A/n

Here is Phase 38, as I mentioned, most of it was written by the time I finished the previous phase up. My standard disclaimer still applies, enjoy the Phase!

Phase 38: Changing Tides

March 2nd, 74 C.E.

-Neutral pov-

The Minerva

The aftermath of the Alliance's attack on Berlin and the other cities was fully seen when dawn of the next day came. The real scale of the destruction suffered by Berlin was visible in the light where darkness had covered a good portion before. The approximately three hundred fifty square mile area that the city took up, more than half of that was in ruins. The death toll was increasing by the hour as more bodies were found and estimations between the dead and the missing painted a terrible picture. The cries and screams of sorrow and anger of those morning and calling for loved ones echoed in the air as the cleanup kept going.

ZAFT forces were aiding in the search efforts for the missing alongside the Federation's forces that were here now. The help was not refused at all, not with what had happened, boundaries between the factions were put aside as the work was attended to. There was more than enough to do for even the short period recovery for those that had survived, then the search and attempted identification of the injured and dead kept all busy. Shifts for mobile suit pilots to go out and help in the efforts were hours long, though for most, it seemed longer timewise.

The blanket of snow gave the view of white on the landscape, but the signs of destruction marred any beauty that this land had undergone.

Athrun, who was between sorties currently, could only stare out of a window of the Minerva, trying to wrap his head around the recent event and why it had occurred at all. It made no sense for any within the Earth Forces or the Alliance to have done or caused this destruction or the sorrow that came from it. Rampaging in the Federation's Euros Coalition earned no one much and the backlash would be far worse for whomever was responsible. The death toll alone would motivate the Federation's military to determine who was responsible and then 'take care' of those involved. Some of those that had planned and helped carried this out would have known that and what kind of consequences they would face, so the question was why did they still go through with it?! Were the orchestrators of this tragedy losing their minds, or did they real think that there wouldn't be repercussions from this action?

Nevertheless, what was scaring Athrun more right now, was how things were falling into place to become almost exactly as they were during the latter half of the First Alliance-PLANT War. The fighting wasn't going the exact same, but tragedies that were occurring with little thought were happening as they had before, and it left Athrun fuming. In this recent battle, so many people had been killed, both involved in the battle and not, which included at least one from the Minerva, Heine Westenfluss. According to Aila, Heine had been helping her stop the Alliance mobile suits from killing those fleeing from the fighting, mainly the Abyss. Heine had saved Aila from being taken down by the Abyss but died in the process. He would be honored as a hero for his actions and efforts officially soon enough after the cleanup.

What would come as a result of the attacks on the Euros Coalition were uncertain, but they wouldn't be nice or pretty. The seemingly endless cycle of one group being attacked and then fighting back against those who attacked them was just getting worse. Seeing the evidence brought back to mind the conversation that he had with Chairman Zala, the one he realized that Chairman Zala was not his father any longer. The memory gave a bitter taste in Athrun's mouth and he hoped that things would not go in the same direction that they had been going back then.

Meanwhile, on the bridge of the Minerva, Talia and Arthur were also gazing out over the view of the ruins of Berlin. Smoke still rose from portions of what was left of the city, there were areas that were nothing by rubble. Talia after a bit couldn't keep silent, "This is beyond appalling, it's monstrous! The Earth Forces as bad as they have been, have committed a new low with this tragedy. Perhaps they have gone mad from how the war has been going and not getting what they want, but this is still inexcusable."

"You're right ma'am. I mean, I know that the Earth Alliance's and the Human Federation's relationship haven't been great, supposedly the worst they have been, but that doesn't explain doing this," Arthur said gesturing at that destruction in front of them.

Talia sighed, "Seeing this brings back to mind what the Chairman said in Diocuia, what are we doing here? Those who wish for freedom and to live in peace but are being oppressed, things are coming full circle to what they were during the previous war. Nothing has really changed since then and why is that," she stated painfully.

"It could be that which I think motivates the Chairman to work as hard as he does," Arthur mused. "The wish to live in harmony, both Coordinators, Naturals and other types of humans is the answer to not repeat the mistakes of the past. So, if there are those who are against that, shouldn't they be eliminated right away and be done with the issues they create? If that doesn't happen, then the end of this war is not even in sight in the near future, if ever."

Talia exhaled, knowing that Arthur wasn't exactly wrong, but the subject was more complicated than that. "You may be right Arthur, but then does that make us so different from those we stand against?"

-Line Break-

The Normandy

The day after starting out from Berlin, Shinn had been able to get over the slight state of awe he had gained upon coming onto the Normandy. The ship itself was quite an interesting design internal and was different than the Minerva's. The Normandy was smaller than the Minerva was, but not by a great deal. There seemed to be little to no wasted space in the Normandy, each area had a purpose it was designed for. Whether this was the standard mentality with the designing of Federation vessels, Shinn couldn't say. But it was clear that planning went into the ship's design both inside and out.

