Expectations of peace soar to their greatest heights with the formation of the Earth Sphere United Nations. The year is After Colony 225. The dissolution of mobile suits and militaries from the human race has allowed veterans and civilians alike to a progressive new era for humanity. Grudges however are far more powerful than what many realize. Former members of the Romefeller Foundation have taken to the stars to act against the ESUN's pacifism policies. The horrors of war have revisited the Earth for a new generation of humanity in the form of the vengeful Falson Coalition. 11 years have passed since the conflict began. The ESUN's hope lies in the form of its own mobile suit project. Operation Rising Himalayas. The revival of GUNDAM.

Episode 6: Resolves Crumble

A loud unpleasant noise came from the bathroom when the shuttle continued its voyage. Donna came out of the bathroom, wiping her face while still showing weakness from the g-force she experienced.

Mercurio turned to inform his superior, "Pardon me Captain. I believe the rest period of our trip has started."

Dana turned to meet her when she confirmed, "It has. Head down to the resting quarters and I'll let you know when the next training period starts."

Donna avoided showing visible resentment at the agreement as she saluted, "Yes sir." Donna did not have to told twice as she left the presence of the two other pilots. Maybe I'll be in a better mood after I'm done resting. She thought to herself.

As Donna left Mercurio held back a belch thanking, "I should probably be more grateful for you getting us out of there. I guess I wasn't prepared for a motion like that."

Dana shook her head at Mercuiro's apology and told him, "Don't worry about it Yuy. Trust me, I went through the same thing. You and Lindemann are just now getting your space wings, I wouldn't expect anyone to have done better."

"I guess that is true." Mercurio agreed without protest. A civilian forged into a soldier over a two-year period wasn't the same as someone who was meant to be a fighter for his entire life. "I guess both me and Lindemann are only going to live up to the right expectations on the way back. If we're lucky we won't have to be the same way heading back to Earth."

The question of Mercurio holding something back this whole time or if it was just expectations of heredity made its way through Dana's mind as she considered Mercurio's response. Instead of asking Dana brushed off the question waving, "Get some rest. I'll wake you if the enemy makes another attack." She leaned back in her pilot seat as the shuttle continued to maintain its course and speed hoping to get some herself.

Mercurio stood up from his post and saluted, "Understood Captain. I'll be ready."

As Donna entered the resting quarters, she realised that she didn't open the package the Instructor left on the shuttle yet as she placed her helmet inside her locker. "This is something that can wait." Donna said to herself. She walked back to her sleeping bunk and plumped herself down. "If we can avoid having another ambush for the rest of the journey I probably wont have to show that kind of weakness again." She said before letting her thoughts drift to sleep. She was in an uneasy sleep at first with only a few noises to break the silence. It wasn't until she heard Mercurio speak that her sleep was interrupted.

Mercurio headed to his bunk and shifted a bit to get into a sleeping position. The battle was still on his mind. "At least I've been able to push my way through these last few battles. Being able to make a difference is what I should be concerned about though."

Donna could hear Mercurio above her when she listened to his personal evaluation. This was his first space battle but these were also the first few battles he had in this war. He did have a powerful Gundam at his side and it was possibly going to be enough to decimate the Coalition. As strong as he may be he does not have the confidence in himself to stand with absolute certainty.

As he considered his competence Mercurio's thoughts reminded him of a key issue. Differing views of how peace is intended to be achieved is what ultimately leads to divisions. But those who seek to exploit it through underhanded means is what leads to devestation. And when devestation is embraced, it breeds those who can live off of nothing but that period of human suffering. Mercurio went over the weight of his mother's words when he told himself, "Even then... I have a war to fight. This conflict has to be the first thing on my mind." He pushed what final thoughts were in his mind away when he made an effort to get some sleep.

Right beneath him Donna heard what words Mercurio said to himself. As a few silent moments came to pass she didn't comment on Mercurio's observations and instead chose to fall asleep for the period.

Tano made his way to Admiral Kontoyannis's Office just when he left his Saggitarius unit. As he made his way through the hallways of the Coalition battleship his thoughts continued to linger on the Gundams he faced. "They are the strongest opponents I have faced yet. Dodging a shot is one accomplishment, but we will see how those skills fare when we meet again. And then it will be a true battle. Both of us on even footing." He arrived at the door before signaling his arrival with the Admiral's doorbell.

Demetrios was in the other room when he offered, "Enter."

Tano entered to find the Demetrios sitting and noting his arrival. Tano saluted, "Admiral. I have arrived with the mission report."

"We have been briefed on the casualties. Do you have anything to add to it Lieutenant?"

"Yes sir. These units are more powerful than anticipated. The Earth Sphere truly put what remaining resrources they had into making this new generation of Gundams. I feel that we will require as many units as possible if we can have a chance of damaging them."

"So it may be the case." Demetrios brought up his star chart when he explained, "We shall now chart a course to follow the Gundams to their destination. With their current trajectory and course correction in place we have been able to confirm they are heading for Mars. We will be moving out of this debris soon and we will have the opportunity to pursue them. You are to remain on standby for our arrival before we begin our pursuit."

"Yes Sir!" Tano said as he gave a final salute.

As he walked out of the Admiral's office he saw one of his fellow pilots waiting for him. "Did the Admiral hear what you have to say about this previous mission?"

Tano continued down the hallway when he answered, "The Coalition's fate is in my hands. If we are going to win this war I have to see the Gundams are destroyed."

"Sounds like you still have one thing on your mind. I'll just let the other squadrons know not to get in your way when you're tearing the enemy apart."

"It will be to their benefit to do so. They will be able to spare their lives while I see the Gundams fall at my feet."

The pilot entered another room when he sighed at the display Tano put up. "Damn that kid thinks way too high of himself."

The remainder of the Taurus squadron continued to advance through the German countryside despite the destruction of two units from behind. "Sergeant! Unit 3 and 7 have been destroyed!" shouted a soldier.

