Disclaimer: I do not now or have I ever owned the characters of Sailor
Moon, Robotech. People I want to say something about Miss Lynn Minmei. I
don't like her. I like the Rick/Lisa romance and Minmei just gets in the
way. So if you like her don't read this, however, if you want to see a new
bitchy side to Minmei please enjoy! At first she'll be nice until the Miss
Macross pageant then watch out people Rick will leave her in the dust for
Lisa don't worry I slowly bring Rick and Lisa together. Again I want to
thank Chibi Halo who wrote 'Sailor Moon Macross' without this story
wouldn't have existed. As always please R&R this so I know how it is coming
across to people! Chibi Halo I would like to know what you think as well!
Chibi Halo there might be a few scenes in my story but I pray you won't
mind. One more thing for the beginning of the first few chapters I will use
your chapter names, I will come up with my own after the last chapter you
named. People who haven't read her story yet please do it is a great read!
Please enjoy and now on with the story! This is the only Disclaimer I will
write! I just wanted to thank Chibi Halo for being my beta reader!
Authors note: When ever I am talking about Kevin, Nathan, Justin and Zack as a group I will refer to them as the four earth generals as that is what they were suppose to be in the manga before Beryl brainwashed them!
Here comes Trista ready or not! Oh and Minmei lovers this is the beginning of the end of her old goody two-shoe days! But if you like Rick/Lisa relationships stick with it we're going to be headed there!
Robotech Warriors Book 1 By thunderbird with Sections From Chibi Halo
Minmei was on cloud nine. She had an airplane she couldn't use, a recording contract, and a screen test. Minmei couldn't care less. She went from being the girl from the Chinese place to Lynn Minmei Miss Macross the most popular person on the SDF1. Now wherever she went people recognized her and actually talked to her. Minmei loved all the attention.
Her uncle and aunt were no different then any other star-struck movie stars. They were bound and determined to make Minmei's new stardom keep on shinning for as long as they could. Minmei's aunt began this by filling her head with idea's of how now that she is a super star she is better than anyone else she knew. Her uncle started it all by creating the Lynn Minmei fan club. He started it by selling little things she wouldn't miss, then dresses, and finally he started to sell autographs of the new Miss Macross. This also added to Minmei's little attitude towards Rick and the others.
Roy and Claudia were still the most lovable couple in the RDF but now rumors were flying around about Rick and Minmei. People who saw the young pair together began saying they were a couple. Rick soon became known around town as the boyfriend of Miss Macross and the guy with Miss Macross. Rick didn't mind people talking about him he only minded the fact that Minmei barely saw him anymore.
The Zentreadi had become curious about the transmissions sent by the Micronians. Breetai ordered his men to monitor every transmission sent by the SDF1. One way or another he was going to learn about their next move and their secret weapon, the scantly clad Micronian women. Breetai was obsessed with finding out the secret of these women.
The SDF1 was now halfway between Mars and the Moon. Captain Gloval was desperate to get a message to RDF command to let them know their status. Try as they might the SDF1 was not receiving any replies from the RDF. Not a single message they were sending had gotten through. The captain didn't know what he was going to do.
******
Part 8: Message in A Bottle
******
The sounds coming from the open third story window were breath taking. The soprano voice drifted down the street followed by a young sounding alto. As the piano played the soft sweet melody the alto voice recognized by so many began singing a tender love song written especially for her. And as people walked by the three-story office building they seemed to smile a bit more than usual.
The beautiful young voice stopped and the sounds of talking could barely be heard amongst the everyday street noises.
"You're doing well but you could be better Minmei." Madame Beaumont said, "Why don't we take a five minute break."
"Thank you Madame Beaumont." Minmei replied
It was at that point that the phone in the room began to ring. Minmei's music teacher picked up the phone and answered it.
"Madame Beaumont's music and voice." She said.
"Is Minmei available to come to the phone?" a male voice asked.
"One moment." Madame Beaumont replied, "Minmei there is a young gentleman on the phone for you. You may talk to him but not for very long."
"Thank you." Minmei said as she took the phone, "Hello."
"Minmei it's Rick. Your uncle said you were there today." Rick replied.
"Oh hi Rick. What did you want?" Minmei said cheerfully.
"Well I was wondering if you wanted to go out sometime this week." He asked her.
"Oh I'd love to but I can't. I have singing lessons every morning and a photo shoot tomorrow afternoon and my screen test on Thursday. And I have an appearance Friday at the Chamber of Commerce lunch. As you can see I'm just too busy right now." Minmei explained to Rick.
"Oh I see well maybe some other time then." Rick said a bit dejected.
"Well I have to get going or Madame Beaumont is going to have a fit." Minmei said.
Minmei hung up the phone and went back to her lessons. Once again the streets of Macross were filled with the sweet sounds of an innocent young voice.
******
"Sir long range scanners show we are four days away from the Earth's moon." Rei reported.
Captain Henry Gloval of Russia paced back and forth on the bridge of the SDF1. For two weeks straight he had been trying to get a message through to anyone in the RDF. And for two weeks straight each message he sent had no reply. Now as his patience was wearing thing the captain gave the order to try and send another message.
"Michelle please try and send the following message. To Robotech Defense Force Command from Captain Henry Gloval SDF1. Gentleman, the SDF1 is four days away from returning to Earth; we will hold our current position until we hear from you. All citizens of Macross City are well and accounted for. We await your orders on what to do next." The captain told her.
"I'm sending the transmission now sir." Michelle said.
The bridge crew waited for a few minutes hoping the transmission made it through to the RDF command. Michelle checked her monitor and saw the same message she had been getting for the past two weeks, transmission interrupted. Michelle prepared to tell the captain the bad news once again.
"Captain they've interrupted our transmission again." She told him.
"That is the fifteenth time that's happened." Gloval commented angrily.
"Maybe they're waiting for us to give our location away sir." Claudia speculated.
"It's a likely chance but one I'm not going to take." He replied.
"You know all this started right after the pageant. Do you think they somehow were able to receive that broadcast?" Lisa wondered.
"That could also be a possibility as well Lisa." The captain said.
"What are we going to do?" Mina asked.
"We'll keep on trying until we get through." The captain explained
******
Rick, despite her busy schedule, was able to get Minmei to go to dinner with him. As they walked into the small café the people walking along the street stopped and stared at Minmei. They looked at her like she was a goddess. The makeover she received made Minmei look a bit more grown up and the new clothes made her look like a fashion model. Rick was actually jealous of the attention she was receiving.
"So Minmei how are things going?" Rick asked trying to make polite conversation.
"Just fine Rick. My managers have a concert lined up for me and the studio says if they like my screen test they just might make a movie with me in it. My uncle even started a fan club for me!" Minmei told him.
"A movie and a fan club huh?"
"Yeah it could really boost my career."
"What career?"
"Why my singing and acting career. My aunt says I might even get a modeling job if they like my photos."
"Whatever happened to your dream of getting married?"
"That's been put on the back burner for now Rick. My aunt says that that comes second to my life! Right now I have to concentrate on being Miss Macross. This is one of the best things to ever happen to me."
"Well you've had your screen test, recorded your demo and own a plane you can't use. When this is all over you'll have some fond memories and go back to being the lovable girl in the Chinese place."
"Rick I'm going to try and make this last as long as possible. My aunt and uncle are going to help me do just that! This is a dream come true for me. I love my aunt and uncle but I can't work there all my life. Besides they told me they wanted me to concentrate on my new carrier!"
Rick could tell Minmei was beginning to enjoy all the extra attention. Minmei was starting to forget the real reason why she became Miss Macross. She once believed it was her job to bring hope back to the people of Macross. Now she was being told it was her job to look beautiful and make money. And Rick was beginning to think Minmei would forget all about him.
