Gundam Wing: Lady Gundam
Written By: Jumper Prime
For Disclaimers see prologue
Chapter 9: Heero, Distracted by Defeat
In a cavernous OZ briefing room, Lady Une stood on a movable platform. She looked down on a large number of OZ soldiers, including Noin and Zechs, as she gave a briefing.
The latest plan involves moving the Tauruses to the Siberian Base, to install our new mobility system. Lady Une said as pictures of a Taurus mobile suit appeared on the huge monitor taking up the wall behind her Our lack of confidence in the facilities and security at Lake Victoria has led to this transfer plan. The Tauruses will be transported across the Arabian coast under heavy guard, we will be taking over the transfer from there. So far there hasn't been any real threats, but we've taken everything into consideration. The picture shifted to a view of a convoy of transport aircraft We have already announced a false transport plan. We won't let the enemies have it their way, this time.
One soldier said
The Gundams? Another theorized
The Gundams have attacked practically all of OZ's plans. Lady Une continued This should, once again, be an attractive target for the Gundams, but as long as I'm in charge, I'll prevent all such interference.
Going to Siberia, they pass through OZ's protected areas, in which case the Gundams won't be able to attack. Zechs observed
No, we want them to come. I consider annihilating the Gundams a big part of this plan. Our defeats up until now were because cowardly soldiers were too slow to compile their data. But this time, OZ is dead serious. I'd like to give a lesson on the correct way to eradicate the Gundams. It might not come to much use, but let me provide you with some background information. The monitor started showing pictures and scans of Wing Gundam We'll refer to the unit that fell over the Pacific Ocean as Gundam 01. It can transform into an aircraft. Once located, we'll lure it to an Aries air-zone and shoot it down. Without its wings, we can overcome it in a protracted battle.
Next, the Gundam 02. The pictures changed to show Gundam Deathscythe 02's features allow it to remain unnoticed and with 03, the main point is to get it to use up all of it's firepower at an early stage. the images switched back and forth between Gundam Deathscythe and Gundam Heavyarms This is true for all of them, but not one mobile suit excels in organized battle. 04 is also a close-range battle type. Pictures and scans were shown of Gundam Sandrock. Make sure, when facing 05, to avoid direct combat. Now images of Shenlong Gundam were shown Stop it in its footsteps and barrage until it's destroyed. Be extremely cautious of the firepower in its left arm.
06 seems the most unique of the Gundams. The screen switched to pictures and scans of Lady Gundam It has a powerful beam cannon attached to each arm. These weapons appear to be integrated with the Gundam's structure, possibly allowing them to draw directly from 06's energy reserves, though some amount of recharge time does appear necessary between firings. Making 06's weapons configuration even more unorthodox is its effective use of two beam sabers simultaneously in battle. This makes 06 deadly in melee combat. Hit it with massed firepower from long range, do not allow it to close to within beam saber's reach. That concludes my briefing. I ask that you gather the troops of the respective bases along this route to standby.
Meanwhile, in her warehouse hideout, Relena looked up from cleaning her gun as a loud beeping issued from Lady Gundam. Quickly scrambling up onto the carrier truck and into the cockpit, she activated the coded uplink and was greeted by Dr. Z's face.
Dr. Z said simply OZ's new mobile suit model, the Taurus, has a very disturbing feature. This system can learn from accumulated data and act on it's own. Danger comes should the pilot be unable to override the automatic system's command to kill. You have to destroy those Taurus suits. Their ultimate destination is the Colonies.
Mission Accepted. Relena said as she looked over the mission data scrolling across Lady Gundam's monitors and Dr. Z's image winked out
[This will be our most difficult mission ever, Relena.] Lady Gundam commented [If we choose the wrong convoy to attack, we will find only OZ mobile suits armed for battle.]
And there's no data that can tell us for sure which route is the real one. Relena agreed There's no way a single Gundam can accomplish this mission without relying entirely on luck.
[It's a good thing that two of my brothers are in town, then.]
Yes. I'll wager Heero and Duo are receiving similar mission data as we speak. With three Gundams for two possible targets, at least one of us will hit the real transport route. I'd better get over to their dorm before they leave, or we won't be able to coordinate with each other.
Relena closed down Lady Gundam's systems, then climbed out of the cockpit and back down to the ground.
she called I need a ride to the school, immediately.
As you wish, Miss Relena. Pagan answered as he walked to the limo
The drive seemed to go by quickly as Relena tried to plan what she would say to the boys. However, before she had figured out exactly what she would say, they had arrived at the boy's dorms, so she decided to wing it. As Relena came in sight of Heero's door, she saw Duo, already dressed in his priest-like attire, opening it.
I've come to say goodbye. Relena heard Duo say I've got a bad feeling about this one. OZ's transport plan is good. From what I can gather they're gonna be taking two routes: By air and by land.
Hello boys. Relena said as she reached Heero's door Sounds like we've all got the same mission, again.
Well, with a pretty lady like you coming with us, Duo grinned How can we fail?
My beauty isn't what will destroy the OZ mobile suits we'll be fighting. That's what Lady Gundam's weapons are for. Relena answered Heero, I think the two of us are best suited for the air route. Heero nodded in agreement.
Guess that leaves the land route for me. Duo sighed even though he had already decided to take the land route before approaching Heero.
The time factor is critical. Heero noted Both convoys will come within five miles of each other in Siberia, tomorrow night. That will be the best time for a simultaneous strike.
Well, I'm sure the local military base would be happy to lend us a carrier. Duo grinned
My sentiments exactly. Relena agreed
Hangar 3, near the south end of the runway, contains a fully fueled mobile suit carrier. Security is minimal. Meet me inside at 2300 hours, not a second later, or I'll leave without you.
It's a date. 2300 hours.
And I guess you guys can consider me your chaperone. Duo grinned At least until we split up, that is.
I'll meet up with you boys at the hangar, then. Don't be late.
Relena turned and left. She walked back to the limo and Pagan drove her back to the warehouse.
Pagan, there's something I want you to do. Relena said as she threw a tarp over Lady Gundam
Anything you need, Miss Relena. Pagan answered as he helped Relena secure the tarp with cables
I want you to take the limo and go home without me. I'll arrange your transportation.
Miss Relena, I must object. Your mother sent me with you to help you. I cannot return without you.
Pagan, I'm leaving on a new mission tonight. A dangerous one. You can't come with me. I'll be flying directly to the combat zone in a carrier I'm stealing from the military base. Please, Pagan.
Alright, Miss Relena. Pagan sighed It's against my better judgement, but I see I have no choice.
Meanwhile, Trowa was also making transport plans to get to Siberia and Quatre was making his own preparations.
OZ will be using two separate routes to transport the Taurus mobile suits. Quatre briefed the assembled Maganac Corps One by land, and the other by air. One of them is a decoy, but I haven't been able to find any information that tells me for sure which one is the real one.
So what's the plan, Master Quatre? Auda asked Some of us go with you to hit one route while the rest hit the other?
No. That would be too dangerous. Even at the closest approach to each other, the two routes are still miles apart. Sandrock and I wouldn't be able to protect the second group. The decoy convoy may well be a trap. I'd never be able to forgive myself if you guys sprung it and I wasn't there to save you. The plan is for all of us to attack the land route. Sandrock and I will take out the tracks, with the rest of you standing by to assist as needed.
But Master Quatre, isn't that putting all of your eggs in one basket? Abdul asked What if we hit the decoy? The Taurus suits will go on to their destination unmolested.
We're not the only ones fighting OZ. There are five other Gundams operating on Earth. Some of them are sure to hit the air route. We fight best on land. At least one of the other Gundams is at its best in the air. You have to go with your strengths. Quatre's wise words caused a small amount of murmuring among the Maganacs.
Alright, all of you, Rashid spoke up Go get your mobile suits ready for action. We move out as soon as everyone's ready. The Maganacs filed out of the tent, leaving Rashid and Quatre alone in the silence Master Quatre, with all due respect, we're not helpless. You're afraid that some of us will be hurt during the mission, but there's always that possibility in battle. Sooner or later, one or more of us will be injured, or perhaps even killed, no matter how good you and Sandrock are. You have to accept that, and know that, sometimes, losses in battle are unavoidable.
I CAN'T accept that, Rashid! Quatre frowned If any of you get hurt, it's my fault! Sandrock is the most powerful mobile suit ever created, but what good is that power if I can't protect my friends?
Master Quatre, sometimes all the power in the world isn't enough. I'm loathe to remind you of the mistake at New Edwards, but Sandrock's power wasn't enough to save the Alliance military heads. Sometimes, power isn't enough. Some things are simply meant to happen, and no power on Earth can prevent them from occurring.
If you'll excuse me, I need to prepare my mobile suit, as well.
Rashid calmly walked out of the tent, leaving Quatre alone with his own thoughts. After a few minutes, the boy slowly exited the tent as well, walking to where Gundam Sandrock stood. He climbed up to the cockpit and sat down in the pilot's chair, keying the electronics on.