"All units, avoid close contact!" Ordered the sergeant. "Damn it all. Why did they have to bring back a weapon like that thing?" He said this as he remembered how the Epyon in the Eve Wars used its heat rods in an eerily similar fashion.

Things became more frantic as he prepared for another attack but saw the Scutum units not far from their location. As if the mobile armor units just found the incoming Taurus squadron their main cannons began to fire on their location. The sergeant brought up his shield when he tried to avoid the blast. "Sir! We're about to be pinned down on heavy fire!" The sergeant warned to his superior.

The Taurus captain saw the artillery fire from behind him. The Scutum units forced him to retreat to an area out of their range while he frantically formed a plan. "Avoid all contact with the enemy artillery!" He ordered. "Focus on the Gundam! Fire the laser guns with precision! Make every shot count!"

The sergeant heard the order and prepared his Taurus's laser cannon while moving away from the Scutum blasts. "No problem for us." He took aim at the Aquarius unit as it continued towards the Testudo while he shouted, "Get back here and show us what you can do!"

The Aquarius Gundam dashed underneath the Testudo mobile armor the moment where Zelma heard a transmission. "Good to see you back Agent. Get to the lift and load that baby in."

"Entering now." She looked behind her to see the supporting fire come from the Scutum units alongside the Testudo. The Taurus squadron would not only have a hard time reaching her but it would give Tsubarov time to jump into the pilot seat. She headed underneath the powerful mobile armor and grasped the nearest lift that took the Aquarius into the interior.

Zelma opened the Aquarius's cockpit and saw the waiting personanel in the hangar. She jumped out of the pilot seat to greet one of the soldiers, "The enemy mobile suit is now in our hands. You may commence the attack whenever you wish."

Oleg saw the Aquarius below was prepared for him and met with the Agent near the cockpit seat. He waved to Zelma, "I'll return alive! Be sure to warn the other Scutum units that I'll be in their line of fire!" Jumping down and into the blue mobile suit below, he now had control over the Aquarius. "This is going to be new alright. Most I've got I have heat rods."

Kieran heard this when he warned, "About the most we can get for a first observation. Just remember to put your close combat skills to the limit out there Oleg."

"Heh, no problem. Just speed past the targets and be ready to slice them in half with these things." He shut the cockpit shut when he announced to the crew, "Prepared for launch! Time for me to head out!"

Kieran turned to the crewman ordering, "You heard him! Release the holding latches!" With that order the blue Gundam unit fell down to the ground it came from beneath the Testudo.

The firing from the Scutum units began to die down once the Aquarius launced forward in a dash across the battlefield. Oleg checked the nearby units to find the Taurus units in position. "Right there. I've got you all in my sights." It was the first warning he gave when his heat rods began to slice away at the Taurus units.

As Oleg continued to attack with the Aquarius, he saw severl areas what made his new mobile suit operate. He was worried about the mobile suit possibly might backfire but found it moving quite well. Unfortunately the enemy had begun to make its retreat when the wrath of the Aquarius managed to make itself known. He made a public announcement to the enemy, "Get over here! This is my time to reign supreme!"

Two of the few remaining Tauruses have tried to dodge the heat rod but they were too slow. The Gundam seemed to be unstoppable.

"Captain! Captain!" The sergeant tried to get a hold of his superior but found his signal gone from the communication channels. He turned to his few remaining fellow pilots to order, "Get out of here now! Your flight recorder will need to survive if we can have a chance of killing that monster!" The second remaining Taurus transformed into its flight made and made it's escape from the battle.

"What about you sergeant?"

"Get the load out and be ready to move." The sergeant's Taurus dropped its over-heated laser gun and drew out a beam saber. The sergeant prepared to charge at the stolen Gundam when he promised himself, "I'll buy you some time."

"You think you have a way out?" The Sagittarius wait before Oleg made a swipe through the nearest Taurus and clean through the charging one. He checked the remainder of the battlefield and saw one final unit trying to avoid its fate. The Aquarius made a run towards the position of the Taurus until it was only a few feet away. The Taurus continued to fly forward but the Aquarius made a leap into the air with its heat rods making an upwards slice. The contact with the weapon took out the Taurus's engines and caused it to lose altitude.

The charging Taurus plunged to the forest below after it was defeated by the Aquarius. "No! Not down here! AHHHH!" The pilot inside tried to make an escape but found it was too late as his mobile suit fell to the ground in an explosion.

The heat rods retracted as the final Taurus exploded from the Aquarius' final kill. Oleg wiped his forehead and reported, "Mission successful General. The enemy won't be reporting back now."

Edward praised, "Excellent. Return to Testudo and prepare for the advance."

"Yes sir."

Edward observed the power of the Aquarius and concluded, "Now we shall be fully prepared for the advance to Berlin. The Earth Sphere will be incapable of reacting appropriately from what we have in store for them." There was nothing that could stop the advance at this rate. It seemed as though the Coalition was soon to begin a major blow to ending the Earth Sphere's resistance.

General Blare observed the results of the new weapon and saw that the Coalition had gained a powerful resource to turn against the Earth enemies. He commented, "Very fortuitous. The enemy will have a great deal to make up for now."

Zelma agreed with her superior, "It is quite an achievement indeed sir. It is especially fortunate that Mr. Tsubarov was capable of taking up the Aquarius so well."

"Quite. Captain Belyakova did give him the highest reccomendation of her squad. A man who is every bit as concerned for seeing the Coalition advance as he is in hoping to create a better tomorrow for us all. A demonstration that background does not affect what a soldier is on the battlefield."

Zelma noted the evaluation when she reminded, "Now we have a further agreement to work on don't we?"

General Blare turned to Zelma with a key in hand, "Ah yes. One moment." He made his way towards a nearby cabinet and pulled out a sealed case with Zelma's reward for the mission. Edward handed her the case explaining, "The first portion of your payment. We shall provide you the second half when the siege has ended." Zelma was not a cheap agent although previous experience had confirmed to General Blare that the higher ups in the Coalition considered her price to be worth purchasing. Perhaps her demand allowed her to afford maintaining the old mobile suit she had. He inquired further, "I recognize you are a freelance pilot for our cause Agent. However, I must ask if you intend to continue following under our command?"

