War is a conflict that has been the constant companion of humanity since the beginning of its existence. For every attempt to suppress this facet, it returns to claim many more for how long it has been held back. Conflict however is never a simple summary. Underneath every act of brutality is an act of deception and underneath every deception is a mask of the true intentions of justifying the slaughter of others. What those who bear witness to such deception and how they will accept it will inevitably escalate violently. Such is the scenario proposed in After Colony 225.
Episode 63: Portraits of Pretense
The Executor Rising contained many of the last hopes that the human race had for seeing whatever plans Franz Kecker had for the human race when he reached the Sol Invictus. The Gundams, the crew, the weapons, the pilots were all gathered into a final strike intended to signal the end of the 11-year war period. As days passed and progressed, there came a time where a few aboard the ship felt the need to change the somber nature of everyone gathered.
This was the intention as Gawel greeted Suchart and asked, "So you were sure to bring the good stuff right?'
Suchart rolled the barrel out to the hangar when he confirmed, "Cost me a chunk of my retirement but you know what? It's worth it."
The two lifted the keg onto a crate before Gawel brought his face to underneath the spout and twisted it to pour the liquid into his mouth. He eagerly drank from the splash before asking, "Bevog Hagger? Suchart if we had time after I'd ask you to marry me."
Suchart laughed, "I'm sure somebody would be willing to hold the ceremony. We still got to hold on to this for the rest of the folks so don't drink it all."
The two heard their first guests arrive as Oleg and Tano arrived when Oleg observed, "Smells like something the Admiral wouldn't exactly approve of. You guys are more harm than I'd imagine."
Tano agreed, "I don't see how having this stuff down here is supposed to be rousing our spirits either. It's not like I need an apology for what duels we had against one another."
Gawel pointed out, "Not even remotely one. But really kid if you're going out there to march into your grave, you might as well have the edge shaved off. If there's one thing Suchart wallowing on Earth did right, it's this much."
The rest of the mobile suit pilots from the Earth made their way down as Dana lead with a case in hand and grinned, "You couldn't have brought anything that would have substituted our life support but you saw the more important thing at hand. Good initiative boys."
Mercurio agreed, "At least this will be our only opportunity right?"
Zachariah confirmed, "It's another few weeks before we reach the target destination. We should have at least one night to go crazy."
There was a rouse of approval as everyone gathered approved of the idea. Oleg asked, "So you're going to be honest when you say you brought something for us to honor the mission right?"
Gawel answered, "Something a lot better than that potato water you Russians call a drink. You get one drink you'll be out cold before you know it. This right here is shit that's meant to bring you joy."
Dana opened the case to reveal a set of mugs when she confirmed, "All this is meant for everybody so just for fair use, we go through a round of "pass the memories"."
Ermes pointed out, "This is new to me. Any chance we can have an introduction?"
Dana nodded, "Reay easy game. Everyone gets a cup and a turn to share what they're ready to return to. Every real person you name gets you an ounce of drink. When everybody has their fill, well then it's just a free for all to get what's left. Assuming you can hold your liquor anyway."
Suchart asked, "So I notice that Tano over there is just a little short of being part of this circle, what do you have to say captain?"
Dana answered, "This being a Coalition ship I think a Coalition captain should have the say."
Oleg laughed when he answered, "I'm already risking my neck on the line by complying with this gathering but… what the hell? What's the worst that happens right now? He dies?"
Tano shrugged with a sigh when he decided, "I guess I can't do much to disrupt this can I?"
The pilots gathered around as Gawel encouraged, "This is it fellas! Our last chance to be somewhat memorable to each other! Let's get started shall we?"
Everyone grabbed a cup as they formed a circle when Suchart said, "Here it goes, you're up first Majewski."
Gawel held his cup underneath the spout when he told the gathering, "Okay. My old man Florian Majewski. My mom Aliga Majewski. My niece Liliana. Uncle Prot. Baby brother Konrad. My nephew Piotr. And certainly least of all my aunt Nadia."
As Dana and Tano saw the cup filled almost completely she came to understand how each person listed poured another ounce into the cup Gawel held.
Ermes asked, "Are those all family members of you? That's quite a specific list you managed to come up with."
Before Gawel prepared to take his drink he answered, "Yeah and I came up short as well. If Zach and the captain weren't here I wouldn't have had to resort to my aunt."
Suchart spoke, "Speaking of which, Zach it's your turn."
Zachariah held his cup when he listed, "First sight I want to see is Cinzia running up to me and embracing me like I've earned a romantic scene. After I propose to her then I take her to New Jersey and introduce her to my mom Sarah, my sister Emily, best of all my old boss Mr. Earl Hall just to rub in his face how far I came. And… shit I had to come up short there."
Suchart told him, "Better savor what you got in that case Zach. Sorry but you know the rules."
Zachariah shook his head when he accepted what he could from his cup and stated, "I wish it was my fault more friends of mine were lost. Hell, my old man being five feet under doesn't help either."
Dafina asked, "Did you and Cinzia get started with a relationship at some point?"
Zachariah laughed, "I wish. I was supposed to be fighting for Ludwika's affection against Roy but that whole love triangle sure fell apart."
The mood was somber but slightly lifted when the pilots recalled the fall of two of the pilots who served for so long. Gawel finished a sip from his cup when he said, "Well I enjoy gallows humor as much as the next guy, but we should try to keep things going I think."
Suchart agreed, "Your name is Oleg right? You're up."
