(AN): Thank you to all who reviewed.

Disclaimer: I don't own Gundam Seed or Destiny.

Chapter Twelve

Determination

Space

Kira and his team flew back towards the ship, Kira surprised himself as he quickly looked back at the ship and person he just left, all his bent up anger was still yet to release, Kira spared them for two simple reasons, first and foremost it was Ryu's orders, and secondly he wanted them to witness what they personally caused him to become, he wanted them to see his true power as the team gathered and followed him back to the Ship.

Orb Ship

The area around the ship was complete chaos, the destroyed ships and mobile suits floated endless in space, two Izumo class ships destroyed, twenty Astray's and Mursame's gone, one ship and three stolen machines was all they had left for the moment.

With Athrun Yzak and Dearka

Every single word Kira said kept ringing inside his head, he knew Kira had problems from the past war but it wasn't nearly this bad, or was it. He was completely busy with his duties guarding Cagalli that he hardly saw his friend the last year he was still around, and inside the ship he knew Cagalli and Lacus felt the same, their lives seemed to move ahead as Kira was stuck in a deep void, Athrun blamed himself for not doing more when Kira did so much for the world, but that Kira seemed all but dead that voice was not that of the true hero of the first war, that voice was all but a copy of what seemed destroyed.

Athrun had the Savior at a complete stop, as it stood by the remaining ship, hearing Kira the way he was and the devilish machine he was in only added to the fray.

Yzak and Dearka joined back up with each other as they made their way over to Athrun, the sudden retreat was extremely strange to them but they soon found out why.

Athrun snapped back into it as he was now picking up what Kira must have to cause him to retreat.

It was shortly after that, they received another ship but this one was heading from the Plants as Athrun knew it was the ship Andrew was on, he finally caught up.

Cagalli's ship

During the entire conversation Cagalli couldn't get a word in at all, the voice of her once peaceful brother was that of a deranged madman. The things Kira spoke of made little sense to them, but they feared they would soon learn the truth about what he spoke of. Cagalli looked down as Lacus was completely broken, Cagalli's was near that but Lacus was a lot worse off, and for a very strong reason.

Cagalli made her way over, as she was still in a little doubt, that person still couldn't be her brother.

"Lacus," Cagalli called out to her.

Lacus was still shaken up by the whole thing; she clutched her picture as Cagalli looked at it with tremendous sympathy.

"How could this be happening?" Lacus slowly asked hoping Cagalli had the answer.

Cagalli unfortunately didn't have the answer, "That couldn't be him."

Lacus shook her head, "No…that was Kira, I'd know him anywhere, all this time it was my fault," Lacus said as she blamed herself.

Cagalli looked at her, "You know that isn't true!"

Lacus shook her head again, "I know how he was, but I wanted things to be normal so badly when he faked feeling fine I…just let it go, I spent most of my time running errands to Plant when…" Lacus said still blaming herself, she had to find some way to process what just happened, and for the moment that was all she could do to try and make sense.

"You did what you had to so the world wouldn't go back to the way it was, so the sacrifices lost wouldn't be in vein…" Cagalli said knowing all to well that her brother probably paid the most but still they did save many lives.

Lacus remembered Kira's words as he more or less blamed the people they saved for what he was doing, so many questions she had but no answers.

"My lady we are picking up a signal…there is a large fleet appearing in the Debris field," the pilot said.

Both women broke their thoughts.

"Do you have a source?" Cagalli said trying to do all the work she could to forget about what just happened.

"Still to far my lady…but I give all my money to say an alliance fleet," The pilot said.

This was just like before, and now all was crumbling again.

"Why is an alliance fleet?" Cagalli stopped herself.

"They wouldn't miss this chance," The copilot said.

Everything was again falling apart just like Kira and Ryu wanted.

Lacus knew immediately this had to be Kira's doing, from what he said they now had a new chairman and he spoke about a judgment, all that happened in the past few days was coming together.

Athrun came on the radio, "I take it you know about the fleet heading our way…Commander Waltfeld is in range and will join us shortly, I suggest we get out of here as soon as possible for now," Athrun said.

Cagalli looked at his face on the screen.

"How are you holding up?" Athrun asked.

Cagalli looked at him drained, "Feeling just like you."

Athrun couldn't see Lacus, "How is she?"

Cagalli looked back as Lacus finally sat back down in a seat, "She…this was to much for her she just keeps clutching her picture…you know Lacus is strong and Kira was always her rock but now I fear she may be broken."

Another voice came on the screen, "Is everybody alright?"

Cagalli and Athrun saw it was Andrew, "Everything is fine commander," Cagalli said but the tone told him differently.

"What happened now?" Andrew said as it seemed like another war was close.

Athrun spoke up, "We will have to talk about it later, we have to retreat for now," Athrun said as he Yzak and Dearka surrounded the ship as they pilot wasted no time and started heading out of Zaft space, but as they did they detected another fleet.

Near the Border Zaft and Shipping Lane

"What now?" Cagalli said.

Lacus looked up.

Athrun and the rest detected it, but as it came closer they saw just what it was.

Cagalli saw the signals, "What is going on now?" Cagalli asked as that was something she didn't expect to see.

"Miss Cagalli do you read me," The voice said again.

Cagalli answered, "Where, did you come from and why are you in that ship?" Cagalli responded.

