Episode 52

The episode opens up showing the inside of a small transport craft, it's not the fanciest craft (ok it's a piece of crap that somehow defies the laws of nature by flying) but you have to admit for a rebel ship it isn't bad. Shadow, Cagalli, Kabira and Raheem are sitting on one side, on the opposite side there are a dozen or so rebel guards all packing some serious fire power.

Needless to say the atmosphere is tense. The rebel guards are glaring at Kabira and the others with intense hatred. Raheem is returning the look while Kabira is trying very hard not to fidget from nervousness. Cagalli on the other hand is watching everything with a keen eye.

Cagalli (The tension in here is enough to kill a horse. No surprise, the rebels hate Kabira's father they blame him for all of the misfortune that's befallen Haben, and Raheem is extremely loyal to Kabira's father so he's returning their hostile glares with an equal hostile glare.)

Kabira nervously taps her foot, which causes one of the rebel guards to finch for his weapon, which almost causes a chain reaction but luckily Kabira freezes and Raheem remains unmoving. The guards slightly relax, although Raheem doesn't move Cagalli can sense him tense. She breathes a sigh of relief when she sees the guards relax.

Cagalli (That was a close one; but damn with all this tension in such a confined space if someone jumps the gun we could all be shot. I just hope we can make it to the rebel base without getting killed.)

Suddenly we hear snoring, Cagalli with a great look of annoyance and disbelief looks over at a sound asleep Shadow.

Cagalli (How can that moron sleep so peacefully, doesn't he realize that the fate of an entire nation rests on this one meeting not to mention that sitting across from us are rebel soldiers just inching for an excuse to kill us. No this is probably Shadow's defense mechanism, he's so nervous about the up and coming meeting that he forced himself asleep that's got to be it, I mean not even Shadow is so stupid that he can just let everything go and sleep like a log.)

Shadow starts mumbling in his sleep.

Shadow: Go Nightwing super awesome punch of dread.

Shadow has a huge grin on his face and looks nice and cozy. Cagalli's teeth grit in frustration.

Cagalli (Then again this is a whole new level of stupidly we're talking about.)

Cagalli sighs

Cagalli (God what I would give to have someone smart and level headed like Kira to be with me now or someone cool who never loses control of their emotions like Athrun or maybe someone kind but strong and determine like Lacus but no I'm stuck with this out of control moron.)

Cagalli stops for a moment and gets a faraway look in her eyes.

Cagalli (Athrun, Kira, Lacus I wonder what you're doing right now, I wonder how Orb's doing. It's been 2 months since I've come to Sora; I've been so busy lately with helping Kabira save her country and friends that I haven't had much time to think of my own. Before I was abducted Kira had join the ZAFT military and Lacus was invited to be a member of the supreme council, Athrun was sent to help put the final touches on the peace treaty between ZAFT and Orb.)

Cagalli (By now they must know I've disappear, they're probably worried sick and tracking down every possible lead they can find. I hope Kira and Athrun aren't pushing themselves too hard again, after all they've done they deserve a break and I hope Orb is doing alright. Orb was still in the early stages of rebuilding, I hope the surviving members of the government were able to keep everything in order.)

One of the rebel guards interrupts Cagalli's thoughts.

Rebel Guard: We're entering our base camp now, we'll be at the president's tent shortly and I hope for your sake you're who you say you are.

The guard directs his glare at Kabira as he says this. Kabira gulps and a bead of sweat starts to form on her brow. Cagalli refocuses.

Cagalli (No there's no time to be worrying about that now, I'll take this one step at a time and the first step is to save Haben.)

Shadow still asleep mumbles again.

Shadow: Since you liked it so much the first time here it is again Nightwing super awesome punch of dread.

If it wasn't for the threat of sudden movements being met by bullets Cagalli would have jumped up and slap Shadow awake.

Cagalli (That's double stupid, outside of anime no one names their attacks and if people did that'd be such a STUPID NAME FOR AN ATTACK!)

The camera cuts outside to show what one would expect from an army base, tents line up the ground like flakes of snow on the first snowfall of the season. We can also see huge tents that are housing war ships although we can't see the ships themselves; we see Gundams all over the place being outfitted with all different types of weapons.

Some of these types of weapons don't even look like weapons. The transport ship flies all over this but it's obvious that the place the transport ship is heading to is the large ship in the middle. It appears to be slightly bigger than the Dark-Angel. The camera follows the transport ship as it docks, no surprise there are a lot guards waiting for them when they get there.

The camera cuts inside the transport ship to show the rebel guards get up.

Rebel guard A: We're here.

Everyone begins to get up. Raheem grits his teeth.

Raheem (The rebel forces have assembled a good size militia, nothing that a nation's army couldn't take care of but definitely too strong for just 10 percent of our military to take care of, what is the king going to do?)

While Raheem thinks this over Cagalli is finally able to get a chance to take out her anger.

Cagalli: Wake up you stupid moron!

Cagalli kicks Shadow off the seat. Shadow slowly gets up as he rubs his head.

Shadow: Owww why'd you go and do that Cagalli, I was having a really awesome Gundam Fight in my dream and I was just about to win.

Shadow complains. Cagalli is finding herself acting more and more uncharacteristic (note Cagalli's not acting totally out of character I'm just choosing to portray a different side of her that we don't see often), clenching her hands with extreme irritation Cagalli suddenly lashes out and grabs the collar of Shadow's shirt and begins to drag him away.

