Disclaimer: This is fanfiction. Anything you recognize is not mine. All characters and events in this story are entirely fictional.
-=oOo=-
Riker opened his messages from the Enterprise. One was from Jean-Luc. They were all encrypted. It was tagged a status report on the current mission. He watched the video. The first thing that stood out was his cup of tea was the wrong color.
"I just wanted to let you know that our mission bringing supplies and helping this colony is slightly ahead of scheduled."
That was another anomaly. The schedule variance on day one was irrelevant. He kept watching.
"This is a very nice world. My chief of security is talking about getting a dog, but of course a dog couldn't be brought on the ship. I will not have a dog traipsing around my bridge. Either way, things are status quo here. We will be there to help you out as soon as we can."
"Just what message are you sending Captain?" he asked in a whisper. He then pressed his com badge and said, "Worf, would you join me in my room. I have something I'd like to go over with you."
"I'll be right there."
A few minutes later Worf walked in. "What is it you need?"
"Take a look at the captain's last message. There is another message there, and for the life of me, I'm missing it."
Worf watched it and then spent several minutes thinking about it. Finally he said, "On that early mission we had with the Traveler my pet appeared. That is all I can think of."
"I think your right Worf. It is clear Picard is regarding this information as very sensitive. That message was secure and he wouldn't come right out and say it."
"I will not mention it."
"That works. I'll tell them, though we may have to wait for Enterprise."
-=oOo=-
"Hello Captain Riker," said Shion after he beamed aboard. Rowan and Faile were already there.
"Your bridge is cleared for the science on this all correct?" asked Riker.
"It is. I trust everyone here with my life."
"I got a message. Captain Picard talked indirectly even though the channel was correctly encrypted and we are using all preshared one time pads on top of our normal encryption. Short of someone stealing that, the encryption is not breakable."
"Go on."
"He referred to a mission I was on not long after joining the Enterprise. In it, we had a guest that called himself the Traveler. He was working with a Starfleet engineer at the time, and we didn't know he called himself that then. They were supposedly optimizing our warp drive. The engineer was not credible and is irrelevant, but the Traveler did something. He kind of phased in and out while we were at I think it was warp one point five and suddenly we were something like a thousand years away from home at warp nine. He eventually got us home, though he vanished at the end of it. We presumed he returned to his home, but we don't know, not really."
"Do you have recordings of these events?"
"Not on the Defiant no. I'm sure Enterprise has a copy and probably Starfleet, somewhere. Wesley Crusher, who was a civilian at the time seemed to know something about it. He even seemed to help a bit at the end getting us back. I remember him saying something about relations between space and time and even thought, but I really didn't understand at the time and I could be misremembering."
"Do you have any way to contact this Traveler?"
"No, unless the crew of the Enterprise can think of something. From what I can tell they are slightly rushing their mission to get here as soon as possible."
"What are they doing?"
"Supplies and helping out with a myriad of tasks that a Starship, particularly with industrial size replicators, can help out with. It needs done, and if they weren't already doing it, I think they would be here, or heading this way. They have about a week left, and probably a few days to get here after that," said Riker.
"We are still learning valuable information, and we are not exactly surprised by this information. For now, I suggest we continue as we are. Ideas like having the Rowan or another on the test article are still considered too dangerous. I feel we are close to something important, but haste must be avoided. That is what will get people killed. By all rights, I should be dead for the risks I've taken in my life. I'd rather not make anyone else pay for my mistakes."
"Understood and I agree. I just wish I could tell you more," said Riker.
"Will you permit me to help share your memory with Shion and the others?" asked Rowan.
"That I can do."
"Let's get everyone together. This could be vital information."
-=oOo=-
They went through Riker's memories, and then separately through Worf's. They were very similar.
"I still don't know enough to recommend a change, but we should keep this all in mind as we plan our work. It's really a pity your memories have too little detail, but any motion at that speed, is, by definition, a blur," said Shion.
"You know I didn't really understand, not really, how lucky we were on that mission. The Traveler could have easily died, or just not been willing to risk that much to bring us back or who knows what," said Riker.
"I suspect your Warp Engines were probably somewhat new to him. The test program he was part of was likely a covert way to study them. He was, apparently, experimenting, which is sloppy. I've risked my own life many times, but I do not risk others nearly so cavalierly," said Shion.
"Your right, though he seemed like a very nice guy."
"It's irrelevant if he leads you to something that kills you. At least this Q was in control and was acting with a purpose, even if you didn't see it at the time."
Q appeared. "See, I should have gone to visit her universe instead. She appreciates my genius."
"We would have welcomed your help against the Gnosis," said Shion.
"You'll be fine now, though they aren't gone. They are creatures of the void between realities. They will find another way in eventually, if not to your universe then to another."
"I assume it was our original experiments with the Zohar that either drew them, or weakened the barriers enough for them to come in," said Shion.
"Both actually. The original should not be used again, ever," said Q.
"We determined the same. We would destroy it, if we weren't fairly certain that was an even worse idea."
"It is. It has its purpose, and I'm not going to fill you in."
"And when will that be?" asked Shion.
Q considered. "The words I gave were correct. Do not use it. Even if your species does survive down the ages, by the time you would have true need of it, it is highly unlikely my warning will be remembered."
"Ah, well, as my life, even with their gift, is unlikely to extend but a blink of that time, I think I'll safely inform my Federation and move on with life."
"You don't quite understand what they did, do you?" asked Q.
"I did not check my telomers. If they are also restored in length..."
"They are," said Q.
"This must not get out. No one is to mention this or write it down ever. Am I understood?"
"We understand and agree," or some variation of it, the entire bridge said, including those from the Defiant.
"And our current path? Is it wise to open this particular door?" asked Riker.
