A/N

Here is Phase 38, hope you enjoy it!

Phase 38: Looming Attack

June 16th 71 C.E.

The Orb Union

Uzumi couldn't remember a day longer and more stressful than the last two and the current one in the last few years. Orb's council hadn't left the government administration complex for the third day, most having slept in their offices. When news that the Republic had received what was essentially an ultimatum from the Alliance, the tension building rose sharply. Uzumi would've felt sorry for Ellen and having to deal with keeping the citizens of the Republic, but he didn't get the time. On June Fifteenth, a very similar message came to Orb. Uzumi had known the Alliance wouldn't leave Orb alone, not after it had joined the Human Federation. Even if not publicly admitting it, the Alliance had made it clear that they detested the Federation's neutrality.

They had been "requesting" the Federation to help them in their war for years, even when they weren't supposed to. At first, it had been them asking to help them protect Earth from ZAFT, putting it in a "nice" way before Orb joined the Federation. After the member nations had firmly refused that at the time, the Alliance had changed its tactics. They had tried just asking for "aid" and "assistance" with their efforts against ZAFT. The Alliance had put it much as they were now with them "protecting the world" from those they claimed were going to invade it. Their real intentions were not well-hidden, leading the Federation to have the treaties they did with the other factions. Their most recent actions violated the Ordea Treaty, which kept peace between the Alliance and the Federation. The message had subtly morphed over the years to bring it to the message that Orb had received from them.

Additionally, the news broadcast that had been going on during OMNI's attempted invasion of the Republic had been problematic. It had been done by an independent news network that had been at a distance from the fighting. Uzumi had watched the images from that along with the feeds from the Information Network as the battle had happened. He respected and applauded the efforts of the Republic's defenders, they were to be commended. To wish to protect one's home was a natural urge, which some took advantage of. The Federation was thankfully not one of those. Uzumi just wished the brave men and women didn't need to rise up and stand against oppressors. The other thing the broadcast and the feeds did was give a view for Orb what type of attacks they would face soon. Uzumi knew that his top admirals had been studying the footage and preparing the best they could for what was coming.

If Orb hadn't been a member of the Federation, the circumstances would be far direr for the nation than they already were. Uzumi didn't want to imagine how Orb would fare if they fought the Alliance alone. Orb would likely fall if they were forced to manage with their own military forces against OMNI. However, with Orb being a member nation of the Federation, their military forces had been coming and building up since joining. And thankfully, none of the incoming Federation personnel had been rejected or feared by Orb's citizens. If anything, they had been welcomed and became good citizens of Orb, adding to their diversity and strength. Then the addition of the Federation's military forces had bolstered Orb's own fighting strength, and Uzumi felt it would give them more than a fighting chance to repel OMNI.

Of course, there were contingencies in place should the worst happen. Uzumi wouldn't give the Alliance an advantage over others, and he hoped it wouldn't come to that. However, Uzumi couldn't be sure of the Alliance's action, for they had changed ever since they lost Panama to ZAFT. What had happened at JOSH-A was an atrocity when one looked at it logically. The Alliance's actions were horrible, but they were spinning them in a way to gain support, but that wasn't enough for them. It was more like they had lost a reason to put up any face of civility or use of manners and only sought to win their war by whatever means necessary. Then their attack on the Republic had, in essence, declared war on the Federation even if they had made no official announcement of the intention. At least, that was how the Federation was taking the actions of the Alliance. The Federation was mobilizing and securing the member nations' borders, among other tasks they were doing.

The reports from the Information Network, the Republic's forces had been victorious. However, they took losses that were still being counted, but the estimates weren't looking good. Of course, any losses were terrible, but with war, they were expected even when they were sad. It showed that Orb would experience losses against OMNI, even in the best-case scenario. And yet, Uzumi knew that every soldier of Orb would volunteer to fight to protect their home. They were all told there was a chance they would die in the defense, but from what Uzumi had been told, such had not deterred any. And while Uzumi was proud of Orb's defenders, like he didn't doubt Ellen had thought, they shouldn't have to put their lives on the line.

Uzumi sighed, turned off the feeds he'd been studying, and rose since there was to be a council meeting shortly. As he traveled, Uzumi could see the signs of contained worry to panic in the secretarial and governmental staff went about their business. The tension was high with the attack on the Republic that occurred yesterday, so that Uzumi could sympathize with the contained feelings. Uzumi was concerned about Ellen and the stress she was undoubtedly under. His friend had been forced to witness her nation assaulted, some of its defenders giving their lives to protect it. Ellen had given almost two decades of her life to the Republic to make it the beautiful and peaceful country it was now. And if any claimed the woman was a workaholic as he could sometimes be, Ellen had a family with two children and managed to be a good mother while she'd been the Republic's leader. So, no one should have to go through what Ellen was, even when Uzumi knew he would have his own version of such to compare with her soon enough.

Ellen was a longtime friend of Uzumi's, who he was grateful for. She had done wonders to help his Cagalli work through her hard times. Uzumi couldn't forget that Ellen had helped both him and Cagalli through the loss of his wife. Then she had also been a strength for Cagalli as she went through puberty. Uzumi had no idea what Ellen had done, but with whatever she had been doing, Cagalli had gone from the wild teenager to the passionate and dedicated young woman she was now. Cagalli may not work within the governmental part of Orb anywhere as much as he did, but he believed she would be ready when the time came. Instead, Cagalli acted as a liaison between the government and Orb's military fighting force.

Uzumi cleared his thoughts as he entered the council room and saw he was among the last of Orb's council to arrive. His brother Homura worked with the civil affairs department and Orb's media to keep the citizens calm. Uzumi was glad Homura had decided to follow and help him govern Orb. Homura hadn't needed to, and it was more expected for the eldest of the noble families to fill the job. Yet, Homura had walked beside Uzumi, and Orb had been the better for it. Homura had been the background worker, the second-in-command, Uzumi's right hand. Thus, Homura had hardly left the conference room doing what work he could from there.

Uzumi nodded to Homura, who nodded back at his brother as Uzumi walked to his chair and sat down. After a few minutes, the last representatives arrived, and the meeting was called to order by Homura. There were mutterings between the representatives, which from what Uzumi heard, was all about the message that had come and what had occurred to the Republic. Yet, all when silent when Homura stood, "As all of you know," he began, "we received a message from the Atlantic Federation stating it is on behalf of the Earth Alliance." There was more muttering, and some curses before Homura picked up the first page of the message and continued. "The message from the Atlantic Federation states that this is our final warning, and it is as follows:

To the Orb Union:

This is to be seen as a final warning to your nation. The Orb Union, which claims membership and to ally itself with the group calling itself the Human Federation, is being called upon to make a decision. The show of inaction by the group known as the Human Federation has shown said organization to have no proper interest for the human species. With that being the case, the Federation's actions are unacceptable. As a result, the governing body of the Earth Alliance, by unanimous vote, has denounced the organization as an official faction. Such is seen as effectively the same as the former United Nations body making the decision. Thus, your claim to membership is void by the group's denouncement, and Orb is a nation of Earth.

And so, regarding the Orb Union's inaction, as a nation of Earth, you have not considered the state in which the world is in. You have abandoned your responsibilities as a nation of Earth, showing concern for your own security and peace rather than the world's as a whole. Furthermore, the Orb Union has refused multiple requests for aid, support, and cooperation with the other nations of Earth. Therefore, on behalf of all signatory member states of the Earth Alliance, demands the following of the Orb Union:

The immediate mass resignation of the current governing body of the Orb Union, relinquishing all its political and executive authority.

The total disarmament and dissolution of all its military forces.

Submit to inspections by Alliance assembly representatives in the governmental procedures of your nation

Should these three demands not be met in forty-eight hours, the Earth Alliance will conclude the Orb Union to be supporters of ZAFT and the PLANTs. And therefore be treated as enemies to be met with force to preserve Earth's safety against mankind's enemy."

Homura paused as he still had a hard time keeping from snapping at the message he had read several times. "That is the full contents," he finished putting down the page. "The other pages are a list of suggestions of if the demands are accepted ways in which we could "improve" our nation to align better to match the world as it is becoming."

The muttering between the representatives began as whispers but quickly grew in volume after the message was read. Uzumi could tell his brother Homura hadn't liked reading the Alliance's message aloud. He bet that Homura had read it more than once before reading it for the council to hear. It was easy for Uzumi to hear the even tones Homura was holding in irritation, and he could understand. The message was so ridiculous that it was beyond insulting before even picking the subject matter apart for meaning. Overall, if anything else could state the Alliance was done, even making it look like they had integrity, the message was it. According to international law, the Alliance was using "powers" they didn't have, which had been agreed upon, but the leaders of all three human factions. Uzumi's right hand curled into a fist which he smacked the table with, "What ridiculous nonsense!"

Homura could see his brother was angry and sympathized as he felt the same about the message. The message was the Alliance saying they were finished being nice or appearing so and now were going to do whatever they felt necessary to obtain their goals. They claimed the power to change international standing and law when such required leaders and representatives of all three factions to do so was evidence. The denouncement of the Human Federation was more the Alliance's way of saying they wouldn't take no as an answer anymore. It was clear that OMNI was on its way to seize Orb by force or die trying, and all available information agreed with that. To Homura, it was for that reason that the Federation's Military had been preparing for OMNI more than ZAFT to attack them. "Indeed," Homura agreed, "It is easy to see why the Federation's military has been preparing for the time the Alliance gained the ability to mass-produce mobile suits. Their lust for power and dominion is seemingly insatiable, and the saner people vanish from the Alliance accelerates the issue. For them to have a dangerous tool such as mobile suits, they would use them to further their ambitions." There were murmurs of agreement to Homura's statements before he spoke again, "And rest assured, the "suggestions" provided are to establish Natural human dominance and prevent equal justice for all."

