Gundam Seed: The Federation ver 2

by Blackshadow999

Different telling of Gundam Seed. With the conflict between Naturals and Coordinators getting worse as time passes, some nations have banded together and formed the organization known as the Human Federation. Will the Federation be able to help bring peace or will the hatred between Naturals and Coordinators destroy everything and bring extinction of humanity? Cover by Saddle Patch

32. Phase 32: Horrible Truth

A/N

Here is the other half of the JOSH-A event. Again I don't own anything Gundam though that would be awesome. I only own my own characters and ideas that go into this story

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Phase 32: Horrible Truth

May 20th, 71 C.E.

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JOSH-A, Alaska

The Archangel's crew was left to wonder what would happen next. The ship would lose two more pilots and its acting vice-captain, leaving only Kira to protect the ship when needed. And it didn't sound like they would necessarily be getting a replacement for those being transferred. But the crew left and returned to the Archangel as per orders. Mu and Krystal quickly got together to discuss things both from the meeting and what lay ahead. Mu was the first to let out a frustrated sigh, "Well, that meeting was a mess if ever I've seen one," he started, "Those fools don't understand a damn thing."

"While I don't disagree, Mu," Krystal replied, "What any think of the general staff isn't the point any longer."

Mu gazed at his friend, "Do you mean what they said or what they implied?"

Krystal exhaled, "Both honestly," she paused, "I know what they said about our suit pilots angered you, and I feel the same. But looking beyond that, we can get a glimpse into what the real story is."

"That they are up to something among other things," Mu returned.

Krystal nodded, "Kira mentioned that Tyler implied the Alliance had a reason not to sink the Archangel and that it wasn't a performance based thing. That the ship had been carrying something they valued more than anything else. The "data" which Kira said Tyler and others took care of is the only thing that makes sense to me. And if that data wasn't usable upon extraction by technicians that I would bet were on the Archangel while we were in that meeting, then it could explain why Sutherland was angry about whatever that officer told him."

"But we still don't even know what that data was about," Mu said, "Yet I would say you are likely right about it being why the captain was put off." Mu shook his head, "The whole time we've been here at JOSH-A has been nothing but one bad thing after another."

"Much as a bad reception that a certain teen told us about back in Shira," Krystal remarked.

"Yeah, once again, Tyler's proven to be either very well-informed or has a hell of an intuition, maybe both," Mu admitted. "But with our transfers, that leads to the separation that Kira mentioned, or at least that's what it feels like to me."

Krystal frowned, "You're not the only one that feels that Mu, and were I to hazard a guess, I fear we're in the safe group rather than the "disposal" group mentioned."

Mu blinked since Krystal implied that the rest of the Archangel's crew would be sent out to die if what Tyler said was correct. It was crazy even to consider that allies would do such a thing, and yet, in the last few months, crazy had become almost normal. "You really think that the general staff here would send the Archangel out on some suicide mission Krystal?"

Had Mu asked that question before the meeting with the general staff, Krystal would have said such was possible but unlikely. However, with how the inquiry had gone, she wasn't sure at all if that was unlikely anymore. The hatred of Coordinators drove people to do horrific things, Blue Cosmos and others like them had proven that. And with what Krystal had seen with the general staff here at JOSH-A, they all shared those views to some degree. "If you had asked that four or more hours ago, Mu, I would have said it was possible but extremely unlikely." She hesitated, "However, after that meeting, I've lost any confidence I had and wouldn't put it past some of the general staff."

Mu's head fell, "Then we are in the same boat," he stopped for a moment, "Have we really been so blind not to see our leaders moving to the same level as terrorists?"

Krystal shook her head, "No, I think this war has just made the line between those involved in it and those that are not blurry to the point of beyond recognition. So then, what do we do now? If we follow orders, we leave JOSH-A and will probably never see the Archangel or its crew again, only to read about their deaths and the ship's sinking."

Mu gave Krystal a deadpanned gaze, "You even have to ask," he posed. "At this point, orders can go to hell for all I care, I'm not letting the crew of the Archangel be sent to die."

Krystal smiled at Mu's response since she fully agreed with his view. None on the Archangel deserved to die for any reason. If what Tyler said was correct, and at this point, Krystal believed it was, then the Archangel was going to be sent to be sunk. "Then I suggest we make it look like we are following orders for the time being so that we will be watched less," Krystal remarked.

Mu smiled and nodded, "A wise idea, better not to draw attention to ourselves with this until the opportunity comes to us.

That evening, Kira had decided it would be best for him to put an OS back on the Strike just in case fighting came. Something in him said battle was coming soon, and he wanted to be as ready as he could be. Kira was the one that would defend the Archangel since Tyler and Lacus were not around. When he got to the hangar, Kira found no one around, so he went over to the Strike and got to work. Thankfully, Kira at Tyler's suggestion back in February had made a basic copy of the operating system just in case of emergencies. So he had a framework to work with and so would only need some tweaking to get it to where it needed to be.

At the same time, Mu had pulled Murdoch aside, "Listen, chief, don't let any take the equipment from the hangar. Trust me, we will need it, I feel, I can't say what for, but I'm sure they will be needed," Mu said.

Murdoch gazed at Mu curiously as he was going to be transferred the next morning. By what Murdoch had heard, Mu and Krystal were going to be sent to be teachers at the pilot academy over on the west coast of the Atlantic Federation. Their knowledge would benefit the young training rookies Murdoch had no doubt, and they needed as much of that as they could get. So, why then was Mu worried about the Archangel's equipment? "I'm all for being as ready as possible, Commander," Murdoch began, "But with you transferring tomorrow, you have other things to think about."

Mu glanced around for a moment to make sure there was no one else in the corridor that could listen in. "You are not to mention this to anyone else, but Krystal and I don't intend to go through with the transfer orders," Mu replied. Murdoch was about to protest as the incoming rookie pilot needed the experience of those like Mu and Krystal, yet Mu didn't let him. "Something is going on that we aren't being told about."

The two headed for the hangar as Murdoch had been doing his final rounds before getting some sleep. Murdoch was trying to wrap his head around the fact that Mu and Krystal planned to defy orders of the earthbound general staff. Then he was worried that Mu said there was something going on around the base and probably beyond it. If they suspected something weird was going down, then Murdoch believed them as they had been mostly on point with that kind of thing. "What do you think is going on, Commander," Murdoch questioned, "Since I'm getting the nagging feeling you are right."

Mu rubbed the back of his head as they entered the hangar, "Honestly, Murdoch, I wish I could say more specifics, but it's more a gut feeling."

Murdoch stopped since as he glanced around the hangar, he stopped on the open cockpit of the Strike. "Hey, who's in there," he demanded.

Kira heard Murdoch's voice, but he hadn't expected anyone to come into the hangar at this late hour. So he saved his work before storing the keyboard and exiting the cockpit. Kira waved to the two men, "Sorry, Mr. Murdoch," Kira started, "Just was doing work to occupy my time and mind."

Mu was surprised that Kira was down here at this time of night as he was normally down in the hangar during the daytime. The other thing was the kid was alone, which was dangerous for him even if the kid didn't know it. Those here at JOSH-A could and likely were gunning for Kira in the effort to kill him since he was a Coordinator. "Rather late to be working, Kira, wouldn't you say," Mu posed.

Kira didn't look at the armor pilot as Tyler's message had said not to say what it contained until the time was right. The letter had said the Archangel's crew could be trusted, but no one outside of them. "I guess it is, but maybe I'm just antsy," Kira replied, still not looking at either man.

Mu would normally believe Kira at his word, the kid didn't seem to know how to lie effectively, which wasn't a bad thing. However, Mu felt Kira wasn't saying something and that something was big. What it was that Kira wasn't saying Mu couldn't say, but something in him said it was important. "Being antsy is one thing, kid," Mu started, "But what were you working on?"

"Just fixing up the Strike's OS," Kira muttered, too soft for Murdoch to hear, but Mu caught it.

Mu couldn't think of any reason for Kira needing to fix the Strike's OS, it should be as it had been before. The operating system should be as the Asuka's as far as Mu had understood, so there was nothing to fix or change should Kira need to use the Strike. Thus, once again, Mu felt there was something more going on than was being let on. "Kira, why would the Strike's OS need fixing," Mu asked.

Murdoch twisted around to stare at Mu as he hadn't heard what the kid had said a moment ago. So if the suit's operating system had been damaged, then he wanted to beat up those technicians that had been on the ship. It had already taken a solid two hours to clean up the mess of the base personnel "looking through things." Murdoch shook his head in frustration, "Kid, I take it those technicians looked through the Strike's OS and didn't clean up their mess," he questioned. Kira nodded, not trusting what would come out of his mouth right now. Murdoch let out a growl, "Damn it," he cursed, "those techs have made more work for us in two hours than we normally do in a few days."

Mu hadn't missed that Kira was hiding something, the signs were there, but Mu couldn't figure out why he was not saying anything. And right now, Mu wanted any information he could get that may explain things. "Kira, what is it that you're not telling us," Mu asked, "You're avoiding saying something."

Kira hesitated as Tyler had been specific on some points, the Alliance couldn't be trusted had been an ongoing theme. He had also said that what the message had contained was to be kept secret until the right time. Kira felt Mu would understand Tyler's reasoning, more so now than he would have earlier, and so, perhaps they would listen now. Thus, Kira exhaled heavily before speaking, "I was not fixing the OS, I was reinstalling it. The OS was wiped," Murdoch began showing anger, but Kira continued, "It wasn't the technicians' work, they just triggered the system wipe. It was a booby-trap set up if some went looking around for something they wanted. Tyler put it into place before the Archangel left Shira as a contingency as he put it."

Mu blinked at being told that Tyler had put in contingency before the Archangel had headed out from Shira. It wasn't exactly that Mu was surprised the older teen had laid the groundwork, Tyler had a knack for it. It fit as Tyler's predictions had been pretty much on the money, it was that he had planned this far ahead that was kind of impressive. That Murdoch and his mechanics hadn't noticed Tyler putting that idea in place said the teen had quite a skill set. "Did he mention anything else," Mu asked, "I'm open to any information right now?"

"The data they were after was copies of the G-project's machines," Kira stated. "It is likely why you got blamed for things you didn't know about in your debriefing. And I was right, Tyler was defending the Archangel, he made sure the Alliance wouldn't lose its reason not to be sunk." Kira paused, realizing that Tyler had put himself into the position to receive much of the blame rather than the crew. "And he made it seem that he was the cause of the mobile suit data so that none of you would get the brunt of the backlash."