"Not particularly, but it could help you. You have come this far. You might as well finish it. Had that guy not decided to play with the Enterprise you might not have found the final piece, but for good or for ill, you have found a valid path. It doesn't come often. It is rare for a species to walk towards childhood's end. The Traveler was one such, but as the lovely Shion said, he almost got you killed on his little field trip. Really, you should be dead."
"What do you mean?"
"He is not that good. You traveled in real space, with help from him sure, but real space."
"We should have run into something. Sure space is big, but we traversed most of it. It has to be dangerous," said Riker.
"You were partially phased. You just didn't see it, but yes, you got incredibly lucky."
"Any idea where he is?"
"Some, but I'm not helping you here, nor am I sure following his path is the best one. Find your own."
"Thanks Q. I half wish we could turn around just be content as we are; that the Borg and other existential threats did not exist. That isn't the world we live in, though I'm quite sure I'm not ready to stop being a child," said Riker.
Q snorted. "You think this means that? I may be more serious of late, but I assure you I never intend to grow up."
"That's good news. I worry though, sure Rowan, Deanna, and our family are fine, but when there are more with such powers, what about all the regular people? Even if most can learn some, it won't be comparable."
"You have some time. Even if you and your children have a lot of children, the number as strong as you Rowan will not grow much, but yes, more power brings more responsibility. Hopefully your ready for it." Q vanished.
"A lot of people didn't think building Kosmos was a good idea, that I was risking too much. A lot of her initial mind was based on my own, though she is clearly her own person, and yet, my child was key to saving us. I will continue to believe in my people and in the potential of mankind. We don't get to turn away. Forward is the only direction we have left," said Shion softly. She absently touched her stomach before glancing at Allen. He began speaking with clear passion.
Come, my friends,
'Tis not too late to seek a newer world.
Push off, and sitting well in order smite
The sounding furrows; for my purpose holds
To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths
Of all the western stars, until I die.
It may be that the gulfs will wash us down;
It may be we shall touch the Happy Isles,
Riker joined in matching Allen word for word.
And see the great Achilles, whom we knew.
Though much is taken, much abides; and though
We are not now that strength which in old days
Moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are,
One equal temper of heroic hearts,
Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will
To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.
"I thought only Allen collected poetry. For awhile, I thought it was to impress me, and he certainly does, but he has been collecting for a long time," said Shion.
"Captain Picard is a fan of all the classics. You learn a few things over the years. Tennyson, was one of them," said Riker.
Q's voice said, "Quite right. The key to the future is often in the past, in memory, in dream, in story and poetry. You are far from the only race that has walked this path. The future is not written yet."
"Why don't we see more of them?" asked Riker.
"I think you know the answer to that," replied Q's voice softly.
"Well, I'll sleep well tonight," said Riker cheerily.
"I trained you as well as anyone, or are you out of practice at setting your mind into the right state to sleep?" asked the Rowan.
"It was a joke."
"You aren't keeping up with your practice, are you?" asked a suddenly amused Rowan.
"You know I love Lwaxana, but she does have a tendency to mention when she is right fairly often," said Riker.
"I really must spend more time with her, when there is time. She seems quite a good person to know," said Faile.
"She deserves someone better than me, but we are what we are, and we do love our children."
"I think you should talk to her more," said Rowan.
"Yah, I'm sure your right."
"Let's take a break for the rest of the day," said Shion.
Riker nodded.
-=oOo=-
Q appeared before Q.
"You."
"Me."
"You should have wiped out this path," said Q.
"They have earned the right."
"Have they? You gave more than a little help to get here."
"That so called Traveler ultimately gave them the key. If you want to stop it, simply edit the boy's memory," said the red shirted Q.
"Come now Q. Your a bright Q. You and I know that won't stop it. Years at best is what that would buy, if that."
"I don't know what to tell you. Unless there is consensus you can't overrule my actions."
"True, though I did get consensus to test one of them. Their fate will be decided by her decisions."
"Really? May I ask who shall do this illustrious task?"
"We honestly weren't sure."
"I'm not surprised. Even I'd be hard pressed to pick a representative," said red shirted Q.
"You'll see."
"The others are agreed on this test?" asked red shirted Q.
"They have."
"Then I suppose I better make some popcorn and watch your test play out."
-=oOo=-
On board the Earth ship Archangel in a completely different universe the Captain Murrue Ramius asked, "How much longer is the salvaging operation? Are we on track to be done by the end of the day like we planned Miriallia?"
"I think so, that or close to it."
"We need the water badly. We may want to get a little more than scheduled," said a dark haired woman with a short military cut in her white uniform.
"Natarle, let's see what we can finish on this shift. If we can get a bit more than we need, fine, but I'm wary against staying in one place too long."
"I'm picking up... I think it is an escape pod, no it is two escape pods, though one is quite odd," said Miriallia.
"SIgnals? Is either of them emitting? We are far enough from the N-Jammers, one can be sent," said Murrue.
"I am detecting only short range signals, and only that because I am checking specifically in their direction. It looks like a standard escape pod beacon."
"Have Kira pick them up in his mobile suit I suppose and let's see who we have found," said Murrue.
-=oOo=-
A young, perhaps sixteen year old woman with long flowing pink hair moved out of the craft in the zero gravity environment, as if she was quite used to it. Her billowing white dress flowed around her, yet kept her fully modest as she slowly drifted to the ground.
Nearby brown haired and close cropped Sai Argyle quickly finished opening the other capsule revealing a white haired slightly bug eyed Rowan who had been age reduced again to about sixteen as well.
"Thank you sir,"
"Sai. Sai Argyle."
"I am known as the Rowan, or simply Rowan if you like." She looked over to the pink haired one who looked back with curiosity.
"Two capsules. Do you know how I got here?" asked Rowan.
"I do not. We were hoping you would know."
The pink haired one turned to them. "My names is Lacus Clyne. I was attending the memorial ceremony for those that died on Junius 7 when the fighting began again and I was pushed into the pod."