Cagalli: God you are so stupid would you please come out of LaLa land and try to focus on this meeting. Now when the meeting starts no sleeping, fidgeting, eating, scratching, in fact no movements whatsoever, just sit in your chair and don't move.

The guards are leading Kabira to the rebel president. Raheem is right behind her and Cagalli and Shadow are bringing up the rear. Cagalli is making sure to whisper to Shadow so the others don't hear.

Cagalli: Oh and another thing, under no circumstances are you to speak at all.

Shadow was unhappy when Cagalli was dragging him and he's not getting any happier with her rules.

Shadow: Why do I have to do what you say?

Shadow gets pulled eye level with Cagalli. Cagalli glares very intensely at Shadow.

Cagalli: Let me put it to you like this Shadow, you should listen to me because one I've got years upon years of political training on you and two me running a country trumps you running a Gundam team.

There's a sarcastic ring in Cagalli's voice when she says "you running a Gundam team".

Cagalli: So you're going to listen to me Shadow or I won't do the budget paperwork you should be doing anymore.

Shadow is shocked, then grits his teeth in annoyance.

Shadow: Fine princess.

Shadow adds the "princess" mark for his last act of defiance. Cagalli rolls her eyes in annoyance but just lets it go. The rebel guards stop and fan out as they come to a large door, one guard knocks on the door.

President: Come in.

The doors open and everyone walks in, Raheem, Kabira and Cagalli stop shocked, at the head of a meeting table is a kid probably around the same age as Kabira.

President: I'm Serafina Milena president of the Haben liberation army.

Serafina is obvious from Haben; although he speaks to everyone he is staring at Kabira with an intense look of hatred. Kabira surprise at first gulps intimidated by the hate directed at her, however she's brought out of her petrification when Shadow puts his elbow on her shoulder.

Shadow alone is unmoved by Serafina's appearance, in fact he looks bored. Shadow starts leaning on Kabira. Kabira surprise looks up at Shadow. Shadow notices Kabira's stare and smiles down at her, a smile radiating confidence. Kabira takes strength from this smile and after a moment turns around to face Serafina.

Serafina is so focus on Kabira that he misses the moment with Shadow. Kabira clears her throat then begins.

Kabira: I'm

Serafina rudely cuts her off.

Serafina: I know who you are Kabira Tahsin daughter of Shadi Tahsin.

Kabira takes quick stock of the situation, she locks eyes with Serafina. The camera focuses on her eyes first.

Kabira: So you believe me.

The camera spins around and focuses on Serafina's eyes.

Serafina: Yes, I've seen you when you've made one of your public appearances, that and I recognizes the Captain of the royal guard from the TV by your side.

Both eyes are burning with determination; they came to this meeting with an exact purpose and are going to achieve their goals no matter what. The rebel guards take positions around the room while Raheem finally gets over his shock and exclaims

Raheem: You're the leader of the rebels!

Serafina takes his eyes off of Kabira and glares at Raheem obvious offended. He snaps

Serafina: President! And we are the liberators of Haben!

Raheem's shock turns to anger. He turns to face one of the rebel guards.

Raheem: If this is a joke I'm not laughing! Ms. Kabira came here to talk of peace with the rebels and you treat us like fools!

Kabira not taking her eyes off of Serafina says

Kabira: Raheem that's enough!

There's something different with Kabira's voice, no her whole pose, she's focus, focus the likes of which we've never seen. Although Kabira lacks the knowledge and the self-confidence of a season politician she certainly possesses the attention to detail and focus of one. It's now clear that Kabira has the talent to be a very good diplomat.

Kabira: Mr. Milena is the president of the liberators of Haben.

Kabira takes a seat. Shadow still bored also takes a seat. Raheem is looking back and forth between Kabira and Serafina still in disbelief.

Cagalli: I'm sorry for our rude behavior but if you don't mind telling us how you became the president it will no doubt put our minds at ease.

Cagalli also takes a seat. Serafina annoyed decides it's best if he answers the question.

Serafina: The liberators of Haben started out as many different factions; it was my idea to combine everyone into one large army and after a long journey in which I talked to and convinced each of the separate leaders to join into one they decided to elect me as the first president.

Raheem having finally sat down looks at Serafina in shock.

Raheem (Impossible, for this child to have gone around and convince multiply rebel factions to come together and join under one flag, its ridicules.)

Still Raheem can't help but notice the seriousness in Serafina's eyes.

Raheem (Still he believes it.)

Serafina snaps

Serafina: But I didn't come here to give you a history lesson! Here are our demands, we want the immediate resignation of the King follow by the resignation of all of the council members and appointment of new ones, we also want 1.2 billion credits as compensation for all those who have suffered under his unjust rule!

Kabira is shocked. Raheem jumps up appalled.

Raheem: That's absurd! Haben doesn't even have 1 billion credits to give not to mention that many resignations at once would cause chaos!

Serafina still angry snaps again

Serafina: That's not my problem, the King should have thought about that before he wrecked the economy and cost so many their jobs and inflected pain and suffering on his people.

Kabira quickly replies

Kabira: But that's not my Father's fault you see

But before Kabira can explain Serafina in rage cuts her off

Serafina: Not his fault! How can you say that! There are literary thousands of people outside, most forced to live in tents because they can't pay the payments on their house! Fathers forced to watch as their sons slowly die of starvation because they have no money to pay for food, mothers forced to sell themselves to pay for food for their daughters praying for a better life for them and the rest have to become criminals to survive; stealing killing mugging doing whatever it takes to put food on the table for their families many are still just children AND YOU HAVE THE NERVE TO SAY THAT IT'S NOT HIS FAULT!

