A/n

Here is another Phase for you readers to enjoy. Yet, before we get to the good, as I do around every five Phases or so, I will be going through my general disclaimer. I do not own anything in the Gundam Universe as much as I would love to. Nor do I own the ideas that I pull from other universes like from video games and other places. All I own are my original characters and my musings which this story is built with. The credit for creations of stuff I don't own belong to their respective studios and owners. And with that out of the way, let's move on to the Phase!

Phase 76: Igniting the Flames

October 18th, 73 C.E.

As the weeks went on after the ruins dropping on Earth, those in the Alliance were accelerating their plans. The Federation and ZAFT worked on moving large debris out of the Debris Belt and what was left of Junius Seven away from Earth. They also put effort into recovery work around Earth including humanitarian aid. For some life started returning back to what it had been, while with others it would never be the same again. And so, the world's course appeared to change again, which the Alliance intended to take advantage of the opportunity provided by the ruin drop. A part of this was a meeting between the Alliance and its funders on what they could do. The hatred they had inspired was still around and work was being done to keep it in the forefront.

Among those that were "arranging" things, the man that was known as Lord Djibril was pulling strings to get things moving. He'd decided that it was the perfect time to make a move that he had been planning for a long while. With the end of the Alliance-PLANT War, profits had dried up and things had diverted from the path those like Djibril had wanted. If the conflict that was being stirred up could be made into a war, that would move things along in the desired direction. With his influence as the leader of Blue Cosmos Djibril had gained, he could use them to spread the hatred of Coordinators effectively. Once Muruta Azrael had been out of the way, it had been simple for Djibril to take his position.

Then as a member of LOGO's ruling board, Djibril knew that he and the rest could prod the world for it to shift the way they wanted. Naturals would demand Coordinators be exterminated soon enough, Djibril and others like him would make sure of that. Perhaps not right away, but it would get things moving in that direction and that was a step towards the right path, and it would be a small success. While Djibril would love nothing more than Coordinator extermination and the like to happen rapidly, he could show the patience in obtaining his goals. He' learned from the mistakes of others about moving too fast and being impatient. It was one of the main reasons that things were as they are currently. Fools that made haste got not but waste when all was said and done, Djibril would take care not to do such things. Humanity would be purged of the cancer that had infested it and it would be done properly this time.

The first step Lord Djibril took was to use the event of the debris raining down on Earth and making what preceded it public knowledge. In this action, the agents Djibril sent had emphasized the fact that a "ZAFT" unit had started the whole event in motion. Djibril had given them images and video from the Girty Lue as evidence to prove the point. The OMNI and LOGOs agents had done wonderfully spreading the information. And that information had influenced the public to believe the "narrative" Djibril wanted. All of the work was being done to manipulate public opinion so they would demand for retribution on Coordinators. Controlling the public consensus and opinion was the key to getting what one wanted Djibril had found. On top of that, manipulating through others kept oneself out of the public eye. That was premium insulation that Djibril had the privilege of having most of the time as a member of LOGOs. He also took some steps to further protect himself from others tracing the manipulation back to him.

It was one of the lessons that Djibril and others had learned from the Alliance-PLANT War. It was best to manipulate the general public to work towards the goal one wanted. Then, in order to have the best chance of success for something like Coordinator extermination, one fed the low-information public the right information to guide them to the desired goal. Those who had been working during the Alliance-PLANT War had gotten devilishly close to eliminating Coordinators. The methodology they'd gone with could work as it had nearly done the job before. Thus, logically speaking, the same general methodology should have the same chances of success. Perhaps it would work better with the tweaking and be more efficient in the end. The public would still be "encouraged" to blame Coordinators for all the suffering they were experiencing.

Djibril and others from Logos brought this before the Alliance's general council and the leaders of OMNI. And with their leadership at odds, it wasn't difficult to split them into two factions. The more radically inclined faction of the council was quick to side with Logos. The other side demanded more information was pushed back as the smaller of the two factions. Thus, Djibril and others from Logos efforts to convince the Alliance to attack ZAFT moved forward. Nothing had been stated about how Logo's profits would also soar if the Alliance commenced a war against the other factions, such was an "omission."

Those that represented the Atlantic Federation who were on the radical side were pushed that ZAFT had know about the ruins dropping before it reached Earth. They became enraged in response and accused the PLANTs and ZAFT of foul play and demanding a proper response. The other faction of the Alliance council was hesitant about conflict with ZAFT and perhaps the Federation. They hadn't forgotten the losses the Alliance had suffered in the last war even if others had. However, they were either silenced or convinced to be on board with "dealing" with ZAFT. Only a select few were still against the idea of attacking ZAFT. They stated the action would only bring disaster on the Alliance, but that went ignored.

The leaders of OMNI quickly began preparing for a potential strike against the PLANTs. The preparation was okay by Djibril, and he encouraged it. He offered weapons and equipment to OMNI for said preparations which was accepted. Djibril didn't mention Logos would make a sizable profit from the preparation, the Alliance didn't need to know that detail. Just the thought of the money that would be rolling in made Djibril quite pleased. It would fund projects that had been on hold due to lack of funds since the Alliance-PLANT War. The years after the war had been unkind to put it mildly. The "downturn" as it was framed had been bad, more a plummeting decline for the organization's profit margins. As a paramilitary industry, war was one heck of a business driver and provided lots of profit as a result. Thus, the push for more conflict had slowly but surely been getting the Alliance to go in the desired direction.

The Alliance, on Logos' orders manipulated the state media to narrative supplied to them moving things along at a brisker pace. And when Captain Roanoke provided information from their expedition to the ruins, Djibril was quick to pass it along. The images of ZAFT machines around the ruins fighting one another only strengthened the narrative that had been created by Logos. Granted, ZAFT would try to argue the narrative and would provide proof of what they said. But by the time that came up, it would be too late to change public opinion. The general public was already outraged at what the narrative told them. Few questioned the narrative and that was all for the better for those manipulating them.

Not all were convinced right away, some did question what was being said about the ruins falling to Earth. Those that didn't believe the narrative were targeted harder quickly and were either convinced by those that were or were dismissed into the background. The addition of the images provided by Captain Roanoke sold the narrative far better than the original version of it. That was spun to have ZAFT soldiers having caused the ruins to fall down to Earth. The repetitive delivering of the created narrative stoked the flames of rage that had been lit by the ruins dropping to Earth. The hatred and fear of Coordinators were being rekindled as Djibril had hoped. Most within the Alliance were riled up about the whole incident.

There was a downside to the narrative which had been put out by those like Djibril that they had to admit. That downside was the response from the Federation had been less than progressive. The narrative had reached their member nations by what intelligence Djibril had been given. That had been good news, as getting a partly false narrative to circulate within the Federation was hard to begin with. However, that was the only good news from the efforts to influence the Federation's citizens. The Federation listened to their citizens and so that was seen as their weakness. The exploitation of that weakness hadn't succeeded yet, the Federation had a lot of security and venting in place to reach their citizens. Yet, the issue was the same, which was the lack of outrage from the Federation's citizens. There was no acceptance of the accounting or "mucking of the waters" the narrative delivered. It had been hoped the narrative could stir up changes within the Federation small as they could be. Yet, there was no sign of dissonance for the Federation from its citizens.

Intel quickly explained that the Federation's "security measures" had rapidly come into play. Those had scrubbed the narrative from distributed media before it had spread all that much. And now their media was running and distributing a different version of what brought the ruins of Junius Seven raining down on Earth. Djibril watched the Federation's version of what happened and couldn't help but be angry at it. It ripped the created narrative apart and made it clear that rouge Coordinators were responsible. The Federation's version also said ZAFT had been working to break down the masses before they fell to Earth. That slapped the narrative's point of saying ZAFT was at fault for the whole event. While the failure with the Federation had been expected since that was what happened with them before now, it was still a great annoyance to Djibril and others.

The "expected" response from the Federation angered Djibril, but he kept himself calm when others were around. The Federation was expected to be a problem in the coming war. The reaction was a frustrating display of the Federation's famous "Stance of Neutrality" they had held to during the Alliance-PLANT War. Their high and mighty "more righteous than thou" cry was infuriating and caused nothing but issues for the Alliance. "The Federation will protect and maintain the ideals and principles we hold, standing united together" was just about as bad as the "principles" they clung to. The sediment was beyond annoying as far as Djibril was concerned and rather stupid as well. They had used such to refuse LOGOs business deals that were offered before.

The infuriating stupidity of the Federation's mentality had been reinforced during his attendance at the Federation's Horizon Jubilee recently. While the Jubilee was a Federation event, it drew people from the other two factions to it, which was a business opportunity. A backroom deal had been made for Djibril and other Logos members to get invitations to the event. The party had been a relatively fruitful opportunity to broker a few business deals with some there for Logos. Djibril had been told by others any tries to do business with the Federation would only fail, but he wouldn't accept that without attempting the idea himself. Thus, Djibril had personally attempted to make some deals with Federation leaders. He had used his business savvy to do what he could to convince them to give Logos a chance to be a partner to them. The Federation had been and still was a frustratingly untapped market that did little to no business outside of themselves. None of his associates or he had managed to get into said market though all of them had tried multiple times. It was akin to a shining pile of gold that was sitting their untouchable behind a solid barrier, taunting businessmen like himself.

Most of the leaders of the Federation may have been there so it was the best opportunity to talk to them outside the normal setting they dictated. Of the ones he had heard of, the Euros Coalition's leader hadn't come to the event. Instead, the Coalition's foremost diplomat had been there to represent the nation. Governmental representatives from the Kingdom of Scandinavia had been present. One of Orb's council representatives had attended along with the leader of the Equatorial Union. And then there had been the Republic's Prime Minister, the Republic's Dragon, Ellen Blass. The only one who had even given a modicum of time to Djibril was the Equatorial Union's leader. Djibril had hoped for a brief moment he could get something out of the young woman. However, Ismail's "aid" had stepped in and shut him down in a manner that he had to admit was pretty good.

The "conversation" Djibril had with Blass had been the worst of all the Federation groups. He had to say the woman had earned the reputation of being beyond stubborn. The name "dragon" fit the older woman, for she had fire in her and she didn't give ground to anyone. It made sense how she had been the Republic's leader for close to two decades now. It was a quality that Djibril both respected and hated. Standing one's ground was a necessity for successful business to happen. However, when he was going against it, such was annoying to a painful point. Yet, what had frustrated Djibril the most was the polite manners Blass had maintained throughout the talk. But the mere mention of Logos had gotten Blass to say their conversation was done and she had nothing more to say to him.

Nevertheless, Djibril figured there would be little if any luck with the Federation when it came to the narrative. So, he wouldn't focus on what the Federation was doing. Djibril would accept for the moment that influencing and manipulating the Federation was not a realistic possibility for the time being. He would say "let them keep their stance of neutrality for as long as they wanted," it would be their downfall in the future. The Federation would have to be dealt with at some point during the coming conflict, sooner rather than later if possible. They didn't need to be first in the plans being made to get things moving. Djibril would enjoy seeing the Federation fall while clinging to their principles when the time came. He couldn't help the smile that came to his face at the thoughts of the operations already OMNI was working on, thanks all to a simple prod in the right direction. The results would be entertaining and satisfying in ways that little had for the last two years. The "Ultimatum" which would be sent would unlikely get ZAFT to surrender, but it would get them to pause which could be useful.

Public opinion kept getting increasingly bitter against Coordinators and the cries for revenge got louder. As it did, OMNI forces on the moon were preparing for the operation they would soon commence against the PLANTs. The Alliance's Arzachel Lunar base was a buzz with activity as ships were being loaded. The newer Windams were being refitted so they could be equipped with nuclear ordnance via their hardpoint. Daggers that would be with the strike force would be the guards for the Windams to reach firing range. OMNI vessels would have resupply for the nuclear strike forces. The intention of the operation was to completely destroy the PLANT colonies, every single one of them at Lagrange 5. The top brass at Arzachel was waiting for the message telling them to move out and head to execute the operation. Whether the PLANT Supreme Council agreed to the demands which would be sent or not, those at Arzachel would still head out toward the PLANTs.

The Alliance transmitted their ultimatum to the PLANTs once they had written it up. There was the expectation the PLANTs would refuse the stated demands. The demands were meant to take power away from ZAFT and the PLANTs, essentially their independence. The first was unlikely to be doable for ZAFT but that didn't matter to those pushing to attack the PLANTs. The concessions were written to look reasonable, but how they were planned to be fulfilled wasn't going to be that way. So, OMNI's preparations were important as the operation they would do would be the end of the issue.

At the same time, as OMNI was making its preparations, the Alliance's ultimatum reached the PLANTs. Gilbert read the message and was slightly puzzled by its contents. He had expected a non-nice response from the Alliance at some point after the ruins fell to Earth. However, the message he read wasn't what he had been expecting from them. The message was in the form of an ultimatum echoing the cries being heard by those on Earth for justice and vengeance for the colony drop. Gilbert knew the radicals in the Alliance would use recent events to fuel hate of Coordinators. But he hadn't figured they would spread the hate so quickly.

The list of demands came down to four basic points from what Gilbert could tell. And they were put in such a way that if not met, the Alliance stated the PLANTs would suffer consequences. The first point concerned the 'terrorists' that were responsible for the Junius Seven falling to Earth. The Alliance was framing the idea that the PLANTs were being accused of harboring the terrorists which they wouldn't do. The demand was to deliver the individuals responsible over to the Alliance so that they could be tried and punished for their actions. The problem with the first demand was its impossibility of being met. The rouge group that had caused the chain of events were dead, killed during the breakup of the ruins. However, Gilbert didn't see why the Alliance wouldn't already be aware of that. Thus, the first demand would be used against ZAFT to either say they weren't fully complying or attack the homeland.

The second demand was worse than the first to be honest, since it had other consequences, Gilbert knew. It said ZAFT, the PLANT's military force to protect it, was to stand down indefinitely. The demand went further by saying ZAFT would begin the process of disarming and dismantling the organization as a whole. Such an action was unthinkable and was akin to surrendering to the Earth Alliance without it being officially so. The demand kept going saying members of ZAFT would not be accused of crimes unless there was solid evidence that they had committed one or more so there would be "fair treatment." Gilbert didn't believe the Alliance or those in control would be fair to any. They were more likely to try and find excuses to punish any they could and not look like tyrants.

The third concession was as ridiculous as the previous one with what it stated. It called for the members of the current PLANT Supreme Council to step down. There was to be no exception to any position. All the committees were also included in the demand. In essence, the Alliance wanted the full dismantling of the PLANTs' governing body. It was stated special elections would be held to put new people in the positions of the Council. However, it would be under the supervision of selected individuals. And those individuals would be chosen by the Alliance which meant the Alliance would have those they could control on the council. The very idea the Alliance would have fair elections was foolish with the way the demands were written. That led to the fourth and final demand, which solidified the control the Alliance clearly wanted over the PLANTs. They would not just control the elections, they would have agents of theirs assigned to inspect and observe the Supreme Council on a regular basis. According to the message, it was with the intent to put in place a "checks and balances" idea for the Council. But Gilbert could see the checks and balances inferred were more a means of control.

Gilbert presented the ultimatum to the council as he felt they should see what the Alliance was trying to do and have a say in the response. All on the council saw what Gilbert did when he looked beyond the words in the message and to the intent they delivered. The Atlantic Federation's President and through him, the rest of the Earth Alliance were demanding the PLANT's and ZAFT's surrender and submit to the control and dominion of the Alliance. Gilbert wondered if the man currently leading the Atlantic Federation understood he was being used. Or maybe he was one of the radicals, Gilbert couldn't say much about Copeland. To say the demands irked those who represented the PLANTs was an understatement. When reading between the line, there were implications made that weren't nice at all. If accepted, the ultimatum would give a number in the Alliance the opportunity to abuse Coordinators as they saw fit and there would be little to stop them.

If the Federation had been overseeing this idea, Gilbert would've been fine with just asking for clarification. The Federation was well-known to be fair in their judgments. However, the Federation wouldn't demand anything like what the Alliance was doing. It made Gilbert wonder if the Federation was aware of exactly what the Alliance was trying to do. If the Alliance succeeded, it would be a problem for the Federation's security. There was some debate on the response to the demands, but it came down to all agreeing to reject the demands as they were unacceptable. As the response was written up, Gilbert asked Eileen Canaver to reach out to the Federation and invite them to the PLANTs. He wanted their perspective on this ultimatum from the Alliance and the insight they could have. While the message was delivered and Canaver was trying to arrange a meeting with the Federation, Gilbert turned to alterative ideas. He sent a second message to the Alliance saying there seemed to be a misunderstanding. There was no need to go to demands when talking things out could still work.

