Disclaimer: I dont own Gundam
Here I am with another update, editing credit once again goes to 00virtuezero, who also added a scene with his own characters. Today we wee the return of another character from Gundam Seed, enjoy :)
Gundam Seed Destiny or Liberty
Chapter 22: Flight to tomorrow
Those whom lived at Malchio's church had felt an odd sensation. As the former victors of the last war looked up at the Gundam Purpose, the sun began rising behind them. The sentient machine knelt down, looking at the people it had saved. Heero and the other Sensou soldiers were still there, judging the machine as best they could. The details of the mission would be included in the report they would send to Flay. Kira's face remained joyful as he looked up at the Purpose. He felt the sense of familiarity he had felt when he was aboard the Archangel. This machine was the Gundam Purpose, not a copy or an upgraded unit but the original machine, repaired with parts from a ships graveyard. So many thoughts ran through the minds of the humans present, but only one thought occupied the Purpose's network.
"What will you do now?" The machine asked.
The children awed at the Gundam as its head tilted, looking at Murrue Ramias.
"Former Captain Ramias, has your ability to command withered? And Lacus Clyne…I have not witnessed your influence, your unique ability to inspire others and influence them to follow you. Alls I know is that it is held in almost as high a regard as Kira Yamato's piloting abilities," The Gundam explained.
"Wait Purpose why are you here? Weren't you destroyed when Uragiri's base went up?" Kira asked.
"While a large majority of my armour was destroyed the central part of my body still remained, the neural network that has helped me to evolve."
"Neutral network, you're talking about some kind of super computer," John said.
"Only to a vague mind, my neural network was specifically crafted to absorb information and to adapt to that information. Like a child I was groomed by Gekido Jaeger to defy those in power. The world as you know it is changing, particularly for you Kira Yamato and Lacus Clyne. At eighteen you have crossed into the realm of the adults, now you must have a full understanding of the issues that face the people whom desire to fulfil their ambitions," The Purpose explained.
The Purpose stood up, looking at the children in intrigued as they climbed on his feet. He lightly brushed them aside with his finger as he looked back down at the group he was trying to protect.
"There are powers at work that do not appear to be an immediate threat, tell me Kira who do you think is responsible for this attempt against Lacus's life?" Purpose asked.
Kira thought for a moment as all eyes turned to him.
"ZAFT, someone in ZAFT, possibly Durandal…its obvious right, the equipment they were using and this other Lacus that Durandal's put in the spotlight. For all we know he could have grown his own Gekido Jaeger as well," Kira explained.
"Your instincts have grown better Kira, yet you still have that Naiveté. Though he may be a part of this, Durandal is just one part of the puzzle, also do not presume to know whether the Gekido Jaeger in the Plants is or isn't the man you knew," The Purpose said.
"Is he with you then?" Lacus asked.
"No he isn't."
Those words took Lacus by surprise. Machines weren't capable of lying, deceptions lacked logic. So if Gekido wasn't with the Purpose, where was he? Whose side was he on?
"Do you know what this greater threat is then, does it have anything to do with Uragiri? And what about the assassin with the mask, what was wrong with his body?" Kira asked.
"It would take too long for me to explain it fully to you Kira Yamato. Just do as you will and we will meet again later," Purpose said.
"You're not staying with us?"
"I must leave immediately before Orb's fleet security gets too severe for me to breach. We will meet again Kira, that is my promise to all of you," The Purpose declared.
Kira and the others covered their faces and dust flew towards them. The Purpose flew into the sky, its arms and legs folding as it changed to its jet form. Kira stared at the machine as it flew away and then turned to the others.
"We need to leave Orb as soon as possible," He said.
Far away from Orb, the Minerva was still unaware of the Uragiri forces preparing a final wave. No one suspected an attack, that was why they were able to easily relax. Vincent shut his locker, walking out of the changing room in his uniform. Brendan and Kojiro stood waiting for him. Kojiro had his arms crossed, leaning against the wall while Brendan had his hands on his hips, also leaning against the wall.
"So…one of the Sentient Purpose's huh," Branden said, breaking the awkward silence. "All right I'm going to be the first to say this is a really bad idea. That thing's just waiting to trick us."
"Actually that is inaccurate Branden, machines are not capable of lying, most likely it has been given an encrypted program to turn on us once specific conditions are met," Kojiro explained.
"Whatever," Branden huffed.
"I appreciate your views but they aren't necessary, The Purpose Mark 2 stays and will be given the same amount of respect any other crew member would be given," Vincent said.
"You're going to regret your decision grand commander!"
The three Sensou pilots turned to see the three top Minerva pilots. Luna had a smile on her face while Rey's was one of complete professionalism. Shinn however kept a frown across his face as he looked at Vincent. Vincent stood his ground, he wouldn't apologise this time.
"I understand that you all have your doubts, but believe me when I tell you that machine is unique," Vincent said.
"It should be left at Carpentaria for study, in fact Captain Gladys is speaking with the chairman on just that topic," Rey explained.
"I gave no such order," Vincent growled.
"Look Commander Rach you've done a great job and no one's saying that you aren't right about the machine. If that thing is unique then it's worth the tech guys looking at it. The Earth Alliance built three more of those things; already that gives away its potential for limited production. Just think what the ZAFT and Sensou alliance could do with an army of those kinds of machines!" Luna's eyes seemed to light up at the possibility.