Raheem and Cagalli are once again shocked into silence but Kabira is determined. The truth gives her strength. She begins to plead

Kabira: Please just listen Fachtna has

But Serafina is too far lost in his rage; he once again cuts Kabira off.

Serafina: I won't listen to anymore of the King's excuses; you tell him that he either accepts our demands or its war!

Serafina receives a roar of cheers from the rebel guards. Cagalli grits her teeth.

Cagalli (This isn't good, the situation is deteriorating fast.)

Kabira also sees this and desperately tries to think of something.

Kabira (I have to do something; I have to tell them the truth now before it's too late!)

Kabira pleads again trying to be heard over the roar of cheers from the guards.

Kabira: I understand that

But Serafina focuses all of his rage on Kabira.

Serafina: UNDERSTAND! How could you possibly understand you spoiled little brat, don't think we don't know what the King is up to sending his daughter here to pretend he takes us seriously but we're not fooled! You who's well feed, well clothed, you who's never had to worry about where the next meal is coming from or if it's coming at all, who gets anything she wants, who couldn't care less about other people; daddy's perfect little girl Kabira! You don't know the first thing about suffering!

At the beginning of Serafina's rant the camera focuses on Kabira, as she looks more and more shock then towards the end of the conversation the camera moves to look at Shadow. Shadow is keeping his head down so we can't see his face but we can see his hand on the table, it's his neon gauntlet hand.

As the rant goes on Shadow's hand clenches tighter and tighter and his Neon gauntlet glows brighter and brighter until the last sentence. At the last sentence we have a flashback to Haben Harbor when Kabira cried her heart out at the death of her friend, Shadow snaps.

Shadow lifts his head up his eyes glowing with their electric intensity. He stands up, lifts up his fist and punches the table creating a big noise. All eyes shift their attention to him, Cagalli panics when she sees him.

Cagalli (Oh no the situation is already about to explode I can't let Shadow make it any worse.)

Serafina annoyed asks

Serafina: Who the hell are you?

Cagalli tries to say something to stop Shadow but Shadow can't be stop now.

Shadow: I'm Shadow Zoomarey team leader of the Shadow Knights!

The usual joy Shadow has when he introduces himself is gone, that just shows how angry he really is. Serafina looks back at Kabira.

Serafina: A Gundam Team huh, so the government doesn't have the money to help the people but it has money to hire mercenaries.

Shadow in the blink of an eye goes over to where Serafina is and grabs him by his shirt and lifts him up.

Shadow: You just insulted my friend; I don't need money to kick your ass.

In the next heartbeat all of the rebel guards lift up their guns and point it at Shadow and the others. Raheem and Cagalli quickly take up defensive positions around Kabira. The camera begins to circle around Shadow and Serafina as everyone begins to talk at once.

Rebel guards: Put the president down and put your hands up!

Cagalli: Shadow put the president down.

Raheem: Put him down Shadow.

Kabira: Shadow its ok you don't have to

It's no use though, Shadow is in his own world and can't hear anything. Serafina grits his teeth and grabs Shadow's hand with his own. Shadow immediately notices the Neon gauntlet on Serafina's hand, Serafina's own Neon gauntlet is glowing yellowish tan.

Serafina: I'd suggest you let me go now before you find yourself full of bullets.

Shadow has other things on his mind though.

Shadow: You're a Gundam Pilot?

Serafina boastful exclaims

Serafina: That's right, not only am I the president of the liberators of Haben I'm also our best Gundam Pilot.

Shadow's eyes narrow. Shadow then pushes Serafina away. Serafina stumbles but quickly regains his footing as he glares at Shadow. All of the guns lock on Shadow just waiting for the kill order but Shadow could care less about them. He points at Serafina and proclaims

Shadow: I challenge you to a Gundam Fight!

Serafina blinks just a tab bit thrown off by this. He isn't the only one, the rebel guards, Cagalli, Raheem and Kabira are all surprise to hear this. Serafina recovers first

Serafina: I wield my Gundam in the name of a liberated Haben what makes you think I'd waste its power on a gun for hire?

Serafina is looking down on Shadow which pisses him off further.

Shadow: If you're too scared to fight me then just say it but don't try to act all noble and better than me.

Serafina glares at Shadow not liking his direct challenge. The rebel guards glance uneasily at each other not knowing what to do. Serafina is angry and does not want to look weak in-front of his troops.

Serafina: Fine I suppose a warm-up match against you would do me some good. Return them to their ship; I'll meet you with my Gundam in 10 minutes. We'll do battle in the area in front of your ship.

With that Serafina turns around and begins to walk away. The rebel guards begin to herd Shadow, Cagalli, Raheem and Kabira back to the transport shuttle but the camera follows Serafina as he walks away. One of his rebel guards follows him. The rebel guard is still on edge.

Rebel guard A: Are you sure this is a good idea Sir?

Serafina nods his head and smiles a vicious vulture smile. The scene ends with his confident explanation.

Serafina: Gundam Fights are an excellent source of entertainment and the men could definitely use the break. Plus once I crushed the hired gun sent by the King our army's morale will go up.

