Disclaimer: Yuuya Bridges, Leon Kruze, Yui Takamura, Sharon Heim, Kyoko Takatsukasa, Kazusa Yamashiro, Shimako Kai, Aki Iwami, and Izumi Noto. As well as the F-22 Raptor and Takemikazuchi, all come from the series Muv-Luv Alternative, Total Eclipse. And is all owned by Age.
Song of the Storm Wolf: Howl of Destiny
By Storm Wolf77415, Wing Commander White Wolf, and Centurious the Azure
Pride, Duty, and Business Partnerships
(Connor Residence, Orb Union, October 23rd, C.E. 73)
The Storm Wolf of Jachin Due groaned as the sunlight poured through the open curtains. Sebastian raised a hand to shield his eyes. He made to get up only for a pair of pale arms to wrap around his neck. "Where do you think you're going?" Lacus smiled, her long pink locks pooling around her. "I need to cuddle with you more, please?" She implored with those innocent looking blue eyes.
"I've got work to do today, honey. I need to talk with Talia about our new business partnership between Orb and the PLANTs." Sebastian said, trying to untangle Lacus from him, but his wife would not be so easily dissuaded. The Lady Storm Wolf just tightened her grip on his neck, while also wrapping her lithe, gymnast legs around her husband's waist. Her cheeks turned as pink as her hair as she nuzzled up against him.
He relented, knowing when his Angel of the Stars had him beat. She was probably the one enemy he would never be able to defeat in a million years. Sebastian began stroking her pink tresses. "Okay…but only for a few minutes, and then we need to get up. I don't want to keep Anthony waiting any longer than necessary."
"Yay!" She cheered, smiling warmly, giving her husband's cheek a celebratory nuzzle. Again he found out just soft her skin was. "I love you so much." Lacus cooed.
"I love you as well, my Angel of the Stars." Sebastian said, eliciting a tiny giggle from her as he pulled her close. Sometimes you had to appreciate the precious things in life. Besides, he if had said no any more times, he would become subjected to Lacus's infamous angry pout; it was a weapon more lethal than an entire army of Tallgeese IIIs and Providences! Very few had been able to withstand it's incredible and fearsome power.
(Onogoro Island)
Talia paced about nervously, gazing out the window at her ship ever so often. The Minerva sat quietly in its berth, technicians swarming all about the slate gray hull like ants. Talia was not in a pleasant mood, having received a message from the homeland. "So the Atlantic Federation leadership finally decided to act." She muttered to herself. "And of course they're going to try and force us back under their boot right where they want us."
The Earth Alliance had been quick to condemn the PLANTs for the events of the Break the World and demanding compensation for the damage done. Washington had ordered Aprilus One to immediately disband the Supreme Council and demobilize ZAFT entirely, and the PLANTs would come under the Earth Alliance's direct control.
The Earth Alliance General Assembly, Atlantic Federation Congress and Eurasian Federation Parliament had already ordered OMNI Enforcer and all allied military units to begin mobilizing. Earth Forces naval vessels had already begun blockading both Carpentaria and Gibraltar Bases. The entire situation was a tinder box just waiting to ignite.
"Insufferable bastards! Damn them all to hell!" Talia clenched her fist in silent anger, pounding the heavy glass in frustration.
"Excuse me, Talia?" She turned to see Anthony standing there in his Orb officer's uniform. He leaned up against the wall, "I guess you heard about the demands the Earth Alliance made?" He walked up to her, putting a sympathetic hand on her shoulder. "I don't blame you for being pissed off. It seems no one has learned a thing. I actually need you to come with me, General Connor and the other nobles wish to speak with you."
"Speak with me? Whatever for?" She asked. Anthony just gave a slight smile. She couldn't help but feel unnerved when he got that look on his face.
"I'll let General Connor and the others tell you in person. It's rather important that way. Come now, Captain. We don't want to keep them waiting." With that, Talia followed Anthony out the door, before taking one last look at her beloved ship. She shrugged, it wasn't like they were going anywhere any time soon.
(Orb Parliament Building)
Talia wasn't sure what to expect when she was ushered into the meeting room where she was told to go. The heads of the five families were seated at a long table arrayed in a slight curve, like a giant horseshoe. Kumiko at in the middle with Sebastian and Mina on her left, while Cagalli and Arashi seated to her right. Kumiko and Mina wore the purple suits that all Orb civilian officials wore, while Arashi, Cagalli, Anthony and Sebastian were resplendent in their Orb military uniforms. For a few seconds Talia imagined the Twin Wolves wearing ZAFT white.
She snapped to attention, offering her best salute. "Captain Talia Gladys reporting as requested, Chief Representative Sasaki. I understand you have some something of a significant urgency to speak with me about?"
Kumiko returned the salute. "As you were, Captain Gladys. Thank you for being prompt. We trust you've of the demands the Atlantic Federation made of the PLANTs. You'll be happy to know none of us liked it either." The Storm Wolf of Jachin Due did nothing to hide the absolute loathing on his face, and his fellow nobles were clearly disgusted as well.
"I'm glad you all sympathize with our plight, but I'm afraid it can't be helped. The Earth Alliance will push, and I know that the Supreme Council won't give in to their demands." Talia wrenched her hands. "It seems that we're looking another war. And unlike last time, we haven't got the edge. OMNI Enforcer has mobile suits, and the numerical advantage as well. The odds are not in our favor."
Kumiko folded her hands on the table, resting her chin on them. "All that you have said is very true, Captain. ZAFT does have its back against the wall this time…I suppose you could use a little help then?" Talia arched a delicate eyebrow at this statement, as Sebastian grinned. "The five of us have been discussing matters, and we all came to an agreement. The United Emirates of Orb cannot just sit out this conflict. We have to pick sides…and we all agreed to throw in with the PLANTs."
Talia was thrown for a total loop. A part of her didn't want to believe that Orb, the country that practically had 'neutrality' engraved into its very soul was making an offer like this. But still, she could see the earnestness in Sebastian's eyes, and Talia knew he would never tempt her in such a manner. "You're not putting me on, are you Lady Sasaki? Orb would really agree to an alliance with the PLANTs?"
"Alliance is a rather strong term, Captain Gladys." Arashi said, amusement coloring his voice, as his sapphire blue eyes gleamed. "We prefer to think of this endeavor as a simple…business partnership."
"A business partnership? Is that what we're calling it now?" Talia cracked a small smile, her concern slowly being replaced by relief. "I must say that this is a very unexpected turn of events. I never thought in a million years that Orb would break its vaunted neutrality and decide to throw in. I can't imagine this was an easy decision to make."
"If Uzumi Nara Attha was still alive and in charge, you would be absolutely certain this wouldn't have happened at all, Captain Gladys." Kumiko said, flashing an apologetic gaze to Cagalli for what she was about to say. "He was my friend and a great political ally. I loved him like a brother, but he was a prideful, stubborn man who didn't know when to ask for help. I am much more flexible, and can see the benefits of aligning with the PLANTs."
"Indeed, Orb's proximity to Carpentaria means it wouldn't take long for reinforcements to arrive, and that's going both ways." Talia said, seeing the possibilities the new partnership allowed for herself. "If Orb were to be invaded again by the Earth Alliance, you can be absolutely certain Gil." She mentally cursed for the slip of the tongue. "I mean; Chairman Durandal would send ZAFT to back you up. He would never abandon an ally in need."
"We never doubted he would. It would appear that we made our offer at an opportune time." Anthony removed his glasses to clean off the lenses. "Considering Earth Alliance naval forces started blockading Carpentaria and Gibraltar a few days ago, not to mention all the rest of your bases, it would be hard to get reinforcements in."
