Growth of a Seed
"Speaking"
"Radio"
'Thoughts'
Location
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Chapter 5
Planet: Earth
System: Sol
Sector: Unregistered
Region: Unknown Regions
Copernicus City
The members of the Sol Council knew the moment the battle was over. It was easy to determine when the enemy destroyed themselves in a series of explosions.
It was also easy to foresee a number of possible repercussions from this attack when the populace was made aware of the details.
When Lacus Clyne and Princess Leia had rejoined the others in the council chambers, it was President White that spoke first.
"It seems that you may be getting what you wish for, Princess. I doubt it will be too long before Earth makes an alliance with your Alliance to Restore the Republic."
"Wait a minute," interrupted Cagalli Yula Athha, "That is still premature."
"I apologize, Ms. Athha," said White. "But surely everyone in this room realizes that, given the current situation, it would be in our best interests that the Alliance wins in their war. Twice now Imperial ships have entered our system and initiated hostile actions. We have won the battles but certainly not the war."
"We're not at war with the Empire," Cagalli pointed out.
"Not officially; but from what I have seen, it would appear that the Empire will not take this lying down should they learn of it."
"That's true," agreed Princess Leia. "For the Empire, its image of strength is one of its greatest assets, and they can't allow that image to be tarnished. Its strength keeps many of the oppressed worlds under its rule from outright revolting. Should word of this defeat reach the Empire, they will bring the full force of their military in order to bring the people of this planet to heel."
"And earlier you reported that a single Imperial fleet is large, much larger than this force," said the Prime Minister of the Eurasian Federation to get confirmation.
"Yes, a single sector group, the smallest standard military force used by the Empire to maintain its regime in any single sector of space, will include at least 24 Imperial Star Destroyers with at least four times that number in smaller capital ships and support craft, thousands of starfighters and ground vehicles, and millions of soldiers ranging from grunt troopers to elite Stormtroopers. And that is just for the more peaceful sectors. Areas where there is significant activity from pirates, rebels, any other kind of major criminal actions and civil unrest, or is simply considered important to the Empire will have larger military forces assigned to them."
"In short, Representative Athha, and I hate to make this comparison, but our planet is in the same situation now with the Empire that Orb was in with the Earth Alliance during the first war. Our technology and the skills of our military may protect us for a time, but they have the greater advantage of numbers."
The glare Cagalli gave President White was like dry ice, it was so cold it burned. And she had every reason to since White had brought up those awful memories, but he had valid point. The Empire's resources were too vast. Even if Earth's technology could hold them off temporarily, in a battle of attrition the Empire would quickly overwhelm them.
Fortunately, Lacus was there to put a hand on her friend's shoulder, letting her calming presence soothe the blond. When Cagalli was calm again, White continued to speak.
"I can understand what concerns you may have. As with all of us, you must represent the will of your people, which can be summed up best in the words of your father. And truthfully none of us wish to be part of another war. But I am not saying that Earth should openly send its armies to fight, we currently lack the technology or man-power to do so. But the best way to ensure that the Empire leaves us alone is that their focus is on the rebellion. Thus the better equipped the rebellion is, the more attention it'll draw from the Empire."
"Then wouldn't the Empire want to find their suppliers?" asked the president of the U.S.S.A.
White shrugged, "Sadly it would appear that whichever road we choose to lead Earth down, there will be some risk. I am simply voicing my opinion on the path I believe will be most advantageous for Earth."
"There is still the issue of whether or not Ms. Organa is speaking the truth about her Rebel Alliance," countered the U.S.S.A. president. "I, for one, will not agree to any treaty until we know the truth. And I believe that I know the perfect man to find the truth."
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Planet: Earth
System: Sol
Sector: Unregistered
Region: Unknown Regions
Corellian Corvette Tantive IV
"So how did it go Princess?" Asked Captain Antilles when Leia returned to the lounge of the Tantive IV.
"The Empire did us a favor by attacking," said Leia as she sat in one of the empty seats, eying the drink in Antilles tumbler before dismissing the notion. "Several of Earth's leaders are ready to join us, however they want a unanimous vote before officially joining the Alliance. And who knows how long it will take for the remaining fence sitters to come over to our side as well."
"Ah, the joys of democracy, it promises fairness and equality, just be prepared to wait for any decision to be made" mused Antilles as sipped his Corellian brandy and recalled the days before Palpatine's ascension to emperor. "Well, I don't think it will take too long. While you were meeting with the Sol Council I took a walk around their spaceport and got a feel for how the common man, soldier and civilian, feels about the whole thing. Some blame us for bringing trouble upon their home, but it seemed most were directing their anger at the Empire." Antilles took another sip and asked, "So Princess, how long will it be before I can give the order for us to move out?"
"Tomorrow," answered Leia. "They have already gathered their representatives to observe the galaxy, and they are ready to leave. That's fortunate because we can't really afford to wait. I'm sure my father is worrying himself to death over out disappearance."
Antilles could only agree, knowing what Bail Organa was like after working for him for so long. "And the Alliance must be scrambling to move everything, without word from us for so long they have to assume the worst, that we were captured by the Empire."
