A/n
Here is the next Phase. I admit this is a tad shorter than what I have done the last few, but I will explain that at the end. Now, as I do about every five Phases or so, I will be giving my disclaimer for this story. I do not own anything from the Gundam Universe as much as I would love to, it is owned by Bandi and Sunrise Inc I believe. The other ideas I pull in from other universes belong to their respective universes. I only own my musings, original characters and ideas. If any character or idea resembles something that already exists that I haven't referenced, its not meant to be. Thank you readers for bearing with me while I went through my disclaimer, on to the Phase.
Phase 86: Questions Rather Than Answers
November 12th, 73 C.E.
Shira, the Republic of East Asia
Athrun had woken up in the morning and checked the Information Network to see if the Minerva had arrived yet. The Minerva was supposed to be heading toward Carpentaria from the Middle Eastern area after participation in an "operation." There had been no mention as to what the operation had been that Athrun had heard from ZAFT's end as of yet. The Information Network didn't give much detail about what the operation could be about with the access level Athrun could use the network with. All that Athrun could read was there being an "incident" around an OMNI base in the Middle Eastern area. But whatever the operation's nature, the ship would need resupply and likely repair to some degree. That would have the ship docked at Shira for a day or more. But the sooner Athrun could get to the Minerva, the better in the end.
According to the information that Athrun had been given thus far, he would be "working with" the Minerva until further notice. There was another task the Chairman had given Athrun, but that would come up when he got to the Minerva. He'd put a record request in shortly after that to see what the Minerva had been doing since beginning its service. It wasn't exactly surprising that the Minerva had been "forced" into service early with what occurred at Armory One. The "stress" which the Minerva had been under was hauntingly familiar to what the Archangel had gone through during the Alliance-PLANT War. From what data had been sent to him, the Minerva had gone after the group responsible for the attack on Armory One. Tyler had said the group had been called Phantom Pain and it was a black ops group that did Alliance dirty work off the books. Athrun believed his friend with what he said about this Phantom Pain. And the Minerva's encounters with them had proven they shouldn't be taken lightly.
The Minerva had been taken off the pursuit shortly after the enemy vessel had reached the Alliance's new lunar base Arzachel. Instead, the Minerva had been directed to help with the response to Junius Seven ruins heading for Earth. After that, the data stated the Minerva had gone to Gibraltar and had stayed there up to when the Spear of Twilight operation took place. Tyler had said the ship had been around Asgard when OMNI had done their assault, and Athrun knew his friend wouldn't lie about that. The best explanation for the difference in the record and what Tyler had said was the Minerva had been off the books at the time. Athrun knew there were some good reasons for a ship to do things off the books, though those tended to be rare. After the Spear of Twilight operation, the Minerva had headed out to help with the operation in the Middle Eastern area. Records on that were not available at the time which Athrun had made his request, so he couldn't say much about that.
With no sign of the Minerva's service changing from the "eventful" path it had been taking, Athrun was left to wonder. Why would Chairman Durandal assign him to the Minerva didn't make complete sense to Athrun. Sure, he was an above average pilot and ships on the frontlines really could use such. However, Athrun didn't think that was the reason that the Chairman had in mind, more a benefit. And it wasn't that Athrun had an issue with working with the Minerva, for he didn't. It was the ship was becoming a symbol for ZAFT and he didn't doubt that would only become more so, much as the Archangel had been. The problem was with the conflict quickly growing toward a war, the Minerva could follow the same general path as the Archangel had.
The path the Archangel had gone down, not by choice, had made it a symbol of OMNI for a portion of the Alliance-PLANT War. The Archangel had turned away from that path before the end of the war. The reminders of what had happened in the Alliance-PLANT War that were popping up were concerning Athrun. So many horrible things had occurred during the war and had been almost normalized. He didn't want the horrors of war to become normalized for Humanity. That was why Athrun had wanted to do something to help prevent war from poisoning humanity. Athrun had come to the realization that war was coming, there was really no way to prevent that now bar a serious miracle. Athrun just hoped that working with the Minerva wouldn't turn out as the Archangel had up to JOSH-A.
Athrun packed up his things and was about to leave when Tyler came up to him. Tyler said he would give Athrun a ride to the hangar the Saviour was stored in. He also said Athrun could come and pick up his things later since he appeared to be in a bit of a hurry. Tyler wasn't wrong about Athrun being in a hurry. Athrun felt that the sooner he got the Minerva the better things would be. He would rather get the "other task" he had from the Chairman as quickly as he could and get it out of the way. Athrun couldn't say how that task would go honestly, but he was merely the messenger rather than the one who made the decision. He would stand by that if there were "unexpected" reactions to his delivery. So, Athrun left his "briefcase" at Tyler's place planning to come back for it later. Tyler drove Athrun to the hangar which the Saviour was stored in before telling Athrun to keep in touch. Athrun took off in the Saviour from the hangar and began heading toward the docking area that Shira had which was used for non-Federation ships.
Meanwhile, on the Minerva, Arthur was in charge at the moment. Talia had gone into Shira to talk to some by what she said. There was something mentioned about a telling on the recent operation that ZAFT had done which had taken down OMNI's Lohengrin Gate. He didn't envy Talia doing that to others. Arthur wasn't the best with explaining or recounting events to higher ups or the equivalent of them. The chance of going into Shira was tempting, Arthur wouldn't deny that, but a commanding officer needed to be present on the ship at all times. And being in charge of the Minerva while in port wasn't a difficult task really. The Minerva's needed repairs were already underway by the dock workers. Resupply was being done intermittently while the repairs were being worked on. The overall work was estimated to be completed by tomorrow around midday.
There was one "wrinkle" for the Minerva however, which had come during its journey to Shira. It had come in the form of a priority message which had been labeled as for the eyes of the "commanding officers only." Simply put, the message had said there would be a pilot and mobile suit joining the Minerva at Shira. To Arthur, it wasn't that the National Defense Committee knew where the Minerva was stopping for repair and resupply before heading for Carpentaria. No, it was the suddenness of adding a pilot and machine to the Minerva's roster which had Arthur scratching his head. Normally, pilot to ship assignments were done when ships were docked at a ZAFT base, not elsewhere.