The next scene opens up on the Dark-Angel's bridge, the bridge crew, Cagalli, Nick, Roxas, Zuke, Raheem and Kabira are all siting there thinking. Rini rubs her temples as Alan exclaims

Alan: So let me get this straight you went to the rebel president for talks of peace but came out with a Gundam Fight, I'm no politician but I'm pretty sure you went backwards somewhere.

Ciro puts his hands behind his head as he leans back.

Ciro: I think that idiot finally did something right, if someone disagrees with your view you kill them and put someone in charge that does.

Kenny looks at Ciro a little intimated.

Kenny: You know Ciro you have a very violent personality.

Ciro doesn't bother replying. Nick has his hands folded and nods his head slowly

Nick: I agree with Ciro mates although not for the same reasons. That jerk insulted Kabira and it's against my code to let someone insult my mate and get away with it so if Shadow hadn't challenged that guy I would have.

Roxas jumps up in fierce agreement.

Roxas: That's right!

Kabira is touched by everyone's friendship. Thomas sings

Thomas: ME, ME, DOE oh great friendship to fight for the honor of friends RAAAAAAAA.

Rini notices that Cagalli isn't saying much.

Rini: I'm surprise Cagalli that you haven't said anything like how irresponsible or childish Shadow's being?

All eyes turn to Cagalli now, Cagalli shrugs.

Cagalli: It was obvious from the moment we got there that the rebel president hated Kabira's guts and wasn't going to listen so it's not like Shadow could make it any worse.

Roxas sensing more asks.

Roxas: And?

Cagalli looks at Roxas annoyed.

Cagalli: And it's not like Shadow is going to kill the rebel president or vice versa so it's no different than playing baseball or chess.

Roxas still sensing more.

Roxas: And?

Cagalli rolls her eyes again and reluctantly says

Cagalli: And he did insult Kabira so a little ass whopping is justified.

Cagalli receives a roar of applause from Roxas, Nick, Kenny and Thomas. The camera cuts to the Gundam bay, we see Shadow in full pilot uniform walking over to Nightwing. Jack is walking with him giving him a full rundown of Nightwing's new upgrades.

Jack: I've gotten all of the sand out of Nightwing's joints plus I've used the special sand stopper gel.

Shadow is unimpressed.

Shadow: Special sand stopper gel, I feel safe already.

Shadow says sarcastically. Jack is annoyed.

Jack: It has a real name but it's a pain in the ass to pronounce and anyway that's not the point just know you should be able to rotate the joins more easily, also I replace Nightwing's old thruster engine's specs with my own modified version. It should allow you more maneuverability, oh and I switch out the e3-cord power charge with an f7 hummer which should make Nightwing's beam saber more powerful.

Shadow's notices something about Jack's speech.

Shadow: You know I'd feel more reassured if you wouldn't use "should" in every other sentence.

Jack shrugs uncaring.

Jack: What do you expect half the stuff I did to Nightwing is all paperwork theory and has never actually been tested out.

Shadow is overjoyed to hear this (sarcastic).

Shadow: Oh joy I always wanted to be a test dummy.

Shadow and Jack stop right under Nightwing. Jack slaps Shadow on the back.

Jack: Good news for me is that when something breaks I know what to work on.

Jack notices Shadow just staring up at Nightwing.

Jack: What's up?

Shadow reaches towards Nightwing with his Neon gauntlet hand, his Neon gauntlet is glowing very lightly but steady.

Shadow: I can feel it, today's a good day; I'm not going to lose today.

Jack looks back and forth between Shadow and Nightwing not getting it.

Jack: Well just know that if you damage my Gundam I'll kick your ass.

Jack smiles at Shadow as she says this, and Shadow returns her smile. Jack walks away as Shadow climbs up onto the lift. The camera cuts forward in time as Nightwing launches from the Dark-Angel, Nightwing soars in the sky and then falls flat on its ass. The camera cuts inside the Dark-Angel's bridge to show everyone "ohhhh" at Shadow's landing.

The camera cuts outside to show Nightwing get to its feet while rubbing it's behind. The camera cuts inside Nightwing's cockpit to show a self-annoyed Shadow. Kenny pops up on Shadow's helmet screen, he can't resist gloating.

Kenny: Off to a great start Shadow?

Shadow annoyed replies

Shadow: Shut up Kenny.

Kenny can't help to tease Shadow some more.

Kenny: You think after 50 some odd times you'd finally get the hang of landing.

Shadow snaps

Shadow: Shut up Kenny.

Before they can continue this conversation more we hear a loud engine noise. The camera cuts outside to show a rather large battleship appear. The battleship stops and we watch as its Gundam catapult extends outward; a lone Gundam is launch and lands right in front of Nightwing. It appears to be a slightly modified Rotle model holding a shield.

The camera cuts back inside Nightwing's cockpit as Serafina pops up on Shadow's helmet screen. Serafina is frowning and just looks annoyed with the world.

Serafina: Here is how this is going to work, it's a one on one Gundam Fight with official GFC rules any questions?

Shadow actually has a question.

Shadow: Yea what's up with your ship pointing its guns at my ship?

Serafina glares at Shadow.

Serafina: Because I don't trust you, as far as I'm concern you're either stupid or this is an assassination attempt.

Shadow looks at Serafina like he's stupid.

Shadow: OOOk well the Dark-Angel won't fire unless it's been fired upon first.

Serafina obviously doesn't believe him.

Serafina: Either way it won't matter; for me and my Gundam Delena will destroy you in an instant.