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Planet: Earth
System: Sol
Sector: Unregistered
Region: Unknown Regions
"Yahooo! Just look at all that treasure!" exclaimed Lowe Guele as he surveyed the wreckage of what were once extraterrestrial ships from the bridge of the Cornelius-class ship Re.H.O.M.E. "Just think of all the incredible technology we can salvage! Oh, I bet I can give Red Frame some incredible upgrades!" He was literally dancing around in zero gravity at the thought of the possibilities. "George!" he called to the holographic captain of the Re.H.O.M.E. who was created through the use of the George Glenn module, "Full speed that-away, I can smell high-quality treasure!" he yelled pointing in a seemingly random direction. "We have to hurry! We can't let the other Junk Guild groups to get it first!"
"Calm down, Lowe," chastened his female companion Kisato Yamabuki. "And before you think about using what we find in the Red Frame, remember that we have three contracts to fulfill. One with Gai's Serpent Tail team, another with the Canard Pars and the Ortygia, and finally a contract with Morgenroete direct from Rondo Mina Sahaku."
"Yeah, yeah, we'll get them their promised salvage tonnage, but after that I am keeping the rest," said Lowe as he waved off the responsibility he owed the clients. "Now, I am going to get Eight and prep Red Frame," he said as he floated off the bridge.
"Honestly, why does he have to act like a kid in a candy shop every time we come across wreckage? I mean a lot of this stuff is all black and crispy," murmured Kisato.
"Personally, I agree with him, Kisato," said the ever beautiful, ever mysterious Professor as she monitored the ship's instruments. "Even if it's broken junk you never know what sort of technological secrets you may be able to pry. And you know that when it comes to finding valuable technology, Lowe's nose is better than a bloodhound's."
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Planet: Earth
System: Sol
Sector: Unregistered
Region: Unknown Regions
Corellian Corvette Tantive IV
A large number of people gathered around the Tantive IV, at a safe distance for when the ship took off. A majority of those gathered included the press who anxiously awaited the departure of the first "alien" ship ever known to visit the Earth. Though now that it was confirmed that there was extraterrestrial life it was certain that every story, urban myth, or conspiracy theory concerning aliens would be revisited and put under intense scrutiny for verification. At least they would by those who didn't have the importance to work with the actual extraterrestrials or by those who simply wanted to use the hype to get out on the media.
Another significant portion of gathering who politicians, bureaucrats, military officers, and heads of state that had come to see off not only the princess but also those that they had selected to be their eyes and ears out in the galaxy and who would represent Earth to the Alliance leadership.
"Take care Mir," said Kira as he gave his friend a good bye hug. Kira's hug was followed by Cagalli.
Miriallia Haw, who had served as the mobile suit coordinator aboard the Archangel for two wars, as well as a well-reputed photojournalist, was selected as Orb's representative. "I'll be fine," she insisted. She jerked her thumb off to the side, "Shiho will be watching over me the whole time."
Shiho Hahnenfuss, a decorated ZAFT pilot who fought with distinction during both wars. Until recently she had been a member of the Joule Team. She was the PLANTs representative, being sent so observe their military capabilities and to create a good impression with the Alliance. She was also a friend of Miriallia thanks to their connections to two certain ZAFT pilots. Currently Shiho was a little ways off, speaking with her former commander.
Yzak for his part looked a little unsure as to what he was doing and flustered because of it. Shiho seemed to be amused as the man's obvious ineptitude when it came to being sensitive and soft.
Mir and Cagalli shared in her amusement from afar. Well, Mir did until Cagalli poked in the shoulder and then pointing off in a different direction. Mir followed the finger and found a familiar face standing off in the crowd. It was her old boyfriend Dearka, who was clearly nervous as he glanced her way, a bouquet of flowers in hand.
"Honestly," she huffed in exasperation. "We break up because he can't handle a long distance relationship, and now that the distance is getting light-years longer he wants to get back together? Excuse me," taking her leave of her friends she went to speak with her ex.
Cagalli, somehow being more in tune with women then Kira, despite her tomboyish attitude, grabbed her brother by the arm. "Come on, let's give them time to work it out."
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City: Aldera
Planet: Alderaan
System: Alderaan System
Sector: Alderaan Sector
Region: Core Worlds
Princess Leia breathed deeply, smelling the sweetness of the air of her home world. After such an eventful trip, it was good to be back on the planet that was considered the shining star of the Core. And it was especially enjoyable since she got to see the reactions of individuals who were stepping onto an 'alien' world for the first time in their lives.
"It's beautiful!" said an awed voiced from behind.
Leia smiled at the compliment and turned to see Miriallia Haw was already taking pictures of the landscape visible from the hangar that was part of the royal palace. The hangar was situated to provide a view of the lake that covered the majority of the massive caldera and with the forested, mountainous vista for a background. It was breathtaking.
And she wasn't the only one who seemed to enjoy it as the United States of South America representative, photojournalist Jess Rabble was furiously taking photos of anything he could see. His photo taking grew more furious as several thrantas came into view; the creatures Leia believed looked so similar to the skeleton from the Whale Stone.
