Mobile Suit Gundam 00: Create the Future
Chapter 11: Original Sin
It is unfortunate that, despite the advances we have made as a species, humanity continues to repeat the same mistakes time after time. The world is locked in this unending cycle. It is the failure of the individuals to move beyond their own incomplete preconceptions that prevents the whole from attaining true greatness. While there have been figures who showed promise, they alone were not able to push the world forward. The people lose sight of the grander future and allow their own shortcomings to bring forth conflict. That is the weakness of humanity, our original sin.
I find myself thinking back to a time when I met a young child with a remarkable talent. I was skeptical at first, believing it was nothing more than cheap parlor tricks. Yet I was proven wrong, a nearly unheard of occurrence. The child displayed ingenuity that managed to impress even myself. Concepts that would puzzle wiser minds were understood with ease by the youth. The child demonstrated an ability to understand those around them to a degree unthinkable for one so young. Perhaps it was just some ruse or perhaps something more. Sadly, the child is no longer with us. This world was far too cruel. Had I only had more time to learn more before it was too late. The greatest tragedy is that in all my years I have yet to come across another individual with those talents. If only I knew how to produce another. I can only imagine the possibilities, the innovations that such research could lead to.
I have no doubt that, in time, mankind will venture into the cosmos and encounter other life forms. Will our first contact with other sentient species be one of warfare? Will our legacy be one of violence and destruction?
It is in thanks to that time I spent with the gifted individual that I have truly seen the sorry state of this world.
November 14, 2314 A.D, Archytas: Mobile Suit Hangar
How long had he waited for this?
Kamal entered the hangar and gazed upon his Gevura. The red behemoth practically glowed under the light. Despite how impressive the Gundam was, Kamal saw it for what it truly was, a tool of war no different than the gun in his holster. In the end, a machine was just a machine. The very idea of worshiping a mobile suit was laughable.
What good had that faith done him in the war in Krugis?
Kamal climbed into his Gundam and activated it. His old friend was there on the island below him. Only a short trip away.
What would Soran decide now? Descartes had been hopeful that he would join their side. Kamal couldn't even begin to describe how ridiculous that was. The Soran from his childhood may have done so. But the miserable traitor he had become was a different story.
"Can you hear them, Soran? Can you even remember the sound of their voices?" Kamal asked as his fists tightened around the controls.
Soran and Descartes had their conversation. He had been patient long enough. It was time to see his old friend in person. Time to see with his own eyes what became of Soran Ibrahim.
Pacific Islands
Allelujah knew he had to speak with the woman known as Scheris Talion about the super soldier child. However, Marie had beaten him to the punch.
"How can you let him risk his life with in that Gundam? He's just a child!" Marie shouted.
Scheris Talion stared back coolly. "Are you trying to lecture me, Marie Parfacy? Or is it Soma Peries?"
"This was the life I was trying to prevent them from having. The decision I made was to spare them the pain of having to be used as weapons," Allelujah said. Even as he spoke, his words tasted like ash and their meaning rang hollow.
"Who gave you that right? Or have you forgotten that you, Allelujah Haptism, destroyed the super soldier facility personally? You have no idea what state your attack left him in, what it cost him," Scheris snapped.
"You brought him back into a life where he is only a weapon," Allelujah countered. Memories of the HRL's inhumane experimentation came flooding back. The shocks and serums he had been forced to endure. And them there was what they had done to Marie.
"Cypher was chosen. Like it or not, he's going to be with us. I'll just have to make sure to protect him from you."
Allelujah's eyes widened. "Protect him from us?"
"Regardless of what you do from here on, Cypher will fight for our cause as has been decided by our leader. We have no say in the matter," Scheris Talion stated.
"And you are just going to do nothing," Marie snapped. "Anything that happens to him will be on your hands."
Neither he nor Marie could have missed the venomous look in their enemy's eyes. "People like you grabbed power because you wanted to change the world. How many graveyards did Celestial Being fill in the first month alone? And when someone fought back, when someone tried to bring order to the world, you retaliated time after time. Do you truly think your hands are clean?"
Allelujah looked directly into Scheris' eyes. "We accept our crimes. Whether we are forgiven or not, we choose to walk forward on a path of atonement."
Scheris stared at them, eyes wide with shocked incredulity. "You think because you're sorry that that's enough? The Federation puts you on a pedestal while the people who've suffered because of you are left with nothing."
Allelujah remained silent. He and Marie had taken their journey on Earth to find a way to atone and understand the people of the world. Their actions, intentional or otherwise, had brought pain to many. Before the two of them stood one such person.
