Archangel approached the end of the tunnel.

Tyler looked up out of the CIC, "Murrue, all sections are reporting in as good to go. The Archangel is as good and ready as she can be."

Murrue nodded at the information, "Right, after braking the surface, set course for the monument," she ordered.

When the Archangel began traveling towards their destination, Tyler and Kira proceeded to the pilot locker room and got into pilot suits. Then the two headed for the hanger, Kira boarding the Freedom and Tyler the Shadow. Both mobile suits launched out from the Archangel and make their way towards Orb's oldest religious monument that still stood. It didn't take long for Orb's military headquarters detected the Archangel and then, after they launched both the Freedom and the Shadow approaching. Orb ships and mobile suits were ordered to scramble in response, to the 'unknowns' coming towards the mainland. However, on some of the ships, it was noted that the signals closely matched the Archangel, the Freedom, and the Shadow.

Meanwhile, the wedding of Yuna Roma Seiran and Cagalli Yula Athha was in full swing and in progress. The ceremony had begun, and the priest was going through the vows, before he asked for the agreement from both Yuna and Cagalli. Yuna gave his 'I do', and though Cagalli hesitated, but was about to do the same, when the soldiers got to their feet, shouts given about unknowns approaching and that responders not being able to stop them. The situation shifted, the soldiers quickly trying to get the guests to safety, but also interrupted the ceremony. The Murasame mobile suits that were defending the area and event, turned to face whatever was coming. Nevertheless, before they could do anything, the suits had their rifle arms shot off. The sight of the Freedom and the Shadow caused panic with most as they hovered above the monument.

Tyler kept an eye on the Murasames and the sensor the Shadow had to be forewarned of Orb/Federation reinforcements. Although, Tyler certainly did enjoy seeing Yuna cowering at the sight of mobile suits, for he always dislike the whiny jerk/brat. "Kira, best we pick up the pace and go before more company gets here, so grab that twin of yours and let's get a move on," Tyler said over the radio.

"I know, I was getting to that," Kira replied.

People were running away to get out from being in the open, yet Cagalli was staring at the two mobile suits that she hadn't thought she would see. Kira flew the Freedom over to the monument itself and landed in front of it which put the mobile suit's hips at the level of the top of the monument. The Freedom grabbed Cagalli gentle just after Yuna ran away making sounds of fear as he ran. Kira made sure the Freedom had a good hold of Cagalli, then lifted her up and taking off from the monument. The Shadow took the lead ahead of the Freedom as the two mobile suits started heading back towards the Archangel.

Cagalli was certainly not happy about this development, not only had Kira and whoever was piloting the Shadow ruined an official function, her wedding no less, Kira and someone else would now be in serious trouble for their actions. She had assigned Murna to deliver her letter to Kira so that her brother wouldn't have to be around Yuna. Every time Kira had been around Yuna, Cagalli's fiancée tended to indirectly insult Kira and Lacus when she was around. With Kira, when not insulting him, Yuna would say he should enlist and pilot the Freedom again and do other things since he was a Coordinator. Yuna had even said he might accidentally let slip that Lacus lived around here to representative from the Alliance and the PLANTs as both were looking for her. But this, made all that effort worthless and that wasn't nice for Cagalli.

Tyler and Kira were alerted at the same time of others coming towards them. "Kira, things look like they may get rocky. It might be a wise idea for you to get your sister in your cockpit before our pursuers reach us," Tyler remarked.

Kira knew that Tyler was right, so he got on the speakers that broadcasted to the outside, "Cagalli, sorry about this," he said.

The Freedom brought Cagalli close to the cockpit, at the same time, Kira flicked the switch that raised the pilot seat. The cockpit hatch slide down and Kira rose up and saw Cagalli and reached out his arms. Cagalli moved forward and into her brother's arms, before Kira had the pilot seat lower down back into the cockpit. Kira looked over Cagalli to make sure she was okay, and he felt the need to make a comment, "Wow, this is a pretty amazing dress Cagalli."

"Shut it," Cagalli snapped, "I so don't need that from you."

Kira smiled, "Hold on for the time being," he said, before taking ahold of the Freedom's controls again.

"This is Orb forces HQ, Attention Freedom and Shadow, land immediately, Freedom and Shadow land immediately," came over the radio.

"Wonderful to see you all doing your duties to the utmost," came the voice of Tyler. "And on any other given day, neither of us would have a problem with following your instructions. But today, you will just have to accept a rain check gentlemen."

