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 8: A Stalemate is Sealed

Donna left her seat in the cockpit area when she found Mercurio laying on his back in his bunk. She introduced herself when she announced, "Mercurio. You're almost up for watch duty."

Mercurio shifted from his bed when he accepted, "Can't be so bad. We just have to be concerned about seeing Mars now don't we?"

"That is what the Captain told me."

"Not too bad of a commanding officer isn't she?" By now he was shifting his space suit to ensure everything was in order when he stood up.

Donna shifted her leaning position slightly when she agreed, "She seems to have her focus on the mission. It does feel like she's done this before."

"Hope so. But she barely ever does bring up her past when she's this determined. That's what Major Capon told us at least."

Donna recognized this behavior of her superior and was already curious. "Does she ever tell any of her fellow pilots about her previous battles in the war?"

"Time to time. Not enough to give a full story though."

"From what she said it was how she managed to pull off that roll that saved us at the colony."

"I probably should have known what she could do, the higher ups have told us about her piloting maneuvers being among the most daring in the pilot roster."

Donna looked over her shoulder when she warned, "Perhaps I should read some official reports. The Captain is probably going to wonder what's been taking you."

Mercurio stood up when he promised, "I'll tell her it's taking me a bit longer to get up there. Did she tell you any experiences of her battles though?"

Donna thought for a moment before she answered, "I'm not sure how much everyone knows but she did go into detail with me. She said that she thought it was right to trust me. She said that it was important that I hear what she had to go through more than anyone else."

"It might be possible newer recruits have to hear her advice more than anyone else." Mercurio agreed.

Donna continued with the story, "She started with the retreat at Penza. She was actually a pilot serving under Alberto Capon when he was Captain a few years back. They both worked with Pavel Kolek as well to defend the spaceport in Moscow. She said that everything you could learn about Moscow's fall has been archived. Her real story began when she was thrust into the pilot seat of a shuttle though."

"Sounds like she was put on the ground running if that's the case. If she were asked to pilot a shuttle so soon then she was probably asked to follow her own maneuvers to avoid any Coalition contact."

"She did say so. She actually spent several years up in space when she was fighting the Coalition during the Division Period. It was only last year when she returned to Earth."

"When the Testudo landed in Siberia." Mercurio realized.

Donna confirmed his observation when she added, "The Testudo was her mission. But now it looks like she's been instructed into space one more time."

Before Mercurio could ask any questions about the decision he heard Dana up in front ask, "You feeling okay out there Yuy?"

"Uh yeah Captain. Just a second." He turned to Donna briefly telling her, "You probably remind her of someone important from earlier in her enlistment. If that's the case then I'd recommend trying to be a good support for her."

"I'll try." Donna accepted. She watched him leave the bedroom when she turned to face her bed when she tried to understand her situation. "How can I hope to relate to her of all people?" She asked no one in particular.

Mercurio made his way to the co-pilot seat when he greeted his superior, "Sorry Captain. Just took a little longer than I thought I would have."

"Not a big deal. Just don't let this thing blow up into anything that might hurt my reputation." Dana said while watching her window.

"What?" Mercurio asked turning to face the Captain.

"You think I didn't know telling other people about my past missions would make other people curious?"

Mercurio shifted in his seat a little when he agreed, "I was."

"We'll just leave it there for now. We've got to make sure the enemy is still out of our range before the next training period begins."

"I'll make an effort to do that Captain... Did you request taking this mission to Mars at all sir?"

Dana continued to observe the stars outside her window when she answered, "Some people do say my place on the battlefield is out here. If it is then I at least prefer being recognized for what I'm able to accomplish."

Mercurio nodded when he returned to his duty confirming, "I understand sir."

"Remember to keep an eye out for the enemy Private." Dana looked down when she said softly, "And try not to worry about Earth right now..."

Berlin, Germany

The Tallgeese maneuvered through the city towards the main base with the Maganac units in full retreat. Once the white mobile suit arrived in front of its target location it kneeled on its right knee while one of its hands opened in front of its chest. The cockpit opened and Zelma jumped down on the hand with a scanner activated. She searched the area observing, "Now where is it? ... There." She jumped through one of the windows below and into the hallway.

One of the base operators saw a signature breach on his monitor when he warned, "General! Enemy signature has reached our area!"

Klaus stood up from his seat when he asked, "How? What is it doing here?"

One of the operators pointed out to the infiltration when he reminded, "The mobile suit has positioned itself to allow its pilot onto our roof. We most likely have an enemy infiltration underway sir."

Klaus clenched his hands when he ordered, "Alert our base guards to the higher levels! Don't let the enemy spy achieve whatever their mission is!"

Finding the door that was triggering the signal, Zelma quickly opened it and managed to find the briefcase on a nearby table. She quickly grasped it and saw several Earth Sphere guards rushing to her location. She clutched the briefcase while firing on her opponents. After three shots Zelma jumped through the window she entered and into the palm of her mobile suit.

Zelma made a sprint up the arm of her Tallgeese to reach the cockpit door. As soon as her door was open, she threw the briefcase in and shut the door. One of the guards rushed to the window in time before he saw the Tallgeese beginning to stand on its feet. He rushed to his superior officer when he warned, "Contact the General now! He needs to be warned!"

Klaus checked his panel when he requested, "Status report!"

The Guard Captain on the other line warned, "The enemy is escaping sir! She may have already achieved her objective!" Kluas didn't offer any response when he held himself back from slamming his fist.

Marcel brought his superior back to his focus when he reminded, "We must call in support units General! We cannot let her destroy the base!"

Klaus changed his panel's frequency when he ordered, "Lindemann team! Requesting your immediate support! Emergency procedures now!"

Christoph and Richard moved their Maganacs through the city while carrying Christian's heavily damaged mobile suit. Christoph saw the main base nearby but saw the white mobile suit that beat his team earlier when his team moved in closer. "What the hell is that thing doing here?"