Meanwhile, Athrun came to arrive at Aprilius One on the shuttle he had left Earth on. He'd arranged to meet with a "liaison" for the Chairman, still under his alias of Alex Dino. Athrun was informed meeting with the Chairman could happen a later time. Council business had picked up since the ruins fell onto Earth, so getting a meeting with them without it being serious urgency was put off. Athrun could understand those points with recent events. The Supreme Council were no doubt trying to help Earth. If anything, it was to show ZAFT, nor the PLANTs had been involved in the ruins falling to Earth. Athrun had seen the backlash from the Alliance and didn't blame the council for working hard to show they hadn't wanted the disasters to happen. Tensions were increasing so efforts were being made to try to ease them. However, Athrun didn't believe the Alliance would let the tensions go down, they had been pushing for them to be worse.

Athrun was met by a man who identified themselves as the liaison between him and Chairman Durandal had sent. The conversation that ensued between them was both enlightening and concerning. By what Athrun was told, things were even grimmer than he had expected, and he hadn't had high expectations for the situation to be good. According to the liaison, the Alliance had sent an "ultimatum" which contained demands that were outrages. Athrun wasn't told specifically what the demands were, but reading between the lines, the demands were akin to surrender in some way. Of course, the council was trying to ask the Alliance what the ultimatum was about and clarification about what they were demanding. But the Alliance wasn't showing any signs they were listening to the requests from the council. The liaison assured Athrun Chairman Durandal was doing his best to open dialogs so that things could be settle through diplomacy. That said good things about Gilbert Durandal to Athrun. The man was willing to try what many would say was impossible and wouldn't work no matter what. Humanity needed those that would attempt the impossible if peace was still a possibility for the future. However, the difficulty was the Alliance's current standing and mood wouldn't allow them to listen or back down. Things were messy and set to become worse from what Athrun saw, and he couldn't see a way conflict would be avoided much longer.

The issue for Athrun was with how busy the Chairman was, a meeting with him would likely be aways ahead of him. All he could do was wait for the moment as the Chairman was the one who could help him get his former record to be settled. The liaison led Athrun toward an apartment he would get to use while waiting for a meeting with the Chairman. Yet, as they were walking along, Athrun became more and more antsy. The air of tension and worry was pervading everywhere Athrun would look. With the ultimatum mentioned, Athrun would be surprised if the tension wasn't causing most to worry. And Athrun feared his stay wouldn't let him escape the air quickly enough for his liking. Upon arriving at the apartment, the liaison told Athrun he would come back to get him when the Chairman was free.

Athrun when straight to the bathroom and washed his face to try and ignore the uncomfortable air. He was starting to wonder if going back to ZAFT was really the best decision with current circumstances. Athrun had pictured should he enlist with the Federation's military, Tyler being beside him for the processing stuff. And Athrun could really use a friend right now to deal with the stifling air that was around Aprilius One. Tyler had always been able to light up a room and make a place feel better even if just a little. Even Kira's company would be something Athrun would take to deal with the air. Right now, Athrun felt alone and deprived of company that would make dealing with the wait much easier. Athrun was close to finding a comm device and reaching out to Nicol, Dearka, or even Yzak and talk to them. That Athrun was even willing to converse with Yzak said how desperate for familiar company Athrun was quickly wanting. But they were likely on-duty so that would be rude to interrupt them.

As the hours went by, Athrun tried many things to distract himself from the wait. He tried to sleep but couldn't get comfortable nor get his mind to stop turning over thought after thought. Athrun did find a comm device, but he couldn't think of who he could call to talk to right now. Most he wanted to speak to would be busy with their own business that Athrun didn't want to disturb. It was only five hours before Athrun couldn't stay in the apartment he'd been given to wait. Thus, Athrun went to the door, opened it and glanced outside. He was a guest at the PLANTs so may not be allowed to wonder as he wished. Yet, there was no one around that he could see, so Athrun didn't see a problem with taking a stroll. It was as Athrun was walking into a lobby that his stroll took a turn he would've never expected. The change came with a voice, "Yes, I understand, don't worry about that, how much time do we have."

Athrun came to a halt immediately at the voice as he had to be hearing things. The voice was almost a dead ringer for Lacus's voice. But that shouldn't be possible, Lacus was on Earth with Kira, so her voice shouldn't be heard around the PLANTs other than in recording of her music. She had gone into hiding shortly after the Alliance-PLANT War. From what Lacus had said, she had done so because she was concerned others would try to use her and her reputation for their own purposes. Athrun could see what Lacus had suggested being more than possible. There were some that would be more than willing to use Lacus's influence to advance their interests. Athrun didn't think the Chairman was one of those that would be willing to use Lacus for something, but he couldn't discount that possibility. It wasn't impossible to alter someone's appearance and voice to match another's, it just took a lot of work as far as Athrun knew.

Athrun began moving toward where the voice had come from to see what was going on. He got to the top of a set of stairs to find a group standing a short distance away from his position. Athrun gazed for a long moment at the group taking it in as it was odd. There were suited men around an individual. But his gaze came to stick upon a girl which got Athrun to have a double-take. Athrun's mind was having trouble processing what he was seeing as it shouldn't be there. By all appearances, Lacus was standing around forty feet or so away from him which shouldn't be the case. There was even a Haro ball robot bouncing up and down next to "Lacus." However, Athrun was sure he hadn't made the crimson color the Haro he was seeing. He remembered all the colors of the robots that he'd made, and crimson wasn't one of the colors.

Nevertheless, there was two differences that Athrun did spot with the girl in front of him. She had a hair-clip which was a star-shaped one which Athrun had never seen. He'd gotten to see all the hair-clips Lacus had for when she performed, and she didn't have a star one. Lacus tended to wear the twin wave clip more often than not as she liked that one. Or rather she said Kira seemed to like it when she wore that one out of those that she had. The other difference was the "outfit" the girl was in. Athrun hadn't seen Lacus in anything like the "dress" the girl was sporting. Honestly, the dress was revealing enough that were Lacus to put it on, Athrun would be asking with serious concern if she was okay. And Athrun had seen most of the wardrobe that Lacus had for her performance outfits, and nothing like he was seeing had been in it.

However, other than those two points, the girl really looked like Lacus. Sure, Athrun could spot the differences, but that was because he knew Lacus on a personal level. Lacus would never be in the dress he was seeing, unless Kira asked her to, and Kira wouldn't do that to her. Kira was too naïve to understand that Lacus would do just about anything for him should he ask her. Athrun's friend really didn't have any idea how lucky he was to have Lacus as a girlfriend. Knowing that, Athrun was left to wonder who the girl was that he was seeing as she couldn't be the one she appeared as. "What the," Athrun muttered to himself, "What is going on here?"

As Athrun was staring and wondering what was going on, the group continued to interact without knowing he was there. The girl in the group was being referred to as Lacus Clyne but her real name was Meer Campbell. She had been approached by the Chairman a few weeks ago. She had been in shock that Chairman Durandal had come to her for "help" as the man had said. Meer had been singing for a job while she tried to write her own original songs that she wanted to share with people. Yes, she knew her voice sounded very similar to the idol Lacus Clyne. She'd been using that point to make money to get by while she worked on her own songs. In truth, Meer had gone into singing after seeing Miss Clyne's music. Meer was a fan of Miss Clyne's and had always wanted to meet her, if only once.

Nonetheless, the Chairman had come to her and asked her to help him, the most powerful man around the PLANTs. She was just a normal girl that sung to get by while she tried to work toward her dream. The Chairman had made an offer to her which she hadn't quite believed at first. He had asked her to stand in for Miss Clyne, her idol that she was a fan of. It had almost seemed like a dream come true and yet also wrong to take another's successes as her own. The Chairman had explained that Miss Clyne was unable to assist him due to some sort of circumstances which he didn't go into detail about. The pay was much more than Meer was making currently, she had asked if the Chairman was sure about paying her that much. The Chairman had assured Meer she was the best person to do the job and Miss Clyne would appreciate her work. Thus, Meer had accepted the offer after the Chairman had convinced her to do the idea.

That had been followed by the surgeries to change her appearance for her to look like Miss Lacus. The surgeries had taken time to recover from. During the recovery, she had been given data to study so she could act as Miss Lacus. The Chairman had insisted she needed to act like Miss Lacus so none would see the difference. The information Meer had been given were facts that as a fan Meer had known nothing about. Sure, she had heard the rumor Miss Lacus had been engaged to a guy, and that had been arranged by her father Chairman Clyne. The guy was the war hero Athrun Zala. The picture she got of him had her pause as he looked really handsome. Meer couldn't help but feel a tad jealous of Miss Lacus getting such a good-looking guy that was some kind of hero. And she had yet to meet Athrun, for he had been on Earth since the war had ended. However, the Chairman had mentioned to her yesterday that Athrun was going to be coming around the PLANTs soon.

Meer finished up the conversation with her escort, so they could move on to heading for their destination. However, before her group resumed their journey, Meer noticed there was someone in the lobby. As far as she knew, there wasn't supposed to be anyone in the area other than her. When she looked for longer, she realized the one standing there was none other than Athrun Zala. He looked like he did in the picture she had been given to study. He looked even more handsome than the picture that Meer had seen. And the data she had been given had specifically that Athrun was engaged to Miss Lacus. Meer was standing in for Miss Lacus and so she would be seen as Athrun's fiancée. The very thought of being a guy like Athrun Zala's fiancée made Meer a bit giddy. A smile came to her face as she began moving toward the guy, "Athrun!"

Athrun had been confused before with just seeing the girl that looked like Lacus that wasn't her. Her calling out his name just further confused him as a stranger was calling out to him in a familiar way. The appearance threw him off more than the voice did, but they both didn't match what he knew. None of what was happening made logical sense to Athrun. The only possibility that seemed even feasible was someone had created a stand-in for Lacus. If that were true and it certainly would explain things, the question was why someone would do that. Lacus's influence was great and all, but to create a character that was different from the original was suspicious.

Meer reached where Athrun was and hugged him tightly. She could only wonder if the feelings she was experiencing were what it could be like to be in love. Meer felt like she could fly right now she was that happy. On the other hand, Athrun didn't know what to do with the girl hugging him. She was a stranger and strangers didn't normally come up and hug someone they didn't know. And that the girl began claiming she was happy to see him didn't help Athrun at all to figure out what the hell was going on. He would've asked what was going on and insisted on getting answers, but never got to that point. The girl pulled back and gave him a smile, "I've been waiting such a long time Athrun," the girl said, "waiting for you to come and see me. And then the Chairman said you would be coming back to the PLANTs soon which made me so happy." What the girl said did nothing to help Athrun to comprehend what was happening or why she acted like she knew him. He shook his head, "Who are you and what are you doing," Athrun couldn't stop himself asking. "I don't know who you are, as we've never met before this."

Meer had figured that Miss Lacus's fiancée would be harder to fool than other people. She would have to try harder to convince him that she was Lacus. The Chairman had said to her that she needed to have people believe she was Miss Clyne. It was why she had studied the data so hard, so she could be Miss Clyne. "It's me," Meer said, "Your fiancée, Lacus Clyne."

Meanwhile, Joseph Copeland, the current leader of the Atlantic Federation was a man in his early forties, had short blonde hair and brown eyes. He had addressed the world and colonies at large, but the feeling of the message said that it was directed at the PLANTs. The message was in the form of an ultimatum echoing the cries being heard by those on Earth for justice and vengeance for the colony drop. The list of demands came down to four basic points that the 'Alliance' said the PLANTs were to meet or suffer the consequences. The first point concerned the 'terrorists' that were responsible for the Junius Seven falling as the PLANTs were being accused of harboring the terrorists. Said individuals were to be handed over so that they could be tried and punished for their actions and what they had caused.

The second demand was that ZAFT, the PLANT's military to stand down and begin the process of disarming and dismantling. The members of ZAFT would not be accused of crimes unless there was solid evidence that they had committed one or more so that there was "fair treatment." The third concession was for the members of the current PLANT Supreme Council to step down. Special elections would be held to put new people in the positions of the Council under the supervision of selected individuals. That led to the fourth demand, which was to have selected Earth Alliance individuals be assigned to inspect and observe the Supreme Council. It was with the intent to put in place to act as a 'checks and balances' idea for the Council. The terms stated were given in such a way to sound like they were merely to put means in place to prevent the incident of Junius Seven falling from happening again.

After the address, Lord Djibril contacted Copeland, to see how the planned operation against the PLANTs. Things were moving in a good direction finally and Djibril was eager to keep that going. The Alliance had set itself in a strong position and was ready to deal a harsh blow to their long-standing enemy. "A very rousing speech Mr. President," Djibril remarked in greeting. "You set a firm standing for the Earth Alliance that it needs. Now, to matters at hand sir, when is the attack on the PLANTs scheduled to take place, soon I hope."

Copeland had never really liked Djibril ever since their first meeting. The man was determined but recklessly aggressive. Such aggression had cost OMNI and the Alliance a great deal in the last war. It had most likely taken any chance of the Alliance winning the war away from them. Copeland had made a request to deal with some other than Djibril, but that had been ignored. And now Djibril talked like he ran the Alliance instead of the organization that was a business partner. Copeland narrowed his eyes at Djibril's inquiry as his impatience would have a price if heeded. "Djibril, your impatience needs to be reined it in," Copeland returned. "Such things aren't as cut and dry as you seem to think they are. Politics aren't the same as business as you seem to believe." Djibril grunted a bit annoyingly dismissing the comment on his impatience needing to be restrained back. He had been patient for years, and his wait was nearly over. Djibril wanted to see this all over and done with. To have Coordinators put in their proper place in the system and have all else come to order.

Copeland could tell that Djibril was waving off his explanation which wasn't helpful. The PLANTs had replied with a rejection, however, they had insisted on trying to negotiate. Declaring war was not a simple thing with how the Alliance worked. There were steps that had to be taken and couldn't be sidestepped as some wanted them to be. "The PLANTs are still insistent on negotiating," Copeland continued. "And that's not all, they have taken steps and put measures into place to placate us. There are steps that the Alliance follows before pulling the trigger, Djibril and those can't be sidestepped."

Copeland paused as the other half of the issue of attacking the PLANTs came to his mind. Were the Alliance to strike the PLANTs, its security on Earth would be in question. The Federation had stated if the Alliance did take such actions, they wouldn't standby and do nothing. Thus, if OMNI moved forward as Djibril insisted, they do, it would make enemies of the Federation. The Alliance wasn't ready to fight the other two factions at the same time, Copeland was sure of that. "Then, with the cry against Coordinators," Copeland continued. "The Federation has firmly set itself against the initiative we've taken with the PLANTs. They made it clear they are setting themselves in opposition to the Alliance both on Earth and presumably in space as well. If we attack the PLANTs, there will be consequences from multiple sides and the Alliance has to keep that in mind with deciding what actions it takes. So, initiating dramatic action at this time will have serious consequences attached."

Nevertheless, Djibril was in no mood to listen to the drivel the man that was to do what he was told. The plan would work and then while ZAFT was in shambles, the Federation could be dealt with. It would work better that way in the end in Djibril's mind as with the defeat of the Federation came their technology. That could speed along the extermination of ZAFT and all the rest of the Coordinators. "Sir, I believe I explained this already, once the PLANTs are out of the way, all the commotion that's happening will fade away." Copeland sighed at hearing Djibril's counter to his warning. The Alliance had been forced to learn the Federation couldn't be underestimated during the last war. And Djibril was setting up the Alliance to have to go through that whole problem all over again. Logos could separate itself from the Alliance and Copeland knew that was why they pushed as they did. The organization had autonomy to protect itself from attacks to it. However, before Copeland could correct him, Djibril kept going. "When they're gone and forgotten, everything will fall into place. So in the end, who will be able to oppose us? The Human Federation? Its member nations or its military?"

Copeland once again was reminded of one of the reasons why he didn't like Djibril personally. The man didn't listen to reason or sense that didn't benefit him or Logos. Copeland felt Logos was so intent to get Federation resources they were willing to be reckless or have others be so. One would of thought Logos would've learned the same lesson as the Alliance from the last war. Underestimating the Federation came with a price, and you might not live long enough to regret the choice made. Copeland shifted uncomfortably at the questions posed by Djibril, but he didn't back down. "Don't underestimate the Federation or those who make it up, Djibril. Those who have either came to regret it or died because of it. As a member of Blue Cosmos, you should know that Muruta Azrael made that mistake and it cost him everything. He vanished without a trace and hasn't been heard from since."

