Few comprehend the scale of the devastation brought by the Falson Coalition's desire for the retribution of Ewan Falson. Born from a desire to see a fair economy be achieved was this one man moved to speak his voice for the many who were oppressed. By the hand of one however was this man's mighty protest silenced. The years that came to follow created an animosity from the colonies before it came to form the broken promise the Earth had feared. Eleven years have passed since the formation of this Coalition and its desire for vengeance. Even today it has not been sated.

Episode 23: The Day the Earth Fell

As the battle began to wind down between the two forces near Berlin the Earth Sphere forces managed to pull off the defensive and at the same time begin pushing forward into the battlefield with hopes of taking out the remaining mobile suits. There were still some Scorpio Major units standing and trying to offer a final push towards the city borders.

The Lieutenant General requested, "What is the status of our forces?"

The Chief Strategist looked over the field and evaluated, "We've managed to push back the Coalition again sir. Our forces just took another major beating though. We've lost 84% of our mobile suits and the damage to the city on the outer areas is very visible."

"Do you believe that we will be capable of heading out towards the Testudo?"

Another one of the operators noted how long the battle went informing, "We might be too late sir. This battle just dragged on for the past nine hours. Most of it has been us trying to find the Scorpio Major units and trying to take out those Scutum units."

The Lieutenant General found his luck to be very poor now as he cursed, "Damn. I feared that this might have happened. Not only did we have a responsibility for this city's defense but we had no way out anyway."

The Chief Strategist nodded in grim agreement, "It seems like the most we can hope for now is that the capital received our warning and the Parliament is on its way out."

Most Representatives in the House were able to be assured a goodnight sleep at the end of every day of work. It was needed to see that the best possible results were made in these hard times. Relena was one of them as she slept in her husband's arms like they had since they were newlyweds. This peace was broken when an alarm sounded from the apartment phone that wasn't heard before. It was this sound along with Heero breaking from the embrace and towards the demanding phone. Relena rubbed her eyes awake managing to hear Heero's conversation, "Reporting. What's happening General? … What? ... They have? ... How could we let them in that easily? ... Is that the best course of action? This could be a trap… Understood sir. I'll be there as soon as I can."

He set down the phone while Relena clung to her sheets asking, "What is it? Heero what's going on?"

Heero maintained his usual soldier face with a heavy sigh, "We need to head to the Parliamentary Building. We're receiving an emergency meeting from the President."

The two were quickly outside and among the many House Representatives who were rushing on foot towards the building they had met in twelve hours ago. Security personnel, soldiers, and representatives alike were gathered in the meeting hall with President Franz Kecker and his closest advisors behind him standing in front observing everyone who made their way to the building. The Vice President checked the queue and found everyone had arrived as was hoped.

He allowed his President, "The floor is now yours Mr. President."

Franz stepped to the head podium and announced, "Ladies and gentlemen. Representatives of the Earth Sphere and all other attendances. I truly wish that we were here today as part of a drill to see that we were prepared for the worst situation. From what we may have heard on the frontlines however this may be our worst fears realized." There was some great concern among the audience as they heard this news forcing some security men to bring back order before the President continued, "I share your concern on this matter. However, we must maintain level heads for days such as these. Yes, the report is a confirmed. The enemy is reported to be within range of this city and we are likely in danger. They may not be prepared to attack yet. We have received a transmission and we must hear out what they will say." Franz turned to the screen prepared to play the message while thinking to himself, Well done Nathaniel. It appears that you may have won after all…

Aboard the Testudo, General Edward Blare had finally received the confirmation he had been waiting for. His years of work, plotting, and planning were finally about to pay off for the goal of the Coalition. It would be so for both it and the assured return of his fellow collaborators. Once the President allowed the signal through his through his channel and announced his victory speech, "Representatives and officials of the Earth Sphere United Nations. I am General Edward L. Blare. Within striking distance of your capital is the mightiest weapon to be constructed by the Coalition! The mobile fortress Testudo is armed with the power to destroy entire cities with a single blast!"

He began to show video feed of this claim starting with the ruins of Neubrandenburg, Schwerin, and the other cities unfortunate to be on the walking fortress' path. Allowing his prisoners to see this destruction he returned to his speech, "I am not here however to simply level your fine city out of spite while some under my command may be pleased to do so. The Coalition is now willing to offer terms of unconditional surrender. Should they be followed, this war may end with a diplomatic meeting instead of one final loss of human life.

President Nathaniel Falson is on his way to meet with yours to see if the executive branch to discuss the end of this long conflict. He will be arriving with several squads of Leo IIIs on escort. Allow him to arrive without contact of conflict and this meeting may begin. The first moment he makes contact with any attempt on his life… And we will fire the main cannon on Brussels. We will fire before the city's defenses even have a chance to respond. This war will then end and the ones who brought about this tragic loss of entire generations of human life that pay the price for their deception.

No response is necessary. We need only to see what actions the Earth Sphere takes for its final hours. Take your time to prepare now for whatever fate you have resigned yourselves." The speech ended and Edward finished with a very triumphant smile at his position.

Bertram congratulated, "Well done General. We now essentially have the fate this wars outcome in our hands."

