PHASE TEN: Renegade... Traitor, Betrayer, Deserter
C.E 79 – Location Unknown (Present Day)
Commander Oern Aiten was a calculative man. Being positioned at the very top of the RENEGADE project, it was important for him to maintain a calm and practical appearance at all times to ensure that all objectives regarding RENEGADE was met. It did not matter in what manner the objectives were accomplished, as long as they were accomplished. That was how he had always viewed things, and that was probably why he was placed in charge of the project. However, it irked him when those working with him did not appreciate the objectives that were met only due to the nature in which it was achieved. One such person was in front of him right now – or, more accurately, displayed on the screen right in front of him. He stared with bored eyes at Yuri Amalfi who seemed to be seething in anger for the tragedy involving Aprillius Four. He had already burst out with fury and an endless rant earlier about the Freedom, but now his anger was focused to the Earth Alliance.
"Tell me why they attacked, Aiten! The goal was to assassinate Lacus Clyne, not to cause destruction for Aprillius Four. That Earth Alliance… we should have seen that they would turn their backs against us like this!" Amalfi spat hatefully, his eyes burning with accusation towards the calm Commander.
Oern sighed, running a hand through his long hair. "You seem to not have realised that, even with the fall of Aprillius Four, our objectives were met."
"Lacus Clyne is ALIVE!" Amalfi shouted.
"The ultimate goal of wanting to assassinate her was so you could rise in PLANTs and lead PLANTs to follow RENEGADE's ideals," Oern said, narrowing his eyes. "She was rescued by the Archangel, and Aprillius Four was destroyed. Those are facts, and it cannot be helped. But look on the brighter side of things. It was planned that the Earth Alliance would take blame for the assassination, which was why we stationed their forces there, but would the story seem convincing without any casualties? The fact that she was saved by the Archangel showed that she trusted them more than she trusts ZAFT. You need to twist this situation to your advantage," he said as-a-matter-of-factly.
Amalfi pursed his lips, considering this. "She would be a liability, however," he grumbled, still unsatisfied.
Oern shrugged. "The Archangel is a liability, but the Renegade is there to deal with them. All in good time, Amalfi. The most important thing now is to allow ZAFT to finally retaliate so we can break away from the Naturals. The Archangel would most likely seek refuge in Orb, but with both sides now wanting to eliminate the neutral nations, how long do you think they will last?" he asked coolly.
Amalfi narrowed his eyes. "You seem to forget that the Archangel was responsible for ending both wars previously."
"I did not forget," Oern frowned, his patience running thin. "But during the previous wars, ZAFT and the Earth Alliance were fighting against each other. This time, we are working hand-in-hand in making the RENEGADE a success. Complete separation between Naturals and Coordinators," he said, smiling slightly.
"They betrayed us by destroying Aprillius Four."
"The only way they would have betrayed us at that time was if they weren't there to take the blame," Oern pointed out coldly. Amalfi was silent. As usual, the Commander was right.
"Very well. You will arrive on Earth soon?"
"As soon as possible," Oern confirmed. They ended the exchange and he slumped back on his seat, sighing deeply as he gazed at the black screen. Yuri Amalfi struck him as the type of person who did not know exactly what they were dealing with: When working with a double-edged sword, one must always be weary of being stabbed in the back.
C.E 79 Heliopolis – Archangel, Viewing Deck (Present Day)
"Cagalli."
Cagalli turned in surprise, a smile immediately appearing on her lips as her brother, a brown-haired Coordinator, walked towards her. Two days had passed since they rescued Lacus from Aprillius Four, and Cagalli was finally beginning to believe that Heliopolis definitely had enough personnel to defend the colony – perhaps not for absolute victory, but still enough to fight for their strong ideals of neutrality. She had been extremely busy these past few days, and was glad that things had calmed down somewhat, at least for these few hours. She had not even had a proper conversation with Kira after he came back from the dead, and she was glad for his company now. Cagalli was aware of Lacus and Athrun following the Coordinator into the Archangel's viewing deck – Lacus went to sit, her hands playing with her Haro, while Athrun hovered near her. Kira moved to stand next to Cagalli.
"Are you alright, Cagalli? I'm sorry. You've been working hard all by yourself again," Kira said, smiling apologetically at her.
Cagalli elbowed him playfully. "Don't worry about it – I'm fine," she said reassuringly. She inhaled deeply, feeling the warmth spread around her body as she felt him close to her. Kira had always had a comforting presence, and she was glad that he was still with her. "We haven't really got the chance to talk," she said, almost sulkily.
Kira laughed slightly. "I guess so. But you're always so busy."
It was Cagalli's turn to give him an apologetic smile. She shrugged lightly. "I guess. I'm really glad though, Kira. I find it hard to believe you're actually here," she admitted.
"Me too, Cagalli," Kira answered truthfully. It was hard for him to accept the fact himself… that he was alive, that he was now back with them, fighting in yet another war… but at least he wasn't alone. He had his squadron fighting by his side. More importantly, he had his comrades who had stayed by his side since the first war, always fighting through the hardest paths to achieve peace. Kira cast his eyes out of the window, watching the technicians of Morganroete outside. He wondered if one day, they would be able to finally settle down and stop worrying about another war. "Daisuke-san told me a lot about our mother," Kira said, a small smile forming on his lips.
Cagalli raised her eyebrows. "Is that so?"
Kira nodded. "Our mother's name is Via Hibiki… and our father is Ulen Hibiki. They were great Naturals who were trying to find an answer in getting the Naturals and Coordinators to work together… pretty much like what we're trying to do now," Kira said, glancing at Cagalli with a smile. "Our mother was… kind… and loveable. She really loved us," he said, remembering the gentle look in Daisuke's eyes whenever he talked about Via. "I asked Daisuke-san about you as well, Cagalli. About… about your genes. He told me that you're a true Natural… that your genes were never modified," Kira trailed off, turning his eyes turning back outside. In a way, he envied Cagalli. Life would have been so much simpler if he was a Natural… Kira probably wouldn't even be fighting if that were the case. But at the same time, he wouldn't want to Cagalli to go through what he had gone through. He would willingly take up this burden if it meant keeping her away from it.
Cagalli's eyes softened and she bowed her head slightly. "I see…" she trailed off. "It would have been nice if we could have known them," she said truthfully.
"Yes…"
"Did you ask him the other question?" Cagalli asked suddenly. Kira raised his eyebrows in surprise and looked at her. From the corner of his eye, he could see Athrun gazing at her curiously as well.
"What question?" Kira asked, dumbfounded.
Cagalli huffed. "You didn't ask?" she frowned. "You should have found out which of us are older!" Kira and Athrun stared at her and exchanged a glance before bursting out in peals of laughter. Cagalli's brows pulled together, immediately clenching her fists in anger. "What are you laughing about? Athrun, too!" she snapped, annoyed.
