After the celebration banquet, Yang Hui and his companions returned to Earth under the protection of the First Fleet, returning to the land of Orb.
"The gravity of Earth feels so much more solid."
Stepping on the firm ground, no matter how many times he experienced it, Yang Hui would always express such sentiments.
He couldn't understand why some people felt that Earth's gravity constrained their freedom and souls. Was it really more comfortable to float in the cosmos, unable to distinguish up from down, surrounded by the terrifying unknown?
"The operation was a complete success; another concern has been eliminated."
"Yes, let's have the Dawn Company and Ame No Minashira speed up their efficiency. We don't need the entire fleet to be re-equipped, but at least the warships should be fully outfitted. The ordinary MS units can temporarily use the GN Particle Storage Containers, and let's get the troops familiar with GN particles as soon as possible."
"Understood."
"Vidar."
"The second target has shown no unusual activity, just like..."
"Just like what?"
"Just like it's waiting for us to find it."
"Hmm? I understand. I'll go tomorrow. Setsuna, Lyle, Tieria, please see to it that the Yamato family, the Zala family, and the children are sent away in advance."
"Understood." X3
"Vidar, the six captives I brought back, let's attempt to interrogate them."
"Hmm? The Carbon Humans won't yield any results, will they?"
"Among the six, there might be one original body. If we're lucky... we might just find the base of the Librarian Works."
"…I'll get right on it."
After briefly outlining their respective tasks, everyone dispersed. Yang Hui returned to his residence, where Lacus found him. "You're back! Was the operation successful?"
"We encountered some setbacks, but the outcome is good."
"Is that so..." Lacus felt a bit conflicted about the destruction of Julius 7. On one hand, she was saddened that Julius 7 had become history; on the other, she was glad that the painful tombstone had vanished, allowing history to turn a new page.
Yang Hui remained silent, simply holding Lacus in his arms, gently stroking her hair and back to comfort her.
After a long while, as they enjoyed the warmth, Lacus brought up a serious matter: "Mentor Malchio has contacted me. He... wants to meet you."
In the past, Lacus had held great respect for Mentor Malchio, viewing him as a remarkable person. He had not given up hope despite his blindness; he lived well and had continuously adopted children who had lost their families due to war, risking his life to ease tensions between the Earth Alliance and PLANT.
However... ever since she learned that Yang Hui had begun investigating Mentor Malchio, Lacus frequently sensed something amiss. To put it mildly, Mentor Malchio was merely a blind Natural; what qualifications did he have to earn respect from both the Earth Alliance and PLANT? What was his true identity?
Once the seed of doubt was planted, it took root and sprouted. In subsequent interactions, Lacus often subtly probed Mentor Malchio. She noticed that every time Yang Hui's name was mentioned, Mentor Malchio would exhibit small signs of stiffness and trembling, further solidifying her suspicions that something was off with him.
But it was merely a suspicion, not a threat, as he had never done anything to harm the world or disrupt peace. In fact, he had been tirelessly working towards peace, which complicated Lacus's feelings towards him. She was unsure whether to continue respecting this mentor or categorize him as a potential threat.
"I understand. I'll meet him tomorrow. I'll have Setsuna, Lyle, and Tieria see to it that the Yamato family, the Zala family, and the children are sent away. You should help too."
"Okay."
"Your concert tour..."
"I'm leaving the day after tomorrow. The second stop is the East Asia Republic."
"You're not postponing it?"
"Precisely because it's now that I should go, right?"
Yang Hui fell silent. Lacus was right; now, right after the destruction of Julius 7, was indeed the best time to promote peace.
But the problem was that Orb was also secretly entering a state of emergency. In two months, operations against LOGOS would commence, and it would be very dangerous for Lacus to hold a concert tour during this time.
"Don't worry about me, Yang Hui. I'll take care of myself," Lacus reassured him, sensing his concern.
Yang Hui knew that Lacus never undertook anything without assurance, nor did she speak without confidence. Even if he didn't arrange for bodyguards and escorts for her, the presence of the Terminal would ensure her safety.
"I trust you to handle things."
"Mm."
"It's just a pity that I won't be able to see your concert in person." Yang Hui genuinely felt a bit regretful; he had never seen Lacus perform live.
"Ah? Do you really want to see it?" Lacus playfully stuck out her tongue.
"Of course! Who wouldn't want to see the Peace Songstress showcase her charm live?" Yang Hui said gently.
Lacus squinted her eyes and smiled happily, taking Yang Hui's hand and leading him to a small pavilion in the garden. She then stepped back a bit, moving to the center of the flower field. With the gentle breeze blowing, petals of various colors danced around her.
Lacus clasped her hands in front of her chest, looking at Yang Hui with a face full of happiness, her mouth slightly open.
"In the water, the night sways
So quietly, it stands still
On the green-shaded shore
Waiting for a beautiful dawn
If only I could just wait
With a pure heart
Beyond the dark sea and sky
There exists a place without conflict
Who told me this?" (Who is telling me)
No one can reach there
Or does it exist within someone's heart? (Or exists in someone's heart)
A melody that nourishes the earth, calming the flow of water
Even if it no longer exists anywhere
Surely, I will obtain it with my own hands
Always, someday, surely
Holding the Proof of Water in my hands
Swallowing all flames
Flowing wide and gently
Reaching that place of tranquility
Always, someday, surely
Taking your hand..."
Yang Hui's gaze remained fixed on Lacus, warmth swelling within him like water about to overflow. He had never found her as captivating as she was at this moment, nor had he ever felt her singing to be as beautiful as it was now. It was like the breeze blowing, ethereal and soothing, calming all the restlessness of time.
This was the world's treasure; even at the cost of his life, he would protect her!
(End of Chapter)