Branden shook his head for he really didn't like Luna. It wasn't just because of his dislike for coordinators. To him Lunamaria always came off as a fan girl, or worse yet an ass kisser. She always had positive things to say, that bubbly attitude was something that pissed Branden off. Kojiro however saw her attitude as a necessity; he had read that morale could improve with the presence of an optimist. He often thought of asking Luna for advice on optimism.
"That machine's a disaster waiting to happen, another True Faith incident in the making," Shinn said.
The offhanded comment caused Branden to glare at the younger pilot. His hands formed fists as he stepped away from the wall. He agreed with Shinn's point, but mentioning the True Faith incident in front of Vincent was unacceptable. Vincent however cast Branden a strong look. It calmed Branden slightly, but he still shot a spiteful look at Shinn. Vincent stood straight and mimicked the ZAFT style salute.
"Thank you for bringing your opinions to my attention, I encourage all of you to speak your mind," Vincent's "officer" voice was one of both respect and authority. "Rey, Luna, I'll see you both later, Shinn, could you walk with me to the Captain's office?" He asked.
Shinn sighed in frustration before motioning for Vincent to follow him.
"Shinn, show some respect to our commanding officer," Luna chided him as usual.
Rey shook his head before saluting Brendan and Kojiro. Lunamaria smiled and winked at them both as she followed Rey down the hallway.
"Come on lets go grab some food," Branden said.
"I'm not hungry, I'll go back to my room and read a book," Kojiro said.
"Wait…well you see…" Branden tapped his foot against the floor, sheepishly rubbing the back of his head.
"You forgot where the cafeteria is, I figured you would!"
"I'VE NEVER SERVED ON A SHIP THIS BIG BEFORE!" Branden yelled.
Branden's faced returned to its calm state as he looked respectfully at Kojiro.
"Also, I wanted to thank you for your recommendation. The Murasama Rogue is great, the kind of power I can wield with that thing is…"
"It'll never outweigh the original Purpose's Arc generator," Kojiro interrupted Branden with a serious gaze.
"Maybe not but I'm started to at least understand what its like to fight like Gekido Jaeger," Branden said.
Kojiro nodded his head, he didn't respect Branden's obsession with Jaeger, but he did somewhat understand it. They were both people bred in battle, yet unlike Branden, Gekido wasn't a weapon of hate. Rather he had been a weapon of another's ambition, Uragiri's ambition. Vincent and Shinn walked towards Talia's office, an awkward silence settling between the two. Finally Vincent chose to break it:
"I was looking over the Impulse's blue prints and I realised that it's a very good machine," Vincent said.
Shinn huffed, turning his face away from Vincent's back.
"But it lacks any real support doesn't it? The central flaw of that machine is that the enemy can shoot down the equipment as it transfers from the Minerva," Vincent explained.
"Yeah well…they never shoot them down," Shinn said, hesitantly looking to Vincent.
"I believe a machine like the Impulse can be very valuable to the ZAFT and Sensou alliance. However like any other machine it has flaws that we need to overcome. During the first Bloody Valentine war the first Purpose was used by an aggressive pilot who would leave himself open to attacks, his machine was built with an AI to balance out the illogical part of the pilot's mind and he also had the Arc shield to make up for the heavy aggression of the mobile suit."
"Is this going somewhere?" Shinn asked.
"Branden's not very good at supporting allied mobile suits and my Rezel is out of action. Once I reach port I'll switching to another unit, right now the only new addition to the machine roster is the Purpose Mark 2. Durandal believes that this ship can play the same role the Archangel played in the last war, if that is so I believe the Purpose Mark 2 should serve the role of supporting the Impulse, much like how the original Purpose supported the Strike and vice versa," Vincent explained.
"You want me to work with that thing when its… "Brothers" killed two of my friends?"
"Its an order Asuka, you don't have to like it but try to see the sense in it," Vincent said as he reached Minerva's office. "I'll make the recommendation to the Captain, see you later Shinn!"
Shinn narrowed his eyes at the commander as he walked into Talia's office. He came off as indifferent to Shinn's opinion. In actuality Vincent wanted Shinn's respect, but his forgiveness would mean nothing. Saint Yuri killed Shinn's family, not him. Vincent saluted Talia, whom sat at her desk, her captain's hat resting on her arm rest. She returned Vincent's salute, dropping the pad she was reading onto her desk.
"Commander, please take a seat, I was hoping to speak with you sooner, but understandably you had delays. It cant be easy balancing your responsibilities on this ship and with Sensou's forces," Talia explained.
"I knew that it would be a heavy burden, that's why I agreed to let Flay be the chairwoman. She makes policy and I approve it, she handles our budget when engineers like Sheryl bring forward new ideas, I fight in battle and sometimes leave planning to more experienced captains, much like yourself," Vincent said as he took a seat. "There's going to be no issue with the command structure, rest assured captain I trust you to make the right decisions, regard me the way you would any of your other pilots."
Talia nodded her head with a smile. She stood up, offering Vincent her hand.