Kira held his side as the laughter died away. "Honestly, Cagalli, I think it's obvious that I'm older than you," he said cheerfully.
"What."
"I think so, too," Athrun admitted, coming to her side with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. He had debated about this many times with the golden-haired girl, and couldn't help but see her childishness and impulsiveness as being a trait of a younger sibling.
"Ara… I think Kira is older as well," Lacus suddenly piped up.
"Lacus, too?" Cagalli grimaced. "I don't think so! I'm definitely the older sibling!" she protested angrily.
Kira shrugged. "We don't know, do we?" he said, grinning at her. The grin changed, and Kira smiled apologetically at her. "I'm sorry. I didn't ask him about that. But it's possible that we might have been born at the same time," he suggested, noticing that Cagalli seemed to accept that grudgingly.
"Fine," she sighed, crossing her arms.
Athrun chuckled and walked over to the large screen of the viewing deck, turning it on and switching through the channels as the two twins continued to talk about their biological parents. He supposed, in a way, he did sympathise a lot with Kira. Unlike Kira, Athrun had always known his parents even though he had never really met his father back when they were in Copernicus. Patrick Zala had always been in PLANTs and never lived with them on the moon, but Athrun had always respected him as a father. Caridad Yamato, of course, was a wonderful mother – Athrun could say so for sure, of course. His mother, Lenore Zala, had been a scientist working with the agricultural department of PLANTs and was therefore always busy. It was Kira and Caridad who took him into their home and cared for him when his mother couldn't – Caridad had always been a second mother to Athrun, and admittedly, he missed regarding her in that way.
"I managed to contact Orb yesterday," he heard Cagalli say as he switched the channels, trying to find something of interest. "I told your mother that you were alive, Kira, and explained the situation. Reverend Malchio said that she wouldn't stop crying," she said quietly, her voice gentle.
Athrun turned his gaze to Kira. The brown-haired Coordinator looked torn, his eyes cast away with his left fist clenched. "I see… Thank you, Cagalli," he said, smiling sadly. "I've really put her through a lot," he sighed.
"It's okay. We'll go and see her as soon as we can," Cagalli said, trying hard to be optimistic. Kira smiled at her, grateful for her efforts.
"…An attempted assassination was done on former provisional Chairwoman of PLANTs, Lacus Clyne, two nights ago…" Athrun's eyes immediately turned back to the screen and Kira appeared by his side instantly, his eyebrows pulled together. Athrun turned the volume up and they listened. "Eight of the Council members of PLANTs were also targeted in a series of bombings around their homes yesterday, leaving two injured and six dead. Among those that were killed were Alice Slent of Januarius City, Spencer Ahent of Februarius City, Kiako Aicen of Maius City, Pisne Ami of Junius City, Peter Gills of Sextillis City and Loane Ai of September City. Paul Meisn of Martius City and Cheir Laisn of November City survived the attack with grave injuries. Bombs were also located in the houses of the remaining four Council members before they were detonated…"
Kira gritted his teeth in anger. "Apart from Paul Meisn of Martius City, the ones they listed are all those with neutral views," he said, his brows pulling together.
Athrun nodded – he had noticed it as well. "It's no coincidence that those representing Quintillis, October and December weren't targeted," he said, his fists clenched tight.
"Following this, the Council and ZAFT reached an agreement in calling for Yuri Amalfi to step in the place of Lacus Clyne, who went missing after joining the Archangel after Aprillius Four was destroyed the attempted assassination," the report continued, and a short footage of the fight taking place two days ago were shown. Unsurprisingly, the image of the Earth Alliance Windams firing their nuclear missiles were shown. "Today, Yuri Amalfi has agreed to step in for PLANTs and ZAFT."
Athrun found himself taking two paces back, his eyes widening as the image of the man he knew so well appeared on the screen. Cameras flashed as he began his speech and Athrun shook his head in horror. A gentle hand grabbed his and he turned – Cagalli was looking at him with worried eyes, but she knew. Athrun clenched his teeth together, forcing himself to listen to the statement. Even Lacus had stood, her azure eyes burning as she trained them on the screen.
"Now, more than ever, I am convinced that following RENEGADE's ideals would be what is most beneficial to PLANTs… No – for all Coordinators entirely. The respectable Lacus Clyne, in the place of her father, Siegel Clyne, had tried her best in handling the situation without fighting back, but it is evident that the Earth Alliance will not surrender," Amalfi said, his eyes burning. On the bottom right side of the screen, images of the battles in Scandinavia and Gibraltar were shown. "Anyone would fight back if they are being attacked. Our soldiers in Earth are already fighting after they were mercilessly attacked. Even the neutral nations are forced into this, and we have seen the devastation that they have done to Scandinavia. It proves that the Earth Alliance had always been prepared for war from the beginning. I believe RENEGADE was correct in believing that the only way we could live without fear and hate is if both Naturals and Coordinators separate from one another. PLANTs accept this, and we will fight to join RENEGADE's ideals."
"It's finally starting…" Lacus said softly as Yuri Amalfi began to wrap up his speech.
"Lacus..?" Kira moved over to her side, placing a comforting arm around her shoulders.
"Orb will be attacked next," she said, bowing her head.
"I therefore urge the neutral nations to conform to RENEGADE's ideals. We are not fighting for the sake of PLANTs. We are fighting for the sake of all Coordinators living in all the areas around the universe for a peaceful life!"
C.E 79 Heliopolis – Aurora (Present Day)
"Kuso! Kuso! Kuso! KUSOOOO..!" Yzak shouted angrily, punching the hard wall repeatedly with his fists. He breathed hard, bowing his head – his silver hair fell forwards and he could feel the rage coursing through his veins. He supposed he shouldn't have been surprised that things were turning out this way… but what was he supposed to do? Going back to PLANTs could mean instant death – with the situation in PLANTs as how it was, Yzak highly doubted that returning would do any difference… and yet, was he supposed to stay and do nothing?
"Oy… Yzak…" Dearka moved close, his voice troubled. Yzak paid him no attention.
During the First Bloody Valentine seven years ago, Ezalia Joule had been a Council member of ZAFT and PLANTs representing Martius City. Like Yuri Amalfi, she had been a National Defence Committee Member, and she had supported Patrick Zala's radical views even until after the war. She had been involved with the assassination of Siegel Clyne and was arrested but recently released. To hear that she was stepping in for Martius yet again, no doubt supporting RENEGADE whole-heartedly, was shocking to the young General. It was possible that Ezalia believed that Yzak had died during the battle in PLANTs – his ship, the Voltaire, had been annihilated by the Earth Alliance nuclear weapons, after all. But deep down, Yzak knew that even without his probable 'death', she would have still supported the RENEGADE in her dislike for the Naturals.
