Nausea. Even before opening her eyes the blonde felt like her whole world is spinning, her whole body heavy and sore. She opened her eyes slowly but then immediately closed it as light seeped through both her eyes. She raised her hand for cover but then came in contact with the heavy cold metal on both her arms. Eyes still closed she slowly raised both her legs and arms but all met with the same heavy cold texture.

After some time she slowly opened her heavy eyelids trying every time to adjust to the light until her eyes met with white. She noticed the piercing coldness of the surroundings immediately coursed through her body. At first she taught it was the hospital. But she knew better than that. Will she even be accepted in a hospital? When her vision was a little steady she glanced at her surroundings, moving her head to the sides slowly and was met with cold metal. She was inside a capsule. It was covered with metal of sorts with the exception of the glass window that exposes her face to the outside.

Then like water flowing in the river. Overwhelming feelings filled her. Fear, Anxiety, Panic, Helplessness, despair all came crashing down her gut. A scene started to flash in front of her, as if it was presently happening.

A scene she knows all too well but decided to throw into the deepest, darkest recesses of her mind.

No.

"She's awake" A man towered over her. His face vague, shadowed beyond recognition.

Stop

"Isn't this a little too premature?" Another voice said.

Please

"It's fine, continue with the procedures"

Someone

"As you wish"

Save me.

Inside his office at the Zala Manor. Athrun stood near the high window located behind his desk. He was staring at the deep blue sky above thinking of nothing in particular satisfied with the silence that engulfed the corners of the room. It was really peaceful.

He then walked to his desk and picked up the folder that silently lay on the corner of his table. He opened it and his eyes darkened. Why are there people who still try to ruin this peace? Was the deaths the war produced not enough already? His train of thoughts came to a stop as a knock came from the door but he did not even bother to look at the person who entered. His eyes still fixated on the file at hand.

As the oak doors of the room open a soldier went in making a few steps forward before saluting. "The Prince of Orb has arrived."

Athrun flipped another page from the folder. "Send him straight here."The soldier brought his hand down and bowed before leaving. Athrun closed the folder then placed it back on the table and walked back to his place near the window. It was no secret to the world about the history of the Prince of Orb and the current Chairman of Plants. They were both declared War heroes from years ago. Heroes who fought for what they believe is right. They did not side with anyone only themselves and what they believe in. And because of that, both were able to contribute to the now peaceful era. So of course everyone alive knew what his deeds are aside from his title as the heir of Orb. Kira Yamato walked through the hallway inside the Manor accompanied by two green coated soldiers who walked by his side. His head held high as some of the inhabitants of the Manor gave way, some of them bowed and some of them saluted. He continued walking straight while giving a smile at the people who either raised their hands in a salute or bowed at him. Then he saw a very large oak wood vintage style door. They came to a stop just in front of the door. A soldier standing beside him knocked three times then both soldiers opened the door wide.

Athrun stood by the window waiting for his visitor. His attention left the skies as there was a soft knock on the door. He stood straight and saw the brunette who the world knows as the person who braved all those who stood against peace and his beloved country, the heir of a powerful neutral nation. The Prince of Orb.

His best friend.

Athrun left his place and walked to the middle of the room. So did Kira.

The Chairman of Plants raised his hand and offered it to Kira. "Welcome to Plants Mr. Kira Yamato."

"Thank you, Chairman Zala." Kira smiled and took the hand he offered. "It's a pleasure to be here."

Athrun signaled the soldiers to leave the room. Saluting, they left and closed the door.

"It sounds nice." Kira started just after the heavy doors were closed. "Your new title that is."

Athrun chuckled. "It's not like it made any difference from the previous Chairman". He guided Kira to the sofa in the middle of the room and ushered him to sit as he himself sat on the opposite side.

A knock came from the door and a maid showed herself with tray in hand. She placed the two coffee cups on the center table, placing some other ceramic containers then bowed and left the room.

Kira took the cup in front of him. "So how have you been, Athrun?"

"Very busy." He answered taking a sip from his cup. "…and tired."

Kira closed his eyes momentarily. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be, I chose this." He said taking another sip from the coffee.

"No, I mean for not being there when you need me."

Athrun smiled. Kira was one of the very few people who would genuinely offer help and company whenever needed. He must've felt guilty.

"Thank you. But really don't be. I'm just glad to know that you're still alive after your disappearing act after the war."

