Author's note: I actually wanted to post this last month... I would have finished my current chapter on word had work not been this hectic... in any case here it is. You'll notice I added a bit of original stuff. Hope it'll still be good, or at least okay. Enjoy.
Phase-12: Wings of Freedom
The Minerva was sailing west towards Carpentaria. It had escaped the Earth Alliance fleet waiting for them right outside Orb but still sustained significant damage and smoke was billowing from a few places. Rey's Blaze ZAKU Phantom and Lunamaria's Gunner ZAKU Warrior were retrieved. The Impulse returned too. A pursuit was improbable, but they couldn't be sure. In any case, the pilots should get some rest. Arthur was to hurry and compile the damage reports. He demanded that each section promptly sent their report. But the fact that they could survive was all thanks to Shinn. Arthur was still amazed. Shinn had sunk six enemy ships! Six of them! Including two carriers! He had never heard of such a feat! That boy definitely deserved a medal! And the mechanics believed just the same. A crowd had gathered at the feet of the Impulse and as soon as Shinn came down, he was hugged by Vino and showered with praise by everyone. Gladys had always found it strange that the Impulse had been entrusted to Shinn and not Rey. Now she was wondering if Chairman Durandal hadn't expected this to happen. Trine believed it might be true. After all, the Chairman was an expert in DNA analysis. Still, to think they had managed to break through that situation! Surely, even the legendary Freedom and Independence from Jachin Due were not this good! His enthusiasm made Talia smile. Once they docked at Carpentaria, they would have to submit their reports and request a decoration, although the Headquarters were certainly going to be surprised too. Technical staff leader Madd Aves chided his team and told them to get back to work. There was still a long way before Carpentaria. The people dispersed and Shinn walked away, followed by Luna.
"But really, what happened to you, suddenly becoming a super-ace? Was it like the surge of energy when you get cornered?" She questioned, nonetheless sounding very impressed.
"I dunno, I can't explain it either. When I saw the Orb fleet firing at us, I snapped, and just as I thought 'I won't lose like this!' my mind suddenly cleared up... and then..."
"You mean you lost it?"
"No, not quite that... at least I don't think so..."
"Regardless, you saved this ship. Just the fact that you're alive is valuable, as it means there will be a tomorrow." Rey smiled, placed a hand on his friend's shoulder, and left. Asuka and Hawke looked at each other and smiled too. Rey showing gentleness was awfully rare.
In Orb, the government's decision to join the World Security Treaty Organization was relayed to the citizens. Cagalli was standing before a cenotaph. The tomb read 'We shall never forget the souls of those who have gone before us, loving peace and upholding the ideals of Orb to the end.' She recalled her father's words "The way things are progressing, the world will be caught between two forces that refuse to recognize the existence of the other. Is that an acceptable future for you?" ... "Learn the causes of war, Cagalli. Attacking each other isn't going to end anything." And she had intended to live and lead the country according to those principles, because she too felt it was the right thing. But the Prime Minister had said "I'm sure you can see the potentially great danger in being stubborn, making an unnecessary enemy, and eventually facing that powerful nation in battle." ... And Yuna too had rebuked her "This country is not your toy! Stop saying such sentimental things!" The girl hung her head and gritted her teeth, about to cry. She was feeling crushed, torn apart by the pressure, even as confusion was eating her from within. She had been forced to walk a path she didn't want to, but even if she hadn't, she couldn't be certain to be in the right either because she understood the minister. She had lost all confidence, and she just didn't have the strength to fight this flow.
Her thoughts were interrupted by Yuma Roma. This place really hadn't changed at all. It was about time they did something about the graves of all those old men. He also scolded her for carelessly walking around without even a bodyguard. Even though it was safe within the borders of Orb, she had to think of the current situation. He paid his respects before the cenotaph, closing his eyes, lowering his head and placing his fist before his heart. A moment later, the two young Orb Representatives were being driven back in a limousine.
"So, what is it you want? You came looking for me because you wanted something, right? So hurry up and say it." She asked rather crossly, looking out the window, her cheek in her hand.
"Oh dear, first you really have to do something about the way you speak. You are supposed to be the Mother of the country. If you keep acting like that, you'll lose the people's respect. It may be fine for the time being though. I was visiting the monument to report to your father as well as make my vows. I told him that I would protect both Orb and Cagalli with my life."
"Yuna! That's-" She sharply turned to him. He was really going overboard! And she had someone she loved too!
"It may be a bit rushed, but it has been decided that we'll have the wedding the same day as the signing of the treaty." The fiancé informed the girl, shocking her, filling her with dismay. She hadn't heard anything! "After all, the citizens are pretty uneasy due to the recent events and the stance we've taken. By having the two events take place on the same day, we'll show the people that their leaders will work as one to protect this nation." He continued. Cagalli tried to protest. She hadn't agreed on anything! He suddenly grabbed her hand and raised it, having apparently snapped a bit. "Little girl's playtime is over, Cagalli. Although I do feel a bit sorry that this is over so soon for you... You and I are both Naturals, and Orb will ally with the Atlantic Federation. It was never possible in the first place. The Ledfords are in far too deep with the Coordinators. No matter how influent they are, what do you think will happen to a family counting many Coordinators... a family that sides with the enemies of this world, with our enemies...? Do you really think that in your current position you can choose a man from such a family?"