What was he supposed to do? Head back to PLANTs and meet her and tell her to stop? Even if she stopped, Yzak highly doubted that the others would. In the worst case possible, he would be targeted and possibly get himself killed. If Chairman Zala could find strength in himself to shoot Athrun due to opposing views, Yzak couldn't see why the same situation couldn't be applied to him. But would his mother do that to him? Yzak didn't know. He clenched his fists tightly, his nails digging deep into his skin and he cursed, again and again. Shiho was silent, and he could hear Dearka sighing beside him. Dearka's father, Tad Elsman, had also been a previous Council member of PLANTs. But unlike Ezalia, Tad never held radical views and it was doubtful that he would join the Council again. No… the ones they were familiar with were Yuri Amalfi and Ezalia Joule.
"Kuso…" Yzak cursed angrily.
The door slid open and Laniel stepped in, his face grave. He took in the situation and sighed. It was unlike the young Captain to be in such low spirits, but they were facing hard times. "General Joule. Captain Elsman. Lieutenant Hahnenfuss," he addressed the three. Yzak straightened and looked at him, noticing that Shinn and Lunamaria were with him as well. "We are needed on the Archangel," Laniel informed.
It wasn't surprising. "Very well," Yzak said, immediately storming past them as he led the way. He had no doubt that the kisama Athrun Zala had heard the news about Ezalia which had been aired after Yuri Amalfi's statement – like it or not, Yzak did wish to know the other Coordinator's views on that. At least they were no longer just sitting and doing nothing… that was a small comfort that Yzak could take.
Kira was waiting for them at the entrance of the Archangel. Unsurprisingly, the brown-haired Coordinator seemed deep in thought and he merely nodded at them as they approached before turning and leading them into the ship. They walked past the corridors and eventually came to a door which slid open, revealing a rather large office – Murrue's office, no doubt. Kira entered and moved to stand beside Lacus. Yzak was rather glad to see that she looked calm – but then again, it wasn't as if anything particularly unexpected had happened. Athrun, Cagalli, Mu, Murrue and Waltfeld were among the others present. Yzak positioned himself beside Athrun and Dearka stood beside him, leaning back with his arms crossed. Shinn was the last to enter, and when the door slid shut behind him, Waltfeld sighed.
"I suppose you've seen the declaration as well?" Waltfeld asked, addressing Yzak. The young General nodded. "We'll need to figure out what we're going to do from here onwards."
"It's evident that everything is going according to RENEGADE's plans, objective-wise," Athrun said, his green eyes calmly addressing those around the room. "The only plan that didn't work would be the one involving Kira," he said.
"The one involving Kira?" Shinn echoed, raising his eyebrows.
Athrun nodded. "RENEGADE's plans began through the attacks done on Botswana and Maius, most likely to incite hate between Naturals and Coordinators once again. But the plan did not go as smoothly as they had wanted it to. Orb was supposed to be taken down along with Botswana and Maius, but when Kira interfered with the Freedom, he managed to prevent any casualties done to a neutral nation," Athrun explained. "Even though attacking Orb was a failure, their objectives were achieved. Naturals and Coordinators began to fear each other once again, and when RENEGADE's declaration came, many were willing enough to support it. However, both the Earth Alliance and ZAFT rejected the ideals, which led to the assassination of Secretary-General of the EA, Sirne Anfiel. Blue Cosmos leader, Ryuu Apene, then took over the Earth Alliance and joined RENEGADE.
"An attack was then launched on the Kingdom of Scandinavia to incite more hatred due to the failure of attacking Orb beforehand. The Earth Alliance knows that Orb is a powerful nation. Attacking it with their forces alone could be dangerous," Athrun continued. "What nobody expected to happen was to have Scandinavia refusing ZAFT's assistance in the battle. This lessens the tension between the Naturals and Coordinators, and as a result, a lot of resistance groups formed in the Eurasian Federation. ZAFT was becoming a problem for RENEGADE. An attack on Gibraltar was issued to cause confusion among Coordinators, and make them angry… but Lacus still did not fight back," Athrun said, his eyes turning on the pink-haired songstress. "The only way was to pull her away from PLANTs."
"So they cooked up an assassination. It was ZAFT's soldiers that attacked her," Yzak said, his voice low as he tried to contain his anger.
"Then, why were we attacked by the Earth Alliance?" Lunamaria asked, titling her head.
"It was planned," Athrun answered. "They put the blame on the Earth Alliance – it must've been their plan all along. Lacus would be assassinated, but the blame will go to the Earth Alliance. That was why their fleet was waiting."
"We believe that what PLANTs did not expect was to have the Earth Alliance attacking," Kira said, nodding to his old friend. "That blue and white Gundam, the Premium, showed us that this must be RENEGADE's plan. It's also possible that ZAFT didn't expect the Archangel to come and save Lacus, forcing the Earth Alliance to attack. But that seems unlikely. The fact was that the EA did attack, and Aprillius Four fell without reason. Now, more than ever, the Coordinators would despise the Naturals for what had happened," he said gravely.
"Their objectives were achieved, however," Athrun sighed. "Whether the attack by the Earth Alliance was planned or not, Yuri Amalfi is now heading PLANTs, and they have joined RENEGADE. The blame was also placed on the Earth Alliance. It gives them a reason to fight back."
"Why Yuri Amalfi..?" Mu wondered out loud.
"In the first war, Yuri Amalfi represented Maius City. He's one of the National Defence Committee Members in ZAFT. There had been a lot of opposition in Maius after the war, even when Chairman Durandal took over ZAFT and PLANTs. Many still held up to Chairman Zala's views. It's not impossible that the attack on Maius One and Two had been staged from the start – there weren't as many official casualties as you would expect. The RENEGADE's flagship was stolen from Maius as well," Yzak explained. Of course, he had known that this was a coup d'état from the very start.
Yzak felt Athrun's gaze finally resting on him, and he knew that the blue-haired Coordinator must've been aware of Ezalia Joule joining the Supreme Council again. The young General kept his eyes away. It was a small detail that he did not wish to share with those around the room, and he knew that above all people present, it was Athrun who would be able to understand. Yzak's position now was almost exactly the same as what Athrun had been through during the first war, after all. Yzak straightened and fixed his gaze on Cagalli. "What will you do?" he asked.
Cagalli's eyebrows rose, almost as if she was surprised that Yzak was talking to her. "Orb will fight," she said instantly, her voice confident. "Orb will not allow itself to be pulled into RENEGADE's ideals."
"The Archangel will return to Orb after this," Murrue informed. "As soon as the statement is released, Orb will be attacked. The Archangel will fight."
Kira stepped forward, his eyes turning to Laniel. "Will the Aurora stay here?" he asked. Laniel looked surprised. "The way things stand, Heliopolis is in grave danger, and we need as many forces as we can to support it. The Aurora is a space battleship after all," he pointed out.
Laniel nodded. "There's no problem with that, of course. I'd be glad to stay here with the ship."
Kira smiled, relieved. "Thank you. I would also like Shinn and Lunamaria to join the Archangel," he said, turning to the two pilots.
