A/n
And here's chapter 17… earlier than I thought it would come, especially with school racing towards the end of the semester for me. This is not so action packed as the last one, but it balances out those kinds of chapters and helps advance the plotline. Honestly, this chapter sets the stage for the next one which will be somewhat more action packed and fast paced. Anyways, on with the story!
Phase 17: Calm Before a Coming Storm
May 8th 71 C.E.
-Tyler's pov-
Southern Area of Norton Sound
It was hard to swallow as it was always to have someone die in front of me, this was no different from the times before. To me it has never mattered whether one was a Natural or a Coordinator, with the Alliance, ZAFT or the Federation, no human being deserves to die. My attention was shifted as I saw the Strike coming to land close by my own position. I figured that when the knowledge of my continuing existing came out and friends knew it, they would come flocking to me. Kira was proving the point, but I see nothing wrong with that, for I wanted to see one of the two best friend I have that I was forced to leave.
I tried to make my way over to the Strike, but my body at that point had enough of my forced orders to it and refused to listen anymore. With my body revolting against me, I quickly found myself falling towards the ground. However, Lisa caught me and sat me down on a rock where I took some time to get over the pain that was flowing through me, giving me a number of sharp reminders of how far I still had to go on the road to full recovery. Noted that Lisa was giving me a look she has multiple times since I had woken up after my mobile suit's destruction. It was her way of saying that I was pushing too hard and to back off without words. I know she's right, but I won't admit that out loud unless I've no other choice, yet it doesn't make the idea any less true.
Thankfully, the waves of pain were dying down as Kira had gotten to the ground and was coming over to where I was. When Kira was just about to me, I stood slowly on my feet and found they held me upright, meaning that my body was listening to my brain for the time being, no guarantee how long that will last. Kira's greeting to me was to come right up and hug me. Normally, I would be all for that… yet, with my present state of health, it didn't feel as nice or good as it usually would. "Tyler, thank goodness you're alive, I thought I'd never see you again!" said Kira while he embraced me.
I ignored the pain that I felt and patted Kira on the shoulder, "I'm sorry for making you worry Kira. I didn't plan what happened in any way, so I was blindsided good, and it's taken time to shake off the aftermath and really, I'm still in that process."
Kira let me go, then Lisa smacked my shoulder, which increased the stabbing and burning sensation I was experiencing enough that I couldn't hold in the pained grunt that escaped me. "You should, still be taking things slow and easy, but then rarely do you listen to the advice of others Tyler," remarked Lisa.
I turned stiffly and attempted to glare at Lisa, yet only managed to give her a weak glower, "Do you mind not making the pain harder to ignore Lisa, it's difficult enough for me as it is, don't add to it please, the painkillers are doing more than they're meant to already. And I do listen to the advice of others, I just don't see reason to follow said advice, in this case, doctors recommend more time that can't be afforded in my view," I replied.
After replying to Lisa, I shifted myself back to facing Kira, who was looking at the Freedom to my right, "So then Tye, what's the story with this machine and where did it come from?" he asked me.
"Well, as it happens, this mobile suit came into my possession due to a chain of events that I would rather no state or discuss at this time, but I'll tell you later. The story with it, would be that I'm bringing it to you as I think it fits your piloting style far more than mine. Plus, I've an interest in a unit that I saw recently and hope to work with it in future, but not the point right now," I answered.
I noticed out of the corner of my eye, that the rest of the crew of the Archangel was coming in our direction with the Archangel behind them. Kira began to go towards them and with Lisa's help, I also walked in that direction, a tad slower than Kira was. But, think I should be cut some slack as I'm still in poor shape where overall health is concerned right now. Still, a quick glance over of those there, told me that there were a few not here, I can't say why that's the case, but hopefully I would find out later. Once close enough, I couldn't keep my mouth shut any longer, "I was worried for a bit, but still made it here in time it seems," I greeted.
"Tyler? …Are you really standing here alive?" uttered Murrue in slight disbelief.
I gave a deadpanned expression to her, "Well, as you can see for yourself, the Grim Reaper's last attempt to take a swing at me failed, did get close enough for me not to feel comfort about it, but still, a swing and a miss," I answered flatly.
I was very thankful when none of the crew actually hugged me like Kira had, my friend's embrace had hurt a sizable margin and I don't see it being good adding to the problems that I already am managing right now. However, it was clear that I'd been missed and that all were glad I was back among them and that was… it was kind of odd for me, yet felt nice. I took some time to regain order and make myself heard as I didn't really have the energy to shout loudly. "I don't doubt that you got lots of questions and I wouldn't say no to catching-up with what's been going on with all of you," I said to direct the subject to a more organized model.
Murrue nodded to me, "That sounds about right," she remarked.
"So then, were you with ZAFT?" queried Mu.
I gave Mu a look that might imply that I was insulted to be asked if I had change sides… and I was a tiny bit. I was in a Federation pilot suit and had been since leaving the Donnen, "No, I was around the PLANTs for a time, but that's all. I'm still myself and a member of the Federation military, thank you very much and proud to be so," I justified with as much dignity that I could muster.
"Then, where did this machine you have come from?" questioned Krystal.
As that subject is one I don't wish to go into detail with, I cleared my throat to make sure I had everyone's attention for what I was about to say, "That's a loaded question, all I can say as an answer, is that this suit has been entrusted to me," I stated clearly.
"Okay, then what should we do about it?" asked Murrue.
"If you're referring to maintenance and resupplying it, there's no need to worry about that for the time being. This mobile suit has power to spare… uh, mostly because it has a piece of equipment called a N-Jammer Canceller," I iterated.
"A neutron jammer canceller?" uttered Mu in surprise close to shock.
Krystal was shaking her head from side to side as she was muttering, "But, how can that be?"
"So then, is that thing powered by nuclear energy?" said one of the Archangel's bridge officers that I didn't remember the name of.
"Where did you get it?" inquired Pal.
I let out a sigh as I had, in my view, I'd already answered this subject in a way to say it would not be discussed further. It seems I didn't make the point clear enough yet, "Did I not just say something along the lines that all I'll say is that it was entrusted to me? Any other inquiries about this unit will not be answered, so deal with it and move on," I said with finality, leaving no room for argument to be made.
"This kid?!" commented Mu, which I took as a compliment.
"Got to admit, not many people like him," added Krystal.
That's the way I am, don't see a reason to change that or modify my behavior, any who think otherwise, can cram it up their rear ends and shut up! Murrue was nodding, "Very well, we'll leave the mobile suit and its equipment alone, I promise that," she said, before she turned and made sure that was made clear to the rest, which I appreciated.
The next twenty minutes, were used to get the Strike, Shadow and Freedom on board the Archangel. My curiosity was prodded when I saw the Buster in a dock, for I hadn't expected to see one of the stolen machines here. It looks like a great deal has happened since I had been gone, makes me wonder how much catching up there is to do.
-Line Break-
-Neutral pov-
Aprilius One, Lagrange 5
Athrun came off the shuttle he had taken from Carpentaria to get back here to the PLANTs. He instantly took notice that the air was far different than the last time he had been at the PLANTs. Then, to Athrun's surprise, he was approached by his old mentor while he had been in the ZAFT military academy, Ray Yuki. Athrun saluted his mentor and the gesture was returned, "It's good to see you again back around the PLANTs Athrun," greeted Yuki.
"Thank you Commander Yuki, but what's going on to have so many worried and panicking like I've been seeing?" Athrun asked.
Yuki glance around and then drew closer to Athrun, "This isn't official yet, but it seems operation Spit break has failed."
Athrun's eyes widened at hearing that. Operation Spit break had been a big thing and was expected to help bring a quicker end to the war. The operation was to make an attack on a major base of the Earth Alliance, make a decisive blow to the Alliance itself. For it to have failed didn't bode well at all, what the reason for its failure, didn't matter much at this point. Yuki continued, "We don't have the full details yet, but preliminary reports say that somewhere around 50% of our forces were destroyed, yet we haven't been able to confirm if that's true at this time."
This was bad news to Athrun and he'd had far too much of that lately in his view, yet he now had to hear further bad news. However, the news kept coming, "There's something else as well, and this is not widely known, and it's preferred to be kept that way for now, but one of our prototype mobile suits has been stolen. And it seems, that the thief who's being considered an enemy spy, was assisted by Lacus Clyne. The National Defense Committee is in a state of panic," Yuki told him.
Athrun dropped the suitcase he had been holding from the shock at what he had just heard, "No way, that's impossible! I know her, Lacus would never do something like help an enemy spy," Athrun reason.
