Chapter 7: Restitution…

XXXXX

Author's Note, 17/06: To all my readers I'm sure why you're wondering why it took over a year to update. To this I shall say I've been hospitalised and unable to work, thanks to a gastrointestinal bleed which occurred due to overwork and stress, I wound up being stuck in hospital for a number of months, and thanks to that it's been time consuming.

And while I attempted to update in the past, writing while bed ridden isn't easy or fun, so I've had to contend with it, and now I'm here, just taking it easy and focusing on real life issues like work. Also my old computer crashed so I lost all the previous chapters, and I've had to literally rewrite from scratch.

Also family member just died at the start of this year so I had to go for a while.

Update 23/09: I've got ongoing medical problems and it's not something that's going to go away. As for the updates, I've planned ahead as well as I could, but there's going to be a big fork in the coming events. And I'm not sure which route to take so I'm hesitant on updating until I know exactly where and how the story plays out.

As a side note, I'm updating all of the previous chapters due to poor grammar and a number of mistakes I left in the story, I rushed all of those chapters and made a lot of errors, guys please tell me if there are things missing or parts which have grammar errors so I can go back and fix them, please it'll save a lot of trouble if you tell me rather than have people confused as to what's going on!

I didn't even realise I made a lot of errors, also it turns out I didn't properly work on the right documents which had fixed grammar and worked on the old drafts which I then posted online, this is in regards to chapter 6, why no one mentioned this in the review section I have no idea.

^SO FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THINGS, PLEASE TELL ME AT ONCE!

Also to note to whomever reads this, I do this in my spare time, as a hobby writer, not a full time writer, I will not always be able to correct for everything, sometimes quality drops or pacing slows. That's kind of the thing associated with fanfiction! We try our best, but it's not always there.

Updated chapters, Prologue, and chapter 1, chapter 8 will be updated maybe Friday or Saturday.

XXXXX

The Eventide made its return approach to the Archangel, its engines trailing plasma exhaust behind it. Its mobile suit form sporting its blue white and silver coloured frame gave a distinct appearance, that and its wings most certainly caught people's eyes for the symbolic imagery it precipitated after delivering them from the jaws of defeat.

Within the cockpit, Ray was recuperating from his fatigue; his neural receptors had been pushed, not beyond their capabilities, but more to the fact that he had used them after a prolonged engagement. He had worn himself down from using the neural interface in mobile suit form to the near end, when the situation had grown dire.

His body took the strain, and it left him exhausted, he knew that his body would need time to cool down and recover, hopefully no one notice how badly out of condition he was. Alice then called to him as he approached the starboard landing bay.
"Touch down in 10." Alice informed him of his descent.

Ray acknowledged as he reached the bay, rubbing his arms and legs, he felt circulation returning, though he knew they'd feel like lead weights under water as he moved, he was thankful for the zero-g environment he was currently in. Eventide landed on the deck of the ship with a gradual touchdown, its feet securing to the floor easily, arresting the machine's momentum and allowing for a quick landing.

Ray had Alice take him in, and as he did, he received a call from the bridge.
"Warrant Officer Rayleigh Hyung." Murrue greeted him with a stern expression and a similar tone.

"Captain Ramius." He said as he nodded in acknowledgement. "You're coming through loud and clear." He tried to layer on his passive tone to hide his fatigue.

"I believe it's time we have a proper discussion." Murrue stated in a tone which made it abundantly clear she wasn't asking.

"Of course, there's a lot I should explain." He nodded in affirmation politely.

"Then I expect you to come down to my quarters as soon as possible."

As the lined closed he sighed. "Looks like it's time to face the music." He said while rubbing his eyes, his head was pumping with blood; he felt his body shiver as his nervous system reassert itself, his nerves were frayed from overdriving his neuro-synaptic implants.

"Ray, are you going to be alright?" Alice inquired with a concerned tone.

He knew that the caretaker AI had been monitoring his health even if he didn't want her to, he made his reassurances. "I'll be fine; no doubt the Captain wants to hear my explanation for this cluster fuck." He said as he prepared to exit his machine.

"As you say Ray, though if I may interject."

"Go ahead." He said.

"The captain is likely going to demand answers; do you believe you can satisfy them?" She asked him promptly.

"No I doubt I could, and even then I wouldn't want to fully satisfy her with an absolutely answer."

"Why?"

"In order to maintain cover, we need an alibi, and questions aroused will no doubt result in the Captain reporting about this to Admiral Hal Berton and him getting into contact with someone at Alaska HQ. That's something I'd like to avoid until much later."

"Are these objectives something you believe worth fighting for?"

"It's something I feel needs to be done, what else can I do in the absence of a mission? Sit back and do nothing?" He asked her as he removed his harness.

He took his helmet off, and he stretched his arms and legs before he left his cockpit, he was greeted by the open hangar, the work crews moved about securing Eventide into its berth, some were doing quick inspections of the external outlay of the machine. But amidst the general bustle of the crews, they couldn't help but look upon his machine and ogle at it.

Most had never seen such a beautiful sight, or one which exuded a presence of power and awe as the Ex-Delta Eventide did. His unit was carefully constructed to exude a sense of power, it was geared to fight, and there was no denying that he prided himself in his creation, at what it was.

As he exited the cockpit, he was greeted by a rousing applause from the crew, they couldn't help but cheer for the man who had singlehandedly tossed ZAFTs entire force into disarray and dealt a crippling blow to Rau Le Creuset. His actions had no doubt ingrained him as some of ace pilot.

He knew this kind of praise, though from propaganda pieces and public venues which were held by the military. The difference here was that didn't need to smile as openly or need to address himself as someone else during those press releases. But he didn't care much for the attention given anyway.

"Damn fine work, pulled our asses clean out of the fire just in time." Murdoch said as he greeted him.

"Can't really say that little show I put on was what I had wanted, but you know, it's what I felt was the best course of action." He remarked with a hint of mirth in his tone. "Though I can't claim it was perfect."

He masked his true feelings well, making sure to give off the impression of modesty, in reality, he could have done something sooner, but he had been grasping onto the hope of a breakthrough rather than getting cornered. In the end, he had chosen the choice to unveil his strength and bring about a quick end even if this meant drawing a lot of unwanted attention.

As he headed to the captain's room on the level above, he noted the alert level had been dropped down. Meanwhile the 'Montgomery' was holding alongside the Archangel, mauled from the battle, but not quite dead, the crews of the other vessels had managed to board without much difficulty, but the ship was reporting to have some engine troubles.

It was uncertain how long repairs would take or if they'd need to take an alternate route, seeing as how they had the Foreign Minister aboard their ship and Lacus Clyne was on Archangel. This entire situation was unprecedented, at least for the crew, things were hectic still, but it seemed as though an uneasy calm had presided, at least until ZAFT started to go on the offensive again.

Ray knew that Rau wouldn't risk an attack just yet, not with Lacus aboard, it'd be a matter of time though, and there was also the matter concerning Kira and his friends. And he couldn't possibly forget Flay, who no doubt had been overjoyed with the news of her father's survival.

But this was a completely undetermined factor, seeing as how Flay's father was meant to die, he could have left things as they were, but he opted for this direction, mainly to see what potential outcome would follow. And this was also his way of aggravating Rau's plans for total annihilation of humanity; the survival of the Foreign Minister's would impact the Earth Alliance's policy.

