The Future Can Be Fought For

"But—we can't let him manipulate the world however he pleases any longer!"

Cagalli stood tall and spoke firmly. "When the Alliance invaded our country, Representative Uzummi called it 'an invasion of the human spirit.' What Durandal is doing is even worse!"

People always sank into comfort, because carving out their own destiny and taking hold of happiness through their own strength was no easy task. If they could achieve it all simply by following someone else's instructions, most people would no longer bother to think or make choices for themselves.

People would not resist that form of invasion, nor would they be able to steel their resolve.

Durandal was making people surrender their willpower of their own accord.

Once the plan was implemented, even if the comfort he promised lay ahead, could they still be called human after abandoning their own will?

A world with no future, no ideals, nothing at all—was such a world truly suited to humanity?

"No matter what, we must protect Orb's ideals. One day, they will protect everything for us!"

Cagalli declared her resolve.

She was no longer lost, no longer willing to cast aside her ideals in favor of comfort.

"Yes!"

Though the staff officers had all taken office in haste, every one of them wore a determined expression and willingly supported Cagalli's decision.

"I knew the other countries wouldn't respond so quickly."

Andrew's voice carried impatience aboard the Eternal.

"But it's later than expected—you don't think so?" Marlu replied.

Not long after Durandal issued his declaration, the Eternal, hiding in the asteroid belt, made contact with the Archangel on the Moon, allowing everyone to finally have a proper conversation after so long apart.

The main personnel of the three ships had gathered on the bridge, every face clouded with worry.

Athrun stood with