Quantum Computing System: Veda
"Have you finished, Tieria?" Regene asked, smugness dripping in his tone.
Tieria pulled himself together. At this moment, Regene was his priority. "Where did you get this?"
"Within the deepest levels of Veda."
Tieria scowled. "Why should I believe you?"
Looking down at his twin, Regene's mad grin widened. "Oh, this is quite real. Aeolia's own words. Although he once shared your idealism, he realized just how limiting that trait was. He understood what needed to be done, what needs to be done. Now that he is gone from this world, that responsibility falls on me. This is proof that I am following his will. To complete his dream, I will protect the Innovators. By any means necessary."
"And exactly how far are you willing to go?"
"As far as our creator would have. Ribbons thought that caging humanity would suffice. He sought to rule over them from above as a god. You and I know better. We only have one purpose to fulfill as Innovades. I will create a new society for the Innovators and foster it. Only then, when humanity's weakness is a thing of the past, can we truly bring forth Aeolia's dream. Only through my intervention can the future be saved."
"Aeolia wanted peace and understanding above all. You are instigating conflict."
Regene waved his hand. "Why don't you take a look at this."
Data appeared and flowed in front of Tieria's avatar at speeds only an artificial intelligence could comprehend.
"This is-"
Regene smirked. "Six hundred eighty-two simulations of mankind left to their own devices. Even with Celestial Being's existence, humanity has no hope. Without my intervention, the Innovators will have no future."
"This isn't a guarantee of the path the world will choose," Tieria fired back.
Regene's eyes narrowed, disdain burning in them. "You would gamble the fate of the Aeolia plan on some misguided sense of morality?"
"I would choose to do what is right!" Tieria countered.
"We were created to shepard humanity to peaceful future, to prepare the world for the dialogues to come. The Aeolia plan will be completed to its full potential. I will not allow any human weakness to stand in its way. If you stand in my way, I will eliminate you."
"I will stop you, Regene," Tieria said. "Even if it means killing you."
With one last silent, burning stare, Regene's avatar blinked out of existence.
I have dedicated my life to humanity's advancement. How long before they use my technology as a means to create weapons? They are so eager to design weapons with which to blast themselves to kingdom come.
Destruction is mankind's only desire.
Perhaps I should save them the trouble of doing so? Surely a weapon of my design would dwarf their feeble attempts.
I had mentioned my dissatisfaction to Ray. He is no stranger to my opinion of mankind's current state. I even jested of creating my own weapon of war. He seemed to take it in an entirely different light. Ray believed that after all I have excelled at; I may as well try my hand at designing weaponry. He even went so far as to name the hypothetical weapon, Gundam.
"What the hell kind of nonsense is this?" Setsuna yelled. "I won't join you."
Descartes raised a hand. "Please now, Setsuna, there's no need to be so rash. Blood has already been spilled for the sake of the world. More than you can imagine. Would you let those lives be sacrificed in vain? No, you wouldn't possibly allow that."
"You don't know me."
"I know you better than you think, Descartes responded. "Your war never ended. It has persisted since you were that child in Krugis. Despite the momentary reprieves, it continues on to this very day."
Setsuna pressed on. "I chose this path. I chose to be a Gundam Meister of Celestial Being."
"You can be more," Descartes said simply. "We are not merely tools, Setsuna. We are the culmination of an idea centuries in the making."
Even now, Setsuna sensed no deceit in Descartes' words. He desperately wanted to find the slightest hint of deception. Some underlying motive. He found none.
Descartes Shaman was sincere.
Descartes continued. "We can find a future for us and others like us. The future promised by Aeolia Schenburg."
Setsuna's hand shot forward and grabbed Descartes' collar. If he killed Descartes here and now, he might be able to prevent whatever it was they were planning. That was what Celestial Being did. Eliminate the cause of conflict.
So why was he hesitating?
Setsuna was snapped out of his reverie when he heard the firing of a beam. His eyes shot up towards the sky to see that Gundam Gevura had launched out of the Archytas.
Descartes gently removed Setsuna's hand from his collar. "I believe that is our cue to return."
If there is to be a savior of the future, it may as well be the one most capable. As Ray and I have discussed the topic of war, I have thought of my distaste of humankind's inability to reach true understanding. Individuals are so caught up with their own interests and concerns that they are unable to see beyond their limitations. Perhaps it is time I make the world into what it should be. It would be, after all, hypocritical of myself to express disdain towards the lack of proper action from others while standing idly by.
