Disclaimer: See chapter 1
Howl of Destiny
By Storm Wolf77415, Wing Commander White Wolf, and Centurious the Azure
Breaking Bad World Part 1
(PSV Minerva, Bridge, October 10th, C.E. 73)
Natarle had wasted no time relaying Sebastian the news of Junius Seven's fall toward Earth. There was a grim atmosphere aboard ZAFT's newest vessel. A miasma of gloom permeated every bulkhead of the ship. Talia was holding a brief meeting with her own officers and the Storm Wolf's entourage, hoping to develop some kind of strategy to deal with the situation. So far, they hadn't come up with much.
"We can make a reasonable assumption that this didn't happen on its own. J7's orbit was supposed to remain stable for a good while. Someone had to make it happen." Yukimasa stated, as he sat on the couch for visiting dignitaries when they were on the bridge. "The question before us now…is who's behind it? It's a safe bet to assume Rau Le Creuset is not the mastermind, considering he's nothing more than background radiation in the vacuum of space."
"Yeah, the White Meteor is most assuredly out of the picture on this one." Sebastian said, his leather jacket draped over a chair, revealing the long sleeved green shirt he had underneath. "Can we do anything to stop the colony drop from happening? Barring that, at least mitigate the damage so billions of innocent people don't die? My wife and cousin are down there, after all."
"Well, if we could deploy some Meteor Breakers, that would reduce the colony into smaller fragments that could harmlessly break up in the atmosphere, some of them might still hit, but the damage wouldn't be as widespread." Yukimasa said, he sighed. "But…we don't have any of those onboard at the moment. It wasn't part of our initial equipment loadout."
"Well is there a nearby ZAFT team that does?" Cagalli asked, the distress clearly evident in her voice. Kazuma put a comforting hand around her waist.
"We'll make some calls, Commodore Attha. I know you're concerned about the safety of your homeland. We have no desire to see the planet destroyed either." Talia reassured her. "Let's move on to taking inventory of what we have to work with. If someone is behind this, It's most likely we'll need to fight. Lieutenant Sanada, what's the status of our mobile weapon compliment?"
Yukimasa shook his head. "It's not looking good, Captain. That last battle with the Earth Alliance really did a number on the machines. The ZAKU General Connor was piloting is practically junk, then again so is the Exus it was fighting, but long story short, it's out of the fight permanently. The machines Commodore Attha and Colonel Sasaki used aren't much better and we're short on spare parts. I could cannibalize one of them and get at least one machine working, but that's hardly sufficient in my eyes."
Trine's response was of course to begin worrying and fretting. "This is a disaster! We only have one Gundam, the GOUF prototype, and three ZAKUs to protect us. How are we supposed to make up for that?"
"Captain Trine, is this your first major assignment on a combat vessel?" Sebastian asked, holding up a hand before the older man could open his mouth, "Don't answer that! We've got this under control."
"How is that, Sebastian?" Talia asked.
The Storm Wolf just gave an easygoing grin, "Commodore Attha and I are both survivors of the Heliopolis attack, Commander." He said, "Even after almost three years it has stuck in our minds. When Chairman Durandal invited us out for this little show. Both of us could immediately see the similarities. To that end, I took out a little insurance policy."
"Insurance policy?" Trine asked, clearly befuddled. To which Cagalli and Kazuma just rolled their eyes, wondering just how dense the man could be.
"You guys will see in time." Sebastian said, putting his leather jacket back on. "While I didn't anticipate the issue with the colony, what I cooked up, will no doubt make a big difference. Let's just say, that when we do meet the instigators behind this lovely idea. They'll be facing the three of us with our proper swords…" He pulled out his aviators, sliding them over his focused blue eyes, "And they're going to be in a for a world of hurt!"
(Parliament Building, Olofat, Orb Union, October 11th, C.E. 73)
Chief Representative Kumiko Kurokawa Sasaki sighed. Some days, she wondered if it was worth it to even get out of bed. After receiving the news of Junius 7's descent to Earth from the Storm Wolf, she had wasted no time in calling an emergency meeting of the Five Noble Houses of Orb. Two of her fellow clan heads, Rondo Mina Sahaku, and Arashi Haza Kazama, the Yellow Flash of Orb were present. With Cagalli, Kira, and Sebastian up in space, Flay and Lacus were representing the Attha and Connor families.
The redhead fidgeted in her seat. "Are you sure I should be here, Lady Kumiko?" Flay asked nervously, nervously gripping the dark skirt she wore. "I mean, I'm no stranger to politics, but this seems a bit high profile for me."
"Orb law states that when a meeting of the Five Families is called, they must all be represented, Miss Allster." Arashi replied plainly, "Lady Cagalli is the current head of the Attha family, and Major Yamato is her brother. But both of them are off world currently, and since you are engaged to marry Kira," the Yellow Flash's lips twitched upwards. "Bottom line, that makes you part of the Attha family as well."
The older woman gave her a reassuring smile. "You have a place at this gathering, Miss Allster. I'm certain you'll do just fine, my dear. You're doing Cagalli a big favor by sitting in for her."
"They're right, Flay. This isn't the first time I've had to do this. I'm sure you'll do just fine." Lacus patted her on the hand, giving her trademark gentle smile. If anything could brighten up a room, it was watching the Storm Wolf of Jachin Due's beloved smile. But that smile was quickly replaced by a look of iron resolve. "Kumiko, what do we know about the situation?"
The Sasaki Matriarch clicked on a screen. "According to General Connor, Someone has decelerated the remains of the plate of Junius Seven from its orbit in the Debris Belt, it's estimated to hit Earth in two days. ZAFT is already mobilized the Joule Team to the site, they'll deploy Meteor Breakers to reduce the plate into fragments so they can burn up in the planet's atmosphere. Once our people claim their mobile suits, they'll head to provide back up."