"Well, about that, I'm sorry that I did that without telling. I was rude to you." Kira placed his cup back on its saucer.

Athrun smirked. "You should say that to Lacus not me."

The brunette's cheeks immediately colored and Athrun was forced to hold his laughter. Athrun knew that the only person who could make his friend blush like that is the Pink haired songstress.

"Y..You shouldn't say something like that. I mean she's your fiancé and all." Kira was forcing himself not to bury his face with his hands.

"Kira, you know that there's nothing going on between us." Athrun's smile widens. "Well if you must know, our engagement is already out the window the moment you stepped into our lives."

"Wha…" Kira's eyes widen but the red in his cheeks remained.

"I'm not blaming you." Athrun was trying not to make his smile wider. "You know that it's an arrange marriage from the beginning."

"But..you…"

"I love her, Kira. I would offer my life for her. Just not my heart."

The brunette lowered his head. He knew Athrun did not love her that way. And from way back when they were still 14 years old, He would always get frustrated at how his blue haired friend played the silent matchmaker for them. But still it was wrong.

"Don't be like that. It was her decision to cancel the engagement anyway."

"She did what?!"

"Well I kind of blame you for that" Athrun pretended to sigh. "More paper work for me."

"I'm…"

Athrun laughed. It was already too much to handle. The brunette was still the same as ever. His modest, gentle, sensitive and a little nervous about his private life friend.

"Kira, Don't be so edgy on your seat. We both know that this day would come. She just decided when."

Kira frowned lowering his head. Lacus already gave up so much for him. And the only thing that she asked was for him to come back to her. A wish that he did not even know if he can grant.

"She's still waiting for you." Athrun knew that his brunette friend knew that as well. He just felt someone has to verbalize it.

Kira nodded. He knew very well that she has and still will unless he tell her straight out. But he can't say it. He can't even bring himself to think about it. It is cruel. But that is the only thing that he felt he can hold on to her. Even if everything is already broken.

"You know, I should've prevented this if I know you'll just up and leave her."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't tell me you showed yourself here after your grand two year disappearance just to say sorry" Athrun chuckled.

Kira smiled grimly, his head still lowered. "You don't know how right you are."

The two long time friends reminisced about the time they had lived in the past. From their meeting at the academy on Copernicus city to their time after leaving the academy and their situations before the present including the agonizing war they had both participated. There were very painful memories although they harbored no animosity towards each other anymore about the topic. It was all in the past and there is a lot to catch up to. They never got the chance to sit and talk during the war and Kira's sudden disappearance did not help them all together.

"I remembered the time when ZAFT invaded Morgenroete Facility. I was only there because of the field work assigned to me by my professor in the University. You really don't know how much I panicked when the whole ground shook because of the explosion" The brunette said as he thought back on the time years ago.

"Well I was surprised too. Who wouldn't be when you suddenly learned that your best friend is piloting a Mobile Suit and is fighting you. You spoke with such authority at that time I thought you were a commander or something. Who would've guessed I was already picking a fight with the heir of Orb." Athrun smiled at the recollection. It was one of the most horrifying event in his life. To fight his own kind and best friend. "I was there as a student, not as someone who represents Orb as an official."

"How about when we were at Copernicus City? Why did you not say anything about it to me or Lacus?"

"That is not up to my judgment to reveal it to anyone. It is up to the decision of the Head Representative and It was decided to be officially announced when I turn 18."

"Yeah, it came to me as a shock though. Lord Uzumi suddenly announced that his only heir, the Prince of Orb, will be taking full Command of the Orb Forces as Commander in Chief. That is unexpected given we are still in a War that time."

"I asked Lord Uzumi to announce it. I want to be of help to him and Orb in any way. And so that the attention the Earth Alliance on the Representative will be divided."

"...and for that, you had to go on the front lines." Athrun looked back at that time, to say he was stunned at that time would be an understatement. The battle has already taken its place at Orb and Athrun participated reluctantly. He knew that Kiras' hometown is Orb and at that time he also knew that he is a part of the Orb Military and is likely participating as well. But never, never in his life would he expect such revelation to be revealed in the middle of the battlefield.

"I want to. If we were to open the door to the future we have to fight for it first."

"Yeah." Athrun breathed out "At the time of war, I thought I was fighting for what was right, what I know I should be fighting for. For Justice. But after that I realized I was so gravely mistaken. You had always been fighting for the future. I was fighting because of the past."