Before he could ask anyone, he received a transmission from the main base when he was told, "Lindemann team! Your assistance is requested! The enemy pilot has infiltrated our base and is expected to destroy us!"

Christoph cursed his luck at the report, "Damn! That thing is still going to give us a hard time!"

Richard came from behind with a rifle in hand suggesting, "Doesn't see us now. Let's try and take it by surprise."

Christoph's Maganac lay down Christian's remaining suit when he ordered, "Stay behind cover and prepare to fire if she gets close."

"Let me have the crippling shot will you?"

"Easy enough bro." Christoph promised Christian.

Christoph readjusted his frequency to the main base when he promised, "Command stand by! We are moving in to engage the target!"

The voice he heard earlier ordered, "Reinforcements will be headed our way soon Lindemann team! Keep the enemy occupied until then!"

Christoph's Maganac reloaded its rifle when he told himself, "Best hope is we don't need any."

Now that she had the object of her mission within her grasp, Zelma briefly considered her next course of action. "These sides will continue to have their war. Regardless of what Blare wants it is time for me to discover just what this is. Hopefully this will show how deep this war runs." Before she could prepare herself for takeoff Zelma endured a hit from the rifle fire from behind. Her scanners picked up an enemy signature from behind tracking the source of the fire. "Right after they are taken care of."

Christoph and Richard continued to fire their rifles on the Tallgeese while it prepared to prime its leg thrusters. Christoph adjusted his aim when he commanded, "It's trying to get away! Go for its thrusters!"

"Just try getting several more hits on that thing first!" Richard answered before firing. Both Maganac II units fired on the Tallgeese. The white mobile suit brought up its shield while stepping back a few feet from the attack.

The Maganac units continued to fire when the Tallgeese lifted up into the air and withdrew its shield to prepare its heat rod. Zelma checked every angle the Tallgeese was prepared to dive in and found the first opportunity. The white mobile suit flew through the air left and right before it made a final dive to the ground prepared with a mighty sweep.

As the Tallgeese continued its dive Christoph fired on the enemy unit demanding, "Come on and go down you piece of junk!" Despite what effort Christoph made with his shots he saw the Tallgeese continue avoiding him. Once the Tallgeese came within striking distance of his unit, Christoph forced his Maganac unit back close to the building Christian was hiding next to. Christoph managed to avoid the Tallgeese's swipe at his cockpit but saw his rifle barrel sliced off before it short circuited. "Damn!" Christoph threw the rifle to the ground when he prepared his Maganac unit for close combat. His Maganac unit's sword was drawn when he warned, "Let's see how you handle this up close!"

Richard saw the sword taken out when he asked, "Christoph are you serious?!"

"I'll break open some openings on that thing Rich! Be ready to fire when you can!" Christoph left no time for a response when he thrust his Maganac unit forward towards the Tallgeese.

Zelma saw the Maganac II thrusting forward before it came within distance. "You fool! What are you trying to prove?" She threw her mobile suit's heat rod upwards to split the incoming Maganac down the middle. Before Zelma had the chance to defend herself, Christoph's Maganac II dodged in a roll to its left prepared for a strike. The blade made contact with the middle of the Tallgeese but did not cause the Tallgeese to be split. It only remained in place as though it were trying to cleave through a stone.

"Its armor is strong enough to hold that much?" Christoph asked when he pulled his mobile suit's sword back from contact. The motion was slowed when the Tallgeese swung its heat rod to the left. "Oh shit!" Christoph flung his mobile suit to the ground in the middle of the swipe only to see the heat rod as the last thing he saw in that encounter. The heat rod made its way across the Maganac's hands and head as it fell down.

The Tallgeese prepared its heat rods for a finishing motion when its arms lifted into the air for a mighty downward thrust. The final blow was interrupted when the Tallgeese was thrown off balance from rifle fire on its right side. "Christoph! Get out of there!" Richard said as his mobile suit stood its ground for a potential attack.

Zelma recovered her footing when she saw the damage systems on the Tallgeese Authority. She stepped back and saw the Maganac unit that fired on her targeting it.

"I don't have time for this." Zelma said as she prepared her beam rifle for the final attack.

"Oh damn." Richard said before the beam fired its way towards him. His Maganac II unit rolled out of the line of fire just before it could hit him as it tore a path through the building in its way and what mobile suits were caught in the line of fire. Before either of the Maganac units had a chance to stand up, the Tallgeese activated its thrusters lifting from the ground. The white mobile suit shifted its direction to the southern direction of the city before making its final flight from the area.

Richard forced his Maganac from the ground when he groaned picking himself up. "What the hell man..."

"Guess we don't get a chance today. Tell me, did we at least manage to deal some damage on that thing?" Richard checked his panel when he saw Christoph's signal came through clear.

Richard checked the main Berlin base standing before him when he answered, "Maybe enough to leave with a few scratches. Looks like it decided the base wasn't worth its time at least." He changed his frequency to the main base asking, "Command, the enemy target is escaping from our range. Should we pursue?"

One of the base operators responded on the other line, "Negative. Return to your previous position."

"Affirmative. Two of our units needs some major repairs first. We'll have them dropped off real quick."

"Understood. Drop them off at the nearest garage hangar but be quick about it. We need every hand we have out there."

Richard changed his frequency to his brother when he asked, "You can still stand right Christoph?"

Christoph's Maganac unit stood while the cockpit door opened when he answered into his channel, "Yeah. You should worry more about Christian. He's not going to be happy missing out on a crippling blow."

"Sure. Let's just be glad we'll be able to go out there and be more useful the next time around."

Christoph's Maganac turned to the base when he agreed, "Good idea. Let's not keep our maintenance guys waiting."

Klaus oversaw the battle map progressing when he requested, "Status on the advance forces?"