"What?" Shinn blurted out, shocked. Of course, while he had been listening to them, he had already decided that he, equipped with the Destiny Gaia, would join the battle. But he hadn't expected that Kira would ask him to join himself – Shinn had been preparing himself to shout it out with the young Commander.
"I want you to fight with us, Shinn. Together," Kira said quietly.
"I-I… Of course," Shinn answered, shaking his head to collect himself. "I'll join the Archangel."
"Me too," Lunamaria agreed, her eyes shining with determination.
"I'm staying with the Aurora," Yzak informed. Kira looked well surprised and Yzak couldn't help but feel only slightly amused. "I'll stay and gather intelligence about PLANTs," he said. There was more to that, of course. He knew that soon enough, he would return to PLANTs to confront his mother, and he wouldn't be able to do so if he stayed with the Archangel.
Dearka sighed. "It can't be helped. The Aurora needs pilots as well. I'll stay," he said. Shiho nodded, signalling that she would remain with the Aurora as well. With Sierra added into the equation, both the Aurora and the Archangel had equal numbers of capable pilots to defend both Orb and Heliopolis.
Kira's gaze softened as understanding came over him. "I understand. Thank you, Yzak."
"Archangel will launch immediately, then," Murrue said, standing.
C.E 79 – Heliopolis (Present Day)
In an hour, they were ready and prepared to launch. The Aurora crew positioned themselves in front of the Archangel. Yzak and Laniel stood in front, flanked on both sides by Dearka and Shiho. They faced the members of the Archangel – Kira, Cagalli, Lacus, Athrun, Mu, Murrue and Waltfeld – who were already prepared to launch.
Yzak stepped forward, his icy blue eyes turning to Cagalli. "I thank you for your consideration, Representative Attha. But I, and the Aurora, have decided to fight with these uniforms. We have no intention of wearing Orb's military uniform," he said, his voice level. Cagalli raised her eyebrows, prompting him to continue. Even Kira looked surprised with Yzak's declaration, but the young General, clad in his purple ZAFT uniform, looked calm. "We will still fight and protect Heliopolis. But more important than that, we're fighting for PLANTs. It is our duty as soldiers of ZAFT to correct our superiors when they have taken the wrong step, not to abandon them," he said, his eyes flickering momentarily to Athrun. Athrun noticed, and couldn't help but smile slightly at that. "We wish to continue fighting in these uniforms for PLANTs and our beliefs when we joined ZAFT, also in memory of our fallen comrades," Yzak said, his eyes clouding with grief as he remembered his fallen squadron.
Kira turned his gaze to the side, where Shinn was standing with Lunamaria, Miriallia, Sai and Kuzzey. Shinn nodded once and Kira returned the gesture – they, too, would fight in ZAFT's military uniforms.
Cagalli shrugged lightly, a small smile on her lips. "I understand. Thank you, General Joule. Orb also thanks you for your willingness to protect this colony," she said truthfully.
Lacus raised her head. "We must continue to fight for the peace of the world. Naturals and Coordinators are not meant to separate from each other, and we must fight to create a world where it is possible for them to stop fearing each other. So please… Lend me your strength, and fight for what you know is true in your hearts," she said calmly, though there was no mistaking the sadness in her voice. After serving PLANTs and ZAFT for five years, only these soldiers in front of her were truly loyal to her, and it hurt.
Kira stepped forward. "I am proud to have a squadron like the Aurora," he said, the pride and warmth unmistaken in his voice. "I am glad that we can fight side by side in this war, together. But even when we fight, it's important to know the reason why we want to stay alive. So make sure you stay alive. The world we want to create is for all of us," he said, his voice gentle.
They saluted. Mu, Murrue and Waltfeld immediately left to enter the Archangel again, followed by Sai and Kuzzey. The Aurora crew also dispersed, making their way back towards the Nazca-class battleship.
Athrun immediately walked over to Yzak and Dearka. "Take care," he said, holding his hand out.
Yzak snorted. "You're the one who has to take care, Athrun," he snapped. But he took Athrun's hand, shaking it firmly. "Don't you die, kisama. I won't forgive you if you end up being defeated by someone else," he said arrogantly.
Dearka shook his head, stepping forward to shake Athrun's hand. "Thanks, Athrun," he said shortly. "I'll see you later," he grinned, turning and walking away.
Athrun's gaze followed him and noticed that he was making his way to Miriallia. He smiled and turned back to Yzak. "Are you alright, Yzak?" he asked quietly. Yzak looked as if he wanted to snort, but he held Athrun's gaze. Eventually, he nodded. "It's probably useless to tell you this, but maybe you should stay here."
"I'm going back to PLANTs," Yzak said flatly.
"I guess it can't be helped," Athrun shrugged, clapping a hand on the young General's shoulder. "Don't die, Yzak."
Yzak knew that he was referring to those in PLANTs, and not hinting at his incompetence. He let it pass.
.
"You will take care, won't you?" Miriallia asked shyly, her blue eyes gazing deep into Dearka's violet ones.
Dearka nodded. "Ah… Don't worry, Miriallia. I won't die. I'll come back again… and I'll find you," he said, his cheeks turning a small shade of red. "Take care as well, Miriallia," he said, placing a hand on her arm. He looked away for a moment. "I wasn't joking when I said I wanted to have you in my life, Mir. Maybe… after all this is over… we can work something out together," he said hopefully.
Her heart fluttered in her chest as she listened to his words and she shook her head, the happy tears threatening to fall from her eyes. "I'd like that, Dearka," she said truthfully, moving to take his hand in hers as she looked at him. "When all this is over, I would like to share my life with you. I've… I've been alone long enough," she managed, smiling as she squeezed his hand.
His gaze softened and he stepped forward, pressing his lips against hers. The thought of sharing their life together was one that Dearka had always entertained, and he was truly happy that she was allowing him into her life. He would fight… and he would survive. To be with her. To build their lives… together.
.
Kira was the last to board the Archangel. He had taken his time to bid farewell to his squadron, and to Laniel in particular, before finally parting with them and staying until the rest boarded the ship. A warm feeling spread across his chest as he watched the goodbyes being said to each other, and as Shinn and Lunamaria said their farewells with Meyrin. For what it's worth, they were together, even when facing a seemingly-impossible battle. Kira never wanted to fight… and he never wanted his comrades and friends to fight. But when the situation couldn't be helped, as it was now, he supposed that this was the best way for it to happen. To fight together, side by side.
C.E 79 Archangel (Present Day)
Shinn exhaled loudly as he placed the last of the boxes on the bed in front of him, then stretching to loosen his muscles. When they joined the Archangel, Lunamaria was easily placed in a room along with Lacus, Cagalli and Miriallia. But the other room was already full, so Kira offered to move to this one instead, which hadn't been occupied by anyone for a while. The beds and desks were still new, despite the age of the Archangel that was reaching eight years old. Kira and Athrun, who had originally stayed in the other room with Sai and Kuzzey, decided to move into this one with Shinn. Shinn wasn't entirely sure whether he enjoyed the company or not, but he supposed it was better than being alone.