"Besides Rick if everything goes the way I want it to I just might be able to get my own place real soon." Minmei said with a smile on her face.
******
Michelle sat at her console and fiddled around with some frequencies. She knew the captain would try another time to send a message to the RDF command. As Michelle tried different frequencies the captain walked into the bridge with a long look on his face.
"Sir what's wrong?" Lisa asked.
"This whole problem of not being able to get through to the RDF command has me worried." He told his first officer.
"Don't worry sir I'm working on a solution to our problem as we speak." Michelle said.
"I hope it works Michelle." The captain replied.
"Me too sir. Me too." Michelle added.
"Alright Michelle here's what I want you to send this time. To Robotech Defense Force Command from Captain Henry Gloval of the SDF1. Sirs we await word from you as to whether or not we can return home. All citizen of Macross City are alive and well. We will hold our position until you contact us." Captain Gloval dictated.
Michelle sent the message hoping it would go through. But when she got yet another message stating the transmission was interrupted once again Michelle almost cried.
"Sir we failed again." She told him in a flat tone.
"Day after day they interrupt our transmissions. What do they want from us?" he almost yelled.
"I don't know sir." Lisa said.
******
Rick wasn't the only one who thought Minmei was getting too arrogant for her own good. Serena could also tell the young girl had changed. And as much as she hated to admit it Minmei was developing an ego. But the people of Macross didn't see it that way. All they did was add fuel to the fire and give Minmei whatever she wanted.
As Serena, Darien, Hotaru and Sammy walked to Claudia's quarters Minmei's recent behavior was the main topic of discussion.
"I've been hearing some doozies about Miss Macross lately." Serena said.
"Oh like what?" Darien asked her.
"Well for one thing people say she doesn't want to work in the restaurant anymore. They say she's bent on staying in the public spotlight forever. Her aunt and uncle are bent on helping her do just that too!" Serena told him.
"Sounds like fame is getting to her." Hotaru said.
"What it really sounds like is an ego problem. I've seen the way she looks at other people. She acts as though she's better than they are. I hate to admit it but she's getting an ego." Sammy said.
"Once the newness of the situation fades away she'll go back to being her usual self." Darien told them.
"I doubt it." Serena said as she rang the bell.
Roy answered the door and let them into Claudia's quarters.
"Claudia will be ready in just a moment." Roy told them.
"Is that them Roy?" Claudia asked from her room.
"Yes dear it is." Roy replied.
Claudia came out of her room wearing a simple green dress and matching shoes. On her left hand was a small diamond engagement ring. Roy took one look at her and smiled.
"Claudia did I ever tell you how beautiful you are." Roy said.
"Only about a million times a day." She replied with a big smile.
"Wow Claudia you look beautiful." Serena commented.
"Thanks. This isn't much but I like it." Claudia said.
"Well if you lovely ladies are ready to go then we can be on our way." Roy told them.
The three couples left the crew quarters and made their way to the city. As they walked to the café where they would be having dinner they noticed a huge crowd outside.
"Man for once I'm wanting to be like the old Serena!" Sammy said.
"Gee I wonder what's going on here? Your that hungry Sammy?" Serena asked.
"I have no idea. Let's find out." Claudia replied.
"Yes I am so?" he asked his sister.
"Excuse me but what's all the commotion about?" Darien asked a woman outside the café. Then turning to Sammy said, "We'll eat soon enough!"
"Minmei is inside the café." The woman replied sounding like a teenie bopper.
"It's a good thing we have reservations." Roy commented.
"Yes no line!" Sammy said.
"Sammy are you feeling okay? I once expected that from Serena but you?" Hotaru asked.
"Sorry Hotaru!" Sammy said blushing.
Serena, Darien, Roy, Claudia, Sammy and Hotaru looked at each other. They knew that this was going to be another one of those evenings.
******
For sixteen days the Zentreadi had been monitoring all outgoing transmissions from the SDF1. And for sixteen days the transmissions weren't giving them any new information. From what Breetai could tell the SDF1 was going to stay where it was until the RDF command told them they could come home. Nowhere in any of the transmissions did the SDF1 mention anything about its location or next plan of attack. Breetai was growing weary.
"For sixteen days we have learned nothing about the Micronians plans." Breetai complained.
"Maybe they won't try any new messages until they hear from their commanders Lord Breetai." Exedore speculated.
"Then maybe we should let them reach their commanders Exedore." Breetai said, "Tell the men to stop intercepting the Micronians' transmissions."
"Yes Lord Breetai." Exedore replied.
Exedore had just finished relaying Breetai's message to the men when one them informed the Zentreadi commander of an incoming message.
"Lord Breetai there is an incoming transmission from High Commander Dolza." The subordinate told the fleet commander.
"Lord Dolza to what do I owe the honor of your message?" Breetai asked the high commander.
"I would like a status report on your plans to monitor the Micronian transmissions." He said.
"So far the transmissions haven't given us any new information Lord Dolza." Breetai replied.
"Let them contact their people. Then we make ourselves known." Dolza told Breetai.
"Yes Lord Dolza." Breetai said.
******
Sure enough Minmei was inside the café. What had started out as a nice quiet evening between friends was becoming a media circus. No one knew at the time the impact the pageant would have on the people of Macross City. Now wherever Minmei went people would stop and stare at her and from what Serena could tell Minmei loved every minute of it.
"I feel sorry for Rick." Serena commented.
"I agree not even Serena would treat Darien like that even when she had stars in her eyes!" Sammy said.
"What makes you say that?" Roy asked her.
"Well, he has to put up with Minmei and her ego. Thanks for the kind words Sammy!" Serena replied.
"I think once the newness of the situation wears off she'll be back to her old self." Claudia said.
"Yeah Serena something this dramatic changes the people it affects. She needs someone like Rick to remind her why she became Miss Macross." Darien added.
"But do you think he'll be able bring her back to reality?" Serena wondered.
"Knowing Rick the way I do I think he can do just that." Roy reassured her.
"I hope so because she needs a shot of reality in the arm big time." Serena said.
"So Sammy, Hotaru does dad know about you two yet?" Serena asked.
"Um no not yet exactly! You see we haven't told him yet!" Sammy replied.
"Yeah see we're afraid he'll do to us what he was always trying to do to you two!" Hotaru said.
"What do you mean by was?" Darien asked.
"Well you remember when Rick and Serena's friend's boyfriends joined the RDF right?" Sammy asked.
"Yes so go on little brother!" Serena said.
"Well you see I kind of told Sammy you two were going public with your relationship and your parents heard everything!" Hotaru told them.
"Okay I'm a military pilot I will remain calm!" Serena told herself then out loud said, "How'd they take it Hotaru, Sammy?"
"Mom said it was about time. Dad says if he hurts you anymore than that bad break up that he'll ring your neck Darien." Sammy said.
The look on Darien's face said it all. He looked paler then a ghost and Serena knew he was scared.
"Okay well he's at least taking it better than we thought love!" Serena told Darien.
"Yeah please let it stay that way!" Darien said.
"Well let's eat up!" Roy said and with that the talking stopped at least for now.
As Serena ate her dinner she noticed the number of people going up to Minmei and asking for her autograph. It almost seemed as though they thought of Minmei as a goddess who would save them from their life on the SDF1. Serena was disgusted with the way people were acting around Minmei.
"Look at them." She said between bites, "They think she's some type of goddess."
"I seem to recall you were the same way about Sailor V and a certain cape wearing crime fighter." Darien reminded her.
"Yeah sis'" Sammy added in.