Kira shook his head. Athrun was guilty with his role during the war. Even though he never said it out loud, Kira knew it. "At that time we all are looking for a reason to fight."

"Well my reason was uncouthly." Athrun sighed "But...Thanks."

"Kira smiled. "You're welcome."

"So.." Athrun said.

"So?" Kira asked.

"About Lacus…" Athrun teasingly smirked.

Kira's cheeks instantly colored bright red. "ATHRUN!"

A silent knock broke the laughter inside the room. The door opened and in went a green coat soldier and saluted immediately. "I'm sorry for the intrusion, sir."

Athrun frowned. He clearly stated that he should not be disturbed unless it is an emergency that would require his immediate attention. The soldier then went behind his seat and whispered the emergency that was supposed to require his presence. His frown would not get any deeper. This was an emergency alright but it was not that dire, he can just send someone to oversee it. He wants to stay. There are too many things that need catching up with Kira. He wants to stay at the past a little while more, where even though he has no freedom, he still made choices for his own.

Athrun sighed. This was the present. And at this time he has neither freedom nor choice. The last time he ever made a choice out of his own free will is to take on the title of Chairman.

His time with his best friend would have to wait. Athrun told the soldier to ready his car he saluted and went out immediately.

"What happened?" Kira asked as the soldier went out of the room.

"Work" Athrun said and looked at Kira smiling apologetically. "Where are you going after this? If you don't mind I can arrange a room for you here in the mansion."

"Oh you don't have to worry about that. I already have a place rented out."

"How long will you be staying here at Plants?"

"I'll be leaving the day after tomorrow." Kira smiled. "I'm just here for some business and then I'll go back to Orb. I've been away far too long already."

"Damn right you are." Athrun gave a short laugh. A knock came on the door again signaling that their time together is coming to an end. Kira stood up knowing that the Chairman cannot be delayed anymore. The two walked to the door that was now held open by two guards.

As the two walked silently down the hallway of the Zala Manor Kira couldn't help but notice that as they neared the door of the House, the guards that surrounds them multiplied; some even took their place in front of them as they walked. Kira frowned. This will be tough.

Athrun noticed Kira's sudden change of expression and thought that he was getting uncomfortable. Of course the guards surrounding them were ridiculously many even for him but even he can't shake them off especially when the whole military suspects that there might still be someone out for his life. "Sorry about this. The Council just won't let me walk around without these guards tagging along."

"Must be hard on you." Kira said "But isn't this normal? I mean you are the Chairman."

"Well yeah." Athrun shook his head "but it wasn't this many"

"Did something happen?"

"Just some troublesome things"

"..Troublesome…?"

"I mean, uh, something happened at the HQ and, well…"

"An assassination attempt, huh?"

Athrun's eyes widened. "How did you.."

"It's kind of getting obvious here Athrun" Kira smiled as he pointed at the guards on his side.

Athrun sighed. "This is why I don't want any changes to be made on my surroundings."

Kira nodded. He felt sorry for his best friend. Although, assassination attempts on him in his own country was very rare, almost none. Given they knew his identity and position even before Orb revealed his status in public. He was announced heir when he was only around 16 years old and spent a good 2 years missing from the hungry eyes of the media. He at some point after the war was assigned bodyguards, because of his involvement on the war and the knowledge of him being the Ultimate Coordinator. They were everywhere just like how it was for Athrun, and he knew how it was suffocating him.

Kira took a glance at Athrun. "What really happened?"

Athrun kept silent for a while. Considering over whether to tell Kira what happened or keeps it from him, like how the Council and Military kept it hidden from the public. Kira noticed the lack of response from Athrun . He can't blame him. He was not his own man anymore. Even if he is the Chairman of PLANTS, Leader of Coordinators. He is still expected to follow orders. Kira placed a hand on Athrun's shoulder and slightly shook his head. "I understand." Athrun nodded at Kira and resumed their walking.

"Make sure that Prince Kira is safely escorted at his destination." He ordered at the soldier beside him as they stood near his car waiting for him to board.

"Really Athrun, you don't have to."

Athrun shook his head. "No way. I can't actually let you walk around PLANTS without an escort."

Kira chuckled. "Don't worry. They won't make it into a political issue just because you let me walk around without an escort."

Athrun made a confused face. "What are you talking about? I can't have my friend walking around my territory without some guide. That's the least I could do for wasting your time in visiting."

Kira smiled gratefully. "Thanks for the thought."

