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 25: The New World Stage

Franz was awoken by the sound of his front door opening as he woke up from his chair to see Nathaniel making his way in. Nathaniel was also the first to speak when he greeted, "Good morning Franz. It is most fortunate that you now seem to fully accept your place in being here for the occupation's remainder."

Franz nodded when he answered, "I have been able to accept so much. I would have preferred that I Would at least be allowed to rest in my own personal quarters however."

"I believe that you are aware that we have more pressing issues to address. Most pressing that the three Gundams you sent on this mission are soon to arrive. Now that you are officially at the end of this conflict, I should like to know how you hope to rectify this issue you have created for us."

"I can do nothing according to the terms of surrender. The army of the Earth Sphere will essentially be disbanded and my power as commander in chief is soon to be lost. It falls to them to accept that there is no longer a cause worth fighting for."

"You are correct to say so in this scenario. However, permitting the responsibility on the choices of fighting men and women will portrait yourself as a weak leader as well as a coward. Regardless of how you may wish to see yourself Franz, you must recognize that all foundations for a united Earth will be revealed as one that does not have an immediate future."

Franz paused before he answered, "If it is an official address in that you wish for me to condemn every soldier who believed in the future of humanity under unification, my words will only carry so little weight that they may not even be considered being followed. The representatives of the Parliament are the ones who embody the will of the people."

Nathaniel kept himself from losing his temper when he remembered the process the Earth Sphere parliament established for itself. "So you say now that you will not admit to your crimes until the representatives have admitted to their involvement in allowing humanity into this period of strife we are forced to endure. Do you feel confident allowing your closest supporters to stand on their own? A majority of them have expressed their intent to see that the Coalition was completely done away with. You yourself have not done anything to assuage those who expressed such views, we can only assume that you have supported them in some way."

"How different is it from what your Coalition has been built on? You make the claim that this war was waged for the good of the human race. Not once however did any of our governing bodies allude to the idea that we completely destroy those with differing views. This hollow victory the Coalition has now claimed is only that you hold me and my governing men and women at gunpoint. The unity that you claim to stand for is one that is built on a deception that discredits what the status of humanity can be capable of."

Nathaniel brought a fist down on Franz's desk when he answered, "I have no intention of creating this false unity you stand for! Yours is the intention of uniting humanity for your own gains. I have gathered the greatest and most diligent minds together with only the goal of preventing the days of the Earth Alliance from being rebuilt. This is the direction you were headed, we even see a segment who fantasize the ambition to grasp this world of ours. Left to your own devices you would have done everything to break the agreements of the parliamentary constitution and established a new Earth army."

Franz was unshaken by the accusation when he told Nathaniel, "I do have that much to admire in you Nathaniel. That you are so willing to take on the burden of others and make them your own. I truly wish you were capable of forming your own vision that you would be capable of forming your own ideology. You could have ended all of this sooner if you did not allow for your personal feelings to overcome your sense of duty for others. No matter how dear they were to you."

Nathaniel unfolded his fist when he maintained his gaze on Franz to answer the accusation, "The only thing Hermine allowed to pass was allowing conflict to erupt sooner than it would have. You must understand now Franz there is no future for Earth to be united. Men such as you that continue to rise and fall. But the more difficult it can become, the better the human race will be for it."

Franz sat back when he accepted, "You have an argument Nathan. Your claims to any ulterior motives are very serious charges. Ones that would deface the credibility of anyone who was found to be false in such an accusation."

Nathaniel stepped back when he asked, "So you still decline to confirm what you are? Very well. For now, I will follow your rules Franz. Every day the people will inquire who it is that would allow for their lifestyle to fall into decline. Right now, they will see their leaders be charged for supporting you. Even once the Gundams arrive Franz, you will see your final hope to achieve greatness crumble before your eyes." He turned away from Franz before telling him, "Once you have seen everything fall, the human race will never again have to bear witness to this treachery you have created." Nathaniel left the desk behind as he made his way to the only door of the room as he left Franz to himself.