Uzumi didn't doubt his brother's words about the Alliance's suggestions being them asserting Natural superiority and supremacy. It more displayed that Blue Cosmos and those like them had taken enough control within the Alliance that they ran things essentially. That was the real concern the Federation had always watched for, radicals taking control. And sadly, ZAFT was heading in that direction as well, and the Alliance was just farther along. Now, the Alliance was demanding the human race be divided into their types and then kill the others. "Do they now no longer have the decency to attempt to use diplomacy with others? Has the Alliance sunk to the point that they don't even to hide their real intentions? They don't even hide their true colors now that they've lost Panama, and they have been put at a disadvantage." Uzumi slammed his fist down onto the table again, "Damn the Atlantic Federation!"

The other representatives were still muttering to one another, but there were affirmatives to Uzumi's statements. One of the elected representatives spoke up, "For the Alliance to claim they can dissolve international standing is brazen. International law is clear that representatives from all three factions are required to consider such a thing. However, that does say that the Alliance is adamant in their efforts to get others to join them in the war."

Homura nodded, knowing the representative who had just spoken was true. But that was no longer the point of the meeting, not with what was coming their way. "While that is true, it is meaningless to argue as the Alliance would unlikely listen to reason. The Information Network has confirmed an OMNI fleet heading toward us. That is answer enough that they mean to enforce their views if they aren't agreed to."

"They must have headed out not too long after the fleet which attacked the Republic had been deployed," another representative remarked. "It leaves the question of how many of the Alliance's seaborne fleets have been mobilized for their vendetta."

Homura could understand the want for an answer to the question of how much of OMNI's fleets were active, and it wasn't needed for the current circumstances. Orb would be facing an OMNI fleet, beyond that would have to be saved to be answered later. So, Homura spoke to get the focus back on the matters at hand, "While OMNI fleet deployment is concerning, it is not the matter at hand right now." Homura interlaced his hands together, "Their fleet is coming here for the same basic reasons they struck the Republic. They are after the mass driver and our Morgenroete development facilities. The Alliance wants Federation technology to use in their vendetta against ZAFT and the PLANTs."

There was a moment of silence at Homura's remark as it did spell out what they were going to face in a nutshell and why. There was an exhale from a representative, "So, the message is more a way of the Alliance saying they won't listen to anything we say. This is a blatant violation of the Ordea Treaty."

After the comment, more muttering was heard, some asking about what was to be done next. "With the Republic having repelled the Alliance's attack, the other member nations are already preparing for similar attacks. What about reinforcements from the space forces" a female representative asked.

Uzumi knew that the Federation's Military was being fully mobilized for the first time in years. However, they were working on the response to OMNI and crippling them from doing far worse things. So the space forces were not officially available, but they would be sent if things went really bad for Orb or another member nation of the Federation. He didn't doubt that the Republic would send help when they were able, as would the Equatorial Union. Yet Orb couldn't count on such reinforcement being there to help in defense of Orb. And as if Uzumi's thoughts had been projected, another representative spoke, "The Republic isn't likely in a position to assist us with the battle they've fought. The Equatorial Union is readying itself with the Alliance activity increasing along their western and northern border, so they can't send help either right now."

The situation was looking harsher as this meeting kept going from what Uzumi could see. Orb would be forced to defend itself, and there was no other way of properly saying it. However, the Federation's military forces stationed here would make the task much more doable than it would've been if they weren't here. "ZAFT's Carpentaria base has heard what is happening," the Communications division of Orb's government representative said. "And they also are asking for an audience to get more information on the situation. They have said they could offer help if we state that we need it, but not what type of help they would be willing to provide."

While Uzumi and Homura could understand ZAFT's interest in finding out more about what was happening, now wasn't the best time to ask. It was likely that ZAFT had been watching the assault on the Republic and was trying to figure out what was going on and why. They wouldn't have known about the ultimatums sent to the member nations. So it would have looked like the Alliance was attacking without reason, and it wasn't that far from the truth. But ZAFT was more trying to see if there were a power shift happening, Uzumi would bet. And if the Alliance kept going on the path they were and succeeded, the world would fall into darkness. The war destroyed hopes of peace, and it frustrated Uzumi, "The world is being divided into two armed camps because of the Atlantic Federation. No, terrorists like Blue Cosmos have gained control of military forces that keep this war going. Does everyone have to either be an ally or an enemy in this senseless conflict," he questioned. "Why should any in the Human Federation throw away their laws and principles to fight whichever enemy we're told to?!"

Homura sighed though he completely agreed with his brother on the Alliance's insistence on being fuel for the ongoing war. "In a perfect world, I doubt we would have to decide whether one is an ally or enemy. Unfortunately, we don't live in such a world and likely never will, all we can do is work towards the ideal of a peaceful world for all. Thus, as stated by Uzumi, the question is rhetorical, I'm sorry to say."

The statements from Uzumi and Homura sparked worried muttering from the other representatives around the table. The implications, true as they were, still made the future for Orb and the other member nations of the Federation look darker and darker if they didn't stand up and fight in the war. Nevertheless, Uzumi kept going, "If we join forces with the Alliance, the PLANTs become our enemy. But then, if we join forces with the PLANTs, the Alliance becomes our enemy. Even if we could avoid conflict with the Alliance today by agreeing with their demands and leaving the Federation, we would suffer the same fate as Panama or even Victoria tomorrow! The second we side with one of them, all chances to avoid the war and its effects vanish, that's why the side of the Human Federation is so important."

"Representative Athha, as much as we all agree with your sentiments about not participating in the war, it's clear that the Alliance isn't going to take that justification for an answer," said a representative. "As part of the Federation, we don't want to fight in this war, but-"

Homura knew that arguing the ethics of whether Orb should be in the war or not was meaningless. OMNI was going to attack Orb when they refused their demands, and it was a fact that had to be accepted. There was work to be done before OMNI reached Orb and began their assault. So, Homura cleared his throat to gain the room's attention, "Then our next actions are just as clear. We need to accept that the Alliance is coming and will attack us when we refuse their demands. So, instead of bickering about such, we should give the evacuation orders to the citizens. Their safety needs to be the highest priority, and there's still time to get them out and avoid possible innocent casualties."

All the governing representatives went silent at what Homura said, for it was one of the guiding principles of Orb to serve and protect their citizens. It was a part of the oath they took upon entering office, being a representative on Orb's council or part of Orb's governmental body. One of the other representatives spoke up, "Representative Homura," they said but paused before continuing, "you're right. Let us pray that our people, especially the children, will suffer the least amount of tragedy during these difficult times that have come upon us."

Meanwhile, it was a beehive of activity at Orb's Onogoro military command center. When ZAFT's attack on Panama had been realized, preparations had begun. There had been chatter about the time the Alliance losing their mass driver would trigger them to look toward the Federation as targets. Thus, in the days that had passed, all military personnel had been put on high alert. Shifts had gone from six hours to ten to twelve with the concerns of the Alliance coming their way.

Cagalli and Kisaka spent much of their time around Orb's military command center in recent days. The last few days had been extremely hard for Cagalli, not only was she soon to oversee the defense of Orb, she had to watch what happened to the Republic. The Republic was almost a second home to her as she had been there multiple times in the last few years. It hadn't been uncommon for her to spend a week over there seeing Ellen about what Cagalli dealt with during her years of puberty. Ellen was almost like a second mother to Cagalli and, truthfully, the only mother figure she'd ever known. Cagalli's mother, Lady Athha, had died when she'd been really young, and Cagalli had only the vaguest memories of her. Ellen had been the woman who had stepped in when Cagalli needed a mother each time she could recall. Ellen had never missed Cagalli's birthday, that was how much of a mother figure she was to Cagalli. And now, Cagalli had watched the country that Ellen had given so much for assaulted by the Alliance.

Cagalli knew she would know the same pain personally soon, but even witnessing the Republic war-torn hurt. At the same time, Cagalli knew that she couldn't prevent Orb's damage, which didn't stop her from trying to do everything she could. She didn't want to see Orb broken, and she wasn't the best at governmental work, so Cagalli could help the defenders prepare. The evacuation order for the general citizens would come soon, Cagalli didn't doubt that. The military would assist in that task, but they would also make sure the defenses were ready as possible. However, the stress was building within her and was causing Cagalli to have trouble sleeping. She got sleep when forced, and there had been times that Cagalli had woken up on a cot in an office and hadn't remembered how she got there. She'd suspected that some had slipped her concoctions to force her to sleep, but she couldn't prove that.

Kisaka had been watching Lady Cagalli as he'd been working with Orb's Admirals, preparing Orb for the coming assault. The young woman was working herself to the bone, and then some, no one said it out loud, but all military personnel could see it. Lady Cagalli wouldn't have slept in days if not for Kisaka and a few others slipping sleep aids into her drinks at times. Kisaka knew she took after her father in dedicating her whole self to work for Orb, foregoing her own needs. While her help was appreciated, Cagalli would bolster the troops when Orb came under attack, and she wouldn't be able to do that if she ignored her physical needs. Lord Homura and other governmental staff looked after Lord Uzumi's health, so Kisaka and others did the same for Cagalli.

He observed Lady Cagalli as she had viewed the feeds on OMNI's assault in the Republic. The girl had not hidden her emotions well during those instances, and it was clear that she'd been angry. The issue was that anger could blind an individual and have them make mistakes. Mistakes during or directly before a battle rarely, if ever, went well in the end, history proved that. And it wasn't like Lady Cagalli was the only one displeased for the Republic to be attacked as it had been. There wasn't the time to fume or brood over events that had already happened and couldn't be changed. According to the Information Network, the size of OMNI's fleet was around the same size as what assaulted the Republic. Orb's defense forces would have the arduous task of defending Orb's land from the invaders and protecting the evacuation routes. The evacuations wouldn't be done by the afternoon of the day when OMNI was expected to arrive.

