Mobile Suit Gundam/Kido Senshi Gundam: Peacekeepers
By: Ominae
Rating: T
NOTE:
All characters and machines of the various Gundam eras belong to Yoshiyuki Tomino, Hajime Yatate, Fumihiko Takayama, Takeyuki Kanda, Umanosuke Iida, Mitsuko Kase, Takashi Imanishi, Masashi Mukaeda, Mitsuo Fukuda, Seiji Mizushima, Susumu Yamaguchi, Satoshi Konno, Junichi Kamino, Bandai, Level 5 and Sunrise. The use of Full Metal Panic! concepts/organizations belong to Shoji Gato. The use of Ghost in the Shell concepts/organizations/etc. belong to Masamume Shirow and Kenji Kamiyama. I only own Mark Liu for now.
Summary:
The Archangel manages to successfully rendezvous with OMNI/Atlantic Federation space force vessels. The journey does seem to be an easy one, but Rau Le Creuset plans to shadow the Archangel until he gets the right time to attack. Can Kira and the others contact Mithril to get reinforcements before they can be safely extracted? Stay tune to this chapter to find out.
Chapter 10: Disembark
Bridge, OMNIS Archangel, Lagrange 4, Space
Murrue had just ended communication with the Montgomery as the Archangel was already with the OMNI/Atlantic Federation advance force en route to the moon. She had been told by Sai that Flay was with Mir taking that needed shower of hers before she would meet with her father.
"I see." Murrue said after being informed. "At least one chapter can be closed."
"The other question is if Orb forces will come to get the refugees." Natarle told Murrue. "Besides, I don't think Orb has much space forces near the moon and everything, considering their neutral position."
"That is the question I'm thinking about..." Murrue replied. "All I know about the Orb Defense Forces is that most of their mobile suit forces are either purchased from mobile suit development companies or from power bloc countries, the PLANT and the Republic of Zeon." She frowned.
"It's not like we're going to know if shuttles will be provided for the refugees until later."
"You're right. In the meantime, let's start worrying about making it out alive with the refugees."
"Understood."
Murrue sighed and leaned on her command chair.
Briefing Room, MRS-70 Ptolemaios, Lagrange 4, Space
The Ptolemaios continued to follow the Archangel from a safe distance without being detected. Things are going well for the ship, considering that they're using the asteroid and debris to hide themselves.
"Listen up, everyone." Sumeragi told the Gundam pilots after they got in the briefing room. "Within hours, the Archangel will be with the OMNI's 8th Orbital Fleet. This fleet will be accompanied by Titans ships, which includes their flagship..."
Sumeragi showed them a map of space with the positions of the Archangel, the 8th Orbital Fleet and the Titans fleet in terms of their position near Earth.
"The Alexandria." Tieria calmly added, crossing his arms. "I'm not liking where this is going at all."
"I'll have to agree." Lockon agreed with Tieria. "If and when we extract Kira and the other refugees out of harm's way, there's a chance that the Titans will decide to get a bead on us before they can make it out alive."
"Which is why this plan of mine calls for swift extraction." Sumeragi told Lockon and Tieria. "Especially with ZAFT forces under Rau Le Creuset wanting to get another chance to attack the Archangel. I've already informed Colonel Bright about this and he agrees with me."
"In the past, Mithril would have had an easier time if we disguised ourselves as OMNI." Allelujah raised his concerns. "But with the atrocities they committed in the OYBW..."
"Will we expect reinforcements?" Setsuna asked Sumeragi.
Sumeragi nodded.
"The other part of the plan will involve some of our comrades disguising themselves as OMNI soldiers..." The Eurasian explained before she continued. "At least until they can get Kira and the others out safely, including Wang Liu Mei. The Argama will be involved to attack ZAFT forces trying to make a hit towards the Archangel. We'll be joining in to protect the rear from the Titans just in case they change their minds and decide to attack us while we extract them. The Titans themselves should be another problem for later."
"I guess that sounds like a plan..." Lockon chuckled while scratching the back of his head.
"When do we move?" Tieria asked Sumeragi.
"Anytime now..."
Enlisted Quarters Section, OMNIS Archangel, Lagrange 4, Space
Kira, Sai, Kuzzey, Mark, Wang and Hong met up once again in an empty room in the enlisted quarters, making the four Mithril SRT agents feel like it's a running gag.
"I feel it's a damn running gag for all I know." Kuzzey sighed after he and his comrades got together with Wang and Hong. "We're meeting here once again. Can't wait for this to spread like wildfire once we get back to base."
The Chinese socialite couldn't help, but giggle at Kuzzey's frustrations.
"So it seems we'll be linking up with another OMNI fleet." Kira told everyone inside the room. "If my combat gut's telling me right, it's the 8th Orbital Fleet. Alongside some Titans ships."
"This'll make extraction for all of us quite hard to do." Mark commented, sighing hard. "I just feel frustrated that I can't do anything."
"You're not the only one here." Sai told his SRT colleague. "I have a feeling that two ships will be needed to cover us."
"At least some of our colleagues should disguise themselves as OMNI personnel right?" Kuzzey asked Sai.
"Or they could just disguise themselves as a Titans ship." Hong told Kuzzey. The Chinese man told him. "But I doubt that it can work, considering the Titans' space headquarters was already relocated from Side 7."
"Dammit..." Kira gritted his teeth, not wanting to sit in his chair any longer. "The only way we can get out is for the some of the others to cover us and Ms. Sumeragi before the Ptolemaios gets attacked by either the Titans or ZAFT."
"I've received a message from the Ptolemaios an hour ago or so." Wang told the SRT agents. "They said to get ready once the Archangel meets up with the 8th Orbital Fleet."
"That's probably the only time when the guys can sneak in disguised as OMNI personnel." Kuzzey suggested.
"That would be the best way." Mark told Kuzzey. "Assuming they won't get caught."
"For now, we better get ready." Hong told the SRT agents. "We're going to be in for a long ride."
Briefing Room, Argama, en route to the Moon, Lagrange 4, Space
Bright greeted all the pilots who got in the Argama's briefing room, including Kamille.
"I'm glad everyone's inside." Bright said before he started the briefing. "Just to put all of you in the same picture, we'll be responsible for ensuring the safety of our fellow Mithril agents and the refugees out of the Archangel."
"I have a question." Kamille raised his hand up, which was acknowledged by Bright. "What about the others going in to get the refugees..."
"Ah..." Bright nodded, understanding what Kamille wanted to say at the end despite the fact that he didn't finish it. "Unfortunately, the plan that called for the use of Orb soldiers won't work since the top brass, intelligence included, are worried of the suspicion problem that the plan may have. Instead, they'll go in disguised as OMNI soldiers." When the British man heard some groans, he further explained. "At least until they can get the shuttles to the Archangel before withdrawing."