He told one of the guards waiting outside of the executive room, "I will have him address the parliament soon. You have your duty to maintain."

Once it was public knowledge that the Parliament was under Coalition control one of the operators of the Berlin base reported, "We're receiving word now sir. The Coalition is now at the border of Brussels."

The Lieutenant General asked, "Has an evacuation been taken?"

Another operator answered, "It doesn't appear so sir. They must not have received our message."

"No... With this we will have to listen to the Coalition."

"Their message on the approach probably still stands sir. We should avoid advancing towards the Testudo or our leaders will probably end up paying the price."

"Do you believe they will still be willing to destroy the city however?"

"Probably once it has been evacuated. They wouldn't sacrifice their leader for the sake of destroying the Parliament."

"Send a message to General de Lombard. Tell him that the advance towards the Testudo must be stopped."

"Yes sir. Sending the message now."

The news of surrender was broadcast across the airwaves of Earth and heard by the ears of one particular Earth Sphere supporter who feared that the worst outcome. As Instructor W listened to the news update by his contact, he helped support Till Lindemann into his limousine as they continued their trip to the nearest port. While on the way, Till demanded, "What is making us run Instructor?"

"I'm afraid that there is bad news from Brussels." The Instructor replied. "We will have to leave to escape capture."

The Lord was unconvinced by the indirect answer when he asked, "Is the Coalition prepared to make its way here?"

Instructor W answered, "A Coalition force is expected to send in forces here. For our safety we need to evacuate."

Till slammed his fists on his cushion and his door when he cursed, "So I see the Coalition thinks they can capture us." His rage boiled over further when he swore, "Falson thinks that he can humiliate me by stealing my Gundam and binding me into this chair?!"

Instructor W attempted to calm his lord when he told him, "You won't be able to achieve anything if you allow yourself to give in to anger."

Till ground his teeth as he tried to avoid throwing himself out of the disabled compartment of his personal transportation. "Perhaps you are right in those regards. Perhaps all I can do now is wait and see if my contributions can do anything to avert this in some way." Looking at the wheelchair that was placed next to him emphasized him with a sense of powerlessness as he remembered he would still have to rely on the Instructor just to be able to move.

After a few short minutes, Till and Instructor W had made their way to the port where his personal boat lay in wait for departure. It was a small civilian ship chartered by the Instructor, kept in moderate condition by the crew. The instructor pushed Till in his wheelchair as he helped the disabled Lord onto the boat while a crewman helped load their luggage.

Till asked, "Do we have a destination in mind?

Instructor W answered, "The ship will be enroute for Calais. Right now it is the best destination we will have for now. We may be able to find some form of safety if we can make our way through the mainland before the Coalition is able to find us."

As Dana and the others entered the house, they found Mercurio and the others with the old Maganac corps. Trying to remember the whole thing about their cover she reminded, "Arch's here. You guys know to keep your cover by now right?"

One of the pilots pointed out, "Of course Captain."

Gawel found himself curious asking, "It's a relief that we don't have to go through that many customs and crap just to step outside. Did anyone give you a hard time just for not wearing one of those scarf things Captain?"

Dana didn't show to have a problem answering, "They might have at one point. I don't exactly qualify for being mistaken as a woman nowadays if you haven't noticed."

Roy laughed when he pointed out, "Well it could have been worse right?"

Dana shrugged at the idea noting, "Probably could have."

Alberto viewed his pilots gathered at the nearest parking lot when he told Rashid, "I believe that if the conflict was not as difficult as it was now, many more would have a slightly more professional demeanor. Honestly I would prefer visiting a place as exotic as this under more peaceful times."

