"December 15, Ad Stella 122. We finally reached Mars, and that meant the dreaded meeting of the parents. That went surprisingly well, I was expecting something, even a minor thing to ruin everything. Although the dinner went well I DEFINETLY wasn't prepared for the paperwork on my desk. As im writing this currently im in a process of calling every phone number and scheduling things like interviews or commercial shootings, damn those Corpos can't give a break. Luckily I managed schedule some things like an interview for tv due tomorrow so I can be done with it and worry about it when I'll have to return to school. In other things I received from the mail being: Fan letters, with seemingly a lot of them being written by teenage girls. Sponsorship proposals, that all of them went down the drain, I already have lucrative deals with Converse and did few commercials with Pepsi, and that's enough for this guy. I already have to wear my own shoes whenever I go in public or drink Pepsi on all the press conferences. I'll keep the last semblances of freedom from self-imposed fate of being a walking commercial. Right now the only thing I want to do is go to sleep" -Akatsuki Augus's private journal, Ad Stella 122
MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM: DEMON INCARNATE
CHAPTER 14: SUBTLE AND SURPRISNIG STORIES
"Ok, I understand that its really sudden. But can we arrange this interview for tomorrow? I don't have much time and I want to do it so that both of us would be satisfied. Next week all of us are going on a Christmas leave. So better does it as quickly as possible? What? Tomorrow for 12:50? Great! I'll be there for preparation. Thank you! No, the pleasure is all on me."-Akatsuki said putting down his phone, before falling down on his bed exhausted. He already stopped the count on how many calls he had to make. His eyes then shifted to the window to see the sun already beginning to set over the farm. He didn't even have time to put on his pyjamas as his eyes then shifted towards the framed poster. 'Price of fame isn't it?'-he thought as suddenly Suletta walked inside his room. Dressed up in her clothes she used to wear around the Earth House, made out of pink shorts and a white shirt. Since in contrast to the Earth House the Augus family home was warm and clean enough, rather than wearing white shoes she was walking barefoot and without her hair band, letting her hair fly freely.
"Have you finished all those calls?"-Suletta asked shifting her attention to the stash of papers that was marked as "done".
"Yeah, I managed to post-pone most of the stuff for this week. It seems that this vacation will be far more filled with work then I would want to."-Akatsuki said as he looked at Suletta in an odd way. The redhead only took a look around herself confused.
"What's wrong, did I say something wrong?"-Suletta asked as Akatsuki pointed at her hair.
"Y-Your hair, I rarely see it without you wearing a headband. It looks gorg-really nice."-Akatsuki said blushing, with his hand slowly reaching out towards hair and gently caressing it. Not noticing Suletta's blush.
"W-Well, since you don't hang around the girl's dormitory, o-or you weren't with us when we were doing the commercial. You rarely had a c-chance to n-notice it."-Suletta said as shivers were going down her spine feeling the touch of Akatsuki's hand as on her hair. It felt…nice, and she felt like she was losing herself in the experience. They were supposed to get married and never one did something as basic as walk holding hands. Fist pumps were pretty common, so where kicks and punches during their sparring sessions and in fencing class, one of few lessons where Akatsuki really shined. And that… one time. Although Akatsuki did apologize, for some reason. Suletta still hadn't really got that small peck on the cheek out of her mind. It was the first and only time Akatsuki got any bold with proclamations of his feelings. At least that what she thought before he explained that it was only to calm her down. And so they continued in awkward silence, with Akatsuki holding Suletta's hair. All until suddenly they heard a sound of opening doors. As both Suletta and Akatsuki jolted in surprise. Causing Akatsuki to accidentally pull Suletta's hair, making her land down on top of him. Just as the door open to reveal Miorine already dressed in her nightgown, letting out a yawn. Before noticing Suletta on top of Akatsuki.
"M-M-M-Miorine! W-W-W-W-We-"-Suletta exclaimed as Miorine sighed.
"If you keep going, at least please keep quiet at night"-Miorine said taking a cup of tea that was sitting on Akatsuki's desk and sipping it while sitting on the hot air mattress. In complete calm contrasting Akatsuki and Suletta.
"WHAT!? NO! We weren't, and aren't doing anything! It was accident!"-Akatsuki exclaimed as Suletta jolted up from Akatsuki, rapidly nodding in confirmation. Miorine nodded, taking another sip of her tea.
"Okey, so... What have you done with all those papers?"-Miorine asked as Suletta quickly spoke up.
"H-He called most of numbers on them! And A-Arranged things f-for tomorrow! Like an tv interview! A-And some other minor things!"-Suletta said as Miorine nodded before turning towards Akatsuki.
"And that mean you are going to Chryse?"-She asked as Akatsuki nodded, Miorine then quickly finished her tea before putting her cup down.
"Great, im going with you."-Miorine suddenly said as both Suletta and Akatsuki looked at each other before turning towards Miorine who unfolded her arms.
"Someone needs to keep him in check, and since you are not the type to enjoy the light of fame I will voluntarily put myself in line between the flash of the cameras and Akatsuki, besides I want to promote GUND-ARM Inc., and look at the positives, you'll spend time with your in-laws. Besides I wanted to tour around Chryse."-Miorine said as Akatsuki looked at Suletta as if he was asking for permission. Suletta then turned towards Miorine and nodded.
"If Miorine thinks it's for the best."-Suletta said in a tone that could be called a mix of sadness and agreement. And so after two visits in the bathroom all three of them were already in their beds. With Akatsuki currently snuggling to the wall. Sleeping on his bed was nice, although he tried to ignore the two girls sleeping next to him. So he slept with his eyes wide open. With his eyes changing their attention between the wall, the ceiling and the alarm clock that resided on his bedside table. '2 hours, and I still can fall asleep. And I have alarm clock set for 9:30.'-he thought as he got up from his bed and opened the window, letting a small breeze inside. Akatsuki took a long deep breath as he looked at the star filled sky. Finally calming down, not noticing that someone got up from their bed.
"Suki? Why are you up at this hour?"-Suletta asked as Akatsuki jolted in surprise and turned towards her.
"I just, couldn't sleep."-Akatsuki said as Suletta walked up to the window mesmerised by the view of the stars. It gave Akatsuki an idea.
"So, you like the stars? Want to see it up close?"-Akatsuki asked smiling as Suletta was confused.
"How? If a planetarium is nearby it definitely closed at this hour."-Suletta said wiping his eyes as Akatsuki chuckled.
"Nope, not at all."
"Do you like the view?"-Akatsuki asked as he and Suletta laid on the roof the Augus home, with Suletta completely flabbergasted by the view she was seeing.
"It's so…beautiful. Normally I only saw stars from orbit or via screens, but this…This is something else! I feel… overwhelmed."-Suletta said as Akatsuki smiled at her comment, not even noticing that he was holding Suletta's hand.
"I should've been expecting that from someone who never let out a breath on a habitable planet before. It's a new experience, but isn't that what life is all about new experiences?"-Akatsuki asked turning his head towards Suletta.
"I-I think so, I wouldn't make a list of things I wanted to do when I finally went to school. And I wouldn't keep adding into it."-Suletta said as Akatsuki raised his eyebrow.