"It's time Chairman Zala." A soldier said. Athrun nodded and started heading to his car.

"I'll find some time tommorow and maybe take a day off so I can properly escort you." He said looking back at Kira as a soldier open the door to of the car for him. "You'll still have some spare time tomorrow, right?"

"Uh. Yeah, sure." Kira answered blankly.

Athrun nodded at Kira before going inside the already opened door of the car. After the door closed did Kira run to the side of the car where Athrun just boarded, the guards were alert but did not make any move to stop the prince. The tinted window immediately rolled down.

"What is it?" Athrun asked looking at his friend with a slightly confused look.

Kira smiled slightly at his friend. It was now or never.

"Can I come with you?"

There are some perks on being Kira Yamato. You have the power, the fame and the authority. Especially if you're best friends with one of the most respected, powerful man living today. Not that he was not less powerful than the other head of state or anything but, he has yet to prove himself to be respected by the public, not to mention introduce him properly to the world as the rightful heir of a sovereign nation.

Earlier he had asked if he can come with the chairman to wherever he will be going. Not that he didn't know already or at least had a hunch. As expected some the soldiers made a very minor fuss about it, squirming from their places as they looked at their chairman, hoping to reject him. Of course the chairman ignored their silent plea which was also copied by Kira. Athrun narrowed his eyes, not in the suspicious kind of way. Just questioning.

"Why?"

Kira shrugged. "Don't have anything to do at all actually. Might as well make my lost time with you productive."

Seeing that Athrun thought about it for a moment made Kira somewhat anxious. The possibility of him rejecting is being clearer to him. Kira thought that maybe, just maybe, Athrun will let him pass. Considering their connection to each other and of course his status, but thinking now as he saw Athrun slowly frown, was that enough?

"I'm actually heading to the ZAFT Headquarters." Athrun said still in his thinking mode, not looking at Kira. And this, for the prince, was a red signal given to him.

Kira half-faking a startled expression took a step back from the car. "Oh. I didn't know. Uh, sorry 'bout that." Everyone knew that access to ZAFT headquarters are strictly guarded and only ZAFT personnel's, soldiers and of course the Chairman and the Council are allowed to enter. Officials from other nations that are invited from the outside are only able to enter if they give a notice in advance that they will be visiting.

"And she just had to go there." Kira thought to himself. He just recently learned or at least heard that a group of unidentified people were caught in the ZAFT Headquarters. Kira then learned that the PLANTS council were planning on not going public with it, since the information he heard were just rumors. How can the PLANTS council expect to hide that when there was an unconventional uproar happening inside the highly guarded base greatly concerning all of the civilians in the vicinity at the time. Of course Kira just deducted that the culprits were caught since there was no panic on the people's faces and the whole community on that matter. It's like nothing actually happened. Maybe it's because they were just rumors or that there was no official announcement from their most trusted council. Then Kira thought hard for a moment. The plan that he has been planning for so long. He might actually achieve it perfectly, but there will be some changes. And the changes include the Chairman.

Kira exhaled loudly. This plans going to be tougher that he hoped it would be. He might as well just go with the back-up plan. "Well then, I guess it can't be helped. I'll just see you tomorrow, okay." Kira then turned around and headed to the car provided for him. He was in deep thought when he suddenly heard someone call him.

"Kira!" Athrun called for him. "Hop on!"

And now he was inside one of the most guarded facility of ZAFT. One where other officials were required to get an approval before getting in. And he graciously entered the facility without even going through the standard security checks. He awkwardly nodded and smiled to the other personnel inside, who were eyeing him with a how-did-this-punk-get-in-here look. Of course he doesn't expect them to know him yet. He was yet to be introduced to the public and well, so not everyone who had a chance to see him during the war personally had an idea that he is in fact a very important political figure. He can't actually say that 'I'm the commander-in-chief of the platoons you fought with back at Orb' so that they will recognize him.

"Well it doesn't matter. I'm not even allowed here like this with or without status." He eyed his best friend from the corner of his eye. He noticed the dignity and aura that the Chairman holds as he walked through the hallway. In the past, Athrun Zala always did walk with prestige a mysterious elegance that made him recognizable from others, recognizable as being Chairman Zala's son. But now, not only did he has that same grandeur as he walked, it has the aura that demanded respect that every living person knew that he was worthy of. Not as being the late Chairman's son or a brave unselfish soldier who fought for PLANTS, but as Athrun Zala a person who fought for peace and won.

