Hello everyone, R-0 here and welcoming to the next chapter of my Fanfiction. This is a chapter that I have been looking forward to. After all, writing battle scenes is miles more enjoyable than just scenes with dialogue.

Anyway, onto the R&A section!

edboy4926: I'd go over to ZAFT any day. Not only would I get to live on a Colony and some luxurious Battleships, I'd also get wear a sweet-ass uniform and Mobile Suits that are much more interesting the Earth Force's Mobile Suits. Also, I'd be more inclined to be on the side that ISN'T trying to completely wipe out a race of Human Beings because they're butthurt over having inferior genes (Now that I say that, I think Liquid Snake would love the Earth Forces) so they spread lies and propoganda over a race who just wanted to live peacefully. Also, trying to affect change from within the Earth Force's infrastructure would be next to impossible as you'd have to systematically kill off all of the Admiralty (who are mostly racist douchebags save for one or two guys like Halberton), find a different source for funding the Earth Forces Army aside from Blue Cosmos and LOGOs so that ZAFT just doesn't trample over you once you manage to fix the Earth Forces and still have to convince an entire army to let go of their prejudices that they've had for god knows how long. That's a pretty tall order.

Don 77: Usually when people say "Meant to be", they usually mean "It's canon! Why shouldn't we support it?!" I'm not really a fan of three-way pairings and am relatively big on the idea of monogamy (a bit contradictory as I love harems to death (why would I write a fanfic about them if I didn't?)) so that whole idea doesn't really appeal to me. Regarding Miriallia, I'd only be able to see that work if you based it in Destiny or somehow wrote around Dearka being on the Archangel after Tolle's death, but I do think it's a plausible pairing (then again, I'm a guy who'll go for any sort of weird and wonderful pairing).

Royal Dragoon: I am happy that you apologised. Other people may have just told me to F Off and called me an asshole or something like that. Thank you for apologising and accepting the error you made. I was worried that I was coming off as a bit of a douchebag and being a bit arrogant with my statement. I'll say sorry for being a bit douchey with telling you.

worldwanderer2.0: Well, I figured that you would greatly enjoy Cagalli verbally (and physically) own the living crap out of Flay. I'm not as bothered about her Father simply because of how little we thought of him. But yes, given her mindset, he was probably a very bad influence on her (What, with him being Blue Cosmos and everything).

I think people side with her because they seem to have this misconception that, had her father not died, she would have been the nicest character in the series and not what she became. Ultimately, I disagree with this idea as she was shown to be just as bad before the incident with her father, it simply as a trigger for her racist tendencies and manipulative nature to become further aggravated. It may also be a case, for some people, of "anything's better than Lacus," and they just feel like Flay is just the better of the two.

You pretty much share my thoughts on the matter regarding Space VS Earth Forces. Yes, the Space Forces do resort to extreme measures, but it was only ever because the Earth Forces forced them into a corner, causing them to resort to such extreme methods. Ultimately, the Earth Forces have always been the aggressor and I don't understand how people would prefer to side with them. At least the Zabi Family weren't ever out to line their own pockets or indulge in over-inflated egos. At least ZAFT just wanted to be left alone by the Earth Forces, however, them being constantly harassed caused them to hate the Earth Forces as much. It's an interesting idea for a Gundam Series. For once, let the Earth Forces be the initial victims and the Space Forces the aggressors.

Azure (Guest): Thank you for taking an interest in my story. I don't think this is a particularly high-tier Fanfic (If you want to see a better one, look at ExArchMagus' works), what with my somewhat basic descriptive skills and fairly fast conversations (I'm not really good at writing dialogue) but I do try my best. Unfortunately, I am not taking requests nor suggestions for this Fanfic due to it following canon closely (for a while). Also, I am not a particular fan of implementing OC Mecha. Sometimes, it works and I'm fine with it (Again, refer to ExArchMagus' work), but it's something that I don't really like doing it myself unless I REALLY must.

RandyKaguyaofthewasteland: Your welcome, I am glad that you found a story out of mine that fails a desire you had to see be put on paper. As I have said before, don't credit me too much up to this point as it is mostly following the original script save for some new scenes and interactions (which I can only assume is what you're talking about). As I said, this story is less focused on just KiraXCagalli and simply what her earlier presence would have perhaps influenced were she forced onto the Archangel at an earlier time so that's why probably why I'm not just cramming it full of KiraXCagalli and forgetting about everything else involved. Won't spoil much, but you will Natarle speak up eventually. As you said, this does follow canon fairly closely and I already have it mapped out the direction I want to go with it. Kick Dearka's ass? Why just his ass specifically and not the rest of the Le Creuset Team? Do you not like him? If you ask me, all of the Le Creuset Team are all alright guys, even Athrun (Well, BEFORE SEED Destiny).

Fireminer: Well, at least it's above five.

I would agree with that sentiment and say that UC Haro is the smartest. It seems capable of rational thought and understanding situations and not just chanting inappropriate lines repeatedly in a vain attempt to be a cute mascot. Though AD Haros easily own the hell out of both of them in terms of intelligence.

I wouldn't consider Kira to be a long-range fighter. He's more of a jack-of-all-trades sort of pilot and seems just skilled in all fields rather than one. Cagalli is the same except on a much lower-tier. I'd agree that Athrun's melee.