"Well I thought Sailor V was cool and as for the other one I thought he was the cutest thing around and I still do." Serena replied with a dreamy look in her eyes.
"Serena who are you talking about?" Sammy asked.
The look Serena was giving Darien was causing him to turn as red as a beet. Roy and Claudia looked at each other wondering what Serena's comment was all about.
"I wonder what she meant by that remark?" Claudia asked Roy.
"Beats me Claudia." Roy replied.
"Hotaru do you know?" Sammy asked his new girl friend.
"Sorry Sammy wish I did. I might be her friend but she never tells the others or me everything." Hotaru told him.
******
Minmei had just finished signing another autograph when the owner of the café came over to speak with her. He had a big smile on his face and a menu in his hand.
"Miss Minmei would you sign this please. And I want to let you know your dinner is on the house." The café owner said.
"I'd be delighted to sign this for you." Minmei replied.
"This is the happiest day of my life. Now everyone will want to eat in my café because Minmei ate here once. I'll have more business than ever." He announced almost crying.
"Oh please." Rick moaned.
After the owner left Minmei started to give Rick a piece of her mind.
"Rick how could you be so insensitive. He just asked me to sign that menu for him!" Minmei almost yelled.
"Me? What about the way you're acting. You're beginning to believe everything those people tell you. Everyone in Macross knows you better than I do." Rick snapped at her.
"Well if you'd spend more time with me then maybe you would know who I am." Minmei said.
"Maybe I would be able to spend time with you if you weren't so busy." Rick began, "I call you and you can't talk to me. I've tried to ask you out on a date for a long time. Working the dinner crowd at your uncle's restaurant I can understand but I don't understand how you can tell me that modeling and acting lessons are more important than building a relationship with someone I just don't get it."
"Rick Hunter you can walk yourself home thank you. I am going where I am loved and appreciated." Minmei announced.
Minmei got up from the table and walked out of the café leaving Rick sitting all alone. Almost everyone in the café began to stare at Rick like he was a cold-hearted monster that hurt the feelings of their beloved princess. Rick thought the patrons of the small café were going to murder him for making their idol leave them.
******
Roy saw what had happened between Rick and Minmei and thought his best friend needed an ear to chew on. From his vantage point Rick was the victim not Minmei. Someone needed to teach the young beauty queen a thing or two about respecting others. He knew she was under a bit of stress lately but the way she was being treated and the way she was treating other people was just unacceptable.
"Listen you guys don't mind if I go talk to Rick for a moment?" Roy asked his friends.
"Not at all honey. He's your friend and he needs you right now." Claudia said.
"I'd do the same for any one of my friends." Serena told him.
"We can wait for you." Darien added.
"Yeah sure we can!" Sammy and Hotaru added.
"Thanks guys." Roy replied.
Roy walked over to the table where Rick sat sulking. The look on his best friend's face told Roy that Rick thought what had happened was his entire fault. The poor kid thinks he's to blame for what happened, Roy thought.
"I saw what happened Rick." Roy said to the young pilot.
"So you think it's my fault too." Rick almost snapped.
"No she's the one at fault Rick. She has to learn to treat people better." Roy replied.
"She's changed Roy. She really has changed. I wish the mayor never came up with that stupid pageant." Rick said.
"Maybe she needs to know that no matter what happens you'll always be there for her."
"She seems to think she doesn't need me anymore. Then she claims I don't spend time with her."
"I think once she gets over the first big hurdle she'll start to be the same sweet girl who first captured your heart a year ago."
"I hope so Roy I really hope so."
******
Minmei didn't want to deal with the crowd outside the café. All she wanted to do was go home. As she closed the door to the cab Minmei began to cry. Rick was right I am becoming cold and impersonal, she thought. Minmei recalled how happy she was when she made it into the Miss Macross pageant. She even remembered what it was like when she won. But the next morning things started changing. A man came and told her that she had to take voice lessons before she could record her record. Then he told her she needed a new look before anyone would even consider filming her screen test.
Minmei didn't mind the singing lessons and the day at the salon was fun. But the whole time people kept telling her she was too good to be living above a smelly restaurant. She kept hearing day after day how she was a big star and the most important person on the entire SDF1. What had Minmei scared was the fact that she believed what they were saying. And tonight proved it for her.
"I've been an insensitive jerk." Minmei said to the cabby.
"How can a nice lady like you be insensitive? You're Miss Macross." He asked her.
"I said some nasty things to my boyfriend. And I made him believe it was all his fault."
"Maybe he deserved it."
"He's been nothing but a perfect gentleman the entire time and all I've done was think only about myself. I never once thought about anyone else."
"You've got a lot going on right now is all. He needs to understand that."
"You know what your absolutely right Rick just needs to learn that I am a very good Miss Macross."
"I have a feeling things will be just fine for you Miss Minmei."
The cab stopped in front of the Chinese Restaurant. As Minmei was about to pay the driver he shook his head and refused the payment.
"This one's on me." He told her.
"Well at least let me give you some sort of tip." She said as she handed him a five-dollar bill.
"Thanks. It was real nice talking to you. I hope things work out for you."
"I hope so too." Minmei said as she entered the building.
******
The bridge of the SDF1 was quiet the next morning. No one traded the latest gossip and rumors and no one asked Claudia how her double date went the night before. Everyone was too busy trying to come up with a way to get at least one transmission through to the RDF command. Rei was scanning the area for any communications satellites Michelle could bounce a signal off of. At this point the crew of the SDF1 was desperate to contact anyone in the RDF back on Earth.
"I've got it!" Rei announced.
"What did you find Rei?" Lisa asked her.
"There's a communications satellite right in line with the moon. If we bounce our signal off the dish on the moon base then we can bounce it off the satellite and send it down to Earth. I know it's a long shot but it's the only way we can contact the RDF." Rei explained.
"That sounds like it just might work. Every direct route we've used so far has been blocked by the enemy." Michelle said.
"I'll inform the captain of our findings when he comes in." Lisa told them.
Five minutes after Rei made her discovery Captain Henry Gloval walked into the bridge with a long look on his face. The girls could tell he didn't want to go through another failed attempt at trying to contact the RDF command. The captain's hopes of returning home were slowly fading away.
"Captain, we think we may have a way to get through to RDF command." Lisa informed him.
"What have you come up with?" he asked her.
"Well why don't I let Corporal Hino explain her idea, Rei." Lisa replied.
"I found a communications satellite not too far from the moon. If we can bounce our signal off of the dish at Tranquility Base and then off of the satellite we just might be able to reach the RDF." Rei said.
"Do you think you'd be able to do that Michelle?" the captain wanted to know.
"I think I can pull it off sir." Michelle replied.
"Alright then here's the message I want you to send them. From Captain Henry Gloval SDF1 to RDF command. We will reach Earth in four days. All citizens of Macross City are well and accounted for. We await your reply." The captain said.
As Michelle sent the message she saw it connect with the dish on the base and then the satellite. The entire bridge crew had their fingers crossed hoping for the signal to reach Earth. The minutes seemed to go by slower than ever as they waited for the confirmation notice on Michelle's screen. Five minutes after she sent the message Michelle's screen flashed the transmission complete message.
"Captain we actually made it through." Michelle said very surprised at what she had seen.
For the first time in over two weeks Captain Henry Gloval commander of the SDF1 gave a huge sigh of relief. Now all they needed to do was wait for a reply.
"All we need now is a reply from the RDF command." The captain told them.
"Sir I'm receiving a priority one transmission from RDF command." Michelle informed him.
"Put it through." He said.
