Orb's border

As the GuAIZ Gundam slowly emerged from the Habilis mass driver's launch chamber, its joints still retained the intense residual heat of atmospheric transit. Its silver-blue paint gleamed with a restrained, razor-sharp luster in the cold light of space. Inside the cockpit, Mei Hock lightly touched the control panel, watching the machine's constantly fluctuating readings. After the mass driver's high-pressure acceleration and adjustments for the space environment, the GuAIZ's power core and propulsion systems were in peak condition. Only a few fine scratches remained on its shoulder armor from scattered skirmishes on Earth, silently recounting its past achievements like a warrior's medals.

"This is the Silver Wing. Confirming the GuAIZ Gundam has cleared the acceleration track, coordinates L3-789. Requesting hangar docking." The steady voice of the Silver Wing's adjutant came over the communications channel. Amid the low hum of its engines, the Nazca-class cruiser slowly adjusted its orientation and opened its hangar docking doors like a mother welcoming her child home.

Akira guided the GuAIZ smoothly into the docking bay. The moment the doors closed, the internal pressure and temperature rapidly adjusted to comfortable levels. As the cockpit hatch slowly rose, a dazzling white light greeted him. Ground crew were already waiting nearby in full gear and immediately moved in to inspect the machine. Akira leaped down from the cockpit. A little cosmic dust still clung to his white ZAFT uniform, but it did nothing to diminish his upright bearing and composure. Tempered by numerous battles, this young White Uniform elite had long since shed the awkwardness of his first days on the battlefield. A calm and depth beyond his years now rested in his expression.

"Major, all machine parameters are normal. It only needs an energy refill and some minor armor polishing. All maintenance should be complete in an hour." The ground crew chief stepped forward and saluted, his voice full of respect. Akira nodded slightly, his gaze sweeping over the GuAIZ's shoulder armor. "Pay particular attention to the thruster nozzles and beam rifle calibration. Our upcoming missions may require intensive maneuvers and precision shooting. There can be no mistakes."

"Understood!"

Leaving the hangar, Akira headed straight for the bridge. The Silver Wing's bridge was bustling, every crew member attending to their duties, blue light from the control panels illuminating their focused faces. As Akira entered, the executive officer immediately approached to report. "Major, we've received orders from PLANT military headquarters. You're to return to April City immediately and meet Chairman Zala. Also, the Habilis mass driver base has confirmed that you successfully brought back the GuAIZ. Headquarters has given your performance on this ground mission high praise."

Akira nodded slightly and walked to the main screen. Looking at the coordinates of April City, PLANT's capital, he lightly tapped the console. "Set a course for April City at full speed. The Silver Wing will remain on standby here under your command. Keep a close watch on developments in the Earth Sphere, especially signals from Victoria Base and Orb's border."

"Yes, Major!"

Akira took a small high-speed shuttle to April City alone. The shuttle passed through the shipping lanes of PLANT's Space Colony cluster. Beyond the windows lay a brilliant star field and neatly arranged Space Colonies. Those structures, resembling crystal globes, carried the Coordinators' hopes and future, yet remained shrouded beneath the dark clouds of war. Akira leaned back and closed his eyes, repeatedly imagining his meeting with Chairman Zala. Zala was suspicious and hard-line, particularly sensitive to any potential threat after the tragedy of Junius Seven. Bringing back the GuAIZ and successfully completing his ground reconnaissance mission offered the perfect chance to demonstrate his loyalty. Only by putting Zala's suspicions completely to rest could he gain greater freedom to act-and a chance to intervene in the tragedies destined to unfold in the coming battles.

After reaching April City, Akira went directly to ZAFT's military headquarters. The imposing silver building stood solemn and dignified. Soldiers and officers in uniform hurried through its corridors, and the air was thick with prewar tension. Preparations for the Battle of Alaska were nearing completion. ZAFT was assembling its forces for an all-out assault on the Earth Alliance Forces' central base, and everyone was busy preparing for this decisive battle.

After rigorous identity verification and security checks, an officer guided Akira into Chairman Zala's private conference room. The room was spacious and simply furnished, with April City's skyline visible through enormous floor-to-ceiling windows. A PLANT flag and a star chart of the Space Colony cluster hung on the main wall. Patrick Zala sat behind his desk in a dark military uniform, his expression stern. The instant Akira entered, those sharp, hawklike eyes locked onto him.