Edward agreed, "Yes. It has been many years for us to reach this day. The will of the Falsons shall now be realized. I had best now begin to find a way to stem this anticipation." He turned to one of the main operators ordering, "Send a message to President Falson. Inform him that his final diplomacy mission may now begin."

The operator began to send the message confirming, "Yes sir. We shall inform him right away."

The two men made their way to the hallway leading to the hangar bay for the crew quarters and the mobile suit hangar bay.

When they were alone Bertram asked, "That is to assume you now have a newfound allegiance for our President?"

Edward continued with his feeling of triumph reminding his strategist, "Of course not. After today we shall have a further deal of work ahead of us…"

Bertram agreed, "We certainly shall General. But the reward for our efforts shall be more than worthwhile."

Within the bunker of the Coalition's frontline near Berlin, Nathaniel Falson was asleep as he waited to discover the results of the major offensive. He heard the knock on his door as he brought himself up to see who was addressing him. One of the guards who worked with him had an air of celebration on his face but kept himself composed when he reported, "Sir, we have news on the offensive. The Testudo has completed its advance, we now have Brussels under siege."

Nathaniel nodded before running a hand over his eyes from the sleep. "Excellent news. At least we will be in the final stages of this conflict. Prepare my transportation right away. I must begin my mission."

The guard accepted, "Right away Mr. President."

The door was shut again as Nathaniel was given a brief period to change into his proper clothes for his mission. He told himself, "I warned you Franz. I warned that we would discover the means to stop you and your methods of attempting such forced unification. I shall now only hope to make you see the error of your ways."

Nathaniel was prepared as he stepped outside now prepared for the clear travel to Brussels. A few squadrons of Coalition soldiers stood at attention as he made his way to the limousine. One of the Colonels saluted when he introduced, "Mr. President, your escort has been prepared and we will have the forces necessary if the Earth Sphere attempts any harm to you?"

Nathaniel nodded when he asked, "So General Vasquez's forces have proven to be valuable towards preparing our position being solidified? General Blare has recommended a man very instrumental to the cause."

The Colonel accepted the praise when he humbly told him, "There is no one man who should claim all of the credit for changing the outcome of a war sir. We only care about seeing an end to all this fighting. We happen to believe that you are the right man for this reason."

Nathaniel nodded when he prepared to enter his vehicle, "I will do everything in my power to see that the Earth Sphere will at least see to reason. Rest assured that regardless of what happens today Colonel, we are well on the way to seeing the end of this needless slaughter. The ones responsible shall be brought to justice." He entered his limousine as he was driven across the German country as he was left to contemplate his fate in the coming talk with the Earth Sphere leaders.

As Oleg heard the announcement from his superior, he found himself slightly relieved to know that his mission was shaping to be a success. Everything he had fought for was now about to accumulate in his favor as the Coalition would after many long years would find the justice the Falsons had been searching for.

He saw the exit of another forest as the Aquarius made its way towards the city of Dusseldorf when he told himself, "Looks like I just achieved what I set out for." He found a road that was unoccupied by any nearby as he landed on it before taking a route towards his target city. "Well if anything Zelma told me was true, then I might have to wait a little before I can settle."

As the Aquarius continued in its travel to the Coalition stronghold, the German countryside was at least able to have a more serene display than the ferocious siege of Berlin had permitted. It was the only view Oleg had as he watched his surroundings for anything that would change the peaceful surroundings.

The gathered Representatives were still in a state of collective concern and some debate among themselves as Zelma kept herself concealed from being recognized. With her recent touches of makeup and a proper outfit, she was able to pass herself off as one of the Parliamentary guards. The only one who was able to recognize her however had made his way towards her as he made his way through the gathered crowd. "I have fortunate news for your mission. It would seem that this occupation is about to progress as far as we expected the President to fulfill."

Zelma turned away from the crowd and Barra when she told him, "This war will now end, and we will be closer to discovering the extent of the Earth Sphere's intentions."

"So, you still have doubts about who is responsible for the ignition of this conflict? I would hope that this suspicion is founded on something."

"From what I have discovered there may be a reason that the Earth Sphere deliberately sent the Gundams away from the frontlines where they would be most crucial to perform."

"That is a situation we have yet to discern the reasoning behind. We may not even be able to confirm this day as our final victory until they return."

"It is what will continued even when the final decisions have been made here. The conflicts in space will be the far greater ones regardless of how accomplished the Coalition may feel as of now."

"Even as the human race continues its steps into the age of space, there is still strong reluctance for what the planet is capable of offering. The leaders of the Earth Sphere may have recognized this on their willingness to remain in this capital."

"Or a lack of options from which to choose from. With L4 as the only colony side that has not sided with the Coalition, their evacuation to space did not present a suitable option. Luna will be a very should the colonies ever address it, much less its potential as a safe location."

"Which ultimately leaves the Earth Sphere leadership trapped on this planet even with the Coalition's space superiority notwithstanding. Even should the accumulated conflicts end here, the future of a unified humanity can still be very well in question."

"Even then, it will be all worth the effort when we discover the ones who are responsible for allowing the Falsons to have such a rapid rise to power." Barra checked his tablet when he parted, "I will let you know when it is clear to begin a search for the confirming documents. I must assist the Representatives with their quelling."