"What part do we play?" Flay asked.
"Well, even if the plan goes off without any problems, some stray fragments may get through." Mina said. "In which case, we'll deploy the Archangel to try and intercept these fragments in the event they get too close to Orb."
"The other Earth nations are deploying their own forces for the same reason." Arashi said. "And yet…I can't help but be weary. Even with Muruta Azrael's death at Jachin Due, Blue Cosmos wasn't fully neutralized. A scenario like this…it would be the perfect excuse for them to try and convince the Earth Alliance to restart the fighting."
"Which is exactly what my husband feared from the beginning." Lacus said, her blue eyes becoming melancholy. Now it was Flay's turn to do the reassuring, putting a hand on her shoulder. "I can't began to count how many times Sebastian said it in the last two years. He was really worried that it was just a matter of time before the fighting commenced again."
Kumiko stood up, going to look out the large bay windows that gave the chamber a magnificent view of the island nation's capital city. "Yeah…he said the same thing to me as well. I know Orb prides itself on its neutrality, Uzumi gave his life to try and preserve it after all…but I am not him. If another Bloody Valentine War is indeed upon us…I don't think we can stay out of this one. It's a given the Earth Alliance will no doubt try to convince us to join them." She snorted. "I say…kiss my ass!"
"Are you considering an alliance with the PLANTs, Kumiko?" Mina asked.
"I'm not sure yet, Mina. But I do know we'll have no part with the Atlantic Federation or the Earth Alliance at all. You can take that to the bank!" Kumiko snapped.
(PSV Minerva, Bridge)
The Minerva had finally arrived at the coordinates for the rendezvous with the Amatarasu.
"We've got an incoming vessel. Heat signature is consistent with Orb Izumo-class! IFF code puts it as the Amatarasu, Captain!" Meyrin called out, tapping a few controls o her board. "Captain Badgiruel is requesting to come alongside us."
Talia nodded, "Very well, then. Give it permission to join the formation." Watching as the green and white vessel slowly approached it.
Sebastian smirked, folding his arms across his broad chest. "That's Natarle for you, always on time. She's so exact you could set your watch by her! Of course, that's why I picked her to command my personal vessel in the first place," He said with a hint of pride in his voice. The Amatarasu slowly crawled into view, coming alongside the Minerva.
"You've mentioned this insurance policy of yours, Genetal Connor. What exactly is it you've been talking about." Talia asked. Sebastian's eyebrow quirked at the slip of the tounge. Her face warmed up at her mistake, "I mean General Connor!"
"I was about to ask where my genitals fit into this." The Storm Wolf quipped. "I don't recall commanding the reproductive organs of my soldiers…"
"I am so sorry, Sebastian!" Talia blushed in shame. The Storm Wolf just laughed, patting her on the shoulder.
"Don't worry about it, Talia. I won't hold it against you. As for what you asked about my insurance policy. First off, is a new mobile suit for myself, the MBF-X05A Maelstrom Gundam. Not to mention the Akatsuki and Namikaze. I reasoned it would be a good idea if Lady Attha, Lord Sasaki, and myself had access to something besides just borrowed ZAKUs," Sebastian said, "Plus, I thought it would also be a good idea if 'he' came along." He pointed to where a point of light launched from the white and green carrier. The entire bridge crew could only gawk when they saw exactly what mobile suit it was.
A black torso, white limbs and head, ten brilliant blue wings, a white beam rifle trimmed in blue clenched in its right hand, an anti-beam shield in its left, a pair of Lacerta beam sabers mounted on the hips above twin Xiphas railguns, and a white and blue sheath containing a fifteen feet long katana hanging at its right side. It was a mobile suit inherently familiar to the entire ZAFT crew.
"It's the Freedom!" Meyrin exclaimed. She gasped as the Storm Wolf came up alongside her.
"Yes it is, Private Hawke. In addition to our own mobile suits, I believe it's never a bad idea to have the mighty ZGMF-X10A Freedom Gundam around. That mobile suit gives 'force multiplier' a whole new meaning," Sebastian said. He turned to Meyrin, "Have Major Yamato land in the hanger bay…if that's alright with you, Captain."
Talia overcame her initial shock. With the Freedom around, their odds of success improved considerably in her own mind. "Uh, yes of course! We'd be more than honored to have the Eagle Knight onboard." She leaned in close to Sebastian, "It appears you were wise to invest in this, General. Well played."
"I do my best." The Storm Wolf of Jachin Due whispered.
(Minerva, Hangar)
Shinn couldn't believe his eyes as Freedom was hooked into one of the docking slips. He remembered seeing the shining mobile suit during the invasion of Orb and how it valiantly held back the Earth Forces despite the rising odds alongside Storm Wolf and Justice. It looked as pristine as the day it rolled off the assembly lines. The pilot emerged from the cockpit, wearing a light blue Orb style flightsuit, with a helmet stylized to resemble the head of an eagle. The headgear came off, revealing a friendly looking face with brown hair and soft purple eyes.
It took the young redcoat a moment to realize he was now face to face with a living legend. Kira walked up to Shinn, who immediately threw out a salute, "Welcome aboard the Minerva, Major Yamato! I'm Lieutenant Shinn Asuka!" He said quickly. The older man just smiled, and returned the salute.
"As you were, Lieutenant Asuka. Could you show me where the bridge is? I need to report to Lieutenant General Connor as quickly as possible." Kira replied. Shinn nodded, and led him there. They passed by Rey and Lunamaria in the hall.
"I don't believe it! It's really him! Kira Yamato is here on our ship!" Luna squealed, going into full out fangirl mode. She blushed slightly. "Oh wow, he's even cuter in person!" Rey did not share his fellow pilot's opinion of the Eagle Knight. His hands clenched in silent rage as he watched Kira walk by him.