"Mei Hock, you haven't disappointed me." Zala's voice was low and powerful, carrying unquestionable authority. "You completed your reconnaissance of the Earth Alliance Forces' ground deployments and even rescued Andrew along the way. Military headquarters will remember that achievement."

Akira stood at attention and saluted, respectful without being servile. "Mr. Chairman, I was only doing my duty. I've compiled the Earth Alliance Forces' defensive deployments and troop distribution on the Eurasia Continent into a report and submitted it to military intelligence."

Zala nodded slightly, tapping a finger against his desk as he scrutinized him. "I've read your report. It's detailed and valuable. The Battle of Alaska is about to begin. The Earth Alliance Forces are relying on Alaska Base's formidable defenses to resist us to the bitter end. We need ace fighters like you at the forefront, tearing open their defensive lines."

Akira understood. Zala was testing his attitude while also defining his role. He spoke slowly, his voice firm and sincere. "Mr. Chairman, ever since joining ZAFT, I've considered protecting PLANT and the Coordinators' future my duty. I will never forget the tragedy of Junius Seven. We cannot tolerate the Earth Alliance Forces' atrocities. In the Battle of Alaska, I'm willing to lead the charge with the Silver Wing Team and clear a path for ZAFT. Even if it costs me my life, I will never retreat."

His words contained both genuine outrage and a carefully calculated declaration. Akira knew that what Zala valued most was loyalty to PLANT and hatred of the Earth Alliance Forces. Only by telling him what he wanted to hear could Akira earn his trust and gain the freedom to intervene in the plot during future missions.

As Zala looked at him, the scrutiny in his eyes gradually faded, replaced by a trace of approval. "Excellent, Mei Hock. You haven't disappointed me. We need capable people now more than ever. Young, promising commanders with outstanding combat abilities like yours are ZAFT's hope. I order you to return to the front immediately and report to Victoria Base. Stand by there and assist headquarters with preparations for the Battle of Alaska. Make certain you're ready before the fighting begins."

"Yes! I'll carry out your orders!" Akira saluted again, inwardly breathing a sigh of relief. Zala had finally set aside his suspicions for the moment. For Akira, this was undoubtedly the best possible outcome.

Leaving Zala's conference room, Akira headed straight for military intelligence to collect the materials relating to the Battle of Alaska. But as he passed the communications room, he happened to overhear an urgent exchange-

"Has it been confirmed? Did the Archangel really escape into Orb?"

"Absolutely! Our reconnaissance aircraft tracked the Archangel's signal until it disappeared over the waters along Orb's border. According to Orb's report, the Archangel has entered its territorial waters and is temporarily docked at a secret harbor."

"Damn it! We let it get away! Chairman Zala will be furious when he finds out!"

The Archangel! It had escaped into Orb!

Akira stopped dead. His heart tightened, and one man's image instantly flashed through his mind-Yuri Amalfi.

He knew Yuri Amalfi's position well: Nicol Amalfi's father, the current military officer of the PLANT Supreme Council's Defense Committee, a senior figure in the ZAFT council, and a key participant in military decision-making. He also served as Maius City's representative and held considerable prestige and power within PLANT. Yuri Amalfi belonged to Chairman Tad Elman's faction, but maintained close cooperation with the Zala Faction for PLANT's overall interests. He was an influential moderate within PLANT.

Akira knew that building a good relationship with Yuri Amalfi would offer immeasurable benefits to his future, his efforts to intervene in the plot, and his ability to protect those he loved. Yuri Amalfi held military decision-making authority, could influence ZAFT's battle deployments, and could provide vital support and assistance at critical moments. Nicol in particular was Yuri Amalfi's only son, a core member of Athrun's squad, and a tragic character destined to die in the original story. With Yuri Amalfi's help, Akira might be able to secure a chance of survival for Nicol while further strengthening his own position in ZAFT.

But this was absolutely not the time to approach Yuri Amalfi directly.