"Actually, we are preparing to remedy that." Talia said. "It's called Operation Twilight's Spear, a massive orbital drop on both Carpentaria and Gibraltar. Of course, if our little…arrangement were to be finalized before that time. I think we could also include some troops to help defend your country. It would be the least we could do for your aid."
"Then it shouldn't be much you can take our offer back to Chairman Durandal and the rest of Supreme Council, Talia? I know he would be overjoyed to hear the news." Sebastian said, a triumphant feeling inside at how his former comrade snapped to attention and offered her best salute. Talia wasn't as strict by the book as Natarle was, but she could be spit and polish as she needed to be.
"I'll send your proposal to him immediately, General Connor." Talia bowed slightly. "You have my personal gratitude, Sebastian. Even if you no longer wear the uniform of ZAFT, I know you would never turn your back on the PLANTs when the situation called for it. And that goes for you as well, Admiral Russo." She looked to the Arctic White Wolf.
"We still have a connection to the stars, Captain Gladys." Anthony pulled his glasses down slightly, the light catching off the lenses. "As such, both the Storm Wolf and White Wolf will always keep one eye turned toward the PLANTs. That will never change." Sebastian stood up, swatting Anthony on the back.
"My brother, ever the poetic one." The Storm Wolf of Jachin Due chuckled. "Although, he is not wrong. Both of us still feel a sense of duty to the PLANTs, and if we can help in some small way, so much the better." He then looked to Cagalli. "Although it wasn't an easy decision to make for some people."
"Did you not agree with it, Lady Cagalli? If that's the case, I would never you to throw away your country's ideals." Talia said.
"It's not that, Captain." Cagalli said. "I wasn't for this initially. All I ever wanted was for Orb to be able to live in peace, to not have to take part in dumb conflicts like this. My father believed in our neutrality so strongly that he was willing to die for it." Her eyes narrowed slightly. "However, I am also not my father. It would just be a matter of time before the Earth Alliance came knocking, demanding we join them as they did two years ago. I absolutely refuse to let them set foot on our soil after what they did to us!"
"We all feel the same way, Captain Gladys." Arashi said. "We all had to find it inside us to agree to reversing our neutrality policy. For us, this is the best course of action. We have Coordinators living here, and the Earth Alliance oppressed them when they invaded. I have no intention of repeating that. So we will stand by our brothers and sisters in the PLANTs."
"And we in turn will make sure that Orb does not fall a second time." Talia said, looking around at her potential future allies. "I am looking forward to working with all of you, and I dare say it will be nice to have you fighting at my side once again, Sebastian."
"All right, I love it when we're all on the same page." Sebastian produced a bottle of champagne, pouring them into two wine glasses before offering one to Talia. "A toast to our new business partnership."
Talia took the glass. "I will happily drink to that." And the two glasses clinked together, sealing the deal.
(Edwards Mobile Weapon Base, California, Atlantic Federation, North America, October 25th, C.E. 73)
After the events of Break the World, Phantom Pain had been transferred planetside, and told to wait for further orders. Commander Daniel Morris hated times like this. He and his fellow Headhunters had already gone to the range multiple times, and even shooting at targets got old after awhile. He wanted nothing more than to get back to the battlefield and do what he did best. Until then, he'd just have to deal with it like everyone else did.
Morris entered the building Phantom Pain had been assigned as its headquarters while on Earth; he found his commanding officer sitting at his desk, eyes glued to his computer screen. "Rewatching the footage from your battle with the Storm Wolf again, Boss?" Neo had been reviewing the combat footage from Break the World on a regular basis. If Morris didn't know any better, his CO was becoming obsessed with the Storm Wolf of Jachin Due. The sniper leaned up against the wall. "If you do it any further, I'd need a crowbar to pry you away from it."
"It can't be helped, Commander." Neo drawled, the images dancing off the lenses of his black and red mask. "General Connor truly is a wonder to behold, Daniel. It's not hard to see why he's considered the best." Neo said, closing the window, leaving a blank screen. "An ultimate duel with the ultimate soldier, that is what I have always desired. For the longest time I've craved a worthy opponent I can match my blade against, and now I know who that rival is."
Morris smirked. "You'll go down in history forever if you manage to pull that off, boss. The guy who took down the Legendary Supreme Ace. They wouldn't just give you a medal, they'd erect a fucking statue in your memory."
He stood up, reaching for Mugenjin. "I'll kill him in battle myself. It would be better than leaving him to the tender mercies of our superiors." Neo declared to his executive officer. "But on the other hand…It would be my hope to capture Maelstrom relatively intact. I wouldn't mind meeting General Connor face to face, learn more about him." He slowly drew his blade out, revealing the serrated edge.
"As much as I hate to intrude on your dream, Captain. We got some new transfers in." Morris handed Roanoke a trio of folders containing personnel jackets. "I have to say, the two men are real pieces of work. I already had to break up two near fights between them all ready. But the girl!" He whistled in appreciation. "You want to talk about a real nice body!"
"Second Lieutenants Yuuya Bridges, Leon Kruze, and Sharon Heim." Neo scanned over the pictures of the three pilots in question. He nodded with approval. "Hmm, attitude problems aside, All three of them seem to be very capable pilots. With the way things are going, we'll definitely need the extra hands. Send them in, Commander Morris."
The trio entered the office, all coming to attention. "Reporting as ordered Captain Roanoke." Yuuya said, the young Japanese-American pilot couldn't help but feel a little intimidated at the sight of their new commanding officer, the black uniform and mask were both unsettling, not to mention the sheathed blade propped up against his desk. It reminded Yuuya of a character from an old movie he used to watch.
"As you all were." The three went to parade rest stance. Neo stood up, coming around the desk to look each of his new subordinates in the eye. "I am Captain Neo Roanoke, commander of the 81st Independent Mobile Battalion, also known as Phantom Pain. I would like to welcome you to the squadron." A thin smirk crossed his face. "I have a feeling you will do well here."
(Hereford Army Base, England, Atlantic Federation)
Karen Willet was known as an early riser, she always started her day with a two mile run around the base where her team was stationed. Usually it didn't take long for her to get focused on the day ahead, but her mind was in other places at the moment, she was still focused on her battle with Freedom during Break the World. Reaver had performed beyond expectation, having managed to inflict more damage to Kira Yamato's mobile suit than anyone else had until Rau Le Creuset.
"He's definitely the real deal. Next time though, I won't be so forgiving. I hope Mr. Yamato is ready to lose then." Willet was already beginning to formulate strategies for her next encounter. It was then she noticed a huge burly mountain of a man with a bald head and a large mustache currently engaging in unarmed combat training with a group of recent arrivals to the Special Air Service.
One of the Frighteners' stock in trades was unarmed combat. She stopped to watch intently as Walter sparred with two recruits at once. They didn't stand a chance as both men quickly found themselves lying flat on their backs in varying degrees of pain, but for the Frighteners that was nothing new. Every member of the team was well versed in several different kinds of martial arts, and could take on most opponents in short order.
Although Willet was on another level entirely, the other Frighteners had sparred with her enough times and often ended up with them tied up in knots. She had once taken on the whole of the Third CTAT alone just because she was bored, and barely managed a stalemate, it was one of the reasons why she had been so exhilarated to take on an opponent like Freedom. "Looking good there, Walter. I'm glad to know you're keeping the children in line."
