Gundam Seed: The Federation ver 2

by Blackshadow999

Different telling of Gundam Seed. With the conflict between Naturals and Coordinators getting worse as time passes, some nations have banded together and formed the organization known as the Human Federation. Will the Federation be able to help bring peace or will the hatred between Naturals and Coordinators destroy everything and bring extinction of humanity? Cover by Saddle Patch

41. Phase 41: Fruits of War

A/n

Here is Phase 41, hope you enjoy the phase.

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Phase 41: Fruits of War

June 17th, 71 CE

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Above Earth

The atmospheric ascent of the transport shuttle was much the same as it normally was for Tyler. It was somewhat bumpy on the way up while one was pushed into the seat but still better than doing reentry to Earth, in Tyler's opinion. And at least he wasn't doing this alone, and the company was comforting with current events. With the way the war was going, Tyler would rather be working with some he knew than others he didn't or alone. Tyler would even say Graham's company was nice though he didn't much like his "heroic" attitude. He was especially grateful for the company as Tyler wasn't looking forward to what he and his companions would be doing on their assignment.

From the assignment document, Tyler, Lisa, and Graham were to assist the space forces in the "response" to OMNI's actions. The three of them were to join up with the Federation's First Space Fleet and work with them. The fleet's current job was to hunt down OMNI's Orbital Fleets and "handle" them. Tyler already had a good idea of what the term "handle" was referring to, and it was dealing with them in such a way that would be lasting. OMNI fleets were given a chance to surrender, which, if they took, were allowed to go their way after signing an agreement of non-aggression. Were an OMNI fleet not taking the offer of surrender, they were exterminated without further delay. And with how the Alliance had been recently, Tyler would bet none of the fleets hunted down would take the surrender option.

The facts made Tyler wonder several things about the Alliance and OMNI, more recently than before. The decisions they had been making had done nothing to help them in their goals, more the opposite. Ever since they got mobile suits, they had seemingly lost common sense and became foolishly aggressive. They may not admit it officially, and it was mostly as they didn't want to say they were being reckless, but the Alliance had put themselves in a bad position. The Alliance had declared war on the Federation unofficially with their actions of attacking the member nations. Yet, from what Tyler had learned from the Information Network, OMNI's space forces had no idea what was going on. Thus, OMNI's Orbital Fleets would be exterminated without knowing why the Federation was doing it. The lack of communication within OMNI was doing more damage than anything else. However, the Federation was doing it to cut down potential fighting power in space OMNI could work with.

Tyler could see the logic in the Federation's admiralty's actions. If OMNI lacked space forces, they wouldn't have an effective means of delivery when they were able to create nuclear weapons. Doing that would block one avenue of potential nuclear weapons being used to kill people. It would only leave ZAFT's weapon, whatever it was, to block and prevent its use. Tyler certainly hoped that Federation R&D had finished or was close to completing a countermeasure for the N-Jammer canceller. He felt the human race would need such sooner than any wanted to believe. Tyler was brought out of his thought when the shuttle exited Earth's atmosphere, and he felt the effects of Zero-G.

The shuttle was not the vehicle to get them to the First Space Fleet, merely the way from Earth's surface. Now they were in high orbit, Tyler and his companions unbuckled their restraints, Lisa and Graham headed for the cargo hold. Tyler turned to thank the shuttle pilots that had brought them up to orbit while his companions went ahead. He felt extending gratitude was the proper thing to do when someone did something for you. It was a lesson his mother had repeated to him more times than Tyler wanted to count. However, his father had helped with a few of those lessons, which were the more memorable ones Tyler could recall and extending gratitude was one of them. So, Tyler made the time often to thank others as he knew his mother would expect such of him.

After thanking the shuttle pilots, Tyler headed to the craft's cargo hold so he could head off with the other two. Crew members were helping Lisa and Graham to board their assigned mobile suits when Tyler arrived. Lisa was locked into the pilot seat of the Athena when she noticed Tyler coming into the cargo hold. She had seen him go toward the shuttle's cockpit while she and Mr. Aker had gone to the hold. Lisa figured Tyler had gone to thank the pilots or something along those lines, that's the kind of person he was. She knew that Tyler had been going over their assignment as much as she had been if not in more detail. Helping the First Space Fleet was fine and straightforward enough that there wasn't a question about it. No, the mission the fleet was on currently caused the hesitation as to what would likely be involved. The First Fleet was working on hunting down OMNI's Orbital Fleets. It was the response to the attacks on the member nations, fighting their space forces. Lisa could understand Tyler's hesitation in the task of hunting down OMNI's space forces. The first Orbital Fleet had been exterminated after refusing the chance to surrender, and it was expected dealing with the other fleets would go much the same way.

Graham had also noticed Tyler entering the cargo hold a little while after he and their female companion had come down. He had glanced over the standing orders the three of them were under right now. The Federation's Space Forces were working to hunt down OMNI's Orbital Fleets one by one. It was tactically sound from Graham's experience, cripple your enemy before they can deal a serious blow to your territory. And with the rumors of the Alliance working feverishly at getting nuclear technology at their disposal, the possibilities were horrible to imagine which was more motivation. The human race wouldn't do well with another event like the Bloody Valentine. It was the reason ZAFT had abandoned nuclear technology. However, from what Tyler had mentioned in passing, ZAFT had developed the means to get around the n-jammers. It was troubling and sad that some within ZAFT would throw away the sacrifices made to prevent another terrible event.

Tyler floated over to the Aurora, secured to the "ceiling" of the cargo hold. The Athena was on the right wall, and the Thanatos was on the left. Tyler noticed all three machines had been unsecured from the cages they had been secured in for ascent. He grabbed the Aurora's pilot seat to stop his momentum, "I hope the Aurora is ready to go out," Tyler asked the nearest crew member. The crew member nodded, "Yes, commander, the suit is good to go," they said in reply.

Tyler maneuvered himself into the Aurora's pilot seat and felt his suit's backpack lock into the seat and securing him. He had the seat lower into the cockpit and had the bulkhead slide over the opening and seal. Tyler started up the operating system as the shuttle crew left the cargo hold so the air could be sucked out. Tyler connected lines to the Thanatos and the Athena so he could be on the same page with them. They were a team for the time being and Tyler tended to take the role of team lead in this kind of thing. "I hope both of you read the mission brief and know where we are to meet the First Fleet, correct," Tyler posed.

Lisa nodded, "Yes, we are to meet them a distance from here as they are traveling toward Lagrange 1." Graham picked up where Lisa left off, "And we will be helping them in their hunt of OMNI's Orbital Fleets."

Tyler hummed, "Good to see we're all on the same page," he remarked. There was a soft jerk as the Aurora came out of the dock and moved to the center of the cargo hold. "Remember this is to both deliver a message to OMNI and prevent them from doing even stupider actions and making things much worse."

Lisa knew that Tyler's statement was true as many wished it wasn't. The Alliance became more foolish as the war had gone on over the years. In the first two years of the war, OMNI wouldn't have considered the actions they were doing now. It was more a display of the effects of the corruptive influence terrorists and hate-filled individuals had with the Alliance over time. Those like Blue Cosmos had so much influence for long enough that their views had permeated the Alliance's general reasoning that should guide them. One of the major points that brought the war to where it was now with OMNI being in its position. The Alliance was now fighting both the Federation and ZAFT. It was costing them their forces along with other things.

Tyler wasn't saying that he had his own reason to come up to space. He had mentioned vaguely that he felt he would need to go back to the PLANTs soon. Lisa figured that he wanted to save that pink-haired friend who had helped in the theft of the Freedom. The poor girl would have taken a portion of the blame for that event. From what Lisa had seen from the Information Network, Mr. Clyne was in serious trouble these days. Siegel Clyne was unseated as the Chairman of the PLANT's Supreme Council just before the Freedom disappeared, which had sown more problems than it solved. Clyne hadn't been the only one "removed and replaced" in the PLANT's governing body, simply a more notable one. The issue as it was being seen was those replacing the "reasonable" people were more radical-minded that aligned with those that were in control. Because of that, Mr. Clyne and his daughter were quickly labeled traitors after the Freedom had been taken. Thus far, the two had kept themselves from being captured by those in power putting forth efforts to handle them. Lisa would guess some were helping the two putting their own lives at risk. It merely showed what the war was rapidly morphing into, good people being silenced and horrible individuals' voices amplified.

Lisa didn't doubt Tyler was waiting for the opportunity for him to rush to the PLANTs and help his friend. There were rumors that a mission was being put together to send some over to extract Mr. Clyne and his daughter. The man had done a great deal for the PLANTs and the human race, which some were trying to overwrite to justify their actions against him. However, even as others were trying to paint the man as a traitor, the Federation hadn't forgotten what Siegel Clyne had worked for much of his life. For all the efforts Siegel Clyne had put forth to foster goodwill and push for all humans to coexist, the man certainly didn't deserve others trying to say he did the opposite. And with how Tyler was, Lisa would be completely shocked if he didn't rushed off when he could to help his friend regarless of the consequences. If there was one thing that could be stated about Tyler, he was loyal to his friends and would do pretty much anything.

Tyler saw the cargo doors directly ahead of him open so the Aurora and the other suits could leave. Tyler nudged the throttle forward and had the Aurora slowly exit the shuttle before moving a short distance away from the craft. He did shift the Aurora into its flight mode so the journey to the First Fleet would be smooth. The Athena came out next, followed by the Thanatos both heading in the Aurora's direction. The shuttle continued its orbit as they would return to Earth's surface rather than stay in space. The Athena and the Thanatos changed over to their flight forms as Tyler took the lead of their group. Lisa moved to the Aurora's left while Graham did the same on the right. They traveled toward Lagrange 1, reaching the Debris Belt within about an hour. The journey through the Debris Belt was quiet since the three didn't talk to one another as they moved through the area.

Tyler was left to his thoughts while he led the group forward as the flying didn't take his active attention. Tyler would be lying if he were to say that he wasn't thinking about what was happening to Lacus and Siegel right now. The things that he'd read on the Information Network hadn't been encouraging in the slightest. While the two had been branded traitors as Tyler had expected with their involvement in the theft, the backlash was worse than he'd thought it would be. Tyler had figured the two would be cursed and may be imprisoned for their actions due to the love of the PLANT's citizens they had. However, Tyler had to admit he had been wrong and underestimated how the radicals in power could spin things. According to PLANT informants, Chairman Zala and those like him had pushed the story Siegel had "lost his mind" and "was helping" rogue agents after resigning as Chairman. It wasn't just the speed with which those in control of ZAFT and the PLANTs had turned on Siegel and Lacus that surprised Tyler. The turning on was expected, but the narrative's influence on the citizens with how it smeared Siegel was painful to see. Tyler knew the man had dedicated his life to making the world a better place for Coordinators and Naturals. The man's legacy should be a wonderful thing for the world, yet now, it is being destroyed by radical fools who want the man silenced for speaking against them.

Lacus was in a similar boat as her father was in many ways, Tyler knew that for a fact. Through her songs, it should have been unquestioned that she loved the PLANT's and its people, and they loved her. Nevertheless, much like Siegel, those in control were using the media the PLANTs had to paint Lacus as an evil person. She had been forced into hiding like Siegel had been and thus had kept herself from being captured. In fact, from what Tyler understood, Lacus was fighting back by broadcasting the truth over communication frequencies that the main media didn't control. Apparently, she'd been quite a thorn in the side of the radicals. Citizens were listening to what Lacus was saying, and Chairman Zala used the Council's resources to attempt to stop her. Tyler found it amusing that he was having a heck of a time dealing with a girl with all the power Patrick Zala now wielded. Tyler applauded Lacus's efforts, and the girl wasn't going to be silent and was fighting back in every way she could.