"I guess that makes sense." One of the Mithril pilots said.
"I see." Said another.
"When do we mobilize, Colonel Bright?" The familiar-looking blond Mithril pilot with shades asked Bright, who had a red sleeveless jacket worn over his SRT BDU.
"Anytime now, Captain Quattro." Bright told the shades-wearing man. "As soon as we're going to approach the 8th Orbital Fleet, which is where the Archangel will rendezvous with eventually in a few hours."
"You mean that we'll meet up with any Titans ships?" Apolly Bay, a Mithril SRT pilot with the rank of 1st Lieutenant, asked Bright after Quattro had his question answered.
"We will, Lieutenant Apolly." Bright told Apolly. "Intelligence has also confirmed that ZAFT forces will try another round to finish off the Archangel, even before they could get the refugees out towards Orban territory."
"That's terrible." Emma remarked after hearing what Bright said.
"Indeed it is." Bright agreed with Emma. "Which is why we'll be working together with the Ptolemaios in this operation, since they've been shadowing the Archangel for quite some time now."
"At least we'll have some backup." Roberto, another Mithril SRT pilot with the same rank as Apolly and Emma, grinned. "Can't wait to see their Gundams in action with us."
"Our equipment is shielded from their GN particles, right?" Kamille asked Bright, concern shown all over his face.
Bright nodded. "Don't worry. All mobile suits and armor, warships and vehicles included, in Mithril service have anti-jamming equipment that blocks GN particles. That also includes Minovsky and N-Jammer particles as well."
"Excuse me, Lieutenant Colonel Noa!"
Bright looked at the sliding door to his left, which opened up to reveal a blond man with an oval-shaped face and pointy-like nose.
"Ah, Corporal Samarn."
Corporal First Class Samarn was in charge of the Argama's comm systems, while having the secondary position manning the navigation, working alongside Corporal Caesar.
"Here." Samarn handed Bright a printed note.
Bridge, OMNIS Archangel, near Lagrange 1, Space
"Okay." Arnold spoke to Murrue. "I'm getting visual glimpses of the 8th Orbital Fleet." The Asian-looking man stopped before he continued. "Alongside some Titans ships..."
Murrue and the bridge crew could see blinking lights from various Agamemnon, Drake, Nelson, Magellan-Kai and Salamis-Kai class ships, indicating the presence of most of the 8th Fleet.
"The Alexandria is among the ships in the Titans fleet with the fleet, captain." Romero told Murrue after confirming the ship's IFF frequency.
"Thanks for the update." Murrue thanked Romero for the update. And of all the people I should meet in my OMNI career.
"We're getting a transmission from the Menelaos, captain."
"All right. Put it on screen."
"I'm glad to see everyone's up and about." Murrue and the bridge crew were greeted by the face of Rear Admiral Lewis Halberton from the bridge of the Menelaos.
Romero gave the thumbs up to Murrue and told her that the connection to the ship is now clear.
"Same here, Admiral." Murrue stood up from the command chair and saluted the Rear Admiral. Everyone else did the same, including Tolle, Sai, Kuzzey and Mir.
Halberton saluted back before he told the Archangel bridge crew. "I'll be heading to the Archangel for an inspection to see how the ship's going with Secretary Allster and some Titans officers for protection. I'll also see if I talk to the Orban refugees for a few minutes before I'll get shuttles ready for transport to the Orb Union."
"That's very much appreciated, Admiral."
Corridor, near Infirmary OMNIS Archangel, near Lagrange 1, Space
Mark was in one of the Archangel's corridors to visit Kira, who went to check with the doctor before he and the other Mithril agents/observers would join up with the rest of the refugee body and evacuate back to Earth.
"Yo." Mark greeted Kira, who had just left the infirmary. "Everything okay?"
"Doc checked me out and said injuries aren't a problem now."
"Sounds great."
"Are we linking up?"
"Should be. I heard that we could be meeting with the Rear Admiral... alongside some unpleasant people."
"Yeah, I get that feeling."
Hong came running down the corridor, meeting the two of them.
"You guys..." Hong spoke to Kira and Mark. "Looks like things are moving a bit faster than expected."
"The Rear Admiral's here?" Kira asked.
The Chinese man nodded.
"I better go. I'm technically part of the Archangel's crew for the meantime."
"See ya later then, Kira."
Mark saw Kira off before he faced Hong.
"What then?"
"My mistress is making preparations to move out as well with the rest of the refugees."
"Let's go."
Mark and Hong walked down the corridor, heading back to see Wang.
Mobile Weapons Hangar, OMNIS Archangel, near Lagrange 1, Space
Kira had just met with Sai and Kuzzey after he got in the hangar, the former telling him that they about to greet some officers from the Menelaos in an Enterprise-class shuttle or two from the Menelaos after it arrived inside the Archangel's hangars.
"What about the Titans?" Kira asked as he walked towards the formation of OMNI personnel lining up to greet the Rear Admiral.
"Word is that they'll in the other shuttle that arrived recently, but we don't know who's who in the group." Kuzzey told Kira, ensuring his OMNI uniform is fixed up.
The trio already formed up with the others to line up when the plane steps were positioned below the shuttle doors. A few minutes later, they opened up to reveal Rear Admiral Lewis Halberton and a Caucasian man in his 50s with a bald head, which was cleverly hidden by his peaked cap. They noted that the man sported a toothbrush mustache. It was obvious that the officer accompanying Halberton was his XO.
"Looks like all the officers are looking good, especially the L.T. and the Ensign." Sai whispered to Kira since the two were standing at attention next to each other.
"Yeah." Kira whispered back. He glanced to his right, given that he, Sai and Kuzzey were standing at attention near the end of the line with Mir and Tolle. So Lt. La Flaga had the time to look good. Not that I blamed him.
The brown-haired teenager noted that Admiral Halberton was talking to Murrue, followed by Natarle and Mu.
So is this the last time we see each other?
After Admiral Halberton disembarked from his shuttle, a couple of Titans soldiers stepped down the plane steps. Kira, Sai and Kuzzey deduced that they were MPs, having the MP armband and ballistic helmet visible while having Colt M62A2 assault carbines slinged behind on their shoulders. Their all-black uniforms were clearly visible to everyone in the hangar.
"Titans..." Kuzzey murmured, gritting his teeth.
"Yeah." Sai watched the Titans MPs taking their positions at the bottom of the plane steps. The next person to come out was a man in his 40s with blond hair with a tootbrush mustache. The man had a black and red Titans uniform with black toe cap toe Oxford shoes, indicating that he was not a frontline officer.