Of course there was always to prospect of colossally fucking everything up beyond imagination, which could result in a worst case scenario. But that would have to be resulting in something really bad happening in the course of things. But he figured he might need another factor in this, Lacus's father, the rational moderate in the PLANT supreme council.

Of course this would make things even more unpredictable and to be logical, would a man like Clyne who had never heard or even spoken to him believe the claim that a seasoned officer of ZAFT is manipulating things behind the scenes? He couldn't follow such a lead unless he had solid evidence to prove this was the case.

'But maybe if I use Lacus…' He then paused to ponder.

He thought about how he could manipulate the girl to his side, the thought engrossed him as he thought of potential upsides and downsides of helping Clyne out on the PLANTs, he knew this was going to have to play a significant factor in the coming events. But if he played his cards right, Clyne might survive to oppose Zala as a government in exile movement or counter the plans which Rau was setting into motion.

Either that or ZAFT would be embroiled in a civil war, that scenario wasn't something he was looking forward to. But given how much Clyne could turn the situation around, ending Zala's power base and stopping the war getting worse might be a good idea, or at least give the opposition party under Lacus time to grow in strength against Zala's more militant faction.

The trouble was how Rau would use this to his advantage; this would require a level of political finesse to turn the situation around. But Rau was in the military, Zala wasn't exactly subtle in his approach so it might be too obvious if he attempted to make such a ploy the public would call him out on it and strengthen Clyne's position.

He felt his head ache from the effects of his implants, there were many contingencies to think about, and while he could gamble it and possibly lose out. But winning meant prolonging the war and stopping Rau's plans from advancing, and if he did this right then peace could be attained, or the war would change directions.

XXXXX

ZAFT battlegroup – Gamow

Meanwhile in the ZAFT warship, a certain group of red coat pilots were in the midst of recuperating as well as one could recuperate in a room with a self-conscious white haired hothead throwing a fit.

"SHIT!" An angered white haired pilot hissed as he slammed his helmet against a bulkhead, the red helmet rebounded across the room spinning aimlessly. "How the fuck did it end up like this?" He growled to no one in particular.

From the observation lounge, all of the G-weapon pilots were waiting patiently, including Ahtrun who had travelled to the ship to regroup with his teammates and wait for repairs to be completed on their machines. Things had been quite tense, and Athrun had to contemplate the delicate situation they were pitted with.

"Calm down Yzak." Nicol attempting to pacify the hot headed pilot.

"Calm down?" Yzak shot an angry glare to Nicol. "One mobile suit kicked the shit out us, and mauled most of our fleet in one go, and you're telling me to calm down?"

"Yzak, enough, we've got enough problems as it stands, and we don't need to add this to the list." A tired looking Athrun remarked as he rubbed his eyes.

"That's easy for you to say, you spent this cluster fuck in deadlock against the Strike." Yzak hissed as he levelled a glare at Athrun.

Athrun didn't bother looking back and replied. "The Strike's pilot is more persistent than I can afford, he's not going to just roll over Yzak." He responded, concealing the nature of what he felt.

The white haired pilot made a 'tsk' before flicking his attention away. Nicol gave a concerned look over to Athrun who turned away his attention, deciding to keep himself reserved for the time being, he had more pressing matters on his mind. Everything with this war was going to hell, his friend, ZAFT and now Lacus.

In reality Athrun was in turmoil and he was angry, about all of this, fighting Kira, having to choose between his friend and his duty to his people, then there was Lacus who was caught up in the middle of this. He was doing all he could but it felt like it was overwhelming him, the only one keeping perspective seemed to be the commander. It made him wonder how the man continued to push himself forward like this.

"Why are you so silent?" Yzak asked at Dearka.

"I don't think I can say anything, you're venting enough frustration for all of us." Dearka joked.

"Real funny." Yzak said with snark.

The mood settled somewhat as Yzak buzzed off to sit on the couch, crossing his legs and looking intently at the hangar from the window. Dearka seemed indifferent, though from Athrun's experience, Dearka had gotten off lightly compared to all of them, the Buster's pilot changed topics for them as he stared up at the ceiling.

"Man talk about shitty timing, that Azure Hawk punches one hell of a punch." Dearka sighed as he rolled his shoulder joints and yawned tiredly while gently floating off the wall. "Could have fried my ass, but decided to focus on everyone else."

"I never imagined a mobile suit being able to do what that machine did, this goes to show that the Alliance aren't push overs."

Their machines had all sustained damage, Yzak's wasn't too bad, but Duel's arm was going to need to be stripped down and replaced, at that moment repair teams had fashioned a replacement to supplement the melted arm of the machine. The white hastily processed arm structure which had been placed wasn't capable of using phase shift, and it'd be another day before they could manufacture the proper materials to fix it.

Dearka's unit was busy getting a stress test to see the extent of the structural damage inflicted on its armour, so far the unit looked worse for wear, his unit had expended every ounce of ordinance it had and battery was dead. So far the machine was getting a quick clean up and recharge, after which the engineers and techs reassured him his machine was in working order.

But amidst their survival the group couldn't help but contemplate circumstance, their battle hadn't gone as planned, everything had gone to utter hell when the Azure Hawk transformed and promptly beat them to hell in a collective ass kicking. Its abilities of transformation surpassed the abilities of the Aegis, but clearly more designed to perform as an atmospheric craft as well as a space borne fighter.

It proved that their enemies were more intelligent and resourceful than what credit they had given them, this new machine having deceived them until it revealed its true capabilities and promptly trashed their forces in a single battle; it was certainly an eye opener as to the machine's ability, but also the pilot.

Whoever was operating the machine knew fully well how to counter their abilities, having succeeded in pushing them back without breaking a sweat given how it managed to damage Commander Creuset's new machine with ease. It was a dilemma which had drawn a lot of attention, there were reports that Creuset and the senior officers had to complete a full report for Zala as soon as possible. Creuset took immense effort to emphasise the need for reinforcements, due to the risk of the Archangel reaching the 8th Fleet.

Regardless they had a hostage situation on their hands, and it would require a resolution and soon. And for Athrun he felt his gut wrenching from the thought of what they would have to do, he didn't know what to do, amidst all of this. Killing his friend for the sake of this war, and trying to bring back Lacus alive, it was eating him up inside.

He closed his eyes and thought about the dilemma he would face.

XXXXX

Ray floated down the corridor, casually running his hand across the walls as he was pulled along the corridor. After a short break to put some stuff away, Ray had finally gotten to the inner dormitory of the ship, the billets for the crew were carefully arranged, he didn't need to look far to find the captain's ready room, it was the only one marked with a sign outside and a small officer marking painted on the front, indicating the room for Captain Murrue.

Tapping on the room's chime to tell them that he arrived, he heard a response from the other side.
"Come in."

He was greeted by Mu standing closest to the door, Natarle was seated on a couch next to the coffee table which Murrue had used on occasion, and the table was devoid of any coffee, but a selection of datapads and documents, after action reports which they were no doubt compiling for HQ later that evening.

The senior officers had been gathered in Murrue's private quarters to discuss their current circumstance, with Ray of course, seeing as how he had dropped the bombshell of a revelation right into their laps and had caused quite a scene on the battlefield. Mu had taken some time to join them as well since this was quite serious.