Tyler had seen on the Network there was a rescue mission being planned and put together for Siegel and Lacus. It was being scrambled but wasn't official or ready to be done yet. Tyler knew there would be one good chance to rescue the two from those that wanted to silence them. So, as much as Tyler wanted to go rushing off to the PLANTs and save the two from their predicament, he knew it would be better to wait until the right opportunity came up. No matter how it frustrated him that Lacus was in danger and he had to sit on his hands for the moment, it was the best thing for now. When the time came for the rescue mission to be dispatched, Tyler would head to Lacus's side and help her. If any tried to stop him, then Tyler would proudly display how outright stubborn he could be when put to it. Yes, even if his boss Admiral Raine ordered him to stand down, Tyler would defy her orders to save Lacus and Siegel. And Tyler rarely considered going against the woman that was his boss since he knew the consequences of such. But for Lacus, he would face the potential punishment from Admiral Raine and tell her he wasn't ashamed of his actions.

After getting through the Debris Belt, the three kept traveling forward but switched on their stealth systems. It would be another hour from the outer edge of the belt to the meeting point with the First Fleet. They had met no OMNI forces yet, even though they had crossed a known patrol path of their Orbital Fleets. Tyler wondered if OMNI's space forces knew what was coming their way for the actions of their "allies." He doubted it, but he couldn't say if the rude awakening of an Orbital Fleet were being destroyed. There had been no report of an Orbital Fleet being dealt with yet, but Tyler felt it wouldn't be long. However, it was better if they did not get any hints of what was coming. It would be kinder as OMNI personnel wouldn't need to dread their pending ends.

Once arriving at the outer perimeter of L1, the three came to a stop, Tyler sent out a signal for the First Fleet that they were there, and then they waited. Less than a minute later, a large shape began appearing in front of them. The shape became a ship that was a Federation Voyager-class dreadnought. The class had a length of five-hundred-twenty-five meters from back to front and was the largest ship class built to date by any of the factions of the human race. The central section's shape was similar to the Enterprise-class cruiser though the wings ran the whole length of the ship on both sides. The wings were level with the top of the ship for the back half of the ship, then tapered off forward and downward on the front half. There were four heavy engines, two mounted on each wing's back and three built into the ship's rear. The Voyager-class had but one mobile weapon linear catapult, which ran along the top of the ship's center line. And the ship supported an average crew complement of four-hundred but could have up to four-hundred-seventy-five without overstressing its resources.

As with any ship class the Federation built and employed for military use, the Voyager class was equipped with an array of equipment. A combination of a stealth system emitter network, including an optical camouflage field, made the ship undetectable. Its arsenal was lighter than cruisers in the amounts of weapons but carried more powerful options. There were three "Lancer" high-energy beam cannons, one on either center of the wings and the third on the bottom ship hull just behind the center. Then along both wings were an array of missile launchers built into them to have twelve in each wing. And for the interception system, there were eleven "Cepters" CIWS dual-barreled defensive gun turrets in total. The four positioned in front had two on the center section on either side of the linear catapult and a gun on both wings. There was two more midway along with both wings, and the last three were divided with one on top and behind the navigation bridge. The other two guns were along the bottom length of the central section of the ship.

The major weapon the Voyager-class possessed was built into the forward of the central section of the ship, much like the Enterprise-class. However, instead of a MAC gun, the dreadnought had a three-hundred-centimeter multi-phase beam cannon that could even outdo OMNI's positron blaster cannon developed with the Archangel. It was called the "Beastian" cannon, which Tyler suspected OMNI had used as a basis for the beam weaponry in their G-Project. From what Tyler saw, the Aegis's Scylla Cannon worked with fairly similar principles as the Beastian. Yet, one difference was that the Voyager class had heat dispersion systems for cooling the cannon efficiently, whereas the Aegis hadn't had such built in with it. And the main part of the Voyager's arsenal was the mobile suits it could carry, which could be as many as fifteen. Tyler knew the Voyager class was definitely the hard hitter in an assault and was normally a fleet leader.

The message to approach the ship came to Tyler's group and moved forward with Tyler in the lead, followed by Lisa and then Graham. As Tyler came into the hangar, he was directed to a dock, and he glanced around as he moved to the designated area. He saw there were currently eight Delta Fighters in docks for the vessel to send out if called upon. That was generally an average compliment for the Voyager-class for missions so that was expected. Just after the Aurora docked, Tyler popped out of his cockpit and scanned the hangar. The Athena was moving into a dock, as was the Thanatos. They would need to report to the ship's captain as they were more than likely in charge of the fleet. While their mission was to help the First Fleet deal with OMNI's Orbital Fleets, there wasn't much more detail.

Tyler waited as his two companions docked their machines and exited them before leaving the hangar. The three reported to the fleet commander and learned the First Fleet was heading for OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet. It was the closest to the current position as it would be an hour to contact. The OMNI Fleet was under the command of one Admiral Coats, who was known for favoring brute force swarming tactics against ZAFT as stated by his service history. Tyler had read a general opinion report on the OMNI fleet admiral in question and hadn't been impressed. OMNI's Second Fleet commander may not be a Blue Cosmos sympathizer, but they didn't show mercy to the Alliance's enemies. The man was nothing like Halberton was, which was not a compliment, more an insult or should be seen as such. And even should OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet have already obtained their mass-production mobile suits, it wouldn't make a difference in the end result.

With the Alliance having declared war on the Federation with their actions, the Federation's Admiralty had gotten to work. For the space forces, the admirals over the branch named Maharaja Karn and Katejina Loos had been mobilizing the space fleets. Such mobilization hadn't occurred for years now as it hadn't been necessary. And the Federation's space forces were ready for the planned task just as they were for ZAFT. Also, since the Alliance knew about the Federation having their own mobile suits, Tyler didn't see the Federation Admiralty keeping that secret anymore. Delta Fighters were just as much mobile suits as the Valkyrie jet fighters were, so OMNI would have no more luck in space than they had on Earth. Thus, the swarming and brute force tactics would be pointless in the upcoming fight as the Federation would counter it.

Tyler knew the Aurora and its fellows would be fully resupplied before the battle against OMNI's Orbital Fleet started. But the setup for the coming battle didn't give Tyler a good feeling, much the same feel as fighting to defend the Republic. Only in this case, Tyler believed it would feel more like professional soldiers taking on disorganized rebels in strange territory. The only chance OMNI's Second Fleet had was to surrender, at least, they would live should they do so. If they didn't, all in OMNI's Second Fleet would die for their "allies'" actions on Earth. What irked Tyler was those in OMNI's Orbital Fleets hadn't been the ones who had attacked Federation member nations. And yet, they would pay the price for the decisions of the fools who led the Earth Alliance, and it didn't feel fair or morally right. But OMNI needed to be shown that making horrible and stupid choices based on hatred came with just as serious consequences.

The ship captain assigned Tyler and his companions' quarters on the ship, which was named the Resolute. The three separated to the separate rooms they had been given, and after unpacking what few things he had, Tyler sat at the desk in the officer's quarters he'd been given. He accessed the Information Network to check what facts were on OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet. The fleet was originally made up of thirty-seven ships, but it had lost some during a recent fight against ZAFT according to reports. It had five Agamemnon classes, twelve Nelson classes, and twelve Drake classes. From what information had been recently acquired, Nelsons could carry up to eight mobile weapons while Agamemnons could have twelve. Thus, if one assumed the given figures, the Second Orbital Fleet could have up to one-hundred-seventy-two mobile weapons. Not that Tyler expected OMNI to be able to run with that many mobile weapons by this point. They hadn't produced that many of their mass-production suits yet, and mobile armors couldn't be produced that quickly with the supply lines cut due to the mass driver's destruction. So, Tyler guessed eight-six mobile weapons at most, which was fine as the First Space Fleet had more than enough machines to handle those numbers.

Tyler turned his attention to using the Information Network to check on what could be happening to Lacus and Siegel. The most current info stated that "Council-loyal" soldiers had apprehended neither of the two. There was information that implied a division in ZAFT, and it was getting wider by the day. Admiral Treize was not delegating forces for Chairman Zala's vendetta and didn't seem to even be involved in the slightest. And soldiers that were forced to do what the Chairman told them were having doubts about their assignments. Tyler doubted the Chairman understood his actions were weakening ZAFT and the PLANTs rather than strengthening them. It was truly sad to Tyler, and the Chairman was completely different than the Patrick Zala he'd once known. Tyler still had early memories of Patrick Zala and his wife Lenore visiting the Republic to see his mother. Athrun's mom quickly became friends with Tyler's mother so fast that Tyler swore the two had met before. As Tyler recalled, Patrick had been a good man and had good discussions with his mom. Ellen had said Patrick had been dedicated to helping Coordinators live peacefully with the rest of the Human race. And so, he had agreed with the Federation's policies and had said they were "visionary." However, there was no shadow of that man that Tyler saw in Chairman Zala. What's more, Tyler couldn't help but feel sorry for Athrun, with Chairman Zala the way he was now. Tyler had tried to be gentle in "implying" Chairman Zala wasn't Athrun's father anymore, but he could only do so much without stabbing Athrun's heart. Tyler felt that if he had told Athrun outright, his friend would have denied the fact. Such wouldn't help right now, and even if it were the truth, it would only put Athrun in a harder position than he already was in.

Still, Tyler was impressed that Lacus and Siegel were keeping out of the clutches of Chairman Zala. He couldn't imagine the task was an easy one, not how the Chairman's attack dogs were hunting them. And Lacus was doing her broadcasts on top of being chased, which Tyler had to applaud. Tyler knew the girl had heart and drive, but she showed real courage with her actions. He'd thought Lacus going out in a mobile suit and fighting was something for her, but she'd upped that higher with her resistence she was showing now. And he would tell Lacus that he was impressed when he went to the PLANTs to bail her out of her current situation.

Tyler shook his head and searched the network, and found that OMNI was in the process of attacking the Equatorial Union. They were also poised to strike the Orb Union and would later the current day. Tyler was confident that Kira and the Archangel's crew and pilots would help in Orb's defense now they knew the truth about the Alliance. And then, Athrun would get there to help them, which would boost Orb's chances. Tyler didn't doubt the Equatorial Union's forces would kick OMNI out of their territory for a second. He'd worked with some soldiers from the Equatorial Union, and their fighting style was something else, and he respected the soldiers from the territory. And once OMNI was ousted from the Equatorial Union, its forces would go and help Orb as the Federation did for one another withouth hesitation.

Once OMNI failed to take any of the Federation's member nations, the war would shift toward space. By the time it went in that direction, OMNI's space forces would be worrying about other things. In the weeks that would go by, OMNI would lose their Orbital Fleets whether they would try to stop the extermination. If things went as expected with the current mission parameters, OMNI would lose its remaining seven orbital fleets in around four to five weeks. If OMNI dragged things out by running and hiding their fleets, it could take up to seven weeks. And while OMNI focused on fighting the Federation, their standing would worsen overall. The Alliance hadn't taken the two member nations that the Atlantic Ocean bordered. The Euros Coalition and the Kingdom of Scandinavia were securing their borders currently. The Federation's Asgard Base had been on high alert since the Republic was attacked and were increasing patrols and other defensive measures. Asgard was located on the island that had been known as Iceland before the reconstruction war and was the Federation's Earth-Based headquarters. Tyler knew the Alliance hadn't liked nor appreciated the Federation's base there and had often made their displeasure vocal, but it hadn't changed anything.