"I see, so this place is involved in a war," said Rowan.
"Yes, a very terrible war," said Lacus.
Murrue stepped forward.
"I am Murrue Ramius, Captain of the Archangel. What are your affiliations?"
"I am not a part of the military, though my father is Siegel Clyne."
"I see and I am sorry," said Murrue.
"We could use her," said Natarle.
"We will do no such thing," snapped Murrue.
"I am not supposed to be here, I don't think. Either way, I am not involved in either side," said Rowan.
"Would you consent to a medical test to determine if you are a coordinator?" asked Murrue.
"Does it really matter? What even is a coordinator?"
"About fifty years ago some clever men figured out how to make enhanced humans. The first was a football star that also made great advances in science. There have been many since then. Most now are second generation though I do wonder if it was all a mistake. It is so hard to have children now," said Lacus softly.
"This is a race war?" asked Rowan in surprise.
"Regrettably yes. That began it. I deeply regret that my side sent the nuclear missiles that destroyed this agricultural colony and began this war. We wouldn't be here now in this place if we didn't need the water badly, but we are, and we are also fighting to protect our people," added Murrue.
"Murrue, it is inappropriate to question the wisdom of our superiors," said Natarle.
"My superiors, though I seldom think of them like that, would be quite annoyed with me if I failed to question an order I thought questionable. Certainly, I would never fire on civilians, no matter what he said," added the Rowan.
"That is wise," said Lacus softly.
"Then you are in a military?" asked Murrue.
"Yes, though we are an independent group that mostly just helps out and does what is needed."
"We are almost done here. We should get moving soon," said a male just a few years younger than the early middle aged Murrue.
"I know Lieutenant Neumann. Go ahead and get us under way."
"Wait, won't you at least say a prayer with me for the dead before we go?" asked Lacus hopefully.
"I will," said the Rowan.
"I don't think we have time," said Murrue.
"Please, if you will give Lacus and I ten minutes." She turned to Lacus and said, "That is, if you are willing to take a leap of faith and trust me Lacus."
"Why would I not?" asked Lacus curiously.
"Okay, I don't know what your planning, but what do you need?" asked Murrue.
"Captain, this is completely inappropriate," said Natarle.
"They are asking for ten minutes, not ten hours. We will do at least that much. We stole water from the dead. We had real need, but I will not leave without doing that much," snapped Murrue.
"A window, overlooking the largest portion is more than enough," said the Rowan.
"This way. We might as well use the bridge."
"Do you mind if we sit. I think we can manage to fit in the same chair, if they are normal sized," asked the Rowan.
"That's fine. You can take mine for the time," said Murrue.
"Just what are you planning. I get the oddest feeling from you," said Lacus.
"You will see. Trust me. If you have regrets, well I will of course stop at your first word, but I do not think you will."
They all looked at her with puzzled looks.
-=oOo=-
Murrue looked at the pair side by side in her command chair. A view of the remains of two thirds of the largest portion of Junius seven that survived shown on the main viewer, with all the debris near it.
"I will be tapping into your main power. The size of this is bigger than I thought. I will not significantly deplete your resources, but by all means monitor it," said Rowan.
"Captain you can't allow this. I don't even believe her, but you can't allow this," said Natarle.
"I'm inclined to just to see if she is telling the truth. Lieutenant, monitor power usage. If it becomes a danger to our mission tell her to stop, or I will."
"Alright."
"Will you let me hold your hands?" asked the Rowan.
Lacus smiled and did so.
"Hello Lacus," thought Rowan.
"You are doing this?" tried Lacus mentally.
"Yes, I know what I'm doing. Now your mind is quite developed. I'm going to bring this a bit deeper, but not too deep. Tell me if well anything really is an issue."
"Alright."
"What is this?"
"It is a merge, though a shallow one. Tell me if you disagree with my actions. We don't have time to practice, but you can see them before I do them."
"Alright."
The Rowan leaned into the ships electrical system.
"Ships reactor is now at thirty percent utilization and increasing."
"I can use whatever limit you set, but it will take more than ten minutes if I can't get to at least sixty," said Rowan.
"Allow it for now," said Murrue.
"Forty, Fifty, Sixty."
"I'll try to hold it there, but I'm not used to such a small reactor, so tell me if I exceed."
They watched on screen as in a feet of kinetic reconstruction only a prime could manage, Rowan slowly brought all the debris back to the core that was left.
Lacus thought, "Can you form this message?"
They watched astounded as words formed in giant letters on the remains of what would now be the largest monument in existence.
"In the hopes of peace Lacus Clyne and Angharad Gwyn form these words to ask for an ending of the hatred, an ending of the war, an ending to all the wasted lives. On this spot so many innocent died, we pray that a new beginning can be made for all, and that the lives of those that died in this war, on both sides can find peace."
Below that text, still formed out of pieces of structure carefully woven by the Rowan formed lyrics to a song.
Beneath a veil of starry sky.
As cold as winter darkness night
It's there you sleep, silent and deep.
You're all alone.
I sing the prayers, soft melodies
Across the lonely silent fields.
A little light, began to shine.
It shines on and on.
I watched you as you so peacefully dreamed
You laughed like a child at the end carefree.
It's all familiar, and yet so far
That's the as promised for you and me
One day on a green and shining morn
One day we will finally make it through.
Because in the sky, so dark with winter
We still have to believe it's true
Fields of hope
A gentle touch
A loving brush
Those things I still search for
A prayer in a melody
It goes on and on.
I sing the prayer, soft melody
One finishes, one dies
And all in all, it starts again, the never ended cycle.
One day on a green and shining morn
Through all of the long nights we have been fighting far
There lies a place
Far from disgrace
Where we won't have to hide from the world again
Now there lies a deep love within my heart
I year to protect you and keep you warm
It's all familiar and yet so far.
It's made for the peace of mind
Fields of hope
"So your name is Angharad Gwyn," mused Ramius.