Zelma understood the requirements General Blare reminded and answered, "Of course sir." The Coalition still needed her services and were going to continue asking for them with her track record. "I shall continue to see the siege is completed when we are ready. Your only concern should be how soon the Earth Sphere forces will mobilize in response." She noted to one of the escaping Taurus units, "It may be more difficult than you hope as well. They shall know about our arrival."

As soon as Zelma gave her promise to the mission, Edward agreed, "I shall hold you to your word." Very soon he would enter Berlin and the Earth Sphere would be just one trip away. He then took notice of Zelma's observation of the retreating enemy. It would be a huge favor for the Earth Sphere if data was brought back on the combat capabilities of Aquarius.

Berlin

Instructor W rushed to the Lindemann Estate. He heard explosive cursing from the ambulance, presumably from the incapacitated Lord Lindemann.

"I was too late." He lamented. He turned to the city where he saw the civilian populace gathering into city blocks and making their way to the nearest truck.

"Continue to evacuate. All civilian residents please follow your nearest Earth Sphere regiment." The Instructor looked up to notice there was one familiar face when he noticed Christoph among the crowd.

The Instructor found his way to the Lindemann brother when he gave his greeting. "Christoph. It is fortunate to see you and the remainder of the squad are here to assist."

Christoph looked down from his perch and noticed his old superior. "Ah hello Instructor. You did manage to miss a pretty big infiltration from the enemy though. Dad's sure going to be pissed when he leaves Luxembourg."

"I only wish I could have helped prevent it somehow. Will the civlian populace will be able to evacuate before the Coalition arrives?"

Christoph looked over a few sheets on his clipboard answering, "Much of the southern lands of Europe are still free from the Coalition's advance. Although even if they weren't it's still a better alternative than being caught up in line with the Testudo."

"Perhaps it is. I only hope now that you and your brothers will be able to assist in the defense of Berlin despite this threat. This part of the war will be most critical in defending the capital."

"Don't worry professor. We've been waiting for this sort of day. We've done three battles in a day escorting the Gundams I think we'll be able to handle a grand scale battle like this."

"I only hope that your enthusiasm will match with your capabilities in battle Christoph. Good luck out there."

"I'll make sure you approve of what I can do out there Instructor."

"I'll assist in the evacuation. The factory materials are going to have to be relocated to ensure the enemy doesn't have anything to gain from a potential success."

"Assuming the Coalition manages to make its way in here. If only we could have an idea of what sort of casualties we're going to have soon."

The advance of the Testudo and the Scutum units continued their way into the German territory while Edward observed the gathering forces before him. He saw Bertram standing beside him as he observed from his main chair. "I trust the formation is in place Bertram?"

Bertram gestured to the battle map showing the Scutums and squadrons forming near the city. "Of course General. There is no question that the invasion of Berlin will be in our favor."

"Our only concern now will be if the Coalition's Ursa mobile suits can prepare in time to offer a capable resistance."

"Wars are won on superior strategies of course. As we continue our advance through the territory, we will offer little room for the enemy to run."

"The only area they will have will be in the west. Much to our fortune they can do nothing but run in that direction should they decide the battle is lost. In which case we will only be able to move forward with our way into Brussels."

"The choices have been limited. All of this assuming the worst can be made possible."

"Exactly. Once we have arrived, we will be within range. The Testudo will demonstrate its might before the Earth Sphere one final time. And then this war will be well on its way towards and ending... But of course only to the end of this period in the war."

"If there is to be another era of war that will pass after this one it will be unfortunate. But I shall stand with you in seeing the peace of humanity is maintained."

The two men were interrupted when one of the operators warned, "General we have reports from Templin. Enemy reinforcements are headed our way."

Bertram smiled lightly as he told his superior, "It's as I warned your Edward."

Edward acknowledged the observation, "And it's such a situation like this in which I am more than pleased to take your word Bertram." Edward looked up to order the Testudo operators, "Order the secondary Northern Scutum squadrons to meet with the enemy. Do not let them come to the assistance of the Berlin forces."

Kieran found Zelma nearby when he asked, "So how do you like it now Agent? The war is about to end the Earth Sphere isn't going to have much to defend itself with."

Zelma continued to study her acquired notes when she reminded, "Even if we take the capital sometime soon we still have a pressing concern of the Gundams."

Kieran leaned back when he was reminded of this warning. "Ah yes. Those things. Even if we take back the capital they could accomplish. It took five Gundams time to finally unite as one fighting force to defeat the enemies on Earth, but if your reports are right about the pilot recruits that sort of thing could happen in a fairly short timeframe."

"I believe you might have a report to field on the Aquarius McNeil."

Kieran looked at a nearby clock when he was reminded of his responsibility. "Oh right. I guess I'll have to ask about Gundams some other time." He scooped up a folder before asking, "Gotta admit, being able to master the controls for this thing within a few moments let alone being able to use the heat rods decently is no easy feat isn't it?"

"And he is only a private without any special training?"

Kieran flipped through his report before answering, "Not as far as I know. If my report is accurate though I ought to have some explanation why that's the case. I'll see you in a bit Agent." He left with a quick salute as he made his way to the Testudo bridge.

As soon as the Aquarius completed its loading proceedure into the Testudo Zelma made her way to the pilot's entry platform. If met in time she would be able to find the pilot that was selected.

Oleg checked the nearest systems to ensure the Aquarius completed its loading proceedure. He took out a picture from his breast pocket when he took a moment to observer his family. "Trust me everyone. With this thing I've got now, I'm headed in far places now." He folded the picture back when he remembered, "If this war goes on long enough for there to be a spotlight." He opened the cockpit lid and made his way out to the loading platform.

In just a few moments after exiting the Aquarius, he found the agent working for the Coalition who retrieved his new mobile suit wondering about his performance.