Oleg held out his cup when he listed, "My father Remas Tsubarov. My mother Inga. My sisters Adelina, Elinga, Jurate, Marija, my aunt Maria, and my little brother Juozas."
Dana whistled, "Well we just got our first filler. Quite a big household to rack up in it sounds like."
Oleg agreed, "Yeah. My uncle was a very traditional man as you might have guessed. He wanted to make sure that he would have at least one son to pass his name on. My old man had to get to work a few times as you might be able to tell but it worked out. Unfortunately he also thought that he would become a world recognized savior of the Earth when the Eve Wars ended and left his fortune to other organizations he held in higher regard than us."
Donna was fascinated by the confirmation of Oleg's lineage when she asked, "Your granduncle was Ken Tsubarov himself and he didn't try to support you and your family?"
Oleg nodded, "One of the most hated men in the records of the Eve Wars and his surviving relatives are treated like third class citizens. Go figure right? Even if I could have proposed to Aglaii when this was all over I don't know if she would have wanted to restore the shithole of a farm we had to scrape by on. Even better she had to sacrifice herself just so that she could only delay Franz's big middle finger to everything we ever fought for."
He began to drink out of the cup in a desperate attempt to relieve his depression of the situation as the gathered pilots respected Oleg's moment to vent.
Suchart broke the silence when he spoke, "Well let's keep moving then. Your name's Tano right kid? How about you?"
Tano paused as he looked at the ground and searched for an answer before he managed, "Graves. At this point that's all I have to look forward to returning home to. I joined this war in favor of the Coalition because I thought I would at least have something to fight for, but everyone I ever saw fight or fight alongside has fallen. It began on the day Chang Wufei himself died trying to prevent the destruction of the colony and he sacrificed himself to do it. I lost my mother. Every captain I ever found under is dead. I have to be honest, there's one thing I'm more afraid of than dying out there when we find the Sol Invictus. And that's coming back alive to try and explain to everyone why they had to die and why I'm the only one still alive. And after all of this, I just don't think I can come up with any answers."
The room fell silent again as there was a period of reflecting on Tano's situation. Dana observed him and offered a condolence, "It doesn't happen to a lot of people, but I'm sorry you had to be one of the few who was handed that shit hand."
Tano was still somber when he told her, "The only apology that could put me at ease is if I had fallen in battle at Brussels. But I was too determined to live so that I could keep fighting what was supposed to be the true battle. Whatever is supposed to happen to me now, all I can do is discover if there is anything left for me afterwards."
Dana told him, "When all of this is over, you'll have a whole lifetime ahead of you. You'll have more than just the dead to return to."
Mercurio agreed, "Even someone who's only known fighting for their entire life can be given a chance to truly live."
Tano agreed, "I guess if you feel confident about pulling this off, maybe I'll have something after this."
Suchart poured an ounce into Tano's cup when he told him, "We can't let everybody else just watch. Because you mentioned one name."
Tano accepted the offer when he told him, "Not much harm in a few more final confessions I guess."
Quebec City had become filled with activity as the native citizens went through their daily routines while accommodating the remainder of the Earth Sphere military. Several mobile suit squads patrolled the outer areas of the city while an aircraft carrier filled the sky with its observation of the ground below. The state of the city was one that placed some ease on Malcolm as he, Relena, Marcel, and Barra watched over the state of their city. Malcolm turned from the window to ask, "How much of the city has been prepared for potential attacks?"
Marcel answered, "We have four squadrons observing each quadrant and eight Earth Sphere squadrons on standby. The OZ forces are fortunately separate to our own and as such we have a garrison that should easily hold against any Sol Thero attacks."
Relena reminded, "We will still have the remainder of the city to account for. If the Sol Theros do attack we will have more than a defense to uphold. The people will be in as much danger as we will be."
Barra agreed, "Unfortunately we are dealing with creations that could very well destroy everything indiscriminately. And I do hope you consider my warning about General Blare with the utmost observation."
Marcel asked, "Do we have reason to concern what General Blare's true intentions are?"
Barra confessed, "Very little unfortunately. But I do hope you see the danger of a supposedly former Coalition general making himself reside in our ranks regardless of how unaffiliated he is."
Relena told him, "Right now we have to follow everything that happens to us in order so that we can survive. The General most assuredly doesn't have any ambitions to see himself die out here when we could face another attack at any moment."
Marcel added, "And it is likely he knows this. Mr. Devine continues to press that General Blare is a potential hazard with some foundation of reason. It is also probable he knows of the Coalition presence out here."
Malcolm pointed out, "We no longer have a conflict with the Coalition and they are seeking a chance for safety as much as we are. Any and all contact that he has with outside the city will be scrutinized by the superiors in OZ anyway. Can we not trust that they will manage their men as they are supposed to?"
Barra answered, "We also cannot allow them the luxury to become an effectively autonomous entity. Otherwise we run the risk of what occurred to the security under Nathaniel Falson."
Relena pointed out, "Basing our security on speculation for what one man may be planning will not ensure we are better prepared for a proper defense. Many of us are still concerned for what his true intentions are in aligning with us, but we cannot compromise our hold when few others than us have the opportunity to even attempt making another coup as you are suggesting."
Marcel agreed, "That is what we are currently facing indeed. We currently have no established contact with the Coalition and we face a very real possibility of Sol Theros approaching our location. With these in mind it will be difficult and potentially counter productive to attempt a disruption in our current standing."
Barra agreed, "Edward was a man who was capable of seizing a perfect opportunity when it presents itself to him. It may indeed be true that he will offer us a time to prioritize at least."