Marcel checked the numbers for the squads when he reported, "The advance squads are making their return from the Testudo General. Enemy units have not attempted any pursuit."

"Fortunate for us they seem to be as fatigued as our forces have been. We can only assume now that they will attempt to regroup."

One of the operators nearby reported, "General! We're under attack from the north and southern sides! The southern Scutum units are trying to fire on us from the other side of the city!"

Klaus oversaw the men in the city waiting for their orders. "Now begins our true battle for this city. Prepare to rally our forces to the defense."

Marcel agreed to the preparation when he reported, "All reserve units are on standby General. We will advance on your order."

Klaus arranged the frequency on the battle map when he established contact with the British Admiral on the other line. "Admiral Chadwick. Continue to hold the northern sector of the city. We will push back the enemy in the south and send what reinforcements we can."

Hayden's hologram nodded accepting, "We've got the plan General. We'll hold them down for as long as we can."

As the struggle between the Berlin forces and the Testudo's squadrons continued, the Scutum units and Leo IIIs in the north fired on the British reinforcements. The Argentavis ships fired their artillery cannons to the ground while the Scutum units used every shield available to endure the shots.

One of the Scutum units on the ground adjusted its main cannon to the direction of the Bulwark when one of the operators confirmed, "We've got their engines in target sir!"

"This is one fortunate advantage we have. The weak areas of the ships will be easy to target." The commander observed. "Fire all cannons! Use all ammunition if necessary!"

Cannon fire took to the air as it collided with the hull of the British airships. Explosions in the sky ruptured the flight pattern of several Griffin units while some fell to the ground. The Bulwark was still in tact but the damage had become more visible as it continued to fire its artillery cannons to the ground Coalition forces.

The Griffin bombings signaled the start of the allied forces of German and British mobile suits pressing their attacks on the Scutum units. Most of the Griffin units stayed in their fighter plane mode while firing their vulcan fire and missiles at the Coalition units below.

The damage was visible but the Scutum units were still able to move away from the line of fire the Argentavis ships had established. One of the Griffin squadron leaders reported, "The shields are still holding them in tact sir! It's going to take more firepower than what we've been using to take those beasts down!"

The squadron captain ordered, "Keep firing! We need to deal any dent we can for our main ships to take them down sooner!"

Several Griffin units changed into their bipedal mode to engage combat alongside friendly Ursa units to destroy the Leo IIIs. Three Griffin units landed atop one of the moving mobile armor units before taking aim at the main gun and firing. The blast resulted in an explosion rocking the Griffin units off the armor but the Scutum unit continued to fire on the ground targets with its lower cannons.

Hayden observed the damage from below as he was reminded of his earlier battle of Templin. He maintained a stoic observation as explosions on both sides erupted. "Status report on the Scutum units."

His Vice Admiral observed the signatures of the remaining military reporting, "The mobile armor shields are taking a great deal of punishment Admiral. Our forces will require supporting fire."

Hayden stood from his seat when he emphasized his order, "We had best begin then. Find the nearest clearing and begin fire! Destroy them before they can trigger a final shot! Continue fire until those armor units can't stand!"

One of the weapons operators accepted the order when he repeated, "Concentrating fire on the nearest mobile armor. Attention 14th squadron, move out of firing range."

The Captain of the 14th squadron of Griffin units heard the order when he told his men, "All units back away from the Scutum! We're getting some major support fire pretty soon!"

As soon as the order was given the artillery fire and beam cannons from the Argentavis ship above began to land down on the Scutum unit. The shields were pressed to continue working but begun to flicker from the strain of the fire.

One of the Griffin pilots watched the destruction in front of him when he observed, "The main ships have begun to fire Captain!"

The Captain moved forward with his unit when he ordered, "The carriers are doing everything they can to take these things down! Keep pressing the attack!" At that order the six Griffin units moved towards the Scutum with rifles in hand. The lower cannons from beneath continued to offer minimal defense but the squadron was not deterred from its goal.

The Griffin units moved in a final attack when they concentrated their fire at the main engine hull of the Scutum unit. Several more shots were fired towards their target before the mobile armor began to explode from the inside. The Griffin units backed away from the destruction when the Scutum unit fell off its legs and sent a wave of fire across the field.

The Captain reported to his superiors aboard the Illustrious, "Main target has been destroyed! We are ready for our next target!"

"Excellent work Captain. Proceed to your next coordinates. Support all friendly units in pressing the enemy away from the area."

"Affirimitive sir!" The Captain changed to an open frequency when he ordered, "That's one down! Everyone focus your fire on the remaining five!"

One of his men watched the crossfire occurring across the skies when he asked, "Sir, we'll need the support fire from those carriers! Are they still providing?"

The Captain emphasized his order when he commanded, "They certainly are! Don't let them get shot down! Move out to the coordinates on the nearest Scutum and go for the main cannon first!"

"Yes sir!" His men agreed in unison.

A view of the northern side was from a distance only gave view to a few explosions that barely shook the nearby units. Within the trenches however the Earth Sphere Ursa units popped up from the ground to fire on either nearby Leo III units or defend against Scutum artillery fire. In the distance of another battlefield the British Griffin units continued their attack when another Scutum unit was destroyed.

Major Clemens Lichtenfels was just one among the many Earth Sphere mobile suits who continued to fire on the enemy attempting to advance while the remaining Ursa squadrons fired on every artillery shot made from a distance. After being pulled from the frontlines against the Coalition during the 15th squadron's infiltration, he had only a small idea of what his fellow pilot leaders were feeling. The feeling only intensified when he found himself cursing the current state of the defense. "How much longer do we need to keep sitting here with our asses in the air ready to take a Coalition beating now?"

Clemens' thoughts were interrupted when he heard his comms channel patch through for his attention. The pilot on the other line reported, "Sir! We've just received a report from headquarters! The 15th squadron has just taken out the main cannon of the Testudo!"