"Look..." Kira whispered to Sai and Kuzzey. "It's him."
Sai nodded before he whispered. "It's Jamaican Daninghan."
"I don't like the look on his face already."
A few minutes after Admiral Halberton spoke to Murrue and the officers responsible for the Archangel alongside the other personnel available to greet the Admiral, the man went to see Kira and the others who had helped ensure the Archangel's operational status.
"I personally can't believe it when I was told that kids like you had helped Lieutenant Ramius escape from Heliopolis to the moon." Halberton began, personally thanking the Heliopolis students. "For that, I thank you."
Halberton took his time to shake hands with Kira, Sai, Kuzzey, Tolle and Mir before Halberton told them more good news. "We've asked the Orban government to help check in with any survivors. Let me say that your relatives are safe."
"Thank goodness." Tolle gave high fives to Sai and Kuzzey.
"Nice news, huh Mir?" Kira smiled when he asked Mir.
Mir nodded, about to cry when Kira comforted her by giving her a hug.
"Thanks, Kira." Mir whispered when she hugged Kira back.
"For now," Halberton told the Heliopolis students before informing Murrue that everyone can fall out. "we'll do everything we back to ensure your safe return back to Orb."
"Thank you, Admiral." Kira told Halberton.
"Not a problem, young man." Halberton replied before he faced Jamaican. "I'll be in a meeting with the surviving officers in a few minutes..."
Jamaican nodded and sighed, like he was bored. "Sure, sure. I'll go do a visual inspection of the Archangel and make sure the ship's alright. Meanwhile, I'll let the Alexandria be in charge of conducting perimeter security until you guys can get shuttles ready for the refugees to use before and after they can get back to Orb."
Halberton's XO whispered some words to Admiral Halberton, who nodded in return. The Admiral told the students. "All right, Captain Hoffman. You guys can head back to what you're doing. I've been informed that a shuttle or two will be made ready for the refugees to use prior to returning back to Orban territory."
"How long is that, Admiral?" Tolle asked Admiral Halberton.
"Give or take at least an hour."
"Thanks a lot, sir." Mir thanked the Admiral before she and the others left the hangar.
"Anything I need to know?" Halberton asked Hoffman as they went to the direction of the commander's office.
"There is a Chinese socialite named Wang Liu Mei." Hoffman replied. "She's not a concern, but she seemed to be in the wrong place at the wrong time."
"Ah. I heard of her. She's the current head of the Wang family in China when her family declared her older brother couldn't be the next family head. Such a shame."
"Indeed sir. One more thing, there's also an Orb Metropolitan Auxiliary police officer on board. Although he's armed, he's only using his issued weapons to protect the refugees until they can get back to Orb."
"Interesting fellow. Perhaps I can see him later on."
"If there is enough time, Rear Admiral."
Cafeteria, OMNIS Archangel, near Lagrange 1, Space
The cafeteria looked a bit empty as Hong led Mark to see the Chinese socialite.
"I see that you're armed." Wang remarked, seeing his Morgenroete SMC-1 slinged behind his back.
"And I see that you're still good in being a snarker as always." Mark glared at Wang, who simply smirked at him.
"Mistress." Hong spoke to Wang, standing next to him since she was seated down at a table bench. "A Titans officer has boarded the ship to conduct security while the Admiral is here to speak to the surviving officers."
"Ah..." Wang nodded. "It seems that they most likely will speak of the fate of the Gundam Kira took from Heliopolis."
"I don't know about you." Mark sighed. "But I can't wait to get off this ship once the Admiral gives the word."
"My, aren't you excited for a fight?"
"Mistress, what about the Titans soldiers?" Hong asked Wang for advise.
The socialite shook her head and replied. "Leave them alone. It's not like they knew who I really am."
"Understood."
Corridor, OMNIS Archangel, near Lagrange 1, Space
Murrue and Natarle found themselves in one of the Archangel's many corridors after the two had left the bridge, putting the crew in charge of the ship's operation until they can get back.
"I need to ask about the Strike, captain." Natarle spoke to Murrue. "Do you have any plans for it?"
"What plans?" Murrue asked the ensign. "What are you getting at?"
"Everyone knows it. We were only able to make it this far because of the mobile suit's incredible capabilities and because he's the only piloting it."
Murrue couldn't help, but feel upset about this. Kira?
"Are you letting him go too?"
For that, she didn't answer him. Instead, the brown-haired woman opted to float down the corridors thanks to zero gravity.
"Captain!"
Murrue sighed when Natarle shouted so that the former can give a reply.
And here I thought that she didn't want Kira to pilot the Strike in the first place.
"I understand what you're trying to say, Natarle." Murrue replied, being weary of Natarle's suggestion. "Believe me. However, Kira Yamato is not an OMNI soldier."
"I know." Natarle said, knowing Kira's "current" situation. "But his abilities are invaluable to us. We cannot afford to lose them."
"Regardless of what potential he might bring to the military, we cannot force him to volunteer." Murrue sternly told Natarle, shooting her suggestions down.
With that, Murrue further moved down the corridor by floating with the aid of zero gravity.
She wanted to thank Kira for helping the ship and the refugees survive after all.
Mobile Weapons Hangar, OMNIS Archangel, near Lagrange 1, Space
Murrue was hearing familiar voices as she was about to enter the hangar. They consisted of Kira, Mu and Murdoch talking about how the Strike would be handled since Kira does need to depart eventually and evacuate back to Orban terrestrial territory for his safety.
The woman heard about the concerns of the Strike's OS and if the ship can find another pilot who can manage to use the OS Kira worked on, which worked since he was of a Coordinator background.
"Well then, let's hope that we can find someone who can pilot the Strike effectively."
Kira turned around to see her, with half of his body inside the Moebius Zero cockpit since he had agreed to help Mu conduct an overhaul on the mobile armor.
"Oh, captain." Kira greeted Murrue.
"What this? To what do we owe the honor?" Mu asked Murrue.
Murrue floated next to the Moebius Zero before she answered. "Nothing much. The Admiral's doing an inspection of the ship and talking to some of the refugees, so I just want to talk to Kira for a few minutes before I'll be summoned to see him."
"Huh?" Kira was a bit surprised since he rarely met officers who would get the chance to talk to their subordinates.
"Oh don't give me that suspicious look. Although I can't say I blame you."
Mu chuckled at the exchange between the two. "Go on, Kira. I'll give you and the captain enough time to be alone."
"Great." Kira mumbled.
"Come with me, Kira." Murrue told Kira as they went towards the direction of the unmanned Strike in order to get some privacy time.