The two photographers were just two of several relatively well known individuals who played important roles in Earth's recent history, and who had been selected to observe, gather intelligence, and report it back to Earth.
Other individuals who could be called famous in certain circles were the Eurasian Federation mobile suit ace Morgan Chevalier, ZAFT mobile suit ace Shiho Hahnenfuss, and Junk Guild Representative Liam Garfield. The first two had been chosen for their military backgrounds to observe and determine military strengths and fighting capabilities. The third was chosen as an independent who was not affiliated with any government and who was likely the person with the most extensive and detailed experience of dealing with varied technology. With only one or two exceptions there was no category of technology known on Earth that Liam hadn't examined.
The rest of the group included ambassadors, scientists, or basically individuals who would be skilled at gathering information on the politics, technology, and feelings of the people of the galaxy.
Calling to the group, Leia led the group out of the hangar. First they would have to meet with her father. Bail Organa needed to know of what happened on Earth and what needed to be done to convince them to join the Alliance. He could also find trusted members of the Alliance that could guide, and protect, the people of Earth.
And finally they needed to make sure all tracks leading to Earth were covered.
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Moon: Yavin 4
Planet: Yavin
System: Yavin System
Sector: Gordian Reach
Region: Outer Rim
General Jan Dodonna and a room full of his staff watched the holovid recording that had been sent to him through the Alliance's secret communication channels on Alderaan. At first he and everyone else who was aware of the holovid had assumed it came from Bail Organa and were surprised on finding out that it had actually come from his daughter Leia after she reappeared.
The disappearance of Leia and her ship had been a considerable scare among the Rebel personnel who were aware of her involvement and when she failed to report in it was a reasonable fear that she had been captured. Leia had only recently become an active member of the Alliance, having replaced her father as the highest placed spy they had in the Imperial Senate. For her to suddenly disappear during an alliance mission, along with the entire crew of the Tantive IV… Well, the various commanders of the Alliance had thought it prudent to transfer from Dantooine to the fourth moon of Yavin.
When the ship and crew had reappeared at Alderaan, the release of tension had been palpable, though there was now curiosity at the new passengers aboard the ship. The curiosity had grown when a file had been delivered through Bail's secure routes, files that contained technical specs and a holovid recording. According to the attached message, it was imperative that General Dodonna and the other high ranking member of the Alliance's military structure watch the holovid.
Dodonna did as the request asked and found that the holovid was of a battle recorded by the Tantive IV accompanied by the ship's recorded sensor data. It was then that curiosity grew at the sight of six large machines, what were first assumed to be droids, and a ship somewhere between corvette and frigate class in size charged in on a much larger Victory-class Star Destroyer and its fighter compliment of 18 TIE fighters and 6 TIE bombers.
The curiosity turned into astonishment shortly into the battle, a battle that ended in defeat of the numerically superior Imperial forces.
During a meeting like this, it was best to remain silent until the General gave leave to speak, so all of the various officers remained quiet as Dodonna silently replayed the holovid twice more.
After that, the General read through the summary report of everything that happened to Leia when she disappeared. When he finished, he played the holovid once more. This time however as he watched the TIE's launch, he spoke.
"This is quite interesting. Can anyone tell me what is wrong with these TIEs?" asked the General. "I'll admit that their not the best the Empire has, but surely you see the beyond rookie mistakes they are making."
"They're engaging too closely. The distance had shortened to a good 500 meters before their pilots fired," said one of the officers.
"That's a kilometer and a half short of the effective range of a TIE's targeting computer," commented another.
"But the report did mention that the people of Earth employed some sort of sensor jamming technology," said another trying to explain the anomaly. "Something which is supposed to be more effective than our own ECMs.
Dodonna continued from there, "Yes, and as Antilles has described, this technology grants a distinct advantage."
"Sir?" That word was a question for clarification from one of the more junior officers that had been promoted before their time thanks to the Alliance's need for personnel.
"Captain Antilles observed the battle first-hand, and studied this same recording. He has determined that these 'mobile suits' have several advantages over our starfighters. The primary advantage is mobility. The mobile suit's form, utilizing a system their creators call Active Mass Balance Auto Control or AMBAC, allows the machine to perform a greater variety of maneuvers with less stress on the frame and less fuel consumption compared to a starfighter. And the movement range of the arms provides a wider and more accurate firing-arc than even a laser cannon mounted on a swivel turret. That is where the advantage lies."
"And what is that sir?"
"It's their sensor jammers. They greatly restrict the effective range of our targeting computers, forcing the TIEs to sacrifice their superior speed in favor of the maneuverability needed in a dogfight of such close quarters. So close that they can see the mobile suits with their naked eye. Typically that would mean little as TIEs are amongst the most maneuverable starfighters out there, but their abilities pale in comparison to mobile suits. Additionally the mobile suits operators counter their own ECMs by using powerful cameras, giving them the advantage both close up and at range."
The old General paused to let explanation sink in. "Should these machines meet expectations and those recorded prove to be the rule and not the exception, then mobile suits could be used as a powerful weapon against the Empire's starfighter force."
Those around the table smiled, or depending on species the nearest equivalent, as they felt a bit of hope. The Alliance needed every weapon they could get for their fight against the Empire.