Zelma turned to face the crowd when she accepted, "I will remain on duty until then." Watching Barra enter the crowd of gathered Representatives, Zelma simply stood at attention as she considered how much was about to change in the coming weeks. "If what Nathaniel said was true in his address on 3 Juno, there may not even be some fortunate to see what comes after."

As Barra entered the crowd, Zelma saw a group of people with a few cameras make their way into the parliamentary building. It only took a little while for them to set up and she saw them focus their cameras on the podium where the President made his addresses. As soon as the President brought himself in front of the crowd, Zelma recognized what sort of declaration he was about to offer to the people of Earth.

The armored vehicle Klaus and Marcel both occupied traversed off the road as it made its way through the forest where the Earth Sphere mobile suits made their escape from the Coalition. He saw one of the Ursas coming within view as Marcel pointed out, "We are soon to meet with the men. It may very well be a matter of time before the Coalition begins to make its demands of what is to be done with our numbers."

Klaus nodded when he told him, "Whatever is to pass is what we have to endure to make sure the Parliament is safe. That is a duty that will not falter from my dedication to this wars history regardless of the outcome."

The vehicle stopped near one of the Ursa units when the driver told them, "We've arrived as you ordered General."

Klaus opened his door when he and Marcel exited as he ordered, "Wait here. If we are fortunate, we will now have orders to follow from the Coalition."

Both men shut their respective doors when Marcel offered, "More than anything I do hope that the President will be able to prevent the Coalition leaders from making demands that may spark another period of resistance."

Klaus only walked forward with his head level as he answered, "We will only be certain once we have heard the dialogue between the two presidents. Thereafter however is the period we must be at the most prepared to endure." Marcel followed Klaus to a nearby area where several soldiers began to set up a tent area. Anxious to hear the news, he followed Klaus over to the radio and waited for what would determine the future of the Earth Sphere's unity.

Before the crowd of gathered Representatives, Franz was standing behind his podium to address the concerned politicians. Vice President Severi stood next to him when he addressed with a forlorn but professional demeanor, "Representatives of the Earth Sphere United Nations. The President will now speak on behalf of the united human race on the matter that is now waiting to be addressed."

Franz lifted a paper when he began to speak, "My people of Earth. I do not doubt that you have heard the news of what has come to pass within the last hour. A distance from here, the Coalition has a weapon poised to destroy all of us and those who occupy the city.

I have encouraged all to support the will of the people in seeing that this war could at long last come to an end. It is my most sincere regret however that I must announce the true reality of where we are now. For everything that our brave men and women have given to see that the union of humanity would be permitted to endure its first true test of adversity. We have taken a brave united front to fell those who would defy the demands of one group who would hope to claim a greater reward for what they feel entitled to.

The great regret I have only now awoken to today has shown me that humanity in all its great effort to defy this old ideology, is still as susceptible to such a primal desire. I do not offer blame to any one person or group whop would chose to undo everything we have achieved in the last few decades, nor do I assign weakness to any who would allow for this day to arrive. We simply must now face this decisive day as a united front and pray that a united humanity can still be a reality.

I offer this final assurance to all as I now proclaim that the war between the Earth Sphere United Nations and the Colonial Front of the Falson Coalition must now cease on this day. I President Franz Kecker, selected by the people's elected Parliament of the United Earth, hereby announce our unconditional surrender of this conflict."

There was a distinct lack of energy in the Parliamentary building as the Representatives heard the grim words Franz had to offer to his fellow politicians. Relena clasped both of her hands in front of her while Heero kept a hand on her shoulder in shaken observation. Both were able to see the crowd of fear-stricken politicians both First Priority and Pacifist. All of them given a cruel reminder of how serious their conflict was. Only now were they about to witness the consequences of what the Coalition victory would bring.

Instructor W continued to receive the updates from Brussels. He was troubled with various things now with the unconditional surrender given to the ESUN. Operation Rising Himalayas was going to be in vain. Lord Lindemann's reaction on the surrender would not be a good sight at all and he may be tried by the Coalition for his involvement. He will have to go into hiding perhaps until the Gundams return from Mars and bring the old Lord along. "Right now we have a choice of escaping to North Africa or returning to the L4 clusters and wait for the Gundam pilots there." He had to see what the terms of the unconditional surrender were before he could make his plans for exile.

"Heero… Relena… I hope you two are safe." The Instructor said as the two came to his mind. He knew they would be in Brussels and prayed that they would be safe from harm. All of the concerns cumulated into his frustration at his powerlessness in stopping the coming tragedy from happening.

As Franz finished his speech, Christian slammed his fists on his thighs when he heard the declaration to surrender. He along with a few fellow pilots in the tent were disheartened to hear their leader on their radio step down in the face of such adversity while Christian was brought to anger by the war's end. "How the hell can he accept this? This is the biggest hunk of shit we ever had to go through!"

Campbell was next to him when he reminded, "Everybody here probably feels the same way. Don't act like we're just a few kills shy of being able to push the Coalition out of here."

Christian stood up from his chair when he left the tent to answer, "I don't know how you plan on handling this, but I'm not going to take this lying down! I'll kill everyone out there by myself if I have to!"