Malcolm added, "We do not intend to dismiss this case entirely but once we have the first opportunity we should find the first chance we have to potentially have him isolate d from any outside factors."
Marcel activated a holographic map of the Canadian countryside and the area around Quebec City when he told the gathered politicians, "We have received prior reports of Sol Theros around Kenora but it was from a few days ago and we are uncertain what direction they may be headed. There has been little activity in any other quadrant, but the Coalition has been reported to be moving in the Northern Maine Woods. Until we heard from them, we won't be able to confirm their willingness to cooperate in our defense. We have sent transmissions but either due to difficulties or other potential factors we have not learned of their current status."
Malcolm asked, "But the important discovery is the potential movement of Sol Theros out west. Can you confirm if either areas should be addressed before the other?'
Marcel answered, "I believe that should we send our forces out west we will at the very least have two potential dangers addressed. We will be able to defend ourselves proper if we send the right forces."
Malcolm counted in his head when he tried to determine what he had to spare. The 32 squadrons that consisted of OZ's forces were all under control of the former Coalition General and its leader. Only 13 squadrons were still under the command of the Earth Sphere main government. He had the mobile suits to account for and the tens of thousands of ground soldiers that were waiting for their command that could escalate any conflict if they were given the right circumstance.
Malcolm told Marcel, "I believe that Lord Lindemann may have the proper mindset when he wants to send General Blare's men to the frontlines. If we are to obtain any intelligence of the arrival of the Sol Theros our best chance will be to send Edwards men to face the mobile dolls."
Relena pointed out, "This sort of thinking is not something we should be considering Malcolm. There are the lives of real men you are asking to put on the line. And their loyalty to us will be more likely to be compromised if they are constantly pressed to be the ones who lead the charge."
Malcolm added, "There is also an issue that General Blare himself will be included to act against us if he sees that he is placing the majority of worth himself on the line and only a minimal effort on our part." Malcolm realized the issue when the two gave their warnings as he paused to find another solution. It was after a brief second he told everyone, "We will place at least one thing of equal power onto the frontlines. Lord Lindemann has recently informed me that we will have a force that can be reckoned with. Even if the men and women with us now are enough, we will have one force to protect ourselves with."
Flake followed behind his brothers, Andrew, and his father Till as they made their way through the halls of the hangar. He made his way up to Richard when he asked, "I need to hear it from you my brother. Did you really find yourself a fellow pilot to get some serious down time with?"
Richard whispered, "It is not even a thing. We both get stressed enough we both just use each other."
Flake held back a chuckle when he told him, "Dad is going to have a serious fit if she ends up wanting to collect from us."
They stopped walking as soon as they saw Christoph and Christian stop and stood at attention when their father turned to face them. Till observed them with a watchful eye before telling them, "You have all done well with the chance I offered you back in Europe. I must confess however that part of the reason you could not achieve victory was because the Nornir was not complete. With that being said I believe you four are still the best choices of pilots for these great weapons but I expect to see you offer nothing less than your best when you return out there."
Christian confirmed, "Were not even thinking of shorting you or any of our superiors sir."
Christoph asked, "You said the Nornir was incomplete. Is there something that we were missing this whole time?"
Till turned to the door as Andrew opened it for him and Till answered, "This Gundam was designed with all of you in mind." He opened the door and revealed the new creation. Three of the brothers were able to recognize the Nornir Gundams newly polished and restored in preparation for another encounter but Flake was able to notice a fourth one that had now arrived. Like the other Nornirs it was disproportionate except in one area. Its head was larger than the normal mobile suit but was still supported by the shoulders that had adjustments on its back and two pairs of wings that resembled those of the Wing Zero.
Till introduced, "The final piece in completing the Nornir. I offer the Gundam Verdandi."
Flake was truck with fascination by the Gundam when he asked, "And this is going to be the fourth one to join on the field? Are you sure that I'm ready for this this sort of thing… sir?"
Till nodded, "I understand that it has taken you a while to recover form your wounds Flake. I still trust however that you will be able to prove yourself as a more than capable pilot when you have the support of your brothers."
Andrew agreed, "We managed to fit many offensive capabilities as possible but this one is potentially less likely to stand on its own than the Lachesis so I do not recommend going out with such a strategy in mind."
Flake kept a firm appearance as he turned to thank, "I'm grateful you have confidence in my abilities sir. I don't intend to disappoint you."
Till confirmed, "I expect that much. Now prepare your battle stations and prepare to demonstrate your cooperative abilities."
The four brothers accepted, "Right away sir!"
The three brothers that had prior experience with their Gundams lead Flake to the grounds of the hangar. Flake climbed up the leg ladder of the Verdandi before making his way into the cockpit. He activated the Gundams and saw the hangar bay around him and heard Chiristoph tell him, "Follow us and get ready to follow instructions."
Flake checked his weapons systems when he agreed, "You guys are taking the lead for a reason. This a standard training routine?"
Christian answered, "You had a chance to look over the capabilities of our Gundams right? You should have enough idea what to expect."
The hangar bay doors opened to reveal the countryside and Andrew announced, "All units prepare to move out. Remain within a radius that can be detected. Leave all potential enemy engagement to be determined by superiors."
Christoph took the lead with the Clotho when he announced, "I read you. Moving out now." The Clotho shot ahead to the field before Christian's Urth followed behind and Richard's Lachesis came behind. Flake took hold of his controls when he was the last to follow and formed behind the line of Gundams. Flake followed his brothers as they charged in a diamond formation before he heard Christoph ask, "So how's it feel? You think you got a handle already?"