"I'm glad we've gotten any issues in the command structure sorted," She said.
Vincent shook her hand and gave her a final salute. He walked out of Talia's office, picking up his phone as he received another email. It was a casualty report from the Atlantic, as well as a request for supplies from the colonial investigation unit, the unit Natarle was leading.
'Natarle, Casvall, your mission cant be going as hard as ours is,' Vincent sighed.
He closed the phone and put it back in his pocket. Looking to his side, Vincent smiled as he saw Nia standing in the corridor. She promptly saluted her superior officer.
"Commander Rach, its good to see you made it back onto the ship," She said.
"I'm glad to be here too Nia, how have things been going?" Vincent asked.
"You mean for me?" Nia shuffled her feet slightly in embarrassment.
"I'm interested in the whole crew, I know this is a situation for low morale but I'm glad everyone's still able to perform to their maximum efforts," Vincent said.
"Sir, are you really turning over command to Captain Gladys?" Nia asked.
"Yes, this is her ship so its only right that she should take command of it, my experience is primarily in mobile suit combat, not the command of ships. I'm not perfect and I'm not a master commander, I've made mistakes…" Vincent paused as he rubbed his head. "Sorry, I must sound really depressing, was there something you needed to talk to me about?"
"No sir, sorry for bothering you," Nia saluted Vincent before walking down the corridor.
Vincent rubbed his head in confusion before walking the other way. He walked past Silver Mask, who leant against the wall with his arms crossed. The masked man's eye glowed a red colour as he chuckled.
"He's not too bright!" He said.
The Sensou mechanics were used to Gundams, considering the fact that a majority of Sensou members were Gundam pilots. They had worked on numerous types of Gundams, some so similar to one another that it was difficult to find any distinction, but others were so different that they defied the imagination. The Purpose Mark 2 was a unique machine, one that drew numerous opinions. Sheryl however only had one opinion; this machine was cute.
"Sheryl what are you doing?" One of the mechanics asked.
Sheryl currently sat with her legs crossed together; looking up at her would be student. Quite a sight welcomed people coming down to the hanger. Vino and Youlan stared wide-eyed at the Purpose, which sat in a position that mirrored Sheryl's. It looked down at the woman, raising its hand and mimicking the signs she made.
"This means home, home understand?" Sheryl asked.
The Purpose mimicked the action and nodded its head.
"Amazing," Sheryl clapped her hands together as she smiled.
"You seem to be connecting with the Purpose rather well Miss Mercis," Joe said.
The ZAFT commander stood to the side of the mechanics, sipping a water canister.
"It kind of reminds me of when my son was a baby, so curious," Sheryl sighed.
"Oh, so you're a Mrs huh?" Joe asked.
"No, its complicated and private!"
"Well I'm not gonna ask for details of course, but your still single right?"
"Celibate!" Sheryl smirked.
"I think the doctor's got something for that," Joe chuckled.
"Jokes aside I've got no interest in a relationship right now!"
"Nothing says we have to be a relationship," Joe winked.
Sheryl burst into laughter, causing the Purpose to tilt its head in confusion. The machine had predicted that such a conversation would offend Sheryl. In fact the machine had witnessed several instances when crewmembers were insulting one another, yet laughed together. Was friendship about whoever could offend the other first?
"Mr Daigoji if I was a few years younger I'd drag you to the floor right now, but self control is who I am, my job is my marriage and my kids are…well these kids," Sheryl said, motioning to her engineering team.
"Wow…he must have been really important to you," Joe solemnly bowed his head.
"They both were," Sheryl whispered.
"I'm very sorry, I can't imagine what it must have been like."
Sheryl sat on the Purpose's foot, and action it didn't object to. The Gundam looked down at Sheryl, its advanced computers analysing her facial expression. She was sad, that much it understood; yet the Gundam couldn't comprehend why Sheryl wasn't crying.
"I was never married, I raised my boy all on my own. He always hated it when I protected him; it's probably why he joined the Alliance Military. We didn't speak for a while, but we connected round about the time he started getting promotions. He was so happy to be put on the same unit as the famed Gekido Jaeger, he got transferred the next day and didn't stop whining about it!" Sheryl explained.
Joe laughed, bopping his head back. Vino and Youlan blinked in surprise as the Purpose mimicked the action. Branden put a finger to his chin as he looked at the vending machine. His face contorted in frustration as he saw brands of drink he wasn't familiar with. Kojiro sat in his room, reading a self-help book. Shinn was with Rey and Luna in the cafeteria, they were discussing the latest finding.
"Keeping it on the ship is one thing but putting it on Sortie is completely crossing the line," Shinn explained.
"I don't know Shinn, Commander Rach wouldn't put something dangerous on the ship," Luna said.
"There have been no steps taken to ensure that the machine isn't kept secure, its regarded as a crew member and not equipment," Rey pointed out.
"How's about you guys trust the judgement of people who have seen more battle than you!"
The trio turned to see Silver Mask standing at the doorway. He looked at them, his eye glaring down at the young pilots. The masked man then raised his head, seemingly looking at the ceiling. Down in the hanger, the Purpose also raised its head. Its eyes glowed a red colour as it stepped away from its recharge rack. Vino stumbled towards the intercom, tearing off the phone and calling the hanger.
