Disclaimer: I do not now or have I ever owned the characters of Sailor
Moon, Robotech. The only character here that I own is that of Lieutenant
Michael Hefner please don't steal him, as he is my brother's name. People I
want to say something about Miss Lynn Minmei. I don't like her. I like the
Rick/Lisa romance and Minmei just gets in the way. So if you like her don't
read this, however, if you want to see a new bitchy side to Minmei please
enjoy! At first she'll be nice until the Miss Macross pageant then watch
out people Rick will leave her in the dust for Lisa don't worry I slowly
bring Rick and Lisa together. Again I want to thank Chibi Halo who wrote
'Sailor Moon Macross' without this story wouldn't have existed. As always
please R&R this so I know how it is coming across to people! Chibi Halo I
would like to know what you think as well! Chibi Halo there might be a few
scenes in my story but I pray you won't mind. One more thing for the
beginning of the first few chapters I will use your chapter names, I will
come up with my own after the last chapter you named. People who haven't
read her story yet please do it is a great read! Please enjoy and now on
with the story! This is the only Disclaimer I will write! I just want to
thank Chibi Halo for being my beta reader!
Robotech Warriors Book 1 By thunderbird with Sections From Chibi Halo
In the year 1999 an alien spacecraft entered Earth's atmosphere, which crash-landed on an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Governments all around the world sent scientist and military officials to study the large object. The military commanders and scientist upon entering the ship found the interior to be large this meant that the aliens were large themselves. While this was going on halfway around the globe the Middle East was rocked by conflict which soon became a war which was all centered around Kuwait. Sometime later the war ended and the world once again turned its attention back to the alien craft. One year later the ASS1 as it was referred to, was slowly rebuilt. The scientist along with the direction of the military leaders formed the group known as OTECH. Their job was to study and build weapons using both human and alien technology, which they would use to protect Earth from hostile alien forces. A few months later the entire world saw the need for peace so they formed one government. They called this government, The United Earth Government. Two years later while the rebuilding of the ship was taking place another ordeal occurred. A dispute involving Iraq and their not wanting to remain in the union broke out. What happened next can only be described as WWIII. In the year 2003, with the help of the country of The USA, Iraq finally conceited and joined the Union government. Out of this mayhem the global military decided to form The Robotech Defense Force or the RDF for short. This new branch of the military was to police and patrol the globe, however, if an alien force attacked the Earth the RDF would step in and defend us with their lives. Another part of the RDF military force was research and development. Headed by one Kenji Tuskino who was once a captain in the Japanese army he is now one of the RDF's most decorated military officers. His job was to over see the completion of plans then build the new Veritech fighter plane, which would be the first line of defense against all Earth's enemies. The ASS1 now renamed the Super Dimensional Space Fortress 1 or SDF1 was to be the flagship of the RDF fleet. After eight years of planning and building and rebuilding the RDF had it's fleet and flagship now all it needed was a strong force to pilot that fleet and to do that the RDF needed to recruit strong new people to fight for our world.
*****
Chapter 1: Veritech 101
*****
In the year 2007 years after the SDF1 crashed the RDF came to Tokyo, Japan looking for strong up and coming solders that want a job in the military. For the students at Juuban High who were in their last year this meant the way out of their neighborhood. For one girl this would mean the first day of the rest of her life. Serena Tuskino who had just turned 19 years old and just graduated from school was walking down the road when she came across an office building with a tall man standing in a new type of uniform standing in front of it.
"Excuse me sir but what branch of the military are you from?" Serena asked him.
"Ah miss I work for the RDF and we are looking for new solders to take up arms and join our ranks!" he told her.
"The RDF! My father's a captain in the RDF! Tell me when is the recruiting to occur?" she asked.
"Tomorrow morning at 9:00 a.m. What is your last name maybe I know your father!" He asked.
"Tuskino! I am glad to meet you I'll be glad to join up! I've heard they've been building new types of planes! I'd really like to fly one!" Serena said.
"Ah yes captain Tuskino well he is well known in the RDF and yes we did create a new plane called the Veritech fighter. Well then come on by tomorrow then and we'll set you up ma'am!" he told her.
"Thanks I will! Good bye sir!" Serena said walking off.
In the distance a shadow was watching the whole scene take place. After watching Serena walk off the person in the shadow walked up to the military man. "Um excuse me sir but might I ask what that girl was asking you?" the person asked.
"Oh why yes she wanted to know what branch of the military I was from and if I knew her father. I told her I belonged to the RDF and that her father was the man behind our new type of plane. She's going to come back here in the morning to sign up to be a pilot!" he told the person.
"What her father is in the military?" the person asked.
"Yes ma'am he is a captain! Now if you don't mind I have to tell those who wish to join up the time to arrive tomorrow." He said.
"Oh yes sorry thanks for the info! Oh before I go what time is the recruiting going to start?" the person asked.
"Tomorrow at 9:00 a.m." he told the person. With that the person ran off to find her friends.
******
Later that afternoon at the home of Serena's family. She had just arrived and was very exited about the prospect of someday in the near future flying a plane and protecting the world from giant aliens.
"Serena honey is that you?" her mother called from the kitchen.
"Yes ma'am it's me! Hey mom I need to speak to you about something!" Serena called out.
Just then Sammy runs out of the living room totally exited about something too. "Man mom you have got to see this their unveiling those new Veritech fighters that dad helped build!" he said.
"Now Sammy calm down and let's go see these new planes before you have a heart attack!" their mother said laughing.
As they entered the living room both Serena and Sammy sat on the floor as Irene sat on the couch. As they saw on the TV. set a large plane got a large tarp pulled off from the top of it.
"My word that is a big plane!" Serena said whistling.
"What are you whistling at meatball head?" Sammy asked laughing.
"I'm whistling cause I can just imagine sitting behind on of those planes and flying it!" she said grinning at him.
"Yeah right you behind that!" He laughed out.
"Sammy that is enough! Now Serena what is it you wanted to tell me?" Irene asked.
"I went passed a recruiting station today for the RDF and I decided to join up in Aviation thank you very much!" she said the last part looking at her little brother.
"What did I hear my little girl say she wants to join up with the RDF as a fighter pilot?" Kenji Tuskino asked coming through the door.
"DAD! When did you get in?" Serena asked exited to see him.
"Oh just a few minutes ago! So is it true?" he asked smiling down at her.
"Yes dad! Is that okay with you guys?" she asked her parents.
"No come on why? She can't even walk right why let her join the military?" Sammy asked.
"Sammy Tuskino that's it go to your room! I've already told you to stop today!" Irene scolded him.
"MAN!" Sammy said storming off.
"Well?" Serena pleaded.
"Yes Serena you may!" he parents both said smiling at her. After they said that Serena ran upstairs to go to bed so she could be up bright and early tomorrow.
"Serena why the hurry?" her parents asked.
"I need to be up at eight o' clock in order to be at the recruiting station by nine! I'm going to grow up for a change night mom, night dad, good night to you too Sammy!" Serena said before running to her room and shutting the door.
"Ha Serena grow up I doubt it!" Sammy said laughing sitting on the top step of the stairs.
"Sammy that is quite enough young man! Your sister is actually trying to show she can grow up by making a very grown up decision. I wonder what you'll do when it comes time to decide what it is you want to do after high school? Because right now you joking about Serena wanting to join the military is very childish!" Kenji glared at his young son.
"Yes Sammy for once your sister isn't crying or Klutzing out. I am very proud of her decision to do something positive with her life. It makes me wonder what her friends would think if they knew what she wanted to do with her life? As for you go to your room it is still early for bed yes but you will think about what you were just told do you understand?" Irene scolded her son.
"Darn it! Yes ma'am!" Sammy said running off to his room and closing the door behind him.
"I hope Serena will be okay Kenji!" Irene said.
"Irene we have some of the best flight trainers out there she'll be just fine and just wait and see she'll probably be one of their best damn pilots there too!" He said with a smile on his face as he held his wife in his arms while looking towards the top of the stairs where his daughter now slept.
Meanwhile up stairs Serena was laying in her bed thinking about tomorrow morning while allowing sleep to come over her when her cat came through the window.
"Serena in bed already?" Luna asked.
"Luna answer something for me please!" Serena told her.
"If I can!" Luna said with a look that said 'What is it this time?'
"Okay since the Negaverse is gone are we needed here in Tokyo at this point in time?" Serena asked.
"Well I guess not! Serena why are you asking me that?" Luna asked worried.
"Luna I know some day I'll rule the Earth along side Darien, however, for now I need to do something that will help me to become responsible some more!" Serena said whole-heartedly.
"Serena what are you up to?" Luna asked.
"Luna I plan on joining the military!" Serena said closing her eyes again.
"Wow Serena you've really thought this out haven't you? What are you going to do?" Luna asked looking very proud of her charge.
"Aviation! I want to be a pilot in the RDF military force." Serena said finally falling into a deep sleep.
"Good night Serena and don't fret I shall always keep a close watch over you princess!" Luna said letting herself fall asleep.
******
Elsewhere at the Cherry Hill Temple the Sailor Scouts save Serena were having a meeting to discuss what one of them had seen. "Okay Rei so spill what did you want to tell us?" Lita asked.
"Yes and why isn't Serena here yet?" Amara asked looking around for her.
"Okay first off I didn't call Serena to this meeting because this meeting concerns her! Second she will be leaving us soon!" Rei said looking towards Darien while she said the second part.
"What why would she want to leave?" Darien said looking towards the floor.
"Darien relax! You'd be very proud of the reason she is leaving! Heck even I am! I think I may go to, however, I don't know what I'd do when I got where she's going!" Rei said laughing.
"Okay girl spill and what the heck is so funny?" Mina asked.
"Okay did any of you know Serena's father is in the military?" Rei asked.
"Yeah I did! Why?" Amy asked looking up from her book.
"Well it turns out our little Serena's fathers branch of the military is here in Tokyo looking for new recruits! Guess where Serena's going tomorrow morning all by her self?" Rei asked with a smile.
"You're kidding!" Amy asked shocked dropping her book to the floor.
"What?" Lita asked staring from both Amy to Rei.
"Rei are you sure?" Darien asked getting up.
"Yep sure am! Serena is going to join the RDF tomorrow morning!" Rei said.
"Wait don't they have those cool planes?" Amara asked.
"And what do you suppose she wants to do huh?" Rei asked.
"She wants to fly?" Michelle asked.
"Sure does! So what are we going to do?" Rei asked.
"Well I don't know about you but this is a good experience I'm joining so I can fly!" Amara said getting up to leave.
"Yeah but I don't want to fly Amara!" Michelle said getting up to join her.
"You guys hold on! First you can do what ever! Second if we do this be there at nine in the morning okay?" Rei asked.
"Sure!" the other said in unison.
"Rei so what could we do?" Mina asked.
"Let's find out tomorrow okay?" Rei asked following her friends out the door.
"Sure!" She said running off.
"Thanks Rei for telling me!" Darien said heading out the door.
"Your welcome Darien! So what are you going to do?" she asked.
"Oh Rei do you really have to ask?" He asked with a grin.
"Oh you'll do anything to be near her huh?" Rei asked with a smile.
"Sure would! Night Rei see you in the morning don't be late cause for once I don't think Serena will!" He said with a wave over his shoulder.
"Night! Well guess Darien's right better get some sleep I have a long day ahead of me." Rei said as she too headed off towards her own bed.
******
The next morning as Serena stood before the recruiting station she double- checked to make sure she looked presentable. "So Luna do I look okay?" Serena asked pushing down her skirt.
"Serena are you nervous because you look just fine!" Luna asked looking up at her charge.
"I guess a little!" Serena said, "Well this is it Luna come on let's start the first day of my new life!" Serena said walking up and into the building followed behind by her guardian.
Inside Serena and Luna looked around the room. On one side there were tables and chairs set up so the recruiters could interview the hopeful candidates. On another was an area where people sat to allow them to fill out what looked like packets or something else they weren't sure but they would find out soon. Upon catching her breath Serena knew it was time so taking one more breath she stepped forward to one of the large tables where a tall looking solder was seated and sat down.
"Good morning young lady may I have your name please?" he asked in a kind voice as to not scare her off.
"Yes sir! My name is Serena Tuskino!" Serena said with a relaxing breath.
"That's right just relax I'm not here to scare you Serena!" he told her.
"Now my name is Lieutenant Hefner! Now please tell me the reason for you wanting to join us here in the RDF?" He asked Serena.
"I want to learn to be part of a team and to grow up more! I think the RDF can help me do this! I already know what a team player means, however, I need to see if I can learn more in a new environment. That and kick alien butt!" Serena said with a smile.