[Hello, Quatre.] Sandrock's regal voice greeted his pilot
Hello Sandrock. I need someone to talk to. Quatre said
[Something wrong with the Maganac Corps, my friend?]
It's about the Maganac Corps. They don't seem to understand that I need to protect them.
[The members of the Maganac Corps are all warriors in their own right. That is how you met them, after all. They are not novices who need shepherding. Indeed, they have far more battle experience than you do.]
But their mobile suits aren't as strong or tough as you, Sandrock.
[A mobile suit is but a weapon. A warrior makes the weapon, not the other way around. It is not only my advanced armor and weapons that allow me to prevail, it is also your skill as a pilot. While the Maganac mobile suits are not nearly as advanced as I am, their pilots are almost as skilled as you. Also, each Maganac suit has been customized by its pilot to perfectly compliment their particular skills.]
But the missions I take them on are very dangerous. What if I lead them into a trap, this time?
[Then you will help them fight their way out of it and they will help you, as well. As Rashid said, the Maganacs are not helpless.]
It's just-
[Put those thoughts out of your mind, my friend. In battle, you must trust your allies. I don't mean trust them not to shoot you in the back, but to trust them to carry their own part of the battle without your aid. Otherwise, defeat is assured for you shall be distracted at a critical moment.]
You're right, Sandrock. Quatre sighed We won't be able to fight at our best if I'm continually worrying about the Maganacs. I just wonder if I'll be able to stay detached if one of them is hurt.
[We'll know if the time comes. But remember, though the loss of a fellow warrior is cause for sorrow, it is not an excuse for getting oneself killed.]
Elsewhere, Shenlong Gundam stood ankle deep in a river. Wufei stood on a pillar of rock facing his Gundam as an insistent beeping issued from it, indicating that mission data was ready to be sent. The young warrior stood impassively, staring at his Gundam until the beeping ended.
Sorry. I am no longer able to fight. Wufei declared sadly Denounce me, Nataku.
Shenlong Gundam's systems were in shutdown mode, including the Beta System, and so Wufei did not receive the censure he requested, nor was Shenlong able to voice its disappointment over Wufei giving up after one defeat and shirking a chance to redeem himself.
Late at night, a figure clad all in black crept towards a hangar on a military base. It was, of course, Relena clad in her usual infiltration outfit. She peeked into the hangar through the open doors and saw a truck carrying Wing Gundam into the back of the lone mobile suit carrier within. Realizing that Heero had already neutralized the guards, Relena dashed back to where Lady Gundam waited and guided the mobile suit into the hangar before putting it on the back of another truck and driving it into the carrier. As the girl got out of the cab and climbed the ladder to the cockpit, she noted that there was no sign of Gundam Deathscythe.
Hello, Heero. Relena greeted as she took off her skimask
Heero replied in a monotone without turning away from the controls The flight recorder has already been disabled.
I would expect nothing less. Any sign of Duo, yet?
I hope he gets here soon. Relena checked her watch, which read 2255 There isn't much time left.
Three minutes later, the two freedom fighters heard the heavy footsteps of a mobile suit entering the carrier's cargo bay. Relena carefully walked to the door and saw Gundam Deathscythe kneeling down behind Lady Gundam.
You had us worried, Relena grinned You sure cut it close.
But I am still on time. Duo answered as he dropped out of his Gundam's cockpit I'm glad you were worried about me. I don't think that Heero is ever worried about anyone or anything.
Well, come on up so we can get in the air.
Duo smirked as he climbed the ladder and buckled himself into a seat. The clock read 2259.
Ready for takeoff. Heero said as he fired up the engines and Relena put her skimask back on
Not yet, buddy. Duo said Wait a moment.
Relena asked
You'll see in a few seconds.
As the clock hit 2300 hours, the three teenagers in the cockpit heard a series of far off explosions, one after another. Alarm sirens immediately started to sound and soldiers ran past the hangar door, apparently in a rush to get somewhere.
What did you do? Relena demanded as Duo leaned back in his chair, pillowing his head with his hands
Duo smirked Oh, Just planted some surprises around the base to cover our takeoff. Don't worry about the air defenses, I planted surprises on the control tower's main fuse box and backup generator, too. We're free and clear. So, what ya waiting for buddy? Let's get in the air.
Heero smoothly applied thrust and the carrier taxied out of the hangar before turning onto the runway. The stolen carrier went unnoticed in the confusion following the detonation of Duo's explosive surprises around the base and went unmolested as it roared down the runway and soared into the night sky.
Next stop, the Arabian coast. Relena grinned as she pulled off her skimask
Is it just me, or does the new system OZ is installing in those Taurus suits scare you guys too? Duo asked
A mobile suit whose computer can override the pilot's commands. That's the stuff nightmares are made of. Imagine, a soldier is ordered to massacre civilians, he refuses, but the massacre is part of the mission parameters and the mobile suit he's piloting fires anyway, despite his attempts to stop it. It could also be the ultimate covert weapon. Ship some mobile suits equipped with the system onto an enemy base, and when they're powered up, they go berserk with the pilots trapped inside, unable to shut them down and unable to get out.
It doesn't matter what this system can be used for. Heero declared We're going to destroy those mobile suits before they can be used.
Duo nodded By hitting both routes, we're sure to get the real one. Sure you don't wanna back me up, Relena?
I'm sure. Relena answered I'm going with Heero to attack the air route. You're attacking a train, we'll be attacking the air convoy as they're landing at a base to refuel. Our attack will likely meet heavier resistance, whether or not it's the decoy.
Oh well. So, why'd you guys put your Gundams on trucks?
I've plotted a landing site a good distance from the air route intercept point. It's somewhat closer to the land route. Heero answered Relena and I will drive to a vantage point along the convoy's flight path and wait for it to arrive before launching. He pulled a folded map out of his pocket and handed it to Duo
Sounds like a plan. Duo said as he read the map
They flew towards the Arabian coast on a terrain-following course, flying low and slow to stay under radar, taking great care to avoid detection. They landed in a wooded area soon after sunrise. After throwing a camouflage net over the carrier, all three teens got some much needed sleep. As sunset approached, the Gundam pilots awakened and, after packing away the camouflage net, took to the air once again. Their carrier landed in the Arabian desert a few hours after the sun had set. Duo moved his Gundam out of the carrier and Heero and Relena drove the trucks containing their Gundams out into the desert.
Good luck, you guys. Duo called but received no answer, Heero and Relena firmly focused on their mission.
While Gundam Deathscythe walked towards the railroad line the land convoy would be using, the trucks containing the other two Gundams drove to the top of a dune. Activating their Gundams, Relena and Heero settled in to wait for the airborne convoy to reach the base whose lights they could just see from their vantage point. Elsewhere in the desert, Quatre and the Maganac Corps stood in their mobile suits, Quatre and Rashid facing the rest of the mobile suits as Quatre gave a final overview of their goals.
We'll take the land. Quatre announced Might be by air. If we hit their land transport, we can tell everyone which one's the decoy.
Do you think that the other Gundams will come? Rashid asked
We can't win by ourselves, but I'm positive the others will come.
[My brothers and sister will not fail us.] Sandrock agreed [They will be here.]
Gundam Sandrock and the Maganac Corps advanced towards the railroad tracks. Suddenly, a squadron of Aries mobile suits swooped down from the sky, guns blazing. At Quatre's command, the Maganacs began returning fire. The Maganacs highly accurate shots destroyed many mobile suits, but they were replaced by fresh troops. On his monitor, Rashid saw the train approaching.
Master Quatre, I have our targets in sight. he reported
Gundam Sandrock fired both of its shoulder missiles to destroy a pair of Leos, then charged forward to slice another one in half at the waist.
[They fight as those protecting a treasure of great value.] Sandrock commented
No mistaking this security, Quatre agreed It's this route.
As the train approached, Gundam Sandrock fought its way past several more Leos before reaching the tracks. The Gundam raised both heat shotels over its head, but before it could bring them down and sever the tracks, a panel opened on the roof of the oncoming train and a cannon popped up out of it. Both of the cannon's barrels fired.
[Quatre!] Sandrock tried to give warning, but the cannon fired too fast after revealing itself for the AI to voice any sort of useful warning.
The twin blasts struck the Gundam hard. Both pilot and AI cried out in pain as the mobile suit fell forward onto the tracks. The train blared its horn as it bore down on the fallen Gundam. It looked like Gundam Sandrock was about to be run down by the speeding train, but Duo thought otherwise as he and Gundam Deathscythe flew in to grab onto the side of the train, vernier thrusters firing.
You think you can just flatten a Gundam? Duo snarled in his cockpit You wish!
[Fear not, my brother!] Deathscythe transmitted to Sandrock [You shall not have my blessing this night!]