"General, does that mean we will be attempting to build our own mobile suits based on the schematics we were given?"
As the current head of ground and starfighter operations, General Jan Dodonna was one of the most important military leaders of the Alliance and had the authority to authorize construction and testing of new machines and equipment. In fact he already had a number of projects in the works for new starfighters.
"We will indeed," the general said. "But this project will be maintained at the highest levels of secrecy and control. I want to begin production only after we've constructed a prototype and run some tests. We'll also keep production numbers low and only use them on specially assigned missions. That last thing we need is for the Empire to become aware of their existence and decide they need to try building their own. And our resources are stretched as it is."
The officers all agreed with the general on that point. They also couldn't afford to spend a lot of resources on trial and error prototypes.
"Now," continued Dodonna as he called up the schematics that had accompanied the holovid, "the project will be divided into three parts. The first project will go to you, Suskafoo. I want you and your engineers to take a copy of these blueprints and study them, then work on incorporating any of our technology you deem superior into the designs from Earth. Simultaneously I want you to try incorporating any of their technology deemed superior into our starfighters. Understand?"
Suskafoo, a Verpine and leader of the first Roche asteroid to ally with the Alliance nodded his head, a gesture he had picked up on his studies of galactic society.
"The second project will be to recruit a group of pilots and begin training for a switchover to mobile suits. I will be taking recommendations from any squadron and wing commanders, but I would prefer new trainees. Fresh recruits won't have the experience and instincts of a seasoned pilot so they should take to the new machines better. But if a veteran is adaptable enough, I will gladly accept him for the training."
"The final project will be to design a completely new mobile suit. The purpose of this project is to create a transition machine, one that our seasoned pilots would feel more comfortable in. The report mentions that Earth does have transformable mobile suits that become machines similar to starfighters. I think such a design would work well for us and I know that since the A-wing project is near completion, there are some people that can be put on this one." The general didn't need to mention that one of the people he had in mind was Walex Blissex, one of the best engineers of starship design in the galaxy.
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Planet: Coruscant
System: Coruscant System
Sector: Coruscant Sector
Region: Core Worlds
The planet of Coruscant was an ecumenpolis* that had officially been renamed Imperial Center. Yet that was a name used only by the ranking Imperials while the common man still used the name Coruscant. It is from this planet that the Galactic Republic led its member planets for 25,000 years. Now it served as the throne world for the Galactic Empire, the seat of power for Emperor Palpatine's regime.
And it was to see Emperor Palpatine that Moff Nox Vellam, Sectorial Governor of the Bright Jewel sector, had been summoned to this world. The mere fact that Vellam was going to be speaking with the Emperor in person signified that the meeting would be of importance. And, unfortunately for Moff Vellam, he was all too aware that he had not been summoned to receive good news.
The moment he had stepped off of the Lambda-class shuttle Vellam had been escorted from the hangar of the Imperial Palace, through several corridors, and a turbolift ride before finally stopping inside a foyer that separated the corridor from whichever audience chamber Palpatine intended to use for the meeting. There Vellam was forced to wait, hoping that it was indication that the Emperor was busy and that it didn't reflect on the man's current opinion of the Moff. Finally after two hours the doors to the audience chamber opened, which was the signal that Vellam was to enter.
The room was small in comparison to the many grand hallways, ballrooms, and other massive structures designed to house hundreds to thousands of individuals at once. Still its height and length dwarfed the Moff, and the dim lighting cast shadows that served to create the illusion that the room was even larger. At the end of the corridor, on a raised platform was the Emperor's throne. It had its back to the entrance which allowed the one sitting in it a view of the city's night skyline through a window, or maybe it was a holoscreen (Vellam wasn't sure), shaped in the form of the Imperial crest.
Though the Emperor couldn't be seen, his presence could be felt as if a dark weight had settled on Vellam's mind. Moff Vellam stopped a half-meter away from the platform's steps and kneeled on one knee, waiting to be granted permission to speak.
"Do you know why I have summoned you, Nox Vellam?" asked the Emperor.
Vellam gulped when Palpatine didn't use his rank. "My lord, I believe that it has to do with the number of military ships that have suddenly disappeared from my sector group. Among which was the Venomous Fang, flagship for Admiral Davros. Along with the loss of material, all crewmembers and the troops assigned to each respective ship are believed lost."
"Has there been any success at discovering what has happened? At why 18 military ships and those aboard have gone missing when the Empire is about to undergo major restructuring?"
There it was, the restructuring in the Imperial government; that was the reason Vellam had been summoned to come all the way to Coruscant when under normal circumstances he would only be speaking to the Emperor through the holonet. And it was because of the very reason for the restructuring that Vellam knew the Emperor would not like what he had to say.
"My lord, according to a brief message left by Admiral Davros, he discovered a lead as to the whereabouts of a rebel base. However, he did not say either where or how he came across this lead. I intend to rectify this lack of discipline immediately." Hopefully by putting the blame solely on Davros, Vellam would come out of this with his rank intact.
Palpatine spent a moment in silent contemplation, a moment where Vellam tried to calm his wildly beating heart before it burst. Finally the Emperor spoke.