"Adding onto it?"-he asked as Suletta smiled.
"Preparing wedding, helping your parents, me and Miorine picking the finest dresses, wearing the nicest wedding rings, helping you search for a right suit, share our first dance, you to… carry me over out of the chapel."-Suletta said as she and Akatsuki slowly got closer.
"Well, maybe…one day…We could, realise…all of them…one day."-Akatsuki said in between breaths as he closed his eyes, as he felt his lips were covered by Suletta's. A brief moment that for the two involved felt like eternity. An emotional roller-coaster for both of them, as their hearts were rushing. And both of the hands had tightened, as it seemed like they wouldn't let each other go even if they would be separated via a mobile suit pulling their free arms. It was until they both ran out of oxygen and they loosened up their handholding and backed away. Both of them opened their eyes, breathing heavily as both of them had as honest smiles as possible. Before quickly turning their gazes away from each other.
"T-That was…"-Suletta found herself loss for words as Akatsuki felt exactly the same. It has been a long time since he felt such, warmth inside of him. It was his third kiss, after Katma and Secelia respectively. Yet it was the first time it truly felt…right. Surprising yes, but right in its own way…As if it was something in his mind pushing certain buttons in him…and to lesser extend her felt the exact same way. Their inner feelings going completely insane while also feeling an odd feeling of peace and quiet.
"L-Lets just come back to my bedroom."-Akatsuki said as a rapid strike of something that resembled "common sense" hit his brain. After few minutes the duo found themselves back in their beds, quickly falling asleep as both of them couldn't stop thinking about what happened.
The sound of an alarm clock echoed throughout the room as various groans of dissatisfaction could be heard throughout the room. Suddenly the doored open to reveal Atrra.
"Rise and shine sleepyheads! You have 20 minutes until breakfast is on the table!"-Atrra said as Akatsuki managed to get himself up from his bed.
"Mornin Mom…Did Dad and Mama already left?"-Akatsuki asked as Atrra nodded.
"Mama was picked up by a car just few minutes ago, and Dad went out to the fields for a walkthrough and should be leaving for work. So get yourself ready and come down."-Atrra said leaving the room, just as Miorine and Suletta woke up, both letting out a tremendous yawn.
"Good morning…"-Miorine said stretching her arms before turning towards Suletta, who was just as tired as Akatsuki, and seemingly had forgotten about what transpired yesterday as she and Akatsuki shared a smile.
"Morning to you both."-Akatsuki said as all three of them made their way to the bathroom for morning toiletries, all three of them looked at their reflections in the mirror. All of them had ruffled hair and bags under their eyes, all of them begun to wash their teeth. In outstanding sync before getting to work on their hair. And so after 15 minutes, the bride and her two grooms were ready for what the day had in store for them. One quick fresh clothes and underwear change later and the trio made their way down to the dining room, as smell of eggs reached their noses, Atrra was happily humming a melody as she prepared tea for herself, her son and her daughters-in-law. She also listened to the morning news that were playing on the tv. It was bringing her back to the days when Akatsuki was still living on Mars full-time, it felt nice to for once in few months don't eat breakfast alone. And she smiled as she saw the kids enter the dining room.
"Tea will be ready in few minutes, for now dig in."-Atrra said as it was enough for Akatsuki to begin devouring the food, Miorine only sighed as she also begun to eat with Suletta following. As Atrra also joined them she couldn't stop being amused about how quickly her son was eating, not even his father was this fast his age.
"I can see that definitely missed home."-Atrra teased as Akatsuki swallowed the recent portion of food before turning towards his mother.
"Of course, been a long time since I ate something this good. Not to disrespect the Earth House or the MCA's MRE's, especially the mac'n'cheese. But nothing beats your food, especially the bacon! I always either over fry it or under fry it."-Akatsuki said taking another fork of bacon and putting into his mouth, getting out a chuckle out of Atrra's mouth. Miorine on the other hand, was taking into her food with far more grace.
"Akatsuki is right, the food is quite incredible Miss Augus."-Miorine said as Atrra smiled.
"Thank you Miorine, and you can call me Atrra. Enough of the dumb formalities between us, soon enough we'll be family!"-Atrra said as then Miorine looked at her phone, and increased her eating rate, quickly finishing it before walking to the sink and cleaned her plate.
"Thank you mi-Atrra, I believe I should get Akatsuki's ready for him."-Miorine said before walking back to Akatsuki's room as Atrra turned towards her son confused.
"Oh, Suki and Miorine are going to Chryse! He has a tv interview scheduled for today alongside some other minor things!"-Suletta quickly explained as Atrra sighed.
"They can't even give you a break even before the Christmas season…"-Atrra said sadly as Akatsuki nodded.
"This is why wanted to arrange most of this stuff for this week, and today I'll deal with 70% of the stuff that was piled up. The other 30% are things like commercial shootings and I left that for summer"-Akatsuki explained as Atrra quickly gazed at Suletta before turning back to her son.
"And its Miorine going with you rather than Suletta because?..."-Atrra asked as Akatsuki found himself in a tight spot for answers, and Suletta had to be his saviour…again.
"Because Miorine and Suki want to keep me away from the spotlights. And I agree with it! Im not cut for all those celebrity buzz."-Suletta said as Atrra nodded, hiding her thoughts behind a poker face. 'Ok Suletta, it appears we will need to solve this, but that's for later'-Atrra thought before turning back to Akatsuki.
"I expected that to happen the moment you stepped though the doors. I got your trademark jacket washed and is currently waiting for you in the laundry room. And please be back before 22:00, you don't want to be late for the in-field Barbatos test do you?"-Atrra asked suddenly as Akatsuki spat out a spurt of tea.
"WHAT!? And nobody told me?"-Akatsuki asked causing Suletta to cover her ears.
"I thought you already knew. Dad mentioned this to me before he left for his everyday walkthrough around the farm, according to him taking out Barbatos even in a locked military compound. Could still bring some naughty onlookers. So it was agreed for you to do it by midnight. I think Dad simply forgot that you were resting from your long trip and you didn't go with him, perhaps he forgot about that? Anyways, me and Suletta will do just fine on our own."-Atrra said as Akatsuki nodded.
"Thank you for breakfast Mom."-Akatsuki said as he went to clean his plate.
"All right, I have all the stuff I need."-Akatsuki said as he leaned on the hood of his Lancia. Dressed up in clothes he called "The media outfit" made out of his AA Converse shoes, black jeans, a blue T-shirt, and his dark-blue red TSC jacket.
"That means we're good to go"-Miorine said walking up to him. She also wore her casual attire, made of a white blouse and a black skirt with white high heels. To complete her outfit she also carried stylish black sunglasses and a white purse. Akatsuki nodded as he opened the door of the Lancia for Miorine to sit inside.
"Don't worry! Me and Suletta will be good!"-Atrra said waving from the door as Akatsuki got inside the Lancia and peaked his head out of the window.
"We'll try to get back before 21:00!"-Akatsuki said as he started the engine causing Miorine to jump a bit in her seat as vibrations hit her in the back, Akatsuki only chuckled as Miorine corrected her glasses.