Zombyra: I genuinely wouldn't care. Crossovers have NEVER appealed to me and never will. It would probably have a retarded half-assed plot and be completely fanservice driven. So I really wouldn't be interested.

No Account Yet (Guest): Gonna quell your hopes right now. There is a chance that I may not include any form of sex in this Fanfic. This doesn't mean I absolutely won't, but I haven't come to a decision.

Plutone-pilot: I am happy to see that you have taken an interest in my Fanfic. I guess that people like to hope that, whenever someone does something involving a canon retelling, they hope that Flay will be made to look better. As I explained, what happened with Flay wasn't what happened with Cagalli. The direction her character took was intentional and interesting. As I said before, people seem to have the misconception that, had her father lived, she would have been one of the nicest characters in the series (as seen with a few fanfics). You'll see what comes after that refugee incident.

thedarkpokemaster: Well, it's good that you enjoy writing fanfics that portray her in a negative manner and not as a flawless goddess.

Anyway, time for the chapter!

Disclaimer: I do not own Gundam SEED nor its respective materials.

Chapter 9: To Fight A Brother And An Ace

Miriallia is currently on her way to the bathroom, humming merrily as she does so, in order to freshen up after working and in preparation for the upcoming meeting with the Advance Force from the Eighth Fleet. On the way, she passes by the Mess Hall that is being occupied by the Archangel's large number of refugees. The atmosphere among these people seems to be positive, which is a godsend in comparison to the sombre mood that they have had up to this point. Clearly, the news that they would be encountering allies soon is something that has greatly lifted their spirits. As Miriallia walks past the refugees, she listens and hears some of their conversations.

"You think it'll be the moon first, once we join them?" One man randomly asks.

"I have relatives living in ORB, so I should be okay." Another remarked.

"If I could at least get in touch with my wife and children…" Was the last comment Miriallia heard before moving on past the facility.

Eventually, she arrived at the Bathroom and made her way inside. Rather absentmindedly, she failed to notice the red-haired female stood at the mirror clad in nothing but her pink underwear with her hair tied up with clips.. The female turned herself, with a confused expression, to look at Miriallia who was greeted to the sight of the girl's face being encased in a white gelatine substance, surprising Miriallia who let out a loud gasp.

"What is it?" Flay asked with an annoyed tone, looking back away from Miriallia.

"What do you mean, Flay?" Miriallia asked with a confused tone, "What ARE you doing?"

"It's a face pack." Flay explains with an informed tone, carefully peeling the mask off and scrunching it up in her hands. "Can't you tell?" She asks as she looks in the mirror and appreciates her handiwork.

"Of course I can tell." Miriallia assures her, "What I'm saying is…" Miriallia lets out a sigh as Flay doesn't seem to listen, instead still admiring her handiword, "Never mind." She remarks, "I'm surprised that you had something like that with you."

"Well, because Papa's coming with the Advance Forces, I want to look my best." Flay explains with a joyous tone as Miriallia starts to remove her own clothes, "My papa wouldn't want me looking shabby as the daughter of a vice minister of the Atlantic Federation." Flay remarks further as Miriallia continues to remove articles of clothing, "I haven't seen him in such a long time, after all. It's the least I can do."

"Whatever…" Miriallia answers with a disinterested tone as she fully strips off and enters the shower, turning the machine.

"I wish I could do something about my hair." Flay groans, running her hand through her hair thoughtfully, "Well, I guess this'll have to do. We're in a crisis, after all."

Bridge…

"Arrival time at the rendezvous point with our fleet will be as planned." The commander of the Advance Forces informs the Archangel bridge crew over the Communicator, Murrue taking the information in while drinking a nutritional supplement, "Once you join us, the Archangel will come under command of this ship and we'll proceed to the main fleet together." He concludes, "You're almost here. I pray for your safe arrival." The screen then enlarges from the commander's face to accommodate the man sat in the chair next to him. Unlike the commander, this man did not wear a Federation uniform and instead a typical suit and tie.

"I'm Vice Minister George Allster of the Atlantic Federation." The man informs them, "First, I'd like to thank you for your efforts in rescuing civilians." The familiar name and voice causes Sai (Who was currently working in the CIC) to smile. "Oh, and another thing! I was surprised and happy to see the name of my daughter, Flay, on the name of rescued civilians." The name causes Murrue to let out a quiet gasp while other members just have slightly surprised expressions, "I'd be more than grateful if I could get a glimpse of her." He asks hopefully.

"Vice Minister, sir, you'll see her as soon as they join us." The commander assures him.

"That's Flay's father, alright." Sai remarks with a small smile. Natarle lets out a confused gasp at that.

Hangar…

Kira is sat in the cockpit of the Strike rigorously typing commands into the Computer, his eyes quickly glancing over the screen as he continues on with his work. Cagalli is hovering outside of the cockpit with a nutritional supplement that she was drinking, seeming to content to just hover there and relax. Murdoch soon arrives and drifts on over to the cockpit with a curious expression. He leans into the cockpit and presses his hand against the frame. Kira stops what he is doing and moves the Terminal away from him and puts the console back up in the head area while the keyboard stays on his lap.

"What is it?" Kira asks Murdoch.

"Nothing, just wondering how it is." Murdoch assures him.