Flake answered, "Not bad. It looks like I can maneuver this just fine."
Richard commented, "We can't exactly say our Maganacs were any better. These things are even able to take a little damage and deal a hell of a lot more."
Chrstian asked, "You got a hold of your weapon? We never know what we're going to deal with out there?"
Flake checked the back of his Gundam and found the weapon he was given. He had a beam sword that was waiting to be activated with several settings prepared for adjustment. He kept it attached to his back when he told Christian, "I got it. We aren't gonna go crazy with these things today are we?"
Richard confirmed, "No we're about to do the fun and wacky part. Get ready for combination."
Christoph took lead with the Clotho as he opened the back of his Gundam and announced, "Begin the procedure!" The Urth raised its arms and charged towards the open area of the Cloth's back before combining its arms with the Clotho's. The same happened as the Lachesis came next and combined its legs with the Clotho's.
As Flake watched the combination, he saw the back of the Nornir Triumivrate and recognized what he had to do next. He told himself, Okay. You got an inventive setup here dad." He charged forward with the Verdandi and into the empty space of the Nornir Triumvirate head open. The head latched itself on top of the smaller one as a helmet while its shoulders snapped together to give the Nornir its wings. With the combination complete, the Clotho shut its back and the massive Gundam was complete.
Standing tall among the field was the accumulated work Till Lindemann had poured everything he had into and inside Flake saw the results of the process. "You guys were serious about a combination."
Richard turned to confirm, "Yeah. We were a little surprised to see that dad was this far ahead and into making bigger weapons."
They heard Andrew contact, "Excellent work. Prepare to follow training maneuvers."
Christoph confirmed, "Following the first maneuver plan."
The newly formed Gundam charged ahead before making a sharp right turn and raised its arms as it managed the turn. In the middle of its charge, Till replaced Andrews voice to announce, "There is an enemy mobile suit 20 meters in front of you."
Christian pointed out, "Here we go, dad's impromptus."
Richard responded, "Way too big of a word for you."
The legs of his Lachesis opened to give Christian the chance to reach for the twin machine gun pistols. The arms of Christoph's Urth grabbed hold of both weapons as it continued to charge but fired both of its blank carried guns at the enemy that would have been in front.
Tills voice sounded again as he announced, "A squadron is prepared to flank you from behind."
Christoph said, "Show us what your piece can do Flake."
Flake agreed, "You show me how you handle it." He his weapon slot as the right shoulder of the formed Gundam dropped the handle of the beam saber as it shot out a bright light and swiped across the air in a horizontal slice before making a downward one to its left and an upper slice to its right.
The Gundam made another horizontal slice before Till announced, "That Scutum will need to be taken care of right away. 50 meters."
Christoph told Flake, "This is going to be our biggest one yet. Prepare to make an opportunity to attack." Flake took hold of his flight controls when he listened for the signal to make the jump before hearing Christoph signal, "Now!"
The four wings at the back of the massive Gundam lifted it off the ground and into the air as it drew out the Clotho Assault rifle and fired a blank cartridge at the ground beneath where the Scutum unit would have been. With a mighty thrust the Gundam landed on the ground before turning around to fire its assault rifle again for a finishing blow on the target. Prepared to follow the recent scenario, Flake pushed the flight controls again as he forced the Gundam to fly backwards away form the explosion and asked, "We got another target to look for?"
Christian took the initiative as he tossed the assault rifle into the left hand and told him, "Show dad what we can do!"
Brining the beam saber handle back into the arms right hand the massive Gundam gave a sweep with blasts of its rifle and a sweep of its beam saber attack. Every area was attacked and the massive Gundam stomped its right foot on the ground to prevent itself from moving
Till's voice sounded, "Sufficient work. You have been able to confirm that this Gundam can perform its basic actions. Very soon you will be able to use this Gundams capabilities to their optimal settings."
Andrew added, "Being where we are I don't believe that anything such as the Helfire Cannon is something we can test unless we are given the right opportunity."
Christoph agreed, "If the Sol Theros arrive anywhere near, we still have to give more than we've been able to pull off just now."
Till responded, "You will be more than a mere defense. This war may be in its final stages but we are likely to face an enemy that few of us are prepared to acknowledge. It is for reasons such as this that you four will be privileged pilots of the Nornir Walkure you are now piloting. You will be our greatest hope whenever the hour of judgement arrives."
Andrew agreed, "For right now we are only certain that the Sol Theros are our greatest threat. Return to base and prepare to be properly loaded and equipped."
One mile outside Nickel Centre, a lone Ursa mobile suit made its way towards its location while its pilot searched the area for a presence in the distance. As its pilot came within distance he heard a voice contact him, "Attention mobile suit. You will state your business now."
The pilot responded, "Private Julian Roald with the 4th brigade under General Edward Blare. I need to make contact with the man in charge right away."
He was given a response, "You will remain where you are private. You will be escorted to the headquarters and expected to follow procedures. Failure to comply will result in your immediate termination."
Julia agreed, "Just need your direction is all."
After a second he saw his radar signal the arrival of a squad of mobile suits that made their way to his location. He made his Ursa unit raise its hands to signify he had no weapons on hand and walked slowly towards the squad while holding the black box he had given Edward a few days ago. He told himself, "I spent hours on this thing. You guys got to be able to but into this."