"Yuna!"
"Yelling at me won't do any good, will it? Are you going to tell the citizens that you won't marry me, and choose him instead, and that is why you want to side with the PLANTs and make the Atlantic Federation an enemy?"
"I didn't say that!" The Head of State broke free.
"Well then, are you going to abandon your country and responsibilities and run away just like your sister did, even though you bear the Athha name?"
"Seren didn't run away or abandoned me!"
"Don't get me wrong. I have nothing against Coordinators. But whether it's those siblings of yours or that family, you can't afford to have any of them around you, Cagalli Yula Athha, because of your position as Chief Representative of the United Emirates of Orb." He smirked at her. She couldn't retort anything and turned away from him with a frustrated noise.
Andrew Waltfeld finished his new blend of coffee and offered it to Murrue outside. They were enjoying the breeze. The Coordinator understood the ministry's decision, and that it certainly couldn't be helped, as unfortunate as it was. Cagalli and Rayner tried everything they could. But despite being Head of State, Cagalli was still only a 18-year-old girl. It was just too difficult for her to govern in such a situation. Rayner too was only 21.
"I have no intention of blaming them. The problem lies with us. Excluding you and the others, Kira, Lacus and I should prepare to leave. Makabe and her daughter too. And the Ledford family counts many Coordinators. This will weaken them greatly and put them in a dangerous position."
"Are you moving to the PLANTs?" Ramius questioned.
"That... maybe, if it's only us Coordinators... or Ama-no-Iwato. I hear the Ledfords are already making preparations. Well, it's for that very sort of situation that the clan and its head have always maintained a certain level of independence and benefited from some privileges... they wanted to give the people who refused to choose between the Earth and the PLANTs an alternative, a last refuge without any discrimination should the nations succumb to pressure. Those people have the ability and wealth to create and maintain a new country if need be..."
"Ama-no-Iwato... a fully independent colony; all privately funded, and built for the purpose of taking in refugees and as such will not participate in any conflict... a last paradise..."
"Right... although it seems they're even stricter in maintaining peace and secrecy and the spirit of coexistence than the current Orb. And this way, we could all stay together... But the PLANTs shouldn't be so bad either... After that nuclear attack the public feeling over there for the Naturals should still be bad but Chairman Durandal seems to be a pretty steady, decent man. I don't think he'd do something stupid like senselessly rejecting Naturals."
"There couldn't be a greater joy than to go live and eventually die somewhere in peace. I wonder what more could humans want."
Rayner stood before the same monument Cagalli had been to earlier. Makabe Ruka was there too, behind him, near the car. He placed a bouquet a flowers and stepped back. He heaved a very deep sigh.
"Uncle, Uzumi-sama, I'm sorry. I swore I would protect our princesses, but Seren left my side, and Cagalli will marry Yuna Roma Seiran. What more, Cagalli decided to join the Earth Alliance. And even though I promised her I'd protect her from the enemy factions in the government, I failed at that too. The hole you left was too big for us to fill. We just couldn't do anything. But I don't intend to let it end like this... not the future of this nation you entrusted to us, not the ideals we believed in, and not my relation with Cagalli. As a Ledford, I simply can't take this lying down, right? We're a slippery breed that like breaking conventions and acting outside the box. My counter-attack is underway. I might have to take a roundabout path, but I will definitely protect everyone. I will fight. So don't worry." He declared. Then he turned towards his assistant. "Is everything in place?"
"Yes, everyone is in position."
"Good. There's no time when a person is most vulnerable than the moment he believes he has won. With this we should be able to get some evidence and deal a good blow. Still, are you sure about Karin-chan?"
"It cannot be helped, my daughter is too admirative of Seren-sama, Cagalli-sama and you to listen to me. She had never been able to sit still. Besides, she already participated in the last war."
"Right... the Kusanagi's youngest member of the bridge crew at only 12. To think it was her first time in space and with gravity, and she learned everything on the job. Guess that's a Coordinator for you. And there were idiots stupid enough to want such people as enemies. Well, in any case, let's start the operation 'Foxes and Racoon Dogs'!"
"I'm still not sure about that name, though."
"Why? It's perfect. With this, we'll see who will outwit the other." They returned to the car.
The car drove down a lane along a cliff. But even though a sharp turn was approaching, it didn't slow down. On the contrary, it was gaining speed as it was driving down a slope. It crashed through the guard rail and fell far down into the sea. A man had been watching everything through his binoculars. He told his companion to report the success of the operation. No one could have survived such a fall.
"I see, thank you for your hard work." Yuna Roma said on the phone and ended the communication. "Now, everything will be mine... Cagalli, and this country..." He smirked and went to knock at Cagalli's room. She was busy with her lessons to become a perfect ladylike bride. He asked everyone else to leave the room, making her really anxious, especially since he looked so grave. "Cagalli, prepare your heart and listen." He placed his hands on her shoulders. "There was an accident. Rayner's car fell from a cliff. No body has been found yet, but..."
