Gundam Wing: Lady Gundam
Written By: Jumper Prime
For Disclaimers see prologue
Chapter 8: Portrait of a Ruined Country
A few days after Relena returned home from her disastrous mission to the New Edwards base, she had ridden her motorcycle down to the cave to check on Lady Gundam. As she got off her motorcycle, she began to hear the beeping that signaled that a message was waiting on the coded uplink. Relena dashed over to Lady Gundam and clambered up the mobile suit to open the cockpit and get inside. She switched on the uplink and the screen displayed a map and other mission data. After studying it for about half a minute, she keyed the transmit button.
Mission Accepted. Relena said and then closed the channel
[Finally, we can redeem ourselves for the debacle we recently participated in.] Lady Gundam commented
Yes. This time, I won't let my bloodlust consume me. The target is pretty far away, but it's not so time critical that I need to steal another mobile suit carrier.
[Two thefts in so short a period would certainly tip them off that a Gundam pilot has her home base in the area.] Lady Gundam agreed
A chartered cargo plane will do. But this time, I'm not going to just up and leave. No. Mother deserves to know the truth.
[I'm sure she will understand. You started fighting to stop the evil of OZ, and now you also fight to avenge your father.]
I hope so. Guess I should go get it over with. The sooner I tell her, the sooner we can leave for our mission.
[I will await your return, Relena.]
Relena shut down Lady Gundam's systems, got out of the cockpit, got back on her motorcycle, and rode back to her house. She found her mother and sister in the drawing room and closed the doors behind her.
Relena began tentatively There's... something I need to tell you. Something I've been keeping from you. Something which may shock you.
Mrs. Darlian wondered what her daughter was keeping from her
You want me to go somewhere else for a little bit, Relena? Renee asked
No, Renee. Relena answered You know this secret already and... maybe you'll be able to help mother understand.
Understand what? Mrs. Darlian asked, now with a worried tone in her voice
Mother, you know about the mobile suits sent from the Colonies, right?
How could I not, after what happened at the New Edwards base?
New Edwards was a mistake... It wasn't supposed to happen that way.
A mistake by who? Mrs. Darlian recognized Relena's tone, the tone of someone who deeply regretted a mistake they had personally made
Mother, please hear me out to the end. I need to explain the whole thing. I was one of those who made the mistake. I wasn't the one piloting the Gundam that actually brought down the transport carrying the Alliance military leaders, but I was piloting one of the others. The New Edwards base was supposed to be holding a meeting of top OZ officials. Relena shed some tears as she forced herself to remember her worst mistake ever We had no idea the Alliance military leaders were on the transport until after Heero blew it up.
But, the Gundams were sent from the Colonies. How did you get one?
My friend Amy. She was already training to be a Gundam pilot when I met her, and when I found out why she was in training, I asked to be taught as well. After a bit of convincing, Dr. Z agreed.
Did your father know?
No. He was completely in the dark about it. Dr. Z convinced me that if I told father about OZ, he'd become a target for them. I don't know when he found out about them, but right before he died, father warned Renee and I about OZ.
Wait a minute. Amy lives on the Colonies. You didn't spend all that much time in the Colonies over the past few years. Certainly, you couldn't have gotten much real training there.
More than you think. When I met Amy and started my training, before father and I left the Colony, Dr. Z gave me two disks. One contained a set of encrypted lessons, like a correspondence course. The other contained the decryption program needed to decode them. Over the years, Dr. Z sent me E-mails containing more encrypted lessons, and whenever I accompanied father back to Amy's home Colony, I received personal instruction and evaluation of how I was progressing. Plus, I did a few things on my own to further my training, here on Earth.
Those martial arts lessons you insisted on...
And my frequent trips to the arcade. Some of the shooting and mobile suit piloting games are pretty realistic. I used them to sharpen my skills between trips to the Colonies.
Shooting... What kind of a monster is this Dr. Z? Training children to kill? She's responsible for the disaster at New Edwards!
It wasn't Dr. Z's fault. OZ set up a false data trail to make it look like all their leaders were at that base. And I don't think she had anything to do with the other five Gundam pilots, despite the fact that their Gundams are similar to mine and similar criteria seems to have been followed in selecting their pilots. So, even if she hadn't been fooled, the others still might've been.
But she destroyed your innocence! She turned you into a killer!
Dr. Z made me into a warrior. While it's true she took away my innocence, she did it in a gentle manner, and if she hadn't, OZ would have stripped it away violently when they killed father. Now, I fight not just for peace, but also for vengeance. OZ is taking over the world as we speak. Taking over base after base with lightning strikes that the leaderless Alliance is hard pressed to stop. Someone has to fight them!
But why you? If something were to happen to you so soon after losing your father...