"WE'VE GOT A SITUATION! THE PURPOSE IS TEARING THE HANGER APART!" Vino yelled.
Arthur and the bridge crew widened their eyes in surprise. Meyrin's surprise was replaced by shock as she looked at her screen.
"There's a text style message sir…it's from the Purpose Mark 2 sir," Meyrin said.
"Relay the message to us Miss Hawke," Talia said as she walked onto the bridge.
"It says: prepare for battle now, Uragiri forces are incoming!"
"Ma'am we've got multiple heat sources approaching, ones massive!" A radar operator said.
Talia grit her teeth together as an image was bought up on the main screen. She widened her eyes as the crew gasped. Several squadrons of Kratos's and Orion's were being led by a Gundam type mobile suit that practically towered over the average Gundam. It was like a schoolyard bully, with legs that made it taller and arms that made it look tougher. A backpack with rockets kept it aloft, the pack had two extra arms and an assortment of heavy weaponry. The arms on the backpack had pincer claws attached to it. But unlike most Gundam's, instead of two eyes the Gundam's thick head had four eyes emblazed on it.
"ALL HANDS LEVEL ONE BATTLESTATIONS! GO TO CONDITION RED!" Talia yelled.
Without putting his flight suit on, Joe ran to the Efreet Nacht. The other pilots ran out of their rooms, making their way to the locker rooms. Sheryl began yelling out orders, getting the crew to clear the launch catapults. Silver Mask ran out of the elevator, making his way to his Aero Gundam.
"Damn Uragiri!" Silver Mask growled.
Kira and his group had already decided on the appropriate action to take. They had to leave Orb as soon as possible. Erica Simmons offered them the location of the rebuilt Archangel, which was luckily just a few miles away from the ruined mansion. Malchio and Caridad were making arrangements for the children to stay at Malchio's church. Lacus was saying goodbye to the "horde" of orphans. Kira smiled at the sight of Lacus playing with the kids one final time. Members of the Archangel crew gradually began to arrive. Some obviously couldn't make it so the arrivals mainly consisted of those that chose to stay on Orb. That included Chief Engineer Murdock of course, CIC staff member Chandra and the Archangel's pilot Neumann.
"We came as soon as we heard," Chandra said as he took his bags out of his car.
"What was it that you couldn't tell us on a insecure channel Kira?" Murdock asked.
"We were rescued by the Purpose," Kira said.
The three men widened their eyes at Kira's comment. Immediately they bombarded him with questions, such as whether Gekido was with the machine or who was piloting it?
"It wasn't piloted, the Gundam seems to have transcended the need for a pilot, its become completely sentient to the point where it can even talk," Kira explained.
"Are you saying that the Purpose has become…self-aware?" Murdock asked.
Kira nodded his head and Murdock gasped in shock.
"I don't think you understand the impact of this Kira, tell me what do you know of the case of the B-56 satellite?"
Kira put a hand to his chin as he thought about what Murdock had said.
"I don't know anything about that, what exactly is the B-56 satellite?" Kira asked.
"Around the time the Plants first became active, the United Nations had a satellite built that could monitor the Plants. Rather then pay tax dollars for a crew that technically wouldn't be doing anything, the Nations employed a scientist to create a computer system that controlled the satellite and independently monitored the Plants. Not many details were revealed to the public and a lot of forgot, but that one computer system, the B-56 satellite almost destroyed the Plants," Murdoch explained.
"What!" Kira gasped.
"The B-56 was apparently designed to adapt and learn from what it saw. Well the B-56 apparently learnt or "Thought" if you will that humans were worthless creatures incapable of change. The satellite altered its orbit pattern, sending itself on a crash course towards the Plants, which at the time were still being built. Fortunately the UN managed to launch nukes and blow the satellite out of space."
Kira sighed as he sat at a rock. He began to doubt the motivations of the Purpose. Had it come to care for the Archangel crew? If it had cared then it obviously would have stayed with the Archangel. Then again Heero had left, it didn't mean he didn't care, he just had work in Sensou to do. Every other original crewmember that hadn't come was also tied down by their lives. Some wanted to live in peace, others like Sai and Kuzzey were working for Sensou. But Kira was at least thankful that some members of the original crew could make it. Some of them even threw aside their original plans to help out.
John and Andy both looked at their watches as they waited at the airport. The person they were picking up was taking far too long. Andy sighed as he got into the car.
"We're not leaving without him are we?" John asked.
"No, we're going straight to the airfield," Andy sighed.
"There's no delays so what could be going on?"
"That's what we're gonna find out!"
The two friends drove down towards the airfield, where a small second class plane was standing. Andy flashed the guard his Morgenroutte pass and drove up to the plane. The two former ZAFT pilots widened their eyes as they heard what was going on in the plane.
"YOU ADVERTISED A SOUP AND INSTEAD I GOT WATER! IT NEEDS MORE CREAM DAMN IT!"
"I'm sorry sir but the plane has landed, you have to disembark."
"JUST POINT ME TO WHOEEVER MADE THESE MEALS! I'LL HAVE THEM SENT BACK TO COLLEGE FASTER THAN YOU CAN SAY CHEF!"
"Please sir calm down and let us disembark!"