Campbell was shaken by Christian's answer as he and the other pilots watched Christian leave them. Christian found a rifle nearby as he grabbed it and made his way towards a nearby Ursa unit. Richard saw him walking by as he asked, "What the hell is your problem Christian?"

Christian turned to his brother when he answered, "My problem is that everything my dad ever believed in is about to come crumbling down to nothing. Even better everyone here is just following a plan to sit on their asses while it becomes the new acceptable standard."

Richard grabbed hold of Christian's rifle when he told him, "And you think going in there like a mad gunman is going to be enough to take us seriously? The President just gave the word of surrender. You aren't saving anybody if you head out there like this."

The words fell on deaf ears as Christian pulled his rifle out of the grasp and answered, "It's better for us to have an Earth that we can still call our own than see the Coalition lick this planet clean like it's something they've been served!" Before Christian could walk away from his brother, Richard threw himself to the ground with Christian beneath him. The two continued their struggle as Christian did everything he could to free himself or even grab the rifle.

A crowd was starting to form as they watched what happened in shock while Christoph saw what was causing the commotion. He stepped up to them when he asked, "Guys what the hell? This is not solving anything!"

Before Richard could answer, Christian thrust his right elbow into his chest as he pushed him off to tell his older brother, "Maybe if no one here thinks of the Earth Sphere as worth preserving with their lives, then I don't think I have a choice but to head out by myself!"

Richard grabbed Christian from behind when he answered, "Nobody would be here if they wanted an easy stroll through the countryside. And in case you hit your head harder than I thought, your Maganac has been totaled. You won't make a dent out there in just an Ursa."

Before the argument could escalate any further, Hyrum entered the crown when he warned, "Guys we need to make ourselves look professional, the General is headed this way!"

Richard let go of Christian as he hurried to bring himself to attention. Christian looked for a way out of the crowd but found many of them with a displeased look while blocking off any path of escape. He turned to the opposite direction as he stood next to his brother to see him standing to attention. When he saw the arrival of their superior General, he realized how serious the situation was as he scrambled to attention. One of the Colonels approached Klaus when he greeted, "General, all of the men have been gathered and are now waiting for your further orders."

Klaus nodded when he answered, "For now we must remain here and await whatever the Coalition has for us. We cannot risk the decimation of the capital so for now we must permit their leaders to enact what they feel is necessary."

He gave a quick evaluation of the pilots who had gathered outside when he asked, "I do hope there isn't anything that may jeopardize the Coalition's terms of standing down."

Christoph answered, "Sir. We were only anticipating that you may have required our immediate attention that would involve all of us, sir."

Klaus turned when he accepted, "Your enthusiasm and preparation is very commendable. For right now however we will not be headed anywhere. You have your orders."

The crowd of pilots confirmed, "Yes sir." Klaus and Marcel walked through them as they headed for the largest tent that was currently set up.

Christian grit his teeth when he asked, "How the hell do we let things get so south to where the General is actually okay with this?"

Denis made his way to the three conflicting brothers when he answered, "Because he can recognize when the very fabric of everything we've been fighting to keep a reality is on the cusp of being lost Private."

The three remained at attention while the pilots around them dispersed to their respective tents. Christian wasn't as intimidated by the Captain or as formal as he was with the General but offered his attempt at being professional with his next words, "Quite frankly Captain, this all seems to be just a giant load of shit. We're still here and fully armed, it doesn't feel right that we can't offer even one final front to push them back. If we lose the capital, the point should be that we are still fighting for a united Earth that humanity can be proud of. What good is it if we throw down our guns now while we still draw breath? We've seen eleven years of fighting pass already, what is allowing us a final attempt to uphold everything we deem as sacred?"

Denis stepped forward when he answered, "I had believed that you would have known the answer already Private. If you require the reminder, then this is the issue. We are not an army of berserkers who only have the intention of dying in battle. We are here to uphold an idea, the foundation of what a united Earth is built on. When we allow for the leaders of our government to be slaughtered and every governing body is stripped of its allegiance, we ourselves become just a raging band of soldiers who are seen as causing chaos because of our lust for battle. The fighting will become so drawn out and detested that we won't have anyone to support us. We'll only have the people seeing the Coalition as a better alternative to a government that was unable to win its prior war."

Christian was visibly displeased to hear the answer as he gave a scowl to the ground beneath him. Denis turned away from him when he warned, "Just recognize that if you believe in the Coalition's defeat that much at such a crucial point in history, you may not be able to muster the support of anyone but those who already agree with you."

Denis walked away as he left the three brothers to consider their situation. Richard was the first to speak when he offered, "Thanks for covering our asses Christoph. I think dad would have a coronary on top of the anger he has now if he found out we weren't in favor with General Ulbricht."

Christoph sighed when he answered, "I was hoping we wouldn't have to. I didn't think Christian here was so war hungry he'd try to do it all himself."

Christian crossed his arms in disapproval when he responded, "I've only been hoping to see the Coalition pay for trying to make our lives hell for so many years. Apparently now I have to put up with a load of beau acracy bullshit just like the Parliament before I can even try to push them off this planet."