Djibril hid his irritation at being reminded about the failure of the previous leader of Blue Cosmos. Muruta Azrael had in truth gotten the closest to destroying the PLANTs. There was no real way to deny that, but still, he fell short in the task. It had been because of the interference of the Federation and their involvement. Whenever it happened, Logos had suffered profit losses and that was frustrating. Plans were being made to handle the Federation this time around. So, the Atlantic Federation's leader should willing to go along with it. "You're still afraid of the Federation, sir," Djibril posed calmly. "They are not infallible or unbeatable, rest assured. Think of the world as a system; it needs people who build things, and others that manage things. Without people who managed things, the world would fall into chaos. It is much like a garden that needs a gardener to tend and manage it to keep it from being overrun with weeds and unwanted plants. We all take care of our own "gardens" and work to make sure it stays pretty. If we let the grass and plants grow as they pleased, then would we call that beautiful? Would we call that freedom?"

The comparisons were just more excuses and Copeland wouldn't accept those. Lives would be at stake with what Logos planned, and it wasn't going to be theirs on the line. "Djibril, you can say that all you want, however," started Copeland. However, Djibril cut over Copeland, "That's the way the humans are, sir. We want what's around us to be aesthetically pleasing. We want things to be well managed, ordered, and safe, it's human nature. History is a testament to the mentality since people have always worked to make the world that way and it has been successful. We build cities, design tools, make rules, all to make things organized and safe. And now, we have a chance to do just that on a level that hasn't been done successfully yet. It is time President Copeland. The sooner that the PLANTs are gone, the sooner we can move on to the next, more pleasant step. We will build a new system for the world that not only work but will bring peace to the human race, even the Human Federation will fall into line in the end."

As the set time for the demands from the Alliance to be met came closer, both the Alliance and ZAFT were working feverishly. With the Supreme Council having asked the Federation for a meeting, representatives were sent by the Federation. The message from the council had sounded more than serious with the references of demands from the Alliance. The Federation did send an "escort" with the representatives which included two Voyager classes and eight Enterprise classes. ZAFT was aware of the Federation vessel around the PLANTs even if they had their stealth system up. The large patrol group would keep a look out for any Alliance activity from the direction of the Moon. ZAFT had no issue with the Federation watching for the Alliance since their sensors were better than ZAFT's.

ZAFT had most of their defending forces out keeping a sharp eye on the area. Many Nazca and Laurasia classes when out with the mobile suits. Even ZAFT's new ship class, the Gondwana was deployed though it wasn't supposed to be put into service for another few weeks. One Nazca class had been kept back in the space docks to attach "special" equipment, should the worst-case scenario come up. They were told to watch the moon and anything that could be coming from that direction. With the Alliance's demands being rejected, it was assumed OMNI would try to attack the PLANTs in some way. And now that it was proven some likely connected to the Alliance had violated the Treaty of Junius Seven, nuclear weapons were a real possibility for OMNI to use. Using nuclear weapons in response to the ruin drop by the rouge group didn't equate to a balanced exchange of actions and was seen as the worst-case scenario. But the Alliance and OMNI had rarely if ever cared about "fairness" and "honor." They tended to be driven by their hatred of Coordinators and their wish to exterminate them.

At the same time, the orders OMNI forces had been waiting for came to Arzachel. The Alliance's leadership said in no uncertain terms for the strike fleets to head to Lagrange 5 and assault the colonies. There was still some time before the set window for the demands closed for the PLANTs. However, there was already rumors that ZAFT would reject the demands. If anything, it was an opportunity to start things moving in the proper direction sooner than planned. The strike force's objective was to completely destroy all colonies there with the nuclear ordinances they would carry. The operation was to move the Alliance forward toward the goal of domination and becoming the leaders of Humanity. OMNI top brass gave out final orders when Alliance leaders gave the green light for the operation. Alliance leadership made it clear that the operation was necessary for the future of Earth, the prosperity of the Alliance, and the protection of the human race. Failure of the operation would be beyond disastrous to put it mildly.

The three orbital fleets left Arzachel, fully supplied with equipment that would be effective at destroying the colonies. They set out at a steady pace so as to not draw attention from the PLANTs too quickly. One of the biggest risks to the operation was being discovered early and the enemy intercept them before they got into range to deploy nuclear weapons. When they came to being just outside detection range of Lagrange 5, the Alliance force would put on the speed. It was expected ZAFT would have most of its defending force try and stop the Alliance forces. The majority of the fleet would attack and keep the attention of ZAFT's forces. While that was the case, the strike force would have broken off and hidden among the debris of Jachin Due. When ZAFT was distracted, the strike force would make their move and slip past ZAFT and have a clear shot at the colonies.

While the Alliance force was making it way toward Lagrange 5, an announcement was made by the Atlantic Federation's President Copeland. He stated attempts to reason with the PLANTs' Supreme Council had not gone as hoped. He said no reply to the "diplomatic" solution had been received. Both the PLANTs and the Federation knew the claim of no reply was lies on the part of the Alliance. Copeland stated actions would be taken shortly to "ensure" the safety of Earth and the human race. Tensions were rising at a breakneck pace and showed no signs of slowing down or changing direction. The world held its breath and watched to see what would result from this, whether it would turn into a war like the previous one.

Among the ZAFT defending forces, mission commanders were gathering on the Gondwana to speak on potential tactical plans. Among those was Nicol Amalfi, young as he may be, he'd proven himself capable of command and tactical foresight. Nicol had gotten experience of commanding forces since the end of the Alliance-PLANT War. So, he wasn't a stranger for planning an operation to help ZAFT's goals. However, if someone told Nicol he would be one of the commanders that would be over a large-scale operation within less than five years after his promotion, he would've questioned their mental states. Yet, here he was, being called into a planning meeting for a major operation that was for the defense of the homeland. Nicol, the youngest mission commander would be working with some of ZAFT's best commanding officers.

The situation Nicol was about to going into was unlike anything he'd faced before with one exception. That "exception" had come around a week ago when the most unexpected person had contacted him. The thought of the call was still weighing on Nicol's mind even as he was heading to the tactical meeting. That Admiral Treize had personally reached out to him still blew Nicol's mind. Nicol admired the man that had led ZAFT throughout the whole Alliance-PLANT War. His retirement had come as a surprise, but he felt the Admiral had earned time with his family and whatever else he chose to do with how hard he'd defended the homeland. Nicol could clearly recall that part of the conversation between the Admiral and himself.

He'd been going over some reports during down time when the unexpected call had come in. There had been no identifier for the incoming call. That had been a tad odd to Nicol as most communications that came to him had ID codes with them. Nicol had been curious who could be calling him at the time, so he had connected to the channel without much thought. He had been shocked when Admiral Treize had appeared on the vid-screen. Nicol shook his head after realizing the Admiral was on the screen, "Admiral Treize," Nicol greeted, "What a surprise to see you, sir. What do I owe the pleasure of your call?"

"Nicol Amalfi," Treize had replied with a wave of a hand, "No need to be so formal with me. I reached out so that I could ask something of you." Nicol nodded and paid rapped attention, "Please go on, sir. I'm all for listen to whatever it is that you believe I can help you with." Treize inclined his head to that before he continued, "First, let me give you a bit of background information so that you can understand the request I wish to make of you." Treize had paused for a moment after that appearing to gather his thoughts. Nicol had learned it was best not to interrupt another when they were doing that so hadn't said anything. "As most in ZAFT have been told, I retired not too long after the war came to its end." There was another pause after that line and Nicol was left to wonder what the Admiral was conveying. The man wasn't one to waste words or lead another on unnecessarily. Treize kept going, "While that is true that I've retired from ZAFT, that doesn't mean I have retired from military service."

Nicol blinked at the last line the Admiral had given, more for the implications than for what had been said. The Admiral's retirement had been an event with mixed feelings for many. Treize had led ZAFT for years and during those years the homeland had felt a modicum of safety. So, him stepping down had been met with resistance by the many who wanted him to stay. Nicol had respected Admiral Treize for his choice to step down and enjoy a more quiet life. However, the Admiral's last line implied the quiet life wasn't what he'd stepped down for. "Then, might I ask what you mean by not retiring from military service, Admiral," Nicol questioned. "I was under the impression you had stepped down to spend time with your family."

Treize inclined his head again, "I have had some time to spend with them, but there is still much I can do to help bring peace. To do that, I accepted an offer to help the Federation in their goals by accepting a position within its military." Nicol had been shocked to hear the Admiral had taken a position with the Federation's Military. It wasn't a surprise that the Federation had offered the Admiral a position within it. They likely had been doing so for a while were Nicol to guess. With the Admiral's skills and experience, it would be more surprising if the Federation hadn't offered and tried to convince Treize to join them. And as ZAFT was now, the Federation weren't enemies and would unlikely be since their goals of peace were along the same lines. Thus, there would be little concern of Admiral Treize's knowledge of ZAFT's inner workings being used against them. "If you're really working with the Federation, sir," Nicol started. "Then why reach out to me, if I could ask?"

Admiral Treize didn't answer right away to the question Nicol had asked, but Nicol waited in hopes he would get something. It was a few minutes before Treize spoke again, "I take it you are aware of the Federation's Information Network and the advantage it is for the Federation, correct?" Nicol nodded in reply as he knew of the Federation's Information Network in a general sense. Of course, Nicol knew how the network supposedly worked, mostly according to ZAFT intelligence. But the question implied there was far more than ZAFT intel said there was the Federation's network. Nicol had always suspected there was much more than what ZAFT intel implied with the Federation's Information Network. It gave them an unequaled advantage by helping them know facts that the public rarely knew about and even intel of the other two factions could only guess at. "Yes, it has always seemed to give them knowledge others couldn't get," Nicol remarked. "The Federation had used it to make the idea that knowledge is power a true statement."

Treize nodded, "You're quite right about that." The Admiral had paused before continuing, "And that would lead me to the offer I wish to make for you. After learning more about the inner workings of the network and the ways it is used, I want it to be as strong as can be. For that, information needs to come from all different places from trusted sources. And I would like you to consider being one of those sources of information." Nicol blinked, not believing he was hearing or understanding the Admiral correctly. "What do you mean a source of information, sir," Nicol asked evenly. "I'm extending an offer for you to become an informant for the Federation's Information Network. Your name came to my mind when the question of potential individuals that could be informants was posed."

Nicol was both flattered that the Admiral would consider him for something and curious why the man wanted "informants" he could trust. It was flattering that Admiral Treize would consider him for a task. That showed that Treize felt Nicol was competent enough to be trusted to carry out a task given by him. For the Admiral to have confidence in you was seen as the highest compliment in ZAFT. And yet, Nicol couldn't help but wonder why Treize would think of him for being an informant for the Federation's network. The point the network had informants all over as the Admiral implied made all the sense in the world. It certainly explained why the network seems close to infallible with what the Federation seemed to be aware of. "I'm honored you would think of me, Admiral," Nicol replied. "But what kind of information could I even give that would be of value? I'm not in an important position, just a mission commander called to command forces for ZAFT."

Treize shook his head at Nicol's reasoning, "Perhaps you're not in a prominent position, but every post has value, even when most wouldn't see it. As a mission commander, you still have credible information that can make a difference. So, don't undervalue your position and what it can do for not just ZAFT as a whole, but for those under your command and their families." Nicol was humbled a bit by Treize saying his position as a mission commander had value to not just ZAFT but those under him as well. He tried to do his best to ensure those he commanded would be able to return home to their families, even when that was hard. "Mission commanders do not always get the credit they should since without them, ZAFT would be far less effective," Treize went on. "And should it be motivation for my offer, would you be interested in knowing that your father, Yuri has been an informant for approaching four years now."

Nicol blinked processing what the Admiral had just said, then his mouth fell open at understanding what he'd said. There had never been a hint of his father potentially helping the Federation during the Alliance-PLANT War. Sure, Nicol's father would say he respected the lengths the Federation went for its citizens, but many on the council would admit that fact. That his father had been passing information to the Federation likely on council business was both awe-inspiring and shocking. Had his father been found out by Chairman Zala, he'd probably been branded a traitor and either imprisoned or killed. Nicol couldn't help but have a new-found respect for his father's bravery he'd never known about. "I wasn't aware he was potentially an informant for the Federation," Nicol admitted. Treize nodded, "Yuri provided critical information on what was happening with the Supreme Council during the latter part of the Alliance-PLANT War. Without it, things could've been much worse, so he is honored for his efforts and the real risk and sacrifice he made."

The explanation the Admiral had provided had left Nicol a lot to think about which he had been considering off and on since. Treize had said to take time to consider the offer of becoming an informant and not to be quick to agree just because the offer was coming from him. He hadn't told anyone else of the fact Admiral Treize was now working with the Federation. Nicol didn't think that would cause lots of issues within ZAFT but there would be some that would see it as a sort of a betrayal to the organization. Thus, it was better the fact should not be public knowledge within ZAFT. Nevertheless, the call with Admiral Treize still weighed on his mind with what had been learned from it.

Nicol focused back on the present and dismissed the conversation he'd had with the Admiral. He listened to the general briefing from the head commander of the operation. The operation ahead was a defensive one that would be no joke or exercise. There had been no signs OMNI forces had made it into detection range of Lagrange 5 yet. However, there had been conformation a sizable force had left the Alliance Arzachel base on the moon hours ago. With what information the Minerva had sent to the Defense Committee, the Alliance had already broken the Treaty of Junius Seven with using mirage colloid. It was just as likely if not more probable they had nuclear weapons as well to use. The Alliance would be all too willing to use nuclear weapons on the PLANTs should radicals be in charge as intel said was the case. The National Defense Committee was preparing what they were calling a "last resort" option, but it would take time to make ready. No other details were given about that other than it would work if it was needed to stop OMNI from using nuclear weapons against the homeland.

There was mention of a large Federation patrol being onsite which would assist ZAFT defending forces. Nicol assumed they were around as Federation representatives were on Aprilius One to meet with the Council. He hoped the Federation force had their disrupter rifles they'd used during the Second Battle of Jachin Due. Those had been extremely effective at nullifying nuclear weapons. That would help slow down OMNI from doing what they were inclined to do against their enemies. Combining that with ZAFT's defending forces onsite, the estimated OMNI fleet and its mobile suit compliment should be manageable. Nicol hoped the figures that were being used were as accurate as they could be. Making assumptions could be dangerous if they turned out to be incorrect, Nicol had seen and experienced that himself. At the very least, the loose plan should be able to buy the time for the Defense Committee to prepare the "last resort" option if it were needed to deter OMNI forces.

Nicol did ask a few questions of the head mission commander, more for clarification than exposing doubts. He wanted to be as sure as possible before he sent any under his command out to fight. It was essentially fact that OMNI would shoot to kill their enemies. Thus, tactics were important both to effectively deploy forces and keep them as safe as was possible. Nicol knew the majority in ZAFT were willing to lay down their lives to defend the homeland. However, he didn't want to put pilots in the position they may have to do that. Nicol wasn't the only mission commander that asked questions of the head officer. But as Nicol listened to the answers being given, he wasn't liking the situation he was beginning to see.

At the same time, the OMNI force was traveling toward the colonies at Lagrange 5. All within the OMNI attack force knew what was expected of them in the looming operation. The goal was nothing less than destroying the PLANT colonies. To achieve that, they would have to either get through or distract ZAFT's defending forces. The current strategy was to distract ZAFT with the main bulk of the attack force, while the smaller nuclear carrying force hid and waited for an opportunity to strike. That strike force had enough nuclear ordinance to take down most if not all the colonies proficiently enough. The rest would hold ZAFT defending forces at bay the best they could for the time that would take to accomplish. There were still problematic factors that could threaten the operation, but those had been planned for the best possible.

Once the attack force closed in on the outer detection range of ZAFT, the strike force broke off from the main force. Those ships used the mirage colloid systems they had to mask their signals and moved toward space debris to hide. The system didn't make them invisible as it had been intended for, but it could fool sensors enough to help ships bypass general detection. That was key since it would hide the strike force while the main attack force engaged ZAFT defending forces. ZAFT had to be distracted for the strike force to get a clear enough path to get a good shot at the colonies. Should ZAFT notice the strike force too early, they could intercept them before nuclear weapons could be used against the PLANTs. If that happened, there was a good chance the operation would fail, which wasn't acceptable.