The other thing which was odd about the subject matter of the message was what wasn't there. There was no mention as to who the pilot could be, or what machine they would be bringing with them. Talia and he had discussed the message a bit, but neither of them could come up with potential explanations as to what the message could mean beyond the obvious. There had been nothing about the pilot or their machine since the Minerva had arrived at Shira's non-commercial docking area. Not even a communication from whoever was supposed to be joining up with the Minerva that Arthur knew of yet. With the message the Minerva had received being a priority one, Arthur would've thought the pilot would've reached out by this point.
Not that Arthur was against getting a potentially skilled pilot for the ship to depend on during times of trouble. The Minerva had faced more than its fair share of trouble since it had been forced into early service at Armory One. The ship had lost two pilots along the way going against Bogey One. And of the pilots the ship was supposed to have for the "Gundams," they had two of the planned five. Shinn Asuka had been doing a great job with the Impulse, but that would likely end with Aila taking the Impulse to use. So, if the Minerva could get another skilled pilot, it would be all the better for the ship. And if that pilot happened to be a Gundam pilot, it would be certainly a "lucky break" for the Minerva, one of the few it had seen thus far on its journey. But the likelihood of the Minerva getting another Gundam was low, Arthur didn't kid himself about that. It was due to the limits on Gundam types set by the Treaty of Junius Seven for each faction that was the case.
Arthur was brought out of his thoughts when the one at the communication station said they had a message coming in. When Arthur told them to say the message, he was surprised slightly when he was told a "ZAFT pilot" was approaching the Minerva. It could well be the one the message received had been referring to. Arthur told the one at the communication station to reply to the pilot with the Minerva's location. It was a minute later before those on the bridge spotted an incoming "aircraft" clearly heading for the Minerva. Arthur ordered the left catapult opened to receive the machine heading for them. The one at the communication station also radioed down to Chief Aves to alert those in the hangar about the pending arrival. Arthur blinked as the craft shifted into a mobile suit, and a Gundam type at that. He had been half joking about the Minerva getting another Gundam to work with, but it appeared it was the honest truth for the ship.
Down in the Minerva's hangar, the mechanics were rushing around doing tasks. Aves was shouting and barking orders to the mechanics who were still on the ship for the moment. The bridge had stated there would be an incoming machine shortly. That would mean a space would need to be made for it, a dock if it was a mobile suit as it likely was. The Minerva had docking cages in the hangar which weren't being used at the moment. After all, the ship was supposed to have four Gundams and a couple of mass-production models for use when called upon. So, there were at least three docks unused with the stolen Gundams from Armory One not taking them up. Thus, whatever the machine coming in, there would be a dock for it to work with.
Aves was surprised that the Minerva was going to be getting another machine, which would likely be a mobile suit. There had been no word or warning that there would be one coming when they docked at Shira. Mobile weapon complements were normally only changed at a ZAFT base, not elsewhere. Not that it was the business of Aves or any in the hangar if the Minerva was going to get another mobile suit. However, Captain Gladys had been one to inform Aves of changes that would affect him and his mechanics along the ship's journey. For that to change unexpectedly didn't seem like something the woman would do from what Aves had seen.
At the same time, Aila and Matt were heading toward the hangar. Arthur told them the ship was getting another machine and pilot, and that they were coming in right now. It was the first that Aila or Matt had heard of a pilot being transferred to the Minerva. Aila had heard the rumor a message from the National Defense Committee had come along the way to Shira. However, whether that a was true or not was something Aila couldn't say. But apparently, the rumor had been true and had been about a pilot transfer. What was odd and kind of bugging Aila was transfers weren't done around non-ZAFT ports normally. It wasn't policy for ZAFT, but it was unsaid expectation for that to be the case.
Matt was right beside Aila as the two were making their way to the Minerva's hangar. The two of them had been on the ship while the other pilots were out on shore leave. Not that Matt minded getting time with Aila without others around to potentially interrupt them. However, then Arthur reached out and said the Minerva was in the process of getting a mobile suit and pilot. He had asked the two of them to go and properly greet the new arrival for him as he couldn't leave the bridge at the moment. Matt was a tad curious who the pilot could be, what machine they were bringing and why they were coming to the Minerva now rather than at Carpentaria. Pilot transfers were done almost always at ZAFT bases. It wasn't unheard of for it to be outside of them, but it was extremely rare. Then, the pilot could be anyone though Matt kind out doubted it was just an average one. The Minerva had proven to be a unique ship and as such, was more likely to get non-average pilots and machines to work with. Matt couldn't guess who the National Defense Committee could think to send to the Minerva at this specific time.
Back with Athrun, he had acknowledged the reply from the Minerva when he had gotten into communication range of the ship. He then lined up as he closed the distance between himself and the Minerva. When he spotted the left linear catapult opening, Athrun shifted the Saviour into its mobile suit mode and began his final approach. He couldn't help but wonder what was ahead of him going with this ship. The Minerva had shown it was popular in a non-nice way with the Alliance and its OMNI already. And Athrun didn't see any signs of that idea changing in the near future, not with the Minerva's knack for finding trouble. He would assist as he could with what the Minerva faced, but Athrun wasn't a miracle worker like some may think he was.
The Saviour swooped into the linear catapult and touched down inside the catapult. Those in the hangar worked through the process of transitioning the mobile suit into the hangar. After a moment, the airtight shutters moved out of the way and the Saviour entered the main hangar area. Most in the hangar paused at seeing the mobile suit coming in for a few reasons. The first thing which caught the attention of those in the hangar was the suit was a Gundam type. For the Minerva to get yet another Gundam after three of its planned machines were stolen was extremely odd. Not that Aves would complain about having another Gundam on the Minerva with what it had faced thus far. OMNI had been making things harder on the Minerva and her service since Armory One. Having another Gundam would help that hopefully be more manageable.