Christoph reminded him, "I just hope you are as thick as you're making yourself out to be. You've heard everything that we just been updated on and why our mission is now to just sit on our asses. And you better not think any of us actually like this. We're all just as disappointed as you are but we also aren't ready to just rush out there and die for nothing."

Christoph and Richard walked away from Christian with his rifle. He was left to himself to consider how serious his place in the military was but with very little assurance that he was going to be part of such a plan for much longer. "Dying for nothing isn't what I had in mind." Christian said to no one in particular.

The time it took for the Solaris to reach the L4 colony cluster was a bit shorter than it was on the way to Mars and the shuttle was fortunate to find the specific colony it sought was still intact and ready to accept its form within a loop. Elias began a transmission, "L4-18777. This is the designated shuttle prepared to receive entry. Requesting your landing clearance."

A voice on the other end confirmed their presence, "We ready you Solaris. Prepare for docking. Estimated time for rotation will be about four hours."

Elias noted while the shuttle made its way into the giant loop, "Well the crew will have a small amount of time to enjoy the sights it seems. Do you think we'll reach the Luna base in time?"

Alberto wasn't one to believe that they were going to have their mission fail when he assured, "I'm certain we will. I'll let the crew know about the wait." He took control of the intercom system and announced to the crew, "Attention all personnel. We have arrived within the colony destination and we will be undergoing a rotation to be prepared for launch towards Earth. As per protocol it is requested that all personnel temporarily wait for the rotation to complete. Be prepared to dock before that time because we will be leaving on the second we are prepared to continue. That is all."

Mercurio knew what was about to happen now. The rotation would be disorientating and demanding on anyone who tried to remain aboard despite the low gravity, so he and the rest were given leave until the shuttle was ready to launch again. Even if for a short while he was glad that he would be able to stand on the ground. He watched the shuttle begin its rotation when he decided, "A small respite is better than nothing at this point."

A man in Middle Eastern clothing oversaw the Solaris dock from an observation deck. He looked different from thirty years ago, now having aged and lost an eye. He was still in shape like old times and had experience from the past war to complement his combat abilities when facing occasional Coalition attacks. "That must be the one." He said to the men surrounding him, similarly dressed. They immediately left for the ship, wanting to see the ship closer.

The news of shore leave was taken with rejoice by the crew. Donna wanted to get out of the ship for a stretch and she was bored from the simulators she's been training on. She was able to beat the scores of all the Ursa pilots but the Captain and Mercurio's scores were better than hers. Arch joined with the simulation and he did prove himself to be on-par with some of the panther pilots. They were still keeping the codename game going with neither backing down. As Earth became visible, Arch observed the planet from the observation deck. He talked about how he eventually wanted to go after the end of the war but he may be able to go earlier than he thought.

When she entered the docking bay, there were a group of men waiting. They were dressed as if they're from the Middle East and L4 was notable for a strong Arab population. The largest, the leader walked to her. "Are you the pilot of the Gundam Sandesgeist?" He asked her.

Donna saw the eyes of the large man and assumed he was the leader of the colony's defenses. "Yes?" She replied with uncertainty.

The man smiled from the answer. "Master Quatre's student's here!" He announced. "Abdul! Tell the Solaris that we will be hosting a party and they are free to come!"

One of the men made his way to the ship. The leader returned to Donna. "I am Rashid Kurama, leader of the Maganacs and you are our honored guest."

As the announcement was made among the crew of the Solaris there was unquestionably some great relief among the pilots who needed some unwinding. Gawel was the first to proclaim among his group, "Boy finally. It's about time we had a few moments of peace for a change."

Dana pointed out to him, "Careful not to jinx it Majewski. We're not sure just how much of the Coalition fleet is on its way here."

He let out a small groan before remembering, "Yeah, I guess. I can at least hope for just one hour of something unaffiliated with the military right?"

"Probably. Won't be too bad of a request."

Trenton pointed to the giant hook rotating the Solaris shuttle asking, "So we have to wait for some kind of rotation on that giant loop right?"

Gawel felt some pride swell as he began his lecture, "That's the process. We've left Earth about a month ago and by now we're pretty well out of its entry because of the planet's rotation. Only way it could have been any worse is if we took too long on Mars to where Earth is behind the sun." He had a camera to the shuttle and continued to watch the shuttle continue moving across the colony while being swiped up 180 degrees.

Trenton asked out of some brief confusion, "And you really have plans to check out the whole process man? Thing's about as exciting as watching grass grow."

Gawel answered, "This goes at several million times that speed. Besides, it's all one big outstanding aerobatic scene that has so much going on behind it. This is going to just be one more step towards seeing humanity make big steps further into space!"

Nasir found himself agreeing with the idea when he pointed out, "Might be our only option if the Earth keeps having the wars we have."

Gawel felt as though he won the argument when he announced, "Of course!"

There was a transmission when Dana heard her device announce a message from the higher ups. "Who the?" She looked at the message and noticed that Gawel and the others were looking at it as well.

"Well it looks like we're actually somewhere we're appreciated for a change after all. Feel like honoring Donna a visit?"

"Yes sir!"

Dana grinned at the attitude from the agreement, "Good attitude. Let's head down and be respectful. Have some lay back time. That's an order!"