"I see well we can sure help with that! I can also tell you we could use you here too!" he said.
"Now let's see here do you know what will be expected of you if we take you?" He asked.
"Yes sir and I'm willing to do what every I'm ordered to do sir!" Serena told him.
"Very good attitude Miss Tuskino! We could use more like you here most definitely! Okay now before we let you in you must pass the standard test! Do you think you're ready?" he asked.
"Yes sir!" she said.
"Good! Now what new skill or placement are you looking for?" Lt. Hefner asked her.
"Aviation sir! I want to fly a plane!" Serena informed him.
"Do you even know how to fly one?"
"No sir but I am willing to learn!" she said whole-heartedly.
"Very good that's exactly what we want to hear, people willing to try new things. Now like I said before you will need to pass a test and this is it! Take this and go sit over in one of those seats and fill this out alright and when your finished just bring it back to me please!" he said handing her the test.
After Serena took the test she looked it over as Luna rubbed up against her leg letting her know she would do just fine. Lt. Hefner saw Serena look down towards her legs and looked under the table to see Luna by her legs. "Um excuse me miss Tuskino did you know your cat is not really suppose to be in here and why is there a crescent moon on her head?" he asked trying to be polite.
"Oh sorry! I didn't know she is just trying to play and follows me everywhere. Also no I don't she's always had that there ever since I've had her." Serena covered.
"Oh well just be sure to take her with you when you leave alright?" He said.
After Serena got up to go sit where she was told to go seven more people came up to Lt. Hefner. The first one after Serena said she wanted to be a doctor. The second one wasn't certain what she wanted to do but she wanted to help defend the world. The third one was pretty much like the second one but like Serena she was an odd lot. She too had a cat with her only this one was white and like Serena's cat he had a crescent moon on his head as well. Lt. Hefner thought this was quite odd. The next individual Hefner saw was confused out of her mind. She wanted to be a pilot yet she didn't want to get within ten feet of an airplane. The good Lieutenant told her they would be able to help her get over her fear. The fifth and sixth ones came in together. One wanted to be a pilot and the other wanted to work on the bridge. They both hopped they would be assigned to the same detail. The last one was the only male Hefner saw all morning. He was older than the others were and he too wanted to be a pilot. Hefner thought his group of recruits all needed to be sent to Macross City for the intense course. He'd personally see to that.
******
The next day at the Tuskino house there came a knock at the door. Kenji answered the door.
"May I help you?" he asked.
"Sir is there a Miss Serena Tuskino living here?" the postman asked.
"Yes she is my daughter can I ask what this is for?" Kenji asked the man.
"Yes sir! Um Last night we received orders to deliver this letter to your daughter as they told us she was one of the first one's to be accepted into the RDF military and I'm to give her, her orders." The postman told Kenji.
"Oh thank you so much I'm sure she'll be thrilled!" Kenji told him as he took the letter from the postman and shut the door.
"Kenji who was that?" Irene asked coming into the living room from the kitchen.
"Well honey our baby is now a member of the RDF!" He said smiling at her.
"What oh that's just wonder full! Serena please come down here for a moment!" Irene called up the stairs.
"Yes ma'am!" Serena said coming down the stairs followed shortly by Sammy.
"What is it mom, dad?" Serena asked.
"Yeah is she in trouble?" Sammy asked smiling.
"No Sammy your sister isn't in trouble. Serena this is for you!" Kenji said handing her the envelope.
As Serena took the letter she carefully read the front of it, 'From the office of the RDF'
"Oh wow it's already here?" she said looking at her father who just smiled at her.
"What? What's here?" Sammy asked confused.
"Serena why don't you open up the letter and read it out loud for your brother to hear this okay?" her mother said with a grin.
"Okay!" Serena said as she opened up the letter and read the following:
Miss Serena Usagi Tuskino
I have gone over your test scores and found you to be an exceptional young woman. We here at the RDF would love for you to join us in our mission to protect this planet of ours. Your willingness to learn new skills and to want to fly one of our new fighter planes the Veritech is very pleasing to us so on behalf of all of the high command here in Capitol City! May I welcome you to the military Corporal Tuskino. Also please be ready to ship out tomorrow a military transport will be leaving from the airport of Tokyo Japan tomorrow afternoon headed for California, USA where you will board a boat bound for Macross island. See you along with all the other recruits in one week.
Signed,
Admiral Hayes
"That is just so great I'm in yes!" Serena said.
"Oh man now I can't pick on you no more!" Sammy said.
"That's right son you can't! Now Serena go upstairs and pack!" Irene said to her daughter.
"Serena just pack pants and shirts! You'll be able to buy new dresses once you start getting paid!" Kenji told his oldest child.
"She gets paid too?" Sammy said looking dumbstruck.
"Well how do you think you eat our looks?" Irene asked.
"Dad, mom I think I'll get a hair cut too! I mean if I'm right my hair as it is now won't fit under a helmet right?" Serena asked holding one of her ponytails.
"Oh my baby's growing up!" Irene cried.
"That is a very grown up decision Serena yes you'll probably want to cut it! But as to how short I'm not sure?" Kenji said.
"Oh I'm going to cut it up to my shoulders! Is that alright?" Serena asked her parents.
"Yes Serena that's just fine. Tell you what you go cut your hair and we'll pack up the stuff you'll need okay?" Irene asked.
"Sure mom thanks see ya soon!" Serena said walking out the door to the first step of her life.
******
Elsewhere that afternoon at the Cheery Hill Temple the others had already received their acceptance letters and were talking about the details about the days to follow. Luna came up to the temple and saw the others talking. "Hello scouts how are you all doing today?" Luna asked looking a little sad.
"We're fine! Hey Luna why the long face?" Rei asked.
"Well Serena and I won't be seeing you for a long time so I'm here to give you all a message!" she told them.
"Oh and what is that Luna?" Amy asked.
"Serena says that this is something she wants and needs to do and she loves you all! Darien she told me to tell you that she isn't breaking up with you she just needs this time to grow. She's just sorry it is away from you!" Luna told him with a frown if you could see it.
"I see well I guess if Serena feels she needs a challenge then I say go for it! I'll see her again someday!" Darien said hiding a smile.
"Yeah we all agree she'll be just fine with out us right? I mean she'll have Luna there so what could go wrong right?" Rei stifled a laugh.
"Well okay see you all around someday bye!" Luna said heading back home.
"Okay guys let's go pack and get ready to leave on the transport tomorrow. Remember let's try and surprise Serena tomorrow on the plane!" Rei told the others. After they all agreed they all left for their own homes to pack.
******
The next day Serena with short hair and sunglasses due to the extreme sun light in her eyes didn't look like her old self one bit. She had an old duffel bag her dad gave her with all the clothes she would need while at training camp. Luna was in a make shift cat carrier that looked like a regular bag.
Darien and the others arrived but because of Serena's new look didn't know she was there already. Rei thought that she was back to her old self again and fumed because of it. In a few moments the call was made and all the new recruits from Japan boarded the transport which would take them to California where they'd then take the boat the rest of the way to Macross Island. Serena grabbed a seat up front and watched as the plane slowly took off as she wished her friends and family well. Unknown to her or them her friends were going with her.
******
On the boat a week later Serena was standing on the deck looking out at the scene in front of her. In the distance she could see the SDF1 in all it glory sitting right next to Macross City which was dwarfed by the size of the ship. Serena heard all about this island from her father. He told her the city is comprised of all the people who rebuilt, learned or developed new weapons thanks to the SDF1. He also said that immigrants also moved to this island just to see the massive ship. There were different races of all kinds here. Everywhere many styles of the French, German, British, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Polynesian, Canadian, and American people were noticeable. The buildings of Macross City were big but even the tallest skyscraper was smaller than the SDF1. It was just amazing to Serena how big a ship it was. As the boat neared the dock Serena got ready to enter the transport center.
The only way into Macross was through the transport center. Everyone who came onto the island received a designation card that allowed them access to certain areas. As Serena stepped out onto the main landing she looked around at the building took another deep breath and walked into the building. After she entered her friends still unaware that she was there walked into the building too. As Serena looked around she saw before her signs that told people where to go. Serena guessed the military didn't want secrets to get out incase there were spies around. One sign pointed people to a desk that would take them to Macross City while another sign pointed to a desk that would take people to the maintenance hanger of the base. While yet another one pointed the military and new recruits to the military base itself. Each sign also went on to say which card you needed to go to that part of the area on the outside. Serena looked down at her card to see which sign it allowed her to go with making sure it was the military sign she followed it to where a bus was waiting for her and other new recruits to take them to the base. As always Darien and the others followed as well out to the bus oblivious to her being there.
Meanwhile Serena had entered the main office building to receive her housing assignment. With any luck Luna wouldn't be found out any time soon. And with even more luck Luna would be allowed to stay. After receiving her housing assignment and meeting her bunkmates Serena went to the welcoming session with Admiral Hayes one of the big wigs from RDF command.
Admiral Hayes walked up to the podium on the stage. Seated behind him were several high-ranking officials in the RDF command including the newly named captain of the SDF1 Henry Gloval. The admiral cleared his throat and began his speech.
"Good morning ladies and gentlemen and welcome to the first day of the rest of your lives. I am Admiral Hayes one of the high-ranking officers here at Macross at the moment and these fine men and women behind me are the other commanding staff here on the island. Well now that pleasantries are out of the way let's get started shall we? Now than what you see around you is the home you'll be staying at while you under go training in whatever field you go into. Behind me is the RDF's pride and joy the SDF1. Now some of you maybe not all will be able to serve aboard her, we'll just have to wait and see won't we? Okay now its time for you to learn what you lives will be like for awhile. For the next eight weeks you will be going through what we in the business like to call basic training. Here you'll learn military tactics and teamwork as well as discipline. From there, once the first eight weeks are over with, you'll enter into more specialized training. And depending on your field of choice you'll learn a new skill that you'll be able to take with you into the real world. You'll be split into two classes for your basic training command and flight. In each class you'll learn specific techniques suited to your chosen field. Each class will be broken into companies with a drill sergeant who will instruct you on everything that you need to know. In the envelopes you received when you checked in are your class and company assignments. When you are dismissed you are to go your company to begin your training. Good luck everyone. Dismissed."
Upon leaving the staging area for the welcoming session Serena opened her envelope and read her assignment flight class, alpha company. That allowed her to access to the airfield. Making her way to the airfield she found the meeting area for alpha company. Looking around the area Serena saw that group was comprised of both men and women. Everyone was wearing the same uniform white shirt and blue pants. To the RDF it didn't matter if you were a man or a woman as long as you could operate the equipment you were in. Well I guess it's time to start making friends in this joint, she thought. For the first time since she left Tokyo, Japan Serena noticed one of her closest friends or boyfriend to be more exact standing on the tarmac waiting for their drill Sergeant. Deciding to have a little fun Serena walked up to Darien and said, "Well hello handsome!"
Without turning around he answered, "What oh um hi!" then he turns and since Serena is still wearing her sunglasses at first he doesn't recognize her. "My name is Darien shields. What's yours?" he asked.
"Um Darien are you that clueless? I'm your girlfriend you should know my name by now!" she said faking a hurt frown.
"Serena? But I thought you missed the transport and the boat!" he said.
"No I don't think so! Oh yeah you didn't recognize me with my hair cut! I cut it so it would fit under my helmet. I know your use to my long oh how do you and Rei put it 'meatball' hair style but it wouldn't exactly fit under the helmet you know what I mean?" Serena asked.
"Well it does look great you know guess now I'll just have to call you something else!" He said with a huge grin.
"I guess but Darien why are you here what about the others?" Serena asked.
"Well I joined the RDF for two reasons. One, to protect you. And two, I thought it would be fun to see what military life was all about. As for the girls?" Just as Darien was about to inform her about the others a voice came from behind Darien.
"Oh Darien stop hitting on strangers or did you forget your girlfriend?" they said.
Both Serena and Darien turned around to see who was behind them. "Lita I was not..." But before Darien could finish Lita walked up to Serena to say something.
"Hi! I'm Lita Kino and this big lug is spoken for sorry but he needs to remember that!" Lita said glaring at Darien, which caused him to reel back a couple of steps.
"You know Lita it's all well and good your protecting my interest but I happen to be standing right here!" Serena told her shaking her head.
"Um excuse me do I know you?" Lita asked Serena looking at her strange.
"You better missy! I just happen to be one of you best friends at least I thought I was!" Serena said mocking a hurt face.
"S-S-Serena?" Lita stuttered out.
"Y-Y-Yes it's me!" She stuttered right back.