"I didn't learn till I was already an adult. I prefer Rowan."
"I see."
"Energy usage has returned to idle," said Neumann.
"Well after that, I think we better go. Resume course. Get us moving," said Murrue.
"That will have been noticed," said Natarle.
"I fear they my destroy it," said Lacus.
"We could rebuild it as many times as they destroy it," noted the Rowan.
"I'm going to have to ask you two to stay in quarters," said Murrue.
"That is fine," said Rowan.
"And not to draw on the power of the ship. If that occurs in battle, you will force me to make a decision I do not want to make," said Murrue.
"I understand. What if it is to save lives?" asked Rowan.
"You have to approve it by me, unless it is our lives. I really hate myself for saying that, but unless you are sure it is an innocent, or on our side, and it won't endanger the ship, you must ask first."
"You are a good woman. It is through people like you that peace will be achieved. I truly believe that," said Rowan. Lacus looked at her curiously and nodded.
"You must know you have painted a target on your back. Your not a coordinator, unless they have something I don't know about. I would imagine either government would love to get their hands on you, and now both of you. I'll do what I can, but if we survive long enough to meet up with the fleet..." She trailed off.
"Don't worry, it will be well. I fully intend to return to my family, and I do not intend to die or be experimented on in the meantime," said Rowan.
"I wish you the best, and for what it is worth, I hope your work helps, but I will do my duty."
"We know. Thank you for saving us," said Lacus.
-=oOo=-
Kira Yamato brought them food a couple hours later.
"Sit, tell us about yourself," asked Rowan who began eating.
"There is really not much to say. I am a coordinator and kind of got caught up in all this. Are you a coordinator?"
"Nope, no genetic engineering for me, unless you count whatever is in the soil on Altair. There is a dimensional shift in there as well I'm sure," said the Rowan.
"And yet you can do all that. Amazing," said Kira.
"I know Lacus is smarter than me. You too probably. Care to help our rebel group?" asked Rowan conspiratorially.
"I won't endanger this ship."
"Not asking you to. I'm asking if your willing to work towards peace. This is a race war right? Variation of humanity X is different than variation of humanity Y. Jealously, politics, lies, hatred, war, death, rinse, repeat. It's a tale as old as time, and never justified. I know by the time my people walked the stars we had mostly outgrown this," said Rowan.
"Tell us about your people?" said Lacus.
"I could show you both, but I do ask not to reveal secret things unless you have a good reason."
"So we act normally then?" asked Lacus.
"Exactly."
"What would I have to do?" asked Kira.
"Well we have to sacrifice Lacus's virginity," said Rowan deadpan.
Lacus rolled her eyes. Kira blushed furiously.
"More seriously, just give me your hand. I know how to keep you safe and I promise to do so."
Kira did so. The Rowan let go after establishing the connection and continued to eat, even as Lacus did the same. In their minds however the Rowan showed a bit of her growing up, her arrival on the Enterprise and a bit of her other adventures, particularly her family, Deanna, and their hope for the future.
"Your wife is very beautiful. Many coordinators would be quite annoyed at a woman who did not choose a male as her mate, but you found a way," said Lacus.
"Yea, we had more than a little help. We obviously weren't trying for all girl children, but when you have the genes you have, you get what you get."
"That is so amazing. So many working together in both worlds. In yours, telepaths could have been hated like Coordinators, but you figured it out and made it through," said Kira.
"Yes, and you can too, though I'm worried about what Lacus said about birth rate. Have you tried not marrying other coordinators?"
"Sometimes it works, but usually not, at least without help," said Lacus.
"Huh. Well genetic engineering is not in my skill set, unfortunately."
"They built this ship on the neutral colonies space station, and then the colony was destroyed leaving. My friend Athrun was there, on the other side," said Kira.
"Athrun was there?" asked Lacus curiously.
"Do you know him?" asked Kira.
"I should think so. He is the man I am destined to marry."
"Really, and here I was thinking you liked Kira," teased Rowan.
"Our fathers set it up, but Athrun is a good person. I find it hard to believe he helped destroy Heliopolis," said Kira.
"I don't think he intended that, but he did bring back those big missiles and I stupidly fired that weapon without understanding it," said Kira.
"A terrible tragedy then. I wonder who ordered those. He would be under Rau Le Creuset, I think," said Lacus.
"There are always some that are not helpful. After all, if everyone did their job as they should, wars would not start," said Rowan.
"Perhaps," said Kira.
"I want to go out and meet the others," said Lacus.
"The problem is, they are not the problem, not really. If we put that Captain in a position she has to become more strict, we lose an ally," said Rowan.
"How would you get out anyway? They put guards on the door," said Kira.
"I'm sure I could think of something, but don't worry about it. I'm not going to hurt anyone," said Rowan.
The Rowan turned. "I think they have found their allies." She turned to Kira and asked, "You won't tell that I know, will you?"
"Not as long as you are helping," said Kira.
The Rowan smiled and nodded. "You should probably go, so they don't think the two coordinators and the experimental subject are in some plot."
"Your not an experimental subject," said Kira.
"I know, but theories will be created, and that is as likely as any. Take care Kira. Stay alive."
"I'll do my best," said Kira.
Lacus started softly singing. The Rowan took her hand and remained quiet, listening.
-=oOo=-
They met up with the fleet, but were soon attacked.
"Can you do something?" asked Lacus.
"There are a great many of them and they are very angry. I cannot save them all, not even with your help and a small risk on your part."
"But you can save some."
"Yes. Shall we go?"
"Let's." Lacus took her hand and soon they were on the bridge.
"I offer to save your sides people and your ship, if you agree to leave the battle. That is about the best I can do. I will also try to make the other side lose some equipment as well. In short, I will do my best, but you have to agree. I can't be defending myself if I'm doing all that. I can't even promise I can do all that."