"Well, we just checked to see that all the hydraulics still work fine." Cagalli interjects.

"And I have just been making a few adjustments to match the offset levels." He explains before making a slight gasp, "But I guess it's unnecessary…" Kira mutters before Murdoch lets out a raucous laugh, surprising Kira and Cagalli.

"Go ahead and do what's needed." Murdoch assures him, placing a hand on Kira's left shoulder, "It's still your job until we safely join the others." Murdoch continues before removing himself from the cockpit after patting Kira's shoulder, "If you want, you're free to volunteer to remain in the military." That last statement causing the two teenagers to gasp a little as the older man drifts away.

"No chance in hell." Kira mutters to himself as quickly goes back to work.

"Kira…" Cagalli mutters with a sombre tone.

As this occurs, other events occur throughout the ship. Sai and Miriallia switch places on the bridge (the latter taking over for the former). Mu peacefully asleep in a sleeping bag drifting around. Lacus singing and reminiscing about her time spent on the Archangel. Kira continuing his work on the Strike's OS as well as it's HUD while Cagalli just stays there in the cockpit to keep him company.

All the while, the Archangel continues on its journey to meet the Advance Fleet.

Vesalius…

As hope is high on the Archangel and their prospect of finally having some help is fuelling them with positive emotion, a meeting is being held on the bridge of the Nazca-Class Vesalius. There are six figures stood at the main console on the bridge. Miguel and Athrun (along with the two of the three GINN pilots onboard) stand on one side, Rau Le Creuset stands on the side opposite to them and Fredrik Ades stands at a side in between them.

"This is the estimated route of the Earth Forces' Naval vessels." Ades explains to the assembled pilots.

"The Laconi and Porto teams are behind schedule." Rau adds, "If those vessels are delivering supplies to the Legged Ship, we mustn't overlook them."

"What sort of strength do you think they have, sir?" Miguel asks with a curious tone.

"From what we can see, it is assumed that they have at least a single Nelson-Class and at least two Drake-Class ships." Rau informs him, "Along with a probable chance that they'll have Mobile Armours onboard."

"That's not too bad, sir." Miguel remarks with a cocky grin. "Four Mobile Suits should be able to take care of that no problem.

"Regardless, it would be wise to dispatch as many of these as possible BEFORE the Legged Ship arrives." Rau explains.

"Are we gonna stage an attack?" Athrun asks rhetorically, "But we're ordered to…"

"We're soldiers, Athrun." Rau simply responds, "Even though we were given orders to search for Miss Lacus."

Archangel…

Romero is the now bearer of good news as his radar picks up three signatures, all of which are recognised Federation ships (Montgomery, Bernard, Law).

"Silhouettes of three ships appearing on the radar!" Romero informs the bridge crew, "They're the escort ships Montgomery, Bernard and Law!"

The news brings great joy to the bridge crew as they all let out joyous cries and laughter. Even Natarle shows how happy she is as a small smile graces her features. Murrue lets out a slight sigh of relief.

Unfortunately, this glee was short lived as Romero's radar changed and informed of radar jamming in the area and the interference that it is causing to the ship's radar.

"What's this?" Romero mutters to himself, alerting Murrue.

"What's the matter?" She asks with a concerned tone.

"A jammer!" He declares, "It's interfering with the whole area!" The declaration causes all of the crew on the bridge to let out a gasp.

Vesalius…

Two of the three standard GINNs have already launched from the Nazca-Class (Both armed with Recoiless Rifles) and the final (Also equipped with a Recoiless Rifle) is preparing to sortie. Miguel and Athrun are only just booting up their respective Mobile Suits.

"The commander really has a knack for sensing these things." One of the GINN pilots remarks.

"Athrun!" One addresses the Red Coat, "Show us how that thing performs!"

"Right…" Athrun mutters as the final GINN takes off. Miguel's GINN's docking clamps are released as Athrun reminisces about his encounters with Kira and the words given to him by his father and Rau Le Creuset.

"Athrun," Miguel addresses him, "If the Strike turns up, we'll take him on together, alright? The other guys can handle the battleships and Mobile Armours."

"Roger." Athrun responds as Miguel positions his GINN to take off as the sign reads "LAUNCH."

"Miguel Aiman, GINN, taking off!" Miguel declares as his GINN zooms out of the Nazca-Class, detaching its Power Cable as it goes. Athrun quickly positions himself to sortie as the sign reads "LAUNCH" again.

"Athrun Zala, launching!"

The Aegis flies out of the hangar like a bullet and detaches its Power Cable and ignites its Phase Shift Armour. The two Mobile Suits fly together to join the three other GINNs.

Montgomery…

Alert screens flash all across the Nelson-Class' bridge as a state of panic ensues as the small Advance Fleet realises that they're under attack.

"Hurry and send our Mobile Armours!" The commander orders, "Load all missiles and Anti-Beam Depth Tubes!"

As he relays that order, the ships all deploy their small platoon of Moebius Mobile Armours to defend the Advance Force ships and the VIP they have on-board.

"Heat sources approaching!" The Montgomery's radar operator informs the Captain, "Five Mobile Suits!" The Captain grits his teeth at that.

"What's going on?!" George complains with a distressed tone, getting out of chair "How could you have not noticed the enemy until now?!"