There was also a rumor that Federation forces could be around Lagrange 5 unseen. If they were, they could jump in and mess up things and cause the operation to fail. The declaration against ZAFT hadn't gone down well with the Federation according to OMNI intel. When the Federation wasn't pleased with something, their reaction was either to interfere or make problems in future. There had been a contingency planned should the Federation be around Lagrange 5. However, that wasn't foolproof as OMNI top brass would have wanted. Yet, that was the best that could be done with the time there had been to prepare for the operation. There were plans to go against the Federation, but those were for the near future after a critical blow was dealt to ZAFT.

As the OMNI attack force had their engines burn at their full output, the Federation patrol's sensors noticed them approaching. They called for red alert and communicated to ZAFT's National Defense Committee of what was coming. Those on the Defense Committee were quickly able to confirm what the Federation had told them. The OMNI force was as estimates had said they would be according to ZAFT intel. OMNI had around three orbital fleets worth of ships with four or more mobiles per vessel. And as those commanding ZAFT studied the approaching enemy force, the vessels were surging forward. OMNI mobile suits began launching from the ships, most being Windams and some Daggers. The Windams were equipped with either the Doppelhorn or the Aile sets created for them. All the OMNI machines moved forward, shifting into small groups/teams. It was a tactic learned from the Alliance-PLANT War, working in teams was more effective overall.

In response to the appearance of OMNI forces, the Defense Committee gave out orders to the mission commanders over the defending forces. The ZAFT vessels on the front lines spotted the approaching OMNI forces. Deployed mobile suits lifted off from their ships and others moved forward. More ZAFT machines launched out from their assigned ships to join their fellows. ZAFT mobile suit forces were made up of all models they had developed. All ZAFT defense forces moved ahead toward the enemy force to intercept them before they could reach attack range of the homeland. Every ZAFT pilot knew what was the most likely to happen should OMNI get too close. The Alliance hadn't hesitated using nuclear weapons when they had gotten their hands on n-jammer cancellers. It was expected they hadn't changed in that respect, so they would use whatever nuclear weapons they had brought on the PLANTs given the chance.

The Federation also had deployed around half of their mobile suits to the field to assist ZAFT. The Excel fighters and the few ZEL Defenders had their stealth systems on as they headed out. Their other task was to search for anything that seemed off with the OMNI force. The patrol leader had kept some machines back in case things took a turn for the worse. The approaching OMNI force didn't match what had been observed leaving the Alliance's Arzachel base. It was somewhat smaller than it what had set out, not by a great deal but enough to be concerning. Should the OMNI fleet be carrying nuclear ordinances like had been reported by informants, then those missing from that which departed could be the carriers. If the carriers were separate from the main force and hiding, they could wait for an opportunity to attack the colonies. That strategy was the most likely being used for the attack on the PLANTs. ZAFT's defense forces outnumbered OMNI enough brute force wouldn't be able to break through without serious losses in exchange.

With that in mind, the patrol leader ordered all ships to do active sensor sweeps to find the missing OMNI forces. After the third sensor sweep, a small group of signals appeared among nearby debris. The ships seemed to be lurking around the wreckage of Jachin Due which was still a moderate distance from the PLANTs. What was concerning was the conformation that those OMNI signals had n-jammer canceller signatures with them. It would strongly suggest the group was the missing OMNI ships that had been with the fleet which had departed from Arzachel. There were enough ships in the group to have more than enough nuclear weapons to decimate the colonies if employed. And as the battle between OMNI and ZAFT began, it was clear that OMNI's side was quickly trying to pull attention away from the direction the group was in. The patrol leader ordered the remaining machines to head out with the Canceller Disruptor rifles. The Federation machines that had headed out were told to come back to help deal with the OMNI strike force. The Federation force also relayed the information they had found to the National Defense Committee.

The fighting had quickly begun when the two sides met, and the fighting had rapidly gotten ugly for both sides. The OMNI attack force was drawing ZAFT's attention onto them the best they could. ZAFT needed to be distracted for the strike force to have the best chance at a clear path to the colonies. The sacrifices made to achieve the goal of the operation would be honored by future generations. This was for the safety of all Naturals on Earth. Coordinators had to be brought down through either extermination or enslavement. ZAFT and their colonies were the highest concentration of Coordinators so was the first group of targets. The Federation's "member nations" were on the list and would be the next to be dealt with. But ZAFT needed to be handled first so the Alliance didn't fight both the other factions at the same time.

When ZAFT's defending forces were clearly focused on the main OMNI fleet, the strike force leader had his sensor operator check the path immediately ahead of them. It was confirmed that there were only empty ship docks between them and the colonies. There was one dock that appeared to have a Nazca class in it. From what the lead strike force vessel could tell, the Nazca appeared to be in the process of being equipped with something. However, the strike force could easily deal with before it could interfere with the strike force. No sign had been seen of Federation forces being around yet. The opportunity was clear to see and as prime as could be for the strike force make its move. So, the strike force began moved out from among the wreckage of Jachin Due and surge forward with their mirage colloid still active to avoid drawing attention to themselves. ZAFT seemed to be so involved the strike force's movements went unnoticed by them immediately.

Windams equipped with nuclear missile launchers headed out from the strike force's vessels with a clear path ahead of them to the colonies. It was at the edge of ZAFT's detection network for the PLANTs, so the force wasn't noticed right away. However, the Federation patrol had placed itself in the predicted path the strike force had planned to use. Their own mobile suits had launched out to meet the strike force. Several of the Federation machine had disruptor rifles with them to disable the nuclear weapons the enemy force had with them. It was obvious to the Federation patrol leaders that OMNI's smaller force was beyond eager to send the nuclear weapons at the colonies. And beyond eager was putting it mildly, the OMNI pilots were excited to rain death and destruction down on the innocent people that lived on the PLANTs.

Nicol had been contacted by those on the Defense Committee and told him to move those under him to the polar side of the PLANTs. It wasn't that Nicol was unwilling to do as the committee told him to. He just wanted to have a viable reason to do so as OMNI was pushing hard against ZAFT's defending forces. When he questioned what reason the committee had for the change in orders, the answer was troubling. According to the committee, the Federation had informed them a separate OMNI force had broken off of the main enemy force. Said smaller force was approaching the PLANTs from the polar side. And the Federation had confirmed the force had nuclear weapons with them. That was enough for Nicol to order all those under his command to pull back and head for the specified location the committee had given.

OMNI's strike force had a clear view of their target in their sights but were brought to a halt as they were attacked. The appearance of Federation mobile suits didn't bode well for the strike force. However, there were still more of them than the Federation machines, so they could power past them. Yet, then some of ZAFT's defending forces broke off and headed in the strike force's direction, which would complicate things. The ZAFT forces quickly slowed down the strike force even further. All of this was to buy time, and the strike force commander knew that. The longer it took to deploy nuclear weapons against the PLANTs, the more likely it became that ZAFT or the Federation would come up with a way to stop them. What was worse, the Federation had the rifles they used at the end of the Alliance-PLANT War which affected nuclear weapons.

Nicol was relieved to see Federation forces out going against the smaller OMNI group. And some of them had their nuclear-nullifying rifles with them which would slow down the threat of nuclear weapons used against the homeland. While Nicol could understand the reasons the Federation hadn't make blueprints of the rifle public, he kind of wished ZAFT could've gotten them. The reason the Federation didn't give the plans to the other factions was the Alliance would use them to attempt to get around the device. The need of an option to nullify nuclear weapons was needed far more than an argument of ownership. And the Defense Committee's "last resort" option should be ready soon, so buying time was the goal. Thus, Nicol ordered those under his command to do whatever it took to prevent the OMNI force from moving closer to the colonies.

The OMNI strike force leader was not pleased as the Federation used their rifles against those carrying the nuclear missiles. They had more than it should take to destroy the PLANT colonies with the strike force. But the was no reason to waste it while the Federation used their rifles to disable the missiles before they could be fired. So, the leader told the escort to work on destroying the rifles so the nuclear strike could be effectively made. Time was of the essence as ZAFT had already apparently noticed the strike force. More of their defense forces would move to intercept them given time. The main OMNI force would delay them but wouldn't be able to fully stop them. So, the longer the strike took to make, the more likely it would be stopped, and the operation's goal denied the Alliance.

Yzak was complaining as he, Dearka, and others worked on Nicol's orders to stop this separate OMNI force. It was frustrating Yzak that an OMNI force had snuck around the sensor network ZAFT had to see anything that could approach the PLANTs. The nuclear weapon carriers were supposed to be with the OMNI fleet, at their rear. But the cowards had tried to pull a fast one and sneak around ZAFT defenses to use nukes against the PLANTs. The Federation had spotted them and Yzak would begrudgingly admit he was thankful for their warning. If they hadn't said anything, the nukes may have been fired and it be too late to stop them from striking the homeland. Thus, Yzak would admit at this time the Federation's involvement which he'd been against at first had been the right decision.

The slow down of OMNI's strike force did manage to buy the needed time for the Defense Committee to finish their "last resort" option. Some of ZAFT's vessels had managed to move to put themselves between the main OMNI fleet and the PLANTs. Others had moved toward the space docks to help escort the option the committee was preparing. To the Nazca class in a space dock was attached a newly developed device from the design bureau called a Neutron Stampeder. The device was made up of two large anchoring structures that sat on the wings of the ship and also acted as targeting system. The center part was set over the launching catapult with a central rod with its quantum Fresnel lens. Connected to the rod was neutron collection fins, six on both sides of the rod, which collected the energy for the use of the Stampeder. The Stampeder would cause anything with a nuclear signature to explode. However, it wouldn't set off the nuclear charge as it almost instantly disintegrated one of the main parts of the nuclear reaction.

Chairman Durandal and his advisors had suspected the real possibility of the Alliance using nuclear weapons on the PLANTs. Hence the Stampeder had been readied earlier than originally planned just in case nuclear weapons turned out to be involved. And with the information the Federation representatives had provided, it was even more likely to happen. So, there had been a rush put onto equipping the Neutron Stampeder on a Nazca class as soon as possible. Admittedly, it wouldn't be the first time that OMNI under the orders of the Alliance had and would try using nuclear weapons to take out the PLANTs. Unfortunately, it was a reoccurring theme with some who saw nothing wrong with killing so many.

When the stampeder was properly equipped to the Nazca in the space dock, the vessel left the dock. The Nazca swung its bow around to point at the oncoming OMNI forces that had been identified as carriers of nuclear weapons. By that time, OMNI's strike force had managed to destroy the majority of the Federation's rifles. Half of the Windams had gone and resupplied with fresh nuclear missile. The Nazca with the stampeder was ignored as Windams came into range to fire off their nuclear missiles. With most of the Alliance pilots being trigger happy and some of them being members of Blue Cosmos they didn't wait for orders. They fired the nuclear missiles they had and watched as they soared towards the PLANTs believing victory was at last theirs.

Nonetheless, as they fired their nuclear weapons, the Nazca with the stampeder gave a warning to the defending forces. ZAFT and Federation forces zipped out of the way as OMNI pushed forward, sure they were about to achieve victory. However, they had been drawn into the close range of the neutron stampeder. The stampeder's fins lit up, and a ring of light appeared for a moment, then a wave of neutron energy blasted forward. The wave engulfed the missiles and caused them to detonate where they were. The Windams shortly followed the missiles in their destruction as the neutron wave wiped them out. Alliance vessels behind them suffered the same fate as their nuclear loads were set off by the neutron wave. The sight of the nuclear missiles being destroyed was a somewhat comforting one to the military leaders of ZAFT and those on the Supreme Council. It had been a close call and would have likely been closer still if not for the warning and information from the Federation's military.

At seeing the nuclear strike fail the main OMNI fleet's leaders ordered a retreat. The operation had failed to achieve the goal it was to. There were contingencies that would be fallen to going forward to keep working toward the advancement of Naturals. The losses they suffered had been within estimates but still a notable loss. OMNI officers and soldiers vowed that they wouldn't be caught off-guard next time they went for the PLANTs. The other lesson which was taken away from this attempt was the real danger posed by an alliance between ZAFT and the Federation's military. The potential of such an alliance could not just threaten the Earth Alliance, it could overwhelm them given the opportunity. The Alliance had done too much preparation to forward their agenda to become the dominant faction that run things for the human race to give up so quickly.

ZAFT forces did mop up after OMNI retreated from Lagrange 5 with assistance from the Federation. The citizens of the PLANTs managed to calm down from the panic they had felt at seeing the explosions near the colonies. There had been a general announcement that there was an OMNI force approaching. However, ZAFT defending forces had been positioned to intercept and block any direct assault on the homeland. And yet, when Chairman Durandal told them the explosions had been nuclear weapons being stopped, there was an outcry. Few were happy in any way nuclear weapons had been sent at the PLANTs. The sight had brought back very painful and negative memories to many, like Junius Seven and what the Alliance-PLANT war had done though it had ended years ago. The Junius Seven Recovery Project had done much to help many move forward from the Bloody Valentine. With the raw anger felt, some even demanded that ZAFT respond in kind to the "Natural types" and shoot nuclear missiles at them.

Chairman Durandal heard the outcries, mostly from his staff and agents that reported directly to him. He knew that responding in kind to the Alliance's attempts would not solve anything. Using nuclear weapons against the Alliance would more bolster their cause against "evil" Coordinators. Also, it would likely cause problems between ZAFT and the Federation which was to be avoided. Where the Earth Alliance was composed of mostly Natural-types, there was also a portion of the Human Federation that was made up of them as well. The Federation wasn't an official ally, but they had helped ZAFT more than anything they had done for the Alliance in the last two years. The Federation helping out in this situation was a good example of what cooperation could do. However, Gilbert couldn't deny the Federation was a very powerful faction, arguably the strongest of the three factions of Humanity. Gilbert would prefer to have the Federation's potential assistance with things for as long as possible. Making them enemies right now would be a serious mistake which the Alliance seemed to be in the process of making. Thus, de-escalation was the best course of action in Gilbert's mind as the citizen wanted something to be done.

Gilbert had a plan in mind which he had been working on for months now. He had studied what had been done in the past to calm the general public around the PLANTs. There were people that were figures the PLANTs' citizens trusted completely. Whatever they said was taken at face value, which said people had earned the reputation of being so. Siegel Clyne was a prime example of the idea. The man had been the most trusted Supreme Council Chairman to date, regardless of what was said of him during the Alliance-PLANT War. Siegel Clyne had been suggested to take back his old position as Chairman by several on the Council. Yet the man had politely declined the offer of the position, saying he planned to retire and do "other" things. His youngest daughter was yet another example being a beloved music idol around the PLANTs. However, Lacus Clyne was different from her father as she had fought in the war even when she had no apparent training beforehand. She was a kind of hero for most citizens around the PLANTs, whether the girl knew it or not. And the girl had a real way with words, even Gilbert had to admit that with the speeches he'd seen her give.

Gilbert had attempted to locate any of the Clyne family, but there had been no hint for any of the three. Yes, even the Black Zephyr had disappeared after her "retirement" from ZAFT. There had been no information as to where she went or what she did, though there had been some rumored sightings of the woman. Former Chairman Clyne had vanished without a trace as far as the information ZAFT intel could come up with. The only thing that Gilbert could think of when it came to Siegel Clyne was some within the Federation had helped the man go "off the gird" as the old phrase went. Lacus had been much along the same lines as her father unfortunately, disappeared without a hint as to where the girl went. Gilbert had done what he could to find the girl so he could ask for her help, but she had covered her tracks extremely well.

The absence of the Clynes had given birth to the contingency Gilbert had been forced to create. That plan involved creating a "stand-in" for one of the Clynes which Lacus was the best candidate for. It had taken some time during the two years since the Alliance-PLANT War, but Gilbert had found an individual that would work for his plan. The girl, Meer Campbell sounded enough like Lacus Clyne she could pass for her once alterations were done. She was also obedient enough she would play the part she would be needed for without much issue. And when Gilbert had called upon Meer, she had performed beautifully as he had hoped. The girl would help a great deal with the future plans that Gilbert had in mind. And the girl seemed all too willing to help in bringing a better world, so Gilbert wouldn't be against letting her perform and help in the plans being made.

Meanwhile, Athrun had escaped from the girl that said she was Lacus and returned to the apartment he had been given to wait. There had never been anything said about how long the postponement of his meeting with the Chairman would be. The liaison did come back around and ask Athrun if he needed anything while he waited. Athrun did request the ability to travel around the colony as there were places, he could go to pass the time. He was told the request could be granted, but he would need an escort while he was out of the apartment. While Athrun could understand the need of an "escort" or rather some watching over him, it still wasn't nice. Athrun may not have stayed with ZAFT when given the option, but he didn't feel that should mean he be seen as a stranger. His record hadn't been erased, protocol would have had it saved for several years before considerations were done as to what to do with them. And if he had to have an escort, it would be nice to have some say in who it would include. Granted, Athrun doubted he would be able to request Nicol, Dearka, or Miguel, but they would be good company. Even Yzak would be preferred to someone that Athrun had never met as Yzak would understand Athrun's position and wish.