"Tell me, Vellam, why should I appoint you the rank of Grand Moff of one of the new Oversectors when you can't seem to handle the very reason the position is being created for?"
That was the crux of the matter. The whole matter hinged entirely on the purpose for creating Oversectors, regions of space that contained several regular sectors, overseen by Grand Moffs, or Governor-Generals whose authority exceeded that of regular Moffs. Their mission is to eradicate the rebellion problem within those sectors. And currently Vellam was slated to become Grand Moff of what will be the Bright Jewel Oversector, which his Bright Jewel sector would form the heart of.
"My Emperor, if you were to bestow upon me the rank of Grand Moff, I would have significantly more authority and more freedom to perform my duties. I assure you, my lord, with such power I can reshape the fleets under my control so that nothing like this happens again and I will crush the rebels that dare oppose the Empire within the Oversector."
Hope strained within Vellam as he waited for the Emperor's reaction to his little speech. It wasn't much but hopefully it would sway the most powerful man in the galaxy to show mercy.
"Very well, Moff Vellam, I shall grant you a second chance. And I shall even provide you with assistance."
Relief flooded through the Moff who still had his position and hopefully was still the main prospect to become Grand Moff,
"Vader,"
Only for his blood to run cold at that one word.
From the shadows, the Dark Lord of the Sith stepped forth. Vellam's mind grasped for answers as to how he didn't hear the giant being's mechanically aided breathing. Logically thinking it must be a suppressor field to dampen the sound. But he couldn't help irrationally believing that it was the supernatural powers attributed to the Force that he wielded.
Known only as Darth Vader, he is the Emperor's right hand and most trusted servant. His power is second only to the Emperor. Unless ordered otherwise by the Emperor, Vader has no restrictions in what he is allowed to do to accomplish his goal. Vader even had his own personal fleet known as the Death Squadron. But most importantly, Vader was well known for killing any subordinate who fails him, and just about every Imperial could be considered Vader's subordinate.
When Vader stood beside the throne, he stopped and waited patiently for his master to give his orders.
"Vader, I want you to go with Moff Vellam. Help him to instill discipline in his troops. And find the rebels responsible."
"Yes, my master," rumbled the imposing man as he bowed to his superior. Acting on some unseen signal, Vader marched out of the room, not bothering to wait for Moff Vellam.
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Planet: Earth
System: Sol
Sector: Unregistered
Region: Unknown Regions
Within the Earth sphere, there is a hidden room. The room is kept apart and sealed from the rest of the world and is bare except for a high-back leather chair and seven monitors. A man currently sat in the chair, his face hidden by shadows.
The center monitor's screen glowed as it came online; on its screen was one word.
Password
"Tabris," said the man.
With the password, the central monitor switched over to a screen of data code. At the same time, the six other monitors came to life. Each of these screens depicted a word written in the ancient Greek letters lambda, omicron, gamma, omicron, and sigma. Λόγος The symbol of Logos.
"Greetings, everyone, I am glad to see that the rest of the council has avoided capture. So far, at least."
This was one of the last of Logos' strongholds. Once an organization that pulled the strings of the world from the shadows, manipulating the politics of nations, and inciting wars in order to further their own goals. Members of Logos had all come from the upper crust of society, the financial elite, often with a family represented among their ranks for generations. The ranks of the organization's agents had been filled with a more egalitarian bunch, coming from all walks of life. The world had practically been theirs. And at the top of the secret organization was the Council, whose identities and very existence were kept secret from all but the highest of members.
And then George Glen revealed his secret, and provided the world with the knowledge of how to create Coordinators. That, in and of itself, had not been a problem. The trouble began when the PLANTs, once controlled through the funding and military might of its sponsor nations, declared independence, which they demonstrated by using ZAFT to drive off the military forces of the sponsor nations.
Logos, at the time, had few inroads into the PLANTs' government structure, a mistake they intended to rectify. And as their experience told them, the best time to implant agents was during government restructuring after a war. Using Blue Cosmos and their shadow connections, they incited a war between the Earth Alliance and the PLANTs, the Bloody Valentine War.
However, that was when things started to go wrong. They had underestimated ZAFT's military capabilities. Then they lost control of the Blue Cosmos's leader Muruta Azrael, nephew of Logos member Bruno Azrael. They underestimated how much he hated Coordinators and the lengths he would go to crush them. And then there were the wild cards of the Three Ship Alliance and the genocidal Rau Le Creuset.
Yet after the end of the war, Logos was able to accomplish its goal when member Gilbert Durandal was appointed as Supreme Chairman. However, the newly elected Supreme Chairman betrayed them, severing his ties with Logos, and acted according to his own agenda. The council could not allow that. They needed to remove him. In preparation for the coming conflict they would use to remove Durandal, they made Djibril their "voice". That was their biggest mistake.
They had believed that Djibril would be easy to control, being a man with no real accomplishments tied to his name. But he was ambitious, and he used his newfound authority to usurp control of the organization while the council was distracted by other matters. But Djibril was not the most intelligent member, evidenced by how he kept trying to use brute force to win the Second Bloody Valentine War even when it backfired each time, and he was a complete idiot when compared to Durandal. Durandal took advantage of his superiority to Djibril to eliminate the majority of the organization in order to remove an obstacle to his Destiny Plan. With much of the organization gone, it was only too easy for the likes of the world government to round up most of Logos' agents that remained.