"Lower bow, pitch angle 20 degrees!" The Captain orders the Helmsman, "Turn to port, yaw angle 20 degrees!" Resounding vibrations can be heard through the ship as George falls on the Captain who quickly shoos him away, "Send a message to the Archangel to turn around and withdraw!"

"What?!" George exclaims, "But then…"

"What else are we going to do in this situation?!" The Captain asks rhetorically.

"There's no meaning in my coming all the way here unless we meet them!" He protests.

"If that ship is sunk, there's even less meaning to our actions!"

As that conversation occurs, the Mobile Suits make contact with the Mobile Armours and battle ensues.

Archangel…

Dalida, manning one of the CIC consoles, manages to make out what's happening ahead as numerous explosions are visible on his console from the battle ahead of them.

"The heat distribution we're detecting ahead looks like that of a battle!" Dalida informs the bridge crew, "It appears to involve the Advance Force!" That piece of information causes Murrue and Natarle to gasp.

"A battle?" Sai wonders with a confused tone.

"A message from the Montgomery!" Romero calls out, "Message reads 'Cancelling rendezvous! The Archangel is to turn around and leave!"

"Captain!" Natarle addresses her.

"What is the enemy's fighting strength?" Murrue queries.

"A Nazca-Class at Yellow 257, Mark 402!" Jackie calls out, "Matching heat characteristics! Four GINNs!" He informs the captain, "And wait a moment… It's the Aegis! X-303, Aegis!" That news causes the whole bridge crew to gasp in realisation.

"Then it must be THAT Nazca-Class!" Murrue speaks their mind.

Battle…

An unfortunate Moebius Pilot makes the error of attempting to attack the Aegis. The superior Mobile Suit easily avoids the oncoming barrage of bullet and dispatches the Missiles with its CIWS.

Before the pilot can react, a barrage of bullets strikes his Moebius from behind as Miguel's GINN flies past Athrun's Aegis at significant speed.

Athrun then provides assistance to one of the other GINNs and dispatches the three Moebius that were chasing after the Mobile Suit.

Miguel also joins the fray as a couple of Moebius chase him and his GINN. Thinking they have the upper hand, they ignite their boosters and go in for a closer kill and let off a blast from their Linear Gun and a missile volley. Miguel turns his GINN around and the blasts connect, causing an explosion to occur. The two pilots let out a whoop of joy at their kill when, all of a sudden, a burst of bullets tears through one of the Moebius Armours while the other sees a Heavy Sword fly through the smoke and impale his machine, casing it to explode. The smoke clears to reveal Miguel's GINN hovering there undamaged as its shield hovers next to it, a few small dents on it from the damage and it carries its Heavy Sword and Heavy Machine Gun in both hands. Miguel mounts the sword back on his left skirt and grabs the shield before flying away.

Archangel…

"Captain!" Natarle addresses Murrue, demanding an answer.

"But, on that ship…" Tolle trails, reminding the crew of the individual still on the Montgomery.

"There's no guarantee we'd get away, even if we turn around!" Murrue rationalises after a brief pause, "All hands, Level One Battlestations! The Archangel will proceed to reinforce the Advance Force!"

"All hands, Level One Battlestations!" The intercom calls throughout the ship, alerting the various crew members and refugees, "I repeat, all hands, level-one battlestations!" The intercom calls again as Kira runs out of his quarters, meets with Cagalli (Her quarters are opposite) and runs to the hangar. As they run past it, Lacus' Quarters open and the familiar Haro and songstress peek their heads out in curiosity.

"Hello, Hello." Haro chants, the voice alerting the two.

"Again?!" Kira remarks, running back to her quarters while Cagalli waits.

"What is it?" Lacus asks absent-mindedly, "Things are suddenly lively around here."

"We're at battlestations." Kira informs, "Now go back inside!" He commands, shoving her back in, "What's the matter with the lock on this door?" He wonders.

"Haro, Haro!" The robot chants from his left, "I won't accept that! I won't accept that!"

"Battlestations?" Lacus asks, "My, are you entering a battle?"

"That's right." Kira responds, "Or rather, we're already in one."

"Which is why our only Mobile Suit pilot needs to get out there and do his job!" Cagalli scolds Kira, grabbing by the ear, "And you need to stay in your quarters if you don't want to cause us any trouble!" Cagalli addresses Lacus before dragging Kira away, leaving her and Haro alone. The robot bounces a few more times before Lacus catches and looks at the machine.

"Shall we sing, Haro?"

"No problem! No problem!"

And with that, Lacus walks back into her quarters, singing as she went.

"Kira!" A voice alerts Kira and Cagalli as they continue on their way to the hangar (After Kira managed to convince her to let go of his ear), causing them to stop and look. They see a distressed Flay walk up to them.

"What's this about Battlestations?" She asks with a worried tone, "What about the Advance Force?"

"I have no idea!" He responds, "I don't know what's going on!" He turns to leave before Flay stops him.

"It's going to be okay, right?" Flay asks hopefully, "My papa's ship won't be destroyed will it? Will it?"

"Don't worry, Flay." Kira assures her, "We'll be there, too."

And with that, they both took off again to get to the Hangar.

Battle…

One of the GINNs evade a barrage of bullets coming from its right as a Moebius flies straight past it. It then performs a flip as a Moebius attacks it from the front and the Mobile Armour flies past it, also. Unfortunately, for this Moebius, the GINN lets off a rocket from its Recoiless Rifle and the round hits the machine from behind, causing it to explode.