A s the Saviour came into the hangar, Aila and Matt came through the hangar door. They both blinked at seeing the Saviour and that it was clearly a Gundam type. Aila was surprised that the Minerva was getting yet another Gundam to work with. The Minerva had already been planned to have a sizable portion of ZAFT's allotted Gundams. While three of them had been stolen, that hadn't yet been made official so the three the Alliance had wouldn't be counted as ZAFT's own machines. That was something being "worked on" according to reports. But the Minerva now had three Gundams for itself and that was still a rare occurrence for one ship to have. And with a Gundam coming onto the Minerva, that implied the pilot would be anything but ordinary. The National Defense Committee wouldn't give a Gundam to just anyone to use, Shinn was an example of that point.
Matt was also staring at the Saviour as it was moving toward one of the three empty docking cages. The machine switched off its phase shift armor as it made its way toward the dock it was being assigned. He could see some things which had been common between the second-generation series ZAFT had created. Thus, Matt could only assume the new Gundam was a part of the same series. That implied this one had been constructed somewhere else than Armory One. The implications that came with that said there had been at least some that had suspected the others could be stolen by the Alliance or others. They had been right, but if whoever had decided to build the Gundam elsewhere had suspected that, why hadn't anything been said? Many good people had died from what had been done to Armory One and a warning could've mitigated some of that. Matt leaned closer to Aila, "For the Minerva getting another Gundam," he remarked, "That seems odd, thoughts love?"
Aila had several thoughts about the machine that had come onto the Minerva. It was clear that Matt was having the same thoughts about the oddity for the Minerva to have a Gundam come to it at this time. Yet, Aila had no more answers than Matt likely had. So, she shrugged in response, "I have several, but none of them can serve as answers to the questions we both have I would bet." Aila glanced back at the Saviour as it was locked in the docking cage. "However, maybe the pilot could shed some light on the point for us." Aila gestured toward the Gundam, "Shall we go and say hello and see what we can find out?" The two made their way down the stairs to the hangar deck and began approaching the Saviour.
Once the Saviour was locked into the docking cage, Athrun undid the restraints and had the cockpit open its hatch. Athrun moved out and went to the zip line and used it to descend to the hangar floor. The view of the hangar showed it was unique to Athrun. He had expected that to likely be the case with the ship being a limited production class ship. The back of the hangar was where the docking cages were stored when not in active use by what he could see. There was some sort of elevator in the center of the hangar and appeared to go up to Athrun assumed the special catapult. There were storage spaces ahead of the elevator which Athrun expected to be for the Impulse's equipment.
Silence fell over the hangar when Athrun came out into the open and was making his way down to the hangar deck. He knew he would be seen differently than others in ZAFT. With what he'd done during the end of the war after parting ways with the Chairman, it would be strange not to be treated differently. It was one of the reasons he'd made the decision to take the discharge and leave ZAFT. Yet, here he was back with ZAFT, even if it was for the best of intentions. Athrun knew he would need to get used to be seen as the "war hero" many saw him as. But he didn't know if he ever would be able to get fully used to the different treatment. Once Athrun set foot onto the deck he removed his helmet and scanned the crowd which had formed.
Aila gazed at the guy who had come out of the Gundam. He did look kind of familiar, but Aila didn't think she had met him before now. However, she stopped on the crest which was on the guy's uniform since it was a FAITH crest. Getting a Gundam was an oddity in itself for the Minerva and that would take time to accept as something the National Defense Committee would decide. For that Gundam to have a FAITH pilot was even stranger than the Gundam being assigned to the ship. And it wasn't a member of FAITH being assigned to a Gundam, that made sense to Aila. It was both were here on the Minerva, transferring at a non-ZAFT port which was bugging her.
On the other hand, Matt blinked as he recognized the guy. He'd been one of the two with the Federation representative around Armory One. But for a "bodyguard" to show up with a Gundam certainly made Matt suspicious of this turn of events. Plus, Matt had assumed the guy had been a Federation soldier with them guarding a political rep. Yet now, the guy was in a ZAFT red uniform and had a FAITH crest. Matt pointed at Athrun, "You were one of the bodyguards with that Federation representative around Armory One." Matt paused trying to recall the names that were given for the two. "I think you were Alex Dino or something like that."
Aila glanced at Matt with what he said about the Minerva's new pilot. She had been out with her injuries when all the stuff with the Minerva's guests had been around. Matt had given a summary of what had happened. He had said a few things about the Federation representative and their bodyguards. And she believed Matt when he said the new arrival was one of the two bodyguards from before. That just left the question, who was this guy for him to be a part of FAITH and here on the Minerva. "What would a Federation bodyguard be doing here with a Gundam," Aila asked. She then focused on Athrun so she could get some answers, "Who are you?"
Athrun knew there would be questions asked of him when he arrived on the Minerva. He would have to give his actual identity with those on the ship. Athrun would be working with them, so it was best to start with the truth of who he was. Athrun handed his helmet over to a mechanic, and then saluted, "Recognition number 2-8-5-0-0-2, Athrun Zala," he stated in greeting, "FAITH Special Forces, requesting permission to board the Minerva." There was dead silence with Athrun's introduction from all in the hangar. And it was because all knew his name, the majority of those in ZAFT knew Athrun's name. He was seen as a war hero from the Alliance-PLANT War with his actions to help end it.
Aila blinked in response to Athrun's introduction. It explained why the guy seemed kind of familiar, for Aila had seen images of him. But the last Aila had heard, Mr. Zala had taken a discharge and then vanished from the homeland. A friend in the intel sector of ZAFT had told Aila the attempts to find Athrun hadn't been successful. So, it was odd for the said individual to suddenly show up on the Minerva to Aila. However, the hangar wasn't the place to ask questions nor was it the time to barrage the guy about where he'd been. Thus, Aila waved to Aves and told him to get his mechanics back to what they had been doing. She and Matt would guide Athrun where he needed to go. Athrun looked to the woman who seemed to be the one that others were listening to. If she and her companion could guide Athrun to the Minerva's commanding officer, he wouldn't say no. There was the other task which Athrun had been given by the Chairman which he wanted to get out of the way. So, Athrun fell in step behind the two before the group exited the hangar.