The door slid open and Kira entered, the boxes he was carrying obscuring his view. He heaved them to the side, placing them on the bed and sighed tiredly. The room was standard-sized for the Archangel-class ship, with two bunk beds and desks and closets secured on the far end. "That's all of it," Kira said, stretching. "Athrun seems to be busy on the bridge – they're still trying to get in contact with Orb," Kira said with a light shrug.
"I see," Shinn answered shortly. He unbuttoned his red ZAFT uniform, chucking it onto the top bunk.
Kira raised his eyebrows. "Are you sure that's alright?" he asked.
"It's okay," Shinn confirmed. "I won't want to stay below with you guys crying out in your sleep," he teased, immediately rummaging through the boxes so he could start unpacking.
The other Coordinator's eyes softened. "Thanks, Shinn," he said, then sighing as he laid his eyes on the mess in front of him. "Guess I'll need to unpack for Athrun as well," he muttered, beginning to take out the stuff and storing them in the right places.
They worked quietly. Kira arranged his clothes in his closet easily and began to take out Athrun's clothes as well before a picture fluttered to the floor next to Shinn's feet. Shinn raised his eyebrows and glanced at the brown-haired Coordinator, but it seemed as if Kira hadn't noticed. He crouched low and took the picture, his eyes widening slightly as he gazed at the two young faces that were obviously laughing. Two very young versions of Kira Yamato and Athrun Zala. It felt strange to see the two at a time when they had been so carefree and happy… and young. The light in their eyes wasn't something Shinn had ever seen in the Kira and Athrun he knew now.
"Commander… This…" Shinn said, handing the picture.
Kira turned, his eyes immediately brightening as he took the picture. "Ah… I didn't know Athrun still kept this with him," he said, looking at it. There was a strange look in his eyes… Shinn thought he could detect joy and sorrow, as well as a sense of longing in the other Coordinator. "This was taken back when we were in Copernicus," Kira said, storing the picture away with Athrun's clothes.
"Commander… Have you known Athrun for long?" Shinn asked, interested despite himself.
"Very long…" Kira said, his voice faraway. "We have always been close friends before he moved to PLANTs," Kira said, laughing slightly to himself.
A part of Shinn envied Kira and Athrun for their long friendship. After his family had been killed in Onogoro, Shinn had moved to PLANTs, leaving behind all the friends he had known and starting anew. He joined ZAFT's academy and became close to Rey, Lunamaria and Meyrin – Rey, especially, had been close to the black-haired Coordinator. He had heard of what had happened in the Battle of Messiah, of course… Athrun had recounted what had happened, and until now, it was difficult for Shinn to accept that his best friend had died, and that he had shot Gilbert Durandal before his death.
The door slid open and Athrun entered, his eyes widening at once as he took the scene in front of him. "Ah! Kira! You should have left that!" Athrun cried out suddenly, moving to take the clothes from the other Coordinator's hands. "Honestly…" he muttered.
"It's almost done," Kira shrugged lightly, moving to sit on the bed and beginning to sort out through his stuff. "Have you contacted Orb?"
"Ah. We'll be entering the atmosphere in a few minutes," Athrun said, storing the last of his items away. He turned and gazed at Shinn before moving to help. "I'm sorry – I didn't know you were doing this. I'll help."
C.E 79 Orb Union (Present Day)
Orb. Kira couldn't remember the last time he had landed in the small island, but the last time he had descended to Earth, it had been to protect this small nation. The Archangel had launched from Heliopolis without any trouble, and it seemed as if their luck had held, for they managed to dock in Orb without any confrontations by any enemies. Kira supposed that, after the declaration from PLANTs so soon, RENEGADE would need to wait for the other nations' answers before they could take action. Already, the United States of South America declared that they still wanted to maintain a neutral ground, but with what were probably the weakest military forces, it would not be hard for RENEGADE to force them to accept their ideals. Resistant groups were also beginning to form in various military bases, and the Eurasian Federation were still resisting as well. The situation was chaotic, but they all knew that it was Orb's answer that the RENEGADE was waiting for the most.
When they docked, Cagalli immediately made her way to the parliamentary house. Kira was surprised to find himself deliberating on what he should do, but Lacus gently reminded him that they would need to go to the orphanage. Even Athrun offered to accompany them while waiting for Cagalli to make her statement.
"I guess we should go," Kira finally sighed, the pain gnawing in his chest. He could hardly bear to face his mother after the grief he must have put her through, but he knew as well as they did that they needed to go.
So they found themselves in Athrun's black car, speeding down the roads to the coast where the orphanage was located. Athrun drove smoothly and Kira sat next to him. Lacus occupied the passenger seat behind, playing around with her Haro. Kira noticed that Athrun kept on throwing him concerned glances as he drove, but the brown-haired Coordinator found that he couldn't bring himself to say anything. He had been presumably dead, then finding himself in Mendel where, for the first time ever, he had truly learned about his parents. Caridad knew that Kira had learned the truth during the first war, of course, but Kira had refused to talk about it and it created a gap between them that he could never seem to close. Caridad seemed to have noticed Kira's unwillingness in discussing the matter and thus had never approached the subject.
They turned and parked in front of the house. The fresh breeze of the sea was soothing, and Kira could see the children playing outside the house, kicking a ball – some were also playing with the other coloured Haros, which Lacus had left here after the second war.
Haro was the first to fly out of the car before they even had the chance to open the door. It beeped excitedly and, seeing the Pink Haro, the other Haros surrounded it as well, excitedly calling "Haro! Haro!" to each other. Kira smiled and stepped out of the car. Torii took off from his shoulder and flew away at once.
"Ah! It's Athrun-san! And ah! Lacus-sama!" The children cried out excitedly, immediately running towards them.
"Hey, isn't that Kira-sama?"
"Kira-sama!"
"Kira-sama! Kira-sama is back! Kira-sama is back!"
Kira raised his eyebrows as the children gathered around them, throwing all sorts of questions. Why they were here. How they were. How long they could stay. Whether they would play. As well as an endless stream of reports on what had happened since they last met. It was overwhelming, and Kira couldn't help but laugh as he tried to talk and listen to them, all at once – even Lacus and Athrun seemed to struggle.
"Ara ara… Everyone! I'm sure you have a lot to tell, but Kira-sama and Athrun-san needs to see Yamato-san first. Why don't we go to the beach? Then you can tell me everything!" Lacus said happily, ushering them away. "Pink-chan! Let's go to the beach together!" she called out to her favourite Haro, and all the Haros responded as she tried to steer them away.
Athrun's eyebrows were raised. He didn't remember needing to see Caridad, and wonder what was going on in Lacus's mind. He had been with Lacus long enough to know that there was a purpose behind almost everything that she did. A few children moaned and grumbled, wanting to spend time with both Kira and Athrun, but it was also evident that they were happy to spend some private time with Lacus, who was their favourite.