Akira had just declared his loyalty before Zala, explicitly promising to devote himself to the Battle of Alaska and lead ZAFT's charge. Yuri Amalfi, however, belonged to Tad Elman's faction. Although that faction cooperated with Zala's, differences and divisions remained between them. If Akira rashly approached Yuri Amalfi now, he would inevitably arouse Zala's suspicions and might even be branded a traitor. All his previous efforts would go to waste, and he might lose everything he currently had. He would have no chance to intervene in the later plot or protect the people he wanted to save.

Akira's gaze grew thoughtful as he rapidly considered his options. He knew haste would get him nowhere. To approach Yuri Amalfi, he needed to wait for the right opportunity-one that would seem natural and would not arouse Zala's suspicions.

And the Archangel would soon deliver that opportunity into his hands.

Akira knew the original plot all too well. After escaping into Orb, the Archangel would not remain there indefinitely. Though Orb maintained its neutrality, it would not dare openly oppose ZAFT and would inevitably allow the Archangel to leave in secret before long. The Archangel's first battle after departing Orb would be an encounter with Athrun's squad. In that battle, Nicol Amalfi would be killed by the Strike Gundam piloted by Kira Yamato while trying to protect Athrun, becoming another casualty of war.

Nicol's death would plunge Athrun into profound grief and confusion, deal Yuri Amalfi a devastating blow, and indirectly affect the balance between PLANT's factions. Akira intended to seize the opportunity presented by this battle and establish contact with Yuri Amalfi under the banner of "protecting Nicol and defeating the Archangel." He could use the situation to extend goodwill to Yuri Amalfi, openly intervene in the plot to prevent Nicol's death, and demonstrate his loyalty to Zala at the same time. It would achieve three goals in one stroke.

At that thought, everything became clear. His earlier hesitation and concerns vanished. He took a deep breath, straightened his white uniform, and walked directly into the military communications room. After identifying himself to the communications officer, he gave a detailed account of his ground mission, his reconnaissance findings on the Earth Alliance Forces' ground deployments, and his preliminary ideas for the coming battles.

The communications officer carefully recorded Akira's report, nodding from time to time, full of respect and awe for this young White Uniform elite. Once he finished, Akira calmly instructed him, "Compile my report and submit it to Chairman Zala and the military operations department. Also, notify the Silver Wing to prepare for immediate departure to Victoria Base, where we'll stand by."

"Understood, Major Hawke!"

Leaving military headquarters, Akira took a shuttle and quickly returned to the Silver Wing. By then, the GuAIZ's maintenance was complete. The crew had also finished their departure preparations, and all equipment was in peak condition. As Akira entered the bridge, the executive officer immediately approached. "Major, everything is ready. We can depart for Victoria Base at any time."

Akira nodded slightly, approached the main screen, and brought up a star chart of the area around PLANT. With a light touch, he traced out a course. "Set a course for Victoria Base, full speed. Also, notify the three accompanying Laurasia-class warships. Major Heine Westenfluss will lead Shiho Hahnenfuss and Lunamaria Hawke to patrol the shipping lanes between L4 and Earth."

A flicker of confusion crossed the executive officer's eyes. "Major, you're sending Major Heine to lead a patrol? Only a few Earth Alliance Forces reconnaissance vessels have been active there recently. Is it really necessary to send three warships?"

Akira smiled faintly and explained, "We're at a critical stage in our preparations. The Earth Alliance Forces will likely send reconnaissance vessels to investigate our deployments. Heine's patrol can keep their reconnaissance forces occupied while giving Shiho and Luna a chance to hone their skills in small engagements and gain practical experience. They're both gifted pilots. Only actual combat can truly help them mature into effective fighters for ZAFT."

Understanding dawned on the executive officer, and he quickly nodded. "Understood, Major. I'll relay the orders immediately!"

Heine, Shiho, and Luna soon received their orders and came to the Silver Wing's bridge. Heine wore a red ZAFT uniform, standing tall and looking capable, with a slightly roguish smile on his face. "Akira, you want me to lead a patrol? No problem. Consider it done! And don't worry. I'll take good care of Shiho and Luna. I won't let either of them get hurt."

Shiho stood beside Heine in a green Mobile Suit pilot's uniform, her expression composed and her eyes resolute. She bowed slightly. "Major Hawke, I'll complete the patrol mission. I won't disappoint you."

Luna Maria looked rather excited, anticipation showing on her face as she quickly spoke. "Don't worry, big brother. I'll work hard on my skills and won't hold anyone back. When I return, I'll be a pilot as good as you!"