Yuki nodded, "Yes, it's hard to think it possible I know, but there is proof of this or she wouldn't be accused of doing such."
Athrun couldn't believe what he was hearing, even as he was going to report to the Council Chairman. Once reaching the office that his father had, Athrun entered, "Excuse me," he announced.
However, Athrun stopped as he took in the conversation that was going on, "It seems that they used a Cyclops system, an array of enormous size was found underneath the base," said one of the four officers that were in front of Patrick Zala's desk.
Patrick Zala sighed and took a moment to calm down a bit, "Where's Le Creuset?" he asked.
The officers looked at each other, "We haven't been able to make contact with him yet, all that we know is that he's somewhere safe," said the same officer as before.
"I want a detailed report from him and Treize about this," commanded Chairman Zala
At that moment, another military officer entered the room and saluted, "Eileen Canaver and some of the other council members are gathering in the meeting room sir," said the officer.
It was then that Patrick Zala noticed Athrun standing in the room, waiting for his turn to speak and report. He nodded to Athrun, "I'll be with you in a moment."
"Sir," Athrun acknowledged.
The officer that had come in and said that the members of the PLANTs Supreme Council wanted a meeting continued, "It sounds like the other members of the council are demanding an emergence session upon this current issue."
Patrick Zala put a hand to his temple, "The first thing that needs to be seen to, is to get the surviving troops to Carpentaria, it's a miracle that more weren't lost, we can't afford to lose what we still have right now," he said.
The officer showed that he understood and then left the office. Chairman Zala then focused back on the four officers in front of his desk, "I want results. What is needed is an objective analysis of this situation. Where is the Clyne family?" demanded Zala.
The lead soldier answered, "We don't know sir, by what we can tell, Clyne had an escape planned already. It may take longer to find him and his daughter than early estimates said."
Patrick Zala gained a serious expression, yet showed growing irritation, "Alert the Justice department. Eileen Canaver and other members of the council who have been with Clyne in the last few months are to be detained," he ordered.
All the officers looked apprehensive, "But… But sir, to detain active members of the Supreme Council," began the lead officer.
However, Chairman Zala interrupted the officer, "Lacus Clyne was seen consorting with a spy! And now she and her father have disappeared along with information regarding operation Spitbreak was leaked somehow! Even a child can make the connection as to how this happened. It was Clyne that betrayed us! Yet, Canaver and the other are demanding answer from me about this?! They have had their hands in this and they will pay for it. In fact, they're probably the ones hiding them, it's the only real explanation that makes sense," he reasoned at a near shout.
"Understood sir," all the soldiers said together, before leaving the room.
Athrun approached the desk as his father sat down in the chair, appearing tired and stressed. It wasn't surprising with all that was going on, but still, all that was being assumed was crazy. "Father," Athrun started.
Patrick Zala glared at his son sternly, "What did you call me?!" he asked angrily.
"Forgive my misconduct, I meant to say Chairman Zala, sir," Athrun corrected.
"Do you comprehend the magnitude of the current situation?" posed chairman Zala.
Athrun nodded, "Indeed sir, but I… it's hard to believe that Lacus would do anything like this, I can't believe that," he stated.
Patrick Zala brought up a screen and showed Athrun a security video, and Athrun saw it was clearly of a mobile suit. He spotted that one of those in the video was Lacus, but couldn't see who the other was as they had a helmet on. Lacus was waving from the doorway as the doors to the hanger closed and then, the 'spy' in a ZAFT pilot suit and helmet began heading for the mobile suit cockpit entrance. Yet, they stopped when they were half way and focused on the camera, which confused Athrun.
As the footage kept playing, Athrun witnessed the 'spy' wave at the camera, showing they clearly knew that the security camera was there and recording. Then, they used one of their hands to point at the camera and the other… Athrun's eyes widened as he saw the other hand get shown with only the middle finger pointing up and the others curled in. The spy emphasized the gesture and that it was being aimed at those who were watching the footage.
Once the video was done, the screen was covered again, Patrick Zala turned back to Athrun, "Now you see there is no doubt as to what she did. And when the identity of that spy is discovered, they will be punished severely. You may think it's not possible that Lacus Clyne is a traitor, but you see the facts for yourself."
This still made no sense to Athrun, the Lacus he had gotten to know wouldn't have done anything like he was being told or shown. She cared about the citizens of the PLANTs, there had been no question about that. So then, why would she help someone to hurt those she cared about?
"It goes without saying, but she's no longer your fiancée, the official announcement will come later. Lacus Clyne is now has been branded a traitor and is wanted for the crime of treason." Patrick Zala continued and then looked at Athrun, locking his gaze on him, "Your next mission is to recapture the stolen X10A Freedom, and if possible capture the pilot and if neither are possible, eliminate them both. Along with that, you are to also eliminate all persons and facilities that they might have come into contact with."
The orders that were being given were unlike anything Athrun had gotten before. Granted, he could understand the need to get back a stolen prototype mobile suit before the enemy gets it and has the time to reverse engineer it. But, the second part of this mission didn't sit well with Athrun at all, to have to kill everyone that the pilot could have come into contact with was harsh. It was more difficult, that the theft had happened over a week ago, so that pilot had time to go who knows where, so all the possible places and people it could've come into contact with was huge.
Yet, before Athrun could bring up the concern the Chairman continued, "Stop by the Armory and pick up the X09A Justice and then begin your mission as soon as preparations are finished. If you cannot capture the Freedom, then you are authorized to destroy it."
Athrun couldn't dismiss the issue he saw in this mission, without bringing it up, "Sir, you say everything they may have come into contact with, isn't that extreme?" asked Athrun.
"No, because those machines, the X10A Freedom and the X09A Justice, are equipped with N-Jammer Cancellers," he said.
That answer shocked Athrun, for a couple of reasons. First that the PLANTs had abandoned nuclear technology, mostly due to the Bloody Valentine Incident and the sorrow that accompanied it. Second, in a way, these two mobile suits could be seen by some as a nuclear boom deliver system. However, Athrun accepted the orders, even if he was feeling conflicted with them.
Athrun had from there traveled to the Clyne residence, in the hope that he could find answers to all the confusion that was wracking him. Those searching the structure let him in and pretty much ignored him. As Athrun glanced around the house, it felt like he was at a place that was completely unfamiliar. One room in particular puzzled Athrun, for it appeared to have been used for some sort of medical purpose and he knew of no reason for that to be here. And the room had been used recently as there was blood spread over the room.
Once Athrun had made his way to the backyard where he and Lacus had walked together during previous visits, the area was a mess. It pained Athrun to see places that he remembered in such different states. Yet, as he looked around further, Athrun found one of the ball shaped robots that he had made for Lacus that she had like so much. In fact, it was the pink one and that was her favorite. It was still active and started hopping towards an area where white flowers. Athrun chased after the robot and caught it, before glancing at the flowers and recalling that they were the same kind that had grown around the theater Lacus had first sang at. That gave him the idea that she might have gone there, and Athrun wanted answers and she seemed to be the one that would have them.
-Line Break-
-Tyler's pov-
The Archangel
Once on board the Archangel with the Freedom, I moved the mobile suit into an available dock. However, my injuries and other issues that had come with surviving the explosion I gained around Orb, were vying for my attention again and weren't going to let me ignore them much longer. So, when I exited the cockpit and used the zip-line to descend to the hanger floor, I didn't step down, nope, I collapsed to the floor. I laid on the hard metal deck for a moment as the pain coursed through me, making it was difficult to get back up, let me tell you. My legs didn't do what I told them to and so, it took me time to get back on them. I ended out making use of a support beam and climb up it to get myself standing upright, breathing hard as I did so. I also registered a feeling of wet warmth around my torso area, which doesn't bode well for me, likely mean that I'm bleeding again from my injuries around there.
As I was raggedly drawing breath, sweat quickly coming to my forehead, I felt someone at my left side, an arm going around me. I glanced that way, saw that Lisa was supporting me and I didn't refuse as my condition was getting the better of me rapidly. She began leading me towards the exit of the hanger slowly. Kira, seeing that I was having issues, quickly got on my right side and help support me as well. They helped get me to the Archangel's sick bay, and it felt like a lot longer way than it should be. The ship doctor, when we came in, got down to examining me and well… he started lecturing me about how foolish I was going around as injured as I am. The more of my bandages that came off, the harsher the lecture got, for I was indeed bleeding again, the worse was from the line of stitches I had over my chest on the left side, where shrapnel had punctured my left lung.