The camera cuts outside to show Serafina's Gundam "Delena" lift up its right hand pulling out what appears to be a metal ball on a stick. The ball detaches itself from the stick only being connected by a beam rope, like a ball and chain weapon. In a very dramatic movement Delena begins to spin the ball in circular motions over its head.

The camera cuts back to the Dark-Angel to show a surprise Cagalli.

Cagalli: A ball and chain?

Raheem is also surprise.

Raheem: That's the Haben royal attack's weapon!

Jack having come up from the Gundam bay addresses Cagalli's statement.

Jack: Technically it's called a ball and beam, unlike a ball and chain it can extend and retract on the user's command.

Cagalli doesn't look comforted by this information. Kabira with concern asks Raheem

Kabira: What's Serafina doing with a Haben royal attack weapon?

Raheem is clearly agitated with this revelation.

Raheem: He must have stolen it.

The camera cuts back to inside Nightwing's cockpit to show an excited Shadow.

Shadow: SWEET! A ball and beam this is going to be awesome!

Kenny on Shadow's helmet screen doesn't look so certain.

Kenny: Be careful Shadow, something's not right with that weapon; I'm getting some weird readings from the scanners.

Shadow was never one to be careful.

Shadow: Well you know what they say about traps, it's always best to spring them!

The camera cuts outside as Shadow says this. Nightwing's beam saber ejects from its hidden compartment and Nightwing catches and activates it in one motion. Nightwing takes up its classic 2 handed stance while Delena continues to swing its ball lazily in the air. We cut back to inside Nightwing's cockpit to show Shadow address Serafina.

Shadow: You ready.

Serafina still glaring at Shadow replies

Serafina: Whenever you are.

Shadow grins liking that answer.

Shadow: Then let's go!

As Shadow shouts this the camera cuts outside to show Nightwing charge. Delena remains unmoving and continues to swing its ball around in a lazy arch above its head. The camera cuts into Delena's cockpit to show Serafina estimating, he has the same look an archer would give to a moving target.

Serafina (I'll finish this in one blow, disheartening the enemy in a crushing defeat while encouraging my own troops.)

The camera cuts back to the Dark-Angel only this time it focuses solely on Kenny; it's apparent that something is bothering him as he rapidly types on his computer.

Kenny (Something's not right, that's clearly a 42W Haben ball and beam but the size is off. The ball is 3 percent larger then it's supposed to be. Manufacturing error? No, it's not just the size the scanners are picking up trace amounts of magnesium. This weapon had been modified but for what purpose.)

The camera cuts outside to show Delena lock on target and finally send the metal ball flying towards Nightwing. The camera cuts into Nightwing's cockpit to show Shadow make a quick calculation.

Shadow (If I deflect the ball I can go in for the kill before he has time to take another shot.)

The camera cuts outside as Nightwing still running brings up its beam saber preparing to deflect the ball; we do a quick split screen over Delena to show a confident Serafina.

Serafina (Got him.)

Suddenly Kenny shouts

Kenny: Shadow DODGE!

This isn't Kenny's normal worried voice, there's real fear in his voice. The camera does a momentary split screen over Nightwing showing a confused Shadow but without hesitation Shadow dives to the right. The screen returns to normal to show Nightwing dive to the right at the last second before contact with the metal ball, dodging it.

Nightwing is still in the air when we see a shimmer as the metal ball begins to glow then *BANG* there's an explosion. The explosion itself isn't very big for Gundam standards but big enough that if Nightwing hadn't dodge and instead made contact with its beam saber it would have taken off Nightwing's hands if nothing else.

The screen splits into multiply parts as we see everyone look shock.

Cagalli: It exploded!

Nick: What the hell!

Roxas: Holly shit!

The camera cuts to inside Delena's cockpit to show Serafina look annoyed.

Serafina: Tis

Serafina (I could have sworn he was going to block or tried to deflect the ball; but he dodge at the last second.)

The camera cuts to inside Nightwing's cockpit to show Shadow wide eyed.

Shadow: Kenny what the hell was that!

Kenny: To sum it up the ball can explode on demand; the radius of the blast isn't that big though so as long as you stay 5 hectometers from it at all time you should be alright.

Shadow doesn't have time to think about this as the camera cuts outside to show Delena swing its ball towards Nightwing. Nightwing jumps backwards dodging the second explosion by a hair. Delena is controlling the ball with the simple twist and flick of its wrist, the ball swings back around but this time comes down from above.

Shadow jumps right, then left, explosion, back, left, right, right, back, explosion. Delena isn't exploding its ball every time it comes close to Nightwing, but rather at random odd intervals. The camera cuts inside the Dark-Angel's bridge to show Jack biting her lip. Rini curious asks

Rini: Hey Jack can Nightwing's armor withstand that explosion?

Jack thinks for a moment.

Jack: Maybe, I've never tested it against explosives before.

Kabira leans in close to Raheem and asks

Kabira: Why isn't Serafina exploding his ball every time?

Raheem focus on the match answers

Raheem: 2 reasons, the first is because it will throw off Shadow's sense of surrounding. The high sound and bright flash will mess with his judgment of depth perception, if he were to constantly do it Shadow would get used to it. The second is because of power.

Kabira blinks confused.

Kabira: But S-generators have unlimited power.

Raheem nods his head

Raheem: True, but if Serafina constantly used the explosion he would spend the S-generator energy faster than it can rejuvenate, S-generator energy works like if there's 1 left then that would double to 2 then 4, 8, 16 and so on but if all the energy is spent and there's nothing left in the core then it can't recharge itself and the Gundam shuts down as a result.