Rashid agreed with Alberto, "I agree that the circumstance could've been better." He answered. "But I believe a feast with us will be a breather from all the battles we fought." He counted the number of people that got off the Solaris. Once he finished counting, he ordered to one of his men. "Let's get to our barracks then!" He said to the assembled pilots. Behind them, there were jeeps waiting to take them to their base.

The barracks were a short drive away from the docking bay with a jeep. The compound was like any other military outpost from outside. The gates opened to make way for the transports to pass. They stopped at the largest building and Rashid was the first to get off, giving a sign for everyone else to disembark. He lead them to the mess hall, which was different from the standard interior everyone in the Solaris would be used to. The differences were the lack of chairs and pillows to sit on instead with an equally low table. There were some Arab decorations the Corps brought with them from Earth, notably a landscape poster written in Arabic. The Maganac leader turned to Alberto as he told his men, "Please make yourselves at home and dinner will arrive soon." He informed and left for the kitchen.

Donna found a place to sit, close to the door to the kitchen. How they are devoted to their ancestry was just as described by the Instructor. The whole place was made to be welcoming, down to earth for the soldiers to relax and dine, enough to be mistaken for an authentic restaurant.

Arch took the seat next to her, taking the end of the table. The place was more decorated than a Coalition barrack he was posted to. He turned to Donna. "Are we still playing the game?" He asked.

Donna's answered with a smile. "Yes, Arch."

"Hmm..."

Some of the crew among the Solaris found their way to the nearest cushion to sit on while some were having their own personal entertainment with. Zachariah sat down enthusiastically, "Hehe! Not bad! Just a room of these now and I'm on vacation!"

One of the younger pilots asked, "For what? About three hours at most?"

"You gotta learn to appreciate those hours kid. An unscheduled friendly meal like this is pretty much as close to a paid vacation as it gets!"

Keijo started another part of the conversation when he turned to Mercurio asking, "So this your first time in a setting like this one?"

Mercurio remembered an earlier event saying, "I actually did meet with a former royal family when I was younger. My mother said they would play a key role in seeing the Middle East adopt the ESUN policies... Unfortunately it was probably the only time she was ever invited to such an event ever again."

Somewhat shocked to hear something like that about a respected politician such as Relena Yuy, Roy asked, "And did she end up botching that up somehow?"

Mercurio was slightly embarrassed when he answered, "No... My sisters did."

There was a rouse of laughter from the crew until one of the other pilots entered the conversation asking, "Sounds like the right story. So what did they do?"

Mercurio wanted to keep the details to a minimum when he answered, "They were offered an arranged marriage by the head household and they both denied it... in a different way from my mother."

Donna overheard Mercurio's story on the incident with the sisters he had in his story. She noticed that the details he refused to elaborate on were how his sisters broke the bones of their suitors, contrast to what their pacifist mother would do, making it the reason that they're not invited anymore. I should be ashamed to admit it… But I would consider that as well…

There was a bit more laughter from the explanation and even Mercurio began to chuckle a bit at the events he remembered. As far as he could tell he didn't give away too much for his identity and for an unwillingness to really elaborate what happened that day. He was happy to see that they would have something to think about other than planning for another battle strategy.

Mercurio saw Arch stand up as he talked to Alberto but he couldn't make out what he was saying over the renewed sense of conversation among the pilots. He could tell his superior wasn't quite as enthusiastic about their reprise from routine conflict, but so far he at least wasn't going to let it spoil their leisure time. I sure hope we all get to have a few more moments like these when this is done. He thought to himself.

Dana and the others were among the many who found the place well to their liking as Gawel pointed out, "Can't complain about this. Is that guy whose been leading us around anybody we should know Captain?"

Dana knew that most of the men didn't know who they were meeting with but was able to explain easily, "He's the leader of the original Maganac corps. That's why you should be respectable around him."

Suchart commented, "For real? Huh, I guess the new one must be a group of posers or something."

Dana shook her head saying, "It's obvious they're not in it for the glory but they probably look to them for inspiration."