Duo cranked his Gundam's thrusters to maximum and tipped the train over, derailing it. One of the cars landed on top of Gundam Deathscythe as the train broke apart. Once the pieces of the train came to a stop, Gundam Deathscythe tore its way out from under the wreck, its servos easily sufficient to shift the wreckage off itself.
Hey, you OK? Duo asked
Yeah, I'm fine. Quatre answered as he got Gundam Sandrock to its feet Glad you came.
Sure, but this route is the decoy.
[Quatre. He's right.] Sandrock said grimly [Look.]
As Sandrock spoke, the intact train cars were opening up, each revealing several Leo mobile suits which stood up and started towards the two Gundams. Duo and Quatre found that they were suddenly surrounded. Gundam Sandrock readied its heat shotels as Duo's finger tightened on the trigger for Gundam Deathscythe's machine cannons.
Looks like the only way out is to go through these guys. Duo observed
Looks like. Quatre agreed
[I shall lay my blessing upon them all.] Deathscythe stated [They shall see the folly of attempting to fight the God of Death.]
Deathscythe, tell Lady Gundam that we pulled the decoy. Duo ordered his Gundam's AI
[At once, my bright soul. She and my airborne brother will allow nothing to stop them from fulfilling their mission.]
Gundam Deathscythe's machine cannons opened fire and Gundam Sandrock's thrusters ignited to propel it into a charge. The two Gundams' battle for survival had begun. Meanwhile, the planes carrying the Taurus mobile suits were approaching the supply base. Trowa was flying a small, high-speed carrier in pursuit of the planes, having taken off shortly after they passed overhead. When the escorting Aries mobile suits were deployed and they began firing on Trowa's carrier, Trowa activated the autopilot and dashed to the cargo bay. He jumped into the cockpit of Gundam Heavyarms and brought the mobile suit to full power. It stood up and opened the cargo bay's roof hatch.
Gundam Heavyarms rose out of the hatch and perched on top of the carrier as it was blown apart by bullets from the attacking Aries mobile suits. Just when the Gundam went into freefall, Trowa triggered the backpack vernier thrusters to slow his fall. Gundam Heavyarms started firing its beam gatling, sending forth a stream of bullets which destroyed several Aries mobile suits. As the Gundam descended, tanks rolled out in a futile attempt to attack it. The tanks were quickly destroyed by Gundam Heavyarms's weapons and the mobile suit landed on the ground to begin blasting away at some Leos that attacked it.
Meanwhile, Heero and Relena had detected the carriers on radar and were about to head for the base when they saw flashes in the sky, the weapons discharges and explosions that Gundam Heavyarms was responsible for.
Looks like we're late to the ball again, Heero. Relena commented We'd best make our entrance before the next dance starts.
Heero said nothing and simply activated his thrusters, sending Wing Gundam into the air as it transformed into bird mode and flew towards the base. Relena simply shook her head as she ignited Lady Gundam's thrusters and followed him.
Same old Heero. Relena shrugged Nothing distracts him from his mission.
[If only he would allow himself a few distractions when not on a mission.] Lady Gundam agreed
As Wing Gundam flew at the defense line of Leos, several fired doberguns at it. Two shells hit, one after the other, and the Gundam crashed into the gound. As Wing Gundam slid across the ground, it transformed into mobile suit mode. As the Gundam rose to its feet, a missile exploded against its shield, knocking it back. Wing Gundam aimed its Buster Rifle at a cluster of Leos, but before Heero could pull the trigger, a particle beam lanced in from an angle and destroyed the mobile suits Heero had targeted, including the one that had fired the missile. Wing Gundam turned and Heero saw Lady Gundam on his viewscreen, right arm still extended from firing a Buster Gauntlet.
[Relena,] Lady Gundam said as a shot from Wing Gundam's Buster Rifle destroyed more Leo mobile suits [Deathscythe reports that he and Sandrock have attacked the decoy route.]
Relena tapped the transmit key for the frequency the Gundams were using Duo hit the decoy. The Taurus suits are moving by air.
Message received. Heero responded tersely
As Wing Gundam and Lady Gundam destroyed more Leos with their machine cannons, their respective radars picked up a mobile suit approaching fast.
[Relena, the approaching mobile suit, it does not match any known OZ configuration.] Lady Gundam reported
Is it another Gundam? Relena asked
[Negative. I'm scanning my archives now.]
The mysterious white mobile suit flew directly at Wing Gundam and shot straight up just in time to avoid two things: 1) crashing into Wing Gundam and 2) a point-blank blast from Wing Gundam's Buster Rifle. The mobile suit suddenly halted its ascent and turned to face the ground, aiming its dobergun straight down and firing. The beam hit the ground right in front of Wing Gundam, which was buffeted by the shockwave.
That's enough, Gundam Zero-One. Zechs transmitted on an open frequency We should have no need for beam rifles or cannons between us.
[Relena! I have data on the unknown.] Lady Gundam reported as the mobile suit in question descended to the ground [It is... my cousin. Tallgeese.]
Your cousin? Relena blinked at this statement
[Mother was one of the engineers on the project. It was the prototype for the Leo model mobile suit.]
Leos can't fly like that! Even one with a flight pack doesn't have performance like this Tallgeese.
We'll fight for recognition of superiority. Zechs continued as Tallgeese jettisoned its dobergun and drew a beam saber You are a Gundam pilot. I'm sure that'll suit you.
[Tallgeese proved too powerful to control.] Lady Gundam explained as she displayed Tallgeese's schematics on the main monitor [Every test flight resulted in a test pilot with internal injuries, and often broken bones. After mother left the program, in protest over the assassination of the original Heero Yuy, the prototype was scrapped and a scaled down version was mass produced as the standard Leo. A human would have to be insane to try to pilot Tallgeese.]
Not insane, Relena said Just extremely confident in their abilities.
[Voiceprint analysis of the pilot indicates that he is Colonel Zechs Marquise of OZ.]
The Lightning Count. If anyone can tame Tallgeese, it would be him.
Wing Gundam dropped its Buster Rifle and drew its own beam saber. Wing Gundam and Tallgeese began to duel, swinging at each other with their beam sabers and blocking with their beam sabers and shields. After several exchanges, Heero triggered his Gundam's thrusters and flew back a short distance before standing firm, once again.
Heero, do you need help? Relena asked over the encrypted channel Lady Gundam and I can support you.
I can handle him. Heero responded Continue the mission.
Understood. Good luck, Heero.
Lady Gundam turned back towards the supply base and started advancing towards it. Not far away, Gundam Heavyarms launched its missiles to destroy a number of OZ mobile suits. Lady Gundam drew her beam sabers and began slicing apart Leo and Tragos model mobile suits that got between her and the planes carrying the Taurus suits while Gundam Heavyarms destroyed mobile suits with bullets from its beam gatling. Soon, Relena had the target panes in her sights. Lady Gundam extinguished her beam sabers and replaced them in their receptacles on her back. Both of Lady Gundam's arms extended straight forward, aimed at the planes. Relena was about to pull the trigger for both Buster Gauntlets when a familiar, hated voice came over the comm system.
Calling all Gundam pilots! Lady Une broadcast We are now positioned to stage an all out missile attack on the Colonies. We have seized all missile satellites from the former Alliance. It's reasonable to say we control the destiny of all Colonies. This isn't a bluff. I demand all pilots to surrender at once and hand over your Gundams.
All the Gundams, except for Wing Gundam, which was still dueling with Tallgeese, stopped in their tracks. Lady Gundam, which had been seconds away from completing the mission, lowered her arms as Relena stared daggers at the smirking visage of Lady Une on her screen
They've targeted the Colonies! Quatre said in shock as he pulled off his goggles
Give up and hand over our Gundams!? Duo was just as shocked, and more than a bit angry
Sounds like OZ's tricks. Trowa said with little emotion, but inside he was seething
Cowardly bitch! Relena cursed She knew OZ couldn't stop us so they took the Colonies hostage!
The Gundams were just as outraged.
[Vile demons!] Deathscythe cursed [Using countless innocents as human armor. Armor which I dare not cut through. I vow that those responsible for this act of base cowardice shall forever reside in the darkest recesses of the Underworld, never to be reborn!]
[Never have I seen such evil.] Sandrock groused [With a push of a button, OZ can fill outer space with unbridled death where once was life, and we can do nothing.]
[How could anyone be so evil?] Lady Gundam wondered [I knew Lady Une was a killer, but mass murder on this scale... She cannot be human.]
Not all of OZ supported Lady Une's monstrous ploy, including a certain masked ace.
Hell of a time for tasteless tactics. Zechs muttered. Tallgeese's and Wing Gundam's beam sabers clashed once again You guys can fight, WELL CAN'T YOU!? Wing Gundam drove its shoulder into Tallgeese's abdomen and sliced off the other mobile suit's left forearm. I can't fight in that case.