Tyler logged off the Information Network, went over to the bed, and quickly dozed off. He was still more exhausted than usual due to his continuing recovery from the Shadow's destruction. So Tyler knew he should rest when he could, especially if it were uninterrupted recovery, thus, he dropped off quickly into a light dose. When Tyler jerked awake, he looked around and found the clock to see the time. It told him that he had been dozing for close to an hour, which was Tyler's hope. He wondered if there may be the chance to catch a bite to eat before the start of the operation. Tyler decided he could just pop into the ship's mess and see if he could find a meal to scarf down. He was just outside the door of his assigned quarters when an alarm sounded, and red lights lit up on the corridor walls. "Red alert" came over the ship speaker system, "All personnel to your stations. Repeat, red alert, all personnel to your stations."

The announcement answered Tyler's question about if there was time for him to grab a meal, and the answer was no. "Red alert" status for the Federation was the same as OMNI's "level one" battle stations and ZAFT's "condition red." It was announced to tell all on the ship to get to their stations in preparation for combat. For pilots like Tyler, it was the signal to suit up, get to the hangar and board your assigned machine. In this instance, Tyler figured it meant their group had come into range of OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet and it was time for the operation to begin. So, Tyler quickly made his way to the pilot locker room and slipped into his pilot suit. He wasn't the only one there doing that, but Tyler smiled that he was among the quickest to be in and out.

When Tyler arrived at the hangar, he found the ship's maintenance crew were hard at work finishing up preparations. Tyler floated over to the dock the Aurora was in, and he grabbed the back of the pilot's seat to stop his forward motion. He nodded to the lead mechanic over the group checking over the Aurora, "My machine ready to go," he asked.

The leader of the group of mechanics looked at the young man that had spoken. The file for this machine stated it was assigned to one "Tyler McGregor," who was a legend in the Federation's Military. Commander McGregor was the youngest soldier with the rank of commander, and he was a member of SOLAS. On top of that, he was a top-ranked licensed pilot the Federation had at its disposal, which was just as rare. The stories about the young man were normally unbelievable when told by most, for they portrayed him as larger than life. Thus, meeting the young man face-to-face was close to unreal for the normal forces. And just as amazing was the mobile suit the commander had been assigned to pilot. The mechanics that had worked to make sure the Z201 Aurora had been whispering how impressive the unit was. Of course, with it being a Teswa-produced machine, it wouldn't be an ordinary mobile weapon but still it impressed the mechanics. Teswa Research & Development was the foremost R&D facility the Federation had on Earth and off of it right now.

The lead mechanic gave a nod in answer to Tyler, then ordered his team pulled back as they were done with the Aurora. Tyler moved to be in the pilot seat and felt his suit's backpack slide into the "dock" for it and locked him in. He then had the seat descend into the cockpit before the bulkhead sealed the cockpit. Tyler booted up the Aurora's operating system, checking over things to make sure he was ready to go out and fight. Once Tyler was satisfied that he was as ready as possible, he leaned back in the seat and waited.

On the bridge of the Resolute, the fleet commander was gazing out at OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet. By reports, OMNI's Second Orbital was on its way back from a confrontation with ZAFT around the Debris Belt. And from the look of it, the fleet was somewhat smaller than it was supposed to be when at full strength. That made it easier for the First Space Fleet to accomplish their assigned mission. The fleet commander ordered the com-officer to send the message made for this mission. It was assumed that OMNI wouldn't accept the chance to surrender, it wasn't their usual response. So, the message was more a warning that a battle would occur and OMNI would lose.

The lead Agamemnon-class named the Louis was sailing through space with the rest of the Second Orbital Fleet surrounding it. The recent battle against ZAFT had gone better than things had been in the last year which was a morale booster. The addition of mobile suits had made a difference in the war against ZAFT, and it had leveled the battlefield. Any victory was helpful with the war going the way it was, especially after ZAFT attacked Panama and destroyed the mass driver. OMNI's earthbound forces were working on getting a mass driver to use, and hopefully, they would succeed soon. The recent victory had cost a few ships with good men and women on board, but their sacrifices would be recorded and remembered for future generations. Once they got back to the Ptolemaeus base, they would resupply and hopefully help protect the supply line to get it back into full swing.

Admiral Coats was going over the reports on the battle they had been in. He would have to put together a final report for the top brass to read about how the battle went. It would be a few hours before the fleet arrived at lunar HQ, but there was little to worry about as it was through OMNI-controlled territory. However, the man was brought out of his thoughts when one of the com-officer spoke up, "Admiral Coats, we're receiving a message from an unknown source." Coats glanced at the com-station, "What does the message say, ensign," he posed.

The com-officer looked over the message and resisted scratching his head as the contents didn't make sense. And with there being no identifying signature with the message, it made it all the more confusing. The communication essentially stated that they were being given a choice due to "recent actions" the Alliance had taken. The choice was to surrender or prepare to be "exterminated," as it was being worded specifically. If it weren't for the "recent actions" bit, then it would be a message expected from ZAFT sometimes. But the message set a tone that felt serious even if the sender was still a mystery. It was possible it could be the Federation's military, but they were neutral when it came to the war so that didn't make sense either. The ensign cleared their throat before they began, "The message reads as follows: OMNI Second Orbital Fleet, due to the recent actions of the Alliance, you are to stand as an example. You will face the consequences for your allies, which you may curse for the fate. However, as a show of extending mercy, you will be given a chance to surrender. Should you accept the offer, you will sign an agreement of non-aggression and then can be on your way. Yet should you refuse to surrender, then the entirety of OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet will be wiped out and none spared. You will be given five minutes to decide before it is assumed you choose to fight. We await your response."

Coats blinked at what the com-officer had just said since it made no sense. There was nothing in the message to say who the sender was. Coats had first thought that ZAFT had sent the message as it was something he could see them saying. However, the tone was unlike anything ZAFT tended to use on a normal basis. And the message was worded and sounded like the sender meant what they said. Nevertheless, whoever it was wouldn't get Coats or the Second Orbital Fleet to back down or consider surrender just because they were told to. "The sender of the message doesn't seem to know how OMNI does things," Coats stated. "We don't surrender, and we fight to protect our pure and blue world from those that threaten it."

The five minutes given to OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet went by, and there was no response from them. The First Space Fleet commander took that as OMNI refusing to surrender, which was expected from them. So, the feet commander ordered OMNI's long-range communications blocked, and then all ships began deploying their mobile suits. And a moment after that, the whole First Space Fleet dropped its optical camouflage. The moment Federations ships began appearing, OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet was left to question what was going on. The Federation's Military didn't just appear in front of a fleet for no reason, less one of their full space fleets. And with them already sending out their space fighters, it was becoming clear they were more than likely the senders of the message received.

Coats quickly ordered all mobile weapons to head out and ships into defensive formations to counter. Before now, the Federation had the advantage of stealth and technological superiority, but now they didn't have that. OMNI had mobile suits, which would give them a fighting chance against even the Federation. So, if the Federation wanted a fight, they would get one from OMNI. It would be a reason to put them in their place once and for all. Coats knew he wasn't the only one that had wanted to teach the Federation the lesson they weren't better than the rest. It had been an annoyance to many that the Federation had done nothing in this war. Now they would be brought to task and made to regret when they had stood by.

The signal to head out came for the mobile suits, and the Delta Fighters launched out to the field. When Tyler's turn came, he zoomed down the Voyage's catapult and shifted the Aurora into its flight mode just after leaving. As Tyler moved toward OMNI forces, he noted the mobile suits among them. Tyler could see three different variations with OMNI's mobile suits as he took in the field ahead. The first was their mass-production model called the GAT01 Strike Daggers, the most numerous. Then, a few machines looked similar but had more armor and darker blue coloration on those looked to be something based on the Strike's Aile pack's backpack thruster system. Tyler assumed those were the "commander" units for OMNI's mobile suit forces. And lastly, there were units of a "newer" model from what Tyler had seen or read about before. The new model was based on the X103 Buster, and it had the same basic shape overall. However, it had more green coloration and probably had laminated armor rather than phase shift as OMNI's mass-production units were built with.

Tyler once again wondered why the Alliance made "not the smartest" decisions when it came to what they did. OMNI had invented phase shift armor, yet they didn't employ such in their mass-production models. They would have a decent advantage against ZAFT's mobile suits, which was the point of their G-Project if they used phase shift armor. Instead, they used the less effective laminated armor as the Archangel used. The recklessness the Alliance showed more often than not cost them most of the time. And they didn't even seem to understand they were creating the problems and challenges they faced themselves. It would be sad if not for the regularity of the Alliance shooting themselves in the foot.

Tyler focused on the fight that was about to begin. It would be a slaughter for OMNI as the standing orders were to exterminate OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet sparing none. And even if they did destroy some of the Delta Fighters, their losses would be much higher than the Federation's. Before the three licensed pilots were taken into account, the odds against OMNI were stacked higher. Any of the three would make a serious difference, Tyler, Lisa, and Graham together could do the job alone. Heck, Tyler would bet that Graham could solo this mission and still come out with maybe a scratch, if not unscathed by the end. Tyler would do similar, just a few more nicks and scratches than Graham if he used his SEED mode.

The Delta Fighters began engaging OMNI's mobile weapons, quickly pushing the mobile armors back. The Strike Daggers shot at the Delta Fighters and did minor damage, but the Delta Fighters shifted into their suit forms in response. The Delta Fighter suits had similar shapes in the torsos and legs as OMNI's G-Project, enough to have Tyler wondering if someone had partial specs on them they started with for their project. However, the head had a single visor that contained the camera set for the machine. The Deltas quickly brought OMNI's mobile suits to a halt and pushed them onto the defensive. And it wasn't long after OMNI was brought to a halt that the First Fleet's ships began firing upon the Second Orbital.

Coats gazed out of the battle, which was not liking what he was seeing in front of him. The Federation forces had stopped both the mobile armors and suits from advancing. And while that was frustrating, that wasn't the issue this battle had. No, it was the rumor of the Federation's Military having mobile suits proven that Coats saw as the problem. OMNI employing mobile suits was supposed to level out the battlefield if not give a slight advantage against the enemies of the Alliance. Fighting ZAFT had changed with mobile suits, and it was not so one-sided as it had been for years now. And the hope was it would be the same when fighting the Federation's Military as they had been seen as unbeatable for the majority of the war. After all, mobile suits should be a more effective fighting machine than the space fighters the Federation used. Yet, right before the Second Orbital's eyes, the Federation used their mobile suits to "whip" them again.

Meanwhile, Tyler figured that going for OMNI's ships would quickly help the battle move along. It was a tactic he had learned early on during his military training, and if you cut off your enemy's ability to resupply, you hastened the fight's conclusion. Mobile weapons had a set limit for operational time, even if they varied with type and model, but they still couldn't keep going forever. However, before he could reach the ships, he was shot at by one of the Buster look-alikes and one of the "commander-colored" units. The said command unit also appeared to have equipment similar to the Strike's Aile pack. The two managed to force Tyler to bring the Aurora to a halt and shift over to its suit mode. Tyler shifted his shield to block the Buster unit's beam rifle against him as the two approached.

The "01A1 Dagger" pilot, a team lead, observed the Federation mobile suit that had broken off from the rest of the Federation's forces. While the Federation's space fighters changing into mobile suits would be an issue, there had been a few "custom models" among them. The models from the G-Project were superior to the mass-production Daggers, so any that looked similar to them were classified as "potential issues." It also proved the rumor that the Federation had got ahold of data from the G-Project and had made use of it. The two Daggers kept firing at the Aurora as they kept getting closer to Tyler. However, Tyler had the Aurora's shield expand and had the incoming beams start deflecting instead of disburse on contact with the shield. The Command Strike Dagger had been shooting its M703K beam carbine at the Aurora but quickly noticed something had changed. The enemy's shield had gained fins, and the bolts from the carbine were not hitting the shield but "bouncing" away from it. The sight appeared like the videos of the experimental deflection system OMNI's R&D had been working on.