Shinn had been assigned one of the sets of crew quarters, which supported three people rather than two as the Minerva's non-officer quarters did. The one he shared quarters with, was named Luke Lascy, one of the three pilots for the Normandy. The other two pilots according to him were girls, so shared quarters themselves. And after settling in, he managed to find where the infirmary and visited Stella. She was doing better than when she was had been while in the Minerva's infirmary, but she was still in problematic health. Shinn was still worried and wondered what had happened for the girl he had bumped into around Shira to be in a mobile, then to end out like this. He may not know her well, but this girl seemed too nice to be a pilot for a giant mobile armor that had ravaged cities.

While in the infirmary, Shinn did talk to the ship doctor and found out a little more about what could be happening to Stella. She apparently was involved in something called the Enhanced Human Project. From the few details that the Normandy's doctor Maya Noll gave, Shinn was appalled by the idea the project was. He felt sorry for Stella as well, for the things she had likely done weren't her fault, it was her conditioning that she was given that was responsible. By what Shinn was told, Stella had been undergoing 'treatment' to have what work had been done fixed or undone so that she could live a life like any other person could have. The reason that Stella had been in pain was that whatever had been done for reconditioning, had been done poorly or wrong. According to Doctor Noll, the best chance for Stella was to take her to a place called Shangri-La where there with those who could perhaps help her.

When Shinn left the infirmary, he moved the information that he had learned to the back of his mind as he was to receive his assignment of duties today. He was directed to the vice-captain of the Normandy by a member of the crew as they would tell him of his duties while onboard. He didn't know what to exactly expect, the Minerva had been his first ship assignment and the deputy captain Arthur Trine had been an understanding officer that would listen to an explanation. The feeling Shinn had gotten with the members of the Normandy's crew gave the impression that the captain and deputy were liked and trusted, so he was hopeful things would go okay.

Shinn knocked on the door to the vice captain's quarters and was told to come in before the door slid open. He walked in and saw that there was an office setup on the right side of the room and living quarters arrangement on the left. Shinn's attention shifted from taking in the room, to the woman sitting at the desk. Her height was average by what Shinn could tell, along with her mid-length black hair. She was wearing a Federation less formal uniform and was going over what appeared to be paperwork. The woman looked up, "I assume that you are Shinn Asuka correct," she posed.

Shinn snapped to and saluted, "Yes ma'am, reporting for duty," he replied.

The woman put down the papers that she had been looking over, "My name is Lisa Malto, I'm the vice-captain of the Normandy. You've already met the captain," she stated.

Shinn was a bit confused, he didn't recall meeting a person that he would guess was a captain yet. "Um, I don't think I've met the captain of this vessel yet ma'am," he replied.

Lisa sighed, "Yes, Tyler does come off that way more often than not. The one you came onboard with is in fact, the captain of this ship Tyler McGregor, hard as it might be to believe."

That caught Shinn by surprise, the guy that had given him a ride and had been with those that had taken Stella was the captain. The guy hadn't come off as a commanding officer, a potential team lead sure, but not a ship officer. He'd had looked to be somewhat younger than Captain Gladys and she was seen as a young captain compared to others by what Shinn understood. Lisa then regained his attention, "You have been made aware that you will be work while you're on this ship like you would on the vessel you were assigned to in the ZAFT organization."

Shinn nodded, "That point has been mentioned yes," he replied, kind of curious what kind of tasks he would be asked to do. His skill set was in piloting a mobile suit and the things such involved. Shinn did have some general skills as to ship operations from his time in the military academy as it was some of the required courses, but not enough to take a station and be confident in operating it.

Lisa picked up a page and scanned it, "By what ZAFT's military academy records state, you are quite a talented pilot, but also did fairly well with system operation, specifically the search and detection station, is that correct?"

Out of the console stations that were a part of the bridge operation course, search and detection had made the most sense to Shinn. The other stations were understood to be important in the functions they performed, but they were still hard to do for Shinn. He nodded to the question, "Yes, out of bridge stations, search and detection made the most logical sense to me as it was explained."

Lisa acknowledged his answer, "When on duty, that will likely be the station you will fill, we have been somewhat shorthanded in some places and that is one. Don't worry, you'll get pointers and can ask questions if you have them, it's not like you're going to be thrown into a job you know absolutely nothing about."

Shinn nodded, still kind of apprehensive about doing bridge operation but, if that was what he had to do to see Stella to wherever she had to go, then so be it. Shinn's first duty shift came latter that day, and he reported to the Normandy's bridge just before his shift was supposed to start. The bridge itself was different than the Minerva's both in layout, the first notable point being length. There were consoles around the edge of the long room as well as some surrounding the center area. The center area appeared to have two chairs, likely for the captain and the vice-captain towards the back and a display of the ship's status above the center. There was a bit of a hallway that led to what was clearly the helm at the end opposite of the lift to the bridge.