All except for the Council and a handful of their most trusted subordinates.
"As you all know by now," began Tabris. "These are interesting times to live in. First Contact with an extraterrestrial race has been made. And surprise, surprise; they are human!"
"What's surprising is how you can say that so happily, Tabris, considering how our organization has been torn to shambles," groused the member from the center right monitor, the voice electronically disguised, whose codename was Zeruel.
Tabris shrugged, not that it could be seen. "When fate closes a door, it opens a window. And she has provided to us opportunities that we did not know existed until recently."
"You intend to use the extraterrestrials?" The member codenamed Zeruel asked from the center right monitor.
"Is that wise?" asked Leliel from the second left monitor.
"Since they are human, it would be possible for us to predict how they respond to certain stimuli," commented Areal from the second right monitor.
"But there is a problem, all data sources indicate that the Sol Council is responding favorably to the extraterrestrials. They would most surely warn them of Logos," said Iruel from the far left.
"Yes, but my people, what's left of them, have been working to spread the information that Logos is finished and is no longer a threat," added Bardiel.
"But you're forgetting my comrades," interrupted Tabris. "According to what data we have received, there are many sentient beings in the galaxy. A galaxy filled with many governments and the most powerful of them is ideally suited for our purposes."
"You mean the Empire?" asked Zeruel.
"Yes," confirmed Tabris. "A massive tyrannical government ruled by humans and controls millions of planets and their resources. A government plagued by seditious citizens who strike at it at every possible opportunity, keeping the embers of conflict hot, forcing the Empire to spend tremendous amounts of its resources on its military. Would you all not agree that such a place would be quite profitable for us?"
"The idea of having access to all those resources is tantalizing," said Bardiel. "And if word on which way the Sol Council is leaning, the Empire could be using help soon. At least if that failed invasion fleet was any measure of standard."
"Precisely," agreed Tabris before he turned his attention to the monitor on the far right. "Armisael, you have been awfully quiet. Tell me, how is your work progressing in the Library?"
"Terrible," admitted the final member of the council. "I have the genetic information of all of the targets; however I have been unable to solve the instability problem. If I were simply recreating Ulen Hibiki's work, then we could easily regulate the problems the clones he created possessed, but what I am trying to do is significantly more complex. I lack the technology to proceed past the first part of Phase One."
"That is troubling. What of the mobile suits?"
"Acquisition and modification of the designs was simple, however that was before we lost 95 percent of the organization. After Bruno Azrael was arrested, his company was purchased and absorbed into Anaheim Electronics, and we no longer have contacts in Actaeon Industries that could hide the subversion of a mobile suit factory and the secret construction of the machines. We simply don't have enough access to large high-technology industrial firms to continue on that front."
"Yet another reason to involve ourselves with the Empire," decided Tabris. "It's possible they have the technology we need."
So far the plan they were hammering out seemed to be full of advantages for Logos. However, there was one glaring problem. "And how are we to contact the Empire?" asked Zeruel.
"I may know how," answered Bardiel. "My agent in Anaheim has gotten wind of a secret. It seems that Anaheim Electronics has made a deal with the extraterrestrials that included a technology exchange. It's possible that among the technology are schematics for some sort of faster than light travel or communications system that we would need."
"Focus your efforts on acquiring that technology," ordered Tabris. "However, take no action that will comprise either you or your agents. We don't have the resources to make mistakes. If you can obtain the technology, focus on finding anything to do with faster-than-light communication or travel."
"Very well," responded Bardiel. "But they are likely to send any data on faster-than-light travel would be sent to the DSSD. They are Earth's experts in the field of deep-space travel."
"Just do what you can," said Tabris. "If need be, I am sure the others will be willing to divert their resources to aid you." There was a chorus of affirmatives from the monitors.
The group continued their meeting, delving into the details of their current operations and what needed to be done to regain their former power.
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Planet: Ord Mantell
System: Bright Jewel system
Sector: Bright Jewel Cluster
Region: Mid Rim Territories bordering Wild Space
Vader looked over the planet of Ord Mantell from the bridge of Moff Vellam's flagship, the Eradicator. To the right and slightly behind him was Moff Vellam, not that Vader had particularly cared. Vellam was a politician and that was one thing that Vader never liked. The only real use Vellam had was for managing the bureaucracy in the Bright Jewel Cluster. Not that it mattered in such crime-ridden sector, on a planet where for enough credits any fabrication can become reality if you know who to talk to.
So far, after a week's time, the investigation had led here. The uncovered information had led to the knowledge that old Victory class ship Mangle had come here, but for what purpose the local government claims to have no knowledge, saying that it entered hyperspace shortly after arriving. Several days later the flagship of Admiral Davros entered the system. The admiral had made inquiries into the arrival and departure of the Mangle. The local government had little to offer and no clues as to its whereabouts. However the admiral seemed to have discovered his own source of information, deploying a swarm of probe droids followed by the assembly of a small fleet that was under his command which entered hyperspace along a similar vector as the Mangle. But what that information said, such as the intended destination or why follow that course at all, was not something made privy outside Davros's fleet.