Tyler let the two OMNI units keep getting closer, drawing them in so that he could use a beam saber effectively. Tyler could shoot them with his beam rifle and move on, but tactically speaking, being efficient with power usage would help things along in the long run. Tyler would need the power to fire his plasma cannons to take down the OMNI ships quicker than the beam rifle. Not that Tyler expected the First Space Fleet's ships would stand back and let the mobile suit forces do the job. But the dreadnoughts, cruisers, and frigates were far from OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet. The ships had to watch their weapons fire, so they didn't hit their own mobile weapons fighting in front of them. Thus, it was up to the mobile suits to make paths for their fleets to get clear shots at the opposing side.

So Tyler bidded his time and let the two stalking him get closer. The commander unit showed signs of caution while the other was showing nothing of the sort. It was kind of sad that OMNI was throwing away decent pilots to try and prove they were superior. The cautious pilot was right to be suspicious of Tyler as he led them into a trap. Tyler waited until the Buster Dagger was combining its guns into the "shotgun" formation that Tyler made his move. Tyler had the Aurora spin to the right as the Buster Dagger fired a volley before he rushed forward, drawing a beam saber and sliding behind the enemy machine and slicing it in two between the torso and hips. Tyler twisted to face the remaining Strike Dagger as the Buster Dagger exploded, who had its shield up to defend itself. He had the Aurora's shield collapse and pointed the Aurora's beam saber at the Dagger.

The Dagger moved forward and swung its beam saber, which Tyler blocked the strike with his shield. Tyler did much the same action as his opponent and responded much the same way. The deadlock didn't last long as three mobile armors headed for the two, and Tyler shoved his shield forward and then drew back from the Dagger. With Tyler now going against four opponents, he would need to switch up his strategy. He decided to combine his beam sabers, kind of like Athrun did with the Justice during the battle of the Republic. The Aurora's "Dual Corseque" was comparable to the Freedom's and Justice's "Ambidextrous Halberd," from what Tyler understood. Tyler slotted the beam saber he was already using into the hilt of the Aurora's second saber. Then after drawing the combined sabers, Tyler activated the beam sabers and moved to the right as the armors closed in.

The Aurora twisted into a spin before slicing through the nearest mobile armor and dividing it into three pieces before shifting into a flip. The armor cut in half exploded as the Aurora spun over toward one of the other mobile armors. As Tyler had the Aurora rotating, he removed one of his beam sabers and disconnected the other. The Moebius Tyler was aiming for tried to maneuver itself to face the Aurora, but Tyler surged forward and carved the armor in two from front to back. Tyler quickly stored the saber and took out his beam rifle, and brought it to bear on the final armor. He pulled the trigger and shot the armor cleanly, making it explode before turning to face the Command Dagger. The OMNI pilot in the Dagger stared in horror at the wreckage of their allies that had just been destroyed in mere moments. It was clear that the red machine's pilot wasn't a normal one, even for the Federation. If there was a chance to beat this enemy, it would be through fighting smarter rather than rushing forward guns blazing.

Tyler waited for a moment to see what his opponent would do, but they did nothing. So, Tyler moved forward, putting away his beam rifle and taking out a beam saber as he went. His opponent met him with their shield putting him into a deadlock. However, Tyler used his CIWS guns this time and peppered the Dagger with rapid-fire projectiles. The Dagger pilot tried to move out of the way as the projectiles were quickly stressing the laminated armor toward the point of failure. Tyler didn't let his opponent get away from his barrage as they were in his way. Tyler hadn't lost sight of his goal to get to the OMNI vessels and take care of them. So, Tyler kicked the Dagger away from him, then took his beam rifle out and shot his opponent, destroying them.

The Aurora resumed closing the distance between it and the Second Orbital Fleet while OMNI's mobile weapons were kept busy. Tyler brought out the Aurora's plasma cannons when he got into range and aimed at the nearest ship. He fired one of his cannons and punched a hole through the Drake-class's bridge which caused a chain reaction that led to its destruction. Out of the corner of Tyler's eye, he saw another helping with the task he was working on. He saw the Athena meaning Lisa had joined in on dispatching OMNI's fleet when he looked. Upon glancing back for a moment at the fighting, Tyler was irked to see Graham was "showing up" the rest. And when Tyler said "showing up," he meant that Graham was more than whipping OMNI forces. Graham showed the skills that made him ZAFT's ace of aces, their "Comet" they used to rely upon. Tyler focused on the task he'd been working on, as the sooner OMNI's vessels were dealt with, the quicker the battle could be wrapped up.

It didn't take long for OMNI's mobile weapon pilots to figure out they were being kept busy while their ships were attacked. Many of them tried to break away and go back to defend their fleet from being wiped out. Yet, every attempt to break away from fighting Federation mobile suits ended either being stopped, or the OMNI pilot killed. Coats could see the enemy was keeping their mobile suits and armors away and preventing them from defending the fleet. The Federation had outmaneuvered them and effectively split the fleet from its mobile weapons. It was a show that even with mobile suits, OMNI would unlikely have superiority over the Federation in the end. And with the Federation blocking communications, Coats couldn't give any information nor warning to allies.

The battle between OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet and the Federation's First Space Fleet lasted around twenty minutes. As per standing orders, the Federation wiped out the fleet entirely, both the mobile weapons and the ships. Tyler wasn't fond of the point that no prisoners were being taken or any survivors left. It seemed a great waste of lives to destroy an entire fleet and make sure there was no one left. Nonetheless, Tyler understood why the Federation's higher-up saw it necessary to go so far. The loss of Panama had "broken" the Alliance's mentality to appear as the "defenders" of Earth. Their attacks on the member nations only proved they were dropping the "face of civility" and doing what they felt would achieve their goals. Thus, OMNI had to lose their fighting force in space to suspend more potential and harsher tragedy from occuring. They wouldn't listen to reason and correct their ways with those that led the Alliance anymore.

Even knowing that, such didn't make the tasks any easier with exterminating OMNI's Orbital Fleets. Tyler was glad that OMNI's Eighth Orbital was no longer around, as he wouldn't want Halberton to suffer this kind of fate. Yet, the man may consider the surrender option while others wouldn't do so. Yet still, the fight was taking a lot of lives from those that didn't necessarily believe in or agree with those that directed them. That didn't sit well with Tyler, but he dismissed the feeling since the goal being worked for was more important. The goal was to hamper and attempt to stop the Alliance from using nuclear weapons on others. None were kidding themselves, if the Alliance could use nukes against the PLANTs, then they were just as likely to drop such on those that resisted on Earth without much hesitation if any.

After the mop-up was done, Federation forces returned to their assigned ships in the First Space Fleet. And Tyler was once again back to the waiting game for the opportunity to go and save Lacus and Siegel. He wasn't fond of waiting to do something, especially when the task he was waiting to do was to help a friend. It was a form of torture for Tyler, which came from time to time, but it was beyond irritating. He hated seeing a friend in hardship and/or trouble and be forced to sit waiting rather than doing something to help. The situation with Lacus and her father could change at any time, in hours, days, or even weeks. And yet, Tyler's hands were tied until the circumstances shifted into something he could work with.

As days went by, little change was noted, the war continued as he had been descending into. One thing that happened was the Archangel and the Kusanagi ascending from Earth into space. The ships established themselves into a stable high orbit before taking stalk of their situation. The Astrays the Izumo carried headed out into space and readied themselves for the assembly process for the ship. It was an hour before the two modules came into view as they were orbiting around Earth. They dropped the optical camouflage field that had been over them once in the signal range of the Kusanagi. One team of Astrays moved to the engine module while another did the same for the catapult section. Kira and Athrun kept watch while the operation to assemble the Kusanagi was being done in case unfriendly forces came around. Kisaka was overseeing the procedure and was helped by Mrs. Simmons. It was the first time that Astray pilots had been in zero-g environments up in space.

The Kusanagi's central module kept its slow orbital path, and the Astrays lined up the two other modules. The catapult section was moved ahead of the Kusanagi while the engine section was kept behind. Athrun watched as the engine module approached the ship before splitting into two parts and moving forward. He glanced out towards the moon and where L5 was, and thoughts came to mind about how circumstances were. Tyler was somewhere up here in space working with the Federation's military, likely dealing with OMNI. And with the Federation's proficiency at working tasks, OMNI would be hurting if not in full-blown panic soon. Meanwhile, those leading the PLANTs and ZAFT were crying for blood in retribution for "wrongs" done to them past, present, and future. The war was not getting any better than it had been in the last year, rather, it had gotten worse and was becoming more so rapidly. And yet, Athrun still wanted to talk to his father one more time if the opportunity came his way.

Kira was also looking out while the Kusanagi was put together for operation up in space. As the catapult section split apart, he observed one part rising and the other lowering as they sailed towards the central module. Kira wondered what would happen next from here as leaving Orb implied that their group would be doing things in space to help the war. And then Athrun had mentioned that Tyler had was already up here since he came to space after the fight to defend the Republic. However, none in the group had any idea where Tyler could be currently. He worried about Tyler as he was recovering from a near-death experience he'd been in almost two months ago. Yet now, he could and likely was fighting in this war even though he wasn't at one-hundred percent. Kira cursed the war as it was putting good people at risk of dying and all for hatred and fear.

The modules used their thrusters to move to the spars they would dock to on the Kusanagi's central structure. The two "wing" engines connected to either side slightly in front of the central thrusters on the ship. At the same time, the catapult sections floated back and lined up with the laser guidance that had activated on the front of the central structure. Once lined up with the guidance, they stopped floating and moved down onto the docking points for them. The Astrays double-checked the connections the modules had slotted into to ensure they were locked in properly. As Kisaka coordinated the assembly operation, his thoughts wandered to Lady Cagalli and her current circumstances. She had not wanted to leave Orb even when Lord Uzumi had insisted that she go and help guide humanity to a good future. Yet, Cagalli had not taken the way she had parted with her father well, and that was saying it nicely.

The Archangel's bridge crew had watched the Kusanagi being put together as the operation had been something to see. Murrue thought removing the plasma boosters from the Archangel had been a real task. Mu and Krystal had gone out to "help" with the removal though they hadn't done much to assist the worker pods. Murrue guessed that the two just wanted experience with mobile suits in the space environment and she couldn't blame them. Still, observing the Kusanagi modules being assembled had been hard not to watch it being done. It helped distract Murrue from thinking about the situation they were now in. The Archangel was a rogue ship and had chosen its side by helping Orb and making itself an enemy of OMNI. They would have to fight those who were supposed to have been allies who had left them for dead. Then she knew that she wasn't the only one that wondered what the Federation would do in response to the Alliance's attacks on them.

If there was one thing the war had taught the Alliance and likely ZAFT, you didn't cross the Federation and face no consequences for the action. Murrue had heard rumors that OMNI had tried "things" against the Federation, and none of it had ended well. She wondered now that some of OMNI's strike and black ops team vanishing was not more the Federation dealing out consequences. It wouldn't surprise her if the Alliance lost many soldiers with their foolish decisions. Murrue didn't want to admit it, but as Mu had said, Tyler had been right about what the Alliance had been doing since she had met him. Thus, what he said they had done was more than likely true, which was scary and horrifying.