As the group was walking down the main corridor of the deck, there was silence. Athrun didn't know what to say to either of the two escorting him. He'd been gone from ZAFT for long enough he didn't know what was considered "small talk." And Athrun didn't really feel inclined to talk about his reasons why he'd left ZAFT. Nor did he want to discuss what had been said between himself and the Chairman. Then there were the things he'd learned while living around the Federation which he really couldn't discuss. Athrun was more surprised that there hadn't been some sort of "debrief" before he'd left the PLANTs. But the Chairman had been insistent that he should head out as quickly as possible. Aila was the first to speak of the three, "Would you mind potentially answering some questions?"
There were some questions which Athrun was willing to answer, but others that he wasn't. He knew there would be those that would have questions about his discharge and his return to ZAFT. Athrun had his reasons for taking the discharge when given the choice after the Alliance-PLANT War. He would like to think most would understand his wish to get away from the reminders of what had been lost to the war, among other things. "That depends on the question," Athrun replied. "There are questions I can answer and others which either I can't or don't have a definitive answer for."
The reply was a chosen one to say Athrun didn't want to say no outright but set terms for asking questions. Aila wouldn't hold that against Mr. Zala. She could understand there were some things that he couldn't or didn't want to discuss. But records said he was discharged after the war ended and then vanished shortly thereafter. ZAFT intel hadn't been able to track down where Mr. Zala had gone. Aila assumed that some had helped Mr. Zala to evade others looking for him, but she couldn't say for sure. Aila nodded in understanding, "Fair enough," she stated. "I supposed the best question to start with is why were you discharged at the end of the war? With what you did that earned you the title of war hero, I can't see any finding enough dirt against you to have others agree to discharging you."
Athrun figured that the choice given to some at the end of the war wouldn't be made public. It had been the "agreement" to abdicate potential crimes for some in ZAFT to give them the choice of demotion or discharge. It was to punish what some had done in the war which couldn't be waved off. Most had taken the demotion option, but Athrun knew he hadn't been the only one who had chosen the discharge path. However, Athrun couldn't say if that required response for some in ZAFT was buried or kept secret by those that led ZAFT now. So, Athrun sighed, "I can't say exactly why the discharge came about, but I took it willingly." Athrun paused for a moment, "I had my reasons for doing so, chief among those was not wanting to be around reminders of what had been lost to the war."
Mr. Zala wanting to get away from that which stood as reminders of those lost to the war was understandable. Aila could sympathize with the wish as she had lost friends during the Alliance-PLANT War. But how that translated into Mr. Zala accepting a discharge willing, Aila couldn't say. That he couldn't talk about the reasons the discharge came about suggested there was likely classified stuff involved. Aila suspected there had been under the table deals made to settle some things when the war ended. It would make logical sense with some of the things which had happened during the war. And yet, Aila couldn't see what Athrun Zala could've done that would require an under the table deal to be made.
Matt was wondering much the same kind of things that Aila was about Mr. Zala. With the skills he had shown during the last year of the war, ZAFT would be dumb not to wish to keep him after the conflict. That didn't mean that Mr. Zala couldn't leave if he really wanted to, he had his free will after all. And Zala's remark about getting away from reminders of those who were lost to the Alliance-PLANT War was one Matt could understand. The current growing conflict was already creating reminders of the lost. "We can certainly understand about wanting to get away from the reminders of the lost," Matt commented. "But according to records, after your discharge you seemed to vanish. Where did you go after leaving the homeland?"
Athrun had gone to the Federation after his discharge. The Federation had assisted in Athrun's "disappearance" from the public eye. He hadn't wanted ZAFT or some from the PLANTs to try to spy on his activities or potentially try to influence him to return. Athrun hadn't planned to go back to ZAFT, but the growing conflict had changed that. He didn't want to see the world, or the PLANTs burn or fall into darkness as they had been heading toward during the Alliance-PLANT War. Athrun didn't see where he went after his discharge as something needing to be hidden. But the stuff he'd learned while living in the Federation couldn't be discussed with those outside the Federation in general. However, Athrun didn't doubt that there would be questions about what he knew of the Federation once where he'd been was known.
The Federation did things their way according to their rules and policies, that wasn't in question. However, Athrun had gotten to learn a lot of those rules and policies while he'd been around Orb. Learning such had explained several things as to why the Federation did what they did. The "mystery" which had hung over the Federation was more made up of the lack of information about their policies and procedures. According to what Athrun had gathered, the Federation preferred outsiders didn't know of their policies and procedures. It wasn't because they wanted to be secretive. No, it was to prevent others from trying to plan counters and ways around those policies and procedures. Athrun had come to understand and agree with the mentality the Federation had. If your enemies didn't know the procedures and protocol that you used, then they would have a much harder time coming up with ways to get around it.
Athrun took a moment to think about what he could say that wouldn't be questioned much further. He didn't mind answering some questions, but there were things he didn't want to talk about and/or shouldn't speak upon. "I came to Earth after my discharge," Athrun began. "I wanted to not be found for a while. It is nothing against ZAFT, but I just didn't want to give the opportunity for some within the organization to track me down to either watch what I was doing or try to convince me to return. Others helped me keep out of the public eye and not be tracked down by those who might want to find me. I chose to live among the Federation member nations until going back to the homeland recently."
Aila was kind of surprised at Mr. Zala's response to Matt's question. That he had vanished was something as it wasn't an easy thing for one like Mr. Zala. But if he'd had the help of the Federation, the idea would be far more believable. The Federation had ways to make individuals disappear without a trace, they had proven that before with suspected war criminals among others. And it was probable that Mr. Zala had the help of the Federation with him ending up in one of the Federation member nations. The other point that potentially came with that was the things which Mr. Zala could've learned. Facts about the Federation had always been lacking or just plain missing. There were more rumors and assumptions rather than facts about them and their military. Any info that could help change that was sought after by those in ZAFT from what Aila understood. Yet, Aila didn't have much expectation that Mr. Zala would reveal anything about the Federation he could've learned. But she would ask anyways, "You spending time around the Federation," she began. "Could you shed light on why they do what they do?"