"Mom," Kira said. Athrun turned his gaze away and finally spotted Caridad standing a few feet from them, her eyes as gentle as they had always been. He hadn't noticed when she made her appearance – Athrun realised that Lacus must've spotted her first.
Caridad's eyes were fixed on Kira, and they were shining with tears. "Kira…" she trailed off, almost as if she was frightened he would disappear.
Kira tensed slightly. Athrun clapped his hand gently against the other Coordinator's back and Kira stepped forward. "I'm home, Mom…" he said quietly, immediately embracing her as she ran to hug him. Tears flowed down Kira's cheeks as he hugged her tight. "I'm sorry, Mom. I made you worry again," he said.
"Welcome home, Kira. Athrun-kun, too. Thank goodness. Thank goodness you're safe," Caridad sobbed, pulling away to look study her son's face. She placed her hand on his cheek, caressing it with the real touch of a mother to a son. Caridad held her other arm out to Athrun. Surprised, the other Coordinator stepped forward to stand beside Kira. Caridad reached out, resting her palm against his cheek, mirroring what she did to Kira as her gaze settled affectionately on the blue-haired Coordinator. "Thank you, Athrun-kun. Let's go inside," she said gently. Athrun's eyes were tearful, and it nearly took him his all to stop himself from crying at her motherly touch. He missed it… He missed the times when she had tucked him to sleep, on a bed beside Kira's, back in Copernicus. He missed all the times they had had together, and he could see it in her eyes that she did as well.
They were led into the orphanage and settled at a small table positioned beside a glass wall overlooking the ocean. Caridad must've expected that they were coming – there was tea and snacks, and Athrun couldn't help but feel suspicious to one particular pink-haired songstress again. He sat at the table, his eyebrows immediately rising as his gaze settled on a plate in front of him. "Rolled cabbages..?" Athrun asked, surprised, his hand automatically moving forward, almost to take one.
Caridad nodded. "Your favourite," she said, laughing gently before turning back to Kira. "I heard what had happened, Kira. Cagalli told me everything… Lacus too," she said, confirming Athrun's suspicions. "I heard you were saved by your parents' friend in Mendel," she said, her hand moving to rest against Kira's.
The brown-haired Coordinator had frozen, then nodded. "Ah…" he said, his eyes resting on the cup of tea in front of him. "Daisuke Shen."
"Is that so? What is he like?" Caridad asked, tilting her head with interest. It was obvious that Kira didn't want to talk about it, but she had decided, quite rightly, that there was no use pretending as if he didn't know of the truth.
Kira knew this as well. They had tried to pretend that Caridad was Kira's biological mother even after the war, but it only drove them further apart. A part of him was actually grateful that he had the opportunity to talk now, as hard as it was. "Daisuke-san was… gentle. And kind. He saved me and nursed me back to health… and he sent me back when Lacus was attacked in PLANTs," he said, a small smile forming on his lips.
"I've heard of him," Caridad said, her face thoughtful. "Via once talked about him. He loved her," she said, stating it as nothing more than a fact.
Kira was surprised. It was the first time he had heard Caridad say her sister's name aloud like that, as if they were finally acknowledging her existence. "Daisuke-san told me that… He said he was always in love with her. And he told me a lot about her… and about my father."
Caridad shook her head, laughing slightly. "Via had always been very smart, Kira. You remind me so much of her… not just because of your looks. She, too, was kind… and cried easily. And she always knew what she wanted, but she didn't know how – she was clumsy in that part, and she loved your father dearly," she said, her hand moving to his shoulder. "But she loved you, Kira. Cagalli, too. It didn't matter whether you were a Coordinator or not – it never mattered. She loved you, and she sent you to me when the trouble began," Caridad said sadly, then shaking her head. "But that is all in the past now. And whatever happens, you are still my son," she said gently. "Athrun-kun, too."
Athrun found himself unable to meet Caridad's gaze, just like Kira. So many things had happened, after all. Still, a small part in him wanted to believe that the gap could be closed again. That, possibly, they could find themselves near to how they had been before, back in Copernicus.
"Thank you…" Kira said softly, finally raising his eyes to his mother. He had a serene smile on his lips, perhaps glad that they had finally let out the feelings that had been contained for too long.
They had stayed and talked then, of almost anything and everything until Lacus returned with the children. The announcement from Cagalli was made during the evening, just after Caridad had disappeared to ensure that the children were cleaning themselves and getting dressed for bed. Kira, Athrun and Lacus had stayed in the living room, watching as Cagalli made her inevitable statement that Orb still refused to conform to RENEGADE's ideals, and that they would fight anyone who would try to harm their nation. By that time, Orb was the last to make its announcement, and as soon as the declaration ended, Lacus excused herself to help Caridad tend to the children.
"It's finally happening," Athrun said, crossing his arms. "We'll just need to wait for the attack after this."
Kira nodded. "Ah… But it'll be alright, Athrun," he said optimistically, his hand moving to the other Coordinator's shoulder.
They exited the orphanage to head back to the Archangel as soon as the children were properly tucked in bed. It had taken them a while, as they were all eager to say their goodbyes to Kira and Athrun, but tiredness took over and they were finally asleep. Lacus hugged Caridad warmly, asking her to take care before moving to talk to Reverend Malchio who had been loyal to the Clyne family for many years. Caridad turned to Kira, hugging him tight.
"I'm sorry for doing this again, Mom," Kira said apologetically. "Please take care. Make sure you get to Heliopolis as soon as possible. It's not safe here."
"Yes, yes, don't worry," Caridad admonished gently. "Take care of yourself as well, Kira," she said releasing her son from her embrace and turning to Athrun. "Athrun-kun, too."
Athrun smiled slightly. "Ah… I will. Take care," he said.
Caridad gazed into the emerald eyes for a while and finally stepped forward, hugging him tight. Athrun was shocked – perhaps too shocked – to respond to such a motherly gesture even though his old self would have been used to the embrace. Caridad did not release him, however, and Athrun was finally compelled to return the embrace, his heart aching as he remembered his mother. "Make sure you come home – both of you. And know that I love you dearly," she said softly, releasing him. Kira moved to stand beside Athrun and she reached forwards, resting her palms on their cheeks as she had done before, her eyes affectionate. "Now… off you go," she said, using the same tone she had always used to send Kira and Athrun to school.
"I'll see you soon, Mom," Kira said, stepping forward to kiss her lightly on the cheek before turning to the car.
"Thank you… Auntie," Athrun said, immediately feeling the weight being lifted off his chest as he used the term to address her, as he had always done. He couldn't bear to call her 'Yamato-san' any longer, and he saw the joy in her eyes on having the two back into her life. Perhaps it was a small step to what they had shared before… but it was a move to the right direction, nonetheless.
