A/n

Okay, I don't normally say a lot in the beginning notes, but this phase is slightly different. I put forth a warning that this Phase has one scene, which is borderline M. So, please, no one go reporting this story and get it taken down. There is no explicit stuff, just heavily implied ideas, you readers have been warned. With that out of the way, enjoy the Phase!

Phase 59: Returning Home

March 20th, 72 CE

Shira, the Republic

Tyler had been given some well-deserved time off after completing the cleanup. But relaxing was difficult for Tyler to get into, even around home. He was grateful at least that Sakura left him alone when he went back to Earth. The woman had gotten on his nerves during the cleanup period. And with the peace talks having produced good results, the conflict between the factions ended. He agreed with what had come out of the talks, though some things could be done better. The territory arrangements were about what Tyler would've expected. They were returning to what they had been before the war started. It was nice that the lands in question would have a period of time to decide who they would be under.

The treaty's provisions would have been a mix of results if Tyler had given his opinion. The banning of military data sharing Tyler was fully onboard with. The Latinan Protocol essentially did the same, preventing many war problems from worsening. It would also settle any arguments about the Federation giving data to the other two factions. Tyler would've been shocked if nuclear development weren't banned in the treaty. Nuclear weapons had come very close to bringing the end of the human race. He assumed that some hadn't been happy with the provision, but seemingly, they had been overruled. The article on limiting the size of military organizations was a mixed bag to Tyler. And it wasn't that he didn't agree with the idea of being able to help. It was Tyler who didn't believe all would heed or follow the provision. The equation used to determine organization size would be lied about by those in either the Alliance or ZAFT, Tyler could see that. Limiting Gundams and custom models was a good thing but only partly effective. The last provision was good and bad in a couple of ways. The regulation of stealth tech was something Tyler knew would come at some point. Banning Mirage Colloid was a start, but he didn't think it would last. There would be those who would "secretly" use it for their own goals, Tyler didn't doubt that. Non-stealth areas were fine, should all follow that rule, but only time would tell on that.

What caught Tyler's attention when he learned about it was the "project" that would be done. Identifying all the victims of the Bloody Valentine was a task massive in scope, which was why none had attempted it before now. But from what info Tyler had seen, the monumental attempt would be made to do just that. If the project could succeed, then perhaps, an amount of healing could happen for many. Tyler wanted to believe that the project could help humanity in a way little had for a long while. And if he could help with the project, Tyler could keep his promise to his dad and sister to bring them home. Not only could Tyler help his family get closure, but others as well since he knew others that had been on Junius Seven. If that wasn't a worthy task to put his efforts and skills into, Tyler couldn't think of a better one to work on. However, technically, Tyler was on leave, so he couldn't use methods he knew to get assigned to the project. At least he couldn't do so and not get caught quickly, pulled off, and disciplined. That led Tyler to conclude that he would have to face his boss should he want to work on the Junius Seven project. While he didn't like interacting with the woman, in this instance, Tyler would grin and bear it. It was for his father and sister, along with others, he would do pretty much anything for his family.

With that in mind, Tyler didn't put off the point and called into Echowas and asked to speak to Admiral Raine. It took a bit to get to where he wanted to, those he went through had to be told who he wanted to get to at least two times. That wasn't unexpected with Admiral Raine's reputation; most didn't want to talk to her directly. However, Tyler knew his best chance to get put on the Junius Seven project was with his boss's permission. With his boss's permission, few, if any, would argue Tyler being involved. The majority of the Federation's Military didn't want to be on the bad side of Admiral Raine, and Tyler could understand the reasoning.

Angelia was reviewing the list of needs that the Junius Seven Project, as it was being called, would require. The project's tasks may be few in number, but they weren't simple or easy to complete. The project would be time-consuming to complete successfully in the way it was stated. Angelia was impressed that all three factions of humanity would participate in this endeavor. It was certainly the first event she could think of, which was a common goal. The list had come to her as there were sub-points of some of the tasks specialists would best do. There were requests for specific types of specialists for the work SOLAS could supply. She could choose from several agents to assign to the project. Some agents would be better suited than others for working on the project for the time the project would take. Nonetheless, Angelia was brought out of her thoughts when her secretary told her she had a call waiting. She didn't have any that would be calling her at this time, so Angelia was curious as to who was trying to contact her.

She opened the com-channel and found herself looking at the face of one of the agents she got the flak for. McGregor was supposed to be on leave for the time being for another few weeks, as far as she knew. The teen had earned it time off with the work he'd done to end the war, Angelia would admit it. She'd even agreed that McGregor deserved his receiving of the Medal of Honor as she had been on the panel deciding that. The boy had done the tasks in the Second Battle of Jachin Due that few would or could've done. However, Angelia knew McGregor enough to know the teen didn't do something without reason. And with his avoidance, he worked on when it came to her, it was odd for him to contact her directly in some form. Thus, for McGregor to call her and said he had something specific in mind to address with her. "McGregor," Angelia began, "I assume you are calling for a good reason? You are supposed to be on leave, and so, not my issue until you are back on duty."

Tyler swallowed before he gave his measured reply, "Oh, I have a reason for calling you boss." Tyler avoided his boss when he could, but she could get him on the Junius Seven Project better than others. From what Tyler read, the project would need specialists, and Tyler was definitely one of those. Not only that, Tyler knew several that had been on the Junius Seven Colony, so he could help with identification. Granted, Tyler had personal reasons for wanting to be on the project, but he would only reveal that if he had to. So, Tyler took a breath, choosing his words carefully, "I am well aware that I'm supposed to be on leave for a few more weeks, ma'am. But I happened to learn about the Junius Seven Project, and," Tyler hesitated, "I wanted to volunteer to be a part of it. I don't doubt that the project would need specialists for parts of the job." Tyler put his hands together, "And so, boss, I'm asking you to put me on the Junius Seven Project. I will give the work my best effort, and I promise you will believe me in whatever way you want me to."

Angelia considered what McGregor had just said and essentially made it into a plea. Technically, she should tell him no and ask again once his leave was complete. However, she had the sneaking feeling that the teen would try to get onto the project in other ways if she didn't permit him. Yet, she wasn't just going to give in to this boy's request without knowing why he was asking for it. "That's quite a request from you," Angelia started, "but you will have to justify yourself better than that to get me to consider it."

Tyler figured he would have to give more than just his request to get his boss to think about doing what he asked. He was prepared with reasons he could use to get his boss to consider putting him on the project. Tyler would give professional reasons first and then personal ones if he had to. "The project needs specialists," Tyler stated. "One such would be data system specialists, and I'm one of the better ones you have at your disposal. If any data systems still have information, I can get to it and extract it. I have better than average knowledge of the layout of Junius Seven, which would be helpful to the search and identification of the victims." Tyler paused for a moment, "This project is important, Admiral. Perhaps more important than most operations during the war, for its results will stand in history for the good humanity still has in it."

Angelia wouldn't deny that McGregor had a fair argument about how he could help with the Junius Seven Project. His skill set was on the list of specialists requested by those heading this work. But something in her said what the teen was saying wasn't why he insisted on being on the project. McGregor didn't volunteer for things he didn't believe in and/or had a personal interest in the point. "You're making a good professional argument for your case, McGregor." Angelia showed a stern expression, "However, you have more reasons than that. I can tell you want to be on this project, and I would guess it is for personal ones."

He felt that his personal reasons would have to come to the table. Tyler knew his boss would want all his reasons on the table before she gave her answer. And while he didn't have an issue putting forth his personal reasons, he didn't want them to cheat him of the chance to be on the project. If it came to it, Tyler would set a time and place where he would beg his boss face-to-face. Yes, Tyler was willing to get down on his hands and knees and beg his boss to be on this project. That was how much he cared about getting his father and sister home so they could have rest. Tyler straightened before he spoke, "Boss," he started, "I do have personal reasons for wanting to be on the project. I have family among the missing victims of the Bloody Valentine that I want to bring home." Tyler took a deep breath and gave the offer he hoped would get his boss to consider putting him on the project. "If I need to get down on my hands and knees and beg you to put me on the Junius Seven Project, then pick a time and place. I will show up and do exactly that face-to-face for you to see."

Angelia blinked at what the teen had just said and offered her. She didn't think McGregor was lying about having had family killed by the Bloody Valentine. The teen who had offered to beg on his hands and knees in front of her caught her by surprise. Angelia was no stranger to "breaking" individuals of their pride; she'd done the idea several times. Yet, McGregor had proven to be one of those stubborn and steel-willed kinds of people. Like most, the teen may fear her, but he had never "backed down" from her when she pressed hard. However, he offered to get on his hands and knees and beg her to get on the Junius Seven Project if that was what she wanted. For a moment, Angelia was tempted to take McGregor up on his offer, mostly to see if he would really do it. But the look in his eyes told her he would do exactly what he said he would should she ask it of him.

As Angelia considered the idea, McGregor's expertise would help with the project. His skill set would be of great assistance in identifying Bloody Valentine victims. And by the sound of it, McGregor could have knowledge that could help identify victims. He was certainly a prime candidate for the specialists that were being requested. Angelia had considered McGregor an option, even with him on leave. She would've just had a special recall order for the boy and had him get to work, which just required paperwork. The kid was one of her better agents, even if she got the flak for things he did. His performance was one of the reasons she didn't come down on him as hard as other agents would. Angelia folded her arms, "That's quite the offer, McGregor," she returned. "Why would you go so far to be on this project?"

Tyler didn't answer right away as this question was extremely personal to him and close to his heart. "Having some who are family," Tyler hesitated, "I can understand why those whose loved ones never came home feel as they do. I know the aching felt with those taken. The wish for closure but denied it since the Bloody Valentine and the war that followed." Tyler gazed directly at Admiral Raine, "This project can and will give those who have been denied closure to be given that finally. It won't bring back those lost, but it can help those who have been held back by the Bloody Valentine move forward." Tyler looked away as tears came to the corners of his eyes, "I want closure, and I doubt I'm the only one who yearns for it. And it is long overdue for those who died because of the hatred of a few. They should be honored after the unintentional martyrdom they were forced into."

Angelia was impressed at McGregor's reasoning as it was not something most would have. The Bloody Valentine was the era's event directed toward war. The Reconstruction War had been different as it started before the era officially started. More than six years had passed while the Alliance-PLANT War had gone on. All because there had been those who hated Coordinators who had attacked a colony filled with innocent people. What better way to bring the horrors that had haunted the human race through the war than to identify the victims of what started it all and get them to their families? That was the mindset behind the Junius Seven Project, and Angelia agreed with it. McGregor was clearly going to be a part of it whether she gave him permission or not. Thus, it would be better for her to give permission. The boy may be more inclined to listen to instructions given by her. Angelia sighed, "I will put your name on the list, McGregor. That is all I promise for you; such doesn't mean you will be assigned. It merely means you will be considered."

It may not be exactly what Tyler hoped with his plea, but it was certainly better than nothing. To be under consideration gave a chance to be chosen, and Tyler would take that for the moment. He would do what he could to behave and get selected for the project. Tyler would be the model SOLAS agent to impress his boss if he had to. He'd promised his dad and sister he would bring them home when around the ruins of Junius Seven. Tyler fully intended to keep that promise and see their bodies home so they could be properly laid to rest. Tyler also wanted to help give closure to others whose families had been left wondering and worrying. So, Tyler accepted what Admiral Raine said to him and thanked her for the time she had listened to his request.

Tyler had to wait a week for any more information about his request to be put on the Junius Seven Project. But then the message from Federation High Command came to him, which broke the dull drum. Tyler had to read it twice to ensure he saw it correctly and not just imagined things. The message did say that Tyler was to be assigned to the Junius Seven Project. As such, a special recall order had been made to suspend his leave immediately. In the next twenty-four hours, he would ascend to space and report to the Voyager class Resilience. It was what Tyler had wanted upon learning of the project. It was why he'd gone directly to his boss and made his case with her. He had even offered to beg to get assigned to it, and Tyler had never considered doing that before.