"What?" The words stunned her for a time. "What?! No! No! NO! This can't be! How could that be?! I'm going to go look for him!" She fiercely denied him, swatting his hands and walking past him to the door.
"CAGALLI!" The young man grabbed her arms and forcefully turned her to him, but she still couldn't face him or his words. "I'm sorry." He said gently. The princess snapped her head back to him and looked right into his eyes. She gritted her teeth and suddenly burst into tears. Yuna held her in his arms. "Here, for now you can cry all you want for him. Let's make this your goodbye to him." He petted her head. And because her face was in her hands against his chest, she could not see the cruel smile playing on his lips.
Night had fallen. At the base of the cliff on which the manor (jointly owned by Seren, Rayner, Andrew and Murrue) was built, a dozen people in wetsuits came ashore. They changed some of their gear. Their masks were replaced with helmets equipped for night vision. And they took firearms from their bags. The leader reminded them of their orders: leave no trace of her death at the site, but make sure to finish her. As usual Lacus was sleeping with the children. As the commando arrived at the mansion, Haro activated and alerted the residents. As veteran soldiers, Murrue and Andrew woke up and got ready in a flash and came out of their adjoining rooms with their guns in hand. They nodded to each other. He asked her to look after Lacus and the children and they separated. Kira came out too and saw Waltfeld with his gun who told him to hurry and get dressed, and also to go look after Lacus and the kids with Ramius-kanchou. They had unwanted guests. The boy obeyed. He also woke his mother and the Reverend up. They all went to the children's room. Ramius had just woken them when they heard glass breaking. Waltfeld had thrown an attacker out of a window. He exchanged fire with people outside.
The others were hurrying to the shelter. Only Murrue was armed though, and those attackers were good. They chased them inside, through the corridors, firing away. Waltfeld too was in a difficult position, hiding behind a table. He broke through a door and opened another, without knowing an enemy was concealed there. The assailant tried to stab him but he blocked and the knife penetrated his left arm. He managed to kick the attacker away and shoot dead with the gun hidden in his left arm. Left arm that was actually a prosthesis. He had lost his real arm when battling Kira in the Lybia desert about two years ago. He placed prosthesis back and tossed the knife. He was walking away when he heard a voice from the dead man's earpiece.
"Our target has moved to area E with the children. She had no weapon. She only has one female guard with her. Hurry up and finish her."
The female guard though was hanging on while Lacus and Caridad Yamato were reassuring the children and the Reverend was typing the code to the shelter. Waltfeld arrived from the door on the other side of the hallway and quickly joined them. He told them to hurry as there many enemies. The door to the shelter opened and the children started pouring in. But an intruder had moved through the ventilation shafts and was now at a grid, in a perfect position to shoot the idol. Again, Haro alerted the others. Kira saw the assassin, screamed Lacus' name, and jumped on her, pushing her out of the way and saving her. Andrew and Murrue killed the sneak. Everyone entered the shelter and the door locked. Ramius fell on her knees, exhausted. It had taken everything she had just to keep them at bay. Those people were Coordinators. The commander confirmed, and skilled ones properly trained in combat at that.
"You mean they're ZAFT forces?" Kira questioned, incredulous.
"Coordinator special forces... it's the worst." Ramius dejectedly hung her head.
"We can't be sure about that." Waltfeld put a comforting hand on her back and withdrew it. "But for them to go after her..." He glanced back at the retired songstress taking care of the little ones. However, they couldn't understand why those people could be after Lacus. Outside the shelter, the thwarted special ops were left with no choice but to bring out the ASHs. They had to take Lacus Clyne's life right here and now no matter what. While they were waiting, Lacus went to her fellow Coordinators. She had guessed that she was the one being targeted. An explosion rocked the room, making her fall against Kira.
A number of UMF/SSO-3 ASH were leaving the sea like an army of monsters and shooting the mansion. This unit was ZAFT's newest underwater/amphibious combat MS, and nearly as effective on land as it was at sea due to its more humanoid design, unlike its predecessors the UMF-4A GOOhN and UMF-5 ZnO. But just like them, it could transform into a MA for high-speed underwater movements. The suit was used for covert operations hence the SSO in its model code (for Support/Special Operations) but there were plans to put it into production for use by regular forces. Mounted on the back were two GMF22SX Prototype Propeller and Multipurpose Missile Launchers (that combined a propulsion system and missile launcher) that could be loaded with either missiles or torpedoes. A pair of MA-M1217R High-Energy Beam Cannon was mounted on each shoulder and could be used in MA or MS mode. The Type PJP3 Dual Phonon Maser Cannon was mounted in the body, surrounded by the monoeye track. This sonic weapon was effective both in the sea and on land. Mounted in each forearm, the M47 23mm Dual Machine Gun were mainly for restricting enemy movements, intercept incoming missiles or destroy weakly armored units. And instead of normal manipulators the ASH's arms were equipped with a MX-RQB505 Beam Claw for close combat.