Athrun would've been shocked if the question about the Federation wasn't asked. He would have asked it if he didn't already know there were reasons why the Federation acted the way it did. Tyler had given hints about the idea and even examples, but he had done so with the understanding Athrun wouldn't go telling others who would use the information to do non-nice things. Athrun comprehended why the Federation had the mentality that they didn't tell others about things which don't directly concern them. That mentality had served the Federation wonderfully since its formation. It had made them stronger and gave them a solid position to work from the vast majority of the time. "The best I can say is their way of doing things makes sense, even if they don't explain why," Athrun replied. "I know that isn't the type of answer you would like, yet that is the best I can say. There is a reason the Federation doesn't explain things to others, I can assure you of that."
Matt blinked at the reply from Zala as it didn't address the question Aila asked. The "answer" from Zala wasn't an answer, more a placation than anything else. It was similar to what Matt understood had been received by those from the PLANTs and ZAFT when they asked the Federation the same general question. That Zala said the Federation had reasons for not explaining things didn't make it any easier to understand why. "That ain't an answer," Matt stated. "It's the same stuff the Federation says when they are asked."
Athrun figured the answer he could give wouldn't be well-received by several in ZAFT. But as he knew things which the Federation didn't want others to be aware of, he was held to the same general standard as others who knew the same information. Athrun still had some privileges with the Federation. He didn't want to lose those by running his mouth saying things he was expected not to. "I am sorry, but that is the best reply that I can give to the question," Athrun returned. "The Federation is consistent, the most consistent of all the factions. They may not explain their reasons they do things, but that doesn't mean they don't have good reason to do things the way they do. Their motivation is always for the best interests of their citizens even if it doesn't seem that way by outsiders."
Aila doubted Matt or she would get more about her question than they already had. It was merely a curiosity that Aila didn't see a problem in asking even if she was unlikely to get anything. So, Mr. Zala's answer or lack of one was fine and expected, Aila wouldn't hold it against him. She glanced at Matt and shook her head, "It's fine, Matt," Aila assured. "Admittedly, I didn't expect much of an answer. I apologize if that seemed rude, Mr. Zala." Athrun waved a hand in dismissal, "It's okay, and call me Athrun, not Mr. Zala."
Athrun's mind shifted to where the two could be leading him to. He still needed to talk with the captain of the ship. There was the task Chairman Durandal asked him to do for him which involved the captain and one other. Granted, Athrun was just a messenger in the task, but he wanted that out of the way as it would be awkward. He would rather not have awkward feelings between himself and the captain he would be working with until further notice. There would be more than enough awkwardness between Athrun and others on the Minerva without adding more to it. "May I ask where you are escorting me to," Athrun posed. "I do have something to tell the Minerva's captain which I was asked to deliver."
Aila and Matt couldn't help but be curious as to what Athrun could have to deliver to Talia. Athrun being a member of FAITH was odd enough with him being assigned to the Minerva. For him to have a message or something else to deliver to Talia would make things stranger still. Not that either would complain that Athrun would be around to help during combat. He had brought a Gundam, and his skills would be an incredible asset for the Minerva to work with. However, the circumstances which he was coming under were just so odd that it brought up more questions. Aila was the first to speak to Athrun's question, "We are taking you to the quarters you will have while on the Minerva." Matt picked up from where Aila had left off, "Those will be what officers get. It's not just because you are a member of FAITH, but it likely would've done the point."
Aila inclined her head, "Do forgive him if he sounds a tad bitter. The journey the Minerva has been on hasn't been the easiest for any on the ship." Aila paused as she recalled that Talia wasn't currently on the ship. Talia had headed into Shira to talk to others about what had befallen the Minerva or something to that effect. There had been no mention as to potentially when she would get back from that. Thus, whatever Athrun wanted to tell or deliver to Talia would have to wait until she returned. "As for talking with Captain Gladys, that will have to wait as she isn't on the ship right now. She went into Shira to talk to some about what has brought the Minerva here from what I understand."
While Athrun wanted to get the task from the Chairman done as soon as possible, he could wait to do it. The task wasn't exactly urgent per se, but the sooner it was done the better. Athrun wasn't going to question why the Chairman and/or others wanted to make the captain and one of the pilots on the Minerva members of FAITH. It wasn't Athrun's business, and he didn't intend to involve himself in such things. If the recipients had questions, they could ask the Chairman rather than Athrun as Durandal would know more than him. "That's fine," Athrun replied, "I'm just delivering something, that's all."
Athrun was shown to "his" quarters by the two before they moved on to whatever they were working on. He glanced around the room, and found it was the standard officer's quarters ZAFT vessels tended to have. There was a bed and a desk in the room along with a private bathroom for him to use. It was better than the quarters Athrun had back on the Vesalius which he had shared with Nicol. While members of FAITH were expected to get "better" treatment than the normal forces, Athrun wasn't sure if he would get used to it. He would need to go back to Tyler's place to grab his briefcase and pilot suit and bring them back here. But beside that, there was little more to do for him to settle into the ship beyond the task the Chairman had given him.
It was a couple of hours later when Athrun heard the ship's captain had returned to the Minerva from whatever she had been doing. Athrun had taken the time he'd been waiting to study the layout of the Minerva. He wanted to have the general layout in mind so he wouldn't get lost or anything. So, he knew where the Minerva's captain's cabin was located. Thus, when it came to his attention the captain was back, Athrun began making his way to Talia Gladys. He had no idea how the conversation would go. However, that wasn't the point in the task, Athrun was just delivering the message, nothing more. Athrun just hoped that it wouldn't make things more awkward than him coming to the Minerva would do.
Talia had returned to the Minerva after talking with some Federation military personnel. They had just asked for a general summary of what had happened around the Gulnahan Ravine. The questions asked had been simple ones and she hadn't been forced to answer them but did per ZAFT policy. She hadn't expected anything the Federation would ask to be problematic. In the end, Talia had been assured the repairs and resupply the Minerva needed would be seen to while the ship was in dock. Estimations put it at two days for the needed work which was fine. Talia saw the time as something which could be used for shore leave for the Minerva's crew. Arthur was doing fine managing things while Talia had been away. Aila and Matt were still on the ship and could jump in to help Arthur should he need.