"Good to see you all here." He said as the door closed behind him.

Mu greeted him a curt nod and a 'hey', Natale continued to give him a sharp look of annoyance, or at least that was the impression he felt from the woman's gaze, since he had dealt with people like her more often than not. Murrue on the other hand was remaining professional in this sense, no doubt that the captain had to make more calls.

Ray saluted as he stood in front of the captain's desk, he then saluted.
"I'm here as you requested, Captain."

"At ease Warrant Officer."

"So I'm guessing you've all got questions." He surmised without even bothering to look at the officers.

"No doubt." Mu reposed.

The captain shot him a disapproving look before she turned to Ray. "Warrant officer, why did you conceal this mobile suit from us?" Murrue asked him while levelling an intense gaze at him.

He locked eyes with her, he then gestured to the captain. "To put simply, all personnel outside of the development staff and selected pilots were on a need to know basis alone, regardless of circumstance, no one was supposed to know our program even existed. And trust me; those in charge of the operation made this almost absolute." He stated in a calm manner.

"That's something I can believe." Mu commented as he rolled his arm. "Given the level of development, it must have quite a lot of support behind the scenes."

"But the G-weapons project-." Natarle was about to begin before Ray cut her off.

"It sounds nice and all, but unfortunately those who oversaw the Eventide's development didn't think about applying it for mass production, the Ex-Delta Eventide is a prototype model experimental unit, it was meant as a special application unit." He said calmly while not even bothering to look in her direction.

He was using the most logical course of thinking to make his argument, in reality Blue Cosmos funded the most expensive and retardely oversized weapons of war for their own purpose which weren't meant to be mass produced. In any case at this point they wouldn't know this thankfully, and it made his argument pretty suitable for this sort of exposition, even if it was utter bullshit.

Mu then asked. "So what changed your mind to hide Eventide?"

He looked at Mu with a rather candid expression of mirth. "Simply speaking? There was little choice in hiding it, with your lives in danger, and the fact that I'd be pretty much on my own, told me more than enough to take the risk. Besides, being this close to allied help was more than an incentive, and I don't like just turning tail and running when help is needed."

He explained, trying to make a sound reason. "Call me sentimental, I've gotten fond of this ship, besides I owe you at least that much."

"You couldn't have bothered at least giving us a hint that you had a mobile suit?"

"I thought I did, given that I made it clear that my machine wasn't like any machine you know about, on top of that I never said my machine wasn't a mobile suit, I just never corrected you, and I just kept referring the machine as to my own." He was right, never had they actually asked if his machine was a mobile suit or not, if they had, he would have had to give them a straight answer.

"Well next time someone comes along with a mystery machine I'll ask them directly."

"So what is Eventide?" Murrue asked intently, she had made it clear that this was something she wanted answered.

He took a moment to walk over to the wall parallel to Murrue and facing the others, be pondered on his response before beginning. "Eventide is an experimental unit, clearly, a machine which can perform in space and on Earth, an all-rounder type with manoeuvrability, powerful and advanced weapons to add to her specialty role, if I had to make a guess."

"And how was this unit developed?" Murrue asked. "Surely it couldn't have been tied in with the G-weapons project or there'd be records."

Ray nodded acknowledging the issue of information. "Skirting around the whole confidential aspect of those who led the project? I'd assume it was based upon data retrieved from the Aegis, but then modified using data on some other project. The suit's overall aim and purpose is one which surpasses what would normally be suited for the G-weapons."

"That's not a lot to go on." Mu stated.

"Still feeling like that you can't reveal everything to us?" Murrue asked.

"To be perfectly honest, I wasn't privy to all the details only what the techs told me and what I don't say is meant to be kept between me and my handler, who made it clear that I must use discretion in what I say."

"So you can't or won't tell us more?" Murrue asked.

"Can't I'm afraid, the project planning behind the Eventide was a strictly need to know, what the project entailed is something you don't need to know in depth. My mission was to test the machine, ensure the safety of the project's secrets, and ensure that I retrieve the data and hand it over to my superiors in Alaska. It didn't mention providing support or revealing classified data to anyone else."

"Warrant officer. Is this a joke or are you intentionally trying to aggravate us?" Natarle inquired.

"No, I'm quite serious, I can't give a detailed answer, protocol states that I reveal bare minimum, well technically it said that I was to restrict most information to almost nothing." He said with a nonchalant shrug before cheerfully adding. "I'm giving you more than just 'strictly confidential' as a response, so be grateful I'm even telling you this much."

The senior most pilot then asked.
"So seeing as we're all in the same boat, I'm assuming that you've got a reason to stick around?"

"I need to get to Alaskan HQ; no doubt you'll be heading there as well given the urgency."

"What's the reason we aren't going to Luna?"

"Because the entire ZAFT fleet would lie in the path between us and Luna, if you didn't recall, ZAFT knows about the existence of the Archangel, Strike and now my machine. Eventide's abilities surpass any of the other machines. That alone should send red flags from anyone who knows the tactical advantage my suit provides."

"It's true; I don't think ZAFT would be careless to ignore such a big threat now." Mu concurred. "The risk of Eventide becoming a potential threat is too great, even if they can't mass produce the machine, the technology in the machine would no doubt be able to turn the tide of the war."

"Is there anything else you think you should add?"

"I've revealed enough for you, and I don't think it'd be a safe idea to reveal any more."

The captain wasn't pleased with his response but she nodded, she could understand that there was a line he couldn't cross, at least she tried to understand. She had a nagging feeling he was holding back more, but she didn't press it, not today and not now.

"Do you require assistance in maintenance?"

"No, the Eventide's one machine which requires little maintenance, and if you recall, she's supposed to be top secret. Do not decide it upon yourselves to poke around, or the failsafe would trigger."

"Duly noted, warrant officer." Murrue said as she understood the weight of his statement.

"Good, now I do believe that the refugees were going to hold a small party down in the mess hall, and also I think we have a meeting with Mr Allster, correct?"

"He's planning on coming aboard within the next hour or so; he's recovering from a concussion."

"Oh good, that gives me a little time to prepare." Ray said as he rubbed his temples. "I don't need to remind you on protocol in regards to officials do I?" He asked them in a sardonic tone.

Murrue shot him a look, he reciprocated with a shrug and a gesture indicating that he was joking, in any case she knew what he was referring to, and having the Minister of Foreign Affairs on the ship was going to be rather impromptu despite being official.

"Now if you don't mind, I need a drink, and some rest before I go and meet with the minister. I should also speak with Kira; no doubt he's got plenty to think about right now." He said reminding them about the situation they had put the young teen into.

As he left the room, the trio of officers went on to process Ray's words.

XXXXX

Ray wasn't wrong about Kira, the young coordinator, having turned civilian to pilot in the last week and a half. He had yet to come to terms with his situation, no matter how much he resented the circumstances he had been thrown into by this uncaring world. He was pitted between his love for his friends and their protection in this bloodbath, his own life and that of Lacus.

But he was also torn about his old friend Athrun. 'Why are we fighting each other?' He balled his hands tightly as he continued to move forwards, his heart was numb, that cold feeling of regret or was it fear? He couldn't tell anymore.