"So are you three done faking that you don't know each other? I mean I always knew who the each of you guys are no matter what you look like!" Another voice said from behind them. This cause the three friends to turn around.
Serena was the first to see Amara and ran to say hi. "Amara how did you get here?"
"Oh the same as the others! We're all here you know?" Amara said.
"Well where are they then?" Serena asked.
"Well Amy is going to study to be a doctor, Rei, Mina and Michelle wanted to be bridge officers and the four of us are going to be pilots! Does that answer your question bunny?" Amara asked.
"Sure does thanks Amara!" Serena said with a smile knowing all her friends would be together and hopefully on the same ship.
"Wait Lita didn't you once tell me you were afraid of planes?" Serena suddenly turned and asked.
"Yeah but I figured I needed to get over that sooner or later plus I want to be up front and kick some alien butts!" Lita told her.
"Well with the three us around you'll get all the encouraging you need." Darien said.
"Yes she sure will!" Serena and Amara said together.
"Gee thanks guys!" Lita told them.
"Well this should be fun!" Amara said.
"Yeah let's go stand with the others then shall we?" Serena asked the others. With a nod the four friends stepped up to the other recruits in their class.
******
During basic training each company breaks off into four man training teams. Each team works together while learning all they need to know. In the command class it helps the trainees' work together solving all the problems they'll face as a team. In the flight class it gets them used to the team concept because they'll have to depend on each other in their squadrons. In the command class Bravo Company Amy, Rei, Mina, and Michelle found themselves together on one training team. In the flight class alpha company Serena, Darien, Lita, and Amara were placed together with the sergeant not knowing their history together. The sergeant had no clue how well they worked together. Later Serena found that the others were doing quite well in their training. It was also during this time that Serena also found out that Amara and Michelle had gotten a regular house on the base since they had Hotaru with them. She and Mina arranged for Luna and Artemis to stay with Amara, Michelle, and Hotaru. That way the two cats would be able to stay on the base and not violate any regulations.
The eight friends tried to spend some time together when not in basic training. The eight weeks of basic training flew by quite fast. Serena's training group finished tops in her company. And they were the top four individuals in the entire class. Amy, Rei, Mina, and Michelle also finished tops in their company and class as well. With the impressive finish pulled off by the eight friends they were able to enter into the advance training classes. This meant Serena would be learning how to handle one of the high tech fighter jets the Veritech fighter.
******
The first day of advanced classes was pretty much like the first day of school. The day was spent getting to know not only the other individuals in the class but the instructors as well. Amy spent her day getting to know the military doctors she would be working with. Rei, Mina, and Michelle began learning design specs and defense systems for the SDF1. The teaching assistants in their class were two high-level bridge personnel on the SDF1 Claudia Grant and Lisa Hayes. Claudia and Lisa were the best of friends. Claudia was an American of African decent with short dark hair and dark eyes. Lisa on the other hand was a few inches shorter than Claudia was even in her heels. She had long light brown hair and eyes to match. It was obvious that Lisa was a couple of years younger than Claudia was but she held the higher rank. Lisa was the daughter of Admiral Hayes.
Serena, Darien, Lita and Amara also had a teaching assistant help with their class. Lieutenant Commander Roy Fokker was considered to be one of the best Veritech pilots the RDF had. In fact Roy had spent most of his time in a plane since he was old enough to fly first doing a stint at a small air circus and then with the navy as a jet pilot. Roy was in his early thirties and had blonde hair and dark blue eyes.
The recruits of Serena's company were to start by being put through their paces. It was time for them to learn their way around the Veritech fighter. The Drill Sergeant had brought them out to the airfield where a Veritech fighter was sitting out on the tarmac. In the fighter form it looked like any normal F-14. This however was no ordinary jet plane. The Veritech had two more forms. The group took a look at the impressive fighter. It was gray with black and yellow trim and it had a skull and crossbones design on the tail. Darien whistled in awe.
"That's some plane out there." He commented.
"You can say that again." Amara added.
"Okay ladies and gentlemen that is what you will end up being able to fly when you're done with your advanced training!" The Drill Sergeant told them pointing to the plane behind him.
"That's so cool! Let me at that plane!" Serena said very exited to get started.
"Sorry corporal but this one's mine. You'll get one of your own if you complete your training!" Roy Fokker said coming up behind the group.
"Ah Lt. Commander Fokker it is good you could join us today!" the Sergeant said.
"Yes so are these recruits ready for the tour?" Roy Fokker asked.
"Yes sir I believe they are!" the Sergeant told him.
"Good! Okay ladies and gentlemen what we have here is the Veritech fighter. It is the first line of defense if alien forces should ever attack us. Now in just a moment I will be showing you the three modes of the aircraft. First, however, will you please look in front of you! What you have before you are your Veritech fight manuals. Read these from front to back. By the time you finish with your training you'll not only know your way around a Veritech, but you'll be able to recite that entire manual by heart!" Roy told the recruits.
"Well Lt. Commander shall we begin the introduction of the Veritech fighter to our eager recruits?" the Sergeant asked Roy with a smile.
"Yes let's begin!" Roy said going and jumping into the plane.
After Roy took off the Sergeant began. "Okay people open your manuals to page 1." After the trainees opened their books the Sergeant began again. "Okay ladies and gentlemen what you see before you on the first page and in the sky is the basic stage of the Veritech. The fighter mode, in this mode you can basically fly what is considered a plane. This stage is also fast and easy to maneuver in tight situations."
Next Roy pulled the button marked G and the fighter changed. "Now stage two is known as the guardian mode. By pulling down on the button marked G your fighter as the Lt. Commander has done you'll get this stage. In this stage you will be able to still fly like a plane, however, you will also be able to fire a cannon in this stage."
Lastly Roy pulled the button marked B and the guardian changed again. "And finally we have the last stage, the Battleoid. In this final stage of the Veritech you'll be able to do three things. One, your Veritech will now walk. Two, you'll be able to fire the cannon. And third, you'll be able to fly, not as good as if you were in the first stage and you won't be able to maneuver very well but you will fly." The Sergeant finished the lecture as Roy returned the battleoid back into a plane and landed back on the tarmac.
"Okay now before we dismiss you all are there any questions?" Roy asked coming up to the table.
"We have to fly something like that?" Lita asked trying to choke down her fear and the knot in her throat and the sweats of terror take over her body.
"Don't worry Lita with the three of us around nothing's ever going to happen to you." Darien told her in an effort to calm her fears.
"Thanks it's nice to know you're around." Lita said a bit shaky.
"That's right corporal! If you're having a fear of flying just trust in your friends and that will help you through anything!" Roy said.
"Man I can't wait to get into that." Amara said.
"Well Amara you'll have to wait for awhile until you go through the simulator." The Drill Sergeant said to her.
"Now John don't do getting ahead of yourself they're not ready for that yet! It's still a month away until then." Roy said.
"Okay Roy well let's get back to work shall we?" he said as they began to go through the manual page for page.
******
Not far away on top of the next building three figures were standing over the airfield watching the scene take place before them when one of the beings spoke.
"Man this is so cool! I think watching that plane change into different forms is better then watching Michelle speak over the P.A. system." A young girl said.
"Yes Hotaru I tend to agree with you on that one, however, Lita get into one is another story!" The black cat next to her said.
"Now Luna you know as well as I do with the others there she'll be able to do it!" Another cat said this time white.
"Artemis is that a challenge?" Luna asked.
"Well yeah sure it's a challenge!" he told her.
"Fine then what are the wagers?" Luna asked.
"Well if she does get into one of those things then you give up mice for good and if she doesn't then I swear off rummaging through the garbage behind restaurants for good." Artemis told her.
"All right you have yourself a deal." Luna said.
"You heard her Hotaru she agreed to our bet. You're the witness." Artemis said to Hotaru.
"Right you win no mice for Luna; she wins no scraps for you." Hotaru summarized.
The three friends went back to watching the class on the tarmac. This is going to be an interesting year, Hotaru thought. Amara is much more fun to spy on than Michelle.
******
Meanwhile back on the SDF1 the girls too were being put through their paces by the senior staff. "All right ladies by the time this class is over with you will understand almost every aspect of the SDF1 perfectly. You are going to be a part of the nerve center of the SDF1. It will be your job to relay the information gathered from all over the ship to the captain. You will be the eyes and ears of the SDF1. The captain will be counting on the information you give him in order to make the proper decisions. That is why it is important you learn how to use the consoles on the bridge of the SDF1." Commander Hayes said.
Rei, Mina, and Michelle were receiving the usual first day speech from Lisa and Claudia. Lisa was telling them what they would be learning while Claudia handed out manuals and spec books to the students in the class. The class was going to learn how to use the computer system that ran the SDF1. When they were finished the girls would be able to run the bridge of the SDF1.
"Next to the pilots and doctors you have one of the toughest jobs on the entire SDF1. It isn't going to be easy but I have no doubt you girls can handle the position." Claudia added, "When this class is over you will be able to work together as a team. Just remember we'll be with you every step of the way"
"Yes ma'am!" The girls told Claudia.
******
A few months had gone by and Serena's class was spending the day on the simulators. It would be the first time any of them would give the Veritech a try. The simulator would help them learn what to do in certain situations. The simulator gave them the feel of the actual Veritech in all three modes.
When the class walked into the simulator room they saw that the simulator was in use. The pilot in the simulator was one of the best they had ever seen. Watching the screen they could tell this particular pilot was running the toughest scenario they had ever seen. In this particular scenario the pilot was using all three modes of the Veritech fighter and engaging the enemy.
"What's that sir?" Serena asked the captain.
"That ladies and gentleman is our full battle simulation. You'll get the chance to run through it once you have had some time in the actual Veritech. What we are going to do today is give you a feel for the controls in the cockpit of the Veritech. We'll run the simple training simulation today. I see our pilot has completed his simulation." The captain said.
The pilot exited the simulator. The moment he turned to face the group they saw who it was. Lt. Commander Fokker had pulled some impressive numbers on the battle scenario. Everyone was thoroughly impressed with what they saw. Roy joined the group in the control room and saw the results of the simulation on the screen in front of him.
"I did pretty good in there." Roy commented.
"Good, you were unbelievable Lt. Commander." The technician told him.
"Okay, now that we're through boosting Fokker's oversized ego let's get this underway." The Captain said to everyone in the room.
"Right sir." Roy replied, "All right boys and girls I'd like to welcome you to the Veritech simulator. This simulator will allow you to get a feel for the Veritech in each of the three modes. Today to get you acclimated to the controls we will work strictly in Fighter mode. Okay Ten'ou you're up first."
Amara strapped the helmet on and entered the simulator. Being an experienced pilot Amara thought the simulation would be a walk in the park. Everyone was amazed at how well Amara was doing in the simulation. The simulation picked was a simple fly by and a landing. Five minutes later Amara emerged from the simulator to get her evaluation.
"Well done Corporal Ten'ou. Your past experience certainly shows. Okay Shields you're up next." Roy said to Amara and Darien.
Darien got into the simulator, took a deep breath, and signaled he was ready to begin. Serena could see that even though he was nowhere near Amara's league Darien was doing pretty well for his first time. By the time his five minutes were up Darien returned to the control room. Everyone could tell he was going to be one of the better pilots in the class.
"Good job Shields. You did quite well for a beginner." Roy said when he saw Darien's results, "Okay next up will be Corporal Kino."
Upon hearing it was her turn in the simulator Lita lost all the color in her face and began to sweat. For the first time since they had met Serena saw Lita actually show signs of fear. Serena became concerned for her long time friend of five years. The captain also saw Lita's condition and decided the standard pep talk was in order.
"You still afraid to go in there?" he asked getting a nod from Lita, "I know this is hard for you but once you get this over with you'll be just fine. In fact, once the fighter plane pulls you in you never go back. The RAF got me back in '83 and I haven't left since. Just go in there and take a deep breath and let your instincts guide you. Don't even think about where you are."
Lita began to head for the simulator when she felt a hand on her shoulder. Turning back she saw Serena with a 'you can do it' look on her face.
"Don't worry Lita we'll be right here to give you all the support you need." Serena told her.
Lita continued her way to the simulator ready to do her darndest to get over her fears. Taking a deep breath Lita entered the simulator and waited for the signal to begin. Shaking all over Lita kept reminding herself mentally to let her instincts take over and not think about where she is.
Inside the control room the captain began to wonder about Lita. He had seen the way her face had lost all its color and she began to sweat. For someone who wanted to learn how to fly Lita certainly seemed to be deathly afraid of planes. He knew if she didn't get over this fear real soon she wouldn't be able to finish the program and earn her wings.