As soon as she met with Oleg she introduced, "Greetings. I see that the Aquarius has been able to match with your abilities Private? You have done rather well for a first time with an enemy mobile suit."

He answered, "Thank you. I have worked on old mobile suits before and the Earth Sphere hasn't deviated much from the old models. The heat rods are sort of a new thing though I admit."

Kieran's voice managed to carry into the conversation, "I'd say I taught him everything he knows but that would be a bit too braggish on my part."

This war was clearly as personal for Oleg as it was for just about any other former member of the Romefellers. He saw the cause as just and the wanted to reap new greatness from the victory. Still she was able to leave him with a final thought asking, "I see that you have honest hopes for a peaceful world. However consider something. Do you believe that the Earth Sphere is fighting for a cause just as worthwhile? The colonies once had to defend themselves as well." She turned to leave with this much for Oleg to wonder. He would have to consider something about his cause or ensure that his loyalty would not be shaken by these thoughts.

It was a great reminder to know that the colonies were the ones fighting for freedom before. Oleg didn't dwell on the subject when he answered, "Wasn't too long before the President showed the Earth Sphere now being no better than the old Alliance that sought to bring them down. We're still better than the Earth people. We'll never betray our own."

"I guess it's kind of curious why the Earth people consider their cause to be right and why the Falson Coalition was worth fighting against. They want to overlook injustices of their leaders just for the sake of keeping this planet united." Oleg heard as McNeil entered the conversation.

Oleg didn't continue with his thoughts when he saw turned to see McNeil arrive with some reports in hand. "You just be sure to do your job McNeil. I'll have to contact Captain Belyakova about my new position." Oleg turned back to Zelma before parting, "See you out there in the field Agent."

"Of course Private. There we will meet."

Within the main quarters of Berlin's base, Klaus Ulbricht stood next to his Lieutenant General Marcel Neustadt as they observed every last-minute preparation for the defense. The planning was interrupted when one of the operators announced, "General, we have a transmission from our allies in Britain."

Klaus turned to the center table when he ordered, "Patch them through." At that command he saw a hologram of the representing man who would hopefully save the Berlin front. "Baron Andrew Stuart. I see that you have prepared to meet with our demand for reinforcements? We were under the impression that they would arrive as soon as they have fully prepared for battle."

"I have General. Two full military deployments have been prepared for the assistance to make their way to Berlin. When the deployment of Griffon units have arrived we shall have the perfect opportunity to push back the invasion. I should only hope now that we will have the opportunity for an offensive to push back these defecting bastards?"

"Under the assumption we press the Coalition back at this location Lord Baron. The Testudo is not something to be underestimated."

"Of course. But it will only be a matter of how many lives we need offer before we see it destroyed. It will be the only way we can see the final costs of this war pass."

Klaus hesitated as he weighed the words on his his mind. He looked back up to Andrew's eye level when he thanked, "Your assistance is much appreciated Lord Baron. If it need be that we press forward furthering this conflict then let it be so that we achieve the peace we sought so long ago."

"And it will bring us the finest results General. I shall contact the Admiral now. In optimal conditions they shall arrive in time for the defense." The hologram faded and the table went back to its neutral state.

"I must evaluate the forces on our fronts as they are now. Remain on duty." The personel within the room continued their duties while Klaus began to make his way to the nearest hallway. Marcel followed behind when he heard Klaus curse, "Damned OZ types."

Marcel walked up to him asking, "Is something wrong General? Stuart is another one of the former OZ participants alongisde Lord Lindemann."

Klaus kept his gaze forward while maintaining his patience with Marcel. "That he is. His kind and the others that were able to retain their position after the organization's destruction are the only ones who had the resources necessary to make our war effort possible. And in this conflict they still see men and women of war as resources for their war tactics."

"I trust however that we will not let such differences be what keeps us from uniting against our most current enemy however."

Klaus turned to thank, "That I will agree with Marcel. Our most immediate concern shall be with the enemy for now." He turned to the nearest window to add, "Men such as us are afterall loyal soldiers who must act on their orders. Even within that foul organization there was that level of dedication to loyalty."

"I should only hope that these men of war remain as fellow men who stand with us after this conflict be done."

"I'm certain they will."

The Earth Sphere's next line of defense was arriving when six British air carriers crossed the skies with their presence. The Argentavis model was formidable in shape and size housing another of the Earth Sphere's advancement in mobile suit technology. Admiral Hayden Chadwick sat ahead of the fleet while observing the skies for enemy activity. His concentration was broken when he heard one of his operators announce, "First Priority transmission is coming from the main lines Admiral."

"Permit the signal through." The Admiral gestured. He stood in salute when he saw the holograhpic image of his superior before him. "Admiral Chadwick reporting Lord Baron."

Andrew saluted back to his Admiral when he asked, "Are you prepared to arrive as scheduled Admiral?"

"Yes sir. We have not encountered any enemy activity. At our current course we will be able to arrive in time to assist the Berlin forces."

"Continue course Admiral. General Ulbricht will not say so himself, but the situation is growing to be more than what he hopes to endure. Do not fail this mission." The hologram faded and Hayden was left to his duty.

Hayden turned to his left requesting, "What is the status report on our route?"

One of the operators brought up a map answering, "Templin area will soon be in range sir."

"Excellent. We shall only be a few points away from Berlin at this rate. Maintain our current course and prepare to engage on order."

An alarm turned on and flooded the command room when Hayden returned to his focus. One of the operators from the command bridge announced, "We have reports from our scouts ahead Admiral! The enemy has been located outside the city perimeter!"

Hayden checked his radar to find the enemy information updated with the new report. He saw the area in front of him being cluttered with a few Scutum units. Even worse they had their main cannons prepared upwards to engage airborne enemies. It became clear when the first shots were fired and made contact with the nearest Argentavis. "They were prepared for this sort of offensive." Hayden broke his observation when he gave the command, "Order all ships to man their battlestations! Prepare to engage the enemy!"

One of the announcers relayed the command through the ship announcing, "Attention all squadrons. Prepare for assault. Attention all squadrons. Prepare for assault."