Tallgeese extinguished its beam saber and went still, followed immediately by Wing Gundam. For a minute, things were at a standstill. None of the Gundam pilots knew what to do next and their Gundams were silent as well. Then all the Gundams, as well as OZ, began receiving a wideband transmission from space. Relena gasped as she saw the face appear on her screen.
Doctor J! she said in surprise
Attention OZ. the grey-haired cyborg said I never would have imagined that you people could be so incredibly foolish. The space Colonies have no intention of fighting OZ. This is my personal battle that I'm staging against you. In your eyes, inhumane moves such as attacking the Colonies are just, if that's what it takes for you to come out victorious, right? I have no choice but to surrender.
Very well, Lady Une transmitted back Your surrender's accepted. Abandon your Gundams immediately.
Just after Lady Une gave her order, Wing Gundam's cockpit opened and Heero stepped out.
He... He must've taken Doctor J's surrender as an order. Relena whispered
I surrender, but I will NOT surrender the Gundams. Doctor J clarified I repeat, I surrender, but I will NOT hand over the Gundams.
Relena had zoomed in her screen on Wing Gundam and saw Heero hold up a small device with a red button, connected by wire to something in the cockpit.
Mission Accepted. Heero said, Relena and the other Gundam pilots hearing it through the radio he had left transmitting. In the instant before Heero pressed the button, Relena realized what ti was.
HEERO DON'T! Relena's voice echoed in her cockpit, but she had failed to press her transmit button, so she and Lady Gundam were the only ones who heard it.
Heero pushed the button. Wing Gundam glowed with bright light for several seconds and then exploded. Heero was thrown violently through the air, along with pieces of his Wing Gundam. The remains of the mobile suit remained standing for several seconds before the shattered hulk of the once mighty Gundam crashed to earth in a crater, along with Heero's bloodied body.
HEERO! NOOOO! Relena screamed and Lady Gundam broke into a run to where Wing Gundam had self-detonated.
[Brother!] Lady Gundam made a sobbing sound
In his cockpit, Quatre cried out in pain, holding his chest as though he was having a heart attack.
[Quatre! Are you alright? What's wrong?] Sandrock asked, concerned for his pilot
The pain... Quatre responded My body... feels so-
Can you hear me? Trowa's voice was heard in all the Gundam cockpits We must leave here at once!
Lady Gundam knelt down in the crater, heedless of Tallgeese only yards away, and scooped up Heero in one large metal hand.
Trowa, is that you, Trowa? Quatre asked
Without resolutions we cannot fight. Trowa said He's accepted all orders.
Because they bluffed with the Colonies! Damn! Duo cursed
We can't fight anymore. Quate groaned
Gundam Sandrock triggered a bright flash of light from its shield as it withdrew while Gundam Deathscythe withdrew under heavy fire, protecting itself with its shield.
Maganacs, go to full retreat. Quatre transmitted on the Maganac Corps frequency Meet at the prearranged rendezvous point. Quatre received forty acknowledgments of his order
[It is a hard thing to break away from combat when one has lost a fellow warrior to the enemy, but you did the right thing tonight, Quatre.] Sandrock comforted his pilot [Had we continued to fight, OZ might have killed all who live in the Colonies, and that would be a far greater weight on you than the loss of one comrade in arms.]
I know Sandrock. But his sacrifice shouldn't have been necessary. If only I could've-
[There was nothing you could do, Quatre. Can you override a multitude of simultaneous firing commands from my cockpit? Can you fly up into space and catch every missile as it is fired? No. You cannot. You must accept your limits, my friend. We all have them. Even Lady Une must have a line she cannot cross, though obviously not in the area of depravity.]
As Lady Gundam straightened up, her optics met those of Tallgeese, almost as though the two pilots were staring into each other's eyes.
So this is how the Lightning Count wins his battles. Relena transmitted, though she had forgotten to activate her voice distorter I can't say that I'm impressed.
In his cockpit, Relena's words made Zechs felt like he had been punched in the gut. He hated winning a battle under these circumstances, and didn't consider his opponent self-detonating to be any sort of victory.
Hurry and move out. he ordered I won't attack you in a position like this.
As Lady Gundam turned to walk away, a light flashed on the communications board.
[Relena, I hate to add more bad news to our current situation,] Lady Gundam said [But the sensor you placed on the carrier has been activated.]
OZ found it. Relena whispered Warn Deathscythe. We don't want him and Duo walking into an ambush.
[At once, Relena.]
Relena noticed Gundam Heavyarms walking away as well. Her transport was neutralized. Heero was hurt, likely dying. She had no way to get Heero somewhere safe for medical attention. Relena made a decision.
Heavyarms pilot, do you read? she transmitted
Identify yourself. Trowa responded How do you know my Gundam's name?
This is the pilot of Lady Gundam. My Gundam's AI has been in communication with that of Sandrock.
Is this about our fallen comrade?
Yes. My evac plan has been nullified. Do you know a safe place nearby?
Relatively nearby. We have to go by truck, however. I only have one waiting.
We have two. He and I came... together.
Lead the way.
Lady Gundam turned to march towards where Relena and Heero had left their trucks and Gundam Heavyarms followed. Lady Gundam kept Heero's broken body clutched in one hand, Relena being careful not to either crush him or drop him.
Don't expect this to be the end of it, Gundams! Lady Une made one last transmission as the surviving Gundams withdrew
As Gundam Deathscythe walked away from the battlefield, Deathscythe had bad news for his pilot.
[Dire news, my bright soul.] Deathscythe began [Lady Gundam warns that OZ has found the carrier we rode to this accursed place.]
Duo swore Can't anything go right tonight? I coulda sworn the calendar didn't say it was Friday the 13th but we've had so much bad luck tonight... OZ uses the Colonies as human shields, Heero blows up his Gundam and probably got killed in the process-
[My airborne brother is not dead, nor is his soul. They have cast off their corporeal forms and returned to his crystal palace in the skies above. It was the only way he could protect the Colonies from sure destruction, by casting off his metal body and resuming his full godly mantle. The Colonies are safe, and they shall remain so. My brother will make sure of that.]
Yeah, you keep thinking that, if it helps you deal with it.
[I do not think, I know. Wing Gundam was the only one of us who destroyed his own body because he was the one whose direct responsibility covers the sky, including the Colonies which fly high above it, constantly. He was the only one whose power could shield the Colonies.]
Alright, alright. Duo sighed No point in talking sense when you're talking like this. You'd think I'd have learned by now.
[Do not trouble yourself, my bright soul. It is perfectly understandable that you have difficulty accepting the truth, having your mind clouded by a decade and a half of life on Earth in preparation for my manifestation.]
Duo rolled his eyes and kept his Gundam moving, keeping an eye on his radar for OZ forces and looking for a place to hide. Elsewhere, two mobile suit carrier trucks sat in the desert. On one was Gundam Heavyarms, and on the other was Lady Gundam, Heero still clutched in a metal hand. Relena was carefully dressing Heero's bleeding wounds with bandages while Trowa stood on the ground impatiently.
We need to get moving before OZ finds us. the boy warned
I have to finish dressing his wounds first! Relena shouted back He's lost too much blood already! If I don't stop the bleeding now, he'll bleed out before we get wherever we're going!
Well, hurry up then.
OK, I'm done. Relena said as she pulled one last bandage tight then jumped down to the ground
Trowa and Relena each got into the cab of the truck carrying their Gundam and started the engine. Trowa's truck started moving with Relena's truck following close behind. The two trucks raced across the desert, while Heero's unconscious form lay gripped in Lady Gundam's hand.
Hold on Heero. Relena whispered Don't die on me. Don't leave me like father did.
End of chapter 9
I put in a couple of marathon sessions to get this done today, since my Support Services subscription expires today. I have chosen not to renew due to Xing's facist move to ban all NC-17 fics(I haven't written any but was thinking about it, and some of my favorites, particularly the works of Selenity Jade, have good plots with a helping of sex added in) I encourage others to also let their subscriptions lapse to protest Xing's blatant application of censorship to what should be a place for free ideas, unfettered by interference from a central authority. Xing, when the money stops flowing, you will see that your only choice is to rescind the ban on NC-17 fics. Only then will I and those like me buy new subscriptions.
Since I will no longer be a subscriber to Support Services, only those with Support Services subscriptions will get Author alerts about me. But DON'T subscribe for that, because I have an alternative. A much better one, actually. I have assembled a mailing list of the E-mail addresses of everyone who reviewed Lady Gundam and was considerate enough to include their E-mail address. Removal will be simple, just reply and tell me you want to be removed. If you want to be added to the list, just review and say you want to be added to the mailing list. Simple enough, huh?
Oh, and one last thing about this chapter. I know at the end of chapter 8, I said the big thing would go down in Siberia. I was wrong. After thinking things through and scrutinizing episodes 10 and 11, I realized the battle took place in the Middle East. The Tauruses were being transported along the Arabian coast and that's obviously where the fight happened. I doubt there're many deserts in Siberia.