"Ah Shinn, you still had a few minutes before you were due to report for duty," said someone ahead of Shinn himself.

Shinn looked to the speaker and found himself gazing at Tyler McGregor and he remembered what the vice-captain had mentioned about him. He saluted, "I thought it would be good to come a bit early captain," Shinn replied.

Tyler exhaled heavily, "I believe I said before that I'm not one for formalities, I see them more as a hinderance and causes for awkward situations. If you insist on being formal then sir will be acceptable, the only time that I see a reason that I should be referred to as captain, is in serious situations such as combat."

Shinn nodded, "Okay sir."

Tyler pointed to a station on the right side of the edge of the room, "That would be the search and detection station which you will be working at during your shift," he said.

Shinn made his way over to the indicated console where a woman was vacating. She was shorter than Shinn himself by a margin but looked older than Shinn was by a few years. She had shoulder length pink hair and turquoise eyes which he noticed as she bowed to him, "Hello, my name is Feldt Grace, it's nice to meet you," she greeted.

Shinn returned the gesture, "Likewise, my name is Shinn Asuka."

-Line Break-

-Tyler's pov-

The Normandy was traveling towards Shira, taking a route through the Arctic Ocean as there was less traffic normally. That had two major bonuses, first less trouble would possibly come our way and delay us in getting to our destination and two, less likely to be caught doing things that are discouraged, which lets us travel faster. Stella's condition was… not nice and that was putting it mildly, Doctor Noll said something to the effect of the results of a botched reconditioning. In other words, the girl was as much a victim as those she had seen as monsters and killed in response. Knowing that certainly brought on the urge to hunt down the idiot or idiots thought that such was a good idea in any sense and make them suffer. However, that would be a waste at this moment, yet like Muruta Azrael, I await the day such face justice!

Still, the kid Shinn Asuka was interesting to observe, for two reasons. First, he had two different sides he showed, whether he did so knowingly or not. The first side was what was seen while he was 'on-duty', he was focused and dedicated and that was good. The other side was quietly worrying about Stella, which presented itself by the kid going around doing small things multiple times. The second reason was he kind of had me thinking of a mix of how Athrun and Kira were a few years ago during the previous war. The line Talia Gladys had said made sense by the end of the second day, he was dependable and tried, just lacked experience which was expected at his age.

Yet, my hunch that Shinn would have a positive effect on Stella was right on the money, for she had responded well to him. And that girl needed any help regardless of the kind that she could get right now, it would improve her chances of making it through what she was experiencing. Plus, he had helped in providing a break in the duty shifts for Miss Grace and the other that tended to be at the search and detection station. Shinn was clear a good kid, which makes it not so nice that he is involved in this current war.

It was as I switched off with Lisa, that I headed off to the ship's mess hall to grab a bite to eat before getting together with my bed. Nevertheless, upon getting to the mess, I spotted Shinn sitting at a table looking to be deep in thought. I grabbed a tray of food and then went over the table Shinn was at and sat down. Shinn glanced up, "Oh sorry sir, I didn't see you come up," he said.

I waved a hand, "Don't sweat it, and I said before, you don't need to use formalities, they don't sound right to me," I replied. I took a bite and swallowed, "So, what's eating you Shinn, you had a real serious look on your face and it isn't natural for teens to have on a regular basis. Talking does help, as stupid as it may sound, I know from personal experience, so I'll listen and won't judge."

A full minute went by before Shinn spoke up again, "Why did people do what they did to Stella," he uttered.

I set down my eating utensils, "That's a complicated yet simple question, depending how detailed an answer you care to get." I paused to think about how to go about answer the question, "It may be hard to see, but I wouldn't doubt that Stella was once a Natural-type human at some point in the past. Then she was taken to a place where that was change and she was morphed into a living weapon and soldier. The simple reason is there are those who hate Coordinators, but still want to beat and out do them and are willing to sink to committing horrible acts to achieve such."

"But that makes no sense," Shinn interjected.

I nodded, "You are right, it doesn't make sense, but I never said the reasons did or would make sense, for logically they don't. Those that have and pay for individuals, normally children to be made into soldiers don't see them as people but as tools. How that should justify what is done, I don't have any idea," I replied. Shinn didn't say anything to that, so I continued, "It is my understanding that you were around an Alliance complex recently, one that shows evidence of what kinds of things are done to make those like Stella."

Shinn's eyes went wide as he gazed at me, "How do you know about that place," he asked.

"Well, Athrun happened to mention some things plus, you assume that there is only one place like the one that you saw, which assumption is wrong," I said evenly.

Shinn's mouth fell open, "There are more places like the one east of Suez?!"

"Yep," I said sadly, recalling my own experience in the complex that was in the Siberian area of the Eurasian Federation. "I have myself been in one of those places and I still have nightmares about some of the things I saw there."