"Tell me Corporal Tuskino why is Corporal Kino afraid to go near a plane?" Captain Belmont asked Serena.
"Lita's parents were both killed in a really nasty plane crash when she was younger leaving her all alone." Serena explained to the Captain.
In no time Lita's time in the simulator was up and for someone who was afraid to be in an airport she produced some pretty impressive numbers. Everyone was quite impressed with Lita for passing the first of many personal hurdles in her life.
Serena's time in the simulator left everyone in absolute silence. Lita, Darien, and Amara knew Serena would do all right but they had no idea she would surpass Amara. In the back of his mind Darien began to wonder if the princess was beginning to emerge. Lita just let out a whistle and Amara stood there with her mouth wide open. The Captain and the Lt. Commander stood in front of the screen awestruck at what they saw only once in a great while did a pilot of Serena's caliber emerge.
******
As Rei, Mina, and Michelle made their way from the training facility over to the airfield. They had been planned to meet Serena and the others after their class was over with. Like Serena, Darien, Lita, and Amara they had spent the day in a simulated environment. Their instructors wanted to get them use to the systems on board the SDF1. With repairs still under way on board the SDF1, a trip to the actual bridge was out of the question for the time being.
Rei felt something behind them and turned around to find Claudia Grant walking not too far behind the girls. It looked as though she was also headed towards the airfield. Rei wondered why Claudia was going to the airfield. She wondered if it had anything to do with the person named Roy Claudia and Lisa were always talking about before class.
The girls stopped at the gate to the airfield and began chatting amongst themselves. Michele took a quick glance upward and noticed three shadows on top of a nearby building. Turning her focus back on her friends she let out a soft sigh and shook her head. Claudia stopped next to the girls and took a quick look at her watch Roy would be finished with the training session very soon.
"So what are you three doing here?" Claudia asked them still keeping her eyes on the airfield.
"We're waiting for some friends. We hope they did alright in their simulator test today." Mina told her.
"Yeah but I know who Michelle is waiting for." Rei said with a corny smile.
"Oh and who would that be?" Claudia inquired.
"My love Amara." Michelle replied looking from the airfield to Rei for a second then up to the roof and back again.
"Amara that's a nice name. If you don't mind me asking what's so interesting about the roof over there?" Claudia said to Michelle.
"Oh nothing important, but somebody is in trouble if I catch them again tonight." Michelle answered.
Claudia wondered what was meant by that comment but quickly put it out of her mind when she saw Roy headed in her direction with a big smile upon his face.
"Well, well, well if it isn't the woman of my dreams," Roy said.
"Cut it out Fokker." Claudia said through a laugh.
"And who are these three lovely ladies?" Roy inquired.
"Roy I'd like you to meet Corporal Hino, Aino, and Kaiou better known as Rei, Mina, and Michelle. Girls this Lt. Commander Roy Fokker my boyfriend." Claudia said.
"Michelle." A voice called out.
"Amara!" Michelle said pulling her lover into a tender embrace.
"Ah another 'flyboy' falls in love." Roy commented as he gave Claudia a peck on the cheek.
"Lieutenant Grant I'd like you to meet Amara the love of my life. Amara this is Lieutenant Grant." Michelle said introducing them to each other.
Amara grasped Claudia's hand and gave it a good firm shake. Claudia was quite amazed when she felt a strong female hand. She was certain from the first impression she received that Amara was a man and not a woman.
A few minutes later Serena, Darien, and Lita came walking out of the airbase. Serena and Darien were obviously making kissy faces at each other while Lita was mumbling something to herself about the cockpit not being real. Rei and the others smiled when they saw the three friends come their way.
"So Roy how'd it go today?" Claudia asked.
"I have to admit this group of rag tag fighter pilot wannabes actually did pretty good today." Roy answered still a bit shocked at what he witnessed earlier that day.
"Really?" Claudia inquired.
"Believe it or not lieutenant the lieutenant commander speaks the truth. We were all quite surprised by what we saw today." Amara said.
"What happened?" Michelle wanted to know.
"Corporal Tuskino did better than any other student in the entire class and Corporal Kino actually flew the simulator despite her obvious fears about planes." Roy told them.
"Serena and Lita?" the three bridge trainees said in unison.
"Yep they sure did. That's my Meatball Head." Darien said quite proud of his girl and her friends.
The small group assembled in front of the airfield decided to grab a bite to eat. Along the way Michelle told Amara what she saw on the roof. Amara got an angry look on her face and uttered the same words Michelle said earlier. Mina and Serena then vowed there would be fur flying that evening.
******
The months seemed to fly by quickly. Amy was deeply engrossed in her medical training and loved every minute of it. Rei, Mina, and Michelle continued on with their classes. Serena continued to amaze Roy and the captain and was doing quite well with her flight training. Serena's Father was also extremely proud since the RDF kept him informed since she was to busy studying for her tests to write. Darien and Amara also impressed Roy and the captain with their performance during flight training. Lita went from someone who was deathly afraid of airplanes to someone who didn't mind being in one. Both Roy and Captain Belmont took it upon themselves to see that everyone in the group received their wings. Roy had volunteered to be Lita's flight instructor personally seeing to it that she got over her fear.
Roy and Claudia's relationship moved to the next level. They went from casual dating to an exclusive relationship despite Roy's roving eyes. To all his friends Roy was considered a window shopper; he would glance and stare but never commit to buy. Roy's past was considered to be one of the most interesting ones on the base. During his younger days Roy spent time barnstorming the countryside traveling from one county fair to another with a flying circus specializing in experimental aircraft. It was there that Roy fell in love with flying and earned a reputation for winning races. In the air show Roy had made a lot of friends.
Claudia had met Roy during the UN war when they were both in training. They were young and impressionable and had gone out a few times. When Roy was called to active duty their relationship was put on hold. It wasn't until Claudia was given the opportunity to work on the bridge of the SDF1 that she saw Roy again. Once the two lovebirds were reunited they began to spend all their free time together.
******
To graduate from flight school and receive their wings Serena and her class had a series of tests they had to pass. The first of these was solo flight time in the Veritech fighter. Everyone had to spend a minimum of forty hours flying by themselves. They also had to spend time using the fighter in the Guardian and Batteloid modes. Once they met their solo flight requirement the trainees then began learning how to land on an aircraft carrier. When they had six successful landings the trainees would then be ready for their final test.
The final test any naval pilot who wanted to work on an aircraft carrier would be to do twenty successful landings in two days. Pilots were usually given three chances to complete this test. If they were unable to complete the test in the allotted number of chances they would not receive their wings and the navy would no longer require their services. Roy and Captain Belmont were not about to let that happen.
The site of the final test would be the aircraft carrier Prometheus. The Prometheus along with its sister ship the Dadelous were commissioned to the Macross Naval Facility which was part of the RDF base on Macross island. The Prometheus would travel ten miles off shore and the pilots would leave the airbase and land on the deck of the ship. They would then have to take off and land on the ship a total of ten times each day. If they made one mistake then the test would be over and they would have to wait for their next chance to land the ship.
Serena, Darien, Lita, and Amara had a perfect weekend in which to complete their test. The two days Captain Belmont had chosen for the test were some of the best the island weather had to offer. The sky was blue with not a cloud present and the air was warm without being too stifling. The sea was calm and gentle with very few waves. This was the ideal time to perform the final test in order to receive pilot's wings and commissioning into the RDF. And just as Captain Belmont and Lieutenant Commander Fokker had vowed at the beginning of training everyone passed and would receive their wings.
******
It had been two years since Serena and the Sailors joined the RDF. Serena, Darien, Lita, and Amara had passed their training and were about to receive their wings. Amy was going to enter into her third year of medical training. Here she would be able to work hands on with actual patients. Rei, Mina, and Michelle had completed their training as well and received their commissioning papers assigning them to the bridge of the SDF1.
Lisa Hayes, Claudia Grant, and Roy Fokker were given new duties as well. Lisa, who came from a military family, was promoted to first officer of the SDF1. Claudia was named tactical officer for the SDF1. And Roy was named commander of the Skull Squadron. Roy and Claudia's relationship continued to blossom and grow. One month before the graduation ceremonies were to take place Roy asked Claudia to marry him. Claudia didn't waste any time telling the pilot yes. The next time they were back on Earth the pair would plan to get married.
Graduation day at the Macross Base was a big deal. This was the first class of recruits to pass the rigorous RDF flight training. The young crew of rag tag pilots assembled at the airbase would be the backbone of the RDF. They were given the task of using the advanced robotechnology the military scientists had created. No one was prouder of the class than Captain Belmont.
The sky over Macross City was perfect that day as the entire base came to witness the commissioning of a new batch of Veritech pilots. There was not a single cloud in the sky and the sun shone bright. The air had a slight breeze to it coming off the bay. Captain Belmont stood at the podium and began to address the assembled crowd.
"Ladies and gentleman it gives me great pleasure and pride to stand here before you as I pass out wings to all the fine graduates here today. They have taken and passed the great challenge of becoming Veritech pilots. It will be their job to protect our world from any alien threat that may come our way. And if conflict and trouble should ever arise here on Earth it will be their job to help end that conflict. So without further ado I shall begin calling the names of our newest Veritech pilots to come and receive their wings. I'd appreciate it if you would hold your applause until the last name has been called."
One by one the captain called the names of the latest batch of fighter pilots and one by one the graduates made their way to the stage. When the ceremony was over with Serena, Darien, Lita, and Amara found out that they were going to be in the same squad together. All four of them were assigned to become members of the Skull Squadron under Roy's leadership.
A few minutes after three of the inner scouts were shocked to see their family members there to support them in this their finest hour. "Mom, dad you're here!" Mina called out in a fit of joy.
"Mina Aino you wound us! Why wouldn't we be here? You did just graduate from the RDF military academy!" her father James Aino told her.
"Your father's right dear we're very proud of you! I just want you to know we love you very much and this graduation just serves to prove the reason of why we care so much. You continue to show us just how determined you are to stay with a task you set for your self." Her mother Nancy Aino said.
"Oh mom, dad! I love you guys so much!" Mina told her parents as she hugged them tight.
Off to the side Amy was herself being congratulated for a job well done by her mother. "Oh Amy you finally made it! You're a doctor just like me!" Kathy Mizuno told her daughter as she hugged her.
"Thanks mom! I couldn't have done it without the constant support of my family and friends!" Amy told her.
"Yes I see even your friend Serena has changed a lot since your junior high school days!" Kathy said looking towards Serena who was looking for her own family, However, while Kathy was looking towards Serena she didn't see a tall reddish blonde haired gentleman walk up to Amy.
"Amy how's my favorite genius after all that hard work?" the man asked.
"Zack you made it! Hey did the others make it too?" Amy asked.
"Yeah they sure did! Nathan is over with Lita as we speak checking to make sure she's been eating well! Justin's over by Rei and her Grandfather Telling her how much he'll miss her and her grandfather is still trying to tell her she's to young to date! Kevin is over by Mina right now introducing himself to her parents. I still wonder how they're going to take her relationship?" Zack told Amy while shaking his head.
"Mom I'd like you to meet some one very special to me!" Amy said getting her mothers attention.
"Why Amy do my eye deceive me or has my little girl gone and gotten herself a man?" Kathy asked Amy.
"Yes mom I did! Mom this is Zack Kurata. Zack this is my mother Dr. Kathy Mizuno!" Amy said making introductions.
"Well Amy I hope this one treats you better then the last one! Honestly what ever the Greg boy was thinking when he ran off with another girl and leave you crying for days on in is beyond me!" Kathy told her daughter.
"Don't worry about a thing with me ma'am! I am one person that knows how to treat a woman with respect! I won't leave your daughter like her last boyfriend did!" Zack said then noticing the freshly graduated students heading towards the stage told Amy, "Amy I think you might need to go over to the stage right now! I'll stay here and keep your mom company!" Zack said as Amy headed off after hugging her mom and kissing Zack on the check.
As Serena was looking around an annoying voice sounded behind her. "Hey Meatball head! Well bet you're happy now that you passed your big test so now what are you going to do quit?"
"Sammy I did not join to just to quit after graduation!" Serena told her little brother.
"Sammy leave your sister alone or I can send you into the RDF involuntary!" Another voice said from behind Sammy.
"Dad! Oh yeah! Captain Tuskino sir!" Serena said standing at attention.
"At ease solder! How's my daughter doing huh Serena?" Kenji asked.
"Fine dad just really glad the training part is over. Hey where's mom you guys going to watch the Air show?" Serena asked.
"Serena honey you think I'd miss my babies graduation?" Irene asked coming up next to her husband.