I heard a sharp intake of breath from Kira's direction, to which I didn't blame my friend. I'm still a mess and a horrible sight to look at right now and Lisa says I was much worse off before I woke up, which I can believe. The doctor replaced the bandages with fresh ones, still had the majority of my body wrapped up, then the doctor told me that I should take it easy and to let my body heal. Lisa and Kira then helped me to the quarters that were pretty much mine by this point from the times that I've popped back in and out. There, I got a set of clothes on, covered most of the signs and marks of how bad the explosion had done to me. Really, all that was visible, was my arms, a little of my neck and the bandages on my right cheek.
By this time, my stomach reminded me that it had been a lengthy period of time since I had eaten. So, I was escorted to the mess hall to remedy the issue, Kira talking about some of the things that had happened while I had been away. The food that was set down in front of me, looked and smelled better than what I've been served on other ships I've been on. To say that I wolfed down the food, would be accurate enough, didn't choke on the food, but probably got close to doing so though.
I paused in eating the meal when I the door to the mess opened, had enough time to see Miriallia and Tolle in the doorway. The next moment, Miriallia rushed over to me and hugged me tightly… hurt badly let me tell you! Pain was burning hot throughout my whole body as I was squeezed. I know that Miriallia meant well, but her gesture wasn't helping me or my health at all! Kira managed to get her to let go of me, which got the pain to dull somewhat however, I was forced to use the table to support my body and prevent myself from collapsing to the table, before I would've likely slide to the floor.
As my body trembled and shook, Tolle seemed to notice that something was off, especially when Lisa put a hand on my shoulder as my elbows hit the table. "Tye, are you uh, okay?" he asked.
I turned my head towards Tolle and forced a small smile, "I've had much better days Tolle. If the bandages don't tell you that I've had hard times recently, I don't know what would make it much clearer. But, given time, I will be good, I'm still healing right now and will for a while," I replied painfully.
Around a half an hour after getting finished my meal, I was helped to the bridge for a 'conference', probably to talk about what to do next. Once on the bridge I was 'allowed' to take one of the station seats. I think it was more those here were taking pity on me as I wasn't able to hid that my health was doing poorly. And right now, I didn't feel like refusing the offer as I was still in pain and honestly, still on the road to recovery and have a ways to go. The mechanics were working their butts off to get the Archangel back up to a creditable working standard, so none of them were here. This vessel had seen much better days, even I'd seen signs of the ware and damage that the Archangel had taken since I'd last been around her.
Yet, before the 'conference' started, Lisa got the time to introduce herself, "Hello everyone, my name is Lisa Malto. Like Tyler, I'm also a pilot of the Federation," she greeted.
Then started the meeting and the question I'd expected came, which was what happened to me of course since there had been an explosion and I had been in the middle of it. Lisa gave a brief summary of the events of finding me after the battle on the outskirts of the Orb Union. She also mentioned that she traveled with me to the PLANTs, mostly so I would have time to recover my sense as much as I could. Thankfully, Lisa said nothing said about where I had been, though it was asked. I don't know how it would be taken if the crew knew I was at the Clyne residence and Lacus was there. Then as I'd said, the Freedom was entrusted to me, I would say nothing about the plan to get it out of the PLANTs or that I had stolen it at the request of Siegel Clyne, the man has more than enough to deal with.
To say that Lisa and I got expressions of shock, awe and the like, wouldn't be wrong, but the chain of events isn't something you think you'll hear about, let alone go through. I took some time to calm down my friends as at least Miriallia had come over to me and was… crowding into my personal space. When this had occurred in the mess, it had brought pain and I would like to avoid that for the time being, but I don't want to be rude or mean.
The next part of this meeting, was the catchup on what had been happening with the Archangel, since I had been away. I got a more detailed telling of what the Earth Alliance had planned out how the battle at Alaska had gone. I'd known it had been bad and mean, just not to what extent those who had come up with the idea had put the effort. Mu did bring up the point that the Alliance top brass had likely known about Alaska being ZAFT's target before the operation they mounted had taken place. That fact told me that there was more going on behind the scenes that was being said or seen. Most of the crew here, was confused at how the Alliance could have known about ZAFT targeting Alaska, since apparently, Panama had been the suspected target by a large margin.
"But, how it could've been guess or figured, is beyond me," commented Murrue.
Krystal nodded, "That's what is nagging at me, ZAFT would have close guarded such information. So, how did any in the Earth Forces find out about it?" she posed.
"It wasn't only the Earth Forces that didn't seem to know, many if not an almost all involved didn't know of the intended target being JOSH-A. At least that's what I got from the Federation information network, so this scenario… I don't know, it seems rather extreme," I said while thinking over the idea the facts brought up.
"Yes, this all sounds like a rather elaborate setup to do, even for the Earth Alliance," Lisa remarked also with a tone that indicated she was in thought as well.
It was then, a thought came to me that filled in a good deal of the holes there were in this explanation, yet it was crazy at the same time. "Indeed it does, and me thinks that there's a dirty rat behind it, one that's playing both sides," I remarked, with a bit of frustration.
"A rat?" Asked Tolle.
A frowned formed on my face, "When I say rat Tolle, I mean someone that's appears to work for both ZAFT and the Earth Alliance. Then, they use the trust they have earned to get people killed while they enjoy knowing that they're responsible for it," I growled.
"But, why would anyone do that?" questioned Mirialla.
I shrugged… not so easy to do for me right now without pain, "I've never have figured that out, some have odd and sick hobbies they use to get their kicks, it's the best I can come with," I replied.
"Then, what do we do to move forward?" said Kira, changing the subject.
"Move forward?" inquired Murrue, confused at the question as well as I believe asking for time to think of an answer.
"Well, we haven't been able to reestablish contact with the Alliance yet, due to the N-jammers in the area," said one of the officers, the one that tended to be on the search and detection station. I think his name is Jack… T-something if I recall correctly.
The pilot, Arnold turned in his chair, "Should we make repairs in the field and then head to Panama, on our own?" He inquired.
Mu snorted at the question, "Oh, think they'll be happy to see us there? We know way too much for our own good," he said and rightly so, for he had a point.
"We're more a threat to the top brass than a help now," added Krystal, I don't think I could have put it better myself.
"They'll probably say that we disobeyed orders, abandoned the frontline and deserted while under attack," Murrue said in slight despair.
"So, even were we to return, all we would face would be a court martial," remarked Arnold.
"And that would be yet another black mark on our record," continued the one that had been the first that had asked if the Freedom was powered by nuclear energy. He has a long name, think the last was Chandra or something like that, usually assigned to one of the electronic warfare stations.
"It's becoming harder to understand who or what we're fighting for," Murrue stated in frustration.
Finally! The crew of the Archangel was seeing what the Earth Alliance is really like and not just seeing the picture they put up. They're good people and are better than the Alliance deserve having under their command. I couldn't stop myself from clapping at the revelation they were having, "At last, you all see the light," I said with relief. All looked at me, "What I'm saying, is that you're witnessing how the Earth Alliance and through them, the Earth Forces, do business while not closely watch by others."
Lisa sighed at my remark, "You could put the idea better Tyler. Unfortunately, very true though, this stunt is lower than normal, but not new in its intent," she said.
"Then," started Kira and attention shifted to him. "What do you think we should be fighting against, to end all of this?" There was silence at Kira's question, even I was at a loss for words at what Kira had put out. This was a huge step forward for Kira, for it ignored his naiveté that he's always had as long as I've known him. Kira continued, "Whatever it is, I believe that it's time we started fighting against it."
I felt the smile grow on my face, "Well said my friend! How wonderful to see you're making progress forward," I cheered.
The meeting began to break up after that, Kira and Lisa helped me back to my quarters as I needed to rest. My body was demanding that I stopped, and the growing strength of the revolt was getting worrisome. So, once on the bed, it didn't take long for me to drop off to sleep.
-Line Break-
-Neutral pov-
Aprilius One, Lagrange 5
As Athrun entered the theater, he heard singing, of Lacus no less, he made his way further into the theater, gun drawn and ready to use. Athrun listened to the singing, he began to recall the events that had led to his current mood. From Tyler's death to the promotion and transfer back to the PLANTs, to the rumors about Lacus and her father had helped another steal a prototype mobile suit. None of it had made sense, those were Athrun's thoughts as he came into the main theater, and located Lacus on the stage, sitting on debris. The pink robot that Athrun had been carrying since he visited the Clyne residence, jumped out from him and bounced towards the stage. "HARO, LACUS, I WON'T ACCEPT THAT!" Announce the robot.