Written By: Jumper Prime
For Disclaimers see prologue
Chapter 9: Heero, Distracted by Defeat
In a cavernous OZ briefing room, Lady Une stood on a movable platform. She looked down on a large number of OZ soldiers, including Noin and Zechs, as she gave a briefing.
The latest plan involves moving the Tauruses to the Siberian Base, to install our new mobility system. Lady Une said as pictures of a Taurus mobile suit appeared on the huge monitor taking up the wall behind her Our lack of confidence in the facilities and security at Lake Victoria has led to this transfer plan. The Tauruses will be transported across the Arabian coast under heavy guard, we will be taking over the transfer from there. So far there hasn't been any real threats, but we've taken everything into consideration. The picture shifted to a view of a convoy of transport aircraft We have already announced a false transport plan. We won't let the enemies have it their way, this time.
One soldier said
The Gundams? Another theorized
The Gundams have attacked practically all of OZ's plans. Lady Une continued This should, once again, be an attractive target for the Gundams, but as long as I'm in charge, I'll prevent all such interference.
Going to Siberia, they pass through OZ's protected areas, in which case the Gundams won't be able to attack. Zechs observed
No, we want them to come. I consider annihilating the Gundams a big part of this plan. Our defeats up until now were because cowardly soldiers were too slow to compile their data. But this time, OZ is dead serious. I'd like to give a lesson on the correct way to eradicate the Gundams. It might not come to much use, but let me provide you with some background information. The monitor started showing pictures and scans of Wing Gundam We'll refer to the unit that fell over the Pacific Ocean as Gundam 01. It can transform into an aircraft. Once located, we'll lure it to an Aries air-zone and shoot it down. Without its wings, we can overcome it in a protracted battle.
Next, the Gundam 02. The pictures changed to show Gundam Deathscythe 02's features allow it to remain unnoticed and with 03, the main point is to get it to use up all of it's firepower at an early stage. the images switched back and forth between Gundam Deathscythe and Gundam Heavyarms This is true for all of them, but not one mobile suit excels in organized battle. 04 is also a close-range battle type. Pictures and scans were shown of Gundam Sandrock. Make sure, when facing 05, to avoid direct combat. Now images of Shenlong Gundam were shown Stop it in its footsteps and barrage until it's destroyed. Be extremely cautious of the firepower in its left arm.
06 seems the most unique of the Gundams. The screen switched to pictures and scans of Lady Gundam It has a powerful beam cannon attached to each arm. These weapons appear to be integrated with the Gundam's structure, possibly allowing them to draw directly from 06's energy reserves, though some amount of recharge time does appear necessary between firings. Making 06's weapons configuration even more unorthodox is its effective use of two beam sabers simultaneously in battle. This makes 06 deadly in melee combat. Hit it with massed firepower from long range, do not allow it to close to within beam saber's reach. That concludes my briefing. I ask that you gather the troops of the respective bases along this route to standby.
Meanwhile, in her warehouse hideout, Relena looked up from cleaning her gun as a loud beeping issued from Lady Gundam. Quickly scrambling up onto the carrier truck and into the cockpit, she activated the coded uplink and was greeted by Dr. Z's face.
Dr. Z said simply OZ's new mobile suit model, the Taurus, has a very disturbing feature. This system can learn from accumulated data and act on it's own. Danger comes should the pilot be unable to override the automatic system's command to kill. You have to destroy those Taurus suits. Their ultimate destination is the Colonies.
Mission Accepted. Relena said as she looked over the mission data scrolling across Lady Gundam's monitors and Dr. Z's image winked out
[This will be our most difficult mission ever, Relena.] Lady Gundam commented [If we choose the wrong convoy to attack, we will find only OZ mobile suits armed for battle.]
And there's no data that can tell us for sure which route is the real one. Relena agreed There's no way a single Gundam can accomplish this mission without relying entirely on luck.
[It's a good thing that two of my brothers are in town, then.]
Yes. I'll wager Heero and Duo are receiving similar mission data as we speak. With three Gundams for two possible targets, at least one of us will hit the real transport route. I'd better get over to their dorm before they leave, or we won't be able to coordinate with each other.
Relena closed down Lady Gundam's systems, then climbed out of the cockpit and back down to the ground.
she called I need a ride to the school, immediately.
As you wish, Miss Relena. Pagan answered as he walked to the limo
The drive seemed to go by quickly as Relena tried to plan what she would say to the boys. However, before she had figured out exactly what she would say, they had arrived at the boy's dorms, so she decided to wing it. As Relena came in sight of Heero's door, she saw Duo, already dressed in his priest-like attire, opening it.
I've come to say goodbye. Relena heard Duo say I've got a bad feeling about this one. OZ's transport plan is good. From what I can gather they're gonna be taking two routes: By air and by land.
Hello boys. Relena said as she reached Heero's door Sounds like we've all got the same mission, again.
Well, with a pretty lady like you coming with us, Duo grinned How can we fail?
My beauty isn't what will destroy the OZ mobile suits we'll be fighting. That's what Lady Gundam's weapons are for. Relena answered Heero, I think the two of us are best suited for the air route. Heero nodded in agreement.
Guess that leaves the land route for me. Duo sighed even though he had already decided to take the land route before approaching Heero.
The time factor is critical. Heero noted Both convoys will come within five miles of each other in Siberia, tomorrow night. That will be the best time for a simultaneous strike.
Well, I'm sure the local military base would be happy to lend us a carrier. Duo grinned
My sentiments exactly. Relena agreed
Hangar 3, near the south end of the runway, contains a fully fueled mobile suit carrier. Security is minimal. Meet me inside at 2300 hours, not a second later, or I'll leave without you.
It's a date. 2300 hours.
And I guess you guys can consider me your chaperone. Duo grinned At least until we split up, that is.
I'll meet up with you boys at the hangar, then. Don't be late.
Relena turned and left. She walked back to the limo and Pagan drove her back to the warehouse.
Pagan, there's something I want you to do. Relena said as she threw a tarp over Lady Gundam
Anything you need, Miss Relena. Pagan answered as he helped Relena secure the tarp with cables
I want you to take the limo and go home without me. I'll arrange your transportation.
Miss Relena, I must object. Your mother sent me with you to help you. I cannot return without you.
Pagan, I'm leaving on a new mission tonight. A dangerous one. You can't come with me. I'll be flying directly to the combat zone in a carrier I'm stealing from the military base. Please, Pagan.
Alright, Miss Relena. Pagan sighed It's against my better judgement, but I see I have no choice.
Meanwhile, Trowa was also making transport plans to get to Siberia and Quatre was making his own preparations.
OZ will be using two separate routes to transport the Taurus mobile suits. Quatre briefed the assembled Maganac Corps One by land, and the other by air. One of them is a decoy, but I haven't been able to find any information that tells me for sure which one is the real one.
So what's the plan, Master Quatre? Auda asked Some of us go with you to hit one route while the rest hit the other?
No. That would be too dangerous. Even at the closest approach to each other, the two routes are still miles apart. Sandrock and I wouldn't be able to protect the second group. The decoy convoy may well be a trap. I'd never be able to forgive myself if you guys sprung it and I wasn't there to save you. The plan is for all of us to attack the land route. Sandrock and I will take out the tracks, with the rest of you standing by to assist as needed.
But Master Quatre, isn't that putting all of your eggs in one basket? Abdul asked What if we hit the decoy? The Taurus suits will go on to their destination unmolested.
We're not the only ones fighting OZ. There are five other Gundams operating on Earth. Some of them are sure to hit the air route. We fight best on land. At least one of the other Gundams is at its best in the air. You have to go with your strengths. Quatre's wise words caused a small amount of murmuring among the Maganacs.
Alright, all of you, Rashid spoke up Go get your mobile suits ready for action. We move out as soon as everyone's ready. The Maganacs filed out of the tent, leaving Rashid and Quatre alone in the silence Master Quatre, with all due respect, we're not helpless. You're afraid that some of us will be hurt during the mission, but there's always that possibility in battle. Sooner or later, one or more of us will be injured, or perhaps even killed, no matter how good you and Sandrock are. You have to accept that, and know that, sometimes, losses in battle are unavoidable.
I CAN'T accept that, Rashid! Quatre frowned If any of you get hurt, it's my fault! Sandrock is the most powerful mobile suit ever created, but what good is that power if I can't protect my friends?
Master Quatre, sometimes all the power in the world isn't enough. I'm loathe to remind you of the mistake at New Edwards, but Sandrock's power wasn't enough to save the Alliance military heads. Sometimes, power isn't enough. Some things are simply meant to happen, and no power on Earth can prevent them from occurring.
If you'll excuse me, I need to prepare my mobile suit, as well.
Rashid calmly walked out of the tent, leaving Quatre alone with his own thoughts. After a few minutes, the boy slowly exited the tent as well, walking to where Gundam Sandrock stood. He climbed up to the cockpit and sat down in the pilot's chair, keying the electronics on.