"SDF1 this is Colonel Garrett at RDF command it certainly is good to hear that everyone aboard your ship is alive and well. However, we can not allow you to return to Earth. The enemy has not yet attacked Earth. For our safety and yours the longer you keep the enemy away from Earth the better off we'll all be." The colonel said.
"But what about the people of Macross City?" Gloval asked.
"I'm sorry but we cannot discuss this matter any further. We have reason to believe the enemy may be listening in on our conversation." The colonel responded before cutting the transmission.
"That is a total lie. How could they know about anything the enemy has been doing unless they were monitoring us from the moon base?" Mina almost yelled.
"They just signed our death papers." Rei added.
"We told these people we would get them back to Earth and that is just what we're going to do. I think the people of the city should be told what is going on." The captain informed the bridge crew.
"How are you going to do that sir?" Claudia asked.
"I'm going to use their broadcasting system." He replied.
"You're going on TV?" Lisa inquired.
"Yes." The captain answered her.
******
"Five minutes sir." The director told the captain.
Captain Gloval had talked to Paul Marshall the head of the MBS about addressing the people of Macross City. Marshall had agreed to let the captain use the cameras to address the civilians on the SDF1. As the captain sat in his chair he looked over his speech one last time.
"Alright sir we're ready to go live in five, four, three, two, one." the director signaled.
The light on the camera turned on and Captain Gloval began his speech.
"Good evening I am Captain Henry Gloval of the Robotech Defense Force commanding officer of the SDF1. I am coming to you tonight to update you on our current situation. As you may know for the past year we have been on a course to return home to Earth. We are currently four days away from Earth. RDF command has asked us to hold our current position but I have ordered this ship to continue on to Earth. The alien attacks as of late have been increasing and will continue to increase as we get closer to the Earth. We will get all of you back home safely. This I promise to you. Thank you for your time." He said into the camera.
"And we're out." The director said as the broadcast ended.
******
The captain's message brought great concern to the people. They had no idea why the military back on Earth wouldn't want them to return. But as long as the captain had promised to return them safely back to Earth it didn't bother them that much. Only nine individuals on the entire ship truly worried about what was happening to them. The eight women, one man, and the only two cats on the ship knew what this could mean to their future and it had them terrified.
The Sailor Scouts hadn't had an official meeting since the defeat of Galaxia six years prior. At the time when they first signed up for the RDF they didn't think about the possibility of the future being changed. Only until three years had passed and the thought of not being able to return to Earth had begun to run through their minds did they even think about the future being changed. Serena was the first to begin voicing these concerns.
"This sure feels weird." Lita commented.
"I know it doesn't feel official without the temple setting." Mina added.
"Or the yelling and arguing between Serena and Rei." Amy said.
"Yes but we still have a serious matter to discuss." Luna reminded them.
"We have no idea how recent events will affect the future." Artemis said.
"What if this does affect the future? What if we never have a Crystal Tokyo?" Serena asked them.
"The only person who can tell us that is you Trista." Michelle told her. "Sorry now that I'm outside the gate I don't know!" Trista said.
"What about Michelle and Rei? Haven't you two been getting any premonitions?" Darien wondered.
"The only ones I've gotten lately have been your average run of the mill bad vibes before the enemy attacks." Rei replied.
"I haven't been feeling anything either." Michelle told him.
"Well maybe we could... no that wouldn't work on the ship." Mina said.
Everyone knew what Mina was thinking of. And with their only legal way of predicting the future back on Earth getting home had become even more important. The Scouts knew if Serena and Darien didn't take their rightful place as the rulers of the Earth all would be lost and Crystal Tokyo and Rini along with the scouts would cease to exist.
"You know I can't do that without the Sacred Fire." Rei reminded them.
"That's why we have to get back to Earth." Lita said.
"Can't we use the mirror to see things?" Amy suggested.
"While that is a good idea I don't see clear images with my mirror I only get flashes of what might be. The mirror is more for revealing the truth than anything else." Michelle explained.
Everyone hung their heads low when they heard this. The Scouts knew Trista was right and even if she could tell them she wasn't allowed to reveal the future willingly.
"This is hopeless I'll never be a mother. I'll never be queen. And I'll have to live on this ship till I'm old and gray." Serena wailed.
"I know how you feel we all do Serena. We all want to go home but right now we can't." Hotaru told Serena sympathetically.
"Cheer up buns we'll make it home someday." Amara reassured her.
******
The crew of the SDF1 was all business the morning after the captain made his announcement to the entire ship. No one wanted to do anything that would cause further trouble with RDF command. They all knew what the higher ups in the RDF would do if they went against RDF policy. And no one wanted to face court marshal proceedings. RDF policy was considered to be very strict.
Even though the SDF1 was four days out from Earth the captain had decided to hold their position until the situation with the RDF command died down a bit. Gloval didn't want to rush home and further complicate things. Right now he would have the bridge crew monitor the aliens' activity and keep open the lines of communication.
******
Khyron wanted to get back into Breetai's good graces. He knew another attack on the SDF1 would be the best possible way to get the Zentreadi commander to recognize him once more. The Zentreadi squad leader wasn't about to let this opportunity pass him by. Taking his best men the overconfident Khyron headed towards the Micronian ship.
******
The alarms on board the SDF1 began to go off signaling another enemy attack. Lisa punched the red alert button calling the Veritech squads to battle.
"All Veritechs report for duty." Lisa's voice called out over the PA system.
One by one the Veritech squads scrambled into battle. The enemy pods converged on the oncoming fighters firing at anyone that got in their way. Most of the squads were able to dodge the laser.
Rick's Vermilion squad was not as lucky. As Rick, Max, Kevin, Justin and Nathan held off the pods that were firing upon them Ben was having a rough time. One by one the pods began firing on Ben's Veritech. Shot after shot bombarded the fighter barely missing it. After five solid minutes of being fired upon one shot finally made its mark and hit Ben's fighter causing a slow fuel leak.
Rick noticed the hit the fighter had taken decided enough was enough. It was time to get his squad out of the battle before something happened to Ben. Rick informed the SDF1 of his decision.
"This is Lt. Hunter calling the SDF1. One of my squad has taken a hit. I'm bringing them in." he informed the bridge.
"Lt. Hunter it seems to me if the plane your squad member is flying was not heavily damaged then there is no reason for you to return to the SDF1." Lisa told him.
"Commander Hayes, you seem to have forgotten what you learned in the academy. There is no atmosphere here in space, and the smallest damage could prove to be fatal. And while you might feel perfectly safe gambling with our lives when you're safe and sound at your control desk, I'm not about to put my men in that kind of jeopardy!" Rick yelled back at her.
"Lt. Hunter you can..." Lisa began
"Sorry commander but I'm ordering the Vermilion squad back to the SDF1. Lt. Hunter happens to be right this time. One false move and we could all be blown to bits. Oh and Rick it isn't a very good idea to go running off the mouth to your commanding officers." Roy intervened.
******
The battle continued and Khyron wasn't about to take any chances. Aiming his guns Khyron prepared to shoot directly at the SDF1. It was then when Breetai's assistant, right hand man, and messenger Exedore contacted him over the radio.
"Do not fire on the Micronian vessel Khyron. Lord Breetai only wishes you to send a warning shot over their bridge." Exedore told him.
"Lord Breetai can go stand on his head for all I care." Khyron shot back.
Khyron then noticed a small radar dish at the top of the bridge. Changing targets he then aimed his guns at the dish and fired taking out the radar dish.
******
"Damn!" Rei yelled when the radar went blank.
"What's wrong Rei?" Claudia asked her.
"They just shot out our radar dish." Rei told them.
"Do we still have the long range scanners?" The captain asked her.
"Yes at least those are still working." Rei replied.