Tyler quickly packed a suitcase with what he would need for a month or more. Before returning home with his family, he would work on this project until it was finished. As evening fell, Tyler headed to Teswa to get the Aurora and had to the Shen Lóng station. His mobile suit had been restored from the damage incurred during the Second Battle of Jachin Due. From what Carlos had told Tyler, the Aurora had to be rebuilt in the end, as the damage had been too extensive. Tyler had apologized to those at Teswa for bringing the Aurora back in the condition he had. Tyler didn't want those at Teswa mad at him. He enjoyed being the equipment tester they called upon for the work they did. Tyler didn't want to lose that position just because he brought something they made back in bad condition. So, Tyler had been grateful when Carlos said the Aurora had been rebuilt, and those at the lab didn't hold the point against him. The Aurora was quickly transferred to the train before Tyler, and his suit was on its way to the Shen Lóng station.

Upon arriving at Shen Lóng station, the Aurora was moved to the waiting shuttle. Tyler grabbed his stuff and got in line to board the shuttle as he wasn't the only one who would use it to ascend to space. Due to Tyler's rank and the branch he worked in, he was given first-class seating. Tyler wasn't interested in using the perk that came with his rank and being SOLAS, but the flight crew didn't let him argue about it. He was more focused on getting to the Voyager class he was to get to and then get to work. Tyler had left a letter to his mother saying why he had left before his leave was officially finished. He had no doubt she would understand why he wanted to work on the project as he did.

Tyler buckled himself into the first-class seat he had been assigned when the shuttle captain announced for all to be seated. The flight crew secured the cabin as all passengers buckled themselves in. The shuttle's outer door was closed and sealed before the flight crew went to their own seats. Tyler glanced out the window his seat was next to and saw the catapult area was lit up with the launch being at night. He felt the initial jerk of the shuttle starting to move forward with the rail connectors moving down the track. The shuttle rapidly picked up speed as it raced down the track. Tyler leaned back in the seat as the acceleration increased before the shuttle changed its orientation. Tyler heard the rams disconnect, releasing the shuttle with engines taking over the flight. The shuttle ascended up from Earth and headed to a set point in the Debris Belt.

It was a few hours before the shuttle arrived at the specified point in the Debris Belt. Tyler looked out his window and saw several Federation vessels around the area the shuttle came to. There were also ZAFT ships and some Alliance vessels around the place in the Debris Belt. From what Tyler had read on the project, those involved would be from all three factions as part of the Treaty of Junius Seven. The project area was larger than what ruins the Archangel had gone through a year ago. It was nearly five times the size of the ruins the Archangel had traveled through, if not a bit larger. The area of the Debris Belt that contained all the ruins of Junius Seven was one of the reasons the project was so work involved. There were other reasons why the idea hadn't been attempted before, but it was being done now.

Tyler dismissed the shiver that went down his spine at being around the ruins. The memory of finding out his dad and sister were gone came back to him, but Tyler pushed it to the back of his mind. This project was to help give closure to the victims and their families. It would help Tyler and others who had lost loved ones move forward from the haunting memories. It was a reason that Tyler wanted to work on this project and see it through to completion. Tyler figured this project would go on for a month or likely more. It would depend upon how many worked on it and the amount of effort the workers put into it. However, Tyler didn't care how long this project took; it would be done and finished before he left it alone.

The shuttle arrived at the Voyager class at the edge of the group of vessels surrounding the ruins. It was taken into the ship's hangar before the passengers were let off the craft. Upon exiting the shuttle, Tyler learned the dreadnought he was on wasn't the ship he was assigned to for the project. He would need to have the Aurora offloaded from the shuttle's cargo bay and then launch out with it to go to the Resilience. And the Aurora coming off would take time as it would be done after the passengers were off along with their things. So, Tyler had to wait while the others on the shuttle exited. He didn't leave the hangar as he intended to board the Aurora when he could and head out. Tyler wanted to get to whatever quarters he would be given, drop off his stuff, and then get to work.

It was around half an hour before the Aurora came out of the shuttle's cargo bay and was moved to a spot in the hangar. The shuttle left to return to Earth while smaller ship-to-ship shuttles were readied to take passengers to their destinations. Tyler floated over to the Aurora, opened the cockpit, and raised the seat. Tyler moved into the seat, clutching his suitcase, and had the seat lower to the cockpit. The Aurora was moved to the linear catapult, and Tyler launched out. He shifted his machine into its flight mode and got down to searching for the Voyager he was looking for. It didn't take Tyler all that long to find the Resilience and get a channel connected to them. He asked for permission to come on board for his assignment for the project. The ship's captain permitted Tyler to come onto the ship and told him to report to the commanding officers.

Tyler lined the Aurora up, changed it to its suit mode, and proceeded along the linear catapult. He came into the Resilience's hangar and moved the Aurora to the dock he was directed by the ship's mechanics. Tyler popped out of his cockpit before he began walking toward the ship's bridge to report to those in charge. He'd never met the captain of the Resilience, but the man seemed reasonable to work with from the file he had pulled up while on the shuttle. Tyler introduced himself to the captain and his first officer before asking where he was to bunk while on this project. He was assigned a set of higher-ranked officer's quarters, meaning he wouldn't have to share with anyone. Tyler wouldn't have minded sharing while working on this project, but as a specialist, he figured he would get his own quarters. He might need high-level access to the Information Network that the normal crew wasn't supposed to have, so it made sense.

Once settled in, Tyler got on the Information Network to see how the project was being run. Tyler found that the ruins were being divided into the quadrants where the colony had originally been organized. It made sense logically, and each area would have certain types of people, which would help narrow down the potential identity of victims. And with where the Resilience was, Tyler would start working with others in the agricultural quadrant first. However, as Tyler headed to the hangar to get on the Aurora and head out, he was handed different orders. He was to go to where Junius Seven's control sector had been and see if he could extract any data from what servers could still be intact. He would be working with some from ZAFT and Federation engineers on the task. He grabbed an extended oxygen tank for the shift he would be working as it was essentially required for specialists, if not most workers.

Tyler launched out and slowly began crossing the ruins toward the control sector wreckage. The colony ruins were still eerie as Tyler was making his way through them. It wasn't as bad as when he was last here since groups were working that Tyler could see along the way. Ship-to-ship shuttles and cargo craft were intermixed in the groups, and from Tyler's glimpses, they were loading bodies. They were also loading what appeared to be things that could assist in identifying victims. It was far better than watching others gather water and either avoid looking at victims or flinch at seeing the horrors that befell the colony. Tyler didn't blame those from the Archangel for such reactions, and he would've been surprised if they hadn't done so.

When Tyler reached where he would be working for the next ten to twelve hours, he "parked" the Aurora by a corridor entrance. Specialists like him worked longer shifts than most working on this project. It was because of the unique tasks they were expected to do, which Tyler wasn't against. Tyler exited his suit and held onto a case with possible tools he may use for the job he was going to do. His pilot suit's thrusters propelled Tyler forward into the control sector wreckage that was partly intact. Flashlights snapped out on either shoulder framework of Tyler's suit to illuminate the path ahead. His helmet's sound filters had Tyler hearing voices faintly ahead of him, deeper inside the large mass that had been a part of the colony's control sector. Tyler shortly met up with the ZAFT and Federation group and told them who he was and why he was there. The team was pleased to see Tyler, as they had been hoping the specialist they had been told would be helping them would arrive quickly. Three servers they found that were operational after being linked to power were heavily encrypted.

After Tyler was shown the servers the team needed help getting into, he got to work. He quickly found the server's data had not just been encrypted as was standard with ZAFT colonies. Their level of encryption strongly suggested they were the colony's "black boxes," which held critical data for the colony. They might have the colony's final moments and where some people could have been when the colony collapsed. The ZAFT tech trying to get to the data said they were fairly sure the three servers were the black boxes. They hadn't had luck getting through the encryption for nearly two hours they had been trying. Tyler was told something about some sort of emergency lockdown in place. The explanation made Tyler think it was ZAFT's means or protocol to keep sensitive data from OMNI.

Tyler had to admit the encryption wasn't simple nor half-assed; it was high grade within minutes of looking it over. The security was made up of multiple levels; each level had its own encryption style and pattern used for it. The encryption wasn't on the same level as the Federation's Information Network. However, it would take Tyler time to get to the data and not have any possible system defenses and/or traps that may be on the servers. The potential data on the servers was too valuable to rush getting it. Unlike OMNI, ZAFT did take precautions to guard data as they could. And if the sensitive data couldn't be protected, they would have it fragmented and corrupted so enemy forces couldn't use it. So, Tyler focused on his task while the rest of the team kept searching for more data storage devices.

It was two hours before Tyler saw any of the team pass back by where he was working. He'd been working on one of the servers and had pealed away two of the five layers of security. Tyler had slowly been working and had not triggered any failsafes or traps that would affect the data he would get to. The data he'd seen thus far hadn't been much new information, but it had given some detail that could help in victim identification. None of it was what Tyler had been hoping for, like specific people's locations, but he figured that would be behind the fifth and final layer. But he'd gotten helpful general travel logs, as they say, those registered could've been when the colony broke apart. More data needed to be sifted through, but that wasn't Tyler's job. He was just to get the encrypted data from the storage devices. That data was to be transferred to the storage device the team Tyler was working with had brought with them.

During his first eleven-hour shift, Tyler managed to get into one server, past all five layers of security. Tyler had to admit he was impressed by ZAFT's security model and structure. The first two layers had been straightforward to get past without triggering any system response. The third layer had been a more delicate matter to work around without the system defending itself or destroying data. The fourth layer had been even more of a challenge to sneak around. It certainly beat the majority of OMNI systems Tyler had gone against. The fifth layer was the hardest and most time-consuming. Tyler would say it was equivalent to a Federation system of moderate to confidential level system security. The fifth and fourth layers had taken seven hours, if not more, to get past. But once getting to the data behind layer five, the work was instantly worth it. The duty rosters and itinerates were as gold as they could pinpoint some victims with where they were.

It would likely take ten hours or more for Tyler to do the same with each of the other two servers. But should they contain similar data as the first server, it would be well worth the time spent. Any info that could place people in specific quadrants of the colony when it collapsed would make the project easier. There were still around two-hundred-thousand people that were never identified. This project, Tyler was sure, would leave none missing. The record would be updated to have every person on Junius Seven identified and sent to their next of kin. That was the project's overall goal, as summed up by the peace conference. Tyler was one of those who would ensure it would do just that, no matter how long it took.

At the end of his first shift, Tyler returned to the Resilience and used his downtime to sleep and eat. It would prepare him for the next shift, which would be much the same as the one he just did. Tyler knew he would be doing what he had and other tasks for the coming days and weeks. And while he normally didn't prefer tediously repetitive work, the Junius Seven Project was different for him. Every contribution Tyler could do this work was something he was proud to do. Tyler was committed to seeing this through all the more now after his first shift as much as to get his dad and sister home as for the rest that had been waiting for the same courtesy.

During the first week, the work on the project plugged along steadily, with ships coming and going. Shuttles were bringing personnel to work and switched others out for a time. Ships were bringing supplies and taking the victims to the place where they would be stored until they could be identified and sent to where they were to go. Oxygen and other basic supplies were brought for those working around the ruins every other day. Tyler didn't notice much of the passage of time on a given day and was kept busy enough not to notice. And the gossip he heard while taking a meal in the mess hall said he wasn't the only one losing themselves in the work.