Both Cagalli and Kisaka were overseeing the final preparations of Orb's defenses. All in the military command center would glance at the timer ticking down, saying how long Orb had until OMNI came into range. And once OMNI was in the range of Orb's defense, the battle would begin, and the preparation time would be over. So, the last tasks were hurried to be possibly done before OMNI attacked. At least there was no lack of volunteers, which was something Orb could be proud of. Many were standing up and were more than willing to serve and protect their country, and it certainly was a sight to see. From what Kisaka had witnessed, though the volunteers ranged in age, the look in their eyes had been the same. All of them were ready and willing to give everything to help defend Orb in any way they could.

Even as Cagalli looked over the displays showing the progress being made with the preparations, she was still frustrated. None of the preparation should be necessary, OMNI shouldn't be coming to attack. They were supposed to be standing by their agreement with the Ordea Treaty and not intimidate and force member nations to join them and fight in their war. The point had Cagalli's hands in fists, "How did it come to this, damn it," she cursed. "The Federation is neutral, we aren't a part of their war, and they shouldn't be forcing the issue. They agreed and promised they wouldn't do that."

Kisaka glanced at Cagalli at her cursing, not that he couldn't sympathize. However, as Lord Uzumi's daughter, she should know that things weren't always as they should be, like people sticking to treaties. The Ordea treaty had been made to keep the peace, but it was seen as a temporary solution. The Alliance had lost much of the integrity they had once had, so they hadn't been believed at their word anymore and hadn't been for years. So, the attacks on the member nations had been more a matter of time rather than a question of if they occurred. Kisaka put a hand on Cagalli's shoulder, "Lady Cagalli," he began. Cagalli twisted around and gazed at Kisaka as he continued, "I'm sorry to say, this has been an expectation within the Federation leadership for years, as Lord Uzumi told me."

Cagalli's eyes widened, "You're saying the Federation has known the Alliance would do what they are?"

Kisaka nodded, "Federation military forces have been readying themselves for the time when the Alliance would attack. It was one reason they insisted on station Federation forces here in Orb. Federation High Command was aware that our own military wouldn't be enough to repel an OMNI force that would come our way." Kisaka paused for a moment, "It would be best to do what you can right now rather than worry about what could happen from the battle with OMNI."

Tears were coming to Cagalli's eyes, "But Orb will be," she started, and her voice caught in her throat. "Our people could be killed, and we can't let that happen, Kisaka."

Kisaka gained a soft smile, for Lady Cagalli had a heart of gold yet harbored the fires of determination and hope within. The love she had for Orb's people was to be admired and was why the people loved and trusted her. "Rest assured, Lady Cagalli, the situation isn't as hopeless as you imagine." Kisaka didn't want to lie to Cagalli, she was special to him, almost like a daughter, but nor did he want to shield her completely from the horrors that were happening. "The soldiers of Orb and our comrades of the Federation's military will do everything in their power to protect the nation and its people. Since the Republic was attacked, we have had a surge in volunteers wanting to help protect Orb. You are not alone in wanting to defend our home, and many wish to help even if it isn't fighting OMNI."

At the same time, the entire crew of the Archangel gathered together in the hangar on the Archangel at the request of Murrue. The message had been that she had something serious to talk about with all of them. Murrue wanted to give the crew the truth of their current situation so they could decide for themselves. She had decided she could live with it, but Murrue wouldn't force her choice onto others. The Alliance was doing just that, so she was no better than those who orchestrated JOSH-A's demise if she did the same. After what Murrue had seen, she wouldn't lower herself to the level of those who saw nothing wrong with killing allies just to "beat" the enemy. Murrue had talked things over with Mu and Krystal, and they had agreed it would be the right thing to do to tell the crew about the circumstances. The two former armor pilots turned mobile suit pilots had stated they would fight for the ship wherever it went. While that was a comfort to Murrue that both pilots were staying, there were still many unknowns ahead. Murrue didn't want those that made up the crew risking their lives without knowing what they would fight for.

It was honestly the first time that Murrue had as clear a head as she'd worked with since the onset from Heliopolis. The path forward was as clear a view as she'd seen, and Murrue hoped that she could help those in the crew to have. Even though the path before them was fraught with hardship and danger. There was no guarantee that any who stayed with the Archangel would live to see the end of this war. However, Murrue felt that now they were seen as dead by the Alliance, they were free to choose their own path. And she would have the rest on this ship choose for themselves, and she owed them that kindness.

Once all were gathered in the hangar, Murrue faced the crew she had led for close to six months. They were lined up in rows of ten and five, all wondering what this was all about. It was a visual picture that the crew had grown since the outset from Heliopolis yet was still smaller than it was originally planned to be. There had been three officers and several non-commissioned crewmen transferred from the Eighth Orbital Fleet. And with what had happened at JOSH-A, there had been a lot of cursing and muttering between the crew. Murrue hadn't missed the disgruntled gossip and talk going around the Archangel. Nor did she blame any for doing so with the betrayal they had experienced with the Atlantic Federation. Now, the Archangel was a runaway ship, and that was a harsh title to be labeled as, for it was close to the same as deserters or traitors.

Mu stood on Murrue's right while Krystal was on her left. They were here to support Murrue in the decision she had made. They both agreed that the crew should be told the truth and make their own decision. The two would stick with the Archangel even when the vessel would soon go against the Alliance. Mu and Krystal had seen some of the videos of OMNI's assault on the Republic, and it left them to consider many things. The battle was the first serious view of the Federation's real strength, and it was nothing to scoff at. They had shown they had mobile suits of their own and knew how to use them in combat far better than OMNI and could likely even give ZAFT a serious run for their money. And while the Federation had repelled OMNI, it wasn't an absolute victory as had been expected from the Federation's military. However, they did "whip" the OMNI fleet, making both pilots wonder if the Alliance's leaders were taking the loss.

Kira looked on from the sidelines of this meeting, wondering what this would be about. The recent attack on the Republic had been concerning for many, Kira included, as he knew Tyler had been fighting in it. Kira was aware Tyler was no ordinary pilot, he was more than good, but Kira couldn't say how much. But even knowing that didn't relieve any of Kira's worries about Tyler. Kira wished that Tyler was here now, standing by him, being the pillar of strength he always seemed to be. He would feel better with the battle coming if Tyler were going out to fight alongside him. Yet, Tyler went where he believed he was needed and could do the most good, and Kira wouldn't fault his friend for that.

Cagalli and Kisaka had also arrived to check on things aboard the Archangel when the meeting had been called for. Cagalli had come to check up on Kira, but she didn't tell anyone else. She had come to realize that she had leaned on the guy, and he seemed to be able to relieve her stress somewhat. Cagalli couldn't say what about Kira it was exactly, for he was truthfully an irritatingly naïve idiot. But the ship and its crew he worked with could help if they were inclined to defend Orb. The nation needed any help it could get for the upcoming battle to mitigate casualties and damage.

On the other hand, Kisaka felt pity for this ship and its crew for what they had endured. As a soldier himself, he could understand following orders even when you didn't comprehend why they were being given. And soldiers tended to fight for the side they believed most matched what they wanted to stand for themselves. To have that belief not just proven to be false was bad enough for any soldier to be forced to accept. Being betrayed on top of that by those you believed to be allies trying to kill you was world-shattering. This ship and its crew had been picking up the pieces and trying to figure things out. But now, time was short, and they would have to decide whether they would fight or run from their former allies.

Murrue took a breath and began, "Thank you all for gathering here, I wanted you to all know how things stand. And I believe that all of you deserve to know the truth so you can make the best decision for yourselves and live with it." She paused for a moment, "If you haven't heard the dyer news, an OMNI fleet is making its way to Orb. They are coming here because unless Orb agrees to side with the Alliance and leave the Federation, they will consider Orb an ally of ZAFT. If it comes to that, OMNI will attack Orb with the intent to either destroy it or being a nation under the Alliance's control."

There were gasps of astonishment and disbelief at what Murrue had just stated. The Alliance forcing Federation member nations to join them was crazy. Plus, it was a violation of standing treaties that had kept the Federation from wiping out the Alliance before now. Even with what happened at JOSH-A, for OMNI to blatantly attack the Federation made little sense. Yet, Jackie Tonomura voiced what most if not all of the crew were thinking, "But that's insane!" There were mutterings of agreement to Jackie's statement from those in the hangar.

Nonetheless, Murrue continued where she'd left off. "As you all know by now, the Republic of East Asia has already been attacked by the Earth Forces for essentially the same reason. Even with Orb's government stressing and sticking to its position as a member nation of the Human Federation, it doesn't seem to affect on the Alliance. Most of you know that OMNI's actions violate the Ordea Treaty, but it would seem the Alliance's leadership doesn't care." Murrue paused as the next part of what she would say was more her opinion rather than fact, "Orb's government is still pursuing a diplomatic solution even as we speak. But unfortunately, judging by the actions of OMNI so far, the chances of avoiding a conflict is extremely slim. The Earth Forces we knew and served are not as they once were. The attack on the Republic stands as proof of the change, and it appears that the Alliance won't stop due to losses. The government has ordered its citizens to evacuate cities and areas close to military facilities along established routes. Orb is also readying its defenses in preparation for the worst-case scenario. Predictions are being formed with what's know that comes from the reports of the battle at the Republic."

