Author Note: Well this was a shorter...but sweet chapter. I am still thinking about the pairing, but I am taking everyone's thoughts into account. Let's keep on going forward and reach this finish line. Remember to follow, favorite, review, comment and all that jazz. Enjoy the story.
Reviews
TheEmeraldMage: Yeah, I get what you mean. Harem's usually fuck the story, but if Aiden has his harem...it is going to lead to a much more darker ending. If he's going to gain the two heroines, he's got to lose a lot in return. Yeah, also with the Secelia element I was surprised by how little they utlized her. Got hardly anything from her character and I aperciate the complements. Also, Miorine being jeoluse I do want to clarify was always in the plan, there was always moments in which I wanted to write Aiden and Miorine. However, Aiden x Suletta would always be endgame. However, I've come to realize that Aiden and Miorine had a lot of chemstry so I've been dabbling with that thought. However, this chapter is very much Suletta x Aiden even though it's shorter. Also, Marty's character, I know he's got a bad rep going for him...but I really want to see what's good with his character. His type is very interesting to write about. The reluctant soldier. Also, all this Newtype stuff...I only watch Gundam UC and only recently got into the stuff like two month's ago. That's proably why the Zaku and Thunderbolt stuff lowkey appeared...lol it's just super cool. Still, thanks for the constant reviews. Have a good one and stay safe as well!
Eternicus: I would completely understand if you stopped reading if I went the pologomy route. Stories that usually go that route usually end up in the shitter. That's why i've been gaugeing people's thoughts. Pretty interesting to note the difference between Wattpad and . A lot of people want Pologomy on Wattpad, but on everyone's staunchly against it. Still, it's just a thought and I am taking everyone's into account. Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy.
TheAdvocate7: I am glad that you are enjoying the story! It's just a thought on the pologomy route...this one is heavily Suletta x Aiden and honestly all the build up towards them. Especially the ideas I have on the outline for there further romance is going to have people interested.
SixSpartain: Thanks for reading! There was a lot of inspirations for Aiden and while I watched Witch from Mercury I woudl actually get into Gundam months after seeing it due to disliking the ending. Thunderbolt was a blast! Also, I get what you mean in regards to Aiden x Suletta. Next chapter is going to be the end of the Award Show. It's been running a bit long and it's going to end on chapter 34, but this couple of chapter's have been fun and nice to write. I've just been busy with school and studies.
Chapter 33
Ensign Marty
Ensign Marty's Heat Hawk sliced swiftly through the air above the Dilenza's head, the crackling of electricity mingling with the smirk that danced across his features. "You call these mechs!" he shouted triumphantly as he delivered the final crushing blow to the machine's cockpit.
"The Ensign really is on a warpath, isn't he, Travis?" Wilkerson remarked, launching shots from his missile launcher.
His Zaku High Mobility darted away from a laser shot fired by a squadron of three approaching enemies. He zipped and dipped through space, leaving bright indigo slashes in his wake as his laser rifle carved through the expanse.
Travis's features twisted into a sneer. "Doesn't he already have that cursed Gundam?" he questioned. "It was waiting patiently in stock as they gave him the last Zaku II."
Wilkerson chuckled darkly. "Have you forgotten about the curse?" he countered. "I doubt the Ensign or the Commander is going to jump into that machine headfirst."
As they spoke, a fierce battle unfolded around them. Caught by a Jetturk Heavy Machinery, they fought fiercely against the flagship, holding back on destroying the main vessel for now.
The three squadrons zipped and zapped, one meeting its end beneath a blast from a bazooka, while the second and third unleashed missiles intercepted by the Ensign's machine gun, the rat-a-tat of gunfire echoing through the metal hull.
Its monocular eye blazed amidst the chaos.
"Ensign Marty!" the radio crackled.
He flicked it on, his tone brisk. "Report, Lieutenant," he demanded.
The Lieutenant hurried to respond. "We believe that the Jetturk force is weakening," he stated.
"Then the plan is coming to fruition?" the Ensign queried.
"Yes, we've been following your advice to let them destroy the debris around the ship and use it as natural cover... but will the Gundams be necessary?" the Lieutenant inquired.
Marty's monocular pink eye scanned the scene, taking in the fiery remnants of their vessel. Beneath it, two blazing beams pulsed with intensity, casting a harsh light over the surroundings.