The image was finally clear, "Long story, I am just glad we made it in time," Murrue said as the Orb fleet was catching up.

They had to admit it was good to see them, Cagalli looked back to the screen, "We will join up with you have all the fleet halted until we arrive," Cagalli ordered as Murrue followed along with Andrew and the rest of them.

Murrue could tell that the spirits were not very high, and something told her she wouldn't like the reason.

Things were not looking very good, as they got word of the alliance fleet.

Lacus stayed silent most of the time, Cagalli was only partially right about her, her sprit was broken but that wasn't stopping her, she had to know why and she would find that out even if she had to go after Kira herself, something was not right with all of this, even in all his nightmares and violent rages he was never that murderous towards her, something had to change him, she refused to believe he would do on his own, but the sad truth was he did.

Nazca Class Ship

The flight back was quick and silent, Kira recalled the events in his mind, he looked at Lacus saw the sadness and hurt, if he was his old self he would probably feel guilty and hate himself but he didn't Kira was no longer the person he was, just as he said that Kira was dead.

Kira got those thoughts out of his mind as they flew back, Kira looked at the monitor and saw that his foolish team really did a number on their machines, especially the big mouth since his was the worst off, and with what was going on now that was not the best timing.

Kira and Ryu expected the Earth forces to try something after the stunt they pulled, they just didn't expect it this soon.

As soon as Kira got into range of the ship, he told the captain to open the hanger and prepare to head back, at full speed.

Each machine powered down as they landed inside the ship.

Inside the ship

Shinn was the first one out followed by the other two as they lowered themselves down to the floor, and joined back up with each other.

Shinn looked back up at his machine as a few mechanics were already going to work on it.

"Those cowards fired at me when my back was turned," Shinn said as Luna and Rey joined him.

"I warned you about opposing fire," Rey said.

Shinn looked at him quickly and angrily, but knew he was right.

"I don't think the consequences will be very good," Rey said as Kira's machine opened up.

The three had to report to the Armageddon as they waited, it was only a few seconds but the wait felt like forever for the three, as they knew their mission was a failure.

Kira got out of his machine as he lowered himself to the ground, he had yet to look at his team but when he landed they saluted quickly.

Kira turned around and stared right at the three of them, he had still yet to return to normal from the battle.

Kira hated seeing all three of their faces right now, Kira made his way over very slow but showed no signs of stopping he got right up towards the center as Shinn glared at him, but that changed when Kira struck him hard straight in the face busting his nose up pretty good, Shinn fell straight to the floor.

"It seems as if your mouth is bigger then your skill, you had the top machine out of the three and you come back as the worst!" Kira shouted at him.

Shinn was a bloody mess, but for the first time he was right, Shinn didn't even have the hardest role.

Kira backed off as he looked at all three of them, I give you one simple task and you blow it, despite the arrival of the new machines you should have been prepared for that!"

They were silent as Kira was laying into them.

Kira got tired, "Get your pathetic selves out of my sight!" Kira shouted as they once again had to pick Shinn up and drag him out of there.

Kira got another headache making him reach for more of his pills but he was out, and that only fueled his rage more.

Kira knew the ship was moving and he had to contact Ryu so he would have to deal with it for now.

Kira made his way up to the officers quarters as he closed the door behind him and tried establishing link with Ryu's private line, they knew the earth forces were closing in, but Kira wasn't at all worried, he knew what Ryu was going to do, trying out the doomsday on such a force would be a dishonor to the great ship, but it would also spread even more fear causing more nations on earth to rise up, and that was what they wanted.

Kira sat down as he got the link he wanted.

Aprilious One

Formally Gil's office

Right before Kira contacted him with the news, Ryu was watching everything from the monitor placed on the desk of the chairman's seat and as he watched Kira's movements something caught his eye, Ryu was slightly worried about the first encounter he would have with his former comrades, however the results were most pleasing at first, but he did detect a very slight distaste as Kira spoke to Lacus, and he would have to speak with him on that, but other then that Ryu was most pleased.

Ryu never moved the chairman's body as he had his soldiers setting up for how he would present what would happen, They were just about done when Ryu had the news and he had to admit at first he was surprised they acted so fast, but they expected this, and with what they just did it made it all the more creditable.

"Sir everything is finally ready," one soldier said as they both saluted.

Ryu looked around, "Very well now leave the room and when the alarm sounds do not enter," Ryu said as they quickly saluted and left the room.

Ryu walked back over towards the front door of the office as he held his communicator in one hand and a gun in the other, Ryu looked forwards as the chairman's body was not moved but Leonard's body was placed slightly in front with a few file papers in his hand, all recordings Kira got as well as the destiny plan papers this was all set up to make it look like a deal gone bad, and with the proof he had on Gil, presenting this to the council would make it all the more creditable, he would get the chairman's seat and the authority he needed, the council and Plants would take this hard but with an approaching Earth forces attack that would easily be overlooked fairly quickly. Ryu knew he would have to eventually face the council but with what he had, the proof, and a soon victory over an alliance surprise attack would more then make him look very good, but he would put all that together later, he was short on time so had to make this fast.

Ryu activated the communicator to the security stations as well as the rest of the building, "We have a level one alert, security teams report to the chairman's office, our chairman has been assassinated," Ryu said as he waited a few seconds before the alarms went off and he could only smile.