Michelle was still scanning the communication channels when she noticed a strange noise on the frequency they had originally used to try and contact RDF command. As she boosted the signal the transmission came in loud and clear for all to hear. Everyone was in a state of shock when they heard the alien speaking in perfect English.
"We are the Zentreadi." The alien voice announced.
"Well at least now we know what to call them." Mina said.
"Surrender your vessel now or we will begin attacking your home world." The alien demanded.
TBC
Please R&R! Also please read Sailor Moon Macross by Chibi Halo!
Authors note: When ever I am talking about Kevin, Nathan, Justin and Zack as a group I will refer to them as the four earth generals as that is what they were suppose to be in the manga before Beryl brainwashed them!
Here comes Trista ready or not! Oh and Minmei lovers this is the beginning of the end of her old goody two-shoe days! But if you like Rick/Lisa relationships stick with it we're going to be headed there!
Robotech Warriors Book 1 By thunderbird with Sections From Chibi Halo
Minmei was on cloud nine. She had an airplane she couldn't use, a recording contract, and a screen test. Minmei couldn't care less. She went from being the girl from the Chinese place to Lynn Minmei Miss Macross the most popular person on the SDF1. Now wherever she went people recognized her and actually talked to her. Minmei loved all the attention.
Her uncle and aunt were no different then any other star-struck movie stars. They were bound and determined to make Minmei's new stardom keep on shinning for as long as they could. Minmei's aunt began this by filling her head with idea's of how now that she is a super star she is better than anyone else she knew. Her uncle started it all by creating the Lynn Minmei fan club. He started it by selling little things she wouldn't miss, then dresses, and finally he started to sell autographs of the new Miss Macross. This also added to Minmei's little attitude towards Rick and the others.
Roy and Claudia were still the most lovable couple in the RDF but now rumors were flying around about Rick and Minmei. People who saw the young pair together began saying they were a couple. Rick soon became known around town as the boyfriend of Miss Macross and the guy with Miss Macross. Rick didn't mind people talking about him he only minded the fact that Minmei barely saw him anymore.
The Zentreadi had become curious about the transmissions sent by the Micronians. Breetai ordered his men to monitor every transmission sent by the SDF1. One way or another he was going to learn about their next move and their secret weapon, the scantly clad Micronian women. Breetai was obsessed with finding out the secret of these women.
The SDF1 was now halfway between Mars and the Moon. Captain Gloval was desperate to get a message to RDF command to let them know their status. Try as they might the SDF1 was not receiving any replies from the RDF. Not a single message they were sending had gotten through. The captain didn't know what he was going to do.
******
Part 8: Message in A Bottle
******
The sounds coming from the open third story window were breath taking. The soprano voice drifted down the street followed by a young sounding alto. As the piano played the soft sweet melody the alto voice recognized by so many began singing a tender love song written especially for her. And as people walked by the three-story office building they seemed to smile a bit more than usual.
The beautiful young voice stopped and the sounds of talking could barely be heard amongst the everyday street noises.
"You're doing well but you could be better Minmei." Madame Beaumont said, "Why don't we take a five minute break."
"Thank you Madame Beaumont." Minmei replied
It was at that point that the phone in the room began to ring. Minmei's music teacher picked up the phone and answered it.
"Madame Beaumont's music and voice." She said.
"Is Minmei available to come to the phone?" a male voice asked.
"One moment." Madame Beaumont replied, "Minmei there is a young gentleman on the phone for you. You may talk to him but not for very long."
"Thank you." Minmei said as she took the phone, "Hello."
"Minmei it's Rick. Your uncle said you were there today." Rick replied.
"Oh hi Rick. What did you want?" Minmei said cheerfully.
"Well I was wondering if you wanted to go out sometime this week." He asked her.
"Oh I'd love to but I can't. I have singing lessons every morning and a photo shoot tomorrow afternoon and my screen test on Thursday. And I have an appearance Friday at the Chamber of Commerce lunch. As you can see I'm just too busy right now." Minmei explained to Rick.
"Oh I see well maybe some other time then." Rick said a bit dejected.
"Well I have to get going or Madame Beaumont is going to have a fit." Minmei said.
Minmei hung up the phone and went back to her lessons. Once again the streets of Macross were filled with the sweet sounds of an innocent young voice.
******
"Sir long range scanners show we are four days away from the Earth's moon." Rei reported.
Captain Henry Gloval of Russia paced back and forth on the bridge of the SDF1. For two weeks straight he had been trying to get a message through to anyone in the RDF. And for two weeks straight each message he sent had no reply. Now as his patience was wearing thing the captain gave the order to try and send another message.
"Michelle please try and send the following message. To Robotech Defense Force Command from Captain Henry Gloval SDF1. Gentleman, the SDF1 is four days away from returning to Earth; we will hold our current position until we hear from you. All citizens of Macross City are well and accounted for. We await your orders on what to do next." The captain told her.
"I'm sending the transmission now sir." Michelle said.
The bridge crew waited for a few minutes hoping the transmission made it through to the RDF command. Michelle checked her monitor and saw the same message she had been getting for the past two weeks, transmission interrupted. Michelle prepared to tell the captain the bad news once again.
"Captain they've interrupted our transmission again." She told him.
"That is the fifteenth time that's happened." Gloval commented angrily.
"Maybe they're waiting for us to give our location away sir." Claudia speculated.
"It's a likely chance but one I'm not going to take." He replied.
"You know all this started right after the pageant. Do you think they somehow were able to receive that broadcast?" Lisa wondered.
"That could also be a possibility as well Lisa." The captain said.
"What are we going to do?" Mina asked.
"We'll keep on trying until we get through." The captain explained
******
Rick, despite her busy schedule, was able to get Minmei to go to dinner with him. As they walked into the small café the people walking along the street stopped and stared at Minmei. They looked at her like she was a goddess. The makeover she received made Minmei look a bit more grown up and the new clothes made her look like a fashion model. Rick was actually jealous of the attention she was receiving.
"So Minmei how are things going?" Rick asked trying to make polite conversation.
"Just fine Rick. My managers have a concert lined up for me and the studio says if they like my screen test they just might make a movie with me in it. My uncle even started a fan club for me!" Minmei told him.
"A movie and a fan club huh?"
"Yeah it could really boost my career."
"What career?"
"Why my singing and acting career. My aunt says I might even get a modeling job if they like my photos."
"Whatever happened to your dream of getting married?"
"That's been put on the back burner for now Rick. My aunt says that that comes second to my life! Right now I have to concentrate on being Miss Macross. This is one of the best things to ever happen to me."
"Well you've had your screen test, recorded your demo and own a plane you can't use. When this is all over you'll have some fond memories and go back to being the lovable girl in the Chinese place."
"Rick I'm going to try and make this last as long as possible. My aunt and uncle are going to help me do just that! This is a dream come true for me. I love my aunt and uncle but I can't work there all my life. Besides they told me they wanted me to concentrate on my new carrier!"
Rick could tell Minmei was beginning to enjoy all the extra attention. Minmei was starting to forget the real reason why she became Miss Macross. She once believed it was her job to bring hope back to the people of Macross. Now she was being told it was her job to look beautiful and make money. And Rick was beginning to think Minmei would forget all about him.
"Besides Rick if everything goes the way I want it to I just might be able to get my own place real soon." Minmei said with a smile on her face.
******
Michelle sat at her console and fiddled around with some frequencies. She knew the captain would try another time to send a message to the RDF command. As Michelle tried different frequencies the captain walked into the bridge with a long look on his face.
"Sir what's wrong?" Lisa asked.
"This whole problem of not being able to get through to the RDF command has me worried." He told his first officer.