With a hearty chuckle, Marty observed the Dilenzas around them falter, their pilots' fear reflected in the false machines. "Lieutenant, it is most definitely necessary... those two bring a complete morale killer to the table," he remarked.
"Marty!" Sophea's voice crackled over the radio. "We're here!" Her enthusiasm, though incongruous with the chaos, brought a suppressed chuckle from Marty.
"You really are something else," he murmured before turning his attention to the Lieutenant. "Keep following the plan... I want all personnel to board that ship and initiate a boarding action."
"A boarding action?" the Lieutenant muttered under his breath.
Marty nodded, his gaze fixed on the battlefield where Dilenzas erupted in explosions. "The main ship is doomed," he stated matter-of-factly. "At least with this one. We'll run the repairs, take prisoners, but it is imperative for Aiden Winters to inherit this Gundam."
The Lieutenant fell silent, but five minutes later, their squadron soared towards the hangar of the vessel. Minor transports and escape pods scattered across the ship's surface as the ruins of their IMS Stalker vanished in a blast of explosions.
"Commander!" the Lieutenant called out. "Why is it necessary for Winters to get this cursed machine?"
"...and why must you know?" Marty countered.
The Lieutenant hesitated before responding, "I served with him during the raids along the frontier."
Marty's breath steadied. "All you need to know is that Marko and the project need Winters to get this thing. Who knows what this is going to unlock for him."
The Lieutenant lapsed into silence. The hangar bay loomed before them, still crackling with electricity as they landed their Zakus and disembarked. Armed with R101 assault rifles and armored up, they deployed in squads as Marty led the charge deeper into the complex, through a labyrinth of rooms until...
"We surrender!" The captain's voice echoed with a trembling urgency from the command deck, his junior officers mirroring his gesture with raised hands.
The Ensign's lips curled into a smirk as he leveled his assault rifle in a casual grip. "Wow... thank you for making it so easy," he remarked, a sardonic smile playing at his lips. "So, let's parley... don't you think, captain?"
Aiden WintersTop of Form
"Christ, Suletta... you're the most beautiful girl in the world," Aiden whispered, his voice a soft murmur against her ear. The grand ballroom pulsed with the lively strains of jazz, casting a radiant glow over the dancing couples and mingling guests. Aiden and Suletta lingered in a hidden alcove, shielded from the throng yet bathed in the dazzling lights that illuminated the space.
With a drunken sway, Aiden reached out, his fingers wrapping around Suletta's chin with more force than he intended, surprised by the blush that tinged her cheeks at his touch.
"Oh, you like it when I grab you," Aiden teased, his voice low and husky.
Suletta rolled her eyes in response.
A chuckle rumbled from Aiden's throat. "What?" he challenged, his tone playful. "You just rolled your eyes at me. You're really starting to come out of your shell. The old Suletta would've never."
Suletta's teal eyes flickered towards the walls of the narrow hallway as she hugged herself. "M-maybe I could've, if I wasn't afraid of you... beating someone up or something," she stammered.
Aiden laughed heartily, then leaned in to plant a swift kiss on her lips. Suletta's eyes widened in surprise, a rush of heat flooding through her as her blush deepened. Her tied hair trembled slightly with the intensity of her emotions.
Aiden chuckled again.
"You're a horrible tease, Aiden," Suletta muttered, clasping her hands together, her gaze dropping to the floor.
Aiden adjusted his suit jacket and took a step back, his eyes scanning the crowd before returning to Suletta.
"People are still dancing... which means we've got a decent amount of time," he remarked, his tone laced with a cocky edge as he moved closer to her once more. "That is... if you want to continue."
And then she returned the favor with a chuckle. Aiden recoiled in surprise as he felt her lips press against his, but soon found himself chuckling too, pulling her closer by her waist. "H-hey, Aiden, what are you…!" Her words were cut short by the intensity of the kiss he planted on her.
With a playful pop, he released her, chuckling as she wiped her red-faced embarrassment from her lips.
Yet, before Suletta could respond, the music abruptly ceased, plunging the once dim room into a sudden blaze of light.
"Looks like our little fun is done," Aiden remarked.
Suletta's expression darkened, her dissatisfaction evident as she shook her head and rolled her eyes.
"Didn't realize that a momentary pause in our kiss would tick you off like that," he quipped.
Suletta, her face still flushed, began to move away from him, but as she passed, Aiden felt her grip tighten on his left arm. "L-let's get out of here," she muttered, her eyes fixed on the floor.