Clemens' mobile suit ducked into the trench when he asked, "Good work. We can at least have that much of a breather. Can we expect to see them return to duty right away?"

"Only two of them came back sir. I don't think they'll be able to do much for support. We've also been receiving reports from the southern side of the city of the enemy continuing to advance."

Clemens checked the progression of his radar when he said, "We have to focus on the northern side as it is. Regardless of how many have returned we need their numbers now to stop the enemy on both fronts. Have the remaining men report to me. We need as much support as we can get."

While the battle continued to rage on near the city, Campbell and Hyrum reported to the superior of their former Captain on the status of their mission.

"Private Hyrum Bernett reporting sir!"

"Private Campbell Finnegan reporting sir!"

Two explosions erupted nearby while the Scutum units fired on the Earth city defenses but landed into the buildings. Clemens' mobile suit went up for a brief second to fire on a nearby Leo III unit before ducking back down asking, "Bernett! What is the status of the rest of the team?"

"Sir. They were all destroyed sir... Only me and Finnegan made it out. Captain Degregorio was taken down in the attack."

The Major spat at his luck when he asked, "Aw hell. Throwing anymore at that thing will be a waste of time. Were you even able to put a dent in its shields?"

Campbell was next to report when he answered, "Negative sir. Their too strong for our weapons. We'd have to send an entire battalion of mobile suits to have a chance against it."

"The reports are real then." The Major said realizing the sacrifices made. Several explosions sounded near Clemens' position when he asked, "Good work making it back. Will the Testudo be unable to deal any significant damage?"

Hyrum explained, "We've managed to take out its right-side cannons and destroy the main cannon sir. It shouldn't be able to do any damage on the city."

Clemens went over the results in his head when he accepted, "You've both succeeded in disabling the Testudo for now. All we need is to make sure that we keep it from causing the real damage to the city. Right now we have to worry about those Scutum units while the Brits keep them occupied. Both of you, get out there and show everyone what you can do out there."

"Right away sir!"

It was a moment later when he heard someone report, "Sir! We have fire coming from the southern city!"

Clemens reloaded his mobile suit's rifle when he ordered, "Those Scutum units again... Bernett! I'm sending you in with another team. You and Finnegan do everything to shoot down those artillery shots!"

"Copy sir."

Campbell and Hyrum's Ursa units moved down the trench for a chance to assist in the defense line. "Not like we can do anything over there right?" Campbell asked as he moved further down.

Hyrum confirmed his fellow pilot's question when he answered, "Not even these units can pull that off. Let's just hold them off here." Before anymore could be said a simultaneous volley of fire came from the Scutum units in the distance.

Campbell adjusted his rifle when he realized how fast the artillery shots were moving across the air. "And we're supposed to shoot those shots down?"

"Just like what the instructions said Finnegan!" Hyrum's Ursa unit brought its rifle barrel to the air while preparing to fire. Hyrum's radar had the trajectory and path of the shot calculated above him while he prepared to aim. In a matter of seconds Hyrum's unit fired in the air towards the incoming group of shots to cause explosions in the air. As a group of shots continued forward Hyrum warned, "Finnegan! To your right!"

Campbell adjusted his radar system in time to receive data on the incoming shots above him. Just when he had the systems prepared he began to haphazardly fire. "God damn it! Go down you piece of shit!" Hyrum's mobile suit offered assistance as it fired on some of the shots left of Campbell's line of sight. Campbell sighed in slight defeat when he asked, "It's gotta get easier from here right?"

Hyrum agreed with the hope, "Only if our guys on the frontline can take out those Scutum units."

Before they could continue their duty, an Ursa unit ran towards them warning, "Breach! Breach!" Before he could continue a grenade made its way into the trench knocking the fellow Ursa unit down.

Hryum didn't take time to worry about his fellow pilot as he climbed up the dirt in front of him. His unit looked up from the trench when he saw eight Leo III units headed their way towards his position. He brought himself down when he warned, "Finnegan! We've got an enemy squad headed our way!"

Campbell's mobile suit was next to the fallen Ursa unit when he heard the news. He reloaded his unit's rifle when he himself cursed, "Oh great. I needed more shit on my table!" He changed his channel to the nearest unit, "Just stay down! We're gonna have some major fire on our location!"

The two Ursa units popped up from the trench as they began firing. Despite their aim the Leo III units maneuvered around the shots and split into three divisions. Right after the formation was made the Leo III units fired their beam rifles towards the trench.

Hyrum's unit ducked down as the fire went overhead before returning to its prior position and firing on the enemy. One of the Leo III units fell down on its face but the Coalition squadron continued to move forward. Campbell's unit was still out in the open and taken some damage to the front plating but was still firing on the enemy.

As the two Ursa units continued to fire Hyrum heard through an open channel, "Attention Ursa units! Return to cover! We are beginning covering fire now!"

"From here?!" Campbell asked in shock.

Hyrum's unit took hold of Campbell's when he said, "Let's get back down! It's a Griffin sweep!" The two Ursa units ducked into the trench ground while Hyrum saw the Griffin units in plane mode moving close to the ground with flying missiles very close to them.

Once the explosion subsided Campbell looked up to notice the squadron was completely destroyed. "Damn. That was close enough."

"Looks like the Griffin units aren't just up there for show after all." Hyrum agreed.

"You've got that much hope for the Brits I take it? At least they're better than nothing."

Before they could speak any further another volley of artillery fire sounded from the distant Scutum units and Hyrum warned, "They're getting more shots in. Let's not let them have the satisfaction."

As the British forces sent in their Griffin units and their carriers fired on the Scutum units from above, the Illustrious was observing the battlefield while trying to regain some lost shields and easy repairs. Admiral Chadwick was reported from his Vice Admiral, "We're receiving word from the main command at Berlin headquarters sir. It looks like we managed to arrive in time for them to be thankful for us coming."