"You can't agree to that," said Natarle.
"If I agree to this, it might end my career. Is it worth it?"
"You tell me. There is not much time."
"Do it."
"Murrue!"
"Shut up Natarle. That is an order."
"We need your chair I'm afraid."
"Fine."
They sat down and quickly linked again.
"Monitor Lieutenant."
"Missiles are hitting each other. Energy usage ninety percent."
"Sweeping the mobile suits. Returning to sender."
"Mobile suits all over are becoming dead in space. Energy usage one hundred percent."
The necklace around her neck became visible and began to flare.
"Incoming attack to the Law," said Neuman.
"I've got the people, barely," said Rowan.
"Where?" asked Murrue.
"Cargo bay. Hope our air processors can keep up."
The Rowan was sweating now as she pushed every inch of her ability into this.
"Okay the mobile suits are swept. Almost relocated all the people and disabled the weapons systems on the ships left. Don't you dare fire, or you will make me very angry."
"My god, your actually stopping this battle by pure force of will," gasped Murrue.
"Lacus is helping and it is not too healthy for her, but we do what we can."
"I'll be fine," said Lacus.
"I think that is all of them."
"Ships and suits are being given momentum. They are going to crash into the sea," said Miriallia.
"Stop it!" Natarle drew her gun, which vanished, then she vanished.
"Don't have time to deal with you now. Stupid making me waste strength. No people on those ships."
"There is just us and the Zaft ship. They are requesting communications," said Miriallia.
"You can have your chair back. Don't tell them about well us for now, please," said Rowan.
The Rowan stumbled, even as Lacus tried and failed to keep her up. Miriallia helped them out of the way. Murrue sat down.
"Open a channel."
"Legged ship. Just how did you do this?" asked a blond haired man in a mask.
"We thought it was you. I assume you also have your people in your cargo bay."
"We do. It seems the war will be delayed. I bid you a good day."
"We will meet again, and we will have words. Heliopolis shouldn't have been destroyed, no matter what we did. They didn't deserve that," said Murrue.
"Causalities of war."
"Leave now. Cut the connection."
"With as many people as we have on board now we will run out of oxygen within twelve hours. We have to land," said Miriallia.
"I know. Help them to medical." Murrue turned to them. "I do want to thank you. I don't know if we will meet again."
"We will. Have faith," said Lacus.
-=oOo=-
"It is about time you woke up. I started to think you would sleep through reentry," said the doctor.
"We had a busy day. How is Lacus?" asked Rowan.
"I did do a brain scan, just to be sure, because of what you said. There is some minor swelling, but as long as your not planning on repeating that for at least a week, I think she will be fine. I am, however, not an expert on Coordinators."
"Thanks for your care. We do appreciate it. When do you think she will wake?"
"Now, if her blinking means anything."
"Did we really do it?" asked Lacus.
"I'm a little worried about the other ships oxygen supply."
"They should be able to get a second ship to them in time," said Lacus.
"I hope so."
"You do know there is going to be a lot of people wanting to talk to you," said the doctor.
"You mean use me, and likely Lacus as well."
"I don't know what you want me to say," said the doctor.
"I'm not mad at you for speaking the truth."
The ship began to vibrate.
"It looks like we are starting our descent," said the doctor.
"Could we watch it perhaps?" asked the Rowan.
"Yes please," asked Lacus who had seemingly caught up a bit.
"Alright." The doctor changed his monitor to show the ships front view. They watched as the the land masses became visible.
"Thank you for your help doctor and we do apologize, but goodbye," said Lacus.
"What?"
They vanished. The doctor changed his monitor back, then opened the door to tell the guards, "You can tell the Captain that they vanished."
They came inside and began searching.
"Or you can do that."
"What did you do?"
"Nothing. They said goodbye and vanished."
They ran out.
A half minute after Murrue finished listening to the message she smiled, and then stilled her face to neutral.
"Continue the descent."
-=oOo=-
Andrew Waltfeld walked to the roadside cafe. His guards not far away in the desert city he controlled.
"Lacus Clyne," he said in flat disbelief to one of the two women sitting at the table.
"Hello Mr. Waltfeld. I vaguely remembered my father spoke well of you, so I thought we would look you up."
"How on Earth are you here? The last I heard you were at the memorial delegation and were still missing," said Andrew.
"I met a friend."
"You met a hungry friend. Could you please spare two young innocent girls that were in no way involved with anything at all some money to buy food?" asked Rowan.
"And you are?"
"I'm known as the Rowan."
"Her name is Angharad Gwyn," said Lacus.
"Is it now, and you were not involved in say a very creative act of graffiti?"
"Nope, not us. We are just seeking food," lied obviously Rowan.
"Let's get them some food. I'll tell you about the best way to eat chili dogs."
Lacus smiled. "Please do."
"More seriously, if you have brought Lacus here safely, I owe you a debt."
"Let's not talk about stressful things here," said Rowan.
"Fair enough."
They were half way through their meal when a group of terrorists shouted, "For a blue and pure world," and then tried to shoot them only to fall from their perches and get killed by Andrews people.
"You didn't have to kill them," said Lacus.
"I did. I may have some hesitance about killing resistance. They at least are just fighting for their homes, but blue cosmos is the worst of the worst. If they aren't killed they will kill more. You should come with me back to my base. It isn't safe here."
"Fine," said an irritated Rowan.
-=oOo=-
The Rowan was amused when Andrew's girlfriend Aisha presented them both with dresses.
"You know your going to have to give me a good reason to wear that. I admit my uniform has seen better days."
"You are an attractive woman. Is it a problem to show that?" asked Aisha.
"So are you, but I'm already married."
"Quite young, but I think I believe you. But what about children?"
"We are a very progressive household," said Rowan amused.
Lacus giggled.
"I'll tell you what. I'll wear your dress, but we want to talk to you and Andrew, and you have to promise to listen, well that and get me something more like my old uniform," said Rowan.