Shinn gained an expression of anger, "But why? Why do some do such horrible things and get away with them?"

I smiled with pity, "An age-old question, and the best answer is that they convince others that their methods can get something they want. Those kinds of people were identified a few years ago as humankind's true enemy and that is exactly what they are," I reasoned.

"You're referring to Minister Blass's speech during the closing part of the previous war," Shinn said.

I nodded, "Yes, she did put the idea in such a way that is simple enough for most to understand what is coming across. Although, it can be pretty much be divided into two categories, which are for gain and the other is for obsessions."

"What do you mean," questioned Shinn.

Taking the time to gather my thoughts, I then began, "There were originally six points to identify those that are humankind's true enemy, four of which could go in both categories. The real differences between the two categories is what they are aiming for, which as I said are for gain or obsession. Those that are working for gain, want this war for their profit and gain are making sure the conflict continues or else their profits dries up and they don't want that. Then the other side where obsession is the driving force which vendettas can be seen as said obsessions. With vendettas and obsessions, the reasons for them only have to make sense to the one that has them and none else."

Shinn nodded slowly, "I suppose that makes a kind of sense, though it's twisted," he said.

"I agree that it is twisted," I remarked, shrugging as I gave my reply, "That doesn't change the fact that there are individuals that are like that. Unfortunately, I've met a few personally and find them to be horrible people to be around."

Shinn was sober after I agreed with him, "So then, are we doomed to fight over and over," he uttered.

I smiled a bit, "It can seem that way sometimes however, as long as there are those who don't give up nor give in to either side of humankind's true enemy there is always hope." Shinn was looking at me as I kept going, "While there is even one individual that will fight for peace no matter what, then there is still hope for the conflict to end. I myself know that I will fight to bring peace, and not just for some or one faction, but for as many as possible," I stated firmly.

Shinn's head fell a bit, "You make it sound so easy and simple," he said flatly.

"I admit, fighting for what you believe in regardless of the situation or circumstances is much easier said than done. It becomes easier to make the decision to stick to one's beliefs than it used to be, even when it has you defying orders. But, I truly believe that such courage and caliber is what it will take to stop the chaotic mess that others have created to bring the world and the human race to the current situation. Any human being can stand for what they believe in, it is a choice and it is doing that which is the first step to moving passed the causes that bring conflict." I felt a smile form on my face again, "I think if people were to take a moment to stop looking at the differences between one another and see the commonalities, many of the issues that are being focused on would be seen as stupid and fade."

The rest of the conversation between Shinn and I was more small talk than anything else. He seemed like a good kid from what I could tell and that is going well for him. The only issue will be that a good yet considerate person, would be others tend to pick them to use for their goals. There were definitely some parallels between Shinn and Athrun as he was during the previous war.

The trip to Shira was uneventful, but then the route of the Arctic Circle was one of the least used by seaborne traffic. Shinn did okay with the search and detection station, he learned quickly and asked question on things he didn't know. The three-day journey came to its end when we docked at Shira. Stella was shortly then flown off to Shangri-La to get the medical attention she needed. While the Normandy was getting repairs and maintenance, I took Shinn to the underground transit system and we went to Shangri-La. The visit was short as Stella was not able to have visitors when we got there, but Shinn was assured that she would be okay given time.

After that, I saw Shinn to a transport that would take him to Gibraltar and to the Minerva. He thanked me for letting him travel onboard the Normandy for the few days that he did and that it had been a good experience for him. When the aircraft took off, I watched it go, wondering what the future held for Shinn Asuka. He was a rare type of person, much like myself or my two best friends from what I've seen. I certainly hope that good events will find him, but I doubt that bad events will miss him.

-Line Break-

-Neutral pov-

Aprilius One, Lagrange 5

Gilbert Durandal sat at his desk, waiting for the signal that he would be broadcasting. This message that he would give, could influence and shape the path that the human race was going down and Durandal wasn't going to miss that chance. Done right, Durandal could use this broadcast to get most of the world and the colonies on his side, even possibly a portion of the Federation. If he could get enough support, then he could bring the Destiny Plan to fruition and accomplish what no one had before now. Only when everything fell into its proper place, would real peace come to be and Durandal would succeed where others had failed.

The signal was given and Durandal began, "Greetings to one and all that are hearing and viewing this broadcast. My name is Gilbert Durandal, I am the current Chairman of the PLANT Supreme Council." Countless people around the world watched and listened as Durandal spoke, "I am aware with recent events, it may appear unseemly for me to be making a broadcast at this time, especially with the state of war between the Earth and the PLANTs. But please, I humbly request that you forgive me, and I beg you to indulge me for what I have to say. My message is meant to be for all human beings, regardless of type, circumstance or current situation."