Once the Kusanagi was properly assembled and the Astrays were coming back in, Kisaka ordered a com-channel to be established between the Archangel and the Kusanagi. The two ships needed to discuss what to do going forward from here as there were many possibilities to choose from. Kisaka had to lead the Kusanagi's crew as Lady Cagalli had not shown herself to the crew since the ascent up from Earth. She had locked herself in the captain's quarters and hadn't responded to any knocks or attempts to interact with her. With the war going as it was, there wasn't the time to wait for Cagalli to come to terms at her own pace. Murrue saw Kisaka on the main forward screen on the Archangel's bridge when the com-channel connected. While Lord Uzumi had introduced the man as his military aid and "right hand" man, Murrue expected Miss Cagalli to be the one in charge. But rumors which were whispered said the girl hadn't parted with Lord Uzumi under the best of circumstances. Thus, Murrue tried to put on a smile but couldn't do a good job with the mood in the group. "Should I ask how is Miss Cagalli doing after having to leave Orb as she did," she asked. "I heard she wasn't very interested in leaving when Lord Uzumi said to."

Kisaka had known Lord Uzumi hadn't much liked the idea of Cagalli heading for space. He would imagine any parent would be hesitant to send their child off into what would be a war zone. However, Lord Uzumi had stated to Kisaka that his daughter would carry seeds of hope for the human species to endure and have the chance at a good future. And with how Cagalli had reacted, Lord Uzumi hadn't told her what he had said to Kisaka. So, it had been hard for Kisaka to essentially drag Lady Cagalli to the Kusanagi as she struggled against him. Thus, Kisaka lowered his head, "You heard right, she didn't want to come up to space with the state Orb was left in after the Alliance's attack. I believe she had calmed down somewhat from how she was when Lord Uzumi ordered her to leave with the Kusanagi." Kisaka paused as Cagalli was like a daughter or niece to him, and so he loved her, so didn't want to see her sad. "It was hard for her to part with her father, and she left Orb when the Kusanagi was due to launch. Damage control was still being done, so we didn't know how many gave their lives to defend Orb at that time. Lady Cagalli assisted in damage control before being called to Kaguya." Kisaka hesitated, "I can't look her in the eye and tell her things will be okay, nor can I tell her to hold back her tears. Recent events with the Alliance have taken a toll on her, many have died for it, and nothing I say has been able to help her accept such."

Meanwhile, Kira and Athrun returned to the Kusanagi once the assembly was finished and the mobile suits were ordered back. Kira was worried about Cagalli as he hadn't heard her voice with any coordination with the operation. From what Mrs. Simmons said, Cagalli had not been happy to leave Orb or her father and Uncle. Then when one added what happened with Orb and the Alliance attacking it, there was no wonder that she wasn't showing her face. Kira couldn't say exactly why he worried about Cagalli so much, it just seemed to feel so natural for some reason. It was different from what Kira felt with Lacus, but it was similar, yet Kira couldn't express the difference in words.

Athrun could see Kira was stressing himself about Cagalli, though he didn't seem to know why he was. There was a relation between the two, yet Athrun couldn't say what the connection was exactly with what he'd seen. However, Athrun assumed Kira's naiveté was hindering him as it normally did, making him want to comfort the girl and not understand why. It was a good and bad quality that Kira had, he was nice to others but couldn't take a hint as to the effects of what he did. Of course, Athrun hadn't an issue with making sure Cagalli was okay and comforting her the best possible. From the previous encounters, Cagalli was a strong-willed girl who could be stubborn when she got an idea in her head. Tyler could be that way at times, but he had a knack for coming up with ways to accomplish what he got into, no matter how crazy his methods seemed. Athrun would also admit that Cagalli was pretty, her strong personality aside. And he wouldn't admit it to others yet, but he thought Cagalli's personality made her quite cute. Perhaps Cagalli would be even more pretty in a few years, especially in a dress, which Athrun would like to see her in.

The two headed for the captain's quarters given to her by Kisaka, who was the vice-captain but was acting as captain right now. By the whisperings of the Kusanagi's crew, Cagalli had locked herself in the room and hadn't popped out since arriving above Earth. Kira and Athrun had heard Cagalli hadn't wanted to leave but had been ordered to do so by her father. After what had happened to the Republic and Orb, Cagalli was really down and hadn't talked to anyone. Being held up in her room wasn't going to help in the long run, Kira was sure about that. So, Kira knocked on the door but got no response from within after waiting a minute. Kira knocked again, but a moment later, Athrun sighed, "She isn't even acknowledging your attempt to be polite, Kira," he said. "She needs someone to listen and talk to her, so let's go in and do that."

Kira nodded sadly, "I know, but unlike Tyler, I try to be polite and do things properly before resorting to other methods."

Athrun shook his head as Kira fiddled and got the door to unlock and slide open around a minute later. The two entered the captain's quarters and found Cagalli sitting on the bed, staring at the floor. Both could see the tears flowing from her eyes, and the droplets floated around her head. At seeing the state Cagalli was in, he floated forward and shifted to be next to her on the bed, "Cagalli, are you going to be all right," he questioned. "You've been held up here for long enough for the crew to worry about you."

Athrun held in the flinch and urge to smack his forehead with a hand at Kira's statements. It was close to reflex the urge came in response to Kira's naiveté, which so frustrated Tyler and him. It was a long-standing thing Athrun and Tyler had in common, the annoyance to frustration that came from Kira's "thick" naiveté being on full display. And there were times that Athrun couldn't help but wonder if Kira's naiveté was not some sort of impressive act. The moments of clarity made it appear Kira was faking his blatant ignorance he had so often shown. Athrun had been amused when Tyler let the effects of Kira's naiveté irritate him so much that he cursed it in some form or another. Of course, Athrun had his share of frustration with Kira's blissful ignorance he had plenty. His friend hadn't the faintest clue how much his naiveté protected him while also holding him back.

In this instance, Athrun wanted to chide Kira about being blind to what was going on. The feel in the room alone would tell most that Cagalli was not okay or even in a decent mood. Few, if any, could blame Cagalli for being in the mood she was with recent events. She had left her homeland in a damaged state, people had died defending it, and now those left were picking up the pieces. Lord Uzumi and the rest of Orb's council were working to clean up the mess and keep things calm in Orb. It had been much the same kind of state Athrun had seen after OMNI had been forced back from the Republic. It had been painful to see a once beautiful land damaged and battle-worn, it was a feeling that Athrun couldn't forget. So, Kira asking Cagalli if she was alright showed him being a naïve fool.

Cagalli hadn't looked up when the door slid open, even when she'd locked it so others wouldn't disturb her. The way she'd been forced to leave Orb, the land she loved so much, was tearing at her heart. Orb had been hurt, helping with damage assessment had only drilled in how much OMNI had done, and that was before the casualty count. And now she was off of Earth in space, and for what? Her father had said she would be needed in space to help end the war in a good way for a potential "good future." Cagalli didn't know what that meant since she was no soldier or pilot like Kira and Athrun were. Granted, she wanted to do what she could to end the pointless war raging for years now. Yet, everything seemed to be going downhill with the Alliance forcing the Federation into the war. So, Kira's question about her being alright or not was a complicated one to answer, and for once, she didn't have a reply. Instead, Cagalli glanced at Kira before she threw herself at him and broke into sobs, unable to express her feelings with words.

Kira simply patted her head while Athrun looked at the floor, not knowing what he could say. He was still trying to sort out his own "family" issue he would soon be forced to face. Athrun hadn't missed Tyler's implications with what he'd said about ZAFT back at Teswa. Tyler had not said it directly but had implied Chairman Zala was not the man Athrun had known as father. His mind agreed with Tyler's view, and Chairman Zala didn't act as Patrick Zala used to, he merely wore his face and used his voice. And yet, in his heart, Athrun couldn't believe his father was lost forever and was now unredeemable. Patrick Zala had been a good man once, much as Siegel Clyne was still with a view of a bright future for all.

While that was happening, the Kusanagi moved to be alongside the Archangel. It would be best to have a face-to-face talk about plans to move forward for the two ships. Once the ships were orbiting alongside each other, a shuttle launched from the Archangel with Mu and Murrue onboard. Krystal had volunteered to stay on the Archangel to be in charge of the crew and step into command if needed. She would be updated when the two got back from the Kusanagi about the plans. The journey was quiet, but not silent as Mu did speak up as he piloted the craft, "You know the real problems we will have to face are still ahead of us."

Murrue hummed in agreement but wasn't ready to cross the bridge of looking forward to the difficulties there would be. Being on the side of the Federation didn't guarantee the Archangel was safe, though it did make fighting and surviving marginally easier. There had never been a definitive choice made regarding what the Archangel would do for the rest of this war. There were many factors to consider that boggled Murrue's mind and gave her a headache. Mu could see Murrue wasn't in the mood to talk about what was possibly ahead of the Archangel and its crew. He didn't blame her for not wanting to think about what they would deal with soon enough. Mu didn't like the thoughts of what was ahead either, but as one of the protectors of the Archangel, he had to consider what could cause them trouble before it came. "Just trying to help spark thoughts for the meeting we're about to be a part of," he remarked.

When the Archangel shuttle got close to the Kusanagi's catapult, the entrance to the ship's hangar opened. Mu moved the shuttle inside, and workers tied down the craft to the floor to keep it from moving around. Mu and Murrue exited the shuttle, and a crew member showed them the way to the navigation bridge. Murrue noticed that the corridors of the Kusanagi appeared nearly identical to what the Archangel had. The Archangel's design was different from previous OMNI vessels had standard. Murrue had merely thought the Archangel was a new spin on ship design both inside and out. However, seeing the Kusanagi's interior, she wondered if the G-Project hadn't just copied Morgenroete's specs for their Izumo-class. That also brought on the thought if Orb was part of the Federation, could this be what the interior of Federation space vessels would look like? There was so little information on the Federation that it was hard not to wonder what they used and how they designed things for themselves.

They took an elevator to the command deck of the Kusanagi and stepped out to be in front of the door to the navigation bridge. The two approached the door, which slid open, and they stepped onto the Kusanagi's navigation bridge. Murrue blinked and glanced around as she swore she had just stepped onto the Archangel's own bridge. The room she was in like the corridors were like the Archangel's navigation bridge, it was pretty much identical. Mu also noticed that the Kusanagi's bridge was much like the Archangel's bridge. Yet, as Morgenroete had built both, it wouldn't be all that surprising if they had much the same layout. However, Murrue spoke first out of the pair, "This navigation bridge is very similar to the Archangel's."

While what Miss Ramus said would be true from her perspective, the Archangel was similar to the Izumo-class that made the relationship. After all, they had both been designed and mostly built by Morgenroete Inc, so there were bound to be similarities due to that. And there was little point in keeping the fact that some within Orb had struck a deal with the Atlantic Federation. Thus, Kisaka smiled a bit, "Actually, it's the other way around as Morgenroete produced both ships. There is much more of a story of why Morgenroete helped with the Archangel, but now is not the time to tell it." He turned to Mrs. Simmons, "Can you bring up a map of this area of space?"

Erica had been going over the early reports from the Astray pilots with their experience out in space. She knew there would need to be minor adjustments to the Astray suits to work efficiently. Federation data had helped and had gotten the general settings to the area they needed to be at for zero-g environments. Erica had been filling in the "vice-captain" position as Cagalli wasn't feeling up for command, and Kisaka was taking charge as acting captain. So, with Kisaka asking for the general area map, it was a simple thing, "Sure, give me a moment."

Mu and Murrue looked in the voice's direction and saw Erica Simmons sitting at a console. Both were shocked to see the woman that was Orb's chief engineer at Morgenroete. With Orb's condition when they had left, it was assumed those like Mrs. Simmons would be busy helping with cleanup and rebuilding. Yet, here she was on the Kusanagi at a bridge console. "Chief Simmons," Mu greeted, "didn't think we'd see you here."