The leader instructed his men to keep firing at one part of the shelter. Once past that wall, the mission was over. They executed the order, forcing their prey to retreat into another room providing better protection. The three fighters inside deduced that it was the work of mobile suits. They didn't know the numbers but with enough firepower, soon they were going to get this place too. Waltfeld asked Lacus if she had the keys. They were going to open the door. It was the only option... if they didn't want to all die here without putting up a fight. Lacus was torn for a time. Of course, she didn't want them to die. But opening that door, lifting the seal on that power, on that weapon, meant Kira would have to wield it and kill and suffer again... even though she knew how much it had broken him. And she never wanted him to have to go through that again, she never wanted to have to see him like this again... She whispered his name, gazed at him, looked down. The young man understood her fears. He smiled and told her to hand the keys over. He would open the door himself. Clyne was still wavering. Kira was just that precious to her, and she wanted to protect him.
"It'll be alright. I'm already fine, Lacus." He reassured her. She started crying. "It would be much more painful if I just stayed like this and didn't protect you. So give me the keys." He held her in his arms, comforting her. She said his name again, and gave in. Kira and Waltfeld took the keys and turned them simultaneously. The door opened, and the projectors lit the ZGMF-X10A Freedom that had been repaired after the war. Lacus stared wistfully as Kira stepped forth, and the door closed behind him. There were more explosions, and the cornered group fled into another room.
"Okay! Let's go! Find our target! Where are Oluan and Kramnik?" The team leader of the special forces ordered after peering inside the hole they had made. Kira Yamato activated his mobile suit. The cables disconnected and the causeway retracted. He started the engines and leapt. Blasting an opening in a mountain, he soared in the night sky, surprising the assailants... who were even more shocked when they recognized the Freedom. And from their expressions, they also knew they were outclassed. Kira entered SEED mode, took out his beam saber and sliced some of the ASHs arms and legs. Others shot at him but he evaded and upside down, fired back at them, blowing their limbs. He charged again and incapacited two others. The leader launched his missiles but again the Freedom dodged them all, lunged, and slashed, but the enemy captain jumped back, and attacked with his beam claw. Kira parried, and placing his shield under the unbalanced ASH, managed to throw the unit away. It landed on its back but got up and fired. Kira methodically shot each arm, then the two missile launchers, and the two legs. It was over. The defeated captain activated the self-destruct system and blew up with his machine. His men did the same.
"Kira..." Lacus muttered, looking at the Freedom standing in the middle of the devastation. She and the others had also managed to come out in the open on a nearby cliff at a safe distance and were overlooking the scene. In the cockpit, Torii landed on his owner's shoulder. Kira smiled sadly at him before turning to face the sun rising over the horizon. Dawn was breaking.
Not long later, the orphans were walking over the rubble, sad that their new house had been destroyed too, asking where their room was. Caridad told them to be careful. Meantime, the three Coordinators and Murrue were discussing about their aggressors. The ASHs they had used were brand new models just out of the assembly line, and only available to the regular army... and they had attacked Lacus... why? They didn't know what was going on, but moving to the PLANTS might not be a good idea after all...
Then, they were stunned to see Rayner, Ruka-san, and her family joining them. They had come from a secret passage. And Kira and others were even more shocked when they learned the reason behind all this secrecy... The Seirans' attempt on Rayner's life... and Rayner trying to take advantage of that to bring them down... The Ledfords had quickly figured the identities of the spies Seiran had planted in their family and used that to counter it and provide false information. But the Seirans didn't know about the spies planted in THEIR family. So knowing the Seirans would get complacent, careless, if they believed they had won, Rayner pretended to fall in the trap, giving his informers more freedom to gather evidence of their guilt in this assassination attempt. It would have been best if the Seirans had just done nothing, but Yuna got too greedy, creating an opening to drive a wedge in. Rayner too was reasonably surprised when his friends explained why his mansion was half destroyed. It seemed everyone had quite an eventful time lately. However, that changed things. With that, they couldn't expect support from anyone, not even from the PLANTs. The Seirans had much support in the government so even if they were ousted and the opposite faction was weakened, it was still going to be awfully difficult if Cagalli herself lacked power, resolution, confidence and drive. What more... the whole situation seemed much more complicated than anticipated with unexpected ramifications... It might be good to lay low for a time, observe the situation, and gather information... After taking Cagalli back... they really couldn't let her in the hands of that man...
Myrna, Cagalli's caretaker, arrived at the mansion and was shocked by its state. The children led her to Kira-sama and the others. When she saw Rayner, it was like she had seen a ghost. Then she exploded at him for disappearing and leaving Cagalli-ojou-sama like that. There were even rumors that he was dead! He had no idea how heart-broken Cagalli-sama must be! However, he had no choice but to disappear from view for a time... and everything was for Cagalli's sake. They were currently trying to deal with the situation. Slightly pacified, Myrna handed Kira a letter from Cagalli, because the lady was no longer able to come out here herself. They asked what had happened to her. Was she injured?