Arch took his seat back down next to Donna when he lamented, "And here I was thinking that I would be able to get a name out of you. You can tell everyone here is having an issue being forced to handle these codenames."

Donna shrugged off the comment when she told him, "Sorry you thought it would be that easy. We don't get to have a bit of private time often, but even then we don't let ourselves be caught off guard."

Arch surrender to how prepared Donna was as a soldier when he accepted, "The most I can at least gather right now is that you sure do seem more than happy to be back with people of your heritage."

"Well it is partially my heritage. Not enough for me to claim this as my nationality."

"I can get where you're coming from. Still I'd think leaving this place just to go back to the frontlines is going to be a bit rough at least."

Donna held her face in her hands when she answered, "It's going to be a bit rough going back to Earth in general. More fighting and probably less people for me to be friendly with."

"Is that right? And here I Thought you would have been homesick."

"It's an issue I've had to endure for a long time. There were few times I ever actually felt like I was at home. Like I was always meant to live somewhere that's more accepting of me. I guess that's why I wanted to be a mobile suit pilot in the first place. I've always wanted to go to space. This colony in particular. Maybe even see a green Mars one day. If I could be even more fortunate, I would find myself lost on a new home to start my life."

Arch was curious but also humbled at Donna's confession before he asked, "Life hasn't been kind to you on Earth I take it?"

Donna checked around the table to notice that no one was paying attention to her story when she answered, "A big part of it is because of my mother dying when I was very young. That moment was scary for me, but that day changed my father into who he is now. The Earth is the home world of the human race, but it is a frightening and more demanding place than it has ever been. All because of the deaths of a few men who have voiced their concerns. I've always believed that it was possible to find a place where the human race wouldn't be dogged down by its more base instincts to take control of others."

Arch nodded when he offered, "It seems like you do believe in the cause you're fighting for. I don't know if you've lost all faith in the human race, but clearly you must have some faith that the people of Earth are worth living up to. Otherwise you might have thrown yourself into Aleksei's fold for a new opportunity at such freedom."

Donna hesitated before she answered, "I guess being drilled for so many days in believing in such a cause will give me a sense of duty to believe in what I've been fighting for after all. I don't know if you saw it though, but Uriel's ability to stand in front of him and talk down his hopes of a free Mars was able to make me feel this pure sense of duty I believed was pure and noble when I was younger. I can thank him for being able to inspire that much in me."

"You're in a situation that some people do ask themselves when something goes on for a very long time. It sounds as if you just might have an extra bit of baggage on you. I'm sure you can at least remember where you came from right? The people you value all come from Earth and that alone should be what keeps you going. I have a mom and pops on Mars and a sister who wants to see Earth end its period of conflict because they think it affects them as much as every other human. Whatever else can push you forward just remember that you are not as different as you might think you are."

Donna turned to give an approving gaze towards Arch when she thanked, "I am part of humanity and I have an idea now of what is truly important to me. I know that I can at least count on you to help me realize that day where we stand victorious."

Arch shrugged when he accepted, "I can always make the effort. Right now, I think you should try blending in with the rest of the guys. We don't want to be the odd ones out." Donna remembered the others around her when Arch told her about them. After a while though, the concern she had about being among the sociable ones wasn't as important to her.

Rashid returned from the kitchen and behind him, his men were at work, bringing the food to the table. There were several large plates of bread, cous cous, falafel, hummus, salad, and pieces of sliced lamb brought from the kitchen with smaller plates and cutlery placed in front of the guests by squad members. The Maganacs usually didn't make large portions but this was for a feast to honor the arrival of the Gundams and hopes for a new tomorrow without war. It was a feast that can be seen in a banquet run by the nobility. The Maganac members were now seated to join the dinner.

Donna was pleased to see the amount of food that was brought to her and the others. She could tell from just a first glance that it wasn't processed food like what was on the shuttle to Mars and Solaris. She heard Arch ask her, "I take it this is the sort of food you're familiar with?"