At the start of the second week, ships were switched out on the site of the ruins. Among the incoming ZAFT ships was the Black Jade, who would take charge of the ZAFT personnel working the ruins. Sakura hadn't exactly been against the assignment when Lanus had asked it of her. The Bloody Valentine Incident was an unfinished tragedy that the war had produced. And with how Lanus had been around the colony defending it before it had collapsed, she could only imagine how he felt. Lanus wanted to see this tragedy come to a close for the victim and their families. He had heard their final screams, and that haunted the leader of ZAFT, showing he had compassion for innocent bystanders. This "project" was the best way to close the tragedy and move forward. As others did, Sakura agreed with that sediment, but the work would be long and tedious. She wanted to spend time with her beloved, who had vanished last month. Sakura had yet to figure out where Tyler had gone, and he'd covered his tracks well. After this assignment, she would take leave to track Tyler down and catch up with him for the time they had been apart.

Once the Black Jade and the others switched out ships that had been working for nearly two weeks, Sakura got a progress report. The project was moving along slowly but surely, both with victim collection and sorting and gathering data to help identify the victims. Sakura was somewhat impressed at the amount of work that had been accomplished in two weeks. It was even more impressive that teams of Alliance, ZAFT, and Federation personnel were working together on this project. The efforts being achieved were to be applauded; even Sakura would admit that. However, she wanted to see how much progress had really been done with her own eyes. Thus, she had the Black Jade's captain get on the same page with the ZAFT vessels onsite while she went out and inspected the ruins in her mobile suit.

Sakura suited up and took the extended oxygen tank that was handed to her. From what the report said, those that were working among the ruins were to carry extra oxygen tanks each shift they went out. She also grabbed a thruster set for her pilot suit should she want to look at something closer. Sakura headed out by herself in her CGUE to inspect things. She saw no need for others to be with her for such. There were enough mobile suits around that having a team was unnecessary. Her data showed that the ruins were divided into quadrants as the colony had been organized in when working. The Black Jade was at the edge of the industrial quadrant, so Sakura glanced around there as she sailed along.

While others were searching the general area, Sakura spotted teams bringing bodies to cargo shuttles. She did notice that a minimum level of respect was being shown to the victims by all working on the project. It was nice to see the victims being shown respect by collecting them. They were being treated as people, unlike how the terrorists had when they had struck the colony. The colony's inhabitance had been innocent and hadn't deserved to die the way they had. None of them had done anything to ask for what the Bloody Valentine had done to them. They had been made into unwilling and unwanted martyrs for many, both in ZAFT and in the Federation. So, it was no surprise that the Federation had suggested this project and that all participate in it.

For a good solid hour and a half, Sakura inspected the efforts being made in the industrial quadrant and the education area that the college Junius Seven had on it. From what her father had mentioned in passing while she'd been listening, Zala's wife had been working at the college when the nuke hit. Supposedly, the man had been interested in work being done at the college and in the colony, but Sakura couldn't say what that had been. As Sakura recalled, Zala had been a decent man before the Bloody Valentine. He hadn't been a "radical," more a neutral/moderate, but Junius Seven collapsing changed that. Sakura could understand losing a loved one did things to a person which words couldn't accurately describe. The loss of her mother had affected Sakura, and she had been forced to grow up and look after Lacus.

From the educational quadrant, Sakura moved toward what was left of the colony's control sector. As she approached, she saw the colony's central structure in five major pieces. Three large sections and two smaller parts of the wreckage were floating in the general area. The solar arrays were in many shards that surrounded the wreckage that a shuttle said was being worked in. Sakura was about to move on to the next quadrant, but something caught her eye that stopped her. Behind the largest part of the wreckage was the machine that her beloved Tyler had used during the later part of the war. It was in its aircraft form, but Sakura could tell it was the same unit. With that mobile suit around, it meant her Tyler was working on this project.

It made this assignment far better than she had thought it would be coming here. Granted, she would have to do actual work on this project, but nothing about that would stop her from spending time with her beloved as she did so. She had to ensure she worked the same general shift Tyler did. That would be enough of an excuse to get time with him, and she would take that in a heartbeat. She would even tell Lanus she would take over the ZAFT side's management for the rest of the project. The more opportunity she got with Tyler, the happier she would be, which translated into less uneasy ZAFT personnel following her orders. And if she could coax Tyler to the Black Jade once a week during downtime, she would be the most pleasant she could be. Should she manage more than once a week, Sakura would enjoy this assignment more than any she had in a while.

Sakura flew her suit next to Tyler's and exited her cockpit. Sakura grabbed his thruster set before proceeding inside the wreckage to search for her beloved. Her need to hug Tyler had surged up when she realized he was around the ruins. It had been more than a month since she had gotten to embrace him. And if she could cuddle, even if only for a few minutes, she would take that. It took a few minutes of her going deeper into the structure before she found a figure ahead of her. It only took a moment for her to see they were in a Federation pilot suit, not a space suit. That implied the figure was her, Tyler, who seemed to be focused on his work with the data servers in front of him. Her heart swelled with warmth and happiness before she sailed forward to hug her beloved Tyler.

Tyler was focused on his work, the servers that had been found in this section of wreckage. It had taken others time to get to them as the surrounding structure had collapsed and had to be cut and removed before he could work. Not that Tyler minded the time it took, for that had allowed Tyler to use his skills in other places. He wanted to help in any way possible to make this project as successful and efficient as possible. He just finished getting through layer 3 of the current server he was working on. Tyler was glancing through what data he had made available to view but was interrupted by a pair of arms going around his torso. None of the team he was working with would hug him like this. They had had conversations about the data he was getting, and they had thanked him for his efforts. Yet, that was as far as interactions had gone thus far, there had been no physical contact beyond an occasional handshake. Plus, a moment after the arms wrapped around Tyler, their owner's torso pressed against Tyler's right side. The torso didn't feel like a male's, and only three females were on the fifteen-member team he was working with. The women had been professional, so they would unlikely be so upfront to hug him like this.

Tyler put down the terminal he had been using and tried to twist it to see who it was that had interrupted him. But the person's face or other defining features kept being out of Tyler's view, so he couldn't tell who it was. However, Tyler heard a voice he hadn't for over a month and wasn't interested in hearing. "Fate is at work again, beloved," Sakura greeted, "Bringing us together like this." Sakura tightened the embrace a bit while rubbing her body against Tyler a little to show her love. "You and I will work well together and spend downtime around each other so we can catch up," she purred. "Oh, the wonderful time we will spend together, Tyler. I can hardly wait for it."

Tyler didn't want to deal with Sakura's antics; she did around him and a few others. But that was warring with his determination to see this project through to the end. Tyler then made a decision he thought he would never make. It was for his father, sister, and the victims among the ruins. He would agree to work with Sakura with some set conditions to keep the work going. "Okay," Tyler started, "If you are here, Sakura, you are to be working hard like the rest of us. No slacking off to play or cuddle with me while on shift." Tyler paused, choosing his words carefully, "Second, you are not to get us into a situation that both or either of us would regret. You agree to those two conditions, and we can make this work for the benefit of the project."

Sakura blinked at what her beloved had said sunk in. She knew while on shift, she would have to keep displays of affection to a minimum, at least while others were around. Sakura was fine with that, as they could make up for that during downtime. His second condition was the "loosest" one she'd ever gotten from him for time together. It had quite a loophole she could work with, as activities with Tyler were something she would never regret. Heck, having sex with Tyler was something she would be interested in trying and didn't doubt she would enjoy thoroughly. Of course, they would have to take steps so that Sakura didn't get pregnant, and she knew that. Given some more time and work, Sakura would be more than willing to be knocked up by her beloved, but it was too early for that. And she was confident in her technique with sex that she would have Tyler satisfied before the end; thus, he wouldn't regret it. She and Kari had dabbled an amount and, admittedly, helped one another get good practice for when they found the one they wanted. But she would have to do some coaxing before sex was possible, which Sakura would put in effort for. Sakura couldn't help the smile that came to her, nor could she hold in the happy squeal that came out of her. She grabbed Tyler's shoulder, whipped him to face her, and hugged him face-to-face. "I'm willing to work with those conditions," she replied enthusiastically. Then she pressed her helmet's visor to Tyler's. "It's just too bad that we are required to have helmets on right now. If that weren't the case, I would kiss you vigorously and show you how good I can French." Tyler swallowed as Sakura continued in a sultry purr, "I guess it will have to wait for late when our current shifts are done, won't it?"

Sakura let go of Tyler and began heading back toward her CGUE, waving sweetly as she went. Tyler had to control his breathing pattern with what had just happened between him and Sakura. She had been flirting with him, and he wasn't so clueless as Kira to miss that. And it wasn't the flirting that concerned Tyler as it sometimes did before. No, what worried him was that a part of him actually liked Sakura doing what she had been. Worse, that part was growing and wouldn't be ignored as it had before. Admittedly, the way she had purred at first had been cute, but he wouldn't say that to her. Yet, what she had said and implied after touching their visors together scared him an amount. It was much for the same reason as the flirting, and a part of him wanted what the woman was offering. Her sultry purring heated up his blood in a way that hadn't happened before.

Tyler wouldn't deny that Sakura was gorgeous when it came to physical looks. Her figure was hard not to stare at, as her womanly curves were not something a guy saw often. He could only guess that Sakura had inherited those from her mother. And if that was so, then Tyler had to say Siegel was a seriously lucky man to have had a woman that beautiful as a wife. The issue again with Tyler taking Sakura's offer was he was scared that he would more than like what she did. Tyler didn't like Sakura's dominating part of her personality, which clashed with his independence he wanted to keep. If she didn't have that which played into her stalking him, he would've seriously considered dating her. The problem cropping up was that her flirtatious side was getting harder to ignore and not respond to the more she used it lately. That was all before his friends may say when they found out about him and Sakura. The mess had gotten close to being revealed before Mu's funeral. That had taken some fast thinking and firm refusal to prevent on Tyler's part.

What worried Tyler the most right now was that the "downtime" Sakura had mentioned would likely make it harder to refuse Sakura's flirtatiousness. Thinking back, he should've worded his second condition better not to give her a loophole. He had said it to say they shouldn't do something they or he may regret. Tyler had thought that would cover the worst things, but with Sakura's response, he felt he had opened himself for complicated issues. If Sakura got him involved in "something" that he might refuse at first but got him to enjoy by the end, condition two didn't count. Tyler focused on the work he'd been doing before Sakura appeared, trying to distract himself from what could be ahead.

When Tyler's shift ended, he returned to the Aurora to leave before Sakura found him. If he could get back to the Resilience, it would be harder for the woman to get to him without others being obstacles. He started back toward his assigned ship but never made it out of the control sector area. A black CGUE came out from behind the wreckage and grabbed the Aurora. The CGUE tugged, which transitioned into it, dragging the red machine back toward the ZAFT vessels. The next thing Tyler knew, Sakura's face appeared on one of the vid-screens, and the woman smiled. "Where are you going, beloved," she chirped sweetly. "We're both done with our shifts, so get downtime for the next twelve hours." Sakura's voice changed over to the sultry purr, "There is so much catching up for us to do." Tyler groaned, "Why did I make the second condition so open without realizing it?" Sakura giggled, "I would find a way to get around whatever you would come up with, Tyler." She paused and returned to the sultry purr, "And I promise you will enjoy the time we spend together. You needn't worry; I won't rape you or anything. We'll work our way toward more intimate activities, and I'll work that way slowly just for you."

Tyler stopped struggling against Sakura dragging the Aurora, for it was pointless. He was worried when the woman said: "intimate activities," she meant sex and what came with it. Tyler wasn't ready for that kind of thing and would fight it the whole way to ensure the second condition could be used in his defense. And as Tyler spotted ZAFT's Black Jade, he knew he would get no help from any while on board that vessel. From what he'd heard, all on the Black Jade were loyal to Sakura. Thus, a happy commander would be something they would want and help to keep. As he put Sakura in a "happy" mood, the crew would be against him in most ways. Tyler started breathing exercises to steel his discipline to resist the temptations Sakura would push onto him.