Talia had conferred with him when she had returned and was told little had changed. The one change that Arthur did mention was the mystery "pilot" had shown up while Talia had been gone. Talia was a tad surprised when Arthur said the pilot had been in a Gundam which was now in the Minerva's hangar. For the Minerva to get another Gundam type was odd to her, especially with three of the planned machines now in enemy hands. And Arthur had said that Aila and Matt had greeted the pilot, but there hadn't been much beyond that. Talia hadn't had the chance to speak with Aila or Matt about the pilot yet. So, Talia knew nothing of the Minerva's new pilot which the ship would be depending on. She intended to at least greet and meet them before the Minerva headed out from Shira.
Nevertheless, Talia was brought out of her thoughts when a knock came at her door. She wasn't expecting anyone to come by right now. Arthur had brought her up to date on things so it wouldn't be him. Aila and Matt wouldn't be coming by for essentially the same reasons as Arthur, they had nothing to report at the moment. So, Talia told whoever it was knocking to enter so she could see who it was calling upon her. To Talia's surprise, the young man which entered her quarters was one she'd encountered before. The blue hair and green eyes had stood out somewhat the last time. It had been right after what had gone down at Armory One, during the meeting with Captain McGregor as Talia recalled. The young man had been with the Federation representative which Gilbert had told her after the meeting had been at Armory One to talk to him.
Now, Talia didn't expect to see this young man again, and certainly not in a ZAFT red uniform. She'd not even heard a name for him from Gilbert now that she thought about it, such hadn't mattered at the time. And yet, here the young man was in a ZAFT uniform facing her. She could only assume that he was the Minerva's "new" pilot they were supposed to get around Shira. A glance over his uniform had only provided more questions, especially with the FAITH crest on the collar. There hadn't been a word between them and already Talia had many questions about this young man. What could've brought him to her ship? Who would potentially assign him to the Minerva and why. If he was a member of FAITH as the crest implied, what reason could there be for them to be sent to the ship?
Talia decided to start the conversation off with the facts she did know and go on from there. Hopefully, the young man could provide answers to some of the questions which were coming to her mind. Answers seemed to be in short supply these days and it had been frustrating Talia. "I must say," Talia began, "I didn't imagine seeing you again. You were with the Federation representative around Armory One, one of her bodyguards I believe, is that correct?" Athrun nodded in answer, to which Talia continued, "I never heard what your name was. Perhaps you could start with that before moving on to what has you on the Minerva."
Athrun could understand the desire for answers, he knew the feeling all too well. And a ship captain had ever right to know why someone came onto their ship, the vessel was their responsibility. So, Athrun saluted before giving his greeting, "My name is Athrun Zala, ma'am. Recognition number 2-8-5-0-0-2, member of FAITH Special Forces. I am currently assigned to work with the Minerva until further notice."
Talia blinked at the greeting she had gotten from this young man. The name alone was unexpected, mostly as it was a well-known one among ZAFT. Athrun Zala was a war hero and had earned that title for his actions during the last year of the Alliance-PLANT War. Talia put in the number the young man had given and found it did match Athrun Zala's ZAFT ID. That meant the young man was likely telling the truth about his identity. But as far as Talia knew, Mr. Zala hadn't been a member of FAITH before. Granted, with his service record, it wouldn't be surprising if he became one at some point. Yet, from what Talia understood, the rumor was Mr. Zala had been discharged from ZAFT after the war for some reason. Whether that rumor was true or he had been merely not active in ZAFT, Talia couldn't say. He'd been with a Federation representative the last time. Talia couldn't see what reason a ZAFT soldier would have to be doing that even if they weren't on active duty.
For the one she was conversing with to be Mr. Zala was odd enough in Talia's mind. But that was in addition to him coming in a Gundam from what Arthur had told her. And it wasn't the skills of Mr. Zala which Talia would question, he was supposed to be more than good. Such could and likely would be assigned to pilot a Gundam, it made logical and common sense. Yet, none of that answered the questions to why a Gundam with a war hero like Mr. Zala would be assigned to the Minerva. Talia said nothing for a moment, just staring at Athrun thinking about what could've brought things to what they were. "Perhaps you can answer a few questions for me, Mr. Zala," Talia remarked. "For your presence here is making me wonder several things which I can't explain properly."
Athrun had a feeling he would get questions for a time with him coming back to ZAFT. His discharge was not exactly fact since it was questioned by what Nicol said. There were more rumors as to what possible reason there could've been for Athrun to be discharged at all. He couldn't blame any for wondering where he'd been and why he had reappeared now. Athrun couldn't explain why Chairman Durandal had assigned him to the Minerva. Heck, Athrun couldn't say why the Chairman had pushed him to be a member of FAITH. He agreed with Tyler, something just seemed off about the push, even if neither could say exactly why. So, Athrun inclined his head, "I don't blame you for wanting answers, and I will do the best I can to answer your questions as I am able."
Talia appreciated that Mr. Zala was willing to take and answer questions, not all from FAITH were like that. She didn't expect him to have all the answers she wanted for what was going on, but hopefully, he could shed some light on things. "The rumor is that you were discharged from ZAFT at the end of the Alliance-PLANT War, official records state that," Talia started. "However, I can't see someone with a record like yours being discharged without a reason if that's what really happened. So then, were you really discharged, and if so, for what reasons?"
Nicol had told Athrun that there had been several which had questioned his discharge from ZAFT. He also knew the "punishment" for those who had done "horrible and unforgivable" things hadn't been made public. Thus, the rumors of there being more to the discharge had spread. It had provided a way out from some of the pain Athrun had been at the time from the losses he'd suffered because of the war. Originally, Athrun had planned to think about going back to the PLANTs and maybe helping. But as time had moved on from leaving, reasons to go back had made less and less sense. He had more reason to stay on Earth since he had friends and what one might call a family there. "You aren't the first to question the discharge," Athrun replied. "To tell the truth, it was a choice given to those who had done horrible things during the war, for I wasn't the only one given the choice. I could've taken a rank demotion like most did when presented the choice." Athrun hesitated for a moment, "It may not make sense, but I chose the discharge to get away from the painful reminders of what I'd lost to the war."