As the message was sent to the crew of the Solaris, Elias said, "We've received a message from the locals Major. It will probably be something the crew will be happy with."

Alberto looked over the message and confirmed, "Hm. Perhaps they will be. As it is though we will still need to see the shuttle is kept on watch."

"That will be my responsibility Major. The pilots will need someone to see that they are on their best behavior and someone to represent our forces. I'll message you if anything happens."

Alberto understood the idea but warned, "Assuming that the Coalition isn't searching for us. It is likely they will catch up to our position at some point."

"That is when you will show the pilots the quickest way to the loop's entrance." Alberto was handed a pad to show the loops path and the entrances that it would be passing.

Deciding that it would give the pilots at least some time off he agreed, "Yes sir. I shall see you soon."

"Very good Major. Try and enjoy yourself as well."

Keijo searched around the mechanic achievement of the L4 colony commenting, "Finally got some place to wander about a colony. This your first time in one Mercurio?"

Mercurio confirmed, "Yeah. My mom said she was going to take me up to one of these when I was old enough to handle space travel. Of course, the war pretty much shot those plans down. The Earth Spheres victories up here must be pretty sporadic to keep track of what colonies they do have."

Zachariah entered the conversation asking, "I take it so you could help promote her position in the next election?"

Mercurio decided to go with the question answering, "Can't say. Even if it was you know that's not how the parliamentary system works."

Mercurio and the members of his squad checked their pads to see they had a message from Alberto.

Keijo pointed out, "Looks like Donna was pretty friendly with somebody to get that warm of a welcome."

Roy was excited by the idea when he proclaimed, "Well nice! Let's see what she's getting honored for!"

One of the Ursa pilots grabbed Roy's shoulder commanding, "Try and keep it calm Gilliam! You know what happens when these people get mad!"

Mercurio led them, "Let's try and stay professional guys. It won't look good on us if we go in bickering against ourselves."

With the city of Brussels under siege, Edward was given a view of the luxurious capital. It was as serene as the day the war began and untouched by any potential destruction. "They are deserving of congratulations for holding on to this piece of land for so long. I almost feel a sense of sorrow for them in that they must surrender what has made them feel so accomplished."

Bertram walked up to Edward when he reported, "We have a report from the German front General. General Vasquez has all preparations necessary to take the Earth Sphere forces into custody."

Edward entered a signal on his computer and then saw Rayen's face appear. Edward congratulated, "Excellent work General Vasquez. With the Earth Sphere routed they shall be easy to keep from creating havoc."

Rayen thanked, "Of course General. The battle was not without casualties, but it has thus far been for a great cause. We have only recently seen the President's escort pass us by and the negotiations for the conflicts end should be under way shortly."

"A job further done proper. I trust that you still have the numbers necessary to hold them in check?"

"Our forces shall be enough to fulfill the demand. Our mobile doll forces have been completely exhausted. The men may be under some pressure, but if the threat of the Earth Sphere is contained as we anticipate it to be, it should be manageable."

Bertram entered the conversation when he added, "Once the President has received news of the numbers, we will have the full support of the colonies to replenish the numbers we are all lacking. For right now you will have to follow through on the arranged occupation procedures. They cannot be permitted to learn of any further updates from the capital. If there is any upset from the enemy at all, they must be made an example of immediately after."

Rayen confirmed to the Strategist, "My men are station to act on whatever first deviation from the occupation is performed. I have entrusted this set of orders to everyone who is stationed here."

Bertram nodded when he thanked, "I am grateful to see that you have taken every step of my plans to be followed General."

Edward ended the contact with, "The results will be well worth the strong investment we have all placed forth Rayen." The hologram of Rayen's face faded as soon as Edward turned off the signal and was allowed for a clear view of the countryside.

Bertram was still next to Edward when he observed, "We were fortunate to meet our quota for preparing the occupation. Very soon we will be capable of changing the course of human history."

Edward added, "It is the responsibility of the President to have the diplomatic affairs completed. We must however be vigilant for what the Earth Sphere's retaliation will be."

"At this point in time it may not be a plausible scenario that they will overrun us. Even should the Gundams arrive we will be more than prepared for their resistance."

"I should however see that the Testudo is best able to maintain its hold over the capital. It would truly be regrettable if this hold should even be accidently put to use."

Bertram gave a nod when he agreed, "I too hope to see this weapon used only for its purpose. That being for the good of all humanity."

Within the tent Klaus had entered several of the remaining Earth Sphere leading military officials had gathered around the central table when he asked, "Have the remaining airship captains prepared for the terms of surrender to be met?"

Alphonse answered, "They are now arriving General."

The two captains entered when the first one introduced, "Captain Harrison Read of the Bulwark sir."

The second one added, "Captain Victoria Haynes of the Excalibur sirs."

Klaus offered them both seats when he began, "It is fortunate that you have been able to follow on arriving together. I anticipate that once Coalition forces have arrived, the men will require our guidance to remain under the coming occupation."

Alphonse added, "I was the one who offered that we do so because of the circumstances we now face General. One that I have been able to receive the support of my men on along with the Captains here."