Aiden shrugged nonchalantly, falling into step behind Suletta as...
Everyone was dancing, the room now stuffy and pulsating with energy. Spacien elites mingled with Academy students, all dressed to impress, the air heavy with the scent of alcohol.
Aiden felt the crowd press in around them as the music swelled, Suletta's gasp ringing in his ears as she stumbled, almost consumed by the throng.
"I've got you," Aiden reassured, quickly grasping her waist to steady her. He flashed her a smile. "I've always got you, Miss Mercury."
Suletta regained her footing in an instant, meeting Aiden's gaze. "Y-ou think you can hold me for a bit," she said, her voice uncertain. "Like, I don't want to dance, but…"
Aiden scanned the room, his eyes landing on the band playing energetically on stage. "They should've had you on that piano,"s he remarked, a hint of admiration in her voice. With her in his arms, her scent a delightful mix of chocolates, mangoes, and fresh flowers, Aiden felt his face flush a shade to rival Suletta's fiery locks. Unbeknownst to him, her gaze was fixed ahead, a mischievous smirk playing at her lips. Others might have wondered why she was smiling.
Aiden knew why she was smiling. And he probably would've been smiling too, if it weren't for the shock of feeling Suletta's butt pressed, moving, grinding against his...
"This feels nice," Suletta stuttered, her face flushed, tilting her chin upwards. "D-do you want to continue?" She paused, her breath catching.
Aiden felt a heavy growl erupt from within his chest as she moved a cheek alongside his lower thigh, and he felt her own...
"Yes, please continue," Aiden's words came out in a whisper, the sound of Suletta's small giggle echoing within his ears.
Nika
"You murderer!" Nika heard someone scream, but the accusation wasn't aimed at her. It was directed at another partygoer, and for a fleeting moment, a sigh of relief passed through her. As an Earthian, she knew prejudice all too well. She was just grateful it wasn't directed at her. But as she turned her attention, horror seized her as a woman screamed and hurled her full glass of champagne at Oscar's face.
"Murderer, I know what you and your little friends did!" The woman's voice cut through the crowd, commanding attention. Clad in a bright blue dress, her blond hair beginning to show strands of grey, she stood as a formidable presence. "I was on that planet when your titans landed. I know what you did. I saw what you did," she declared with a firm, grave tone.
Oscar's gelled hair now hung limp, his brown eyes glaring silently at the woman before him. His hands clenched in his pockets, he observed her through the shadow of his locks. He remained silent, his gaze drifting to the corner of the room where he and Deacon locked eyes. Deacon's subtle gestures prompted Oscar's next move.
Without a word, Oscar didn't even flinch as the two security guards parted to clear his path. The woman continued to scream and lash out, her painted nails resembling talons as she tried to claw at Oscar. But he simply stepped away, unaffected by her fury.
"I was there, you fucking bastard!" She screamed, tears streaming down her face. "I watched what you did to that city, to that beautiful island. What that boy did to him is unforgivable!" Her voice rose to a crescendo, pounding against the security officers' backs as she continued her tirade. "Murderers! Murderers, the whole lot of them! Murderers!" she shrieked, her words echoing through the room.
As she stormed away, her voice fading into the distance, Oscar turned to watch her go, the murmurs and whispers of the crowd swirling around him as all eyes fixed upon him.
"What a fucking crazy bitch," Oscar chuckled, the tension of the moment dissipating with his laughter. His relaxed demeanor returned as he withdrew his hands from his pockets and raised them in a gesture of dismissal. "Never seen that whore in my life," he exclaimed, the party slowly returning to normalcy as the harpsichordist struck up another tune.
"Oscar, you alright?" Nika was the first to reach him, concern etched on her features.
Oscar shrugged, his expression still tinged with disbelief. "I don't even know what the hell that was," he stated, his voice a mixture of confusion and annoyance.
"Did you say anything?" Nika inquired, her eyes searching his face. "Oscar, I know you speak before you think."
Oscar shook his head, his hands still raised in a gesture of innocence. "Listen, Nika. I've never seen that woman before... fucking crazy, calling us murderers and all that. I was just walking through the crowd when she exploded on me," he explained, glancing over his shoulder briefly to ensure she wasn't coming back for round two. "Hell, I've worked retail, and even my worst experiences weren't like that."