"First time driving in a rear engine car?"-Akatsuki asked as Miorine turned towards him amused
"First time driving a combustion engine car, and in a front seat."-Miorine said as Akatsuki begun to drive out of the farm and towards the main road. But he came up with an idea, he then turned towards Miorine and put a finger under his nose
"Well don't worry Miss Rembran! As your chauffeur I'll get you your destination safe and sound."-Akatsuki said changing his voice as Miorine let out a slight laughter.
"None of my chauffeurs were that enthusiastic. Please just drive, or better yet…screw it."-Miorine said grinning as Akatsuki raised an eyebrow. Miorine noticed it as she sighed.
"I mean for you to let it go. Allow yourself for once to drive like a complete lunatic, there are no cops around and it will take long time before we reach the highway. Just please don't crash."-Miorine said as Akatsuki grinned, after a quick glance to see if Miorine had fastened her seatbelt. And after seeing that all the safety precautions were taken, he suddenly increased his speed before putting the upper gear. Miorine was immediately pressed to the back of her seat, adrenaline pumping as she saw Akatsuki's smirk behind the steering wheel. Passing corner after corner, as the country dirt road had finally ended and Akatsuki finally checked the GPS app on his phone. It appeared that his lunatic way for driving shortened the trip's time by wide margin, so he finally slowed down just in time to pass a speed camera.
"Goddamn, what's even the reason for setting up these things? We're in country! Most of the time its either tractors or trucks passing here."-Akatsuki exclaimed as Miorine finally managed to settle herself back in her seat.
"Maybe your Mama advocates for safe driving?"-Miorine asked as Akatsuki turned for a second confused, did Miorine just try to tell a joke? Although not a very good one, but he did let out a chuckle.
"Maybe?"-Akatsuki said chuckling, as more cars were appearing around them. He then turned towards Miorine was looking through the window. Akatsuki then took out his phone and opened the radio app. Allowing music to echo throughout the car, as their car trip continued.
TITAN
CITY OF HUYGENS
"Ah…Home sweet home isn't it?"-Katma said as she opened the door to her apartment holding her briefcases with Nika following her, and was amazed by the size of her home.
"You, you live in an apartment like this? Its huge!"-Nika exclaimed looking at darkened apartment as Katma smiled.
"Technically it is a penthouse as it's the last floor, but it's enough, definitely beating the living space me and my fellow slaves shared. But we don't want to sit in darkness, so light up!"-Katma said giving a command to the inner systems as the lights lit up across the penthouse. Nika was then ever more amazed as Katma couldn't help but smile.
"Well then, before we unload our stuff. Let's take a house tour shall we?"-Katma asked as Nika nodded and followed her host.
"This is the main living room and kitchen combo, the giant 200 inch 16k television set plus 7.1 surround sound, in addition the newest PlayStation plus all the M/J related games I can ask for. Aside from that, a waterbed couch and a glass table"-Katma said pointing at the couch, Nika nodded before she sat on the couch and felt it wobble under her. Seeing how Nika's facial expression looked like cause Katma to let out a chuckle.
"Yeah I know it feels funny but after some time you get used to it. Well then, here you have the kitchen! All standard utensils plus a double set of those fridges with screens on them. Plus an island with a cooker. Since I live alone I don't have a dining table, I eat everything on the island"-Katma explained as Nika nodded before being mesmerised by the view of the city from behind the giant windows.
"I knew Huygens is huge, but seeing it from such height…"-Nika said as Katma smirked.
"The benefits of living so high? I don't have to buy paintings. The Neons create them for me, come on… I'll show you my…favourite spot here."-Katma said as Nika confusedly followed her. The blonde licked her lips as she pressed a combination of numbers on a keypad as the door opened to reveal a seemingly empty space with only another large window, Katma then turned to Nika smirking before her hand reached out to a light switch. As the lights lit across the garage to reveal her Mercedes. Nika's eyes widened in amazement before her eyes shifted towards a bookcase filled with books about vintage cars and motorsport. She then looked at the walls and saw posters and photographs advertising vintage races.
"This is my personal nest, a fortress of solitude so to speak. Dedicated for my second hobby."-Katma explained as she walked up to the Mercedes and patted the front hood of the single-seater. Nika only risen her eyebrow as she walked around the garage.
"I knew you like cars, but not like this."-Nika said as her fingers travelled though the books. Katma then gently put her hand on Nika's shoulder.
"This is my purest passion, ever since I was brought to Titan, I fell in love with Cars. It wasn't like with Mobile Suits where my passion was stained by what I did."-Katma explained as she looked at her hands, with not pleasant memories. Nika couldn't help but sympathize as she gently took Katma's hand.
"I-I feel the same, you know… About being a mechanic. I also did, do questionable things, and I still have to do it. Without a way out."-Nika said as Katma then turned towards her.
"I guess we are both stained and locked, I with the Fraternity that doesn't allow me to pursue my passion. And you, with your problems. And was this the reason why you sneak out so often and that one time I saw you with Shaddiq. So then… Do you want to spit out first? I promise nobody will know and this will be only between us."-Katma said as Nika tried to say anything, anything. But couldn't speak out anything, like as if her vocal cords were cut. '"Remember Nika, never spit out and never fully trust anyone"'-her mind quoted Julieta's words as Katma sighed before turning towards the window, looking at the panorama of Huygens.
"Well then, If you won't be able to spit out. I'll go first. As you know I was a Human Debris, I don't remember my real parents, nor do I know what my real name was before I was taken in by the fraternity. Many of my fellow female slaves were either sold to public houses or given away to creeps that wanted to build a Harem made out of young vital girls and today they probably serve as wifes, concubines or dead. What kept me around them alongside boys? I was a great pilot even as a six year old. Piloting an old Graze I was their best pilot. Defending deliveries that were going from the Saturn Sphere to the Mars Sphere. It was a crime syndicate. Drugs, weapons, illegal immigrants and more things to come, since the Fraternity was the largest corporation we often would attack their transports carrying heavy equipment or sometimes even Mobile Suits . Hide in the debris, destroy the enemy suit, damage the enemy ship in a way that would allow for MS's manipulators to capture the goods."-Katma said as Nika saw how much it hurt for the blonde to speak out loud about it.
"So, how did you escape?"-Nika asked as Katma looked at Nika before leaning on the hood of her Mercedes and turned back towards Nika.
"I'll tell you only if you will tell me more about yourself, pinkie promise?"-Katma asked taking out her pinkie finger as brief moment of silence endured throughout the sky garage. Nika then took a long deep before taking out her pinkie finger, and wrapping it around Katma's.
"Pinkie promise."-Nika said as Katma smiled before letting go of Nika's finger.
"Well then, it was an assignment like every other. Typical attack mission. It was me, 02, 03, 04 and 05. We were supposed to attack the ship and allow the pirates to horde the ship. And it was like this."
SATURN SPHERE, NORTHERN TRADE ROUTE
11 YEARS AGO
Across the debris that was probably floating there since the Calamity Conflict. 5 grey and dark green EB-06 Grazes flew though the void. Inside the old and worn out cockpit Katma, or rather the girl that would become Katma had a stone cold facial expression, that In reality was hiding deep fear as she analysed what she could see without a panoramic cockpit. That was until she looked at the mounted radar, that released a beep as she and every other pilot saw the frater ship.