Mother, I have to. OZ needs to pay for their crimes, and the only way I can be sure they do, is to see to it personally. I can't just trust in the other Gundam pilots to destroy OZ on their own. I don't know who trained them or how they were trained. They might make more mistakes like New Edwards. They might be captured or killed. The only way to be sure of the outcome, is to forge it myself.
She's right, Mom. Renee spoke up Dad's last words were a warning about OZ. We can't let them win. If they do, Dad's death will have been in vain.
I plan to leave tonight on another mission. I'm not sure how long I'll be gone. I'd like to be able to go with your blessing, mother.
Relena, I... Mrs. Darlian took a breath before continuing Alright. You can go. But come home safe.
Thank you, mother. I'll do my best. Relena and her mother hugged each other
One condition to your going, however. Mrs. Darlian said as they broke apart
Pagan goes with you, to keep an eye on you when you're not making your attack, or whatever.
Pagan? Mother...
He's been with us since before either of you were born. He can be trusted with anything, even this.
Don't worry, Miss Relena. the butler in question said as he entered the room I'll do my best not to get in your way.
Think about it, Relena. He could even be an asset. Renee added A girl traveling alone might be a little suspicious, but with Pagan along for the ride, you'll draw less unwanted attention.
Relena sighed in defeat He can come along.
Thank you, Miss Relena. Pagan smiled I think you may find I have a few skills not commonly required for the smooth running of a household.
We'll see, Pagan. Relena smiled back
Do you need any money to get wherever you're going? Mrs. Darlian asked
No. All mission-related expenses are taken care of with a blind bank account set up by Dr. Z. The travel expenses, ammunition and fuel, all would send up red flags if any charges for them showed up on the family accounts.
I see. That makes sense. Then, let me at least wish you good luck.
Thank you, mother. Relena and her mother hugged again
Good luck, sis. Renee said as she joined the hug
After the three women broke apart from the group hug, Relena left to pack and make arrangements for the cargo plane which would convey her and Lady Gundam, and now Pagan as well, to the area where her next mission would occur. Later, as Relena was finishing up her packing in her room, Renee appeared at the door.
I noticed earlier, she said When mom told you to come home safe, you didn't tell her about how you'd have to Self-Detonate if things went seriously wrong.
She doesn't need to know. Relena answered as she zipped up her suitcase She'd only worry more, and I severely doubt Self-Detonation will be necessary on this mission.
I just hope it stays that way. I don't want to lose you to OZ like we lost Dad.
Don't worry, Renee. I'll be careful.
Relena carried her suitcase downstairs, accompanied by Renee, and was met in the front hall by her mother and Pagan. No words were exchanged as Relena and Pagan walked down the path to the driveway, where the pink limousine waited. As Pagan put her suitcase in the trunk, Relena waved to her mother and Renee, who waved from the door. Relena got in the back seat while Pagan took his position in the driver's seat and they drove away.
Pagan, take the old road down to the beach. Relena ordered as they exited the front gate I'll give you directions to the cave.
Cave, Miss Relena? Pagan wass slightly puzzled
It's where I have Lady Gundam hidden. Fortunately, I already have a carrier truck hidden there so it won't take long to load Lady Gundam onto it.
Will you need any help, Miss Relena?
No, I can handle it fine on my own. Turn here. Relena guided Pagan to the location of the cave on the beach and she got out when he stopped the car outside. Once I get Lady Gundam on the truck, we'll head for the airport, hangar 23. That's where the cargo plane I chartered will be.
Very well, Miss Relena.
Relena went into the cave and activated Lady Gundam, moving the mobile suit so that she was laying down on the bed of the truck before she switched the Gundam's systems off. Relena then threw a large tarp over her mobile suit and secured several thick cables over it to hold both tarp and Gundam in place. Finally, she got into the truck's cab and drove it out of the cave, heading back towards the main road with Pagan following in the limo.
They arrived at the airport and proceeded to hangar 23 without incident. Both the limo and the Gundam-bearing truck were loaded onto the cargo plane and secured in place. Soon, Relena and Pagan strapped themselves into passenger seats and the plane taxied out of the hangar before taking off. The flight passed in silence, the pilot and co-pilot knew enough not to ask any questions of their passengers and Relena and Pagan knew not to volunteer any information.
When the plane reached its destination, Relena and Pagan drove their respective vehicles to a dockside warehouse Relena had already arranged to rent using funds from the same account she used to pay for other mission critical items. The accommodations were spartan, but livable.
Time for a little recon. Relena declared once they were more or less settled in
As you wish, Miss Relena. Pagan answered as he headed to the pink limo
Soon, Pagan was driving Relena through the city on a road that followed the coast. As they approached a scenic overlook, Relena glimpsed a familiar face or two.