"No, she's quite well in fact. It's that she has moved in the Seiran residence in preparation for her marriage." The woman shocked everyone. They knew about Cagalli's marriage of course, and althouth they didn't really approve it, it was still her choice, and they had no say in it... until now. Still, it was way too sudden and forceful! However, you could also say 'strike while the iron is hot'. "She will be living with his family until the wedding. Even I wasn't told anything about her situation or what's going to happen. Sure, this marriage with Yuna-sama was arranged when they were children, so as long as it was okay with Cagalli-ojou-sama, I'd be delighted from the bottom of my heart... But the way the Seirans are trying to rush this through! They're insisting to care of everything since she has no parents and they're always getting their way! And with Rayner-sama gone..." The attendant complained angrily. Kira and Lacus read the letter.
Sorry, Kira. I was hoping to come and talk to you in person, but I'm no longer able to move about like I used to. By now, you know that Orb will join the World Security Treaty Organisation. I'm now living at the Seiran residence, getting ready to marry Yuna Roma. This is all very sudden, but it can't be helped given the nation's situation. He told me Rayner had an accident, and his car fell from a cliff. His body hasn't been found, but... Anyway, the news has not been made public yet as to not further worry the people. Right now, the nation needs a strong leader, and a stable system that the citizens can rely on. I still don't know how this world will change or how Orb will act in it, but powerless as I may be, I have to fulfil all the duties of a Representative of Orb. I will marry Yuna Roma. I'll do my best so my nation's people can live happily and peacefully... for Rayner's sake too.
As the ceremony was about to start, Cagalli was waiting in her room at the Seiran's residence. She looked beautiful in her wedding dress, with her makeup, and her veil. But even though a wedding should be the happiest day of a woman's life, she was despondent. Her mind was flooded with memories of Rayner... every time he had comforted her, supported her, held her in his arms, kissed her... they had fought side by side, she had wanted for them to spend their life together... She loved Rayner, not Yuna! Her face distorted in anguish. Then someone knocked at the door. It was time. She walked down the stairs to join the groom and his father. A number of guests were already there. There were appreciative murmurs. Her fiancé complimented her but expressed his regrets about her short hair and told her to let it grow. He'd like it better this way. He touched her head but she turned away from him. They mounted the white car that was slowly going to take them to the Haumea temple so the people could enjoy a look. And indeed, a huge crowd had gathered on either side of the street and were cheering and taking pictures.
"Want something to drink? Are you nervous?" Yuna questioned. "You haven't said a word." He noted as she still wouldn't answer.
"No, I'm okay. Don't worry."
""No, I feel fine. Please do not worry." Right?" He rephrased her reply the (ladylike) way she should have said it while opening a compartment and pouring himself a glass of alcohol. "Watch your language and pull yourself together." He added disdainfully. "Look at all this media coverage. At least try to look happy." Now that he was marrying her and it was just the two of them here, he no longer had to pretend to care about her feelings. The girl hung her head.
"But is it really the right thing to do?" Murrue voiced her doubts to Kira as they were going down an elevator.
"Yes. More like, at this point, that's our only option." The boy answered. The woman sighed. They came out of the elevator. "None of us can really be sure of the proper thing to do. But the worst thing to do is give up, right?" They looked at the Archangel. "And knowing it's not right and doing nothing is just as bad. We know all too well what sort of results that will bring. That's why we have to go, before we see a repeat of what happened." Before the war went on too long and too far, and they lost more precious people.
"Well, I intended to do something even without you. For Cagalli, for this country, for the future, I have to do anything I can. I will fight, no matter what my weapons are. I will get them back and protect them with my own hands." Ledford declared adamantly.
"But you can't do this alone, right?" Kira placed a hand on his shoulder. He had always supported him.
Chief Mechanic Kojiro Murdoch (now Chief Petty Officer) as well as pilot Arnold Neumann (now Ensign) joined them. Ruka was going to be the navigator, and she was completing her daughter's preparation to her post in the CIC. Karin would be in charge of enemy detection and electronic warfare identification. Her father, Ruka's husband, Jake Makabe, was an engineer and something of a business rival to Erica Simmons. Although Erica was state-employed and Jake was part of Astria Enterprise, the Ledfords' private company. That said, both engineers cooperate for the betterment of Orb's military. He had chosen to help the understaffed mechanics of the Archangel and was currently overseeing the loading of the MBF-02 Strike Rouge, and the MBF-03 Blast Wave onto the Archangel. Waltfeld's customized MVF-M11C Murasame was already inside.
The Murasame was the next-generation mass produced mobile suit developed by the Orb Union. Like the Astrays, it could be used on Earth and in space. The most distinguishing feature of the suit was its ability to transform into a highly aerodynamic mobile armor, granting it superb aerial mobility and atmospheric flight capability. The MA mode also granted the suit additional speed while; though even without transforming the Murasame was capable of aerial combat by deploying its wings and tail stabilizer in MS mode.