"Ship, this is 01. Target in sight."-Katma reported as after brief seconds she received her reply.
"Good, now get to it."-A sadistic voice said as Katma slid the visor of her helmet before switching to different channel.
"Right, team this is 01, you know our assignment so just report and lets begin."-Katma said as in a second she received a reply.
"02 through 05 ready."-An array of male voices reply as Katma's graze took out its Axe and beam rifle, taking a long deep breath in and setting herself in her seat.
"Right.. intercept."-Katma said as 5 grazes flew towards their target, before suddenly receiving a payback in a form of eight Jeturk's MD-0021 Desultors painted in Fraternity's colours of black and emerald green, obvious predecessor to the Dilanza. It was weird that they used their corporate rival's suit to protect their state of the art and more advance suits. But the surprise quickly turned into butchery. First Graze, then second fell down to the fire Desultors.
"Evasive manoeuvres!"-Katma exclaimed as she dodged the fire, that until a Desultor flew close to her and took out its heat knife. Katma tried to retaliate with her axe. But, although highly experienced with battling other pirates and inexperienced border guards. It appeared that this time they hired professionals. And so the graze quickly lost its main weapon in addition to losing its arm. Katma then tried to use her rifle but the bullets, although they damaged the armour weren't enough to destroy such a bulky machine. So she tried to run, or at least help her squad mates, at least what remained of them. She managed to outmanoeuvre the bulky machine long enough to reach another Graze.
"04! I need you to provide barrage and-"-Her message didn't reach him as 04's Graze blew up right in front her. And she was left alone, all the others had died. She wasn't particularly close to any of them. They've always came and went, often by dying and quickly getting replaced thanks to the large net of human trafficking. But still they were under her command. No backup, no weapons, and no arm. So she closed her eyes and threw away her rifle, expecting the Desultors to swiftly blow her up or to pierce her cockpit with a heat knife. Her front camera was also damaged so the only thing she would see before dying would be static. But much to her surprise, that didn't happen. Instead she felt that the cockpit begun to move. It appeared that the Desultors were taking her somewhere, so she waited. As she moved she heard more voices as suddenly the movement stopped, and the last voice she could well hear was "Bring me the torch, I want to bust this son of a bitch for killing my buddies."-the voice said as Katma was now more afraid for her life then ever. She didn't even have pistol to at least go down fighting, but the voice was right…She killed a lot of their friends and couldn't blame them if they wanted to crack her skull open, so she took off her helmet and covered her face. 10 minutes later and the cockpit hatch with main monitor flew away as a figure in a spacesuit holding a pistol appeared.
"Now the—It's a kid…Holy shit I aimed at a kid.."-The man said as suddenly more men begun approaching her.
"It must be one those human debris, she looks no older than my son."-Another one said taking off his helmet to take a better look .
"Weren't they outlawed?"-Another one asked as the man with a pistol turned towards him
"They're pirates! What are you expecting?! They probably forced her to do all the dirty work! All those people she killed…Come on girl…What's your name?"-The man asked as he also took off his helmet.
"0..01."-Katma replied as the man raised his eyebrow.
"That's not a name girl…What's your real name, come on. I'll drop the gun, you are not in danger."-The man continued as Katma turned her head.
"You don't remember huh? It means that you'll need a new name."-The man said as he took out little Katma out of the cockpit as all the man-crew could see her.
"How about Katma? And we'll think of the surname later."-One of youngest abort the ship suggested as the man holding Katma raised an eyebrow.
"You're always thinking about your comics Jimmy, it's stupid!"-The man said as Katma spoke up.
"I-I like it."-Katma said as the man put her down and smiled.
"Well then, "Katma" welcome to the crew."
"And that was it, after that I travelled with their crew for a while. I once helped them to fend off another crew of pirates. After we returned to Titan they passed their report to the Fraternity board of directors, who saw me as a great industry plant potential. So then years and years passed spent on training, piloting and becoming their mascot. But those early days were good. I met Ari and found my passion in cars. Well then…Now it's your turn."-Katma said as Nika sighed before she sat on the floor.
"Im not from Earth, I was born a Spacian but I was raised on Earth. I lived on a O'Neil colony orbiting around the Permet Elevator. It was a part of a cluster where the workers lived, my parents… If I remember correctly both of them were Elevator technicians. All was well for a while, although they weren't earning a lot my parents were able to make enough to give us a good life."-Nika said as Katma sat on the floor in front of her.
"So what happened? How did you end up on Earth?"-Katma asked as she noticed tears forming in Nika's eyes.
"O-Our colony was attacked by an Earthian terrorist group known as "Down of Fold". Since a lot of the people living there were chief technicians. At first they bombarded the colony and Mobile Suits entered, the Front Safety Corps and Domminicus entered the colony and rather than helping they only increased the damage. T-The Apartment c-complex we lived in was destroyed and fell on top of us as we were evacuating…"-Nika begun as Katma put her hand over her mouth as she begun to listen.
11 YEARS AGO
"Mommy?"-six year old Nika asked as she looked at her mother…Or at least what remained of her under the rubble, with only her arm being visible as it still tightly held onto her daughter. The girl had several bruises and cuts but none that were fully lethal, she looked to the sky and saw Mobile Suits duking it out, including a weird Black and Dark blue one unlike any other. That kept piercing though the Front Safety Corps and Domminicus suits with its giant lance and beam saber. As she watched the suit zoom across the skies, she felt loss for air, and that meant that the Colony's air supply was destroyed. As minutes passed during her walk dizziness begun to strike her. Her limbs were beginning to feel numb, as she walked towards her non-existent destination. Suddenly she saw a group of terrorists wearing black normal suits and immediately pointed their guns at her. Nika quickly fell down to the ground as she tried to run before her whole body let go…So she laid there somehow still conscious.
"Hold your horses, it's only a little girl, poor thing…She probably just lost her parents."-The man in front, perhaps their leader said as he walked up to Nika and examined her wounds.
"She's done for anyway Naji."-Another one said as Naji checked Nika's breath.
"As long as we take her to safety or give her a normal suit she'll survive. She doesn't deserve to die here. Or even if she will survive she will not be able to scavenge for resources on Earth by herself. I don't want even more little girls selling themselves"-Naji said as he pressed a button on his helmet.
"Vidar, I may need your assistance"-Naji said over the comms as he received a silent "roger". And after a few seconds the Gundam Frame carrying powerful Alaya Vijnana Type E landed in front of them. The cockpit hissed open as using a mounted zip line, the pilot slid down in front of the ground team.
"What do you need me for Naji? Was it that important to risk the entire mission?"-Julietta asked as Naji gave her the child.
"She's in dying need for air and only Kimaris's cockpit can provide it. Take her and rendezvous at a pick-up point. There she'll receive medical help."-Naji said as Julietta examined the young girl. Of course she felt sorry for her, a victim of circumstances and collateral damage. And judging by what was going on probably the only survivor of her colony. Just like her and Gaelio… Of what was Gaelio and remained locked inside the Kimaris or "Vidar" as she liked to call it after its time in disguise and after her beloved. She nodded and jumped back onto the zip line holding Nika under her arm. As the cockpit closed and Julietta connected herself into Vidar's Alaya Vijnana the little girl finally managed to get herself up from Julietta's lap before looking up and seeing that they flew out of the colony she called home for her entire life. Julietta then opened and visor before looking down onto girl and patting her head.