Ryan and the other soldiers immediately snapped to attention, offering their best salute. "Good morning to you, Colonel, we didn't see you there." He spoke in a deep bass, colored by his lower-class British accent, but Walter Ryan was anything but stupid. "Yeah, just showing these muppets how we do things in the Third Covert Tactical Assault Team."
Willet smiled, folding her arms. "Well don't mind me, continue on with your training."
"I heard about your little sojourn in space, Colonel." Ryan rumbled. "Is it true? You managed to go one on one with the Freedom during Break the World?"
The woman known as the Silver Shadow smirked. "Indeed I did, Captain. He's really as tough as everyone says he is. As a matter of fact, I managed to rough him up quite a bit. Destroyed his rifle and shield, not to mention one of its railguns. I would have done more, but I got called back. I suppose I'll just have to do better next time."
Several of the recruits began quietly talking amongst themselves, to them this was near impossible. Any Earth Alliance soldier knew that the ZGMF-X10A Freedom Gundam was nigh invincible, doubly so when the ZGMF-X09A Justice Gundam was present as well. But now hearing of the damage that Colonel Willet had inflicted on Freedom. They were all starting to get the impression that maybe the white mobile suit wasn't so invincible after all.
"Colonel Willet, I hope you don't mind my asking this question." One of the recruits asked nervously. "But why do you feel the need to fight the Freedom? I mean, we've all heard the stories about it. It's an absolute monster! No one has ever survived more than a few seconds against it." The Silver Shadow gave a smirk; perhaps she could instill some of her vast combat experience upon them.
"Challenge is the operative keyword here, love. The simple fact is that they're strong. There is probably no more powerful mobile suit than the ZGMF-X10A Freedom Gundam, and it's pilot is considered one of, if not the most skilled ever seen in recent times. Kira Yamato is considered to be even better than his commanding officer and General Connor is known as the Supreme Ace for a very good reason."
She gazed out at the sun as it slowly rose in the English sky. "My people and I have craved a challenge like that for a very long time. For us, we never saw genetic enhancements as obstacles, rather a chance for us to improve ourselves. It's why we train ourselves so hard." Willet cracked her knuckles. "Naturals can be just as good as Coordinators can if they work hard enough. The Frighteners wanted to prove that you don't need to have any kind of expensive gene therapy to be good. And since Major Yamato is the Ultimate Coordinator, that makes him the ultimate challenge for me."
"We know if anyone can bring him down, it's you Colonel Willet. You've worked way too hard for it not to be true." Ryan said. "Isn't that right, boys and girls?" He barked to the other soldiers, who all promptly snapped to attention, saluting Willet.
The redhead offered her best salute. "As you all were then. Captain Ryan, once you're done here, notify the rest of the team, we have planning to do." She then resumed her run. Once she had finished, she would go straight to her office and begin drawing up battle plans. Her mind was already looking ahead to the next fight.
(Morgenroete Headquarters, Onogoro Island, October 27th, C.E. 73))
Sebastian led Talia, Trine, and the rest of the Minerva's pilots through the factory. "As you can see, we didn't waste any time in rebuilding the place after the Earth Alliance took over. We've been working around the clock on improving our defenses." He indicated to a row of mobile suits that looked like the Astray. "That right there is our newest mass production model, the MVF-M11C Murasame, like the Astray, it can be used on Earth and in space, but unlike its predecessor, this beauty has a mobile armor mode to it. As such it is incredibly maneuverable, and can even keep up with the likes of Freedom and Maelstrom."
"It should also be comparable with the New Millennium Series units, not to mention anything the Earth Alliance has right now or could be developing." Cagalli said, walking up. "Are you impressed, Captain Gladys?"
"But of course, Lady Cagalli. Even we in the PLANTs know of Morgenroete's incredible technical prowess when it comes to mobile suits." Talia said, while not an engineer, she could appreciate the craftsmanship of the mobile suits. "Quite a few technicians who remained in the PLANTs decided to stay and work for ZAFT. I imagine the Minerva shares quite a bit in common with your Izumo-class."
"Is this all you've got, Lady Cagalli?" Rey suddenly asked. "Even I knew that Morgenroete is always got something going on behind the scenes. These Murasames look formidable enough, but I'm just willing to bet you've got other, more advanced designs in the works."
"You like to cut right to the chase, don't you Lieutenant Za Burrel?" Cagalli asked. Rey just assumed a neutral stance, his face as stoic as ever. It unsettled the Lioness of Orb a little, reminding her just a little bit of another blonde man, but she wouldn't let herself be intimidated on her home soil. "As a matter of fact…yes we do have another model, perhaps you'd like to see it?"
"By all means, lead the way." Rey said.
The tour group continued to another part of the facility. Sebastian pulled out a key card, running it through the scanner. "This is our training ground. We test all our new models here, plus it's the place where our pilots go to hone our skills. In fact, some of Orb's best are working here right now!" They stopped in front of a bank of windows, looking out on a massive room where a squad of mobile suits was currently engaging in training maneuvers
"Whoa check out those machines!" Lunamaria whistled in appreciation at the machines currently engaging in sparring with actual metal blades. "I've never seen anything like them before!"
"You wouldn't have, considering they're brand new, Lieutenant Hawke." Sebastian noted with a hint of pride. "You should feel honored, you're the first outsiders to lay eyes on them. Those lovelies out there are our latest model. Say hello to the MBF-M47 Takemikazuchi, they're actually based on data from the Akatsuki. They were made to be high mobility units, capable of covering ground very quickly, especially in melee combat. The claw style feet allow them to grip onto sloping terrain and maintain stability."
"A given, considering Orb's natural topography." Rey remarked, eyeing the strange weapons the new mobile suits were carrying. He recalled the Gerbera Straights both Freedom and Maelstrom carried, noting that the weapons the Takemikazuchis carried seemed more rugged and utilitarian in nature. "I notice the Takemikazuchis are equipped with physical blades…did you have a hand in their creation, General Connor?"
Sebastian put his hands in his pockets. "Not directly, but you could say they're a distant cousin. The deputy commander of this unit is a student of the blade like me, and while beam sabers will always be the main anti-mobile suit weapon of choice for most people. She wanted to equip her troops with a physical sword, like what the old GINN and CGUE used to carry. So we got together and came up with the Type-74 Melee Halberd. It's meant to be mass-produced so it's created in a different manner than the weapons Major Yamato and I carry. However, the Takemikazuchi does carry a pair of regular beam sabers as well."
"Do the colors mean anything?" Luna asked, noting the myriad of shades the machines came in.
"Yes they do." Cagalli explained. "The blue machine is the R-Type model, it's reserved for high ranking commanders, it's got the highest performance overall, plus an extensive command and control package. The yellow F-Type model is reserved for ace pilots, usually their performance is lower, but they've also got the most room for customization. The last is the C-Type model, colored white. It's made for regular pilots, and it's the easiest to handle."
"The Takemikazuchi is still in the late testing stages." Sebastian said. "However, these are quite possibly the most powerful mass-production units Orb has ever constructed to date. I dare say the Earth Alliance is going to be in for a world of hurt…especially with this particular squadron of pilots."
"Why is that?" Talia asked.
"They're known as Dawn Squadron." Cagalli folded her arms, a strong sense of pride in both her eyes and voice. "They were created to become our nation's protectors. Not to mention they're all very good friends of mine." She smirked. "Dawn Squadron is an all-female unit, and none of them are to be trifled with!"
A horn blared, signaling the end of the training sessions. "How about we go down and introduce you to them? It's likely you'll be working with the girls in the near future." Sebastian said. They all walked out into the training field, where a young man in coveralls was standing with a clipboard. "Hey Kuro, what's the word?"