People throughout the building went into shock at the news but it wasn't long before security teams arrived.

They came in with their guns drawn as they spotted Ryu.

Ryu looked at them playing a good acting role, as he was by Gil's body after he made his announcement, "He's gone," Ryu said as the soldiers looked at him.

The communication channels were going crazy as most were the council members, and a few council members ran personally up to the room, as they entered to see the bodies on the floor.

"What was that message all about?" one councilmember said as they quickly looked and saw the chairman it was true.

"What…how did this happen?" another one asked.

Ryu saw his chance, "I was coming to alert the chairman, this is a terrible loss but we have another pressing matter…and unfortunately we have to deal with first."

The people looked at Ryu like he was nuts.

"What could be more important then this, and what happened to our chairman?" this time it was Sarah's father.

Ryu looked at him, "Look I was coming to deliver my news when I heard the arguing and the shot, when I came in that man was fumbling with something and when he saw me he tried to fire but I fired first…I know this is tragic but there is an alliance fleet heading straight for us at this very moment, this can wait, but an attack cannot!" Ryu shouted knowing he played the right card.

All members went into shock again, "What do you mean?" a councilmember said.

Ryu knew these people were clueless and he only needed them for a little while longer.

"I had commander Hibiki on patrol and he personally saw the alliance fleet entering near the Debris field…it appears they are trying to take advantage of the attack they made earlier, I know this is a tragic situation what had just happened maybe its connected I don't know but right now our people are in danger and being the vice chairman it is my duty and responsibility to take over, I need to be sworn in now," Ryu said sternly.

The soldiers just looked at him.

All council members looked at each other, normally they would have questioned him immediately, but hearing Kira's name being the man that saved their lives and the lives of their families they didn't question.

"Forgive my rudeness but time is not on our side, I need full authority to reposition our ships to defend this attack," Ryu said quickly.

Sarah's father spoke up, "This is a tremendous situation commander, however the people do come first, I move we temporary estate you to full power and once this crisis is over and investigation will be launched to make your seat permanent," he said playing the political card again.

The others looked around, "All in favor," another councilmember said.

Ryu looked around, he knew he wouldn't get the seat that easy but after this battle he knew they would make it permanent, the vote was done and it was unanimous.

Ryu smiled, "We have to put this aside for the moment, don't touch anything in this room until the investigation teams get here, I will work from my office, I need all branches of our military activated and we will set up a defensive line at this point," Ryu showed them on the map.

"Where is commander Hibiki?" one councilmember asked.

"Heading there as we speak, he will lead this attack, I trust him fully," Ryu said seeing the others did as well.

"Once their activated I will address all ships, but right now move it quickly time is short," Ryu said as the room scrambled as they left the office, Ryu placed his guards at the door as it was off limits, overall everything was going perfect.

Ryu made it to his office as all functions were transferred over to him; Ryu called down to the communication center and ordered them to start calling all ships to report.

Ryu now had aides rushing to them but he immediately dismissed them placing his trusted guards at his doors no one was to enter, he could run all of this from his office.

Military Bases and Ports

The word was spreading fast as the ships were now being recalled, the captains of the ships didn't have ordered yet but it was highest priority so they began heading to the assigned spot which was halfway between the Plants and the Debris Field.

All types of ships, Nazca, Laurasia and even the Minerva was called into action, all the mobile suits were already in place, the older models and the newer models were going to take part, the older model Ginns, Cgues, along with the newer Zaku's, Gouf's and Guaiz's. Ryu wanted all to be present, lastly Ryu was going to call the Doomsday but not just yet.

Talia returned after her conversation as she just got new orders, they were from Ryu, strangely not Gil.

Her orders were to report to the front and lead the force temporarily; she was confused by that as this was the most powerful ship, or so they thought.

However it was the highest alert so she obeyed as they launched as quickly as possible.

It didn't take long for the emptiness of space to be once again filled with warships; it looked just like the first war.

Ryu's office

Ryu was overseeing the ships deployment and was pleased it was going fast and now he was able to see from satellite images the Earth forces force which cleared the Debris Field, and all he did was smile, Ryu was giving orders when he got his communication from Kira from the Nazca class ship.

"I await my orders your Excellency," Kira said still a little out of it.

Ryu seemed to notice, "Everything worked as close as we planned for, those fools on the council gave me temporary control for now, however after your success today that will soon be made permanent."

"Do they suspect anything?" Kira asked quickly.

"Not a thing, this assault by the alliance is actually going to help us in that perspective, I will handle them, you need not worry yourself on those matters," Ryu said as Kira nodded.

"Now…I will be contacting the Doomsday shortly, I take it the ship needs time to power up?" Ryu asked.

Kira looked at him on the monitor, "Actually the cut time will be half of what it took the Minerva, the cannon however will need some time to charge."

"I will keep them in station while they charge the cannon, in the meantime you are in full control of this operation, the council approved that action, keep them in bay and do not let them break the line, make sure you don't cause to much damage, I want our ultimate weapon to do most of the work, it is a pity to waste such a glorious weapon on a minor fleet but this will send a shockwave all the way down to the heads on earth, with this the treaty will be broken and they will rise up against us, we will have our war," Ryu told him seriously.

"I understand sir, I shall stay stationed here for now, my useless unit however damaged two of my machines," Kira told him.