"Hello fellow stray, it looks like we will get along just fine"
"And they took me in, raised me… Naji slowly replaced the role of a father and Julietta quickly became someone I could call my sister. That and the other people in the group as we travelled from hideout to hideout. It was this time my passion to mechanics appeared. I was able to rebuild Mobile Suits from scraps to pristine condition. I also became Kimaris's main mechanic and helped preparing it for numerous missions. I watched you, Akatsuki and others battling out in the stars. Angels and Demons of iron and steel. Just like the mobile suits that attacked my colony. I always wanted to become a bridge between Earth and Space, uniting my both homes so that no other child will have to suffer. So when Naji said that he wanted to me to attend Asticassia, I was happy. Maybe I could've become a great mechanic for Domminicus or help the Benerit Group to build a suit that could finally win the M/J Grand Prix. But then I discovered the truth…"-Nika said as tears begun to fall from her eyes.
"What truth?"-Katma asked as she sat closer towards her.
"T-They only wanted for me t-to go as a go-between Naji a-and…and… the "prince"."-Nika said as Katma nodded.
"Ok… and we know who "the Prince" is but we cannot say it out loud although its obvious. But why would he be connected with terrorists? Especially Earthian ones?"-Katma asked as she put her hand on Nika's shoulder in support.
"He's actually an Earthian from the Grassley academy, him and the five ace pilots. A programme that allowed talented protégé Earthians to work in the future within the Grassley company. They all got new identities, positions and lives. That's the information I received."-Nika said looking down to her knees.
"And what is he planning?"-Katma asked as Nika then looked up with her tearful eyes and visible streaks.
"I don't know, and the fact that I dont know. What If they attack the school? I don't want to help them. B-But, I've always been loyal and I love Julietta as my own sister. Nobody back In school knows and I beg you to keep it that way."-Nika finally exclaimed as she began to cry, causing Katma to envelope her with a hug.
"Absolutely nothing we talked about will leave this penthouse. And if they attack then don't worry…I'll simply kill them and crucify that prince on a cross, I already murdered people so that wouldn't change anything."-Katma said as Nika continued to cry into her shoulder.
"There there my bridge, I guess you don't want to be alone tonight right?"-Katma asked as she backed away for a bit to see Nika nodding.
"Lucky for you I have an Alaskan King size bed. So let's get you cleaned up and order some Pizza for dinner."-Katma said helping Nika before closing the door and turning the light off, allowing her little passion room to be once again enveloped by darkness.
"Mister Augus, we'll be going live in 5 minutes!"-A woman said walking into the make-up room in the studio as Akatsuki was sitting in front of the mirror with Miorine sitting on a chair in back.
"Ok!"-Was the only reply Akatsuki gave as the door closed once again. The Demon Incarnate turned around on his chair and sighed as he nervously looked at the clock.
"First time on TV in a while?"-Miorine asked as she walked up towards him.
"Yeah, first time in a year or so. That conference after the incubation party doesn't count, I forgot how stressful it is before you go live."-Akatsuki said as Miorine chuckled.
"If I learned anything from living in the flashlights and now being the youngest CEO of the Inner Rim and probably the entire solar system…Is that you only need to say it what people think you want to say rather than what you really wanted to say. People see you as well-mannered country boy who's head wasn't destroy by fame. And while all of it is truth, just enhance it to the extreme."-Miorine explained as Akatsuki looked at her as if she was stating something as obvious as the fact that the sky is blue and grass is green…Before chuckling.
"I know all of it! It's just the stress, wait…Did you just try to give me a prep talk?"-Akatsuki asked as Miorine sighed.
"Of course you idiot. Isn't that reason I came with you? Besides I already did like twice if I remember correctly. And we should probably head to behind the scenes."-Miorine said as Akatsuki nodded as they headed out from the make-up room. "And now tonight's main guest in "Adele's Hour" is our most shining young star, winner of the 120 Mars/Jupiter Grand Prix. The Demon Incarnate…AKATSUKI AUGUS!"-The female host…apparently named Adele announced as the crowd watching gave out their applause. Akatsuki took a long deep breath as he entered the stage, waving to the crowd and taking a look around his surroundings. It was standard talk show studio. Two sofas, a coffee table with sponsored Pepsi cans. A background imitating Chryse's skyline. He sat in front of Adele, a tall woman with short blond hair, light skin colour and black eyes. She wore a white shirt and a black skirt, as Akatsuki sat down on his sofa immediately he knew what to do and all his stress disappeared.
"Thanks for the invite Adele, It feels good to be back."-Akatsuki said as the crowd once again applauded.
"It sure is…Seeing you back in the spotlight, my daughter also likes it."-Adele said as Akatsuki blushed on live television, he then opened a can of Pepsi and quickly jugged it down.
"Im just happy to bring people happiness and emotions, men or women."-Akatsuki replied as Adele gave him a teasing smile, before pressing a button on a remote she was holding as the screen that was displaying the Chryse skyline changed to a photo collage made out of numerous magazine covers showing him and… Miorine with various headlines. As the real Miorine was getting angry from Behind The Scenes, knowing that now Akatsuki had to watch out for every word.
"Yes, women…Especially a certain Miss Miorine Rembran of the Benerit Group, and according to leakers we know about your engagement. And as the first host who managed to nab you for my show. I'll be the first who'll ask you…How did that happen?"-Adele asked as the cameras focused on Akatsuki who was scratching the back of his head.
"It is a long story…Let's just say it involves a lot of confusing situations, mobile suits and tomatoes."-Akatsuki said smiling as Adele raised her eyebrow.
"Tomatoes?"-Adele asked as Akatsuki nodded.
"Yes, but we do get along well."-Akatsuki said as Adele then pressed another button on her remote showing a blurry picture of Akatsuki and Suletta both wearing Holder uniforms and being seen from the back. Mentally Akatsuki let out a deep breath seeing that Suletta's face wasn't shown.
"And it appears it's not only the young heiress you get along well."-Adele teased as Akatsuki spoke up.
"Pardon me if it will sound rude. But how did you get this picture?"-Akatsuki asked as Adele smirked.
"We have good journalists and inside people, so let me ask you? Are you currently involved in a polycule? Because this, and this photo from the Benerit Group's incubation party shows you not only with Miss Rembran…But also with a pretty redhead, can the audience both here and in their homes know at least a little bit?"-Adele asked as Akatsuki's forehead was slowly being covered by sweat.
"And that question shall be answered after these messages!"-Adele suddenly exclaimed as audience applauded.
"At least Suki is who really he is on the tv."-Suletta said as she and Atrra were sitting on the couch, watching the Adele Hour live. Atrra finally thought that enough was enough and turned towards her future daughter-in-law.
"Suletta…enough, now spill it. What's wrong?"-Atrra asked as Suletta jolted up towards her with a frantic smile.
"What?! No! Nothing at all…"-Suletta spoke out as Atrra looked at her with a "do I look like an idiot?" look.