Within the hangar of the Griffon mobile suits one of the squadron captains quickly strapped in his helmet commenting, "The Coalition's out there? Damn it took sooner than it should have."

Another pilot warned, "It's never too soon when they're this rallied to claim victory. Just make sure you remind them what good air superiority is out there."

Before there was anymore conversation the announcer in the hangar ordered, "All Griffon squadrons prepare to move out. We have clearance to launch." With that command the four squadrons of Griffon mobile suits exited the hangars and flew down towards the Scutum units. The Griffon units were bulky in plane mode but managed to dodge the ground shots from the Coalition Leo units. The Griffon planes fired back with the vulcan cannons with a precise accuracy that brought several explosions aroudn the Scutum units. The inital picture of the Griffon units overpowering the Leo IIIs however was broken as the Scutum mobile armor units used the side cannons to retaliate.

One of the Griffon Captains saw two of his squadmates destroyed when he warned, "We're getting in close. Prepare to engage those things head on!"

Hayden waited for the reports to continue before he heard, "Six Scutum units are located below Admiral. We should have the numbers prepared for this offensive."

The ship strategist observed the number of enemy units when he warned, "They had more reinforcements than anticipated. Admiral we may have to go all out once we're down there."

Hadyen took the challenge when he ordered, "Our goal shouldn't be to meet them head on. We must see that we maintain air superiority and assist our troops down there. See to it that all forward Argentavis engage the enemy."

Hayden's strategist relayed the order to the fleet, "Forward ships engage the enemy Scutums. Permit our Griffon units to engage the enemy with minimal resistance."

The command was given and the Griffon mobile suits exited their hangars in flight mode. "All offense squadrons are launching. The enemy is soon to engage Admiral." One of the operators informed Hayden.

"The first command has been given." Hayden turned to the weapons personnel as he ordered, "Prepare the forward cannons for fire. Focus fire on the Scutum units." The Argentavis ships fired down on the ground as the Scutum units moved to avoid damage. Amid the chaos there was one shot that made its way to Hayden's ship.

"They're getting some key shots on us sir! They've managed to improve their accuracy!"

Hayden grit his teeth when he maintained kept his focus on the surprise reinforcements before his men. "Contact Berlin immediately! We'll have to let them know why we'll be late to this party!" The command was too late when there was a sudden rocking of the ship from another blast. "Damage report!"

"Admiral, our primary communications have been shot!"

"Damn it all... Berlin is not going to be receiving encouraging words at this rate..." Hayden saw several explosions along the ground while Griffon units in land mode engaged the enemy Leo IIIs. At the moment he didn't allow his mind to be concerned with the casualties but only with being able to press through the opposition. "Continue to battle! We can't let these ones form up with the enemy main forces!"

A little more than an hour passed when Kieran made his way to the bridge of the Tetsudo. He held the papers regarding the analysis of the Aquarius.

"Chief Mechanic Kieran McNeil here. We have completed the analysis of the stolen Gundam." He reported to the General.

Edward sat back when he commanded, "Excellent. Proceed."

Kieran searched through his papers when he evaluated, "The Gundam's model number is LD-02MS Gundam Aquarius Wasserman. The only fixed weapon as we know is the heat rod similar to the models used by the Tallgeese Authority. It can carry any conventional weapon but it is not compatible with most beam weapons due to it's power output being focused on other features."

He turned another page when he pointed to the most glaring flaw in the Aquarius's structure.

"Even with all of these bells and whistles as far as making serious damage though, the Gundam is incredibly dangerous to pilot in its current state. The main reactor is not shielded enough to handle a lot of punishment from enemy fire. It's pretty clear to me at least the manufacturer did not take pilot safety into consideration."

Edward waved away the concern when he pressed, "Does it at least have a secondary weapon that can assist itself in combat?"

Kieran turned back to the first page of the Aquarius report when he answered, "It sure does sir, we have found out the Aquarius can emit a powerful virus that can shut down nearby Mobile Suits. Another feature we found is an AI system made to aid a poorly skilled soldier to fight effectively. It is similar to the Mobile Dolls, but it is made to supplement the pilot, not replace."

The evaluation caught a great deal of General Blare's interest as he considered every strength and weaknesss the Aquarius had. It may have been a test model, but the clear ambition Till Lindemann had behind the mobile suit was something that provided a superb tool. Still there was a key problem, the fact that the reactor wasn't shielded all that well. If it was destroyed, the gain would be very short lived. He looked over his copy of the blueprints ordering McNeil, "See if the reactor can be further shielded or if the damage limited. Tell Private Tsubarov to access the AI program and familiarize himself with it to his advantage."

"Count on me to solve that General." Kieran answered to the General. He gave a salute before he walked out of the birdge.

Kieran walked into the hangar of the Mobile Armor. He saw Oleg and the freelancer conversing. "Heh, wanted to get another hit out of your system there boy? Tell you what Oleg you just enjoy having a chat with a fair lady for a change." He rolled out his blueprints when he told himself, "Right now I have other things that are more pressing."

"I'll still be forming up with your squadron Captain. Just be ready to order me when you find an impossible situation."

Aglaii nodded, "I will only ask of you to perform things that are best to your ability Private. If we are lucky we will not have to throw ourselves to the war for much longer."

"We'll have to see how things play out won't we? Me and the Agent will both be out there on the field in case you need us. Good luck out there."

"We'll have every bit we need on our side. Same to you Private." The communications between Oleg and Aglaii ended when he shut off the channel and turned to observe the work done to the Aquarius.

Zelma greeted, "You were in a career of working with old Earth Sphere mobile suits. Is that what you credit your abilities as a pilot to?"

Oleg turned to notice the sudden "Probably helped quite a bit. Gotta say after I saw McNeil handling those Coalition mobile suits back in the day I didn't really have much too many other questions."

"I see. So he did bring you to the Testudo all those years ago."

"He sure did. Not like I had much of a choice though."