Marcel voiced his concern when he asked, "Can you truly in good faith call this an action that is worth the risk General? They have warned that if we attempt any such action, we will see to the destruction of the capital ourselves."

Alphonse wasn't intimidated when he answered, "Once the Coalition President has arrived in the capital, they will have no option to fire the Testudo. If we are capable of infiltrating the occupation before the Coalition forces have solidified their position, we will still have the opportunity to take back the capital. We can still achieve the standing we need to see that our United Earth does not fall. General, we cannot surrender everything we have achieved even in the face of what may be our final hours."

Before Marcel could protest the idea, Klaus raised his hand to him when he told Alphonse, "I cannot command you to follow what I determine to be the best option for the coming days. For now I can only advise that this stratagem is one that reflects the final gasps of what we stand for. I wish you to be successful General, but recognize that I cannot offer my support where we are now."

Alphonse nodded when he agreed, "We had a certain anticipation that you would say so General. Even if you had the enthusiasm to follow us, there must be someone to remain behind to prevent the Coalition from pursuing us."

Klaus confirmed the decision, "So long as the Coalition is kept from a pursuit, we may still have a chance. As far as we can confirm, they have no presence in France and can still be caught from the underside of their position. If you are able to rally the remaining men to follow into Brussels, we may have a chance to see the enemy defeated when they least expect it. Even if this in turn causes the war to go on further, we must take every opportunity to uphold what we call relevant to our future of the human race."

Alphonse stood when he accepted, "I only hope to see that the Coalition does not consider your agreement as an act worthy of the most drastic measures."

Klaus only answered, "We are in service to the united Earth and its leaders until our dying breath. We await to hear of your success soon."

Alphonse and the airship captains followed each other out of the tent as Klaus and Marcel were left to await the outcome of the resistance. Marcel was not enthusiastic however when he asked, "With all due respect General, you truly believe that it is right for our forces continue with such a struggle? Even without the threat of the Testudo, we risk the lives of the representatives and the President under such circumstances."

Klaus answered, "We cannot hold men to their word to offer a complete surrender. Not when their beliefs are so strongly and founded on such strength."

Marcel paused before he asked, "You infer that he may have obtained such conviction from the Madame Representative and her continuous support?"

"It very well could be circumstantial. Regardless the General feels that he must put his heart forward and demonstrate that he values the state of our planet as something greater than himself."

"He may not have been capable of seeing this plan work without our support. If there were some method we could use to ensure his success, I feel it would be in our interest to have it accomplished."

Klaus took his turn to pause when he agreed, "The strength of our beliefs is for now the only effective weapon we have to stand against the enemy."

As the additional twelve hours passed there was no attempt on Nathaniel Falson's life as the limo made its way towards Brussels. Little to anyone's knowledge though, his fate was about to be determined in the next few moments. Bertram announced to Edward, "The President's limo is now making its way towards the capital General."

The General gestured, "Report to the secondary control room. I have need of your assistance."

"Yes sir." Bertram followed General Blare to the secondary control room they had planned. Edward's great ambition was well within his grasp only requiring one final blast from the Testudo. They entered the elevator and Edward keyed their room level destination.

Once they had entered the secondary control room before them was the key to overriding the processes needed to fire the Testudo's main cannon. It required two passwords to be entered before the handle could be used and the two men had what was required. "We are well within the opportunity to pull this off now Bertram. All of this will be the beginning of our new Foundation."

The Strategist agreed, "And it shall be done with a final shot to end this war."

"Proceed."

As they entered the passwords the glass window was opened for Edward to grasp. It was the final thing Bertram needed to see. He had his pistol pressed to Edward's head as he warned, "It was truly nice of you to trust me Blare. However, your ambition is not only unrealistic but also impractical."

"Bertram... What is this?"

Bertram answered with his request for the guards in his communication device, "Report to the secondary control room. General Blare is now instigating mutiny."

Within a moment Coalition guards had made their way into the control room apprehending the General. Edward saw how far into the act he had been caught and realized the futility of even trying to turn the guards against Bertram. He had some sort of goal that Edward was unaware of and he would probably never know now at this point.

The last thing he could do as the guards cuffed him was curse, "We had an agreement Bertram! This was supposed to be a mutual achievement!"

The Strategist dismissed the claim telling him, "As you say General. Take him into the holding. The President shall decide his fate." The General was taken away as Bertram had just saved the life of his President. It was a perfect weeding of the disloyal ones in the ranks who chose to try making their personal ambitions more of a concern than that of the Falson leadership.

He headed to the main bridge of the Testudo announcing, "The General has been caught in the act of mutiny. We shall see that he is tried after the end of this siege. Until then I shall assume command."

The Lieutenant General of the crew knew the standard procedure of command in such a situation agreeing, "Yes Strategist. We only hope there is no further dissent in the ranks now."

"I shall make certain that there is no such dissent Lieutenant General. Especially if anyone were to attempt assisting Mr. Blare."

"Would not even consider it sir."

Franz was able to observe the tension among the city from his office room seeing how frightened to the bone all of its inhabitants were. As the twelve hours passed for Nathaniel Falson to arrive with the squad of Leo III mobile suits following his limo, the Earth Sphere forces didn't even dare think of raising a hand against the Coalition now. At this point President Kecker had ordered every force into a ceasefire to prevent the war by now. If the newly made craters on the German countryside weren't enough the knowledge of a possible negotiation with the Coalition President alone made some hopeful for an end.