"Oh mom how have you guys been? I've missed you all even the little spore!" Serena said looking towards her brother.
"Hey your military now you have to be nice to civilians!" Sammy said with a big grin on his face.
"Um actually Sammy that doesn't protean to family!" Kenji informed his son.
Just then Darien walked up to Serena and her family. "Serena the Lt. Commander wants all of us by the stage at attention!" Darien said before saying hi and saluting Serena's father. With that Serena walked back to the stage where the other graduates stood.
The members of the Sailor Team had passed their first great test but their greatest test and their greatest adventure was about to begin.
TBC
More to come! Please Read and Review!
Robotech Warriors Book 1 By thunderbird with Sections From Chibi Halo
In the year 1999 an alien spacecraft entered Earth's atmosphere, which crash-landed on an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Governments all around the world sent scientist and military officials to study the large object. The military commanders and scientist upon entering the ship found the interior to be large this meant that the aliens were large themselves. While this was going on halfway around the globe the Middle East was rocked by conflict which soon became a war which was all centered around Kuwait. Sometime later the war ended and the world once again turned its attention back to the alien craft. One year later the ASS1 as it was referred to, was slowly rebuilt. The scientist along with the direction of the military leaders formed the group known as OTECH. Their job was to study and build weapons using both human and alien technology, which they would use to protect Earth from hostile alien forces. A few months later the entire world saw the need for peace so they formed one government. They called this government, The United Earth Government. Two years later while the rebuilding of the ship was taking place another ordeal occurred. A dispute involving Iraq and their not wanting to remain in the union broke out. What happened next can only be described as WWIII. In the year 2003, with the help of the country of The USA, Iraq finally conceited and joined the Union government. Out of this mayhem the global military decided to form The Robotech Defense Force or the RDF for short. This new branch of the military was to police and patrol the globe, however, if an alien force attacked the Earth the RDF would step in and defend us with their lives. Another part of the RDF military force was research and development. Headed by one Kenji Tuskino who was once a captain in the Japanese army he is now one of the RDF's most decorated military officers. His job was to over see the completion of plans then build the new Veritech fighter plane, which would be the first line of defense against all Earth's enemies. The ASS1 now renamed the Super Dimensional Space Fortress 1 or SDF1 was to be the flagship of the RDF fleet. After eight years of planning and building and rebuilding the RDF had it's fleet and flagship now all it needed was a strong force to pilot that fleet and to do that the RDF needed to recruit strong new people to fight for our world.
*****
Chapter 1: Veritech 101
*****
In the year 2007 years after the SDF1 crashed the RDF came to Tokyo, Japan looking for strong up and coming solders that want a job in the military. For the students at Juuban High who were in their last year this meant the way out of their neighborhood. For one girl this would mean the first day of the rest of her life. Serena Tuskino who had just turned 19 years old and just graduated from school was walking down the road when she came across an office building with a tall man standing in a new type of uniform standing in front of it.
"Excuse me sir but what branch of the military are you from?" Serena asked him.
"Ah miss I work for the RDF and we are looking for new solders to take up arms and join our ranks!" he told her.
"The RDF! My father's a captain in the RDF! Tell me when is the recruiting to occur?" she asked.
"Tomorrow morning at 9:00 a.m. What is your last name maybe I know your father!" He asked.
"Tuskino! I am glad to meet you I'll be glad to join up! I've heard they've been building new types of planes! I'd really like to fly one!" Serena said.
"Ah yes captain Tuskino well he is well known in the RDF and yes we did create a new plane called the Veritech fighter. Well then come on by tomorrow then and we'll set you up ma'am!" he told her.
"Thanks I will! Good bye sir!" Serena said walking off.
In the distance a shadow was watching the whole scene take place. After watching Serena walk off the person in the shadow walked up to the military man. "Um excuse me sir but might I ask what that girl was asking you?" the person asked.
"Oh why yes she wanted to know what branch of the military I was from and if I knew her father. I told her I belonged to the RDF and that her father was the man behind our new type of plane. She's going to come back here in the morning to sign up to be a pilot!" he told the person.
"What her father is in the military?" the person asked.
"Yes ma'am he is a captain! Now if you don't mind I have to tell those who wish to join up the time to arrive tomorrow." He said.
"Oh yes sorry thanks for the info! Oh before I go what time is the recruiting going to start?" the person asked.
"Tomorrow at 9:00 a.m." he told the person. With that the person ran off to find her friends.
******
Later that afternoon at the home of Serena's family. She had just arrived and was very exited about the prospect of someday in the near future flying a plane and protecting the world from giant aliens.
"Serena honey is that you?" her mother called from the kitchen.
"Yes ma'am it's me! Hey mom I need to speak to you about something!" Serena called out.
Just then Sammy runs out of the living room totally exited about something too. "Man mom you have got to see this their unveiling those new Veritech fighters that dad helped build!" he said.
"Now Sammy calm down and let's go see these new planes before you have a heart attack!" their mother said laughing.
As they entered the living room both Serena and Sammy sat on the floor as Irene sat on the couch. As they saw on the TV. set a large plane got a large tarp pulled off from the top of it.
"My word that is a big plane!" Serena said whistling.
"What are you whistling at meatball head?" Sammy asked laughing.
"I'm whistling cause I can just imagine sitting behind on of those planes and flying it!" she said grinning at him.
"Yeah right you behind that!" He laughed out.
"Sammy that is enough! Now Serena what is it you wanted to tell me?" Irene asked.
"I went passed a recruiting station today for the RDF and I decided to join up in Aviation thank you very much!" she said the last part looking at her little brother.
"What did I hear my little girl say she wants to join up with the RDF as a fighter pilot?" Kenji Tuskino asked coming through the door.
"DAD! When did you get in?" Serena asked exited to see him.
"Oh just a few minutes ago! So is it true?" he asked smiling down at her.
"Yes dad! Is that okay with you guys?" she asked her parents.
"No come on why? She can't even walk right why let her join the military?" Sammy asked.
"Sammy Tuskino that's it go to your room! I've already told you to stop today!" Irene scolded him.
"MAN!" Sammy said storming off.
"Well?" Serena pleaded.
"Yes Serena you may!" he parents both said smiling at her. After they said that Serena ran upstairs to go to bed so she could be up bright and early tomorrow.
"Serena why the hurry?" her parents asked.
"I need to be up at eight o' clock in order to be at the recruiting station by nine! I'm going to grow up for a change night mom, night dad, good night to you too Sammy!" Serena said before running to her room and shutting the door.
"Ha Serena grow up I doubt it!" Sammy said laughing sitting on the top step of the stairs.
"Sammy that is quite enough young man! Your sister is actually trying to show she can grow up by making a very grown up decision. I wonder what you'll do when it comes time to decide what it is you want to do after high school? Because right now you joking about Serena wanting to join the military is very childish!" Kenji glared at his young son.
"Yes Sammy for once your sister isn't crying or Klutzing out. I am very proud of her decision to do something positive with her life. It makes me wonder what her friends would think if they knew what she wanted to do with her life? As for you go to your room it is still early for bed yes but you will think about what you were just told do you understand?" Irene scolded her son.
"Darn it! Yes ma'am!" Sammy said running off to his room and closing the door behind him.
"I hope Serena will be okay Kenji!" Irene said.
"Irene we have some of the best flight trainers out there she'll be just fine and just wait and see she'll probably be one of their best damn pilots there too!" He said with a smile on his face as he held his wife in his arms while looking towards the top of the stairs where his daughter now slept.
Meanwhile up stairs Serena was laying in her bed thinking about tomorrow morning while allowing sleep to come over her when her cat came through the window.
"Serena in bed already?" Luna asked.
"Luna answer something for me please!" Serena told her.
"If I can!" Luna said with a look that said 'What is it this time?'
"Okay since the Negaverse is gone are we needed here in Tokyo at this point in time?" Serena asked.
"Well I guess not! Serena why are you asking me that?" Luna asked worried.
"Luna I know some day I'll rule the Earth along side Darien, however, for now I need to do something that will help me to become responsible some more!" Serena said whole-heartedly.
"Serena what are you up to?" Luna asked.
"Luna I plan on joining the military!" Serena said closing her eyes again.
"Wow Serena you've really thought this out haven't you? What are you going to do?" Luna asked looking very proud of her charge.
"Aviation! I want to be a pilot in the RDF military force." Serena said finally falling into a deep sleep.
"Good night Serena and don't fret I shall always keep a close watch over you princess!" Luna said letting herself fall asleep.
******
Elsewhere at the Cherry Hill Temple the Sailor Scouts save Serena were having a meeting to discuss what one of them had seen. "Okay Rei so spill what did you want to tell us?" Lita asked.
"Yes and why isn't Serena here yet?" Amara asked looking around for her.
"Okay first off I didn't call Serena to this meeting because this meeting concerns her! Second she will be leaving us soon!" Rei said looking towards Darien while she said the second part.
"What why would she want to leave?" Darien said looking towards the floor.
"Darien relax! You'd be very proud of the reason she is leaving! Heck even I am! I think I may go to, however, I don't know what I'd do when I got where she's going!" Rei said laughing.
"Okay girl spill and what the heck is so funny?" Mina asked.
"Okay did any of you know Serena's father is in the military?" Rei asked.
"Yeah I did! Why?" Amy asked looking up from her book.
"Well it turns out our little Serena's fathers branch of the military is here in Tokyo looking for new recruits! Guess where Serena's going tomorrow morning all by her self?" Rei asked with a smile.
"You're kidding!" Amy asked shocked dropping her book to the floor.
"What?" Lita asked staring from both Amy to Rei.
"Rei are you sure?" Darien asked getting up.
"Yep sure am! Serena is going to join the RDF tomorrow morning!" Rei said.
"Wait don't they have those cool planes?" Amara asked.
"And what do you suppose she wants to do huh?" Rei asked.
"She wants to fly?" Michelle asked.
"Sure does! So what are we going to do?" Rei asked.
"Well I don't know about you but this is a good experience I'm joining so I can fly!" Amara said getting up to leave.
"Yeah but I don't want to fly Amara!" Michelle said getting up to join her.
"You guys hold on! First you can do what ever! Second if we do this be there at nine in the morning okay?" Rei asked.
"Sure!" the other said in unison.
"Rei so what could we do?" Mina asked.
"Let's find out tomorrow okay?" Rei asked following her friends out the door.
"Sure!" She said running off.
"Thanks Rei for telling me!" Darien said heading out the door.
"Your welcome Darien! So what are you going to do?" she asked.
"Oh Rei do you really have to ask?" He asked with a grin.
"Oh you'll do anything to be near her huh?" Rei asked with a smile.
"Sure would! Night Rei see you in the morning don't be late cause for once I don't think Serena will!" He said with a wave over his shoulder.
"Night! Well guess Darien's right better get some sleep I have a long day ahead of me." Rei said as she too headed off towards her own bed.
******
The next morning as Serena stood before the recruiting station she double- checked to make sure she looked presentable. "So Luna do I look okay?" Serena asked pushing down her skirt.
"Serena are you nervous because you look just fine!" Luna asked looking up at her charge.
"I guess a little!" Serena said, "Well this is it Luna come on let's start the first day of my new life!" Serena said walking up and into the building followed behind by her guardian.
Inside Serena and Luna looked around the room. On one side there were tables and chairs set up so the recruiters could interview the hopeful candidates. On another was an area where people sat to allow them to fill out what looked like packets or something else they weren't sure but they would find out soon. Upon catching her breath Serena knew it was time so taking one more breath she stepped forward to one of the large tables where a tall looking solder was seated and sat down.
"Good morning young lady may I have your name please?" he asked in a kind voice as to not scare her off.
"Yes sir! My name is Serena Tuskino!" Serena said with a relaxing breath.
"That's right just relax I'm not here to scare you Serena!" he told her.
"Now my name is Lieutenant Hefner! Now please tell me the reason for you wanting to join us here in the RDF?" He asked Serena.
"I want to learn to be part of a team and to grow up more! I think the RDF can help me do this! I already know what a team player means, however, I need to see if I can learn more in a new environment. That and kick alien butt!" Serena said with a smile.
"I see well we can sure help with that! I can also tell you we could use you here too!" he said.
"Now let's see here do you know what will be expected of you if we take you?" He asked.
"Yes sir and I'm willing to do what every I'm ordered to do sir!" Serena told him.
"Very good attitude Miss Tuskino! We could use more like you here most definitely! Okay now before we let you in you must pass the standard test! Do you think you're ready?" he asked.
"Yes sir!" she said.
"Good! Now what new skill or placement are you looking for?" Lt. Hefner asked her.
"Aviation sir! I want to fly a plane!" Serena informed him.