Pagan! Stop the car! she ordered and the servant immediately complied, stopping the limo right in front of the cement walkway leading to the overlook.
Pagan shut off the engine and got out, walked around to the passenger side, and opened the door for Relena, who got out to stand on the concrete, gazing across at two boys standing by the railing wearing red tank tops and white shorts. The two boys were Duo and Heero, who had just finished a conversation when Relena's limo pulled up.
Hey, that's- Duo gasped
Heero finished
*Heero...* Relena thought *I wonder if you still want to kill me, or have you classified me as an ally after New Edwards? If you have, I hope it wasn't just because I have my own Gundam. No, that's not Heero's style. If he has classified me as an ally, which he may or may not have, it would only be after he evaluated a multitude of factors.*
Relena walked down the concrete walkway to where Heero and Duo were standing.
So we meet again, Heero. she said in an innocent tone, mindful of the nearby crowd Hello to you too, Duo.
Well, she's not your average chick, Duo commented Walking right up to the guy trying to kill her.
was Heero's only response
Isn't that just the prettiest ship out there in the bay? Relena observed It would be such a shame if someone were to... Blow It Up. Relena winked at the two boys in front of her
Yeah, it would at that. Duo grinned as he answered her Although, if I were to take a crack at it, I know I would destroy it before anyone else could.
Don't be so sure about that. I've been known to blow my top at a moment's notice, on occasion. That ship wouldn't stand a chance if I wanted it gone. What do you think, Heero?
Who cares who destroys it first? Heero asked in response All that matters is that it is obliterated.
We'll just see about that. Duo smirked I can be in and out of a place before you know it, and you won't know it until you hear the explosion.
I do believe we've been challenged, Heero. Relena smiled Perhaps we can play our little game tonight, and we'll see who is the best player.
Heero answered simply
Then I'll see you tonight, and maybe you too, Duo.
Relena waved and walked back to the limo. She got back inside, then Pagan started the engine and they drove off. Meanwhile, in a tent in the desert, hundreds of miles away, the Maganac Corps was not happy with Quatre. In fact, they were furious that he had gone off on a mission without them. Thirty-nine angry voices clamored to express their displeasure.
Master Quatre, if anything were to happen to you, how would we possibly explain it to your father in the Colonies? Abdul demanded, his sunglasses glinting in the dim light
Don't you have any confidence at all in us, master? Auda asked as he pushed Abdul slightly to one side to get face-to-face with Quatre
No, it's nothing like that at all. Quatre started to respond
Our sole purpose is to protect you, sir. Ahmed pushed the other two men aside, his mustache twitching as he bent over, hand on his heart to express his sincerity
Do you understand this? Abdul asked
Master Quatre!? all three squad leaders practically shouted to drive their point home
Quatre said sheepishly
Right, that's enough. Rashid walked between Quatre and his fellow Maganacs, causing a flurry of angry muttering
But Captain Rashid, we're just trying to- Auda started a complaint but was cut off by Rashid
Master Quatre has given us his word that he won't leave on his own, anymore.
Yeah, I promise. Quatre agreed in a sincere tone
Go on, there's no time to be standing around. Load up the weapons on your mobile suits, or something. The grumbling Maganacs slowly filed out of the tent
Thanks, Rashid. Quatre thanked his friend once all the other Maganacs were gone
I'm very upset with you myself. Rashid warned as he poured two cups of coffee handing, one to Quatre Don't forget it.
So, how was it?
There were six suits in all. I'm pretty sure that they're all called Gundams.
They're all Gundams?
They're violent and dangerous but they're all really nice guys. Four guys and one girl, actually.
How can you be so sure about that, Master?
I can tell. The Soul of Outer Space tells me.
The Soul of Outer Space?
The Soul of Outer Space.
Elsewhere, at that same time, Trowa and Wufei were sitting by a fire in Trowa's circus camp. Both were sitting silently, alone with their own thoughts.
Gee, you two Catherine said as she walked up to them You call that fun, just sitting like that? You haven't said a word for two hours.
What do you want? Trowa asked, finally breaking the silence he and Wufei had been keeping
Nice greeting. And here I thought I'd be doing you a favor, bringing you this. Catherine put down the tray she had been carrying, containing two bowls of soup, onto a small table next to Trowa Eat it right up, before it gets cold! After Catherine observed no reaction from the two boys, she continued I'll just leave it here so you guys help yourselves. And clean the dishes after you're finished. Gotta learn your manners while you're still young, right? Bye.
Trowa picked up the coffee pot and poured some steaming hot coffee into a mug.
