The Minerva raced at full speed after the Gadiel, heading toward a region of space strewn with abandoned hulls and rubble. On the bridge, cold white light illuminated the streams of data flashing across the consoles. Captain Talia Gladys frowned deeply, tapping her fingertips against the edge of her console as she cautioned, "Keep the Mobile Suit formation intact. The debris field is complex, and visibility is limited. Stay alert for an enemy ambush."
Athrun Zala stood beside the captain, his gaze fixed on the indistinct outline of the debris field ahead. His fingertips unconsciously rubbed the controller charm for his Zaku Phantom. He had only just returned to ZAFT and joined the Minerva's combat force. This pursuit was both his first battle since returning and a test of whether he could readjust to the battlefield. Rey Za Burrel stood quietly on the other side, his violet eyes calm as his fingers flew across the console, reporting nearby energy signatures in real time. "Captain, no clear enemy Mobile Suit signals detected, but the Gadiel's trail suddenly disappeared deep inside the debris field. It may be deliberately hiding."
"No! It's a trap!" Athrun had barely finished speaking when the communications officer's startled cry shattered the quiet on the bridge. "Captain! A large number of Mobile Suit energy signatures have suddenly appeared inside the debris field! The Gadiel has emerged from behind the rubble, and its main guns have locked onto us!"
Before Talia could issue an order, several dazzling beams erupted from the debris field and shot straight toward the Minerva. She reacted immediately, shouting, "Activate the defensive barrier! Full power! Shinn Asuka, Agnes, launch your Mobile Suits immediately! Hold off the enemy Mobile Suit force and keep them away from the ship!"
"Understood!" Shinn Asuka and Agnes answered together, then