"I see. Are you related to the incident?"
"What incident is that?" asked Rowan curiously.
"The one where the battle that should have resulted in a lot of stupid deaths, on both sides, resulting in less than fifty."
"And would you be interested in more of that?" asked Lacus.
"You give me a serious way to end this madness, that doesn't mean we surrender or do something that basically means the same thing or just dying later, then I'll listen," said Aisha.
"That is our goal. We aren't trying to have one side win, but both, by stopping the madness."
"Do I get to see Lacus in a dress as well?"
"You do," said Lacus amused.
-=oOo=-
They eat quietly a three course meal.
"So, this grand dream of peace, how would you achieve it?" asked Andrew.
"We certainly can't do it by ourselves," said Lacus.
"That much is true. There are of a course a few troublemakers such as Murata Azrael and arguably Patrick Zala."
"Would you have me kill them?" asked Rowan.
"Patrick is Athrun's father," said Lacus.
"Would you kill them if it was necessary?" asked Andrew.
"I am willing to make hard decision, but I'm not convinced we are there yet."
"Murata was behind the original attack, as best as we can tell," said Aisha.
"And will killing him end this, or just make a martyr?" asked Rowan.
"Good question. I don't know," said Andrew.
"Let's come up with a better plan. Why are your energy sources so anemic?"
"The N-Jammer's we created block nuclear reactions," said Andrew.
"N-Jammer?"
"Neutral Jammer."
"Ah. Why? No, that's a dumb question," said Rowan.
"Quite," replied Andrew.
"We aren't expecting a miracle, but we have decided to keep at it," said Lacus.
"The townspeople are rebelling. I'm going to be forced to do something," said Andrew.
"You are at least trying to let them live in peace?" asked Rowan.
"I did what I could, but they value freedom more and I have no more room to maneuver."
"Orb may be our best bet," said Lacus.
"Possibly, but here I have maybe DaCosta who can be trusted, and of course Aisha," said Andrew.
"There are a few others, that if approached correctly could be I think," said Aisha.
"So, if we go to Orb and no one knows we are there, we don't paint a target on them. If we suddenly transport a lot of equipment there, we might. We could move the soldiers to somewhere else they will be okay, and let the townspeople have the town I suppose," said Rowan.
"You did do the ships then," said Andrew.
"Yes, but that was my limit, at least with the reactor on Archangel."
"The towns reactor is at least ten times bigger," said Andrew.
"Hmm. I could try to check who won't rat us out, but I won't read their mind if they say no," said Rowan.
"I know who to ask. There is no need," said Aisha.
Andrew nodded. "We need to talk with Orb, but any official communications are going to be monitored."
"I don't know anybody there, or really anyone," said Rowan.
"I think I do. My people saw what I think is Uzumi's daughter and the guard he sent with her," said Andrew.
"Care to share the knowledge of what she looks like and where she and this other guy are?" asked Rowan.
"Assuming its safe, no. You saved a lot of lives. I'll do this," said Andrew.
"I've seen her more recently," said Aisha.
The Rowan held out her hands to both, and then all three suddenly zoomed their combined mind out into the desert. It took them a little bit to find where Andrew knew their base was, and then to zero in on Cagali and her friend. They waited till they were alone ported Cagalli and her bodyguard to where they were, without their guns.
"What the hell?" exclaimed Cagalli.
The man with her immediately began to pull Cagalli towards an exit.
"Just hold on," said Rowan, who motioned and closed the door.
"What is this?" asked Kisaka.
"We wanted to talk to you," said Rowan.
"So you kidnapped us?' complained Cagalli.
"We can put you back when we are done," added Rowan.
"Do it now," snapped Cagalli.
"No. We know you are with the resistance. We are trying to help solve this madness. Sit down. Eat something."
"How do I know you aren't trying to poison us?"
"Cagalli, if they can bring us here, instantly, from the desert, then this is likely the person who saved all those lives. Show a little respect," said Kisaka.
"Fine. He is just going to kill us anyway," she said glaring at Andrew.
"I assure you, he has no interest in that," said Rowan.
"How am I to believe you."
"I can show you that I'm telling the truth."
"It's a trick," said Cagalli.
"No it is not, but the choice is yours."
"Why would you believe that Andrew wants to kill you?" asked Lacus curiously.
"He is the one that hunts us."
"He was put in charge of this region. He is a soldier. Tell me how he can accomplish that at the same time he is helping your people, and not get a bullet in the head for his trouble," asked Rowan.
"She does raise a good point. The Tiger is one of the best Zaft had to offer. If he wanted us dead, I'm pretty sure we would be dead. For that matter, how did you find us?" asked Kisaka.
"I knew where you were, more or less. It was enough," admitted Andrew.
"We have to warn them."
"Moving won't matter that much. Give me some credit. I do have spy satellites and trackers and intelligence units. Now if you want an actual plan to save your people you will eat a peace of chicken," said Andrew.
Cagalli put some green beans on her plate. Andrew laughed.
"And definitely don't touch the yogurt. It's horrible."
Cagalli started eyeing it.
"What is your plan?" asked Kisaka.
"We are thinking of moving the Zaft forces we can't trust somewhere they will be alright, destroying or moving the military equipment and being not found in Orb," said Rowan.
"You expect Orb to protect you? We are strong, but not that strong," said Kisaka.
"You tell me a better plan. It seems Orb's leader wants to fight the righteous fight but doesn't have a workable plan. That is likely to end badly," said Rowan.
"Your ability can be used repeatedly?" asked Kisaka.
"Rest is required, but yes, I can do it again."
"I can't trust that easily," said Kisaka.
"We could send you to Orb and ask if they will at least meet."
"Orb is no where near here."
"I can get you there. You can go there. You can trust me a bit and let me show you the truth, or you can go back where you were. I'm in no hurry, but option C likely won't end well. For that matter, if we do leave here and remove Zaft's presence here, nothing stops them from coming back and doing it again."