Mu was sort of stunned at what Kira was saying as the kid was telling the truth as he knew it. Kira's information was filling in holes that had mystified both him and Krystal. Knowing the data was mobile suit schematics clarified why the general staff was so angry about the extraction failing. It also said Tyler had likely done it during the Archangel's time in Shira which Natarle accused him of being a traitor for, among other things. The task Tyler had likely couldn't be talked about at the time, so that he couldn't have defended himself. Mu felt sorry for Tyler, he had been trying to help and protect them, but the Archangel's crew hadn't been listening or watching him, himself included. "Any other warnings from Tyler, Kira," Mu inquired, "Because I'm all ears and more than willing to believe anything he may have said to you."

That last line told Kira that Mu would take Tyler's warnings seriously and others could believe him at his word. He took that as it being the right time to say what Tyler had told him about what he suspected of the Alliance. "He said the Alliance couldn't be trusted, that their goal isn't peace, but domination by whatever means they see necessary. He and those in the Federation are sure once OMNI gets mobile suits, they will use them in an attempt to force the Federation to surrender and take orders from them," Kira iterated. "He mentioned that those here would try to kill me and plan to kill those on the Archangel in some way."

Mu was not liking what he heard, but as Tyler hadn't been far off his predictions, what Kira said had merit. If anything, then Tyler had been right on with most events on how they played out. So, at this point, Mu would take anything said by Tyler as very likely the truth of what would occur. He and Krystal had lost faith in the general staff, and what they said, they weren't there to help them. But Kira saying the Alliance fully intended to use mobile suits against the Federation didn't sit well. The Federation was akin to a sleeping giant, and should the Alliance wake up that giant, Mu didn't think the Alliance would be around to regret that action with how things stood. Mu sighed, "Well, that pretty much confirms what Krystal and I were suspecting," he admitted.

Murdoch gaped at Mu, "Commander, you aren't serious, are you?"

"Yes, I am," Mu returned, "Thus far, Tyler's predictions have been on the money with maybe a detail or two off. I don't know how that kid could know what he did, but I'm through doubting Tyler, doubting him has not helped in any way." Mu turned to the entrance of the hangar, "Kira, you do what you got to in defense of the ship. Krystal and I will help as we can whenever battle comes this ship's way."

The next morning, the four that were to transfer were heading for the gangway that led off the ship. Mu and Krystal had bags to make it look like they were leaving as ordered, but the bags were filled with random things. The rest of the Archangel's crew was waiting by the exit to see those leaving off. All four had helped the ship and its crew tremendously during their journey, so seeing them off was the way to honor them. Murrue was sorry to see all four go, they had all contributed greatly to the Archangel on its journey. While she and Natarle had their disagreements, Murrue was grateful for her insight and experience. And Murrue couldn't say where they would be without Mu and Krystal.

Natarle was the first in line to leave Flay right behind her. The girl had been resistant to the transfer, but Natarle had told her it was pointless to argue with it at this time. Before leaving, Natarle saluted Murrue, "While we've had our difference of opinion at times Murrue, it had been an honor," she said, "I am glad to have served with you, farewell captain."

Murrue returned the salute, "Likewise, Lieutenant, it was a pleasure to have you with the ship during its journey. I don't think we could have made it without you." Murrue smiled, "I hope we meet someday again, hopefully not on a battlefield."

Mu and Krystal came toward the exit next after Natarle and Flay had left the ship. They had both agreed that their exit had to be convincing, so the whole crew had to believe they were going. Mu was to express frustration with the general staff as he had earlier, which should arouse the least suspicion. They would be looking for an opportunity to find out more about what was going on before getting back to the Archangel. "To be honest, I want to give them a piece of my mind on several things," Mu remarked, "The personnel bureau and the general staff, that is."

Krystal would applaud Mu's performance, it was one of the better ones that he'd done in a while. And with what Mu had told her Kira had said, there was information that they needed before returning to the ship. Unfortunately, that Tyler had said the Alliance couldn't be trusted now made more sense. In her view, the general staff was a prime example of not working for the greater good anymore. "Rest assured, Mu, you're not the only one," Krystal added. "But we don't have much say in what assignment we got right now, you know that."

Murrue gave a sad smile, "I doubt it would do either of you any good," she replied.

Mu glanced at Krystal, "And you are fine with being sent to the pilot academy in California to be an instructor," he asked.

Krystal shook her head, "No more than you, but again, we don't have say in this transfer," she reasoned. Mu was impressed since if he didn't know it was an act, he would've believed what Krystal had just said and not publicly argued with her.

Murrue could understand why both Mu and Krystal would be chosen to be instructors for soon-to-be pilots. Rookie pilots would need as much help as possible, and the two would fit that bill well. "Arguing wouldn't do either of you any good," Murrue admitted. "Your teaching will save the lives of rookie kids who are going to be out there fighting, both of you."

Mu really wanted to tell Murrue what he and Krystal planned, but they had to fool the Archangel's crew in this. To best help the ship and its crew, Mu and Krystal needed to find out what was going on, and they couldn't do that on the ship. Still, Mu had to finish up his act, so he put on an angry expression, "It's nice to be told that, but damn it, I still don't like this," Mu returned.

Murrue smiled, "Thank you both, Commander, Lieutenant Commander, it won't be the same without both of you."

Mu pulled a worried face that made Krystal actually question if Mu could have some feelings for Murrue. She hadn't missed some of the subtle signs they liked each other's company, but there hadn't been a lot of progress. "Be safe out there," Mu said. Krystal also saluted, "Indeed, watch yourselves out there, and don't be sunk."

Both Mu and Krystal turned and exited the ship, and once they were out of earshot, Krystal leaned close to Mu, "I must say Mu, quite an act you put on," she mused, "one of the better ones I've seen."

Mu smirked, "Hey, I can pull it when I need to, and same for you, quite convincing," he replied.

Krystal smiled softly, "In fact, I am left to wonder why you haven't said anything to Murrue about liking her company." Mu felt his cheeks flush as Krystal continued, "Call it woman's intuition, but you have later to do that as we will be going back to the ship later."

As the day went on, the Archangel was informed it was being assigned to JOSH-A's defense fleet until further notice. It was a tad odd as the Archangel had been designed for space combat more than in Atmosphere combat. Then there was still no decision on what would be done with the ZAFT captive on the ship. Murrue was left to wonder what the higher-ups were thinking, for she couldn't figure it out.

Meanwhile, those that were transferring were gathered at the docks with the transport subs were at. As Mu and Krystal headed for the subs, they were supposed to board, both were looking around. Krystal was struck by how most of the personnel appeared to be Atlantic Federation. In fact, she realized that all those she saw were Atlantic Federation which was suspicious to her. "Hey, Mu," Krystal whispered, "Is it me, or are all here Atlantic Federation, does that strike you as odd?"

Mu glanced around and saw that Krystal was right all at the docking area were Atlantic Federation personnel. "No, Krystal," Mu returned, "It isn't just you, something is going on, and it's getting more suspicious with everything I see."

The two met up with Natarle and Flay, who were waiting to board the subs they were to get on. As they came up to them, Natarle was speaking, "Aren't these ships supposed to be heading out to Panama," she asked. Natarle then noticed Krystal and Mu coming up, "Which ship are you two supposed to be boarding?"

Krystal was the one that spoke up, "We are bound for Panama and then California from there," she replied.

As boarding started, Mu saw that opportunity was knocking for him and Krystal to slip away and start looking for clues. He nudged Krystal and gave her a look to say it was time to get to work, to which she nodded. In the commotion of loading, the two slipped away and headed into the command area of the base. Krystal was right beside him, but she quickly noticed that they had met no one yet when they should have. "Mu, the base is looking empty, something is very wrong," she remarked. "I'm getting a bad feeling that this base isn't what it seems anymore."

Mu nodded, "Something is definitely wrong here, and it is beginning to feel like a trap of some sort." He would have said more, but before he could, alarms began going off, "What the hell?"

Krystal glanced around, "That doesn't sound good, I think things are about to go from bad to much worse."

The two mobile armor pilots weren't by any means the only ones to wonder what was going on when the alarms started sounding. Murrue, who was on the bridge of the Archangel, was trying to think of a way to get the opportunity for the crew to have shore leave when the alarms began sounding. The com-link was connected, and Murrue found herself looking at the image of Captain Sutherland, "Captain Sutherland, what's going on," she asked.

"All defense forces are to launch at once and commence interception," Sutherland stated, "They tricked us. ZAFT switched the target from Panama at the last minute to here at JOSH-A."

Back with Mu and Krystal, they picked up the pace and ran the rest of the distance from the elevator to the control room. However, just before they got there, he had a feeling he'd had in several the battle on the way here registered. He looked to the elevator that led down to the control room, "No way, he's here too?"

"Mu? What is it," asked Krystal.

Mu reached for the gun he had picked up as they had been searching the base, "Le Creuset, he's here, I'm getting the same feeling as before when I was around him," he replied.

Krystal grabbed the gun she had on her hip, acquired the same way Mu had gotten his. Then there came a trembling and shaking as the sounds of fighting began to be heard. Both mobile armor pilots entered the elevator, and Mu smashed the button to descend. When the elevator reached the level the control room was on the lift opened, and the two exited. They moved forward to get on either side of the door to the control room, but as they looked inside, a gunshot came in their direction.

Creuset had been here to see the fruits of his work, to see the massive death that would come. And he was not disappointed in the means the Alliance had chosen to use to kill ZAFT and unwanted forces. For them to put a Cyclops system in place was genius, and it would do much like the one used at Endymion. But there had been the sound of the elevator opening, and so Rau spun around and squeezed off two shots from his gun and moved away from the console he'd been at. "Well well, Mu La Flaga, we seem to have a horrible habit of crossing paths with each other, don't we," he called.

Mu grimaced, "What are you doing here, Le Creuset?!"

Krystal shot back at the Mask man, who was heading for a door on the other side of the room, "Why Mu, you think I would miss such a show as this? But if you're still here, then it means that your usefulness along with your companion's has run out, for the Earth Alliance seems not to need you anymore. Oh, how the mighty have fallen," Le Creuset replied before he disappeared.