This might not be the best java. he cautioned as she offered the mug to Wufei
I've got no right piloting the Nataku. Wufei declared
Oh yeah? Trowa responded just before Wufei accepted the mug
Thank you. Wufei said then sipped some coffee and the two boys once again sat in silence
Hours later, night had fallen on the city which was the location for Relena, Heero, and Duo's latest mission. Relena was starting up Lady Gundam's systems in the warehouse when Pagan called up to her.
Do be careful, Miss Relena. he said I would hate to have to tell your mother and sister that you were caught or killed.
Don't worry Pagan, Relena called back as she continued her preflight It's a pretty simple mission, as these things go. I should be back within a few hours.
I will be waiting anxiously for your return.
Relena closed the cockpit and Lady Gundam stood up, getting off the carrier truck and walking towards the warehouse's large door, which Pagan opened with the push of a button. As the door closed behind her, Lady Gundam stepped off the dock and plunged into the water. Relena guided her mobile suit along the bottom of the bay, heading for where the target ship was moored.
[I have checked and rechecked the mission data against other records, Relena.] Lady Gundam reported on the way [Correlation is 100%. The target warship is under the control of OZ and is being repaired and rearmed for OZ's continuing campaign.]
You must have burned a lot of processor cycles crosschecking all that data. Relena commented
[I could not bear it if, through my laziness, I allowed you to make another mistake such as occurred on our last mission.]
Thanks. Ah. We're here. Relena smiled and was about to trigger the vernier thrusters to propel Lady Gundam out of the water when a small shockwave shook the mobile suit Hmm, looks like one of the boys got here first.
[Are we to let them have all the fun?]
Relena smirked and fired the thrusters, propelling Lady Gundam upward through the water
On the surface, Gundam Deathscythe was slicing Leos apart with its beam scythe.
Alright, looks like we got here first. Duo smiled
[Yes,] Deathscythe agreed [Though my airborne brother fast approaches.]
As those words were said, Lady Gundam erupted from the water and landed on the deck of the ship near Gundam Deathscythe. A moment later, Wing Gundam flew in and transformed into mobile suit mode before also landing on the deck.
What took you two so long? Duo smirked Don't worry. I left you some action.
[Still some blessings left to lay, my siblings.] Deathscythe transmitted in machine code
Wing Gundam raised and fired its Buster Rifle, destroying several Leos in a single blast, while Lady Gundam fired her machine cannons, destroying a Tragos and two Leos in a hail of bullets. Wing Gundam turned and Heero saw three Tragos suits guarding the towering main fuel tank. He fired his mobile suit's machine cannons, destroying two mobile suits and blinding the third with dust. A few strides and a well-timed thruster firing sent Wing Gundam in an arc that brought one foot down on the head of the remaining Tragos, crushing the main camera before a prolonged thruster firing carried Wing Gundam high into the air.
The Gundam aimed its Buster Rifle at the fuel tank and fired, triggering a massive explosion.
Mission Complete. Heero announced in his usual monotone
As Wing Gundam landed, Lady Gundam fired a blast from her right Buster Gauntlet that destroyed the last of the Leos defending the ship, or what was left of it.
Looks like you won, Heero. Relena noted
Heero spoke in a monotone, yet there seemed a hint of puzzlement in his voice This was not a game.
Whatever, pal. Duo sighed
[Relena, reinforcements are being sent in by air. ETA: Three minutes] Lady Gundam warned her pilot
Guys, it's time to go. Relena declared OZ is gonna be airdropping reinforcements in just a few minutes. I guess I'll see you boys tomorrow morning.
See ya. Duo responded before walking his Gundam off what was left of the deck of the ship and into the water.
Relena watched as Wing Gundam transformed into bird mode and flew away, then she copied Duo, walking along the bottom of the bay back to the warehouse. The next morning, Relena's pink limo pulled up to the same overlook where she had seen Heero and Duo the day before. She got out of the car and looked towards the railing, trying to see if Heero was there.
she called out
Hey, good looking. Duo's voice came from behind Relena and she turned to see him and Heero, each wearing blue slacks, a white button-down shirt, and a green tie. They were also carrying some books under their arms. Pretty nice day today, huh? Well, gotta get to class, I'll see you later.
Duo walked past Relena and Heero started walking a few seconds later. Relena and Heero made eye contact for a moment before the boy continued on. Relena didn't see any desire to kill her in his eyes. If the eyes are the windows to the soul, Relena could almost swear she saw a reflection of herself in Heero's soul.
Is Renee right? Relena wondered Am I really in love with Heero? And is he in love with me?
End of Chapter 8
Hmm. I got this one done a little quicker than the last chapter, mostly because I didn't bother to do anything with Chichi the Warrior this time around. I was on a real Gundam kick and the chapter almost wrote itself, with some prodding from my tape of episode 9.
Next chapter, the Gundams head for Siberia on a mission and everything will change in a heartbeat.