"Fine, I'll do it. If I start singing songs or some nonsense, Kisaka will hurt you," said Cagalli.
"You will do what?" asked Kisaka.
"The thing where you understand or something or other," said Cagalli.
Rowan held out her hand. Cagalli warily took it. They were quiet for some time.
"Fine, I sort of believe you, but I don't trust him."
Rowan held out her other hand, but not to Andrew, to Aisha. They stayed that way for another ten minutes.
"You are not getting me to wear a dress!" exclaimed Cagalli.
Andrew laughed. Kisaka sighed.
"If we have decided not to kill each other, what is our next step?" asked Andrew.
"Those two are together?" asked Kisaka.
"If you mean as a couple, I am married to another," said Rowan.
Lacus blushed.
"If you mean do I intend to leave before things are straightened out, well no, nor do I plan to leave her side till then. Of course, given I know absolutely nothing about dimensional transfer mechanics I'm kind of hoping if I help here I'll be returned," said Rowan.
"I don't know anything about that, but if we give you aid, will you help defend Orb?" asked Kisaka.
"If you are not the one to attack, yes."
"That will do. Cagalli, we should return home and talk to your father and the ministers."
"But I came here to make a difference."
"And now you can make one returning to your home," said Lacus.
"Fine."
"I'm going to need to understand where we are going a bit. A map would be helpful, perhaps on a computer?" asked Rowan.
"Let's go to my office," said Andrew.
-=oOo=-
Uzumi Nara Athha listened to his disobedient daughter and the others before turning to Kisaka.
"I obviously can't verify a lot of that, but much of it fits. She is clearly quite powerful and I'm certain that is Lacus Clyne."
"So am I. We should return her."
"I would instead appreciate if you could let my father know I'm okay, quietly, preferably, oh and Athrun."
"So hes an afterthought huh?" teased Rowan.
"You are teasing me."
"Just a little."
"Let me do that now."
"If he knows we are here," started Kisaka.
"Siegel knows when to be quiet. Come with me Lacus," said Uzumi.
-=oOo=-
Siegel opened the encrypted communications request from Orb.
"What can I do for you Lord Athha?"
"Is your end secure and private?"
"Yes, it is just me. If this isn't urgent, I'm kind of busy."
Lacus walked into view.
"Lacus! How ever did you get there? Are you okay? I'll send a ship for you right away."
"Please do none of that father."
"What?"
"I assure you I am in no particular danger at the moment, and I'm trying to help end this horrible war. I ask that you trust me and also somehow let Athrun know I'm alive without where I am."
"Athrun's father is Patrick. Telling him I know where you are is as good as admitting I'm conspiring against him."
"That is a problem. I suppose if you cannot find a way, then I'll have to find one. Don't worry Father. We will be fine."
"I will let you know if anything changes with your daughter," said Uzumi.
"I thank you. Do you really think she can do this?"
"Maybe. I don't know."
Siegel sighed and nodded. "Be careful. There are spies everywhere."
"I know."
-=oOo=-
Lacus was shocked when after returning to Andrew's office she saw Athrun on the monitor coming up the steps to the building she was in.
"It seems your boyfriend has made a visit. He may have gotten intel you were in the city," said Andrew.
"Then I suppose I shall meet with him."
"Do you want me there?" asked Rowan.
Lacus looked back at her, obviously uncertain. Then she suddenly heard in her mind, "I can stay with you lightly, if you want, and walk in if you want, or leave your mind in peace."
"Stay with me for now then," she sent, then out loud added, "I will go see Athrun alone for now."
"Then come with me," said Andrew.
-=oOo=-
"Lacus, your all right!" Athrun rushed to give her a hug that she returned a touch less tightly.
"I am fine. I was on Archangel. Me and a friend decided that landing with the others was a bad idea, so came here."
"Why did you not try to contact me?"
"I'm sorry Athrun. I didn't mean to make you worry."
"I'm just glad your safe. We can get you back on a shuttle and headed back to the Plants withing a few hours."
"I'm not going Athrun."
"What?" exclaimed Athrun.
"I'm not going."
"This is a war zone Lacus."
"I'll be fine. You could stay you know."
"I can't. I have orders. I had to take time off to come here."
Lacus frowned. "Do you trust me Athrun?"
"What kind of question is that?"
"I thought it was a simple one. Do you, or do you not, trust me?" asked Lacus.
"Of course I do."
"I'm asking you to consider the possibility that the path you have taken may not be the best way to end this war."
"I'm protecting our people."
"Yes, and no."
"I don't understand. Explain it to me."
"You are protecting our people, but the problem is the hatred leads to hatred and the people you are working for appear to not be helping."
"How can you say that? La Creuset is a great commander."
"How did Heliopolis get destroyed?"
"We were trying to stop the legged ship, and they had Kira there defending them. We couldn't beat him and the ship so we used the big missiles."
"Why?"
"Because it seemed necessary," said Athrun who seemed uncertain at his own words.
"You have a fine mind Athrun. Think about events. Predict them into the future. What were your alternatives?"
"We could have waited for them to leave and chased them then."
"Yes, you could have. You could have summoned more help and almost certainly destroyed Archangel as it left. Heliopolis would be intact."
"That was partly Kira too."
"He acknowledges his fault. He didn't know the strength of his weapon."
"Kira is here?"
"No."
"What do you want me to do Lacus?"
"Walk away, or at least be transferred away from La Crueset. Something seems wrong there."
"What would you have me do Lacus? I couldn't ever go home."
"Do you think I would abandon you alone Athrun?"
"No of course not. Was that you with Junius 7?"
"It was me and my friend, mostly my friend, but I gave her the words."
"People are talking about it a lot."
"Good."
"I don't know if I can just quit, though losing my mobile suit does make it a bit easier I guess."
