Ep 17. Cagalli Returns

Kira and Athrun are reunited with Cagalli when the Archangel docks at the neutral orb of Orb. However, her reasons for returning to the colony are not entirely clear. When she learns of the Archangel's mission to deliver a new model of Mobile Suits to the Earth Alliance Forces, Cagalli becomes suspicious and confronts Captain Murrue Ramius about their true intentions. Meanwhile, tensions rise within the Earth Alliance as a faction led by Admiral William Sutherland demands control of the new Mobile Suits. As a result, a secret test of the new suits is ordered and both Kira and Athrun are chosen to help pilot them.

During the test, Kira and Athrun find themselves up against a new, powerful mobile suit that they have never encountered before. The two friends come face to face in a fierce battle, each trying to protect their respective comrades. As the fight intensifies, Kira and Athrun question why their sides are fighting and wonder whether there is a way for them to end the war without anyone else dying.

Back on the Archangel, Cagalli continues to investigate the Earth Alliance's intentions and begins to fear that a new war is on the horizon. She decides to confront the Orb government about their neutrality and their willingness to supply items to the Earth Alliance. Her actions lead to her being stripped of her title as princess and she is forced to go into hiding. Meanwhile, the Earth Alliance continues to prepare for their secret weapon and Kira and Athrun must find a way to stop them before it's too late.

The episode showcases the increasingly complex and entangled nature of the conflict in the Gundam SEED universe. As the characters discover new information and motivations, they must grapple with their own alliances and their roles in the larger war effort. With intense action scenes and tension-filled political intrigue, "Cagalli Returns" is a must-watch episode for anyone invested in the ongoing saga of Gundam SEED.