Commander's Office, OMNIS Archangel, near Lagrange 1, Space
Rear Admiral Halberton and his XO got inside the commander's office, a bit tired but delighted to see that the Archangel is looking okay.
"It's good to see the Archangel is looking fine in shape despite everything ZAFT has thrown against them." The XO commented as the Admiral sat down behind the commander's desk.
"Indeed." Halberton nodded. "Plus there the fact that the Strike's pilot is a Coordinator from Orb. Quite troubling considering the Atlantic Federation doesn't have an OS capable of allowing anyone else to pilot it."
"The only way we can solve this is to get someone who can pilot it like a Coordinator."
"Oh god. Don't tell me about those rumors on those... What are they called? Combat Coordinators?"
The XO didn't answer.
"Sometimes I just wonder if the Titans are partly responsible for influencing Alaska to their sick ways..."
Bridge, ZMS Vesalius, approaching Lagrange 1, Space
Ades had just finished chatting with the bridge crew when he came back to speak with Le Creuset, who was checking with a ZAFT Green on the updates on the digital tactical map table.
"Commander Le Creuset." Ades greeted the masked, blond ZAFT White officer.
"Anything?" Le Creuset asked Ades.
"We've received transmissions from the Gamow and the Ziegler a few minutes ago." Ades told Le Creuset. "They should join up with us soon."
"The enemy hasn't noticed us yet, right?"
"Not yet. It seemed they're trying to adjusting their positions to be able to descend to Alaska. Looks like my initial thoughts about the moon wasn't right after all."
"Don't beat yourself over that. But I say that it's time that we finish them while they're still in our backyard." Le Creuset grinned at Ades. "What say you, Ades?"
Ades felt a bit nervous from the grin, but kept his cool. "Well, the Ziegler has six GINNs ready and the Gamow has the Buster and the Duel ready to go since repairs are halfway done with the Blitz." He then continued. "We have five GINNs ready to go and the Aegis can be deployed at any time."
Le Creuset nodded, hearing Ades' reply. "The infamous Halberton. It's about time that he took his final curtain call."
Mobile Weapons Hangar, OMNIS Archangel, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
"I didn't have free time to talk to you ever since we escaped Artemis."
Murrue told Kira as they looked at the deactivated Strike.
"Oh..." Kira was at a loss to say.
"I know I've put a lot of things onto your shoulders." Murrue faced Kira, standing directly in front of him. "Well, I just want to thank you properly this time."
"Um.. Ah..." The brown-haired teenager felt a bit embarrassed by the woman thanking her, considering that she drew her sidearm at his face moments ago, which felt like yesterday. "It's okay..."
"I'm truly grateful for what you done ever since we escaped from Heliopolis." Murrue smiled, placing a hand over her chest for emphasis. "Some of the others may not have the strength to say it in front of you, but I'll be one of those who can say it with dignity." Murrue came close to place her hand gently over Kira's right shoulder.
"Uhh..." Kira had to fight off a blush coming to his cheeks. "N-no problem. I guess."
"I imagine that things will be hectic when you get back to Orb?" Murrue asked the Coordinator, curious about what will happen to him next.
"I think so." Kira replied. "I mean, the college is destroyed. But since me, Sai and Kuzzey are done with Orban National Service a bit earlier..."
"So you're joining the Orb military?" Murrue asked, remembering that Kira didn't want to fight initially by piloting the Strike.
"I don't know." Kira shrugged. "I could join civil defense or with the police. But the military's not a bad option."
"You have an idea on what to do next?"
"Probably special forces could be an option aside from the Guards." Kira had a grin on his face.
"You in the special forces?" For some reason, Murrue couldn't exactly picture Kira going through enemy lines with a combat knife and a silenced pistol picking off enemy soldiers.
"But for now, I may need some time off due to what happened with Heliopolis. I might have to see some of my relatives. Same goes for the others."
"There you are!"
Mu shouted as he floated towards Murrue. "Just got a call from the bridge! We're needed to see Admiral Halberton ASAP!"
Murrue nodded before she faced Kira. "I'm sorry, Kira. But I need to go."
"Uh, sure." Kira replied. "Good luck with the Admiral."
"Thanks, Kira. Maybe I'll see if I can talk to you before you leave." The brown-haired woman smiled before she touched Kira's right shoulder again, lightly squeezing it. "You be careful, okay?"
"I will." Kira watched Mu and Murrue leave the hangar, floating with zero gravity since the two officers are needed by Admiral Halberton.
Corridor, near Commander's Office, OMNIS Archangel, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
"I'm glad to see you, daddy."
"And I'm glad to see you too, Flay."
Flay and George spent a few seconds hugging each other, with the former almost crying in tear considering what she had went through after the destruction of Heliopolis. Sai was there to provide Flay some emotional support. She was silently grateful to him.
"Dad's sorry that you had to go through all of this." George told his daughter after he told Sai to tell him the details of what he and Flay had went through after escaping Heliopolis. Thankfully, Sai was able to omit details that consisted of him, Kira, Kuzzey and Mark rampaging around Artemis, killing some European Federation OMNI soldiers with the base's commanding officer assassinated. He also didn't tell how there was collateral damage with ordinary EF soldiers and staff killed when the asteroid base blew up thanks to planted explosives alongside their EF OMNI counterparts.
Yup. Good thing I didn't tell George about the rampage we went through was taken literally from a black ops novel.
"So Sai, is is true that the mobile suit was piloted by a Coordinator?" George asked Sai calmly after he released Flay from his embrace.
"Uh... Yes." Sai answered quickly. "He's Kira Yamato and he's a good friend of mine. We go way back."
"Ah. So I see." George nodded, hearing Sai's reply. "Then I personally must thank this young man before you and the others are scheduled to leave the ship."
"I'm sure Kira would appreciate it. But I don't know where he is. Last I saw him is from the hangar."
As George continued to talk to Sai, Mu and Murrue entered the commander's office wearing peaked caps. This also included Mu having his sleeves rolled down to look presentable before a high-ranking officer.
Commander's Office, OMNIS Archangel, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
"I'm glad you two made it."
Admiral Halberton greeted Mu and Murrue as they saluted together with Natarle, who had her peaked cap on already, towards the Admiral and Captain Hoffman.
"Now that we're all present," Admiral Halberton began after he ended his salute. "we can talk about certain issues that needs to be in our attention right away." The mustached man then sat down in the chair, putting his arms on the commander's desk.
The admiral cleared his throat before he started to talk. "For instance, I'm concerned about how ZAFT was insistent in taking out Heliopolis with heavy weaponry just to secure the Strike. Despite that, I can see that the Strike and the Archangel is a success."