After a brief walk towards the two, Julian was able to check the area and saw the large tent that qualified for the headquarters. He heard one of the Leo III pilots order, "Stay outside. The Colonel will see you whenever he is ready."
Julian opened his cockpit with his black box in hand and shouted, "I do not have weapons on me!" He stepped out with the device and brought his way down the leg of his mobile suit. None of the Coalition soldiers fired on him but he did see them point their guns in his direction. From the large tent however he saw a high ranking official make his way towards him with an escort. Julian gave a salute with his free left hand before the escorted man walked up to him and greeted, "So you are with the Coalition after all. What brings you out here and where is your squad?"
Julian answered, "My squad has been taken prisoner along with the Colonial Representatives. I seriously don't think we can do anything now that we've been whittled down so much."
"The representatives? They have been sent here?"
"Along with the Earth Sphere parliament. Europe has fallen and it looks like they're unaware of any more of our guys out here."
The Colonel offered, "Follow me. I will require an elaboration of this report."
Julian agreed, "Happy to oblige sir."
Julian followed the Colonel into his tent where a holographic map of the region and several computers were establishing communications. The Colonel introduced himself, "I think you might know me. Colonel Donny Fahey. I'm with the L2 division to support any potential hazards the representatives may face. But if you are hoping that I might do so, you will require convincing the General of our current issue."
Julian agreed, "I've been hoping to get you to see what we're facing but this isn't a bad place to start. I just need to at least get a warning out."
"Just spell it out then. Tell it your way."
"If you're familiar with what just gone down at the Earth Sphere government, you haven't been able to see the serious shit that's happened. The big orchestrator, Till Lindemann, has taken control and he has that Malcolm Hunter guy as a stand-in while he manages his new government."
Donny was uneasy for a second before he asked, "So the head of their industrial complex has control does he? What else is this supposed to address?"
"It's the people who are in danger. From what I managed to discover, Lindemann wants to have the representatives executed in an attempt to put the Coalition in its place."
Donny's face became more stern when he told Julian, "This is a very serious accusation. If it remains as one, a man such as yourself could be facing severe disciplinary action for attempting to usurp a standing ceasefire."
Julian brought the black box to Donny's attention when he told him, "I honestly wish I was trying to fool you."
He pressed the play button when an exchange of dialogue sounded the voice of John Windham, "Our people will be subjected to the rule of your will."
The voice of Till Lindemann spoke, "These men are willing to cooperate and must be reminded of how little power they have. I want them executed first thing tomorrow. Perhaps only then will Mr. Lehrer recognize his place."
Donny was surprised to hear the plan was revealed to him. The idea that the alliance had some descent was not outside his imagination but the though to performing such a devastating act was one that brought him a great amount of concern. "This cannot be within his scheme. President Lehrer said that he was prepared to negotiate an end to this conflict. No matter how dangerous the Mad Lord of Prussia can be, he cannot be shortsighted to believe that he will be able to slaughter the representatives without breaking the ceasefire."
Julian told him, "The unfortunate problem is that a good chunk of the Coalition is completely wiped out. I'm guessing that the colonies will be the last stand against them and even they will have to scrape by to keep fighting. Even with all of that in mind, we still have another dangerous development that's about to take place." Julian turned the black box around before displaying a holographic projection of a massive Gundam when he told Donny, "This is what he calls the Nornir Walkure. Not only has this thing been built to take on entire armies, but he plans to have this thing mass produced. He wants to subject the human race under his rule by seeing all of the firepower that this thing has. He's ready for the Sol Thero threat and he's ready to have us taken down as well."
Donny was growing more concerned by the revelation but turned to one of the computer operators to ask, "Is General Willms still prepared with his forces?"
The operator answered, "He is still stationed at Kirkland Lake. The remainder of his forces should be on standby."
One of the operators asked, "Is it even a good idea to warn the general about this? If we report to him about the Earth Sphere now, we'll be open to conflict as soon as we arrive."
Donny told him, "If we wait there will be no representatives to serve under and we will be facing yet another war to force ourselves through. We must make our way to Quebec City right away before the execution."
The Operator agreed, "Sending the warning now sir." He contacted through his speaker phone, "General, we have an emergency! The Colonial Representatives are about to be executed, requesting authorization to move out!"
As the operator exchanged words with General Willms, Julian told Donny, "There is some good news to this. The first prototype isn't even done yet and the Earth Sphere's numbers are bloated. Just this brigade will be enough to crush those traitors."
Donny told him, "This had best be the case. I had my suspicion that Till Lindemann was incapable shedding his old ways as an old member of OZ. And here it seems that the danger is almost a reality."
Julian warned, "If there is anything that we should be prepared for, it should be leaving right away. The representatives could be executed at any second and we're more than nine hours away from there."
Donny agreed, "With President Lehrer deceived and the representatives at gunpoint we can only rely on our own strength to see they are rescued."
He heard the operator announced, "Colonel, General Willms is proceeding to Quebec City and expects us to move out right away."
Donny ordered, "Have everyone prepare to move out. If we have a chance to make the first strike and Private Roald's report is correct, we should eb able to prevent further chaos from coming into play."
He guided Julian outside as he saw the pilots scramble to their mobile suits and told Julian, "Use your Ursa as a forward unit. We will have you covered and we will have a confirmed window to strike."
Julian agreed, "I'll pull through for you Colonel. I look forward to taking that crazy old bastard off his high chair." Julian turned as he made his way to his Ursa and silently told himself, "Same thing with you."
