Colonel Lugo's Helplessness

"Yuna Roma Seiran!"

Prea's cold, indifferent voice suddenly cut in.

His icy gaze stared fixedly at Yuna through the screen. "What is going on?"

"Ah... uh, no, this is..."

Cold sweat poured down Yuna's body.

The Earth Alliance military had heard Cagalli's broadcast as well.

"What was that? Was that truly your country's representative?"

An ominous aura of authority came through the screen. "If it really was, why would she appear in something like that, and why would she tell you to withdraw at a time like this...?"

Yuna's lips went dry, and for a moment, he had no idea how to answer.

A cold smile appeared on Prea's face as he continued to press him with his words. "Such an absurd thing has actually happened on the battlefield. As the representative of Orb's military, shouldn't you give me a proper explanation... Otherwise, quite a lot of trouble will befall your country, including its territory."

"Th-this... no, I mean, that was... th-that... th-that..."

Yuna could not help stammering. His ever-prized cleverness and diplomatic skill proved utterly useless in this situation.

He cursed Cagalli under his breath.

Was she an idiot? Showing up now would only cause trouble for Orb, wouldn't it?

Wasn't she just making trouble for me!?

And what was that nonsense about withdrawing?

How much more face did she want me to lose!?

Anger and confusion churned within him. Recalling the humiliation of that day, Yuna suddenly shouted, "Th-that thing! I don't know it!"

Colonel Lugo and the others beside him stared in disbelief.

"Lord Yuna, what are you saying!?"

"That is the Crimson Strike Gundam, and that emblem! It belongs to Lady Cagalli!"

Even Colonel Lugo's adjutant could not help shouting angrily.

Yuna roared back, "So what if it is her machine? Why would Cagalli pilot it