Talia said nothing to the reply. She'd never heard anything about a "choice" being given to those that had done horrible things. There had been rumors that punishments had been given out to some for actions they shouldn't have taken, but that was all that Talia knew of. Sure, she could see if an action was horrible enough, a harsher choice may have to be given to the individual. But for an action to warrant a choice of rank demotion or discharge made Talia wonder how bad the action could've been. However, Talia could fully understand the wish to get away from painful reminders of loss, she had her own experience of that idea. "Actually, I can understand wanting to get away from painful reminders, Mr. Zala," Talia remarked. "I then assume that returning to the homeland just kept getting put off for one reason or another?"
It certainly sounded like Captain Gladys had her own experience with painful reminders from how she replied. The second sentence was different from what those who merely sympathized with the feeling would give. So, Athrun nodded in response, "That sounds about right. I had intended to return after some time, but I kept coming up with reasons to put it off. There kept being another reason for me to not go back to the PLANTs since the war," he iterated. "But then Armory One was attacked and other events followed it which has led to the growing conflict." Athrun stopped wanting to put his wish to help in the right way to say he wanted peace for all. "Memories of those I lost in the Alliance-PLANT War have been coming back to me. Recent events had been hauntingly familiar as they are somewhat mirroring what happened in the war."
Talia wouldn't disagree with Mr. Zala with events since the attack on Armory One were hauntingly familiar. He wasn't the only one seeing the worrying similarities there were between what the Alliance was doing right now and the Alliance-PLANT War. Talia knew those on the Supreme Council and the National Defense Committee were trying to prevent a war. However, the signs were making it clearer preventing a war from coming was becoming a lost cause. "I would guess you returned to ZAFT to try and help with the efforts to prevent a war from coming," Talia posed. "Not that I don't understand that, but it's a little late I fear for prevention at this point."
Athrun knew that Captain Gladys was right about preventing a war was nigh impossible now with the actions of the Alliance. With what Tyler had told Athrun, it was obvious radicals had retaken control of the Alliance essentially. And with radicals in charge, a war with the other factions was only a matter of time rather than a possibility. The radicals the Alliance tended to have around them wanted Natural domination and would accept nothing less. It was one of the motivations used during the Alliance-PLANT War to drive it on Athrun knew. Thus, Athrun sighed at what had been said, "I'm aware that preventing a war essentially won't happen any longer, not with the radicals all but controlling the Alliance now. However, that doesn't mean things can't be done to minimize the damage which the coming conflict will do."
Talia would applaud Mr. Zala's insight and understanding. He could see a war was coming, and little would stop that now. Yet, instead of denying that, he was looking ahead to what could be done to prevent the war from doing horrible things as the last one had. Talia could respect one that accepted the truth and wanted to work to improve the situation the best it could be. But that led to the question of why Mr. Zala would be assigned to the Minerva and by whom. "I can certainly respect your wish to minimize the effects a war could bring," Talia said. "But that brings me to the question of what brings you to the Minerva. While you said you were assigned to work with us, may I ask who gave you those orders?"
Athrun could understand questioning him coming to the Minerva without much of a word. He would be doing that in Captain Gladys's position. Athrun didn't knew exactly what Chairman Durandal had in mind with having Athrun work with the Minerva. The man seemed to think highly of the ship and its crew, but Athrun felt there was more to the point than that. "The one who told me to come and work with the Minerva was Chairman Durandal," Athrun stated. "I can't say I know why he implied that would be the best thing for me to do for the time being. He mentioned he had other things to see to so there wasn't the time to ask him further questions at the time. You may have a better idea of what the man is thinking than I do, I can't say why he would have me working with the Minerva."
Once again, Talia couldn't help but wonder what Gilbert could be thinking. He had shown that he had great expectations of the Minerva before now. However, Talia couldn't say how far those expectations could extended. That was what worried her, that those said expectations could put the Minerva in a seriously problematic position in the future. She wouldn't say no to having a pilot of Mr. Zala's caliber on the Minerva. What was likely ahead of the ship would need skilled pilots, Talia had no doubt. "You aren't the only one who wonders what the Chairman is thinking with some of the decisions coming out," Talia admitted. "Still, Mr. Zala, the Minerva will be counting on you during combat."
Athrun had no issue fighting to defend the ship, it was part of a pilot's duties. However, he wasn't fond of being called "Mr. Zala." It had Athrun understanding Tyler's feeling about formalities. They could make things awkward and could make a room much less comfortable. So, Athrun waved a hand in a dismissive gesture, "Please, I would rather you nor others address me as Mr. Zala. I prefer Athrun when possible," Athrun returned. "Formalities don't sit right with me when conversing with others out of combat situations."
Talia could sympathize with not wanting formalities and seeing them as unnecessary. Yet, Athrun would likely be put into the Minerva's field team lead position when the Minerva came into combat. So, there would be some need for formality, at least during combat situations. But Talia was glad it seemed that Athrun wasn't arrogant or one that demanded respect or note of his rank. Talia had been around such types before and hadn't cared for them. "I don't foresee your wish of not being formal being much of an issue, Athrun," Talia replied. "There will likely be a few that still will insist mind you, but there are always some of those. Is there anything else you would like to bring up with me?"
Athrun knew it would be best for him to bring up the "package" which the Chairman had asked him to deliver. He knew what was in the small box he had, two FAITH crests for some on the Minerva. There was a letter Athrun had with the box which he assumed explained the FAITH crests more. He hadn't read the letter, the FAITH crests were odd enough that Athrun didn't want to be more involved right now. "There is one other thing," Athrun said and took out the letter handing it to Talia. "This is from Chairman Durandal. He said to hand it to you."