The hangar crew couldn't help but stare as the Zephyr's CGUE returned to the ship with another suit in tow. It looked like a Gundam type, but not of any design ZAFT had come up with yet. The Alliance was said not to have Gundams at the moment, leaving the machine a Federation unit. The mechanics couldn't help but wonder for a moment why the Zephyr would bring a Federation pilot onboard. The two suits were directed into docks as the hangar was closed and pressurized. Then came the second and more incredible shock for those in the hangar. Commander Clyne came out of her suit and removed her helmet, and she had a happy and joyful expression on her face. None of them had ever seen their commanding officer and Champion with a "happy" expression. The woman was serious when on duty, and her reputation had come because of that.

Sakura didn't care if others saw her as happy as she was right now, let them look. She would get cuddle time with Tyler and couldn't be happier and more excited. And the sight of Tyler popping up from his suit's cockpit only increased the warmth in her heart. Tyler had a blank expression on his face and continued to breathe steadily. Sakura grabbed his arm and pulled him out of the hangar, leaving those there in dumbfounded shock. Tyler caught glimpses of similar dumbfounded looked from crew members they passed. Much like Athrun and Kira, Tyler assumed Sakura hadn't shown anything like she was right now to the ship's crew. If Tyler hadn't come to know Sakura was completely different from what her reputation would suggest, he would be right beside them in shock.

Sakura dragged him into what Tyler figured were her personal quarters on the ship. From what Tyler could tell, they seemed to be modeled like captain's quarters or similar. He assumed the woman would bring him to her quarters. It was the place where she could have him alone and show whatever affection she wanted. Even though Tyler generally knew what Sakura would have in mind for "their" downtime, it didn't make it easier to be proven right. The door to the main corridor shut, and Tyler clearly heard something sliding in the motion of locking. When he glanced back toward Sakura, she was already stripped down to the shorts and tank top under her pilot suit.

Sakura didn't see a reason to waste time by staying in her pilot suit. She wanted cuddle time with Tyler, and she wanted it as quickly as she could have it. Once out of her suit, she floated over to Tyler, "Come on, shed that pilot suit so we can cuddle," She whined. "We aren't on shift, so we can be together, and I can shower you with affection." Sakura's hands were unbuckling and unzipping the upper part of Tyler's pilot suit. Tyler grabbed the woman's hands to stop her from doing what he could do very well for himself. "I get that you are excited," Tyler stated clearly, "But I can take off my own pilot suit, thank you very much." Tyler took the time to casually remove his suit while Sakura was like a kid waiting for something they wanted.

The moment Tyler was separated from his pilot suit, leaving him in a t-shirt and shorts, Sakura tackled him. The two were sent sailing toward the queen-sized bed in the room. Sakura pressed herself against her beloved Tyler, her heart filled with warmth being so close to him. The two came to a gentle stop when they collided with the bed, with Tyler on the bottom. Tyler could feel Sakura pressing her body against his, and he didn't doubt she was doing so on purpose. Her scent and body being so close already made resisting temptation difficult.

Sakura noticed Tyler's resistance to her affections; she wouldn't have that. She would have Tyler respond to her cuddles and others signs of her love for him. Then she remembered she had not been able to kiss him before as they had been in space suits. She shifted her hands to be on the sides of Tyler's face, "We weren't able to do things when we were out." Sakura gained a smirk, "Shall we pick up where we left off, then?" Sakura didn't wait for a reply from Tyler. She moved forward and kissed him on the lips. Tyler was caught off-guard again by Sakura's kissing skill and couldn't do anything to counter her. Then Sakura shifted from gentle kissing to French kissing Tyler, pressing her tongue into his mouth. Sakura's advances were much harder to say no to when she started Frenching him.

Sakura was pleased Tyler's resistance seemed to falter with her kissing him. She continued making out with Tyler, pressing her body against him and rubbing up and down. Her contact with Tyler was ecstasy to her, better than any drug she had read about. If it were possible during this project, Sakura would do what she could to convince Tyler to do much more with her. Intimacy was a need she had with Tyler, and it would be an addiction to her with what she felt. And the odder thing in this, she had no issue with such an addiction or dependency as she would've in the past. No, she felt the urge and need would do more for her to move forward from what the war had done to her than anything else could.

As the days and weeks went on, the project did make progress toward the intended goal. On the other hand, Tyler kept busy during shifts, but the downtime was not so helpful. Sakura essentially managed that time every other day, if not most days. Tyler tried to push back against her actions, but like when she stalked him, she didn't listen. No, she dragged him off, though it couldn't be considered dragging as Tyler had resisted less as the days passed. The woman would also push for a "little more" from Tyler with each period they spent together. It had started with just "kissing," which Sakura clearly enjoyed doing. Tyler couldn't say he hated kissing since Sakura seemed so good at the idea. When all was said and done, the hugging and cuddling weren't that bad, either. It did end out with Tyler being trapped in Sakura's bed as she clung to him as she slept.

Those "activities" weren't horrible, and Tyler didn't refuse them as something in him wouldn't allow him. He had come to crave the "emotional comfort," and Sakura was willing to give it to him. Being around the ruins of Junius Seven had been a reminder of what he'd lost because of the Bloody Valentine. The aching in his heart with the longing to see his dad and sister was hard to ignore. And for reasons Tyler couldn't logically explain, Sakura's "affections" were calming the aching and lessening the pain. During this period, Sakura was not being the stalker who pursued him. Her actions were to show she cared; right now, that was more helpful and comforting than pretending things were fine. As much as Sakura had annoyed and irked Tyler before this, he couldn't help but be grateful she would show she cared.

If she had kept things that way, Tyler would've said her behavior had improved and was on its way to a better place. But no, Sakura had kept pushing and "toeing the line," seeing how far she could take the second condition Tyler had set. First, the cuddles had morphed into "snuggling," which was more intimate than cuddling. Next were nips and licks being added to the kissing Sakura liked to do. Those had been concerning but not a "violation" of the conditions set. The changes were approaching the line where they could, but they didn't go over it. Tyler had taken the additions as Sakura showered him with her affections. But things took a turn at the end of week four of them both working on the Junius Seven Project.

When Tyler woke up trying to remember what had occurred from when he'd gotten off his shift till now, things were hazy in his brain, which was odd and problematic. Tyler could recall getting "led" or rather pulled along by Sakura to the Black Jade. That had become routine over the weeks that Sakura had been around. And glancing around, Tyler found he was still on the Black Jade, which wasn't exactly a problem. He'd awakened in Sakura's quarters before now, and things had been fine. However, two things were problematic as Tyler took more of the current situation.

The first thing which he saw as an issue was Tyler had no clothes on, not even underwear. The second factor that caused Tyler concern was when he looked to his right side and saw Sakura there. From what he could gather, she was also naked since he saw nothing but exposed skin other than what the sheet covered. Tyler couldn't help but swallow as things sunk in, and the possibilities began spinning around his head. With both of them naked, there was a good chance they had done intimate things. The very thought of such concerned Tyler beyond Sakura's stalking. He couldn't remember much of what occurred after getting to Sakura's quarters. Random images were floating around his brain, which lent credence that they had done the deed. Tyler didn't want to believe it and would deny it happened if anyone should ask. With Sakura still asleep, Tyler slipped out of bed, got his clothes back on, and left the room. He got off the Black Jade and returned to the ship he was assigned to in an attempt to escape the woman. He didn't want to face her if they had just done the deed. Tyler feared she would hold it over his head and insist on doing such again.

On week six, Tyler was moved to work in the education quadrant. He had done what he could with the data storage devices which had been found. It made the best sense with Tyler's statements that he knew people around what had been the college. The days of that week had been among the hardest for Tyler. It was mostly because he had to see faces he'd known, and it was more than just his dad and sister. Tyler was glad to help identify victims; that was one reason he was insistent on being on this. However, it still hurt to see people who he had talked to when he'd been at the colony previously. Some were students who had been studying under his father. Others were students whom Tyler had merely met and gotten to know during his trips to Junius Seven. There were also college staff and other teachers his dad had introduced him to that Tyler spotted while going through the area. And this time, Tyler couldn't ignore the victims as he had the last time he'd been around here.

Seeing the familiar faces hurt Tyler though he didn't let that be seen by those he was working with. It brought home just how much damage the Bloody Valentine had done and how many lives it had affected. There was a difference between talking about the numbers and seeing them yourself. Yet, while the horror wasn't completely gone going around the ruins, it had lessened. The eerie feel had changed to one of hope with the respect toward the victims, which was being shown. Those who had died could go home to their loved ones at last. And Tyler silently apologized that it had taken as long as it had to get that to happen. All the victims here had deserved better than they had received until now. Tyler couldn't help but think of the old phrase that it was better late than never.

On the fifth day of the week, Tyler returned to the office he had visited around a year ago. Both his father and sister were floating where they had been the last time. Tyler gained a slight smile, "Hey, you two," Tyler started, "I'm here just as I promised to take you home. Mom has been waiting for you both. I wouldn't doubt she has a place prepared for you to rest that is better than here." Tyler moved over to Lana, "Come on, let's get you and dad home," he whispered with tears coming to his eyes. The team which had been with him came into the room, getting Tyler to turn to them. "The man over there," Tyler said, pointing at his dad, "Is Lance Blass." He then pointed at Lana, "And this is his daughter Lana Blass." There was nodding in response to Tyler's identification of the two bodies. The team moved forward and put the bodies in bags for transport to ships. From there, they would go to the place where the victims' bodies were being held to be sent to their next of kin.

Tyler knew those working on the Junius Seven Project were closing in on finishing gathering all the victims' bodies. With the data he and others had acquired, the identification shouldn't take more than two weeks, likely less. Thus, it was early May before Tyler packed his things to head home. The project took around two months to complete, which was less than many had estimated it would. Tyler would say those working on it had been motivated to work as efficiently as possible, ending the project sooner than expected. He felt it showed that humanity could work and coexist given the proper motivation and lacking nasty and poisonous influences.

Tyler would be on the shuttle, which would be going to the Republic after its descent to Earth. The Aurora would be on it too, but the fifteen boxes the shuttle had secured in its cargo bay were the more important things it carried. In those boxes were the victims that were citizens of the Republic who would be returned home. Other soldiers beside Tyler would be the "escort" for the lost being given back to their families. With the body(s), a boutique of flowers would also be given to the families as a sign of respect. Tyler would be the one who would do that for his family, even if any watching would unlikely understand that. He would be wearing his formal uniform to look his best, all his recognitions pinned to it. Tyler changed into it before the shuttle began its descent down to Earth and mentally prepared himself for what duty he would do.

Meanwhile, Athrun was boarding an aircraft at Orb's Kaguya airport. He was going with Cagalli and her father, who was heading for the Republic for a few days. By what Cagalli said, Tyler's mom Ellen had invited them over for some event that would happen soon. Athrun asked what kind of event, but Cagalli replied she didn't know; her father hadn't given details. That was odd, but Athrun hadn't asked further as he was lost in his own thoughts. Ellen had contacted him and requested he come with Lord Uzumi and Cagalli. She hadn't said specifically why but had made it clear it was something she felt was important. Whatever it was, the way Ellen had worded it, Athrun had the impression it could also be significant to him.

Athrun had come to Orb after facing the consequences of his actions during the war. He killed people in ZAFT, and Athrun wouldn't deny that. Athrun had fought for what was right, but it hadn't started that way, and he had done so during the latter part. He regretted following orders under Creuset but hadn't known what he'd learned from Tyler and others. Then when given the Justice, he had gone against orders before leaving ZAFT to fight for what he believed. Athrun would do that again if someone gave him a chance, as he felt he had done the right thing. However, even done for the best of reasons, it was technically still desertion per the definition ZAFT had for the idea. Desertion had consequences set to them, a court martial at which the soldier was judged for their decision.