Hours passed after the Nornir Walkure was completed and much of the occupying force of Quebec City was left to believe they had obtained their security. The remainder of the day appeared that it was going to be uneventful, but a development on one of the radar systems brought alarm to one of the Earth Sphere operators. He looked over the radar before announcing, "General, it looks like we've got Coalition activity headed our way!"
Marcel stood at attention when he asked, "Is it from the North Maine?"
The operator answered, "Negative! They're approaching west of our location but there's more of them reaching our perimeter by the second!"
Marcel checked the radar and saw the holographic map update with the Coalition signals. He told one of the men nearby, "Establish contact with them now. Maintain our base defenses."
Another operator announced, "We have contact sir."
A holographic image of Donny appeared and greeted, "Colonel Donny Fahey with the L2 brigade. Is anyone there?"
Marcel answered, "General Marcel Neustadt of the Earth Sphere. What is it that brings you here Colonel?"
Donny answered, "We've been attacked by the Sol Thero squadrons and more than half of our brigade has been destroyed. I hate to shame myself like this, but we need your residence to restock and take shelter."
Marcel nodded, "The only shame you should bear is that you might have once been too stubborn to ask for our assistance. Approach and we will assign a space for your men."
Donny thanked, "We will follow your procedures General. Hopefully your leaders will be able to accept our intention to stand together in this troubled time."
The hologram of Donny faded as Marcel told one of the operators, "Establish contact with the President. We will have to address the situation right away."
Another operator reported, "General we're receiving a signal form one of our own units."
Marcel checked the map when he asked, "Is it the unit leading the Coalition forces?"
The operator answered, "It seems like it's trying to avoid being picked up by anyone else. It's a pretty low range one that's trying to reach our comms. It's most likely that Ursa unit out there."
Marcel made his way to the panel when he called, "This is Quebec Mission Control. Who is this?"
The voice of Julian cracked through the static when he answered, "Just an insider here and I feel like I need to give you a warning here. These people are trying to take advantage of the situation here. These guys want to try and take us down by surprise."
Marcel was caught off guard by the answer but pressed, "Who is this? Why should we trust what you are trying to warn us of?"
"Just a fellow soldier looking out for the good of the Earth Sphere. It's not like holding the representative was going to stay a safe bet for us. Now you better be ready to ask yourself, are you willing to risk the city and let these guys tear it down bit by bit?"
Conflicted by what two reports he was given, Marcel decided there were few options for him to take but couldn't rest easy with the potential bloodshed that he would cause himself. He told Julian, "Stay out of firing distance if you want to be recognized for your contribution. W e will have this situation handled as best we can."
Julian agreed, "I'm sure you will General."
The communications were cut off as Marcel made his way to the holographic map and ordered, "Have the western squadrons remain split and prepare to flank the enemy on both sides when given the order. Ensure that the northern and southern squadrons are prepared to offer assistance."
The strategist overlooking the map warned, "They might not be enough to handle these numbers sir. We may be better if we prepare ourselves properly."
Marcel agreed, "It seems that now is the time we see if Lord Lindemann's new project achievement is up to fulfilling its promised potential."
Within the hangar bay of the Nornir Walkure, Till and Andrew oversaw their Gundam as it was prepared for combat. Andrew asked, "So there are still those in the Coalition who do not see us as worthwhile allies if this is to be believed."
Till confirmed, "I have no command of what these men do. As much as I may empathize for their struggle, I must still acknowledge them as enemies."
He heard his four sons arrive as they ran to his area on the scaffolding and heard Christoph announce, "Reporting for duty sir!"
Till tuned around when he acknowledged his sons, "You have arrived just in time. We have what remains of a brigade preparing to make its way towards the city and hope to catch us off guard by using the guise of seeking refuge. Should they make the first shot as we anticipate, it will be your job to respond to their threat in kind."
Flake commented, "Damn. Do they not have an idea of our situation right now? It's almost like they're trying to get themselves killed."
Till answered, "The only answer we can offer to such dedication for their leaders is that we oblige them with the most glorious end that they can hope for. There are those who will believe they are still in the right after a conflict has ended and it is regrettable that we cannot prevent their end. Seeing how uninformed they are of our position they clearly hope we are weaker than we actually are."
Andrew added, "The Griffon squadron will be able to offer assistance and potentially fool the enemy into thinking they have a number advantage. Most importantly we need you to minimize any casualties on our side. This is the primary purpose of any Gundam mission and we expect you to offer your best effort."
Christian accepted, "I'll be sure to do my part at least. I'm just going to need everyone else's cooperation is all."
Richard told him, "We do need everybody to pilot this thing at its strongest. At least it's probably going to be a bit easier than the usual outing. We have a grand tank of a Gundam to back us up after all."
Till told him, "We have recently added a trench shield to add to your defenses. I expect you to handle this Gundam as you would a fragile piece of technology, not as something to justify reckless behavior. The best case scenario is that we are forced to keep these soldiers in line and ensure they know their place in this chaotic world we live in."
Christoph agreed, "We'll report back successful sir."
Till agreed, "I expect no less. Move out."
The four brothers gave a salute as they rushed to the Nornir Walkure and prepared for the battle that was about to unfold. Christoph leapt into the lead cockpit when he managed the control panels and announced, "The engines are ready. Standby mode engaged."
Christian asked, "So we might find out how affective this thing is with a bigger head now. How soon until the breakup?"
Flake answered, "They are still a ways away but they're probably going to be in firing range pretty soon."