The greeting and notice were nice, Erica would admit, she worked more in the background than in the spotlight. It wasn't as bad as some would imagine, her work helped Orb, and the hours she worked still gave her time with her son. But she was here to help the mobile suit pilots who had no practical experience in space with their machines. "Hello, Commander," she replied, "nice to see you too. And you're lucky I'm here with you and most of the other pilots operating mobile suits in space for the first time. It's a very different environment than doing it on Earth, there will need to be adjustments made, and I'm the best one. More so with the operating system Mr. Yamato wrote, which is comparable to the Federation's system and really is a bit easier to use." Erica put in a command on her console, "And here is the map of the area for us to work with."

A general area map appeared on the right side display showing the basic diagram of Earth, the moon's orbit, and the Lagrange points. The Earth Sphere was left of center of the screen, and both ships' signals were below Earth in its southern orbital position in high orbit. The PLANTs were shown in the position at L5, and the moon also was on the map. Mu stared at the map and noted a difference on this map from the others he'd seen. There were a few extra Lagrange points that no OMNI map had. There was an L6 above Earth's northern pole and L7 below its southern pole. Mu couldn't figure out what there would be extra Lagrange points that the Alliance wouldn't know about. If the Federation had established more Lagrange points, Mu couldn't help but wonder why they had created them. Kisaka gestured to the map, "As you can see for yourselves, with the PLANTs at L5 and the debris of Artemis at L3, you can realize that we'll be in a bit of a bind given enough time. Yet, things should be fine for a little while, and supplies will hold up, but water will be the first to become a problem in that regard."

As the meeting on the bridge was going on, Kira and Athrun moved outside the room and were waiting for Cagalli to collect herself. Cagalli had changed out of her military uniform and into the Morgenroete outfit she had been given. She then washed her face to rid herself of the signs that she had been crying. A small photograph floated out of her things as she finished, and she noticed it in the mirror. Her father had given it to her before the Kusanagi had launched, mentioning it was important. She hadn't really looked at the photo since it had been given to her and had been told it was of Cagalli and her brother. It was the first time any mentioned directly that she had a sibling. Ellen had implied such could be a possibility, yet, Cagalli had dismissed the idea as Ellen worrying about her keeping so busy. Nevertheless, Cagalli looked at the photo now and saw it was of a brown-haired woman holding two babies, one with brown hair and the other with blonde.

Seeing the picture, thoughts swirl around her head with her father's words. She turned the photo over and stared at the writing on the back with only two words; "Kira" and "Cagalli." If what her father told her was true, then she was the blonde baby in the picture, and the writing on the back said that the other baby was Kira. Granted, Cagalli knew that she was adopted by her father Uzumi, but that had never really made a difference to her. Uzumi had been the best father Cagalli could have asked for. Yes, there were times that his rules and actions frustrated her, but he had been doing what he could to help her in hindsight.

Then she knew Kira's parents, Caridad and Haruma Yamato, and considered them good people, and they were like an aunt and uncle to her. But never had she thought that Kira could be her brother by birth, they hardly knew one another until recently. Then, Kira was a Coordinator, and Cagalli was a Natural, the necessary circumstances to have them be siblings were outlandish. For that to be the case, it required one of two things; either Kira's genes would've been altered while he was in the womb or taken out before he had been born and other tools used. No matter which it could have been, for chance and fate to bring them together, Cagalli didn't know what to think of this. However, now wasn't the time to think about this, Kira and Athrun were waiting outside her quarters. There was a meeting going on right now about what they would be doing going forward, and she knew she should be there. Cagalli exited her quarters, and then along with Kira and Athrun, the three headed for the navigation bridge.

At the same time, the discussion of what to do next continued after their current location was established. There was much to discuss, more so with what Kisaka had read recently on the Information Network. The report Kisaka had read upon getting up here had iterated the Federation's response to the Alliance's attack. The Federation's Space Fleets were hunting down OMNI's Orbital Fleets, giving them a chance to surrender, and then when refused, they were destroyed. The Second Orbital had already suffered the fate of being exterminated around twenty-four hours ago. So, there were decisions to be made of the path forward. "For supplies, I suggest heading for the colony cluster at L4," Kisaka remarked. "It would give us time to figure things out and not be concerned with being directly involved in the war immediately."

Murrue sighed as this sounded very similar to what happened after Heliopolis and Artemis's issues with water. Back then, the solution had been taking water from other places too, and she hadn't liked it anymore now then she had when it happened before. "This is sounding hauntingly familiar, the Archangel has been down this road before," she commented.

Mu's ears picked up the last line, specifically the "direct involvement" piece, as that was odd to him. The war was still happening on Earth's surface, but it was being said it would move up to space. However, there had been no recent information about the fighting heading in that direction that Mu could remember hearing. "It won't be the same this time, Murrue, and we won't be stealing. But what do you mean with not being directly involved in the war yet," Mu asked. "The war is focused on Earth right now, and it will likely be a bit before it would transition up to here in space." The door to the bridge slid open just as Mu was asking his question, so the three teens entering heard the inquiry.

Kisaka noticed Lady Cagalli coming onto the bridge as he considered what to tell the Commander. His former allies suffered crippling losses because of what OMNI had and was doing on Earth. The Information Network was strongly suggesting OMNI's space forces and Earthbound forces weren't talking to each other. If that was true, the Orbital Fleets were being exterminated for reasons they had no idea about. So, Kisaka looked at the floor, "I take it you haven't heard then, Commander," he posed.

Mu blinked, "Haven't heard what?"

"That the Federation has started hunting down OMNI's Orbital Fleets and is destroying them should they not surrender," Kisaka stated. Murrue and Mu were filled with horror at that one statement. Murrue didn't want to believe the Federation was actively attacking OMNI space forces with the intent of eliminating them. ZAFT had been trying to dispatch the Orbital Fleets for years but hadn't had much success in the goal. Should the Federation's Military be working on the task, Murrue didn't want to imagine how quickly they could do the job. On the other hand, Mu wondered not if the Federation was hunting down Orbital Fleets but how far along they were on the point. The idea made sense, and it was likely the Federation's response to the attacks on their member nations. He figured there was more to the point than just responding to the attacks as it wouldn't have been his first choice in their position. "I take it that you are saying it the way you are, the Federation's Military has already started and has made progress on hunting down the Orbital Fleets," Mu questioned in almost a resigned tone. Murrue twisted to gape at Mu as it sounded like he wasn't as flabbergasted as she was about this news.

Cagalli looked between Kisaka and Mrs. Simmons, trying to read them about the subject being discussed. Kira was trying to figure out what the discussion was about as he felt he was missing something. On the other hand, Athrun wasn't shocked that the Federation was attacking OMNI's Orbital Fleets. With what Tyler had said to him, it was the logical conclusion for them to eliminate them. The Federation expected the Alliance would utilize their Orbital Fleets to deliver nuclear payloads when they got N-Jammer Cancellers. And so, if OMNI's fleets were almost eliminated or totally gone by the time they produced nuclear weapons, it would cut off an avenue of them being used. That would then leave ZAFT and their version of a nuclear weapon which Athrun wished wasn't a genuine concern. However, with his father's insistence, ZAFT was far more likely to make a nuclear weapon of their own.

Kisaka sighed, "OMNI's Second Orbital Fleet was eliminated around twenty-four hours ago," he admitted. "So the answer to your question, Commander, is yes, the Federation's Space Forces are making progress on their task." Kisaka paused before he continued, "And what is sadder is that the orbital fleets don't seem to know why this is happening. There is a lack of communication between OMNI's earthbound forces and those in space." Kisaka looked back to the map on the right screen, "And with that going on, I feel the colonies at L4 would keep us out of the way of the Space Forces' work. You wouldn't need to assist in hunting down your former allies, which I wouldn't want to expect of you."

The small number of colonies at Lagrange 4 had been built during the earlier part of the colony construction race during the Cosmic Era. The colonies were made up of O'Neill Island 3 and Bernal Island 1 type colonies. The colonies were made for agriculture and scientific research, and habitation. They had been among some of the first colonies people lived in before the PLANTs were finished. Nonetheless, the colony cluster became abandoned due to a combination of conflict and a viral outbreak. Over time, they became ignored as they didn't have significance to the war. Yet, even if no people were living within any of the colony structures, some of the colonies were still operational according to inspections. But among the colonies, the level of operation varied mostly due to which had better-built systems than the colonies, for they weren't all equal.

The most well-known and famous colony among the L4 cluster was the Mendel Colony, an O'Neill Island 3 type. Before the conflict and viral outbreak, a group of scientists under the name of Genetic Advanced Reproductive Medical Research & Development, or GARM R&D, worked at the Mendel colony and used it as their main facilities. Other than the group's name and just a few overall facts, most assumptions were unproven about them. That was public facts, and none knew if any of the three major factions had more information. And out of the three, the Federation was the most likely to have the most info with their abilities to get information. The assumptions that came from publicly known facts and the rumors weren't nice about what could have happen there. And though from the team of scientists, the artificial womb came into being and had been meant to assist in bringing forth a new generation of Coordinators with DNA alterations before the actual birth process. However, the knowledge of the work done there hadn't been obtained and wasn't used for current Coordinator births. The man that was seen as responsible for the idea was Ulen Hibiki, and he was known to be ambitious or more obsessed with what he and others called the "pursuit of potential." There was other gossip about the man that painted him in a much worse light, but no proof had ever been found or made public.

With any of the colonies at L4 still at some level of operation, resupply and recharging should be possible. Athrun even added that ZAFT had inspected the colonies in the cluster after a report of suspicious activity. It had ended up being nothing of real concern, but the colonies had been quiet since then. However, ZAFT scouts had determined that pretty much all the O'Neill 3 type colonies still had a breathable atmosphere inside them and could be entered without needing a space suit. The reason Athrun remembered the report was because it had said the teams that had done the inspection had to be debriefed especially, but there had been no reason. The rumor was that they had seen "things" that had been classified but never proven or admitted to, so Athrun didn't bring that up.

Mu looked at the blue-haired kid, recalling his name was supposed to be Athrun Zala. The current PLANTs' Supreme Council Chairman had the same last name as Zala. It was possible they weren't related, but it was probable. If that were so, the kid helping them would be fighting against his father, which wasn't easy. True, the kid had helped them back at Orb, which took guts and dedication. But up here in space, the chance of fighting ZAFT was far higher than it was on Earth. Mu had to be sure the two would fight with them, even against ZAFT, as that would come up sooner or later. Thus, Mu focused on Athrun, "So, after what happened in orb, you fighting with us has been nice, and that goes for the other ZAFT pilot. Your actions spoke for you," Mu bowed in thanks and continued, "You have my gratitude for that, so you'll have to forgive me for asking the question. But with the battles ahead, I feel the need to hear you justify the point, how committed are you to our cause? Are you ready to potentially fight those you considered allies before?"

Athrun was silent at the question, fully aware of the real question being put forth, and he wouldn't blame others for asking it. He and Dearka had not technically defied orders yet, but they had essentially assisted the Federation in their defense. And while Dearka could likely get out of punishment for his actions, Athrun had much less of a chance of being excused. Athrun still wanted to protect the PLANTs, that hadn't changed even if his perspective had. He didn't believe the Federation would destroy the PLANTs, and they had no reason to do that with their principles. However, the conversation with Tyler had helped Athrun decide what to do going forward. This war had gone from fighting the good fight in defending the PLANTs to being a quagmire of retaliation that kept escalating out of control. And if the direction didn't change, ZAFT and the Alliance would destroy everything. Mu continued seeing that Athrun was thinking about how to answer the question. "With your last name, can I assume that you're Chairman Zala's son?" Athrun nodded, looking at the floor and being reminded of what Tyler implied that the man wasn't his father. Mu kept going, "Then, being his son, I can understand the difficulty you face, and I sympathize. But I have to ask for an answer on this."