But he knew it wasn't over, there was still more on the horizon, and his life was an ugly mess, one which he found himself getting dragged deeper and deeper into. His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of someone calling his name. "Kid, wait up."

Kira halted himself by the side of the corridor as he saw the suited Warrant Officer drift towards him. "Ray, I thought you were talking with the captain?" Kira asked as Ray came to a halt in front of him.

"We ended that meeting a little while ago. I was just on my way to get changed; we're having a guest coming over after all, Flay's father, the foreign minister of the Alliance. He said he wants to meet with me." Ray said with a relatively aloof tone. "He'll probably like to congratulate you as well."

Kira didn't entirely miss this, but he figured that it was more of a reason for Flay to meet her father than anything else. Though he suspected it might also be because of Ray's mobile suit.
"Yeah." He said failing to hide his disheartened tone.

"Something the matter?" He asked the young man, as if he didn't already know.

Kira stuttered a bit as he composed a response, his uncertainty clear in his tone and his body language. "I-I don't understand why we're doing this."

"You mean Lacus being held hostage?" Ray guessed.

Kira didn't give him an acknowledgement, but he asked. "Why are we holding her as a hostage?" His tone denoted a sense of anger.

"Insurance that we aren't attacked by Creuset, seeing as how determined he was to try and kill us." Ray replied in a thoughtful fashion.

"But why drag her into this of all things?" He asked Ray heatedly.

The warrant officer didn't respond in any particularly hostile fashion, but he gave him aloof expression. "Survival, all our lives were on the line and so was the Foreign Minister's, with all the survivors from the advanced patrol fleet, seeing as the sheer beating we just took, it doesn't surprise me that things got to this." Ray stated calmly, he logically understood that this wasn't the captain's choice, but Flay's, considering she brought the young woman to the bridge.

'Natarle just user her as leverage since she had the opportunity, not that I blame her.' He thought to himself.

"You're fine with that?" Kira asked as he looked at him with furrowed brows and an angered expression.

Ray sighed, cooking up a logical justification of the decision. "Kid, shit happens, we're forced to make ugly decisions that we have to live with, as unpleasant as they might be, surviving long enough to complain about it is preferable than just dying. And more so considering our situation, I'm sure you wouldn't want everyone to get killed on the grounds that we wished to protect a single girl from getting involved in this." Ray told him passively, he knew that there was always shit like this happening during wars.

"But!" Kira attempted to protest but was cut off by Ray.

The older man looked at him calmly with his deep eyes staring at him; he was clear in his wording. "It's too late, she was involved in this mess the moment we took her aboard, how we acted afterwards is something we'll have to deal with on our own. For the most part, be grateful we're still here, we could be worse off." He said to Kira.

"This doesn't seem right."

Ray scoffed at the remark, not as a patronising act, but one which understood the controversy. "War is never right from my experience, why it's fought has been a thing of contention, something which I couldn't honestly care about any longer. Most give the general excuse of righteousness. But in my experience, those kinds of people are either deluded or ignorant of the sheer suffering war brings, but again, people continue regardless, so it says a lot about humanity." Ray stated.

"Is that what it is?" He asked clearly angered by the connotations of this conflict.

"In a non-philosophical sense, it gives us a definition of what war is, in any other case, it's pretty much as it sounds, a shedding of blood over matters which we believe are right, and not merely as an act of self-defence. There's a lot of shit that goes into it, and I'd rather not have to try and explain the whole 'Just War' ideology, but in my personal belief, it's pretty idiotic."

"So letting this continue on is pointless? Letting her get involved is pointless?"

"If you're done stuffing words into my mouth, I meant it as wars are started for reasons which either mean something to people, but at other times are just twisted to suit a narrative, despite our disagreements with it."

"And that makes it right?" He said hotly.

"No it most certainly doesn't, morally speaking. But practically speaking, yes, to take things into account such as an advantage is something you can't afford to ignore, in war, it's hardly fair, but it happens and I won't sugar coat it." He said promptly, he recalled his years fighting in the Philippines and the bitterness of it all.

Kira stood there uncertain of what he should be doing, but Ray already knew that he was going to do something about this, regardless of whatever the captain or the crew felt about it, principles aren't easily compromised and to do so wouldn't make then principles. The young man would need to know where he stood and what he stood for if he wanted to survive to the end of this war.

For Ray he knew this feeling, being uncertain in what your role was, whether or not it was worth fighting for and how it affected you and others. He stood by his principles with his brothers, believing in a general cause, and following it to the end, even after the amount of hardship that it would entail.

As Ray headed off he turned back and said to Kira.
"If it's any consolation, you're not necessarily military kid, you do what you feel is right, no one's going to stop you. Just remember there are always consequences with action, and every action you take will leave an impact."

He knew how to plan a breakout within the ship, it was rather simple and easy, but there was the fallout afterwards, the Foreign Minister Allster was going to be trouble, especially now Ray had revealed his existence, and with Kira and Lacus now in the picture, things might take an interesting turn. In any event, there weren't many options left. Making the escape might be easier or harder for Kira; he knew that the Foreign Minister would throw a fit once he hears about it.

XXXXX

Down in the mess hall, the kids and their fellow crewmen were busy taking time to relax, though they were on alert status orange, they needed time to rest, their battle with Rau's battlegroup was a gruelling nightmare which had almost seen them all killed. If it wasn't for Ray, they might have been overwhelmed in the initial attack, but now they were all here, relatively safe and sound.

"Is it just me or does Flay seem a lot more cheery now?" Kuzzey asked aloud, clearly noticing the difference in attitude of the young woman.

"Probably thanks to her father, Ray did save him after all." Miriallia noted promptly.

Tolle who had been nursing a cup of water looked around before asking. "That reminds me, where is the Warrant Officer?"

"Probably meeting with the captain, given how things turned out." Sai said.

"Who could have imagined that the Eventide was a mobile suit?" Kuzzey remarked as he rolled his head back with his hands behind his head.

"Well I had my suspicions." Tolle remarked smirking.

"Oh come off it, you thought the same as us." Sai said in response.

As if to answer his question, Ray showed. "Hey there boys and girls, how's my favourite gang of misfits?" He asked startling the group.

"Ray!" Kuzzy said in surprise.

"We were just talking about you." Sai said as he sat down with the group.

"Yeah I know. I was standing a few feet away." He said casually as he looked at some of them pass a few awkward glances between each other.

They knew that speaking about someone behind their back wasn't a usually polite thing to do, but now that he was there, they welcomed him to join in. As he sat down across from Kuzzy, Tolle shot off the first question to jump topics and out of the awkward silence.

"Your fighter was a mobile suit this whole time and you managed to keep it hidden?" The young curly haired boy asked eagerly.

"Of course, it was part of my mission to keep it hidden revealing it now wasn't an easy choice, seeing as how important keeping secrecy was. But thanks to circumstance, I saw little choice but to help." He said justifying his response, though he knew that he would have done so regardless.

"You managed to blast your way through so many mobile suits, it's amazing you survived that long against those odds." Sai remarked.

"Yeah, the Eventide's awesome, why didn't you let loose sooner?" Kuzzey asked.

"Timing and also because I didn't want ZAFT to prioritise me as a bigger threat." Ray explained to them.

"Wouldn't that have happened anyway? I mean ZAFT was pretty much throwing everything they had in our direction." Tolle observed.