"Suletta, ever since breakfast I could see something is on your mind whenever you talked about Akatsuki and Miorine, as a fellow polycule member I can say that I have enough experience to help you. And I promise on my son's life that our conversation will remain secret."-Atrra said as Suletta looked at the soft facial expression that she shared with her son. And she was his mother, and judging by how well behaved was Akatsuki she could be as smart and loving as her own mother. So she spoke up.
"I-It's just I have all these thoughts clouding my mind. I mean look at Suki, he is the Demon Incarnate! He soars though the stars and people look up to him, the hero of his people. Almost a mythical figure, and look at Miorine, even before the things she did at the incubation party she was already regarded as potential heiress to the Benerit Group, a protégé of Management Strategy. Both of them being in the attention of cameras. A perfect couple for the media, a dashing young pilot and a cold business woman. And who im I? a literal nobody…A country bumbkin, who calls herself a bride and a Holder, and only of someone's Ego because they thought a Calamity Conflict era Gundam frame wasn't any danger. Believing myself to be standing by their side when im smaller than them."-Suletta said as then Atrra looked at her once again with the "Do I look like an idiot?" facial expression.
"Suletta…You are a smart girl. Do you really think that my son is so shallow? Akatsuki adores you! From your attitude to your piloting skills! Do you think that it matters to him how many trophies do you have or how many interviews you've taken. I don't know how have done it or how was this possible with my oblivious boy. But somehow you managed to drill yourself in to his mind and it doesn't seem like you'll be leaving any time soon."-Atrra finally exclaimed as Suletta then looked up to her.
"You…you really think that?"-Suletta asked as suddenly she felt Atrra's head grabbing her head and gently putting it on her lap.
"I don't think that, I know that. He's madly in love with you, he's madly in love with Miorine as well. He hasn't matured enough to admit it. Or he did in his own weird way, just like his father. And I know you're in love with Miorine as well, it comes with time when you discover that you can like boys and girls and your mind begins to think itself and you can't stop. You remind me so much of myself when I was your age, or even younger."-Atrra said as she kept stroking Suletta's hair. The mercurian on the other hand, couldn't allow herself move. Not only because she was blushing as hell but also how comfortable it felt. Her mother never shown such level of affection, since she was always in work and the only "person" she felt was giving her affection was Aerial. Here it was different, as if she could feel the warmth of her heart. But then she thought of another question.
"Umm…Atrra? How you and Mister Mikazuki met?"-Suletta asked as Atrra at first surprised by the question, chuckled as she thought back to those days.
"I can't believe it's been over 20 years…And he still looks at with the same puffed up facial expression. And now we will have a daughter soon and it still won't change. I don't remember my parents, I was a street orphan like many other. When I was ten if I can remember correctly I managed to find a job in a Brothel, it wasn't good, I was constantly berated, beaten and all the women were cruel to me. And if years passed I would probably become a prostitute myself, if not there then on the streets. I didn't want that from life…so I runned away. I don't remember if it was a day, or days. But I wondered around the slums of Chryse, hungry and tired. And then I saw him, sitting in front of a shop. And the first thing he told me was that he wouldn't share food with me because he worked hard to get it, I've countered that I could also work, he then said in his puffy voice "CGS Doesn't hire girls". I thought it was over, but then he bought me food and asked the shopkeeper if he could hire me. And so I got a ticket to a better life, and the shopkeeper thought me how to read and write. I learned basic math and how to drive. He saved me, and I believe it was that moment our fates were inseparable. I followed him everywhere. Leaving my good job in order to join Mikazuki and Kudelia on a dangerous trip to Abrau where I could get killed, travelling with Tekkadan during the Fareed Incident. It was during those desperate times when he asked me this important question, "Do you want to make babies?". And so we did, locking ourselves inside Barbatos's cockpit. Oh to be young again! And I almost lost it when I saw him after the final battle, the one that turned 80% of his insides into splattered jelly. As I watched him recover inside a med pod, helping with him basic things like toiletries or trying to teach him how to speak again, Kudelia was helping me…And it was that time when we proclaimed our love to each other. Months passed and Akatsuki popped out of me, and when Mikazuki saw him for the first time, I thought I would cry. It took months however before he was able to hold him. To avoid political repression we quickly got married and moved here. There were a lot of bad moments, many of our friends died in order so that we could lead the life we have. But if taking any different path wouldn't make me meet Mikazuki and Kudelia, and not have Akatsuki…I wouldn't want to live it any different way."-Atrra said as Suletta was frozen with how heavy the story was yet with how much happiness her future mother-in-law spoke about her life.
"It…is a really sad story. Seeing your friends die."-Suletta said as Atrra nodded.
"Death comes for each of us, some sooner and later. And we all hope that those who bled during those days bled for a good cause, so that the next generation like Akatsuki and you won't have to bleed for a cause that doesn't involve you. You're all good kids, even if some of you have rough exterior from your upbringing. The world needs you, the pure, smart and inherently good children that can build upon the world we will leave behind."-Atrra said as Suletta continued to lay on Atrra's lap.
"I understand, this is why I wanted to go to school. So that one day I could build a school on Mercury, and make my home planet prosperous again after it was abandoned."-Suletta said as Atrra smiled before once again stroke her hair.
"And that's a dream that is worth achieving. And im happy you are there for my son, for you to remind him or to berate him that he isn't invincible. Thank you Suletta."-Atrra said as Suletta blushed from that, as a dormant memory of what transpired on the roof finally reopened.
"N-No problem! Oh look Atrra! The show is starting!"
"So, was it that hard dealing with all of this?"-Miorine asked as she and Akatsuki left another building ,he then checked out another address as now all the objectives for today were complete before both of them got inside the car. Akatsuki on the other hand wiped the sweat from his forehead before turning towards her confused.
"Weren't you the one most angry about "How much our privacy was invaded" on that interview?"-Akatsuki asked as Miorine nodded before taking out her sunglasses and putting them on.
"And you did exactly how I told you. Taking water in your mouth and speaking in half-truths."-Miorine said as Akatsuki took a look on his phone and he returned to sweating.
"Wow, we're lucky we managed to deal with this stuff…"-Akatsuki as he gave his phone to Miorine.
"Attention!: Unexpected Brief Sandstorm to hit the Chryse region in 75 minutes, category 2: Seek cover that will shield your body from rapid sand."-Miorine read out loud as Akatsuki started up the car.
"And now we have traffic jams to worry about. We can only hope for the best."-Akatsuki said as the blue Lancia left the parking lot and quickly making its way towards the highway, 40 minutes passed as Miorine looked up to the clouds and how quickly they were covered by a red mist. She closed her window as she turned towards Akatsuki.
"Do unexpected sandstorms happen often?"-She asked as Akatsuki turned his head.