In order to realize my ambition, I will need to remove myself from this world. In all honesty, doing so will be an effortless act. I feel no sense of kinship with my family or to the human race. Once I have finished with the work I plan on making public, I will go into isolation.
"What the hell are they trying to pull?" Lyle mumbled. When the red Gundam Gevura had come out of the Archytas, Lyle had fired a warning shot that had just barely missed its head. He still had the Gundam in his sights. It remained stationary. A second later, Zabanya's monitor confirmed that it was unarmed. If it wasn't out to fight, what was the pilot up to?
He remembered Tieria's suspicion about this Gundam pilot. Could Setsuna really have a connection to this person? The guy had been acting weird for a while now, but this was crazy even for him.
Lyle opened a transmission to the Ptolemaios' bridge. "For the record, I just want to say that I was against this plan from the beginning."
Sumeragi ignored his comment. "What do you see?"
"Just the red one. Your orders?" Lyle asked. The enemy was in his sights.
There was a pause. "Remain on standby. Don't engage unless absolutely necessary."
Lockon did as he was ordered and kept his aim on the enemy.
Then the pilot of the Gundam spoke.
I have searched and enlisted various minds from across the world. For this plan to work, I will need to create an organization to support it. Some were willing to cooperate. Others had to be coerced with more severe methods of persuasion. There will be many who have become a part of the plan can no longer be a part of the world but their efforts will lead to a better tomorrow. Perhaps I should recruit younger individuals whose minds are malleable. Through our combined efforts, this organization will become a celestial being that will guide humanity to its destiny.
Even with the vast organization we plan to create, human error could prove detrimental to our goals. The same flaws that can be found in the world will be prevalent in our organization. To remedy this matter would require a means by which to guide all who are recruited. Together, Ray and I have designed a computing system capable of accomplishing this. We call it Veda.
"Soran! Don't you think you should say hello to an old friend?"
Setsuna looked on the Gundam in shock. His eyes wide in disbelief.
"Oh, he is a bold one," Descartes muttered.
Setsuna ran to where the Harute had dropped him off. The other three looked up at Gevura, just as bewildered as he was.
"Tell Lockon to let him through," Setsuna ordered.
"What? Are you insane?" Marie exclaimed.
"Just do it!" Setsuna shouted.
"Setsuna, what's going on? Why does he know that name?" Allelujah questioned.
"That person is...someone I know," Setsuna admitted, reluctantly. "He's here because of me."
"It doesn't matter. we shouldn't stay here any longer. We've accomplished what we came here to do," Marie said.
Setsuna looked her in the eye. "No. I need to speak with him. Now."
He then turned around and looked up at Gundam Gevura. From his peripheral vision, he could see Descartes Shaman approaching them.
"Setsuna, I think its best we leave now," Allelujah said.
Scheris turned to Descartes Shaman as he walked over to her side. "I'll have to agree with them. Sir, we've spent enough time here and it's unwise to let Kamal act at his own discretion."
Descartes casually waved her off. "No need to worry. This may be for the best. A dialogue may lift this weight off Setsuna's shoulders."
"This doesn't concern you." Setsuna said. "I'm going to talk to Kamal."
Scheris glared at Setsuna. "Kamal is under my command."
"And you in turn are under mine," Descartes said. "Let him through."
"Sir, I insist that you reconsider," Scheris implored. Descartes met her eyes with a look. Reluctantly, she used her communicator to call Kamal down. Moments later, the red Gundam began to descend. Once it landed, the cockpit opened and Kamal made his way down. When his feet touched the sand, he removed his helmet and strode to the group. His eyes focused only on Setsuna.
"Setsuna, who is this?" Allelujah asked. Setsuna ignored his comrade and walked towards Kamal. The two stopped at barely an arm's length apart, everyone else behind them.
"You've gotten taller, Soran," Kamal greeted. Though his tone was casual, there was venom in his words. "Look at us now. A step up from street urchins we used to be."
When he heard Allelujah make a motion to intervene, Setsuna raised his hand to signal him to stay back.
Kamal eyed the others before turning his gaze to Harute and then the Ptolemaios. "Tell me, did you enjoy the gift I left you? I wanted to remind you of the old days."
Face to face with his old comrade. Setsuna was at a loss for words. There were so many questions he wanted to ask and more important words for him to say. Yet here he was, speechless.
Kamal grinned. "What's wrong? Go ahead. Speak up."
"How are you alive?" Setsuna asked finally.