Donna confirmed, "I have an Instructor who would cook similar food occasionally. The best part is that most of the ingredients have been grown inside the colony itself." As she waited for the opportunity to prepare her own plate, she remembered her instructor, Our appreciation for Middle Eastern food was a common ground apart from constructing Sandesgeist.

Arch added, "I'd be lying if I said that I was afraid of trying anything like this. Middle Eastern food on Mars practically doesn't even exist." He eyed falafels for a while he added, "It also helps that me and everyone else here is bored of the processed food we have to live off of."

Before everyone could eat Rashid addressed everyone in the room. "The Maganac Corps welcomes the arrival of the Gundams to the Earth Sphere. Long ago, we had the honor of fighting alongside Master Quatre and the original Gundams to bring an end to the Eve Wars. We once again have the honor of working with the new generation of Gundams and fight for peace together. We will dine with the pilots to usher the coming age of peace we yearn for!" When he finished, he moved to an empty place to sit and dine.

Mercurio agreed with the speech, "As I hope as well."

Roy shook his head, "Aaaaamen Bruddah!"

One of the Ursa pilots nudged him, "Wrong faith moron."

"Eh can't be choosers right?"

There weren't any complaints among the Ursa pilots as they helped themselves and found the change in diet to be very appreciated. A month of dehydrated and reprocessed food would eventually get some mouths hungry for just about anything to break the monotony.

After the speech, the Maganac soldiers began eating. Donna scooped some hummus on her plate with the spoon from the bowl. She then got the lamb slices and bread on the plate. She spreaded the hummus on the bread on placed the lamb over it, making an open sandwich.

Admiral Demetrios Kontoyannis observed the flight pattern of the Solaris asking, "Have we determined their trajectory path?"

His map planner displayed a holographic map of the flight pattern for the Solaris when he answered, "Yes sir. From what we have been able to determine they will likely be stopping at this colony."

Once the point to L4-18777 was found Demetrios observed, "One that the Earth Sphere has under its thumb of course." He announced to the hands on his flagship, "All hands prepare for speed break. Within the next hour we will be arriving within the location of the Solaris."

General Alphonse de Lombard's forces were prepared to make an advance towards the gathering point at the Testudo but heard the message from General Edward Blare on the demand for a surrender. They had to stop within the city of Magdeburg to hear the news but it came as a hard blow before they could even try to reach Brussels. Their call to arms was now rendered ineffective and their leaders were probably going to be taken as prisoner.

Hyrum heard the message from the main headquarters in Berlin and heard one of the pilots ask, "We're supposed to sit here and wait for the rest of the Parliament to just sort out making the terms of surrender?"

Alphonse nodded his head in grief at the idea, "It is currently the most we have it seems. Even approaching the President's escort or the Testudo will result in the city being lost."

Hyrum reminded him of another failure, "And we've already lost too many in this war, we can't let the final act of the Earth Sphere basically be suicide."

Campbell found his luck very unfortunate as he observed, "This isn't any good. If we let them go through with the surrender, then we'll have lost the war and the Earth Sphere will be gone."

Alphonse could only remind him, "Even if we have failed it's better than seeing it end with one final bang." He only hoped that his wife would still be alive after all of this at this point. Many military men had to recognize when they were defeated, and this was that sort of time.

One of the General's advising men tried to understand, "Did we even send the Gundams into space for a good reason? Why couldn't they at least take out the Testudo before being sent away?"

The General rubbed his head at the conundrum, "Probably for something important. I only wish I had firsthand knowledge of what Rising Himalayas had in mind."

Tano brought his Sagittarius unit into the bay of his flagship while watching the remainder of his squadron line alongside him. The scuffs and damage done was very visible on every mobile suit that brought its way on. Every effort he had in trying to find a remote success was futile but currently didn't have anyone to offer his concerns to. As he brought himself out of his cockpit, he was able to see the surviving pilots rush out onto the scaffoldings hoping for even a moments rest. He walked up to them when he demanded, "What happened out there? We should have had them stuck where we wanted them?"