Richard told them, "Let's not get too itchy back here. We have the security of the city to worry about."
Christoph watched the bay doors open when he told his brothers, "Listen to Richard. If the worst is about to come… then at least we have the means to end it quickly."
Julian checked the countryside on both sides as he progressed with the Ursa unit across Parc Chauveau. The area was quite but he was able to find two squads of Griffon units in flight mod flying towards his location. As he watched their flight he told himself, "This is going just as planned. Okay Colonel, let's see how well you handle a real shitstorm." As he stopped moving he saw several Leo III mobile suits make their way up to him before he heard one of the leading pilots ask, "What's the hold up private? We still have a way to go before we're finished out here."
Julian answered, "I didn't think I needed to keep going. We're getting pretty close to the capital aren't we?"
The pilot corrected, "Until we get to the capital we don't have a reason to stop. We need to save the representatives."
Julian moved his Ursa unit behind a nearby tree when he agreed, "That is what you are hoping to pull off isn't it? Well what good is our mission if we have enemies standing in our way?" He raised his assault rifle as he fired into the sky and towards one of the Griffon units. As he fired, an explosion erupted in the sky and there was a state of panic over the L2 brigade. As the Griffon units scattered from the destruction of one of their units, Julian turned his attention to the Leo III following him as he heard, "What the hell are you doing?"
Julian's Ursa unit backed away from the Leo III when he answered, "My mission." He fired on the Leo III and moved away from the gunfire that came his way as the exchange set a fire across the ground. Julian avoided contact as he saw his shots land on the cockpit area of the Leo III before creating an explosion that lit the ground where it stood. As the unit was destroyed he heard Donny contact across the channel on his radio, "All units kill the traitor! Don't let him compromise our location!"
Backing away from the pursuit, Julian saw his plan begin to take effect as he took aim at the first Leo III that would appear. As he backed away he saw the two squadrons of Griffon units make their way to the ground level and began an exchange of fire with the L2 Coalition forces. As they kept focus on the enemy targets, Julian smiled, "Just as you anticipated general. Looks like I just fulfilled my part."
Julian locked his mobile suit to continue speeding further backwards as he opened his cockpit and prepared to make the leap outside. He took hold of his equipment and slid out the cockpit seat just as he saw several shots fly in his direction before hearing a loud snap as the left arm of his Ursa went crashing to the ground. He maintained his calm however as he made a slide down the leg of his Ursa and rolled onto the ground beneath before seeing his mobile suit erupt in flames from another volley of fire.
Julian ran away from the destruction ash he found a nearby clearing where he could observe the destruction from afar. Griffon units continued to attack from the sky dodged the fire from the Leo IIIs attempting to find cover. It was only a short period after that he saw Ursa units from his right and left arriving to make contact with the battle that he had started. It only took a few seconds before the battle began to escalate into a more devastating display of destruction. Julian watched with a sense of excitement as he told himself, "This is a God damn display alright. It's crazy to think how easy it is. Now how much of this am I going to see?"
The Nornir Walkure continued its course through the woods as it prepared to keep track of the enemies it would have to handle. Flake checked his radar when he announced, "It looks like our tip was right guys. We got enemy contact coming in our sights."
Christian cursed, "These morons will wish that they never tried to cross us."
Christoph checked the area ahead as he watched the number of energy signals build and found he was offered access to the handle that would activate the Helfire Cannon. He made contact with the Earth Sphere patrol when he warned, "Attention all units. We are about to release a massive energy blast that will ensure destruction on contact. Stand clear of the enemy."
Flake watched his radar while Richard told everyone, "We're going to need to hurry things up. There's not going to be a lot of our guys left at this rate."
Flake checked the radar when he told his brother, "Everyone clearing way. We'll have an open target soon enough."
The Griffon and Ursa units separated from engaging the brigade while Leo IIIs began to disperse and push forward for their attempt to reach the capital. Christoph took hold of the handle before turning it and sliding the cylinder down the hole. The Nornir Walkure opened its chest cannon as a mighty build of energy revealed itself. The energy built for a moment before unleashing a mighty burst towards the L2 units in the distance. As the energy shot made its way across the field destroying Leo IIIs and tearing the forest asunder, the Nornir Walkure's head panels opened to release a mighty blow of steam from its body and its wings.
As Christoph managed the beam to continue destroying every L2 mobile suit, he observed, "Holy shit are we holding ourselves well now."
Flake agreed, "The Verdandi is expelling the heat from the systems. We can keep this thing going until we have every last one destroyed."
The Nornir Walkure continued its purge while the destruction continued to build and the enemy signatures continuously waned. The blast continued until Flake saw there were no more enemy signals on the radar. He told his brothers, "That's that. Enemy forces all gone."
Christoph reached into the cylinder hole and brought the handle up before finding the chest cannon stopped firing. In front of the Nornir Walkure a huge part of what was Parc Chauveau was burned to the ground with many of the trees scorched the same black that many of the mobile suit limbs were still intact. Christian looked on at the devastation when he commented, "Damn. I think we do have the means to defend ourselves."
Richard added, "And we're still in one piece. Flake we really could have used you when we had this thing to fight the Coalition with."
A signal sounded on the computer screen when one of the leading mobile suits announced, "Good job guys. We have no enemy signals showing up. We've had minimal casualties and we don't have to hold off any of those guys for now."
Christoph thanked, "Happy to help. It's unfortunate to resort to this. Hopefully we'll be able to prevent this from happening again."