Hoffman added in more details. "Indeed. Alaska is quite upset about the events in Heliopolis, followed by the destruction of Artemis, despite the recovery of the Archangel and the Strike. In fact," Hoffman faced his superior. "I don't think JOSH-A shares your views, Rear Admiral."
Natarle and Mu were alarmed by Hoffman's comments.
Halberton just felt upset when he heard his XO. "Bah. What do those people know about space warfare?" He faced Murrue. "Lieutenant Ramius has understood my intentions all along. There's nothing in this matter that can be considered a problem."
"Admiral..." Murrue murmured.
"On to the next point for now." Hoffman told the trio standing in front of Halberton. "Do we just agree to turn a blind eye on the Coordinator civilian named Kira Yamato once he evacuates from the Archangel?"
"Sir." Murrue tried to reason with Hofman and Halberton. "The only reason why Kira went to board the Strike is because he had friends among the Heliopolis refugees. Not to mention that he wants to make sure that no harm comes to them."
Natarle glared at Murrue while she continued to voice her position.
"We wouldn't have made it this far if it was not for the youngster. And even though there with unavoidable events beyond his control, Kira suffered greatly from fighting his fellow Coordinators."
Is she trying to do something?
Mu saw the glare Natarle and was a bit puzzled and troubled at the same time.
"He's a sincere, kind boy. And I believe we should respond to what he's done with our trust."
Hoffman wanted to agree with Murrue, but he had doubts. "I understand, Lieutenant Ramius. But if we let him go now..."
This was the cue Natarle needed to make her point. Mu and Murrue stared at Natarle as she stepped forward to the desk.
"Do you wish to say something that can help remedy the situation, Ensign Badgiruel?"
Briefing Room, Argama, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
Bright entered the briefing room again after being absent for a few minutes. There had been some murmurs on what had happened after Bright was called out of the briefing room.
"My apologies, ladies and gentlemen." Bright told the pilots and support personnel in attendance. "I've received word from intelligence that two of our ships had infiltrated the 8th Orbital Fleet disguised as one of their own. That includes a shuttle launched for our fellow Mithril agents as well."
"Are we still on schedule then?" Kamille asked Bright.
Bright nodded. "We are Kamille. We'll all be on immediate standby after we get word that the shuttle carrying our agents has left the Archangel and is approaching the Earth." He continued. "As I was saying, we'll be the main force in charge of protecting the shuttles in case ZAFT does show up. We don't have to worry about Axis yet. But be on your guard against them."
"As long as the Ptolemaios has our backs, I'm fine with this game plan for now." Roberto chuckled after hearing the update from Bright.
"Sounds like an idea, Colonel." Apolly nodded when he heard the news from Bright.
"This ends today's briefing, so be ready for deployment." Bright told everyone in the briefing room, ending the briefing as Mithril personnel began filing out.
Commander's Office, OMNIS Archangel, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
"If I may speak, Admiral Haberton." Natarle stepped forward after speaking up. "I do agree with Captain Hoffman."
Admiral Halberton raised an eyebrow, waiting to hear Natarle's reason why she backs his XO.
"His abilities are enough to open anyone's eyes." Natarle began to explain herself. "And since he knows a lot about the G Project, I'd think twice before allowing him to disembark."
Halberton began to frown. "But ZAFT has four G Project mobile suits. I don't think it's going to be a hidden secret anymore since it can be leaked to the news at any time."
"H-however..." Natarle tried to insist. "his strengths are invaluable! I believe it would be in our best interest if Kira joined up with OMNI."
"Oh?" Hoffman was greatly alarmed by Natarle's insistence.
"But according to what Lieutenant Ramius has told me..." Halberton told Natarle his reply. "he has no intention of joining the military."
Natarle added more details to put up for her defense. "Kira's parents are Naturals, currently living on Earth since the collapse of Heliopolis."
The black-haired woman then added. "If the military took them under its protection..."
This didn't bode well with the Admiral, who didn't like Natarle's euphemism when she mentioned "protection" for Kira's family.
"What you're saying is nonsense!" Admiral Halberton slammed his clenched fist on the desk, earning Natarle his anger. "If you keep that up, you'll be worse than those Titans who conducted some of the worst atrocities ever since the end of the One Year Bloody War! Do you understand me, ensign?"
"M-my apologies, Admiral!" Natarle shouted before she stepped back, knowing that her suggestion was shot down by the admiral himself.
Hoffman was taken aback at his anger towards Natarle's suggestion to keep Kira from leaving, considering that a majority of the officers in OMNI had no problems with the Titans as long as they can keep renegade Zeon forces in check while preventing another ZAFT attack towards Earth or pro-Earth space colonies and cities.
"Forget it." Admiral Halberton stood up from the chair before he spoke up. "What happened in the past is not important. The problem is what do we do from here."
Murrue looked at the admiral, wondering what he was trying to get at.
"We need to have the Archangel descend to JOSH-A right away." Admiral Halberton informed Mu, Murrue and Natarle. "That is for certain."
"The advance force has some personnel who we'll allocate until we can get the Archangel to JOSH-A. They should be getting here soon while the Titans provide security for the shuttles bringing the refugees back to Orb." Hoffman told the trio what was going to happen next.
"However," Halberton continued. "with the destruction of Heliopolis, it's more important that we secure the ship and the last G mobile suit with all the combat data you can acquire back to Alaska."
"But Admiral..." Murrue tried to reason with him. But it's clear that Halberton will not have any of that.
"We must get the G Project back on track. ZAFT will no doubt continue to send in new machines to the battlefield." Halberton sighed, cutting his subordinate off. "However, to those fools who keep spending on useless things for concessions, the number of soldiers lost on the battlefield is only a figure on the paper!"
Corridor, outside Commander's Office, OMNIS Archangel, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
Mark leaned on the wall in a corridor near the commander's office while Kuzzey listened in on the conversation in the office, placing his left ear on the sliding door. It was a good thing that Halberton had locked the door to keep anyone from interrupting.
"Heh." Kuzzey smirked. "If they only knew..."
"What's up?" Mark asked as Kuzzey stepped a few feet back from the door before walking down the corridor.
"Nothing much." Kuzzey told Mark. "Couldn't get much info since the door's in the way, except I though I heard about Kira being forced in OMNI service."
Mark shook his head. "And here I thought the ensign didn't want Kira to pilot the Strike in the first place."
"Well it seemed she suggested putting Kira's family until their protection." Kuzzey told Mark when he snickered. "Oh boy. Such funny euphemism. If she knew what happened to our families."
"I'd like to see what Kira's reaction is." Mark sighed.
"For now, I better get back with the others." Kuzzey told Mark. "Since we're going to leave soon, we may be given discharge papers just as a farce to show that we civilians aren't forced to join with OMNI."