The broadcast that Durandal was making was being transmitted through every form of media and communication channel possible so that it reached as many as possible. The majority of the human race paused as Durandal continued, "Allow me to start by explaining why this war that is going on came to be in the first place. I'm sure that many of you are wondering the reasons why it is happening as the reasons given so far make so little sense. So many are dying because of this conflict and it is only right that all know the real reasons why it has come to be."

The broadcast then started showing images of the battles that had been fought in the war thus far, many from the recent Battle of Berlin. "I know the images being viewed are shocking and terrible to see, but they are what has been happening around the world. The oppression people that do not wish to fight in this war and those who simply desire to live in peace has come to the point that it should not and cannot be ignored or silenced any longer," Durandal stated. Recordings of the rampage of the Alliance Destroy Gundam came up as he kept speaking, "The Earth Alliance's newest weapon of mass destruction emerged from Eurasia more than a week ago. It carved a path of death and destruction through the Euros Coalition, destroying whole cities and their populations as it went."

Most that were viewing the broadcast could only stare in horror at the images being displayed of the destruction brought down. However, there were those that were not happy in anyway with Durandal's speech, Lord Djibril chief among them. First, to see more footage of the failed results of the Destroy Gundam's deployment was infuriating to see, for it was a reminder. Second, Djibril was getting the feeling that Durandal was going towards a very dangerous place in his iteration.

Durandal kept going, "This weapon began its assault without warning and struck without mercy or discrimination for its targets. It along with the mobile suit force with it wiped out three full cities and a good portion of a fourth, massacring most of the citizen as they went." Djibril was demanding that this broadcast be cut-off and stopped as he started to realize where this was heading. "ZAFT forces did their utmost to stop the rampage of this weapon, but by the time it was done regrettably, many had lost their lives," said Durandal.

Nonetheless, a portion of those viewing the recordings of the Battle of Berlin that were being shown noticed that they looked off. Among them, Athrun almost instantly took notice that in the footage, there was no sign of any of the Federation's military forces. There had been Federation forces, more than ZAFT, and yet, the footage had none of them there where they should be. The fact nagged at Athrun, for it made little sense, why would any, Chairman Durandal included alter footage of the battle like this? What benefit could there be to tell part truths in this?

Athrun was by no means the only one that noticed the clear difference from the footage and what had actually happened around what had been the city of Berlin. Kira along with the crew of the Archangel also saw that there were major elements missing from the recording, the Archangel itself for one. But the biggest element was that there were only ZAFT forces fighting the giant Alliance mobile suit, which wasn't correct at all.

Tyler at viewing this, first felt angry that someone had altered the recordings of the horrible event. However, after a bit, Tyler calmed down enough to see this in a more objective view point. The way that the footage was altered, gave the impression that ZAFT and ZAFT alone were the ones that came to the aid of those under the attack of the Alliance. What that was being used for, Tyler only guessed that it was to gain support for something. Honestly, it was a type of vailed insult directed at the Federation and more its military, to have Federation citizens in danger and their military not be there to protect them. It was part of the well-established reputation of the Federation Military, they would go above and beyond the call of duty to protect and serve the Human Federation's citizens. Then, the Archangel and the Normandy were 'mysteriously missing' from the battlefield being shown when they had been there. In the end of it, the Impulse had been shown to be the one to finish the giant mobile suit, rather than the collaborative effort that had really done the job.

The question left in Tyler's mind, was why would Durandal portray the Battle of Berlin in such a way when he should know that the validity of this 'footage' would be challenged by the Federation at a bare minimum. The subject matter that had come up at the meeting around the ruins outside Diocuia came back to Tyler as well. The specific focus that Athrun had said Gilbert Durandal had on Logos, it could provide a potential explanation for this. If ZAFT was seen as the heroes, then Durandal could possibly turn the anger and hatred towards Logos. Yet, after Logos was defeated, then what? That was the point that was bugging Tyler, there was still critical information missing that could reveal the goals of those doing this.

"The cities of Earth have been under assault by the Earth Forces for months. Why has this been happening many would ask," Durandal stated. "The Earth Alliance declared its goal to be the liberation of those under the tyranny of ZAFT at the start of this conflict. Yet, I would ask each and every one viewing this broadcast, is the burning cities and people suffering look like any sane definition of 'liberation'?!"

Durandal took a moment to calm down as his voice had risen in volume, "While it is true, that the PLANTs and ZAFT disagree with a number of the Alliance's policies, as well as a few that the Human Federation hold, that does not mean that we see this war or conflict as the answer to such difference in views. We are united with those that wish to help and preserve humanity as it has become, not just Coordinator, but for all types of human beings. For those that wish for a life of peace and normalcy, you are not alone, we give support to those like you."