Lacus smiled.
"We did that. I was part of it when we transferred you to the ship. I helped make sure your suit was destroyed too."
"How could you do that?" complained Athrun.
"Because you were very angry and very confused. You did not seem ready for such a thing."
"What are you even talking about? You can't read minds. That's nonsense."
"Rowan can."
"I don't believe you."
"Well give her permission to read your mind and you will."
"What? Where is she?"
"Nearby," said Lacus.
"Is she controlling you?"
Lacus rolled her eyes. "No she is not. I tried to save the Haro you built for me, but there was no time and I was shoved in the pod."
Rowan walked in. "I just wanted you to know that I won't read your mind without permission, though if you do give it I might be able to help a bit more."
"I need to get you back to the Plants to make sure your not influenced," said Athrun to Lacus.
The Rowan sat against a wall and started singing. She wasn't nearly as good as Lacus, but she also wasn't bad.
The night time fills the sky
Stars align, go floating by
So still the evening air
So warm and soft. Peace everywhere.
Lacus joined in, briefly touching the Rowan. The Rowan's singing improved.
I see a world in harmony.
A world of peace and humanity.
Where people walk free
Like water in a stream
Flowing on forevermore.
The breezes softly blow
Crisp and warm, so sweet I know
Upon the cheek I can feel
Tenderly, a kiss so real
Like the brush of a hand that I cannot I see
The sound of a voice deep inside of my heart
So I dream of a new day coming, for all the world to see
Lift your eyes and see a new day dawning
A dream that will soon come true
The day we have waited for
Lift your heart and see the future for us all, for us all
A dream that will soon come true
The day we have waited for
Forever and always forevermore.
Lift your eyes and see a new day dawning
A dream that will soon come true
The day we have waited for
LIft your heart and see the future for us all, for us all
A token of water from my heart to keep you safe
Forever, and always, forevermore
"What is that?" asked Athrun when they are done.
"We kind of linked when we started singing, mostly because I guess I'm not a terribly good singer. Either way, what makes you think Lacus isn't corrupting me?" asked the Rowan in amusement.
"She does that," said Athrun fondly.
"That song. She has been singing it for awhile, hasn't she?" asked Rowan.
Athrun nodded.
"Are her actions now, so very strange to you?" asked Rowan.
"I have tried to explain to you for some time Athrun," said Lacus.
"I don't understand."
While still holding the Rowan's hand Lacus reached for Athrun's. He hesitantly took it.
"Is touching really necessary?" he thought.
"No, but it is easier," though the Rowan.
"It's also easier on our minds Athrun," thought Lacus.
"Your mind is in danger?"
"Please don't be silly Athrun. Yes, stopping that battle was hard, and yes it hurt, a great deal, but I was fine. This is nothing."
"I still don't understand. This is just words without speaking, isn't it?"
"I can bring it on a deeper level.. Yes you will be fine. No I can't really do it without also having me a part. If you seek to understand," thought Rowan.
"Please Athrun," though Lacus.
"FIne."
They spent nearly a couple hours trying to show Athrun their thoughts, their hopes, while he showed his own and also the battle. They immediately were suspicious about his commanders actions. They also saw the sad ending of Heliopolis and Kira's failure to control the weapon he was using fully, and then, it all ended.
Athrun winced.
"You okay there?" asked the Rowan.
"Headache."
"It seems to affect less with practice," said Lacus.
"If you say so. So your plotting to just stop the war, but for now to make sure Orb can defend itself and free the people here."
"There are obviously more steps," said Rowan.
"And your thinking I can help?" asked Athrun.
"I do not know how to make your father less angry," said Rowan.
"The naturals started it."
"That is true, but not helpful," said Rowan.
"And she is a natural," added Lacus.
Athrun snorted. "To the other, I have no idea how to reason with my father."
"We need to figure that out Athrun," said Lacus.
"My father and Le Creuset seem to get along well."
"Maybe he can return for now and just keep us posted?" asked Rowan.
"Could we reach him that far?" asked Lacus.
"That is the problem. I think Athrun will improve with practice, but he still has no significant potential. I suspect your attempts at improving your genetics are not helping as much as you think they are. I could probably make him hear me, if I knew where he was, more or less, but he couldn't respond, even with my help at a distance."
"A pity."
"Cagalli has some, doesn't she?" asked Lacus curiously.
"Maybe as a T5 with proper training, which is still better than anyone else I've met so far," said Rowan.
"And you are?" asked Athrun.
"I'm a prime talent, or T-1. I'm on the high range for prime talents."
"Lowest?"
"P-12 more or less, though not much below eight gets employment in my universe."
"I'm still not sure about all this," said Athrun.
"Are you more sure about the plan your father has?" asked Lacus curiously.
"I don't know what his plan is, beyond winning the war."
"What does that mean?" asked Lacus softly.
"I presume it means we hurt them enough they agree to stop."
"Why would they agree to stop if you hurt them?" asked Rowan.
"Because..." Athrun cut off.
"You begin to see. They hate us, because we are different and to an extent jealous of us, though I find it silly. Either way, it remains true. Us hurting them more will make them hate us more. It will make them more, not less, determined. Surely you can see this," said Lacus.
"Do you think he would try to kill them all?" asked Rowan softly.
"No, he wouldn't.." Athrun's voice seemed uncertain as he said this.
"We are going to need to talk to him at some point, or determine the extent of where he will go. Murata too," said Rowan.
Lacus nodded.
"Why you?" asked Athrun.
"Do you see someone better suited?" asked Lacus curiously.
"This is crazy," said a frustrated Athrun.
"Well yes, war can often be insane, but ignoring the complexity does not end it," replied Rowan.
"We should practice with Athrun. If he does return, and he can at least here, it would be something."
"The rest of my team is here as well. They will be expecting me to bring you back."
"Tell me about them," said Lacus.