"Unexpected? Quite rarely…most of them are predicted a day of so in advance and shown in weather reports. From category 1 that is just a mild inconvenience to 5, and that means holy shit its gonna destroy our town. Luckily for us we live in the part of the planet where 4 and 5 category sandstorms are rare. And thanks to that the Chryse Voivodeship is the one most prosperous, here the farming industry and the open pit mining industry reigns supreme. With farming not only supplying food resources, but also providing ingredients for Biofuel. Not as powerful as Permet-Enhanced fuels that are used in the heavy industry, but far more common and unlike Permet you can grow corn. Mama frequently visits the poorer parts and tries to push though doctrines and documents that would help them, that keep getting blocked by a portion of the parliament."-Akatsuki explained just as they left the highway and entered the country road. And just as the sand begun to pick up with strong winds they managed to reach the family farm. After quickly opening the barn and parking the Lancia, and a brief wrestle with the door before closing it. The duo entered the back door of the Augus family home, already covered in dust.
"We're home."-Akatsuki announced as there wasn't any response. He then looked towards Miorine who only unfolded her arms. As silently as he could he took off his shoes with Miorine following, before suddenly opening the nearest cupboard to reveal a pistol. He then put his finger over his mouth for Miorine to be quiet, as they walked throughout the house they saw that no one resided in the living room nor the kitchen. As suddenly both their ears picked up sounds upstairs, Akatsuki wasted no time to rushing upstairs while switching off the safety and loading the pistol, taking quick glances around all the rooms he noticed that his room, the baby room and the bathroom were the only ones from where there wasn't any sound. And that meant the potential burglar or political opponent was looking for something inside his parent's bedroom. And so with a swift kick he opened the door and pointed the gun. And he immediately felt embarrassed for what he did as he saw his mother and Suletta sitting on the floor and looking at pictures.
"Oh…hi son! Sorry for not saying anything when you came back, we're just entranced in memories! Although I don't appreciated getting aimed at. And you need a bath asap, you and Miorine."-Atrra exclaimed as Miorine walked up towards them.
"Excuse us for this stunt, but what are you doing here?"-Miorine asked as Atrra smiled.
"I was just showing Suletta some old pictures of Akatsuki."-Atrra explained as Miorine took one of the nearest photos and immediately smiled amused, as the picture was showing little Akatsuki potty training. The blonde as he saw the picture his face was immediately covered by a crimson aura.
"MOM!"-Akatsuki exclaimed as Atrra chuckled.
"Im not doing anything wrong, isn't that something natural? For a mother in law sharing pictures of their son with his partner? Or partners?"-Atrra asked as Suletta chimed in.
"I don't see anything wrong with it Suki, besides you looked adorable!"-Suletta exclaimed as Akatsuki looked as if rapidly back-stabbed.
"And you too Suletta?"-Akatsuki as Miorine gently pushed Akatsuki away from the bedroom.
"You can go wash yourself first, I'll wait…"-Miorine said with smugness in the last part of the sentence before closing the door. It didn't took even a minute before laughter in three different voices could be heard from the room. Akatsuki sighed, giving up trying to hide the embarrassing stories shown on those pictures. He only grabbed a pair of fresh underwear and made his way to the bathroom where silent slurs could be heard.
"So, why the test at night? It's not like we didn't deal with illegal hikers?"-Akatsuki asked his father as they with Suletta and Miorine in the back seats, were currently making their way towards the TSC HQ. It currently was 21:40 as by 16:00 all the dust had settled. And this meant that the Barbatos test flight could still take place.
"It's not about the hikers, according to Doctor Leblanc its mostly about foreign spies. The hovering beam field technology is supposed to make its proper debut with new Barbatos. And we wanted to test it out before the planned conference."-Mikazuki explained as Akatsuki sighed at the mention of a conference, he had entire day for running PR and didn't need to hear about it just before the most anticipated part of the day.
"Right…"-Akatsuki replied as with the companionship of a radio the quartet reached the TSC HQ as most crew were on the watch for "illegal hikers" as the rest was preparing Barbatos for launch. Akatsuki couldn't help but barely hide his excitement, it's been more than a month since he last sat in the cockpit. He helped Suletta and Miorine out of the car while also taking his new flashy pilot suit.
"I'll be waiting in the command centre for launch, good luck."-Mikazuki said leaving the trio for themselves. And now all three of them were confused on what to do.
"Oi Akatsuki!"-A voice echoed as Akatsuki and his fiancés turned to see Damon and Miru. Both wearing the same combo of black shorts, a black t-shirt with the trademark white Turbine jacket enveloping them.
"Damon! Miru! Sup! You've seen the new Barbatos right?"-Akatsuki asked as he and Damon shared a high five.
"Yeah! Vivian is giving it a final tune alongside that Doctor, who seems like a total bit-"-Damon was cut out by a hit in the back of his head by Miru.
"What did I say about calling out people from MCA out loud? Do you want to end up with a Dainsleif inside your ass? But he's kinda right, definitely an ex-Gjallarhorn brought by Elion, and that's Vivian's opinion."-Miru explained as Suletta and Miorine shared a look of confusion.
"Excuse me…but who is Vivian?"-Miorine asked as the siblings turned towards her.
"You'll meet her soon, come on."-Damon said as the two of numerous Turbine children left with the trio following. And so after a brief walk they reached the Mobile Suit hanger, with the shining Barbatos taking most of attention as the crews were making sure everything was ready. They walked up the stairs to see a young adult wearing a Turbine jacket, that just like Miru and Damon's attire was enveloping a standard set of clothes made out of black shorts and a black t-shirt, she also had dyed violet short hair and blue eyes. One of the veterans from Teiwaz days and currently off-assignment, allowing her to work back on Barbatos.
"Hey Sis! Looked who finally showed up!"-Miru exclaimed as Vivian turned towards them and smirked.
"You're right, especially I wanted to SOMEONE who completely wrecked his suit and who almost killed his nervous system."-Vivian said as Akatsuki released a small growl.
"How about "hello after being deployed for so long in space"?"-Akatsuki asked as Vivian once again smirked, before walking up and shaking his hand before suddenly hugging him.
"And hello to you honour little brother, and do you have someone to introduce me?"-Vivian asked raising her eyebrow as Akatsuki sighed in complete defeat. 'I wonder how painful this will be during the wedding, especially with aunt Cookie and aunt Cracker.'-he thought as he turned towards Miorine and Suletta.
"Ok, Suletta and Miorine, this is Vivian Turbine. Vivian, Suletta and Miorine."-Akatsuki said as Vivian made a puffed up facial expression.
"Wow, such little introduction for a mechanic that was helping with your suits since you were a kid."-Vivian said as she shook hands with Miorine and Suletta.
"You were the one who was preparing Barbatos AA for the Grand Prix?"-Suletta asked as Vivian scoffed.
"Preparing? I was there when he won and help gave it a final tune before he went out!"-Vivian proudly exclaimed as suddenly Doctor Seras Leblanc walked up to them holding Akatsuki's blue Haro under her arm.
"Right, however I believe we have something to do right Miss Turbine? Hello Akatsuki, your Haro, I did what you asked me for. You have 10 minutes before planned launch."-Seras said as she gently bow her head and gave a weird look towards Suletta before walking away. Vivian only shot a quick middle finger before turning back towards the kids.
"She's not always that bad, but tonight its cranked up to 11."-Vivian said as Akatsuki chimed in.
"Who can blame her, it is an informal debut of new experimental tech. I would be nervous as well."-Akatsuki said as then Miru and Damon looked at him with exenterated facial expression.