C.E 79 Location Unknown (Present Day)
Strapped into a support craft fighter-plane mobile armour, Commander Oern Aiten led three Gundams easily, the coordinates on his radar informing him that he would reach the Renegade soon. He was now wearing a half-face black mask, almost similar to the one worn by Rau Le Creuset during the first war. Renegade was very particular about the identities of those that joined, and for safety and secrecy purposes, nearly everything was to be kept secret… even their names. However, Oern and his two companions had taken extra care with this freedom of identity care. Oern had on a face mask. His younger companion, Aya Hattori, had a voice modifier which he supposed was now clipped onto the helmet of her pilot suit. His other companion, Seorin Kaitke, had done the liberty of dying his hair brown, though the original red still appeared in small streaks. The other Gundam pilot was Liesel Asien, third stage Extended and the only odd one out – Oern, Aya and Seorin were all Coordinators.
They had come from PLANTs, of course, previously aboard an Earth Alliance ship that had participated in the battle. The ship had docked in Heaven's Base, and they were now making their way to the Renegade ship. Liesel had been in charge of the assassination of the leaders, first killing Sirne Anfiel, then launching the attack on Lacus Clyne. Oern had to admit, he had been rather impressed with her way of working when dealing with Anfiel. They had caught her on tape, and anyone would probably assume that she was a Coordinator, when in fact, Liesel was an Extended.
Oern, Aya and Seorin had been in PLANTs, planting and detonating bombs that had killed the various Supreme Council members as well as to gather intelligence. It had come to Oern's interest that the pink princess Lacus Clyne seemed to have a small, private army of her own, but he highly doubted that even they would hold up against both ZAFT and the Earth Alliance. The only thing that truly posed a threat to RENEGADE was the Archangel and, surprisingly, the Freedom that had somehow survived the battle in the South Atlantic Ocean. Still, Oern was never one to worry, and he knew how to accept shocking news calmly. The Advocate and Zantetsuken were available, after all, and they were the mobile suits designed to take the Freedom down. With the three Gundams behind him, even the Archangel would be facing problems. Being the one who had designed and looked over the development of the five Gundams, it was an understatement to say that Oern was proud of what he had accomplished.
The first Gundam was the RENEGADE-A1001 Advocate, assigned to Genei Alens. It was a dark green artillery mobile weapon, also equipped with the latest DRAGOON system as well as having a flyer for extended manoeuvrability. He had heard the reports of Genei's battles, and was quite pleased that the young pilot had not yet used the DRAGOONs in the Earth's atmosphere. That was the Advocate's trump card and ace weapon, as before this, DRAGOONs usually had problems operating in the Earth's atmosphere. Still, the flyer was equipped with missiles, and his other weapons included a sword, beam sabers, beam rifles and beam cannons.
The second Gundam was the RENEGADE-A1002 Zantetsuken, assigned to Tierra Hito. Also an artillery mobile weapon weapon, the Zantetsuken was orange and teal and its uniqueness lies with its Power Enhancer that allows it to recharge its Hyper Impulse Cannon at an amazing speed. The Zantetsuken was designed for long-range attacks and its armaments include beam sabers, a railgun, multiple beam cannons as well as two beam rifles.
The third Gundam was the RENEGADE-A1003 Premium, assigned to Liesel Alens. The Gundam was, in Oern's opinion, the most unique of the five Gundams under Renegade. The Minerva ship was equipped with a special catapult system that was fully utilised by the Impulse Gundam during the second war, but for the Renegade, it would be used by the Premium. The Premium was blue and white, and the only colour differences were with the different RENEGADE packs it could equip. It is a multi-purpose mobile weapon, and included five different RENEGADE packs which were the RENEGADE Aero, RENEGADE Sword, RENEGADE Aqua, RENEGADE Haste and RENEGADE Stealth. The default would most probably be the Aero, which was equipped with beam sabers and beam rifles, also offering the Premium with a high manoeuvrability with its additional thrusters. The Sword was used for anti-ship battles and close combats, equipped with swords and boomerang blades, while the Aqua was used for long-range attacks or underwater attacks with its beam rifles and cannons. The two that were different were the Haste and Stealth. RENEGADE Haste equips the Premium with a Voiture Lumiere propulsion system that had been equipped on the Destiny Gundam in the previous war, allowing the Gundam to move at twice its speed. RENEGADE Stealth, on the other hand, equips the Premium with the Mirage Colloid stealth system, similar to the one on the Blitz Gundam during the first war.
The fourth Gundam was the RENEGADE-A1004 Apocalypse, assigned to Seorin Kaitke. It is a transformable attack-use mobile weapon, able to transform itself into a fighter-plane mobile armour or a custom mobile weapon, almost like a combination of the Aegis and the Saviour that had fought with ZAFT, piloted by elite pilot Athrun Zala. The Apocalypse was dark red and equipped with the Voiture Lumiere propulsion system. One distinctive feature of the Apocalypse was its claws, installed to the back of the Gundam, with its two arms extending to the front, also moveable. The claws were able to fire beam attacks at close distances, and anyone trapped in them would have difficulties getting away without damage. The Apocalypse's armaments include railguns, beam rifles and beam sabers among many others.
The last and fifth Gundam was the RENEGADE-A1005 Imperial, assigned to Aya Hattori. The Imperial is an assault mobile weapon, equipped with the Mirage Colloid stealth system, with turquoise armour. The Imperial was also equipped with a flyer pack like the Advocate, equipped with missile launchers and a beam sword. Its armaments include beam sabers, railguns, beam rifles and beam boomerangs.
All five Gundams were installed with an Ultracompact Fission Reactor that would give them more time and energy in battle as opposed to the usual energy battery that Gundams operate with. They were also equipped with Multi Phase-Shift Armour, but what Oern liked most about the units was that its weapons were not particular to each Gundam. In fact, they were mass-produced to be the same. In battle, this would be useful if one Gundam was taken down – the other units could easily use its armaments in the place of the fallen Gundam. Oern had worked hard with the machines, and he hoped that they would prove to be very useful indeed.
He spotted the Renegade waiting for them and signalled to the Gundams to dock. They followed easily, the Premium leading, followed by the Apocalypse and the Imperial. Oern was the last to dock, and he was surprised when he saw Ryuu Apene, the leader of Blue Cosmos, standing in the hangar to receive them along with Captain Sethe Tienn and the two Gundam pilots, Genei Alens and Tierra Hito. Liesel, Aya and Seorin had already descended from their Gundams and were walking towards the small group, taking off their helmets as they did so. As soon as his fighter-plane docked, Oern climbed out and took off his helmet – he was the last person to join the group.
"I'm glad to see the ship looks fine," he commented, saluting once.
Captain Sethe returned the gesture, though his icy blue eyes narrowed at the masked man. "Of course it is alright. We are not on the losing side," his voice was soft, though still holding the menace in his words. "Orb has just made its declaration. They have made us their enemy."