"Do you even know how to fly one?"
"No sir but I am willing to learn!" she said whole-heartedly.
"Very good that's exactly what we want to hear, people willing to try new things. Now like I said before you will need to pass a test and this is it! Take this and go sit over in one of those seats and fill this out alright and when your finished just bring it back to me please!" he said handing her the test.
After Serena took the test she looked it over as Luna rubbed up against her leg letting her know she would do just fine. Lt. Hefner saw Serena look down towards her legs and looked under the table to see Luna by her legs. "Um excuse me miss Tuskino did you know your cat is not really suppose to be in here and why is there a crescent moon on her head?" he asked trying to be polite.
"Oh sorry! I didn't know she is just trying to play and follows me everywhere. Also no I don't she's always had that there ever since I've had her." Serena covered.
"Oh well just be sure to take her with you when you leave alright?" He said.
After Serena got up to go sit where she was told to go seven more people came up to Lt. Hefner. The first one after Serena said she wanted to be a doctor. The second one wasn't certain what she wanted to do but she wanted to help defend the world. The third one was pretty much like the second one but like Serena she was an odd lot. She too had a cat with her only this one was white and like Serena's cat he had a crescent moon on his head as well. Lt. Hefner thought this was quite odd. The next individual Hefner saw was confused out of her mind. She wanted to be a pilot yet she didn't want to get within ten feet of an airplane. The good Lieutenant told her they would be able to help her get over her fear. The fifth and sixth ones came in together. One wanted to be a pilot and the other wanted to work on the bridge. They both hopped they would be assigned to the same detail. The last one was the only male Hefner saw all morning. He was older than the others were and he too wanted to be a pilot. Hefner thought his group of recruits all needed to be sent to Macross City for the intense course. He'd personally see to that.
******
The next day at the Tuskino house there came a knock at the door. Kenji answered the door.
"May I help you?" he asked.
"Sir is there a Miss Serena Tuskino living here?" the postman asked.
"Yes she is my daughter can I ask what this is for?" Kenji asked the man.
"Yes sir! Um Last night we received orders to deliver this letter to your daughter as they told us she was one of the first one's to be accepted into the RDF military and I'm to give her, her orders." The postman told Kenji.
"Oh thank you so much I'm sure she'll be thrilled!" Kenji told him as he took the letter from the postman and shut the door.
"Kenji who was that?" Irene asked coming into the living room from the kitchen.
"Well honey our baby is now a member of the RDF!" He said smiling at her.
"What oh that's just wonder full! Serena please come down here for a moment!" Irene called up the stairs.
"Yes ma'am!" Serena said coming down the stairs followed shortly by Sammy.
"What is it mom, dad?" Serena asked.
"Yeah is she in trouble?" Sammy asked smiling.
"No Sammy your sister isn't in trouble. Serena this is for you!" Kenji said handing her the envelope.
As Serena took the letter she carefully read the front of it, 'From the office of the RDF'
"Oh wow it's already here?" she said looking at her father who just smiled at her.
"What? What's here?" Sammy asked confused.
"Serena why don't you open up the letter and read it out loud for your brother to hear this okay?" her mother said with a grin.
"Okay!" Serena said as she opened up the letter and read the following:
Miss Serena Usagi Tuskino
I have gone over your test scores and found you to be an exceptional young woman. We here at the RDF would love for you to join us in our mission to protect this planet of ours. Your willingness to learn new skills and to want to fly one of our new fighter planes the Veritech is very pleasing to us so on behalf of all of the high command here in Capitol City! May I welcome you to the military Corporal Tuskino. Also please be ready to ship out tomorrow a military transport will be leaving from the airport of Tokyo Japan tomorrow afternoon headed for California, USA where you will board a boat bound for Macross island. See you along with all the other recruits in one week.
Signed,
Admiral Hayes
"That is just so great I'm in yes!" Serena said.
"Oh man now I can't pick on you no more!" Sammy said.
"That's right son you can't! Now Serena go upstairs and pack!" Irene said to her daughter.
"Serena just pack pants and shirts! You'll be able to buy new dresses once you start getting paid!" Kenji told his oldest child.
"She gets paid too?" Sammy said looking dumbstruck.
"Well how do you think you eat our looks?" Irene asked.
"Dad, mom I think I'll get a hair cut too! I mean if I'm right my hair as it is now won't fit under a helmet right?" Serena asked holding one of her ponytails.
"Oh my baby's growing up!" Irene cried.
"That is a very grown up decision Serena yes you'll probably want to cut it! But as to how short I'm not sure?" Kenji said.
"Oh I'm going to cut it up to my shoulders! Is that alright?" Serena asked her parents.
"Yes Serena that's just fine. Tell you what you go cut your hair and we'll pack up the stuff you'll need okay?" Irene asked.
"Sure mom thanks see ya soon!" Serena said walking out the door to the first step of her life.
******
Elsewhere that afternoon at the Cheery Hill Temple the others had already received their acceptance letters and were talking about the details about the days to follow. Luna came up to the temple and saw the others talking. "Hello scouts how are you all doing today?" Luna asked looking a little sad.
"We're fine! Hey Luna why the long face?" Rei asked.
"Well Serena and I won't be seeing you for a long time so I'm here to give you all a message!" she told them.
"Oh and what is that Luna?" Amy asked.
"Serena says that this is something she wants and needs to do and she loves you all! Darien she told me to tell you that she isn't breaking up with you she just needs this time to grow. She's just sorry it is away from you!" Luna told him with a frown if you could see it.
"I see well I guess if Serena feels she needs a challenge then I say go for it! I'll see her again someday!" Darien said hiding a smile.
"Yeah we all agree she'll be just fine with out us right? I mean she'll have Luna there so what could go wrong right?" Rei stifled a laugh.
"Well okay see you all around someday bye!" Luna said heading back home.
"Okay guys let's go pack and get ready to leave on the transport tomorrow. Remember let's try and surprise Serena tomorrow on the plane!" Rei told the others. After they all agreed they all left for their own homes to pack.
******
The next day Serena with short hair and sunglasses due to the extreme sun light in her eyes didn't look like her old self one bit. She had an old duffel bag her dad gave her with all the clothes she would need while at training camp. Luna was in a make shift cat carrier that looked like a regular bag.
Darien and the others arrived but because of Serena's new look didn't know she was there already. Rei thought that she was back to her old self again and fumed because of it. In a few moments the call was made and all the new recruits from Japan boarded the transport which would take them to California where they'd then take the boat the rest of the way to Macross Island. Serena grabbed a seat up front and watched as the plane slowly took off as she wished her friends and family well. Unknown to her or them her friends were going with her.
******
On the boat a week later Serena was standing on the deck looking out at the scene in front of her. In the distance she could see the SDF1 in all it glory sitting right next to Macross City which was dwarfed by the size of the ship. Serena heard all about this island from her father. He told her the city is comprised of all the people who rebuilt, learned or developed new weapons thanks to the SDF1. He also said that immigrants also moved to this island just to see the massive ship. There were different races of all kinds here. Everywhere many styles of the French, German, British, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Polynesian, Canadian, and American people were noticeable. The buildings of Macross City were big but even the tallest skyscraper was smaller than the SDF1. It was just amazing to Serena how big a ship it was. As the boat neared the dock Serena got ready to enter the transport center.
The only way into Macross was through the transport center. Everyone who came onto the island received a designation card that allowed them access to certain areas. As Serena stepped out onto the main landing she looked around at the building took another deep breath and walked into the building. After she entered her friends still unaware that she was there walked into the building too. As Serena looked around she saw before her signs that told people where to go. Serena guessed the military didn't want secrets to get out incase there were spies around. One sign pointed people to a desk that would take them to Macross City while another sign pointed to a desk that would take people to the maintenance hanger of the base. While yet another one pointed the military and new recruits to the military base itself. Each sign also went on to say which card you needed to go to that part of the area on the outside. Serena looked down at her card to see which sign it allowed her to go with making sure it was the military sign she followed it to where a bus was waiting for her and other new recruits to take them to the base. As always Darien and the others followed as well out to the bus oblivious to her being there.
Meanwhile Serena had entered the main office building to receive her housing assignment. With any luck Luna wouldn't be found out any time soon. And with even more luck Luna would be allowed to stay. After receiving her housing assignment and meeting her bunkmates Serena went to the welcoming session with Admiral Hayes one of the big wigs from RDF command.
Admiral Hayes walked up to the podium on the stage. Seated behind him were several high-ranking officials in the RDF command including the newly named captain of the SDF1 Henry Gloval. The admiral cleared his throat and began his speech.
"Good morning ladies and gentlemen and welcome to the first day of the rest of your lives. I am Admiral Hayes one of the high-ranking officers here at Macross at the moment and these fine men and women behind me are the other commanding staff here on the island. Well now that pleasantries are out of the way let's get started shall we? Now than what you see around you is the home you'll be staying at while you under go training in whatever field you go into. Behind me is the RDF's pride and joy the SDF1. Now some of you maybe not all will be able to serve aboard her, we'll just have to wait and see won't we? Okay now its time for you to learn what you lives will be like for awhile. For the next eight weeks you will be going through what we in the business like to call basic training. Here you'll learn military tactics and teamwork as well as discipline. From there, once the first eight weeks are over with, you'll enter into more specialized training. And depending on your field of choice you'll learn a new skill that you'll be able to take with you into the real world. You'll be split into two classes for your basic training command and flight. In each class you'll learn specific techniques suited to your chosen field. Each class will be broken into companies with a drill sergeant who will instruct you on everything that you need to know. In the envelopes you received when you checked in are your class and company assignments. When you are dismissed you are to go your company to begin your training. Good luck everyone. Dismissed."
Upon leaving the staging area for the welcoming session Serena opened her envelope and read her assignment flight class, alpha company. That allowed her to access to the airfield. Making her way to the airfield she found the meeting area for alpha company. Looking around the area Serena saw that group was comprised of both men and women. Everyone was wearing the same uniform white shirt and blue pants. To the RDF it didn't matter if you were a man or a woman as long as you could operate the equipment you were in. Well I guess it's time to start making friends in this joint, she thought. For the first time since she left Tokyo, Japan Serena noticed one of her closest friends or boyfriend to be more exact standing on the tarmac waiting for their drill Sergeant. Deciding to have a little fun Serena walked up to Darien and said, "Well hello handsome!"
Without turning around he answered, "What oh um hi!" then he turns and since Serena is still wearing her sunglasses at first he doesn't recognize her. "My name is Darien shields. What's yours?" he asked.
"Um Darien are you that clueless? I'm your girlfriend you should know my name by now!" she said faking a hurt frown.
"Serena? But I thought you missed the transport and the boat!" he said.
"No I don't think so! Oh yeah you didn't recognize me with my hair cut! I cut it so it would fit under my helmet. I know your use to my long oh how do you and Rei put it 'meatball' hair style but it wouldn't exactly fit under the helmet you know what I mean?" Serena asked.
"Well it does look great you know guess now I'll just have to call you something else!" He said with a huge grin.
"I guess but Darien why are you here what about the others?" Serena asked.
"Well I joined the RDF for two reasons. One, to protect you. And two, I thought it would be fun to see what military life was all about. As for the girls?" Just as Darien was about to inform her about the others a voice came from behind Darien.
"Oh Darien stop hitting on strangers or did you forget your girlfriend?" they said.
Both Serena and Darien turned around to see who was behind them. "Lita I was not..." But before Darien could finish Lita walked up to Serena to say something.
"Hi! I'm Lita Kino and this big lug is spoken for sorry but he needs to remember that!" Lita said glaring at Darien, which caused him to reel back a couple of steps.
"You know Lita it's all well and good your protecting my interest but I happen to be standing right here!" Serena told her shaking her head.
"Um excuse me do I know you?" Lita asked Serena looking at her strange.
"You better missy! I just happen to be one of you best friends at least I thought I was!" Serena said mocking a hurt face.
"S-S-Serena?" Lita stuttered out.
"Y-Y-Yes it's me!" She stuttered right back.
"So are you three done faking that you don't know each other? I mean I always knew who the each of you guys are no matter what you look like!" Another voice said from behind them. This cause the three friends to turn around.
Serena was the first to see Amara and ran to say hi. "Amara how did you get here?"
"Oh the same as the others! We're all here you know?" Amara said.
"Well where are they then?" Serena asked.
"Well Amy is going to study to be a doctor, Rei, Mina and Michelle wanted to be bridge officers and the four of us are going to be pilots! Does that answer your question bunny?" Amara asked.
"Sure does thanks Amara!" Serena said with a smile knowing all her friends would be together and hopefully on the same ship.
