In the wake of the assassination attempt on Lacus, Kira and his friends realize that they have been targeted by the government of the PLANT. Kira then receives a letter from Cagalli, in which she tells him of her intention to marry Yuna and asks him to return Athrun's ring on her behalf. At last Kira decides on a course of action.

Though she is still haunted by thoughts of Athrun, Cagalli has resigned herself to a loveless marriage. But as the ceremony begins, Murrue and her comrades launch the rebuilt Archangel, and Kira takes flight in the Freedom to save Cagalli from this grim fate.