Video of victims of the Alliance's most recent attack were then shown, to add to the drawing feelings that this broadcast had been creating. Some of the individuals, it was clear to many that had been involved in the war that they were saying lines that they had been told to, in order to help support for ZAFT. "The Earth Alliance has scorned attempts and desires for peace from others, instead they tried to silence those that want to work towards peace both on Earth and in space. They have even attacked member nations of the Human Federation not involved in the war, showing that nowhere is safe nor do borders matter to them. For those that don't cooperate with the Alliance, they brand as enemies and traitors, then attack and kill them, regardless if they are men or women, they even do such things to children," Durandal iterated angrily.

"Such acts are vile and unacceptable," Durandal stated, losing his calm deminer more than he had a moment ago. "Why I ask, why do these thing 'have' to happen at all?! Why does peace have to be denied to all just because someone else says so?! Who says that we should have to fight, that war is the only answer to settle our standing disagreements and problems?! Who is it that tells us this, and why can't they just leave us alone to live together hand in hand in peace," he just about shouted, before 'Lacus Clyne' came into frame and placed a hand on Durandal's shoulder.

Durandal appeared to calm down a bit, while Lacus spoke, "It is fact that this war was started by a single event, an act truly terrible and horrifying. The Junius Seven Colony drop affected and hurt so many people, but it was done by a few Coordinators. Those individuals responsible had lost their way and their views were incorrect, that doesn't justify their actions, but it shows that wars drive people to do horrible things. The event is regrettable, and we never will forget that we were unable to prevent the event from happening completely." Tyler noted that once again, there was no mention of the Federation Military's involvement, and he believed that was on purpose. Also, he was surer now that this 'Lacus Clyne' wasn't a stand-in, but a replacement for the genuine Lacus. The girl continued, "Nor the tragedies that followed the event. For the many affected, there will never be the same 'normal' that they knew, and the suffering will continue for a long time."

Lacus took a breath, "With events like these, it may have been inevitable that a war would come. Nevertheless, we cannot let such things doom us to endless fighting, destruction and death." She paused, but then kept going, "This constant state of chaos and war brings misery and sorrow and nothing good, it takes away those we care about from us, never to return. We cannot let this continue, look forward towards the future with hope. Cry out your tears of sorrow and sadness, but once you're done, please listen to what the other side has to say. We can return to a world of light and peace, in my heart of hearts I believe that it is not just possible but doable. As was stated in the previous war, 'now is the time to stand together, doing so is how this war will come to its end', do not give up on peace for it is the shared desire of people everywhere."

Tyler involuntary tightening of his fists at hearing his mother's words being used for whatever vendetta was being built up to. She had never meant her words she gave after the Alliance's attack on the Republic to be used as a war cry and yet, here they were being put to that. She had even said that during her speech and that made him suspicious of Durandal all the more.

And then, Durandal spoke again, "I too, believe that peace is still entirely possible for all of humankind. But, there have always been those that would prevent such harmony at any and all costs. They have always been with us since antiquity, and they have demanded that people fight for a collection of reasons. Those reasons have ranged from entertainment to changes in leaders. History gives evidence of this, from ancient gladiators and warriors in deadly contests to revolutions to dethrone corrupt leaders. However, more recently in human history most often, it is for profits to be generated for a group or individuals."

The realization of whom Durandal was referring to, began to sink in to some and the number of those who understood grew quickly. Yet, Durandal didn't stop, "You're a coward if don't fight and you're a traitor if you don't do as your ordered to, these and other rationalizations are used by them. They invent enemies out of and from nothing, then 'give' you the means to attack those which they have invented and point you in the direction they want. With the profits they make from this, the last thing they would want is a world of peace and understanding. It is these kinds of people that are behind the tragedies that have been happening in the world and in space. As it was aptly put years ago, such people are humankind's true enemy, and they are still hiding among us. They work from the shadows and reap the profits from the suffering and death of others."

Lord Djibril screamed for the broadcast to be cut-off and/or blocked immediately, as he realized what Durandal intended to do. The man was leading up to placing all the blame for the current war and the previous onto Logos entirely. If Durandal succeeded, that would turn all the factions against Logos and there would be none to turn to for help.

Durandal continued, "Most if not all know of Blue Cosmos and their hatred of Coordinators, they refer to them as 'dangerous mistakes that shouldn't exist or be permitted to live'. But, what most don't know, is that Blue Cosmos was invented by the very same people that bring about war to drive profits and revenue for themselves. These individuals don't come out onto the public stage as themselves but operate from the shadows. They constantly work to 'secure' means to keep their profits flowing, whether that is inventing new enemies when there are none or causing conflict to ensure that war rages somewhere so that they will have 'business'. History has a title for such type of groups and people, calling them the merchants of death, currently they are the shadow military-industrial platform known as Logos."

Pictures began going across the broadcast paired with names as Durandal kept going, "The individuals you are seeing pictures of, are all confirmed as members of the Logos group. Some of them have already met their ends, but many of them have up to this point escaped the demands of justice!" Durandal paused and then the serious expression he had morphed into a look of pity, "And yet, those that members of Logos have use and abuse are not at fault, they are victims as much as those who Logos destroys the lives of. Please, do not hate them, they are in desperate need of help, for they are being forced to do what they are, or are being tricked in to committing the acts they do," pled Durandal. Images accompanied this of individuals that were clearly hurt or were being restrained and raving.