Kabira nods her head in somewhat understanding.

Kabira: Ok, I think I get it.

The camera cuts back outside to show Nightwing still dodging the whip like ball and beam. Nightwing is jumping, and running all over the place trying to keep the ball as far away from itself as possible. The camera cuts back inside Nightwing's cockpit to show Shadow.

Shadow: You know for all your talk about justice and crap don't you think it's ironic that you have a secret exploding ball and beam?

The camera cuts outside, Delena pulls the ball back then sends it rocketing forward. The ball instead of coming at Nightwing like a whip comes at Nightwing like a bullet only not as fast. Nightwing continues to dodge but now Nightwing is jumping more backwards. The camera cuts inside Delena's cockpit to show Serafina look annoyed.

Serafina: Shut up you lap dog for the king, like you know anything about justice!

The camera cuts back outside to show Delena pull its ball back then chest throws it at Nightwing's head. This time Nightwing's timing is off, although Nightwing is able to avoid a direct hit the explosion scratches the left side of Nightwing's face luckily there's no damage to the eyes. Nightwing doesn't have time to lick its wounds as the ball swings around once again aiming for the head.

The camera cuts inside the Dark-Angel's bridge to show Roxas look a little troubled.

Roxas: Something's wrong, Shadow can move faster than this.

Cagalli rolls her eyes.

Cagalli: Right because Shadow can out run a Gundam.

Roxas flirts a little.

Roxas: You're so adorable Cagalli when you think you're right but I was talking about if we scaled Shadow and Nightwing's height the same.

Kenny notices it too.

Kenny: Roxas is right, after Raheem's training Shadow is much faster than this but I can't figure out what's wrong. I've ran checks but everything seems to be in working order.

Kenny and the others pounder this question as the camera looks over their heads at Zuke.

Zuke (Low level intelligence naturals, even when a pilot is 100 percent synchronized with their Gundam there exist a barrier between the knowledge and skills the Pilot learns in human form and then translating it into their Gundam alter ego. Gundams and humans are not the same therefore any fighting skills learned in human form will have to be modified in order for it to be used with a Gundam. Breaking the knowledge barrier is one of the most important differences between an amateur Gundam fighter and a professional Gundam fighter.)

The camera cuts back outside to show Nightwing continuing to dodge the ball. The camera then cuts into Nightwing's cockpit.

Shadow (This sucks, of course I'd get stuck with the long distance fighter.)

Kenny only hearing silence offers some advice.

Kenny: Shadow see if you can't get in closer, Serafina won't use the explosion if he's in its radius.

Shadow grits his teeth.

Shadow: Easier said than done.

The camera cuts back outside to show Delena send the ball straight at Nightwing's head. Nightwing sidesteps the attack but Nightwing doesn't move far enough away. The ball explodes just over Nightwing's left shoulder. Nightwing once again taking only minimal damage falls chest first to the ground.

In the blink of the eye Nightwing rolls right dodging the ball which comes flying out of the smoke created by its last explosion and slams right into the ground exploding again. The camera does a split screen over Nightwing to show Shadow spot an opening.

Shadow (The smoke from the explosion is blocking his line of sight!)

The screen returns to normal to show Nightwing not waste this opportunity. Nightwing rushes into the smokescreen and taking its beam saber whacks the ball as hard as it can. The ball goes flying high right, the camera swings around and does a split over Delena to show an annoyed Serafina grit his teeth.

Serafina (Damn it, I didn't see him in time to set off the explosion!)

The screen returns to normal to show Delena actually pulls its whole arm back to regain control over its ball. Nightwing charges forward while Delena's weapon is still far out of reach. The camera momentary flashes to the Dark-Angel's bridge as Nick asks

Nick: Why didn't the mate's beam saber cut the ball in half instead of acting like a bat?

Jack focus on the battle answers quickly

Jack: Because the ball is cover in anti-beam coating and Nightwing's beam saber isn't powerful to cut it.

The camera cuts back outside to show Nightwing make it inside Delena's personal space before Delena can retract its ball. The camera cuts back inside Nightwing's cockpit to show Shadow shout in triumph.

Shadow: HA try using that exploding ball now you jackass!

The camera cuts back outside as Nightwing performs a downward left diagonal beam slash. Delena quickly raises its shield to block and counterattacks with a roundhouse kick with its right foot aimed at Nightwing's chest. Delena's ball finally fully retracts back onto the stick making it more like a police baton.

Nightwing brings up its own leg blocking the kick. Nightwing counterattacks with a right horizontal beam slash and a left horizontal beam slash. Delena blocks the first attack with its shield then ducks down dodging the second. Delena flips its baton around and swings it upward, Nightwing pivots on its right leg dodging the blow.

Delena just as quickly flips the baton around again and swings it horizontally at Nightwing's head. Nightwing leans back and for a moment it looks like the baton is going to miss but then the ball once again detaches from the stick and extends on its beam rope. The extra length results in Nightwing getting nailed in the face. Nightwing stumbles backwards momentary dazed.

The camera cuts inside Nightwing's cockpit to show Shadow rub his cheek/helmet.

Shadow: Dirty freaking bastard extending the rope like that.

Kenny on Shadow's helmet screen once again offers words of comfort.

Kenny: SHADOW WATCH OUT!