The man looked their way. Juliana and Lunamaria felt a shiver go down their spines when they saw his face. Deep gray eyes framed by hair as black as a thousand midnights. They also noted he bore a passing resemblance to Yukimasa. "Hey Sebastian, Cagalli." He spoke with a deep baritone. "Everything's looking good here. I tell you the girls get better with every session."
"That's good to hear, Kuro. We've got some guests here and we wanted to show you guys off." Sebastian said. "Captain Gladys, allow me to introduce you to Kuro Takeshi Sahaku, he's one of the chief techs for the Takemikazuchi, he knows the mobile suits inside and out."
"Very impressive machines, Mr. Sahaku. A superb addition to your country's arsenal." Talia said. "I must say, they're certainly different from Orb's usual design aesthetic." She was caught off guard when Kuro suddenly took her hand, gently kissing it.
"Why thank you for the compliment, Captain Gladys." He flashed a dashing grin, causing her face to flush up. Kuro then directed his vision to Juliana and Lunamaria. "I must say, ZAFT knows how to find women that aren't just capable soldiers…but also quite lovely looking as well." He grinned, watching as the two redcoats started blushing as well.
Cagalli sighed, she reached over grabbing Kuro by the ear, yanking him away from the ZAFT pilots. "Down boy…down. I'm sorry about this Captain Gladys. Kuro is a great engineer, but he's also a heavy duty womanizer. We honestly can't leave him alone for a minute or he starts chasing every skirt that comes within his line of sight."
"Ow! Easy there Cags! I kind of need that!" Kuro whined.
"Then keep focused on the matter at hand." Cagalli said. "Captain Gladys asked about the machine and how it doesn't resemble the Astray or Murasame."
"Okay fine!" Kuro huffed, rubbing his ear to make sure it hadn't been damaged. "In all honesty, I can't take full credit for their creation, Captain Gladys. The Takemikazuchi was actually a design originally thought up by my father, Yukimura Koto Sahaku." Everyone noted a slight tone of disgust at the mention of the name. "He designed them to be very high performance machines, only to be handled by the very best pilots. I just tried to make them a little more user friendly, courtesy of data taken from the Akatsuki."
"If they're such great mobile suits. Why weren't they chosen to become Orb's mainline machine?" Lunamaria asked.
"You can chalk that up to my old man, Lieutenant Hawke." Kuro rolled his eyes. "My father was a true Renaissance Man, he did everything. He was a strategist, a politician, scientist, and engineer. Dad was also a perfectionist in everything he did. The Takemikazuchi was no different. He designed it like a Swiss watch, everything about it is incredibly precise, and it causes huge logistical problems if there's even the slightest malfunction. We have to fabricate all the spare parts ourselves and it takes up too much time. It's why the Astray was chosen to become Orb's first mass-production mobile suit, it's just a lot cheaper to build and easier to maintain."
"The Astray and Murasame would still function as our main frontline units, but the Takemikazuchi still had a potential to be a great machine for purely homeland defense." Sebastian said, wondering if having a few of them wouldn't have made a difference two years ago. "We figured it would be worth trying it out in a limited production capacity."
"I wouldn't mind taking one of those for a test drive, Mr. Sahaku. I like how they look." Juliana said. The sleek lines were quite appealing to her; it made her ZAKU look very clunky and awkward by comparison.
"I'll be more than happy to make the arrangement for you." Kuro grinned.
The blue-clawed mobile suit came to a stop. "Here's my deputy commander." Cagalli said. The hatch opened, admitting a young woman in her mid twenties, wearing an Orb style flight suit colored the same color as her machine, as was her hair, tied up in a lose bun. The blonde walked up. "Hey Kyoko, looking good as ever." The woman smiled, walking over to give the young blonde a hug. "Everyone, meet Lieutenant Colonel Kyoko Takatsukasa, Deputy Commander of Dawn Squadron when I'm not around."
"Why thank you, Lady Cagalli." Kyoko said. She looked to where the rest of Dawn Squadron was dismounting their machines. "Everyone, get over here!" With that the other members of the team quickly fell into step, coming to form a line behind Kyoko. "Allow me to introduce you to Dawn Squadron, we will lead Orb to a new sunrise. Ladies, go ahead and introduce yourselves to our guests."
A young woman with blonde hair saluted. "Major Asagi Caldwell, I'm the squadron third in command. It's nice to meet you all. These are my squadmates, Captains Juri Wu Nien and Mayura Labatt." She indicated to her long time friends. All three of the former Astray Girls had matured into lovely young women, their hair was now longer, and Juri had even ditched her glasses for contact lenses.
"Asagi and her friends were the original test pilots for the Astray, and they served with great distinction in our little band of renegades during the last portion of the first war. I knew I wanted to them to be part of my personal unit from the very beginning." Cagalli said.
"You know we'd follow you anywhere." Mayura said, putting an arm around Cagalli's shoulder.
"The three of you are old hands at this." Kyoko said, gaze falling on the other girls present. "Of course we can't ignore our rising stars, either. You're up, Yui." Kyoko said to a young girl with long brown hair and purple eyes wearing a yellow flight suit, she was followed by a girl with long straight dark hair, a girl wearing glasses and pigtails, a girl with long brown hair and pink bow, and a girl with short brownish-red hair all clad in white flightsuits.
The girl identified as Yui stepped forward, snapping to attention. Despite the confidence she exuded, both officers could detect a hint of shyness to her voice and mannerisms. "I am First Lieutenant Yui Takamura, I command the squadron's third element. These are my friends, Second Lieutenants Kazusa Yamashiro, Shimako Kai, Aki Iwami, and Izumi Noto." She offered her best salute, which her friends mirrored. "Welcome to Orb, Captain Gladys."
Talia just smiled, offering her best salute. "Why thank you, Lieutenant Takamura. You're very polite."
Kyoko smiled and began pinching the younger girl's cheeks, much to Yui's embarrassment, and the amusement of her squadmates, as a few of them started giggling. "My cousin is always so serious and formal." Kyoko nuzzled her cheek. "Yui's a great soldier and leader, but she needs to lighten up at times."
"Do you have to do this now, Kyoko?" Yui whined. It was like this every time they met someone new. And these were foreign officers, they would get the wrong idea if they saw them like this!
"Now now, my dear Yui-chan." Kyoko put her arms around Yui's neck in a sisterly embrace, causing the younger girl to blush even deeper. "We are family, and it is part of my responsibility as your cousin to embarrass you in front of our guests and your friends."
"Excuse me for asking this, but is this a proper way for you to act?" Trine asked, "I mean, if you're meant to be such an elite squadron, I would think you would conduct yourself in a more professional manner." He suddenly got very uncomfortable, swallowing at bit at the playful yet vicious gleam in the Deputy Commander's blue eyes.
"Rest assured, Captain Trine, we are all very much consummate professionals." Kyoko's voice held none of its usual merriment. "You give us a job to do and we will carry it out to the fullest extent of our abilities." She rested her chin in her hand. "But on the other side of the coin. If we stood on formality all the time, then we'd never get anything done. It would make life rather dreary if you ask me."
Sebastian cleared his throat. "Lieutenant Asuka." Shinn straightened up a little as he met the Storm Wolf of Jachin Due's eyes. "If I recall, you requested a practice match with Major Yamato. He's waiting for you at the outdoor practice arena. You might want to go get suited up, kid. I seriously doubt you want to keep him waiting after all." Shinn nodded, before running out of the room. Sebastian folded his arms and snickered. "This may actually make for an amusing fight! Everyone to the observation area."