[Hello, Quatre.] Sandrock's regal voice greeted his pilot
Hello Sandrock. I need someone to talk to. Quatre said
[Something wrong with the Maganac Corps, my friend?]
It's about the Maganac Corps. They don't seem to understand that I need to protect them.
[The members of the Maganac Corps are all warriors in their own right. That is how you met them, after all. They are not novices who need shepherding. Indeed, they have far more battle experience than you do.]
But their mobile suits aren't as strong or tough as you, Sandrock.
[A mobile suit is but a weapon. A warrior makes the weapon, not the other way around. It is not only my advanced armor and weapons that allow me to prevail, it is also your skill as a pilot. While the Maganac mobile suits are not nearly as advanced as I am, their pilots are almost as skilled as you. Also, each Maganac suit has been customized by its pilot to perfectly compliment their particular skills.]
But the missions I take them on are very dangerous. What if I lead them into a trap, this time?
[Then you will help them fight their way out of it and they will help you, as well. As Rashid said, the Maganacs are not helpless.]
It's just-
[Put those thoughts out of your mind, my friend. In battle, you must trust your allies. I don't mean trust them not to shoot you in the back, but to trust them to carry their own part of the battle without your aid. Otherwise, defeat is assured for you shall be distracted at a critical moment.]
You're right, Sandrock. Quatre sighed We won't be able to fight at our best if I'm continually worrying about the Maganacs. I just wonder if I'll be able to stay detached if one of them is hurt.
[We'll know if the time comes. But remember, though the loss of a fellow warrior is cause for sorrow, it is not an excuse for getting oneself killed.]
Elsewhere, Shenlong Gundam stood ankle deep in a river. Wufei stood on a pillar of rock facing his Gundam as an insistent beeping issued from it, indicating that mission data was ready to be sent. The young warrior stood impassively, staring at his Gundam until the beeping ended.
Sorry. I am no longer able to fight. Wufei declared sadly Denounce me, Nataku.
Shenlong Gundam's systems were in shutdown mode, including the Beta System, and so Wufei did not receive the censure he requested, nor was Shenlong able to voice its disappointment over Wufei giving up after one defeat and shirking a chance to redeem himself.
Late at night, a figure clad all in black crept towards a hangar on a military base. It was, of course, Relena clad in her usual infiltration outfit. She peeked into the hangar through the open doors and saw a truck carrying Wing Gundam into the back of the lone mobile suit carrier within. Realizing that Heero had already neutralized the guards, Relena dashed back to where Lady Gundam waited and guided the mobile suit into the hangar before putting it on the back of another truck and driving it into the carrier. As the girl got out of the cab and climbed the ladder to the cockpit, she noted that there was no sign of Gundam Deathscythe.
Hello, Heero. Relena greeted as she took off her skimask
Heero replied in a monotone without turning away from the controls The flight recorder has already been disabled.
I would expect nothing less. Any sign of Duo, yet?
I hope he gets here soon. Relena checked her watch, which read 2255 There isn't much time left.
Three minutes later, the two freedom fighters heard the heavy footsteps of a mobile suit entering the carrier's cargo bay. Relena carefully walked to the door and saw Gundam Deathscythe kneeling down behind Lady Gundam.
You had us worried, Relena grinned You sure cut it close.
But I am still on time. Duo answered as he dropped out of his Gundam's cockpit I'm glad you were worried about me. I don't think that Heero is ever worried about anyone or anything.
Well, come on up so we can get in the air.
Duo smirked as he climbed the ladder and buckled himself into a seat. The clock read 2259.
Ready for takeoff. Heero said as he fired up the engines and Relena put her skimask back on
Not yet, buddy. Duo said Wait a moment.
Relena asked
You'll see in a few seconds.
As the clock hit 2300 hours, the three teenagers in the cockpit heard a series of far off explosions, one after another. Alarm sirens immediately started to sound and soldiers ran past the hangar door, apparently in a rush to get somewhere.
What did you do? Relena demanded as Duo leaned back in his chair, pillowing his head with his hands
Duo smirked Oh, Just planted some surprises around the base to cover our takeoff. Don't worry about the air defenses, I planted surprises on the control tower's main fuse box and backup generator, too. We're free and clear. So, what ya waiting for buddy? Let's get in the air.
Heero smoothly applied thrust and the carrier taxied out of the hangar before turning onto the runway. The stolen carrier went unnoticed in the confusion following the detonation of Duo's explosive surprises around the base and went unmolested as it roared down the runway and soared into the night sky.
Next stop, the Arabian coast. Relena grinned as she pulled off her skimask
Is it just me, or does the new system OZ is installing in those Taurus suits scare you guys too? Duo asked
A mobile suit whose computer can override the pilot's commands. That's the stuff nightmares are made of. Imagine, a soldier is ordered to massacre civilians, he refuses, but the massacre is part of the mission parameters and the mobile suit he's piloting fires anyway, despite his attempts to stop it. It could also be the ultimate covert weapon. Ship some mobile suits equipped with the system onto an enemy base, and when they're powered up, they go berserk with the pilots trapped inside, unable to shut them down and unable to get out.
It doesn't matter what this system can be used for. Heero declared We're going to destroy those mobile suits before they can be used.
Duo nodded By hitting both routes, we're sure to get the real one. Sure you don't wanna back me up, Relena?
I'm sure. Relena answered I'm going with Heero to attack the air route. You're attacking a train, we'll be attacking the air convoy as they're landing at a base to refuel. Our attack will likely meet heavier resistance, whether or not it's the decoy.
Oh well. So, why'd you guys put your Gundams on trucks?
I've plotted a landing site a good distance from the air route intercept point. It's somewhat closer to the land route. Heero answered Relena and I will drive to a vantage point along the convoy's flight path and wait for it to arrive before launching. He pulled a folded map out of his pocket and handed it to Duo
Sounds like a plan. Duo said as he read the map
They flew towards the Arabian coast on a terrain-following course, flying low and slow to stay under radar, taking great care to avoid detection. They landed in a wooded area soon after sunrise. After throwing a camouflage net over the carrier, all three teens got some much needed sleep. As sunset approached, the Gundam pilots awakened and, after packing away the camouflage net, took to the air once again. Their carrier landed in the Arabian desert a few hours after the sun had set. Duo moved his Gundam out of the carrier and Heero and Relena drove the trucks containing their Gundams out into the desert.
Good luck, you guys. Duo called but received no answer, Heero and Relena firmly focused on their mission.
While Gundam Deathscythe walked towards the railroad line the land convoy would be using, the trucks containing the other two Gundams drove to the top of a dune. Activating their Gundams, Relena and Heero settled in to wait for the airborne convoy to reach the base whose lights they could just see from their vantage point. Elsewhere in the desert, Quatre and the Maganac Corps stood in their mobile suits, Quatre and Rashid facing the rest of the mobile suits as Quatre gave a final overview of their goals.
We'll take the land. Quatre announced Might be by air. If we hit their land transport, we can tell everyone which one's the decoy.
Do you think that the other Gundams will come? Rashid asked
We can't win by ourselves, but I'm positive the others will come.
[My brothers and sister will not fail us.] Sandrock agreed [They will be here.]
Gundam Sandrock and the Maganac Corps advanced towards the railroad tracks. Suddenly, a squadron of Aries mobile suits swooped down from the sky, guns blazing. At Quatre's command, the Maganacs began returning fire. The Maganacs highly accurate shots destroyed many mobile suits, but they were replaced by fresh troops. On his monitor, Rashid saw the train approaching.
Master Quatre, I have our targets in sight. he reported
Gundam Sandrock fired both of its shoulder missiles to destroy a pair of Leos, then charged forward to slice another one in half at the waist.
[They fight as those protecting a treasure of great value.] Sandrock commented
No mistaking this security, Quatre agreed It's this route.
As the train approached, Gundam Sandrock fought its way past several more Leos before reaching the tracks. The Gundam raised both heat shotels over its head, but before it could bring them down and sever the tracks, a panel opened on the roof of the oncoming train and a cannon popped up out of it. Both of the cannon's barrels fired.
[Quatre!] Sandrock tried to give warning, but the cannon fired too fast after revealing itself for the AI to voice any sort of useful warning.
The twin blasts struck the Gundam hard. Both pilot and AI cried out in pain as the mobile suit fell forward onto the tracks. The train blared its horn as it bore down on the fallen Gundam. It looked like Gundam Sandrock was about to be run down by the speeding train, but Duo thought otherwise as he and Gundam Deathscythe flew in to grab onto the side of the train, vernier thrusters firing.
You think you can just flatten a Gundam? Duo snarled in his cockpit You wish!
[Fear not, my brother!] Deathscythe transmitted to Sandrock [You shall not have my blessing this night!]