Akira looked at the three with a gentle smile in his eyes, then instructed Heine, "Heine, stay cautious during the patrol. Don't rush into an attack. If you encounter Earth Alliance Forces reconnaissance vessels, try to drive them away. Destroy them only if they refuse to withdraw. Remember, keeping Shiho and Luna safe is your first priority."

"Relax, Akira. I know what I'm doing." Heine patted his chest confidently.

Akira turned to Shiho and Luna, his tone gentle but carrying a note of seriousness. "Shiho, Luna, follow Heine's commands during the patrol. Don't act on your own. Real combat isn't training. Every fight is dangerous. Stay calm and adapt to the situation. Remember, only by surviving can you keep fighting and protect the people you want to protect."

"Understood, big brother!"

"Understood, Major Hawke!"

After his instructions, Heine, Shiho, and Luna left the Silver Wing's bridge and returned to their respective warships. Before long, the three Laurasia-class vessels slowly broke away from the Silver Wing's formation and headed toward the shipping lanes between L4 and Earth to begin their patrol.

Watching the three warships gradually disappear into the stars, Akira's gaze grew resolute. He knew Shiho and Luna were both gifted. Tempered by real combat, they would surely become excellent Mobile Suit pilots. Heine was one of ZAFT's aces, with outstanding skills. With him leading them, Akira could rest easy.

"Major, Major Heine and the others have departed. Shall we leave for Victoria Base now?" the executive officer asked quietly.

"Depart." Akira's reply was brief and firm.

At Akira's command, the Silver Wing's engines unleashed powerful thrust. The ship slowly left PLANT's shipping lanes and headed toward Victoria Base at full speed. On the bridge, everyone focused on their duties and operated the warship with care. The air was tense and solemn. They all knew the Battle of Alaska was about to begin, and a decisive confrontation was drawing near.

Akira leaned back in the captain's chair and closed his eyes, repeatedly recalling the scene of Nicol's death in the original story. It was now early April, Cosmic Era 71. According to the original timeline, the Archangel would soon leave Orb for Alaska Base, while Athrun's squad would receive orders to pursue it. Their encounter would erupt before long-and that battle would mark Nicol's death.

He could not let Nicol die.

Nicol was not only Yuri Amalfi's only son, but also Athrun's close friend and an indispensable member of his squad. Gentle and kind, he possessed exceptional piloting talent, yet became a casualty of war. Akira knew Nicol's death would devastate Athrun and indirectly lead to his later confusion and struggles. More importantly, protecting Nicol was Akira's best chance to approach Yuri Amalfi, as well as a crucial step toward intervening in the plot and changing its tragedies.

I have to reach Victoria Base as soon as possible, confirm Athrun's squad's location, work out exactly where they'll encounter the Archangel, and deploy ahead of time to prevent Nicol's death, Akira resolved.

The Silver Wing traveled swiftly, finally reaching the skies above Victoria Base after several hours. Located in southern Africa, Victoria Base was one of ZAFT's major military installations in the Earth Sphere. Its advantageous terrain supported a formidable defensive network. It was also an important staging point for ZAFT forces heading to the Battle of Alaska. Numerous warships and Mobile Suits had assembled there, creating a bustling scene.

After the Silver Wing took up station above the base, Akira immediately carried out a drop operation, descending to Earth with the GuAIZ before heading to the base's operational command center. Inside, a huge screen displayed the battlefield situation across the Earth Sphere, with countless points of light representing both sides' warships and Mobile Suits. Personnel busily operated their equipment and analyzed battlefield intelligence, speaking in hurried, tense voices.

When the base commander saw Akira enter, he immediately approached and saluted respectfully. "Major Hawke, you're finally here! Chairman Zala has ordered you to report to the operational command center upon arrival and assist headquarters with preparations for the Battle of Alaska."

"Where is Athrun's squad now?" Akira asked directly, dispensing with pleasantries, a trace of urgency in his voice.

The base commander hurried to the screen and tapped it lightly to bring up a set of coordinates. "Major Hawke, Athrun Zala's squad is currently patrolling over the waters along Orb's border under orders to track the Archangel. According to their latest intelligence, the Archangel will most likely leave Orb soon and head for Alaska Base. Athrun's squad is closely monitoring activity along Orb's border, ready to intercept at any moment."

