Chairman Dullindal, accompanied by Meer Campbell, presents Shinn and Athrun with a pair of powerful new Gundams. Shinn is delighted with this gift, but Athrun is still upset that they were ordered to attack the Archangel. Meer is worried by Athrun's reaction, and her fears are confirmed when she overhears Dullindal and Rey discussing their plans for Athrun.

Thanks to Meer's warning, Athrun makes a getaway just before being attacked by Dullindal, but Meer chooses to continue playing the role of Lacus Clyne rather than escape with him. With the help of an unexpected ally, Athrun flees Gibraltar in a stolen mobile suit, but the pursuit is far from over.