Shadow blinks. The camera cuts outside for a moment to show while Shadow had been distracted Delena had move back out of the explosion radius. The ball comes flying at Nightwing and we can already see it begin to glow preparing to explode. The camera does a split screen over Nightwing to show a startled Shadow.

Shadow: Shit!

The screen returns to normal as Nightwing begins to move back while performing a cross arm guard. The ball comes close to hitting Nightwing then explodes. Nightwing is engulf in the smokescreen. Nightwing jumps out of the smoke screen a moment later but it's clear that Nightwing took a fair amount of damage.

The camera cuts inside Nightwing's cockpit to show Shadow breathing hard, that was a close call. Serafina appears on Shadow's helmet screen grinning.

Serafina: Oh did I forget to mention that I've been trained in Haben police hand to hand combat?

Shadow glares at Serafina.

Shadow: Grin while you can because I'm going to wipe that smirk off your face.

Serafina is unimpressed.

Serafina: Please stop acting tough, how do you think I got my position as the liberators of Haben's president? It's not just because I united all the opposing factions against the king, it's because I beat all of the other leaders in a Gundam Fight! I faced unimaginable hardships on my journey; I fought against the Haben military, desert storms, and even other rebel factions. There were times when I came close to death, but thanks to all of that fighting I have emerged stronger with an army to challenge the King!

The camera cuts outside for a moment to show Delena wave in the direction of the rebel camp then cuts back to inside Delena's cockpit.

Serafina: So tell me against my suffering strengthened power do you think the little spoiled princess's bodyguard can beat me!

The camera cuts inside the Dark-Angel's bridge, everyone is quiet after hearing this speech. Kabira almost whispers.

Kabira: He's gone through a lot.

She truly feels his pain. Raheem nods his head.

Raheem: But he doesn't let that hold him down instead he wears it proudly on his shoulder making him stronger.

The camera cuts inside Nightwing's cockpit to show Shadow with his head bowed, his face is hidden. We can see Serafina on Shadow's helmet screen looking satisfied thinking Shadow has got it. Shadow's Neon gauntlet starts to glow, brighter, and brighter, and brighter.

Shadow: Are you done with that self-gratifying speech?

Serafina is highly insulted and angry at this but stops from saying anything when Shadow raises his face. We can see the electrifying intensity flashing in Shadow's eyes. Shadow is angry.

Shadow: You made 2 huge errors in that speech of yours; first you made me sound like some fat overpaid bodyguard which I'm not. I'm a seriously ticked off Gundam Fighter.

The camera cuts outside momentary to show Nightwing left foot inch up a little, the ground is literally beginning to shake under it.

Shadow: And the second was you called Kabira spoiled! You don't know Kabira at all; Kabira always helps those in pain and always cries for her country. She may be young, she may be inexperience, hell she may even be a brat sometimes but the one thing she isn't is spoiled or uncaring! So prepare yourself because if you're going to sit on your high horse judging Kabira then I'm going to slam you the hell down!

As Shadow shouts this the camera cuts outside to show Nightwing's eyes flash as it charges. The camera swings around as it cuts inside Delena's cockpit to show an angry Serafina reply

Serafina: Just what one would expect from a dog, ignoring reality and making its master a hero in its own mind! Well guess what it takes more than imagination to win a Gundam Fight!

The camera cuts back outside as Delena swings its ball around its head before releasing it toward Nightwing, Nightwing ducks dodging the ball. Nightwing begins to circle Delena while Delena continues to throw its ball at Nightwing. Nightwing ducks down, sidesteps left, rolls, jumps up, sidesteps right.

The ball seems to have become an evil spirit chasing Nightwing and exploding every now and then but Nightwing just keeps circling Delena dodging the ball as much as possible never stopping, something seems to be happening, something is changing about Nightwing.

It's hard to see at first, like noticing if someone's hair has grown. The camera cuts to inside the Dark-Angel's bridge, Cagalli's eyes slowly open wide as she realizes what's different about Nightwing/Shadow.

Cagalli: Shadow's getting faster!

Everyone's eyes open wide as they realize this. Nightwing isn't moving at blurring speeds but Nightwing is moving faster compared to when the match first started, and the camera once again looks over at Zuke who has his full attention on Nightwing.

Zuke (Has he already broken the translating barrier?)

The camera cuts to inside Nightwing's cockpit to show an incredibly focus Shadow.

Shadow (I think I'm starting to get this, in the beginning when I first started piloting Nightwing I just used his legs to move but that was slow and awkward. Although Gundams are design to look and have the range of motion like humans they're much heavier than a human would be if he were this size. That's why thrusters are needed, but thrusters are limited by their type and model, and they aren't a Gundam's final speed form.)

Shadow is figuring all of this out in a moment, all of his collective knowledge is gathering and generating new answers.

Shadow (By running with my legs and corresponding thrusters I'm able to increase my speed dramatically. But it's so precise, everything matters, I can't just step then turn on the thrusters to max, too much thruster power and not enough power put into my step will cause me to trip but too little power and nothing will happen. Also how I step and which thrusters I use effect my foot work, everything has to be so god damn accurate or else a I lose my balance and fall flat on my ass.)

The camera cuts outside and focuses on Nightwing's feet for a second to show how Nightwing steps then some of thrusters activate and Nightwing is sent flying forward. Nightwing is sliding a little here and there while dodging the ball and working out the timing of the thrusters as well as which thrusters to activate on which step, but there is no denying that Nightwing's speed just keeps increasing and increasing.