Cagalli was irritated that Athrun's loyalties were being questioned after what he had done. Defending Orb had shown he had a good heart so that he would fight for the right reason in her eyes. So, why should it matter who his father was? Athrun was making his own choices, which mattered the most. "Why should it matter whose son he is?! He makes his own choices, so," Cagalli began, getting angry at the implications being put on Athrun.

Mu twisted to gaze at Cagalli, "Leaving one's own military is a lot more of a serious matter for a soldier than you imagine it to be, Missy," he began. "Not only that, imagine if your own father was the one who was in charge of the nations you promised and vowed to defend. You should be able to comprehend that a small margin." Mu turned back to Athrun, "Unless you believe in your side's cause and are fully dedicated to it, fighting in this war isn't possible." Mu took a deep breath, "I hate to force this issue on you, but if we fight together, then can my comrades and I rely on you?"

Cagalli was about to reply, but Athrun held a hand, "It's alright, Cagalli," he stated, "I don't blame Commander La Flaga for asking the question." Athrun stopped ordering his thoughts and continued, "To answer your question, allow me to paraphrase the conversation I had with Tyler before coming to Orb's defense." All on the bridge paused as some heard mention of Tyler talking with Athrun. Kira had even asked Athrun what the conversation had been about, but Athrun hadn't said much. "After my apology and his forgiveness, he filled holes in events I had been told about. His stay on Aprilius One and the theft of the Freedom, to name a few."

Mu and Murrue were trying to process what Athrun said as they had heard nothing about that. Tyler had merely said when asked that he had "been away to recover" and didn't give a specific location. There hadn't been any hint about him being around the PLANTs, much less their capitol. And then the teen had stated the Freedom had been "entrusted" to him, not that he'd stolen it. It left them wondering what in the world Tyler had gotten into for him to have done what he had. On the other hand, Kira had been told about his friend's stay on Aprilius One and the following theft so that wasn't new. Athrun kept going, "He explained that those who asked for his help were working with the best intentions even when others were screaming the opposite. Specifically, the theft of the Freedom and files that Tyler carried were to be taken to the Federation so countermeasures could be made for N-jammer cancellers."

The fact that some within ZAFT had the foresight to consider making counters for the invention that gave them nuclear tech was incredible. But as Athrun stopped, Kira figured it was best the truth be known to those here, "And Lacus helped Tyler in that theft and so is one of those being seen and hunted down as a traitor for the occurrence," Kira remarked.

Cagalli snapped around to stare at Kira when he mentioned Lacus since she had kind of liked the girl. Lacus Christopher had been a really nice girl, Cagalli would admit, while she had been on the Archangel. She hardly believed Lacus had been one of the pilots for the Alliance vessel, and the girl just seemed too nice to do that. And now, according to Kira, Lacus was on the run after being seen as a traitor. "Wait, Lacus is on the run now," Cagalli exclaimed."

Athrun nodded, "Unfortunately, she is." Mu rubbed the back of his head since he didn't like that the pink princess was in trouble. The girl had been a sweet one and shouldn't be involved in the war, not with her kind heart. But he couldn't think of words to say, knowing the girl was fighting against those she likely knew and loved. Athrun kept going, "Tyler did what he could to draw attention to himself." Athrun paused and smiled softly, "And he did an exemplary job since there are orders to take him alive so he can be tortured before his execution."

Mu's eyes widened at hearing ZAFT wanted Tyler to suffer and die for whatever the kid did to draw attention to himself. And it wasn't that Mu doubted Tyler couldn't tick off people with what he did, he knew Tyler could do just that. Natarle was a shining example of how the teen could get under another's skin. There had been times that Mu and Krystal had heard Natarle cursing and swearing she would chuck Tyler into a brig cell before being talked down from doing so, normally by Mu or Krystal. Yet, Mu couldn't help his curiosity at what Tyler could've done to get enough ticked off with him to want him not just dead but to suffer beforehand. "I knew the kid had a knack at getting under another's skin, but I didn't think he could get another to want to kill him so much," Mu muttered.

Athrun sighed, "Sadder still, if not for Tyler's action around JOSH-A, many ZAFT soldiers would have died by the Alliance's trap. However, he hasn't been thanked or recognized for those efforts." Athrun shook his head, "But moving on to the point I'm trying to make about the conversation." He took a deep breath before continuing, "The orders I have when I was given the Justice was to hunt down and either recapture the Freedom or if I can't, to destroy it. Also, I was to eliminate all persons and places the Freedom could have gone to." Kira shook his head slowly, "But that would mean," he began. However, Athrun cut over him, "I'm surprised you figured it out, Kira, but yes, I would have to do many horrible things, including becoming a mass murderer." Athrun gained a flat tone as he kept going, "Not only would I have to kill you and Tyler but take the lives of countless innocent people to fulfill the orders as they were given. Tyler effectively and bluntly spelled out what I was required to do to follow my orders. And as he put it, the mission is suicidal for pretty much anyone it is given to, even ZAFT's champions."

All on the bridge were silent at the remark with Athrun admitting his given mission was even one of ZAFT's champions wouldn't be able to do successfully. A mission that the best ZAFT had would have been difficult or couldn't do was beyond a harsh mission, there was no argument with that. Thus, Mu regretted calling the kid out, knowing he had an assignment he was expected to die trying to do. Athrun took in a breath before he continued, "Even if I complete the mission successfully by some divine miracle, it will doom ZAFT and the PLANTs so that it would be pointless." Athrun paused, shaking his head again, "As Tyler told me, the war has been sliding in the disgusting direction it has for a while now, it is just doing so faster now than before." Athrun glanced around the room, "I will state what Tyler said as I believe he has a serious point with it. There are two sides in this war now, and it isn't related to factions any longer. It is those who want to save Humanity fighting those who are hell-bent on destroying it somehow, whether a part of Humanity or the whole species. Neutrality is no longer an option in this, and all will have to choose a side they will fight on. And I believe Tyler is right, looking at things as they are, this war is about humanity moving forward as it is or being destroyed and snapped back to a dark past."

Athrun gazed at Mu, "Thus, my answer is I will make my own decisions, and I will fight to protect the human species as it is now. I may still have some doubts, but I will not just follow orders anymore as that path leads to destruction. If you fight to protect humanity as it is, then we are allies," Athrun stated, but he paused. "I can't speak for Dearka, and you will have to ask him the same question. But I am not your enemy, that much I can assure you of."

Mu had just wanted assurance that Athrun would be helping them and not just go back to ZAFT. But the answer he'd gotten to his question was more than that and gave a lot of food for thought. If Athrun was paraphrasing what Tyler had told him, Mu wondered if his head would explode with the full version. He knew Tyler had quite a view of the world around him, but this was far more than anything Mu would've expected of the teen. Overall, Athrun's answer had silenced any doubts about him working with them. So, Mu nodded, "That's more than good enough for me. You have a strong heart and mind, and I can put my faith in that," he said, then paused, "And it gives me food for thought, I don't know about anyone else."

Kira hoped he could get Tyler to tell him what he said to Athrun as there sounded like there was more than Athrun was saying. It certainly seemed Athrun had been thinking hard about what Tyler had told him. And the point about factions not mattering anymore made sense to Kira with what he'd seen. Then Kira couldn't imagine all those who lived among the PLANTs wanted the war but wanted the fighting to stop. Thus, he believed there were many that wanted to fighting and conflict to end. So, Kira spoke up, "I don't believe that we're the only ones that wish for peace. Those in the Federation and I imagine many in the PLANTs and on Earth want peace."

There was silence at the comment, more so with all the information given in this conversation. None of them had forgotten about Lacus, even when she had left the Archangel a period of time ago. They cared what happened to the pink-haired girl, and to hear that she was in danger didn't sit well with any. And then Tyler was also absent, elsewhere helping the Federation likely with their response against OMNI. There were so many decisions that needed to be made to move forward. Then Mu spoke, "Well, if there really is a chance to end this war and have peace, the Federation would be the most likely to succeed if you ask me."

Shortly after the planning meeting, the Archangel and the Kusanagi began heading for the colonies at L4. Busy work was done as the ships traveled, Kira and Athrun stayed on the Kusanagi to help there. Kira noticed that something was bugging Athrun, but he couldn't say what was bothering him. His explanation to Mu had left some unanswered questions in Kira's mind which wouldn't leave him alone. And Kira had a nagging feeling that there was something big that Athrun wasn't saying due to those who had been in the room. If he could get Athrun alone, maybe he would tell Kira what he hadn't when asked about his loyalty. Kira caught Athrun in the pilot observation lounge, "Athrun," he greeted.

Athrun had been thinking about something on his mind since his last encounter with his father. The conversation with Tyler had just made a choice heavier as his friend implied his father was "too far" gone to save. Athrun didn't want to believe that was fact in his heart even when his mind said logically it was the truth. Tyler was rarely wrong in his observations, which was why Athrun's mind agreed with him. But Athrun wanted to talk to his father face-to-face one more time, try once more to help him see reason. If Patrick could see where his actions would lead, he would perhaps realize the error of his views. The chances may be small, but Athrun was willing to try even when it seemed doomed to failure. Yet he was brought out of his thoughts when Kira greeted him and got Athrun to turn, "Kira," he muttered, "What brings you here?"

Kira floated over toward Athrun, "Something is bothering you," he replied, "Something you are not saying. What did Tyler say that has you frustrated?" This was one of the times that Kira's naiveté seemed to be an act or at least absent. He had seen something bothering Athrun but hadn't connected the dots he had dropped. Going against ZAFT was one thing, but fighting against his father was a completely different matter. And that was before Tyler implied Patrick Zala had gone far enough that he couldn't be saved from the madness which had taken hold and corrupting him. Yet, if he didn't stand up against his father, his friends and the world would be lost forever. However, before Athrun could explain anything, Cagalli entered the lounge.

Cagalli had been looking for Kira as she wanted to talk to him about the picture her father had given her. And it wasn't that Cagalli didn't believe what her father said wasn't true, he didn't lie to her, he would merely say he couldn't tell her something rather than lie. Kira unlikely knew any more than she did, but maybe he would have some thoughts that she didn't. "Kira," Cagalli started, "do you have a moment? I have something I want to ask you about."

Athrun felt he could intrude on these two and didn't want to be a "third wheel" to them. He still thought Cagalli was cute, and maybe that could go somewhere later, but now wasn't the time for that. So, he faced the door, "I think that's my queue to go, it would be best for me to find other things to do," he remarked.

Cagalli hadn't meant to interrupt the two with whatever they had been talking about, questions about the picture could wait. And she didn't think Athrun would ask strange questions about the picture her father had given her. So, he didn't need to leave the room for the questions she would ask Kira. "No no, wait," Cagalli exclaimed, then stopped and took a breath before she moved forward and grabbed his arm. "You can stay for this," Cagalli hesitated since she felt at ease around Athrun for reasons she couldn't understand yet. But she continued after a moment, "I would prefer you do, so please, stay."

Athrun wondered about Cagalli's reaction and her wish for him to stay for whatever she wanted to talk to Kira about. She was a nice girl, Athrun would say that outright, especially after seeing what she had gone through in the last few days. But the last sentence made him wonder if something was going on between him and her. He nodded to Cagalli's request and stopped where he was. Cagalli continued over to Kira, leaving the boy wondering what she could want to talk to him about. "Sure, Cagalli, I have the time," he said, "What did you need to talk about?"