"Never heard of OMNI doing that." Mark said, being in thought. "But I'm not surprised if they'll really consider doing it."
"Better split up for now."
"Right."
Kuzzey and Mark temporarily parted ways to prepare for their evacuation out of the Archangel.
Mobile Weapons Hangar, Argama, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
Kamille was being assisted in getting his Gundam Mark II ready. A few minutes ago, he and the other active pilots were told by Bright that the Archangel is preparing to get the refugees back towards Orb and that the Atlantic Federation ships have withdrawn since the Titans are taking over security for the prototype warship.
"You all set, Kamille?" Astonaige Medoz, chief maintenance officer with the rank of Master Sergeant, asked Kamille as the mechanic helped Kamille get in the Gundam Mark II's cockpit while the hangar was under zero gravity.
"I'm ready. Thanks." Kamille replied as he got into the Gundam Mark II's cockpit, sitting down before Astonaige lowered the cockpit hatch, sealing the cockpit area off from the outside world.
"Kamille..." Kamille heard a transmission coming through his mobile suit's comms.
"Yes, Roberto?"
"You still remember the game plan, right?"
Kamille went over the plan Roberto mentioned. Quattro would lead Apolly and Roberto to take down any ZAFT mobile suits coming to intercept the shuttles since it was possible that they could be perceived as evacuating OMNI personnel and not refugees. He and Emma would be their rear guard, being assisted by the Gundams from the Ptolemaios until the shuttles can get to Orb territory and at the same time, see if they can force ZAFT to withdraw. They are also assigned to attack Titans mobile suits in case they would be attacked.
"I still got it. It's not a problem."
"All right. See you out there, Kamille."
"Same here, Roberto. Thanks."
The Green Noa I native inhaled and exhaled, trying to relax before the upcoming operation.
You can do this, Kamille. It's not like you didn't know how to handle a mobile suit before.
Mobile Weapons Hangar, OMNIS Archangel, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
Mark was in the hangar, helping Titans MPs provide security for the shuttles as the Heliopolis refugees were beginning to board the first one with the other one in standby. The Mithril undercover agent had to surrender the MMI-made submachine gun to the Titans since he had no choice, given that they have greater authority than him. He was lucky that he didn't have to hand in his personal OMPF-issued weapons.
Oh well. Not like I had a need for it anyway. There are other small arms worth using.
Mark then took sight of Mir, Kuzzey, Sai and Tolle, already wearing the same civilian clothes they had back in Heliopolis.
"Yo." Mark greeted the four. "Where... is Kira?"
"Talking to Mr. Allster." Tolle replied. "But check this out." He showed him his official discharge papers.
"OMNI discharge papers?" Mark was a bit "surprised" to see on in Tolle's hands. "What's the story?"
"Ensign Badgiruel and Captain Hoffman insisted that we take these." Mir explained to Mark. "The captain mentioned that the UN doesn't allow civilians to actively fight alongside OMNI forces, so we're treated as volunteer soldiers under the 8th Orbital Fleet."
"Indeed." Sai said. "Well, the only problem I have is that it'll be a headache with Orb National Service since Kuzzey, Kira and I finished ours recently."
Tolle smirked. "Heh, heh. You guys are in trouble."
Mir responded by smacking Tolle on the upside aka at the back of his head.
In turn, this made Sai and Kuzzey snicker at Tolle.
"Kids." Mark sighed. "I just hope Kira can make it before the shuttles launch out of here."
Corridor, near Mobile Weapons Hangar, OMNIS Archangel, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
Kira was about to get to the hangar when he heard the voice of Flay from behind, calling for his attention.
"Kira!"
Kira turned around to see Flay was coming, floating down the corridor with her father.
"Oh, Flay..." Kira greeted the red head.
"My father wants to talk to you before we get back to Earth." Flay told Kira before she introduced him to her father.
"I'm George Allster, Flay's father." George began to shake hands with Kira.
"Oh, I kinda heard about you." Kira said after hearing his name, shaking hands with the man. "Aren't you the recently appointed Secretary of State in the Atlantic Federation?"
George couldn't help but chuckle at Kira's question after he finished shaking hands with Kira. "Well at least this young man's keeping himself updated on what's happening in AF politics. You could learn a thing or two from him, Flay."
"Papa..." Flay fumed in anger.
George chuckled at Flay, patting her head. "Now, now. No need to get upset, Flay."
"Is there something you need to ask of, Mr. Allster?" Kira asked the AF politician. "Because frankly, I need to get to an Orban shuttle for immediate evacuation."
Flay huffed at her father.
"Oh yes..." George nodded. "I just want to say my thanks for making sure my Flay is protected."
"N-not at all, sir." Kira replied, feeling a bit flabbergasted since he was talking to an actual politician. "I-I'm glad to do everything I can to make sure she's safe with the other refugees. After all, I wanted to do some good once in my lifetime."
"Well that's good to hear, young man." George said before he faced Flay. "I guess you need to be on your way now, Flay."
"Yes, dad." Flay gave her dad a good hug. "I'll heading back to Orb with the others."
"If you'll excuse me, Flay. I need to speak with the rear admiral."
Murrue was on her way back to the bridge when she remembered that she needed to see Kira one more time. So, Murrue floated down the corridor that led to the hangar. On her way there, she caught a glimpse of George leaving and Flay heading inside the hangar by herself.
"Kira!" Murrue called out to the teenager.
"Oh, it's you." Kira greeted Murrue when she floated down the corridor before the woman landed down next to him.
"Are you leaving?" Murrue asked him.
"Yeah." Kira nodded. "Had to change from the OMNI uniform to my civilian clothes."
"I see." Murrue replied. "Well I guess it's goodbye for now. Hopefully, we can meet again under better circumstances."
"We can only hope." Kira smiled as he shook hands with Murrue.
"By the way," This earned a raised eyebrow from Kira. "have you experienced some strange dreams recently?"
"I guess so." Kira answered, a bit confused. "Is there something wrong?"
Murrue shook her head. "Just had a gut feeling that we've met before, but I can't seem to remember where."
"Oh." Kira said after hearing Murrue's answer. "I have the feeling that there is a link, but we just need to work things out on how that's connected to us..."
"Kira!"
Kira turned around to see that Sai was calling for him.
"Sorry, I need to go." Kira apologized as he prepared to depart.
"Of course." Murrue told the teenager. "Perhaps we can work that out in the future, yes?"
Kira stopped for a while before he had a blush on his cheeks. "I guess." He then told her. "Well, I'll see you then."
"Goodbye, Kira." Murrue waved goodbye to Kira, watching him enter the hangar alongside Sai.