The hearing was fair; Athrun wouldn't deny that as he had been heard before judgment was handed down. Athrun wasn't alone in facing what he had for his choices. His teammates faced the same as he did in the form of a court-martial. In the end, the punishment handed out varied between the four of them, but the choice they had to make didn't. Athrun and the others were to choose a rank demotion and leave of duty for a time, or the other choice was discharge from ZAFT. The other three had taken the first option given to them by ZAFT higher-ups. Athrun respected them for wanting to serve the homeland in that way still. Yet, Athrun couldn't do that and just continued as if nothing had happened. Instead, Athrun had taken the discharge option and left the PLANTs to see what else he could do to bring good to humanity. The monster who had used his father's appearance and voice had done serious damage before being stopped. Athrun wanted to do what he could to help repair that damage. It might restore his father's name and legacy, or at least that's what Athrun hoped.

Back to the present, Cagalli seemed excited to go and see Ellen, at least from what Athrun could see, that was so. When he'd asked her, Cagalli had gone off on how she loved Ellen and never missed a chance to see her. From what Athrun was hearing, Ellen was like a mother figure to Cagalli. Lord Uzumi added that his wife had died from illness when Cagalli was very young. So, apparently, Cagalli would talk and travel to see Ellen often enough over the years. That made him wonder why she never asked her about Ellen's family. Cagalli clearly didn't believe Tyler when he'd told her that Ellen was his mother. Granted, Tyler's behavior didn't help his case as it clashed so much with Ellen's mannerisms. But Tyler had left no doubt with Athrun he cared about his mother and would do what he could for her.

Athrun was also surprised that Kira wasn't coming on this trip. Kira had taken up residence around Orb but in the countryside rather than in a city. Kira still interacted with Cagalli since they were siblings, and it was more Cagalli to see him than the other way around. And the last time Athrun had gone to see Kira, he found out Lacus had been there too. She said she had slipped away from the PLANTs and didn't intend to return unless there was a serious need. Lacus had left after some started pushing for her to take a more active role in the governance of the PLANTs. Lacus said her father had also "gone into hiding" as she had. It was to get away from those who wanted to have them lead, but in reality, to use them. Siegel had been offered the Supreme Council's Chairman position but had refused that. However, Lacus said she didn't know where her father had gone, just that he kept in contact with her.

Athrun had considered reaching out to Tyler and see if he knew what his mother could be planning. Yet, Tyler had been busy and hadn't picked up his com-device for weeks. Kira mentioned something about Tyler being recalled for something back in March. Athrun couldn't help but wonder what Tyler could've been recalled for, as no official operations were going on that he knew of. Not that Tyler couldn't look after himself, his friend had repeatedly proven that. But Tyler rarely just disappeared without a word and then didn't communicate for long without saying something beforehand. Athrun was left in his thoughts during the aircraft's journey to Shira.

After the aircraft landed and the passengers exited it, they were led to a car. They were driven to the Minister's residence, where Ellen was waiting for them. Ellen welcomed her guests warmly, though she didn't fully feel it. The message of the Junius Seven Project finishing up had hit her hard, for it meant the bodies of her husband and daughter would be brought to Shira. Planning the private burial service had been difficult not because of her duties but of the memories that came to her. Having to arrange services for your best friend and significant other had been heart-wrenching for Ellen. Doing that for her daughter had been just as taxing, merely in a different way than it was for Lance. Then she had also been working on a service for Lenore as she had been more than a "friend." Ellen had been doing a more symbolic ceremony for Patrick as his body was gone. She would, however, make sure he would have a marker next to Lenore; she owed her friend that. Friends coming was to make this time easier to get through. She'd selfishly requested this of Uzumi, but the man hadn't hesitated in saying he would come.

Uzumi could tell that Ellen was going through the motions to an extent right now and likely had for days. The Junius Seven Project's success was great, but for those it would affect, it reminded them of those they lost. It was why he'd rearranged things to be here for Ellen when the bodies of her husband and daughter were returned. None should have to go through morning alone and suffer. And from what Uzumi had heard, her son Tyler had been working on the project from near its beginning. He could only imagine what those who had been working on the project had been going through. Their work was important, but it had to be emotionally taxing, more so for any that had lost family from the colony's collapse. Thus, after Athrun had tugged Cagalli back from hugging Ellen, Uzumi moved forward and took one of Ellen's hands. "When was the last time you got decent sleep, Ellen," he asked worriedly.

Ellen figured Uzumi could see past the face she had put up. The man knew how to put up a face for others to see and look past them. He even knew the reason why she was so taxed right now; she didn't doubt it. The Federation leaders had been told about the Junius Seven Project and kept up to date on it. As for his question, it had been weeks, if not more, since she had gotten good quality sleep. Lund and Nicole had been picking up the slack in governmental work, which she was grateful for. However, Ellen didn't want Cagalli to worry about her. The girl loved her and was close to worshiping her, which Ellen didn't like. Ellen was human like any other, so she had times of weakness just like any. It was why she had told Uzumi to bring Cagalli so she could see for herself that Ellen wasn't infallible. So, Ellen let out a sigh, "I can't say exactly," Ellen admitted, a frown coming to her face. "Weeks at least, likely more, were I to guess. Others are helping the Republic keep running while things are trying."

Cagalli turned and looked at Ellen and was shocked at the worn expression she had. Ellen was the strongest woman she knew, and Cagalli tried to emulate her. She never let things phase her, no matter how unexpected they could be. This was the first show of something weighing on Ellen's shoulders and pulling her down that Cagalli had seen. She wanted to ask Ellen what was going on, but her voice wouldn't work. "As you can imagine, Uzumi," Ellen continued, "Recent events have been weighing on me." Ellen then turned to face the two teens, "I assume you two heard about the peace conference that took place back in March?"

Athrun nodded slowly, wondering what Ellen was getting at. As far as he'd heard, the talks had produced good results that would help prevent conflict. Territories had been returned to what they had been at the start of the war. For the lands that had been the Alliance's but were under ZAFT's control, that was going to be settled differently. They would be given a few years to decide for themselves which faction they would be with. The provisions the treaty had were expected if one used logic. Making data that could be militarized exchange banned would prevent potential weapon development. Athrun hadn't doubted nuclear tech would be regulated if not outright banned in the treaty, and it had been seriously regulated. The limiting of military forces and mobile weapons could help if followed. The equation used to determine organization size was based on territory and economic production. It was fair to an extent, but Athrun could see how it could be abused.

The last provision was supposed to regulate the use of stealth technology. Athrun didn't know whether that would be a good thing or not. The banning of the Alliance's invention, mirage colloid, was for the best. It was too dangerous to use as there was too much chance terrorists would employ it. However, the Federation's use of stealth had been done with the best intentions. Athrun didn't see why they should be punished or give that up just because others felt it unfair they had it. So he didn't think the provision "leveled" the field as some claimed it did. Thus, Athrun spoke, "Yes, I've heard about what came out of it. What of it?"

"You may have heard about what provisions were agreed upon," Ellen remarked. "Uzumi's brother Homura was one of the Federation's representatives in the talks." Cagalli was surprised that her uncle was one of those that represented the Federation in the talks. He had just been away for a time, saying he was going to some sort of meeting. She would be one of those who would state Homura Athha was a good choice for the point. Her uncle was an amazing negotiator; she'd seen him in action. "However, a part was discussed that the public wasn't aware of. Perhaps it will be soon enough; I can't say about that since it isn't my decision. But the effects of the idea should be starting to be felt rather soon, by what I understand."

Athrun and Cagalli blinked, not understanding what Ellen was referring to. "What are you talking about," they both asked.

"A project was proposed at the talks," Ellen remarked. "That project was approved and started a week or two after the talks. Its purpose is to collect and then identify the victims that were still floating among the ruins of Junius Seven." Cagalli gasped while Athrun's mouth dropped open at Ellen's statement. Cagalli was in shock at hearing there were efforts to identify Bloody Valentine. She'd always heard that such an idea of collecting and identifying them wouldn't happen. To collect all the bodies would take months, if not years, to search all the ruins. The identification was a different matter which would take just as long as most said when asked. Athrun was just as shocked as Cagalli was at the revelation, if not more so than her. His mother's body had never been found since Bloody Valentine. It was a fact that had haunted him, so he never forgot it. If the project was doing what Ellen said it was, then Athrun may be able to say a "proper goodbye" to his mother. Ellen continued, "A task viewed as feudal due to the effort it would involve until recently. The project was a real attempt to see if it could be done and, if so, to do just that to help humanity heal."

Uzumi had heard the project had more volunteers than had been expected. There had even been a group from Orb's military that had insisted they could help with the work. He hadn't refused their request, and he'd encouraged the wish. "And from what I read," Uzumi remarked, "There were more volunteers than were expected upon the project's proposal. It is heartening that humans can unite for a goal when they have the right motivation. The results, as Ellen said, will help many move forward from the past and have closure from it." Uzumi paused, looking at Ellen, "Even if that closure hurts for a time."

Ellen shook her head at Uzumi's implications, "I will always miss those I lost. But I will get a chance to say farewells to them where I didn't before." She looked at Athrun, who had a sorrowful yet thoughtful expression on his face. Ellen could only assume that he was thinking of his mother, who had been among the lost. She had been ensuring Athrun had what he needed to live life, get an education, and make choices for himself. Even though it should've been Patrick doing the idea, Ellen had done that for Lenore. She had been providing money to Athrun in a way that it appeared there had been a "fund" set aside for him by his mother. Ellen could only hope her efforts had made a difference for Athrun. "I would imagine you are thinking about your mother, are you not, Athrun?" Cagalli's gaze whipped from Ellen to Athrun. She hadn't been looking at him since Ellen had begun to explain the "project." Yet, the expression on Athrun's face was painful for her to see.

Athrun was jerked out of his thoughts at Ellen's question. He'd been thinking about what had been revealed and what that could mean for him. If Ellen was telling the truth, and there was no reason to believe she wasn't, then there was the very real possibility he could see his mother's body. He had never gotten the chance to say goodbye to his mother when Bloody Valentine had occurred. Had Athrun known about the project, he would've volunteered to help with it. But that thought potentially answered a question that had been bouncing around his brain. Tyler hadn't been reachable for weeks or longer from what Athrun knew with his own experience and from what Kira had said. Should Tyler have been working on the Junius Seven Project, then him being so busy that he couldn't talk much would make sense. And Tyler would have his own personal reasons for wishing to work on such a project with his father and sister among the victims. However, Athrun ended out sighing, "I suppose so," he replied. "Junius Seven is just a sore subject for many, myself included."

The conversation was put on hold for the midday meal. However, the conversation wasn't continued after the meal as Ellen had her guests move toward a waiting vehicle. The shuttle, which would be bringing the Republic citizens from Junius Seven's ruins, would be landing soon. Ellen was expected to be there to greet those escorting lost citizens home; it was traditional. And that was before taking into account that members of her own family were coming home. Her guests would be more than welcome to come and respect those returning home from the ruins of Junius Seven.

Meanwhile, Tyler was thinking to himself as the shuttle he was on made its final approach to the Jing Airport. He was dressed in his formal uniform as he would be "escorting" his family to where his mother was waiting. His uniform had the plate of six ribbons he'd worn to Mu's memorial. However, there was a new recognition on Tyler's uniform that hadn't been there before. The gold medal was pinned right below the ribbon plate, which was the Medal of Honor Tyler had been awarded. He hadn't wanted the medal, nor had he thought that was the award Admiral Moses had been implying he was being considered for at the time. Tyler hadn't been given a chance to refuse the recognition politely. Plus, one didn't refuse such a medal or its recognition without insulting the efforts required to earn it. Thus, Tyler accepted the award and said nothing about others who deserved the honors.