"I thought that would be the first question," Kamal answered, the predatory smile still on his face. "I dug and crawled my way through the battlefield. Ran past the bullets and bombs. Everything went dark at one point. Then I woke up, alive in a quiet city. I survived."
"Did anyone else make it?"
"Is that supposed to mean you care?" Kamal scoffed, a ghost of a chuckle in his response. "The answer is no. We're all that's left. Or rather, I'm all that's left of the KPSA."
Setsuna nearly flinched at the name of the organization. The cursed group that Ali-al Saachez conscripted them into and tossed into a bloody war. Those memories had been engraved into him. The senseless deaths that led him into the life he now had.
"You've been alive all this time…fighting just like before," Setsuna said. "It's just like back then."
Kamal's smirk grew. "Feeling nostalgic now, Soran?"
The Gundam Meister stared down his former comrade. "Why are you fighting with together with these people? Why are you piloting that Gundam?"
"Because there's something I want," Kamal replied. "I'm not like you. I know what I'm fighting for. I'm not going to let myself waste away."
"Why did you come down here?" Setsuna asked.
"I wanted to see you in person. To see with my own eyes the kind of person you had become. Our meeting in space wasn't a proper reunion," Kamal said. His eyes then narrowed and any hints of his earlier laughter vanished. "Did you get what you wanted out of all of this, Soran?"
Setsuna growled. "Kamal, Ali-al Saachez used us. He never believed in anything he taught us. Fighting for God was a lie he used to make us fight his battles for him. We fought for a lie."
The instant those words were spoken, the air around them changed. His words had triggered something within Kamal. The rage that coursed deep within him erupted. Setsuna found himself in a scene that had happened a lifetime ago. Once again, he was that boy asking his friend not to go on a suicide mission and Kamal was the angered soldier ready for his mission.
"We fought together! We all swore an oath to live and die together. Lie or not, we were brothers in arms." Kamal snarled, his words swimming with vitriol. The sheer rage he felt was clear for all to see, with or without quantum brainwaves. "What you did on the day our homeland fell, I will never forgive. And what you've done since wrongs our brothers even more."
"I wanted to save you," Setsuna whispered.
"You ran away," Kamal countered. Setsuna glanced at the others. Descartes was watching them with amusement. Scheris Talion looked at them with scrutiny. Allelujah and Marie were confused and tense.
Setsuna lowered his gaze. "You haven't changed. Even with Krugis gone, you haven't changed."
"But you have, haven't you? I was told that you joined Celestial Being because of the Gundam in Krugis. The boss told me how willing you were to throw away your entire life just for that machine," Kamal growled. He then pointed a finger at the Ptolemaios. "That Gundam of yours doesn't make you strong. It never will."
Clenching his fist, Setsuna fought down the urge to retort. He had enough of this from his conversation with Descartes. Nothing could be said that would change anything. There was no reason to let Kamal into his head as well. Words would be meaningless. He turned and walked to join Allelujah and Marie.
"We're done here."
"Do not turn your back on me! Not again!" Kamal roared. Setsuna froze in his steps. Once again, the memories of their last battle as the KPSA and the last time he had seen Kamal flashed in his mind. He remembered the desperation and fear. He remembered that final parting glance he had given his old friend all those years ago.
Snapping out of his reverie, the Gundam Meister saw Alellujah and Marie had drawn their weapons. Turning his head, he could see Kamal aim his gun at him while Scheris Talion had stepped in front of Descartes and drawn her weapon as well. Despite all this, Descartes remained serenely calm.
Setsuna remained still, keeping his back towards Kamal. "No matter how much I want to, I can't change the past."
"You never left our holy war, Soran. Just like me, it still has a hold on you. It can only end one way. I promise you," Kamal declared.
"Is this how it has to be?"
Kamal kept his weapon steady. "This is how it's meant to be. Tell me, Soran. On that day, if I had been in your place and you in mine, what do you think I would have done?"
Setsuna remained silent. The guilt he had buried burst forth and clenched his chest. It's hold on him is so tight he can't move. It drowned and choked him. Unrelenting and all consuming.
The answer was clear to them both.
Descartes stepped between them. "That's enough, Kamal. You've said your piece. I think its time we parted ways. I gave my word that there would be no violence. Speak with your comrades and choose where you stand."
Allelujah raised an eyebrow, his gun still drawn. "Just like that?"
Descartes nodded. "I am here simply to establish a dialogue. Now that it's been done, I'll let you settle your thoughts."