He had heard in the Parliament for some time now that even if the Earth Sphere were to lose it would possibly mean that they would at least be able to begin talks with the Coalition and begin the path to peace. Now it would be at a great cost.

He left the office and entered the Parliamentary gathering hall to hear out what the two sides had to say now. Among all things both Malcolm Hunter and Relena Yuy were the ones who had most to say. "This is most likely the failure of our military information to see that the Testudo could have been stopped. Just one Ursa squadron was able to take out its main cannon but clearly the results could not be replicated a second time."

Relena brought him back to the subject, "We cannot continue to wonder about how we could have stopped them from advancing Mr. Hunter. We must be willing to hear out the Coalition President's desire for an end to this war."

"And at what cost do you believe it will come Minority Leader? This is now the second time in history that the colonies have overtaken the Earth forces for a reason that they believed justified. If they have their way now, we will be back to square one with Earth and the old politics of yesterday shall once again be the norm."

"We must be certain to hear out Mr. Falson. He may not wish to see the Earth Sphere dismantled and if he does, we must find a convincing argument to see that he does not wish it on us."

"It is because of two different united Earths that war has erupted! The colonies are not going to settle to allow a third one unless they think that war might be another option worth venturing!"

The argument certainly was worth noting and something Franz would have to ask when Nathaniel came to speak with him. It had been far too long since he heard Nathaniel's position on how the Earth would have its issues solved. He informed the two, "We will be unable to convince the leadership of the Coalition that we will have any solution if we keep ourselves locked in this argument. I must ask that both of you are willing to accept what comes to pass when they determine what judgement must be given."

Malcolm was uneasy with the information as he asked, "Mr. President, we could very well be facing the demise of everything we have struggled to build."

Franz answered, "I recognize the weight of what is happening Malcolm. What we cannot do however is manage any conditions that will work in our favor. The only thing we can hope to see is that Nathaniel is as reasonable as he portrays himself to be. This is no longer a matter of making him see reason for what we have sought to accomplish, but of what we can salvage from our loss."

Malcolm sighed heavily when he heard the President resign to the fact that defeat was looming over him. He forced himself to accept the situation when he told the President, "I would be lying if I said that I expected this sort of decision Mr. President. Supporting you to this point only to arrive where we are now leads me to believe that we have done far less than what we could have offered."

Franz told him, "This is a concern the defeated all feel. What we cannot afford is allowing ourselves to be the wronged victims that any in the Coalition may anticipate us to be."

Relena told him, "I had no hope that we would be here today Mr. President. I will offer you my support along with the rest of the Parliament in ensuring that we do not live to see a day where we have to see our progress and achievements completely destroyed because of what they perceive us to be."

Franz told her, "The least we can hope to learn of is to understand what their idea of a better path for the human race will be. Even if it is one that we cannot agree with, they will only now have to prove that they have the strength to enforce it upon us."

Edward made his way to the area beneath the Testudo hangar bay where one of the least maintained areas was located. With two guards focused on him at gunpoint and Bertram only a few steps behind didn't have any opportunity to find his way to freedom. Only a few steps remained before he was forced into the nearest barred off cell. He was pushed in by one of the guards before the door was shut closed to have Edward behind a frame of bars. He grasped two of the nearest bars when he warned, "You ought to realize that the President will never accept the idea of me as one who would betray him."

Bertram waved the guards away when he turned to face Edward. "You believe he will be so willing to deny the involvement once he has seen that you personally have brought me to the emergency control room? The man desires to see the human race free from the inherit lies of unity, not to see that you personally are able to meet with your own gratification."

Edward paused before he went against what Bertram waited for. "You will not be able to offer such a warning when you do not have any words to offer against me."

Bertram smirked when he agreed, "You always had a way of analyzing your true intentions Edward. I may not be able to undo everything you have accomplished in your servitude to the President, but the fact that the emergency firing system was even activated and touched afterward will be enough to reveal everything that you have attempted to keep hidden."

One of the guards not with Bertram gave a salute when he told him, "Strategist sir. We have received a Private Tripi who has just returned from his battle behind the enemy lines. Your requested to see him sir?"

Bertram confirmed, "Yes. I shall require him to wait as we prepare to have the Testudo's position solidified." He turned back to Edward when he warned, "Soon enough old friend, we shall find the period where you will face your final hour. The mentality of your kind hoping to grasp all of humanity under one grasp is a desire we have long ago diminished as a realistic ambition. You will die for nothing more than a mere unrealistic dream."

He left Edward's cell as he left his old superior to remain trapped in his area of the Testudo. Edward sat on a nearby bunk when he began to speak, "Oh so you may hope to believe Bertram. The supposed end of this war is only now about to set forth a new conflict. This may be the day which the Earth shall fall and us devoted will burn for their assigned crimes. As long as there are those who must be given justice, there shall be a new conflict to arise. A war only must end when there are no longer men who have ambitions that cannot exist alongside other ones. And I intend to demonstrate soon that my ambitions are far greater than that of a common man."