Both Mu and Krystal scanned the control room, guns at the ready, but both relaxed a bit when they saw they were alone. The two started glancing over the consoles taking in the information, and a couple of things became clear. ZAFT was attacking the Earth Forces' HQ, there were far more of them than there were defenders, and there was no one actively in charge in a situation that such was needed! The Archangel was only with one pilot, and while Kira was good, he was not a one-person army. Plus, the two couldn't make it back to the subs in time, not that either would have if they could.

But it was as Mu came across one console and saw the display that horror filled him, as did rage. He waved Krystal over and let her see what he had, and she had a similar reaction to Mu himself. On the console screen, the image showed a large array of dishes that were hooked to power. By the information listed, every dish was set to emit microwave radiation and heat in mass, multiplied by each dish when they were turned on. The array of emitters, were they to activate all at once, would turn a ten-kilometer diameter area into a blast furnace in a matter of seconds. All that would be left as evidence would be a crater and charred debris from what had been in range. Mu trembled in a fury at realizing just what had been planned to happen here. Krystal gasped at seeing the data, "No, this," her voice stopped with the horror she was feeling, "this is almost like Endymion all over again. The only difference is that we know it's coming," she muttered in a mix of shock and anger.

Mu was furious but managed to keep himself in control, "I said this was feeling like a trap, but damn it, I didn't think it would be to this extent." He paused, "If we live through this, then I want to see Sutherland and the rest of the general staff hanged for this."

The two looked at each other, and they both knew that they couldn't stay where they were, not with what they had learned. Mu was out of the door first, closely followed by Krystal, both of them sprinting down the base's corridors. Once they got out of the main base and out into the underground city area, they found a working jeep. Mu jumped into the driver seat, and Krystal slid into the passenger side. The car started before Mu put the pedal to the floor, and they sped off towards the closest aircraft hangar. Mu showed his driving skills as the roof of the underground cavern began falling, and he swerved to avoid being hit.

As that was going on, the Archangel had moved out of the main gate, and Murrue saw the battlefield before them. The air and sea were filled with ZAFT forces assaulting the defenders without hesitation. She knew that even with Kira defending them, their chances of making it through this were slim to none and closer to none. But orders were to hold the line, hopefully, base command was sending for help.

Meanwhile, Tyler and Lisa had been flying for hours since leaving Teswa. They were flying at a high altitude to keep out of sight and notice from any below. Tyler calculated they would get over JOSH-A at the current speed within the next half an hour or so. And while they traveled, Tyler had been thinking about recent events as things had taken a worrisome turn. He also had access to the Information Network, which he'd not had for a time now. And while Tyler had figured things would be bad from what Lisa and Lacus had told him, he wasn't pleased it was as bad as it was.

Operation Spitbreak had the original target of Panama, which made sense logically as it would cut off the Alliance's supply line. However, while Tyler had been at Teswa, new info from the network said the target had been switched to JOSH-A. The change in target made Tyler suspicious there was something in the shadows that was going on. Hitting JOSH-A had its merit, Tyler wouldn't deny that, but to switch at the last minute was odd. The methodology made sense, after all, you want to beat an organization, it is best to go for their head or command structure. But some creatures could still keep going even when you cut off their head. Tyler felt that the Alliance would be more like one of those creatures that having their head cut off would only slow it down for a time.

In the back of his mind, Tyler was really suspecting that JOSH-A was not what it seemed anymore. If the signs of a rat being present were true, it was likely the Alliance somehow knew ZAFT's real target. And if they were aware early enough, the Alliance would have set up a trap for ZAFT. Evidence implied that such had been leaked to the Alliance, but no clue as to who was responsible for that. ZAFT probably had no idea their operation was now them walking into a trap more likely than not. But from what the network said, the National Defense Committee either didn't believe that was possible or didn't care. And nowadays, Tyler couldn't say if ZAFT was being blind ignorance or intentional recklessness.

Hypothetically, should ZAFT fall into that trap, their losses would be harsh to put it mildly. And they would look for vengeance for the losses and turn to none other than Panama. The dominos lined up were becoming clearer, and the more Tyler saw, the worse the line became. Each domino event led to an event that was worse to some degree than the last. The acceleration of the war's downturn was gaining momentum, and Tyler doubted he was the only one who was more than worried about what was coming. Neither side was backing down, if anything, then both were becoming more aggressive. And while from the Alliance that was unfortunately expected as of late, ZAFT it wasn't until now.

That led to Tyler's more personal problem with what was going on at JOSH-A, which involved the Archangel. ZAFT's operation gave a prime opportunity for OMNI to get rid of unwanted forces, and none really questioned it. Such could be written off as defending forces falling in defense of Alliance HQ. It was no secret to the Federation that the member states of the Earth Alliance weren't friends. A common enemy more held the Alliance together in the form of ZAFT. Tyler had personally seen the dynamics between the main members, the Atlantic Federation and the Eurasian Federation. That dynamic was cooperate against ZAFT, but if the opportunity to outdo the other came up, you took it without hesitation. The two were more competitors than allies, and that competition was a dirty one from what Tyler had seen. Thus, Tyler knew that the Archangel and its crew would be in danger with the situation as it was.

With what he'd seen on the network during points of the Archangel's journey, Tyler knew the ship was going to be sunk if its allies had any say about it. The Alliance was embarrassed by the ship and its crew, their actions had more than just reflected badly. And if not for the data they wanted so badly, the Archangel would have been dealing with allied forces trying to take them down. Tyler had tried to get the idea over to the ship's officers without saying it bluntly, but none had understood his hints. The battle he and Lisa would be getting into would be an eye-opening experience for those on the Archangel. They would see their allies had abandoned them and left them to die. It irked Tyler as it was a show of the Alliance's mentality with personnel, which frustrated him. If you weren't useful to the Alliance in their eyes or could be manipulated, you were as good as weapon-fodder. The Alliance sent more good people to die needlessly because they couldn't be manipulated than most ever knew.

Tyler was brought out of his thoughts when the first signs of battle ahead became visible. ZAFT had clearly dropped forces from orbit, but there were also forces from Carpentaria more than likely. They looked to have assaulted from the west and were pushing forward toward the base and the city that was around it. ZAFT had most of their current suit models in this for all types of environments, whether water, air, or ground. By Tyler's estimate, ZAFT outnumbered OMNI by around ten to one or so, which could be a bit more or a tiny bit less. It said that ZAFT was throwing much of their fighting force at this operation, blindly ignorant they were going into a death trap. That fact said to Tyler that Admiral Treize was unlikely involved in this, that man wouldn't be so foolish or blind to what this operation could encounter, which meant that the PLANTs' National Defense Committee was spurring this.

Nevertheless, what really frustrated Tyler was this whole battle, or "drama" as it truly was, the point of it was to kill in mass. It was that simple, ZAFT was doing this to destroy OMNI's Earthbound leadership, while the Alliance would use it to cut down ZAFT forces and wipe out unwanted allies. ZAFT didn't know that OMNI leadership was long gone from the base by this point, so their targets were nowhere to be found. OMNI's defending forces were probably being told to "hold the line" in some form with an automated message. They didn't know they were already considered dead by the rest of OMNI. On the other hand, ZAFT was blindly walking into what the Alliance set up in whatever form they did. And ZAFT would only realize they had been duped and tricked when it was far too late to do anything about it.

Tyler ended out sighing, "I knew this would be a mess," he began over an open channel to Lisa, "But seeing it with my own eyes just ticks me off more."

Lisa knew what Tyler was talking about, more of what he was not saying yet implying without words. He was right, this whole battle was a mess, and it would only get worse before the end. "To see this much needless death about to happen certainly doesn't encourage any chance of the war ending any time soon, I admit," she replied.

Tyler didn't speak for a moment as most of what was coming to mind were curses to vent how Tyler felt. The pain he was in was more annoying at the moment than something he was to concentrate on ignoring. Tyler was infuriated that those who set this up didn't care they would be responsible for all the deaths. Heck, Tyler doubted any of them saw this as their action, more a victory for the Alliance. "While I agree, Lisa, we have a more pressing matter in this, I would say," Tyler returned. "How much do you want to bet the Alliance has some sort of trap prepared and this base's commanding group is waiting to spring it?"

The bet that Tyler suggested was one that Lisa wouldn't take as it was a fool's gamble. There was no doubt that the Alliance somehow had found out ZAFT would target JOSH-A and not Panama. Lisa couldn't say how they did, but it didn't matter how they had used the information to plan a response for ZAFT. That there were nowhere near the defending force there should be for a headquarters was merely proof. The forces the Alliance wanted to keep were around Panama, those they didn't were here. Thus, as Tyler said, all the signs of how OMNI was handling this pointed to a trap. "I would not take that fool's gamble, Tyler," she answered. "The real question is what kind of trap have they set up for this."

That was the question Tyler didn't have an answer to, and he wanted it as it was important. To wipe out ZAFT, the trap would have to affect a rather large area, limiting what the trap would use. In fact, there were only two feasible ideas that were coming to Tyler as he considered the question. A network of explosives set up at strategic points to collapse the base on ZAFT when enough of them got in could work. However, Tyler didn't see that as reliable as it would only kill those in the base itself. ZAFT would have to be real stupid to push everything inside JOSH-A, and while aggressive, they wouldn't make that kind of mistake yet. The other possibility Tyler could think of frankly horrified him with its application. The second idea Tyler had was some sort of Cyclops microwave system. It would have taken work to put such in place, but were there enough microwave dishes in place, they could do a lot of damage in theory. The Cyclops system was really only limited by how many dishes were being used, the more dishes, the larger the area the blast furnace the system made would be.

Tyler focused back on the task at hand and pushed what nasty surprise the Alliance had to the back of his mind. "I suppose we will have to figure that out later, Lisa," Tyler said, "We have work to do first. And no offense to ZAFT right now, but my priority is making sure the Archangel doesn't get sunk. Should they get in my way of that, I will take them down."

While Lisa could understand Tyler's focus, his health would not appreciate the point. "Fair point, but do try to keep the fancy maneuvers down to a minimum," she stated. "Your health is bad enough, the strain will make it worse, and that's the last thing you need."

Tyler knew Lisa was right, his health was poor and difficult enough to keep it from worsening. And if it weren't for the Archangel and Tyler's friends being in danger as they were, Tyler would have taken more time to recover. So, the suggestion Lisa was giving him was more a reminder for him to be aware of his health. "I make no promises, but I'll certainly will do my best to take it easy on myself," Tyler returned.