"This isn't over," Setsuna said.
Descartes smiled. "No, it isn't. My offer still stands. You will always have a place with the Innovators. Remember this, Setsuna F. Seiei. You and I are destined to accomplish great things."
Descartes turned and walked away, motioning his two companions to follow him. Kamal looked Setsuna in the eyes before turning and following Descartes and Scheris Talion.
"Setsuna, you need to explain what that was all about."
Setsuna walked past the two. "We need to get back to the Ptolemaios."
Once again, I find that I am hindered by the technology present. Despite the ongoing fuel crisis, humanity has done nothing to address these issues. However, I have already laid the groundwork for the future through several of my dissertations. The future of humanity lies not on this single planet, but beyond it. The method to harness solar energy would be to construct solar pillars. This feat would be far too much for a single nation alone. The pillars will be able to provide the Earth a source of energy. And in time,the nations of the world will come to depend on them. Of course, there will not be complete unity. Escalating conflict is inevitable. We must ensure this and use it to our advantage. The more dire the stage, the more revolutionary the Gundam will be.
If all goes according to plan, whatever technologies the world can develop will pale in comparison to my GN drives.
Federation Capital
Billy pinched the bridge of his nose. "I'll say it again, I do not know anything about Captain Shaman's whereabouts. All I did was speak with him months ago. Nothing else."
With his uncle being the head commander of A-laws and his status as their mobile suit technical chief, Billy had plenty of to place him under the government's scrutiny. It was a black mark on his history and one he felt deep shame for. As frustrated as he was, he could fault the government for suspecting him considering all he had done.
Billy had been brought in for questioning on the day that Captain Shaman had gone missing. He now had the luxury of acquainting himself with agents Ramirez and Donovan.
He knew for certain that the Federation was monitoring him at all times of the day. That was a lighter punishment compared to what he had seen done to more infamous members of the A-laws. Had he been more active in his time with the peacekeeping force or if he had been less gifted at his job, the same treatment might have been given to him.
"Too many of you psychopaths got off easy," Donovan growled. Ramirez coughed loudly and sent his associate a sharp look. Before the agent could say another word, the three heard the door open and a person step in. Billy turned to see a certain blonde ace pilot.
"Who are you? How'd you get in here?" Ramirez asked.
"Major Graham Aker, at your service. As for how I got here, that's a trade secret."
Donovan crossed his arms. "You don't have any authority here, Major."
Graham shrugged. "That is true, but I'd like to speak with my friend."
Agent Ramirez scowled even more. "This is an investigation."
"Thought you might say something like that," Graham replied. Nonchalantly, Graham pulled out his phone and made a call. "Hey, it's me. Do you mind explaining the situation? Thanks."
Graham offered the terminal. Ramirez glared daggers at him before snatching the terminal. His eyes scanned the display and widened in shock. Agent Donovan walked over to glance at what Ramirez had read.
Billy eyed Agent Ramirez carefully, half expecting the man to pop a blood vessel as he returned the terminal to Graham. He exchanged curious look with Agent Donovan, whose response was to shrug and fold his arms.
"From what I hear, you've been at this for a couple hours. Why don't you give yourself ten minutes to clear your head? Maybe grab a cup of coffee," Graham suggested.
Donovan shrugged again. Ramirez sighed in frustration.
"Five. Minutes." He said through gritted teeth. The two agents hurried out the door.
"How the hell did you manage that?" Billy asked.
"Called in a few favors. Felt I had to once I heard you got yourself into quite a predicament," Graham joked. "I wanted to check and see if you were alright."
Billy sighed. "Thanks for that. They've probably could have gone on for a few hours. This situation with Captain Shaman has the whole upper brass on edge."
"Of course it has. For him to disappear so soon after the conference, it's gotta be foul play."
Graham leaned against the wall and folded his arms. They let the silence settle for a moment but each knew the other shared the very same thought.
"They're going to be making an appearance, aren't they?" Graham asked.
Billy nodded. "It's only a matter of time."
If my theories are correct, my GN particles will allow certain individuals to develop extrasensory capabilities. Like that child I met all those years ago. They will be the innovators of the future. It will be a slow process I imagine, but one worthwhile. These abilities will allow humanity to overcome the limitations that have plagued our species. It is only through understanding that peace can be achieved.
But I can now bring forth a new hope for the world. By bringing this change to humanity, I can eliminate the scourge of war and create a true peace. The evils that lay in the hearts of men will become a distant memory.