Mobile Weapons Hangar, OMNIS Archangel, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
"Kira, there you are." Kuzzey ran over to Kira after Sai shouted to the group that Kira was with him. "Got your discharge papers."
"Thanks, Kuzzey." Kira replied to Kuzzey before he asked. "So what's happening?"
"We're waiting for you." Mark told Kira. "The first shuttle's empty and we told Flay, Mir and Tolle to go ahead. Ms. Wang, on the other hand, and her bodyguard alongside a few of the other refugees are boarding up on the other shuttle nearby."
"Oy!" A Titans MP called out to the group. "Are you guys boarding or not?"
"We're coming!" Sai shouted to the MP. "Come on, let's go."
"Right!" Kira, Kuzzey and Mark said in unison as they ran to the other shuttle for immediate boarding. Once they were at the plane steps, Mark showed his warrant card to the Titans MP in order to prove that he was an "actual" auxiliary police officer with the Orb Metropolitan Police Force before he boarded with the ex-Heliopolis-based college students.
The MP nodded and told him that he's the last one to get inside the shuttle.
Bridge, OMNIS Archangel, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
Natarle took charge of the bridge, informing everyone to be on the alert as the shuttles are being prepared for departure towards the Earth. Since Murrue wasn't around yet, the ensign was had the highest rank in the bridge for the meantime.
"Looks like things are going well, ensign." Romero told Natarle, checking his console for ZAFT ships or mobile suits. "Nothing suspicious to warrant a Titans intervention."
"Good work." Natarle said before hearing the doors to the bridge opening up.
"How are things doing?" Murrue asked before she took her seat in the commander's chair.
"The Rear Admiral's heading back to the Menelaos with Secretary Allster." Natarle proceeded to debrief Murrue on what happened before she got to the bridge. "Lieutenant La Flaga is on immediate standby..." She pressed a hand on her headset to check what was going on. "Captain. The shuttles are requesting to take off to Earth at once. The Alexandria hailed us a while ago and said that they'll provide security for the shuttles after they depart the Archangel."
"Very well." Murrue nodded once she was in her seat. "Have the shuttles take off at once."
"Understood, captain." Natarle replied to Murrue before the black-haired woman began speaking onto her headset to the shuttle pilots that they can depart at once.
Bridge, Argama, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
"Colonel Bright!"
Bright's attention was called on by Caesar, the main helsman in the Argama.
"What is it, Corporal?" Bright said after putting the phone handle back on the cradle in the right armrest of the commander's chair. Unlike Samarn, Caesar had the rank of Corporal.
"We've gotten word from intelligence that the shuttles are deployed. The Archangel has informed the 8th Orbital Fleet that they're going to be launched right now."
"All right. Make sure Captain Quattro is informed of this development immediately, Corporal Caesar."
"Yes, sir."
"Tell the Ptolemaios that we're going to start with Operation Safe Passage!"
"Understood, Colonel!"
Bridge, ZMS Vesalius, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
"Ades."
"Yes, commander?"
Ades and Le Creuset were at the digital tactical map table, studying for changes in the formation of the 8th Orbital Fleet.
"Have our mobile suits take off as soon as possible." Le Creuset said, pointing to Ades a possible path for their forces to take in facing off against OMNI forces in the area. "Since CIC caught word that there are still changes going on in their formation, I don't want to risk the opportunity of failure in capturing the legged ship permanently."
"Understood." Ades nodded after hearing Le Creuset's orders before shouting orders to the bridge crew to get all available mobile suit pilots to get into their mobile suits and prepare for immediate deployment after contacting the Gamow and the Ziegler to do the same.
"Let's see if the legged ship will survive this time with multiple mobile suits converging on them." Le Cresuet smirked. "This should be very easy for me."
Cockpit, RMS-099 Rick Dias
Apolly had just turned on the Rick Dias' power supply, starting up the mobile suit when he got an urgent transmission from the Argama's bridge that the shuttles are starting to depart from the Archangel.
Followed by the appearances of GINNs armed with MMI-M8A3 machine guns or M68 "Cattus" recoilless rifles. But they were told that they're just a few kilometers away before the 8th Orbital Fleet could see them.
"Apolly! Roberto! Remember what we're suppose to do!" Quattro hailed his wingmen with an urgent transmission of his own before he got onto one of the Argama's linear catapults and took off.
"Yes, sir!" Apolly manuevered his black-colored mobile suit onto a vacant spot on the second catapult. He took a glance and saw Roberto already beginning to take off with Kamille following him in the Flying Armor Sub-Flight System, which was deployed at his insistence to test out its capabilities. Emma was behind him with Quattro's red-colored Rick Dias.
"Apolly Bay! Rick Dias, heading out!" Apolly shouted before he got the catapult to deploy his mobile suit into the depths of space.
Bridge, MRS-70 Ptolemaios, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
"Ms. Sumeragi!" Christina called for Sumeragi. "I got word that the Argama has their mobile suits deployed."
"Looks like the Archangel's having the shuttles deployed to get the refugees back to Earth." Sumeragi murmured before she gave the order. "Have the Gundams deployed at once. We need them to support the Argama at once."
"Understood."
"Setsuna F. Seiei, Exia. Moving out!" Christina and Feldt heard Setsuna acknowledging himself before being deployed by the ship's catapult system.
"Looks like we're heading off to another fight." Lasse commented as he piloted the Ptolemaios.
"I just hope our guys can get out alive." Lichty sighted, helping Lasse pilot the ship around the lagrange area.
The crew heard Lockon take off, followed by Tieria as he was setting up Virtue on the catapult. A few seconds later, he was cleared for immediate deployment. This was before Allelujah came next with the Kyrios.
"Feldt." Sumeragi called for the young girl. "See if you can patch me with the Argama."
"Right away, Ms. Sumeragi."
"Allelujah Haptism, Kyrios. I'm moving out!"
Cabin, Enterprise-class Shuttle, en route to Earth
"It seems we're going to have a battle right now."
Wang commented, taking a glance to see some of the mobile suits being deployed from the 8th Orbital Fleet. She was seated in the front row next to Hong. On the adjacent side, Kira was seated next to Kuzzey.
"Looks like ZAFT's around the corner now." Mark sighed, leaning back on his seat. He was seated behind Wang, next to Sai.
Some of the refugees behind them were murmuring, wondering if they'll survive as the shuttles were now proceeding towards the Earth. A few of them took glances on the cabin windows to see OMNI mobile suits deployed with weapons at the ready.
"I know." Sai nodded when he heard Mark. The glasses-wearing teenager looked outside to see what mobile suits the 8th Orbital Fleet had deployed. "Looks like RMS-179 GM IIs."