Written By: Jumper Prime
For Disclaimers see prologue
Chapter 8: Portrait of a Ruined Country
A few days after Relena returned home from her disastrous mission to the New Edwards base, she had ridden her motorcycle down to the cave to check on Lady Gundam. As she got off her motorcycle, she began to hear the beeping that signaled that a message was waiting on the coded uplink. Relena dashed over to Lady Gundam and clambered up the mobile suit to open the cockpit and get inside. She switched on the uplink and the screen displayed a map and other mission data. After studying it for about half a minute, she keyed the transmit button.
Mission Accepted. Relena said and then closed the channel
[Finally, we can redeem ourselves for the debacle we recently participated in.] Lady Gundam commented
Yes. This time, I won't let my bloodlust consume me. The target is pretty far away, but it's not so time critical that I need to steal another mobile suit carrier.
[Two thefts in so short a period would certainly tip them off that a Gundam pilot has her home base in the area.] Lady Gundam agreed
A chartered cargo plane will do. But this time, I'm not going to just up and leave. No. Mother deserves to know the truth.
[I'm sure she will understand. You started fighting to stop the evil of OZ, and now you also fight to avenge your father.]
I hope so. Guess I should go get it over with. The sooner I tell her, the sooner we can leave for our mission.
[I will await your return, Relena.]
Relena shut down Lady Gundam's systems, got out of the cockpit, got back on her motorcycle, and rode back to her house. She found her mother and sister in the drawing room and closed the doors behind her.
Relena began tentatively There's... something I need to tell you. Something I've been keeping from you. Something which may shock you.
Mrs. Darlian wondered what her daughter was keeping from her
You want me to go somewhere else for a little bit, Relena? Renee asked
No, Renee. Relena answered You know this secret already and... maybe you'll be able to help mother understand.
Understand what? Mrs. Darlian asked, now with a worried tone in her voice
Mother, you know about the mobile suits sent from the Colonies, right?
How could I not, after what happened at the New Edwards base?
New Edwards was a mistake... It wasn't supposed to happen that way.
A mistake by who? Mrs. Darlian recognized Relena's tone, the tone of someone who deeply regretted a mistake they had personally made
Mother, please hear me out to the end. I need to explain the whole thing. I was one of those who made the mistake. I wasn't the one piloting the Gundam that actually brought down the transport carrying the Alliance military leaders, but I was piloting one of the others. The New Edwards base was supposed to be holding a meeting of top OZ officials. Relena shed some tears as she forced herself to remember her worst mistake ever We had no idea the Alliance military leaders were on the transport until after Heero blew it up.
But, the Gundams were sent from the Colonies. How did you get one?
My friend Amy. She was already training to be a Gundam pilot when I met her, and when I found out why she was in training, I asked to be taught as well. After a bit of convincing, Dr. Z agreed.
Did your father know?
No. He was completely in the dark about it. Dr. Z convinced me that if I told father about OZ, he'd become a target for them. I don't know when he found out about them, but right before he died, father warned Renee and I about OZ.
Wait a minute. Amy lives on the Colonies. You didn't spend all that much time in the Colonies over the past few years. Certainly, you couldn't have gotten much real training there.
More than you think. When I met Amy and started my training, before father and I left the Colony, Dr. Z gave me two disks. One contained a set of encrypted lessons, like a correspondence course. The other contained the decryption program needed to decode them. Over the years, Dr. Z sent me E-mails containing more encrypted lessons, and whenever I accompanied father back to Amy's home Colony, I received personal instruction and evaluation of how I was progressing. Plus, I did a few things on my own to further my training, here on Earth.
Those martial arts lessons you insisted on...
And my frequent trips to the arcade. Some of the shooting and mobile suit piloting games are pretty realistic. I used them to sharpen my skills between trips to the Colonies.
Shooting... What kind of a monster is this Dr. Z? Training children to kill? She's responsible for the disaster at New Edwards!
It wasn't Dr. Z's fault. OZ set up a false data trail to make it look like all their leaders were at that base. And I don't think she had anything to do with the other five Gundam pilots, despite the fact that their Gundams are similar to mine and similar criteria seems to have been followed in selecting their pilots. So, even if she hadn't been fooled, the others still might've been.
But she destroyed your innocence! She turned you into a killer!
Dr. Z made me into a warrior. While it's true she took away my innocence, she did it in a gentle manner, and if she hadn't, OZ would have stripped it away violently when they killed father. Now, I fight not just for peace, but also for vengeance. OZ is taking over the world as we speak. Taking over base after base with lightning strikes that the leaderless Alliance is hard pressed to stop. Someone has to fight them!
But why you? If something were to happen to you so soon after losing your father...