(Outdoor Training Arena)
The Force Impulse stood waiting in the middle of the training area, filled with rocks and trees, simulating a typical rocky area found around Orb. In the cockpit Shinn took a calming breath. He was equal parts excited and terrified at the upcoming match. Shinn was excited to be able to take on a living legend like the Eagle Knight, but also a little terrified having seen just what Kira Yamato was capable of first hand during Break the World when he battled Reaver.
"You ready to begin, Lieutenant Asuka?" He sat up when he heard Kyoko on the radio. Shinn could hear the amusement in her voice. "Sorry about surprising you like that, but I can imagine how eager you are to go one on one with Major Yamato."
"Yeah, every one at the academy always talked about how it would be to go up against the likes of Freedom or Storm Wolf." Shinn recalled those quieter days, back when he and his friends were still just trainees. It was then a thought occurred to him. "Excuse me, Colonel, but have you gone up against Major Yamato yourself?"
"Oh yes, quite a few times." She said. "Let me tell you, he's no one to take lightly. The only ones who can even stand up to him are Commander Zala and General Connor himself. Most people think him weak for always aiming to disable, but I assure you, if you make him angry…you won't live long!"
Shinn's monitor began beeping, announcing the arrival of a new contact. "I think that's him now." Everyone turned to see the mobile suit entering the training ground; it wasn't what Shinn was expecting. "Well how about that?" Kyoko remarked. "He hasn't used that particular machine in a long while." Shinn's eyes widened in surprise at the mobile suit approaching them, for it was not the ZGMF-X10A Freedom Gundam, but instead it was…
"The Strike?" Lunamaria said, watching from the observation area as the GAT-X105+AQM/E-X01 Aile Strike Gundam came to a landing in front of the Impulse. It was almost surreal seeing the Strike and the Impulse standing across from each other. "Why is Major Yamato using that mobile suit, Lady Cagalli? Where's the Freedom?"
"Because the Strike was my brother's original mobile suit when he got press ganged into fighting for the Earth Forces during the last war." Cagalli said, folding her arms, feeling the nostalgia. "Kira thought he'd have an unfair advantage with the Freedom, so he borrowed his old machine from Captain La Flaga for this little bout."
"But the Strike Gundam is over three years old!" Julia protested, feeling a sense of awe at seeing the mighty war machine. "It couldn't possibly stand against the Impulse for very long."
"Old doesn't always mean obsolete, Lieutenant Everhart." Sebastian said, remembering simpler times when it was just the Archangel after Heliopolis, its only defense the Strike, his own GAT-X108 Predator and Mu's TS-MA02mod.00 Moebius Zero. "That particular old warhorse still has plenty of fight left in her, and with Kira at the controls, I think it might surprise you what the Strike can do."
(Training Area)
Inside the cockpit, Kira adjusted the pilot's seat. It had been ages since sitting behind the controls of his old mobile suit, but it was a comforting feeling, like putting on an old pair of shoes that still fit. "I hope you're ready for this, Lieutenant Asuka." He raised the beam rifle in challenge. "The Strike and I have been through a lot together."
"Oh trust me, I'm always ready!" Shinn said, brandishing his own weapon. "Shall we get started, Major?"
"By all means. All weaponry has been set to training levels, but we should still be careful." the Strike and Impulse both drew beam sabers, lightly touching them together. "To a good, hard fought battle." The two mobile suits ignited their engines, and the fight began! Shinn started out aggressive, firing off his beam rifle, but the beam rounds splashed against the bright red shield. Kira responded with his own rifle.
The Impulse grabbed one of the Vajras, while the Strike went for one of its new Type 70J Kai beam sabers, the same kind of weapon used on the Murasame. The two blades of fire slammed into each other with tremendous force, sending out sparks in every direction, Shinn swung up, hoping to get the Strike near the right hip, but Kira was faster, dodging out of the way, before the tip of the Type 70JK managed to graze the Impulse on the left leg.
The two blades locked once again. Kira and Shinn opened fire with their CIWS, 75mm and 20mm shells shot across the landscape. The Strike and Impulse were a pair of white, red, and blue streaks, each of them moving faster than the human eye could follow. Shinn could feel his blood pumping. He was finding himself enjoying this fight quite a bit. It was then Shinn got an idea; he flung his shield at the Strike, before firing at the flung weapon.
The emerald beam bounced off the thrown weapon, and Shinn managed a perfect hit, as his shot neatly caressed the Strike's left shoulder, leaving a quickly darkening spot against the once spotless white hull. He couldn't help but feel a little smug at shedding first blood, but the feeling wasn't meant to last as his view screen was filled with the image of the Strike's Type 70JK. He struggled to evade, but the burning weapon found its target, managing to dig a hunk out of the Impulse's right hip.
(Observation Area)
Lunamaria smiled when the Impulse hit the Strike with the thrown shield maneuver. But Trine was going totally crazy. "Did you see that? That was a brilliant maneuver right there! Shinn is truly amazing!" Talia sighed; shaking her head in exasperation while Sebastian just rolled his eyes. Yeah it was a pretty ingenious tactic, but it was hardly worth getting all worked up over.
As such, everyone's hearts nearly stopped with the Strike's abrupt counterattack. "That's what you get for standing around looking impressed with yourself. I've warned him about that multiple times, but he never listens." Juliana sighed, figuring they should have seen it coming. Shinn's usual combat strategy involved charging in and attacking with a frenzied melee, and he would often take a few minutes to admire his handiwork.
"And you don't want to lose your attention against an opponent of Kira Yamato's caliber, whether he's in the Strike or the Freedom." Talia sighed. Fervently hoping that Shinn didn't lose his cool too much, otherwise Mayu would be on the warpath!
(Training Arena)
Shinn panted. "Okay…definitely not doing that again!" He rasped, taking note of the Impulse's battery power level. "I'm at fifty-three percent, and I don't have access to the Deuterion Beam Transfer System. Then again…" He looked across to his opponent. "The Strike isn't nuclear powered like the Freedom, so he's like me. If I can't overpower him, maybe I can outlast him!"
He ignited the Force Silhouette pack's engines, trying to put some distance between him and Kira. He wheeled about, opening fire with his beam rifle, careful to watch his energy gauge. The Strike climbed high into the sky, into the sun, Shinn struggled to see where Kira was coming from, and the Strike loomed down on the Impulse, reaching for the hip compartment, pulling out one of its venerable Armor Schneider folding combat knives.
"What good is one of those things going to do him? It won't be able to scratch Phase Shift at all." Shinn remarked, puzzled. The Impulse carried similar armaments, the M71-AAK Folding Razor anti-armor blades, but they were meant purely as a weapon of last resort. As such, he wasn't expecting Kira to fling one of the Schneiders at him.
It was a simple manner for Impulse to raise the shield where the knife bounced off. Shinn looked to see where Kira was, and the answer was bearing down on him quick. He raised his beam rifle, but in a surprise move the Strike ditched both its rifle and shield, going for the second Armor Schneider and a beam saber.
The knife plunged deep into the rifle's optical scope, and the crackling blade of fire was just inches from the Impulse's cockpit block. "I believe this match is over, Lieutenant Asuka." Kira said. "I'll ask this only once…do you yield?" Even some one as hot tempered and reckless as Shinn knew when he was beat. Relenting, he opened the cockpit, coming out.