Ryu looked at him, "They have spares on the Doomsday however they will have to make them work for now, and once this begins our resources will be limited for a time, so make sure you keep that in mind."

"Yes sir, shall I contact you before I begin?" Kira asked.

Ryu shook his head, "No…when you see the alliance fleet arrive, you attack, I will however be addressing all ships before hand so just take that as your signal."

"Yes sir," Kira said as the communication ended.

Ryu finished his call as he looked at the monitor as all ships were starting to come together, he had another monitor at the alliance fleet, Ryu could tell this Jibril made the decision quick as the number of ships was pathetic, however he suspected he would try and pull and Azeral but he trusted in Kira to handle that, Ryu took note to Kira's personality as they spoke he was going to speak with him on the matter of the encounter but decided against it, from the look in his eyes and the tone of his voice Ryu knew where Kira's mind was and that was on their goal.

Ryu reached down for the phone again as this time he made a call to the secret satellite.

Secret Satellite Doomsdays hanger

Inside the Doomsday the entire crew was now on the ship, they had just finished all the tests and the doomsday was given the green light for combat. Captain Willard headed straight up the bridge, as he sat down in the captains seat, the entire bridge crew was waiting their to greet him, all crew was specifically chosen for this assignment, especially Sarah, Ryu wanted her working the com straight to Kira when he was in the field. She was only a military analyst but she agreed to this to stay closer to him, maybe not the best move for her at the moment but the ship was the strongest ever built so she wasn't that worried about the danger, this was something she had to do, but it would only be limited.

The captain and crew were settling in when Willard got the first communication signal coming straight from Ryu.

Sarah picked it up, "Captain we have a transmission coming in from the headquarters."

"Put it up," Willard replied as she transferred the call to the main screen and there was Ryu.

"Commander it is great of you to check our progress, the Doomsday is now fully ready for combat," Willard replied.

That saved Ryu a question, "That is good to hear as you will be heading out as soon as the ship is prepared, and it isn't commander it's chairman."

Willard took in the news, as the crew on the bridge was a little stunned in hearing that.

"Chairman sir?" Willard asked.

Ryu smiled, "Our chairman was assassinated a short time ago, commander Hibiki has spotted an alliance fleet heading our way obviously connected, your orders are to prepare the ship and charge the Genesis cannon immediately."

The crew was shocked to hear the news, Willard was one of Ryu's loyalists and new it was going to happen, but some of the crew was not so they played that part, Sarah was stunned at the news but listened more closely when Kira's name was brought up, she was glad he was alright.

"The Earth Forces broke the treaty sir, we will begin immediately," Willard responded.

Ryu looked at him, "I will be addressing the ships shortly, after the speech commander Hibiki will be in charge of the assault, once they are engaged you are to head out of the satellite and standby until the cannon is charged, fire your weapons if you have to but we will show them our full power here and now, when the cannon is charged contact me, that will be all," Ryu said as he quickly signed off.

Willard now started his command of the ship, "You heard the chairman we will not let those naturals destroy our homes, prepare to move out," Willard said as the crew immediately went to work, Willard announced it to the entire ship as they began powering up the ship.

Debris Field

Girty Lue

Just as soon as they were about to clear the debris belt is when Neo and the Earth Alliance discovered several heat sources ahead, all ships were already in alert status one so they could fight a battle if they had to, but with the distance still from Plants they would not have surprise on their side which would mean Zaft would have the time to gather a defensive force that would not stop growing.

Neo was stationed on the Girty Lue as he was awaiting details.

It wasn't long before he got a report back.

It came from an officer on the bridge, "We have readings sir, the ship seems to be an Orb transport ship, most likely carrying the chief representative, I am picking up a total of seven machines all unknown…I am also picking up traces of weapon signatures and debris, I would guess a battle took place here."

Neo looked at the radar screen, they were still at a distance and couldn't get a visual, "If they spot us we will lose the edge" Neo was about to give out more orders when he was interrupted.

"Sir, four of the seven machines are bugging out…they seem to be heading back towards the Plants and another ship is approaching, from the signature it seems to be a Zaft Laurasia class joining up with the Orb ship, no weapons are being fired," the officer told him.

Neo knew what that meant, "They know were here…get me a link to the other ships and keep an eye on those ships."

"Yes sir," the bridge crew said as Neo was preparing to address all their ships when he was interrupted again.

"Sir the Orb and Zaft ship are moving out…they seem to be heading for the shipping lane," the officer told him.

"They detected us as well…whatever the battle they just fought it seems something is going on, I would like to fall back until we learn more but he would never go for it, we will proceed ahead," Neo said as he finally got the link up to all ships as each captain listened in.

"Listen closely, I am sure all of you are aware we were most likely detected, however we are going to proceed ahead, all ships accelerate to maximum speed, Agamemnon ships fall towards the back, Drake class take up the right and Nelson class will have the left, I will lead the charge…they will likely have time to set up a defensive front our goal is to break through as quickly as possible, defend the Agamemnon ships with your lives, launch no mobile suits until we have the force in sight, Agamemnon class ships once we create a hole send out your nuclear force and finish this, we have lost surprise and speed will be everything, accelerate on my mark," Neo ordered as they were getting ready to clear the front.

Neo knew Jibril had orders about the Orb fleet approaching but with surprise gone they couldn't worry about that right now.