A small squad of Moebius attack another one of the GINNs, letting off a barrage of bullets and blasts from their Linear Guns. The GINN retaliates and blows one of the Moebius away with its Recoiless Rifle. This causes the others to veer off as the Aegis and Miguel's GINN break through. Both Mobile Suits head towards the Drake-Class named Bernard.

The Aegis quickly flies behind the ship and attacks its engines, opening fire with it Beam Rifle. The engines explode while Miguel, for good measure, lands on the hull of the ship directly in front of the bridge. The bridge crew cry in terror at the sight as Miguel raises his GINN's weapon and tears into the structure with his Heavy Machine Gun before boosting away as the ship explodes. He and Athrun (Who transforms the Aegis into its Mobile Armour form) fly directly towards the other Drake-Class, dodging random blasts and bullets as they go.

"The Escort Ship Bernard has been sunk!" One of the Bridge Crew informs the Montgomery's captain. "X-303 Aegis and one of the GINNs is heading for the Law!" That news causes the Captain to grind his teeth in concern.

"We're being destroyed by one of our own stolen machines?!" George remarks, "That's insane!"

Archangel…

As this pandemonium on the battlefield violently continues, Mu La Flaga in his Moebius Zero has just docked with the Launch Catapult and is ready to take off.

"Moebius Zero, La Flaga unit, please proceed to the Linear Catapult!" Miriallia calls over the intercom. The Mobile Armour is manoeuvred into position as the Bay doors close behind it and the heat rises from behind it. The Hangar doors open the Catapult expands in ready for the Mobile Armour's take-off. The Mobile Armour is released from its clamp once the sign reads "CLEAR" and Mu flies the Mobile Armour out of the Catapult.

At that moment, Kira arrives at the Strike himself (Cagalli had gone on ahead while Kira put on his pilot suit), much to the relief of Murdoch.

"You're late, kid!" He scolds Kira.

"I'm sorry!" Kira apologises as he clambers into the cockpit, shutting the hatch as he goes. Miriallia appears on his com-link to give him an overview of the situation.

"The enemy consists of a Nazca-Class, Four GINNs and the Aegis." Miriallia informs Kira as he applies his restraints, "Be careful, the comm chatter says that one of the GINNs is faster than the normal ones and has a special colour scheme." That causes Kira to raise an eyebrow.

"A customised GINN?" He mutters to himself.

Soon enough, the Strike is ferried onto the launch catapult by its berth, in preparation for take-off and equipping a pack, before Sai also appears onscreen.

"Kira!" Sai addresses his friend, "Flay's father is also with the Advance Force. Please keep that in mind."

"Got it." Kira responds as he closes the visor on his helmet. His Mobile Suit is released from its berth and placed in the Launch Catapult.

"Connected to Catapult." Miriallia confirms, "Aile Striker, stand by." The loading arms them come forward and attach the Strike's shield, Beam Rifle and Thruster Pack, "Systems, all green!" She confirms, "Course clear. Go ahead, Strike."

At that command, the sign reads "CLEAR" three times and the Mobile Suit takes off down the Catapult, detaching the Power Cable as it goes. It jumps off the end of the Catapult and the Aile pack's wings fold open, the Strike's Phase Shift Armour coming to life as it does so.

Meanwhile, Flay simply stands in the corridors of the Archangel with a blank expression.

Battle…

Things are not going well for the Advance Forces as one of the GINNs has made it within their perimeter and is laying waste to the defending Moebius with its Recoiless Rifle. The remaining Drake-Class and Nelson-Class are unable to protect their allies as the GINNs systematically slaughter the helpless Mobile Armours.

One Moebius was unfortunate enough to, while firing at a GINN with its Missiles, be landed on by one of the GINNs and be blasted at point-blank range. Another is blasted by a GINN's Recoiless Rifle as it tries to fly in for a kill.

Luckily, for the remaining Advance Forces, the Archangel arrives within the Field of battle and does not hesitate to provide assistance, its weapons already fully armed.

"Valiant One and Valiant Two, fire!" Natarle orders from the CIC.

The two yellow bursts of kinetic energy zoom towards the battlefield. One of them catches one of the standard GINN pilots off-guard and his Mobile Suit is torn apart by the blast. This was fortunate, as it was making its way towards the Nelson-Class' bridge. The bridge crew breathe a sigh of relief at the sight.

"The Archangel…?" The Captain exclaims.

"They've come to help us!" George declares with a relieved tone while the Captain clenches his fist and hits his chair's arm in annoyance.

"They shouldn't have!" He mutters.

Elsewhere, the Nazca-Class Vesalius comes into range of the combat zone, preparing its own weapons for the skirmish.

"The main character has made an appearance." Rau remarks, "Don't waste your time on the small fry!"

At that moment, Miguel tears through the Drake-Class' defence turrets, giving Athrun an opportunity to destroy the ship as he flies from the side and lets out a blast from the Impulse Cannon, located in the central area of the Aegis' Mobile Armour form, and blows a whole in the Drake-Class the beam, drilling its way all through the ship and out the other side as Athrun flies away while Miguel, to add insult to injury, lets off a stream of bullets as he flies alongside the Drake-Class, leaving a horizontal trail of dents in the ship's armour. Athrun and Miguel looks at the damaged ship for a second before their sensors alert them to a contact. He looks to see the Strike flying directly towards him and Miguel. He gasps a little as Kira grits his teeth while Miguel grins a little.