He tapped out a command on his right arm control pad to have the flight frame eject from the Freedom. The frame had give the suit engines that didn't use the machine's own power source. Once the flight frame was clear, Tyler activated the Freedom's phase shift armor, which had been off for the flight from Teswa. Lisa did much the same for the Shadow and followed the Freedom as it began descending towards the fighting. Tyler knew that coming down on the ZAFT side did present an issue that they could be seen as enemies. Then again, the battle was going so heavily ZAFT would unlikely notice their presence.

At the same time, Mu and Krystal reached the hangar, both hoping that the Archangel was still flying. When they got there, they saw the personnel were in chaos which made sense as the "chain of command" was nowhere to be found. And what was worse, when they looked at the exit, DINNs were coming inside. Mu knew that the more ZAFT got in, the more likely the Cyclops system would be activated. He and Krystal told those they came across to run as far away as possible. As unlikely as it was they would get far enough away, there was still the slim chance they could get far enough. Then Mu and Krystal found working F-7D Spearhead craft next to each other. Mu was putting on the helmet in the cockpit after getting into it, still thoroughly frustrated with this situation, "This is crazy," he cursed, "I'm not cut out to play the hero."

Krystal was doing the same as Mu, but she heard his cursing and felt much the same, but here they were, doing what heroes did. "Yes, it is crazy, Mu," she shouted, "But it's what we have to work with, so make it work."

They closed their cockpits and launched out to the battlefield, hoping to find the Archangel and at least get that ship out of this. And it didn't take long for them to find the ship in the thick of the battle fighting off multiple ZAFT mobile suits. The Strike was putting up a fight to be sure, but Mu could see that Kira would be drawn away and then overwhelmed. There were already ZAFT suits working on that while others were working on wearing down the Archangel. Krystal could see that the ship had already taken damage, most of the weapons seemed to be working, though. However, the Valiants took hits, effectively putting them out of commission, further waring down the ship. And when Krystal glanced up, the battlefield just showed the futility of this whole endeavor. The defense forces would either die by ZAFT's attacks or vaporized by the Cyclops system. "Mu," Krystal started, "With how things are, you and I know that none of us will be getting out of this alive. It's going to take some sort of incredible miracle to have even a chance of living through this."

Mu knew that Krystal was right, the two of them couldn't make anywhere near enough of a difference to change things right now. ZAFT was trying to kill them, and the Alliance, who were supposed to be allies, were doing the same. "I know things look grim at best, Krystal," Mu returned, "But what else can we do? As you said, we need a damn miracle to have a prayer of getting out of this, let alone the Archangel doing the same."

It was then Mu saw missiles hit the Archangel and blow a hole in its left catapult. Both he and Krystal tried to get ZAFT to back off even a little bit, but they weren't making progress. Then Mu's craft got hit, and he knew that he had to land soon. The Archangel was the best choice from where he stood, so he swung around to make a try landing in the open catapult. "Archangel, this is Commander La Flaga, respond," Mu stated over an open channel but got no response. "Archangel, come in now!"

On the Archangel, Miriallia spotted the aircraft heading towards them, and from what she saw, it appeared damaged. The craft looked to be aiming for the damaged catapult from what she was seeing. "Aircraft on approach, captain," she called, "It looks damaged, ma'am."

"What?" Murrue brought up the main screen to see Miriallia was right, there was a Spearhead heading right for them. "Is it trying to come in for a landing," she questioned.

Arnold was the only other to speak up, "The pilot can't be serious," he uttered.

Murrue picked up her bridge phone, "Murdoch, some maniac is about to try to land in the damaged catapult, have your men take cover!"

Murdoch let go of the comm-unit he had and yelled for his boys to get back from the left catapult. Mu hoped the decks would be clear, he had no way to stop the craft he was on anymore. He managed to get the landing gear to touch the deck before the front wheel broke and the craft nosed down to the deck. Thankfully, Mu hit the deceleration cables a moment later, bringing him to a stop. Murdoch was shocked to see Mu jumping out of the aircraft, not because he didn't think the Commander could come back, but for the way he did. Mu didn't stop to chat, he raced out of the hangar to get to the bridge. The crew had to know that they were bait for the trap set by the top brass.

Mu soon reached the bridge, to which all there were shocked to see him since he was supposed to have transferred. "Commander," Murrue uttered, "I thought you and Krystal already left for California. What are you doing here?!"

Mu came up to Murrue, "Captain, this isn't the time for that, we need to get the hell out of here now," he insisted. Everyone looked at Mu, not understanding what he was talking about, they were supposed to be defending the base. "The brass are out of their damn minds, and I mean more than you would think!" Mu paused to calm down a margin, "What have they told you to do, hold this place to the end?!"

Murrue couldn't come up with words to answer Mu. Their standing orders were to hold the line and engage at will, there had been nothing else. Yet, the ship shook as missiles hit it again before Mu kept going, "Listen, a Cyclops system was set up under the base, who knows when it was put there. But it is massive enough to turn everything in a ten-kilometer radius into a smoking crater." Those on the bridge were horrified to hear what Mu was saying the higher-ups had done and planned to do. "We can't win with what is left here, and reinforcements aren't coming." Mu stopped for a moment to control his anger, "ZAFT is going to break through what defenders there are and get into the base, and when that happens, the system will be activated." Murrue couldn't believe what she was hearing, it was crazy even for Mu. Still, he continued, "This was the top brass's plan for dealing with ZAFT from the beginning. All of us here have already been written off as dying heroically in defense of JOSH-A." Mu paused, knowing that as right as Tyler had been, it was too late to listen to what warning he'd given. "Tyler tried to warn us that our allies would send this ship and its crew to die, and he was completely right."

Murrue didn't want to believe it, "That's impossible, they wouldn't do that to us."

Mu shook his head, still gritting his teeth, "I've seen it with my own eyes, and so has Krystal, I'm telling you the truth. There isn't a single officer in the control center, it's as empty as a crypt. They left us behind to be the bait for ZAFT to lure them into the trap. This line is being held by you and Eurasian forces they have given up on!"

This angered the crew except the Heliopolis teens, to them it was conformation of what Tyler had been telling them. Tyler had been saying from the outset from Heliopolis in different ways the Alliance was not around to help them. And only the Eighth Fleet had worked with them along the way. Then Tyler had a knack of predicting things, they had all seen it in action even if they couldn't explain the idea. And here again was proof that Tyler's intuition or whatever it was could predict things with amazing accuracy. It was Tolle that spoke first, "It's just as Tye said, those at JOSH-A separated out those they wanted and then dispose of the rest," he admitted quietly.

"We tried to tell you, Tyler doesn't tend to be wrong," Kuzzey said, "None of us can guess how he knows what he does, but he just does. It's why we trust him and his judgment, he has proven it works and he wants us to stay alive."

"And yet," Sai began, "None of you ever believed it even after seeing the idea, and so here we are."

Meanwhile, Tyler had spotted the Archangel among the defensive lines of the remaining Alliance forces. He also caught sight of an aircraft making a landing on the ship right through an open catapult. It was a move that Tyler would normally applaud as it could be tricky to pull off successfully. However, Tyler needed to get to the Archangel as OMNI was doing poorly at holding ZAFT back. The problem with that was that once ZAFT got far enough in, the trap would undoubtedly be sprung. And as Tyler looked the Archangel over, it was clear the ship was not doing good, she was being battered badly, and while she was fighting now, it would be long for her to sink if things didn't change.

Tyler did see the Strike above the ship, fending off ZAFT units from the Archangel. Kira was doing okay for the moment, but Tyler feared that his friend would be overwhelmed given time. And as Tyler was cutting distance down between him and the Archangel, he could see the Strike being slowly drawn away. Tyler dived down to be just above the water as there were somewhat fewer ZAFT machines at that level for him to handle. He flew along, trying to get to the Archangel as quickly as he could. Tyler did disable some ZAFT mobile suits along the way as he was closing the distance.

Lisa wasn't far behind Tyler, and she could see his logic of avoiding combat as he could. Time wasn't on their side, once the base's main gate was breached, the clock would be ticking down till the trap was sprung. However, she caught sight of the Duel starting to attack the Archangel as it began moving forward away from the base. It implied they might know they were bait and weren't expected to live through this if they stayed. So, she headed for the Duel to get it to leave the ship alone while Tyler would defend the front of the ship from any that approached.

Tyler didn't miss Lisa going off, for he had spotted the Duel too, but that machine wasn't the only one attacking the Archangel. So, Tyler trusted Lisa would keep the Duel busy while he took care of any other ZAFT forces who insisted on assaulting the ship. And as the Strike was drawn away, Tyler saw a GINN come to be directly in front of the Archangel's bridge and pointed its beam rifle at the bridge. He put his foot down and pointed his beam rifle at the GINN's weapon, and pulled the trigger destroying the rifle. Tyler then surged upward at the GINN, taking out a beam saber as he went. The GINN pilot had just enough time to see something come up from below to be in front of him before the suit's head was cut off. Tyler then kicked the GINN off its lifter and away from the Archangel.

After the flash cleared, the bridge crew looked ahead to see the back of an unknown mobile suit. Mu and Krystal, who had been trying to fight ZAFT forces attacking the Archangel, stared at the unknown. Mu was in a skygrasper while Krystal was still in her Spearhead, but the appearance of the mobile suit caused pause. Granted, both pilots had said they would need a miracle to get out of this, and here possibly was that miracle.

Tyler deployed the Freedom's wings to help with the machine's mobility and have the vents on the front let out steam. He was where he needed to be, and nothing, not even his health, had stopped him from getting here. The Archangel was flying even if not as stably as it should be, it wasn't sunk, and that was key. There was still time to get the ship, and those on board away from this place before whatever the Alliance had planned went off. So, he connected an audio channel to the Archangel, "You know, you lot have a serious knack of getting yourselves into trouble," he began. "It's definitely towards the top of the list of those I've seen with the bad luck, among other things."

All on the Archangel were wondering if they had heard right. The voice coming over the comm channel sounded like Tyler's, but he had died around a month ago. Even Kira in the Strike wondered if he didn't imagine this. His heart lifted a margin at hearing Tyler's voice, he had wanted to hear it for weeks now. And when he looked down, the audio channel was coming from the white Gundam that had just appeared.

"No way," Murrue uttered, "Tyler's alive?"