Rey still remembered the day when Durandal informed him of Rau's death at Kira's hands. He had vowed to himself that he would avenge the death of his masked brother. Nothing burned him up more inside to see the man he saw as his sworn enemy freely walking on his ship. Enjoy your time while you can, Yamato. Before long, you'll be knocked off your throne. I will see to that!
Lunamaria grabbing his arm cut his musings short. "Come on, Rey! Shinn was heading for the bridge! I want to meet Major Yamato." Rey let out an exasperated sigh as he let her drag him along. Any thoughts of payback would have to wait for now, he didn't want to disrupt the plan after all. They arrived on the bridge just in time to see Kira snap to attention in front of Sebastian, offering his best salute.
"Major Kira Yamato, reporting as ordered, Lieutenant General Connor!" Just from that simple gesture alone, it was evident to the entire bridge crew how much he lived up to the Knight part of his moniker, a protector and defender of all those in his view. Kira emanated an aura of calm reassurance. His face grew serious. "I guess it was a good idea you had me on standby after all."
Sebastian let out a weary chortle, as he returned the salute. "I didn't want to be right, Kira. However, I also didn't want to be complacent." He turned to Talia and Arthur. "Major Yamato, allow me to introduce you to Commander Talia Gladys, the Minerva's commanding officer, and Captain Arthur Trine, ship's executive officer."
"I just want to say what a huge honor it is to meet you, Major!" Arthur blurted out, causing Kira to take a step back. "You are a legend among our ranks! Your exploits at Jachin Due…" Trine didn't get any farther after Talia stepped on his foot. Shinn and Rey both winced as Luna gasped.
"Captain…kindly take your lips off of the Major's ass. I doubt he appreciates being sucked up too." Talia rolled her eyes as her sycophantic XO limped off. "What Captain Trine was getting at, Major, Is that we're very grateful to have you onboard. In order to solve this particular problem, we are going to need all the help we can get."
"We all have a vested interest in this one, Commander Gladys. My parents and fiancée are down there on Earth." Deep purple eyes looked out the viewport towards the majestic blue, brown, and green orb sprawled out before his him. "They're at risk too. So I have to be here."
"Indeed, there's a lot riding on what we do in the next few days." She looked out at the majestic beauty of Earth. "Even for those of us born in space. Earth is still our homeworld as well. We all have a sacred duty to protect it." She blushed a little. "At least that's what Gil…I mean, Chairman Durandal would say about this situation."
"Captain Badgiurel reports that your mobile suits have been moved aboard our ship, General Connor." Meyrin reported. "She says it's time for the Amatarasu to return to Orb."
"Thank you, Private Hawke. Give Natarle my warmest thanks for her assistance." He sighed, running his hand through his hair. "And tell her to deliver a message to my wife for me…Tell her to let Lacus know I love her, and that I'll be home soon." A wave of muted giggles ran throughout the bridge. Shinn snickered a little bit. Meyrin's cheeks flushed slightly.
"Captain Badgiruel acknowledges the message, General." The younger Hawke sister said. The Amatarasu's engines flared, breaking off from the Minerva. The Storm Wolf and other Orb officials watched as the green and white ship slowly faded into the void. Cagalli came up alongside the Storm Wolf, giving his hand a gentle squeeze.
"What do you want done now, General Connor?" Trine asked.
"Commander Gladys, Captain Trine, now that my fellow companions and I have our heavy metal. What do you guys say about saving the world?" In that moment, his voice became like hard steel, and it was evident to everyone that the Storm Wolf of Jachin Due was now present. "I think it's time to find the people behind this whole mess," He slammed a clenched fist into his hand. "And give them a lesson in pain!"
(EAS Girty Lue, Bridge)
Orb and ZAFT weren't the only ones who had their eyes on the incoming harbinger of doom. The Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon in Washington D.C. had immediately ordered Neo Roanoke to investigate the falling colony in order to ascertain what had led to this series of events, and the masked man in black already knew who the culprits were.
Several GINNs had been seen putting rocket motors in place. When Neo had reported his findings to his superior, Bruno Azrael, the uncle of the late Muruta, he was certain they were throwing a party at the moment. The higher ups in LOGOS had waited almost two years to get back at the space monsters. They had proof of ZAFT style mobile suits at the colony. It was just a matter of spinning it right in order to get the population riled up enough.
Neo could care less what happened, if a war started, it meant he could finally flex his muscles and show off his prowess. Once again he began to flick at his faithful blade, imagining the battles that would await him. It was then his executive officer approached him. "Something wrong, Ian?" He asked.
"Sir, I'm afraid we have some bad news. This just came in from our scouts." Ian handed the report to his commanding officer. The masked man studied it for a few minutes. His lips twisted into a slight frown.
"Is this confirmed?" Neo asked Ian. The older man nodded soberly.
"I'm afraid so, Captain. An Orb Izumo-class vessel joined up with the new ZAFT ship about six hours ago. It offloaded three mobile suits. The ORB-01 Akatsuki, the MBF-X03A Namikaze, and a third one we've yet identified. But then, the ZGMF-X10A Freedom was seen launching off of it as well."
That got Neo's attention quite a bit. "The Legendary Freedom Gundam. No one machine has done more damage to our forces." For a moment he considered battling the white mobile suit himself. It would certain make for the ultimate challenge, but someone had already called it. "What's your take on this, Colonel Willet?" He spoke to the darkened corner. Ian leapt up as the tall Englishwoman stepped out of the shadows as if she was born there.
Karen Willet was a prime specimen of humanity. Her long red hair tied up in a high ponytail. Ice blue eyes held a calculating edge, if one was to look into them, they could see she was constantly strategizing and thinking up tactics and battle plans. It was what made her such a dangerous opponent. Not to mention she was quite beautiful, she didn't need much in the way of make up to accent her already considerable charms.