"There you are, Strike!" He remarks.

Athrun transforms his Aegis back into its Mobile Suit form and charges at the Strike. They fly past each other while he and Kira let off a Beam Rifle shots at each other. Unfortunately, Kira does not get much chance to recover as he's forced to raise his, instinctively, to deflect a burst of Machine Gun bullets from Miguel's GINN who attacks him from behind.

"What the…!" Kira remarks as he turns to look at it, "An orange GINN with a shield? Is that the Custom Type Miriallia was talking about?"

"Watch out, Kid!" Mu calls over the communicator.

"Lieutenant La Flaga?" Kira asks with wonder.

"I've fought that bastard before when me, a fleet and a large platoon of Moebius were ordered to retake a Station that ZAFT took from us!" Mu explains, dodging a shot from a Recoiless Rifle "It was supposed to be easy, just a small squad of GINNs. Unfortunately, that GINN was there and tore through the Moebius and Ships practically by himself!" Mu finishes as his communicator goes short. Kira's eyes widen at that.

"Does that mean that GINN's pilot is an…" Kira pauses, "Ace Pilot?!"

Elsewhere, Mu engages in combat with the two GINNs attacking the now alone Nelson-Class. He dodges a round from one of the GINN's Recoiless Rifles and deploys his Gunbarrels. He lets off a volley and one of the weapons hit the GINN from behind, causing it to be stunned. Unfortunately, the other GINN quickly comes into support his comrade. Mu attempts to flee, but the GINN's superior thrusters manages to get the Mobile Suit point blank range to the left of the Zero. He gasps a little before attempting to scare off the GINN with a volley of Gunbarrel blasts. The attacks succeed in damaging the GINN who staggers away. Unfortunately, the GINN still manages to get off a shot and damage the Moebius Zero.

"Dammit!" Mu remarks as the engines on his Mobile Armour start to sputter, "I'm helpless in this condition."

Miguel's GINN chases after Kira, letting off a barrage of bullets as he chases the Strike. Kira continues to deflect them with his shield when he is forced avert his shield away to block beam rifle shots from the Aegis. Miguel grins at the sight.

"Keep him like that, Athrun!" Miguel orders him.

"Right!"

Miguel then raises his Machine Gun at the Strike and lets loose. Unfortunately for Kira, Miguel fires the rocket located on his Grenade Launcher as well as the entire Missile from his Leg-Mounted Missile Launchers directly at the Strike. Since he was being suppressed by the Aegis and its Beam Rifle, he can only turn the Strike at the very last second and is unable to shoot any of the missiles down. They all impact against the shield and heavily damage it. Unfortunately, he felt the impact and was forced to let go of the brutally damaged shield.

"Now, Athrun!" Miguel orders, causing Athrun to hesitate.

"B-but…!" Athrun responds.

"You said you were ready, right?" Miguel asks rhetorically, "Then help me take out the Strike. If you're uncomfortable with dealing the killing just try and disable it. If you're not gonna help me, then get out the Aegis and let me use it!" The communicator goes silent for a second. Athrun's next action is answer enough for Miguel.

He transforms into his Mobile Armour form and lets off a blast from his Impulse Cannon. Kira, luckily manages to avoid the blast but it still connects with his Beam Rifle, leaving Kira unarmed, forcing him to fly backwards and retreat. He unleashes a volley of his CIWS to try and deter them but they both easily evade the attack.

Meanwhile, Rau watches this skirmish with vested interest.

Archangel…

Flay Allster has just stumbled onto the bridge of the Archangel as an overriding concern over her father compelled her to come.

"Gottfried Number One, aim and fire!" Natarle commands.

"Where's Lieutenant La Flaga?" Murrue queries.

"The Zero's returning!" Miriallia informs the Captain, "It's taken structural damage!"

"A missile's been shot from the Vesalius!" Jackie informs the bridge crew, "It's heading for the Law!"

"Dammit!" Natarle grinds through her teeth as Flay enters the bridge which Kuzzey notices.

"Flay?" Kuzzey calls to her with a confused tone, alerting the bridge crew to the girl's presence.

"Flay?" Sai calls out as he gets out from his station to meet her as she continues to move further into the bridge.

"Papa… where's papa's ship?" She asks with fear.

"We're in a battle!" Murrue addresses her with a stern tone, "Non-combatants are not to enter the bridge!"

"Which one's papa's ship?" She asks with fear and an aggressive tone.

"Flay!" Sai tries to calm her down, pulling her back away from the bridge.

"Stop it! Let me go!" She protests. At that moment, a large flash erupts from the screen which causes her to pause for a second. They all look to see the already heavily-damaged Drake-Class be blasted by the Nazca-Class' Missile. The sight scares Flay to no end as the split second of fear that that was her father's ship overcame her.

"The Law's been sunk!" Dalida calls out.

"Flay, come on!" Sai urges her, trying to make her leave the bridge, "You mustn't be here, come on!" She lets out a few protesting gasps before Sai manages to pull her out of the Bridge.