Video connected, and Tyler's face appeared on the main screen, "Were you expecting someone else perhaps," he questioned. Yzak was done staring and began going towards the Freedom, but something slammed into the side of the Duel. Krystal saw the Duel get hit, and then before her very eyes, the Shadow materialized. Tyler would have to applaud Lisa for the move she did, it was almost like Tyler was in the Shadow instead of the Freedom. But then his attention was drawn back as GINNs attacked him. Tyler brought out the Freedom's plasma cannons and fired two rounds, destroying the GINNs. "Quite the pickle you're in to put it mildly," Tyler continued, "And as much as the urge to say I told you so is burning in me, it wouldn't say the point effectively."

Tyler had every right to say "I told you so" to the Archangel's crew, Mu wouldn't deny that in the slightest and planned to apologize to the kid when he got a chance. He had warned them about their allies, flat out told Natarle she was walking forward blind, and he had been absolutely right. Yet, here Tyler was bailing them out of a situation they couldn't solve themselves. Mu seriously wanted to ask Tyler how the hell he had managed to survive the Shadow's destruction. True, the kid was something else, he could defy odds better than most, but even this was really stretching it. Mu couldn't even begin to guess where Tyler had gotten the mobile suit. Tyler always had the knack of getting what he needed for any given task from what Mu had seen. Honestly, Mu was more amazed that Tyler was alive and well enough to be here. Surviving a mobile suit being destroyed was a feat in itself. One didn't do so without a price paid, normally in the form of injuries.

"Tyler, how are you even here," Murrue questioned.

Tyler was a tad irked that those he'd come to save were questioning him being there. He'd busted many things to get here in time, his health wouldn't let him forget that anytime soon. The fighting he'd done with the Freedom in the last five to ten minutes had not felt nice. "That's what I get asked," Tyler mused a tad testily, "Man, I bust my butt off along with an array of other things to get here, so it would be nice to receive something more than shock for once, you know." Tyler took a moment to calm down, "However, taking into account what I endured, I suppose it shouldn't be all that surprising I'm getting the reactions I am. Yet, catch-up will need to take place later as ZAFT isn't going to give us the time for such."

Tyler was to bring up the Freedom's shield to block incoming bolts from ZAFT machines. "And they are proving me right, persistent I'll give them that," Tyler remarked. "Doubt I need to say it, but the Archangel should leave this field as soon as possible." Tyler paused, knowing what he was about to say would potentially come as a shock, or else they knew about the idea. "And I bet the JOSH-A base isn't an option, most likely because it's been made into some sort of trap for ZAFT for which you and the other 'Alliance' forces left are the bait for."

Krystal and Mu weren't very surprised that Tyler had somehow guessed there was a trap in place. He had been right about pretty much everything else thus far with what occurred at JOSH-A. So, of course, he somehow knew about the trap even if the cyclops system hadn't been mentioned specifically. "No idea how you do it, Tyler, but you're right on the money, the base is a death trap," Mu replied.

The tone of voice said to Tyler that Mu had a better idea what the trap actually was where Tyler didn't. "And by the sound of it, you know what your so-called allies have planned and in place," Tyler stated.

Krystal heard Tyler's almost bored tone, like the Alliance setting a trap wasn't a surprise at all. She was left to wonder if that meant the Alliance had done this before if Tyler, a Federation soldier, had come to expect it from the Alliance. If Tyler expected such behavior, it was probable that several in the Federation did the same with the Alliance. So, as Mu sounded like he was dealing with his anger, Krystal spoke up first, "The top brass planned for all of those left here to be bait for ZAFT, as you said. And once ZAFT penetrates far enough into the base, the trap will be sprung."

"Their cyclops system will be activated," Mu continued, "and they expect all of us to burn along with ZAFT."

Hearing about a cyclops system both irritated Tyler and also, at the same time, confirmed the Alliance was still resorting to horribly dirty tricks as they always seemed to. It wasn't the first time that OMNI had used a cyclops system to kill ZAFT forces and sacrifice their own people along with them. The Alliance used what was originally designed to melt lunar ice as a weapon was proof they couldn't be trusted with technology that could be militarized. It meant that one of Tyler's guesses as to what the Alliance had ready was right. It also said that it was no longer a question, the Alliance had been tipped off about ZAFT's target in Operation Spitbreak. Then the Alliance had known for probably half a year or more while ZAFT forces had been kept in the dark. Such would limit who the rat could be as most wouldn't privy to the information. "So, the Alliance is pulling that stunt again, are they," Tyler said tiredly. "Then keep the Archangel going forward and don't stop for anything, I will give you a path."

The Archangel surged forward away from JOSH-A, still under the assault of ZAFT, but it was somewhat lighter. ZAFT was focusing on getting into the base, which didn't sit well with Tyler at all. And if not for his belief that all deserved a chance to live, Tyler would have let ZAFT do what they were. But as Tyler was the way he was, he felt the need to warn ZAFT of the Alliance's trap so they could possibly save lives. "Attention all ZAFT and OMNI Forces, this is Federation Commander Tyler McGregor, this battle is a setup by OMNI. They have laid a trap to kill as many of us as possible in the form of a Cyclops system underneath the JOSH-A base that will go off. Recall your forces and fallback immediately before the system is activated, save as many as you can. I repeat, there's a Cyclops system under the Alliance base meant to kill as many of us here as possible, fallback and retreat immediately," he transmitted over all com-channels.

Mu had to admit that he respected Tyler trying to warn ZAFT about the Cyclops system. It took courage and integrity to do, for the teen would try to save those who had attempted to kill them was commendable. Krystal also thought it noble of Tyler to try and warn ZAFT about what they were walking into. "If there is one thing that can be said about Tyler, it's that he will go the distance to save as many lives as he is able," Mu remarked.

Krystal smiled, "Not only that, he is our miracle worker when we really need one," she added.

After Tyler had given his warning, he saw what was left of OMNI was making their way away from the base, so they had taken what Tyler said seriously. However, ZAFT had only a slight hesitation which he had hoped for more. In fact, more than half of ZAFT forces were still moving forward like nothing had been said. Tyler didn't want to give up after one try, there were too many lives in the balance to be so quick to accept things as they were. But Tyler knew words alone wouldn't be enough to convince ZAFT of the pending lethal danger that had been set up for them. And as he racked his brain, a thought came to him, followed shortly by a potential plan.

As it was now clear the Alliance had abandoned JOSH-A, Tyler had no doubt a serious data dump was in progress. Since JOSH-A had direct access to the Alliance's mainframes and servers, there was an opportunity to get immense amounts of data before the base was destroyed. The Alliance hadn't considered the point and thus probably hadn't secured data access, so it was their own fault they were being "robbed blind." With that in mind, Tyler may get data from the Information Network, which could convince ZAFT what he'd said was the truth. Thus, Tyler accessed the network, and it took around a minute to find the same data he had been hoping to get. The file was a schematic of OMNI's cyclops system below the base. And the glance that Tyler got of it, the size would affect around ten kilometers or so, making it a blast furnace wiping out everything in it. While Tyler knew the Alliance was not above doing horrible things, this certainly was up there as evidence of the point.

The point was that Tyler had the proof he was telling the truth. Now, he just needed to find the best way to get it where it would help best. Giving the file to any given soldier was no guarantee that it would get the intended results. But the next moment, Tyler spotted the Blitz fighting on the field with some GINNs and DINNs. Athrun had mentioned to Tyler that Nicol, who had been piloting the Blitz, was reasonable and listened to logic. If Nicol could get the file's info to the mission commander, then maybe ZAFT would pull back. And as it happened, Tyler knew a way to get a direct channel to any G-Project machines. So, he typed in the code for the secret emergency channel to the Blitz, hoping this would work.

Nicol had been working with the group of DINNs and GINNs on this operation. Yzak had gone ahead as he normally did, but he was angrier than usual. Operation Spitbreak was ambitious, Nicol would admit, but something was nagging at him. While OMNI's main forces down at Panama made sense, throwing everything ZAFT had at their headquarters seemed real risky. Nicol couldn't see Admiral Treize agreeing with the committee on how this operation was being done. And during this battle, Nicol had a feeling in him that something was off. Then had come that unknown suit and the claim from its pilot that the Alliance had a trap set for them. Nicol wasn't as quick to dismiss the claim, it would potentially explain the unease and suspicion he'd had about this battle.

Yet, Nicol was brought out of his thoughts when the Blitz's emergency channel activated. It was a feature that he'd looked at but hadn't seen how it could be used effectively. "Nicol Amalfi, this is Tyler McGregor," a voice started, "We have spoken before now. Time is of the essence, so I'll get straight to the point." Nicol remembered Tyler McGregor, he was supposed to be Athrun's friend. The guy was very reasonable and seemed very smart and aware of what happened around him. But according to Athrun, he'd died last month when the Aegis's destruction, so that he had survived that was impressive. "Athrun said you're reasonable and listen to facts," Tyler continued. "What I said to ZAFT forces is not a lie, there is a cyclops system set to activate below JOSH-A. I'm going to send you a file to prove my claim."

Nicol got the transmission and brought up the file sent to him. A second after he glanced it over, he was horrified at its contents. The file showed that what Tyler said was correct, there was a large array of cyclops microwave dishes under OMNI's HQ. And with the amount of them, it would create a destructive disintegration wave kilometers wide. It would wipe out the majority of ZAFT's force here if they were near or worse in the base itself. Nicol was about to ask how Tyler had gotten this, but he didn't get the chance, "Get the file to ZAFT's mission commander, they need to have all pull back before that system is activated. For once it's set off, it will be too late to do anything to bring back those who will die," Tyler insisted.

While Nicol could appreciate Tyler was trying to save not just the lives of OMNI but ZAFT as well, it made him wonder. The Federation had been clear and firm in their standing of neutrality with things that came to this war. True, they would do what they could to extract innocent bystanders from war zones, and Nicol respected that. But this was beyond protecting bystanders, this was pretty much interference and the Federation didn't do that often. It could be Tyler acting on his own, but he would then likely have to justify that to his superiors. Nicol would honor the request and get the information he had gotten to the mission commander with that in mind. He got on the line with the lead Vosgulov-class Sydna, "Captain Mars, I have received information from a neutral party that lends evidence to the claim of the OMNI base being a trap," Nicol stated. "I'm sending it to you, I'm convinced that we are being lured into a trap by OMNI in this."