"That was more coincidence if I had to say."

"But would they have thrown nearly as much at us if you used your mobile suit more openly?" Sai asked.

Ray shook his head as he gave his assessment on the situation. "From a logical speaking point, if the Eventide was just an advanced fighter with no capacity for use on the ground or for major engagements against heavy concentrations of mobile suits, would you prioritise it as a threat or the Strike?"

"You were keeping low to avoid drawing ZAFT into going after you?" Tolle said perplexed.

"Pretty much, but seeing as how we've managed to defeat them. Time and again, they still threw a lot at us. Now that I've revealed the Eventide for what it's worth it's going to get more hectic." He said nonchalantly with a shrug before taking a sip from the cup.

Sai quickly determined what he meant. "They'll try harder to destroy the ship now." The blonde boy said as he contemplated the implications.

"Bingo, the biggest threat was Strike, for the most part; the Archangel's powerful, but can't be easily mass produced or launched against the ZAFT forces on the scale mobile suits can. Strike can, at least in a hypothetical scenario; the number of mobile suits G-weapons project produced made it potentially possible for mass production." Ray explained.

"It's got ZAFT worried about the potential it has in changing the war. Eventide on the other hand is a real game changer, if you understand it, being capable of operating as a fighter craft in space and atmosphere, and being a transformable mobile suit with more powerful equipment than Strike." He added before he continued.

"They'd be willing to throw that much against a single ship?" Tolle said alarmed about the potential prospect of getting into such a disastrous battle.

Their last battle had seen them almost kick the proverbial bucket, the fact that ZAFT threw a small fleet of ships at them was nothing to laugh about, and the scale of destruction the kids had witnessed was already disconcerting. Three ships blown apart, and the Archangel was almost overwhelmed from the battle, it was disturbing to image how much worse it could get.

"You can bet your ass on that, one threat is bad, and two is more than enough for them to gamble an entire force to try and wipe us out." Ray said as he yawned tiredly.

The thought of ZAFT mounting a massive force to try and kill them all was most certainly an alarming thought, the last few days had been tense, and it didn't help how they almost got overwhelmed by ZAFT just a few hours ago. Ray took a moment to notice the group of kids were staring absently at him with rather dire expressions; he then tried lightening the mood.

"Look on the bright side though, I'm here, and Kira's here, the officers on the Archangel know what they're doing, it's not like we're worse off. In any event we'll be reaching the 8th Fleet, it'll be time to make a decision then, and I'll be sticking around for a while longer. You kids best think about what's going to come."

"Thanks Ray, but I dunno there's so much going on." Sai said.

"That's the unpredictability of war; sometimes even the smallest thing could change your luck." He said before leaving to grab some water.

XXXXX

Back with the ZAFT fleet, Rau had returned back to the Gamow, and in a less than pleased mood, the last day had been a brutal rush, one which had cost valuable manpower and time, and resources. The fleet had been almost depleted of strength, with virtually the entire fleet's resources of mobile suits having been exhausted, their ships now damaged in one way shape or form, and his Altair having been crippled.

'So much for the brilliance of our engineering.' Rau inwardly grumbled as he looked upon the damaged experimental unit.

His machine looked worse for wear, numerous burn marks scarred the surface, the missing arm and damaged leg reduced to a blackened stub, his wire guided beam barrels had been damaged with the left funnel missing. It was frustrating to know that his plans for a quick and decisive victory had been utterly thrown out the window with a costly loss of half the strength of a battle group.

No doubt ZAFT Central Command would demand his recall and investigate into the sudden loss of so many machines, the only good news was that he found Lacus Clyne, which was hardly a consolation prize, given that it was well within the realm of possibility that they'd end up losing the daughter of Clyne to the Alliance. However it wasn't like he cared for the young woman, but a great deal of the blame would no doubt be shifted to him, given that this was his operation and his responsibility.

The more troublesome issue though was that the new machine had proven full of surprises, more than he would have liked, it's pilot had impeccable sense of timing, revealing his full capabilities during the final moments of the battle, catching him off guard and utterly wiping the remaining strength of his forces.

It might have been possible to win out, but doing so would probably have resulted in the loss of virtually the entire fleet, and not to mention he would have died in the process. It wasn't like it mattered any longer though, what had been done was done, and now he was faced with a deadlock, one which was giving him a headache.

There was no doubt that they would have to act soon, either risk losing Lacus Clyne to the Alliance and facing political hostage crisis, which was a real possibility given the situation. But he knew that there were a few ways that they could try to coerce the Archangel into giving Lacus back, not easy ones, and he'd probably get into more than hot water if such things became public.

It might work, of course he'd need the support of the other officers to make it happen, Athrun would no doubt object, but the young man was already torn between his feelings for his friend and his fiancé, not to mention his duties to the PLANTs. There was a way to manipulate him, but his emotional duress might cause him to snap back at Rau, depending on how this was handled.

'My, my, isn't this so dramatic?' Rau thought to himself mockingly.

"Commander." The dark navy haired man said as he entered the room and saluted.

"Ah yes, Lieutenant Athrun, I heard you wished to speak with me?"

"That I was sir."

"I can assume that this is about the life of the Chairman's daughter?"

"I know that this is difficult, but there must be a way which we can convince the Alliance to release her, isn't there?"

"Not in a realistic sense, but if I had to guess, the only way would be offering them a valuable prisoner of our own to be exchanged, something we're a little short on right now."

"But then."

"The only other way is to force their hand, if I had to guess, we could forcibly try to take the ship, though what would happen in the course of that would be very uncertain. In any case, either we take her back or she dies in the process."

"Commander, that's-." Athrun was about to protest.

"Either we lose her to the enemy, or we risk saving her, a high stakes operation regardless. Either way we have no room for negotiating, and we would be faced with a major problem for the PLANTs future. Something I'm certain that the Chairman would wish to avoid. It might cost him more than his career if he opted to negotiate with the Earth Alliance for her life." He made his case clear.

Athrun wasn't pleased with such a response and looked at Rau with serious expression.
"Sir, what you're speaking of, disregarding the life of the chairman's daughter."

"I'm sorry if it sounds like speaking disrespectfully, I'm just saying this from the angle of the PLANTs, and it isn't practical to risk the safety and security of the PLANTs and its citizens by conceding to demands is it?" He replied as he reasoned aloud, he knew that the other officers in the battered fleet wouldn't approve of his disregard of Clyne's daughter.

His concerns were masked by the fact that he knew the implications of what might happen if Lacus was killed, but it'd cost him his reputation and whatever clout he had in the politics of the PLANTs, something which he couldn't afford. Even if he was justified, he would likely shoulder the blame for not acting faster in his search for Clyne's daughter.

Even with Zala's support, he needed the public's backing to make any lasting impact, sabotaging himself and Zala would screw their chances of pushing his plans ahead, and making his dream of mutually assured destruction reality. He would need to tread carefully, find out how to get an edge up on the crew of the Archangel, but he thought about it.

From what Athrun revealed to him in his past reports on Kira Yamato, he figured that his situation was difficult to comprehend, being thrust into war and fighting his old friend, not to mention the hostage situation. He was naïve and malleable, something which he could use later on if he ever go to it.