Lacus caught the hopping pink ball in her hands, "Well hello again Mr. Pink," she greeted, before looking up at Athrun with a smile. "I was quite certain that you would be the one to find him Athrun, thank you very much."
It tore at Athrun internally, the way that Lacus spoke so calmly and like there was nothing wrong, "Why… Why did you do it Lacus?!" He demanded.
Lacus smile weakened a slight margin, "To what are you referring Athrun?" she posed.
Athrun rushed forward and leapt up onto the stage and faced Lacus, "Explain yourself, what have you done?!" He said.
Lacus's smile faded, for she knew what Athrun was referring to, she had been shown the official reports that had been produced. Like it had been expected during the planning of the getting at least one of the prototypes out, Lacus and her father were being branded traitors for their actions. "No doubt, you have already been told all about what happened by this point. Is that not the reason that you came to see me?" she questioned.
It annoyed Athrun that Lacus wasn't giving a straight answer, "Is it true… is it true that you're guilty of providing assistance to an enemy spy?" Athrun demanded. "How could you think of doing that, with all the care you've shown for those here in the PLANTs?!"
Lacus shook her head, "I have not, and will not provide assistance to anyone that would wish to bring harm to the PLANTs or Earth. So no, I did not provide assistance to an enemy spy as some are saying I have. All I've done was help get a mobile suit to where it will be used the best, and that was not here. In fact, Tyler after hearing about the situation was willing to help in the task, even if he worried about what my father and I would face," she stated.
Athrun gawked at what Lacus said, for it was impossible. She talked about Tyler as if he was still alive, but that wasn't the case. Tyler couldn't have survived the explosion that the Aegis created, with him close to the center of the blast it just couldn't happen. Was Lacus trying to confuse him? Or just cause him pain by reminding him of what he had done to one of his best friends and had been attempting to do to the other… just to follow orders. Athrun had been arguing with himself internally ever since that battle, and he hadn't been able to come up with anything to lessen the pain or guilt he felt.
Lacus continued when Athrun found himself at a loss for words, "I'm confident that Tyler will make sure that the mobile suit will be put to good use and will make the greatest difference. He wouldn't let those who would use the suit and what it has for evil intentions have access to it," she said.
"Tyler?" Athrun finally uttered. "What are you talking about Lacus? Tyler… he's gone… and it's my fault! Because of me… I'm the one who killed him! He shouldn't have been there on the battlefield, but he was… and he's dead now!"
The pink haired girl's smile returned before she spoke again, "Thankfully, you are quite wrong Athrun, Tyler is still alive."
"YOU'RE LYING!" Athrun shouted in deep emotional pain, raising his gun and pointed at Lacus, "What trick are you trying to pull now, Lacus Clyne? What you say is impossible… my friend is dead, there's no way he could still be alive."
Lacus kept smiling and it amplified the pain Athrun felt as her voice was heard again, "I thought that as well, until I learned that Tyler was brought here after being found by a friend, to help him recover. It was saddening to hear about how worried he was that you and Kira would likely kill one another. So much so, that Tyler felt the need to put his own life on the line… because he sees you and Kira as the closest people he has to family other than his mother."
Once more, Athrun found himself at a loss for words at what he was being told by Lacus. Athrun would be more than happy if what Lacus was saying about Tyler was true, but with what she was being accused of, he couldn't take what she said at face value. However, there'd been many things that weren't as Athrun had thought they were when he had gotten back to the PLANTs.
"Do you not believe what I'm telling you Athrun? I have no doubt you've seen the difference once you came back to the PLANTs after being away for the time you have. You've to have notices the changes that have taken place," Lacus remarked.
The only reply that Athrun could come up with was one word, "Lacus…"
Nevertheless, Lacus didn't let up, "What is it you believe in now? What is it you fight for? Is it for the metal you have or the orders of the current chairman of the council?" she went on.
"I… Lacus," Athrun uttered, not knowing what to say.
"If your reasons are anything like those, I fear that you will be fighting against friends again and I will be among them as well." She stated, keeping her eyes locked onto Athrun, "If we are to be enemies, then go right ahead and shoot me now and be done with it, Athrun Zala, soldier of ZAFT."
Athrun was getting more confused than he had ever been right now, all the thoughts swirling around in his head, they were contradicting each other. He didn't know what was true and what was false lately, so much made little to no sense, "I… with all that's happened… I'm so confused and… I don't know what to think," Athrun got out, tears threatening to spill from his eyes. "Nothing is like I'd thought it would be anymore… I don't know when the world became so muddled like this."
There was the sound of the doors to the theater opening and as both Lacus and Athrun glanced in that direction saw figures coming in. As they got closer to the stage, Athrun saw that the figures were men in black suits and sunglasses with guns equipped with suppressors. Athrun positioned himself in front of Lacus and faced the men, "What is this about?" he demanded.
"Our search for Miss Clyne had been going nowhere, so we have you to thank Athrun Zala. Of course, being her fiancée, you would know her best. Now then, step aside so that we can dispose of the traitor," said the leader.
Athrun didn't move, and the men pointed their guns at him, "Are you sure you want to defend the girl, you're out numbered and out gunned. I would recommend you think about your decision carefully." The leader said.
Athrun stood his ground, surer than ever that if he moved that he would regret it in the same way he regretted what happened to Tyler. He had lost enough friends already because of this war, Athrun wouldn't let more die because of foolish decisions that he made. The face-off that was about to happen, didn't as gunshots rang out. The black suited men were looking around as more gunshots sounded and some of them started to be shot.
Once the group of assassins realized that others were picking them off, they focused on their target and started shooting at Lacus. Athrun got her out of the line of fire and behind a stone slab that acted as a barrier that was blocking incoming bullets. However, all of the assassins ended out being taken out and once that was done others in ZAFT uniforms. The one that was in the lead was a woman in a blue bodysuit, "A very nice performance Miss Lacus, only wish it hadn't been interrupted. Unfortunately, it is time to go," she said.
"You're right Miss Aisha, thank you for the assistance that you and your men provided." Lacus greeted, before she turned to Athrun, "Goodbye Athrun, thank you for bringing back my dear Pink to me. As I said before, Tyler is alive and you'll find him along with Kira on Earth, likely together by this point. I recommend that you go and have a talk with them, as much for yourself as for them, they are your friends after all and they care about you as much as you care about them."
After giving her farewell, Lacus left with the soldiers and they disappeared and left Athrun there to consider what to do next. He figured that Lacus had said the best action to go with, he needed to talk to Kira and Tyler and since he was assigned to take the Justice to find where the Freedom went, it worked out to that end.
Athrun reported to the armory, suited up and ready to go. He didn't say anything as to what he intended to do on the 'mission', all that was officially said, was he was to take back or destroy the Freedom and 'handle' any that had become involved with it. The methods of how Athrun did that was up to himself, as long as it was settled in the end. Athrun entered the mobile suit and the engineers were doing the last tasks to make the unit ready. Once they were done, they moved away from the cockpit entrance and so Athrun closed the cockpit.
"Sound the A-55 alarm," said a voice over the P.A. system.
Athrun bought the system readouts on the main display in front of himself, looking them over to make sure they were acceptable. Even with the little time that he had to look over the technical specs of this machine, the ZGMF-X09A Justice and also the ZGMF-X10A Freedom, the two mobile suits were definitely the most powerful built by ZAFT so far. Yet, they were also a symbol of something that the PLANTs had abandoned shortly after the Bloody Valentine Incident, nuclear technology.
"Radiation levels are normal. All stations have cleared takeoff," Came over the radio within the Justice.
Shaking his head, Athrun focused back on the task at hand. He knew what was expected, but Athrun refused to kill those who had become involved with the Freedom unless they were to threaten the PLANTs, that would be only reason. If Tyler had taken the suit as Lacus said, then he would've been careful where he would've taken it.
"Beginning countdown to launch, T minus 200," said an operator over the radio.
The words that Lacus had said back at the theater kept coming back to Athrun. He had never thought that Tyler had seen Kira and himself as close as family. Athrun hadn't been acting like family to his friend that had been there for him as he had for Athrun himself. The thought of what Kira and Athrun fighting was doing to Tyler hadn't crossed Athrun's mind and it brought pain.
"T minus 50, A-55 in effect. All lines connected to X09A, separation confirmed. Standby for takeoff," announced the P.A. system.
Even with the storm of battling thoughts, Athrun couldn't help but mutter the names of those that were at the forefront of his mind, "Kira… Tyler…" Strong thoughts came to mind as Athrun considered things, 'What are the two of you thinking about now?'
