Using the advice from the review board, I'm going to try and alter the format of the second chapter a bit. Tell me if you like it.
Silence
Athrun Zala was now leading a simple life. After defecting from the armies of ZAFT, he moved on to join Cagalli in the newly rebuilt Orb-Union. After several conversations on what his position should be, they eventually came forward with the notion of him being her bodyguard. Taking a new identity, Athrun dutifully served Cagalli on their various missions to arrange peace between all factions. Today brought them to the centralized colony of Kionios, where they were to meet the Prime Minister of the colony, Leonhold Justan. Compelling steps brought them across the artificial ground, leading them through the denizens of the colony. Athrun ceased his movements, glancing to the large circular building that was adjacent from his group.
"So, what exactly is that building?"
"It is a section of the colony where we mass produce our food and vehicles." replied Prime Minister Justan.
"Hmmmm. Maybe we could have a look in it, if that pleases your Excellency?"
With a sharp thrust of her elbow into Athrun's side, Cagalli spat the words "Maybe another time, Gaignun (Athrun)." They continued their leisurely stroll about the city until finally they were brought before the capitol. Being ushered in quickly, they took hold in the elevator as guards flanked them. The floors streamed by, Athrun seeming quite perturbed by something he had sensed. Exiting the elevator, they moved into the Prime Minister's quarters, being beckoned to have a seat as the Prime Minister took his own seat and began to talk.
"So, Mister...Gaignun and Miss Yula, I was informed that you are hear to discuss a settlement between the Earth Alliance and ourselves, no?"
"Well actually, Prime Minister Justan, we were hoping you would have already begun talks with the EA about it, seeing as you are a Natural appointed to lead a colony of Coordinators." replied Cagalli.
Athrun quickly spoke up, issuing his own statement, "That was supposed to help push toward the union of Naturals and Coordinators. But from what I can tell, all you have done is live lavishly and exploit your own power."
"It seems your dog doesn't quite know his place, Miss Yula."
"He is not my dog, though he is correct. The way you are flip-flopping the subject, you seem to be the Earth Alliance's dog." retorted Cagalli.
"Hahaha. As we all know, the EA is crumbling. What true power do they really hold anymore? A weak nation that wants to revolt could strike down the EA's dominion."
"But from what I hear, you are in developments with ZAFT to produce Mobile Suits for them. You and I both know that is a violation of the Treaty signed, and could result in very harsh retaliation." piped up Athrun.
The Prime Minister leaned back into his seat, looking quite flustered at the statement Athrun had produced. Though this colony was a union of ZAFT and EA values, the EA diminished ZAFT's presence by instituting a Natural for the Prime Minister. But it seemed that Leonhold Justan was a corrupt individual and did an odd job for both sides. Heaving himself from his chair, he walked toward the window, glancing down from his perch at the people congregated below. His hand found his chin as he began to rub it, obviously in deep thought. Athrun finally spoke, breaking the awkward silence.
"Prime Minister Justan, we are here to urge you to stop whatever deals you have with ZAFT for the construction of Mobile Suits. You could cost the lives of thousands because of your selfishness."
Wheeling around, he glanced toward Athrun, a vindictive tone biting through his words, "Too bad. I can't stop it. Only the original blueprints for the Mobile Suits are here. Production had already begun in Augustus 4. But it was so nice of you to come by. You are dismissed."
The guards huddled around Athrun and Cagalli, moving in a tight rank to force them outside the doors. Cagalli stumbled only slightly, but Athrun caught her, helping her sustain her balance. They turned, walking toward the elevator. It was an awkward moment as they boarded the transportation. Eventually Cagalli spoke, an irritated tone noticeable.
"Good job, moron. You always have to speak without ration, huh? No matter, we should return to our ship and report back to the central Headquarters about where production is."
Athrun paused for a moment before finally speaking, "Sorry Cagalli. But he is mad. He is going to have everyone here killed if he continues with the treason. We...don't want another...Junius 7 incident."
At that moment Athrun seemed to drift away from her, crowding himself into his own little shell. She reached out, pressing her hand to his shoulder and giving a supportive squeeze. A smile danced across her beautiful face and Athrun nodded, stepping forward as the elevator doors opened. At that moment, he lost balance and fell toward the wall. An explosion had just rocked the colony, and with a swift determination, Cagalli and Athrun moved outside. Athrun glanced around before they point of origin caught his eye and he spoke.
"It came from the building that Prime Minister Justan said was their factory for food and vehicles!"
Cagalli and Athrun darted through the people scattered about, fearing for their lives. Athrun's heart began to race as he drew closer to the facility, catching a glimpse of soldiers moving from the flames and toward the docking port. Skidding to a stop, he noticed the last soldier moving had a wild mane of brown hair that resembled someone. Outstretching his arm, he hollered the words, "Kira Yamato!"
At that moment, the brown-headed soldier skid to a stop, pivoting around. The flames danced behind him as he looked upon the face of his best friend and realized that once again, they were on the opposite side of this conflict. Their eyes made contact and at that moment, the silence between them seemed to last an eternity...