Hayden nodded, "Good of Klaus to follow his standard of etiquette. The least we can do now is give him the elbow room he needs to solidify the defenses."

His Vice Admiral stepped down to the battle map when he reported, "Understood. Our forces are taking out the remaining Scutum units as we speak. This side of the city should be safe from any further bombardment."

Another one of the operators noted on the map, "There's still the southern side to consider though. What's going to happen there?"

Hayden's hopes were dampened when he was reminded of the other side. There was still another side of the city to be concerned about and he had to break the enemy somehow. He only gave a brief thought when he answered, "We might not have the manpower or strength to handle any more of those things. Not until the forces on the northern front are freed from this siege. We may have to sit back and bite our lips in hopes we can bulk up the city defenses instead."

The Tallgeese Authority stood outside the boundaries of the city of Berlin as it gazed on the destruction from afar. Zelma stood on the right shoulder of her mobile suit where she could see the Coalition Scutum units enduring damage but the Earth Sphere mobile suits erupted at the time of their defeat. She remained stoic observing the destruction not allowing any concern for what she had abandoned.

Climbing back into the Tallgeese cockpit Zelma adjusted her frequency to a channel reporting, "I have achieved my mission here. The Earth Sphere relied heavily on their defenses but could not protect this objective."

A voice on the other line responded to the report, "How fares the status of the battle?"

"The Coalition can make this their victory. Then they will march to Brussels and deliver their idea of justice." Zelma shook her head when she corrected herself, "No. I cannot call this justice. These men are of a leadership where personal ambition drive them to follow a man until he is no longer of worth. I should have warned Nathaniel about what this loose alliance will achieve."

"Even if it is true ask yourself this. If you let the Coalition crumble here, what will become of those responsible? What will happen when they are free to live with what they had done?"

"I made it my own mission to see the ones responsible for this war to be brought to justice."

"Call it your mission if you must. What do you expect to achieve from it? Do you seek to be unbound from everyone you care for? Will you bear the weight of such a decision for as long as you live?"

"Whatever you want me to say old man it might take more than just a few questions."

"Ask these things about yourself before you are willing to claim what you see as the only solution." The voice on the other line said before shutting off. The silence left Zelma to contemplate over the embattled city while she kept watch over any mobile suits that may head her way.

The main base of Berlin was able to breath a collective sigh of relief when the first line of defense had held against the Coalition attacks. Marcel oversaw the battle map of the eastern sector of Berlin when he reported, "The Testudo is retreating sir. All remaining advance squadrons have regrouped to the defense lines."

Klaus accepted the good news when he solemnly nodded, "Our numbers have at least been fortified. Regardless of how much longer this defense must continue we must see that the Coalition does not have the strength to push past our line."

One of the radar operators observed the movement of British Argentavis carriers when he reported, "The reinforcements from Britain has arrived General. The northern sector of Berlin is soon to be secured."

Klaus looked up when he told no one in particular, "Your assistance could not have been any more timely Admiral Chadwick. Regrettably this will still be one costly battle we can only hope to recover from."

As the battle for Berlin began to see its last few moments, President Kecker was looking over the documents detailing the projected plans for the Coalition's advancements through the front lines. He had to sign several bills to allow for more manufacturing if the plans were to be stopped.

He was considering this scenario when his personal secretary Barra Devine entered greeting, "Mr. President, we have received the status report on our defense in Berlin. The Coalition is being pushed back but there are still a dozen Scutum units moving in a pincer movement into the city. Our losses have been minimal, and the enemy units have not been able to stand against our firepower. The most recent update has not been given however and we expect that the battle may have turned one way for better or for worse."

The President looked up from his papers and asked, "It is good to hear those reports. I must hear the rest of it. What is the status of the Aquarius?"

"It is still in enemy hands Mr. President. We have been able to damage it however. We can only assume though that they may continue to find ways to improve on its armor."

"It is true as rumored. Lord Lindemann does not have any concern for the pilot or for any human factors. I cannot deny his results however. See that the Aquarius is still the first target to be disabled and taken back."

"Yes sir."

"Has the second shipment from Berlin arrived?" Barra knew what Franz was referring to but took out a suitcase that was not engraved with the symbol indicating its importance.

After setting the case on President Kecker's desk his assistant explained, "We have regrettable news on the second shipment Mr. President. We have been told from officials that it was stolen during the battle. We are being told that a Tallgeese unit was responsible, but the pilot is unknown."

Pushing his glasses up in an attempt to hold back his disappointment Franz ordered, "I want this Tallgeese pilot taken. Whoever it is has an essential piece of technology for our forces."

"Might I ask what it is?"

"I am afraid you know that this sort of information is classified."

"I understand. I shall report your commands sir."

"Please do so Devine." Barra nodded as he took his leave to allow his President time to observe his package. Franz pulled the suitcase towards him and entered the code necessary to open it. It opened and inside was a data pad currently inactive and surrounded in the protective foam the case came with. The President commented to himself, "We are this much closer. We must obtain the other."

As the fighting continued against the Coalition invaders, the Leo III units were slowly being taken out with the more powerful Ursa units demonstrating their dominance. The Scutum units were slowly being taken out as well from the carrier fire but the destruction on both sides was very visible.

Campbell pointed out to his squad mate Hyrum, "It looks like the fighting has calmed down at least."

Hyrum reminded him, "The Scutum units are still out there. We'll have to find a way to take those down."

"Probably the only thing left."

Among their chatter, Clemens pointed out, "It's going to be awhile. Those carriers have taken a lot of damage and some of them have been taken down. We'll get those carriers to the nearest repairs location. Hold off the Scutum fire until then. Let us worry about the remaining Coalition mobile suits."