"You had no desire to join this war much like many who were swept in."

"I'm that easy to read huh?"

His modesty did come off as honest and he was giving what results he could at the moment. She decided to ask the question most on her mind about him, "I should like to know this then. What do you fight with the Coalition for? Do you believe you will be capable of correcting the mistakes made by the past?" The surname of Tsubarov was not widely spread but she did believe his profile was true in his descendance. If he was from this particular family, it did make Zelma wonder just what made him want to carry on with the fight that the Tsubarov name lost in the previous war

Oleg paused for a second before he answered, "I do believe so. But I never came here with the intention of changing history. The Earth Sphere had the policies to let my family enter such hardships and it was their strategies that only brought them down further. I'm fighting now to see that they can have a better future and one free from the Earth Sphere's lies."

He looked out a nearby window when he finished, "You know that the Coalition is ready to begin the invasion. We don't know how powerful those Ursa units might be, but we might expect to see something powerful from these guys. But it won't be powerful enough to stop us in our tracks."

Confirming Oleg's claim she asked,"So you believe Nathaniel Falson's claims. The pacifist policies of the Earth Sphere were a glorified cover to let them become the new Earth Alliance?" It was the claim the Falson Coalition had for its declaration of war eleven years ago. The Earth Sphere forces were responsible for striking down the first uprising of Ewan Falson's call for work oppurtunities until it exploded into something far more than it needed to be. Now the two remaining members of his family were here on Earth to see it was finished. She asked him further, "Do you believe it is the work of a long-term desire of power or of new politicians desiring it?"

It was something Oleg had to consider greatly to say the least. The Falson Coalition did manage to arrive when the Earth Sphere seemed to be continuing its policies of enforcing pacifism. Even then it took them all this time to finally begin manufacturing a mobile suit force that was actually able to put up a fight. "I believe it was inevitable to happen. I only hope that history doesn't continue to go full circle. Even then, I only want to fight for my family. They have endured too much for having so little to do with either war."

The Lindemann Brothers of the Maganac II squad made their way to lead the defense of Berlin. By that time, their father and the Instructor already fled from Berlin with the Ursa factories dismantled. Their Maganac IIs were heavily customized to their personal taste now from spare parts from fallen Leo IIIs. Christoph watched the nearby Ursas brought out into the field with a number of them being a clear rush job from their lack of paint.

"Aren't we getting reinforcements from the British Isles?" Christian asked.

Richard's Maganac II had an antenna on its head to increase the output of its radar. He used the enhanced radar system only to find there were still no friendly signals showing up from the north. "If we are I can't see them showing up yet. I wonder what's taking them so long." Richard asked as his concerns became vocal.

Cristoph thought for a minute. "They may have forgotten something... Or an even worse event may have transpired at this point."

Richard worked his Maganac II to load its ammunition when he offered, "Look at it this way. It leaves more for us to handle when the enemy heads our way."

Christian began a conversation with Richard when he pointed out, "Based on the idea that we end up facing them. We have to sit here looking pretty for the defense squadrons and pray that the advance teams manage to disable the Testudo cannon. If that team goes south then it seems like ours will be headed west to Brussels."

"We wait for the enemy to arrive within targeting range and then we make our way out of here. If only this battle wasn't so built on one big gambit we have on the advancing squadrons."

"Real question is how many more of these battles are going to be just like this one. We might not even be like Flake and get out easy from this one."

Christoph tried to end the concerns when he told them, "Right now we're not doing anything to help morale by speculating our capabilities as soldiers guys. If we can't stop the Coalition here, then we've pretty much lost this war."

"Whatever you say." Christian said as he shut off his channel with the other two Maganac IIs. "We'll have to see how much of a hopeless situation this was in hindsight I guess." He said to himself. The extra armor added to his mobile suit only did a little to ease his concern. It only continued to remind him of the injuries Flake had to endure when he was caught in the Scutum fire. Very soon he might have to find out if it was possible to endure the damage done by the Coalition's mobile armor.

Oleg found Kieran looking over a rough rendition of the recently captured Gundam with a computer in hand. He saluted, "Hey there McNeil. How have the adjustments been going on our new weapon?"

Kieran stopped typing to salute back, "Nothing too major Oleg. The General would like you to get used to the controls of the Mobile Suit. I think I should let you know about what this thing can do before you use it."

"Alright, does the Aquarius have anything else under the hood?"

"This Gundam is compatible with our weapons and a few of our beam weapons. Better yet there's is a feature where an AI of the Mobile Suit guides you in fighting effectively."

"So Lindemann has some kind of variation of the mobile doll unit. Sounds like something that would fit into his previous philosophies of course."

"It certainly was. There is also a special virus that can disable Mobile Suits as well." He eventually came to the warning regarding the Gundam. "The reactor for this Mobile Suit is dangerously unshielded. I am beginning to think of ideas to make the shielding stronger and less dangerous when it is destroyed. Until it can be implemented, please bear that in mind."

Now Oleg had a perfect distraction from the previous thoughts. He was now given the strengths and weaknesses of the Aquarius which would prove useful to utilize in the future. The virus and the assisting A.I. would make him ever better on the battlefield but there was one thing that stood out to him. So the core was unshielded that it could have killed him in his first try. "Well, sounds like beginners luck for certain. Complete the shielding ASAP. This thing won't be any useful in a scrap heap." He headed up to the main computer screen of the Aquarius and began to search through the functions it was able to offer. There were mostly standard things to catch up on but it would be possible to learn before the invasion tomorrow.

"Will do sir!" McNeil replied. He gave a salute and went to his computer to draft up rough ideas on patching up the flaw. He knew had to get it done before the Battle of Berlin but if he can't make it in time, he can create a temporary solution before a more efficient solution can be thought of.

The report on the status of the Aquarius was something interesting to listen to but managed to reveal something very key about its battle capabilities. A virus system capable of distorting the enemy mobile suits was something Lord Lindemann obviously had in mind for conquering his enemies. Unfortunately there wasn't anything Zelma could do to determine the capabilities since Oleg was on the computer system so enthusiastically. Even trying to get the mobile suit isolated for a moment would raise suspicion among the crew of the Testudo. At least it would at this hour anyway.