Athrun waited for the time his escort was said to be due to arrive. He wasn't idle while he waited, watching the news and accessing what info he could. Athrun learned that the PLANTs had been under serious threat of attack from OMNI while he'd been on Aprilius One. The attack had been thwarted by ZAFT defending forces and Federation forces that had been onsite. That Federation forces had been around suggested there had been their representatives at the PLANTs, likely meeting with the Supreme Council. So, it was understandable that security would be on high alert after an attempt to attack the PLANTs. Thus, being assigned an escort wasn't much of a surprise to Athrun.

At the same time, Yzak had been ticked off when he had been called back in after the battle had ended. There had still been clean up and shoring up defenses before OMNI could make another attempt against the homeland. That heavy irritation had become anger when he found Dearka and Nicol had also been pulled in after the battle. That anger had increased when Yzak and the other two had been told by the National Defense Committee representative had told them they were pulled for "escort" duty. So, when the three of them began traveling toward the place the one they were to escort, Yzak had been fuming. Nicol saying the one they would be escorting would be none other than Athrun, Yzak just about blew his top. Athrun had chosen discharge when given the option to stay in ZAFT at the end of the war. He hadn't been around the homeland since then in the two years that had passed. So, the guy had a lot of nerve coming back now without saying a single thing to any that knew him. Thus, Yzak was in a bad mood when his group had arrived at the apartment Athrun was supposed to be in.

Back with Athrun, he heard a knock at the door and Athrun assumed it meant his "escort" had arrived to take him where he wanted to go. Yet, when Athrun had opened the door, he had little time to take in anything on the other side. A pair of hands shot forward and grabbed Athrun's shirt collar and pushed him back almost two feet. At hearing a growl, Athrun glanced down and was somewhat shocked to find the one holding him was none other than his former teammate Yzak. Athrun was trying to process that Yzak was here when he was supposed to be meeting his escort. The chances of his escort included some he might know were slim. However, the angry expression on Yzak's face was somewhat familiar, though it was stronger than usual. "You idiot," Yzak snarled angrily, "What the hell is going on here!" Athrun didn't have any words he could reply with as Yzak shook his collar. "You suddenly show up after being gone for two years and say nothing to any of us! We get pulled from duty to babysit you, so what the hell are you thinking?!"

Nicol and Dearka just watched the scene playing out in front of them. Yzak always seemed to have a chip on his shoulder, it was an ongoing issue with him. Dearka had said to Nicol that he felt it was Yzak's constant anger issues that had held him back from being a mission commander as quick as Nicol had been. Nicol hadn't disagreed with Dearka's assessment with Yzak. His attitude made it hard to work with him as an officer just as it had being his teammate. One either had issues with it or found ways to deal with it by ignoring the point with Yzak. And with the mood he'd been clearly been in during the journey here, the outburst was expected. the outburst was an example of how Yzak dealt with stress and the homeland being under attack would definitely cause stress.

After a moment, Dearka moved forward shaking his head at Yzak's action as it wasn't helping the unexpected situation. He then began working on separating Yzak from Athrun. It took a few minutes for Dearka to "pull" Yzak away from Athrun. Once the two had been separated, Dearka got down to telling Yzak how his actions weren't help. Of course, Dearka knew berating Yzak was close to pointless as he wouldn't listen to any suggestion of changing his behavior when it came to his anger issues. Nicol moved forward to Athrun's side and put a hand on his shoulder, "You doing okay, Athrun," he asked. "Yzak wasn't thinking as he seems to have an ongoing issue with still as you can probably guess already."

Athrun glanced to his left and saw that Nicol was beside him. Athrun shifted his gaze over to where Yzak was and saw Dearka there. Essentially, those that had been his teammates during the war were here. It had been an unsaid wish of his to have familiar company, and yet, that's what he apparently being given. How this situation had come to be, Athrun couldn't say. He felt there had to have been some strings pulled for it to occur. Yzak's outburst implied his three comrades had been pulled from active duty. Only some on the National Defense Committee and a select few on the Supreme Council. And Athrun couldn't think of a viable reason for any that could pull the strings would do so. There was the possibility the Chairman had arranged this, but it didn't make sense for Chairman Durandal to do such. "Yeah," Athrun replied, "I'm alright. I think I heard Yzak say something about being pulled from duty. What was he talking about?"

Nicol chuckled a bit at the question. He knew Athrun would pick up on that point from Yzak's tirade. The orders from the National Defense Committee had been unexpected, more so when Nicol had been told they came from the Chairman himself. Yzak hadn't given his opinion vocally to the one deliver the orders to them. Nor did he say anything about the Council being the ones to give the orders to hand down to them. After the orders had been handed to them, Yzak had snarled and grumbled about how they should be out making sure that the Alliance doesn't try using nukes against the PLANTs again instead of being on escort duty. Dearka had kept telling Yzak that others would be doing that task and they could trust them with the work. Nicol knew Yzak wouldn't fully accept that even when he would be forced to in the end. Nicol felt the Chairman had arranged this to potentially convince Athrun to rejoin ZAFT.

It wouldn't be a simple task, and it wasn't the convincing part of the point to have Athrun come back to ZAFT. The discharge on his record would be difficult to be reversed by any in ZAFT. It would take a officers' council to reverse the idea or action from the Supreme Council. Recommendations could help get an officers' council to be convened, but not how they would vote. And with Nicol having been Athrun's comrade, he would be disqualified to be on that council. However, if the Chairman had arranged this, then it was likely the man would also get the discharge on Athrun's record to be removed. "We were with the defending force when the Alliance made their attempt to use nuclear weapons against the homeland," Nicol stated. "We were among those that dealt with the nuclear carrying OMNI forces. While they were stopped, we were cleaning up things when called back for this escort duty."

Nicol glanced over where Yzak was still venting, "And as you may have seen, Yzak didn't take the recall well and has been grumbling about since in his own way." Athrun could see Yzak had been in a bad mood, more so than he usually was most of the time. That Yzak and the others had been pulled from duty would set off Yzak, Athrun was sure of that. But his three comrades being his escort still didn't make logical sense to him with the facts as he knew them. "I can understand his frustrations," Athrun remarked. "But why are you three the ones assigned to be an escort for me?" Nicol shrugged as he may be able to make guesses as to the reasons, but he had no evidence to confirm his assumptions. "I can't say for sure with the escort duty," Nicol returned. "All we were told by the National Defense Committee representatives was we would be accompanying a potentially important guest."

Athrun was surer that someone had arranged for his three former comrades to be his escort now than he was before. It made logical sense for someone to have done this in order to "encourage" him to come back to ZAFT. With his skills as a Gundam pilot, Athrun knew there would be those that would do a lot to get him back to ZAFT. He hadn't come to the homeland to be used again as he had during the first part of the Alliance-PLANT War he had fought in. That path led to misery and horror that Athrun didn't want to see again in his life. "I didn't make any special request," Athrun remarked, but was cut off by Yzak. "Then tell us why the hell we were pulled from active duty to be your escort, Athrun! The three of us were busy with cleaning up from the Alliance trying to nuke the PLANTs before this. Then we are pulled for a "special" assignment which turns out to be damn escort duty!"

Nicol and Dearka knew Yzak's anger wasn't helping, though it rarely did. So, Dearka began working on calming Yzak down, even when it was almost never an easy task for any to do, even friends. "Come on, Yzak," Dearka began, "I know Nicol and I said you need to vent your anger regularly, but taking it out on others isn't what we meant." Yzak wasn't feeling inclined to listen to Dearka about "handling" his so-called anger issues. He didn't need anger management as others claimed he did. Yzak just was one of those few that took things seriously and was frustrated that others didn't. Athrun still had questions to answer and Yzak would make sure he gave proper answers to said questions. "Shut up and let go of me, Dearka," Yzak growled. "No one else has said whose bright idea it was to pull us from active duty and put on damn escort duty. So, since we are being ordered to be Athrun's baby sitters, he will give us answers to why we are in this position."

While Yzak's angry outbursts were "normal" for him as long as Athrun had known him, this was barely under control when it normally wasn't. Not that Athrun couldn't understand the potential frustration his former comrades could be having with an escort assignment. Escort assignments were normally boring and tedious most of the time. It was why unofficially they were seen as a form of punishment if it wasn't said otherwise with ZAFT. So, for three arguably prominent soldiers to be assigned to duty didn't make sense to Athrun. Granted, they knew one another, but that made it more unlikely for them to be assigned as Athrun's escort. For professional decorum, escorts rarely involved those that the "escorted" knew personally.

That Athrun should need an escort would be questionable if not for him having spent around two years in Federation territory. Because of the time he'd spent in non-ZAFT territory would have Athrun's potential loyalty brought into question. It was ZAFT policy for any that who wasn't on active duty for an extended period or discharged to be looked at with some reservations. It was more so when said individual spent time consistently outside of ZAFT territory. Thus, the "escort" or rather security was expected. And when "security" was mentioned, it wasn't for the individual really, it was for the citizens of the PLANTs. However, that made having three of his former comrades doing the job all the more odd. Their relationship could compromise Nicol, Dearka, and Yzak doing the expected duty they were assigned. So, Athrun was confused why they had been chosen to accompany him as he went around Aprilius One while waiting for his meeting with the Chairman. Athrun's head fell slightly, "I'm sorry," he said simply, "I didn't mean for you to be pulled off active duty."

There was a moment of silence among the group which with Yzak was a rare thing to happen. Yzak was for one of those odd times, taken aback at the reply he'd gotten to his demand for an answer. It was obvious that Athrun hadn't asked for them specifically to be his escort. Heck, Athrun probably didn't ask for an escort at all, just to go do something while he was waiting for whatever he was. Yzak knew he shouldn't snap at his former comrade, but recent events had stressed him more than normal. Thus, Yzak took a moment to calm down before he broke the silence, "Yeah, doubt you asked for the point," he replied. "I'm just angry the Alliance even tried to send nukes at the PLANTs and its fresh right now."

Nicol and Dearka blinked at Yzak having calmed down since he didn't do that all that often. It showed that Yzak did care in his own way about Athrun. Dearka was the next to speak, "I bet you asked to go outside, didn't you?" Dearka could only think that Athrun had requested to go somewhere beyond the area he was already allowed to go. And since Athrun had been away for close to two years, he would be seen as close to a stranger to the homeland. Unfortunately, it was the policy of ZAFT that a soldier who was discharged or had been in non-allied territory not on assignment for an extended period were not to be trusted. There were some exceptions but those were specifically defined and normally not public. "So, then where did you want to go that others said you couldn't without supervision?"

Nicol figured that Dearka was right about Athrun wanting to go somewhere those on council committees didn't want him to go. At least, they would want supervision around places they wouldn't already have means to watch. There wasn't a great deal of places which wouldn't have some sort of cameras or other means to watch what was going on. And with Athrun having been away from the homeland for close to two years, he wouldn't be trusted by default. Nicol gained a half smile, "Although you're from a nation of the friendly faction, you've been gone for long enough ZAFT won't trust you. Then with recent events of the PLANTs being under threat, having you wander around by yourself would be an unwise idea," he stated. "Thus, it makes sense that you be assigned an escort should you insist on going somewhere outside the set guest area. But why we were picked, I can only guess which I can't confirm with any evidence right now."

Athrun knew what was being said was correct. He hadn't forgotten ZAFT protocol and policy even with the time he'd been away. The area he was "supposed to" stay in may not have been defined to him directly. But he felt the apartment and the immediate area around it was the most likely area set for him to be in without "supervision." And he didn't doubt he was still watched by security though it wasn't stated specifically to him. What had been a tad surprising was Yzak being somewhat calm, for that wasn't normal for him. It showed Yzak did care about Athrun even if he didn't show it in a normal way. "Yes," Athrun commented, "Something was mentioned about me not wandering around without someone with me. However, I wouldn't have imagined you guys would be tapped for the job, nor did I ask for such a thing. I wouldn't doubt you three keep busy with your duties and I didn't want to bother you while you were doing them."

Yzak knew Athrun wasn't one to wish to bother others for something he wanted to do. He was the type who was thoughtful and didn't pester people if he could help it. And if Yzak were honest, he'd missed Athrun's calm and cool deminer even when it frustrated him though he wouldn't admit the point. Nicol's logic was great in combat situations, but he didn't have the same kind of deminer as Athrun did. Athrun wouldn't ask for them specifically, even if he wanted their company, he wouldn't want to bother them. "None of us are blaming you for this assignment," Yzak said. "It's just escort duty isn't the best assignment to get."

Nicol was aware Yzak was trying to smooth things over after his snapping, and he applauded that. "What you mean to say Yzak," Nicol began, "Is escort jobs are normally seen as punishment for soldiers in ZAFT. Unofficially, that is what the job tends to be used for, so I can't say you're exactly wrong about the point." Nicol paused for a moment, "My best guess is someone on the council planned for the four of us to come together. For what reason exactly, I can't say for sure yet. However, I don't see a reason to reject a chance to reconnect with you Athrun." Dearka chuckled a bit at Nicol's logic as it was as hard to argue with as ever. "So then," Dearka started, "Where is it that you wanted to go that requires an escort?"

Athrun had hoped to be able to visit the cemetery on Aprilius One while he was around. It was where some of those he'd worked with during the Alliance-PLANT War had markers to remember their deaths. Athrun hadn't visited Rusty's or the others' graves for a while and he felt bad about that. They had been comrades and there should be enough respect to visit their graves on occasion. "Well," Athrun began, "I had asked if I could go to the ZAFT cemetery while I was waiting to meet with others." Athrun stopped and looked at the floor, "I haven't visited Rusty or the others' graves since leaving the PLANTs. I feel horrible about not coming to pay my respects to them. I guess, I wish they were still around but didn't want to have to acknowledge their absence by visiting their graves."

Nicol smiled as that point helped explain some of the mystery, he'd been missing with them being assigned to Athrun as an escort. Someone wanted old comrades to be with Athrun for the visit to the cemetery. However, it was also likely some hoped they could convince Athrun to return to ZAFT. His record would be a hard thing to change with the discharge and fighting against ZAFT which was on it. The three of them could make recommendations which could help Athrun's case, but they would have no say in how it would go. "We would be happy to accompany you to visit them, Athrun," Nicol said. "I think that would be nice for the four of us to go and pay respects to our fallen comrades." With Nicol's remark the four headed out from the apartment Athrun had been assigned while at Aprilius One.

Once they arrived at the cemetery, they went over to the area where the graves they were visiting were. They all knew exactly where they were, they had made it a point to know as they had worked with them during the war. Athrun couldn't help the thoughts coming to his mind about his fallen comrades. Rusty had died covering Athrun to reach the Aegis back on Heliopolis. Athrun had wondered as he had several times, whether Rusty had just been unlucky back at the time. It could've just as easily been Athrun in Rusty's position covering him while he went for the Strike. Then the others with Miguel had gone out and died after Athrun had tried to warn them about the enemy machines. He couldn't help but think if there could've been a way for him to say the warning better to save them back then.

Athrun knew the most of these thoughts were from "survivor's guilt." He wasn't at fault for their deaths, it had been others killing them. However, it didn't change the fact that Athrun felt partly responsible for what happened to them. He couldn't stop them coming to his mind sometimes, especially now he was standing before their graves. And now, things were moving that would likely result in more graves being made. The Alliance wanted conflict, which would led to war if it went unchanged. It was that point which frustrated Athrun and had motivated him to come back to the homeland. Athrun saluted the graves, "Sorry I haven't visited for a while guys," Athrun said. "I really wish you were all here with us." The other three saluted the graves of their comrades as Athrun was doing.

Athrun's thoughts turned from those who had died to what was potentially ahead of Humanity. The Alliance had made the first move toward another war, meaning it was now up to the responses of the other two factions. The Federation was already preparing for OMNI bring the fight to them. By what Cagalli had been implying from what she said, the Federation was taking a defensive stance. It was an expectation for them, but should the Alliance go too far, they would pay a price. And with how things went during the Alliance-PLANT War, it wouldn't be long before the Alliance would face the consequences. However, he couldn't say what ZAFT's response would be to the Alliance's behavior. They had attacked the PLANTs which was bad enough even if it wasn't exactly that surprising. What had made it worse was OMNI had attempted to use nuclear weapons in the attack. The failure was great, but it had still stoked the fears of another event like Bloody Valentine. "Hey," Athrun began, "Do any of you know what ZAFT's response will be to the Alliance's behavior?"