A sweat drop ran down the back of Andy's head, while John merely sighed. They were behind schedule because the Archangel's original Chef Kai Yamada was trying to lecture the plane staff on food. Andy simply climbed up the steps and walked up behind Kai.
"Excuse me Kai, we're a little bit behind schedule," Andy said.
"I'm not done yet, I still need to tell them about the texture of the damn chicken they serve," Kai said.
"John and I…need your expertise on a coffee recipe we're putting together," Andy sighed.
Kai paused and turned to the tiger.
"Say no more, just let me fetch my bag and I'll be on my way!"
A few minutes later the trio were driving down the road, making their way back towards the house. Kai widened his eyes as John told him about the situation, including the arrival of the Purpose. Andy looked to his phone as it rang. Quickly pressing the green button, Andy raised his eyebrows in surprise as Murrue appeared on the screen.
"Where the hell are you guys?" She asked.
"Blame Kai," Andy said.
Murrue sighed as she rubbed her forehead.
"Cagalli's caretaker just showed up, your not gonna believe this but she's getting married today," Murrue said.
Andy and John widened their eyes in shock while Kai pressed his head against the screen.
"WHAT! AND SHE DIDN'T INVITE THE BEST CATERER SHE KNEW!" He yelled.
"Don't tell me…"
"Its Yuna Roma," Murrue said, confirming John's fears.
"What's Kira going to do?" Andy asked.
"Isn't it obvious, crash a wedding, still wish I could have gone, I could have seen if they got the crab cakes right," Kai sighed as he leant back into his seat.
The atmosphere at the Wedding steps was far from happy; it was a mere sham of what Cagalli was truly thinking. She hated the dress she was wearing, and it wasn't just because of her tomboy personality. Her "husband to be" was a man she despised. Yet still she hoped that this would lead to a stable peace between Orb and the Earth Alliance. She couldn't watch her country burn like her father had. As she walked up the steps to meet Yuna, she kept telling herself again and again that this was for the good of Orb. Yuna had given her an Ultimatum, marry him or lose all her authority. Cagalli was glad that her veil concealed her tears. Cameramen recorded the scene and journalists reported on the day of happiness for Orb. But happiness was far from what Cagalli was feeling.
Unbeknownst to the security forces, a man in a brown trench coat stood behind one of the pillars. He had his hands in his pockets and a hat covered his grey hair. The young man looked to Cagalli as she walked closer and closer to Yuna.
"You've got pretty pathetic friends brother," The grey haired man said.
Yuna smiled as Cagalli joined him at the alter. The girl didn't even pay attention to the priest reading through the vows. She just hoped that this day would end quickly.
'Forgive me Athrun,' Cagalli thought.
A grin spread across the grey haired man's face as people began looking up.
"Maybe they aren't so pathetic after all," He grinned.
Cagalli widened her eyes and Yuna screamed. The Freedom blew aside the wedding decorations as it flew to the alter.
"WHAT ARE YOU DOING!" Cagalli yelled at the Gundam.
Kira carefully moved the Freedom's hands, picking Cagalli up. Yuna jumped back in shock as the Freedom floated off the floor. Cagalli yelled for Kira to stop, but the Freedom was already engaging its rockets at full speed.
"CALL THE FLEET HAVE THEM CHASE THAT MOBILE SUIT NOW!" One of the guards yelled.
The grey haired man chuckled, still standing at his usual spot. He took a phone out of his pocket and called his contact.
"Cagalli Yula Athha has left, Orb is now in your masters hand, General Ambition!" The man said.
General Ambition sat in Cagallli's office, smiling underneath his mask. Kira Yamato had made things easier for him and his master.
Cagalli flailed her arms around as the Freedom flew her across the sky. Kira kept his eyes on both the sky and his radar. He then opened his cockpit, dropping Cagalli onto his lap.
"What the hell are you doing Kira?" Cagalli asked.
"Wow, this is a nice dress Cagalli," Kira said.
A vein throbbed on Cagalli's forehead as she grit her teeth together. She and Kira then turned their attention to the radar as more heat sources appeared. Ships from Orb's naval fleet were gathering below them, while Murasame's were pursuing them. Kira wasn't worried; despite the delay he was sure he could reach the Archangel in time. Miles away, the Archangel emerged from the water, fully repaired from the damage done to it in the last war.
"You know most ships would get like gun or missile upgrades, but what does the Archangel get? A hot springs and a bigger kitchen!" Kai growled as he walked down the corridors of the ship.
"Well at least you've got more ingredients to work with," John said.
"True, despite the changes, its good to be back," Kai smiled.
John nodded his head before the two of them headed up to the bridge. Everyone was dressed in the standard Orb uniform. It was a symbol that they represented Orb's true interests. Kira moved the Freedom faster as he swooped across the water. Captain Todoka looked at the Gundam, knowing exactly how he would proceed. Despite the orders Yuuna was shouting over the radio, he ordered his crew to stand down.
"What the?" Kira muttered.
"What is it?" Cagalli asked.
"The Marasume's are cutting off their pursuit," Kira widened his eyes as he felt a tingling sensation in his head. "It couldn't be…Simon!"