The sub captain brought up what the Blitz's pilot had sent to the vessel and froze. The image showed an array of dishes with the title "Cyclops System" at the top. The image alone was frightening as it implied many dishes synced to go off together. But was caught Mars' attention was on the left side of the image was its status, which was stated to be "primed". A primed cyclops system was ready to be activated at the push of a button, it was already fully charged. Mars decided there was too much of a possibility that the image was genuine to ignore, "Received Blitz, thank you." Mars turned to his XO, "Give the order to all forces, fallback. Until we know for sure if there is a Cyclops system or not, we are to assume there is."

Tyler had been waiting for a response to him giving info to Nicol. He hoped and was relatively sure Nicol would get the file to ZAFT's mission commander. The file was too dangerous to wave off, most commanders would agree with that point. While Tyler waited, he brought out the Freedom's railguns and plasma cannons. He activated the multi-lock-on system screen and began shooting at ZAFT machines, aiming for weapons and cameras rather than the cockpits. In Tyler's opinion, there was already more than enough of a change of mass death without adding to it. He did give a moment after every ten shots from the weapons to cool off, having the steam come out of their rears.

A couple of long minutes later, Tyler noticed that ZAFT forces were pulling back from the base. It certainly was a relief to see, Tyler would've liked it to have been believed when he had told the truth, but the point had gotten across. Tyler would've preferred the process was going along more quickly, but that ZAFT was pulling back at all was better than them not. He did not doubt that Alliance higher-ups had their fingers on the trigger of the cyclops system and were just waiting for some sort of signal. Tyler's best bet of the signal was the base's main gate being breached. That would likely start a timer of when the button-pushing was to be done calculated by estimated time for ZAFT forces to get to the middle of the base. Tyler's attention was shifted when the Duel broke away from fighting the Shadow and zoomed towards him.

Yzak hadn't missed the fallback order, no it had frustrated him. ZAFT was making decent progress with overwhelming the base's defenders and getting inside. The claim of there being a trap was garbage, the Alliance wasn't smart enough to do that. Plus, they wouldn't have known that Operation Spitbreak was targeting JOSH-A, so there wouldn't have been the time to set anything up. The unknown white mobile suit was nothing but a meddler and needed to be removed before it sowed more doubt. So, as much as Yzak wanted to take down the enemy black machine, he could come back to it after the meddler was dealt with. That said, Yzak broke away and rushed at the Freedom shooting his beam rifle as he went. "Enough of your lies," Yzak shouted, "You're an Alliance sympathizer, so nothing you say should be believed!"

Tyler twisted the Freedom and blocked the incoming shots with its shield. It was a displeasure to see the Duel's pilot was as much a hot-head as ever, it wasn't helpful. Tyler was tempted to whip the Duel, and if there weren't a serious time constraint, he likely would have done so. However, Tyler wouldn't waste time on the idiot with the cyclops system ready to go off. The Freedom weaved out of the way as the Duel drew a beam saber and slashed down at it. "Would you wake up and shove your emotions to the back burner," Tyler snapped, "If you don't pull back, you're dead, do you want to have your life end here?!"

Yzak didn't listen to what the enemy pilot said, they were trying to fool him, and he wouldn't fall for it. "You first, you damn Natural," he screeched.

It was official to Tyler he had met a non-crazy person that needed anger management more than Natarle. He hadn't thought he'd meet another with emotional control issues beyond what Natarle did around him. And Tyler didn't lump in terrorists like Blue Cosmos and other radicals who wanted this war so much. Tyler dodged the Duels railgun that was swiveling in the attempt to follow him. He drew a beam saber just as the Freedom got in front of the Duel again. Tyler rushed forward, fully intending to slice part of the Duel before sending it on its way.

Yzak faced forward and saw the enemy machine with a beam saber in hand coming at him. He didn't have the time to move his shield to block, this enemy had gotten Yzak, so all he could do was let out a shout as the beam saber came at him. However, Tyler swung his saber to slice through the Duel's knees, separating it from its lifter. The Duel shook, but Yzak realized that he was alive, meaning his opponent hadn't attacked the cockpit. Yzak would have done so without hesitation, you killed your enemy so they couldn't come back to kill you. Yzak didn't have much time to wonder why his opponent had spared him, "Enough, this battle is over, now get the hell out of here," Tyler shouted before the Freedom kicked the Duel forward.

The Duel began falling, but then a DINN flew down and caught it before hitting the water. Yzak was left stunned at what had just happened as he would have never thought it would happen to him. His opponent had spared him when they had the golden opportunity to end his life. Yzak saw mercy as to be put aside in battle when it came to the enemy. Mercy was only to be extended to innocent bystanders, they had never asked or volunteered to be involved. Soldiers on a battlefield had signed up for the chance to be killed when they enlisted, it came with the territory. "He didn't," Yzak muttered, "but why spare me?"

After sending the Duel away, Tyler returned his attention back to making sure the Archangel's path was as clear as possible. And it was around when most of the ZAFT forces were flying away from the base that Tyler's fears became a reality. An alarm went off in the Freedom's cockpit, and Tyler saw it was a hazard warning for the area behind. OMNI had activated their cyclops system as he'd expected, and Tyler couldn't stop the curse that came out of his mouth.

The first who knew the horrible start of the event was inside JOSH-A, and their deaths quickly came. Their bodies exploded as their bodily fluids almost flashed to steam, and the expansion ended their lives. The next to figure out what was happening were the ZAFT subs and what was left of the Alliance's defender. They detected the microwave radiation that appeared and quickly began to surge outward. On the Archangel, Sai's console lit up, and alarms began blaring, "They activated the Cyclops Captain," he shouted.

Murrue hadn't wanted to believe Mu when he said the Alliance would use the Cyclops, even when in her heart she knew he was telling the truth. And here was the proof that Mu, Krystal, and even Tyler had been right about OMNI. "Give her everything she's got," Murrue yelled, "Full speed ahead, get us out of here!" The Archangel's engines increased their output to their maximum, pretty much all on the battlefield that could were trying to get away from the growing radiation wave.

Kira landed on the Archangel and glanced back and saw a pinkish wave spread outward from the base's center to his horror. He'd only read about Cyclops systems in historical textbooks and so had never thought he would see the idea with his own eyes. The system was originally invented when the moon was being colonized back at the beginning of the Cosmic Era. It was supposed to be for melting Lunar ice both for water for moon bases and cities and to get rare metals under them. Kira had heard that the Alliance had militarized the cyclops system, but he hadn't wanted to believe that. Any in the system's influence would be effectively vaporized or cremated with the radiation's heat. And within seconds, rear optics for ships and machines were blinded by the microwave radiation.

Tyler had put his foot down and was ahead of the Archangel as the cyclops' energy was building. Every machine and vessel on the field were racing away from the death trap that was moving outward. But as that was going, Tyler caught sight of a damaged GINN's lifter have an explosion, and the suit started falling. Tyler moved over and grabbed the suit, not letting it fall and be destroyed by the approaching blast furnace.

JOSH-A split open, and the roof to the underground city came down, crushing it. The cyclops activation created a little more than a ten-kilometer crater in its place. What was left of the defending OMNI forces Tyler calculated was thirty percent at best, likely more between twenty to twenty-five percent. On the other hand, ZAFT had more than sixty percent of its fighting force left. Had they not pulled back, Tyler wouldn't doubt OMNI would have nothing, and ZAFT would be the one with less than thirty percent left. He had helped prevent a serious loss to human life today, but Tyler wished he could have saved more. ZAFT forces began heading back to Carpentaria, leaving the remaining OMNI alone.

Tyler looked for a clear place to land so that he could check over the ZAFT pilot he'd saved. And it didn't take long to find a place that fits what Tyler needed. So, he flew over to the spot and gently set down the GINN against some rocks. Tyler then got out of the Freedom and used the zip line to get to the ground. The dismount hurt a bit, but Tyler ignored the pain instead of going over to the GINN. Tyler already knew where the emergency access pad was, so he climbed up and opened it up putting in the default code. The cockpit opened, and Tyler climbed back down and waited hoping the pilot would come out independently. Tyler wasn't really up to much physical work with his health as it was, and it had gotten a tad poor due to the fighting.

Thankfully for Tyler, the pilot soon got out and used their own zip line down, but the man collapsed shortly after touching the ground. After getting his bearings back in order, Tyler got over to him, removing his helmet as he went. The pilot had removed his own helmet and was breathing raggedly when Tyler reached him. "Were you the one that saved me," the ZAFT pilot asked.

"Yes, I did," Tyler answered simply.

The ZAFT pilot could see that the guy in front of him was wearing a Federation pilot suit. What a Federation soldier was doing here was of no consequence now. The pilot had saved a life that would end soon enough, their efforts were wasted. "Why did you do so," he said before coughing, "it would have been better if you had let me die."

Tyler never liked seeing people die, and it was clear that this pilot was pretty much going to, his injuries were too much for him to overcome. Even so, Tyler believed that every person deserved a chance to try and live. And though seeing his efforts were not enough to save this pilot's life, Tyler would have done exactly what he had if given the opportunity again. So, Tyler took a deep breath, "Hard as it can be to believe, I think everyone deserves the chance to live, no matter if they're a Coordinator or Natural, soldier or civilian." Tyler paused, thinking there was only really one thing he could still do for this man, "Tell me, you have a family?" Why this Federation soldier cared about anything to do with him, the ZAFT pilot didn't know. He was going to die here, his family would be told he had been killed in action. They would be provided for as was policy for ZAFT, families of fallen soldiers were looked after as a sign to honor the sacrifice. But if this Federation soldier were willing to deliver a final message, then the pilot wouldn't say no. So, the man nodded painfully, "Then if you wish for them to hear a message, then tell me, and I'll make sure they get it, I swear."

The ZAFT pilot told Tyler what he wanted his family to hear: his wife and their newborn child. Only a few minutes later, the pilot let out his last breath and was gone. Tyler retrieved the man's ID to find where the message he had promised to deliver needed to go. Tyler was angry, he wanted to curse all of those involved in the cyclops trap before he slugged them. No one inherently deserved to die. Tyler firmly believed that and lived by it. It was a thing about this war Tyler didn't like, it killed people without bias or thought.