The Shadow flew backwards ignited the shield beam saber and had drawn the other in its right hand and sliced off a wing from two out of the four Murasames. The Freedom drew out one of its beam sabers and did the same with the two remaining Murasames. The Shadow shot forward towards the Archangel ahead of them, contacting the ship and asking them to open up the catapults. The Shadow landed inside first, and the second that the mobile suit was in its dock, Tyler bailed out and began making his way back towards the bridge, stopping by the locker room along the way. The Freedom followed minutes after the Shadow, Kira taking in the number of Orb vessels that were close by the Archangel. As news reached the bridge that the Freedom was back and Cagalli was safe, Tyler shot onto the bridge and quickly took the vice-captain's chair without a word. The Archangel started submerging into the water as the Orb ship were trying to figure out a way to stop them from leaving.

Back at the monument, Yuna was barking orders to stop the Archangel and to even fire upon her as a car drove up, out of it came Uzumi Nara Athha. The current leader of Orb gazed around at the mess and couldn't stop the slight smile at seeing it all. Honestly, at hearing the Freedom and the Shadow had shown up and taken Cagalli, he wanted to thank Kira Yamato and likely his friend Tyler McGregor. With all the work Uzumi and most of the other representatives had been doing, he hadn't been able to effectively do anything to halt the actions of the Seirans. Their moving forward with the wedding was ridiculous and shouldn't have happened at all. He had thought Cagalli would come up with a way out of the whole arrangement, but what had actually happened, was far more amusing. Indeed, Uzumi would enjoy calling Ellen and telling her all about this, it would be a story they would no doubt tell over and over due to the hilarity of it all.

Uzumi walked over to where Yuna was barking orders as if he ran Orb's own military that was combined with the Federation forces. Although, it did show that instructing the senior officers in charge at Orb's military HQ to ignore Yuna's ranting for the next few days seem much wiser looking back now. The soldiers around Yuna noticed Lord Uzumi's approaching before the blustering young man did and they saluted the leader of Orb. "Yuna, seems that you are at the center of a messy fiasco," Uzumi remarked.

Yuna twisted his head and fliched at seeing Uzumi Athha, then attempted to compose himself, "Lord Uzumi, what pleasant surprise to see you here. You've been so busy lately, so have hardly had the time free," Yuna started.

Uzumi gave a stern glare which served to shush Yuna, "Yes, you and your father Unato have been taking a great deal of time off lately, for personal affairs according to Unato's secretary. And now I find you here, the monument usually used for special functions in what one would expect at a wedding, now why might that be?"

Uzumi knew full well why the heir to the Seiran was dressed as he was, with the announcement yesterday how could he not. What was really irking him, was that the Seirans had not just gone behind his back and made sure he and others were so busy that none would not interfere, but that they had been taking advantage of Cagalli for their personal agenda. But still, might as well see what answer would be given, whether it was the truth or lies.

"Lord Uzumi, there's nothing going on here for you to worry about," Yuna replied in the hopes that the leader of Orb would go away.

Uzumi let out a sigh of disappointment, "I see that you have learned well, the art of waving things off onto other Yuna, that is unfortunate." Uzumi turned to the soldier, "Men, do escort Mr. Seiran to the car and tell the driver to take him home."

"Yes sir," responded the soldiers and moved to do what they were told.

Yuna complained the whole way to the car as he was taken away, and Uzumi turned his attention to the remain military personnel. "What is the status of things right now," he asked.

The most senior officer saluted, "Lord Uzumi, the Freedom took Lady Cagalli, assisted by the Shadow and they both landed on the Archangel. Our forces are pursuing as we speak to retrieve Lady Cagalli and Federation forces are readying to scramble to join the effort," iterated the man, then bowed. "Those under my command and myself apologies for this happening under our watch Lord Uzumi."

Uzumi acknowledge the report and got on a channel to Orb's military HQ, "This is Uzumi Nara Athha, order all forces to cease pursuit of the Archangel immediately," he said.

"But, Lord Uzumi! The Archangel has Lady Cagalli onboard," was the reply from HQ.

"I am aware of that, my order still stands," Uzumi stated firmly.

There was a moment of silence, "Understood sir, ordering all forces to pull back and stop pursuit of the Archangel."