The Junius Seven Project had been a hard and trying experience for Tyler and all those who participated. The idea the project had been set to accomplish had been considered pointless and a waste of time. Tyler had heard that some of the press and media permitted on the ruins site had laughed at the efforts. They had supposedly said it wouldn't make a difference if it were ever to be finished. Not all those from the media had been of that opinion, but there had been some. Those who had said such had been ignored, and the work had gone on until its completion. After the identification of the victims, ships carried them toward where they were to go. It was worth the efforts as the victims would give closure to many affected by the Bloody Valentine. Even if it had been painful for Tyler, as the project reminded him of what had been lost, he was still glad he'd helped.

Tyler glanced down in the direction of the cargo bay where the caskets of the victims were secured. There were fifteen caskets, fourteen of which had been Republican citizens being brought home. The last was one that Tyler had mixed feelings about. The one it contained wasn't a Republican citizen but someone who had been there several times. Tyler felt his mother had some influence on the victim, who was different from the others on the plane. What was causing Tyler to wonder and worry was the fifteenth was none other than Lenore Zala, Athrun's mother. While the project had been ongoing, communication was strictly regulated. It wasn't to keep the work a secret; it had been not to overload and gum up the com-channels constantly. Tyler could understand wanting to tell and inform those who knew about the victims found. He'd been the one who had identified Lenore Zala. And when he'd seen Athrun's mom, Tyler had wanted to reach out and tell Athrun so badly it had brought a sharp pain to his heart.

Tyler didn't know what he could say to his friend about his mom coming to the Republic. He figured Ellen had something to do with the point. Tyler knew his mother and Athrun's mom had been more than just friends. From his mother's stories, Tyler assumed the two women confided greatly with each other. Ellen had stated she'd met Lenore during their teenage years, and the two had "clicked." Tyler even remembered his mother saying something about introducing Athrun's parents on a blind date or something similar. Thus, it wasn't a stretch that Tyler's mom would want to pay respects to her friend Lenore. It was just rare for Ellen to use "privilege" to get something to happen. She normally just put in work for a possibility and let "fate" decide how things would happen.

From what Tyler had been told, he was to escort his family members and Lenore Zala to his mother. Not that those giving the orders knew the first two were his family members. That fact was classified on Tyler's record so that the public and even most soldiers who looked at his file wouldn't find out. He could only wonder what kind of services his mother had in mind for the three he would escort to her. His mother had a plan and a reason for what she did. Tyler had observed the woman who had brought him into the world long enough to know that. However, Tyler still had a difficult time figuring out what was in his mother's mind. Smart as he was, Tyler just couldn't tell what some would do for the reasons they had.

Tyler was brought out of his thought when the announcement was made the shuttle was on its final approach. The time was almost here when Tyler had to do an extremely hard thing for him. Escorting the caskets of his dad, sister, and best friend's mother would tax him. It was an event he both dreaded and was proud he could do. Tyler dreaded it as no child wanted to present a parent with the bodies of their family members. No child wanted to outlive a parent or sibling that Tyler had ever known of. And yet, Tyler was able to keep the promise he'd made the last time he'd been around the ruins of Junius Seven. He'd brought his and Lana home as he had vowed he would. And because of keeping that promise, they could have rest from what had befallen them. And perhaps, Athrun's mother could also find rest in the Republic as well. If that could be, then maybe Athrun could have closure. Tyler would do pretty much anything to help Athrun find his way forward and drop some of the weight he and Tyler had been carrying from the Bloody Valentine.

At the same time, the car containing Ellen and her guests arrived at the Jing Airport. After Ellen exited the car, she glanced around and saw other families waiting to receive their loved ones, which had been found among the ruins. Ellen also saw that soldiers were waiting to give military honors as the cargo plane was taxying in. She could sympathize with the feelings they had to be having. She shared much the same feelings with members of her own family coming on the cargo plane. It was going to be harder for Ellen; she felt it was extremely likely her son would be the one to deliver Lance and Lana's bodies. She feared it would be just as hard for Tyler since he loved and respected his father and adored his sister. Tyler had been in pain when he'd given her Lance's wedding ring, and it had been clearly hard for him. And she expected this would be even more difficult for her son, but Tyler would soldier on as he tended to. If one could be said about today, it was the day would be long and hard for many reasons.

Cagalli could feel the glum in the air coming from the people who were gathered there. It bothered her as the times before when she'd come to the Republic, it had felt like a good place. And if what Ellen said about Junius Seven victims was correct, those people here were waiting for the victims' bodies. That thought humbled Cagalli since it reminded her of when she and her father lost her mom, Lady Athha. Her father had taught her the value of family more by example than anything. He'd always made time for her should she need him for something or any event she was involved in. Cagalli had been grateful and treasured that her father had made those efforts. But in events such as the current one, Cagalli didn't exactly know what to think or do.

As the cargo plane opened and its ramp dropped, all attention shifted to the widening opening. The soldiers who were there to do a military honor stood at attention, waiting for the first casket and escort to exit the plane. Military honors were displayed with every casket that came out of the plane. Every family who received a loved one's body was also given flowers as a way to show respect to the fallen. Ellen watched as families received the lost and could only share in the sorrow from a distance. Her turn would likely be last, so Ellen was steeling herself for when that came.

Tyler gradually got to the front of the cargo hold as others escorted their caskets off the plane. His throat was dry as the service he was about to do drew closer. He had to keep face and make it look like he had no direct relation to his mother to all those watching. Although this would be a "private" thing, there was the possibility some may let slip his connection to his mother. That would make all Tyler's work over the years wasted and moot. There would be those in the Alliance who would be more than willing to pin the blame for things they suspected Tyler of on his mother. The two could properly grieve in private outside the public eye. But this ceremony was a requirement, so Tyler would have to make it seem there was no relation between him and his mother. So, Tyler had set a straight face as he came into the daylight with the three caskets rolled behind him.

Other families were leaving after receiving their caskets, but Ellen kept her gaze straight ahead. She had spotted Tyler coming down the plane ramp with three caskets rolling behind him. Watching his approach made it clear to her that Tyler was forcing himself not to let anything show. Ellen knew he was doing this not to let their relationship be discovered. She hadn't liked her son making efforts to distance connections between him and her. However, she understood the reasons why he did such. He wanted to shield her from any potential flak that came his way from affecting her. Lance did similar when others in the scientific community railed against his theories. He made sure all grievance was directed at him, and none at her, and Ellen had appreciated her husband for doing that. But it hurt to see her son having to put up a mask at a time they should be receiving their lost family members together.

Tyler came to a halt in front of his mother before he straightened and saluted, "Madam Prime Minister, Commander McGregor," he began, "It is an honor to escort and deliver Lance and Lana Blass along with Lenore Zala from the ruins of Junius Seven." Tyler took a breath before he continued, "May you receive them for whatever service you see fit. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten nor wasted for what hope it can give." Tyler then handed his mother the bouquet of flowers and bowed his head. Ellen nodded in response, "Thank you, Commander McGregor, for bringing them home. Your service is appreciated."

Athrun had seen Tyler doing his utmost to be professional and not let escorting his father and sister show. Yet, Athrun had been taken aback when his mother's name was mentioned in reference to the third casket. With what Ellen said about the project to collect and identify the victims of Junius Seven, there was a good chance his mother would be found. However, Athrun had assumed her body would be sent back to the homeland to be buried. So, he was confused as to why his mother's body would come to the Republic instead of the PLANTs. But before he could ask Tyler, he turned around and walked off to where the other soldiers were. He took that to mean Tyler would pop up again later when he could slip away and make his way unseen to them. Tyler still kept his connections to Ellen a secret from the public, not that Athrun blamed him for doing so. Thus, Athrun turned to Ellen, "Why would my mother's body be sent here," he asked. "It would make more sense for her to be sent back to the PLANTs, wouldn't it?"

Ellen glanced at Athrun with a saddened expression on her face. She grieved that her friend's son had to follow the man who had been his father and turned into a monster. No child should have to suffer through that type of thing. Lenore had been so proud to show off her son when he'd been born. It had been funny back at the time to Ellen. Lenore had been beaming with pride displaying her son in any she could. On the other hand, Patrick had been hesitant to hold Athrun when Lenore had insisted he do so. It reminded Ellen how Lance had been at first when Tyler had been born. He hadn't known how to react or be around the babe. Then that changed drastically when Tyler became a toddler. Lance had taken a shine to Tyler and had taken more time with him. Ellen could only hope that Athrun's father had done similar before the Bloody Valentine, but it was unlikely with how things went.

It was because of Ellen's friendship with Lenore, which she had her brought here, so she could be next to Patrick's marker. Lenore had loved Patrick so much that she did everything she could to help him realize his dream of peaceful coexistence for all. That was partly the reason she had worked with Lance and been an assistant, to help with Patrick's dream. Then Bloody Valentine happened, and everything had changed forever for many. Thus, Ellen sighed at the question, "Logically, if one goes by nationality, yes, the PLANTs would be the place your mother would go to, Athrun. However," Ellen paused momentarily, "As Lenore's best friend, I felt it better that she be brought here. Later, you will see the reason, Athrun, so I ask you to be patient for just a little longer."

Athrun didn't quite understand what Ellen was implying by there being a reason for his mother to come here. Truthfully, he hadn't known his mom was friends with Tyler's mother; at least, it was news to him. He'd never known, nor had Tyler mentioned anything to that effect if he had known about it. Tyler was the first of his family Athrun had met and gotten to know, which had happened at some sort of conference. It had been on Junius Seven, as Athrun recalled, and they had met by chance before his father had introduced Tyler's parents to him. Athrun couldn't remember much of that event as he'd been really young. But as Ellen had said, he would see the reason later and give her the time and chance to do that. Maybe Tyler had more of a hint as to why his mother had been brought to the Republic.

Meanwhile, Tyler took the time to slip away from the soldiers that had been doing the honor guard. His heart was heavy and hurt from bringing the bodies of his father and sister. It had taken a great deal of emotional control for Tyler to keep the mask he had put on up. Yet Tyler had managed to do that and not let others see the potential connection to his mother. Once he got away, he could then go to join his mother in honoring and saying farewell to the family. Tyler could also apologize to Athrun for not saying anything about his mother being found. He wanted to tell his friend about the idea when he'd identified Lenore Zala. It was due to the restrictions on communications during the project that made it impossible. That didn't make the point feel any better for Tyler, as he still hurt a friend, and that never sat well.

Tyler didn't take the time to change his clothes even though he disliked "formalwear." His formal uniform was his closest clothes, akin to a suit. Tyler would neither confirm nor deny the suits he had when he'd been younger had found their way to disposal with help from him. However, he wanted to show respect to his father and sister in what way he could, and wearing his formal uniform would be a start. He found a car and drove it to the minister's mansion, where Tyler felt he would find his mother. From there, they could go to the site Ellen had picked out that Tyler knew about. He would find the time to talk to Athrun when he could, but his father and sister had already waited longer than they should've. When Tyler arrived at the mansion, he was told his mother hadn't returned from the airport yet. Thus, Tyler decided to wait for her to get back so they could go to the grave site Ellen had chosen.

After receiving the three caskets, Ellen had them taken to the car waiting for them. However, Ellen couldn't leave directly after that as people approached her and those in her party. Ellen did notice that Tyler vanished as he had a knack for doing when he wanted to. It took time to move Uzumi, Cagalli, and Athrun to the waiting cars, followed by Ellen. Once in the car, the party began moving toward the Minister's mansion. Along the way, Uzumi put a hand over one of Ellen's, "You did well, Ellen," he assured. "Others wouldn't have been able to keep it together as you did."