Murrue took a deep breath after stating the truth about the current circumstances. To have to admit what the Alliance was becoming was difficult. Murrue had enlisted believing the Earth Alliance's motto of protecting Earth no matter what the driving force behind it was. Seeing the Alliance lower itself to the level of terrorists as they were cast doubts. "Now, each one of you must make a decision as well. The Archangel is classified as a runaway ship and written off by OMNI as sunk. Thus, no one gives us orders to follow, no missions to fulfill. Even the orders I give hold little meaning as we are not officers or crewmen. So, the choice of what to do in this situation with Orb comes down to personal choice. If you choose to stay onboard the Archangel and an attack prove unavoidable, you are to be at your station at 1400 hours tomorrow since the Archangel will fight on the side of Orb. However, you are to evacuate according to the Orb's government's instructions if you choose to leave the ship. Whether we stay or go, the choice is yours to make, but you need to decide quickly. Therefore, if you wish to leave, now's the time to pack up and go. None of us will think less of you should you choose to leave and seek other opportunities. I can say that it has been a real honor to serve with you all, and I've felt privileged to command you all this far."

Over the next couple of minutes, only muttering was heard among the crew about what had been said. Being told they weren't a part of the Alliance anymore was more a statement of fact. JOSH-A had proven the Alliance had forsaken them and counted them as dead. But for the Archangel to go from that to fighting OMNI as enemies was a stretch for some. Murrue spoke once more to give her final plea, "I know I haven't always been the most reliable captain during this journey." She paused, "And I want to thank you all for sticking with me up to this point from the bottom of my heart. It has been a privilege to have led you all from the outset to come to where we are now. May you all think hard about your decision so that you can live with whatever you choose to do. This is my final order, and you are dismissed to make your decision, and thank you."

The crew filtered out of the hangar, leaving Murre, Mu, and Krystal in the hangar alone. Murrue sighed after watching the crew leave the room. She wouldn't blame any for leaving, the hardships they had endured were horrible, and she asked them to shoulder more. It wasn't fair to them to expect the crew to follow orders blindly, and such had nearly gotten them killed. However, the Archangel couldn't afford to lose too many of its crew, and they were just above a skeleton crew as it was. True, Murrue could ask Orb for some personnel, but they were so busy preparing themselves for an attack that she didn't feel it right. She couldn't stop herself from voicing her thoughts, "I'm left to wonder how many will leave the ship."

Mu saw, as always, Murrue was harder on herself than any of the crew. She'd been "modest" and saying she wasn't the best captain the whole conversation. With what the Archangel had faced, Mu would challenge any officer, experienced or green, to do as well as Murrue and Natarle had done. There was no playbook written for the crap the Archangel had faced on its journey. Murrue should have more confidence in herself and her command abilities with the trials she'd gone through. So, Mu moved to be behind Murrue and put a hand on her shoulder, "I think you will be pretty surprised at what will result from this."

Krystal agreed with Mu and could see where he was coming from. Murrue was harder on herself than she should be, it was a shortcoming of hers. Krystal felt there would be few, if any, of the crew that would leave the Archangel. "I agree with Mu in this," Krystal remarked, "I'm confident that the majority will stay. This crew has gone through things that change anyone, and that's something you don't forget. And I think JOSH-A really affected most, made them think about where they stand."

Meanwhile, throughout the Archangel, the crew made their own decisions, whether to keep going onboard the ship or to leave and take their chances. But the fact of the whole world facing much the same as Orb would weigh on the crew. In the end, a few did exit the ship, but most of the crew stayed where they were. With all the stuff they had been through together, they would stay and go the distance with their comrades.

Tolle, who had already decided that he would stay, had put on his uniform as he would be on duty soon. With battle coming, Tolle wanted to occupy his time, so he didn't have the opportunity to think about other things. Seeing some of the feeds of the attack on the Republic had not been encouraging to watch. It was more an image of the war as it became the terrible event it was. And by what Sai had said, Tyler would've been there during the assault as he'd traveled there days ago. While Tyler going out to fight had become somewhat normal, it still didn't sit well with Tolle. Around Orb's Marshall Islands, it had really looked like the Aegis's detonation had killed Tyler. Tolle couldn't forget the heart-wrenching pain he'd experienced. He'd managed to keep his feelings of grieving inside most of the time, unlike Miriallia. However, he never wanted to go through losing a friend like that again. Tolle didn't doubt Tyler was still alive with his piloting skills. After all, he had survived the destruction of the Shadow, a battle with the Alliance would probably not dampen his style. Tolle was heading for the bridge, even if it was early for his upcoming shift, before he bumped into Kuzzey.

Kuzzey had an internal argument with himself in the quarters he shared with Sai. On the one hand, Kuzzey was scared of the fighting, and he would face more if he stayed on the Archangel. Leaving would let him get away from the war directly, even if he would face its effects. And yet, should he leave, he may never see any of his friends ever again. When Tyler was presumed dead, it had been the worst month that Kuzzey had ever known. Tyler had been there for Kuzzey and the rest ever since he came to Heliopolis. No matter the request or the "weird" situation any of them got into, Tyler didn't hesitate to help them. When the Archangel had been in danger, it had all too often been Tyler who had bailed them out. Thus, his absence had been pronounced so much that Kuzzey and the others had been lost. Kuzzey didn't want to go through that again with any of his friends because of this war. And so, even though he was still scared of what could happen, he couldn't bring himself to leave the ship.

Nevertheless, when Tolle looked up and saw Kuzzey, he was surprised that his friend was still in an OMNI uniform. While Tolle knew that Sai would stay just like him, and even Miriallia was not leaving, it was expected that Kuzzey would disembark. Kuzzey was not one for fighting, he was scared of it, which none of his friends blamed him for. It made Tolle wonder what motivated Kuzzey to have him swallow his fear and stay, "Kuzzey," Tolle questioned, "You're still here and in the Alliance uniform?"

Kuzzey gained a serious expression, "I," he hesitated, "I thought about leaving the ship, I really did since I hate all this fighting and what this war is doing to the world and the colonies. You and the others say that I'm too nice for stuff like this, and you're right. But even so, after believing Tyler died and feeling the pain of that loss," Kuzzey paused, "I don't want to go through that kind of experience again. Living with the regret that I ran away from where my friends were and then found out they died when I wasn't there. So, I'm going to stay on the Archangel, no matter the dangers that will come or how scared I get. I'm staying with those I care about and helping in whatever way I can, even if it's only simple things."

Tolle was in a mild state of shock at hearing the determination that Kuzzey was showing. Kuzzey had always been more like a teddy bear, soft, nice, and disliked violence and would avoid it as much as he could. He had been the quiet and nice one of the group, the peacemaker of them all, so this was odd. However, Kuzzey was putting friendship over his fear of danger, and battle showed that this war and its consequences had affected him. Tolle felt a smile creep on his face before moving forward and hugging Kuzzey. Now it was Kuzzey's turn to feel shocked by the gesture. It wasn't the embrace, but the timing as Kuzzey had been serious. He was about to ask Tolle what he was doing when Tolle spoke, "Then you'll be in the best of company, Kuzzey. I thought we would have to say farewell to you, but apparently not, that's awesome!"

Meanwhile, Miriallia was heading down to the brig of the Archangel, having been asked to release the prisoner that had been kept onboard. She had decided to stay with the Archangel when given a choice to leave the ship. Even with all the Archangel had gone through, then chances of further loss, Miriallia couldn't see herself being anywhere else. When Tyler was thought dead, Miriallia had been lost, and she didn't want to face that again if any of her other friends died. And after viewing what video feeds there had been with OMNI's attack on the Republic, Miriallia didn't want to see that happen to Orb. Although she knew she couldn't stop alone, Miriallia wanted to help as she could.

Miriallia figured she had been asked to release the ship's prisoner as she had been the one who had most often taken meals to Dearka. All in all, Miriallia had found that Dearka wasn't a bad person after talking to him. At least he sounded remorseful about what he'd done to the Archangel when she'd asked. It made her wonder if most in ZAFT were either not told when they were doing or just doing as ordered while they disagreed with it. Tyler had implied soldiers in this war were doing what they were told but may not agree with the results. And with Tyler being a soldier in the Federation's Military, he would likely know about following orders he didn't like. So, Miriallia wanted to give Dearka the benefit of the doubt and believe he had been fighting against them without knowing what he was fully doing.

She looked down at the red ZAFT pilot uniform that she was carrying for Dearka. Miriallia had once thought ZAFT was just a group of Coordinators that defended the PLANTs and fought the Alliance, but recent events had her reassessing that. Dearka would be let go, yet where would he go after that? Did he really have anywhere he could go from Orb as things stood? Similar questions were bouncing around her mind as Dearka was actually a decent guy as far as she'd seen. While the Buster had been taken to Morgenroete for inspection, it still made it impossible for Dearka to have access to it. So, he couldn't use the mobile suit to leave or go anywhere else.

At the same time, Dearka was in his cell thinking since that was one of the few things he could do these days. Honestly, he'd only been to one question and answered session since getting on this ship. Dearka was treated decently compared to how ZAFT reports stated OMNI treated their prisoners. The time to think had done a lot for Dearka. He was questioning several things about what he thought ZAFT was fighting for. This war was changing, and the signs were there, even if they were subtle, but they were there. The only other thing that he got to do other than think and sleep was interacting with the one who would bring meals. About half the time, it was a crewman that Dearka didn't know, and they wouldn't really talk to him. The other times it was someone his own age, and they would at least answer a question or two before they left. Out of those, a brunette girl had been kind of nice to him, and she had mentioned her name was Miriallia.

Tyler McGregor had also been the guy who had talked to Dearka, and that was a conversation he wouldn't forget. Dearka didn't doubt that the conversation stood out for the subject matter and because McGregor had been so memorable. Tyler had been more than cordial, and he had listened to what Dearka had to say and not just "appear" to be doing so. Dearka would admit he hadn't been so inclined at first, he had kind of insulted the guy at first. He'd been surprised that Tyler had seemed to know the Black Zephyr somehow and not just know of but actually know the woman personally. There weren't many Dearka could think of that would be on such terms with the Zephyr. After breaking the ice, the things they had talked about had given Dearka a lot to think about.