A voice came over the radio again, continuing the countdown, "T minus 5."
The thought that had crossed Athrun's mind several times after accepting that what Lacus saying Tyler was alive was true. 'Tye, can you ever forgive me for what I did to you?' Athrun asked mentally.
"May our Justice have the divine protection of the stars!" a voice announced over the P.A. system.
Athrun grasped the controls, "Athrun Zala, Justice, launching!" he stated, before the Justice shot up the launching tunnel and left the PLANTs.
-Line Break-
-Tyler's pov-
The Archangel
I woke up in my quarters slowly as I had been doing since coming back on board the Archangel, my injuries were healing. But, it was a slow process and I still had a long way to go to get back up to fighting fit again. There wasn't as much pain as the previous day, yet it wasn't much better however, every little bit that goes away helps. So, after breakfast, I got together with Kira for a more personal catch up session, as there were things I wanted to tell him that I wouldn't to others. It's mostly due to the fact that I trust Kira in ways I don't most others, he had earned that trust.
The conversation was over the time I had been away, in the PLANTs for the majority of the talk. I told him about how I stayed at the Clyne residence, though I left out the relapse of my condition. I gave a brief summary of what Siegel Clyne had asked of me, and what that meant for both he and Lacus would face afterward. Kira didn't like that both Lacus and her father would be seen as traitors just because they wanted to help things be better any more than I did. On a lighter note, Kira did say something that made me laugh as well as shiver, "Well Tye, you're lucky that Sakura didn't choose to visit home while you were there," he said.
I flinched at hearing that, the thoughts and images that came to mind weren't nice to view at all. Yes, Sakura had 'cuddled' me while she was in the Republic and I didn't like it, and the difference between then and now, is I have less ability to resist her. I laughed nervously, "Very true Kira, glad she hadn't been around there. I don't think I could've handled her worries and affections that she shows me." I felt a serious shiver run through me at thoughts of what I imagined Sakura would've done to me… and Athrun, were she to have found out that it was him that put me in my current condition. I've gotten the impression that Sakura doesn't have a high or good opinion of Athrun to begin with, no need to make it worse. So, I vow to keep the fact that Athrun got me into this condition away from her knowledge to protect my friend from her wrath, for he didn't deserve it. And knowing Athrun, he'll be beating himself up more than any punishment would do to him.
I admit, it felt very nice to get somethings off my chest with Kira, had helped my mental state very much still, there's stuff to do and sitting around wasn't helping that along. So, I went to chat with Murrue Ramius, since she was the one that commanded the vessel. Found her in the captain's cabin, and once invited inside, I didn't waste time on pleasantries, "Captain Ramius…" I began, but stopped at the look the woman gave me. The expression was one of surprise and slight shock, "Why are you looking at me like I'm going towards crazy?"
"Because, I think that's the first time that you've called me by captain and either last or first name with the title." She replied.
I shrugged, "You've earned some respect from me, not the easiest thing to do. Those who have earned my respect can tell you that, Halberton is one of those. The way you protected your crew, ahead of the orders you were under, that's a mark of a good commanding officer." I returned. Murrue was somber at my remark, as I changed the topic, "So then, on a different topic, what is the plan for the Archangel going forward. For I get the impression, that going back to the Earth Forces is not an active interest by any here."
"No, I don't believe any wish to returned to the Alliance, but I don't know what to do to move forward," she said to me.
I nodded, and I thought for a moment, "Perhaps, it would do well to have time to think about the future and for that, it would do well to head for a Federation member nation. The closest ones would either be the Orb Union or the Republic, you can pick which you would rather go to." I answered.
Murrue agreed with my suggestion and so the Archangel set its course towards the Orb Union. Two weeks went by with little major events happening, though I know that this calm wouldn't last forever.
-Line Break-
-Neutral pov-
Morgenroete docking facility, Orb Union
After learning of the events that had occurred at the Alliance's JOSH-A base, close to three weeks went by, before the Archangel arrived in the territory of the Orb Union. A helicopter led the white ship to the empty dock that was made ready for the Archangel. As the former Alliance ship approached the cliff face, a section of it began opening and lowering into the water. Arnold, just before the Archangel started entering the docking area, swung the ship around a-hundred-eighty-degrees and then began backing into the place. The Archangel became submerged somewhat as it smoothly moved into the dock.
Dock scaffolding shifted to be over the ship and to connect walkways to the vessels to give ease of access to those at the dock and those on the vessel. Cagalli Yula Athha, only waited for the walkways to come into place, before she pushed through the crowd, making her way towards the Archangel. As she got to the upper deck elevator, she had to move aside as a stretcher with an injured man was pushed forward. Cagalli then took the lift downward into the ship, determined to find the boy that was her age that had left more than a week ago. It took her about five minutes, but then she spotted the one that she was looking for, walking down a hallway with another, "Kira!" Cagalli shouted.
She ran after Kira, leapt into the air and tackled him to the ground, tears coming to her eyes as Cagalli had thought she wouldn't see Kira again. Cagalli swung a fist into Kira's chest, "You're such an idiot!" she chastised.
Tyler was trembling a bit as he was trying not to laugh at the scene playing out in front of him. Kira looked up and upon realizing that he knew the girl above him, he muttered her name, "Cagalli."
"You're just… you're so…" Cagalli said in a broken voice, before the tears began flowing down her face. "I was starting to think I'd never see you again once the Archangel left for JOSH-A," she sobbed.
While this was played out, Tyler was musing to himself about how possibly Lacus could have some competition for getting Kira. The thought in fact, caused amusement to Tyler and he started quietly snickering, which in turn brought pain. Tyler ended out clutching his gut and leaning up against the wall, "Ow… it hurts to laugh, but I can't help myself."
Cagalli and Kira didn't seem to notice Tyler laughing at their expense as Cagalli kept reprimanding Kira, "How could you do that to me?!"
And Kira showing his natural naiveté, said but one word, "Sorry."
Cagalli managed to stop crying, "So then, you're really okay?" She asked.
Tyler calmed himself and cleared his throat, "Yes, Kira is indeed okay, other than his natural naiveté being as present as ever."
The blonde girl then inquired what happened at JOSH-A, and Kira did summarize the chain of events that had occurred. Cagalli fell into a state of mild shock as she was told about the scenario that the Alliance had planned.
Meanwhile, on the bridge of the Archangel, the chief representative of the Orb Union, Uzumi Nara Athha, was greeting the officer of the ship. "I would like to thank you for letting the Archangel dock here sir and helping us out a great deal," said Murrue as she bowed.
"Given the circumstances as they are right now, I'm sure you'll understand, if for the time being, we can't make you or your crew too welcome here. Still, all of you will be able to get some rest, and I don't doubt that has been hard to come by as of late," replied Representative Athha.
"Thank you for understanding sir," returned Murrue gratefully.
Athha nodded, "With the destruction of the Earth Alliance Headquarters at JOSH-A, the world is once more in a state of change and is shifting in a new direction. When you have rested, I'll give you the latest updates on current events, which here are very good with the access to the Human Federation Information Network and you'll see for yourselves. I believe it will give you more than enough food for thought, you might even question the reasons why you chose to wear that uniform in the first place," Athha said.
The last line that had been said, confused the officers, for they didn't understand what was being implied. Granted, what had happened at JOSH-A had been wrong and shouldn't have happened. But to question joining the Earth Forces, that was a big step, which none were quite ready to admit.
-Line Break-
-Tyler's pov-
After leaving Kira with the blonde Cagalli, I had gone to the mess hall, deciding that it was time to eat lunch, Lisa had actually left me alone for the day so far, a first in a while other than the time I sleep. I was wondering who Cagalli was, for she seemed familiar somehow, couldn't place why she was familiar to me, so I filed the information away for later pondering. I glanced over at where Tolle, Miriallia, Sai and Kuzzey were and listened to some of their conversation. Kuzzey was having second thoughts of being in the military and I don't blame him for it's not for the faint of heart. I drank down the last of my water, let out a healthy belch to compliment the chef on the meal and then rose. Then took my tray back to the kitchen, "Here you are, was a (Belch) good meal," I said.
Yet, after I set down my cleared tray, I noticed that there was a full laden tray in the waiting rack. I thought for a moment, but came up with nothing as to whom it could be for, since the crew on duty would eat later and the mechanics eat when they can. It only left those of us in the mess hall currently, so why would the cook make another tray? I'd gotten to know the cook and those who help in the kitchen, they're not ones to waste food. The reason I had gotten to know the kitchen staff, would be the lesson I've learned, keep those who prepare the food happy or you're libel to get not so nice tasting food. "Hey Smith, who's the tray for? Not like you or the others to make a tray to just sit and go to waste, so what's the deal?" I asked curiously.