Neo waited as his crew gave him the go ahead as they were fully ready, and have been for awhile, "Now," Neo ordered as he placed the phone back down and returned to his seat sitting down, he knew it was quiet now but that would soon change.

Earth Alliance Fleet

The ships did as they were told as they got into the new formation Neo ordered, many were not to confident about their mission anymore, they were told that Zaft was disorganized at the moment which is why they were attacking, but now they didn't have a very good feeling about it, but they had no choice but to follow orders.

The ships began to clear the debris field as Neo and Girty Lue led the way and when all ships cleared they accelerated to their fastest speed heading straight for the Plants.

Orb Fleet

Athrun and his team escorted Cagalli's ship near the border of Zaft territory when they finally met up, all had questions but those that seen the shell of their former friend knew all the answers.

When they arrived Cagalli and Lacus boarded a small shuttle inside the ship as they were transferring to the Archangel, Andrew and their stolen ship joined right up beside the ship but they would only keep a visual uplink when they met.

Murrue granted Athrun and the two others clearance to land in the archangel, and all three noticed the three machines they never seen looked very familiar.

The rest of the Orb fleet caught up as they were following Seirans orders but now the control would finally shift back to Cagalli so they didn't have to listen to that pathetic puppet Yunna anymore.

Cagalli's small shuttle landed inside the archangel as Athrun and the two others followed them in and landed.

Archangel-Hanger

Murrue got up as she went to personality greet them on their arrival but she could tell by the sadness in Cagalli's voice something was very wrong.

Athrun and the other two docked in the holding area as the mechanics and especially chief Murdoch were very impressed with the machines.

Athrun was the first one down as Yzak and Dearka joined him as the three met up.

"Never thought I would be here again," Yzak said as he remembered the short time during the end of the first war.

"Funny how we always tried so hard to destroy it," Dearka added as Murdoch met up with them.

"Good to see all of you back," Murdoch said greeting each one.

Athrun nodded but still in a little shock, "I wish it was under different circumstances though," Athrun said as they walked over to the small shuttle where Murrue was waiting for Cagalli to come out.

Inside the shuttle Cagalli and Lacus sat in silence as that was how it was the entire time, Cagalli looked over and saw the look on Lacus' face it was that of total sadness but also the look of determination, Cagalli knew Lacus took a heavy blow, they all did but Lacus was either doing a very good job of hiding the hurt or she was in denial, or she was ready to do something about it.

"Are you ready Lacus?" Cagalli asked her way of handling it was to keep working so maybe she wouldn't think about it.

Lacus looked over at her, "All this time, he has been here…planning who knows what…what am I supposed to tell th…" Lacus said as Cagalli cut her off.

"I admit Lacus, with your situation I would be thinking the same thing, he is or he was my brother, I don't know what happened to him, I didn't…I don't know what to do," Cagalli finally admitted.

Lacus looked at her, "I…I have to speak with him again…I have to know why and what he is planning," Lacus told her.

Cagalli was interested in that as well, "If we go in after him, we will look like we are supporting the alliance."

Lacus looked at her, "I have a strong feeling that won't matter anymore, Zaft is under the control of that vice chairman now, it won't matter if we try to stay out of this, I just know he will come after us."

Cagalli took that in, most likely it was true, "Well talk it over first then make our decision."

Lacus nodded as she wiped her face as they departed the shuttle.

Cagalli looked over to see Murrue with a concerned look on her face, Murrue did salute her.

"We apologize for this Cagalli, it was Yunna Seirans orders," Murrue told her.

Cagalli the understood everything about the fleet now, "That moron couldn't tie his own shoes without his daddy's permission," Cagalli said in a harsh tone, and Murrue could pick that up.

"Forgive me but something is very wrong…and we detected an alliance fleet plus several heat signatures on the way here," Murrue said.

Cagalli looked at her, "Let's go to the bridge, we can talk there," Cagalli said as Athrun and the rest joined up with them.

Murrue looked at them as they looked in rough shape as well, and trying to figure out why a Zaft commander was with them was another mystery.

"Come with me," Murrue said as they made their way towards the bridge, Athrun walked over Cagalli gently placing his hand on her shoulder making her lean back a little, but what they were both concerned about was Lacus in front of them, Cagalli thought about what she said and she was seriously considering it.

Bridge

All the bridge crew saluted as they arrived in, Lacus, Cagalli, and Athrun stood on the top as Murrue returned to her seat, Yzak was the next to enter followed by Dearka and Miriallia spotted him, the last person she thought to ever see again, but with the mood of the room now was not the time for that.

Murrue broke the minute silence as the bridge officers looked on, "Can you please explain what had happened Miss Cagalli?"

Cagalli looked at them, as they established a link to Andrew.

Cagalli started, "First I know the fool ordered all of you here, and I am sorry for that, he had his own agenda…but more importantly…I have finally found my…brother again."

Lacus slightly closed her eyes in pain, as Athrun clutched his hand, he was shocked and even a little angered at what Kira was doing, and he as well wanted to know why.

The rest of the crew was shocked.

Murrue knew that should be wonderful news but the look on their faces said otherwise.

Cagalli looked at them as she told all of them what happened from the time of their arrival at the ceremony plant to just a short while ago.

"I…can't believe that is my brother," was the last line Cagalli said.