Uzumi then got down to giving out orders for the cleanup of this mess and getting things back in order before the Seirans had gone and pulled this stunt. In his mind, Unato should have really known better than to do something as foolish as try to have his son marry Cagalli and have Uzumi out of it. So, that left the question of if Yuna was responsible for this stunt and if so, then he would need to be watched more carefully. For this bold stunt might not have been exactly dangerous more than it was stupid, but this proved that dangerous actions were outside of the realm of possibility for Yuna and Unato. Still, Uzumi Athha had to smile, silently wishing his daughter well in the journey that she was setting out upon, knowing that she was in good hands.

-Line Break-

-Tyler's pov-

The Archangel

The Archangel traveled underwater, setting its course for the Republic after the party crashing around Orb. Once the ship was cruising forward at a decent pace, Cagalli did make it to the bridge wearing an Orb uniform, and her face said she wasn't pleased at all. Now, I know the look because I've received it from time to time, I just don't really care when she's mad at me. Yet, I wasn't the lone recipient this time around, everyone on the Archangel were in the same boat.

"What is wrong with you people," exclaimed Cagalli with frustration. I made my way out of the CIC to observer this, for it was sounding like Cagalli really needed to get some stuff off her chest. "That was a REALLY dumb move, you all should know better than that" Cagalli snapped.

I smiled at hearing that, for in my view Cagalli was complimenting me for the plan I had conceived. "Why thank you Cagalli," I piped up and she rounded on me, "It nice to have your approval or rather disapproval on a plan of which I'm the author of. It brightens my day to know that I did something of note."

Taking a bow at the end of my statement, I kept the smile on my face in light of the deepening angry glare Cagalli was giving me. "This was your idea Tyler," Cagalli accused me, I nodded in answer, "Yes indeed, what did you think of the stunt?"

My question seemed to incense Kira's sister and the volume of her voice rose, "What in the hell do you have to say for yourself?!"

Thought it would be good for me to take a moment to consider how to answer the demand, for there was several ways I could go with. But I settled on one that would no doubt wind up Cagalli, "I'm gifted at the art that is party crashing, isn't it a neat and wonderful art," I pose proudly.

Cagalli screeched in fury at my reply, while I readied myself to evade an incoming attack. Yet, before she could pounce at me, Kira got in between the two of us. "Cagalli, calm down," Kira said.

"Calm?! I am calm," Cagalli blustered.

"You could of fool all of us," I muttered, to which Cagalli looked ready to strike me. Yet when Kira gave me a look that I knew, "Okay, best for me to shut my mouth and not add fuel to the blaze, I got it."

The blonde kept fuming, "Kidnapping a country's representative from her own wedding practically makes you all international criminals. Are you all out of your minds?! Why would you follow such a clearly stupid plan concocted by him," Cagalli challenged, jabbing a finger at me. "Who asked you to even do any of this in the first place? It was completely reckless and foolish," Cagalli growled, then she turned to Tyler. "You especially Tyler, should understand the consequences of this stunt, with what you mother does."

No one answered right away, for a couple of reasons between them. Then Tyler spoke up, "Perhaps you're right about what we did being reckless Cagalli and I'm well-aware of the consequences of interfering in politics. I've been watching them longer than you and chose to stay out of them when I can."

I noted the deepening silence on the bridge at the mentioning of my observation of politics. Yet, what Cagalli said implied that I have more experience than I've personally said, and she once again mentioned my mother. The work that I've put into not connecting my mother to me, I would rather that not all go to waste. I know for a fact that Natarle had worked to try and find out who my mother was, never succeeded, but still. "However," I said looked to Kira, knowing that were he to explain this, it would go better than if I were to.

Kira picked up on my signal to take over, "Cagalli, you didn't really give us much of a choice but to do what we have," Kira said, gaining Cagalli's attention. "Current events have made the world uncertain true, yet if you insist on doing stupid thing like this, then things will only get worse than they are now."

It's amazing at times like this to see the wisdom Kira can come up with, if only that naiveté of his didn't come up as often as it does. "What stupid things," demanded Cagalli, setting herself up for what needed to be said.

Lacus touched Kira's shoulder, "Kira, maybe it would be best to not," she started.

I know Lacus wants to not hurt Cagalli in this but softening the blow doesn't help and with what she about did to the future of Orb and more so to herself. I exhaled, "I'll say it if Kira doesn't Lacus, I've no problem with saying what should really be said in this. It's the part of caring about someone else that is not easy, but you do because you do care," I said flatly.

Kira touched Lacus' hand, "Tyler is right Lacus, there are things that need to be said and it's probably best I say it," Kira replied, before he turned to focus on his sister, "Cagalli."