Oern shrugged, smiling slightly. "I didn't know we were expecting company."
"Observations on our progress must be made."
So, that was it. Blue Cosmos, here to see whether Renegade was as good as they had claimed to be. Oern could only be somewhat thankful that, whenever it was Ryuu had boarded, the ship had been majorly filled with Naturals and the two Extendeds. There were a few Coordinators working as technicians, but apart from Oern, the others in the bridge were Naturals. At least it would have been rather comforting to the obviously Natural-loving person in front of him.
Ryuu seemed to know they were talking about him. "Please introduce yourselves. I didn't expect more pilots," he said coldly.
Oern shook his head. "The fighter-plane was my transport here. From here onwards, I do not think I will be launching," he said truthfully. He had no interest in heading out and facing the enemies directly.
There was a sudden gleam of interest in the man's eye. "I see. That is fine. We will make sure you will not need to," he promised, his words holding an awful amount of meaning. Oern did not falter. He already knew that since joining RENEGADE, he had been playing with fire… and of the deadliest type.
"My thanks go to the trouble," Oern replied coolly. "The pilots," he said, gesturing towards the three beside him.
Liesel stepped forwards first. She was a young woman, perhaps only around eighteen and the youngest in the group, with blonde hair that went down to her shoulders and an amazingly pretty shade of purple/pink eyes. "RENEGADE-A1003 Premium pilot, reporting for duty! Alias: Liesel Alens," she said, saluting.
Seorin saluted. "RENEGADE-A1004 Apocalypse pilot, reporting for duty! Alias: Seorin Kaitke." Real name… Ken Sienth, Oern thought.
Aya saluted. "RENEGADE-A1005 Imperial pilot, reporting for duty! Alias: Aya Hattori." Real name… Hikari Sienth.
Now was the moment. Just before he stepped forward, Oern thought of one particular brown-haired Coordinator that they had rescued and nursed in Mendel. It was inevitable that they would meet again soon, but a part of him wished that Kira Hibiki would never learn the truth. Oern had many thoughts of the world, but his thoughts on Kira Hibiki were pure… he had been rather affectionate of the young man, if only due to his perfect resemblance to his mother, Via. But this was something that they had thought and planned, and he already knew that he had placed his faith on the right person. He was sure – confident, even – that Kira would bring all this to an end. That with their help in joining RENEGADE, the time would come when Naturals and Coordinators would no longer need to fight.
"Second-class Minerva ship Commander. Alias: Oern Aiten." Real name… Daisuke Shen.
Author's Notes: This a transition-chapter of sorts, with a nice twist to the plot. Info on the Premium, Apocalypse and Imperial can be found in Chapter 5. We'll be thrown into real fighting and conflict from the next chapter onwards, and admittedly with quite a lot of focus on Shinn, I'm surprised to discover. I wish I can tell you when the next update will be, but it's impossible to say. I aim to have the next chapter by mid-September, latest – the earliest I can manage is next week, which is actually rather unlikely. I'm sorry. There's a personal problem plaguing my life at the moment, and to make matters worse, I lost all my notes for this fic and I need to re-write them from scratch. It'll be difficult to write without them because the story is so darn complicated, but I'll try my best. By mid-September, updates should be regular with one/two chapters per week.
These are just some additional information, for those of you who never listened/read the Kira/Athrun episode titled "Torii" in the Suits CD Volume 1 and 2 (which, just to say, I think you all really should because it's so darn adorable):
1) Kira and Athrun are both brought up together pretty much by Caridad Yamato. Patrick Zala never lived in Copernicus with Athrun and Lenore, and he had always lived in PLANTs. Lenore was also a scientist for the agricultural part of PLANTs (namely Junius City), and always came home late and was never really there. So Athrun always found himself at Kira's, staying over and sleeping, basically growing up together as two brothers under Caridad's care.
2) Kira and Athrun met when they were four years old. They parted at the age of thirteen, three years before the start of the war. Lenore and Caridad are also very good friends with each other. And Athrun loves Caridad's rolled cabbages.
There are a lot more information about their friendship that you can learn from "Torii". It's really worth looking for, seriously. :D Also, apologies for the confusion caused regarding Yzak's ship. It was really inexcusable of me for the mistake. T.T Yzak's ship, officially, is called the Voltaire. I had always thought it was called the Vesalius, but that is actually the name of Rau Le Creuset's ship in Gundam SEED. It's a shame, I have to say. I prefer the name Vesalius compared to Voltaire.
Anyway, I thank all my reviewers for reviewing the previous chapter! :D My thanks goes to skepsis66, SugarCarly, PrincessOfDestiny14, AngelicFox12, San17 and .001 Kamikakushi and Magus-15IchiGo. Thank you all! :D Also, endless thanks goes to my readers, and to those who favourite-d and alert-ed this story. Thanks for the support. I hope you enjoyed this chapter, and I know I can't wait for the next chapter. Please review!
skepsis66: Thanks so much for the feedback! I understand how the entry is heart-warming, now you explained it that way. Among the many chapters we've seen so far, it was the previous chapter that I was scared of writing the most. XD I was afraid the climax didn't meet expectations, so I'm glad to hear your thoughts on it. :D I wish the reunion could be happier, I agree. There are emotional burdens everywhere, with almost every character. This chapter is somewhat lighter though, at least. :D
PrincessOfDestiny14: I agree! Yzak seems to be a real victim of this war, and I honestly feel sorry for him. T.T
AngelicFox12: I've taken your advice, and I've written everything down – on paper, this time. All the notes stored in my laptop has disappeared due to unfortunate circumstances, and it's really a pain. XD I guess you can't rely on technology too much. Cagalli seems to be the only Natural with a SEED mode – it appeared in the first series, if I'm not mistaken. I think there's a whole load more to this SEED mode thing than we know, but it just wasn't explained in the canon, unfortunately. In any case, thanks for the review, and I'm glad you liked the reunion. :D
San17 (Chap 9 & 10): Firstly, thanks for the double-review. I'll try my best to let you all know when the next updates will be, as soon as the next chapter is up. :D And I'm sorry about the confusion with Yzak's ship. I honestly thought it was called the Vesalius, and I'm slightly downcast by the fact that it is, in fact, called the Voltaire. I thought the reunion could be improved myself, but Kira and Lacus were always such a quiet couple that it was hard to get their emotions across right. I'll probably include another scene of them discussing things in the next chapter or so. :3 Thanks for the feedback!
.001 Kamikakushi: Oh my, thank you very much! XD I'm glad you liked it, and I thank you for reading up until now. It's very appreciated. :D I heaved a sigh of relief reading your review, honestly. One of the things I try to avoid the most is OOC-ness, and I was really scared the characters might have acted out of their characters. Thanks so much!
Magus-I5IchiGo: Thanks for your review! :D I'm glad you liked the last chapter! I hope you liked this one as well, and the rest to come!