Zelma continued to search through her mission profile on the screen for the Tallgeese Authority and searched through her current status. The first step in performing a mission to gain some trust with the Coalition was accomplished. "I must now participate in the invasion… Was there anything you left behind Lord Lindemann?" She wondered to herself affirming the objective for her next mission. "You are fortunate I was forced to leave quickly this time. I will find your further secrets soon."

As soon as the day passed, the great push for the Earth Sphere city had begun. One dozen Scutum units were moving forward in a pincer movement to surround the city. The only escape would be to head west towards the city of Brussels with the main Coalition force movement from the east. General Blare was observing the battlefield to soon be created hoping to have an idea of what the outcome could be. He knew that they had superior forces but it would all be a matter of whether or not the new enemy units would be capable of putting up a decent defense.

In the middle of his thoughts one of the operators reported, "We are nearing our target sir. Berlin is nearing within our range."

Another one announced, "All Scutum units are moving into position. They shall be ready to move in at the first order."

Edward held onto the grips of his chair when he prepared himself from the sheer amount of excitement. With the Scutum units nearby and the mobile suit squadrons at his side, the rush of invinicibility became difficult to contain. "Whatever the outcome of today shall be we shall only see how one-sided our victory shall be." He promised himself. He reached for his nearest panel to give out the first order, "Have all mobile suit squadrons on standby. Have the Aquarius and Tallgeese Authority take lead. Prime the main cannon and prepare to fire."

The operator nearest to him announced, "Yes sir. All pilots man your mobile suits! Follow Aquarius and Tallgeese Authority lead!"

As soon as the order was given, the mobile suits were launching towards the battlefield. The leading manufacturer of the Ursa units was soon to be under attack and it would require a great effort to push them back.

Oleg was up at this hour hoping to continue utilizing the A.I. system but knew that it was soon time to begin the offense. He had his pilot suit ready and rushed towards the cockpit of his newly acquired mobile suit.

He considered to himself, "This is still the correct battle. It will just be this and a few more battles before the Earth follows the Falson vision without question." This sort of statement made him wonder, "If the Earth Sphere UN did desire peace in the first place, are they truly liars? Or is there some great manipulation happening?" The thoughts that Agent Zelma had given him yesterday was something to consider seeing that the war probably could have been avoided if she was right.

He was however just a soldier though and all he could do was continue the fight that he was given. What did some unknown turncoat know about the inner workings and politics of what both sides were fighting for anyway? He had a mission and it was time for him to carry it out. He entered the Aquarius unit and announced to the main operatives, "Oleg Tsubarov. Unit Aquarius. Prepared for launch."

At that announcement, the Aquarius unit launched in the air and with the Leo III units following suit. He was not yet promoted to a position of authority, but the Aquarius did give him the feeling of higher power and being in front only did more to give him this feeling. There were only 72 Leo III units at this main push of the force and soon the other Leo IIIs would meet with one another as the pincer movement continued in with one squad of eight for each Scutum unit. Even without knowledge of the Earth Sphere's numbers, the Coalition forces had every right to feel their numbers would crush their enemy.

General Klaus Ulbricht read the reports of the coming invasion while a circle of leading military officials gathered with him. "What is the report on the Gundam? Can we anticipate when the Coalition will utilize this creation?"

"Intel has confirmed the Aquarius will most likely participate General, unfortunately it will be more than just a jest of humiliation if our reports are correct."

Klaus hesitated before he brought up, "Then we should have some chance of defending ourselves against this unit if we have reports on its functions."

"Yes sir. Lord Till Lindemann has recently forwarded information of his personal project. Fortunately as he designed the Gundam, we have the necessary information in order to best combat against it."

"That much is fortunate. Can we account for our current numbers?"

Marcel brought up an image of the Berlin battle map when he answered, "15 squads of Ursas as requested from order of the Lindemann industrial complex. Our remaining number is of four Leo squadrons and one Taurus squadron."

"We will have the numbers to hold against their primary squadrons from the Testudo. But we will have to account for the incoming Scutum units. Has information been accounted for?"

One of the gathered personnel answered, "Yes General. One dozen Scutum units will be moving towards us from both the north and south side of the city. The bare minimum we have come to expect is one squadron for each."

The numbers were quick to add in Klaus's head when he recognized, "This additional advance alone will more than double their numbers."

"This will make the situation difficult. It seems they hope to entrap us here even if they are incapable of destroying the city somehow."

"Assuming they intend to attack Berlin in a traditional siege. The presence of these Scutum squadrons alone shows they have thought through a possible alternative strategy. Even if we do attempt to disable to Testudo however we will face an issue of manpower. If we advance too many of our forces to the Testudo then we will be left defenseless and if we remain here they will have us within targeting range."

"We should have some relief from the situation sir. Reinforcements from Britain are scheduled to arrive and we can be assured they will arrive from the north side. Our hold on the northern side of the city will require be at its most critical."

"Assuming they will arrive from there to our aid, that will provide us some relief as we maintain the defense."

"It should provide us the room we need to focus more of our forces to the south side of the city while the advancing forces from the north will have a more difficult time making contact."

"It will provide room against the Testudo but what do we do in our advance?"

"The enemy has prepared for a possible breach. However there is one area we can hope to exploit and make this defense possible." Klaus pointed to a nearby area of the Berlin battlefield explaining, "If we use the northern defense squadrons to move towards the enemy, they will be forced to send their mobile suit forces. As their intention will most likely be to remain outside the Testudo blast range, we will have to meet with them at the estimated point where they will be permitted to move. Once they have established their defenses, we will then send our squadrons to move in and engage. It shall then be up to our remaining squadrsons to disable the main cannon.

"This strategy will rely heavily on the ability of our men to damage the Coalition's most powerful weapon sir."