Meanwhile, Lisa had seen the Freedom land in a clearing with a GINN. Tyler would likely be checking on the ZAFT pilot he'd saved. And, of course, he wouldn't be thinking about his health, which probably was doing badly. Tyler would likely need to see a doctor, the sooner, the better if she were to guess. So, she maneuvered the Shadow over to be a short distance from the Freedom to check on Tyler. When Lisa had reached the ground, she spotted Tyler over by the GINN, the pilot in front of him. As Lisa got closer, she could see the ZAFT pilot was already dead. The expression on Tyler's face wasn't from the pain he was no doubt in, it was righteous anger. Lisa placed a hand on his shoulder, "Are you going to be alright, Tyler," she asked.

Tyler had glanced behind him and saw Lisa there. While he appreciated the sympathy, it wasn't what he wanted right now. This whole battle, this whole mess, shouldn't have happened in the first place. No, it wasn't even a battle, it was a show, a drama played out to satisfy the worst scum of the human race. Instead, Tyler grimaced, "This," his voice caught due to the anger he felt, "this event shouldn't have happened." Tyler's voice failed again, "Those who orchestrated this scenario," his fist clenched hard, "they will face justice for this crime. I swear that they will, whether I have to drag them to their trial or killed them in the most horrible way I can."

While Lisa could understand the anger Tyler was expressing, it would change things as they were. Many had died today who shouldn't have had to, all for those who valued human life so little they willingly threw others away. It was the untold story of the war, good men and women were sent to die for a cause needlessly. And those who were responsible for that didn't often get held accountable for what they did. Then it wasn't that she didn't think Tyler would carry through his intention to make those who were the reason people died, he would unlikely be able to anytime soon. "I feel much as you, Tyler, but swearing vengeance isn't helpful right now," Lisa remarked. "You have your health to consider."

As if his body had heard the reminder, Tyler felt a wave of pain wash over him, which the painkillers helped lessen a moment later. "Thanks for the reminder Lisa," Tyler replied through gritted teeth. "I'm managing the best I can."

Lisa could hear the pain coming into Tyler's voice, so things weren't going anywhere near well right now. Heck, that Tyler could stand on his own was impressive, especially after fighting in the battle. And it was clear to her that Tyler didn't like to have seen the ZAFT pilot die, he had tried to save the man. "Well, it would probably be a smart idea to have you see a doctor sometime very soon," Lisa suggested, "Though up to you whether you follow that suggestion."

Tyler didn't want to admit that Lisa's suggestion was the best thing he could do for himself right now. He was nowhere close to being healthy, Tyler should really be in a bed recovering, were he honest. Even simple tasks felt harder than they would normally, which showed how bad things were for him. In the end, Tyler sighed, "I'll put it on my list of things to do and give it a priority," he returned. Lisa held in the laughter that wanted to get out from Tyler's reply. He was so stubborn in not admitting when it was wrong sometimes. Tyler wouldn't admit that his health was getting the better of him, and Lisa didn't expect Tyler to until he literally couldn't ignore it.

At the same time, Kira had lifted off the Archangel once the danger was over from the cyclops system. He would find Tyler and welcome him back and make sure he was alive. And it was less than a minute that Kira spotted the mobile suit that Tyler's voice had come from. The Shadow was a short distance away from it, so Kira took that as the spot Tyler was. Kira found a spot close by the white machine and set down in the Strike. Both Krystal and Mu saw Kira's action, and while Mu radioed the Archangel, Krystal found a long enough area of flat ground to make a landing. After Mu had told the Archangel their location, he also had the skygrasper land around where the spearhead was.

Mu exited his aircraft and took off his helmet, gazing over the area of destruction the cyclops system had made. Honestly, he was angry that the top brass would lower themselves to this level. But he was also sad that so many had lost their lives when it could have been avoided. In the end, Mu tossed his helmet to the ground, "Damn it, this whole crapshoot stinks," he cursed to himself.

Krystal came up to Mu, "Indeed it does for everyone," she commented, "but looking on the bright side, little that there is, we got back one we thought was lost."

Mu sighed, "Yeah, that seems to be one of the few good things that are going for us," he replied. He watched as the Archangel came to be right alongside the shore and the extending gangplank.

Meanwhile, Kira had descended to the ground and saw Tyler with someone else close by to his relief. As Kira approached, he noticed the woman was the one besides Sakura staying at his house in Shira. Tyler spotted Kira coming, and he began walking in that direction but could only take three steps before his body stopped listening to him. Lisa instantly noticed Tyler starting to fall, so she grabbed him by the arm. She then moved him to the nearest rock and sat him down on it, "Looks like you'll have to give that doctor's visit top priority," she said simply.

Tyler glanced back at Lisa and found she was giving him a look that she'd had multiple times since he'd woken up. It said to him that he was pushing himself too hard and not just taking it easy but to back off a bit. Tyler said nothing to her, not only because he didn't want to admit she was right but also due to the waves of pain coursing through him. Just as Kira was about to reach him, the pain died down somewhat for Tyler. He managed to get to his feet and not collapse back to the rock.

For Kira, it looked like Tyler was okay, even if he was a tad pale, but with what he'd been through, that was no surprise. So, Kira got to Tyler and embraced him, so glad that he was not dead. While he appreciated the gesture, Tyler's body wasn't as pleased with the pain sweeping over it that the painkillers were toning down. "Tyler, thank goodness you're alive," Kira said in a wavering voice, "I thought I'd never see you again!"

Tyler held back the grunts that were desperately trying to escape him and patted Kira on the shoulder. "I really am sorry for making you worry, Kira," Tyler said, "I didn't plan what happened in any way, so it blindsided me good. It's taken more time to shake off the aftermath than I like, and really, I'm still in that process."

Kira drew back a bit, looking Tyler over more closely and what Kira saw wasn't encouraging at all. Tyler was plainly still healing, how much healing had been done, Kira couldn't say as Tyler's suit covered the majority of his body. But Tyler's face had a very worn look to it like he hadn't gotten needed sleep in like weeks. Lisa came up behind Tyler and smacked his shoulder not too hard but enough to make sure he understood he was not admitting the whole truth. "You should still be taking things slow and easy, but then rarely do you listen to the advice of others, Tyler," Lisa remarked.

Tyler couldn't stop the pain-filled grunt that came out at his shoulder being hit as it had. The sound alone worried Kira as that had sounded like Tyler was hurting real bad. Yet, Tyler turned stiffly and attempted to glare at Lisa but could only get a weak glower. "Do you mind not making the pain harder to ignore Lisa," Tyler snapped, "It's difficult enough for me as it is, don't add to it, please, the painkillers are doing more than they're meant to already." Kira's worry increased with Tyler mentioning painkillers. Tyler wasn't one to resort to them, he hated the effects they came with. In fact, as far as Kira knew, Tyler only used them when either he didn't have the choice, or things were so bad that he needed serious help. Still, Tyler continued, "And I do listen to the advice of others, I just don't see a reason to follow said advice. In this case, doctors recommend more time that can't be afforded in my view." Tyler turned slowly back to Kira, who still had his worried expression, to which Tyler waved a hand. "Forgive my nasty attitude, it's been a rough past couple of weeks."

Kira didn't exactly disagree that Tyler had a rough time while he was gone, but he felt there was more than that. Hopefully, Tyler would tell him more later, that's how he was about some things. Instead, Kira shifted his gaze to the mobile suit that Tyler had been using, wondering a great deal. The Shadow was here, meaning someone else had likely built a second one. But Tyler had come in this white machine. Instead, there had to be a reason. The suit definitely looked like a Gundam like the Strike, and the Shadow was. "So then, Tye, what's the story with this machine, and where did it come from," he asked.

The story of how the Freedom had come to Tyler was a complex one, and he knew it. And there were details that he couldn't say to just anyone right now. Lacus and Siegel had and were putting their lives on the line for it. Tyler knew that Kira wouldn't like Lacus or Siegel being in danger any more than Tyler did. Plus, Tyler didn't think it would go over well with those from the Archangel learning he'd been around the PLANTs. It was even worse if they learned that he'd been involved with a theft which one of the high standing PLANT officials had been helping in. Siegel and Lacus were already likely dealing with enough crap so needed no more added. "Well, as it happens, Kira, this mobile suit came into my possession due to a chain of events which I got roped into recently. I would rather not state or discuss any of those events at this time, but I'll tell you later." Tyler paused, looking at the Freedom, "The story with it is that I'm bringing it to you as I think it fits your piloting style far more than mine. Plus, I have an interest in a unit I saw recently and hope to work with it in the future, but not the point right now."

Tyler noticed that the rest of the Archangel's crew was heading in their direction, meaning things about the PLANTs were now off the table for mentioning nor discussion. Kira turned and began walking that way to meet the crew. Tyler glanced toward Lisa, silently asking for a bit of help, which she put an arm around his shoulder and helped him move forward. Tyler could see from a scan of the crew that some were missing, likely sent away by OMNI. yet, once Tyler was close enough, he smiled a little, "I was worried for a bit, but still made it here in time, it seems."

Mu was still trying to wrap his head around how Tyler was here in front of them. The kid had survived a mobile suit explosion from inside the cockpit, how Mu couldn't say. And if that wasn't crazy enough, he was standing here now after who knew the recovery he'd been going through. Granted, Tyler was standing with the help of the woman with him, which suggested that Tyler hadn't finished the recovery he needed. In Mu's view, Tyler was either one of the luckiest kids he'd ever met, or someone or something was watching over him. "You're really somehow still alive, Tyler," Mu asked without thinking.

There were murmurs of agreement from most, to which Tyler sighed, "I'm still breathing, thanks," he justified. "Sure, I'm not kicking as good as I normally do but give me more time, and I'll get back to that level eventually."

"But how," Murrue started, "are you here right now?"

Tyler gave a deadpanned expression to her, "Well, as you can see for yourself, the Grim Reaper's last attempt at taking a swing at me failed," Tyler stated flatly. "It did get close enough for me not to feel comfortable about it, but still, a swing and a miss as the old phrase goes." Truthfully, Tyler was grateful that the crew wasn't hugging him or anything like that. Kira had not felt comfortable at all, pain had coursed through him as a price for the gesture. Tyler's health was bad enough already without adding more to the plate. It was nice to be missed, Tyler would admit that since it sometimes felt like he was invisible on the Archangel. Now, invisibility was damn useful, Tyler would say, but it wasn't as nice among those you actually work with and depend on. Tyler's job tended to have him either work alone, like undercover work, or perform in a small team. So, he rarely was around a group the size of the Archangel's crew for long periods. "It's nice to know I was missed," Tyler admitted.