Nicol thought about the question Athrun had asked as the answer was complicated. As far as he knew, the National Defense Committee was not exactly scrambling, but were close to doing so. The recent attack on the homeland hadn't gone over well with the general public from what Nicol had heard. Not that Nicol would blame the PLANTs' citizens for panicking and then wanting something done in response to the attempted nuclear attack. ZAFT had been deployed in a defensive stance around Lagrange 5. On Earth, it was Nicol's understanding ZAFT bases were on high alert. Borders of ZAFT territory were being locked down and secured from Alliance forces who might try to push past them. The signs were popping up war was coming and would begin soon. "Thus far, ZAFT forces are being deployed for self-defense and not for retaliation," Nicol stated. "However, I can't say how long that will last with how the Alliance is behaving as of late."

For ZAFT to be deploying in a defensive manner was the best outcome for the moment possible. However, Athrun knew as Nicol had said, that may not last for all that long before things descended into something far worse. If the Alliance was more proactive than they were during the Alliance-PLANT War, then it wouldn't take long for war to come on. And humanity hadn't fully recovered from the last war that had come. Yet, it was looking like it may be pushed into another which would probably be similar to the Alliance-PLANT War. "Deployed for self-defensive purposes only," Athrun questioned to clarify. "Meaning, ZAFT's taking action, but not striking back against the Alliance?"

It shouldn't be a surprise to Athrun the response of ZAFT was to be defensive. "Are you surprised," Yzak inquired. "We can't just sit back and do nothing after the Alliance fired nukes at the homeland." Dearka nodded, "The three of us were out there when OMNI was spotted approaching. Yzak and I were flying interception at the front, while Nicol was helping hold the defense lines behind us. We were doing fine before it was said a smaller OMNI group had broken off and was heading for the PLANTs from a different direction."

Nicol considered what could've happened should the Federation not been there, or the Neutron Stampeder not gotten into position in time. The stampeder may have ended the immediate threat of nuclear weapons aimed at the colonies, but that was all. It had been the Federation which had kept OMNI at bay for long enough to have the stampeder moved into place. "While the neutron stampeder ended the issue, it may not have been able to if the Federation hadn't been keeping OMNI from using their nuclear weapons. Their rifles kept OMNI from launching any nuclear attacks against the PLANTs while the stampeder got into position." Nicol shrugged, "Things could certainly been much worse if not for the stampeder and the Federation's intervention."

Yzak wouldn't deny that the Federation's intervention had been helpful in the defense of the PLANTs. It hadn't been their fight and yet they had stepped up and helped ZAFT in their defense of the homeland. Yzak may not state out loud he was grateful for the Federation helping out, but that was besides the point. With Athrun there, he might know something of the Federation's response to the Alliance's behavior. He had spent close to two years around the Federation, so he could know something about how the Federation would do things. "While that is true Nicol," Yzak admitted before he turned and faced Athrun, "What about you? What have you been doing while away from the homeland? Why have you come back? And what about Orb and the other Federation member nations, what are their plans?"

Athrun considered what Yzak was asking him. Truthfully, he'd been on bodyguard duty for a little over a year with Cagalli. The time before that, he'd been traveling, looking for answers to questions he had, but hadn't found much. However, Athrun had picked up some things about the Federation while being Cagalli's bodyguard. The Federation wasn't as "mysterious" as many considered them to be. Through observation, Athrun had seen the Federation had policy and protocol which they followed. He may not know most of what made those policies and protocols, but there was a clear logic to the process. One thing had become clear to Athrun during his time around the Federation. The Federation's main goal was to protect their citizens, principles, and lands against any that would threaten them. Methodology of how that was done could vary depending on what threat was being faced. But the goal didn't change with the Federation, protection of their citizens and their principles.

With that in mind, Athrun was sure the Federation was watching the Alliance carefully. They still had the advantage of their information network which helped them know what was going on within the Alliance. Tyler would likely know more about what the Federation was doing to prepare. But Athrun couldn't say if Tyler could tell him what the Federation was doing in detail. And ZAFT would have to mount their own response to the Alliance's behavior regardless of what the Federation did. "I can't say for certain yet," Athrun replied. "However, I assume they are preparing their own response to potential Alliance actions. With the colony drop, it has driven things to an ignition point unfortunately. That has made things rather chaotic which has consequences which are being dealt with. However, I don't think the Federation would do anything horrible to the PLANTs with how things are right now."

While the response Athrun described was expected from the Federation, that wasn't the whole question Yzak had posed. Athrun being back around the homeland reminded them how much his presence had been missed. ZAFT would benefit from him coming back, there was no question in the minds of his former comrades. ZAFT needed those like Athrun, more so now than ever, that was clear to all three. There was a bit of an uncomfortable silence between the four of them for a moment, "Come back to us, Athrun," Yzak said. "The homeland really needs those like you." Athrun spun around and stared at Yzak for a long moment. The response was so out of character for Yzak. An invitation was more expected from Nicol or even Dearka before Yzak would extend it. And though Athrun was thinking of reenlisting, the chances of him getting back into ZAFT were slim to none. Chairman Durandal was one of the few who could wipe his record and make the path simpler. It was the reason Athrun had asked for a meeting with the man specifically. But for comrades to ask him to come back, it gave a new weight to the idea.

Nicol was for one of those times rare as they were, in agreement with Yzak. ZAFT really needed those like Athrun who could see what needed to be done and then would move forward to achieve the goal. ZAFT still had its remaining champions, but it had lost four of the originals to the Federation as far as Nicol knew. The Comet, Roc, Mocking Jay, and likely the Black Zephyr worked for the Federation now. ZAFT higher ups may not want to admit the point, but it made the most logical sense. Yet, the champions were fewer than soldiers, ZAFT needed more soldiers that could perform well and get tasks done proficiently. So, Nicol cleared his throat drawing attention to himself, "Odd as it may be since we disagree often enough," he began. "I would echo Yzak's request and sediments. ZAFT needs pilots like you Athrun, the Champions are good and everything, but they're individuals, we need more who are willing to do what it takes."

Dearka was kind of surprised the three of them were in agreement as it didn't happen often. Normally, Yzak would butt heads with Nicol and Nicol would logically explain things much to Yzak's frustration. Dearka usually stayed out of the arguments that Yzak had with Nicol, it was better he not step into those waters. But when it came to Athrun, it seemed they could agree on something. "Then we can agree on something," Dearka stated. "Granted, there will likely be some obstacles for you to come back with your record. And I don't know what any of the three of us can do to help smooth things over and help it along, but we'll do what we can. You have the skills, why not put them to use again?" Yzak took up the narrative from there, "But we'll take care of whatever needs to be, Athrun. So, you can come back to the PLANTs you know, it still is home."

Athrun was left to consider what his three comrades had said. Such wouldn't leave his thoughts even when he returned to the apartment he was using. The next morning, the liaison from before stopped by and told Athrun the Chairman had some time to talk to him in the afternoon. Athrun accepted the offer and the liaison said they would come by and pick him up before the appointed time. Athrun could only wonder if he was allowed back into ZAFT, what would he do. It wasn't like he could pick and choose what assignment he wanted. That privilege was reserved for those like the Champions and some in FAITH. Athrun hadn't been a soldier for almost two years, and he was forced to realize just how much freedom to choose he'd been unknowingly enjoying. As the afternoon came, the liaison came and escorted Athrun to the council administration building.

At the same time, Chairman Durandal was finishing up the paperwork he had before the meeting he was going to be participating in. It had been a nice surprise for Representative Athha's bodyguard "Mr. Dino" to request a meeting with him. It gave a potential opportunity for ZAFT to gain a seasoned and skilled soldier and pilot. Gilbert was sure the young man was Athrun Zala. He didn't blame the young man for using an alias with the fame he had both good and bad. Athrun's record was that of a war hero, which had bowed out from grace after the fighting had died down. He had gone off the grid shortly after the war had ended and so had been difficult to find. Athrun's record was good for what he did during the war. However, his acceptance of a discharge when the war was over was a black mark on it. Gilbert didn't fault the young man for the choice he made to take a discharge and not stay in ZAFT. War did things to those that got caught up in it, history made that fact clear.

Looking at what Athrun had gone through during the Alliance-PLANT War, Gilbert couldn't help but regret the young were called upon to fight. They shouldn't have to take up the fight of hate that kept coming up with the human race. In Athrun's case, according to his record, he'd been with Le Creuset's team. Gilbert knew personally Rau could be difficult to get along with, his personality could rub some the wrong way. From what Gilbert had read, Athrun had been forced to face others he knew on the battlefield. That was wrong and shouldn't be expected of any, yet, ZAFT had told him to do just that. It hadn't been until after Athrun had taken the X09A Justice to search for the X10A Freedom such a standing had changed.

Athrun had stood up against those who were demanding the war so they could use it for their own ambitions. Minister Blass had put the idea in her now famous speech quite well. Humankind's true enemy used conflict and war for their selfish vendettas. The woman was quite the leader, Gilbert had to admit that of Ellen Blass. What was harsher for Athrun was his father who had been the Chairman at the time was one of humankind's true enemy per Minister Blass's definition. Gilbert was of the opinion that no child should be expected or told to fight against one of their parents. And yet, the war had forced Athrun to do just that, which Gilbert could only feel pity for. Athrun's fight in the war against Chairman Zala's ZAFT was what made his record one of a war hero. Gilbert could only shake his head at what the Alliance-PLANT War had brought to the human race as a whole and to individuals.

Zala wasn't the only one to leave ZAFT after the war, which Gilbert had wished hadn't. Admiral Lanus Treize was another Gilbert was saddened had left. The man had made ZAFT into an organization the Alliance had to take seriously during the war. Treize had protected the PLANTs better than most ever could. So, when Treize had said he wanted to retire, there wasn't much that could be said to argue the point. Even Gilbert had to admit the man had done incredible service to ZAFT and the PLANTs, so he deserved to retire when he chose. Before the man had left though, he had met with Gilbert. The meeting had been one Gilbert wouldn't forget as long as he lived. Gilbert thanked the man for his service of course, there was no reason to not do so. However, Treize had told him more about Chairman Zala as rumors had been going around about the former Chairman. What Gilbert had learned was eye-opening as the individual Treize had described had been completely different than Chairman Zala.

The Patrick Zala that Gilbert had become familiar with was the one media pictured, the leader of the PLANTs. The things Gilbert had heard from those he knew that worked for some under Zala hadn't painted any better picture. No, it told of a ruthless man that was fanatically focused on Natural extermination. The picture Gilbert had of Chairman Zala had been a horrible one, which was why he had no issue with the man being killed during the Second Battle of Jachin Due. The individual that Treize described had been so different, Gilbert had wondered how they could be the same person. The man Treize told Gilbert about was a visionary. One that truly believed humanity could come together and live in peace. Gilbert could only wonder if ZAFT could have the leadership of Clyne, Treize, and Zala, where it would be now and where it would be going by this point. The three would've been the best leaders the PLANTs and ZAFT could ever ask for. Clyne would lead the Supreme Council. Zala would be the smooth go-between for the Council and ZAFT through the National Defense Committee. And Treize would lead ZAFT to be the best it could be. Those three would've made a trio the Alliance would've feared and respected. Nevertheless, that was not to be as Zala had lost his way and become the monster Chairman Zala had been.

While it had been necessary for Chairman Zala to be put down for the war to end with peace talks, it could've been done better. It shouldn't have come down to his own son shooting him to end the nightmare. Records didn't state that Athrun had done the kill shot, but it was either him or another which records didn't identify. Regardless of who did the job, Athrun shouldn't have even been put in the position that he had to potentially shot his father. It had been his "defection" and "disregard for orders" which had made his discharge a dishonorable one. Gilbert suspected some may have made the punishment harsher than needed, but he had no solid proof of that.

However, Gilbert needed some that could play the part of a hero in the conflict that was looming ahead. Heroes inspired hope and faith in the masses and that would be needed Gilbert felt sooner than any wanted to admit. And who better to fill that role than a real war hero from the Alliance-PLANT War no matter what his official record said. It had been for that goal that Gilbert had pulled some of bad marks on Zala's record and wiped them over time quietly. Then Gilbert had put him with his former comrades in the hopes they could push Athrun close to being willing to join ZAFT. Gilbert didn't want to feel like he was trying to force Athrun to be a hero. It was better for that to happen naturally, more would believe and follow were it natural. Gilbert was brought out of his thoughts when a knock came at the office door. He told whoever was on the other side to enter before the doors slid opened. Into the room came the aid Gilbert had assigned to keep an eye on Zala along with Athrun himself.

Athrun entered the office of the Supreme Council Chairman and was hit with an odd feeling. The last time he had been in this room, he'd come to confront the monster who wore his father's face and used his voice. This was the room he'd been shot by the monster when he refused to provide demanded information. This was the room that Athrun had realized his father as he'd known was gone and the monster was all that was left. It had been here that the resolution which had carried him through the Alliance-PLANT War had been solidified to be unbreakable. There were so many feelings going through his mind upon entering this room, few of them good ones. However, the "darkness" which had been here the last time Athrun had been in the room was gone.

Gilbert could see the signs of Athrun being uncomfortable as he glanced around the room. It was no surprise, the boy had been shot and all but branded a traitor of the PLANTs and ZAFT by Chairman Zala. So much had changed for Athrun in this room but coming back to it had to bring up bad memories. ZAFT had done a one-eighty from where it had been during the latter part of the Alliance-PLANT War. "Mr. Dino," Gilbert greeted, "Welcome. I do apologize for the delay with our meeting from the original arrangement. However, with recent events, I've been kept extremely busy with council business. You've likely heard rumors at the very least about the Alliance's attempt to strike the PLANTs." Athrun nodded in response to the assumption the Chairman was asserting. Gilbert continued, "The results from that have kept myself and others busy putting out fires as you might guess. And it was best that said fires were handled as quickly as possible before they grew into something more problematic."

Athrun understood what the Chairman meant by "fires" which he and others were handling. The general citizens reactions to nuclear strikes against the PLANTs were expected to be a mixture of fear and anger. The fear was manageable by the Council leaders and their staff. It was the anger which could become something far more dangerous. Anger had likely been the beginning of what motivated those who initiated the ruins of Junius Seven dropping on Earth. Anger was the first step toward the revenge cycle. That cycle had been one of the things which had fueled the Alliance-PLANT War. It had been one of the main factors along side with the hate others stoked. Thus, Chairman Durandal prioritizing putting down the anger which could lead to something worse should be handled before other things. "I understand you've been busy with recent events," Athrun remarked. "You have to think of the PLANTs' citizens first before others." Athrun saw the Chairman waved for the others to leave the room, which would leave just Athrun and the Chairman. The memory of meeting with the monster was coming back to Athrun's mind as they had done much the same before things had plummeted in a downward spiral.

Gilbert noticed Athrun's reaction to others leaving the room. He merely wanted to have a private talk with Athrun, nothing more than that. However, Gilbert then remembered the last time Athrun was here things hadn't gone nicely for him. He'd been alone with Chairman Zala and had ended out being shot. Athrun would've been branded a traitor if not escaping from Section 2 and those with them back at the time. "Having bad memories coming back to you being in this room I would assume," Gilbert commented sadly. "I can only imagine what could be running through your mind right now." Gilbert paused for a moment, "Fighting against the previous Chairman couldn't been easy, but the right choice seemed to rarely be the easy path. I applaud what you did during the war. Humanity cannot have enough of those who will stand up for the good they believe."

Gilbert rose from his chair and came from behind his desk. He approached Athrun with a sympathetic expression on his face. Gilbert placed a hand on Athrun's shoulder, "The actions of your father are not your fault, Athrun," he insisted. "It should never be the responsibility of a child to carry the burden of their parent's actions. It wouldn't be fair for the child to be punished for something they didn't do themselves." Athrun knew what the Chairman was saying was the truth. Tyler and Kira had been telling him the same basic thing since the war's end. Plus, those who had known his father, had told him to remember the good before the bad that Patrick Zala had brought about. "I should've known having you back here would be uncomfortable. This meeting should've been arranged to take place elsewhere, and I apologize for not considering that."

Gilbert turned away and looked at the large display in the office. "Still, blaming those not at fault for something has been the justification of humankind's true enemy unfortunately." Gilbert glanced at Athrun, "I wouldn't doubt you've hears some claim all Coordinators are to blame for the ruins falling to Earth." Gilbert sighed heavily, "And those selling the narrative are stoking the hatred of Coordinators. It is pushing humanity towards another war even with those of us trying to change course." Gilbert stopped again, "But forgive me for going into a dreary subject. The looming conflict is hard to ignore I admit."