Talia took the letter which Athrun offered to her, looking at it curiously. She was wondering what was going on with what had come the Minerva's way. First, they got a new pilot and machine, which was unusual enough to raise questions. That the machine was a Gundam was odder still which had Talia suspicious. For Mr. Zala to be with it and a member of FAITH, had Talia scratching her head. And now Athrun had a letter from Gilbert for her specifically which just topped off the strangeness of the whole situation. Talia would like to think the letter was Gilbert giving an explanation, but she couldn't help but feel that wouldn't be the case. She opened the letter and read it over hoping for something to explain what this was all about.
It didn't take much reading to tell Talia the letter wasn't an explanation she had wanted. No, instead the information it contained made the situation more confusing. The letter essentially said that Talia and Aila were being made members of FAITH. Talia couldn't think of any reason for her or Aila to be considered to be a part of FAITH, let alone made members without anything said before that. And yet, that's what the letter from Gilbert was essentially saying to her. Talia glanced up at Athrun, "Have you read this letter," she asked. Athrun shook his head, "No, I saw what was in this box," he replied bringing out the box and setting it on her desk, "However, I did not open the letter. I'm just the messenger, I have no idea what the Chairman and others are thinking making two on this ship members of FAITH."
Talia believed Athrun with him saying he didn't know anything about the contents of the letter. His reply of just saying two individuals on the Minerva would be made members of FAITH implied that. It just pointed back to Gilbert "arranging" things without asking others what that could do. Wrapping up others in his arrangements was something that Gilbert did, Talia had seen that before. "My apologies for implying you could have something to do with this change," Talia remarked. "The Chairman does have a knack with looping in others to things he wants done without them knowing fully what they are being used to do." Talia shook her head, "And what is your opinion on working with the Minerva, Athrun?"
Athrun didn't have any specific issues with working alongside the Minerva. From what he'd seen from glancing over records on the ship, the Minerva was quite the vessel. Tyler's assessment had agreed with that point, and he'd seen the ship in action. Yet, Tyler had implied that the Minerva was becoming a symbol of sorts with the conflict. Athrun wouldn't disagree with that view as he'd seen similar signs glancing over the records of the Minerva. "At the moment, none that I can think of," Athrun replied. "I just ask you not to assume I'm some sort of one-person army as some think Gundam pilots are, skilled as I am. I assure you, I am not such an individual even if some call me a war hero."
A/n
I will leave off for this Phase and pick it up in the next one. I admit this is shorter than some of the last few phases. This was the best point where I could split the phase I was writing originally as it was looking to be ending out longer than I like to have them. Thus, this Phase is shorter and ends where it is. With that out of the way, let me get to the highlights and points I want to talk about with this phase.
Let me begin with the first scene with the Minerva rather than Athrun. And I'm not trying to ignore Athrun, but with him it is more recapping than advancement in the story in this phase. Now, remember, the Minerva is coming from the assault on OMNI around the Gulnahan Ravine. So, it coming to Shira is for resupply and repair before heading to the Carpentaria Base. Realistically, that takes time, where in the series, we don't get that impression as much as we would otherwise. I state that so that you readers understand the next few phases, will cover much of November in the story even if I don't go through each day. But I digress in this, so let me get back to the highlighting.
I know in canon, Arthur Trine doesn't get as much stage time as other characters, and it is a crying shame if you ask me. So, I will be giving him some more time in the spotlight than he gets in canon. He does more work for the Minerva than most would think, even if it is background work. Anyway, the Minerva's officers receive a message about a "pilot" (Athrun) will be joining up with the ship. Yes, canon would have Athrun join the ship around Carpentaria, but I have my reasons for him coming on earlier. I won't say more as that would be spoiling what is to come and I try to avoid that as I can.
Now I want to move onto the interaction between Athrun, Aila, and Matt, for there are a few things to point out. First, I would remind those who may have forgotten Aila didn't meet Athrun around Armory One as she fainted before she could. On the other hand, Matt did but Athrun was Cagalli's bodyguard "Alex Dino" rather than using his own name. As stated in the Phase, Athrun has a reputation from what he did in the Alliance-PLANT War, though more after he was given the Justice. I would also point out those in ZAFT who were punished and chose the discharge option did so quietly. The rest in ZAFT weren't told why those discharged were let go after the war. Thus, the "meeting" of the three goes the way it does.
The conversation that followed as they are going along the corridor does highlight an underlying theme which I have brought up a few times. That subject is how the Federation does things and how the Alliance and ZAFT see the Federation's actions. Athrun's time around the Federation has helped him understand what the general mentality the Federation uses. That is policy may be said, but process and procedure is not stated to outsiders. The mentality is if outsiders don't know the mechanics of how things are done with the Federation, then they won't be able to effectively disrupt the Federation running its business.
Lastly, the scene between Athrun and Talia does have a thing or two to note. First, I once again what to point out how ZAFT sees their FAITH and its members. They are the equivalent of the Federation's SOLAS, their best of the best. Because of that, it is a rare thing to have members as young as Athrun, my like Tyler is to SOLAS. Members of FAITH also have a knack of being on being in the know about things others are not, thus Talia wanting answer from Athrun. Athrun does give a summary of what brought him to the Minerva. He knows that "preventing" a war is impossible as Humanity was heading that way with the attempted nuclear strike on the PLANTs and the Alliance's attack on Asgard. I know that in canon, Talia is made a member of FAITH when Athrun joins the Minerva, so this is earlier than that. However, I think there are valid reasons for Talia to be made a member of FAITH by the decision of Gilbert Durandal. Those reasons will be explained at a later time in future phases rather than now.
In conclusion, I know this Phase was shorter than those before have tended to be. As I said, the phase was originally combined with the next one which is being written. Yet the length was looking to be approaching a level I tend to keep below, so I split the phases. As always, please some of you take the time to write a review and tell me what you thought of this Phase and/or the story up to this point. I do read reviews and appreciate each one that comes regardless of whether I respond or reply to them. The next Phase is in the works, not guaranteed timeframe of when it will come out sorry to say. Peace out until the next Phase!