"Wait Lita didn't you once tell me you were afraid of planes?" Serena suddenly turned and asked.
"Yeah but I figured I needed to get over that sooner or later plus I want to be up front and kick some alien butts!" Lita told her.
"Well with the three us around you'll get all the encouraging you need." Darien said.
"Yes she sure will!" Serena and Amara said together.
"Gee thanks guys!" Lita told them.
"Well this should be fun!" Amara said.
"Yeah let's go stand with the others then shall we?" Serena asked the others. With a nod the four friends stepped up to the other recruits in their class.
******
During basic training each company breaks off into four man training teams. Each team works together while learning all they need to know. In the command class it helps the trainees' work together solving all the problems they'll face as a team. In the flight class it gets them used to the team concept because they'll have to depend on each other in their squadrons. In the command class Bravo Company Amy, Rei, Mina, and Michelle found themselves together on one training team. In the flight class alpha company Serena, Darien, Lita, and Amara were placed together with the sergeant not knowing their history together. The sergeant had no clue how well they worked together. Later Serena found that the others were doing quite well in their training. It was also during this time that Serena also found out that Amara and Michelle had gotten a regular house on the base since they had Hotaru with them. She and Mina arranged for Luna and Artemis to stay with Amara, Michelle, and Hotaru. That way the two cats would be able to stay on the base and not violate any regulations.
The eight friends tried to spend some time together when not in basic training. The eight weeks of basic training flew by quite fast. Serena's training group finished tops in her company. And they were the top four individuals in the entire class. Amy, Rei, Mina, and Michelle also finished tops in their company and class as well. With the impressive finish pulled off by the eight friends they were able to enter into the advance training classes. This meant Serena would be learning how to handle one of the high tech fighter jets the Veritech fighter.
******
The first day of advanced classes was pretty much like the first day of school. The day was spent getting to know not only the other individuals in the class but the instructors as well. Amy spent her day getting to know the military doctors she would be working with. Rei, Mina, and Michelle began learning design specs and defense systems for the SDF1. The teaching assistants in their class were two high-level bridge personnel on the SDF1 Claudia Grant and Lisa Hayes. Claudia and Lisa were the best of friends. Claudia was an American of African decent with short dark hair and dark eyes. Lisa on the other hand was a few inches shorter than Claudia was even in her heels. She had long light brown hair and eyes to match. It was obvious that Lisa was a couple of years younger than Claudia was but she held the higher rank. Lisa was the daughter of Admiral Hayes.
Serena, Darien, Lita and Amara also had a teaching assistant help with their class. Lieutenant Commander Roy Fokker was considered to be one of the best Veritech pilots the RDF had. In fact Roy had spent most of his time in a plane since he was old enough to fly first doing a stint at a small air circus and then with the navy as a jet pilot. Roy was in his early thirties and had blonde hair and dark blue eyes.
The recruits of Serena's company were to start by being put through their paces. It was time for them to learn their way around the Veritech fighter. The Drill Sergeant had brought them out to the airfield where a Veritech fighter was sitting out on the tarmac. In the fighter form it looked like any normal F-14. This however was no ordinary jet plane. The Veritech had two more forms. The group took a look at the impressive fighter. It was gray with black and yellow trim and it had a skull and crossbones design on the tail. Darien whistled in awe.
"That's some plane out there." He commented.
"You can say that again." Amara added.
"Okay ladies and gentlemen that is what you will end up being able to fly when you're done with your advanced training!" The Drill Sergeant told them pointing to the plane behind him.
"That's so cool! Let me at that plane!" Serena said very exited to get started.
"Sorry corporal but this one's mine. You'll get one of your own if you complete your training!" Roy Fokker said coming up behind the group.
"Ah Lt. Commander Fokker it is good you could join us today!" the Sergeant said.
"Yes so are these recruits ready for the tour?" Roy Fokker asked.
"Yes sir I believe they are!" the Sergeant told him.
"Good! Okay ladies and gentlemen what we have here is the Veritech fighter. It is the first line of defense if alien forces should ever attack us. Now in just a moment I will be showing you the three modes of the aircraft. First, however, will you please look in front of you! What you have before you are your Veritech fight manuals. Read these from front to back. By the time you finish with your training you'll not only know your way around a Veritech, but you'll be able to recite that entire manual by heart!" Roy told the recruits.
"Well Lt. Commander shall we begin the introduction of the Veritech fighter to our eager recruits?" the Sergeant asked Roy with a smile.
"Yes let's begin!" Roy said going and jumping into the plane.
After Roy took off the Sergeant began. "Okay people open your manuals to page 1." After the trainees opened their books the Sergeant began again. "Okay ladies and gentlemen what you see before you on the first page and in the sky is the basic stage of the Veritech. The fighter mode, in this mode you can basically fly what is considered a plane. This stage is also fast and easy to maneuver in tight situations."
Next Roy pulled the button marked G and the fighter changed. "Now stage two is known as the guardian mode. By pulling down on the button marked G your fighter as the Lt. Commander has done you'll get this stage. In this stage you will be able to still fly like a plane, however, you will also be able to fire a cannon in this stage."
Lastly Roy pulled the button marked B and the guardian changed again. "And finally we have the last stage, the Battleoid. In this final stage of the Veritech you'll be able to do three things. One, your Veritech will now walk. Two, you'll be able to fire the cannon. And third, you'll be able to fly, not as good as if you were in the first stage and you won't be able to maneuver very well but you will fly." The Sergeant finished the lecture as Roy returned the battleoid back into a plane and landed back on the tarmac.
"Okay now before we dismiss you all are there any questions?" Roy asked coming up to the table.
"We have to fly something like that?" Lita asked trying to choke down her fear and the knot in her throat and the sweats of terror take over her body.
"Don't worry Lita with the three of us around nothing's ever going to happen to you." Darien told her in an effort to calm her fears.
"Thanks it's nice to know you're around." Lita said a bit shaky.
"That's right corporal! If you're having a fear of flying just trust in your friends and that will help you through anything!" Roy said.
"Man I can't wait to get into that." Amara said.
"Well Amara you'll have to wait for awhile until you go through the simulator." The Drill Sergeant said to her.
"Now John don't do getting ahead of yourself they're not ready for that yet! It's still a month away until then." Roy said.
"Okay Roy well let's get back to work shall we?" he said as they began to go through the manual page for page.
******
Not far away on top of the next building three figures were standing over the airfield watching the scene take place before them when one of the beings spoke.
"Man this is so cool! I think watching that plane change into different forms is better then watching Michelle speak over the P.A. system." A young girl said.
"Yes Hotaru I tend to agree with you on that one, however, Lita get into one is another story!" The black cat next to her said.
"Now Luna you know as well as I do with the others there she'll be able to do it!" Another cat said this time white.
"Artemis is that a challenge?" Luna asked.
"Well yeah sure it's a challenge!" he told her.
"Fine then what are the wagers?" Luna asked.
"Well if she does get into one of those things then you give up mice for good and if she doesn't then I swear off rummaging through the garbage behind restaurants for good." Artemis told her.
"All right you have yourself a deal." Luna said.
"You heard her Hotaru she agreed to our bet. You're the witness." Artemis said to Hotaru.
"Right you win no mice for Luna; she wins no scraps for you." Hotaru summarized.
The three friends went back to watching the class on the tarmac. This is going to be an interesting year, Hotaru thought. Amara is much more fun to spy on than Michelle.
******
Meanwhile back on the SDF1 the girls too were being put through their paces by the senior staff. "All right ladies by the time this class is over with you will understand almost every aspect of the SDF1 perfectly. You are going to be a part of the nerve center of the SDF1. It will be your job to relay the information gathered from all over the ship to the captain. You will be the eyes and ears of the SDF1. The captain will be counting on the information you give him in order to make the proper decisions. That is why it is important you learn how to use the consoles on the bridge of the SDF1." Commander Hayes said.
Rei, Mina, and Michelle were receiving the usual first day speech from Lisa and Claudia. Lisa was telling them what they would be learning while Claudia handed out manuals and spec books to the students in the class. The class was going to learn how to use the computer system that ran the SDF1. When they were finished the girls would be able to run the bridge of the SDF1.
"Next to the pilots and doctors you have one of the toughest jobs on the entire SDF1. It isn't going to be easy but I have no doubt you girls can handle the position." Claudia added, "When this class is over you will be able to work together as a team. Just remember we'll be with you every step of the way"
"Yes ma'am!" The girls told Claudia.
******
A few months had gone by and Serena's class was spending the day on the simulators. It would be the first time any of them would give the Veritech a try. The simulator would help them learn what to do in certain situations. The simulator gave them the feel of the actual Veritech in all three modes.
When the class walked into the simulator room they saw that the simulator was in use. The pilot in the simulator was one of the best they had ever seen. Watching the screen they could tell this particular pilot was running the toughest scenario they had ever seen. In this particular scenario the pilot was using all three modes of the Veritech fighter and engaging the enemy.
"What's that sir?" Serena asked the captain.
"That ladies and gentleman is our full battle simulation. You'll get the chance to run through it once you have had some time in the actual Veritech. What we are going to do today is give you a feel for the controls in the cockpit of the Veritech. We'll run the simple training simulation today. I see our pilot has completed his simulation." The captain said.
The pilot exited the simulator. The moment he turned to face the group they saw who it was. Lt. Commander Fokker had pulled some impressive numbers on the battle scenario. Everyone was thoroughly impressed with what they saw. Roy joined the group in the control room and saw the results of the simulation on the screen in front of him.
"I did pretty good in there." Roy commented.
"Good, you were unbelievable Lt. Commander." The technician told him.
"Okay, now that we're through boosting Fokker's oversized ego let's get this underway." The Captain said to everyone in the room.
"Right sir." Roy replied, "All right boys and girls I'd like to welcome you to the Veritech simulator. This simulator will allow you to get a feel for the Veritech in each of the three modes. Today to get you acclimated to the controls we will work strictly in Fighter mode. Okay Ten'ou you're up first."
Amara strapped the helmet on and entered the simulator. Being an experienced pilot Amara thought the simulation would be a walk in the park. Everyone was amazed at how well Amara was doing in the simulation. The simulation picked was a simple fly by and a landing. Five minutes later Amara emerged from the simulator to get her evaluation.
"Well done Corporal Ten'ou. Your past experience certainly shows. Okay Shields you're up next." Roy said to Amara and Darien.
Darien got into the simulator, took a deep breath, and signaled he was ready to begin. Serena could see that even though he was nowhere near Amara's league Darien was doing pretty well for his first time. By the time his five minutes were up Darien returned to the control room. Everyone could tell he was going to be one of the better pilots in the class.
"Good job Shields. You did quite well for a beginner." Roy said when he saw Darien's results, "Okay next up will be Corporal Kino."
Upon hearing it was her turn in the simulator Lita lost all the color in her face and began to sweat. For the first time since they had met Serena saw Lita actually show signs of fear. Serena became concerned for her long time friend of five years. The captain also saw Lita's condition and decided the standard pep talk was in order.
"You still afraid to go in there?" he asked getting a nod from Lita, "I know this is hard for you but once you get this over with you'll be just fine. In fact, once the fighter plane pulls you in you never go back. The RAF got me back in '83 and I haven't left since. Just go in there and take a deep breath and let your instincts guide you. Don't even think about where you are."
Lita began to head for the simulator when she felt a hand on her shoulder. Turning back she saw Serena with a 'you can do it' look on her face.
"Don't worry Lita we'll be right here to give you all the support you need." Serena told her.
Lita continued her way to the simulator ready to do her darndest to get over her fears. Taking a deep breath Lita entered the simulator and waited for the signal to begin. Shaking all over Lita kept reminding herself mentally to let her instincts take over and not think about where she is.
Inside the control room the captain began to wonder about Lita. He had seen the way her face had lost all its color and she began to sweat. For someone who wanted to learn how to fly Lita certainly seemed to be deathly afraid of planes. He knew if she didn't get over this fear real soon she wouldn't be able to finish the program and earn her wings.
"Tell me Corporal Tuskino why is Corporal Kino afraid to go near a plane?" Captain Belmont asked Serena.
"Lita's parents were both killed in a really nasty plane crash when she was younger leaving her all alone." Serena explained to the Captain.
In no time Lita's time in the simulator was up and for someone who was afraid to be in an airport she produced some pretty impressive numbers. Everyone was quite impressed with Lita for passing the first of many personal hurdles in her life.