Nightwing is now flying around Delena (metaphorically), at first Delena was only slightly twisting its body to keep Nightwing in its line of sight but now it's slowly having to constantly turn to or else Nightwing will be behind it. The camera cuts inside Delena's cockpit to show Serafina slowly but surely begin to lose his cool.

Serafina: Hey are you sure this guy is using a yelo 22?

Yelo 22 is a type of engine, not a fast one by the way. Serafina is talking to his tech support guy.

TSG: My scanners are picking up some other weird readings so it's probably a modified version of it but yea in essence it should still be a yelo 22 engine. Don't worry he shouldn't be able to go much faster.

Serafina's tech support guy is wrong, although the change is small it's constant. Nightwing is sliding less and less as its footwork becomes more natural and as Shadow begins to work out the timing for the thrusters. Delena has to spin faster and faster to keep Nightwing in its sight. The camera cuts back in Delena's cockpit to show Serafina beginning to look less and less in control.

Serafina: Are you sure this is yelo 22 engine!

TCG snaps

TCG: Yes I'm sure, how many times do I have to tell you, don't worry he'll reach his max speed soon enough!

Panic is beginning to creep into Serafina's voice.

Serafina: You said that 5 minutes ago but he's still getting faster, how much faster can he get!

The camera cuts outside to show that with Serafina's growing panic the ball is beginning to explode more and more, but Nightwing has reach the point that when Delena throws or whips the ball at it Nightwing's long gone. Time freezes for a moment as Nightwing finally circles around to Delena's back before Delena can turn. The camera cuts into Nightwing's cockpit to show a focus Shadow.

Shadow (I'm in his blind spot!)

The camera switches to inside Delena's cockpit to show Serafina shout in panic

Serafina: SHIT where is he!

Time unfreezes as the camera cuts back outside to show Nightwing stop on a dime, change directions and charge Delena. Delena turns around to spot the charging Nightwing and is just able to raise its shield in defense as Nightwing jumps up and performs a jump attack.

Nightwing's beam saber hits Delena's shield hard making a loud bang. Delena begins to walk backwards as it retracts its ball while still keeping its shield high in defense.

Nightwing charges Delena and rains hell upon the shield, downward vertical slash, upward vertical slash, right downward diagonal slash, left horizontal slash, left diagonal slash. Nightwing leaves Delena no chance for a counterattack. The camera cuts inside Delena's cockpit to show Serafina feeling himself being pushed into a corner.

Serafina (Damn it, what's up with his attacks! They're so much stronger than before!)

Serafina gritting his teeth shouts with fury.

Serafina: I won't! I won't lose to this servant who helps keep that tyrant in power! The King who's responsible for all the pain and suffering in Haben, the King who causes nothing but

Shadow cuts him off

Shadow: Oh will you just CUT THE CRAP!

The camera cuts outside to show Nightwing perform a powerful right horizontal slash that makes Delena slide on the sand. The camera cuts back inside Nightwing's cockpit.

Shadow: You can play that whole noble "Oh we're the good guys trying to win against an oppressive ruler" bullshit card all day but it won't work on me!

We cut outside for a moment again to show Nightwing perform a downward vertical slash.

Shadow: Because I know that you don't really believe the King is responsible for all of this, how could you you don't have a shred of evidence nor have ever seen any real evidence. You're just so angry at everything that's going wrong in Haben, everything that's falling apart that you just want to hit somebody and King is just the biggest and easiest target!

The camera cuts outside to show Delena finally retaliate, as it takes its baton and swings it at Nightwing.

Serafina: SHUT UP, YOU DON'T KNOW ANYTHING!

The camera cuts outside to show Nightwing parry the move then cuts into Nightwing's cockpit to show Shadow's Neon gauntlet glowing strongly.

Shadow: You're not interested in fixing Haben's problems you just want to feel better but guess what

The camera cuts outside as Delena struggles to get some distance from Nightwing, it swings the ball at Nightwing trying to finally deliver a direct hit to Nightwing with an explosion the camera cuts into Delena's cockpit as warning lights start going off.

Delena: Warning power levels reaching low, only 3 more explosions possible until recharge cycle.

Serafina curses.

Serafina (Damn I must have overused the explosion.)

The camera cuts outside to show Nightwing instead of dodging or retreating presses forward. We can see the ball glow as it charges for an explosion but at the last second Nightwing swings around like a top and once again it uses its beam saber as a bat to whack the ball back to the pitcher. The camera cuts into Delena's cockpit as Serafina shouts

Serafina: CRAPPPPPPPPP!

We cut back outside, the ball's too close and Delena can't change its direction in time, Delena raises its shield to block. The ball hits the shield dead on and explodes destroying the shield and Delena's left arm. Delena stumbles out of the smokescreen dazed and confused. Delena looks up but it's too late. Nightwing swings its beam saber in a downward vertical path cutting Delena in half.

Shadow: You're never going to relieve yourself of that anger if you don't fight its true cause instead of just lashing out in pure rage. Defeating the King won't stop your anger it will just give you a hollow sense of victory.

The camera cuts into Delena's cockpit to show time slow down as Serafina gets this final message before the safely device activates and covers Serafina in a protective metal box. The episode ends with the camera cutting outside to show Delena split into 2 pieces as it falls to the ground with a thud; Nightwing is standing rather dashingly over it in victory.

Author's note: The names Serafina, Delena, and Milena were provided by ilianna 620.