Now the investigation team could try launching probe droids as Davros did; Vader had virtually unlimited operations funding. But it would be a futile process. Without proper coordinates, and given the vastness of space, it would take tens of thousands, if not millions, of probe droids just to search all the possible locations within a single sector. For all they knew, the coordinates Davros followed led to some barren patch of space light-years from any star.
No, that method of investigation would be too costly and time-consuming. Instead Vader had requested manifests from all spaceports on ships that had departed from Ord Mantell within the general time frame of the Mangle's arrival and departure. And that was just the list that Vader intended to personally inspect. There were lists of ships covering a wider time frame, from a month before to the present day, that were being covered by the Intelligence agents that Vader had brought along.
Vader's list was being projected by a large monitor on the bridge that Vader turned his attention too after he tired of the planet. The list of names included dozens of ships and their departure time and was cycling through them at a sedate pace. There was no other accompanying data and even the most intelligent individual would have trouble establishing a connection between them and the Mangle. But unlike ordinary men, the Force was Vader's ally.
The powers the Force gave to the Dark Side adept were many and varied, but one of the most useful was clairvoyance. Through the Force Vader could obtain knowledge, though it wasn't simple. The Force did not put detailed facts of events straight into his mind. Even if he were to receive visions of events that have transpired or that are to yet to come, they would be fragmentary with emotional overtones that clouded things. It was easier to rely on "feelings" through the Force. Though they provided little concrete data, they would point Vader in the direction he needed to look.
And as expected, that's precisely what happened, as a name on the list suddenly caught his attention for no apparent reason. With a motion the list stopped cycling and switched to the information on the ship.
Vellam read the name of the ship and the listed owners and he was surprised. "The Tantive IV, currently owned by the royal house of Alderaan, and used by Princess Leia Organa, senator for Alderaan, on a diplomatic trip to the planet." Curiously looking over to the black clad man he asked, "Why this one, Lord Vader?"
"This ship holds a clue to the answer we seek," was Vader's response as a statement of fact, when for others it would merely be speculation.
"But sir, the time stamp indicates that the ship and her crew left the system before the Mangle even arrived, and it left on a different course than the Mangle's own departure."
"Those records could be forgeries," explained Vader. "And it coincides with the ship's own disappearance," he said, referring to how Princess Leia had an unexpected absence for a number of days, missing a Senate meeting she was expected to attend. When she returned to her home on Alderaan, a statement was released that the Tantive IV had been hit by a pirate attack at a waypoint. The ship managed to escape to hyperspace but not before receiving damage that left it stranded in the middle of nowhere. They were able to fix the damage on their own and return to Alderaan. Or so their story goes.
"It is a bit of a coincidence" said Vellam, who did not wish to argue with Vader. Sadly the alternative wasn't much better at the moment. "But my lord, without physical evidence…" Vellam stopped as Vader brought his masked gaze to bear on him. The Moff did not wish to die.
But it was the truth. If Vader were to arrest a member of the Imperial Senator without evidence, it would cause uproar in the Imperial Senate. To make matters more complicated, Alderaan had the distinction of being one of the first planets colonized by humans and had been a member of the galactic community since the founding of the Republic 25,000 years ago.
Finally Vader said, "We need not arrest anyone, merely observe them. If they have anything to do with the Rebels, they will reveal themselves in time."
"Sir," interrupted the ship's captain. "Communiqué from Imperial Center, it's been discovered that on the planet Ralltiir a significant percentage of the population is sympathetic to the rebels, including their high council. The initial sabotage of the planet's banking system has not had the intended impact of eliminating these sympathies, and is in fact seeing counteractions that are believed to be Rebel-supported. Purification has been ordered, to be commenced by a fleet under the command of Lord Tion. It has been requested that you go to oversee the subjugation"
"Very well, prepare a shuttle. I'll depart immediately. Moff Vellam, prepare a report on our findings."
"Yes, Lord Vader."
"And Vellam," said Vader with a hint of warning in his already sinister voice. "Keep in mind that I will be giving a personal report to the Emperor, so yours had better correspond to mine."
Vellam gulped. "Yes, Lord Vader."
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PLANT: Aprilius One
Planet: Earth
System: Sol
Sector: Unregistered
Region: Unknown Regions
Five Months BBY
Kira Yamato sat on a bench in the gazebo that resided in the gardens of the Clyne mansion, his home since he had moved to the PLANTs. As usual, the Haros were bouncing around, playing some game that involved chasing Birdy. On the table before him, a laptop's screen glowed, allowing him to read the reports despite the current nighttime conditions of the colony. It was late, though past experiences had taught Kira how to adapt to odd hours. He was simply killing time as he waited for Lacus.
The Sol Council had a video conference that had begun last night. The subject of discussion had been the reports of those sent out into the galaxy, brought via courier courtesy of the Rebel Alliance. When the initial meeting had ended Lacus had briefly called Kira to tell him that she would be in an emergency session with the PLANTs' Supreme Council to discuss the information the Sol Council had received. She didn't expect to be home until late. So Kira was staying up to wait for her.