The cook, whose name was Smith, looked at me, "It's for the prisoner of course, we asked for one of you to take it to him," the man answered.
It's the first I've heard of such a thing, "Prisoner? When did the Archangel get one of those?" I inquired.
"Oh right, you were… gone when it happened. Well, the Buster and its pilot were brought aboard, and the ZAFT pilot has been in the brig ever since there was an incident in the sickbay," he told me.
That's news to me, I volunteered to take the tray to the 'prisoner', for if it was really the pilot of the Buster, it's one of those who had been working with Athrun. Best to know what I can to understand why things had happened the way they did. So, I carried the tray and headed to the back and lower deck of the Archangel, where the brig was located. I've never been in the room myself, didn't get into enough trouble for me to end out in there, but I knew where it was, Natarle made sure of that. I entered the room and found it to be rather dark, gave a groan of annoyance, "Would it have killed the designers to put lights in this room like they did the others?" I asked the room at large.
I walked down the row of cells, looking in them to find the 'prisoner' and found them in the last cell on the row. The guy looked to be around the same age as Kira and Athrun, had blonde hair and tan skin. He wasn't looking at me or giving any signs that he had taken notice of my presence. I set down the tray and slid through the gap in the bottom of the cell bars, "Rise and shine, meal is here," I announced.
My announcement, did get the guy to look at me, then glance down at the tray of food, before he looked up at me. He continued to stare at me and it felt awkward to me, "Is there something on my face, or is there some other reason that you're staring?" I posed.
"Who are you? I've never seen you before," he asked.
"Well, I just got back onto the ship, so not surprising that you've never seen me. Only just learned there's a tenant in the brig, honestly, I thought I would be thrown down here a time or two before now by the second in command. Anyways, my name is Tyler McGregor and I hear that you're the pilot of the Buster, is that true?" I questioned.
"Yeah, what's it to you," he asked a bit condescendingly.
I shrugged, "Nothing really, just curious as I've met Nicol Amalfi and have just kind of wonder what kind of pilots he worked with. He and Athrun mentioned something along the lines of there being a real hothead to deal with, thinking it's not you, but the Duel's pilot, would that be correct?" I remarked, shrugging as I did.
He stared at me for half a minute, "Wait, you know Athrun Zala and Nicol Amalfi?"
I nodded, "Yes I do, have known Athrun for years and met Nicol on the Vesalius around Lagrange 3 while it was in the area where Heliopolis was. It's when I brought Miguel Aiman back to the ship as it happens," I answered.
The ZAFT pilot's eyes widened, "You're the Federation pilot that Miguel mentioned?"
"Yep, that's me," I returned.
The conversation then got more open between the pilot, Dearka Elsman and myself. Apparently, while he had been on board the Archangel he had started questioning his personal views of Naturals, due in part to getting to know Miriallia a bit. Also, learned that the hotheaded pilot I'd heard about, was named Yzak Joule. Maybe he was related to the member of the PLANT's Supreme Council I'd met a while ago, Ezalia Joule, couldn't say. Had learned a good amount before I had to go, for I was asked to go to the meeting with some of Orb's leadership.
-Line Break-
Government Administration Center, Orb Union
The meeting that the leaders of the Archangel were called to was held later that day, Kira and I were also invited to come. My guess as to why Kira was invited, would have something to do with Cagalli, who was introduced as Lord Athha's daughter, which explained why she was familiar. Whereas for me, I think it's Lord Uzumi Athha being courteous to me on behalf of my mother. The leader of the Orb Union, happens to be rather good friends with my mom, so I've met him several times and so he's being nice to me. Nor would this be the first time I've being around the buildings the government is run from.
You see, where my home the Republic has a governmental system of an elected congress and Prime Minister with their chosen executive cabinet, the Orb Union doesn't have the same system. Orb's system is made up an elected legislature, similar to the elected congress of the Republic, but the five chief representatives are from the five families that used to run things completely. The families by name were; Athha, Sahaku, Burktri, Lapid and Seiran, haven't met all of them… only three out of the five and not the whole family necessarily. It had been on some of the trips with my mother that I found rather boring, but had no choice in going really. Of course, met most of the Athha family, just not Cagalli until recently.
The Shakau, the adults were quiet, really the twins named Rondo Gina and Rondo Mina were in charge of the family… and they were weird, look almost exactly the same and one of them was a male and the other was a female. I question the state of their minds the longer they live, perhaps they were dropped when they were young? Finally, the Seiran family… well, they were arrogant and egotistical, don't get along with those types even when I was younger, enough said. As for the other two families, have only heard things about them, know my mother has at least met their heads, but that's all.
Anyways, Murrue, Mu, Krystal, Kira and I were led into a small room where Lord Athha was waiting with another man in an Orb military uniform. Introductions were made so that we all knew each other before the conversation began. Through that, learned that the man in uniform's name was Ledonir Kisaka. The conversation that started after the meet and greet, was pretty much a recounting of what happened at JOSH-A. I didn't like hearing in more detail what those in charge of the Earth Forces and Alliance had done.
Lord Athha didn't seem to like what he heard much more than I did, by his expression, "A Cyclops System? But, even if the details of the enemy invasion had been leaked to them, that seems a rather extreme course of action to take." He remarked.
Kisaka stepped forward, "However, you can't deny that the action did deal a heavy blow to ZAFT forces, perhaps not as much as they would've hoped originally, but still. To the people who planned this, it was all a simple and logical calculation and then, to sacrifice unwanted forces, likely is seen as a bonus to them," Kisaka iterated.
What Kisaka said is true I wouldn't doubt, but what worries me, would be what came as the results or rather, how did those in the Earth Alliance twist this event to their advantage? "Tell me Lord Uzumi, how does the Alliance say things went at JOSH-A?" I asked.
Uzumi Athha glanced my way and then gestured to the display screen on the wall to the right, "See for yourself."
All of us in the room looked to the display screen as a news report started showing, "To the last soldier, our defense forces fought heroically. The destruction of JOSH-A and the sorrow that accompanied that loss, shall forever be marked in history, as a day of infamy. But, despite this loss, we shall never submit to them! What right do the Coordinators have to threaten the security of our skies?! The sacrifices made were immense however, we must overcome this great loss and hunt down our enemies wherever we may find them and punish them! We must gather our strength and fight against the arrogant Coordinators in order to protect the peace, the security and the future of Earth!"
I turned away from the news report, clenching my hands into fists hard due to the anger that was coursing through me. Not only had the Alliance used the 'scenario' they planned as a morale boost, they were using it as a platform to feed the vendetta they have against Coordinators. Even if it hadn't been said directly or specifically, this news report stated the Alliance's intent to 'hunt and punish' all Coordinators, those who are Human Federation citizens were included I wouldn't doubt. And there was still more that could be extracted from the news report about the Alliance's possible future actions might be.
Mu was the first to speak up after we viewed the news report, "I can understand to an extent why this is happening, but it's still hard to swallow."
"How can what was done be twisted so much into this?" Krystal asked in mild shock.
"How can what happened at JOSH-A be turned into this?" Murrue uttered.
I sighed, before answering the question Murrue had asked, even if she wouldn't like hearing it, "Because the ones who planned what happened at JOSH-A didn't expect or plan for there to be any witnesses to argue otherwise. What Kisaka said, is likely how those in the leadership of the Earth Forces and Earth Alliance were thinking. It's not new… but, did anyone else hear what wasn't said, yet implied with what was stated in the news report? Specifically, the line 'we must hunt down our enemies wherever we may find them and punish them'?"
Kira looked confused at my inquiry, "What do you mean Tye?" my friend questioned.
I looked at Kira, wishing that I could be as ignorant as him sometimes, "The line is not referring to just those in ZAFT Kira, it also means Coordinators within the Human Federation too, I would also bet Hybrids will suffer as well." I replied.
I got some gasps from the former Earth Forces officers, yet Lord Athha spoke up, "To go along with this and with what Tyler just mentioned, the Atlantic Federation has been increasing its political pressure on the member nations of the Federation. They're saying that any nation of Earth that refuses to join the Alliance Forces, will then subsequently be deemed an enemy. Of course, the Human Federation and its member nations will not concede nor give into such threats however, but that hasn't stopped the Alliance from trying. As Orb is a member nation of the Federation, we are no exception to the Alliance's attempts."
"They just want Orb's power," Cagalli added with a tone of frustration.