Athrun could understand difficulty ignoring subjects that just wouldn't go away. With the Alliance's behavior, things would get worse before they could potentially get better. Athrun would've told the Chairman not to worry about speaking upon the fallout from the attempted attacking the PLANTs but didn't get the chance. The door to the office slid open again revealing the hallway behind it. Gilbert had stated to his staff to keep this meeting from being disturbed, but apparently someone had ignored that. When Athrun turned around to see who had entered the office, he felt shock. The girl from days ago which "looked" like Lacus but wasn't her at all was standing there.

Meer had been waiting to talk with Chairman Durandal before. He was supposed to give her instructions on what she could do to help with the ongoing situation. The attack on the PLANTs was bad and people were angry. Playing her part as Lacus Clyne had helped calm a portion of the people down from what her manager had told her. Yet, there was more to do, and Meer knew that to be the case. She'd been informed the Chairman was busy and he would meet with her when he got the time. Meer had accepted that and instead, she had been using her time to see if she could find Athrun again. From what some said, one fitting Athrun's description had been popping up around Aprilius One. However, she hadn't been able to catch up with him. Whenever she had gone to the place he was supposed to have appeared, Athrun was already gone.

Nevertheless, when she had come to ask the Chairman for potential help, his staff had told her he was in a meeting. They had said she needed to wait, but she just had the quick question which Chairman Durandal should be able to answer. Yet, to her surprise and delight, it turned out that Athrun had been the one who was meeting with the Chairman. Her search for Athrun was over and she couldn't be happier. Meer couldn't stop herself as a smile came to her face. Her legs carried her forward toward Athrun. She leaped at him hugging Athrun happily, "Athrun," she cried happily. "We find each other again!"

Athrun had been caught off-guard the last time he'd encountered the girl. He hadn't imagined coming across one that looked near identical to Lacus physically. He'd been working to avoid attention from others while he had been waiting to meet with Durandal, including the girl. Athrun was convinced this girl was some sort of stand-in for Lacus. With that in mind, it brought the question of why someone would have a stand-in for Lacus. His friend's influence could be used for others' gain, Athrun knew that. It was a worrisome development and Athrun would certainly be passing on the information to Tyler and Kira when he could. But he would get an answer as to who this girl really was. Athrun gently pushed the girl away and gazed at her, "Who are you," Athrun asked flatly. "Strangers coming up to me and acting as if they know me isn't something I will accept for much longer."

Meer could see Athrun wasn't buying her story. However, if she could convince him that she was Lacus Clyne, then she could do that with almost anyone. All the studying she'd done would be worth it and she would prove useful to Chairman Durandal. Meer could make a difference as the Chairman said she could. "Why, I'm Lacus Clyne, you should know that," Meer replied. "I'm your fiancée since our compatibility was found to be ideal." She would've said more, but Athrun cut over her. "You are not Lacus Clyne." Athrun couldn't say where the girl got her information. The engagement and the reason for it wasn't public knowledge, so the girl shouldn't know that. And she also was under the impression that Lacus was engaged to him when his father had canceled the arrangement, just never got around to announcing it. The genuine Lacus would've been aware of that point as Athrun had told her of the subject. There were other facts that proved the girl in front of him wasn't who she claimed to be which Athrun knew. "You may look like Lacus and sound almost exactly like her, but you aren't her. Lacus wouldn't act the way you have, nor would she say what you have."

Gilbert could see Miss Campbell was trying her best to convince others she was Lacus Clyne as she been told to. He would applaud her efforts for they were admirable. However, Gilbert had known there would be a select few who Miss Campbell wouldn't be able to fool no matter how hard she tried. Athrun would be among those select few as he knew Miss Clyne on a personal level that others wouldn't. Yet, Gilbert felt Athrun would understand why Miss Campbell was standing in for Miss Clyne. "It's quite alright Miss Campbell," Gilbert stated. "Mr. Zala here is trustworthy to know the truth. And since he knows Miss Clyne on a more personal level, he would be aware of how she is out of the public eye more than others."

The name Campbell was new to Athrun in relation to the girl. It could be her actual name, but he had no way to know yet if that was so. But it was clear the Chairman knew the girl and was aware of her acting. "Miss Campbell you say" Athrun posed, looking between the Chairman and the girl. "That is the first I've heard that name around her." Meer could see her acting hadn't been enough to convince Athrun she was Lacus Clyne. The Chairman and others had said there would be some that she wouldn't be able to fool with her act. So all Meer could think to do was nodded at the Chairman's statement and not look at Athrun. She admired him and didn't want him to dislike her for something stupid. But she took a deep breath, "Meer Campbell is my real name," she said evenly. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you before Mr. Zala." Meer hesitated for a moment, "I've always been a fan of Miss Clyne and her songs. And when your engagement to her was announced, I couldn't help but be happy for the two of you. You're a war hero and handsome too. So, for me to get to meet you in person is amazing…"

Meer trailed off or her voice dropped to a level that Athrun couldn't hear what she was saying. He didn't know he had any kind of "fan-base" that followed what he did like idols did. Athrun couldn't help but wonder if Lacus felt as awkward as he was being told someone was your fan and are happy to meet you. Lacus had made interacting with her fans look easy. He'd watched some of the idea during a few of the events Lacus had done which he'd attended. But perhaps she just knew how to do the point while he didn't really have much of an idea. Yet, none of this answered the question of why someone was posing as Lacus. Thus, Athrun's gaze shifted to Chairman Durandal, "Okay, while she is a nice person, even when she was intruding into personal space, why," Athrun inquired. "Why have someone pose as Lacus Clyne? What does it gain to do that?"

The reasoning Gilbert had for having Meer stand-in for Lacus was a tad complicated. Parts of the logic could be taken the wrong way by some. However, Gilbert hadn't had much of another option to work with when the attack had occurred. He had needed a means to calm the masses and he wouldn't be able to do it effectively. Gilbert had tried to find Siegel and/or Lacus Clyne but hadn't had any luck in locating either of them. He'd even reached out to Admiral Treize and gotten no reply. Gilbert would've gladly taken any of those three helping him calm the masses after the attempted nuclear strike. But instead, a stand-in of one of them had been the alternative option Gilbert had to work with in the said crisis. So, Gilbert was silent as he thought about how to word his answer. "With the Alliance's behavior within the last six months or so, there has been a need for a plan of how to calm the general public after a horrible event. I have had some looking for those who could succeed with that such as the Clynes or Admiral Treize. However, none have had success at finding either of the Clynes or even hints of their whereabouts. There have been no replies to any messages sent to Admiral Treize through different channels."

It sounded like the Chairman had tried other methods before resorting to a stand-in. Athrun knew Lacus had gone through covering her tracks so following her would be extremely difficult. From what Athrun had heard, Siegel had done much the same but had gone farther than Lacus had gone as less people knew where he was these days. Supposedly Commander Clyne had some means to communicate with her father but didn't share it. They had both wanted to step away from the public stage of Humanity and let others have the spotlight and help the human race for the better. There had been a number that had assisted in making them vanish from all in the PLANTs, ZAFT and even the Alliance as well. And as far as Athrun had heard, Admiral Treize had retired and left the PLANTs for elsewhere. The Chairman kept going, "The PLANT's citizens weren't happy with the Alliance's attempt to use nuclear weapons on the homeland. I certainly can't blame them for being terrified with the prospect, let alone seeing it closely thwarted. The Bloody Valentine showed us what is the probable results of a nuclear strike on a colony."

Gilbert stopped for a moment at the thought of what some had cried should be done in response. Most wanted ZAFT to prevent another nuclear attack from happening and that wasn't wrong. ZAFT forces were in a defensive posture for that reason since OMNI could possibly try again. "And after the fear subsided, anger replaced it for some trying to destroy them is well within the rights of the victims," Gilbert stated. There had been a portion of the population who had shouted they wanted the attackers to know what terror they had caused. It wasn't a majority of the citizens, but enough to be worrisome. Gilbert could understand the wish of those who had wronged you to understand the pain they had caused. Yet, things were far more complicated than to simply doing something to the Alliance. Gilbert frowned, "Yet, we on the council can't allow that anger to translate into potential actions which would cause even more problems. I doubt I need to give details of how doing the same as the Alliance would end out."

Athrun nodded in agreement to the unsaid point that the Chairman was referring to. If ZAFT returned the Alliance's actions in kind, it would mean a nuclear strike on Earth. A nuclear strike on Earth would only make current circumstances far worse than they already were. It wouldn't just affect the Alliance, it would also do the same for the Federation. And nuking Earth would be seen as an attack against the Federation which wouldn't end well for ZAFT or the PLANTs at all. Thus, the Council couldn't allow such an idea to spread to take root in minds and potentially become a possibility. So, calming the masses would be necessary before the fires of revenge spread and turn into a blaze. It did explain somewhat why the Chairman had been looking for Lacus. Miss Campbell standing in still made Athrun suspicious, but if it was just a backup plan, it could just be temporary. The Chairman continued, "I would be honored and grateful if I could have worked with Siegel, Admiral Treize, or Lacus Clyne. Their reputations are still well-respected and held in high regard by the citizens of the PLANTs. But as there hadn't been any success at finding those who would be able to help, we had to turn to the contingency we had planned. Thus, the only course seen as open at the time was to have someone substitute for Miss Clyne and that's were Miss Campbell here comes in."

Meer was looking at the floor, not as sure as she had been after the Chairman had made the offer to her. The way the Chairman had put it made it seem like Meer would be standing in for Miss Clyne. She had been honored to be considered for such a thing. "Before this, I sang Miss Clyne's songs and I'm told that my voice sounds a lot like hers," Meer explained. "So, when Chairman Durandal came to me and asked me to pose for Miss Clyne for a time, I was flattered. He told me that Miss Clyne had been forced into hiding by some bad people, and so her location is not known right now." What Miss Campbell said about why Lacus was in hiding was believable in Athrun's mind. It wasn't the truth, but it was likely the story told to explain why Lacus wasn't around the PLANTs. However, with Lacus off the grid, she couldn't do much to correct the story. If she did, the message would be tracked and potentially reveal where she was. Meer kept going, "After accepting the offer from the Chairman, there was surgery done to help me play the part. The result was that I looked exactly like Miss Lacus. I admit, I had dreamed of such a thing before, but I never thought it would actually happen to me." Gilbert nodded, "Her willingness was inspiring," he remarked. "And she was able to calm the anger so many felt after having to witness the light of nuclear weapons again. Her efforts have been greatly appreciated as they have assisted in preventing worse events."

Gilbert would still love to work with Miss Clyne directly with the plans being discussed. The girl had a way with words and the gift was extremely rare. Those writing the speeches for Meer did okay, but Miss Clyne's gift was superior to those efforts. Granted, Miss Clyne may be more difficult to get complete cooperation from, but Gilbert felt he could get enough to work with to accomplish what was needed. And with Athrun here, there was an opportunity to get information on where Miss Clyne could be. Gilbert guessed the girl would have ways to contact others regardless where she was she could trust. Athrun Zala was certainly a likely candidate to be a trusted confidant Miss Clyne could go to. So, Gilbert gave Meer a grateful smile before he continued, "Still, you were well acquainted with Miss Clyne. She may have kept in contact with you during the years that had gone by since the war."

Athrun could see the question coming from the Chairman. It was one he figured would come if the subject of Lacus came up. That question was where she was right now or at least a hint as to where she could be. However, Athrun had promised Lacus as one of her trusted confidants, he wouldn't tell anyone where she was or what she was doing. That promise would be kept and so Athrun wouldn't give information that could lead to where Lacus was. "You wouldn't happen to know where Lacus Clyne is currently," the Chairman asked innocently. "Her help would have a tremendous effect at bringing peace back by ending the conflict going around."

Gilbert knew it was unlikely he would get a straight answer as to the potential location of Miss Clyne from a likely confidant. A trusted confidant didn't give up the one who had trusted them for little to nothing. One had to show it was for the best intentions to have a chance at getting any info from someone like that. Perhaps if Gilbert offered protection for Miss Clyne from any that could threaten her, he might get something. "Rest assured, if it is a quiet peaceful life that she wishes for, that can be provided for her. I personally promise after her help to bring peace to Earth, and the PLANTs is done, I will see to making arrangements for her to have the life she wishes to the best of my abilities."

Athrun would admit Gilbert Durandal was quite something. He could be an amazing salesman with something he was passionate about by what Athrun could tell. And yet, there was a nagging feeling in the back of Athrun's mind that something didn't seem quite right. What the Chairman was saying made sense logically and were sensible when Athrun thought about it. But what Chairman Durandal was saying sounded essentially too good to be true. One thing he had learned, mostly with the help of Kira and Tyler, is nothing is perfect, even if it appears or seem like it is, period. When someone was trying to sell something that seemed perfect, it tended to be something it wasn't be said to be. Humanity as it currently was right now, wasn't horrible even when it could be better. The species wasn't perfect any more than it had been in the past, and it was mostly due to human beings being imperfect. But perfection was an ideal to work towards, never to actually be obtained. Thus, Athrun was loathed to believe what the Chairman was saying at face-value.

The point still was Athrun had promised he wouldn't reveal or hint at Lacus's location for any reason without her permission. As pure and innocent as the Chairman's intention could be, it didn't change the promise he'd made. Athrun had already come up with an answer he would give to any that would ask about Lacus some time ago. "I'm sorry, but I don't know where Lacus is right now. And I don't have a way to reach her to even find out where she could be at any given time. I have spoken to her a few times since the war ended, but that's all. Each of those times were arranged meetings in a preselected places. As for Mr. Clyne, I've only seen him once just after the war's end and know nothing of him since then. Thus, I can be of no assistance in finding or knowing where they are Chairman. You have my apologies."

The answer given to him was much as Gilbert had expected. It was a slim possibility that Gilbert would've gotten anything from Athrun about Miss Clyne. He was one of the few who potentially had a connection to Miss Clyne that Gilbert had come into contact with. It had been clear that the young woman had gone through the effort to cover her tracks, making it hard to find her and had likely had help doing so. Gilbert had been impressed at the steps that had to have been taken by Miss Clyne to vanish as she had. But the stand-in had been working fine for now, so she should work into the future, in fact Miss Campbell had fit easier for the job in reality. So, as long as none deny that she was Lacus Clyne that couldn't be disproven, things should work out. The one that could do that was the Black Zephyr Sakura Clyne, the eldest daughter of Siegel Clyne. The woman had "retired" and left the PLANTs, so it should be fine with that being the case. So Gilbert shrugged, "I see," he replied, "Well, that is fine. I will respect she had gone through the efforts to be out of the public eye."

Gilbert's mind shifted to the reason Athrun Zala had requested the meeting with him. From what he'd been told, Athrun had expressed interest in rejoining ZAFT. The young man's record was certainly an outstanding one for a soldier. However, there were two "black" marks on it which made Athrun potentially reenlisting. Those marks were the desertion charge and his dishonorable discharge. The desertion charge could be wiped from the record simply enough, the National Defense Committee could do that for Gilbert. Yet, the dishonorable discharge would be more difficult to dismiss from Athrun's record. It would essentially require a pardon from the council which would have to be voted upon. Gilbert felt he could convince enough on the council to agree to extend the pardon, but it would take time. "So, by what my secretary told me," Gilbert began. "You wanted to meet with me about potentially coming back to ZAFT, is that correct?"

Athrun had gone through the process of arranging a meeting with the Chairman. The reason he had done so was the man had the power or could talk to those who did to help remove the things on his record which preventing him from rejoining ZAFT. The desertion charge was something the National Defense Committee could work with ZAFT leadership to wipe that away. However, the dishonorable discharge would need more to be removed from Athrun's record. That discharge had to be dealt with before Athrun could be considered for rejoining ZAFT. The Supreme Council would have to be involved with potentially nullifying his dishonorable discharge. Thus, Athrun had figured working with the Chairman would be the most proficient way to get things moving for himself. So, Athrun nodded, "Yes, with conflict building, I don't want to be on the sidelines," he replied. "I want to help and after getting some advice of playing to my strengths, I thought coming back to ZAFT was the best option to go with right now. Yet, with my record as it is, I can't do that."