"Logos makes efforts to point out the differences between people, all so that they can have war happen to gain profit for themselves. They have brought about one war in this era along with the current one ripping the world and colonies apart, bringing chaos to increase business. This seeming endless war with no end in sight must be stopped! Change is required for that to happen and is needed not sometime in the future, but now! So, I vow here and now for all that are hearing or viewing this broadcast, I along with ZAFT will do our utmost to destroy Logos wherever they hide. From the depths of my heart, I wish for true peace to be experienced by every single member of human race. It is time that human beings say, 'enough is enough, we will have no more of this war for profits! We refuse to fight this created conflict for others to gain from to enjoy their interests, we will have peace'," Durandal exclaimed.

Durandal kept going in his speech to announce a military campaign against Logos in order to wipe them out. When it ended, people everywhere talked, discussed and argued about the subjects that Durandal spoke on. Reactions to Durandal's speech varied between those who viewed and listened to it when conclusions began to be reached. For a good portion of the population on Earth, support for ZAFT skyrocketed along with the anger towards Logos. Many within the Earth Forces and the Alliance deserted from their organization and joined in on the hunting down of members of Logos.

Nevertheless, the response from Federation citizens differed from others and it wasn't the subject matter of the broadcast that they were focused completely as others were. The explanation of the current war was understandable, the Human Federation kept their citizens informed in general what was happening. If citizen wished for more information then, they could request more, and it would be given to them most of the time, unless it was classified. What was really irking the citizen of the Federation, was that the Federation's military was being shown not defending their citizen. It was a fact that the Federation Military had done a great deal to earn the loyalty from the Federation's citizens they protected and served. Durandal was using what had befallen the Euros Coalition for his benefit to announce and push his campaign.

The leaders of the Federation's member nations were kept busy for a time calming their citizens' irritation and outrage. The Euros Coalition's citizens shouted outcries for the correction of what had been stated and shown and theirs wasn't the only voices. There were even demands that ZAFT be told to take back what they showed and said by telling the full truth and not just parts that show them in a better light and to be forced if necessary. The out crying was calmed somewhat when unaltered footage from the Battle of Berlin was released to both the other factions. After that a statement was given that the broadcast had made the mistake that there was only ZAFT forces involved and Federation forces weren't there doing their utmost to protect the people effected by the event.

The revealing of Logos existence was a surprise for many outside the Human Federation and had incensed anger and rage against them. The Federation had known of their existence and the response to the platform was to have nothing to do with them. The Federation's reasoning was that organizations such as Logos require a client base to survive, so less clients then they would starve in multiple ways. Once staved out, Logos would fade into the depth of history where they belonged and would be unable to cause the trouble they were. The 'military campaign' that was announced, was seen as unnecessary and would not attain the desired results without a heavy price paid by many.

So, that in mind, the Federation made it clear that the campaign against Logos was of no interest and would not help things move forward towards true and lasting peace. That stated, the Federation's military nor any within the Human Federation would be participating in the campaign in the foreseeable future. The response was not received well by the PLANT Supreme Council nor leaders of ZAFT, for they had kind of hoped for the Federation's military to help in the campaign. The Federation's military was still the strongest of the factions and their Information Network would be extremely insightful and cut the time it would take to find all the known members of Logos. But none involved in the campaign could say anything to the leaders of the Federation to get them to change their standing on the campaign.

As the campaign against Logos began, the other notable change that happened was the announcement of the United States of South America joining the Human Federation. However, most were more focused on destroying Logos to give much attention to the announcement of the addition to the Federation members. Most people outside the Federation began hunting down the members of Logos that had been shown during the broadcast. Even the members of Logos that were hiding within the Federation's member nations, faced investigations by the Federation itself. Those that were members of Logos either denounce Logos or were thrown out of the Federation territories. Those thrown out where they were quickly left to the mercies of the mobs that hunted them.

-Line Break-

-Tyler's pov-

Shira, the Republic

As the Normandy was undergoing repairs and maintenance at Teswa, the crew and I were pretty much on shore leave until that was done. Durandal's broadcast hadn't helped the mood I'd been getting into lately, it made it boil more if anything. I mean, the guy had made an insult by having the altered footage of the Battle of Berlin in which there was no Federation force doing their duty. And apparently, the citizens of the Federation had been raising a big stink about the implication that the Federation Military wasn't at Berlin when it was attack among other things. That's a compliment to those like myself that are soldiers in the Federation Military, for it showed that those we protected appreciated the efforts.