Cagalli didn't understand what could result from this or that Orb wasn't the only nation the Alliance wanted the power of. "It's not just Orb that's the case, it's the same for all the member nations of the Federation." I stated.
Lord Athha cleared his throat, "No doubt you are aware, Orb like all Human Federation member nations, do not refuse entry to Coordinators or Hybrids along with Naturals. As long as they who wish to enter are willing to abide by the set laws of the state or territory they come to, they are free to enter and live where they choose. The Orb Union completely agrees with the Federation's ideal that it shouldn't matter whether one's genes have been modified, engineered or are those they are born with. It isn't a fair fact to judge upon, for one's genetic orientation doesn't make up who you are, your actions do. The only thing that labeling a person does is create friction between people and cause conflict." He continued, then Uzumi Athha pointed at his daughter Cagalli and Kira. "Cagalli is a Natural, and Kira of course, is a Coordinator. These are facts that they themselves have no control over and, so it is unfair to judge them on that."
"You're right sir," Kira agreed.
I cracked a smile, "And I might add, we're all human beings first and foremost before our genetic orientation is taken into consideration," I added.
Lord Athha nodded in agreement, "Indeed, I cannot support the policies of the Atlantic Federation or the other nations that make up the Earth Alliance. For they label every Coordinator as evil and an enemy that needs to be either completely controlled or destroyed. It's the insistent justification that is used by the Earth Forces to attack Coordinators without any other reason. It is why Orb joined the Human Federation, their view of humanity is the correct one I believe. So then, whom is really fighting whom and for what reason?" he posed.
"But sir, I understand the point that you're trying to make. Yet, excuse me for arguing, but isn't your position idealistic?" Argued Mu.
"Yes, what you say sounds nice, but truth is that Coordinators will have the tendency to look down on Naturals and Naturals will be jealous Coordinators, Hybrids will always be ostracized. It's the way it is," Krystal added to Mu's argument.
I shook my head at hearing an argument that has been around just after the existence of Coordinators and it's ridiculous. "Goodness gracious, you two need to get out more, since obviously, you've had horrid experience with the Coordinators you've been around. As to your question Lord Uzumi, it's a complicated question that has been a mission that the Federation Admiralty has been trying to find out. I believe Admiral Raine is the one who has been in charge of discovering their identities and she has been sending out members of SOLAS for around six months now and still no complete success. A number of the players have been identified, but there are still some that have covered their tracks well and so, remain unknown," I returned.
There was a bit of an awkward silence, but then Lord Uzumi broke it, "What you say commander La Flaga is true, I will admit that Orb nor any other member nation has a perfect system. But, if we accept things as they are, just because that's how things have been, then there will never be change and the human species will end out destroying itself."
"All of this is such a mess, it's hard to even understand where it began or where it will end. I can't even guess how things in the world could get worse," Mu muttered.
I exhaled heavily, "Mu, there's one thing that life can teach you, that would be that things can always be worse than they are. At this point, I can already tell you a little of how this will become even less pleasant. Tell me, do you believe that ZAFT will take the loss they have with what happened at JOSH-A and not retaliate?" I asked.
Mu appeared to be caught off guard, Krystal snickered before replying to me, "I would very much doubt that they will do nothing about the loss, so then, what would you say their response will be Tyler?"
I took a moment to think about my answer, it was clear to me what would be the best target tactically speaking for ZAFT to hit. However, with how military forces of both ZAFT and the Alliance were currently positioned, it would be a risky venture. "The answer to your question Krystal, is simpler than you might think, and Panama would be my best guess. The reason that I suspect that Panama will be ZAFT's target, is for one idea and one only, its mass driver."
Everyone in the room looked at me like I was crazy, "Panama?! Tyler, you might not be aware of it, but the majority of the Earth Alliance's military force is there now. So, ZAFT would have to be rather desperate to think about attacking Panama right now," replied Murrue.
"I'm aware that a large portion of the Earth Alliance's fighting strength is at Panama, but perhaps a different perspective would help you understand. Let me turn this around for you, let's say that the Earth Forces just took a major loss… in fact, let's go with what happened at Victoria for this. ZAFT gained a good morale boost, what would you do to change that?" I posed, but I got no answer, so I continued. "For ZAFT, taking down Panama's mass driver would have two different results. The first of those will be cutting off the major supply line to space for the Earth Alliance, that's a major blow. The second, will be a slash to the morale boost that the twisted story of what happened at JOSH-A gained."
"You paint a rather grim picture Tyler, but even should Panama lose its mass driver, then the Alliance I assume would just use a different one," Murrue reasoned.
I shrugged, "I would say you're right, if not for the point that Panama's mass driver is the only one that the Earth Alliance can use for military supply lines. Currently, of the world's six mass drivers, the Alliance controls one, ZAFT has two and the Federation possesses the other three. Can't see ZAFT letting the Earth Alliance use either Victoria or Carpentaria for obvious reasons. The Federation, has regulations set that don't allow military supplies or anything to do with the Earth Forces to use any of the Federation mass drivers and that's something that won't change, no matter the tantrums they throw." I reasoned.
"Then wouldn't ZAFT attacking Panama then put the Earth Forces in the position that they might just attack the nations that don't agree to join the Earth Alliance?" Krystal asked me.
I looked away and couldn't answer the question, even though I knew it was extremely likely that the Alliance would use the destruction of Panama to attack member nations of the Federation. It was Lord Uzumi that spoke in my place, "It is very possible that if Panama's mass driver is disable or destroyed, that the Earth Alliance would turn and demand use of the Federation's mass drivers or just take them yes." Lord Athha clenched a hand into a fist, "The world is being divide into two camps because of the Atlantic Federation, and it's wrong!"
Six days passed since the meeting without much of note occurring, I kept an eye on the Federation information network so that I could keep myself up to date on what was happening around the world. I was sure that ZAFT would strike the Alliance, to harm the momentum they had gained through the scenario at Alaska as much to damage the capabilities of the Earth Forces themselves. Panama in my mind fit that more than anywhere else, so that was where I expected they would attack.
It was on day six, which happened to be the twenty-fifth of May, that such changed. Came when I was searching the information network that I stumbled upon something I hadn't expected to see. I found myself viewing feeds of a battle happening, two things became clear very quickly, one, the landscape said that it was Panama around the space port as I saw the tracks of the mass driver. The second, what I was viewing was happening live and in real time, meaning ZAFT was attacking right now. Lisa entered my quarters at that point and asked me what I was doing. I waved her over and gestured to the feed that I was viewing, and she gasped as she realized what was being displayed.
The two of us kept watching the battle at Panama unfold, mostly from a bird's eye-view or rather a view that is from orbit, zoomed in. By what I was seeing, I believe the feed is a mix of Federation equipment viewing this and ZAFT channels. Information said that there were ZAFT Laurasia-Class vessels above Panama, waiting for something. The Alliance was putting up a good fight, couldn't deny that, but ZAFT was winning for the moment.
However, saw something and when I shifted and zoomed in on the sight and wasn't pleased at what I saw, though it didn't surprise me entirely. On the display, there was clearly mobile suits that the X105 Strike was the basis for their construction. This showed the fact that the Earth Alliance now had mobile suit, the ability to mass produce them and an OS that allowed Naturals to use them. The Earth Forces mobile suits were making a difference, but there was something off to me. That feeling increased when objects came down from space and landed in different places around the base.
As Lisa and I kept watching, ZAFT GINNs went to the objects and fitted rods into the middle, before I believe programing something in. A few minutes later, the six devices emitted a light and it became clear that they were deploying electro-magnetic energy. The field of electro-magnetic energy grew, disabling the Earth Forces suits and other equipment. But the biggest effect that the energy had, was that it ripped apart the tracks of the mass driver, thereby destroying it.
If the battle had ended there on that note, things would've been okay. Yes, lives had been lost, but there were still others that were alive and that's what counts. However, that's not what occurred, the expression that Lisa and I had from watching had been discomfort and slight disgust before, now shifted to anger and horror. The reason that was the case, was because ZAFT soldiers were now going about needlessly killing any they could find. They were slaughtering people that showed signs that they surrendered and had stopped fighting. Such were massacred without hesitation, it was so bad that I turned off the feed and brought my fist down in anger at what we had watched. "Damn it!" I growled as my fist hit the desk.
"Tyler, you know that the Alliance will stop being 'polite' now that they have lost Panama. The member nations could be targeted and soon, this is bad," she remarked, clearly worried and rightly so.