Ptolemaios, Bridge
The sensors still hadn't picked up anything else within the area since Gevura landed on the island. There was no sign of the third Gundam, Melquth, or any other mobile suits the enemy could possibly have.
Sumeragi heard the entrance open. Tieria stepped onto the bridge, looking worse for wear.
Sumeragi rushed to his side. "Tieria, are you alright?"
"It was Regene," Tieria gasped. "He's the one responsible for all of this."
"What? He's turned against the plan?"
Tieria grimaced. "It's more complicated than we realized."
"What are you talking about?"
"Did you receive the file I sent?"
"We got it, Mr. Erde," Mileina answered. "Did you want me to open it?"
Tieria shook his head. "Not yet. This is something we all must see together."
"The enemy ship is entering Trans-Am!" Feldt shouted. Sumeragi looked at their visual feed and saw the ship in an all too familiar glow. Could this be an assault? The Gundams were still ready to engage. If necessary, Ptolemaios was ready to fight.
"Everyone, get ready for combat," Sumeragi ordered.
The Archytas charged toward them. Sumeragi saw shots fired at it. Lyle had clearly taken the initiative. But the enemy didn't retaliate, it charged forward and sped over them. They didn't even attempt to lay a scratch on the Ptolemaios.
"The Archytas is leaving the airspace," Feldt said.
"So they have a ship that can also use Trans-Am along with their three Gundams." Sumeragi opened a communication channel. "All personnel, meet in the briefing room as soon as possible."
Shortly afterwards, the crew had gathered together. Sumeragi quickly got down to business. She had been patient with Setsuna for a while now, but she had her limits.
"Who was that man?" Sumeragi asked Setsuna.
Setsuna lowered his head. "His name is Kamal Majirif. He was a member of the KPSA."
Sumeragi's eyes narrowed. "Then you knew him from your childhood."
"We grew up in the same city. When Ali-al Saachez arrived, we were inducted with other children."
"And you didn't think this was important for us to know?"
Setsuna still kept his eyes to the ground. "This was my fight."
"He's someone who can get into your head. They've already shown that they can get you to act impulsively and will take advantage of that. You've made that mistake before, Setsuna." Tieria said.
Lockon stepped forward. "Look, you told me and my brother about your involvement with the KPSA and Ali-al Saachez. Why was this guy so special that you couldn't clue us in?"
"He is the only other one left."
"That's no excuse. Is there anything else you're keeping from us?" Sumeragi asked.
Setsuna looked Sumeragi directly in the eye. Despite his earlier avoidance, he now met her gaze with an all too familiar look of resolute strength. "No."
"Tieria, what happened with you?" Sumeragi asked the purple-haired Innovade, electing to move past Setsuna's secrecy. There would be a better time and place to address that issue. It was more important that they figure out what was going on.
"I went and met with Regene. He has been behind these incidents the last couple months. Who knows what other schemes he has in place or how long he has been active?" Tieria said, his tone grim.
"Tell us what happened," Sumeragi ordered.
Tieria hesitated then pointed to the wall. The video screen came online for all to see.
"This is Aeolia's personal report. This is how he came to create Celestial Being. What he did and was willing to do to complete his objective."
Ray and I have come to a parting of ways. It seems he disapproves of my methods and has accused me of tarnishing my ideals. I was taken aback by his decision. Never would I have imagined he would be such a softhearted character. It is quite a tragedy to lose one of the few whose company I enjoyed. However, all is not lost. Although he will never see it himself, those carrying his legacy will be instrumental pieces for my endeavor. As for myself, I will do what is necessary.
Even with all my resources and all I have built, I have not been able to recreate the abilities I had witnessed so long ago. I have encountered failure after failure. The end of conflict will mean nothing if I am unable to move humanity into its next stage. It is crucial that I realize these secrets. I must be able to understand.
Why can't Ray see the importance of my vision?
Earth Federation Military Base - Lounge
"So the major went to see that engineering buddy of his?" Yagan asked.
The Major himself had handpicked each member in the Solbraves squadron. The best of the best who could handle the new mobile suit prototype. They had been scheduled for Earth based test flights, but the Major had cancelled on them at the last minute. The squad remained on base and finished their test runs. They made the best of their free time while their leader was preoccupied.
"Engineering buddy? The A-laws guy, right?" Naguib asked as she ran a hand through her hair.
Viktor slammed down his drink. "Does he have any idea how bad that could look? Damn fool needs to keep himself in check. What's he thinking barging his way into an investigation? He's drawing the wrong kind of attention on himself."