Weapons wise, the Murasame had a total of six M2M5D 12.5mm CIWS, two in its head and another four on its wings (two per wing), a Type 70J Kai Beam saber, mounted on the left side (with longer operating time as it consumed less energy, and had better reliability as well as being easier to maintain compared to the beam saber used by the Astrays), a Type72 High Energy Beam Cannon mounted on the tail stabilizer (with power comparable to that of the suit's beam rifle and only usable in MA mode), and a Type 72 Kai "Ikazuchi" beam rifle, usable in both modes and usually stored in the right side armor. In MA mode, the rifle faced the front and could be fired without its trigger being pressed. It could also launch an array of missiles: Type 66A Air-to-air Missile "Hayate" (four are stored in its front skirt armor), "Drache" Air-to-surface Missiles, those guided heavy anti-ground target missiles, only usable in MA mode, were mounted on hardpoints on the underside of the suit's wings (they're the same shells employed by the Earth Forces' Jet Strikers) and Mk438 Triple "Würger" Air-to-air Missile Pod mounted on the underside of the suit's wings (three missile per pod), only usable during MA mode too (and also the same as the Jet Striker missiles). For defense, the Murasame had a shield mounted on the left forearm or handheld when in MS mode. In MA mode, the shield served as the nose unit, and had a pair of retractable canard wings and a landing gear for use in this mode. So if the shield was lost, the suit could not transform into a mobile armor.
Yuna waved at the onlookers and nudged Cagalli who plastered a smile, although a sad one, and imitated him. She recalled her father who, despite having been forced through this situation, had managed to remain steadfast and uphold Orb's neutrality to the end.
"Must the Atlantic Federation insist on dividing the world into two groups?! Must everyone be either an enemy or ally?! And must Orb throw away its principles and laws and fight against an assigned enemy?!" She had failed him, she had failed to maintain Orb's ideals and neutrality."We have our responsibilities and you have yours! If we're left without anyone to carry out our hopes and will, we're finished! Why can't you understand that?!" Those responsibilities, those hopes, that will... they were too heavy for her, she didn't have the strength to carry them. But it was also true that as a consequence of that decision back then, Orb burned... and Shinn's family was killed...
"My family was killed by the Athhas! That's why I will never believe you! And I will never believe the nation of Orb! I'll never believe any of your idealism again! When you said you'd protect this nation's justice, did you ever stop to think how many lives would be lost as a result of your insistence?! I don't want someone who doesn't have a clue to talk like she knows everything!"
That was why, so the country wouldn't burn again as a result of her insistence, she was marrying Yuna Roma Seiran. That was what she should be doing. That was all she could do for her nation. So even if her heart broke as she thought of her father and Rayner, she still had to do this. That was why she was crying even as she smiled and waved at her citizens. But then, she thought of Seren...
"We wanted a world where Coordinators like you, like us, wouldn't be discriminated and could be together with Naturals, and we decided to dedicate our entire lives to that cause. Without a cause, without idealism, what is war? Isn't it just plain destruction and mass slaughter? It's easy to criticize, blame, resent, and hate others. It's much more difficult to understand and actually find some constructive solutions. We know what we did, and we're the ones who bear the lives and wishes of those people on our shoulders."
Had Seren been Chief Representative, would things have followed a different route? Could she have held on against those ministers? What was she going to think once she came back? Cagalli was breaking down even more, feeling like she had betrayed her Coordinator sister. Seren had fought at her side and supported her all this time... that was also the very reason she had gone to the PLANTs... upon her return, she would learn that her cousin had died, that her sister had married Yuna Roma and signed the Treaty, negating the very reason Seren had fought for all this time... It was like Cagalli had condemned her siblings and friends to exile... and she had lost Rayner too... Despite that... she really missed Seren, and wanted to see her... she needed her! But she couldn't! She started weeping harder. After all, the only thing she could do was to marry Yuna Roma!
"I trust those tears are tears of joy." Yuna said half tauntingly as he helped his bride out of the car. The girl glared at him but remained silent. The Haumea temple was a stone monument resembling the Mayan pyramids with on the topmost platform columns standing in a half circle. The temple was a in a rocky area right before a giant waterfall tumbling down a cliff.
On the bridge on the Archangel, the crew was proceeding through the checklist before departure. Andrew Waltfeld took the navigator's seat and participated until Ramius interrupted him and offered him the captain's seat. His rank was higher than hers after all. He was a Captain, and she was two ranks below, Lieutenant Commander. He turned her down though. This ship was already understaffed so if necessary, he might have to sortie as well. So that seat was definitely Ramius-kanchou's. Everyone smiled at Murrue. Even Lacus was part of the crew and had taken the position of communication operator and CIC officer. The female ship captain responded to her crew's feelings and sat down. Kira was holding his mother and saying his goodbyes. He also apologized, knowing how worried she must be to see him go to war again. But she reassured him and told him to remember one thing... that this was his home, she would always be here, and she loved him. So he had to promise to return home.