The Strike's hatched opened, and the two descended from their machines. The two stood a few feet from each other, purple eyes meeting red. "Yeah…I yield, Major Yamato." Shinn ran his hand through his hair. "I'm not going to lie. You really are the best around."
Kira smiled, holding his hand out. "And you aren't half bad yourself, Lieutenant Asuka. I especially liked that maneuver you pulled with throwing the shield, and firing off of it." He silently resolved to keep an eye out for that particular tactic in the future. "That's good thinking on your feet. Keep it up, and you'll go far."
Shinn hoped he didn't look too stupid with the big grin on his face, before happily accepting Kira's gesture. "Thank you, sir!" He said. "Coming from you, that's high praise! I always thought I was pretty hot shit, but now I see that I still have a long way to go." He bowed his head slightly. "If can ask you a question…How are you so strong, Major Yamato? What's your secret?"
"There's no secret, Lieutenant. I just know what I'm fighting for." He pulled a photograph out of his helmet, passing it to the younger pilot. It was a picture of a young woman wearing a sleeveless dress the same brilliant shade of fire engine red as her hair. "My fiancée, Flay Allster. During the last war, she got me through some very rough times. Her love kept me grounded, kept me sane."
"She's beautiful." Shinn breathed, taken in by Flay's playful smile and brilliant bluish-gray eyes, for a few seconds he was reminded of Lunamaria and Meyrin, for a fleeting moment he wondered if they could be distant cousins or something but then quickly dismissed it. "You're lucky to have a girl like that."
"Indeed I am. I can introduce you to her once we get some time." Kira said, looking at the image with wistful eyes, before putting in back in his helmet. "Come on, let's go rejoin the others. I can only imagine what they thought of our battle."
(Observation Area)
The atmosphere amongst the Minerva crew was dead quiet. Trine was in total disbelief at the outcome of the match. "Unreal, I didn't think Shinn could ever lose!" His voice quivered. He was so confident that the young redcoat could prevail, after seeing his ingenuity by throwing the shield, but then the Strike managed to disable the Impulse's beam rifle, if it hadn't been just training, and Kira wasn't such a gentle soul, Shinn could possibly be dead.
"As if there was any doubt." Cagalli just rolled her eyes at the executive officer's cluelessness. "Make no mistake, Captain Trine. Lieutenant Asuka does possess a large degree of skill, but my brother is still better. Kira has more experience, not to mention he knows how to keep his emotions in check. He may not like killing, but if he had to…he will."
"I assure you Shinn is one of the best we have. Despite his attitude problems, he does work very hard." Talia said.
"We never questioned that, Talia. I could see his talent for myself. All of your pilots are naturally skilled." Sebastian said, looking to Rey, Lunamaria, and Juliana in turn. "But I can also tell they still have a lot to learn. Perhaps during your stay here in Orb, they can get some…advanced training, courtesy of my comrades and I? Colonel Takatsukasa, Admiral Russo, and myself will be more than willing to share our knowledge with a new generation of pilots."
Lunamaria was instantly hooked, excited at the prospect of learning from such legends. Juliana folded her arms, the anticipation dancing in her own eyes, and though Rey's expression was stoic, there was just a slight hint of anticipation on his face. It was then the doors opened, admitted Athrun. Talia hoped her mouth was hanging open at the sight of the blue-haired youth.
"Oh my God! You're Athrun Zala!" Lunamaria squealed, her voice going up by three octaves, causing Sebastian to wince and hold his ears in pain. She got right up in Athrun's face, babbling incessantly. "I've heard so many things about you, sir! You're a legend back home in the PLANTs." There were stars in the violet haired woman's eyes. She kept on prattling, not noticing the growing frown on Athrun's face, and how his fists were clenching tighter and tighter.
"Oh for the love of God, will you please just shut up!" Athrun snapped, causing Luna to take a step back in surprise. "You really believe everything you're told? Let me guess, they told you I'm some kind of great hero…even though I pretty much betrayed ZAFT?" He sighed, suddenly remembering why it was he had remained in Orb after the war's end. "I'm sorry…but you've got some idealized image in your head, and that's just not me."
"But…" it was sad to hear the hurt crack in Luna's voice, a couple of tears running down her face. Athrun just grunted, handing a clipboard to Sebastian, before turning on his heel and walking off.
"What an asshole! That's really Patrick Zala's son?" Juliana said.
"I'm afraid you caught Athrun at a bad time, Lieutenant Everhart." Kuro sighed. "He…doesn't exactly like being reminded of his time with ZAFT. Doubly so if people call him a hero for what he did. I think all it ever did was give him pain. Still…Athrun is a nice guy once you get to know him. Just let him cool off and then approach him."
(Morgenroete Facility, Outdoors)
The door banged open, admitting the angry Zala. He slammed the door shut before banging his fist against the wall. "Damn it…" The Crimson Knight felt himself deflate. He didn't mean to go off on Lunamaria like that, but there was nothing that riled him up more than being reminded of his time in ZAFT during the war. He had joined to avenge his mother and ended up having to go up against Kira. The entire thing had just been a colossal mess in his eyes.
"Athrun?" He turned to see Kira and Shinn standing there. "Are you okay man?"
"I'm fine, Kira. Just had a rather rough time." He looked to Shinn, eyes narrowing at the sight of his red ZAFT flightsuit. "Who's your friend?"
"This is Lieutenant Shinn Asuka, he's one of the pilots from the new ZAFT ship that docked here in Orb after Break the World." Kira said. "Shinn this is Lieutenant Commander Athrun Zala, pretty much my best friend in the world. Athrun, if you want, I can introduce you to his crewmates later on."
"Actually…I think already met some of them…one of the pilots, some girl kept going on about how I'm still apparently some hero to them." He averted his eyes, hoping that Kira didn't catch onto his anger. "I…didn't take it well."
Kira winced, knowing how uncomfortable it was for Athrun to recount the days when they stood on opposite sides of the battlefield. Shinn just shook his head. "That's Lunamaria for you. She was always something of a fangirl." The younger pilot just folded his arms. "Although…I've heard the stories about you as well, but unlike Luna, I'm not so quick to believe the hype." He straightened himself up. "Although…I do have one question for you. According to everything I heard, Chairwoman Canaver offered amnesty to all ZAFT soldiers who joined the coalition you guys formed at the end of the war. And when it was all over, you chose to remain here in Orb…why?"
The Crimson Knight snorted, his emerald eyes narrowed, getting right up in Shinn's face. "You want to know why? I'll tell you why! It's because I had nothing left in the PLANTs to go home to! My mother died during the Bloody Valentine, and I really don't think I need to tell you about my father…" He turned away from Shinn, not wanting him to show the tears threatening to come from his eyes. He spoke in a low voice. "My father's legacy has forever tainted the Zala name. I have to live with that every single day of my life!"
"You were still a ZAFT officer! Certainly you had a duty to rectify that!" Shinn shot back, only to instantly regret what he said as the Crimson Knight delivered a hate filled glare that made one delivered to Lunamaria earlier look like a big dopey grin. Kira just stood back, figuring it was best for his friend to simply get it out of his system. He was all too familiar with this.
"Oh, do NOT play that game with me! You try to give me any kind of nonsense about duty and loyalty to your country, and all you're doing is wasting your time…and mine! Any remaining sense of loyalty I had to the PLANTs died a long time ago!" Athrun snarled, his features softened, and Shinn could see just how broken and tired his fellow pilot really was. "Kira is the closest thing I have to a brother. He and his parents are the really all the family I have left in this world. So I decided to remain here. Is that good enough for you, Lieutenant Asuka?"