Delicate lips adorned with pink lip gloss twisted into a playful smile. "I think it's a good thing I accepted your invitation to join you after all, Captain Roanoke. If the Freedom is here, you're going to need me and Reaver to counter it." The commander of the British Special Air Service's Third Covert Tactical Assault Team spoke. Her English accent smooth as ice.
The commander of Phantom Pain smirked. "Very well then, I'll leave Freedom to you." Willet nodded, and left the bridge. The masked man's gloved hand came down to the sheathed blade at his side. While taking on Kira Yamato and his legendary machine would have made for a great fight, he realized there was someone else out there who could be just as good. "I wonder who the pilot of that ZAKU is? Perhaps we can have a rematch."
(Minerva, Crew Lounge. October 12th, C.E. 73)
The crew had welcomed Kira with open arms. It had made the Eagle Knight somewhat uncomfortable with all the attention, but given his status as a member of one of the Five Noble Houses and one of the heroes of the last war. It was something he had to endure. He was currently sitting with Sebastian, his sister, and Kazuma, along with the rest of the Minerva's pilots in the lounge, sharing stories of their travels on the Archangel.
Shinn and Lunamaria were eager to hear of his exploits during the war. Juliana simply sipped her drink, feigning disinterest, although it seemed apparent she was listening. While Rey sat at another couch, reading a book. Kira couldn't help but get a familiar vibe from the younger redcoat. The blonde hair and those cold, blue eyes. Something about him reminded him way too much of Rau for his taste.
"So I'm just wondering, who was the greatest challenge you ever faced?" Luna asked.
"Wow…that's a tough call. If I had to narrow down it down, it would have to be a tossup between Rau Le Creuset and Andrew Waltfeld." Sebastian said, folding his arms. "The White Meteor and the Desert Tiger were two of ZAFT's best for a very good reason. Andy had us quite a few times when we were in the desert. He almost even took out Kira in that last battle." He gave an apologetic glance. "Sorry man. I had to say it."
"It's all right, Sebastian." Kira responded in his usual easygoing manner, "Commander Waltfeld showed me that ZAFT wasn't all evil, Lieutenant Hawke. There were good people on both sides, just trying to do their jobs. It hurt a lot when I thought I had killed both him and Aisha. Because I really believed we could be friends."
"I see." Luna nervously fidgeted in her seat, suddenly regretting asking.
"Don't feel bad for wanting to know the truth, Lieutenant." Kira patted her hand. "I don't like fighting or killing, but I learned there are things in this world worth fighting for." His eyes grew hard, "I also know there are some people who would go out of their way to destroy everything, and you just can't reason with. When that happens, you have to act with lethal force. I remember every life I took, but when it comes to Rau. I do not regret killing him."
Having heard enough of his mentor's name dragged through the mud, Rey stood up, walking briskly out of the lounge. "What's up with him?" Cagalli asked.
"Rey is always like that, Commodore Athha. He's always been the aloof type." Juliana said. "Still…I wouldn't mind hearing about your escape from Artemis. Admiral Garcia sounds like the kind of men I hate the most."
"Will General Connor please report to the bridge?" Mayu's voice came over the bridge.
"You'll have to excuse me, everyone. It seems that duty calls once more!" Sebastian said, making his way to the bridge.
(Minerva, Bridge)
Sebastian came into the nerve center of ZAFT's newest ship. Talia was standing near the communications station, where Mayu, resplendent in her green uniform. "You called for me, Commander Gladys?" He put his hands into the pockets of his leather jacket.
"Actually the Chairman himself requested your presence, Sebastian. He's waiting for you on the monitor." Talia said. The Storm Wolf of Jachin Due came alongside Mayu. Durandal was sitting at his desk back at Armory One. Sebastian gave a respectful nod.
"I'm guessing this is not a pleasure call, Mr. Chairman. Given what's transpiring at this moment." Sebastian said.
"You would guess correctly. General Connor. This colony drop is a threat to us all. Commander Gladys told me you had brought in Freedom and your own personal mobile suits. That was a good call. We'll need all the firepower we can get." Durandal said. "That being said, I dispatched a couple of my best agents to assist as well. I can vouch for both of them personally, they're very capable."
"But of course, Mr. Chairman." Sebastian said. "In times like this we need to pull together. Who exactly are these agents?"
"Commander Ren Za Burrel of the Fast Acting Integrated Tactical Headquarters, and his second in command, Lieutenant Angelo Sauper." Durandal smiled, "You can expect them to arrive within in another couple of hours with their mobile suits. I'm very certain you can all avert this tragedy with little problems, General. Please do all you can."
Sebastian offered his best ZAFT style salute, even after so long, he could still pull it off with gusto. "You don't have to tell me twice, Mr. Chairman. We all have a lot riding on it." With that the screen blinked off. The Storm Wolf turned to Talia.
"Fast Acting what?" He asked. To which Talia let out a light giggle.
"It's referred to as FAITH, Just started up about a year ago." Talia explained. "They're an elite Special Forces unit who operate outside the usual chain of command, directly reporting to the Chairman himself. They have broad discretionary powers, so they plan operations and give orders on the battlefield, regardless of who's in command. You can usually tell who's a member of the unit through the special badge they wear." She pursed her lips.
"I'm going to assume he's related to Lieutenant Za Burrel?" The Storm Wolf asked.
She nodded, "His older brother. I've met Ren a few times before. He's quite loyal to the Chairman." Talia frowned. "I should warn you though, Sebastian. Don't expect a warm reception from Lieutenant Sauper. He only has any real loyalty to Commander Za Burrel, and has little respect for others. Especially those he views as traitors."