Eventually, there was the very familiar "Hello, hello," of Mr. Pink came rolling up to his feet, Lacus right behind the toy. The day of meetings had taken its toll on Lacus, everything about her telling just how tired she was. If it weren't her unique and still pristine beauty, one would be hard-pressed to see the innocently cute girl he met years ago with the mature young woman before him.
Picking up Mr. Pink, Lacus sat down and leaned against Kira with her head resting on his shoulder, letting out a contented sigh as she allowed herself to relax against her lover.
"How was the meeting?" Kira asked.
Lacus let out another sigh, but this one was simply from exhaustion, and possibly a hint of sorrow that Kira thought he heard. "The courier arrived with reports from our representative in the galaxy. Reports on planets such as Alderaan and…" there was a pause here and when she finished her sentenced there was distinct sadness, "…Ralltiir."
"What's Ralltiir like?" Kira asked knowing that was what was bothering Lacus.
"It's a nice planet, situated in the Core region of the galaxy where most planets have large populations and high levels of industries. It's well known for its marble quarries, farming communities, and medical centers. But the planet's most famous and profitable institution is its banking system. It has a population of ten billion, the economy is stable, and the standard of living is quite high." Everything Lacus had said sounded more like facts read from a textbook, and not what was bothering her. "The population had grown significantly pro-Rebel and anti-Imperial. The Ralltiiri High Council even stopped a pro-Imperial faction from altering the market to favor the Empire. To curb Rebel sympathies, the Empire sent a fleet to pacify the planet."
That was the heart of the issue.
"The Ralltiiri people don't even have a true military, just lightly armed law enforcement. But that hadn't stopped the Imperials from bombarding the planet from orbit; burning cities, killing millions, and forcing millions of others suspected of Rebel connection into detainment-death camps disguised as refugee camps."
"How–," began Kira before Lacus cut him off.
"Princess Leia was able to get her ship through the blockade of the planet by running a mercy mission to bring in medical supplies, the only such mission allowed through by the Imperials. She brought Mir and Mr. Rabble with her. They took pictures of the burned cities, the camps, and the people."
Kira knew there wasn't a need to bother with asking if the photos were 100% real. Before leaving Miriallia and Jess had worked out a system that would tell anyone in the know if a photo was actually taken by them, and both reporters were highly trusted finders of the "truth." Mir would unquestionably be trusted by Orb, the PLANTs (or at least by their leaders), and Terminal, and Jess was trusted all over the world because of what he did before and during the Second Bloody Valentine.
"Has the Sol Council come to a decision?"
Lacus shook her head. "No; first we determined that it would be best to discuss the events with each of our own governments. Tomorrow there will be another meeting where we will make our final decision."
Kira was silent for a moment, looking at the stars and listening to the mindless chatter of the Haros. "The Supreme Council wants to aid the Alliance," he said, predicting what happened as opposed to questioning it.
Lacus nodded her head. "They did. And I agreed with them."
Kira brought his arms up around Lacus's shoulders and brought her into an embrace against his chest, knowing just how difficult the decision was for her. "You know that means we'll be involved in another war."
"I know," whispered Lacus, "and I hate it. I hate it so much. We were so close to what looks like real and lasting peace, yet we're getting drawn into another war. But, we can't let this continue. Letting the Empire do what it wants and ignoring the pleas of the Alliance. That's no different than letting the likes of Blue Cosmos, Patrick Zala, Logos, and Durandal do as they please with the world. We can't just sit idly by and let this happen."
This internal conflict drained Lacus and before long she had fallen asleep against Kira. Without complaint or waking her, the Ultimate Coordinator adjusted himself and picked Lacus up bridal style, carrying her into the house and to their bed.
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Author's Notes:
In some ways this was ready since last November. However some of the people I showed it to at the time thought it could be better. And I have worked on it on and off since then. In the end I decided that I was trying to make this too much and all I really wanted was to eat away at the months to get to the Battle of Yavin. I still have a long way to go. Well I did originally create this as a challenge for other authors to write their own Star Wars/Gundam SEED crossovers so in that respect I guess I succeeded.
And for those of you not aware the character Jess Rabble is from the manga series Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny Astray. He is a photojournalist who is dedicated to the ideal of observing and reporting the truth to the world. He piloted the ZGMF-X12 Gundam Astray Out Frame, a mobile suit given to him by Lowe Gear. Jess Rabble was the photojournalist who covered the exploits of U.S.S.A. hero Edward Harrelson during the U.S.S.A.'s revolution to break away from the Earth Alliance. He also covered the exploits of Junk Guild members in the early part of the Second Bloody Valentine.
Oh, and for those of you wondering why I only mentioned by didn't cover the events on Ralltiir, it's because it happened in a comic that I had never read. I knew it happened as well as the basics and figured it would be a good tool to use, but that is as far as I am willing to take it.
*Ecumenpolis – A planet or moon where the surface has been completely covered in a single worldwide city. There are at least twenty ecumenpolis in the galaxy including the well know worlds Taris and Nar Shaddaa