Cagalli seemed to get more defensive with both what Kira and I said, "Wh-what do you know about what I do," snapped Cagalli. "I'm one of Orb's representatives, responsible for serving and protecting the people of Orb! There are so many things that I have to worry about, you have no idea about any of it!"

Kira sighed, but kept a calm tone of voice, "Cagalli, do you really think what you've been doing is the best course of action," he posed. "Do you think that marrying Mr. Seiran is in the best interest for Orb, or for you even? Do you believe any of what you are saying in your heart Cagalli?"

Cagalli hesitated, but then glared back at Kira, "Of-of course I do, why wouldn't I want to get married now?!" There was silence from the rest of us on the bridge, since Cagalli hadn't said that in a way that wasn't convincing, Tyler 'coughed' in a way that kind of sounded like him saying 'BS'. She became a little flustered by the air, "I-I had no other choice, everyone around me was saying it was the best option for Orb. Things are shaky right now and stability is needed, you wouldn't understand," she shouted.

I couldn't stay silent after hearing that, "And you really thought that marrying the whiny jerk Yuna Seiran would bring stability," I question. The very thought of Yuna stabilizing anything in politics with his personality was ludicrous. I shook my head, "And I'm told I could be stupid and blind to the blatantly obvious when I was in my teen years with putting my life at risk, you could show me up Cagalli."

Cagalli gained an expression of shock and rage, "What is that supposed to mean Tyler, you don't know anything about this!"

I folded my arms, "You can't honestly believe that the whiny jerk Yuna would do this for the 'good of Orb'. What did he promise you that he would do, if you agreed to marry him Cagalli," I asked, actually curious what the spoiled idiot used to trick Cagalli.

Silence hung on the bridge at my questioned, which didn't help Cagalli, "He… he said that he would do his everything he could to protect Orb, no matter what," she stated.

My eyes widened at hearing that for two reasons, for that could potential be seen as a threat for some and I didn't believe for a moment that Yuna's idea to protect or was the same as those currently in charge of Orb. Then, things must be really strained if Cagalli was convinced by that kind of promise, and/or she needs to change who she's around. "And you believed that a spoiled brat like Yuna Seiran would protect the best interest of the people of Orb? Trust me when I say that your father, Lord Uzumi and those like him are the best leaders that Orb could have right now."

Cagalli looked to the floor, "I… I-I don't know anymore. Things are becoming so confusing, I don't know what to think or do. I've tried to hold to my views, but it just," she replied, but broke into sobs

"Cagalli, the new war is horrible, and it has made things hard, but that shouldn't mean that you throw away all hope," Kira assured. "It's not too late Cagalli, things aren't so far gone that they can't be changed."

I nodded, "He's right, which is surprising give his naiveté normally doesn't help him like this. But in this," I stated as I focused on the blonde. "Kira is correct, it's not too late to work to change things. As long as you are alive, there is always hope, don't give it up. I can assure you, none in the Federation have given up on peace, you father included and other ministers of Orb."

Kira strode forward and took out the ring that apparently, Athrun had given her before leaving for the PLANTs. The next time I see him, I make him spill the story of how that happened, for he hadn't said anything about that. Cagalli looked at the ring, and tears came to her eyes, "We all make mistakes Cagalli," Kira said, "But, what matters is that we fix them and learn from them."

Cagalli fully broke down crying after that, while the rest of the bridge crew minus Kira and Lacus returned to work including myself. There were still a few hours before we get to the Republic and there were things to do before that.

Phase End

A/n

I'll leave off here until the next Phase. This is a Phase that I've been planning for a while for a couple of reasons. One of the major reasons was the introduction of GN Solar Reactors along with a few other things from the "Gundam OO" series. Plus, Tyler had the opportunity to kick some serious rear and show off a bit in this Phase as he didn't the last Phase. I hope that you readers enjoyed this Phase and some of you take the time to write a review and tell me what you think. Until the next Phase.

Reishin Amara

That is true, but honestly, I'm kind of glad that it isn't to the level of SEED or SEED Destiny. Abilities of Coordinators would be neat, but at this time, I don't think people could choose wisely how to use the idea (personal opinion).

Titanic X

The only other thing I can say in my defense, is those in control of the Alliance and its states wouldn't let such a 'truth' be accepted by the general public.

Ken Wise

Well, I wouldn't disagree, though thankfully Tyler is sturdy, and he heals fairly well and at a decent pace. Two are saving graces that Tyler is blessed with and that has saved him more than once.