Mother, I have to. OZ needs to pay for their crimes, and the only way I can be sure they do, is to see to it personally. I can't just trust in the other Gundam pilots to destroy OZ on their own. I don't know who trained them or how they were trained. They might make more mistakes like New Edwards. They might be captured or killed. The only way to be sure of the outcome, is to forge it myself.
She's right, Mom. Renee spoke up Dad's last words were a warning about OZ. We can't let them win. If they do, Dad's death will have been in vain.
I plan to leave tonight on another mission. I'm not sure how long I'll be gone. I'd like to be able to go with your blessing, mother.
Relena, I... Mrs. Darlian took a breath before continuing Alright. You can go. But come home safe.
Thank you, mother. I'll do my best. Relena and her mother hugged each other
One condition to your going, however. Mrs. Darlian said as they broke apart
Pagan goes with you, to keep an eye on you when you're not making your attack, or whatever.
Pagan? Mother...
He's been with us since before either of you were born. He can be trusted with anything, even this.
Don't worry, Miss Relena. the butler in question said as he entered the room I'll do my best not to get in your way.
Think about it, Relena. He could even be an asset. Renee added A girl traveling alone might be a little suspicious, but with Pagan along for the ride, you'll draw less unwanted attention.
Relena sighed in defeat He can come along.
Thank you, Miss Relena. Pagan smiled I think you may find I have a few skills not commonly required for the smooth running of a household.
We'll see, Pagan. Relena smiled back
Do you need any money to get wherever you're going? Mrs. Darlian asked
No. All mission-related expenses are taken care of with a blind bank account set up by Dr. Z. The travel expenses, ammunition and fuel, all would send up red flags if any charges for them showed up on the family accounts.
I see. That makes sense. Then, let me at least wish you good luck.
Thank you, mother. Relena and her mother hugged again
Good luck, sis. Renee said as she joined the hug
After the three women broke apart from the group hug, Relena left to pack and make arrangements for the cargo plane which would convey her and Lady Gundam, and now Pagan as well, to the area where her next mission would occur. Later, as Relena was finishing up her packing in her room, Renee appeared at the door.
I noticed earlier, she said When mom told you to come home safe, you didn't tell her about how you'd have to Self-Detonate if things went seriously wrong.
She doesn't need to know. Relena answered as she zipped up her suitcase She'd only worry more, and I severely doubt Self-Detonation will be necessary on this mission.
I just hope it stays that way. I don't want to lose you to OZ like we lost Dad.
Don't worry, Renee. I'll be careful.
Relena carried her suitcase downstairs, accompanied by Renee, and was met in the front hall by her mother and Pagan. No words were exchanged as Relena and Pagan walked down the path to the driveway, where the pink limousine waited. As Pagan put her suitcase in the trunk, Relena waved to her mother and Renee, who waved from the door. Relena got in the back seat while Pagan took his position in the driver's seat and they drove away.
Pagan, take the old road down to the beach. Relena ordered as they exited the front gate I'll give you directions to the cave.
Cave, Miss Relena? Pagan wass slightly puzzled
It's where I have Lady Gundam hidden. Fortunately, I already have a carrier truck hidden there so it won't take long to load Lady Gundam onto it.
Will you need any help, Miss Relena?
No, I can handle it fine on my own. Turn here. Relena guided Pagan to the location of the cave on the beach and she got out when he stopped the car outside. Once I get Lady Gundam on the truck, we'll head for the airport, hangar 23. That's where the cargo plane I chartered will be.
Very well, Miss Relena.
Relena went into the cave and activated Lady Gundam, moving the mobile suit so that she was laying down on the bed of the truck before she switched the Gundam's systems off. Relena then threw a large tarp over her mobile suit and secured several thick cables over it to hold both tarp and Gundam in place. Finally, she got into the truck's cab and drove it out of the cave, heading back towards the main road with Pagan following in the limo.
They arrived at the airport and proceeded to hangar 23 without incident. Both the limo and the Gundam-bearing truck were loaded onto the cargo plane and secured in place. Soon, Relena and Pagan strapped themselves into passenger seats and the plane taxied out of the hangar before taking off. The flight passed in silence, the pilot and co-pilot knew enough not to ask any questions of their passengers and Relena and Pagan knew not to volunteer any information.
When the plane reached its destination, Relena and Pagan drove their respective vehicles to a dockside warehouse Relena had already arranged to rent using funds from the same account she used to pay for other mission critical items. The accommodations were spartan, but livable.
Time for a little recon. Relena declared once they were more or less settled in
As you wish, Miss Relena. Pagan answered as he headed to the pink limo
Soon, Pagan was driving Relena through the city on a road that followed the coast. As they approached a scenic overlook, Relena glimpsed a familiar face or two.
