A New Meeting

Xia Ya represented the Dominion. He wore an Orb Army uniform, his golden hair still conspicuous in the dim light. At his side stood Natarle Badgiruel, her posture straight as she swept her sharp gaze over everyone present, maintaining a soldier's proper vigilance. Michel, meanwhile, seemed somewhat uneasy, his eyes drifting between the floor and ceiling from time to time. Sven Cal Bayang chose a corner nearest the door. Leaning against the wall with his arms folded over his chest, he melted into the shadows, his presence barely noticeable.

On the Archangel's side, Murrue Ramius sat at the head of the conference table. With both hands braced against its surface, she wore a grave expression as she organized this impromptu meeting. Jiliang sat to her left, while Canard Pars sat on the other side of the room, facing Sven from afar. His arms were folded as well, his face expressionless, but his gaze occasionally settled on Jiliang's back. Mu La Flaga sat to Murrue's right, surveying the room. His eyes lingered especially long on Xia Ya, Canard, Nicol, and Michel.

The Kusanagi's members gathered on the opposite side of the table. Cagalli Yula Athha stood with her hands on her hips, her brows slightly furrowed as though deep in thought. Colonel Kisaka beside her maintained his usual composure, calmly watching Murrue. Director Simmons had the focused look unique to a technician, his eyes sweeping over the various pieces of wrecked equipment in the room as though evaluating what facilities could still be used.

Lacus Clyne, the Eternal's representative, sat quietly in her chair while Haro rolled gently beside her. Her presence brought a touch of softness to the cold, rust-scented room. Andrew Bartfield stood behind her. The man known as the Desert Tiger now wore a ZAFT uniform, his expression