XXXXX

Ray had gone down to meet with the Foreign Minister, he thought he'd speak with him and Kira, but Kira was elsewhere at the moment. Apparently he'd see the man later, but for now Ray wanted to know about Flay's father, and if possible gain a better understanding of the man who had advocated for subjugation of the PLANTs.

Allster was as he appeared in the revamp version of the SEED Light Novels, albeit with slightly less hair and a side combed hairstyle. He saluted the man before he gave them a welcome greeting. "Warrant Officer Rayleigh, it's an honour to finally meet you at last."

"Foreign Minister, sir." Ray said promptly and professionally betraying nothing about his inner feelings.

"Please no need for such formalities, I have you to thank for saving me and protecting my daughter aboard this ship." The man said to them as he gave the impression he was grateful.

"No need for thanks sir, I was merely doing what was necessary, proper thanks should be given to all those who serve aboard this ship."

"Humble as well I see." George stated.

"I'd expect you to meet with Mr Yamato later?"

"Oh of course, I sent Flay to fetch him for me, I wanted to speak with you first in person."

"Oh, I'm guessing this is about the involvement of the G-weapons project? If you're wondering, then no, Eventide is not associated with the G-weapons project, and even then indirectly."

"So I figured, I thought the project encompassed only our weapons development in Atlantic Federation."

"Unfortunately there are other interests Mister Allster, I don't know about you, but even within your inner circle of affiliates, there are things which are absolutely on a need to know basis."

"You know of my affiliates?"

"Yes, in a way, they've done well covering their tracks, but as a member of the Special Forces and the Intelligence community, I stick my nose where it doesn't belong."

"Then I'd reiterate, why wasn't I informed of Eventide?"

"You should ask your friends in Alaska, and the Inner Circle, they'd give you an answer. But I figure they're too busy playing politics to care. I'd have imagined you'd still be there if it wasn't for you daughter."

His statement had perturbed the Foreign Minister, more so in the sense that Allster was being kept in the dark about ongoing projects within Blue Cosmos. It was true in reality the members of Blue Cosmos had kept certain things secret even amongst them, Ray played this against the Foreign Minister.

It would no doubt piss him off that he was being kept in the dark, but also allow Ray to manipulate the man, but there was a measure of risk, Allster could catch on to Ray's manipulation. Though Ray knew how to play it in his favour.

"To be perfectly honest, I can guarantee you something."

"What?"

"Your membership into the Inner Circle, since they've got bigger plans envisioned, I could seat you closer."

"I'm assuming you want something in exchange?"

"You have contacts in the Alliance; I know your ties to Blue Cosmos, not a surprise since you were the most hawkish advocate for persecuting war against the PLANTs. The Alliance military command supporting Blue Cosmos is doing something, and I'd like to know why, something regarding 'Contingency Plan Washout', you might not know about it, but I'd like for you to look into it."

"Why would you be interested in the actions of the high command at Alaska?"

"I'm not privy to every piece of information the Alliance has, but I know you have the connections. As much as those in the Inner Circle like to keep things quiet, whatever Washout is, it's big enough to dedicate an entire division of engineers and specialists."

"And how would you guarantee me an entry into the Inner Circle?"

"Take this, it has the data on the human OS system, a complete copy I stole from Morgenrote before it was destroyed, my objective wasn't just securing my machine, but also conducting espionage for the Alliance. I have also stored data on some interesting developments regarding anti-beam and advanced kinetic armour technologies under development, ones which don't rely on Phase Shift."

"Is that so?" He said looking at the data card.

"I know the Alliance mobile suit program is underway, and you'll be heading to Earth, with your daughter. The Inner Circle would like to get something beneficial in their inventory, so I'll let you give them this in exchange."

"And I look into Washout for you?"

"That's all I ask."

Allster was an opportunist, he knew that he wasn't in the Inner Circle, and their members would look favourably in learning more about MS development. If he gave this in, he'd secure more power and get a better position for his family and himself, there were risks, but he'd been sidelined since the war began. At least from the side stories regarding him, he was kind of a sleaze bag in this regard, but he loved his family, Allster sees this as a means of guaranteeing his family's future.

"Very well, I'll take you up on this offer." Allster said giving him his hand.

They parted ways, with Ray heading back to his billet; he passed Kira who was being taken by Flay to meet her father. Ray passed him a nod, and some words of wisdom.
"Play your hands carefully, kid, you'll make her happy."

XXXXX

Kira's meeting with Flay's father was largely uneventful, though he had the sneaking suspicion that her father didn't really like him as much. He tried to be respectful about it, George Allster did his best in kind to respect Flay's attachment to Kira, though he voiced his praise for Kira, he was hesitant.

In the end they discussed a few matters before, Kira had to get going, Flay made mentions about her father planning on taking her to Earth. Kira was a little uncertain of what to say, Flay wanted to stay on the ship with the others, but her father insisted on taking her to Earth, Kira was left at a loss for words.

After that meeting, he was left uncertain about how he felt, he wanted Flay to stay, but he was left brooding on the decision. He figured he'd speak to Sai about it, and Sai had been also uncertain about what to say, he figured she'd be safe on Earth, and Kira agreed. Sai added that he felt like going after her, but he also didn't want to abandon everyone on Archangel and was staying.

And so, Kira made his choice…

That night, Kira made his move, he knew what he wanted, more than anything else, he wouldn't let Lacus stay on the ship nor would he allow the Minister to do with her as he or those men at Alliance HQ wanted. He snuck around; there was only 1 guard by the door, assigned by the Captain after the recent fiasco.

He would see to it that she was returned. He approached the room, out stood one of the regular guards posted after the debacle from the day before.
"Hey, what are you doing here?"

"I came to visit Ms Lacus and I brought you some water from the canteen; the lieutenant said your rotation won't change in another hour."

"Oh what?" The guard said frustrated.

"I'm just passing on a message, can I go in?"

"Alright." The guard said tiredly, the man knew Kira was allowed access to Lacus.

"Lacus."

"Huh, Mr Yamato?" Lacus said perplexed at his sudden appearance in her room at night.

"We need to get going now; we don't have a lot of time before someone finds out what I'm planning on doing." He said urging her.

They exited the room about 30 minutes later to find the guard unconscious; having dozed off from some sleeping pills he slipped into the man's bottle, he'd have to apologise to the doctor for using the medicine in the cabinet but he had no other choice. He stuffed the unconscious guard into the room before they exited; there wouldn't be a rotation change for another half an hour.

He also informed the guard that the other would leave his spot early for a bathroom break, so they wouldn't bother checking Lacus' room for a while. It'd be enough time for him to escape through the hangar bay, and so he took Lacus through the ship, it didn't take long before he ran into an obstacle.

"Hey kid. Taking little miss special out for an impromptu rendezvous on the observation deck?" Ray said greeting him.

"Ray."

"I know what this is kid, don't think I won't understand." He smirked. "I've gone and done things which I'm not proud of either, and I have done things which I has gotten me into a more shit in the past, don't think it hasn't."

"Will you let us go?"

"Of course, I have no reason to stay in your way, if this is your choice then take it. But before you go." Ray pulled up a duffle bag from behind him and tossed it over to Kira. "Take this."

"What is it?" He asked.

"A space suit, I got her measurements down. Make sure to put Lacus' clothes into the bag after she's changed, I'll prepare an exit for you."