"Linking main power. Systems all green. All stations within the Archangel, online." Neumann reported. Murrue ordered to commence flooding. The water started pouring into the dry docks. "Confirmed, laminate armor now active. Ablative gel injector pressure level satisfactory. Confirmed, separation of APU conduit."
As the water level rose, Kira entered the bridge. Caridad, the Reverend and the children were watching from high up behind a glass panel with sad and anxious expressions. After the final checks, when the gauge was full and the sea had completely submerged the cave, the main gate opened and the restraining arms were released. At the same moment, Cagalli and Yuna were climbing up the steps to the top part of the temple. The invitees on either side of the aisle were watching them.
"Engines at 20%, advance slowly." Ramius-kanchou commanded. The pilot confirmed and obeyed. "Once we're clear out of the tube, climb at 30 degrees, maximum propulsion."
"All stations checks, completed! All stations, stable!"
"Ten seconds to ocean surface. Current thrust at maximum." The Archangel broke through the surface.
"Lifting away from water surface! Archangel, take off!" The captain ordered. The ship soared, veered, and departed under the orphans' eyes. The children and their custodians had gathered on top of a cliff to see them off. Kira boarded the Freedom and activated it. Rayner did the same in the Blast Wave. Out of respect for his feelings, it had been decided that he would be the one to take Cagalli back, while Kira would open the way and cover him.
After the Blast had been so damaged at the end of the Bloody Valentine War, it had been decided to remodel it a little and customize it for Rayner's use. It looked almost identical to the original Blast and in its plain state was still mainly designed for close ranged battles, except that the Blinkenshlag whips had been removed. It could equip the Blast's armament and mobility pack. The Beam Boomerang had been added to the regular Blast Wave. Another important change was that the Blast Wave's performance underwater had been significantly increased, and all its non-beam weapons functioned underwater. There were the two mobility packs too, the Nova one was the same (with an additional battery), but the Storm pack had been modified. For improved movements underwater compared to the original pack, it could transform, the wings shifting position to give the suit a more streamlined figure. This pack comprised an additional battery as well. The suit was still dominantly white with some gold, but the red and black of the original Blast had been replaced by sky blue and sea green. Thus, the cockpit was blue with green flanks, and gold touches on the cockpit and skirt. There was a little blue and gold on the shoulders. The sole of the feet was green and the ankles were gold. The top half of the Svalinn shield was blue, while its lower half was green, a part in the middle was gold, and its outer edge was white.
Concerning the armament, the Blade Blast pack had been decommissioned but some of its weapons were added to the regular Blast Wave, making it melee oriented. Thus, in its plain state, its arsenal consisted of two head-mounted "Igelstellung" 75mm multi-barrel CIWS, two "Armor Schneider" Combat Knives stored in the thighs, two beam sabers stored in the hips, two blades mounted on the knees, the "Schwert Gewehr Lanze" 15.78m Anti-ship Sword strapped across the back, and the "Midas Messer" beam boomerang fixed on the left shoulder, plus the 57mm high energy beam rifle. The Blast off pack for mid-range fighting included the 120mm Vulcan Gun on the right shoulder, the cluster bombs launcher in the back, and changed the beam rifle to the stronger 88mm one (though both rifles have increased firepower). The Blast Away pack had also been altered. It still had the 300mm "Siegfried" High Impulse beam cannon, but it now included a 180mm "Phoebus" Railgun on the right shoulder, as well as a 6-barreled multipurpose missile launcher on the back.
"You who have stepped forwards today to come before this altar, to announce your true feelings and seek the approval of Haumea to bring you together in matrimony, are your names Yuna Roma Seiran and Cagalli Yula Athha?" The old priest spoke. The two affirmed. The Freedom and Blast Wave sortied. Their approach like that of the Archangel, were detected. The alarm rang, as well as the orders 'Unknown approaching! Scramble!'. A Commander shouted that the Second Escort Fleet prepare for take off. A number of soldiers were puzzled though to recognize the Archangel and the Freedom... and the Blast... wasn't it Rayner-sama's unit? What 'unknown'? Another widely known thing was the Chief Representative's closeness to that ship and those mobile suits. "If you wish for this marriage from the heart, and pledge to forever love and remain loyal to each other, Haumea shall surely grant your wishes. Now, I shall ask you again. Do you vow that no doubt reside in your heart?"
"Yes." The man replied. It was just a formality after all. The priest turned to Cagalli who kept quiet, clearly still wavering, her mind full of the man she truly loved, wondering if that was truly what she ought to do. Then she heard a commotion. A frantic-sounding guard was saying that the reinforcements from HQ couldn't catch up and demanded the evacuation. The guests ran away in a panic, and the four MVF-M11C Murasames shot at the intruders. In a matter of seconds, the Freedom fired four times and each shot destroyed one rifle and arm. Yuna cowered behind Cagalli who was shocked to see Kira... but who could be in that other machine?! As the Blast Wave landed and extended its hands towards the bride, the groom ran away on his own, abandonning 'his woman'. Rayner delicately gathered the girl he loved in his hands and took off again, joining with Kira. Yuna yelled at the soldiers to fire, called them fools, and grabbed one by the collar.