Then, Durandal's campaign or vendetta against Logos was a mess in potentia just waiting to blow up. Sure, he could possibly take down members of Logos if that's what he real is after, which I doubt. Yet, the bloodshed that will come because of that will be harsh and it will unlikely stop anytime soon, which in turn means the war will keep going for the foreseeable future. Thankfully, the Federation had made it perfectly clear that we would have nothing to do with the campaign against Logos. The Federation won't participate nor interfere in it or help either side period. I don't know how long that will stand, but hopefully it will help for a time, especially as the United States of South America joined the Human Federation. Assistance was being sent their way since the war wasn't on its way to ending, and it was assumed that the Federation member nations would at some point become targets,

It was a few days after Durandal's broadcast, that I was contacted by Kira, which I didn't expect. I mean, I had communicated with Kira after the Battle of Berlin briefly before I had gone looking for Stella Loussier in order to help her. So, I figured that Kira was calling to discuss Durandal's speech for there was a lot said and more unsaid I believe in the broadcast. I had been at my place at the time and sitting down as it happens thankfully, as what Kira told me instantly had me putting aside Durandal's speech and would have had me floored. "Hey Tye, I know that I'm calling out of the blue, but I have something I thought you should know," he opened.

"Oh, and what would that be my friend, does it have something to do with Durandal's broadcast? I'll give the man that he is long winded and can make things sound nice, but he isn't as good a man as I thought he was," I said.

Then came the line that came out of nowhere and if I hadn't been sitting I could have gone to the floor. "Well no, you see, during the take down that giant mobile suit, an Alliance mobile suit was brought on the Archangel by the other pilot assigned to the ship. The Alliance pilot was knocked out, but… when we saw his face, it was like seeing Mu La Flaga again," Kira said.

What Kira was saying and implying shouldn't be possible! Mu La Flaga had died during the Second Battle of Jachin Due when he had been defending and saving the Archangel. The man was one of those that had earned my respect for he had proven that he would go freaking beyond the line of duty to defend those he cared about without any hesitation. That was one of the reasons I had pled his case to get him the Federation's Medal of Honor. I mean sure, it's possible that Mu could have survived somehow, but it would have been slim and come with a heavy price I wouldn't doubt. Surgery on someone is more likely, Durandal had done it for his 'Lacus Clyne' puppet after all. Kira kept going, "Then after some tests were performed, it was discovered that the man is Mu, his DNA and other vitals were a one-hundred percent match to the Archangel's records."

That flabbergasted me good, for that meant that the one they found had to be Mu La Flaga and he had survived the destruction of the Strike. If it was a fake, then he wouldn't have been a complete match to the medical records the Archangel has. Kira further went on to tell me that 'Mu' had apparently said that his name was Neo Roanoke and he was part of the 81st autonomous mobile group. the name didn't ring any bells for me, but the mention of the '81st autonomous mobile group' certainly did, for it was nicknamed 'Phantom Pain'. It was assumed to be a black opts part of the Earth Forces, since they tended to do dirty work more often than not.

Of course, the crew of the Archangel that had known Mu were confused, for the guy had a personality that wasn't like Mu's much at all. When I asked how others were taking the news, Kira said that confusion was the most prevalent, but Murrue was not handling it well at all. I can't say I blame her, to hear Mu is alive but not Mu La Flaga had to be hard to hear with the relationship those two had been developing. It was likely that some in the Alliance or Logos went through the effort to put a different personality in Mu, it is possible even if it isn't nice.

Kira summed up the conversation by saying that it had been decided for the Archangel to head back to Orb for the time being. The chances that Federation member nations could come under attack were on the rise and I would bet that Cagalli was worrying about that. They would cross the Eurasian Federation, which should go unnoticed with the chaos that's going on right now. I wished him and the Archangel good luck and safe travel before the contact was ended, but I was still left with a feeling of unease.

Phase end.

A/n

And that's where I'll leave off for this Phase. I know this phase is much shorter than the last one, but there is a reason, this phase is setting the stage for the next phase as it will have more in it. The next phase will likely take longer to come as there is more writing I need to do in it than this one. Thank you to you readers that take the time to look at my story and write reviews, they help. See you all when the next phase is done!

Just a Crazy-Man

I'm glad you like the way the story is going so far.

Well first, thank you for saying that this is a good story, it is appreciated. The reason I think may play into the reason that my story gets read less than others, is some people don't prefer non-canon characters being in a story among other things. As for writing something in Naruto and advertising, I kind of stopped watching and reading things from Naruto some time ago, nothing personal.

As for why people disliking Seed and Destiny, Gundam is divided into different centuries and lots of people like the Universal Century. Yes, some might say Kira is too overpowered, but I would disagree, his machines just tend to fit his piloting style more than his opponents more often than not. My merging of technology from different series has only started with Gundam 00, it will keep going. I've been considering using the RX series, such as psyco-frame and other things, maybe that will come in later, I can't say yet.

REVANOFSITHLORD

I'm trying to write when I can, life doesn't always make that easy.