Gilbert saw that Athrun had done thinking upon coming back to ZAFT. It was clear the young man wanted to help curtail the conflict the Alliance was stirring up. There was still a chance the Alliance's effort could be hampered and a war prevented. However, the odds of stopping a war from starting were fading fast. And so, Gilbert had been working with the National Defense Committee to create contingency plans. Those plans were to mitigate the effects of a war and shorten the timespan the war could last. Someone like Athrun could help in those efforts to minimize affects of the war. "Indeed," Gilbert remarked with a nod. "Your record is exemplary with the exception of the desertion charge and the dishonorable discharge."

Gilbert recalled the conversation with Admiral Treize before the man officially retired and vanished. The man had spoken highly of Athrun and his performance during the latter half of the war. Treize had said he'd been willing to dismiss the desertion charge, but he hadn't gotten the time before Athrun had left the PLANTs. And yet, Treize had mentioned his regret having to hand Athrun the dishonorable discharge. Treize had said of the soldiers he'd had to give that type of dismissal, Athrun had deserved it the least. But that had been the choice Athrun had made when faced with demotion or dismissal. "Admiral Treize told me he wished he hadn't had to oversee your dishonorable discharge," Gilbert said. "He said of those he'd seen that happen to, you certainly didn't deserve the discharge." Gilbert paused for a moment, "The desertion charge can be removed without too much difficult, I'm confident in. However, the discharge is another matter which is a more complicated thing to change. Not to say it can't be reversed, but it takes more work to do than the desertion charge."

Athrun knew the dishonorable discharge would be the harder of the two marks on his recorded wiped away. But he still wanted to try and do something, which was why he'd come to meet with the Chairman. "I know the dishonorable discharge is something which is difficult to have dismissed and wiped from a service record," Athrun replied. "But I was hoping that perhaps you could work with the council and make it possible to have that dishonorable discharge reversed."

Gilbert considered the point for the pros and cons of doing a pardon for Athrun which was what it would essentially take to reverse the dishonorable discharge. Such would take time and convincing of some to make it happen. However, simply reversing the discharge wouldn't be voted upon without Athrun agreeing to something the Council could get behind or benefit from. If Gilbert could get Athrun to agree to accept a position for instance, that could convince enough on the council. There were a number of positions Athrun could take which would benefit ZAFT with his skills and experience. Most of those Gilbert wouldn't doubt Athrun could and would fill well. However, should Gilbert have a say, he would like Athrun to become a member of ZAFT's FAITH. That position would have the most ways for the young man to make a difference in the conflict growing. The privileges FAITH had would give Athrun a lot more freedom to do what he saw fit on a battlefield. He would be able to be a hero others would look to with confidence and hope. That was what Gilbert was hoping for from Athrun and really needed to help ZAFT and the PLANTs with what the Alliance was doing.

There would be those that would say Athrun wasn't worthy of being a member of FAITH. They would use the desertion charge as a justification of their resistance to such an appointment. Yet, Gilbert felt he could get enough on board with making Athrun a member of FAITH and the benefit of such. "Yes, reversing the dishonorable discharge is possible," Gilbert began. "It would essentially require the Council to pardon it. I believe that enough on the council may vote to give you such." Gilbert paused for a moment which Athrun noticed. "However, such may require you to accept a specific position. Would you be willing to do that, Mr. Zala?"

Athrun blinked at what had been said. A pardon was what Athrun had figured would be required to wipe the dishonorable discharge from his record. But for that to translate into him having to accept a position of some sort in ZAFT didn't make complete sense to him. And the Chairman hadn't stated specifically what kind of position Athrun may have to take. "What kind of position, sir," Athrun asked. "It sounds like you have something specific in mind which you haven't said." Gilbert nodded with a slight smile, "As sharp of observation skills as should be expected of an excellent soldier," he replied. "There will be those on the Council that will not give a pardon without there being an expectation with it. They will need to be convinced to overrule those that may be against you getting a pardon. And so, if you were to accept a pardon, I would like you to become a member of FAITH."

Athrun was shocked at what the Chairman had stated he wanted him to do if pardon. He'd assumed he would take something akin to a rank demotion where he'd been before leaving ZAFT. And Athrun would've accepted the demotion as long as he could do something to help prevent or mitigate the effects of a war. However, to become a member of ZAFT's FAITH was beyond a rank promotion. Athrun would've been honored to have been considered for such a post years ago. But so much changed in the last year of the war for Athrun. The truth of the way the war had been going had changed his view of the whole conflict and those like it. So, the offer of the position had taken Athrun by surprise. Thus, he was silent for a moment before speaking, "Me, becoming a member of FAITH," Athrun questioned gesturing to himself. "I'm not worthy of such a position. I'm a skilled pilot yes, but I'm not at the same kind of level as FAITH or the champions."

Gilbert could understand the show of humility and modesty. They were good qualities that were rare to see voluntarily among the human race. Most of the time such was forced but harsh circumstances. Yet, there were those that came along every once in a while, during a generation which displayed such qualities well for others to see. But it was those qualities which made Athrun all the more worthy of being a part of FAITH. "It isn't just your skills which would be taken into account," Gilbert remarked. "Your resolve to take a stand for what is right is also a quality which FAITH needs. A war hero like yourself would be an excellent addition to FAITH and help it become better." Athrun still wasn't sure if FAITH was the best place for him to be place within ZAFT. He didn't want others to think he was getting preferential treatment because he had gone to the Chairman. There was so much to still consider with such an offer, Athrun couldn't accept it right away. "Could you give me some time to think about what you're offering please," Athrun asked. "I want some time to consider it before I accept or commit to anything."

Gilbert smiled at the reply as it was one he could respect. Most soldiers in ZAFT would jump at the offer to become a member of FAITH. But that showed they were more after the privilege and prestige of the group. That Athrun wanted time to think about the offer said he would be worthy of the position should he accept. And Gilbert was confident enough that Athrun would accept given some time to think about it. He'd come to him meaning he was determined to see his choice through to whatever end. Gilbert wanted that kind of dedication working for ZAFT to bring about a better future. "Of course," Gilbert answered. "I would be concerned if you didn't want to have some time to consider such an offer. So, take the time you need to decide whether to accept my offer. You can contact my secretary when you come to your conclusion so I can receive your answer."

A/n

And that's where I'll leave off for this phase and pick up in the next one. Now onto the highlighting and pointing out stuff from this Phase I want to talk about. I give a little warning now, these notes will not be short, for there is an amount to talk about. Let's start with the first scene with the Alliance's and Logo's are doing after the ruin fragments fell to Earth. This scene is the first real introduction of Logo and Lord Djibril in the story. Yes, I know there have been appearances and hints of them before now, but this is their first real direct presence we've had. We all know that is mostly because Logos is a "secret society" that we don't see them in the open. However, would like to explain some things which canon doesn't go into and won't talk about due to the differences my story has.

Let me lay out the basics of Logos and its members which make it up and some of their motivations. While Logos is a military industrial complex, there is more to it than just the war profits and the like. That is more their funding arm than the goal and motivations they have. One could say that Logos potentially created Blue Cosmos and other anti-Coordinator groups. That isn't exactly wrong, but not entirely right either. It's more they have deep influence in those types of circles which they use for their goals. They are definitely a "dark money" organization which operates from the shadows so they can't be traced. Their goal, which I will keep referring to after this is domination. And when I say domination, I mean controlling like tyrannical dictators but not appear as such to the public. There is nothing too low for them to do to achieve that goal, nothing they won't have those under their influence commit to get what they want. But they don't like or tend to get their hands dirty with the task of achieving their goals.

With that in mind, is it a surprise that a scumbag like Djibril is a member of Logos? And let me unload a bit on him which canon implies but doesn't admit. Yes, he hates Coordinators, but he doesn't let those utterly consume him as Azrael did. That doesn't mean Djibril is above doing whatever horrifying things he can to bring about Coordinator extermination. I assure you, Djibril is still a disgusting human being as he is in canon. However, I would say there is more a "method to his madness" than many would think. At least my version of Djibril will be "smarter" in the way that he will be clever in how he does things. Djibril doesn't blow up as much and is willing to be somewhat more patient than Azrael had. The other things I will say about Djibril is that he is an amazing "salesman." And when I say salesman, I mean the snake oil kind and he is extremely skilled at it.

Now back to the first scene. Logos have already been manipulating things from the shadows with the Alliance. If I hadn't made that relatively clear, then you readers may want to go back a bit and reread Phases. This is a "new" phase of Logos' manipulation in order to obtain their goals they are more forceful, and risk being discovered. Of course, at this stage, they are pushing for a nuclear strike against the PLANTs. Now, while this is to kill Coordinators, there is more to the nuclear strike than just that. Remember, this is shortly after the Alliance declares war on ZAFT, so this is the "first stroke" against the Alliance's enemy. It is meant to be the Alliance's strong statement that the time of Coordinator independence will come to an end. Thus, the reason hatred of Coordinators is stoked and the blame for the ruin fragments is directed at them by Logos agents.

One thing I would point out that is significant and differs from canon is as you might expect, the response of the Federation to the propaganda being spread. The narrative being used by Logos and the Alliance while used to convince many within the Alliance member states, doesn't have the same effect in the member nations. This is due to something I mentioned and implied in this Phase as some "security measures" which the Federation have in place. The idea used is something I really wish was employed in some way in the world today. The measure is essentially something like a combination of AI-like software and people going through media and comparing what they see to solid facts. Should the viewed media differ, it is then scrubbed away before it is distributed to the masses. Thus, the citizens of the Federation don't see the propaganda which the Alliance or ZAFT may want to spread. They get told the facts instead and what general lies others are trying to spread.

Next I want to go into some detail about Djibril's mentioned time at the Horizon Jubilee. You already heard reference to this a few Phases back. Logos sees the event as a "business opportunity" which they send someone after "getting" an invitation. And since Djibril is such a great salesman, he was the one sent to try and broker deals with some there. Of course, Logos had been trying to get a deal or more with the Federation. And it is for many of the reasons you readers would suspect, Logos wants Federation resources and technology. Now let me break down those two a bit so you can see why Logos wants them.

On the resources end, the Federation had "premium" access to hard-to-get materials in the Cosmic Era. Not only that, but they also invented and produced specialized materials which the Alliance and ZAFT can't duplicate as of yet. The other big resource Logos wants more than what was just mentioned is as you may have guessed, use of the Information Network. I mean just imagine what Logos could do with the idea, like blackmail, tactical plans against ZAFT just to name a few. Moving on to the technology side which interests Logos, do I need to remind any of you about the Federation's technological advantage? The stealth tech alone Logos would be more than happy to use against Coordinators and their other enemies. Then there is the tech which has been introduced in the Destiny Era already. Those are just a few examples of why Logos is so interested and honestly desperate to get a deal with the Federation.

Back to Djibril at the Jubilee, he certainly tried to work something out with the leaders that were there. First, let's start with his talk with Ellen, shall we? I mean did any of us think the woman that raised Tyler would be fooled by the likes of Djibril? Ellen has seen more than anything the man can throw her way to get past her. The other leaders that were there didn't give Djibril the time with the exception of Marina. For Orb, I didn't say it outright, but it was Homura Athha, so yeah, Djibril would have no luck with him. The only reason Djibril got time with Marina was she is still a tad inexperienced.

I'll move on from the Logos part of the scene to Gilbert's part with the PLANTs as the Ultimatum is I think self-explanatory. Now, I believe we have all seen that Gilbert isn't stupid or oblivious to the obvious. The man was a scientist before he was Chairman after all. Thus, he sees the ultimatum for what it really is, a means for the Alliance to control the PLANTs. I would like to take a moment to say that I am portraying Joseph Copeland differently than canon does. I want him to be seen as a bit of a victim as I think he can be. Remember Logos is the real villains in this, and they have no issue using people. This subject will come up every once and a while, so I wanted to put it out there. Gilbert does mention that if the Federation were doing something like the Alliance is demanding, it would be different. Again, this is a picture of how the Federation is fair with even those that could be enemies. But then, the Federation wouldn't be doing what the Alliance is, so that is kind of the point.

The next scene is Athrun arriving at Aprilius One. You will recall that Athrun is searching for a way to rejoin ZAFT. He wants to help things not going into a full-blown war. It is a nice idea, but we know it ain't going to happen, but that's Athrun for you, an optimistic realist. That is in contrast to Tyler who is the practical realist who may wish for the best but plans for and expects anything but. Athrun knows with the record he had before leaving ZAFT will need to have things "cleaned" on it before he could come back. The dishonorable discharge being the one he needs Gilbert to help with. And also remember, Treize isn't with ZAFT anymore, so he has less influence with them and so can't help Athrun.

While Athrun is waiting he does going into what I think was an interesting possibility, you readers can disagree with me about. Now a few Phases ago, there was the conversation with Tyler and Athrun of what Athrun could do to get out of the rut he'd been in. That led to Athrun going back to ZAFT, but Tyler did give another possibility. I mean, imagine if Athrun actually went to the Federation rather than ZAFT, right? You better believe Tyler would be right beside him when Athrun enlisted with a big grin on his face. And… well, I supposed that can be a discussion for a later time, but still just think about it. Athrun does feel the lack of good company which brought on this.

We then get introduced to the "Lacus stand-in" look alike, which we know as Meer Campbell. For you readers that haven't watched the series, you can go to the Gundam fandom page for more information and an image of her appearance. Now, again, I portray Meer somewhat different that she is in canon. I want her to have some personality of her own and some "screentime" which she doesn't get in canon as we would like. We get some more background on her and I'll give more as the story goes on. Now, I won't spoil things for those who haven't seen the anime or read my original version of this. But there is a reason a stand in is needed which will be explained in a later phase. Yet, I wouldn't doubt you readers will be able to pick out some of the "inconsistencies" which those who know Lacus personally will see and know the girl isn't who she says she is.

On to the next scene with Joseph Copeland. I said it before and I'll repeat it, Copeland ain't going to be Logos's puppet in this like he is in canon. The first point to prove this I will highlight is Copeland doesn't like Djibril, and really can you blame the guy. With how arrogant Djibril is, its hard not to dislike him and I will be showing that Copeland doesn't like or appreciate Djibril at all. Not to spoil things, but Copeland does get more likeable as this story goes on, so I ask you to give him a chance. As an example of Copeland being smarter than Djibril in some things, take their views on the Federation. Copeland took lessons from the Alliance-PLANT War, while Djibril really didn't.

Shifting to the scene with the nuclear strike against the PLANTs, it isn't all that different than canon but I would like to point out some things. First, Nicol is alive unlike in canon, and I tell you, he will play a part in this story off and on. And it is through Nicol which we learn of something which has bene inferred but not specifically mentioned. That being the informants of the Information Network are chosen from all different positions and walks of life. And with Treize with the Federation now, well the man hasn't been wasting time, I'll just put it that way. Nicol is among the few with ZAFT that know at this time that Treize is working with the Federation. And I feel that Nicol is a perfect candidate for being an informant for the Information Network. This also shows an amazing characteristic that Treize has which got him the loyalty of those in ZAFT. Treize cares about everyone under him, regardless of position or rank, the man sees value in each soldier.

The other point which I would like to highlight in this conversation is just how good some informants really are. The example I give is Nicol's father Yuri which may surprise some people as he is supposed to be a moderate/radical on the Supreme Council. But I would say that as Chairman Zala had been pushing forward, some had second thoughts about where ZAFT was going. In Yuri's case, he went to Treize secretly and asked how he could help things not end badly for Humanity. That eventually got him to be an informant for the Federation and with his position he was able to give good info to the Federation. Treize even mentioned that Yuri's information made a notable difference in how the war ended, just think about that.

I won't go into much detail about the battle around the colonies as it doesn't need much if you ask me. Instead, I'll go onto the "reunion" of Athrun and his old comrades. Now, yes, this meeting was arrange, I'll admit that. Durandal wants Athrun to rejoin ZAFT if it isn't obvious, so he is pulling out the stops to make that as likely as possible. But let me move onto the final scene in this phase which is Athrun's meeting with the Chairman. I would point out that Gilbert is willing to do what he can to get Athrun's record cleaned. There is a condition to that which is becoming a member of FAITH. There will be more detail on that as the story goes on, and you readers may understand why that is a condition. The other point of this scene is the reveal of Meer not being Lacus.

In conclusion, I know this Phase was long, and I'm sorry it turned out that way. Some of them just take the "scenic route" to get from where they start to where they end. As always, please some of you take the time to write a review and tell me what you think of this Phase and/or the story in general thus far. I do read the reviews that I get even if I don't or can't reply to them as I would like to. The reviews keep this story going as they inspire me, just saying. The next Phase is on track thus far and is titled: "Vailed Tactics." Peace out and stay safe until the next Phase all!