"But if we fire, there's a risk of hitting Cagalli-sama!" The guard retorted. Yuna curled his fists and whimpered like a child as he helplessly watched his ticket to the complete control of Orb being stolen away.
Cagalli was protesting and thrashing about, demanding to be let down. The Freedom was in front and detected two Murasames closing. Rayner pushed the automatic pilot mode button and opened his cockpit. He also raised his visor, showing his face. The girl instantly froze in disbelief when she recognized him. He took her with him inside. The Murasames were in MA mode. Kira ignored their demands to land at once and with his beam saber, slashed one wing of each unit. The fleet that was on the Archangel detected the approaching Freedom and Blast Wave and received the message that it had kidnapped Cagalli-sama from her wedding and to exercise extreme caution when handling the situation. That shocked the ship captains who gave the orders to stop firing. Further orders from headquarters were to surround the Archangel and place top priority on safely rescuing Cagalli-sama. Lacus informed that the Freedom and Blast Wave had been recovered, and Cagalli was safe as well.
"Okay, excellent! Then shall we go, captain?" Waltfeld turned to Murrue who nodded.
"Open vents! The Archangel is going underwater!" She instructed. The spaceship started immersing itself. Indeed, during these two years, it had been upgraded into an amphibious and submersible vehicle. It was certainly a useful upgrade since its new home country was an island and oceans and seas made up such a large part of the blue planet. Some of Todaka's subordinates believed they should attack or the Archangel would get away.
"We must exercise extreme caution in handling the situation, right?" He reminded them. Then, he saluted the Archangel, and so did all the other ship captains, surprising their subalterns. Yuna cursed the fleet when he learned of the Archangel's escape.
I'm counting on you, Archangel. Take good care of Cagalli-sama and help set this world back on the correct path. Todaka silently pleaded.
In the Archangel's hangar, Kira came down, as well as Rayner carrying Cagalli who was holding onto him. Ledford let the girl down. A crowd gathered around them. The kidnapped bride stared at them all before turning to Rayner who removed his helmet and smiled at her. She fixed him for a time before suddenly throwing herself in his arms and bursting into tears.
Meantime, Seren and Athrun were descending on Earth. They reached the atmosphere entry point.
"Athrun, the way I see things, we should be prepared when we arrive at Orb. If the World Security Treaty has been signed, that means Orb is part of the Earth Alliance. Then the Minerva will have headed for Carpentaria, and we, piloting ZAFT machines, might get scrambled..." The girl pondered.
"What are you saying?! You know that Cagalli-"
"Yes, I know, she wouldn't. But she's more powerless than you think... I was too... I couldn't bear it so I ran away and became a ZAFT pilot. Cagalli, Rayner, and me... even the three of us couldn't do anything. Now I'm gone too. The ministers might have forced her into it. And although she didn't show it, Shinn's words might have affected her more deeply than we think..."
"...Alright..." He folded. Of course, Seren was more knowledgeable about the state of affairs in the government than a former simple bodyguard like him.
"Also, what do you think about Meer?"
"'What'... you ask... n-nothing really... what do you mean?" He stammered apprehensively. They had both agreed to pretend to be just childhood friends in public and that he was still Lacus' fiancé and it shouldn't cause much problems since they were mostly going to be on the battlefield and chances to see that 'Lacus' would be rare, and informally, they were still together... but he was still a bit anxious about her reactions after all.
"I believe in the Chairman, or rather, I wanted to believe in him. That's also why I'm here. He gave us strength, and showed us a way. But I've been thinking. Since meeting Meer, I've had a bad feeling. You saw it too, she's just a doll. She's only really interested in the fame and glamourous life. So if something happened to the real Lacus, thanks to his puppet, Meer, the Chairman could enjoy all the advantages of her influence without being inconvenienced by Lacus' individuality and firmness of purpose in case their opinions diverged..."
"Are you implying that the Chairman will try something against Lacus?! How could you-"
"Calm down. I hate thinking like that too. And I'm not implying anything. But you know, as a diplomat, there are things I understood. Politics are a stage of deception. For politicians, there's no trust, only benefits and detriments. I wanted to change that but I couldn't. And it would be greatly detrimental to him if for some reason, Lacus rose against him. I don't know about the rest. All I'm saying is that we should keep that possibility in a corner of our mind and not fully trust him."
"Even if you say that now, we can't go back. It's too late."
"I didn't speak with that intention. I'm only looking at the future. Although we were goaded into it, we're still the ones who took the decision. If a day comes when we're proven wrong, then we'll see. Until then, we have no choice but to believe."
Our reason for wielding the power we've acquired will never change. For life. A place to live. Our pride as humans. A quiet life. Because they'll take all that. But even if the pride we hold aloft is a mistake, even if the ideals we create crumble, even if we are lied to by everyone around us, someone will always be here for us. We might be separated but not isolated. Even if our eyes are downcast we're urged forward by a driving light that says "there's always tomorrow".
Author's note: title of next chapter will be 'Phase-13: FAITH'