Dearka was brought out of his thoughts when the door to the cell block opened, and he figured it was time for a meal delivery again. He normally didn't react to any meal delivery unless the individual said something. Dearka didn't see a reason to start a conversation while on the ship, let alone in a brig cell. However, the sound of the lock-pad having a code put into it got him to turn to look at what was going on. Dearka found himself looking at the girl Miriallia at the opening door. She had his red pilot suit in her arms were didn't make sense for a moment. Then as Dearka thought, there were only two reasons for the girl to be here with his pilot suit. He would either be questioned further than he'd been already, or he would be transferred elsewhere. "So then, more interrogation or transfer," Dearka asked evenly.

Miriallia stared at Dearka for a moment, regarding him and the question he'd asked her. Honestly, she felt sorry for the guy after talking to him a few times. He was around her own age, and he'd been stuck in this cell for more than a month without hinting what would happen to him. Dearka had apologized for what he'd said, which had angered her when she first met him. Even if he was part of ZAFT, he was a good person, but this war had forced him to do horrible things. So, it was better that he leave while the evacuations went where he wanted. Miriallia took a breath, "The Archangel is going into battle again soon," she said, "OMNI is coming to attack Orb." Dearka blinked at the information he'd just been told as it didn't make sense. As far as he knew, the Orb Union was a member of the Federation neutral in the war. The Alliance had been rather careful not to engage the Federation's military during the war. He couldn't think of what could've changed for OMNI to attack a Federation member nation blatantly. Yet, the last meal delivery had come with odd gossip about some "attack" but little more than that. Miriallia continued, "Apparently, you're free to go now, you're being released."

Miriallia turned and walked away when Dearka got up from the bunk he'd been familiar with for more than a month. He had so many questions about what was going on as he'd not gotten much information. If the Alliance had decided it wanted to fight the Federation, Dearka wanted to know how that had happened. And if he was being released, what was he supposed to do from there? Should Orb come under assault, it was unlikely he could hitch a ride back to Carpentaria anytime soon. Then, wasn't this ship an OMNI vessel? Why would it fight against its allies, thereby assisting a Federation member nation? Thus, Dearka chased Miriallia, "Hey, wait up a second, would you," he called before catching up with the girl, "What the hell is that supposed to mean?"

Miriallia didn't turn to face Dearka at his question, and she just kept walking towards the door. She wasn't feeling inclined to answer the questions he was asking as it reminded her of what was coming. When the question of if she would stay with the Archangel came, there hadn't been hesitation with her. Orb was her homeland, and she wanted to help protect it from those that would come to attempt to take it. The battle with the Republic had shown the Alliance wasn't being nice anymore, and they would try and take what they couldn't control. And while it was dangerous to stay with the Archangel, Miriallia didn't want to lose what was important. The time of Tyler's absence had taught her fear was something to not give into that fighting was needed sometimes. However, Dearka followed her, so she spoke again, "Exactly what it sounded like," she replied. "The Alliance is sending a fleet here to Orb and is more than likely going to attack it with the intent to seize control. With that said, there is no reason for the ship to keep a prisoner, that was the officers' decision. That is why you are out of that cell and should go wherever you want after exiting the ship."

Dearka still couldn't connect the dots of how the Alliance was attacking the Federation. The Federation's military forces were no joke, and he'd seen enough files on that subject to know it to be fact. He didn't doubt the Alliance knew that fact too, which had Dearka wondering why they would be foolish enough to attack. It made no logical sense, and while the Alliance wasn't known for "smart choices," they weren't as dumb as some claimed. Dearka felt he'd missed something huge that had the Alliance changing their careful action with the Federation to what it was now. "Okay," Dearka started, "Then can you explain to me why this ship would fight its allies by siding with the neutral faction. The Alliance attacking the Federation makes no sense, that is just plain dumb."

Miriallia stopped and turned to the guy, "The Archangel isn't with OMNI anymore, not since the betrayal happened at JOSH-A. Then, I don't know why the Alliance is doing what it is," she shot back. "Maybe they are dumb like you say, I don't know, but that isn't the point. The Alliance demanded Orb side with them, and Orb's representatives have refused to say the nation would stay with the Human Federation. That's all I can say for sure right now, and you'll have to figure out other answers on your own."

Two points stuck out to Dearka from what Miriallia just said. First, the mention of betrayal was one he hadn't heard. From what he knew, Operation Spitbreak had been set for mid-May, but its target had been Panama, from what he'd been told. Dearka was almost afraid of what else he could have missed if that had changed. Then, the part about the Alliance demanding Orb join them was odd. Dearka remembered there being some sort of treaty between the Alliance and the Federation in which the Alliance wasn't supposed to push for the member nations to change sides. And if any of the Federation's member nations changed sides, that would be extremely bad for ZAFT. Dearka didn't think any of them would change sides, the Federation was known for sticking to its principles, and he didn't see that changing. None of that answered why the Alliance would suddenly start fighting the Federation. "Okay, I get Orb wanting to stay with the Federation, but I thought there was some treaty with the Alliance to prevent them from demanding to switch of sides," Dearka remarked. "Then the Federation had always stuck to their neutral stance when it came to the war, what changed?"

Miriallia recalled what Tyler had said about the "tension" between the Alliance and the Federation. He made it sound like it would only take an event to tip the balance off, and fighting broke out between the two. Panama had seemed to be that trigger that Miriallia still didn't entirely get. So, she shrugged, "I don't know what changed," she returned, "Ever since they lost Panama, nothing has made sense with the Alliance. SO, I'm sorry, but once the fighting starts, you'll be on your own."

The mention of Panama suggested ZAFT had done something to them, which apparently caused the Alliance to fly off the handle. Operation Spitbreak was supposed to have the Alliance's mass driver unusable by the end according to what Dearka had read. The loss of their mass driver would likely have them panicked, but how that led to them attacking the Federation, Dearka couldn't say. While it did say there was a shift in the war, Dearka didn't think it was the shift ZAFT leaders wanted. It didn't change the point that Dearka was now stuck in the middle of this, and his options were limited as far as he could tell. Thus, being told that he would be on his own was being handed the short end of the stick, as the old phrase said. "Freaking easy for you to say," Dearka muttered, "Hey, what about my mobile suit?!"

For Dearka to still refer to the Buster brought irritation to Miriallia. He was in no position to ask for much, if anything, with things as they were. The guy was lucky he was getting released and permitted to go where he wanted without being watched. Miriallia didn't think most prisoners got that treatment if they were released, so he was getting off. And she was really stressed lately with the battle coming up tomorrow mid-day. So, Miriallia spun around and glared at Dearka, "I think you mean our suit, and it is back with Morgenroete. You won't be getting it back, so deal with it." Miriallia stopped and calmed down a bit, "Sorry, things are really stressful at the moment. I didn't mean for that to come out as it did."

At hearing that, Dearka felt his mood drop lower as his options and outlook were getting bleaker by the minute, and it was seen with the frown that came to his face. Not only was he being "released," which would have been nice if it wasn't pretty much him being kicked off the ship that had captured him. He was thrown off into a volatile situation where an enemy attack was inbound. Dearka was to find his own way to leave Orb and make his way back to allied territory. If that wasn't a hard task by itself, the mobile suit he'd had to work with was elsewhere and wouldn't be given back. To say he had limited options to choose from to accomplish his standing task was being kind, and he had yet to leave this ship. Dearka wondered if it wasn't better, in the end, to stay and fight OMNI. At least then, he would be busy doing something that made sense.

Miriallia could see that Dearka was down about what he was facing. The frown made that rather clear, and she felt sorry for him. He had the equipment he had away, and he was still expected to fend for himself. Miriallia remembered that feeling as it had come right after Heliopolis, not knowing what to do and wondering what would happen next. "I'm sorry it has to be like this," Miriallia remarked, "I know I wasn't nice when we first met with trying to stab you before. I was dealing with a friend disappearing back at the time, so I wasn't thinking straight. Stay safe after leaving the ship, while others may not know it, and you are a decent guy."

Dearka looked up at this girl who had talked to him while onboard this ship. She had apologized about the attempted stabbing before but hadn't exactly said why she had been so angry back then. Miriallia sounded like she genuinely was sorry things had ended out the way they were for Dearka. Where he normally wasn't one to accept sympathy from others about the circumstances he had to work under, in this, it was kind of nice. And yet, it sounded like the girl would be on this ship when the fighting broke out. Miriallia was a nice girl, and she shouldn't be fighting in this war. So, he grabbed her upper arm, hoping to get an answer to his question of her being here when OMNI attacked. "Hold on, are you going into this fight too?"

Miriallia didn't like being seen as weak just because she was a woman. She had made the point clear with her friends, Tyler included, which had been her fighting him. Miriallia had lost that scuffle with Tyler, but he had said she'd lasted longer than he would have expected. So, she got irked when others treated her as a "dainty" or "weak" woman that needed protection. Thus, Miriallia looked Dearka square in the face, "I'm in charge of the Archangel's CIC, so yes, I will be here," she stated, yanking her arm away from Dearka. "And besides, Orb is my homeland."

Miriallia left Dearka in the corridor, and he was left with a growing conundrum in his mind at the developing situation. The people on this ship weren't bad, far from it, they had been some of the nice group he'd been around recently. McGregor had said the Archangel's crew was among the few decent people OMNI had possessed. Dearka had to agree with that assessment when he'd been on the ship, even in a brig cell. All of those who delivered food had been nice even if they hadn't talked to him, and they had at least not insulted or taunted him. That was the expectation from OMNI, treat the enemy like garbage and demoralize them the best you could. The truth made Dearka question several things that he had thought to be fact. It made finding the Buster and using it to fight OMNI more than just kind of tempting.