"Two GINNs are heading towards the Montgomery!" Jackie calls out. "One Mobile Armour left!"

At that moment, Sai and Flay leave through the door and it shuts behind them, Flay still having a shocked expression.

"Flay!" Sai calls to her, trying to raise her from her distressed state.

"Where's that boy, Kira?" She asks Sai, clawing at his shoulders in distress. "What's he doing?"

"He's fighting the best he can." Sai assures her, "But he's fighting the Aegis and an Ace GINN, so things aren't going smoothly." He looks away in guilt.

"But he told that everything was gonna be okay!" She declares, her tone becoming more and more aggressive. "He said it'll be okay because, as he said 'We'll be there too'!"

At that moment, Miguel and Athrun both put their Beam Rifle and Machine Gun away and draw their melee weapons, in order to save power (Aegis) and ammo (GINN). Miguel brandishes his Heavy Sword and Athrun ignites one of the beam emitters on his arm. They both charge at the Strike and Kira, in retaliation, brandishes both of his Beam Sabres and clashes with both Miguel's Heavy Sword and Athrun's Beam Emmiter simultaneously (One Beam Sabre for each). Kira struggles to not be forced back by them. Luckily, the Drake-Class then explodes very close to them. To avoid damage, the three all break the clash and fly away from each other to avoid damage from the explosion.

While this happened, Sai escorted a distraught Flay back to the crew Quarters, keeping her close in his arms to comfort the girl.

"Everything will be fine, okay?" He assures her as she lets out small cries, "Your dad's ship is fine alright?" An massive vibration is then felt through the ship as Sai loosens his grip on the emotionally unstable girl. She tries to run back towards the bridge, but Sai grabs her in time, "Flay!" He scolds her.

"No! I'm also…" She cries out continuing to struggle in his arms, "Let me go! Let me go!"

"Flay!"

Their rather heated interaction is quickly cut short as they both start to hear a singing voice from one of the nearby quarters. This was, of course, Lacus Clyne attempting to bring some light to the situation with her singing voice.

"That girl…" Sai realises. Flay narrows her eyebrows and starts to walk towards the source of the voice, "Flay!" He calls after her but she pays him no need and advances on the door. Lacus continues to sing until the door slides open, revealing Flay and Sai stood there as Flay looks at her with a determined expression.

Battle…

The GINN that was currently assaulting battered Nelson-Class avoids a few blasts from the last Moebius' Linear Gun before dispatching the Mobile Armour with its Recoiless Rifle with ease, the Mobile Armour spiralling out of control before exploding.

Worse news is brought forth as the Nazca-Class has come into range of the lone Nelson-Class and proceeds to open fire with its Dual Beam Cannons.

"Prepare to fire Lohengrin!" Natarle orders from the Archangel's bridge, "A GINN's coming! Where's the Strike?!"

"Captain!" Mu calls out to Murrue through the small communicator on the Captain's chair, "It's useless! We gotta get out of here if we don't want to get destroyed!"

"But…" Murrue trails as she refers to the Strike.

Said Mobile Suit just clashes swords briefly with Miguel's GINN before they boost away from each other. Unfortunately, the Strike does not notice the beam of red light from Athrun's Impulse Cannon until its too late and he's only able to slightly boost forward. The Red Beam incinerates the Aile Pack, forcing Kira to detach it, lest it explode (luckily, the Archangel has a spare) and flee away as Miguel and Athrun give chase.

The GINN attacking the Nelson-Class manages to get a lucky shot and decimate the battered ship's main Beam Cannon, the large fixed gun emplacement completely exploding.

"Main turret's been hit!" One of the bridge crew cries out in terror.

"Engine section damaged!" Another Bridge Crew-member calls out in a similar tone of terror, "Sealing bulkheads!"

"What are they doing?!" George exclaims with a terrified tone, "Why can't they shoot down a single GINN?!"

"Vice Minister, proceed to the Lifepod!" The Captain commands him with an urgent tone.

Athrun slices at the Strike but misses as Kira manages to thrust the Machine upwards, letting off a volley of CIWS shots as he goes. Unfortunately, he walks into another problem as he's impacted from behind as Miguel's GINN sliced at the Strike's back with the Heavy Sword in horizontal motion. It's good that the weapon is unable to penetrate Phase Shift Armour or it would have sliced clean through. Athrun charges at him with his Beam Emitter, but Kira blocks it with both Beam Sabres. He forces the Aegis back before swinging around and kicking the GINN to the side of the head. He goes for a downward slash, but Miguel's GINN manages to deflect it with his shield. Instead of continuing the assault, Kira quickly boosts away while they are both stunned.

Unfortunately, another problem is about to develop on the Archangel as the door slides open to reveal Flay dragging Lacus by the arm. This manages to alert the whole bridge to her presence as even Murrue and Natarle turn to look at her.

"I'll kill this girl!" Flay declares passionately, "If they fire at my papa's ship, I'll kill this girl!" She declares as Lacus looks at her with a fearful expression, "Tell them that!"

At that moment, Sai enters the bridge.

"Flay!" He calls to her in an angered manner.

"Tell them!" She declares.