"And there you go with trying explain someone, and im also pretty sure Vivian was like your third choice behind Eco and Mister Yamagi, or even fourth behind Nika regarding final tune-up."-Damon said as Akatsuki blushed before Vivian put her hands on both Damon and Miru's shoulders.
"There there stop it, or he'll pass out. I only just returned from a assignment in space with Eco and Mister Yamagi, speaking of them they wanted to pass their congrats about your engagement. And according to my watch we should probably give him some private time for changing."-Vivian said as she pushed the siblings away with Suletta and Miorine following.
"Good luck."-Suletta whispered from behind her shoulder, as the coast was clean Akatsuki then looked at briefcase. He then turned towards Haro who activated itself and begun to flap its wings, he smirked as he put his finger on the case, popping it open as it revealed his specialised pilot suit.
Akatsuki got himself settled into the seat before taking a long deep breath and plugging himself in, as information was quickly flooding into his head seemingly unnoticed. The control sticks quickly appeared in his hands, pedals appeared under his feet and his seat was reformed. He then did exactly as last time while performing the start-up procedure, gently putting his hand on the touchpad HUD, that kept the universal standard of a cross like shape with main in the front and besides the control sticks showing things like RPM. And with just a small touch of his really large hand the entire cockpit lit up to life in various shapes and colours as his helmet did the same connecting with the main computer. The machine designation appeared on the front monitor, of course written in a stylised font before allowing him to see the front door of the main mobile suit hangar.
"Are you ready?"-the voice of Seras emitted throughout the cockpit as Akatsuki gently put his feet on his pedals.
"Yes"-Akatsuki replied as meanwhile in the command centre Seras, alongside all the others were overseeing the launch.
"All right then, permission for start-up given"-Seras said as Akatsuki grunted in nodding before instantly locating the reactor start up switches as sound of revving screams begun to echo. His fingers then travelled to the two digital levers that were responsible for powering up the two powerful reactors.
"Activating reactor one and reactor two"-Akatsuki said, finishing the basic start-up procedure as blue flames begun to spat out from the thigh, back-pack and back-skirt manoeuvre engines.
"Opening hangar door"-A report came out as Akatsuki then turned towards something that quickly perked up his interest. The controls for the famous "Wings of Helios" propulsion with the graph of the suit and the two field generators highlighted and similar two virtual levers. 'Now how this works?'-he thought as if to answer his question, on the outside everyone saw the GUND-Receptors lit up.
"The Receptors lit up?"-Suletta asked confused as the screens the two generators slowly light themselves up, with blue Permet particles beginning to spit out before forming a shape that could be compared to energy wings. And panic begun to strike Seras as she saw that gravity was already beginning to change as several small and medium sized objects begun to fly.
"Hey hey hey! Don't use the Wings of Helios inside closed spaces!"-Seras said as Vivian only smirked before taking the headset
"Permission to start granted"-She said as Akatsuki nodded and showed a thumbs up.
"Right, Akatsuki Augus! Gundam Barbatos Eden/Inferno, launch!"-Akatsuki explained as he pressed the pedals and jolted the sticks forward as the Gundam frame set out to the dark sky. Akatsuki couldn't feel anything but sheer happiness as Barbatos was swiftly dancing in the air. 'This propulsion system really is a masterpiece'-he thought before taking a deep dive, and just as he almost hit the ground he managed to correct his course and fly in close proximity to the ground. Seemingly defying Newton and gravity as everyone inside and outside were watching the blue trail it was leaving in the sky, seemingly lighting it up and beautifully contemplating with the Earth's moon.
"Come on son, come back to the car, he is probably busy partying with supermodels and cheating on his fiancés"-A father called out to his boy from the inside of their pick-up truck as boy, presumably six or seven was looking with binoculars from the cliff the road they were making their way back home was situated.
"Im sure I saw a blue mobile suit trail!"-The boy exclaimed as the father wanted to call out his son on how this could be another military mobile suit before ear-piercing sound of two reactors could be heard as suddenly a blue and white suit with black and red details flew pass them before jolting back to the stars. The boy, although confused why his idol suit looked so different. Was certain it was him, the blue energy wings were a perfect fit. His eyes lit up with hope.
CHAPTER 14: END
CHAPTER 14: EPILOGUE
Suletta carefully approached Akatsuki, who was still in high spirits even after he had to park Barbatos back as now Vivian was taking care of preparing it for school usage. And after they returned home Akatsuki announced he was going for a run around the farm, so she was sitting at the house porch with Haro as Miorine was sharing video footage with Atrra and Kudelia, his father had to stay behind in order to help out some paper work and announced he would return after midnight.
"Suletta Mercury seems sad"-Haro announced with its red eyes lighting up as Suletta immediately blushed.
"No Haro, just confused…"-Suletta said as she saw Akatsuki running back to the farm, as sweat was covering his head and slowly dripping onto his t-shirt and shorts. He of course noticed Suletta sitting alone on the porch and walked up to her.
"Oh hey Suletta! You want to join me?"-Akatsuki asked as Suletta turned her head blushing.
"No, I just wanted to ask about yesterday…"-Suletta said shifting her eyes to the ground as Akatsuki raised his eyebrow in confusion.
"What about yesterday?"-He asked confused as Suletta was…stunned, not really hurt. It was late at night with both of them being tired from their trip. So she should've been expecting that he could've forgotten. She could tell him what transpired between them, but what consequences could it have? Suletta wouldn't want to risk anything to shake up their friendship. If what Atrra was telling was true, then he was already madly in love with her, she just needed to be patient. So, she only smiled…
"No...yeah sorry, I think I got confused, im going to take a bath. Have fun…"-Suletta said as she grabbed Haro and returned back to the house. Akatsuki only sighed before taking the starting pose, and running to do another lap.
CHAPTER 14: EPILOGUE :END
A/N: Finally, Barbatos Eden/Inferno got to fly! And we also had some wholesome Mother-In-Law/Daughter-In-Law interaction between the Tanuki and IBO's best girl, yeah sorry Kudelia and Lafter. We also met more Turbines as I thought it was weird that we only seen Akatsuki interact with Damon and Miru and we will meet more of them in following chapters. And also had a brief detour to Titan and did things that the show didn't bother to explain, Nika's origin story and why an "Earthian" like her wanted to become a bridge between Earth and Space. We also learned how Katma ended up with the Fraternity. I've also took a notice of the reviews and tried to fight the lack of comas and hope that i did well. And there is this question that after the finale I'm around 40% sure you will ask this question. Will Demon Incarnate end on canonical episode 24? Will we see the wedding? And will Akatsuki break though his dense shell in coming chapters? Well, I can answer the first two questions. Yes, Demon Incarnate will end on Episode 24….It doesn't mean Akatsuki and Suletta's story will end! I always planned this story to be split off in two just like the show. But seeing as splitting it between covering 12 episodes plus filler arcs would be stupid. So the next story im planning to write will be a sequel and the first chapter will probably drop after the last one here. With us still don't knowing at the moment what "Silver Phantom" is im leaving myself room for the future stories since I do have a third story planned set in the "After Disaster Stella" timeline as a spin-off. But we'll have to wait a long time for that. Tune in next time! And as always I don't own Gundam, that belongs to Bandai and Sunrise.