Rudolf crushed his empty beer can. "That's why he's got you here. Your job's to knock some sense into him when he needs it."
"Besides, the guy's a buddy of the Major's. Only natural for Mr. Bushido to want to check up on him," Akira noted.
Yagan tapped Akira on the shoulder. "You know he doesn't like that nickname."
Akira threw his hands up in exasperation. "He was literally wearing a samurai mask and robe in public. Did he really think people wouldn't talk?"
Victor groaned. "I swear it's like watching a teenager sometimes."
"If we are dealing with some kind of hostage situation, it could mean that we can finally do something other than test flights with our suits," Akira quipped. "I've been itching for a real battle."
"Wouldn't mind if that happened," Yagan said. "I mean a real battle in the Braves, not Captain Shaman being a hostage."
Naguib leaned down to pick up another can. "We don't know if that's the case yet."
"The outlooks not so good. Can't wait to see our leader do something reckless," Akira said.
Viktor sighed and went to get a stronger drink.
The sad truth is that I will not live to see my plans come to fruition. I have created the foundation of Celestial Being yet we are nowhere near ready. I am hindered by the technology of this time. The governments still have yet to be able to embrace something as simple as solar energy despite my best efforts. Do I not deserve to see the world that I create? I have desired to see a world where humankind has discarded their violent nature and weakness and moved on to become something greater. I have opened the path for the human race to evolve into something far greater. My greatest desire is to see that shining future. Should that not be my just reward?
There must be a way.
"Are you certain that this is truly Aeolia's words and not some fabrication Regene created?" Sumeragi asked.
Tieria nodded. "I know Regene well enough to tell that he would not fabricate such a thing. Aeolia Schenburg didn't just plan for the eradication of war. For Celestial Being's arrival to be effective, he had planned for the escalating tensions and conflicts. There needed to be the perfect stage. A world of conflict."
Setsuna could only look on in shock. "This…this is Aeolia Schenburg?"
"When you say he needed a perfect stage, what do you mean by that?" Sumeragi inquired.
"A manipulation behind the scenes. Careful actions that would set the world down the path for Celestial Being. Calculated conflict that would put the world in a state where all could see us declare our eradication of war. A world where the might of the Gundams could be demonstrated."
Feldt tapped at the control panel. "Tieria, what about the rest of these files?"
Tieria grimaced. "That is the evidence that leads me to believe that this is genuinely from Aeolia. There is the theorizing of the GN drives and more importantly the Innovators."
Tieria's eyes drifted to Allelujah and Marie. "Aeolia was driven to see the realization of what we now call Innovators. It seems that he was determined to create one in his time. He...stopped when he realized his efforts to do so were fruitless."
Allelujah scowled. "Human experimentation. Just like what the HRL to me and Marie."
Tieria lowered his head. "Unfortunately, it appears so."
"What does all of this mean?" Mileina wondered.
"It means that there's still a lot about Aeolia that we're not aware of," Lasse said.
Lyle stepped forward. "Are you all really that surprised? Celestial Being from the beginning was always ready to be a necessary evil for the world."
"We knew that Celestial Being was guilty of questionable actions, but this is far above what we… what I had thought." Allelujah muttered.
"Could this mean that Regene Regetta is following Aeolia's plan as he had intended?" Marie asked.
Sumeragi turned to Allelujah and Marie. "Celestial Being was created to eradicate war and create a unified Earth. That was what we were told when we joined. Then we learned that it was to prepare for the dialogues to come. This report doesn't change that."
"Regene believes that he is carrying Aeolia's will. As Marie speculated, he may not be too far off," Tieria muttered. "A world where those we call Innovators can thrive and go beyond the stars. Free from conflict and destruction. That was Aeolia's dream."
"You're saying Aeolia Schenburg would support what Regene's doing?" Allelujah asked.
Sumeragi shook her head. "Let's be honest with ourselves. None of us knew Aeolia Schenburg. Whatever the case, we must focus on the present. The more pressing matter is how exactly Regene intends to complete this plan."
Tierria nodded. "The Federation is still looking for Descartes Shaman. He is the lynch pin to Regene's schemes."
"What do we do now?" Sumeragi mused.
"Let's think for a moment. Regene has been working from the shadows for quite some time. Today, he not only has Descartes Shaman contact us but he also reveals himself to me. Then he reveals this report as well as his endgame, the Innovators," Tieria said.
Sumeragi nodded. "He wouldn't have allowed this if he didn't have contingencies. We must act cautiously."