Sebastian snorted, "I figured there would still be those who saw me as having abandoned my duties with ZAFT. Thanks for the warning, Talia. I appreciate it." It wasn't long before a transport shuttle came into view, adorned with the standard ZAFT emblem, as well another logo resembling a white wing coming out of a golden sphere.
"Minerva, this is FAITH-Actual, do you read?" A deep, baritone voice spoke. One that was eerily familiar to the Storm Wolf. "Request permission to board."
"Permission granted, FAITH-Actual, prepare to transfer your mobile suits over." Talia replied, "Welcome aboard, Commander Za Burrel, please come to the bridge once you arrive."
"Until then, Commander Gladys." The voice said. The hatch opened, releasing a pair of ZGMF-600S GuAIZ Commando Types, one was a brilliant royal violet, the other a brilliant blood red, trimmed with gold. The Storm Wolf was quite surprised to see the S variant of that particular machine in use, the last time having been when he battled Zavier. Bad memories of constant bombardment by Anti-Beam Depth Charges bubbled to the surface.
(Hangar)
Yukimasa was in the hangar, looking up at the Maelstrom with wistful eyes. He had been very surprised to learn that Sebastian had picked this particular machine to be his new mount. The MBF-X05A Maelstrom Gundam was sleek and aerodynamic. In one hand was a Lupus style beam rifle, in the other a green and white shield. A sheathed katana hung on each hip, just below where a pair of beam sabers rested on swiveling joints for easy access. A quartet of 75mm Igelstellung CIWS, two mounted in the head, two mounted on the wrist, completed the machine's arsenal.
"I can't believe Storm pulled you out of storage, old girl." He gave the mobile suit's leg a loving pat. "Not sure if I like what he's done with you, but if it means getting to see you in action again. I suppose I can endure it." Both Vino and Yolant looked at him with questioning gazes. "Oh…sorry about that, boys. Just reuniting with an old friend of mine."
"How do you about that mobile suit, Lieutenant Sanada? I thought that was an Orb machine." Vino asked. Yukimasa just grinned, giving Maelstrom one last pat before hopping down.
"That it is, Private Dupree. But I know this machine very well…because I was the one who designed and built it." The two young mechanics gaped. "I was born in Orb, and worked for Morgenroete for a time. Maelstrom was the first mobile suit I ever designed." He looked back up at it. "The suits on the board of director said it was too sophisticated for mass production, so it was put into storage. I came to the PLANTs shortly after that."
It wasn't far from the truth, after Maelstrom had been rejected in favor the Astray. He had taken command of Tenchu for a while, carrying out covert operations for his brother and sister. Once the war had ended, the youngest of the Sahakus came to the PLANTs and joined the New Millennium Project. From out of the corner of his eye, Yukimasa watched as the two spec ops machines entered the hangar. He whistled, "Now there's something you don't see every day. The GuAIZ is antiquated…and they're using the S model no less."
The two GuAIZs settled in next to Lunamaria's ZAKU. A tall, imposing figure disembarked from the red machine. He was clad in the strident red of a ZAFT elite, with elaborate gold scrollery along the cuffs and running down the length of his jacket. He touched down on the deck with a practiced ease.
From the purple machine came a young man of about eighteen wearing a standard ZAFT redcoat with short white hair, purple eyes with an angry gleam to them, and a perpetual scowl on his face. He looked to the line of Gundams with a sense of growing disdain. He ground his teeth when his eyes fell on the Freedom. "How dare that machine be here!" He growled.
"Hmm, so the Eagle Knight is here. This makes for an interesting turn of events." The man in red spoke with a cultured accent.
"You!" Angelo barked up to the Yukimasa. "Show us the way to the bridge if you can!"
"Well, if isn't our favorite codpiece!" Yukimasa drawled.
"Do not call me that!" Angelo raged. Both Vino and Yolant made sure to stay hidden behind Rey's Phantom, snickering at the tantrum he was throwing.
"That's enough Angelo." Ren admonished him. "Lieutenant Sanada, I would appreciate it if you didn't antagonize my men. Could you please show us the way to the bridge so I can meet with Commander Gladys?"
"Of course, Commander Za Burrel. The captain is waiting for you." Yukimasa said. The FAITH Commander and his subordinate fell into step behind the covert operative turned engineer. It didn't take long for them to reach the bridge. Any words on Sebastian's lips died as he met Ren Za Burrel for the first time.
The first thing the Storm Wolf zeroed in on was his face…and the narrow white mask with red one-way glass lenses obscuring his eyes, framed by a thick mane of blonde hair that fell down over his shoulders. A barely audible, wolf like growl slipped out of his lips as the Supreme Ace recalled another blonde man wearing a nearly identical mask.
"The Storm Wolf of Jachin Due." There was a measure of awe in the FAITH Commander's voice. He wasn't expecting the former ZAFT ace to be present. His subordinate's reaction was far less restrained.
"TRAITOR!" The white haired teen screamed in outrage, his violet eyes bulging out. Sebastian's hand immediately went to the sheathed blade at his side. Yukimasa went for a hidden sidearm he kept in a shoulder holster. It almost seemed like the younger man was going to try and attack the Storm Wolf. But disapproving looks from both the masked man in red and Talia herself kept it from occurring.
Purple eyes blazed with mad anger, "Commander Gladys, tell me right now, what is this traitor doing here?" Angelo jabbed a finger at a less than impressed Storm Wolf, "He has no place on a ZAFT vessel after what he did!"
"I beg to differ, Lieutenant Sauper!" Talia snapped. General Connor is a very good friend of mine, and he has been nothing but a help to us since this whole mess started!"