Hyrum agreed, "Understood sir. Alright everyone, keep your eyes open for the Scutum artillery fire. Shoot down every shot you can get."

Campbell hoped, "Won't be a problem. Hope they can get those repairs done fast."

"At this rate it's probably going to be while. The real worry is going to be the Testudo and how soon they can get their repairs done. Let's just hope it's a lot later than sooner."

The Testudo marched backwards while its Leo III units stood their ground for protection. chance to attack the enemy, General Blare ordered one of his operatives for a status update, "Report our casualties."

One of the men near the battle map checked the mobile suit signatures when he reported, "We currently estimate that approximately 44% of our forces have been destroyed along with the northern division of Scutum units. The enemy may have taken slightly less, but their reinforcements have likely played a part in upsetting our forces from accomplishing their mission."

Edward turned to the mapping operators when he ordered, "See that the Testudo remains within optimal range of the enemy forces. Once we have made our repairs we shall resume firing procedures as planned." He turned to the battle map when he added, "Order the Southern division to continue bombardment of the city and take out what they can."

Edward stood near the entry door to the command center when he said, "This is regrettable. The President will not appreciate this news."

"Perhaps it was anticipating Agent Zelma that contributed to our forces being unable to break the enemy today. We could only anticipate so much of Private Tsubarov to be achieved after all." Bertram said as he approached him.

Edward opened the door when both he and Bertram walked down the hallway when Edward reminded, "And you know as well as I do that the good Agent has been a most valuable asset in the Division Period. If she were an official soldier under my command I would see to it she paid dearly for such deception."

"Yet such scenario is always to be considered. The Coalition's past has been known to be set back by a saga of betrayals."

Edward restrained himself from expressing his anger at the issue when he assessed the only way forward. "The unfortunate truth of it is there Bertram. I must ensure however that none of the others under my command will share the Agent's disobedience. My resolve cannot be weakened because of one woman who chose to follow her own orders."

"As well the men should be reminded. They are supposed to be loyal to your cause after all General."

"We can only press our efforts in making the best of our current situation. Continue to observe the main operations, I must see the Aquarius begin repairs."

"I shall report every update General."

Edward then walked down to the hangar bay to meet with the pilot of the Aquarius hoping that he could give some edge of good news. "Right now I must see if anything the Aquarius will be intact serviceable for the next attack."

"Evening McNeil. any luck with figuring out this mobile suit's fittings?"

Kieran was on a computer, completing the plans for the upgrade of the Aquarius to reinforce its reactor. Once the Aquarius returned to the hanger, he walked to Tsubarov with the news of the upgrade being prepared.

"Hey there Tsubarov, I have managed to come up with the solution to the reactor problem of your Mobile Suit." "Pretty simple really. Just need to upgrade of the Aquarius to reinforce its reactor. Just pray hard that Moscow will agree to send the right resources for a long-term solution like this. I just sent a requisition form for the resources to commence the construction."

"Perfect to hear. We'll need some good news after today. The enemy is able to take more punishment than we thought they could."

"And my good Testudo here is going to need more than a few metal platings to patch up the damage. If we're lucky then Berlin will probably be thankful for the chance to call a ceasefire for a while."

"If we're going to be asking for one then I think it's safe to say the guys over there will be as well."

Before conversing any further McNeil pointed before saluting, "Tsubarov, you might want to be on your best behavior now."

"For what?" As the Aquarius took its spot in the hangar bay, Oleg turned to notice Edward walking with interest on the blue mobile suit. Oleg saluted to his superior, "Sir. I apologize for my defeat General. I did everything I could to stop the enemy from damaging us."

Edward returned the salute, "You've done everything you could to stop the enemy from destroying us. We could only assume that a mobile suit, even a Gundam, this early in its production could withstand a certain amount of damage. We'll have to make sure that the Aquarius has further armor enhancements as soon as possible. Any further damage and it won't even be usable."

"Even if it were the case, I would have preferred being able to defend the Testudo from taking as much damage as it did."

"Allow me to inquire of a matter that may be in your control Private. Are you aware of Agent Zelma's intention for deserting us in the middle of the battle?"

Oleg was briefly confused by the sudden question before he simply shook his head and said, "I can't say I have. Last I saw she was flying into the city. I assumed she was trying to head into the enemy base."

Edward turned to the door he entered when he parted, "As much as I hoped for enlightenment regarding her action, that answer is fair. I must prepare to report to the President soon. Please remain on board and try to find better use for the Aquarius' strengths."

Oleg saluted again as Edward left, "Yes sir."

"General, we have the open channel awaiting your orders."

Edward ordered, "See that all personnel are present for this announcement." At the command of their General, the operators and pilots aboard the Testudo were given a briefing on their current situation and how it would be handled. "Attention all pilots. The breach in our formation allowed for the Earth Sphere to severely damage the Testudo. All Eastern squadrons are to report to the advance perimeter and solidify our position following standard occupation procedures. Rotate patrols and await any further orders."

Bertram listened to Edward's announcement from the main room when he noticed Edward did not bother making the Tallgeese Authority pilot's absence. "We may be able to dismiss Agent Zelma's action but the men will require more than that if she is gone much longer."

"Perhaps. But we cannot have her be our current concern. And I should hope that she is not mentioned unless it is with news of her return or capture."

"I shall see to it the men are aware of this requirement."

"General, we have a transmission from the President."

"Allow the transmission through." A hologram of Nathaniel Falson appeared while Edward saluted to his appearance. "Mr. President. I only speak to you now on your request."

Nathaniel greeted asking, "From such a lukewarm greeting I am to anticipate you did not achieve your mission General?"

"Regrettable the truth may be you are correct sir. The enemy was able to destroy the Testudo's main cannon before we had the chance to fire. We have recently sent a request for Moscow to send necessary replacement parts to continue the advance."

"A war is rarely ended in the course of one action. But I should hope to see this next advance will not be met with the same unfortunate setbacks."