Enough time has passed since I removed myself from the public eye. These people could not possibly fathom what is to come. There must be a price to pay for the advancement of the people of Earth. Veda will grow and guide those of Celestial Being and, in time, the Innovators. I close my eyes and see the millions that will die and suffer for an everlasting peace. However, the new world must be purged of human weakness. The world must be made whole. Destruction is a necessary sacrifice. If we allow such contamination to hinder us, it will only spoil the dialogues to come.
Archytas, Bridge
"Are you satisfied, Descartes Shaman?" Regene asked.
Descartes shrugged. "It was an interesting encounter to say the least."
His companion smirked. "Well, now we can proceed with our plans."
"They told me you killed the Celestial Being hostages. Is this true?" Descartes asked, his eyes locked onto Regene's.
"Yes."
"Did you really believe that was wise? Not only did doing so hurt our chances of having the Ptolemaios join us, but you've thrown away valuable resources. If we could have convinced them to join our cause, it would only have benefited us."
"I have what I needed. They played their role."
Descartes leaned back into his seat. "Don't let your hatred misguide you, my friend."
"I'll be sure to keep that in mind." the Innovade replied curtly. "You still believe he will join our side."
"Setsuna has chosen to be our enemy, at least for the moment. Perhaps he will see things our way in time. What matters most is his growth. I only want to see my fellow Innovator at his best."
"As I've said before, don't expect much from that failure."
Descartes paused. "I couldn't hear his thoughts today. During the conference in the capital, I was able to hear his voice in my mind. Your doing, I presume?"
Regene chuckled. "How astute. I had taken steps to increase the chances that your quantum brainwaves connect. It took a great deal of effort to gather GN particles and disperse them discreetly."
"A lot of work to get the only two Innovators in contact," Descarte quipped.
"You know there was more to it than that," Regene countered. "Consider it preparation. There will be many more Innovators."
Descartes hummed at that. "I suppose I best make sure I can lead by example. As Aeolia Schenburg's living legacy."
"Feldt, Mileina, check our systems and be as thorough as possible. Make sure that they haven't left us any surprises. Be sure to contact our resource satellites and have them ready to evacuate at a moment's notice. Tieria, for the time being you'll be quarantined. We need to be sure that Regene hasn't compromised you," Miss Sumeragi ordered.
Tieria nodded. "That is for the best."
Miss Sumeragi continued. "Regene may have his sights on them. If he finds out where the Qan[T] is being rebuilt, he may make another attempt."
"If we fight against them, that could mean we may be going against Aeolia's true plans." Allelujah speculated. "Will everyone be ready for that?"
Tieria nodded. "What we choose to do will have consequences for the rest of the organization."
Setsuna can hear the others speak but can't bring himself to listen. Their words slowly devolve into white noise. Descartes Shaman's intentions still weighed on him along with his confrontation with Kamal. So much had happened today, he could barely process it all.
"Setsuna, are you sure you're alright?" Feldt asked.
Setsuna only nods, not even turning towards her. The photo in his pocket is like a anchor to another lifetime. There was still so much he couldn't bring himself to say. Still so much he wasn't ready to think about. He needed time to process everything.
The crew of the Ptolemaios stood silently in the room. All eyes were on him. They were waiting on him to speak. They had to be united as a group.
There was only one choice. The same choice he made over ten years ago. Throw away the past and move forward.
Setsuna stepped forward. "We can't let the past hold us back. No matter what happened back then, no matter how this all started, we are now the ones who are Celestial Being. If the enemy appears before us, we will cut them down."
Without waiting to hear from the others, Setsuna left the conference room. The halls of the Ptolemaios felt endless. Setsuna doesn't even think about where he is going. He walks because he needs to. He isn't aware of how much time passes. Before he knows it, he finds himself outside the ship and on the beach.
He pulls out the photo of the KPSA. Kamal's "gift" to him. Setsuna crushed the photo in his hand.
"You were right. I ran away before. I started this. Now it's my responsibility to end it."
Gazing out at the setting sun, Setsuna tossed the crumpled photo into the ocean's waves. The remnant of his past was lost to the unforgiving sea.
There is only one true pathway to salvation. Through this plan of my own design, the world will come to know true peace, true enlightenment. The light of the future I bring will do away with humanity's darkness.
Author's Note:
If the Gundam Seed movie can release, then this story can be updated. I may go back to touch up the previous chapters. Nothing plotwise will change. I'm even considering changing the title. We'll see what happens.
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed the chapter.