Ultimately, however, it is too late as the Nazca-Class lets off a blast from its Dual Beam Cannons. Both GINNs evade out of the way as the two large beams of light collide with the Nelson-Class, the metal around the beams becoming warped from the heat. All of the Archangel crew watch with surprised expressions. Meanwhile, George lets out a scream of terror as he realises that his death is at hand. The beams pass through the ship and the Nelson-Class explodes. Both GINNs fly away and set their new target for the Archangel.

Flay lets out a loud scream at the sight as she drifts back from Lacus. Sai grabs hold of her from behind and pulls her into his arms, all the while, she continues to scream as a distressed expression is clear on her face. Lacus also looks at her with a saddened expression.

Unfortunately, their troubles still have not ended as the two GINNs get closer and closer to the Archangel.

"Captain!" Natarle addresses Murrue, hoping for a command. She doesn't get one so takes off her communicator, floats out of the CIC Commander's chair and grabs the Main Communicator from Kuzzey.

"Ensign Badgiruel?" Murrue calls after her with a confused tone.

"Attention, ZAFT Forces!" Natarle calls over the communicator, "This is the Archangel of the Earth Alliance Forces!"

"It's a broadcast on all frequencies from the Legged Ship!" The Vesalius' Communications Officer informs the bridge.

"Currently, in the care of this ship, is PLANT Supreme Council Chairman Siegel Clyne's daughter, Lacus Clyne!"

That name caused Miguel and Athrun to stop chasing Kira who also stopped in his tracks as Kira gasps a little.

"What…?" Athrun mutters.

"How…?" Miguel trails.

"Miss Lacus…?" Ades wonders out loud.

"We came across a lifepod with her onboard and took her in for humanitarian purposes." Natarle explains over the communicator. "However, should you decide to attack this ship, we shall consider that as abandonment of your responsibilities to protect Lacus Clyne." Natarle declares, "We will then take care of this situation as we see fit!

"Bastards!" Athrun yells in anger.

"You gotta be shitting me!" Miguel exclaims.

Kira can only have a shocked expression on his face.

"I didn't expect this to happen." Mu remarks as he disembarks from the damaged Moebius Zero.

"What the hell happened up there for this to occur?" Cagalli wonders outloud.

"That's gotta feel awkward for them." Rau remarks, "They come to help, and once they find themselves in danger, they resort to this?"

"Commander!" Ades spoke to him.

"Yeah, I know." Rau agrees with his compatriot, "All forces, cease attack!"

"One last condition!" Natarle suddenly calls over the Communicator again, "Have all your GINN Mobile Suits leave behind all their weapons and ammunition!" This statement causes a few eyebrows to be raised.

"Why would they want with those?" Rau wonders to himself. "Well, Chairman Clyne wouldn't want his daughter to die." He mutters to himself. "All GINN pilots, drop your weapons and ammo!" Miguel's face appears on the bridge's communicator.

"Commander-"

"That includes you, Miguel." Rau smoothly cuts him off.

"But, sir-"

"You have a reserve custom machine gun onboard and I also requisitioned a couple of Heavy Swords that have an anti-beam coating applied so you won't be losing anything important." Rau smoothly counters him before the argument is made, Miguel goes silent for a second. "Is there a problem?"

"No, sir."

And with that, the two generic GINNs drop their Recoiless Rifles as well as their reserve rockets and Heavy Swords. Miguel (rather begrudgingly) drops his Custom Machine Gun, extra magazines and his Heavy Sword (Luckily, he gets to keep his shield). The GINNs then all start to fly back to the Vesalius.

On the Archangel, Sai has taken a distraught Flay back to her quarters. Natarle smoothly puts down the Communicator and eyes the Captain who looks at her with an annoyed expression.

"We cannot afford the Strike or the Archangel to be destroyed here." Natarle declares confidently, "We also have a Mobile Suit that has barely any weapons or ammo to go with it. I just solved both those problems.

"I know, Natarle." Murrue assures her.

"Someone!" Natarle calls out, "Someone take Miss Lacus back to her room."

And so, as a distressed Flay was fast asleep in her room, a terrified and disturbed Lacus Clyne was on her way back to her own.

And so that was chapter 9. I hope you all enjoyed it!

You know, after watching episode 9, I now realise how much of a badass Natarle actually is. I mean, she would make an infinitely better captain for the Archangel than Murrue. Murrue, I think, is too much of a mother figure to be an effective captain and isn't really stern enough as a captain. There's being a sympathetic captain and then there's just being soft. Guess which one Murrue is?

Before people start saying "Why the hell did you have Kira get the shit kicked out of him? That makes no sense!" I say this: Kira only really starts to get super serious as a pilot after the next battle. Before that, he lacked sufficient drive to be an effective pilot and was very much lucky with his circumstances (Mu saving him, Using Lacus etc…). Not to mention, he was fighting the Aegis AND a specialised GINN catered specifically to Miguel. At this point, that's a lot for Kira to handle.

Anyway, now the GINN has a sufficient stockpile of weapons! Wait to see what comes of that! It makes sense, to me, that she would do that sort of thing.

I know some people will remark at the lack of Cagalli in this episode. My response is this: What's there for her to do? I couldn't have her magically appear at the bridge when Flay loses her shit because she works in the Maintenance Bay. It wouldn't make much sense, would it? Don't worry, Cagalli will become much more prominent very soon. You won't be waiting another ten chapters, let me assure you of that, folks!"

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed the chapter!

R-0 Out!