"Don't worry sir I'm working on a solution to our problem as we speak." Michelle said.
"I hope it works Michelle." The captain replied.
"Me too sir. Me too." Michelle added.
"Alright Michelle here's what I want you to send this time. To Robotech Defense Force Command from Captain Henry Gloval of the SDF1. Sirs we await word from you as to whether or not we can return home. All citizen of Macross City are alive and well. We will hold our position until you contact us." Captain Gloval dictated.
Michelle sent the message hoping it would go through. But when she got yet another message stating the transmission was interrupted once again Michelle almost cried.
"Sir we failed again." She told him in a flat tone.
"Day after day they interrupt our transmissions. What do they want from us?" he almost yelled.
"I don't know sir." Lisa said.
******
Rick wasn't the only one who thought Minmei was getting too arrogant for her own good. Serena could also tell the young girl had changed. And as much as she hated to admit it Minmei was developing an ego. But the people of Macross didn't see it that way. All they did was add fuel to the fire and give Minmei whatever she wanted.
As Serena, Darien, Hotaru and Sammy walked to Claudia's quarters Minmei's recent behavior was the main topic of discussion.
"I've been hearing some doozies about Miss Macross lately." Serena said.
"Oh like what?" Darien asked her.
"Well for one thing people say she doesn't want to work in the restaurant anymore. They say she's bent on staying in the public spotlight forever. Her aunt and uncle are bent on helping her do just that too!" Serena told him.
"Sounds like fame is getting to her." Hotaru said.
"What it really sounds like is an ego problem. I've seen the way she looks at other people. She acts as though she's better than they are. I hate to admit it but she's getting an ego." Sammy said.
"Once the newness of the situation fades away she'll go back to being her usual self." Darien told them.
"I doubt it." Serena said as she rang the bell.
Roy answered the door and let them into Claudia's quarters.
"Claudia will be ready in just a moment." Roy told them.
"Is that them Roy?" Claudia asked from her room.
"Yes dear it is." Roy replied.
Claudia came out of her room wearing a simple green dress and matching shoes. On her left hand was a small diamond engagement ring. Roy took one look at her and smiled.
"Claudia did I ever tell you how beautiful you are." Roy said.
"Only about a million times a day." She replied with a big smile.
"Wow Claudia you look beautiful." Serena commented.
"Thanks. This isn't much but I like it." Claudia said.
"Well if you lovely ladies are ready to go then we can be on our way." Roy told them.
The three couples left the crew quarters and made their way to the city. As they walked to the café where they would be having dinner they noticed a huge crowd outside.
"Man for once I'm wanting to be like the old Serena!" Sammy said.
"Gee I wonder what's going on here? Your that hungry Sammy?" Serena asked.
"I have no idea. Let's find out." Claudia replied.
"Yes I am so?" he asked his sister.
"Excuse me but what's all the commotion about?" Darien asked a woman outside the café. Then turning to Sammy said, "We'll eat soon enough!"
"Minmei is inside the café." The woman replied sounding like a teenie bopper.
"It's a good thing we have reservations." Roy commented.
"Yes no line!" Sammy said.
"Sammy are you feeling okay? I once expected that from Serena but you?" Hotaru asked.
"Sorry Hotaru!" Sammy said blushing.
Serena, Darien, Roy, Claudia, Sammy and Hotaru looked at each other. They knew that this was going to be another one of those evenings.
******
For sixteen days the Zentreadi had been monitoring all outgoing transmissions from the SDF1. And for sixteen days the transmissions weren't giving them any new information. From what Breetai could tell the SDF1 was going to stay where it was until the RDF command told them they could come home. Nowhere in any of the transmissions did the SDF1 mention anything about its location or next plan of attack. Breetai was growing weary.
"For sixteen days we have learned nothing about the Micronians plans." Breetai complained.
"Maybe they won't try any new messages until they hear from their commanders Lord Breetai." Exedore speculated.
"Then maybe we should let them reach their commanders Exedore." Breetai said, "Tell the men to stop intercepting the Micronians' transmissions."
"Yes Lord Breetai." Exedore replied.
Exedore had just finished relaying Breetai's message to the men when one them informed the Zentreadi commander of an incoming message.
"Lord Breetai there is an incoming transmission from High Commander Dolza." The subordinate told the fleet commander.
"Lord Dolza to what do I owe the honor of your message?" Breetai asked the high commander.
"I would like a status report on your plans to monitor the Micronian transmissions." He said.
"So far the transmissions haven't given us any new information Lord Dolza." Breetai replied.
"Let them contact their people. Then we make ourselves known." Dolza told Breetai.
"Yes Lord Dolza." Breetai said.
******
Sure enough Minmei was inside the café. What had started out as a nice quiet evening between friends was becoming a media circus. No one knew at the time the impact the pageant would have on the people of Macross City. Now wherever Minmei went people would stop and stare at her and from what Serena could tell Minmei loved every minute of it.
"I feel sorry for Rick." Serena commented.
"I agree not even Serena would treat Darien like that even when she had stars in her eyes!" Sammy said.
"What makes you say that?" Roy asked her.
"Well, he has to put up with Minmei and her ego. Thanks for the kind words Sammy!" Serena replied.
"I think once the newness of the situation wears off she'll be back to her old self." Claudia said.
"Yeah Serena something this dramatic changes the people it affects. She needs someone like Rick to remind her why she became Miss Macross." Darien added.
"But do you think he'll be able bring her back to reality?" Serena wondered.
"Knowing Rick the way I do I think he can do just that." Roy reassured her.
"I hope so because she needs a shot of reality in the arm big time." Serena said.
"So Sammy, Hotaru does dad know about you two yet?" Serena asked.
"Um no not yet exactly! You see we haven't told him yet!" Sammy replied.
"Yeah see we're afraid he'll do to us what he was always trying to do to you two!" Hotaru said.
"What do you mean by was?" Darien asked.
"Well you remember when Rick and Serena's friend's boyfriends joined the RDF right?" Sammy asked.
"Yes so go on little brother!" Serena said.
"Well you see I kind of told Sammy you two were going public with your relationship and your parents heard everything!" Hotaru told them.
"Okay I'm a military pilot I will remain calm!" Serena told herself then out loud said, "How'd they take it Hotaru, Sammy?"
"Mom said it was about time. Dad says if he hurts you anymore than that bad break up that he'll ring your neck Darien." Sammy said.
The look on Darien's face said it all. He looked paler then a ghost and Serena knew he was scared.
"Okay well he's at least taking it better than we thought love!" Serena told Darien.
"Yeah please let it stay that way!" Darien said.
"Well let's eat up!" Roy said and with that the talking stopped at least for now.
As Serena ate her dinner she noticed the number of people going up to Minmei and asking for her autograph. It almost seemed as though they thought of Minmei as a goddess who would save them from their life on the SDF1. Serena was disgusted with the way people were acting around Minmei.
"Look at them." She said between bites, "They think she's some type of goddess."
"I seem to recall you were the same way about Sailor V and a certain cape wearing crime fighter." Darien reminded her.
"Yeah sis'" Sammy added in.
"Well I thought Sailor V was cool and as for the other one I thought he was the cutest thing around and I still do." Serena replied with a dreamy look in her eyes.
"Serena who are you talking about?" Sammy asked.
The look Serena was giving Darien was causing him to turn as red as a beet. Roy and Claudia looked at each other wondering what Serena's comment was all about.
"I wonder what she meant by that remark?" Claudia asked Roy.
"Beats me Claudia." Roy replied.
"Hotaru do you know?" Sammy asked his new girl friend.