Devon raised a hand when he answered, "Motivational criticism of performances I my job Kiprotich. I've got plenty of it for you if that's what you're looking for." Devon turned to his men when he told them, "You guys go on ahead. Our self-appointed second in command needs a reminder of how we fell too short." The pilots walked away while a few shook their heads at the recent argument that was about to ensue.

Tano didn't allow himself to show any signs of being concerned when he walked up to Devon to tell him, "With all due respect sir, I believe that my questions has enough validity to be asked. Why did we allow the enemy to find their way out of the colony's range and how could we permit them to make another escape?"

Devon walked up to Tano when he answered, "I understand that you think not everybody is doing what they can to put their asses on the line Lieutenant. Unfortunately you were too busy ordering your guys to do that to the point of where they're now another few losses for our side. Needless to say you might have delayed a potential advance in rank by a few years."

"I have no concern about my rank sir. Not when our victory for the Earth Sphere is threatened to be undone. I came very close to being able to severely damage the Gundams. If we had pressed further a little more, things would have ended there."

"Good on you to be so focused on the mission kid. Did you ever think that maybe not everyone is as ready to sacrifice themselves as you are? The admiral knows this, I know this, the men know this. It seems that everyone but you is able to recognize that a needless sacrifice is not going to get us any closer to victory. Sorry to break this to you, but you aren't the shining beacon of hope we're all rallying behind. I suggest that you get that through your head before you ever try to show off like that again."

Tano clenched his fists at the response and averted his gaze to the floor when he heard his superior say this. He quickly brought his face back up when he accepted, "I apologize for my action sir. I will make a renewed effort to work with the men."

Devon patted Tano's shoulder when he told him, "You remind yourself to do that and I won't have to do it for you. Let's just hope the others can accept you as their superior."

"It's honestly difficult enough to accept you as a superior already sir. Even for as short of a time I've been here I felt that leaders such as yourself should be more pressing on seeing the men achieve results."

Devon shrugged the observation when he told Tano, "This is the first time any of us have been in such an extraordinary situation Tano. Intelligence has been having trouble trying to confirm how the Earth Sphere got their hands on the Gundams and we got the short straw. Whatever happened, we've just got a big problem that we have to deal with. Some group of pilots had to be chosen to take on the Gundams and we were the ones who were picked. Our best and brightest are down on Earth and the Earth got this crazy idea to save this one shuttle for something. If we're guessing right, this should be the last operation we have to endure. We'll just have to divert our forces to the final destination on Luna." He leaned on a nearby railing when he continued, "The fleet will be able to handle the enemy once we arrive. They'll be overwhelmed and have nothing to throw back at us."

Tano became less intensified when he asked, "Is that why you haven't been concerned with the upcoming conflict sir? You plan on having the fleet place the effort that we weren't able to offer?"

Devon looked at the repairs of the mobile suits when he answered, "To put it plain and simple kid, yes. The Gundams are powerful, but they're also mobile suits. They can be damaged, they can be destroyed. Taking these sorts of threats down is what we're assigned to do."

Tano crossed his arms when he reflected on Devon's answer before telling, him, "You just won't change your laid-back attitude will you Captain? If we really do come out of this and destroy the enemy, then I think I'll earn the right to be as nonchalant as you."

Devon chuckled when he accepted, "Nobody's stopping you kid. We pull this off then we won't have to even question what decent leadership is.

The Testudo command center was filled with the constant work of surveying the occupied space around them. Bertram watched the view outside as Leo III units and Scorpio Majors gave a patrol near the fortress that offered their long-sought victory. He had no instance where he could remember feeling more empowered from his position and yet had less of a feeling of security for his safety. "The President was attempting to end this sort of division. How far does this conspiring run?"