Duo cranked his Gundam's thrusters to maximum and tipped the train over, derailing it. One of the cars landed on top of Gundam Deathscythe as the train broke apart. Once the pieces of the train came to a stop, Gundam Deathscythe tore its way out from under the wreck, its servos easily sufficient to shift the wreckage off itself.
Hey, you OK? Duo asked
Yeah, I'm fine. Quatre answered as he got Gundam Sandrock to its feet Glad you came.
Sure, but this route is the decoy.
[Quatre. He's right.] Sandrock said grimly [Look.]
As Sandrock spoke, the intact train cars were opening up, each revealing several Leo mobile suits which stood up and started towards the two Gundams. Duo and Quatre found that they were suddenly surrounded. Gundam Sandrock readied its heat shotels as Duo's finger tightened on the trigger for Gundam Deathscythe's machine cannons.
Looks like the only way out is to go through these guys. Duo observed
Looks like. Quatre agreed
[I shall lay my blessing upon them all.] Deathscythe stated [They shall see the folly of attempting to fight the God of Death.]
Deathscythe, tell Lady Gundam that we pulled the decoy. Duo ordered his Gundam's AI
[At once, my bright soul. She and my airborne brother will allow nothing to stop them from fulfilling their mission.]
Gundam Deathscythe's machine cannons opened fire and Gundam Sandrock's thrusters ignited to propel it into a charge. The two Gundams' battle for survival had begun. Meanwhile, the planes carrying the Taurus mobile suits were approaching the supply base. Trowa was flying a small, high-speed carrier in pursuit of the planes, having taken off shortly after they passed overhead. When the escorting Aries mobile suits were deployed and they began firing on Trowa's carrier, Trowa activated the autopilot and dashed to the cargo bay. He jumped into the cockpit of Gundam Heavyarms and brought the mobile suit to full power. It stood up and opened the cargo bay's roof hatch.
Gundam Heavyarms rose out of the hatch and perched on top of the carrier as it was blown apart by bullets from the attacking Aries mobile suits. Just when the Gundam went into freefall, Trowa triggered the backpack vernier thrusters to slow his fall. Gundam Heavyarms started firing its beam gatling, sending forth a stream of bullets which destroyed several Aries mobile suits. As the Gundam descended, tanks rolled out in a futile attempt to attack it. The tanks were quickly destroyed by Gundam Heavyarms's weapons and the mobile suit landed on the ground to begin blasting away at some Leos that attacked it.
Meanwhile, Heero and Relena had detected the carriers on radar and were about to head for the base when they saw flashes in the sky, the weapons discharges and explosions that Gundam Heavyarms was responsible for.
Looks like we're late to the ball again, Heero. Relena commented We'd best make our entrance before the next dance starts.
Heero said nothing and simply activated his thrusters, sending Wing Gundam into the air as it transformed into bird mode and flew towards the base. Relena simply shook her head as she ignited Lady Gundam's thrusters and followed him.
Same old Heero. Relena shrugged Nothing distracts him from his mission.
[If only he would allow himself a few distractions when not on a mission.] Lady Gundam agreed
As Wing Gundam flew at the defense line of Leos, several fired doberguns at it. Two shells hit, one after the other, and the Gundam crashed into the gound. As Wing Gundam slid across the ground, it transformed into mobile suit mode. As the Gundam rose to its feet, a missile exploded against its shield, knocking it back. Wing Gundam aimed its Buster Rifle at a cluster of Leos, but before Heero could pull the trigger, a particle beam lanced in from an angle and destroyed the mobile suits Heero had targeted, including the one that had fired the missile. Wing Gundam turned and Heero saw Lady Gundam on his viewscreen, right arm still extended from firing a Buster Gauntlet.
[Relena,] Lady Gundam said as a shot from Wing Gundam's Buster Rifle destroyed more Leo mobile suits [Deathscythe reports that he and Sandrock have attacked the decoy route.]
Relena tapped the transmit key for the frequency the Gundams were using Duo hit the decoy. The Taurus suits are moving by air.
Message received. Heero responded tersely
As Wing Gundam and Lady Gundam destroyed more Leos with their machine cannons, their respective radars picked up a mobile suit approaching fast.
[Relena, the approaching mobile suit, it does not match any known OZ configuration.] Lady Gundam reported
Is it another Gundam? Relena asked
[Negative. I'm scanning my archives now.]
The mysterious white mobile suit flew directly at Wing Gundam and shot straight up just in time to avoid two things: 1) crashing into Wing Gundam and 2) a point-blank blast from Wing Gundam's Buster Rifle. The mobile suit suddenly halted its ascent and turned to face the ground, aiming its dobergun straight down and firing. The beam hit the ground right in front of Wing Gundam, which was buffeted by the shockwave.
That's enough, Gundam Zero-One. Zechs transmitted on an open frequency We should have no need for beam rifles or cannons between us.
[Relena! I have data on the unknown.] Lady Gundam reported as the mobile suit in question descended to the ground [It is... my cousin. Tallgeese.]
Your cousin? Relena blinked at this statement
[Mother was one of the engineers on the project. It was the prototype for the Leo model mobile suit.]
Leos can't fly like that! Even one with a flight pack doesn't have performance like this Tallgeese.
We'll fight for recognition of superiority. Zechs continued as Tallgeese jettisoned its dobergun and drew a beam saber You are a Gundam pilot. I'm sure that'll suit you.
[Tallgeese proved too powerful to control.] Lady Gundam explained as she displayed Tallgeese's schematics on the main monitor [Every test flight resulted in a test pilot with internal injuries, and often broken bones. After mother left the program, in protest over the assassination of the original Heero Yuy, the prototype was scrapped and a scaled down version was mass produced as the standard Leo. A human would have to be insane to try to pilot Tallgeese.]
Not insane, Relena said Just extremely confident in their abilities.
[Voiceprint analysis of the pilot indicates that he is Colonel Zechs Marquise of OZ.]
The Lightning Count. If anyone can tame Tallgeese, it would be him.
Wing Gundam dropped its Buster Rifle and drew its own beam saber. Wing Gundam and Tallgeese began to duel, swinging at each other with their beam sabers and blocking with their beam sabers and shields. After several exchanges, Heero triggered his Gundam's thrusters and flew back a short distance before standing firm, once again.
Heero, do you need help? Relena asked over the encrypted channel Lady Gundam and I can support you.
I can handle him. Heero responded Continue the mission.
Understood. Good luck, Heero.
Lady Gundam turned back towards the supply base and started advancing towards it. Not far away, Gundam Heavyarms launched its missiles to destroy a number of OZ mobile suits. Lady Gundam drew her beam sabers and began slicing apart Leo and Tragos model mobile suits that got between her and the planes carrying the Taurus suits while Gundam Heavyarms destroyed mobile suits with bullets from its beam gatling. Soon, Relena had the target panes in her sights. Lady Gundam extinguished her beam sabers and replaced them in their receptacles on her back. Both of Lady Gundam's arms extended straight forward, aimed at the planes. Relena was about to pull the trigger for both Buster Gauntlets when a familiar, hated voice came over the comm system.
Calling all Gundam pilots! Lady Une broadcast We are now positioned to stage an all out missile attack on the Colonies. We have seized all missile satellites from the former Alliance. It's reasonable to say we control the destiny of all Colonies. This isn't a bluff. I demand all pilots to surrender at once and hand over your Gundams.
All the Gundams, except for Wing Gundam, which was still dueling with Tallgeese, stopped in their tracks. Lady Gundam, which had been seconds away from completing the mission, lowered her arms as Relena stared daggers at the smirking visage of Lady Une on her screen
They've targeted the Colonies! Quatre said in shock as he pulled off his goggles
Give up and hand over our Gundams!? Duo was just as shocked, and more than a bit angry
Sounds like OZ's tricks. Trowa said with little emotion, but inside he was seething
Cowardly bitch! Relena cursed She knew OZ couldn't stop us so they took the Colonies hostage!
The Gundams were just as outraged.
[Vile demons!] Deathscythe cursed [Using countless innocents as human armor. Armor which I dare not cut through. I vow that those responsible for this act of base cowardice shall forever reside in the darkest recesses of the Underworld, never to be reborn!]
[Never have I seen such evil.] Sandrock groused [With a push of a button, OZ can fill outer space with unbridled death where once was life, and we can do nothing.]
[How could anyone be so evil?] Lady Gundam wondered [I knew Lady Une was a killer, but mass murder on this scale... She cannot be human.]
Not all of OZ supported Lady Une's monstrous ploy, including a certain masked ace.
Hell of a time for tasteless tactics. Zechs muttered. Tallgeese's and Wing Gundam's beam sabers clashed once again You guys can fight, WELL CAN'T YOU!? Wing Gundam drove its shoulder into Tallgeese's abdomen and sliced off the other mobile suit's left forearm. I can't fight in that case.