Akira studied the coordinates, his gaze deepening. Combining his knowledge of the original plot with the current battlefield situation, he began analyzing rapidly. After escaping into Orb, the Archangel would inevitably face restrictions and could not stay for long. To avoid antagonizing either ZAFT or the Earth Alliance Forces, Orb would secretly permit the Archangel to leave. Its most likely route would take it through the waters along Orb's border toward Alaska Base.

Meanwhile, under orders to pursue the Archangel, Athrun's squad would inevitably lie in wait near those waters. Their encounter would most likely take place above the Mozambique Channel on Orb's border. The complex terrain and vast waters offered both routes where the Archangel could travel covertly and airspace where Athrun's squad could stage an ambush. It was the ideal location for their clash.

Akira also considered both sides' combat deployments. The Archangel carried the Strike Gundam and Skygraspers. Athrun's squad had the Aegis Gundam piloted by Athrun, the Blitz piloted by Nicol, the Duel Gundam piloted by Yzak, and the Buster Gundam piloted by Dearka. Its four ace pilots offered equally formidable strength. The clash between them was certain to be intense.

"I estimate that Athrun's squad will encounter the Archangel above the Mozambique Channel on Orb's border, approximately three days from now-around April 15," Akira said slowly, his voice firm and his eyes carrying unquestionable certainty.

Surprise flashed in the base commander's eyes. "Are you sure, Major Hawke? The terrain around the Mozambique Channel is complex, and our reconnaissance aircraft struggle to cover the entire area. How can you be certain their encounter will take place there?"

Akira smiled faintly and explained, "First, the Mozambique Channel offers the shortest route from Orb to Alaska Base. If the Archangel wants to reach Alaska Base quickly, it will choose that route. Second, the complex terrain makes it suitable both for Athrun's squad to stage an ambush and for the Archangel to travel covertly. It's the ideal place for them to clash. Third, based on Athrun's squad's patrol route and the Archangel's course, their paths will intersect above the Mozambique Channel. An engagement will inevitably follow."

His explanation was clear and logically sound. The base commander understood at once, his admiration for Akira growing. "Impressive as always, Major Hawke. To deduce the exact location and timing of their encounter from this intelligence alone-I truly admire your ability!"

Akira paid no attention to the compliment and calmly instructed him, "Submit my assessment to the military operations department and Chairman Zala immediately. Also, I need to requisition a Mobile Suit support aircraft from the base. I'll head to the Mozambique Channel myself and deploy ahead of time to help Athrun's squad defeat the Archangel."

"A Mobile Suit support aircraft?" Confusion flickered in the base commander's eyes. "Major Hawke, you're going personally? It's dangerous there, and Athrun's squad is already patrolling the area. Why take that risk yourself?"

"This is a matter of great importance. The Archangel is a key Earth Alliance Forces warship. Destroying it will be crucial to our victory in the Battle of Alaska. Besides, although Athrun's squad is powerful, the Archangel's combat capabilities cannot be underestimated. By going myself, I can assist the squad and ensure the mission succeeds." Akira's voice was firm, leaving no room for compromise.

He did not reveal his true goal-preventing Nicol's death. That was something only he could know. If it leaked, it would inevitably arouse suspicion, and people might even see him as some kind of aberration.

Looking into Akira's determined eyes, the base commander knew he could not dissuade him. He could only nod. "Understood, Major Hawke! I'll arrange it immediately. We'll requisition the most advanced Mobile Suit support aircraft for you and prepare the necessary equipment and supplies."

"Thank you for your efforts. Arrange it as quickly as possible. I need to leave for the Mozambique Channel without delay."

"Understood!"

The base commander immediately turned away to arrange the requisition. Akira remained in the operational command center and brought up a terrain map of the Mozambique Channel again, studying it carefully. He needed to find a concealed position, camouflage himself ahead of time, and wait for the battle to begin. At the critical moment, he would intervene and prevent Nicol's death.

The Mozambique Channel offered vast waters, dense clouds, and numerous islands and reefs suitable for concealment. Akira finally selected a position above an island in the middle of the channel. Thick clouds and an open field of view would let him clearly observe the battle and strike swiftly at the crucial moment. It would also make it easy to conceal his presence from both sides.