"I thought they'd have GM IIIs by now at least since was updating their mobile suits after the OYBW." Mark commented on their presence.
"I hope the orbital elevators are out of combat range." Kira murmured. "You never know when we're going to be in the crosshairs."
Cockpit, MSN-00100 Hyaku Shiki
Here they come!
Quattro aka Char Aznable had previously radioed Apolly and Roberto to get ready as they were now approaching the Enterprise-class shuttles. Even though the odds may seem to be against them, the blond man was pretty sure the Titans have a few aces ready to protect the Menelaos since it has the rear admiral and an important AF politician.
"Apolly! Roberto! Take on any GINNs trying to make a shot at the Menelaos!"
"Understood, Captain!"
"And don't damage the orbital elevators!"
"Yes, sir!"
He began to visually spot one of the GINNs trying to take aim with its machine gun at the shuttles.
Over my dead body!
The Hyaku Shiki's targeting system began to lock onto the nearest machine gun-wielding GINN. After a lock on was confirmed, Quattro fired the Hyaku Shiki's beam rifle and watched the GINN explode after he saw the beam shots made contact with the enemy mobile suit.
"Haaahhh!" The gold mobile suit continued to fire its beam rifle at any GINNs coming towards the shuttles, stopping momentarily to reload.
Roberto came to cover Quattro, the blond pilot seeing his mobile suit fire its AE/ZIM.C-BAZ-531 Clay Bazooka several times to destroy incoming GINNs.
"Captain!" Roberto hailed Quattro on his comms. "The Ptolemaios has hailed us on our comms! Their Gundams are already starting to cover our backs."
"Tell them I said my thanks."
"Yes, sir."
Quattro sighed when he had the beam rifle reloaded.
Now would be a good time for the mega bazooka launcher to be used. If not for the fact that the Methuss wasn't available for the moment.
Cabin, Enterprise-class Shuttle, en route to Earth
"I knew he'd come." Kuzzey whispered to Kira after seeing the Hyaku Shiki take out a GINN.
"Yeah." Kira whispered as well to avoid any attention towards them. "I just hope they can distract ZAFT long enough for us to get to Earth safely."
"Well as long as we're not near any orbital elevator, we should be fine."
"I just hope ZAFT thinks the same way."
The two glanced aside to see Wang and Hong, watching if they were looking outside to see Quattro and the Rick Dias piloted by Apolly and Roberto engage the GINNs in mobile suit combat.
There was an explosion that took place near the shuttle they were riding in, but it was not enough to deliberately damage the shuttle in any way.
"How much longer now?" Kira murmured.
"My mistress." Hong whispered to get the socialite's attention. "Are you all right?"
"Don't worry Hong Long." Wang told her bodyguard with confidence. "With the captain piloting his gold mobile suit, victory will eventually come to Mithril. Even if they'll have to let the Titans get to work in defending the 8th Orbital Fleet."
The ponytailed man could only nod.
Mobile Weapons Hangar, TS Alexandria, near Lagrange 1, Space
"I want all of the Marasais to be deployed at once! We've visually confirmed the presence of GINNs and the stolen G mobile suits!"
Titans crewmen directed the Marasais to the dual catapults, being the first to launch out of the Titans flagship.
"Let's show these Coordinators who they're messing with." Kacricon Cacooler told to the other Marasai via his own mobile suit's external speakers.
He saw the monoeye of the other Marasai staring at his own before the pilot of the other Marasai replied.
"Sure, Kacricon. Jerid Messa will show them who's the boss."
A Titans crewman gestured to Jerid Messa's Marasai via light wand that he should be cleared for take off anytime now.
"Lieutenant Jerid Messa, you're cleared for take off." Jerid received a transmission from the Alexandria's bridge that he is allowed to move out.
"Understood, bridge." Jerid replied before positioning his mobile suit on the catapult.
Here goes.
"Jerid Messa! Marasai, heading out!"
The blond Titans officer allowed the catapult to launch his Marasai, heading out to confront any GINNs trying to make a move on the 8th Orbital Fleet.
A few minutes after Jerid took off from the Alexandria, Kacricon had his Marasai positioned on another catapult. The Titans crewman gestured to him that the path is cleared up, which is shown when the catapult lights turned green to indicate that it was his turn to move.
"Kacricon Cacooler! Marasai, moving out!"
Bridge, OMNIS Archangel, somewhere in Lagrange 1, Space
Be safe, Kira.
Murrue said a silent prayer for Kira after his shuttle had taken off, witnessing a battle between ZAFT, OMNI and the Titans. She was not surprised to see Mithril mobile suits intervene, watching Exia and Kyrios team up to take down a GINN armed with a machine gun aimed at the shuttles.
"Captain." Natarle called for Murrue's attention. "It seems M has intervened once again."
"Indeed they did, ensign." Murrue replied to the ensign. "Now I guess it'll be up to them to help the 8th Orbital Fleet ensure the survival of the shuttles back to Earth."
"Don't you think we should be moving back to Alaska right now?"
"Not yet. We may get in the way of the shuttles heading to Orb."
"Captain." Jackie called for Murrue's attention from the CIC station. "It seems that the M mobile suits are putting up a fight assisting the GM IIs against the GINNs."
"I'm getting a GINN approaching the Archangel!" Romero shouted from his station. "And it's coming for the front...!"
"Oh my god..." Murrue saw the GINN was about to use the MA-M3 Heavy Sword to pierce the ship's cockpit when it was tackled from the side by the Mark II.
"Take this!" Kamille shouted, tackling the GINN from the side before the Gundam Mark II shot its beam rifle at the offending GINN several times once it was far away from the Archangel. Murrue saw Emma's Rick Dias moving past the bridge, firing its beam pistols to cover the Gundam Mark II from any sneak attacks.
"It looks we owe M again for saving our lives."
Chapter 10 END
PS - Another chapter come and gone, ladies and gentlemen. Do note the Lieutenant Colonel part for Bright's Commander rank since the revamped Mithril is based on army ranks. Same goes with Captain for Quattro (aka Char)'s Lieutenant rank. Otherwise, nothing much to say except that I hope you enjoyed this chapter so far.
Finally I was able to make a fic where Kira does leave the Archangel for good after piloting the Strike a few times. Not sure if there are fics out there that does depict what I did... Oh well.
I watched some Gundam AGE to check out Romi Park as Shanalua Mullen. She was in 3 episodes and HNNNNGGGG...! Why did she have to die? Because of that, I ship Kio/Shanalua. No doubt about it.
Apologies for the late upload. Been busy with me, especially with me trying to catch a little break here and there.
In the meantime, do let me know how the chapter is.