Before he could contemplate further, he heard one of the operators announce, "Sir, we have received security clearance from an incoming division. General Vasquez has confirmed his scheduled arrival."

Bertram turned to see an armored truck at the foot of the Testudo on the nearest video feed. A dozen Coalition soldiers made their way out before the general himself walked out to wait for the opportunity to enter. Bertram announced, "The general's arrival was scheduled. Permit him to enter." The nearby operators entered the commands necessary to allow the general inside before he began to allow himself to the nearest exit. He gave the command, "Maintain all current duties. I will see to the general's reception myself."

Bertram heard the operators continue their work as he left the control room. It was only a short while before Bertram found himself at the entry where Rayen was waiting. The general was the first to greet, "Bertram. How has this position been faring for you?"

Bertram offered a formal nod when he answered, "I cannot say that this is a privilege I was anxious to acquire. I have not however broken to the point where this would be too much of a burden for me. But I wish to see that your business here is completed. How shall we be of service sir?"

Rayen walked of the platform as he followed Bertram to the nearest hallway. He answered Bertram's question, "My request comes with clearance from the president. I have arrived to speak with General Blare and discover for myself what would bring about such a betrayal."

Bertram hesitated before he asked, "Is this sort of process not intended until after the trials in the capital have been completed? This sort of last-minute interrogation would only be beneficial to your curiosity."

Rayen explained, "It will be beneficial to my decision if I am to consider coming to his defense Bertram. Virtually the entire Coalition knows of the continuous partnership that Edward and I have upheld with one another. I had believed that if he truly were to attempt a coup in his bid for power, he would have offered me the opportunity in some way."

"Most likely he would have offered you the chance afterwards general. In this situation he would have no further obstacle before him and would be able to propose a worthwhile position. The fewer who would know of his plans, the less likely he would encounter a potential obstacle to his ambitions."

"And yet clearly he was able to trust you with such information. Was your assignment as his strategist enough to make him believe that his attempt would be in good hands?"

Bertram nodded in confirmation, "He did indeed approach me with the opportunity. The idea that I would have my own seat of power once we were to begin a war with the remainder of the Coalition. It was however a character I was required to play along with if I was to see that I Would have him where I needed him. I was merely fortunate enough to have been selected with the general who was most crucial to seeing the end of the war. It is most unfortunate things would turn out the way they have, the man was one of our most efficient in ending the Unification War."

Rayen gave a face of deep reflection on the matter when he told the strategist, "I recognize the regret far too well Bertram. Edward would have been successful if it were not for you and yet he was capable of concealing his ambition for so long in such a well veiled way. If we were to attempt his ambition at unification, the planet would have a very difficult road ahead."

Bertram was interested in the intention when he asked, "Which is what you intend to discover I am to presume?"

Rayen smiled when he assured him, "Most correct Bertram. I must discover what allies he has who would truly support him."

Bertram was reluctant when he agreed, "I have done some work in that regard, you should be relieved to know. Four of our personnel have been discovered to be in league with the general. If you are indeed capable of such a discovery general, it will be to our benefit. However do you truly believe it is likely he would willingly divulge such information to you?"

Rayen faced Bertram with an honest tone, "If I were to extract this information the same way you did Bertram. Perhaps if I were to hypothetically offer the scenario in which I plan to set him free and take back the Testudo for himself. For all the partnership I have offered him over the years, he will trust me more than any man."

Bertram considered the offer before he answered, "You do offer a reasonable intention for pursuing this sort of information general. I cannot however base my trust in your advertised indication sir. As we arrive on the twilight of this conflict, there are men who now rise up with their true ambitions for all to use. Not just General Blare, we have reports warning us that Mars may have been lost to a revolting general. It is with this background we now have that I must ask you to forgive what suspicion we may now have in this crucial point of our victory. I am afraid that even the veil of pretense behind your true intentions will not be favorable to any report regardless of intent."