About an hour later, the base commander hurried back to report. "Major Hawke, everything is arranged. The Mobile Suit support aircraft is ready. It's the latest compact stealth model, equipped with advanced camouflage systems and reconnaissance equipment, and it's compatible with the GuAIZ. We've also prepared ample energy reserves and supplies to ensure your operation goes smoothly."

"Excellent." Akira nodded slightly. "Take me to the hangar."

The base commander guided Akira to the hangar. A small Mobile Suit support aircraft was already parked beside the GuAIZ. The aircraft was entirely black, compact, and streamlined. Its advanced stealth coating and camouflage systems could effectively evade radar detection. Its specially modified propulsion system offered high speed and maneuverability, allowing it to work smoothly with the GuAIZ Gundam on high-speed maneuvers and covert assault missions.

Ground crew were making final adjustments to the support aircraft and the GuAIZ Gundam to ensure perfect compatibility. Akira approached the GuAIZ and lightly ran his fingertips over its armor, his eyes resolute. This time, he would stop Nicol's death and change that destined tragedy. He would also secure more opportunities for himself.

"Major, all adjustments are complete. The support aircraft is fully compatible with the GuAIZ Gundam. You can depart at any time," the ground crew chief reported.

Akira nodded slightly, leaped down, and entered the GuAIZ's cockpit. The hatch slowly closed, surrounding him with familiar blue light. Readings flickered across the control panel, displaying the compatibility status between the support aircraft and the GuAIZ Gundam. Akira lightly touched the panel and activated the connection procedure. In an instant, the support aircraft docked with the GuAIZ, mounting beneath its feet like a pair of wings.

"This is Mei Hock. The GuAIZ Gundam is ready, and the support aircraft connection is functioning normally. Requesting permission to depart," Akira reported to the base command center over the communications channel.

"Departure approved, Major Hawke! Good luck with your mission, and stay safe!" The base commander's voice came over the channel, carrying a note of concern.

"Understood!"

Akira guided the GuAIZ slowly out of the hangar and flew toward the Mozambique Channel. The support aircraft's stealth and camouflage systems fully activated, instantly blending the GuAIZ into the sky. Radar could detect no signal.

Throughout the flight, Akira remained highly alert. Using the support aircraft's reconnaissance equipment, he closely monitored his surroundings while continuing to receive the latest intelligence from Victoria Base. Athrun's squad was still patrolling Orb's border and had not found any trace of the Archangel. The ship appeared to remain in Orb's secret harbor and had yet to depart.

Akira knew the Archangel would leave soon. He had to reach his chosen position quickly, conceal himself, and prepare. He accelerated the GuAIZ Gundam. The support aircraft's propulsion system unleashed powerful thrust, sending the machine racing through the clouds toward the Mozambique Channel like an invisible bolt of lightning.

It was now the afternoon of April 13, Cosmic Era 71. Less than two days remained until Nicol's death. Akira knew he had little time left. He had to race against the clock, reach his chosen position before the Archangel encountered Athrun's squad, and finish every preparation.

The GuAIZ Gundam streaked above the clouds. Inside its cockpit, Akira's eyes were resolute, his gaze sharp as a blade. He held only one conviction: stop Nicol's death, intervene in that destined tragedy, and protect those he wanted to protect. At the same time, he would carve a different path through this brutal war for himself and for PLANT.

Above the Mozambique Channel, the clouds grew thicker and thicker. The sea wind howled, as though heralding an approaching storm. Akira slowly landed the GuAIZ Gundam in his chosen hiding place, shut down the engine, and activated the highest level of camouflage, completely concealing the machine among the shadows of the island and its trees.

He leaned back in the cockpit seat and closed his eyes, bringing himself into the right state. Meanwhile, he used the support aircraft's reconnaissance equipment to closely monitor activity along Orb's border and the Mozambique Channel, waiting for the Archangel and Athrun's squad to appear.

A contest that would decide Nicol's life or death was about to unfold quietly above these waters. And Mei Hock, a transmigrator from another world and one of ZAFT's White Uniform elites, would wield the blade of foreknowledge, quietly laying his plans before the storm arrived, seeking to redirect fate and rewrite that destined tragedy.