"Why are you doing this for us?"

"Simply putting it? I have no love for being a hostage taker, and I have no issue with letting the lady go." Ray said nonchalantly. "But I just want a word with Miss Clyne before she leaves."

"What is it that you'd like to speak with me?"

"Take this and put it into your Haro." He said giving her a small chip. "This is hopefully something which will help you in times of struggle; it contains a certain amount of information regarding the state of the Earth Alliance and ZAFT. I entrust this data for you to give to your father, under no circumstance should you give this to anyone or mention this to anyone else." He said seriously. "It may endanger your life if someone figures out what this is."

"I understand."

"Good, take care, I'll be listening to the next song you'll sing."

"Hopefully it shall be one of peace."

"I look forward to it." He told her before he turned back to Kira. "Let's go."

XXXXX

"Kira's under a lot of pressure isn't he?" Sai said as he walked alongside Miriallia.

"No kidding, after everything that he's gone through."

"At least Ray's here to help us out, I can't imagine how Kira must have felt without having Ray around to provide help. Now with that mobile suit of his."

"Still I feel bad for him, there's a lot going on and it feels like it's only getting worse."

"Think he's having regrets?" Sai asked.

"Maybe, Flay's leaving and it's gotten him a little down."

"I know I wanted to go with Flay. But I'm reminded about everyone on the ship, if I left with Flay, I'd be turning my back on everyone else, including Kira. It might seem selfish, but I wanted to go."

It was just then Ray and Kira exited the locker room with Lacus in tow, they turned the corner to run directly into the others.

"Kira!" Miriallia said in surprise.

"Warrant Officer Ray?"

"What are you doing here?"

"We should be asking you that." Ray said as he looked at the two.

"We were going down to our billets." Miriallia replied.

"We'll I was helping Kira by ignoring any responsibilities in letting him escape with Ms Clyne here."

"Seriously?" Sai said perplexed.

"Well, it's exactly what it looks like." Ray stated promptly.

Kira looked at him with a perplexed expression before he turned back and nodded. "Yeah, I was actually trying to get Lacus off the ship."

"You're making a break from the ship?"

"No, Kira is, I'm just letting him escape." Ray stated as he brought up a data pad. "I figured since Kira was so determined to settle this, I'd give him the chance to settle it, not matter what consequences followed. That's his responsibility."

"I have to do this, if only for myself." He said to them.

"Kira-." Sai said before Ray cut him off.

"I'll be going on ahead; you kids make up your minds, but remember Kira's made his choice." Ray said leaving Kira to his friends.

Kira faced with Said and Miriallia.
"Look I need to do this; I can't sit back and let her be used like this."

"But you'll be court-martialled."

"I know, but I need to do this, don't stop me."

"You'll come back right? For us and Flay?"

"I'll come back." He said adamantly. "For my friends I'll come back."

XXXXX

Ray's access to the ship's internal security system enabled him the chance to monitor any action aboard the ship effectively.

Of course this raised an even bigger question as to how in the hell the ship's crew didn't have a security station or system to monitor any illegal entry or access by others on the ship, or capable of being operated in the event of an enemy boarding the ship. Ray figured that this was budget cuts, oversight, or some retarded short coming written off by some of the storyboard writers.

He'd have to deal with the issue much later, but right now, he was already setting the stage for an encounter in space, one which he knew that he'd have to deal with, one way or another. He also knew that Rau wasn't going to come out, not without a proper mobile suit ready for action. So his chance of an exchange with the man wasn't there.

"Do you believe that following this course of action is for the best?" ALICE asked him as he arrived at the Eventide.

"George Allster is going to give me evidence as to Blue Cosmos' actions, he might not realise it, but Blue Cosmos has no intention of just letting anything get in their way. They'll sacrifice each other in their dog eat dog system, Allster needs to see this, the lives they'd sacrifice, even his daughter's for their own ambitions."

"For Lacus, convincing her father and allowing him time to recuperate political clout, he might be able to hit back and stall any move by Zala, and it'll also throw a wrench into Rau's plans for the immediate future." He replied while beginning start up.

"If you believe this is the most prudent course of action, but I'd ask you, what happens if it fails?"

"Then worse things will follow, Civil War, possibly Rau trying to isolate and eliminate me as soon as possible. The chances are high he'll be gunning for me soon."

"And the Alliance?"

"A scandal, a major one at that, they'll try covering it up. If Allster gets the information to me sooner, then I can use his name to give to the Eurasian Alliance, give them leverage against the Federation and cause a political split."

"These probable risks posed are still high, there are many unknown variables."

"Yeah well isn't that life?"

"I'd say it's more your manipulation and involvement in the chain of events."

"Ouch." He said.

Alice then reported in. "I've achieved total control of shipboard systems, rerouting controls for linear catapult and airlock. Kira's friends are seeing him off."

"Good, send a message to Mu, tell him that the kid is leaving the ship." Ray said as he secured the latch on his helmet.

He felt the HUD in his helmet come to life, the BIOS flashed as gridlines appeared, within moments he received a full display of his vital functions and systematic updates on the operating status of his machine. Eventide was charging her main drive, and Alice was preparing for a take-off as soon as he got down to the hangar.

Kira having gotten into the Strike was moving the mobile suit to the launch bay, crewmen began to scramble around trying to determine what was going on, unfortunately for them, raising the alarm wasn't an option at this moment, despite their best efforts, and this was outside of their ability to deal with.

He knew Murrue and the others would be getting up soon, this will be going very loud.

XXXXX

Murrue hurried down the corridor as the alarms blared; she drifted as fast as she could to reach the elevators to get to the bridge. After a stressful day compiling a report to HQ and coming to terms with some alarming revelations, she had figured she would be able to get some rest in before the ZAFT forces decided to launch an attack, she and many others had likely felt tired from fighting an entire fleet of ZAFT ships and surviving.

She had been just getting into bed when the alarms began ringing and she received a call from the bridge, she had to hurry back half-dressed and looking all the more frazzled at the sudden turn of events. She entered the elevator for Mu to join her, in a similar state, but with the distinct smell of coffee coming from him.

"Lieutenant what's going on?" Murrue asked Mu.

The blonde haired man shrugged. "I'm not sure; I just received a message that the kid was leaving the ship."

"Ditto." She said as they felt the elevator begin to accelerate.

It wasn't long before they were on the bridge, Natarle had been out for a short period to relieve herself and it left Romero in charge to oversee the shift.

"Romero what's going on?" She asked as she greeted the man.

"Ma'am, the Strike has left the ship." The operator reported.

"Oh boy, let me guess, he has the girl with him?" Mu said.

"I believe so Lieutenant."

"Well I better get down there." Mu replied excusing himself from the bridge.

"Romero can you get the Strike on coms?" Murrue asked.

"He's ignoring our messages."

"Captain, let the kid go, he needs to do this." Ray stated over the intercom.

"Ray, where are you?" Murrue asked.

"In the hangar bay, I've got Eventide ready to launch, I'll be following up behind the kid if something goes wrong."

"Did you know about this?"

"I suspected as much, I didn't bother voicing my concern since I told him it was his choice. I couldn't stop him even if I wanted to, and I wouldn't want to do it anyway, kid needs something to believe in." Ray stated. "So let him believe."