"He abandoned his duties and ran away like a coward! He forgot the oath he swore to the PLANTs!" Sauper's voice grew higher with each passing word. "And then he went joined a bunch of stinking Naturals! That and the pathetic excuse of a singer he calls a wife!" The Storm Wolf's eyes flashed from blue to a chilling gold. Yukimasa quickly stepped in.
"Lieutenant Sauper, I suggest you stop for a minute, and choose your next words very carefully." He then glared at Ren, "Commander Za Burrel, you should check your subordinate before he causes he an international incident. Lieutenant General Connor is the representative of an ally. What you think of what Sebastian has done is irrelevant to someone of your rank. Shut your mouth and let the real adults talk!"
"He speaks the truth. I don't like your tone at all, pal." Sebastian's voice became very low and hard. "You're speaking to a superior officer! And you were clearly living under a rock during the last war! Lacus led from the front, and was a beacon of hope for everyone! Her words were the primary motivation that kept us all going. She shared the risk with all of us! For all intents she's the commander of the Eternal."
Angelo clearly wasn't taking the hint. He just stood with his nose in the air. "You're not my superior officer! You gave that up when you joined with those pacifist fools on Earth! I only recognize Commander Za Burrel as my superior! He's twenty times the man you are!"
"Lieutenant Sauper, that's enough!" Ren barked, but the white haired blowhard kept going.
"I suppose it make sense that your precious little Songstress of Hope would be at home in a dump like Orb. A bunch of pacifists who refuse to take sides in any conflict! I bet they love her there, tell me General." The mocking inflection of Sebastian's rank in the young redcoat's voice was not lost anyone. "If she loves peace so much…does she spread her legs out…" Angelo didn't get a chance to finish what he said.
The Storm Wolf beautifully lived up to his name, whipping forward like a lightning bolt, to grab the arrogant young man by his throat, driving him into the bulkhead. Purple eyes met raging golden-brown ones, as a low growl emanated from Sebastian's lips.
"Hey, Full Frontal…remember what you said to me earlier about antagonizing your subordinate?" Yukimasa drawled, "You should have taught angel boy here that same lesson. Because I can guarantee if your little codpiece there doesn't watch his mouth in the next…few seconds, I'm pretty sure you're going to need to find someone else to suck your dick."
"Go ahead and kill me! I'm a true son of the PLANTs! I'm not afraid to die for the cause!" Angelo said, a smug grin on his face. The Storm Wolf's lips just twitched upwards, before he let out a truly evil laugh, causing the self-assured smirk to vanish.
"You are a terrible liar!" Sebastian mocked. "You were frightened from the minute I grabbed your scrawny little neck! I see it in your eyes…fear of death. So don't try playing your head games with me. I'll admit Rau was able to rile me up, but you're not him. If you think I'm going to make it so easy for you. Guess again!" He let go of Angelo, stalking to another corner of the room.
"I suggest you leave the bridge right now, Lieutenant Sauper," Yukimasa replied. "Otherwise I'll have Commander Gladys contact security if you cause anymore discomfort. You've succeeded in pissing off enough people already."
"That will not be necessary, Lieutenant Sanada." Ren said, "Angelo, go to our quarters. I'll speak to you when I'm done here."
"Yes sir!" Angelo flashed one more dirty look at Yukimasa and Sebastian before leaving the premises. The young engineer went over to the Supreme Ace.
"Hey…you all right?" Yukimasa whispered to Sebastian.
"Yeah, I'm okay. Sorry about losing my temper." He whispered back.
"It's all right, I'll let you off easy for this one. You showed some good restraint there at the end." He remarked. They returned to the center of the room.
"General Connor, I profusely apologize for Lieutenant Sauper's actions just now. It was totally uncalled for." Ren spoke in his most sincere tone. "Please rest assured he will be disciplined, and I'll see to it he gives both you and Miss Clyne a formal, written apology."
"Oh trust me, Commander Za Burrel. I will fully expect an apology from him! Let me warn you, if he speaks that way to me again. I'm going straight to Chairman Durandal himself!" Sebastian snapped, blue eyes narrowing. "And if he still persists in mocking and insulting my family…he'll have a date with the nearest airlock!"
"I assure you that will not be necessary, General. Angelo will be punished for his behavior. I will see to it personally." Ren answered. "But I think we have more pressing matters to deal with. Like the giant space colony that's about to hit the planet?" They took a position around the situation table. "I understand Commander Joule's team is already on route with Meteor Breakers. Still we should expect resistance."
"On that we agree. The question before us is who is responsible for it? No one's contacted us yet." Talia asked.
"I'm certain we'll find out before too long, Commander." Ren said. "But if I had to make a guess. They're probably a renegade group."
"You think they could be former ZAFT?" Sebastian asked.
"Would you see the Earth Alliance attacking their own planet?" Yukimasa asked.
"Fair point." The Storm Wolf replied, looking at the display as the remains of his former home continued to slowly drift toward Earth. "Makes me wonder if the Earth Alliance hasn't already deployed their forces." A sudden thought came into his thought. "Do you think they'd interfere with the breaker operation?"
"I seriously doubt it, General. There's no way the Earth Forces would let any harm come to the planet." Ren said. "It's kind of ironic really, if we do manage to pull this off. The Earth Alliance will owe the PLANTs a debt of gratitude for saving all of them."
Sebastian had no further words for that.
(Minerva, corridor)
Kira stood outside the head, idly tapping his foot before the door slid open, admitting his sister. "Did you get it all out?" He asked.
"One thing I don't like about space is the bathrooms!" Cagalli muttered. She had a large amount of water to drink and needed a quick pit stop. Kira just gave his usual easy going smile and they walked back to the lounge.
"Well, if it isn't Cagalli Yula Athha and Kira Yamato!" The siblings turned to come face to face with Angelo, a mocking sneer on his face. "The squawking buzzard who dares call himself a knight and the princess of the so-called Land of Peace!"