The Freedom turned, flying backwards as Kira looked to his pursuer. A grey and gold Gundam flew after the Freedom, holding a shield and beam rifle, both consisting of gold and grey colours. Simon wore a grey flight suit; virtually identical to the one Gekido had worn years ago. He narrowed his eyes at the Freedom and pushed his Gundam forward.
"Simon Jaeger, Liberty Gundam ready to eliminate target!" He said before targeting the Freedom.
"This is a… interesting development." Jeremiah Isfrael stated as he watched television broadcast of what was the wedding turned abduction. And he was not alone.
Colonel Cain Eunathas narrowed his eyes at the scene with his arms crossed as he leant against the wall. His cold grey eyes never lost sight of Freedom and the attacking Liberty.
Jessica stood by Jeremiah's chair as she looked at the television nervously. The young blue haired coordinator was quite surprised at this changing turn of events. However that was not making her nervous. What was making her nervous was her boss's… friend.
Jessica's eye turned to look at Cain as he looked at the television. In all honestly Colonel Eunathas made her weary and at times even frightened her. It was just the man seemed to have this cold aura around him that gave a vibe that said "Back off or Else!"
Now in all honesty Cain's physical appearance was unique. His hair was an unnatural pale white styled mid length straightened with two long bangs hanging neatly near his the collar of his Alliance uniform. His face actually quite handsome and showed clear signs of being fully defined. In fact the Colonel looked to be well in his late 20s or even early 30s. But his cold gray eyes told another story. Those eyes told stories of years witnessing and experiencing unspeakable horrors. They were almost …inhumane.
"It seems the Clyne faction has made their first move." Jessica turned her eyes to the Director as he spoke. Jeremiah brought out one of his cigarettes and placed it in his mouth as he got his lighter.
Jessica couldn't help but sigh at her boss's smoking habit. He was shortening his life expectance every time he used those sticks of death. However given his positions as the Director of the Atlantic Federation and Chief Mobile Suit Designer, it was understandable how stressful that could be on one man. Well that is how she saw it.
"It is a foolish move either way." Cain voiced his opinion on the actions of the Freedom. He uncrossed his arms and stopped leaning against the wall to walk next to Jeremiah. "It wouldn't matter if the marriage took place or not; Orb will still be under the control of the Seirans."
"Are you sure? I mean the Athha girl is inexperienced and all, but considering the fact she fought in the First War and considering she is the daughter of the Lion Of Orb you would expect her to put up a fight." Jeremiah raised his eyebrow.
"That child is no Uzumi Nara Athha. She foolishly acts on her emotions and has a single minded view of the world." Cain responded with cold disdain. "Her and the rest of those fools at the Clyne faction fail to see the cold hard truth of the matter. Honestly they are completely hopeless in guidance without Gekido Jaeger beating some sense into their naïve skulls."
Jeremiah sighed. He knew full well that Cain had a valid point about the situation. But at times he could be so cynically blunt and brutal about other people. Especially young people like Kira Yamato and Cagalli Yula Athha.
"Always the charmer there eh Cain? Honestly when comes to bluntness I think you give Harry Truman a run for his money." The brunette breathed out an air of smoke.
"Hn," Cain merely shrugged his shoulders slightly.
Jessica noticed a small thin smile of amusement on the pale white haired man face. Then it dropped to its neutral standing.
"By the way Jeremiah did you give the Liberty orders to sortie to Orb?" Eunathas queried.
Jessica decided to speak for the Director "Colonel, no such orders where given to Ensign Hunter."
Cain turned his eyes to the young woman; Jessica couldn't help but flinch slightly. Then the Colonel nodded to her and politely said "Thank you Miss."
Jessica merely nodded.
"Hmph, so he acted on his own then. That kind of recklessness is practically asking for KIA (Killed in Action)." Cain.
"Maybe he has something to prove," Jeremiah suggested as he looked at the scene.
Cain said nothing as his eyes went back to scene as he narrowed his eyes at the Freedom and the Liberty fighting.
General Savage dodged a stream of missiles fired by the Minerva. He ignored the other mobile suits making their way off of the launch catapults. His target was the Impulse, the machine piloted by Shinn Asuka. The Zaku's fired their rifles, shooting the lowly Kratos pilots out of the sky. Branden Kamal, the pilot of the Murasama yelled as he cleaved an Orion in half. General Savage was a man of might, but even he needed a plan. His plan was flawless, throw the grunts at the other mobile suits and destroy the Impulse. That was his Purpose, the destruction of the threats to his benefactor. He slid the panel's open on his Gundam's chest. The Monstrous Gundam then pulled out two great beam sabres, igniting the huge beam blades.
"Shinn Asuka, Core Splendour launching," Shinn said as he flew out of the hatch.
The Force silhouette and the components for the Impulse itself came out next. Savage then saw his chance to strike as the core splendour docked with the main body. He flew the Monstrous Gundam forward, rushing past The Murasama Rogue.
"What the?" Branden widened his eyes in confusion.
"NOW DIE!" Savage yelled.
Shinn gasped as the Monstrous Gundam swung its swords downwards. Suddenly, the Purpose Mark 2 slammed into the Monstrous Gundam's side. General Savage yelled as the AI machine threw him away from the Impulse. Recovering in midair, Savage narrowed his eyes at the Purpose. It floated side by side with the Impulse as the Gundam finished its assembly. Shinn looked at the machine in shock, remembering what Vincent had said.