"This is rather unexpected Warrant Officer."

"I've done stupider things in my past, and trust me, this isn't anything new. At least for Kira's sake, let him go on with this. He needs this, if only to reconcile with himself." Ray said seriously.

Murrue could tell that Ray knew what Kira was thinking, and she couldn't help but agree; Kira needed something to hold on to, that he wasn't just spilling blood.

XXXXX

The Versailles and Gamow held themselves at a safe distance, having allowed the rest of the fleet to back off and regroup and recover, no doubt getting rearmed and restocked with new machines for them to use against the Archangel and the 8th fleet. So far the situation had remained relatively similar, no one dared to risk engaging, with the life of the Chairman's daughter in the firing line, it was a dangerous proposition to consider.

At least until they were faced with no other choice but to try, the captain of the Archangel knew that she was bluffing, but if ZAFT attempted to seize the ship, it wouldn't have mattered at that point. And now there was something strange going on, the Gamow taking point with the damaged Versailles holding behind, the Gamow noticed activity.

"What's going on?" Rau asked.

"It seems as though the Legged ship has launched the Strike."

"On its own?"

"Get our patrols to intercept."

"No, wait, there's something going on here." Rau stated as he looked at the display.

"Captain we're receiving a message, text only, it's from the Strike."

"Read it." He said.

"The Strike's pilot has Lacus Clyne aboard, and is willing to return her, if it meets with the Aegis and its pilot, Athrun Zala."

"Commander, please let me go and see what he wants." Athrun said.

Rau looked at Athrun and then nodded. "Very well, you're permitted, get going and make sure to come back."

As Athrun left, Rau signalled to the captain. "Get Yzak's unit ready to launch, tell him he'd be providing additional support to Athrun, my machine won't be of much use right now, and most of the other G-weapons still need time to complete maintenance."

"Understood Commander."

XXXXX

The exchange went about as well as one could expect, with the Aegis making its approach clear, the Strike stopped within a short distance, waiting while Aegis drifted close. Athrun and Kira both opened their cockpits before Lacus was able to transfer over to the Aegis, as they confirmed the transfer Kira and Athrun exchanged words.

Pulling back, Yzak acted to take his chance in attacking the Strike, using the momentary break to close distance from the side of the Strike. Kira had enough time to react before the Duel closed in weapons range.

"I have you now Strike!" Yzak yelled as he attempted to get in close.

"Kid, duck down." Ray ordered to Kira.

Kira ducked around before the beam could connect with him, Ray managed to get in close, in mobile suit form he proceeded to counter the attack, be sent Yzak rolling out of the way and followed up and kicked his unit from the waist. Duel was sent reeling back before Yzak regained momentum, he struck across the Duel and sent it outwards.

Ray came in and countered Yzak, deadlocking the hot headed pilot, Ray sent a kick into the unit's chest and sent Yzak reeling before he locked the Duel into a position with his shield. The man had his beam lancer to the cockpit of the Duel, while the Duel hadn't even drawn its beam rifle. Their momentary brawl was interrupted by an open channel.

"ZAFT and Alliance pilots, stop this at once."

"As you wish Ms Clyne." Ray stated before he let the Duel out of his weapon's range.

"Damn it." Yzak gruellingly had to accept failing to destroy the Strike again and the Eventide which had elude him so much.

It wasn't long before they were all pulling away from each other, Ray eying the Gamow knowing that Rau was within his weapons range. He put his middle finger up at the Gamow before departing, even if he couldn't kill the man, he could take the prick's ego down.

"Come on Kid, I'm sure everyone's waiting for us."

XXXXX

The exchange had gone off without much of a hitch, the young daughter of Siegel Clyne was now in their custody, and they were heading back to meet with friendly forces of the 3rd ZAFT expeditionary fleet. Rau's encounter with Eventide was not what he imagined, and that instance of having someone flip him the bird using a mobile suit was new, and very much annoying.

While he was waiting, he had gone off to speak with Ms Clyne, who he had learnt she had been with the pilot of the Eventide, Rau had gone and spoken with the girl, and much to his surprise, he had learnt the name of the new pilot, Rayleigh Hyung. By the description given by the girl, Ray was rather unique, being described as an older man than the pilot of the Strike, but not as old as Mu La Flaga.

He had an interesting personality one which was rather straightforward, and one which emanated a sense of determination, he was hard to discern in terms of his motivations though. He seemed like a very strong person, and he had strong opinions of certain issues. But what got his attention was the fact that this new pilot seemed to be from the Alliance Special Forces.

Lacus wasn't sure how this person knew how to pilot a machine, but from her encounter, he was carrying a few secrets with him. Rau was certainly intrigued by this new pilot, he was different, and he seemed to surpass Mu in terms of fighting style, as for experience, it was hard to say. Regardless, the fact that he could use a mobile suit and one like the Eventide, spoke volumes as to what level he was standing on.

He wanted to gather as much information, but it seemed the young pink haired woman had little else to inform him about, she saw Ray a few times before her escape from the Archangel. So there was little else to go on, but it was of no matter, Rau knew that there was only a few other courses of action to take from here on out.

A sudden chime from his door indicated to Rau that someone had come. The blonde haired man was quick to secure his mask back onto his face and answer.
"Come in."

The door slid open as Athrun Zala appeared.
"Sir, you requested my presence?" The young man inquired.

Rau nodded as he pulled up the datapad.
Rau stated his assessment. "This new mobile suit is proving to be a very serious problem, most of the Council members are currently discussing the matter at length, and this sudden twist of events had caused one hell of a stir within the Council and the military."

"What will happen, sir?" Athrun inquired promptly, the navy haired pilot had a certain tone which indicated he was anxious to hear of their next course of action.

Rau surmised. "We've faced multiple defeats at the hands of this new machine, Eventide, and its pilot. Rayleigh Hyung, an interesting fellow most certainly he's proven quite a danger, and the higher ups want him dealt with at the earliest convenience."

"So will we be going onto the offensive?"

"Without a doubt, our rendezvous with the 3rd Fleet is only a step. Soon we will be escalating; I do hope you're ready." He said to Athrun.

'Yes, I'd like to see you Rayleigh Hyung, let's see what you can do.' Rau mused inwardly.

XXXXX

AN: Okay I'm going to address this right here and right now, I'm sorry for the hiatus, but real life problems and medical issues are completely and totally wrecking my shit right now, and I can't afford to miss a beat. I'll cram whatever I can into the short break period I have right now and let you guys read through it all.

But I can't guarantee quality all the same since I'm pretty tired from all the backlogged work and ongoing family issues I've been dealing with. Life is kicking my ass and I'm just taking it as I go, nothing more and nothing less. I've got chapters 8 – 10 all drafted, so I'll try posting them within 2 weeks, chapter 8 by Friday or Saturday, and then Chapter 9 on next week Thursday or Friday. If I can squeeze chapter 10, it'll be the following Sunday or Monday afterwards.

And I better say this right now, the quality of the story might vary, since I actually planned to revise the work around Chapter 8 and 9 since I wanted the story to go in another direction entirely, but now I'm going to have to go with what I have, which might not be good.

Also I'll say this now, I'll be revising the Prologue and Chapter 1 and others as well, and those will come later. So check up later in the week, I'll tell you when they've been revised.