Angelo had sulked the entire way from the bridge, angry that the commander hadn't taken his side. Couldn't any of them see Connor for what he was? In his mind, there was no need for traitors anywhere in ZAFT. It was then he saw Cagalli and Kira, his rage bubbled back up. Aside from traitors, he couldn't stand the nation of pacifists, seeing them as nothing but cowards. Not to mention the fact that Yamato was here.
"Can we help you with something?" Kira asked, taking a protective stance next to his sister. He kept his expression neutral, taking note of the young white haired man with the
violet eyes dripping with contempt.
"Yeah, you can leave this ship for starters! There's no need for a bunch of weak pacifists from a pathetic little rock in the middle of the ocean like you to be here. This is a ZAFT vessel. We can handle things without you!"
The Lioness' own infamous temper began rising to the surface. "Do you have a problem with Orb? Then come out and say it to my face! I'm right here!" Cagalli shot back. Angelo just spread his feet, taking on a rather arrogant pose. The sneer curling on his lip alone would be enough for the young noble to put her foot clean between his legs with all the force she could muster.
"If there was ever a bigger pack of fools, I've yet to meet them! You refuse to pick sides, clinging to a weak ideal like neutrality! Is it any wonder that the Earth Alliance so easily steamrolled over your pathetic excuse of a military during the war?" Angelo snorted derisively. "We had offered our support to you, but your buffoon of a father rejected it! Hmph, no wonder he'd rather kill himself than stand up like a man!"
Cagalli was about ready to throttle the arrogant bastard for badmouthing her father when a hand grabbed onto the back of Sauper's uniform, yanking him away from Cagalli. The blonde looked on in surprise at who had come to her aid. Shinn Asuka seemed about ready to deck his fellow redcoat. His red eyes held an equal level of contempt. "You have no place in this, Asuka!" Sauper demanded.
"You can just piss off, Sauper! Don't you have to kiss your boss's ass some more?" Shinn barked. Angelo opened his mouth as if to say something, before letting out an indignant grunt and taking off down the corridor. Cagalli looked to her rescuer.
"I'm really sorry you two had to go through that, no one deserves to be harassed by Full Frontal's Codpiece!"
"Excuse me?" Cagalli said, blushing as Kira stifled a chortle.
Shinn just snorted, kicking at some imaginary dust. "It's an inside joke. Commander Za Burrel is known for always going for a very direct approach when he fights…a full frontal assault if you will. Given that it always worked for him, everyone started calling him 'Full Frontal'. The name stuck." He smirked. "I'm certain you're not that sheltered to get the expression's other meaning, Lady Cagalli." The blonde's cheeks flushed, "Yeah, I thought so. The way Sauper is always clinging onto his CO, some of the guys began calling him 'the codpiece'. That name stuck as well, but it's not meant as a compliment."
"He certainly wasn't doing much to endear himself to us." Cagalli huffed, banging her fist on the bulkhead. "Damn it! I don't understand why everyone feels the need to trash Orb's ideals! We just wanted to live our lives on our own terms! Is that so wrong to want?"
Shinn just walked past the blonde princess. "You're asking the wrong guy. As I told you earlier, I'm still not a big fan of your father and how he handled the invasion, given what happened to my parents. However, Sauper took it too far." Ruby red eyes met brilliant malachite, "After what happened in the Debris Belt, I've somewhat changed my opinion about you, personally, Lady Cagalli. If you want to prove yourself…keep fighting for what you believe in. Either way, if Sauper gives you trouble again. I have your back."
"Thank you very much, Lieutenant Asuka." She said.
He looked over his shoulder, closing his eyes before giving a curt grunt, "You're welcome, Lady Cagalli." He then looked to Kira.
"If it's too much to ask a favor of you, Major Yamato, when we get the chance, I'd like to have a duel with you. It's no secret your reputation is legendary. I wouldn't mind seeing how I stack up against you."
"Sure, I wouldn't mind that at all." Kira replied. Shinn just gave a slight smirk and a lazy wave before wandering down the corridor.
(Crew Lounge)
Cagalli stomped into the lounge, causing Kazuma to jump a little. The blonde sighed as she sank onto one of the leather couches. Despite speaking to Shinn, and knowing they were at least on civil terms with each other, Angelo's hateful words still ate away at her.
"Something happen while you were out?" Kazuma asked. The irritated glare was the only reply he got. He sat down next to her, putting an arm around her shoulder. Along with Yukimasa himself, he was one of the few people who could calm her down enough to get a straight answer out of her. "Come on, tell me what's wrong, Cagalli. Bottling it up inside isn't going to do you any good."
"We had a rather unpleasant run in during the bathroom run." Kira said.
"Oh, that doesn't even begin to describe it! We just had to listen to some asshole dumping on our country…again!" She leaned into him, "It just pisses me off so much when somebody does it, Kaz! Do we really deserve such hate for just wanting to be left alone?" He sighed, gently running his hand through her downy, blonde hair.
"Some people just can't comprehend how we operate, Cags. All they can do is try and tear us down." Kaz smiled. "Don't let it get you down."
It was then Sebastian came into the room, still fuming from his confrontation with Angelo on the bridge, Yukimasa hot on his heels. The leather coat wearing flag officer kicked the wall in disgust. "Is everyone throwing a hissy fit today?" The Sasaki heir quipped.
"I'm sorry, Kazuma. I just came from the bridge. Chairman Durandal sent a pair of his agents to join us in dealing with the whole falling colony scenario. Let's just say that one of them doesn't like me very much." Sebastian wrung his hands as he sat down across from them. "You know, I knew that a lot of people in ZAFT would see me as a traitor for abandoning them. I'm okay with that…really I am." The Storm Wolf's expression darkened, "But the minute you bring Lacus into it. That's where I draw the line!"