They received a signal from Andrew, "The mission has been completed. Return to base and prepare for debriefing."
Christoph accepted the order, "We are on our way back sir." The Nornir Walkure turned away from the ashen field of destroyed Leo IIIs while the Earth Sphere mobile suits began their return to their previous quadrant. Julian in the meantime looked on with a heavy grin on his face before laughing and telling himself, "God damn that's a display if I ever saw one! It seems like we're going to have some really sick ass tools before this is all done!"
Hours passed as the Gundam pilots and the pilots who joined them began their drinking game and the results went unaltered by the circle. Mercurio was sitting back to back with Zachariah when he heard Zachairah point out, "Get a load of Suchart's desperate last moments…"
Mercurio turned his head to see Suchart holding on to the long emptied keg and had his mouth stuck at the spout while bobbing his head back and forth. Mercurio chuckled when he commented, "I sure hope… those are… memories of him as a… baby he's trying to relive…" Both men chuckled before falling on their sides opposite of each other and fell into a slumber.
Donna was surprised to see how rowdy the gathering had gotten to see the pilots drink enough to not even be able to stand. Even in their drunken stupor there was a certain unity that had been formed in the time they had together. Enough that Dana allowed Oleg's head to rest on her breasts while she snored and drooled with her head leaning on a nearby crate. Gawel was laying face down on the floor while Tano kept himself stable by leaning against the walls behind him. Donna made her way up to him when she asked, "Do you think you're handling yourself well?"
Tano looked up when he told her, "I probably could have asked for a worse time to have my first beer. I don't know if I want to do it again."
Donna agreed, "It can be difficult to handle your first drink. If what we were told is right, we should still have a few weeks before we reach the battle site. Let's just hope that Suchart doesn't have another keg snuck aboard."
Tano brought himself up and walked as though his arms were made of stone when he told her, "Maybe wake me next week and I'll be in top fighting shape then."
Donna allowed Tano to make his way through the halls as he made his way to his personal quarters. She heard Ermes point out, "At the very least it seems that there's one person who doesn't need help to get to his bed. I bet everyone here is going to be rather sore when they're forced to wake up."
Dafina pointed out, "They have a right to a night like this one. We aren't sure how is going to come out of this alive and that's assuming we're going to come out victorious."
Ermes told her, "We shouldn't allow ourselves to doubt. It only offer the first chance we have at failure. And we have some very serious risks to consider if we do fail."
Dafina agreed, "I'll make sure that no one allows themselves those doubts. You should go to bed and at least look like you tried to rest yourself."
Ermes agreed, "Okay, see you in the morning." Ermes parted as he followed Tano down the halls.
Donna observed, "I suppose he didn't drink as much as the others either. He only seems to be having a little trouble holding himself together."
Dafina told her, "And it seems as though you've been hoping he wouldn't. I was able to see you trying to offer him all those drinks earlier."
Donna was surprised by the observation when she asked, "Do you think this was something I wanted to accomplish myself? I only wanted to make sure he would be treated right along with the others is all."
Dafina pointed out, "you've been trying to stay on his good side for as long as I've been with him. Is there something that you've been hoping to achieve with him?"
Donna rubbed her head before telling her, "He has been nice to me in return. I want him to know how grateful I am."
Dafina reminded her, "Understand that if you are hoping to be taken in his arms and to live on Mars with him, it will be a difficult life to live. Even if you can handle it, do you feel right in leaving your family and everyone else behind?"
Donna paused as she looked down before answered, "I honestly don't see leaving them behind as the true challenge for me to face. I just want to live somewhere were I don't have the weight of human civilization on my shoulders. From my experience everyone face the danger of being corrected by something and I become less than what they could be because of it."
Dafina pointed out, "That is not only an unfortunate way to see everyone you fought for, but a very selfish reason. You expect someone to be perfect just so they can measure up to an unrealistic standard you set for them? Do you think you can live with yourself if you saw the day where Ermes reveled the same sort of flaws that you're trying to stay away from? Do you think that Ermes would approve of this sort of plea for his affection, especially when his cousin is brushed aside as well?"
Donna raised her gaze up to Dafina when she told her, "Mercurio is barely able to support himself as it is. He almost killed you and might have gone on to hurt many others. You're defending the sort of man who is very dangerous and we don't know what he could be capable of when this ends."
Dafina made her way to Donna when she told her, "And he didn't. Mercuiro has been facing his own demons ever since that day in Brussels and he is only prepared to face the greatest dangers to ensure that one day we don't have to live in another period of betrayal such as the one we now live in. The goal of both sides has been to save an era where we don't have to live in an era where we can't trust those we hold dear. You should also recognize that you fight for that time as well. Choosing to see the worst in others will never bring you or those around you peace."
Donna felt an air of shame hang over her head when she heard Dafina's point. Her intentions had been revealed and were all cast in a way that she did not want to be seen. She looked to her side when she told Dafina, "I thought my intentions were true. I legitimately believed that I had real feelings for him and yet it sounds like I was trying to use him more than anything else. I guess that maybe I don't belong to Mars if that is true."
Dafina told her, "Anyone who isn't honest with themselves needs to recognize what their intentions might do to others. Learn that and you will find yourself in a better future. I only want my brother to be happy with you if it's something he wants as well. Understand that there are others who have their own desires to live for. Dafina left Donna with those words as she was left to gaze over the room and its slumbering pilots. It was this moment that left her to ponder what she could accomplish if she did survive after the attack on the Sol Invictus.