Meanwhile, OMNI's Second Seaborne Fleet was made up of twenty-nine ships sailing toward the Orb Union in the Pacific Ocean. The sun had set less than an hour ago as they slowly moved through the water. The fleet consisted of fourteen Fraser-class frigates, one-hundred-fifty-two meters in length. They had their main 127mm rapid-fire gun and carried several missile launchers, normally used to bombard defenses of enemy bases on Earth. Positioned on the outsides of the fleet's formations, they were the lightest and fastest ships within the fleet. Next, there were ten Des Moines-class cruisers, one-hundred-ninety meters in length, similar to the Earth Alliance's Arkansas-class cruiser. They possessed a 155mm rapid-fire gun on the front and had missile tubes built into the ship. Making up the core of the Alliance fleet, they kept it in the middle part of the armada. They carried aircraft like VTOL fighters and F-7D Spearheads on them, which had landed just before sunset. While they weren't as good as mobile suits, they would help wear down an enemy force. Then last but not least, the five Spengler-class carriers, two-hundred meters from bow to stern. The carriers lacked armaments, but with the aircraft and mobile suits in them, they made up for the absence of weapons. They carried the new GAT-01 Strike Daggers the Alliance had for all but one of the Spengler-class ships.

On the lead Spengler class named the "Powell" Muruta Azrael, Blue Cosmos head and the Alliance's National Defense Industry Association director, sat in a seat on the bridge. He was reading over the "answer" the Republic's governmental body had sent in reply to the Alliance's request yesterday. The First Seaborne Fleet would have been fighting them much of the previous day. There hadn't been any reports from them, but as the Federation was stubborn, they would drag things out, Azrael wouldn't doubt. That was one of the few things he would give them, their stubbornness though annoying, was impressive.

With the Republic, Blass had given a response that matched the things he'd heard about her, but it was also amusing. For years, Azrael had heard the stories about Ellen Blass, the Republic's leader. She was impressively stubborn and was nigh impossible to fool or manipulate. The woman had earned the nickname she had as the "Dragon of the Republic," Azrael would give her that. Her answer was not just a no expected from the get-go, she had stated other things. Blass had said something to the effect of the Alliance being the monsters they claimed ZAFT was. She had gone on about how the Federation would stand and the Alliance saying otherwise was invalid. The woman had ended her "reply" with the Republic would not change its standing and would defend its principles and beliefs as necessary. Blass had a way with words, Azrael would admit that even if it annoyed and amused him.

There was still the Euros Coalition and the Orb Union left of the Federation nations, which had mass drivers. The Euros Coalition was being left until other Federation member nations were brought under control. That was mostly due to the Federation's military base Asgard as that would take much of what the Alliance had to handle. But when all was said and done, the Alliance would have Federation tech, making the work that would go into this worth it. Azrael even hoped the Federation might have something to get around the cursed N-jammers as it would help plans along. He still wanted to see nuclear weapons to destroy the PLANTs, to purge the human race of the blasted Coordinators.

The acquisition of both the Republic of East Asia and the Orb Union would certainly make a difference. Blue Cosmos's benefactors had expressed interest in having the nations under control and Federation technology accessible. Azrael had been told he would be seen as a monumental contributor to LOGOs and to the cause of helping the human race. The Federation had gummed up the works for long enough, the war would be brought to an end, and it would be the Alliance that would win. Azrael would do what he could to make sure things when right this time when they hadn't before.

Azrael was brought out of his thought when a junior officer handed the ship's captain a collection of paper. "Orb's reply, I assume," he asked almost indifferently. Azrael didn't expect much different from Athha than had come from Blass. Uzumi Athha had a similar reputation as Blass had, the man was beyond stubborn. So, the chances of the man and the others that led Orb capitulating were slim to none, even with the threat of attack. The captain passed the pages over to Azrael, and he scanned them over. The contents were pretty much what he'd figured Orb would send, and they had refused the demands. Azrael could help but read the last two lines aloud, "The Alliance's demands are unjust, so we cannot accept them as stated. The Orb Union is a member nation of the Human Federation and will remain so for the foreseeable future. Should the Alliance attack, there will be consequences, and Orb will not stay silent."

The reply was the expected one overall, but Azrael still couldn't help but chuckle after reading it. The ultimatums were more the Alliance's way of telling the Federation they wouldn't stay neutral in the war. Yet, the "formality" of the reply was amusing to Azrael as it was some sort of attempt of being "dignified." Honor and dignity were foolish notions in the Cosmic Era, wasted on dreams of fancy. The human race had become infected by patchwork fiends and their pollution they brought with them. It was beyond high time that the "infection" be handled and things put to right. Azrael gained a smirk, "I have to admit, I expected the refusal, but not the comeback that came with it. I will applaud the man for that, and he isn't called the "Lion of Orb" for nothing." Azrael put the pages down, and his smirk morphed into an almost malicious expression. "I'm glad to see that both he and Blass didn't fail to disappoint with their reputations. In truth, I was a tad worried that after knowing the Republic was attacked by the Earth Forces, I was worried that Athha would think about agreeing to our demands. Now, we have more reason to conduct our test with the new suits. I just hope they oblige us by fighting until the bitter end. That, I'll enjoy to the fullest!"

While it was easy to see Director Azrael was excited for OMNI to have a go at Orb's military force, it wouldn't be so simple. There had been no word from the First Seaborne Fleet who had been assigned to assault the Republic. The silence from the allied fleet was worrisome for several reasons, at least, the Powell's captain felt so. They should've either finished their task or have retreated after trying. And yet, there hadn't been so much as a peep from them, and the longer that was the case, the more concerning the point became. The higher-ups in OMNI had been insistent that the Strike Daggers would give OMNI the advantage over the Federation's military forces. More officers weren't as sure as the higher-ups about their chances against the Federation. So, the captain looked to Azrael, "Sir, while your excitement is understandable, we still haven't received word from the First Fleet. They have no doubt been working on their task around the Republic already. The plan was they were to meet up with us and assist in the expected assault on Orb afterward."

Azrael knew the general plan made by OMNI top brass on how to go about dealing with the Federation. The seaborne fleets were each assigned a task in the Pacific Ocean to start with. Once a fleet was finished, they were to join up with the nearest fleet and help them in their job. The tasks were not simple ones, so patience was required, and Azrael knew that even if he didn't like it. So, Azrael smiled, "Indeed they are my good man, but do give them time and patience. The Republic's defensive capabilities have been estimated to be strong by intelligence reports." He shrugged, "They will undoubtedly meet up with us once things are settled with the Republic, so have some faith in your colleagues."

It wasn't a lack of faith that the captain had in those in the First Seaborne Fleet, they were experienced and had the drive to finish a task. It was just that the said task was the most difficult that OMNI had taken up since the beginning of the war. However, the Earth Alliance's leadership treated this as nothing more than a "normal day at work." The captain of the Powell now thought the Alliance's leadership were businessmen that had no idea how the battlefield worked. They never saw or cared about the "ideal" results they said they wanted soldiers to get for them. Thus, the captain exhaled heavily, "I understand that director," he began, "but with no word from them yet."

Azrael didn't much care what the captain thought about the other fleets doing their jobs. They all were assigned to do different things and were expected to do what they were told. However, it was likely the man would whine if not assured things were going according to plan. Azrael also wanted to hear Mina's report on how her "star girls" performed. With Mina's pitched, Azrael expected big things from the ones Mina had with her. Thus, the blonde-haired man sighed in acceptance, "Very well," he muttered. "I will call my contact with the First Fleet and ask how things are going on their end in a little while. Then we can plan the upcoming operation will go so we are prepared for it when it starts tomorrow."

The Captain of the Powell nodded slowly at the suggestion and began thinking about the battle that loomed with Orb. The fleet would come into range to assault Orb shortly after high noon on the coming day. Orb was expected to resist the operation to take over the nation, more so with their reply. Like all Federation member nations, it was assumed that there would be Federation military forces defending it. However, in Orb's case, they had their own military forces before joining the Federation, which would be added to the other defenders. The issue in the current situation was OMNI intelligence hadn't obtained much on the point of estimates of the strength and amount of said defending forces. It had been an ongoing difficulty for OMNI, estimating the Federation's military fighting force had been almost impossible.

Credible information on the Federation was harder to come by than water in a desert at mid-day. It was one of the reasons the Alliance hadn't considered attacking the Federation before now. The chances of a major and serious mistake being made were extremely high. With ZAFT pressing as they were, making a serious mistake with a real force-reducing consequence attached could cost the Alliance badly. It had the Powell's captain as worried as he was with the operation ahead, for silence from allies was a bad omen. And he had attempted to contact the Lawdon, the flagship of the First Fleet but had received nothing back. It was possible that the Federation could be jamming communications somehow, but it was just as likely the absence of a reply could be due to the failure of their task.

While OMNI top brass had been insistent on going against the Federation member nations and that they could win, those below them hadn't been as enthusiastic. The fleet commanders and other officers who were more realistic about things hadn't kidded themselves. The Federation would be a more vicious opponent than ZAFT had been thus far in the ongoing war. Records and accounts from those who had experience with how the Federation did things clarified that they were different from ZAFT. The Federation had a knack for being ready for what came their way, and one could call it amazing foresight. They had always been prepared for any situation they had faced during this war thus far. And so, following that logic, the Federation would undoubtedly be ready for the Alliance attacks, more so with the forty-eight-hour warnings, they were getting. Hence, the fleet commanders expected losses they hadn't seen going against ZAFT in this war.

At the same time, the remanence of OMNI's First Seaborne Fleet was sailing in the eastern quadrant of the Indian Ocean. The fleet was notably smaller than when they had commenced the assault on the Republic. There was a tad more than half of the ships that had headed out from the docks on the western coast of the North American continent. However, those left were making running repairs, but that wasn't the worst losses the fleet had taken. That came from the destruction of more than half of the mobile suit compliment they had started with. The serious reduction of transport carriers was also what the Republic's defenders had taken down. While the fleet hadn't been wiped out, its fighting strength had been effectively reduced by the attack on the Republic. The defeat had been sobering, even if it was frustrating that little progress had been achieved.