"Sorry Sammy wish I did. I might be her friend but she never tells the others or me everything." Hotaru told him.
******
Minmei had just finished signing another autograph when the owner of the café came over to speak with her. He had a big smile on his face and a menu in his hand.
"Miss Minmei would you sign this please. And I want to let you know your dinner is on the house." The café owner said.
"I'd be delighted to sign this for you." Minmei replied.
"This is the happiest day of my life. Now everyone will want to eat in my café because Minmei ate here once. I'll have more business than ever." He announced almost crying.
"Oh please." Rick moaned.
After the owner left Minmei started to give Rick a piece of her mind.
"Rick how could you be so insensitive. He just asked me to sign that menu for him!" Minmei almost yelled.
"Me? What about the way you're acting. You're beginning to believe everything those people tell you. Everyone in Macross knows you better than I do." Rick snapped at her.
"Well if you'd spend more time with me then maybe you would know who I am." Minmei said.
"Maybe I would be able to spend time with you if you weren't so busy." Rick began, "I call you and you can't talk to me. I've tried to ask you out on a date for a long time. Working the dinner crowd at your uncle's restaurant I can understand but I don't understand how you can tell me that modeling and acting lessons are more important than building a relationship with someone I just don't get it."
"Rick Hunter you can walk yourself home thank you. I am going where I am loved and appreciated." Minmei announced.
Minmei got up from the table and walked out of the café leaving Rick sitting all alone. Almost everyone in the café began to stare at Rick like he was a cold-hearted monster that hurt the feelings of their beloved princess. Rick thought the patrons of the small café were going to murder him for making their idol leave them.
******
Roy saw what had happened between Rick and Minmei and thought his best friend needed an ear to chew on. From his vantage point Rick was the victim not Minmei. Someone needed to teach the young beauty queen a thing or two about respecting others. He knew she was under a bit of stress lately but the way she was being treated and the way she was treating other people was just unacceptable.
"Listen you guys don't mind if I go talk to Rick for a moment?" Roy asked his friends.
"Not at all honey. He's your friend and he needs you right now." Claudia said.
"I'd do the same for any one of my friends." Serena told him.
"We can wait for you." Darien added.
"Yeah sure we can!" Sammy and Hotaru added.
"Thanks guys." Roy replied.
Roy walked over to the table where Rick sat sulking. The look on his best friend's face told Roy that Rick thought what had happened was his entire fault. The poor kid thinks he's to blame for what happened, Roy thought.
"I saw what happened Rick." Roy said to the young pilot.
"So you think it's my fault too." Rick almost snapped.
"No she's the one at fault Rick. She has to learn to treat people better." Roy replied.
"She's changed Roy. She really has changed. I wish the mayor never came up with that stupid pageant." Rick said.
"Maybe she needs to know that no matter what happens you'll always be there for her."
"She seems to think she doesn't need me anymore. Then she claims I don't spend time with her."
"I think once she gets over the first big hurdle she'll start to be the same sweet girl who first captured your heart a year ago."
"I hope so Roy I really hope so."
******
Minmei didn't want to deal with the crowd outside the café. All she wanted to do was go home. As she closed the door to the cab Minmei began to cry. Rick was right I am becoming cold and impersonal, she thought. Minmei recalled how happy she was when she made it into the Miss Macross pageant. She even remembered what it was like when she won. But the next morning things started changing. A man came and told her that she had to take voice lessons before she could record her record. Then he told her she needed a new look before anyone would even consider filming her screen test.
Minmei didn't mind the singing lessons and the day at the salon was fun. But the whole time people kept telling her she was too good to be living above a smelly restaurant. She kept hearing day after day how she was a big star and the most important person on the entire SDF1. What had Minmei scared was the fact that she believed what they were saying. And tonight proved it for her.
"I've been an insensitive jerk." Minmei said to the cabby.
"How can a nice lady like you be insensitive? You're Miss Macross." He asked her.
"I said some nasty things to my boyfriend. And I made him believe it was all his fault."
"Maybe he deserved it."
"He's been nothing but a perfect gentleman the entire time and all I've done was think only about myself. I never once thought about anyone else."
"You've got a lot going on right now is all. He needs to understand that."
"You know what your absolutely right Rick just needs to learn that I am a very good Miss Macross."
"I have a feeling things will be just fine for you Miss Minmei."
The cab stopped in front of the Chinese Restaurant. As Minmei was about to pay the driver he shook his head and refused the payment.
"This one's on me." He told her.
"Well at least let me give you some sort of tip." She said as she handed him a five-dollar bill.
"Thanks. It was real nice talking to you. I hope things work out for you."
"I hope so too." Minmei said as she entered the building.
******
The bridge of the SDF1 was quiet the next morning. No one traded the latest gossip and rumors and no one asked Claudia how her double date went the night before. Everyone was too busy trying to come up with a way to get at least one transmission through to the RDF command. Rei was scanning the area for any communications satellites Michelle could bounce a signal off of. At this point the crew of the SDF1 was desperate to contact anyone in the RDF back on Earth.
"I've got it!" Rei announced.
"What did you find Rei?" Lisa asked her.
"There's a communications satellite right in line with the moon. If we bounce our signal off the dish on the moon base then we can bounce it off the satellite and send it down to Earth. I know it's a long shot but it's the only way we can contact the RDF." Rei explained.
"That sounds like it just might work. Every direct route we've used so far has been blocked by the enemy." Michelle said.
"I'll inform the captain of our findings when he comes in." Lisa told them.
Five minutes after Rei made her discovery Captain Henry Gloval walked into the bridge with a long look on his face. The girls could tell he didn't want to go through another failed attempt at trying to contact the RDF command. The captain's hopes of returning home were slowly fading away.
"Captain, we think we may have a way to get through to RDF command." Lisa informed him.
"What have you come up with?" he asked her.
"Well why don't I let Corporal Hino explain her idea, Rei." Lisa replied.
"I found a communications satellite not too far from the moon. If we can bounce our signal off of the dish at Tranquility Base and then off of the satellite we just might be able to reach the RDF." Rei said.
"Do you think you'd be able to do that Michelle?" the captain wanted to know.
"I think I can pull it off sir." Michelle replied.
"Alright then here's the message I want you to send them. From Captain Henry Gloval SDF1 to RDF command. We will reach Earth in four days. All citizens of Macross City are well and accounted for. We await your reply." The captain said.
As Michelle sent the message she saw it connect with the dish on the base and then the satellite. The entire bridge crew had their fingers crossed hoping for the signal to reach Earth. The minutes seemed to go by slower than ever as they waited for the confirmation notice on Michelle's screen. Five minutes after she sent the message Michelle's screen flashed the transmission complete message.
"Captain we actually made it through." Michelle said very surprised at what she had seen.
For the first time in over two weeks Captain Henry Gloval commander of the SDF1 gave a huge sigh of relief. Now all they needed to do was wait for a reply.
"All we need now is a reply from the RDF command." The captain told them.
"Sir I'm receiving a priority one transmission from RDF command." Michelle informed him.
"Put it through." He said.
"SDF1 this is Colonel Garrett at RDF command it certainly is good to hear that everyone aboard your ship is alive and well. However, we can not allow you to return to Earth. The enemy has not yet attacked Earth. For our safety and yours the longer you keep the enemy away from Earth the better off we'll all be." The colonel said.
"But what about the people of Macross City?" Gloval asked.
"I'm sorry but we cannot discuss this matter any further. We have reason to believe the enemy may be listening in on our conversation." The colonel responded before cutting the transmission.
"That is a total lie. How could they know about anything the enemy has been doing unless they were monitoring us from the moon base?" Mina almost yelled.