Tallgeese extinguished its beam saber and went still, followed immediately by Wing Gundam. For a minute, things were at a standstill. None of the Gundam pilots knew what to do next and their Gundams were silent as well. Then all the Gundams, as well as OZ, began receiving a wideband transmission from space. Relena gasped as she saw the face appear on her screen.
Doctor J! she said in surprise
Attention OZ. the grey-haired cyborg said I never would have imagined that you people could be so incredibly foolish. The space Colonies have no intention of fighting OZ. This is my personal battle that I'm staging against you. In your eyes, inhumane moves such as attacking the Colonies are just, if that's what it takes for you to come out victorious, right? I have no choice but to surrender.
Very well, Lady Une transmitted back Your surrender's accepted. Abandon your Gundams immediately.
Just after Lady Une gave her order, Wing Gundam's cockpit opened and Heero stepped out.
He... He must've taken Doctor J's surrender as an order. Relena whispered
I surrender, but I will NOT surrender the Gundams. Doctor J clarified I repeat, I surrender, but I will NOT hand over the Gundams.
Relena had zoomed in her screen on Wing Gundam and saw Heero hold up a small device with a red button, connected by wire to something in the cockpit.
Mission Accepted. Heero said, Relena and the other Gundam pilots hearing it through the radio he had left transmitting. In the instant before Heero pressed the button, Relena realized what ti was.
HEERO DON'T! Relena's voice echoed in her cockpit, but she had failed to press her transmit button, so she and Lady Gundam were the only ones who heard it.
Heero pushed the button. Wing Gundam glowed with bright light for several seconds and then exploded. Heero was thrown violently through the air, along with pieces of his Wing Gundam. The remains of the mobile suit remained standing for several seconds before the shattered hulk of the once mighty Gundam crashed to earth in a crater, along with Heero's bloodied body.
HEERO! NOOOO! Relena screamed and Lady Gundam broke into a run to where Wing Gundam had self-detonated.
[Brother!] Lady Gundam made a sobbing sound
In his cockpit, Quatre cried out in pain, holding his chest as though he was having a heart attack.
[Quatre! Are you alright? What's wrong?] Sandrock asked, concerned for his pilot
The pain... Quatre responded My body... feels so-
Can you hear me? Trowa's voice was heard in all the Gundam cockpits We must leave here at once!
Lady Gundam knelt down in the crater, heedless of Tallgeese only yards away, and scooped up Heero in one large metal hand.
Trowa, is that you, Trowa? Quatre asked
Without resolutions we cannot fight. Trowa said He's accepted all orders.
Because they bluffed with the Colonies! Damn! Duo cursed
We can't fight anymore. Quate groaned
Gundam Sandrock triggered a bright flash of light from its shield as it withdrew while Gundam Deathscythe withdrew under heavy fire, protecting itself with its shield.
Maganacs, go to full retreat. Quatre transmitted on the Maganac Corps frequency Meet at the prearranged rendezvous point. Quatre received forty acknowledgments of his order
[It is a hard thing to break away from combat when one has lost a fellow warrior to the enemy, but you did the right thing tonight, Quatre.] Sandrock comforted his pilot [Had we continued to fight, OZ might have killed all who live in the Colonies, and that would be a far greater weight on you than the loss of one comrade in arms.]
I know Sandrock. But his sacrifice shouldn't have been necessary. If only I could've-
[There was nothing you could do, Quatre. Can you override a multitude of simultaneous firing commands from my cockpit? Can you fly up into space and catch every missile as it is fired? No. You cannot. You must accept your limits, my friend. We all have them. Even Lady Une must have a line she cannot cross, though obviously not in the area of depravity.]
As Lady Gundam straightened up, her optics met those of Tallgeese, almost as though the two pilots were staring into each other's eyes.
So this is how the Lightning Count wins his battles. Relena transmitted, though she had forgotten to activate her voice distorter I can't say that I'm impressed.
In his cockpit, Relena's words made Zechs felt like he had been punched in the gut. He hated winning a battle under these circumstances, and didn't consider his opponent self-detonating to be any sort of victory.
Hurry and move out. he ordered I won't attack you in a position like this.
As Lady Gundam turned to walk away, a light flashed on the communications board.
[Relena, I hate to add more bad news to our current situation,] Lady Gundam said [But the sensor you placed on the carrier has been activated.]
OZ found it. Relena whispered Warn Deathscythe. We don't want him and Duo walking into an ambush.
[At once, Relena.]
Relena noticed Gundam Heavyarms walking away as well. Her transport was neutralized. Heero was hurt, likely dying. She had no way to get Heero somewhere safe for medical attention. Relena made a decision.
Heavyarms pilot, do you read? she transmitted
Identify yourself. Trowa responded How do you know my Gundam's name?
This is the pilot of Lady Gundam. My Gundam's AI has been in communication with that of Sandrock.
Is this about our fallen comrade?
Yes. My evac plan has been nullified. Do you know a safe place nearby?
Relatively nearby. We have to go by truck, however. I only have one waiting.
We have two. He and I came... together.
Lead the way.
Lady Gundam turned to march towards where Relena and Heero had left their trucks and Gundam Heavyarms followed. Lady Gundam kept Heero's broken body clutched in one hand, Relena being careful not to either crush him or drop him.
Don't expect this to be the end of it, Gundams! Lady Une made one last transmission as the surviving Gundams withdrew
As Gundam Deathscythe walked away from the battlefield, Deathscythe had bad news for his pilot.
[Dire news, my bright soul.] Deathscythe began [Lady Gundam warns that OZ has found the carrier we rode to this accursed place.]
Duo swore Can't anything go right tonight? I coulda sworn the calendar didn't say it was Friday the 13th but we've had so much bad luck tonight... OZ uses the Colonies as human shields, Heero blows up his Gundam and probably got killed in the process-
[My airborne brother is not dead, nor is his soul. They have cast off their corporeal forms and returned to his crystal palace in the skies above. It was the only way he could protect the Colonies from sure destruction, by casting off his metal body and resuming his full godly mantle. The Colonies are safe, and they shall remain so. My brother will make sure of that.]
Yeah, you keep thinking that, if it helps you deal with it.
[I do not think, I know. Wing Gundam was the only one of us who destroyed his own body because he was the one whose direct responsibility covers the sky, including the Colonies which fly high above it, constantly. He was the only one whose power could shield the Colonies.]
Alright, alright. Duo sighed No point in talking sense when you're talking like this. You'd think I'd have learned by now.
[Do not trouble yourself, my bright soul. It is perfectly understandable that you have difficulty accepting the truth, having your mind clouded by a decade and a half of life on Earth in preparation for my manifestation.]
Duo rolled his eyes and kept his Gundam moving, keeping an eye on his radar for OZ forces and looking for a place to hide. Elsewhere, two mobile suit carrier trucks sat in the desert. On one was Gundam Heavyarms, and on the other was Lady Gundam, Heero still clutched in a metal hand. Relena was carefully dressing Heero's bleeding wounds with bandages while Trowa stood on the ground impatiently.
We need to get moving before OZ finds us. the boy warned
I have to finish dressing his wounds first! Relena shouted back He's lost too much blood already! If I don't stop the bleeding now, he'll bleed out before we get wherever we're going!
Well, hurry up then.
OK, I'm done. Relena said as she pulled one last bandage tight then jumped down to the ground
Trowa and Relena each got into the cab of the truck carrying their Gundam and started the engine. Trowa's truck started moving with Relena's truck following close behind. The two trucks raced across the desert, while Heero's unconscious form lay gripped in Lady Gundam's hand.
Hold on Heero. Relena whispered Don't die on me. Don't leave me like father did.
End of chapter 9
I put in a couple of marathon sessions to get this done today, since my Support Services subscription expires today. I have chosen not to renew due to Xing's facist move to ban all NC-17 fics(I haven't written any but was thinking about it, and some of my favorites, particularly the works of Selenity Jade, have good plots with a helping of sex added in) I encourage others to also let their subscriptions lapse to protest Xing's blatant application of censorship to what should be a place for free ideas, unfettered by interference from a central authority. Xing, when the money stops flowing, you will see that your only choice is to rescind the ban on NC-17 fics. Only then will I and those like me buy new subscriptions.
Since I will no longer be a subscriber to Support Services, only those with Support Services subscriptions will get Author alerts about me. But DON'T subscribe for that, because I have an alternative. A much better one, actually. I have assembled a mailing list of the E-mail addresses of everyone who reviewed Lady Gundam and was considerate enough to include their E-mail address. Removal will be simple, just reply and tell me you want to be removed. If you want to be added to the list, just review and say you want to be added to the mailing list. Simple enough, huh?
Oh, and one last thing about this chapter. I know at the end of chapter 8, I said the big thing would go down in Siberia. I was wrong. After thinking things through and scrutinizing episodes 10 and 11, I realized the battle took place in the Middle East. The Tauruses were being transported along the Arabian coast and that's obviously where the fight happened. I doubt there're many deserts in Siberia.