"Its just an order, I don't have to like it," He whispered to himself.
The Purpose moved in synch with the Impulse, following its lead. Shinn fired his beam rifle, hitting the Monstrous Gundam's massive arms. Savage revealed his chest mounted Gatling guns, firing a flurry of bullets. He widened his eyes as the Purpose flew in front of the Impulse, its Arc barrier protecting the mobile suit. The Purpose's armour glowed with green energy from the Arc generator. Then the machine drew its beam sabre, passing the energy into the blade. Savage ignited his own sabres, blocking the Purpose's sword. He widened his eyes as the Impulse flew over the Purpose.
"Got you," Shinn said as he targeted the Gundam.
He pulled the trigger, sending a beam flying towards the Monstrous Gundam's head. General Savage let out a yell as he pulled his machine back, barely dodging Shinn's attack. Branden sliced an Orion in half and Rey shot a Kratos in the head.
"Enemy approaching from the portside," The Minerva's radar operator said.
The Kratos dodged the beams and missiles fired by the Minerva. It drew its beam sabre and headed straight towards the Slash Zaku. Nia turned to the machine and narrowed her eyes. Throwing her empty rifle aside, she retracted her axe. Without igniting the beams, Nia swung the poleaxe around, crashing it through the Kratos's head. Blood oozed onto the blade, but Nia only paid attention to the battlefield. She swung the axe around, throwing the Kratos aside. A rail rifle blast then slammed into the Kratos's back, blowing it to pieces for good measure. Silver Mask drew his beam trident and began blocking beams fired at him.
"There's too many of them, even for our forces," Vincent said.
He stood next to Talia's chair, looking out at the battlefield. Vincent smiled with a mix of pride and victory as he saw the Purpose and Impulse fighting side by side. He liked being proved right. But his focus then turned to the Aero Gundam. It smashed a Kratos across the head and then kicked an Orion into the Minerva's missiles. The rough fighting style was reminiscent of Gekido and the original Silver Mask, but the moments of refined skill seemed more like the man behind the mask was a veteran pilot. Silver Mask himself however sat inside the cockpit of his machine, breathing in frustration. He poured his hate and rage into his attacks, striking down Kratos's in fury.
"Keep attacking, overwhelm their forces," Savage ordered.
General Savage blocked a beam attack from the Impulse and fired its Vulcan's at the Purpose, forcing it to dodge. The Purpose fired its own Vulcan's back, spraying the Gundam's bulky chest armour with bullets. Shinn dived forward, making a daring move as he drew his beam sabre. He and Savage yelled as they swung their beam sabres towards one another. The two Gundam's slammed their swords together, passing each other by. Shinn smirked as he saw a scratch on the Monstrous Gundam's right shoulder pad. General Savage roared in fury as he turned the machine around. He stopped as he saw the Purpose fly to the Impulse's side.
"So this is why my master sees you as a threat," Savage whispered.
"This must be all the Uragiri remnant forces, I cant believe this many followed that bitch," Joe growled as he dodged a beam blast.
The Efreet stepped back, giving Lunamaria room to fire her beam cannon. Her beam blast cut a Kratos in half, sending its top half crashing into another Kratos. Joe whistled, impressed by the display.
"Our power won't last much longer at this rate," Kojiro muttered.
"What are you talking about, we've got plenty of power," Branden said.
"Don't be a fool!"
Branden slammed his sword into an Orion's shield, blocking the machine's counter strike with his second sword. He grit his teeth together as he pushed the blades against the Orion's weapons.
"These guys aren't going to beat me," Branden growled.
He threw his sword, sending it flying into a Kratos approaching him from behind. But much to Branden's shock, the Kratos dodged the blade. Branden drew a beam sabre and sliced off the Orion's arm. Quickly turning his machine around, Branden raised his sword and sabre to defend himself. Suddenly, a beam flew into the Kratos's chest, blowing the machine up. The crew of the Minerva looked to their right as several more beams flew at the Uragiri forces. Savage blocked a flurry of bullets, looking at the mild annoyances approaching the Minerva.
"Those are Sensou naval ships," Vincent smiled as he looked at the ships.
The aircraft carriers carried groups of ground type GM's and Gundams. But the mass produced Gundams lacked Phase shift armour, possessing armour that was as strong as the GM's. Unlike the GM's however, the Gundams were equipped with heavier weapons, such as missile launchers, bazookas and cannons. The GM's fired their machine guns and beam rifles while the Gundams let out bursts of cannon fire.
"Pathetic fools, you're just making yourself easier targets," A Kratos pilot said.
He drew his beam rifle and flew towards the Naval ships. Targeting the leading ship, the Kratos pilot smirked as he touched the trigger. Suddenly, a spiked mace flew out of the water, crashing into the Kratos's head. Branden turned to the water and smirked.
"About time he showed up," He said.
A black and red Gundam slowly floated out of the water. Two triple barrelled cannons were attached to its wrists, while its hands gripped two spiked morning stars. The Gundam's eyes shined a yellow colour as the beam cannon on its mouth began to flow. A massive winged flight pack was attached to its back, while gold markings similar to a bird's talons were on its knees. The Gundam fired its cannon, shooting two Kratos's.