Nika sighed heavily. "You think she was trying to dredge up Harmony?" she asked, her voice laced with concern.
Oscar turned back to her, a momentary contemplation passing over his features. But then he shook his head. "I doubt it. She probably had too much to drink."
Nika nodded in understanding. "At least you're fine, that's all that matters," she said softly before pausing. "I'm going to find Deke. You can come... that experience must've been so uncomfortable."
Oscar took a deep breath. "It is what it is... go find Deke. I'm going to have another drink."
Nika smiled and waved as she disappeared into the crowd. Oscar watched her blue hair vanish into the sea of people, and as she did, Deacon emerged. He caught Oscar's arm around his elbow. "Let's have a talk, friend," Deacon said, his voice devoid of emotion.
"Let's," Oscar responded.
Deacon led him to a quiet corner away from the party, and it took a moment before they were face to face.
"Deke, I think she knew...," Oscar began, his eyes fixed on the floor.
Deacon remained silent for a moment, processing Oscar's words. "You can't be sure," he replied finally, shaking his head. "There are many enemies that Marko and his legion have assembled and..."
But Oscar shook his head, the sheen of sweat mixing with alcohol on his features. "Deacon, I seriously don't think it was that... she saw me and started screaming. Saying that she knew what we did... that she was there."
Deacon's eyes widened at that revelation. "You think she was talking about the...," he began, but his words were cut off as he swiftly covered Oscar's mouth with his palm. Oscar's eyes widened in surprise, silenced by Deacon's sudden action.
"We don't ever talk about that mission you lost your legs in... not ever," Deacon declared firmly, his voice carrying a weight of solemnity.
Oscar nodded slowly as Deacon removed his hand. Deacon let out a sigh, his expression heavy with contemplation. "I will listen to what you're saying... I'll do some old-fashioned Deke detective work and figure out who this woman was. Most likely, I don't see how she can't be some drunk nut," he mused aloud.
Oscar opened his mouth to respond, but Deacon raised his hand to silence him. "However," Deacon continued, his tone becoming more serious, "if this woman is actually someone that was there... I'll do what I always did for you lot."
Turning away, Deacon gazed out into the illuminated party. Oscar remained silent, listening intently to Deacon's quiet murmurs. "Nika is going to start thinking it's weird how long it's taking," Deacon muttered under his breath.
Oscar let out a resigned sigh. "...and what does it mean that you always do?" he asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty.
Deacon turned back to him, his eyes gleaming with determination. "Protect you," he stated firmly, his resolve evident in every word.
Aiden
Aiden stood before the bathroom mirror, his mind swirling with images of Suletta's touch. He shook his head, breaking the spell, and turned on the faucet, letting the water cascade over his face, a cool relief against the tumult in his mind.
Sighing, he dried his hands with paper towels, his thoughts lingering on Suletta's unexpected actions. "I... I didn't realize that Suletta was like that," he muttered to himself, scratching his head in bemusement. "Well, she's cute..."
Never before had he considered Suletta in such a light. Sure, he found her attractive, and yes, he was enamored with her, but he had never imagined... that. Yet now, after her bold move, he found himself yearning for more. And he couldn't shake the feeling that Suletta felt the same way.
"Always the quiet ones," he murmured under his breath, a wry smile tugging at the corners of his lips.
Taking a deep breath, Aiden pushed open the door and stepped out. He had ventured far from the main venue to find a secluded bathroom, but he felt no urgency. After all, he was the guest of honor; they could wait for him.
With a self-satisfied smirk, he began to ascend the stairs, his mind still occupied with thoughts of Suletta, when a voice interrupted his reverie.
"So, you're Aiden Winters," the voice stated matter-of-factly.
Aiden froze at the sound of his name, his gaze locking onto the speaker. Standing at the top of the stairs was a man, tall and imposing, with steely grey hair, sun-kissed skin, and a blue suit that strained against his muscular frame.
"Do you need anything?" Aiden's question hung in the air, a tentative offer of assistance.
The man remained silent, his gaze lingering over Aiden's form. Aiden's eyes widened briefly, then narrowed with suspicion as he sensed the man's appraisal. Allowing it to continue for a moment, he soon shut his eyes in annoyance, emitting a disgruntled grunt.
"Whatever perv," Aiden retorted bluntly, brushing past the man. "I've got a hot date. I don't need to waste it dealing with a creep like you."