"The requirements for such measures have been met sir. General Blare has every intent of seeing we return the enemy's stubbornness with tenfold of our desire to defeat them."

"You have prepared the battle plans for the next advance General?"

"Yes Mr. President. If we are to remain in our current position, then we must hold the enemy for as long as possible." Edward began by bringing up a holographic map of the battlefield explaining, "Gentlemen, I have the battle plan finalized for our defense. Our Scutum units in the southern area of Berlin continue to hold off against the enemy and our position is to remain here. Our key concern shall be to hold our ground here and prepare for an attack before the enemy has the resources to strike its own offense.

"From our projections of the previous battle they may even outnumber our units already thanks to their reinforcements. We shall be calling in reserve units from the nearest cities and requesting assistance from the colonies as well. At estimate it will take a few days for all of them to gather under our ranks and prepare for the next assault. In the mean time we shall continue to defend what units we have and ensure that the Scutums will deal what damage possible.

"If there is any sign of the enemy even thinking to mobilize and attack we must act ahead of them. The odds are very finely divided at this point, but every correct action we make will wear away at the enemy. They will only see the futility of their cause when it is too late and we have an open road to the capital."

"This shall continue of course once we have prepared the Testudo to move on the offensive again. We have repairs and replacement parts being sent to our location. We will not make the same mistake twice against these units. And after their completion the Testudo will be properly armed to destroy the entire remaining Earth Sphere army in one shot." Bertram confirmed.

Nathaniel's hologram nodded when he agreed, "In an optimal scenario. Berlin shall be the final point before we achieve total victory. We shall only hope to see that we do not need to make any more casualties than we need to. We await your progress on this next action General. I will be arriving on Earth in a matter of weeks now and I shall hope to see the invasion continue forward. Dismissed." The Coalition President's hologram dissipated leaving Edward to gaze at his command room.

Bertram turned to Edward when he reminded, "We now have confirmation on what we must do General."

Edward remained facing forward when he agreed, "And I will not require any orders on what to do next. The President only required our update and we must make good on seeing Berlin will not continue to be an obstacle."

The Leo III units across the Testudo's perimeter received their orders before beginning their patrol along the Berlin border. Aglaii observed the situation with her squadron as they waited for their turn to patrol. The Leo III units weren't moving but Aglaii had knew the pilots inside weren't attempting the same discipline. She opened a broadcast to her squadron assuring, "Don't let the tension get to anyone. We need to be prepared for the best the Earth Sphere military can throw at us."

Aglaii heard one of her pilots ask, "Even after taking the beating they took out there?"

Another pilot answered for her, "It's not like ours was any better."

"Sure, but if we move in now we'd be able to catch them off guard and end this now."

Aglaii broke into the conversation when she told them, "That's enough conjecture kids. Victory's going to be a matter of time. We just have to wait a little longer."

One of the pilots nodded accepting, "Easy to agree with I guess. Some of us need something cleared up Captain. Just what is Tsubarov's position going to be with that Gundam of his in charge?"

Aglaii leaned back when she answered, "He's not in charge of anything and if General Blare gives him a promotion then we'll adjust our ranks according to his command."

"We're close enough to this ending we might as well go with the final notes shouldn't we?"

"Optimism of a war's end is the least we can hold out for. Let's just do everything we can to make it possible."

"Order accepted sir."

The channel was shut for the time being when Aglaii said to no one, "At least there won't be any concerns for my men over here. I just hope you have the same hopes as they do Oleg."

The operatives in the main base war room scrambled to ensure the Earth Sphere forces were still prepared for another battle. Marcel read off a report on a nearby panel when he reported to Klaus, "The enemy will at least be held off for a time. We should be able to rebuild our numbers ideally. If we are to attempt taking down the Testudo we will require far more than one exceptionally skilled squadron."

Klaus looked up from the battle map when he agreed, "The enemy knows of this as well. Despite what either of us may wish for in this war's twilight, there will come a time when the fighting will reach a new escalation. Today was only a demonstration of what resilience both I and the Coalition General have out there."

"For that the enemy General has earned some praise. This battle was one of the most drawn out in the entire eleven-year span of this war."

"He has shown his fangs prompting us to bear ours and his were just as mighty. If the next time we face one another is when we must decide who is left standing, then I shall do so without any intention of seeing him retreat for the chance to see more die at his expense."

"The men of the Earth Sphere shall be standing under your command when that call to arms is given again General."

"I shall do everything to ensure that they will not have to any more than required."

One of the nearby communications operators entered the conversation, "We have a signal from Admiral Chadwick sir."

"Patch him through." Klaus saw a hologram of Hayden Chadwick appear on the battle map when he greeted, "Admiral Chadwick we were most fortunate to see you arrive in such timely circumstances. Despite every enemy attempt you were capable of pushing them back. I only regret we did not have the forces necessary to assist in any more significant a way."

"Greetings General. We certainly got more than we had expected today but the Coalition didn't provide anything we couldn't handle. Our forces were pushed but we're still ready to assist in the defense. If it's not too much trouble we'd like the chance to set down and begin repairs to our craft. We've got the men necessary for it, we just need the materials is all."

"Of course Admiral. We look forward to your further assistance should the time come."

"Oh it will come General. Just expect it to be sooner than later."

"Some of us may see it in a less enthusiastic light Admiral. But seeing the siege has yet to end I should hope that we have the strength to overcome what the Coalition hopes to achieve."

"Just for the repairs after all General. We'll need to head back to the home base if we're going to replenish our numbers."

"Acknowledged. Remain vigilant out there Admiral." The conversation ended when Hayden's hologram faded leaving only the battle map from beneath.

Marcel took a sweeping glance over the map's updates when he told his superior, "So the strategy was a success in the end General. Our men were able to keep this base from falling today and we may yet see the beginning of the Coalition being pushed back."