"Yes sir…" Shinn lowered his head slightly. "I'm sorry for having pried into a personal matter. I shouldn't have done that." He turned to leave, before looking over his shoulder. "In a lot of ways…you and I aren't all that different. After my parents died, I didn't feel any sense of loyalty to Orb. The only thing I had to keep me going was Mayu. So I guess I know exactly where you're coming from." He offered a salute. "Thank you, Commander Zala, for reminding me that I'm not the only one who's suffered losses due to war."
Athrun relaxed, saluting back. "Glad I could help. Oh, and Lieutenant Asuka?" He smirked. "Perhaps next time you'd like to go a round with me? I'll be blunt…I'm not nearly as forgiving an opponent as Kira is."
Shinn smirked right back. "Sure…" He looked to Kira, who just smiled. "I already took on the White Knight. I may as well get the entire matched set."
(November 1st, C.E. 73, Supreme Chairman's Office, George Glenn Governmental Complex, Aprilus One, L5)
Durandal never imagined in a million years he would become the Supreme Chairman of the PLANTs, and he certainly never imagined that he would see the document currently sitting on his desktop. A proposal for an alliance between the United Emirates of Orb and the PLANTs, he barely was able to hide his shock when Talia contacted him just a few days ago with this whole idea to begin with. Still, he wasn't about to look a gift horse in the mouth.
"This is indeed quite an impressive turn of events." He remarked to no one in particular, getting up from his desk, beginning to pace around the darkened office. "I was afraid that Orb would become a problem down the line, but now that they have joined us willingly, it means that it makes implementing the Destiny Plan that much easier. Despite it's small size, Orb has managed to accrue quite a bit of clout and influence. The other neutral nations would follow their lead."
"I suppose I'll have to revise my plans somewhat now. A simple matter really." After becoming Chairman he had set up several different pieces of artwork in his office, when asked about the myriad of paintings and sculptures he cited that it helped him to think and get his thoughts straight. His eyes fell on a painting of a wolf as he mused. "Even though they are not longer part of ZAFT, the Twin Wolves will support us."
"Plus with General Connor in our camp also means that his wife will be present." That was a pertinent victory in Durandal's eyes, even though he had been long dead after his shuttle was destroyed, Siegel Clyne was still revered by the people of the PLANTs, the Clyne name holding more clout than Durandal could ever dream to attain. There were plenty of people who would love to see Lacus Clyne return to her place as the Songstress of Hope, her song inspiring all the soldiers of ZAFT. The civilians always felt at ease when she performed, and he couldn't imagine things would be any different now
A thought came to Durandal. He walked back to his desk with a measured gait, picking up the phone. "Hello there, how are you feeling? That's good, I'm glad to hear the surgery was a success. Listen my dear; there's been a slight change of plans. Your role has changed. Once you're out of the hospital I want you to come to my office so we can discuss it in greater detail. Okay, until then."
He frowned as he put the receiver down, his mind racing through different scenarios. "Of course I also have to consider the inverse. That if General Connor and Admiral Russo ever did find out truth, there's a very strong chance they would do everything in their power to prevent the Destiny Plan from coming to fruition. In which case the Twin Wolves and their cohorts would become an even greater threat than the Earth Alliance could ever hope to be."
He sat down at his desk once more, eyes sweeping across his office. "Even still I don't have to worry too much. Commander Za Burrel is more than capable of taking down the Storm Wolf of Jachin Due." He turned his monitor on and an image of Shinn Asuka came up. "And I have the perfect counter to Kira Yamato and the Freedom right in my grasp. He just needs to be…properly molded first."
A couple more minutes passed, he went back to looking over Orb's proposal. Durandal then made up his mind, before he once again reached for the phone. "I want to call an immediate session of the Supreme Council, and all senior ZAFT leaders, tell them to drop whatever they're doing." His lips stretched into a thin, cunning smile. "We have to discuss the terms of our new alliance."
(November 3rd, C.E. 73, Pentagon, Washington D.C. Atlantic Federation)
News of Orb and the PLANTs new 'business partnership' had spread quickly across the world, angering many politicians in Washington. Mark and Jean-Pierre found it especially amusing. The Crimson Fox never thought he would see grown men throwing a hissy fit all at once, but it seemed that many in the Copeland Administration were truly enraged that the small island nation would rather support the PLANTs and 'abandon their duties as a proper nation of Earth'.
Mark knew that it would never happen. The memories of what the Fourth Naval Fleet had done on June 15th, C.E. 71 still stuck in the minds and hearts of the citizens of Orb. For them, these were two giant raised middle fingers to the Earth Alliance…or rather to Blue Cosmos and their LOGOS overlords, a clear message that they would never join them.
The Crimson Fox and Blue Knight were currently in his office at the Pentagon, discussing the new turn of events. "Well, you have to admit, JP. This certainly changes the entire game." Mark sat at his desk, a slight smirk of amusement on his face as he looked at the headline, 'Orb breaks neutrality, forms alliance with the PLANTs, condemns Atlantic Federation aggression.' He threw the paper back on the desk where his protégé picked it up. "Orb's stance is pretty clear now, Jean-Pierre. Makes me wonder if this is a sign of the coming apocalypse."
"The odds of Orb joining the Earth Alliance was slim to none, anyone with two brain cells could see that sir." JP said, eying the headline for a minute before dumping the newspaper back on the desk. "Of course, this does mean they're our enemy, and we will have to deal with them as such." It didn't matter to the Blue Knight what Orb believed in. He agreed that Orb had legitimate reasons for not joining the Atlantic Federation.
"Yeah, the suits on Capitol Hill and my colleagues here certainly want to deal with this problem here and now. They're already talking about breaking out their favorite toys and launching a full scale nuclear assault on the PLANTs." Mark just shook his head. "They're counting on Freedom and Justice not being there to blast the missiles out of the sky."
JP snorted. "Oh please, the Supreme Council and ZAFT High Command haven't forgotten that quickly! They've had two years; I can't imagine they wouldn't have prepared some kind of countermeasure against a possible nuclear strike. Please excuse my attempt at bad humor, Admiral. This is going to blow up in their faces before they can even get a single missile launched."
"My thoughts exactly, although I hear they're planning on deploying the GAT-04s for this." Mark said, speaking of the Earth Alliance's newest mass-production mobile suit, the GAT-04 Windam, a multirole machine based off the venerable Strike. "There have also been rumors circulating of a possible invasion of Orb. It's to be held just after the attack on the PLANTs. They want to keep this new alliance from getting started."
The Crimson Fox frowned slightly. "I've also heard word from the top that they want the 127th to be at the tip of the spear for the Orb assault. You'll be in command of all mobile suit forces."
"The Blue Knights are always ready for any mission, Admiral." Jean-Pierre said, mentally noting that it would be a chance to finally get payback against his traitor of a cousin for abandoning his duty as a son of the Atlantic Federation.
"I had no doubt you'll perform beyond all expectations as always. I should know that better than anybody, since I trained you. Still be especially careful about this one, Jean-Pierre." The Crimson Fox's grim expression was enough to make the young ace nervous. "I've heard reports of who's heading up the overall assault…it's Jack Hansen."
JP's lips twisted in disgust at the mention of the name. "Ripper Hansen is in command? Oh that's going to end real well! We may as well just line up all our men now and let ZAFT and the Orb Defense Forces save us the trouble! Hansen doesn't care anything except for his own rank and place in the hierarchy. We will lose a lot of good men and women just because he wants to satisfy his own ego."