A moment later, Tyler was being bombarded with questions ranging from what had happened to him to where he had been. Tyler knew there would be questions about what he'd been involved in, but there were answers he wouldn't give. Plus, he didn't have the energy to raise his voice right now. His throat was sore, and his lung injury made using his voice heavily harder as well. So, it took some time to regain order and make himself heard, "I don't doubt that you got lots of questions." Tyler paused as he figured it would be best to shape how the conversation could go. "And I wouldn't say no to catching up with what's been going on with all of you."

There were so many questions with Tyler having disappeared around Orb. That he had been there in the first place as he had separated from the Archangel. Natarle had sent Tyler away, whether the crew admitted it out loud or not, they all knew it. Natarle had even said she could be wrong after hearing Tyler had sacrificed himself. The Archangel hadn't been the same after Tyler had been gone, his absence had it had divided the crew. And Murrue had to admit that Mu had a point that Tyler had predicted much of what had happened to them. Those were just some of the questions there were, Murrue nodded, "That sounds about right," she remarked.

Krystal stepped forward, "Where have you been," she inquired.

Tyler knew the question would come, and he would give vague answers as he didn't intend to say outright where he'd been. Tyler being around the PLANTs could imply several things that he didn't want to talk about. He wasn't one to take sides in the ongoing war, Tyler had made that clear to those that matter. But some may see his time around the PLANTs as Tyler saying he was with ZAFT. Of course, Tyler was not with ZAFT in any way, he was a Federation soldier full stop period. "I was away from Earth for my recovery," Tyler remarked. "That's all you need to know about my recent travels."

That answer was extremely vague, almost generic in response if ever one in Mu's view. That the kid had been off Earth could either mean the PLANTs, the moon, or another colony or complex. So, Tyler's answer didn't say much at all, he was dodging the question, but he couldn't figure out why. "Saying you were away from Earth is kind of vague, Tyler," Mu said.

Tyler gave Mu a deadpanned look, "Yeah, so, I can choose what details I give to or withhold from others," he replied. "And I don't see a reason to say exactly where I have been doing my recovering. You don't like that deal with it and tough luck."

Kira assumed that wherever Tyler had been was a place, he didn't want to talk about for one reason or another. He hoped that Tyler would tell him later where he'd been and why he wasn't telling the rest of the crew. Kira trusted Tyler had reasons for not saying what he was, he always did. Yet it was Krystal that spoke next, "Then, where did the mobile suit you came in come from?"

Tyler wasn't about to get into the subject of the theft of the Freedom or what went with it. It could be seen as more "incriminating" than where he'd been. Tyler didn't feel that him saying that he had stolen the Freedom at the former Supreme Council Chairman would go over well. So like for his location, Tyler went with vague answers, "That's a loaded question which is something that is complicated to answer. So, all I can say as an answer is that this suit has been entrusted to me. That's the best answer you will get, for now, maybe at a later time you can learn more."

While Mu was a tad annoyed with the vague answers, he had learned already that when Tyler gave them, you wouldn't get anything different no matter how many times you asked. Krystal could see the signs of Mu's annoyance, and it was a tad amusing, but she didn't say anything. However, Murrue was considering the future of this mobile suit should it come on the Archangel. It comes with them, it would require maintenance, resupply, and other things for its use. The crew and herself knew nothing about the machine other than it was powerful and looked to be a Gundam. "Okay, then what should we do about it," asked Murrue, "I wouldn't doubt Murdoch would need to know about maintenance and resupply."

Tyler couldn't avoid that that was a question like the previous two, and he knew it would be coming. And since Tyler had brought the Freedom with the intention of Kira using the unit when the need came up, he would need to give some information. The problem revealed the Freedom and both a Neutron Jammer Canceller and a nuclear reactor. Those two parts were what made the Freedom so dangerous in Tyler's mind. He trusted Kira with the information as he did with his friends. Yet the crew were former OMNI, so there would be questions about the nuclear tech onboard the Freedom. "Yeah, about that," Tyler started, "You won't need to worry about that for a time." He paused, "Mostly since the Freedom here has plenty of power due to having a neutron jammer canceller."

There was silence after Tyler's answer as the crew of the Archangel didn't think they had heard Tyler right. Mu swore Tyler had just said a neutron jammer canceller, as in something that could negate the effects of N-jammers. The Alliance had been trying to create such a thing for years, shortly after the April Fool's Crisis. Whether the Federation or ZAFT had developed such that it existed was unbelievable. If nuclear technology was a possibility again, it could easily solve the Alliance's member states' energy crisis. Then again, it was just as likely that such technology would be put to making nuclear weapons too. "Tyler," Mu began wanting to confirm what he thought he heard was correct, "Did you say this mobile suit has a neutron jammer canceller? As in something that can nullify the effects of the N-jammers and allow nuclear technology again?"

Tyler nodded, "Yes, you were hearing right, Mu," he returned. "The Freedom has a neutron jammer canceller which makes nuclear tech possible again."

Krystal was wrapping her brain around that one of the other two factions had developed the one thing the Alliance had wanted for years. From what she'd heard, Alliance R&D had been trying to come up with the canceller for a while and had failed each attempt. And still, the higher-ups still demanded a way around the N-jammers even to this day. Unfortunately, Krystal believed it was not for the solution to the energy crisis but for nuclear weapons. Those from Blue Cosmos would shout OMNI should nuke the PLANTs. And now that the technology existed, it could happen at some point. Krystal ended out shaking her head from side to side as she muttered, "But how can that be?"

That Tyler said, the machine had a neutron jammer canceller, which brought up many questions. "So then, is that thing powered by nuclear energy," Jackie asked. "Where did you get it," Pal inquired.

Tyler knew he would get a slew of questions that he wouldn't be answering, but it still wasn't nice. He said he wouldn't be giving information about the Freedom specific to where it came from or why he had it. Siegel and Lacus had trusted him with the Freedom and getting it to where it could do the most good, and that's what Tyler would do. He would not speak of their involvement except with Kira, which would be done when they were alone. "I believe I already said something to the effect of not answering questions as to the origin of the Freedom." Tyler shook his head, "And the neutron jammer canceller should infer that it has a nuclear reactor for a power source. Any other questions that are being asked I will be declining as they aren't anyone else's business." Tyler had the tone which left no room for argument, "Should any of you have a problem with that, shut up and keep it to yourself."

Mu was once again reminded of how hard it could be to deal with Tyler's attitude. Natarle had reacted the worse to it consistently, most had just gotten used to it and moved on. Natarle had never been able to do that, it was had the two clash so often. Not that Mu couldn't respect how Tyler dealt with those that were badgering him for information. Tyler didn't take the flak, nor did he buckle under pressure, he stuck to what he said and didn't change it. Mu kind of wondered if Tyler were interrogated by an OMNI interrogator, which would leave the room in good standing, Mu would put his money on Tyler in that situation. So, he shrugged, "It's clear you won't tell us more, Tyler, so have it your way," he said.

Krystal snickered, "I suppose we've learned to accept what you say, Tyler, and not argue," she remarked, "Though I doubt Natarle would ever do so."

Tyler didn't see a reason to change his behavior, it hadn't failed him yet, and he didn't see why it would in the future. Yes, Tyler knew some didn't like how he acted, but that was their issue, not his. Natarle was an example of those who would never accept his behavior, only be frustrated by it. Even his mother had accepted that Tyler had his quirks, and his behavior would be what it was, and she was a hard sell. "Finally," Tyler replied, "Some of you are realizing it is better to accept how I do things than call me out on it. I was starting to wonder if that would ever happen with any from the Archangel."

Murrue could see that Tyler was the same as ever, which would be much to Natarle's ire. Murrue didn't see a reason to fight against Tyler's behavior as long as it didn't endanger the crew's wellbeing. So, Murrue nodded, "Very well, we'll leave the mobile suit and its equipment alone, I promise that," she said before she turned and made sure that was made clear to the rest, which Tyler appreciated.

A/N

Okay, I'll leave off there for this phase and continue on in the next one. Now, onto the ending notes where I elaborate about changes and what I wish to highlight. Let me start with why I split the previous phase and this one into two when it was originally one. It is a self-imposed policy and perhaps a foolish one, but I try to not have chapters/phases I write much beyond 25k words if I can help it with the subject I'm on, definitely not more than 30k. If I hadn't split this phase and the previous one it would have come out to 32k and that is too long of a read in one sitting. Now, on to the rest of what I want to bring up about this phase that has nothing to do with it's length.

It came up somewhat in the last Phase, but I expanded upon it in this one, Mu's and Krystal's doubts about the Alliance and OMNI. The two looked back on events and are seeing the signs that OMNI wasn't helping them. As you readers should know, Tyler had been trying to warn them and the two are seeing what Tyler was talking about. Thus, the two do decide BEFORE ZAFT's attack on JOSH-A to go against orders they were given. That is important, for in cannon Mu doesn't decide the point until as the attack is starting. The second point I would bring up, would be the discussion between Kira and Mu. So in the last phase, Tyler's letter was found by Kira telling him about what was happening. And it is during the conversation in the hangar that Kira tells Mu about some of the points in said letter. Mu is open to anything that Kira would deliver from Tyler by this point, showing that he's noticed that Tyler is normally right. It also gave the warning of the "Trap" laid so that Mu and Krystal knew they would need to go back to the Archangel.

Next point I will bring up, Tyler's entrance and actions on the battlefield and what was going on during that time. Now, I doubt that there will be many that will say Tyler's entrance was not just well-timed, but just awesome for what it was. And yes, for those asking, the Meteor song was playing through my mind as I wrote that scene. So, I had Tyler come in with the Freedom from below rather than above as it happens in canon for two reasons. First, the Freedom wasn't come from space, so it would make a tad less sense. And second, Tyler had been flying low to avoid fighting and get to the Archangel, so from below he came. Also, I would point out, on the Archangel, the crew were being forced to realize they were set up to die. Yet, Tyler's friends had believed Tyler's warning when they didn't and ended out defending him. Then, I wanted to show more of the retreat decision in this through Nicol and the mission commander.

Those were the major points I wanted to elaborate on in this phase. There are the minor dialog changes throughout the phase as some may have noticed. But overall, I feel this can stand as is and not be concerned with its quality. As I always ask at the end of Phases, please some of you write a review and tell me what you thought of the phase. You can tell me what you liked or what you think could have been better, I take the comments seriously and do what I can to improve. The next phase will be titled, "Calm Before the Storm," I'm confident I can have it out in the next two weeks. Peace out until then!