Cagalli hesitated at the question, gathering her thoughts on how to begin this conversation. She took out the picture and offered it to Kira, "Take a look at this."

Kira took the picture and looked at it, wondering what this was about. The picture was of a brown-haired woman holding two babies, one a blonde and the other brunette. "A picture," Kira remarked, "Who is in this picture, Cagalli?"

Cagalli didn't look at Kira as she answered, "Turn it over."

Kira did as instructed, and while he did, Athrun sailed over to be next to Kira, curious what this was about. It was clear that something about the photo was having an effect on Cagalli that was bugging her. There were two words on the back of the photo, "Kira & Cagalli." Kira read the words several times, not quite believing what was there. He glanced up at her, "Cagalli," he uttered but couldn't find words beyond that. The picture implied they were brother and sister, which didn't make sense to Kira. He knew he was adopted by his parents and had come to terms with that some time ago. Cagalli had mentioned Lord Uzumi adopted her, but the chances of the two of them being related by blood were ridiculous.

Cagalli wasn't looking at Kira as she spoke, "My father gave me the photo before the Kusanagi launched." Kira blinked, "But why would he," Kira started, but Cagalli kept going, "He told me that I wouldn't be alone on this journey." She hesitated, "He said I would be with my brother," Cagalli couldn't keep going as the tears came to her eyes. She didn't know why she did it, but she reached out and grabbed onto Athrun's jacket. Athrun could sympathize with being alone as Cagalli was clearly feeling, he'd had time he experienced the same. Cagalli gazed at Kira, "How is it possible that we are related, you're a Coordinator, and I'm a Natural?"

Kira shook his head slowly, for he didn't have any more of an answer than Cagalli in this revelation. The only viable explanation was that Kira had his genes altered while Cagalli had not. However, with genetic engineering, as it was, the chances were very low for such to be successful for two related individuals. "I don't know, it is technically possible but extremely improbable," Kira stated.

Athrun then had thought of one way for the two to be related but be different types, "You would have to be twins for there to be a chance of this," he commented. "But the picture alone doesn't give much of an answer other than the possibility."

A line that Tyler would say came to Kira's mind, which had helped him accept he was adopted, but his parents loved him as their own. It was clear that Cagalli was questioning whether she was a Natural or a Coordinator like him. Kira believed Lord Uzumi when he said Cagalli was a Natural. The man had also obviously loved Cagalli as his own daughter, which love mattered the most. "As I was told before now," Kira began, "Worrying about things you can't change doesn't help, focus on what is important and move forward from there. Even should this be true and we are siblings, Lord Uzumi is your father." Kira smiled, remembering Tyler's reasoning about how Caridad and Haruma were his mother and father even if not biologically. "He raised you and loved you, Cagalli, is that not enough to make him your father?"

Athrun blinked at what Kira was saying, what he was, as it was so out of place for him. Those kinds of lines were what Athrun expected from Tyler. And that connected some dots, which was enough for Athrun to guess Tyler had said something similar to Kira. Tyler had mentioned once that he had "helped" Kira with accepting he was adopted. "Tyler say something like that for you when telling you being adopted isn't important," Athrun asked.

Kira nodded, "Pretty much, and I've learned he was absolutely right as he has a knack to be," he replied. Then he turned back to Cagalli, "He loved you as his own, and you loved him, that makes him your father, do not doubt that fact, Cagalli."

A/n

Okay, I'll leave off there and continue the story from there in the next Phase. So, on to pointing out things I want to highlight from the Phase. The first thing I would point out is the new section I wrote which wasn't in the original, that being Tyler's time with the Federation's First Space Fleet. I wrote this section for two reasons, the first of which is I wanted to fill in what Tyler does before rushing off to the PLANTs, I will get into the second in a moment. So, I put out general recap if you want to call it with what is happening with Lacus and Siegel as they haven't been in the story since Phase 30. I also wanted to kind of iterate how the war was getting worse and a little bit of the why. Then, I also wanted to tell Tyler's feelings about what he was doing and what was happening to Lacus and his frustration about that. Finally, I wanted to put on the point that Tyler is willing to face his boss who he is scared of for Lacus. It reminds you readers that Tyler had the character which has him doing pretty much anything for his friends, even to a fault. The second reason I wrote the new section is to both introduce the Voyager-class vessel and display the Federation can and does still whip OMNI even when they have mobile suits. It was shown on Earth, but it is just as true in space. And come on, who among you readers doesn't like a good battle scene every now and then?

The second half of this phase is of course, back with the Archangel and the Kusanagi. I did fill this scene out a bit more than it was in the original, and I credit the footage from the Remastered verison of the anime. I hope the imagry is being enjoyed by you readers as it takes time to write. I wanted to point out a few things with this scene which are a tad different. I want to highlight the crew of the Archangel are questioning how they didn't see the Alliance for what it is, a crisis of former faith if you will. It shows that some have come to terms while others are still working on it. I also want to state that while Cagalli may seem like a whiny girl in this Phase, that isn't her character as any who have watched canon will know. She it having a kind of "mid-life crisis" so please give her some slack, the girl does get better.

The next thing I want to highlight is Kisaka talking about the response to the OMNI's Orbital Fleets. While you readers who have looked at my original story knew it was coming, the Archangel's crew didn't. Mu and Krystal suspected something harsh would come, but not orbital fleet extermination. And it is more the efficiency the Federation is wiping them out which is shocking to the former OMNI officers. As one passage stated, ZAFT had been trying for the years of the war to do the same, I will reveal more specific figures in the phases to come. The final thing I want to talk about is the conversation at the end. In canon the picture is given to reveal Cagalli and Kira are siblings, and it is the last act of Uzumi. I state that as Uzumi is alive, but he wanted to give Cagalli hope to latch onto with even darker times ahead. I myself am not a father yet, but with what I've seen, parents want to give their children hope as they go out on their own. Anyone can correct me should I be wrong, I won't take it badly I assure you. I also want to point out the subject of family pushed Athrun to decide to confront his own father. We all know that won't go well, but I want to state he made the choice on his own knowing how much of a long-shot it will be.

That's all I want to highlight in this Phase and I hope you liked what I pointed out. I will leave the specs for the Voyager-class below as well as the Delta Fighter's specs to give readers another look. Again, if some of you could take the time to write a review and tell me what you thought of this phase, I would appreciate it. Every review makes a difference if only to me, I take every comment seriously as it helps motivate me to keep writing. The next phase is on track so far, it is titled: "Promises to Keep" and it will be posted in around two weeks. Peace out and stay safe in the world of today wherever you are. I salute soldiers that serve their country, you are amazing!

Federation Voyager-class

Technical Specs

Classification: Space Cruiser (based on Mass Effect's System Alliance Dreadnought)

Overall Length: 525m

MS Capacity: 15

MS Catapult: 1

General Data

Manufacturer: Human Federation

Operator: Federation's Military

Machines carried: Delta Fighter, Aurora Gundam, Athena Gundam, Thanatos Gundam

Crew Compliment: average 400, up to 475

Standard Equipment

Optical Camouflage Field System

Similar to the Delta fighter's optical camouflage system, but on a much larger scale.

Phased-Array Sensor Detection System

Works much like ZAFT or Alliance sensor detection systems, but can also see through fields or systems like 'mirage colloid'

Standard Armaments

2 x "Lancer" high-energy beam turrets

There's a double-barreled turret, one on either wing which can swivel 180 degrees

12 x Missile Launchers

Missile tubes are in the wings towards the back of the ship on both sides, six missile tubes on each wing.

"Bestian" 300cm Multi-phase Beam Cannon

A beam cannon built into the forward structure of the Voyager-call much as the MAC gun is for the Enterprise-class. It's size gives the ship a powerful punch and the cooling system allows a reasonable firing rate. Thought to be the basis for multi-phased beam technology as they have similar properties.

11 x "Cepters" 75mm Multi-Barreled CIWS

There are eleven "Cepters" CIWS dual-barreled defensive gun turrets in total, four in front, with two on the center sections on either side of the linear catapult and a gun on both of the wings. There were two more midway along both wings and the last three were divided with one on top and behind the navigation bridge and the other two along the bottom length of the central section of the ship.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Classification: Mass Production Transformable Mobile Suit

Model number: HFCS-D201

Official name: Delta Fighter (based on MSN-001X Gundam Dealt Kai)

Overall Height: head height 18.6 meters (Mobile suit mode)

Base Weight: 68.6 metric tons

Powerplant: Ultracompact Energy Battery

Armor Material: unknown

Crew: Pilot only, in standard cockpit in torso

GENERAL DATA

Manufacturer: Teswa laboratories, Federation's Military's Olympus Space construction yard

Developed into: HFS-E100 Excel

Variants: HFCS-D201E Delta Fighter Eagle Custom; HFCS-D201R Delta Fighter Roc Custom

First deployment: July 23 65 C.E.

Operator: Human Federation

Known Pilots: Tyler McGregor, Lisa Malto, Alan Knight, Luke Lascy, Kurt Gream, Cormag Swift

Equipment and design features:

Long Range Targeting (L.R.T.) scope

The optical camera has a huge zoom ability which acts like a scope on a long-range rifle and is hidden in the right side of the head. In the cockpit, a small screen comes out from behind the pilot seat and sits right in front of the pilot's helmet on the right side.

Specter Optical Camouflage Field system (SOC field)

The system allows the fighter not to be detected or seen. It does so by projecting real time images of what's behind the field with the method used in the heat disbursal from the thrusters, even the heat won't give away position

Recharge cable system

The equipment is attached to the underside of the machine, is made of three parts, a line that connects to the battery of the Delta Fighter, a junction that the line connects to and a combination of hydralic launcher and cable that can connect to other connectors. The system can be used to tap into a facility's own power grid or into a mobile suit's battery, simply when what's connected to the other end of the cable is in contact with either cables or other means power is transferred by

Fixed armaments:

"Kai" 120mm Railgun

The two cannons are mounted on the backpack, one on the left and one on the right, like all railguns, they use electromagnetic forces to launch the projectile they carry.

Shield

A standard defensive feature the Delta Fighter, it's arm-mounted shield which goes over the left arm in mobile suit mode. Originally a thick piece of extra armor designed to stop physical rounds, shield technology has been forced to adapt to the development of beam weapons by incorporating an anti-beam coating. The Delta Fighter's shield also has the function of serving as the unit's forward section in flight mode. Beside the Beam Sabers/Beam Cannons and it can mount a large variety of weapons.

"Pepper" 60mm Vulcan

The 60mm vulcan gun while not very powerful and typically unable to penetrate mobile suit heavy armor, the vulcan gun is useful in intercepting missiles/rockets, destroying mobile suit sensors, and engaging lightly-armored targets such as tanks and small aircraft.

Beam Saber

The Delta fighter's close combat armaments, they are stored in the rechargeable racks on the shield. The beam saber is capable of cutting through any metal that has not been treated with anti-beam coating. They are also dubbed as beam cannons while mounted in the shield and could be utilized in flight mode

Optional armaments

Plasma Pulse Cannon

An optional weapon that can be mounted on the underside and rear of the nose. It causes heavy and explosive damage on the intended target, and is the default heavy weapon the Delta Fighter has at its disposal. The secondary effect, comes from the highly-heated plasma that can remain after the impact and corrode a machine's armor.

Rapid Assault Machine Cannon

An optional weapon that can be mounted on the front side of the shield. Developed by Koovos Weapons Development Institute, it fires heavy-caliber armor-piercing rounds.