Kira chuckled. Other than the mission that he has to do, he was really looking forward in seeing his best friend again and was very proud on what he has became. From an emotional and mental wreck the war forced him to become, to this person who now stood beside him. Proud, content and tranquil.

Athrun raised a brow. Passing by soldiers who stood straight and saluted at them. "What is it?"

"You've changed." Kira said a soft smile on his face "In a good way."

"Well you've changed too." Athrun shrugged. "I don't know if it's in a good way. Can't believe you actually came with me without some kind of argument, knowing I was headed here."

True, if it was the past him, Kira would have frantically rejected Athrun's offer but instead he accepted it and got inside the car with him without a moment's notice. Kira smiled guilty, gazing down at the ground. Thinking of what he is about to do to this man made him want to back out. He kind of expected that he will feel guilty and might think of abandoning the idea along the way. After talking with his best friend after so long. The strong bond of friendship and understanding that they had was starting to resurfaced again and now he can't bring himself to drag this person in this mess.

Maybe he can still back-out. He can still go back to the original plan.

"Chairman Zala!" The two looked back to see who had called.

Yzak was practically stomping from his half striding half walking pace. An angry scowl on his face and behind him his trusty and loyal right hand man who was trying to calmly keep up with the pissed silver haired commanders' stride, as well as the rest of the soldiers following them from behind. As he stopped in front of the two Yzak, Dearka and the rest abruptly raised their hands and saluted their Chairman.

Athrun returned the gesture. On which Kira hoped that he will not as he knew what would come next.

"What the hell do you think you're doing?! Letting a civilian inside the facility?!" he glared at Kira beside him.

At a loss on what to do under the commanders' suspicious glare. Kira did the most natural thing to do at the moment. At least for him.

Yzak's face twisted. His glare intensified as Kira stuck his hand out for a handshake. "Hi."

Athrun took a step and placed himself between the two. "Stop that Yzak. He is my guest."

Dearka who was grinning all the while placed his hand on the commanders' shoulder gesturing him to stop. "Now Commander, let's be friendly with Chairman Zala's guest."

"This is not some damned place for a field trip!" Yzak growled. "You don't take mere guest's inside this facility especially when...!"

At that Dearka pulled Yzak's shoulder making him stop his sentence. Yzak glanced at Dearka his expression stoned. Recovering himself, Yzak quickly brushed his hands off his shoulder and straightened himself ignoring the prescience of the civilian. He looked at Athrun with all the seriousness he can muster. "I suggest that your guest take his leave immediately."

"Situation under control, Commander?" Athrun ignoring his words said. It was more of a statement rather than a question.

Yzak's lips twitched as his glare came back. "Of course, Sir." the last part was stressed.

Dearka noticing the silent anger Yzak is trying to control decided to take over with the conversation. "Chairman, with all due respect, I suggest you heed the Commander. The situation even if under control is still bad and inviting a 'guest' here is reckless."

Athrun remained silent. Immediately brooding over the fact of what Dearka said. Seeing this Kira raised his hand trying to gather their attention, if he does not think of something, Athrun might as well send him home now. "If I may ask, what is going on?"

The three looked at him then Athrun cleared his throat. Slightly ashamed of forgetting to introduce them to Kira. "This is Commander Yzak Joule and Lieutenant Dearka Elsman."

Yzak glared at him again which made Kira smile nervously. Dearka raised his hand and acknowledged him making a small 'Yo' as a greeting.

"I'm sorry for Yzak's sudden temper." Athrun apologized. "But as I have told you before there has been a problem."

"I can see that." He then looked at Yzak and Dearka. He knew the both of them. Well at least only from Athrun's stories. The three of them were on the same team from the war years ago. His comrades that formed the Zala team.

"I believe Chairman that It is only right that you introduce him to us as well." Dearka said his friendly mode getting to him.

"Ah right, my name is..."

"We don't have time for this!" Yzak cut him. Waving his hand at the soldiers behind him. "Escort Chairman Zala's guest out."

The soldiers saluted and walk passed the commander heading to Kira when Athrun's voice stopped them. "There is no need for that Commander. I'll have someone accompany him at the lounge while we discuss this issue." He turned to brunette. "That would be alright with you, Kira?"

Kira was surprised. This was turning out to be easy. Way too easy. Ah. The perks of being Kira Yamato is taking effect.