The feelings swirling around Ellen's mind right now weighed on her heart and shoulders. As the Republic's leader, she was expected to be strong and unwavering for the people. But at times like this, she wished she wasn't the nation's leader, as much as she loved the Republic's citizens. It was difficult and tiring to be the strong one all the time, the one that others looked to. It was the hard part of the leadership job that Ellen had been doing for nearly sixteen years. The point had gotten her to consider retirement a few times, but the Republic still needed those like her and her cabinet. And while Uzumi's comment was more a compliment, it was more a reminder of the hardship the leadership role could be. "The compliment is nice, Uzumi," Ellen started, "But I'm tired of being the strong leader all the time, especially right now." Cagalli blinked at what Ellen just said about being tired of leading the Republic as she did. However, before she could say anything, Ellen continued, "I love the Republic and its citizens, don't mistake that. Yet recent events have affected me just as they have on others."

Uzumi knew what Ellen was inferring to from what she was saying. He could understand the feeling all too well himself. Being a leader of a Federation nation these days was not just a full-time job but a taxing one. The citizens had come to expect their leaders to be pillars of strength through all trials. They seemed to forget that said leaders were still human beings, so they were flawed and had moments of weakness. Thus, he nodded in response, "But they see you as an unmovable pillar of strength that will always make the right decision and put them first before anything personal." Uzumi sighed, "I've had my moments where I wish Orb's people would understand that the other council members and I are human, just as they are. And I don't doubt you and those beside you wish the same, Ellen."

Cagalli shifted her gaze to her father, shocked that he had just said what he did. Orb was better off with him and the majority of the Council that led them, more so in the world, they lived in. Granted, Cagalli could understand wanting time to oneself. With her being treated as a kind of princess, she knew how irritating it could be to be expected to always play a role without ceasing. But her father and Ellen seemed to be such natural leaders that the idea of them wanting time away from it was odd to her. "But you are the leaders of the nations," she started. However, Ellen shook her head, "While true, that doesn't mean we aren't affected by events, Cagalli. We are human and have emotions just as others do, as much as we often don't show them in public." Ellen paused for a moment, "I now have to see to the burial services for my daughter, husband, and best friend. That is something I never imagined I would need to do."

Uzumi hummed, "And none should expect you to be unfeeling while doing such, Ellen." He shook his head at the thought that any would expect another not to be emotional with bidding a final farewell to loved ones. "That would be cold-hearted to expect such," Uzumi remarked before looking at his daughter. "And you should know that every person has the right to be sad at partings, Cagalli, especially a final one."

Cagalli bowed her head in shame at suggesting Ellen was in the wrong somehow with being tired of filling the leader role. "I'm sorry," she got out, "I didn't mean to imply that you shouldn't feel or anything." Ellen leaned forward and put a hand on Cagalli's shoulder, "I know you didn't, Cagalli," she replied. "But a person is more than what job or title they have. I hope your father and I have instilled that idea in you." Ellen breathed, "Yet, I doubt any parent imagines they will have to arrange services for other family members." Ellen's gaze fell, "To have to oversee the burial of one's child," she hesitated, "no parent wishes to have to do that." She frowned, "Nor have to part from their significant other and best friend before old age takes them."

The conversation was paused as the car stopped at the mansion, and the door was opened. All inside glanced at the open door, then saw Tyler sliding in. "Hope none mind me joining this ride for its destination," Tyler greeted. Ellen shook her head, "I expected you to be joining," she replied. "It was why I had the motorcade stop by here to pick you up." Ellen glanced her son over for a moment, "I suppose hoping you would wear a suit was too much to ask. I suspect you don't own any with your dislike of them." Tyler rubbed the back of his head, "What can I say? The parties when I was stuffed into suits as a kid started and encouraged the dislike to develop. I am wearing the best formal wear I have available I'll have you know." Ellen believed Tyler when he said his nice uniform was his best formalwear. And at least it made him look nice for the solemn occasion, which Ellen appreciated. However, she noticed Tyler had a new ribbon which started a third row on the plate and a metal he hadn't had before. "I see you have some new recognition on your uniform," Ellen stated, "Care to say what they are for?"

Athrun hadn't been paying much attention to the exchange between Tyler and his mother. Yet, at the mention of new recognition, he glanced at Tyler's uniform. It was but a moment that Athrun was shocked to see the same kind of medal his friend had presented to Commander La Flaga at his memorial. Athrun pointed at the medal, "Isn't that the Federation's medal of honor," he questioned. After a pause, Tyler said, "Yeah, it is." Tyler shook his head and sighed, "I tried to say I don't deserve it, that there were others who should get it, but nothing I said made a difference. It was awarded to me for "Conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty," I showed during the second battle of Jachin Due. It isn't exactly something a soldier is permitted to refuse, and I'm no exception. Please don't make a big deal about it; I don't think I did anything that another wouldn't have done if they could."

The conversation turned to small talk until the motorcade arrived at the intended destination. The destination was a grove outside Shira and closed off from outside influence, which Ellen had picked for a grave site years ago, before Bloody Valentine. She hadn't thought she would use it so soon, not for family like it would be employed for. It had more been picked out and arranged by Lance and her for a future date when they would grow old and die. Lance had liked the grove and showed it to Ellen to convince her to acquire it for a grave site. But the difference this time would be bodies would be buried here. Before, there had been just markers for Lance and Lana, yet that would now change. Also, two new markers would be placed here for Lenore and Patrick.

Both Athrun and Cagalli looked around curiously as the group entered the grove on foot. The three caskets were being rolled up behind them. That told Athrun this was likely a chosen grave site for Tyler's family lost to the Bloody Valentine. But none of what Athrun saw explained why his mother's body was being brought here. Four markers and holes were in front of three of them, which further said this was to be a grave site. Tyler knew the place as he'd visited it before leaving for Heliopolis. It was the private gravesite his mother had for their family. Tyler could only guess when she had acquired the land, but it didn't exactly matter. The two markers were for his dad and sister like the last time, but two more were new to Tyler this visit. Tyler's father's stone was the farthest to the left, and the one to the right of that one was Lana's. Tyler squinted at the marker to the right and a small distance from Lana's to read it. To his slight surprise, the words said it was for Lenore Zala. Tyler could only assume, with his mother's friendship with Athrun's mom, that she would have a marker here. What was more shocking was the stone to the right of Athrun's mom was Patrick Zala's.

Tyler wasn't the only one scanning the stones for what was written on them, Athrun was too. The first two markers were Tyler's dad and sister, which was expected, with two of the caskets containing their bodies. However, his gaze stopped on the third stone, which the words said was to be his mother's. It was nice of Ellen to wish to honor his mother, and Athrun was grateful for the gesture. But friends or not, Athrun couldn't think of why Ellen would be willing to go so far. His confusion only grew, glancing over at the stone to the right of his mother's as it was for his father's. For his parents' grave markers to be here didn't make sense logically as they lived around the PLANTs. Nor did it make sense for Tyler's mom to have arrangements made for them to be here since they weren't citizens of the Republic. Athrun wanted to ask questions about what was happening and why, but his voice wouldn't do as instructed.

Ellen had seen Athrun's confusion as he stared at his parents' markers beside Lance and Lana's. It confirmed her suspicions that the man who had been Patrick Zala had done little for his son and said nothing about his dereliction. The man's radicalization had warped the man into a monster far more effectively looking back upon it. So, to give Athrun an explanation, Ellen took a breath and began, "It may be more a tradition in places such as the Republic, but having couples laid to rest beside one another is a form of respect. Thus, I believe it was right for the man who was your father to be next to his wife, Lenore. Although Patrick's body may not be buried here as the other markers' owners will be, it is still important to mark one's passing." Ellen bowed her head to Athrun, "It is remembering them for what they worked for that counts going forward. I hope that this way, you might be able to talk with your parents and say what you may not have had the chance to do. It helps to have serious talks, even if it is being listened to, before going forward with your life Athrun."

Athrun could see what Ellen was saying and the intention it was being given in. There was so much that he wanted to tell his mother and ask her that he'd never gotten the chance due to Bloody Valentine. It was something that Athrun had been somewhat jealous of Tyler for. His friend had his mother to talk to about things, and Ellen would put aside time to listen. Athrun hadn't had that with his father for years, it had been that way shortly after the Bloody Valentine. Because of that, Athrun had dealt with problems himself and did not rely on the adults around him. Friends he'd made had helped Athrun through hard times, but it wasn't the same as a parent. So, the offer to converse with his parents was extremely tempting to him.

However, the sentence about remembering his parents for what they worked for caused Athrun to pause and have difficulty. His mother wasn't the problem since Athrun had good memories of her few as they were. On the other hand, Athrun's father didn't have the best record for the years Athrun had been growing up. Athrun's earliest memories were good but weren't the clearest anymore. The memories which he could recall were horrible the more recent they happened. Remembering Athrun's good times with his father after the Bloody Valentine was difficult. And the man had been working toward the extermination of Naturals slowly but surely since the war began. Athrun felt his body shake at Ellen's offer as he thought about it. Yet, after a few minutes, he found the use of his voice, "The monster tried to kill every Natural-type human by destroying the ancestral home that all humans share. It used my father's appearance and voice enough it is hard to recall the good times I had with him." Athrun held his head in his hands, "So, how can I remember the man I once knew when the monster's actions keep coming to my mind?"

At the same time, Siegel and Lanus were making their way to the grove they had been invited to come and honor Patrick and his wife. Siegel had been a tad surprised when Ellen Blass had reached out and told him about making markers for Patrick and Lenore. Her explanation of her being Lenore's friend made sense though he hadn't known about it personally. And Patrick had come to the Republic a few times before the PLANTs had been completed for governmental advice. However, after some thought, Siegel felt it better for Patrick not to be given a grave around the PLANTs after what he'd done after being lost. And, in the end, he reunited with his beloved Lenore, whom he'd missed and grieved for. So it was nice of the Republic's leader to invite Patrick's closest friends to the private ceremony to honor the good he'd done.

Lanus had been happy to accompany Siegel to honor their fallen friend. Patrick had been lost, but he could now rest out of reach from those who had been using him. And from what Siegel had mentioned, he would be reunited with his Lenore. It was a long overdue event, and Patrick deserved to be with the woman he had loved with all his heart. Lanus couldn't forget when Patrick had come to him for "advice" on how to get Lenore's attention and get into a relationship. While his friend was an amazing public figure and a good people person, he'd been ignorant to being in love. Lanus had helped Patrick as he could back then, which ended with Patrick getting together with Lenore after some time. And with Patrick away from the PLANTs, the things he'd done when lost would be allowed to fade into memory. Patrick shouldn't be remembered for his actions after Lenore's death. He should be recorded down in history as a fighter for the peaceful coexistence he worked so hard for.

The two were coming up when Athrun had iterated what Patrick did while lost, followed by him saying it was hard to remember much else. Patrick, not paying much attention to his son, was now having consequences, which was a shame. Siegel knew and would defend the point that Patrick had a good heart. Others had just buried it with the pain of loss and then twisted it. "Athrun," Siegel began, "do not focus on the negative. There is much more Patrick did for the world than what happened in the war."

The group in the grove turned and saw the two men entering the area. Siegel was in the lead, dressed in a suit for the occasion. With him was Lanus Treize in his custom blue ZAFT commander's uniform. Athrun and Ellen knew Lanus as they had met in person at least once before now. The other three only stare at the two men approaching their group. Uzumi knew Siegel by reputation, as did Cagalli. However, they couldn't say who the other man was with the PLANTs' former chairman. Tyler knew Siegel and him being here made sense as Athrun's father had been friends with him. He assumed the other man had known and been friends with Patrick Zala, which hinted at their identity. If the ginger-haired man were who Tyler believed they were, this would be a very interesting meeting.