Serena's time in the simulator left everyone in absolute silence. Lita, Darien, and Amara knew Serena would do all right but they had no idea she would surpass Amara. In the back of his mind Darien began to wonder if the princess was beginning to emerge. Lita just let out a whistle and Amara stood there with her mouth wide open. The Captain and the Lt. Commander stood in front of the screen awestruck at what they saw only once in a great while did a pilot of Serena's caliber emerge.
******
As Rei, Mina, and Michelle made their way from the training facility over to the airfield. They had been planned to meet Serena and the others after their class was over with. Like Serena, Darien, Lita, and Amara they had spent the day in a simulated environment. Their instructors wanted to get them use to the systems on board the SDF1. With repairs still under way on board the SDF1, a trip to the actual bridge was out of the question for the time being.
Rei felt something behind them and turned around to find Claudia Grant walking not too far behind the girls. It looked as though she was also headed towards the airfield. Rei wondered why Claudia was going to the airfield. She wondered if it had anything to do with the person named Roy Claudia and Lisa were always talking about before class.
The girls stopped at the gate to the airfield and began chatting amongst themselves. Michele took a quick glance upward and noticed three shadows on top of a nearby building. Turning her focus back on her friends she let out a soft sigh and shook her head. Claudia stopped next to the girls and took a quick look at her watch Roy would be finished with the training session very soon.
"So what are you three doing here?" Claudia asked them still keeping her eyes on the airfield.
"We're waiting for some friends. We hope they did alright in their simulator test today." Mina told her.
"Yeah but I know who Michelle is waiting for." Rei said with a corny smile.
"Oh and who would that be?" Claudia inquired.
"My love Amara." Michelle replied looking from the airfield to Rei for a second then up to the roof and back again.
"Amara that's a nice name. If you don't mind me asking what's so interesting about the roof over there?" Claudia said to Michelle.
"Oh nothing important, but somebody is in trouble if I catch them again tonight." Michelle answered.
Claudia wondered what was meant by that comment but quickly put it out of her mind when she saw Roy headed in her direction with a big smile upon his face.
"Well, well, well if it isn't the woman of my dreams," Roy said.
"Cut it out Fokker." Claudia said through a laugh.
"And who are these three lovely ladies?" Roy inquired.
"Roy I'd like you to meet Corporal Hino, Aino, and Kaiou better known as Rei, Mina, and Michelle. Girls this Lt. Commander Roy Fokker my boyfriend." Claudia said.
"Michelle." A voice called out.
"Amara!" Michelle said pulling her lover into a tender embrace.
"Ah another 'flyboy' falls in love." Roy commented as he gave Claudia a peck on the cheek.
"Lieutenant Grant I'd like you to meet Amara the love of my life. Amara this is Lieutenant Grant." Michelle said introducing them to each other.
Amara grasped Claudia's hand and gave it a good firm shake. Claudia was quite amazed when she felt a strong female hand. She was certain from the first impression she received that Amara was a man and not a woman.
A few minutes later Serena, Darien, and Lita came walking out of the airbase. Serena and Darien were obviously making kissy faces at each other while Lita was mumbling something to herself about the cockpit not being real. Rei and the others smiled when they saw the three friends come their way.
"So Roy how'd it go today?" Claudia asked.
"I have to admit this group of rag tag fighter pilot wannabes actually did pretty good today." Roy answered still a bit shocked at what he witnessed earlier that day.
"Really?" Claudia inquired.
"Believe it or not lieutenant the lieutenant commander speaks the truth. We were all quite surprised by what we saw today." Amara said.
"What happened?" Michelle wanted to know.
"Corporal Tuskino did better than any other student in the entire class and Corporal Kino actually flew the simulator despite her obvious fears about planes." Roy told them.
"Serena and Lita?" the three bridge trainees said in unison.
"Yep they sure did. That's my Meatball Head." Darien said quite proud of his girl and her friends.
The small group assembled in front of the airfield decided to grab a bite to eat. Along the way Michelle told Amara what she saw on the roof. Amara got an angry look on her face and uttered the same words Michelle said earlier. Mina and Serena then vowed there would be fur flying that evening.
******
The months seemed to fly by quickly. Amy was deeply engrossed in her medical training and loved every minute of it. Rei, Mina, and Michelle continued on with their classes. Serena continued to amaze Roy and the captain and was doing quite well with her flight training. Serena's Father was also extremely proud since the RDF kept him informed since she was to busy studying for her tests to write. Darien and Amara also impressed Roy and the captain with their performance during flight training. Lita went from someone who was deathly afraid of airplanes to someone who didn't mind being in one. Both Roy and Captain Belmont took it upon themselves to see that everyone in the group received their wings. Roy had volunteered to be Lita's flight instructor personally seeing to it that she got over her fear.
Roy and Claudia's relationship moved to the next level. They went from casual dating to an exclusive relationship despite Roy's roving eyes. To all his friends Roy was considered a window shopper; he would glance and stare but never commit to buy. Roy's past was considered to be one of the most interesting ones on the base. During his younger days Roy spent time barnstorming the countryside traveling from one county fair to another with a flying circus specializing in experimental aircraft. It was there that Roy fell in love with flying and earned a reputation for winning races. In the air show Roy had made a lot of friends.
Claudia had met Roy during the UN war when they were both in training. They were young and impressionable and had gone out a few times. When Roy was called to active duty their relationship was put on hold. It wasn't until Claudia was given the opportunity to work on the bridge of the SDF1 that she saw Roy again. Once the two lovebirds were reunited they began to spend all their free time together.
******
To graduate from flight school and receive their wings Serena and her class had a series of tests they had to pass. The first of these was solo flight time in the Veritech fighter. Everyone had to spend a minimum of forty hours flying by themselves. They also had to spend time using the fighter in the Guardian and Batteloid modes. Once they met their solo flight requirement the trainees then began learning how to land on an aircraft carrier. When they had six successful landings the trainees would then be ready for their final test.
The final test any naval pilot who wanted to work on an aircraft carrier would be to do twenty successful landings in two days. Pilots were usually given three chances to complete this test. If they were unable to complete the test in the allotted number of chances they would not receive their wings and the navy would no longer require their services. Roy and Captain Belmont were not about to let that happen.
The site of the final test would be the aircraft carrier Prometheus. The Prometheus along with its sister ship the Dadelous were commissioned to the Macross Naval Facility which was part of the RDF base on Macross island. The Prometheus would travel ten miles off shore and the pilots would leave the airbase and land on the deck of the ship. They would then have to take off and land on the ship a total of ten times each day. If they made one mistake then the test would be over and they would have to wait for their next chance to land the ship.
Serena, Darien, Lita, and Amara had a perfect weekend in which to complete their test. The two days Captain Belmont had chosen for the test were some of the best the island weather had to offer. The sky was blue with not a cloud present and the air was warm without being too stifling. The sea was calm and gentle with very few waves. This was the ideal time to perform the final test in order to receive pilot's wings and commissioning into the RDF. And just as Captain Belmont and Lieutenant Commander Fokker had vowed at the beginning of training everyone passed and would receive their wings.
******
It had been two years since Serena and the Sailors joined the RDF. Serena, Darien, Lita, and Amara had passed their training and were about to receive their wings. Amy was going to enter into her third year of medical training. Here she would be able to work hands on with actual patients. Rei, Mina, and Michelle had completed their training as well and received their commissioning papers assigning them to the bridge of the SDF1.
Lisa Hayes, Claudia Grant, and Roy Fokker were given new duties as well. Lisa, who came from a military family, was promoted to first officer of the SDF1. Claudia was named tactical officer for the SDF1. And Roy was named commander of the Skull Squadron. Roy and Claudia's relationship continued to blossom and grow. One month before the graduation ceremonies were to take place Roy asked Claudia to marry him. Claudia didn't waste any time telling the pilot yes. The next time they were back on Earth the pair would plan to get married.
Graduation day at the Macross Base was a big deal. This was the first class of recruits to pass the rigorous RDF flight training. The young crew of rag tag pilots assembled at the airbase would be the backbone of the RDF. They were given the task of using the advanced robotechnology the military scientists had created. No one was prouder of the class than Captain Belmont.
The sky over Macross City was perfect that day as the entire base came to witness the commissioning of a new batch of Veritech pilots. There was not a single cloud in the sky and the sun shone bright. The air had a slight breeze to it coming off the bay. Captain Belmont stood at the podium and began to address the assembled crowd.
"Ladies and gentleman it gives me great pleasure and pride to stand here before you as I pass out wings to all the fine graduates here today. They have taken and passed the great challenge of becoming Veritech pilots. It will be their job to protect our world from any alien threat that may come our way. And if conflict and trouble should ever arise here on Earth it will be their job to help end that conflict. So without further ado I shall begin calling the names of our newest Veritech pilots to come and receive their wings. I'd appreciate it if you would hold your applause until the last name has been called."
One by one the captain called the names of the latest batch of fighter pilots and one by one the graduates made their way to the stage. When the ceremony was over with Serena, Darien, Lita, and Amara found out that they were going to be in the same squad together. All four of them were assigned to become members of the Skull Squadron under Roy's leadership.
A few minutes after three of the inner scouts were shocked to see their family members there to support them in this their finest hour. "Mom, dad you're here!" Mina called out in a fit of joy.
"Mina Aino you wound us! Why wouldn't we be here? You did just graduate from the RDF military academy!" her father James Aino told her.
"Your father's right dear we're very proud of you! I just want you to know we love you very much and this graduation just serves to prove the reason of why we care so much. You continue to show us just how determined you are to stay with a task you set for your self." Her mother Nancy Aino said.
"Oh mom, dad! I love you guys so much!" Mina told her parents as she hugged them tight.
Off to the side Amy was herself being congratulated for a job well done by her mother. "Oh Amy you finally made it! You're a doctor just like me!" Kathy Mizuno told her daughter as she hugged her.
"Thanks mom! I couldn't have done it without the constant support of my family and friends!" Amy told her.
"Yes I see even your friend Serena has changed a lot since your junior high school days!" Kathy said looking towards Serena who was looking for her own family, However, while Kathy was looking towards Serena she didn't see a tall reddish blonde haired gentleman walk up to Amy.
"Amy how's my favorite genius after all that hard work?" the man asked.
"Zack you made it! Hey did the others make it too?" Amy asked.
"Yeah they sure did! Nathan is over with Lita as we speak checking to make sure she's been eating well! Justin's over by Rei and her Grandfather Telling her how much he'll miss her and her grandfather is still trying to tell her she's to young to date! Kevin is over by Mina right now introducing himself to her parents. I still wonder how they're going to take her relationship?" Zack told Amy while shaking his head.
"Mom I'd like you to meet some one very special to me!" Amy said getting her mothers attention.
"Why Amy do my eye deceive me or has my little girl gone and gotten herself a man?" Kathy asked Amy.
"Yes mom I did! Mom this is Zack Kurata. Zack this is my mother Dr. Kathy Mizuno!" Amy said making introductions.
"Well Amy I hope this one treats you better then the last one! Honestly what ever the Greg boy was thinking when he ran off with another girl and leave you crying for days on in is beyond me!" Kathy told her daughter.
"Don't worry about a thing with me ma'am! I am one person that knows how to treat a woman with respect! I won't leave your daughter like her last boyfriend did!" Zack said then noticing the freshly graduated students heading towards the stage told Amy, "Amy I think you might need to go over to the stage right now! I'll stay here and keep your mom company!" Zack said as Amy headed off after hugging her mom and kissing Zack on the check.
As Serena was looking around an annoying voice sounded behind her. "Hey Meatball head! Well bet you're happy now that you passed your big test so now what are you going to do quit?"
"Sammy I did not join to just to quit after graduation!" Serena told her little brother.
"Sammy leave your sister alone or I can send you into the RDF involuntary!" Another voice said from behind Sammy.
"Dad! Oh yeah! Captain Tuskino sir!" Serena said standing at attention.
"At ease solder! How's my daughter doing huh Serena?" Kenji asked.
"Fine dad just really glad the training part is over. Hey where's mom you guys going to watch the Air show?" Serena asked.
"Serena honey you think I'd miss my babies graduation?" Irene asked coming up next to her husband.
"Oh mom how have you guys been? I've missed you all even the little spore!" Serena said looking towards her brother.
"Hey your military now you have to be nice to civilians!" Sammy said with a big grin on his face.
"Um actually Sammy that doesn't protean to family!" Kenji informed his son.
Just then Darien walked up to Serena and her family. "Serena the Lt. Commander wants all of us by the stage at attention!" Darien said before saying hi and saluting Serena's father. With that Serena walked back to the stage where the other graduates stood.
The members of the Sailor Team had passed their first great test but their greatest test and their greatest adventure was about to begin.
TBC
More to come! Please Read and Review!