Pagan! Stop the car! she ordered and the servant immediately complied, stopping the limo right in front of the cement walkway leading to the overlook.
Pagan shut off the engine and got out, walked around to the passenger side, and opened the door for Relena, who got out to stand on the concrete, gazing across at two boys standing by the railing wearing red tank tops and white shorts. The two boys were Duo and Heero, who had just finished a conversation when Relena's limo pulled up.
Hey, that's- Duo gasped
Heero finished
*Heero...* Relena thought *I wonder if you still want to kill me, or have you classified me as an ally after New Edwards? If you have, I hope it wasn't just because I have my own Gundam. No, that's not Heero's style. If he has classified me as an ally, which he may or may not have, it would only be after he evaluated a multitude of factors.*
Relena walked down the concrete walkway to where Heero and Duo were standing.
So we meet again, Heero. she said in an innocent tone, mindful of the nearby crowd Hello to you too, Duo.
Well, she's not your average chick, Duo commented Walking right up to the guy trying to kill her.
was Heero's only response
Isn't that just the prettiest ship out there in the bay? Relena observed It would be such a shame if someone were to... Blow It Up. Relena winked at the two boys in front of her
Yeah, it would at that. Duo grinned as he answered her Although, if I were to take a crack at it, I know I would destroy it before anyone else could.
Don't be so sure about that. I've been known to blow my top at a moment's notice, on occasion. That ship wouldn't stand a chance if I wanted it gone. What do you think, Heero?
Who cares who destroys it first? Heero asked in response All that matters is that it is obliterated.
We'll just see about that. Duo smirked I can be in and out of a place before you know it, and you won't know it until you hear the explosion.
I do believe we've been challenged, Heero. Relena smiled Perhaps we can play our little game tonight, and we'll see who is the best player.
Heero answered simply
Then I'll see you tonight, and maybe you too, Duo.
Relena waved and walked back to the limo. She got back inside, then Pagan started the engine and they drove off. Meanwhile, in a tent in the desert, hundreds of miles away, the Maganac Corps was not happy with Quatre. In fact, they were furious that he had gone off on a mission without them. Thirty-nine angry voices clamored to express their displeasure.
Master Quatre, if anything were to happen to you, how would we possibly explain it to your father in the Colonies? Abdul demanded, his sunglasses glinting in the dim light
Don't you have any confidence at all in us, master? Auda asked as he pushed Abdul slightly to one side to get face-to-face with Quatre
No, it's nothing like that at all. Quatre started to respond
Our sole purpose is to protect you, sir. Ahmed pushed the other two men aside, his mustache twitching as he bent over, hand on his heart to express his sincerity
Do you understand this? Abdul asked
Master Quatre!? all three squad leaders practically shouted to drive their point home
Quatre said sheepishly
Right, that's enough. Rashid walked between Quatre and his fellow Maganacs, causing a flurry of angry muttering
But Captain Rashid, we're just trying to- Auda started a complaint but was cut off by Rashid
Master Quatre has given us his word that he won't leave on his own, anymore.
Yeah, I promise. Quatre agreed in a sincere tone
Go on, there's no time to be standing around. Load up the weapons on your mobile suits, or something. The grumbling Maganacs slowly filed out of the tent
Thanks, Rashid. Quatre thanked his friend once all the other Maganacs were gone
I'm very upset with you myself. Rashid warned as he poured two cups of coffee handing, one to Quatre Don't forget it.
So, how was it?
There were six suits in all. I'm pretty sure that they're all called Gundams.
They're all Gundams?
They're violent and dangerous but they're all really nice guys. Four guys and one girl, actually.
How can you be so sure about that, Master?
I can tell. The Soul of Outer Space tells me.
The Soul of Outer Space?
The Soul of Outer Space.
Elsewhere, at that same time, Trowa and Wufei were sitting by a fire in Trowa's circus camp. Both were sitting silently, alone with their own thoughts.
Gee, you two Catherine said as she walked up to them You call that fun, just sitting like that? You haven't said a word for two hours.
What do you want? Trowa asked, finally breaking the silence he and Wufei had been keeping
Nice greeting. And here I thought I'd be doing you a favor, bringing you this. Catherine put down the tray she had been carrying, containing two bowls of soup, onto a small table next to Trowa Eat it right up, before it gets cold! After Catherine observed no reaction from the two boys, she continued I'll just leave it here so you guys help yourselves. And clean the dishes after you're finished. Gotta learn your manners while you're still young, right? Bye.
Trowa picked up the coffee pot and poured some steaming hot coffee into a mug.