"Someone dumped on Lacus?" Cagalli asked. The pinkette may have seemed a little out there when they had first met, but the two had become fast friends, and if there was one thing that irked her more than seeing her homeland insulted it was seeing one of her friends be harassed. "Who did it?"
"Some little pissant named Lieutenant Angelo Sauper." Yukimasa said, "He's the adjutant to Ren Za Burrel, The commander of a ZAFT unit called FAITH. I've met him a couple of times before. He's gotten a lot of people pissed off at him." Both Cagalli and Kira's eyes widened.
"This guy wouldn't happen to have white hair, violet eyes and a real bad attitude on top of it?" The Lioness asked.
"Oh, you've met him?" Sebastian asked. "I feel your pain. He and I got into a row on the bridge." He snorted. "So that's two international incidents he's caused in one day; Makes me wonder if his commanding officer is going to do anything about him at all."
"I wouldn't bet on it, Storm. I'm certain he wouldn't even give his little codpiece a slap on the wrist." Yukimasa said.
"Yeah, I didn't want to say it to his face, but I don't trust Commander Za Burrel one bit. He reminds me too much of Rau for my taste." This remark elicited looks of confusion from the other three Orb citizens. "Trust me, you'll understand in due time. We need to get focused on what's to come. It won't be long before we reach J7. We all need to be on our A-game for this one. Literally the entire world is at stake."
(PSV Voltaire, Bridge)
Commander Yzak Joule folded his arms as he looked down on the giant round shaped continent, before his icy eyes looked at the massive blue, green, and brown orb the plate was heading toward. His heart had almost burst when he got the news from ZAFT High Command of Junius Seven's approach to Earth. Having been the closest team, he had been given the honor of keeping Humanity's birthplace from burning to ash.
He fingered the collar of his white uniform. "It's time like this I wonder why I accepted this promotion, Dearka! This has disaster written all over it!" He finally said to his long time partner and friend, Dearka Elsman, resplendent in the black uniform of a ZAFT captain. The tanned blonde gave his commanding officer a sympathetic gaze.
Yzak stiffened when he felt something warm and curvy take hold of his arm, cuddling up against him. He looked into the gentle violet eyes of his fiancée, Shiho Hahnnenfuss, the redcoat who served as commander of the Joule Team's mobile suit squad and a former member of the Storm Wolves. "The GuAIZ Rs are ready to go and the Meteor Breakers are ready to deployed on your orders, Commander."
The hot-tempered young man wasn't one to show his gentle side often, but he took pleasure in running his fingers along her cheek. "Good, get to work then, Lieutenant. We can't let this thing hit Earth. Sebastian would be kind of pissed off at us if we let that happen." Shiho just smiled, sauntering off the bridge.
"Gotta admit, I don't mind watching her leave. You're a lucky man, Yzak." Dearka quipped.
"Yeah, I guess I did score well in that department." The white haired pilot turned commander said. "Never imagined I'd fall in love at all. Glad I was wrong."
Yzak sighed, going back to the ominous image in the viewport. "You know what's the worst part of this whole scenario, Dearka? There was a time when I'd have cheered for this to happen. I never told anyone this, but back then I kind of believed in what Athrun's father said about Coordinator supremacy, and how we were the next generation of human evolution. Let the Naturals die." He shook his head. "I feel like such an idiot! And look at where that attitude got me…a murderer."
Dearka felt a pang of sympathy for his friend. Yzak had destroyed an Earth Alliance shuttle carrying civilians from the Orb's Heliopolis space colony. A single shot killed everyone on board, including Kira's friend, Kuzzey Buskirk. It was only thanks to intercession from Sebastian himself that kept Yzak from the firing squad. "Don't beat yourself up about this. You were young, dumb and stupid. We all were. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't caught up a little in it myself. Commander Evans robbed me of that abuse right from the get-go."
"Don't remind me of him! I'm glad General Connor killed that bastard!" Yzak ground his teeth as he thought of the late Grimaldi Hyena, before schooling himself into the neutral expression of the commander, he turned to his executive officer. "Captain Elsman, Order the launch of all mobile suits and get the Meteor Breakers deployed. And while we're at it…have our ZAKUs ready. Just in case we need to personally intervene."
(Junius Seven ruins)
Yzak's fears were not entirely unfounded. A half platoon of ZGMF-1017M2 GINN High Maneuver Type IIs colored mostly black with purple trim had been hard at work to turn the remains of the Junius Seven colony into a massive projectile. Sato, the leader of this group of twenty deserters looked on with a source of twisted pride.
"It's taken almost two years to get this plan ready! Soon it won't be long before we get revenge! For Chairman Zala and our lost loved ones!" He remarked, before looking to the picture of a young woman and a little girl. "Elizabeth…Charlotte. I do this for you. The Naturals will all pay for what they did to you!"
One of the other GINNs came up to Sato, "Boss, we have inbound! It looks like a squad of eleven GuAIZ Rs, being led by one of the new ZAKU Warriors. They have Meteor Breakers with them!"
Sato snorted, "So the imposters who call themselves ZAFT are going to try and break up the colony then, huh? Well we can't let that happen now, can we? Notify the other squad commanders and prepare to set up the ambush. We've come too far to let anyone stop us now! We'll show them who truly stands for what ZAFT believes in! Long live Patrick Zala!"
Author's Notes: And so the mysterious Ren Za Burrel and his right hand man come onto the scene. In the span of a few minutes, Angelo has managed to piss off some very powerful people. He's going to regret that down the line. The timer is counting down…it will soon be time for Break the World to start.
Also if anyone is wondering, Maelstrom is based on Exia from Gundam 00. After Freedom it's by far one of my favorite mobile suits.