"What the heck is that?" One of the CIC staff members asked.
"It looks similar to the Raider seen in the last war," Arthur said.
Meyrin put a hand to her ear.
"Ma'am we have an audio message from the pilot," She said.
"Play it, and relay it to all our pilots too," Talia ordered.
Meyrin nodded and played the message through the speakers.
"May all present witness the power of the sword that cleaves…I mean the mace that crushes evil, The Air Raider is here to help on behalf of Sensou," Clotho Beaur said as he flew at the Uragiri remnants.
The Minerva crew blinked in confusion at the pilot's statement. Kojiro kept his calm look while Vincent sighed.
"That idiot hasn't changed a bit," Branden said.
The Air Raider swung its morning stars around, striking two Orion's before they could even draw their sabres. A manic smile crossed Clotho's face as he switched the Raider to bird mode. Unlike he previous model however, the Air Raider truly resembled a bird as a head and beak folded over the Raider's helmet. The wings on the flight pack folded out while two sets of talons were revealed, one on the flight pack and another pair on the Raider's knees.
"HERE WE GO! CHESTO!" Clotho yelled as he swooped downwards.
Two Akumas flew at the Raider, both drawing their beam swords. Clotho span the Raider around, building momentum before slamming into the Akumas. He grabbed the Akuma's arms with his talons and then stabbed the Raider's beak through the Akuma's head. Clotho then turned to the second Akuma and opened the Raider's beak. A beam flew out of the beam, blowing off the Akuma's head.
"CRITICAL HIT!" Clotho yelled in joy.
"DAMN IT!" Savage roared.
He slammed his fist into his side panel, yelling in fury as he contacted his forces. The Uragiri pilots shivered in fear as they heard the General speak.
"We're leaving, our mission is a failure, ALL FORCES RETREAT!" He yelled.
One by one, the Uragiri mobile suits flew away, leaving the Minerva to continue its trek to Carpentaria.
Simon's eyes remained emotionless as he fired at the Freedom. Kira easily dodged the blasts, turning back to the Liberty. His eyes were an opposite of Simon's. He didn't want to fight a person he considered a friend. Instead of firing back, Kira made contact, causing Cagalli to widen her eyes in shock. She hadn't seen Simon lately and hadn't heard that he joined the Alliance.
"Simon listen to me, I need to get Cagalli out of Orb," Kira said.
"Shut up!" Simon growled.
He fired his beam rifle, hitting the Freedom's shield. Kira sighed before targeting the Liberty's rifle. The Coordinator squeezed off a shot, hitting the rifle. Simon threw the rifle aside as it exploded, his eyes still set on the Freedom. Shaking his head, Simon fired his Vulcan's hitting the Freedom in the back. Kira looked at Simon in shock, taken back by the young man's actions.
"Simon believe me I'm doing this for the right reasons, Cagalli cant be in Orb right now. Someone attacked us, someone in ZAFT, that means we cant go to the Plants and with the Earth Alliance drafting Orb into the war we cant stay here either. Please Simon let us go," Kira explained, his voice taking on a begging tone.
"I SAID SHUT UP!" Simon yelled.
His words shocked Kira, it was as if Simon was a different person.
"Why are you acting this way?" Kira asked.
"I'm a soldier of the Earth Alliance, I'm fighting to make things better, your only messing everything up. Taking Cagalli from her country, what the hell do you think is going to happen to Orb without her huh? You and Lacus always think your justified, that your right, well guess what Kira there's only one rule when it comes to war…THE VICTOR WRITES HISTORY!" Simon yelled.
The Liberty moved is hand to the beam sword on its back.
"If I beat you and take Cagalli back, then I'll be known as the man who restored the peace in Orb, not just Gekido Jaeger's brother!"
But before Simon could even draw his sword, Kira flew towards him. He drew his beam sabre and cut off the Liberty's arms. Simon widened his eyes as he watched the Freedom cut his sword into ribbons. He remained silent as the Freedom kicked what was left of his suit towards the ocean. Without saying another word, Kira flew the other way, docking with the Archangel. Todoka saluted the Archangel as it dived into the ocean. The Liberty crashed into the ocean, sinking into the depths. Simon emotionlessly looked through his side screen. Deep Forbidden's were approaching him, ready to take him to the nearest Orb vessel for recovery.
"Pilot, are you all right?" Magnus asked.
Simon slammed his hand into his side screen, his body shaking.
"Why? Why did I lose to him! He's lived in peace and I've fought, hell I was born to fight! WHY DID HE WIN!" Simon yelled.
He leant back into his seat, overcome with the frustration of his loss.
"I want…I need to beat him, I need to prove him wrong! THEY ARENT THE RIGHTEOUS ONES!"
Simon's yells echoed through the cockpit as the ruined Liberty was carried back to safety.
Next Chapter 23: Return to the battlefield
Hope everyone enjoyed the chapter. Next time we go between all the groups as Simon has the Liberty prepared, Athrun joins the Minerva crew and the Thanos faction sends out an "invitation" to the Earth Alliance