This might not be the best java. he cautioned as she offered the mug to Wufei
I've got no right piloting the Nataku. Wufei declared
Oh yeah? Trowa responded just before Wufei accepted the mug
Thank you. Wufei said then sipped some coffee and the two boys once again sat in silence
Hours later, night had fallen on the city which was the location for Relena, Heero, and Duo's latest mission. Relena was starting up Lady Gundam's systems in the warehouse when Pagan called up to her.
Do be careful, Miss Relena. he said I would hate to have to tell your mother and sister that you were caught or killed.
Don't worry Pagan, Relena called back as she continued her preflight It's a pretty simple mission, as these things go. I should be back within a few hours.
I will be waiting anxiously for your return.
Relena closed the cockpit and Lady Gundam stood up, getting off the carrier truck and walking towards the warehouse's large door, which Pagan opened with the push of a button. As the door closed behind her, Lady Gundam stepped off the dock and plunged into the water. Relena guided her mobile suit along the bottom of the bay, heading for where the target ship was moored.
[I have checked and rechecked the mission data against other records, Relena.] Lady Gundam reported on the way [Correlation is 100%. The target warship is under the control of OZ and is being repaired and rearmed for OZ's continuing campaign.]
You must have burned a lot of processor cycles crosschecking all that data. Relena commented
[I could not bear it if, through my laziness, I allowed you to make another mistake such as occurred on our last mission.]
Thanks. Ah. We're here. Relena smiled and was about to trigger the vernier thrusters to propel Lady Gundam out of the water when a small shockwave shook the mobile suit Hmm, looks like one of the boys got here first.
[Are we to let them have all the fun?]
Relena smirked and fired the thrusters, propelling Lady Gundam upward through the water
On the surface, Gundam Deathscythe was slicing Leos apart with its beam scythe.
Alright, looks like we got here first. Duo smiled
[Yes,] Deathscythe agreed [Though my airborne brother fast approaches.]
As those words were said, Lady Gundam erupted from the water and landed on the deck of the ship near Gundam Deathscythe. A moment later, Wing Gundam flew in and transformed into mobile suit mode before also landing on the deck.
What took you two so long? Duo smirked Don't worry. I left you some action.
[Still some blessings left to lay, my siblings.] Deathscythe transmitted in machine code
Wing Gundam raised and fired its Buster Rifle, destroying several Leos in a single blast, while Lady Gundam fired her machine cannons, destroying a Tragos and two Leos in a hail of bullets. Wing Gundam turned and Heero saw three Tragos suits guarding the towering main fuel tank. He fired his mobile suit's machine cannons, destroying two mobile suits and blinding the third with dust. A few strides and a well-timed thruster firing sent Wing Gundam in an arc that brought one foot down on the head of the remaining Tragos, crushing the main camera before a prolonged thruster firing carried Wing Gundam high into the air.
The Gundam aimed its Buster Rifle at the fuel tank and fired, triggering a massive explosion.
Mission Complete. Heero announced in his usual monotone
As Wing Gundam landed, Lady Gundam fired a blast from her right Buster Gauntlet that destroyed the last of the Leos defending the ship, or what was left of it.
Looks like you won, Heero. Relena noted
Heero spoke in a monotone, yet there seemed a hint of puzzlement in his voice This was not a game.
Whatever, pal. Duo sighed
[Relena, reinforcements are being sent in by air. ETA: Three minutes] Lady Gundam warned her pilot
Guys, it's time to go. Relena declared OZ is gonna be airdropping reinforcements in just a few minutes. I guess I'll see you boys tomorrow morning.
See ya. Duo responded before walking his Gundam off what was left of the deck of the ship and into the water.
Relena watched as Wing Gundam transformed into bird mode and flew away, then she copied Duo, walking along the bottom of the bay back to the warehouse. The next morning, Relena's pink limo pulled up to the same overlook where she had seen Heero and Duo the day before. She got out of the car and looked towards the railing, trying to see if Heero was there.
she called out
Hey, good looking. Duo's voice came from behind Relena and she turned to see him and Heero, each wearing blue slacks, a white button-down shirt, and a green tie. They were also carrying some books under their arms. Pretty nice day today, huh? Well, gotta get to class, I'll see you later.
Duo walked past Relena and Heero started walking a few seconds later. Relena and Heero made eye contact for a moment before the boy continued on. Relena didn't see any desire to kill her in his eyes. If the eyes are the windows to the soul, Relena could almost swear she saw a reflection of herself in Heero's soul.
Is Renee right? Relena wondered Am I really in love with Heero? And is he in love with me?
End of Chapter 8
Hmm. I got this one done a little quicker than the last chapter, mostly because I didn't bother to do anything with Chichi the Warrior this time around. I was on a real Gundam kick and the chapter almost wrote itself, with some prodding from my tape of episode 9.
Next chapter, the Gundams head for Siberia on a mission and everything will change in a heartbeat.