"They just signed our death papers." Rei added.
"We told these people we would get them back to Earth and that is just what we're going to do. I think the people of the city should be told what is going on." The captain informed the bridge crew.
"How are you going to do that sir?" Claudia asked.
"I'm going to use their broadcasting system." He replied.
"You're going on TV?" Lisa inquired.
"Yes." The captain answered her.
******
"Five minutes sir." The director told the captain.
Captain Gloval had talked to Paul Marshall the head of the MBS about addressing the people of Macross City. Marshall had agreed to let the captain use the cameras to address the civilians on the SDF1. As the captain sat in his chair he looked over his speech one last time.
"Alright sir we're ready to go live in five, four, three, two, one." the director signaled.
The light on the camera turned on and Captain Gloval began his speech.
"Good evening I am Captain Henry Gloval of the Robotech Defense Force commanding officer of the SDF1. I am coming to you tonight to update you on our current situation. As you may know for the past year we have been on a course to return home to Earth. We are currently four days away from Earth. RDF command has asked us to hold our current position but I have ordered this ship to continue on to Earth. The alien attacks as of late have been increasing and will continue to increase as we get closer to the Earth. We will get all of you back home safely. This I promise to you. Thank you for your time." He said into the camera.
"And we're out." The director said as the broadcast ended.
******
The captain's message brought great concern to the people. They had no idea why the military back on Earth wouldn't want them to return. But as long as the captain had promised to return them safely back to Earth it didn't bother them that much. Only nine individuals on the entire ship truly worried about what was happening to them. The eight women, one man, and the only two cats on the ship knew what this could mean to their future and it had them terrified.
The Sailor Scouts hadn't had an official meeting since the defeat of Galaxia six years prior. At the time when they first signed up for the RDF they didn't think about the possibility of the future being changed. Only until three years had passed and the thought of not being able to return to Earth had begun to run through their minds did they even think about the future being changed. Serena was the first to begin voicing these concerns.
"This sure feels weird." Lita commented.
"I know it doesn't feel official without the temple setting." Mina added.
"Or the yelling and arguing between Serena and Rei." Amy said.
"Yes but we still have a serious matter to discuss." Luna reminded them.
"We have no idea how recent events will affect the future." Artemis said.
"What if this does affect the future? What if we never have a Crystal Tokyo?" Serena asked them.
"The only person who can tell us that is you Trista." Michelle told her. "Sorry now that I'm outside the gate I don't know!" Trista said.
"What about Michelle and Rei? Haven't you two been getting any premonitions?" Darien wondered.
"The only ones I've gotten lately have been your average run of the mill bad vibes before the enemy attacks." Rei replied.
"I haven't been feeling anything either." Michelle told him.
"Well maybe we could... no that wouldn't work on the ship." Mina said.
Everyone knew what Mina was thinking of. And with their only legal way of predicting the future back on Earth getting home had become even more important. The Scouts knew if Serena and Darien didn't take their rightful place as the rulers of the Earth all would be lost and Crystal Tokyo and Rini along with the scouts would cease to exist.
"You know I can't do that without the Sacred Fire." Rei reminded them.
"That's why we have to get back to Earth." Lita said.
"Can't we use the mirror to see things?" Amy suggested.
"While that is a good idea I don't see clear images with my mirror I only get flashes of what might be. The mirror is more for revealing the truth than anything else." Michelle explained.
Everyone hung their heads low when they heard this. The Scouts knew Trista was right and even if she could tell them she wasn't allowed to reveal the future willingly.
"This is hopeless I'll never be a mother. I'll never be queen. And I'll have to live on this ship till I'm old and gray." Serena wailed.
"I know how you feel we all do Serena. We all want to go home but right now we can't." Hotaru told Serena sympathetically.
"Cheer up buns we'll make it home someday." Amara reassured her.
******
The crew of the SDF1 was all business the morning after the captain made his announcement to the entire ship. No one wanted to do anything that would cause further trouble with RDF command. They all knew what the higher ups in the RDF would do if they went against RDF policy. And no one wanted to face court marshal proceedings. RDF policy was considered to be very strict.
Even though the SDF1 was four days out from Earth the captain had decided to hold their position until the situation with the RDF command died down a bit. Gloval didn't want to rush home and further complicate things. Right now he would have the bridge crew monitor the aliens' activity and keep open the lines of communication.
******
Khyron wanted to get back into Breetai's good graces. He knew another attack on the SDF1 would be the best possible way to get the Zentreadi commander to recognize him once more. The Zentreadi squad leader wasn't about to let this opportunity pass him by. Taking his best men the overconfident Khyron headed towards the Micronian ship.
******
The alarms on board the SDF1 began to go off signaling another enemy attack. Lisa punched the red alert button calling the Veritech squads to battle.
"All Veritechs report for duty." Lisa's voice called out over the PA system.
One by one the Veritech squads scrambled into battle. The enemy pods converged on the oncoming fighters firing at anyone that got in their way. Most of the squads were able to dodge the laser.
Rick's Vermilion squad was not as lucky. As Rick, Max, Kevin, Justin and Nathan held off the pods that were firing upon them Ben was having a rough time. One by one the pods began firing on Ben's Veritech. Shot after shot bombarded the fighter barely missing it. After five solid minutes of being fired upon one shot finally made its mark and hit Ben's fighter causing a slow fuel leak.
Rick noticed the hit the fighter had taken decided enough was enough. It was time to get his squad out of the battle before something happened to Ben. Rick informed the SDF1 of his decision.
"This is Lt. Hunter calling the SDF1. One of my squad has taken a hit. I'm bringing them in." he informed the bridge.
"Lt. Hunter it seems to me if the plane your squad member is flying was not heavily damaged then there is no reason for you to return to the SDF1." Lisa told him.
"Commander Hayes, you seem to have forgotten what you learned in the academy. There is no atmosphere here in space, and the smallest damage could prove to be fatal. And while you might feel perfectly safe gambling with our lives when you're safe and sound at your control desk, I'm not about to put my men in that kind of jeopardy!" Rick yelled back at her.
"Lt. Hunter you can..." Lisa began
"Sorry commander but I'm ordering the Vermilion squad back to the SDF1. Lt. Hunter happens to be right this time. One false move and we could all be blown to bits. Oh and Rick it isn't a very good idea to go running off the mouth to your commanding officers." Roy intervened.
******
The battle continued and Khyron wasn't about to take any chances. Aiming his guns Khyron prepared to shoot directly at the SDF1. It was then when Breetai's assistant, right hand man, and messenger Exedore contacted him over the radio.
"Do not fire on the Micronian vessel Khyron. Lord Breetai only wishes you to send a warning shot over their bridge." Exedore told him.
"Lord Breetai can go stand on his head for all I care." Khyron shot back.
Khyron then noticed a small radar dish at the top of the bridge. Changing targets he then aimed his guns at the dish and fired taking out the radar dish.
******
"Damn!" Rei yelled when the radar went blank.
"What's wrong Rei?" Claudia asked her.
"They just shot out our radar dish." Rei told them.
"Do we still have the long range scanners?" The captain asked her.
"Yes at least those are still working." Rei replied.
Michelle was still scanning the communication channels when she noticed a strange noise on the frequency they had originally used to try and contact RDF command. As she boosted the signal the transmission came in loud and clear for all to hear. Everyone was in a state of shock when they heard the alien speaking in perfect English.
"We are the Zentreadi." The alien voice announced.
"Well at least now we know what to call them." Mina said.
"Surrender your vessel now or we will begin attacking your home world." The alien demanded.
TBC
Please R&R! Also please read Sailor Moon Macross by Chibi Halo!