Klaus planted his final stance on the plan when he answered, "The progress of the defense in this war has been reliant on near impossible odds. Any war, no, any conflict that presses one side to improbable odds are the ones that must be met with not only the finest but the utmost faith that the challenged can see the impossible done." "The Testudo can be damaged. If we can achieve that much then we will be able to see this mission possible."

Marcel saluted, "We will follow your command General. Perhaps it is in the greatest hour of great strife where we have only the hopes of our men to see the greatest moments achieved." The other personnel stood in salute as they awaited his command.

As Klaus made his way to the nearest communications center Marcel heard one of the assisting personnel ask, "The General truly believes this strategy can be achieved?"

Marcel shook his head when he answered, "Perhaps he doesn't. Either way for a man who does not wish to throw away lives, he does not seem reluctant to embrace the idea himself."

"Of course. Any leader of war must be willing to do so. It is a truth that few men are ever able to accept. Even those who do will question if their humanity will remain in tact." Marcel was unsure who said those words, but they carried enough weight to prevent him from questioning his superior's motives.

Klaus saw the display of men and women preparing for battle on his monitor. When he had their full attention he began his speech. "Gentlemen. My fellow soldiers who stand for the United Earth Sphere. I need not remind you that we are the final line of defense between the Coalition and their taking of the Earth Sphere capital. This defense is one that we must uphold even if it costs us every life we can afford. I do not want to give every life that we have today but I want to see that what we do give will be enough to permit the unity of tomorrow.

"I ask you today brave soldiers of the Earth Sphere United Nations. Stand steadfast and defiant against those who would see us return to a world that embraces a feudal hierarchy. Stand in the name of human unity and say to your fathers that we will not let the sacrifices they made in generations past be worth nothing. Let today be the first in a long line of days where remind ourselves there is only one unity! Where there is one force that sees humanity hold its greatest accomplishment above all who wish to undo progress!" The speech of Klaus Ulbricht ended while the soldiers around the base stood in salute before their superiors.

The end of their General's speech had come and left only one final thought within the standing military. "The time for words ends and so comes the time for action to prevail above them."

The five squadrons of Ursa mobile suits made their way across the field towards the advancing Coalition units. One of the leading Captains warned, "We're about to meet them at the coordinates. They should be within range soon."

"All squadrons stay on standby. Prepare to move out when we have an opening."

"General. We have readings of enemy mobile suits headed our way. Current estimations will soon find them beyond the Testudo blast zone radius if they continue this way." Edward observed the battlemap projecting these advancements while he received the news.

"So they have chosen an offensive. They seem to have recognized their situation for certain." Edward stood to order, "Send out forward squadrons to engage the enemy. Engage in a linear formation and cut off all opportunity for them to advance. Do not let them approach the Testudo."

"If we can correctly guess their next moves General we shall probably see them attempt to manuever around the squadrons to reach us." Bertram asked.

"That is assuming any of them are capable of breaching our formation." Edward added to his order, "Once we are within range of the city their attempts will no longer be an issue to us."

Aglaii and her squadron moved out with the Testudo right behind them when she contacted, "Tsubarov. You got the message on the order from the General. Prepare to move out with us."

"I'm prepared for anything Captain. They'll just have to be ready to make peace now."

"Just make sure you don't forget who your squad is. We need results out there, not heroes."

"Point in the direction and I'm there." Oleg changed his channel to Zelma's asking, "So Agent how long do you expect this skirmish to last?"

"Not for long. Just focus on the enemy and prepare to attack when possible." Before she could hear any response Oleg had to offer Zelma's channel shut off from contact.

Oleg made his way to the Aquarius when he asked, "Few words huh? Probably not needed at this point."

The squadrons of Ursa units charged forward with the Testudo target in front of them. When the squads of Leo III units began to move forward the battle had begun with its first contact. "Sir! Enemy Mobile Suits are approaching!" One of the pilots warned.

The Major he contacted searched the battlefield with his radar to find the formation the Leo III units were enforcing. "Hope your faith in us is more than just pep talk General." He changed his frequency to order his units behind him, "Order all units to engage! We have to get our guys through!" With that order the Ursa units brought out their beam rifles and fired on the enemy. The first casualties were made before a white mobile suit charged its way through the explosions.

"General! Our linear formation has been breached by the enemy and they are attempting to advance!"

Edward observed the first engagement of the battlefield when he saw his line of units broken by the first shots. He was quick to contact the Tallgeese Authority to order, "Agent! Approach the coordinates of the breach! Do not let the enemy find a way through!"

Now was the beginning of the battle. The Coalition was positioned to begin the invasion as the two sides closed in and Zelma was called to assist the young Tsubarov pilot. "Shouldn't have to be this excited but seeing this thing in action is going to be my ticket out of this war."

This gave Zelma the chance she needed as she checked the final systems update in her Tallgeese unit. "Program Capture unit prepared. Now just use that system Tsubarov. This program will provide everything I need."

As soon as Oleg saw his systems were up to date he watched the Testudo bay doors below open. He shut the cockpit of his Gundam when announced to the crew above, "Oleg Tsubarov. Go Aquarius!" At that command the Aquarius unit dropped to the ground and primed its jets for a dash towards the battle.

Entering the pilot seat of the Tallgeese Authority and preparing the main systems she announced, "Zelma. All systems go." At that signal the Tallgeese Authority launched behind the Aquarius and prepared for battle.

She contacted Oleg, "There is no more ideal testing field than here. Be careful not to be overwhelmed."

"Got it Agent. I got to make contact with my squad. I'll see you back at the Testudo." As the conversation came to a quick conclusion the Tallgeese Authority and Aquarius flew in opposite directions towards the advancing Earth Sphere squadrons.

"Sir! There's an enemy unit moving faster than the others!"

One of the Earth Sphere Captains checked his monitor when he saw the Aquarius making its way towards their location. "It's a Gundam! Priority is to avoid that Gundam!"

One of the pilots fired his rifle while he observed the situation around him. "An entire military and two big guns. Here we go hoping for some serious miracles."