Miriallia was speechless, she knew Kira probably the longest out the people here, and that didn't sound like him at all, but she lost contact after the last war. Murrue was even more stunned, the man that always put others above himself, the selfless true hero of the last war was now a bloodthirsty monster, and the one that Mu thought of as a little brother, Kira would never betray the sacrifices that were made especially his.

"You…you have to be mistaken," Murrue said.

Cagalli looked at her, "Don't you think I wish I was," Cagalli said a little annoyed.

Athrun looked around, "Something is wrong with him, he was bad but I cannot believe he would have gotten this worse, I have to know the truth."

Lacus finally broke her silence, "I can tell you that was Kira, I would know him anywhere, I don't know what caused this, but until I speak with him again I refuse to believe he did this of his own accord…the only way for us to find the truth is to go after him."

Andrew on the screen piped up, "That is all well and good, but the Earth and Zaft are about to clash hard."

Lacus looked around her strong domineer to find the truth was bringing her up, this was something she had to do with her situation she had to hear it from Kira's own mouth, she knew she was highly needed back on Orb with her situation and that was one of the reasons she was going to resign, but after finally finding Kira she had to do this, she couldn't explain this when the time was right.

"If…if what Kira said was true he will not just stop here, I don't know what he is planning but I know he will talk to me…this is something I have to do, even if I have to go alone," Lacus said almost sternly.

Cagalli, Athrun, and Andrew were the only ones that knew what she meant, and their hearts broke for her, but she was right, measures had to be taken if Kira was truly the way he seemed after their last encounter.

The rest were confused.

Cagalli looked at her, "I agree this is worth the risk, we have to know what we are dealing with."

"Are you two up for this?" Athrun asked Yzak and Dearka.

Yzak looked at him, "I told you when I left that I would not stop until order is restored…I am not doing this for Orb."

Athrun knew that was a yes from Yzak.

Dearka nodded, "I cannot let the sacrifices go to waste, we have to stop this conflict here."

Miriallia looked at him for a second; he did seem a little different, way more serious.

The bridge crew and Murrue were still stunned at the events, but they went with it, "It is what Mu would want," Murrue said.

Lacus looked around, "I…I will not let misery return to what we built, we will return to the battlefield taking no side, soldiers are following orders but they are still people and I am sure they will not want another war, we will not fire unless fired upon…and I know Kira will come to us," Lacus said very determined.

Andrew smiled, "I will be personally joining you in my machine…this hunk of junk can't make it and if things go bad we may need what I have."

Murrue agreed, as she heard the entire story.

Cagalli looked around, "I will address our ships, they will enter with us but only a very few will follow close, we don't want to seem too hostile…but they will be there if we need them."

Lacus agreed, she clutched her heart again as she thought about Kira, she would find out the truth.

All were in agreement as Cagalli got on and addressed all ships of the situation and Orb was more then willing to help, they were more loyal to her then that crybaby Seiran anyway.

Lacus sat down in the command chair on the archangel bridge as Cagalli took a seat next to the Helmsman Newman, Athrun, Yzak and Dearka returned to standby in their machines as Andrew flew over in his custom Mursame, he was going in to if needed.

Murrue gave the orders as they proceeded, and the fleet followed at pace, all had the looks of determination on their faces, Lacus sat in the chair looking at her picture she knew she would get this done, and she would find the truth.

The fleet flew in as they headed to the upcoming battlefield.

Zaft Defensive Front

All ships Ryu ordered were all lining up where they were supposed Nazca and Laurasia like with the alliance they didn't order any mobile suits to be released just yet. The Minerva finally arrived in spot at the head as they would take the front at first.

Talia had been trying to reach Gil but no avail, something strange was defiantly going wrong, but with the Plants to defend she had to focus herself on that for the moment.

More ships kept arriving, but all would not make it before the alliance came into view.

The Nazca class carrying Kira and his team also arrived back as they took their position.

Nazca Class Ship

After his communication to Ryu Kira returned to the bridge where he sat in the commanders chair very silent, but that changed when they arrived on sight.

Kira still hadn't calmed down at all, his head was killing him and that drove his patience level for anything down to almost zero, what was worse was he was out of his pills and that was adding to the equation.

The captain and crew did seem to notice, and when they arrived and were in position he had to choice but to speak with him.

"Commander we have arrived sir," The captain said.

Kira at first didn't look up, but after taking in what was said he did look up, Kira looked around outside the ship as all Zaft ships were in position, Kira stood up looking to both sides, and he even spotted the Minerva placed in the center.

"Standby, until ordered to proceed," Kira said heading for the door.

"Are alright sir?" the captain asked.

Kira was low on control for the moment, "Your job is to worry about winning this battle not about me!" Kira nearly shouted as he left the room.

Those eyes were enough to freeze anything and the captain returned to his seat as they were now waiting for the chairman's address.

Kira went down to the hanger where he would have to be positioned, Kira knew one thing the pain and flashbacks he received were now at their worst and the only way to make them stop would be to bury the past, that was Kira mission, he knew his former allies well, especially Lacus he knew she would come, she would spout out her nonsense and try to prevent their goal, so he would have to take care of it once and for all.

Kira arrived at the hanger as his team was standing by, Kira didn't even bother stopping as he gave them their orders, "We will be heading out shortly, get to your machines and standby…our new chairman will be making a speech soon," Kira said not stopping.