"Sure." He nodded. This was very fortunate, If Athrun is not around, and so is the guilt.

"You won't have any problems with this right?" Athrun turned to Yzak, facing his extremely annoyed face.

Yzak was about to retort when a hand grabbed him in the shoulder. "No. That would be fine." Dearka said his hand placed firmly on his shoulder. Yzak tried to pry away but before he did he heard his tanned friend ask.

"Hey. What's your name?"

Kira smiled. Once again offering his hand to the both of them. "Kira. Kira Yamato."

A playful grin appeared on Athrun's lips as he caught a glimpse of Yzak's face eyes wide as the color drained from him. Dearka on the other hand gave out a short laugh before saluting to the Prince of Orb, Yzak regaining his composure, followed suit. Turning around swiftly Athrun started to leave the grin not leaving his features. "Let's go."

If he knew that they were going to hold them that long. He should have just said his name in the first place.

Before Athrun guided Kira to the lounge exclusive for the officials he gave Kira a tour of the building they were in, since he thought Yzak will not make a fuss anymore. Yzak and Dearka, after telling him that they will be waiting for him at his office, excused themselves after bidding the Prince of Orb a 'Have a pleasant visit'. Kira declined the tour at first saying that the Commander is waiting for him. Athrun only smiled. With guards on tow Athrun was like his personal tour guide as he told Kira the place they were in and their functions. Although Athrun was very careful on the information's that left his lips. Not giving any other info than their basics, if he tried to elaborate further they were either unclear or ambiguous. Kira respected his choice of words so he never asked any further information other than from the basics.

When they were on the very lower part of the building, which Athrun explained where they kept highly guarded intelligence. Kira's suspicion arose. He was about to pursue the topic more when he suddenly felt the guilt raining down on him little by little. What if those highly guarded information's includes the information where they kept criminals that they don't want others to know? Of course it would. Orb has a facility like that too.

And as Athrun hinted that the tour on that level was nearly done. Kira found himself partially listening as the other part seems to concentrate on the sound of his heart beating on his ears and the tightening of his fists on his side as they walked. This was what he had feared. He looked at his friend before hanging his head low, his posture down. Kira slowly closed his eyes as he felt the crawling feeling of disappointed in himself and his resolution. He can't bring himself to bring this mess to his best friend. He had back out at the last minute.

"Kira?" Athrun asked. Concerned as to why his friend held his head low. "Is something wrong?"

Kira looked at Athrun forgetting to hide the feelings he had. Athrun confused with the look the brunet had thought that something was wrong.

"What's the matter?" Athrun asked his worry filled expression came in to Kira's sight. "Kira..."

The two coordinators jumped as well as their guards and quickly turned around when the sudden sound of a door opening not too far from them. But it was not the untimely sound of the door they were surprised at. There was a shrill, for a moment as two persons rushed out of the room, their ears had caught the muffled, ear piercing scream they had heard inside the building and as soon as the doors closed and the sound gone Athrun felt his friend dash to the doors that blocked the sound of the outcry they just heard.

He stood for a moment and ran to the place where Kira just entered. The cry was piercing, it made his ears pound not because of the high pitch sound it is, it was not even that loud since the person screaming was encased in a capsule like metal. It was the emotions that the person screamed with. Athrun saw that the person screaming was one of the people who they have caught infiltrating the base days ago. The same person who he fought against as she tried to kill him.

The first thing that Athrun thought was why was she screaming. Not only was that she trying to break free of something that held her inside the capsule, she was also crying. He scanned the area there was only three people inside all were wearing a white lab coat. He then asked himself why was the girl in there? She was supposed to be confined on the cell two floors down where they were in. He looked at the capsule where the girl was confined. Those were used for confining people who were labeled as ED.

Extremely Dangerous Individuals.

He had no idea. He was only informed that something happened to the criminal held in the base and that they are requesting his prescense immediately. At that moment he wanted to go to Yzak and make him explain everything that happened. He was too engrosed in thinking of what has happened. When out of the blue, he felt himself tense up as he heard a familiar click.

His mind was like in slow motion as Athrun registered the image in front of him. A few steps ahead from where he is standing was his friend who just suddenly ran to this room. The person who has been his best friend for many years and the one whom he has given his absolute trust. The person who has been missing for years from his family, his hometown and from the public. Was now infront of him, with a gun in his hand, pointed directly at the person standing beside the screaming girl.

"Release her!"