The First Fleet was heading towards Victoria to assist OMNI's Fourth Seaborne Fleet. The Fourth Fleet had been put on the operation to retake the Victoria Base from ZAFT, who controlled it. The base and its mass driver had been under ZAFT control since they had ousted OMNI from it back in year sixty-nine of the Cosmic Era. Back on March thirteenth of year sixty-nine, ZAFT had attacked the Victoria Base, which had been the Alliance's headquarters at the time. They had struck at the base once before, but ZAFT had been repelled back by OMNI at that time. Like the first, the second battle of Victoria was going on for more than a day, with neither side giving way to the other. At the start of the second day, it looked like OMNI would come out on top again and push ZAFT away given time.

However, that optimistic view had been shattered a little after dawn on that second day when ZAFT received reinforcements. And it wasn't the fresh ZAFT troops that dropped from orbit that turned the tide, and it had come with them. The CGUE's custom colors had given the first warnings of the changing tides, for only one ZAFT pilot used the black and crimson as the machine had. It had made it clear to OMNI's top brass when ZAFT was determined to take Victoria from them. For why else would ZAFT send their dreaded champion, the Black Zephyr, if not to give them the best chance of achieving victory.

The woman had proven she'd earned the feared reputation she had with OMNI. The Zephyr was ruthless yet honorable, as shown by her carving a path but letting any that surrendered live. She had finished what had been going on for almost two full days in the matter of hours leading ZAFT's charge. It had been and still was one of the worst, if not the worst, loss the Alliance had suffered in the war. Half of OMNI's General Staff had been killed when the military command was overrun. The number of soldiers lost had been staggering by the end, only adding to the defeat experienced. Then the Alliance had lost the use of the mass driver, which had strained the supply line to space. The loss had been embarrassing, especially as one of ZAFT's champions had whipped them and taken their headquarters in hours. The Alliance leadership had made sure OMNI couldn't live down.

The operation to take back Victoria was to be both redemption from the defeat suffered and somewhat repair the bridges between OMNI and the Alliance's leadership. Both groups had compromised for the operation to make it a success. The Alliance's leadership had wanted to accelerate the timetable even before the loss of Panama. They had wanted the operation done less than six months after the loss, ignoring the real issue of not having the forces to have reasonable success. Thus, OMNI's top brass had compromised by saying they would plan the operation as demanded, but the timetable would have to change for success. The Alliance's leading council hadn't been pleased with the idea but had agreed to give OMNI time to prepare after discussions. And originally, the operation was to happen in August of the current year to have everything possible going for OMNI. However, the destruction of Panama had required OMNI to move up the operation and give up some of the natural advantages they could've worked with. Should Victoria have been the only operation going, the OMNI seaborne fleets would be far more confident in its success. Yet, the Alliance's leadership had stated they would also be working on taking control of the Federation member nations. Thus, the mood of the First Seaborne Fleet was low as they traveled toward their allies.

As the ships traveled, Mina Moss was in her quarters going over the records of the recent battle against the Republic. She was ignoring the glum mood on the ship since she had no interest in it. The OMNI personnel had suffered firsthand the consequences of making rash and foolish decisions. And if OMNI had employed their brains, Mina would've expected them to learn something from the loss. However, there had been no evidence they would change anything about their "brute force" strategy they seemed to resort to so often. Historically, OMNI's swarm with numbers and force tactics had worked at first, but ZAFT had adapted, and now the Federation had shown such methods would be useless against them. And even with her girls out doing the part hadn't shown OMNI overwhelming their enemy was not a question of numbers anymore. Mina hadn't expected her girls to pick up the major slack OMNI's dependency on their new mobile suits they created.

From what Mina had understood from the things she'd read, OMNI had enough issues fighting ZAFT. And yet, like rabid dogs, they had demanded more even when it would clearly do more harm than good. Thus, they had choked on what they had tried to bite off when attacking the Republic. OMNI had grossly underestimated the Federation and its military, even when they wouldn't admit it. They had treated fighting the Federation much as they did going against ZAFT. Mina wondered in passing if OMNI's leaders had any common sense left or if they had given up all of that in this war. Of course, Mina wasn't one to argue or question another's state of mind as it made no difference to her.

The data from the battle would assist her and others with creating simulations for the candidates to work on back at the labs. That was one of the few things that made this venture worth the time, let alone profit from it. If not for the field testing, Mina would've told Azrael he could have other personnel go out while she would take the data back to the lab. Mina had been close to doing that and letting her friend and Ladonia's client relations management handle Azrael. But it was too late now to leave as tempting as the idea was for Mina. While watching her girls perform had been nice, Mina was still disinterested and annoyed with being around OMNI personnel.

Back to the debacle around the Republic, OMNI had bungled the whole operation. Their incompetence was honestly beyond ridiculous, even if it wasn't always blatant. As far as she knew, the "fleet commander" hadn't reported what happened to OMNI top brass or to Alliance leadership. The only problem she had with such was that it meant Azrael would likely call her and ask what happened. She would tell him without holding back, but he would blame her and her work to be at fault. The man, like many funders, took what they were told that the Enhanced Human Project was producing "unbeatable" soldiers. Mina had stated specifically that the project's candidates were better than OMNI and could go against ZAFT and have potential success. And over the years, Mina had become irritated when others would whine and complain they had been cheated when they hadn't listened to what had been said.

It was the "equation" that some had stated was possible earlier in the Cosmic Era, the creation of a "better soldier," a "better solider." Mina knew such a soldier never would exist, and there's no such thing as an undefeatable soldier or pilot or a "perfect human." One individual had already tried creating the idea, and Ulen Hibiki had failed in that dream of his. The man had intelligence and talent and had wasted it all on the obsession he was stuck on in Mina's view. Not to say that the work on the enhanced human project hadn't made strides in improving some subjects to do better. Some of her candidates could perform as well, if not somewhat better than average ZAFT pilots at this point.

Then there had been the "custom model" mobile suits that the Federation had put out on the field. Mina had seen some time ago that custom-colored mobile weapons were normally given to "exceptional" pilots. Custom machines were even more likely to have such pilots using them, and going against the Republic had proven that point again. Mina had expected one or two custom machines, maybe three, to show up even if OMNI had "assured" her that it wouldn't happen. She was confident that her girls working as a team, could take down even the new Gundam-type units one by one. However, Mina had counted seven Gundams on the Federation side while there were only her three girls' units. That was more than two to one, and that was odds Mina would rather not have the girls be on the losing end. Things had gotten worse when an eighth Gundam-type had shown up and quickly made it clear it was on the Federation's side.

Mina would tout that her girls were good at getting results and would provide evidence to prove that. However, she would push back against any that would expect any non-exceptional pilot to come out of the situation her girls had been in. And she wouldn't have her girls throw their lives away to satisfy a foolish and blind businessman like Azrael. As some would demand, too much work had gone into them and other project candidates to toss them away. Not that Mina expected Azrael would take anything she said as anything but an excuse for her project not being as he heard advertised. It was one of the reasons Mina didn't deal with the clients directly most of the time.

Anyway, even with the loss incurred against the Republic's defending forces, things hadn't been all bad. The data acquired on the Raptor, the Sinister, and the Bandit had made the sacrifice a fair exchange to Mina. The adjustments made by the time the fleet reached Victoria would make a difference and better show the potential they and her candidates had. If those results were impressive enough, perhaps the funders would get off Mina's back, stop demanding ridiculous things and keep the money flowing in. The annoyance of financial backers screeching for results and not understanding the efforts that went into the work they so demanded. It was again why she didn't deal with the funders, and Mina just wanted to be left to the work.

Nothing she or any of the other scientists at the lab did had been noticed by those who gave the money that the lab needed to keep going. None of the financial backers the lab had ever seemed to possess a bit of gratitude or were satisfied with anything put out. Every single representative from a funding group for the lab which had come had been the same. No matter how many times they were shown examples from different projects, they didn't see the value of what the lab did. Mina's friend Lori who dealt with the funders, had mentioned there had been no expressions of gratitude or congratulation from any of them. Where Mina didn't care about the lack of gratitude from those who demanded the lab's work, congratulations on the progress made would help smooth things. Instead, over the last year and more, the funders said, "that's all you can offer," and "can't you do more or better."

The escalation of the war had increased the demands of the funders so much that even Mina had been hearing about it from her friend and others. The irritating noise had Mina and those that effectively ran Ladonia considering taking their work elsewhere. Mina had even talked with others from the Tartarus and the Lemuria complexes about the issue of their funders' treatment. The grumblings had made it clear to Mina that there was a need for change in some way for the Enhanced Human Project. Whether that change was taking the work to others or getting the funders to change their attitudes were different. Mina had considered taking the project to the Federation or ZAFT in the last few weeks. She would choose the Federation over ZAFT as they would at least look at the work and its potential. Mina knew that if she and others left their current funders, they would have to give up some things, but that was more preferable to changing nothing. She saw nothing but problems and ruin should the Enhanced Human Project stay with the Alliance.

Her mood was such that Mina put down the pen she'd been using to write up the report she was. She gazed down at the page and frowned, "This crapshoot is going past ridiculous," she muttered. "I should've never agreed to humor Azrael, and the data is barely even worth the trouble I'm dealing with." A beeping sound drew Mina's attention, and she saw an incoming call on the terminal on the left side of the desk. Those on this ship hadn't called down to her quarters once, and they avoided her, which she preferred. And the calling code wasn't from any of the three labs, and she knew those by heart. So, she connected the com-signal before hiding her irritation that flared up at seeing the face of Muruta Azrael on the screen. "Director Azrael," Mina greeted flatly, "what do you want this time?"