All heard him but what was strange was new chairman, Rey especially took notice to that, he wasn't able to raise Gil and after he sent the fed Gil didn't get back to him, something was defiantly going on.

The mechanics on the ship had no parts to work with, so all they did was stabilize the machines so they could be used on what they had.

Shinn still had one arm and damage, Luna had no shield, beam rifle and other damage, Rey's machine was the only one in perfect condition, but Kira didn't care, they put themselves in this position and they would have to deal with it, they had no time to repair the machines fully.

All got up to their machines including Kira as he waited inside the Armageddon, his breathing was a little heavy but all he needed to do was wait for the speech to get over then control would be to him.

All were standing by when a link to all ships was established.

Aprilious One

Ryu's office

Ryu looked at his screens as all ships were into position and more were on the way but wouldn't make it in time, Ryu saw that Kira arrived back and when his ship was in line Ryu had the staff establish his link as for now he was speaking to all Zaft personal.

Ryu was at his desk when all ships got word and put it up on the screens in their ships, all personal was able to hear.

Inside mobile suits pilots got the link as they watched, especially Kira everything was going their way and all that was needed to seal the deal was a shot from the Doomsday.

Ryu looked straight at the camera as he started speaking and all people could tell it was like he was piercing the soul.

"A great tragedy has taken place today, our chairman was assassinated just a short while ago but what looks as if a traitor to the earth alliance."

People on the ships heard that and went into momentary shock; Kira only slightly smiled that made him feel a little better.

On the Minerva the crew felt the same way, but Talia seemed to take it the hardest, she couldn't believe what she had just heard.

Ryu went on, "All are aware that a few days ago we suffered massive causality's of a surprise alliance attack, we believed this to be the work of a radical group however the current situation has just proven other wise, an alliance fleet is currently heading towards the Plants in what would have been a surprise attack, if not for one of our commanders we would have not known about this assault."

All were still listening closely.

"It is clear that the naturals only crave one thing and that is war, they have been using the peace treaty to rebuild their military power, they seek only one thing and that is the destructions of all Plants, we must not let them get away with these heinous crimes, as the upcoming new chairman I will do what is necessary to defend our people no matter the cause, we have no choice but to win this battle or face the horror of the first war, I today is a tragic day but we must move past this, defend your homes with honor and courage, we will win this day," Ryu told them.

People felt driven by his words, he was right.

Talia still couldn't believe what was going on, Rey was at a loss for words, he couldn't believe that was true, and it fueled his anger.

In the council room was where the council was gathered, they gave Ryu temporary control but he seemed he would make a great leader.

"We must fight to survive, I have appointed a great commander Hibiki will lead you through this, we the Plants and myself are counting on you," Ryu said as he signed off pretty pleased with his speech nothing to powerful but good enough that it would inspire the people for him.

After Ryu was done he called the Doomsday again.

"Captain once they begin you are to head out and begin charging the cannon," Ryu ordered.

"Yes sir," Willard said as Ryu hung up and now sat back and watched it was up to Kira now.

After Ryu got down with his speech many were very anger and wanted to avenge their chairman, Rey felt the same way, Talia however was hurt but when she heard that Hibiki would be leading the assault she didn't like that one bit, however they had no more time as the alliance fleet was now in sight.

Zaft Defensive Line

The captains all saw what was coming.

The Nazca captain called down to Kira, "Commander they are here."

Kira looked up, "We will not hold back, keep up the defensive fire and no one is to pursue, do not break the line."

"Yes sir," the captain said.

"Get word out to all ships to do the same, launch all machines once I am out, put them in defensive positions to counter any alliance machines and keep an eye out for warheads," Kira ordered as he moved his machine to the launcher, as his team would follow behind.

Kira saw on his screen the alliance ships were approaching.

The captain spread the word to other captains, the captain used Hibiki's name so they did as he was told.

Kira waited and then smiled as they were close enough, "Now captain," Kira ordered as the doors were opened and the Armageddon was launched.

The captain followed suit as they spread the word and all ships opened fire, towards the alliance fleet.

The suits were launched as Kira activated his armor, his team launched as for now he was the only ones to head away from the ships.

Machines all over were launched.

The ships fired as now the alliance fired back.

Earth Alliance Fleet

Girty Lue

Like what Neo ordered they made their way as quickly as possible to the Plants, and just like he knew Zaft set up a defensive line.

Neo activated all channels, "All ships prepare to attack, head into formation and wait to launch the machines on my mark," Neo said looking at his crew.

They looked around as all the ships were lined up, he knew he would have to breach the line in order to get the nukes in.

Neo contacted the ships again, "Agamemnon ships fall back, as soon as you see a whole launch your cargo."

"Yes sir," the ten captains of the ships said.

Neo talked to the rest now, "All others do whatever necessary to break the line."

"Yes sir," the other twenty captains said as they had to break their thoughts as they were fired on.

"Sir they are opening fire," the bridge crew said.

Neo looked, "They are still at a range."

"Mobile suit signature detected," another officer said.

Neo got back on the line, "All ships release your mobile suits and return fire, concentrate on one spot if you have to we need to open a hole," Neo said as the others complied.

Each ship released their machines, their were many Strike Daggers, Windam's, and even mobile armors, all flew out as they were charging straight for the Zaft ships.