Major General Johnathan "Jack" Hansen was one of the Atlantic Federation's more problematic commanders. While a superb pilot and possessing a moderate degree of charisma, the man was not entirely stable, known to carelessly throw away the lives of those under his command in a heartbeat. He had earned the nickname 'Ripper', after a character in the legendary film "Dr. Strangelove." Just hearing that Hansen was involved in any kind of campaign was considered a curse to many soldiers.
"You have my sympathies, Jean-Pierre, believe me." Mark put a hand on the younger man's shoulder. The Blue Knight was the closest thing Mark had to a son, and he didn't want to see such promise wasted, then again, he knew JP was far too sharp. "I pushed to lead the assault myself, I really did. That way we could have taken Orb with minimal loss of lives, but the brass want me for another project. Apparently they've been building a trio of brand new Archangel-class ships, and they want me to take command of one of them."
Jean-Pierre wasn't sure what to think when he heard that. "I'm surprised Alliance Headquarters chose to go that route, sir. After what happened with the first ship, I would think there would be a certain stigma attached to that particular class, and Command wouldn't want to associate with it."
Mark leaned back in his chair, putting his feet up on the desk. "You would be correct, however there are a few people at Central Command who actually used their brains. They're concerned that ZAFT might build a few more of those new ships that we heard about at Armory One, and the Archangel is simply put, the best counter available to them. Not even the Girty Lue-class ships would last long in an extended fight."
"Then I guess congratulations are in order for you, sir." JP said. "Do you know the name of your new ship?"
Mark just smirked. "Yes I do. She's called the EAS Dynames LCAM-05XL, I leave for Azrachel next week to take command." He got up, going over to the small liquor cabinet he kept in the corner of his office, grabbing a bottle of whiskey and two shot glasses. "I suppose a toast is in order." He poured the alcohol, giving one glass to Jean-Pierre.
"To your new command, sir." The Blue Knight said.
"To the Dynames." The Crimson Fox replied. The two men clinked the glasses together.
(November 5th, C.E. 73. Parliament Building, Olofat, Orb Union)
"So I trust the final draft of the agreement is to your liking, Mr. Chairman?" Kumiko asked the image of Durandal currently on the large wall mounted screen. It had only been a few days, but the Council had readily agreed to the new partnership between the two nations. Talia was also present, acting as the ZAFT representative. There was no hiding the satisfaction on the Minerva captain's face.
"It is more than equitable, Chief Representative Sasaki." Durandal spoke in his usual, suave demeanor. "The Orb Union and PLANTs are now allies on both paper and in truth. You made the right choice coming to us. The first round of troops will arrive in two weeks' time. I trust you will welcome them with open arms."
"We look forward to working with them, Chairman Durandal." Arashi said. "I already have begun working up plans for joint maneuvers between our forces and yours, to build trust between the two different armies. We'll need to be on the same page when the Earth Forces come a knocking."
"A wise course of action, Lord Kazama. Since we are on that subject, Captain Gladys." The Minerva's captain straightened up a little. "Starting today all ZAFT forces stationed in Orb will now answer directly to you. As proof of your new authority, I'm inducting you into the Fast Acting Integrated Tactical Headquarters. You are now officially an agent of FAITH, congratulations." Talia just bowed her head slightly.
"I dare say I like our chances with this arrangement." Anthony said. "It will be nice to fight alongside my brothers and sisters in arms from ZAFT once again."
"My sentiments exactly." Sebastian said, feeling a little wistful. "Mr. Chairman, it's our hope you'll be able to come visit Orb. It's a beautiful country."
"My duties will keep busy for some time, General, but I do intend to make a visit to Earth in the near future. I will be more than happy to come and visit the place you've come to call home. I truly would love to see the Land of Peace with my own eyes." He checked his watch. "Sadly, my time is running short. I have to go and address the Council. Until then." With that the screen shut off.
Sebastian stood up, going over to shake Talia's hand. "Let me just say congrats on your promotion, Captain Gladys. You've been given a big responsibility, but I know you can handle it."
"Thank you for the vote of confidence, General." Talia said. There was a still a part of her who wondered how she ended up in this position. She never had any real high ambitions, but the world works in mysterious ways. If this was asked of her, she would carry it out. "If you will all excuse me, I have to go and tend to my ship and crew." Talia left the room.
"Well…I hope we made the right choice here." Cagalli said, eyes shifting from the doorway. She sighed. "I know this is important, but I can't help but feel my father looking at this and not approving at all."
Kuro came up, putting a hand on her shoulder. "We've come too far to back out now, Cagalli. I know your father wouldn't have approved of this, but he's not here right now. We are." He looked to Yukimasa, who just gave a slight nod. "You can't hang yourself up on thinking what your father will do, Cagalli. Ultimately you need to decide your own path…but that's just me talking."
The heavy white oak doors swung open, "Wise words indeed, Kuro. We all need to step back and consider just what we're doing is for the good of the country or not." A deep baritone voice spoke. Every eye gravitated to the man standing in the doorway; astonished gasps came Mina, Cagalli, and Kumiko. Arashi was dumbstruck. Yukimasa and Kuro both looked like they had seen a ghost. The man frowned slightly, "Oh come now, I know it's been a while since you've seen me, but I don't look that bad."
Sebastian's first thought of the newcomer was how imposing he looked. Tall at six foot three with a broad chest and shoulders, wearing an Orb officer's uniform with the rank insignia of full General. He noted a strong resemblance to Mina, Yukimasa, and Kuro, especially in his face. Steel rimmed glasses caught the light off of his bifocal lenses, slightly obscuring the gray eyes underneath. A thick brown beard covered the lower part of his face.
But it was the next word out of Yukimasa's mouth that made the world freeze in time. "D-Dad?"
The man chortled in amusement, folding his thick arms across his chest. "Yes son, it is I, Yukimura Koto Sahaku. I have returned to the land I call home…and it appears not a moment too soon." Despite the beard, Sebastian could tell that there was great disproval in this new arrival.
"You shouldn't be here, Yukimura." Kumiko got to her feet in protest. "You said you would never return after Hitomi died! I hate to say it, but that was one of the best days of my life because it would mean that I wouldn't have to look at your face again!"
"The feeling's mutual!" Arashi snapped, his face taking on a hard edge.
"But I am, Kumiko. I'm afraid nothing will change that." Yukimura said, before fixing his gaze on the Yellow Flash. "As for you, Arashi. I still remember when you were just a young punk. Even if you have become the head of your family…I'm still not intimidated."
Yukimura walked with a smooth gait, stopping in front of Mina, frozen in place where she sat. "If you don't mind, my dear. I'll be taking my seat back now." She nodded meekly and quickly stood up; head bowed submissively as the Sahaku Patriarch delicately ran a hand along her cheek. "You've gotten so beautiful since the last time I saw you, Mina, I see your mother. I am proud to see you've done well in running the family in my absence."
"Thank you, Father…" She whispered, a chill going down her spine. It was uncharacteristic for Mina to act like this, but even now she had a large dread of Yukimura.
Yukimura sat down with a stern expression, "So what is this I hear about an alliance between our nation and the PLANTs?" Cold eyes swept across the entire room. "Because I know I sure as hell didn't agree to any such arrangement. I trust someone will be able to explain this to me why it's such a good idea?"
Author's Notes: Wow I am such a sadist! The world slowly continues to head to war. Orb and ZAFT form a history-making pact, which the Earth Alliance hopes to nip in the bud. And just when it seems to be Sebastian's great triumph. The head of the Sahaku family comes back to Orb…and he is not happy with this turn of events!