Azrael respected the attitude of wanting to get to the point and not waste any on pleasantries. Playing nice with others had its place, and Azrael would do such when he felt inclined to. But as things were finally in swing with the Alliance and the Federation issue, he wanted things to move fairly. "My my, to the point as ever, Mina," Azrael remarked, "I certainly can respect and appreciate the mentality." Azrael paused before getting down to business, "The reason for me reaching out is I hadn't heard from you yet with results from your end. So, while I like to leave others to do as they can, I thought I would check and see how things were going on your end."

Azrael's "pleasant" mood would soon change Mina knew more due to the answer he was asking for. It also said that the fleet commander hadn't reported what occurred with their assault on the Republic. And while Mina knew of their incompetence, for them to not say anything to their superiors was a more interesting sign of it. They either feared their superiors or were so foolish as not to admit their mistakes. Mina hadn't expected much with the operation, and her expectations had been on point for the most part. OMNI had underestimated the Federation and had paid the price for the foolishness. If not for her girls, they would have taken more losses before the "one" in charge called back OMNI forces. Not that Azrael would see things the same way Mina did, but she would tell him what happened. Mina rolled her eyes, "I suppose I shouldn't be surprised the buffoon that is the fleet commander hasn't said anything." Azrael's eyebrows rose at the sentence though he said nothing as Mina continued, "OMNI's First Seaborne Fleet failed to take the Republic, and miserably at that."

There had been no report about the operation to take the Republic finishing, let alone failing that he'd heard. Difficulties were expected with the Federation, but they were accounted for in these operations. Then, Mina's work, her "girls," were supposed to raise the chances of success in the operation. Thus, Azrael controlled his expression, hoping he would get details about what had happened. If some needed to be punished, he wanted to know who and how badly. "You don't say, Mina," he began, "Please define what you mean by failed miserably if you would."

Mina shrugged and picked up the first page of the report she'd been writing, "If that's all you want, I will certainly oblige." Mina skimmed over the first few lines, "You will recall I told you I expected there to be problems due to OMNI underestimating their opponents."

Azrael nodded, "Yes, you said something to that effect," he remarked.

"That is the major reason the Federation repelled OMNI's assault on the Republic, the captains in the fleet were fools." Mina paused, "The so-called fleet commander didn't seem to understand that the operation would be a hard fight the whole way and so jumped the gun and played right into the defending forces' hands. When I asked, he replied," She stopped and adopted a sing-song voice, "We are being met with unexpected resistance. If the Daggers could land on the Republic's mainland, things would progress more according to plan." Mina's voice returned to the annoyed-toned voice, "It's no wonder OMNI is having such trouble if that is the kind of officer who is commanding." Mina paused to take a breath, "Therefore, in the end, OMNI was pushed back, losing about half of their fighting strength. I define that as failing miserably, Azrael, and I would think you'd agree with the definition."

Azrael wasn't pleased to hear Mina describing the failure she was. And he was inclined to believe what she said was accurate as the woman didn't mince words. In all honesty, Azrael had hoped to see Blass sweat and break down somewhat, and the Republic falling could get that. Yet, Mina hadn't mentioned anything about her candidates, and they were supposed to make a difference. "Really, Mina," Azrael posed, "And what of those candidates of yours that you tout and are so proud of?" Azrael had been told Ladonia's work would give the Alliance an edge in the war, and that wasn't what he was hearing. "With what you and others have said, I was expecting to be told of amazing things they did. I'm not the only one of your funders that want to see some performance of what we pay you to work on. Rest assured, funding your work isn't cheap, so something for financial backing would be appreciated. You wouldn't have kept them out of the fight, that's not like you, Mina." Azrael paused, "That is unless you are developing some sort of motherly attachment to those girls?"

Mina gained a small angry frown at the suggestion that she would not have her girls go out on a battlefield. "They are examples of my work, Azrael, not children that I brought into the world. A lot of work and resources have gone into them, I don't want that wasted," Mina insisted. "And they were out on the battlefield, doing far better than OMNI was." She stopped and glared at Azrael, "Mocking my work is VERY unwise, Azrael, don't make that mistake as others have before. You've shown yourself to be smarter than that, so don't cross that line." Mina took a moment to calm down a bit, "My work, including candidates and mobile suits, you had me do the designing and do a good deal of overseeing with their construction, none of them are at fault. As I stated, OMNI foolishly underestimated the Federation, and their performance suffered. You should not reasonably expect a select few, even skilled and talented ones, to make up for the many fools failing."

Azrael exhaled irritably, knowing that Mina did have a point that few making up for the failings of many rarely worked out. "Okay, you have a fair point, Mina," Azrael admitted, "Good to see you stay objective with your work and don't get emotionally involved."

Mina gazed at the man, "I've seen the folly of that mistake some have made," she replied. "While I am proud of what my girls can do, they are shining examples of my project. I do not see them as children that belong to me even if they treat me as their mother." Mina stopped and returned to the original subject, "While the results are not what you desired, the data acquired for the three suits were worth the time. The improvements which will be made will significantly make the difference in the next battle. The candidates from my project were designed and trained to go against ZAFT forces, Azrael. This was their first experience with Federation soldiers, and there is a difference between the two, even if there are those in the Alliance who say there isn't."

Azrael would give credit to those who saw others' mistakes and worked not to make them themselves. However, it made Azrael "concerned" that the candidate with the fleet he was with would potentially fail. And yet, by what Mina had said, she implied she was making some sort of offer that hadn't been stated specifically. "I'm sure you've seen the folly of getting emotionally involved with work, and I applaud you for taking the necessary steps to prevent yourself from falling into such. But correct me should I be wrong," Azrael began, "yet, it sounds like you are making an offer for another demonstration."

Mina nodded, "See it in what way you wish, Azrael," she returned. "When the First Fleet reaches Victoria, I will show you proof of my work's viability. I doubt the Fourth Fleet will have finished with their task and likely won't have made much progress in it. ZAFT won't give up Victoria easily, so that OMNI would fight for days on it. My girls will not just speed the operation along to its conclusion, and they will achieve better results. There will be a lot less damage to the mass driver than with just the Alliance's Strike Daggers suits doing the job. Let that serve as a show of my project for you and the others who fund it."

Azrael was interested in the offer of another demonstration of Mina's Enhanced Human Project. The data he'd read on it appeared rather promising, and if it worked as implied, the Alliance would have a way to turn the tides in the war with ZAFT. However, the sales pitch Mina had just given was not just impressive, and it set an expectation that even Azrael wouldn't find fault with. And Mina certainly sounded confident that her girls could do as she stated. So, Azrael decided to give her a second chance without strings attached, as he would be inclined to do with others. A smile came to his face, "Oh, Mina, it's nice to see that your confidence is still healthy as ever. With that offer, I'm more than willing to give you a second opportunity to show me the fruits of your project against those they've been trained to fight." Azrael gave a nod, "I certainly look forward to hearing the results of Victoria with a sales pitch like that. Until then, keep up with that attitude of yours, Mina."

The call with Azrael ended, and the room was left in silence as it had been before the call had come. Mina was left fuming at the man she had quickly come to dislike, Muruta Azrael. He was more of a pain to deal with than rumors had suggested. Blue Cosmos was one of the bigger funders that the lab had, but it wasn't pleasant to have one's work questioned. It was one of Mina Moss's serious pet peeves to have her work questioned or doubted, and it irked her to an extreme. None at Lodonia Lab did such a thing anymore, they knew better and knew that there were consequences. However, she knew that should she want the funding to continue coming, she would have to play nice enough to keep it that way.

Her thoughts turned to her previous musing about leaving the Alliance and taking her project to others. With how things were going, the sooner the project could slip away from the Alliance, the better. And while Mina didn't like the possibility of giving up pursuits, that looked more acceptable than the current circumstances. Thus, Mina got on an encrypted channel and sent a message to Lodonia. She addressed the message to her friend and the one currently in charge of the lab while Mina was gone. Lori was one of the few Mina trusted with anything, and the woman had proven dependable. Plus, she understood the value of the project and was a much better face for the funders than Mina was. And it was best Azrael nor any of the other funders knew she was having doubts about them. Lori would know to keep this under wraps and away from potential rats and moles from the funders.

A/N

Okay, I'll leave off in this Phase there and continue in the next one. Now, on to the points of note in the Phase. So, I'll admit this Phase is kind of a filler one, and to set up for the fighting in the next one. However, I wanted to go into some detail as to those in Orb what they were going through with the Alliance's actions. The message is similar to what the Republic received, but I feel the Alliance would send much the same to any of the Federation member nations. The message is the Alliance's unofficial way of saying they won't leave them alone as is implied by a Orb council rep. I also want to point out something Uzumi mentioned that shows the difference from canon. Uzumi admits that the Federation's military forces will make a difference in the upcoming battle with OMNI. He says without them Orb would likely fall and canon pretty much proves how right that is. Another thing I would like to point out is the results of the meeting Murrue had the Archangel's crew. Now the meeting itself was much like canon was, but some like Kuzzey deciding to stay. There is more hope that things can go better against OMNI and the Alliance than there was in canon. I also include Dearka's leaving the ship as he is in more conflict in him than I would say there was in canon.

And lastly, the interaction between Azrael and Mina which is important in my view. First Azrael is amused by the response Ellen gave to the Alliance's message. Because of that, Azrael liked Uzumi's response not only because of the new GAT series being used, but Azrael wanting to take Athha down a peg or more. However, when Mina told him of the First Fleet's failure, he was both disappointed and worried. It does set some expectations for the next Phase which was the intent. With that done, as I normally do, please some of you readers write a review for me and say what you think of the Phase. I really do appreciate the reviews that I get, I do read them and take the suggestions given to heart. The next Phase is titled: "Intervening Justice" and should be ready in two weeks at the pace its going. Pease out till the next Phase!