Neo took command of the Girty Lue as they finally opened fire at the Zaft ships; Neo was concentrating his fire on the ship in the center the Minerva.

Battlefield

The Earth alliance ships were going all out, the Agamemnon ships were falling back a little as the others kept up the assault.

The Zaft ships were not moving; they returned fire to stop them from breaching.

The mobile suits were getting very close to each other, and finally clashed with each other, Zaft's new machines were taking on the Alliances new machines, it seemed as if it would come down to the Piloting, The Zaft ships fired at the alliance ships as they were forced to slow down, they were focused on the center as they would try to breach there.

Minerva and Girty Lue

Talia saw the new looking ship heading for hers, as they opened fire, Neo on the Girty Lue saw the same thing, they were without a doubt the best ships out their so they singled each other out.

"What is the status?" Talia asked.

"They are doing a full assault, but their Agamemnon class ships are hanging back," Meyrin said.

"That ship seems to be leading, concentrate fire on that ship," Talia ordered.

Arthur was running around giving orders as preparing some of the weapons.

On the Girty Lue Neo was giving the same orders, he wanted that ship to be their hole.

"That ship is powerful sir," the captain said.

"Signal the other ships to fire on that ship," Neo said.

The captain did that as their battle began.

Mobile suit battles

Beam fire, saber clashes, and explosions were heard throughout the battlefield, all machines were clashing and for the moment it seemed no one was getting a good edge, the battles were waging all over as it was a repeat of the last war.

With Kira

Kira however had one thing on his mind when he launched, he had to keep them at bay for as long as possible without destroying them that was left for the Doomsday.

Kira flew out first as he was intercepted with alliance machines, Kira only smiled as the machines reddish black eyes flashed.

Kira saw their hesitation as he opened fire, with his rifle and took the saber in his other hand; he shot and sliced his way through.

Rey was sick of the alliance as he fired on them, Shinn could only resort to long range attacks, and Luna was stuck with saber attacks since they couldn't get the machines fully repaired.

Kira eventually left them behind as he was a one man destruction machine but never fired at the ships, and as he was near a few alliance ships he got something he wanted to see on his radar. Kira smiled as he flew off, he knew this would happen, but there were a few other Zaft machines in that direction.

Orb Fleet

The Orb fleet made their way towards the battlefield, and shortly after it began they arrived.

All looked on as they couldn't believe it, the scenery was just like the first war.

Some Orb ships fell back so they wouldn't seem too hostile, the archangel and a few other ships went in closer, and they had to stop this somehow.

Archangel

Murrue looked on at the battle, "It's like dejavue," Murrue said.

Cagalli looked on, "He is in their somewhere."

Lacus could feel it, she could feel his presence somewhere out their, and she had to know the truth.

They got closer as Athrun came on the screen, "I think we should launch."

Cagalli looked at them, "I understand, stay with the ship and keep your weapons lowered."

Athrun understood as they launched into space and stayed close to the archangel, Yzak and Dearka watched as once again the world was now at war.

They launched as they stayed close to the ship, they were heading straight for the battlefield, and Lacus looked on.

It wasn't long before the outer machines detected them, both alliance and Zaft, the alliance had their orders not to attack for what Neo was supposed to do, but Zaft had no such orders as they approached.

"Captain we have three incoming machines, their Zaft signatures," Miriallia said.

Murrue looked at them as they approached.

Lacus walked over and grabbed the com, "This is Lacus Clyne, we do not desire to fight."

The three machines suddenly froze, as the alliance machines they were fighting also stopped but didn't say anything.

"What is going on?" one pilot asked.

"Is Orb with the alliance," another asked.

"What about Miss Lacus?" the third one asked.

Lacus and the crew seemed to see them stop, the pilots also saw the three other machines, and they could tell they were outmatched but they were fighting for what Ryu said.

Lacus was glad stopped, "We have no desire to fight for Zaft or the Earth, I ask you to let us pass, all of you are just being used to fight a senseless battle nobody wants."

The pilots stopped, as now they were confused.

Cagalli smiled.

Miriallia did as well as Lacus was speaking the truth, but then she got a radar alert, "Captain another machine incoming."

Murrue looked at her as Lacus looked on and the next thing she knew beam fire was seen as the three alliance machines were blown up.

The pilots screamed as their suits were destroyed.

The Zaft pilots looked as a voice came in on the channel that could be heard from Lacus and the rest.

Doomsdays hanger

The Doomsday was finally charged as the hanger doors were opened, and it now slowly made its way out.

Archangel-and others

Beam fire was shot as one Zaft machine blew up, Lacus and the other looked horrified, but worse at what happened next as the other two were cut in half by a beam saber of the same gold, silver and black machine.

"People that can be swayed have no place here," Kira said.

Now the Archangel crew froze as the machine appeared right near the ship, the Armageddon turned too looked at them with its demonic stare.

Athrun, Yzak and Dearka took notice as they heard his voice.

Cagalli looked at the machine, and Lacus clutched her heart again, she knew he would come, Kira just destroyed three of his own machines that didn't fight, and now the demonic machines was looking straight at them, this was the chance she wanted as she opened a link to the machine.

Shortly after his face was now seen as Kira opened the link.

To be continued…

(AN): I hope you liked this set up chapter; the next chapter will be fully Kira confronting the entire crew as Kira gives his reasons. It should be up soon. Bye for now.