Klaus turned away while he agreed, "We might see such a day. However the enemy has proven themselves capable. We have both lost many fine men and women and it may soon come down to the last one standing."

"I believe our soldiers on the front themselves recognize the terrors they have to endure sir. That is why they require our leadership to push them forward. Standing united we will continue to see this united Earth remain a true entity."

"That is what we continue to fight for isn't it? I shall see to the men personally. Keep the base on standby in case of another Coalition attack."

As Klaus walked out of the room Marcel saluted, "Yes sir."

Klaus entered the hangar bay when he saw the three Maganac II units among the first being repaired. Two out of the three Maganac II units were severely damaged but mainly with parts missing from the prior mission. Ursa units were also lining up in front of the hangar bay with noticeably few older units that made their way to the defense lines.

He turned to the chief mechanic asking, "How many have returned from the lines?"

"General, the casualty reports were accurate. About half of them consisting of our older Leo models however. We may not have to worry about keeping them maintained at least once, that might be some good news."

"See that repairs are given to all units. We need as many units as are available." As Klaus came closer to the Maganac II units he heard one of the Lindemann brothers speaking.

"If I just had the right window I might have been able to land a serious shot on that thing."

"I'm sure any of us could have Christian. That pilot was just more skilled than we thought." Christoph added.

Richard entered the conversation reminding, "And I'd guess that Flake would be baffled since he would think an older mobile suit already can't stand its own against a new type."

"Unfortunately quite the case. She will however be more of a concerning force if we cannot bring her to justice."

The three brothers turned to salute Klaus with Christoph greeting, "General Ulbricht sir. Sorry we couldn't do any better out there."

Klaus returned the salute thanking, "Your duty was to defend the city. I have no doubt that all of you went out with your utmost ability to accomplish that end. I should hope however that with all of you surviving the attack that after improvements to your mobile suits that better results will come of them."

"Absolutely General. I speak for all of us when I say so."

"It is respectable that you have an amount of honor for superiors in the Earth Sphere ranks Christoph. However acting like one of the army is hardly a requirement at this point."

"Even so sir, father continues to speak highly of you and requires that we do so even under our private enrollment within these ranks."

"Ah yes. Most fortunate to see that he was capable of producing sons who would see the request of their father as important. When he served under me in the Eve Wars I was concerned for what life he would lead after the conflict ended. Most regrettable that we must see those days only be a short reprise for what we live through now."

"That is why we're here to make him proud General. We wish for him to see that his legacy is more than just a sad attempt at emulation."

"Very honorable. Continue to see that repairs are met at an optimal time and stay on standby for any enemy activity. Dismissed."

When Klaus began to leave he heard Christian point out, "I think dad would only be proud of us if we came back with the Testudo cannon for a trophy. You think he'd be happy to hear about us losing so many limbs out there? It would make us look pretty weak compared to the others out there."

Richard added to the conversation, "We have a choice of dying out there and not trying again or we take what chance we have to eventually go out there and try again. I say we be glad it's not the end for us."

"If that is what you have been taught to accept..." Kalus said under his breath as he continued to walk out.

When Klaus was in the hallway connecting to the main base he turned to a window facing the landing field for the Earth Sphere mobile suits. "Till... You have succeeded indeed. You impressed your desire for battle heavily within these young minds. Is this what you sought to achieve with your daughter and Madame Yuy's son? I warned you what your life would become if you allowed battle lust to consume your life... But whatever the case may be now, the consequences for such a mentality will stare you in the face far sooner than you might believe. But we may soon see just how you will learn that crushing truth."

The cost was high on both sides who wished to see their victory while the charred grounds served as a stark visual of the destruction done that day. Despite the black ring of destroyed mobile suits, the city of Berlin was damaged along its outer streets but much of it still standing. Now only surrounded by an air of death that resonated from the recent battle and with several explosions in the sky as the Earth Sphere Ursa units continued to fire on the artillery fire from the southern Scutum units.

The scene made possible today was one that hadn't been seen in several years ever since the Coalition had reorganized itself. "Even when a storm gives way to a gentle breeze it only serves as a reminder for what will erupt again." Zelma saw the smoke and ashes blow in the wind as pyre signals to those who had fallen today. The Tallgeese Authority not a weapon standing with the Coalition but its own entity in a war that hung on a thread.

The future of the war did not weigh on Zelma's mind however when she asked herself what to make of her next move. "A calm storm is a prelude to the one that will truly tear the land asunder. And the longer I wait to see it unfold the greater this storm shall become..."

In spite of her personal concern everything her assistant on the other line asked hours ago still weighed on her mind. The demand of facing the entire world just to end this one conflict stared her right in the face as she slowly reached for her radio. Before she switched the channel her hand fell and came to her own realization. "I can only make my final decision one way. This stalemate is the only way I can discover who is right once and for all." He channel switched on and without waiting for confirmation she spoke, "You are correct. I cannot bear the weight of such a decision."

The voice of Barra confirmed the answer when he spoke, "There are few who would even consider it. But a conflict such as this one is what will permit individual actions to be accepted. This is exactly what the Coalition is capable of permitting true seekers of justice."

"I must seek the justice myself. I will discover what makes this shipment so important and I will discover who the Falson Coalition wants to see defeated."

"I shall remain at your side to that end and after. Together we will see that justice is done properly."

Zelma switched off her radio when she contemplated Barra's words. She now knew her decision in this final moment of the conflict. Before priming the Tallgeese Authority to fly again she left a parting word as she gazed out to the damaged Testudo. "Remain vigilant Oleg. Your intentions are mine as well. But I must achieve this final mission on my own." With those final words the Tallgeese Authority rose from its peak and away from the Berlin battlefield. Its power no longer a deciding factor in the battle of Berlin but soon to be a force that would discover the truth of the war it fought in.