Ellen was glad to see the two that Patrick had considered his best friends at one time had made it to the memorial. She had felt it right that friends of Patrick could attend, even if they had become estranged during the war. Those that passed from life should be honored and sent off by those who cared about them during life. So, Ellen inclined her head in greeting, "Siegel, nice to see you made it." Ellen gazed at Lanus, "You as well, Mr. Treize. It is nice to meet you in person at long last now that a war doesn't occupy much of our time. I'm glad you both accepted my invitation to come and honor Patrick?"

Siegel nodded, "I would not be able to call myself his friend if I did not do that, at least," he replied. Siegel and Patrick had worked together for years to make the PLANTs an independent organization and then faction. It had started as moving towards a common dream of peace and coexistence. Had Bloody Valentine not happened, that dream could've been realized by this point. "He can now rest from his struggles he'd been weighted with," Siegel remarked. Lanus was present much for the same reasons Siegel was, to honor a dear friend. He also inclined his head, "Patrick was a dear friend for a long time for both of us. He should be sent off in this way rather than during a battle being put down for being manipulated and used for horrible things."

Siegel wished Athrun could see Patrick as Lanus, and he knew him. Patrick had been a very good man, which the world had been fortunate to have. The world would be much different if Patrick continued to work on his dream and eventually succeeded. Patrick's vision of a world of peaceful coexistence, as he'd told Siegel, had been amazing. Patrick had detailed how the hatred between Naturals and Coordinators would be dealt with and commonalities encouraged instead. Patrick's dream would've put Humanity on a path it had never experienced and toward a future of possibility. But the Bloody Valentine had changed that man, which happened when Athrun was young. Athrun's age made the time when Patrick was a good and visionary man, one he couldn't remember well, if at all. So, Siegel faced Athrun with a sorrowful expression on his face. "I will not deny Patrick did regrettable things during the war. However, the man who was the chair of the National Defense Committee and then Chairman of the Council is not the Patrick the world had known before the war. The Bloody Valentine and Lenore being lost broke parts of him."

Lanus knew Siegel was trying to defend Patrick by differentiating the man during the war and the one before it. Patrick had been a different man before and during the war, so much so it was night and day by the end. The pain had done horrible things and led to the radical transformation that had happened to Patrick. Thus, Lanus hummed in agreement with Siegel's statements, "Lenore may not have seemed like it to the public eye, but she was a pillar of strength for Patrick. The pain which came due to her loss hit him hard and wouldn't leave him be. That pain soured him over time and warped him into the blind fool we faced during the later part of the war." Lanus smiled before he continued, "The man before the war was quite different, and that is the individual to be remembered. Your father's legacy is his efforts to obtain peace for all types of humans. To show that humans living in harmony was well within the realm of possibility and would be beyond beneficial for all. That was the dream and vision he worked toward before the war, and he fully believed in that work. Such a dream along with you is the legacy your father left, and yes, even your mother left for the world. That is the man your father was, Athrun," Lanus insisted. "That is Patrick Zala that the world should remember. Not for what he did while he became lost, from the pain of losing Lenore."

Athrun was blown away by the things Siegel and Admiral Treize had just said about his father. Siegel had made it clear that Chairman Zala and his father were completely separate people. It was both a comfort and a relief for another to state that as fact for Athrun. It had been that fact that Athrun had used to conclude that his father was "gone." Nonetheless, what the admiral had said almost floored Athrun and made him shaky at the knees. Tyler had to come and firmly grasp his shoulder as Treize had described the Patrick Zala he knew. Athrun had always been told his parents were close, but not that his mother had been a strength for his father. It did explain why his father had been so despondent right after the Bloody Valentine. To be told his father had been not just a dreamer but wanted to see humanity unite and walk forward together was shocking. There had been nothing of that during the times Athrun could recall being around his father. But Athrun wanted his father to be the man the admiral described as that individual was one Athrun wanted to emulate. To hear about the kind of man his father had been from those who arguably knew him the most as his friends brought a different perspective.

Ellen was happy the two men who had known Patrick Zala so well were telling of the man she had met years ago. Athrun should know better than any what his father had been trying to bring about for Humanity as a whole. "They are right, Athrun," Ellen commented, "Your father was a good man and was working for a dream the world had never seen before. That dream is still possible, and the world is better off with you still in it." Ellen paused, deciding to tell Athrun about how she'd supported him in his path. "And to help that hope along, I have been providing funds for your education and what you chose for a profession."

Athrun was taken aback at hearing and comprehending that Tyler's mother had been providing for his education and training in the ZAFT military. His father provided for him hadn't made much sense with how little interest he showed in what Athrun did. In his last year of formal education, Athrun had suspected another was providing funds for him. Athrun had looked into the idea but had found no evidence of it other than the "mysterious payments" that seemed to come from nowhere. He'd thought he could find more out after some training in ZAFT. However, Athrun had never found out where the funding came from as it always used some method that couldn't be traced. It had never once occurred to him that Tyler's mother, of all people, could be assisting him. Even if she was friends with his mother and he was friends with her son, it didn't make logical sense to him.

Tyler was a bit shocked that his mother had been helping Athrun provide for him. He would've done so had he known there was the need in a heartbeat. It wasn't like Tyler was hurting for money, not with the salary he earned from SOLAS. Tyler had seen no sign or even a hint that his mother was providing for Athrun's education and chosen occupation. And with Tyler being akin to an intelligence agent with how often they wanted to borrow him, that was saying something. Not that Tyler had an issue with his mother helping his friend. Athrun was like a brother to him with their friendship and what they'd been through.

The private memorial for the four markers was simple yet meaningful to those involved. All were invited back to the Minister's mansion for dinner before any parted ways. However, as the meal was being prepared, Tyler snagged Athrun and pulled him aside to converse. "Athrun," Tyler started, "Before you go back to Orb and wherever from there, I think we should have a conversation first."

Athrun blinked, "What about," he asked.

Tyler took a moment to organize his thoughts into a logical pattern. "I don't want us to lose touch like before, and I mean between Kira, you, and me. That, I believe, contributed to the miscommunication, which caused problems for us before we sorted out things." Tyler paused, "And while I hope the peace obtained last for a good period of time," he hesitated, "I fear it won't. So, I want to set expectations for you and me, which I will deliver to Kira when I see him next."

Athrun had been considering making a fresh start and doing something different than before. Yet, this conversation made him take stock before coming up with plans. He didn't intend to "disappear" or "go off the map," so his friends didn't know where he was for long. But Athrun did think it wise that he was not on the radar of ZAFT or any of the PLANTs for a time. He may have parted on fair terms, yet there may be those who would want him to come back to "help" with the skills he had. Athrun wanted to avoid that possibility for the time being and not get tangled up in undesirable things. So, Athrun gave Tyler his attention as his friend continued, "First, don't you dare go vanishing completely and not let some of us know a way to reach you if needed. In other words, keep in touch occasionally; it will help those of us who care to worry less about you. I get that time to think and meditate is helpful," Tyler shrugged, "But you know our naïve friend, Kira, won't stop worrying about you."

Athrun had planned to ensure that Tyler knew where he could be and how to contact him if needed. Tyler would be responsible enough to tell those who need to know and not spread the information around. His friend also understood the need for time to think and reflect upon things. Thus, Athrun nodded in response, "Okay, that's reasonable."

Tyler wanted Athrun to know he wasn't alone in dealing with his own problems. That he had a place to come to should he need no matter what mess he could be in or what issue he was dealing with. Athrun was like family to Tyler, and he wanted that point made crystal clear so he wouldn't ever forget it. Come what may, Tyler wanted his friend to know he could always ask for help he needed. "Lastly, I want you to know you will always have family here in the Republic with my mom and me." Tyler smiled, "And Kira would tell the same thing in his own way, as cheesy as it would be. So, should you ever require good company, you know where to find some. Other than that, all I can think to say is, good luck, and I wish you well, my friend."

Tyler thrust out a hand to Athrun to shake on things and wish him luck in whatever Athrun would do. Athrun was grateful that Tyler had said he was there for him if he needed support. He felt the need for advice or company would come up at some point in the near future. So, Athrun took Tyler's hand firmly and shook it, "I'll keep all of that in mind, Tye," Athrun returned. "I feel there will come a time when I'll need to take you up on the offer somehow. I just hope it will not be for a problematic issue."

The two parted ways that night when Athrun boarded a plane back to Orb along with Uzumi and Cagalli. Tyler watched his friend go, wondering what lay ahead for Athrun, Kira, and himself. The three of them seemed to attract crap during the war, and Tyler felt that wouldn't go away all that soon. Not to say Tyler didn't have confidence in Athrun managing his life and moving forward. Tyler knew Athrun would do just fine even if he hit bumps along the way, which made things harder. Tyler just hoped that peace would last long enough for things to get back in order to be ready for whatever would come.

A/n

Okay, I'll leave off there and continue in the next phase from there. There is a great deal to discuss and highlight in this phase. I know this isn't action filled, but this phase was more character development than action. I feel these kinds of chapters/phases have their place and helps a story along. Now, most of this phase is new or as I said written from scratch which is why it has taken so long. But, I hope you reader have enjoyed the work that has gone into this phase which is part of the transition to the next half of the story.

Let me start with the main point of this phase overall which I wrote it in mind. This phase helps Tyler's development and helps give a little closure for him. some of you may remember that Tyler made a promise when around the ruins of Junius Seven to come back and bring his father and sister home. So, this phase helps show Tyler is human and goes through hard times just as any do. The first scene is Tyler going to his boss which has been stated he avoids as he is warrying of her for several reasons. However, he is willing to face the woman for those he cares about. Tyler is even willing to humiliate himself to have a chance to bring his family home. As you readers should know by this point, Tyler isn't one to normally to bow himself down to another.

Now, on to the comical piece of this phase that has been an ongoing and growing thing through the story. Sakura coming into this Phase wasn't by chance, I had planned for it to happen from the beginning. The relationship between Tyler and Sakura has been a wonderful comic relief that I bring up from time to time. I admit that in this phase the line between comic and M rated stuff, but I don't write erotic stuff, sorry just don't do that. I also ask you not judge Sakura on some things she mentions about "experimenting" when it came to sensuality. I imagine that with the more open genetic orientation that this universe has, there are other subjects that are more open and not condemned. Anyway, moving on to the next scene to highlight.

The second to last scene with Tyler coming home and being met by his mother and the others. I feel it is important to point out that Athrun comes with Cagalli and her father to the Republic. This phase is character development for Athrun like it is for Tyler which canon doesn't do. I mean, the guy's world had been turned upside down by the war and its results, so I would ask if any would be perfectly fine after that. And Athrun isn't the only character that gets highlighted in this Phase as Tyler's mother Ellen is another. She is seen as a giant in the political world, never shows weakness to other which could be taken advantage of. In this phase, I wanted to show her much like Tyler is human and so feels emotion and shows it from time to time in certain crowds. This is more for Cagalli as she idolizes Ellen and so doesn't always see her as a person like she is.

The last scene at the gravesite is significant for a few reasons. First, it gives closure for Tyler and Athrun from the Bloody Valentine. Second, Athrun gets told about who his father was, not Chairman Zala which I have separate. I think both points are important for development for both of them. And finally, the "parting" conversation Tyler and Athrun had before going their separate ways. Tyler didn't want what happened in the last war, like the misunderstandings and miscommunications to occur any time soon again. Tyler also wants Athrun to keep Kira and him in the loop of what is going on with him.

In conclusion, this Phase's ending notes are more as they used to be, but that I fear will be a fluke. I hope you readers are enjoying the changes and the story as it is coming for there is still going to be more. There will be at least two more phases before getting into Gundam Seed Destiny, and yes, I will be going through Destiny for those who have asked. Now, as always, please some of you take the time to write a review and tell me what you think, ask questions of me, or criticize as you like. I read it all and comment as I'm able to those that do such for me. The next phase is titled: "An Unexpected Operation" and is coming along and so hopefully will be ready in around two to three weeks. Peace out until then!