As Aiden strode away, his footsteps echoing in the corridor, his words reverberated in his ears. But then, a response stopped him in his tracks.
"Even if those words come from Delling Rembran himself."
Aiden froze, his eyes widening in realization. He had just insulted not only the head of the Benrett Group, but also Miorine's father.
"Seems like you've got a moment to talk," Delling remarked calmly. "I won't take up more of your time. Your speech is upon us."
Aiden stared at Delling, the weight of the man's influence and power settling heavily upon him. This was the man who had allowed the IMC to join forces with the Benrett Group, shifting the balance of power in the war. This was the man responsible for countless deaths, for the destruction of Harmony itself.
This was the man who had ruined Aiden's life.
As the realization dawned on him, Aiden's fingers curled into fists, his jaw clenched with determination.
"Let's," Aiden Winters, the Druid of Harmony, spoke with steely resolve.
Miorine
Miorine battled waves of nausea as Prospera Mercury approached. She sat on the steps leading to the upper levels of the venue, her head buried in her hands.
A water bottle appeared before her. "Prospera?" Miorine's voice carried a hint of curiosity. "I thought you were tied up with business in Neptune?"
Prospera's response was a small chuckle. "Business can wait. Today is Aiden's and Suletta's special day, don't you agree?" Her words held a touch of maternal pride. "I'd be a terrible mother if I missed Suletta's first boyfriend's celebration."
Miorine remained silent as Prospera offered her the water bottle. She accepted it gratefully, but when she drank, she coughed violently.
Prospera chuckled at her reaction. "I remember my younger days with alcohol," she remarked. "But, Miorine, for your first time, especially on such an important day... Delling Rembran's daughter cannot afford to be seen like..."
"How long did you know?" Miorine's question was direct, her grey eyes fixed firmly on Prospera's visage.
Prospera's lips curved into a knowing smirk. "Suletta is my daughter, and in a strange way, they are like my sons, Miorine. I care for them deeply, and..."
Miorine cut her off. "What were Aiden, Oscar, and Jack doing on that mission?" Her tone was sharp, demanding truth. "No more lies. I want to know."
Prospera fell silent but maintained her smile. "Really, so now you care? Before, you were so content with Winters and the gang that you forgot about leaving for Earth. I assumed you stopped caring, and..."
Miorine vigorously shook her head. "I saw a video of a mech that looked like Aiden's own. I know his mech; I saw him paint his gauntlets red before he left," she paused, gathering her thoughts. "Was it him who killed that old man?" Her question hung heavy in the air.
Prospera remained silent.
"Does it really matter?" she replied curtly, prompting Miorine's eyes to widen in disbelief.
"Of course, it does!" Miorine struggled to contain her rising voice, drawing odd looks from those nearby as she sank deeper into her seat.
Prospera took the seat beside her. "Do you truly want to know the truth?" she asked.
Miorine hesitated before nodding slowly.
Prospera sighed. "You won't be able to tell Deacon and the rest," she warned.
Miorine's gaze drifted down the stairs as she clenched the edges of her dress tightly. "Doesn't matter," she retorted sharply. "He never tells me anything at all." Prospera's smile in response was knowing.
"Have you looked at the hard drive I gave you?" Prospera inquired.
Miorine fell silent. "I... I haven't had the time," she admitted reluctantly.
Prospera's chuckle was tinged with a hint of knowing. "More like you were afraid," she replied. "...Miorine, you need to put away that foolish pride of yours. Work with me... and you'll accomplish your mother's greatest..."
Their conversation was abruptly halted by the piercing scream of a woman. "Murderer!" she cried out. "Murderer!" Her voice echoed through the venue, sending shivers down Miorine's spine.
"Who's that?" Miorine's voice trembled with concern.
Prospera let out a deep sigh. "One of the women who fell victim to one of the Sons of Harmony's Titanfall assaults," she explained grimly.
Miorine's eyes widened in horror. "Who is she?" Her voice was hollow, filled with dread.
With another heavy sigh, Prospera revealed the chilling truth. "The wife of the CEO of the Interstellar Manufacturing Corporation, or, for short, the IMC," she disclosed. Pausing, her gaze hardened beneath her visor. "...or rather, the old CEO. According to Deacon, Mister Hammond was crushed to death underneath Aiden's gauntlet."
The weight of Prospera's words hung heavily in the air, casting a dark shadow over Miorine's thoughts.