Problem with that, it's worse than Lisa says it is, "Lisa, it's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when they attack member nations. Now that the Earth Forces have mobile suits, they see themselves as close to invincible and will not hesitate to turn them against the Federation." I paused as anger and pain made it difficult to speak. After a bit, I regained control and continued, "And out of the member nations, the Republic will be the most likely to be struck first."
Lisa held her head in her hands, "Now that they Alliance has mobile suits, I doubt there is any place they won't go. It's so ridiculous, they get a little power and they then use it to get everything they can and claim it's their right to have and has always been so." She said.
I shook my head, "There will be an order of how things will be attacked. The Alliance will unlikely go for Carpentaria yet, with ZAFT as dug in as they are, it will take a lot of force to take it from them. Orb is strong and has well set defenses, so the Earth Forces will have to be careful or they'll suffer heavy losses. The Equatorial Union is still in a state of civil strife, but something tells me that the unrest will be put aside to defend against the Alliance taking the land. And if you've been around any of those from the Equatorial Union, you'll know that guerrilla tactics are their specialty."
Taking a breath, I thought about how to put the rest of what I wanted to get out, for myself as much as anything else. "The Euros Coalition would be last as it would take more force than the Alliance can spare to take it. Their mass driver Chronos, is the best defended facility the Human Federation has, even if the rest of the world is unaware of the fact. Federation military forces are set up around Chronos and the borders of the Coalition. There's the Koovos Weapon Testing complex on the Eurasia side of the Coalition, and any approaching from that way would be used for target practice. Most of all, the Euros Coalition has the Sentinel system to defend Chronos and that alone will exterminate Earth Forces fleets, be they sea, ground or air, that try to get to Chronos."
I used a moment to take a swig of water from a cup on the desk before I kept going, "For the Republic, there are heavy set defense along the shoreline that ships coming will hard time going against. Then of course, there's Teswa developed equipment to work with, which is one of the reasons that I feel that the Alliance will go for the Republic first. It's no secret that the Alliance have wanted Teswa for a while, and they haven't liked being told no. And lastly, the deflection barriers that were put in over the last year will definitely help out should a fight come." I paused for a moment, thinking, "The only other possible target that I can come up with, is Victoria. With how the Earth Alliance lost it to ZAFT, they want it back from them."
Was still in a foul mood from having to witness that ZAFT wasn't much different than the Earth Alliance in their intentions. I needed something else to do and occupy my attention to get it off all of the recent crap that had happened. Decided that a stroll would be a good place to start and so that's what I did, even if Lisa forced me to use a cane of all things to help me walk as needed. While I was walking, I happened to come across Miriallia and Tolle, who apparently had the same idea as I did about getting off the Archangel.
"Tye… why do you have a cane?" asked Miriallia.
Tolle gained a smirk, "This a sign that you're getting old Tye?" he snickered.
I moved over as Tolle laughed, swung the cane around and tapped the back his knees, which got Tolle to stop laughing. "Careful what you say Tolle, you see a cane used for walking, I see a whacking tool that can be used for hitting. No, my friend was insistent that I have this as I'm still recovering from the effects of the explosion I was in." I replied.
Miriallia smacked Tolle for being 'stupid', before she bowed to me, "Sorry about Tolle Tye, he can go too far sometimes without thinking." She said.
I waved off the action that Tolle had done, it's what friends do, "It's fine you two, by the way, you've seen Kira recently?" I questioned.
Both looked at each other, then glanced back at me, "Well, yeah we have. He was with us until a woman came, Commander La Flaga and McAlester were with her. She asked Kira to go with them and he did, they headed northwest from here," Tolle answered.
Northwest? That would infer they had been heading to Morgenroete Inc.'s main complex here in Orb. I thanked both my friends for the information and made my way in the direction they had indicated. When I got to the entrance of the complex and after flashing my military ID was let inside. I asked around, in the hopes that I could find out where Kira was, asking if anyone had seen two officers with one of those who work here. Through what I was told, I managed to figure out where to go and arrived at a mobile suit development facility.
Came to hear a woman speaking and I came to a stop, "Yes, we had the spare parts to fully repair and improve the Strike, and had thought after hearing what happened at Alaska, that it would be needed." Said the feminine voice.
"Well, I actually already have a mobile suit to work with, so I won't be needing it." Said Kira. "However, I'm impressed that you came up with a way to combine all the Strike's optional hardpoint mounted equipment."
…That's an interesting piece of information, even if I can't see the idea, for Morgenroete to have combined the optional equipment for the Strike, it's impressive. "Well, I'll pilot it then, if that's okay," said the voice of Cagalli.
I peeked around a corner and looked into the space that the conversation I was overhearing was coming from. And saw the Strike and saw that indeed all its optional equipment was attached to the suit. The left shoulder had the sword striker set, where the right had the launcher set. The heavy cannon was behind the left shoulder, while the anti-ship sword was behind the right with the wing set between the two.
"Sorry little lady, but you can't pilot it," said Mu.
"Why not?!" demanded Cagalli.
Mu looked at the Strike, "Because I'll be piloting it."
Well, that kind of cuts down to who I make an offer to. I had been considering what to do with the Shadow, the two choices that I saw were to either take it back with me when I go back to the Republic or to leave it with the Archangel. I was leaning to leaving the mobile suit with the Archangel. If I do that, there was clearly only two choices to who the pilot would be, and those being Mu or Krystal. Decided that it was time to make my presence known, "Well, that makes me more limited on what I was planning to offer."
All in the room looked over to the doorway where I was now. Knew all of them but the woman that wasn't Krystal. She looked to be in her late twenties or early thirties and was average height. The woman had brown medium length hair framing her dark green eyes. She was wearing the orange engineer's coat that they had for Morgenroete personnel. I stared at her and waved a hand to her, "Sorry, don't think we've been introduced Miss," I said in greeting.
The woman smiled at me and once I approached the group, she held out a hand, "My name is Erica Simmons, it's nice to make your acquaintance."
I took the hand and shook it, "Tyler McGregor, at your service." Then I looked up at the woman and made a tad closer inspection. My reason for doing so, was that I'd heard of this woman before, her name had been mentioned at Teswa. For one to be mention in a development complex like Teswa, wasn't done just because you could, it was because you did something of note in the science community, even if it wasn't public. "Must say, you're not exactly as I imagined you from the descriptions I've heard, no offense intended."
"Oh, who might have told you about me?" Erica Simmons asked.
"The name Carlos Neil ring a bell?" I asked.
Miss Simmons's face lit up, "You know Carlos?! He such a sweet man, is always caring and willing to listen, even when it's clear the subject bores him."
I nodded slowly, true, Carlos had been one of those who had mentioned this woman, but by the way she spoke, she was more than an acquaintance to Carlos. "Yeah, Carlos is a friend, and by the sound of it, you know him more than just as an acquaintance."
Erica Simmons nodded her head, "He's my brother-in-law, husband of my sister."
…Okay, that's interesting to know. I turned to Mu, "So, as I heard, you intend to pilot the Strike Mu, right?" I posed.
Mu gave me an affirmative, "Why do you ask?" Mu inquired.
I shrugged, "You see, came here to offer my Shadow mobile suit to either you or Krystal to pilot, since I'm not going to be piloting it for the time being. Planning to head back to the Republic soon with the tension as it is and to me it's not worth it to take the Shadow with me. So, I would rather the machine be put to use myself and think it would serve that purpose on the Archangel. That makes the choice for possible pilots to either you or Krystal, but since you are taking the Strike," I said, then turned to Krystal McAlester, "Then are you interested of taking the Shadow's chair? Can promise you that the machine is a great one, and I've proved that I believe."
"Yes, that would be wonderful, was beginning to think I would be stuck in a skygrasper or mobile armor." Krystal replied.
Erica Simmons chuckled, "I could install an OS for Naturals on that machine, have seen the specs for it. Carlos had been talking about that mobile suit for a time and it seemed interesting," she said.
Erica Simmons and her people got to work, and I left after saying goodbye to Kira and that we would see each other later. Then I headed back to the Archangel and began packing to head back to the Republic, for I feel that's where I'll be needed the most. Later, in the evening, Lisa and I boarded an aircraft and took off on our way to the Republic of East Asia
Phase End
A/n
I'll stop there for this chapter, for it is a good place to start the next chapter. If it isn't fairly clear by this point, there's a battle coming soon. Some of you please take the time to write a review and tell me what you think, ask questions or whatever you like. I'll state this right now, any questions regarding whom the 'rat' is will not be answered for the time being, I'll reveal that later. Well, until next time, peace out everyone!