Rayen nodded with a smile when he agreed, "These are trying times for us indeed Bertram. Why I should be excepted from this level of suspicion however is one that I am easily capable of rectifying."

He took out his data pad to establish a communication link. In a brief flash, the face of Nathaniel Falson appeared in Bertram's view as the president asked, "Greetings Strategist Stephens. General Vasquez has arrived as scheduled?"

Bertram confirmed, "Yes Mr. President. As of right now I simply wish to understand the validity of his attempt to speak with General Blare."

Nathaniel nodded when he told Bertram, "He has authorization to do so. I trust there is no objection to permitting his entry?"

Bertram was quick to answer, "None Mr. President. A mere question of procedure is the only thing holding progress now."

"You are performing your duties Bertram. See to it that the remaining traitors are discovered. We cannot permit this search to go interrupted when already we have witnessed two recent upheavals in our ranks."

Bertram hesitated before accepting, "I recognize the intention and your authority Mr. President. I will be sure to follow on a report when this is all complete."

Nathaniel closed the discussion when he accepted, "Very good. We have business we must conclude here very soon. Continue with your duty."

The image of Nathaniel faded when Rayen smiled to offered, "I believe you now see that we have no issue with what progress is going forward Bertram. Now if you would direct me to the cell block area please?"

Bertram was reluctant before he agreed, "I shall allow you to him then."

He turned near one of the hallways when he heard Rayen observe, "You sound entirely convinced. On what grounds are you basing my submission to Edward's position as being the rightful leader of the Coalition?"

Bertram continued to walk when he answered, "You are fortunate that the president has always been far too trusting of his own men. I merely offer the worst-case scenario and feel that I must expect it to occur. The traitors who split the Coalition before we have been weeded years ago and yet it seems that some still yet remain. As of right now, due to your most often friendly association with General Blare. I only have to guess that you are indeed preparing for such a scheme."

Rayen grinned when he asked, "Now wouldn't that be a tragedy. You feel as though a traitor could be right in front of you, very well could be me. And yet the highest authority in the Coalition does not allow you to take any preemptive." He viewed Bertram in profile as he continued to follow him. Bertram did not have a look of amusement when he considered the situation, rather one of a solemn man who was wrongfully being sent to his own execution.

Rayen continued his observation as he assured Bertram, "In all seriousness however, I am merely a soldier, not a leader. I have no intention of claiming any higher of a position. Edward and I were effective together because we believed what we were backing the fight for. I believed he was a man who saw the problems of the Earth Sphere's attempt at unity."

As though he recognized what Rayen was trying to dismiss, Bertram stopped in front of a nearby door when he told him, "You overestimate your pride general. You will have to witness that fact in a very brief few moments when you are done."

He opened the door leading into the prison cell block as he allowed Rayen to enter. Rayen stepped ahead of Bertram when he told him, "I hope for your sake you have made peace with your decision to act."

Aboard the Testudo, Edward Blare still had to continue to wait for the next opportunity to escape. Unfortunately, even with the support of his personal guards, it seemed he was forced to wait longer for his chance to get back at Bertram. He still managed to hear a few updates on the city every now and then from the patrolling guards without anything truly specific.

It was finally when General Rayen Vasquez had entered the prison block of the Testudo before Edward had his audience. Edward wasn't well presented for a meeting with another professional thanks to his imprisoned status.

Edward greeted his fellow General, "It is fortunate you were capable of surviving the second invasion of Berlin General. There seem to be few others who I can trust with our ambition."

Rayen greeted back, "General Blare. So it appears that you placed your trust wrongfully in the hands of Mr. Stephens after all."

Edward maintained a face of civility when he agreed, "Our numbers are not quite as loyal as we had believed. The strategist holds fast to the President's ideals and hopes to prevent us from forwarding our initiative."

Rayen looked to his left when he saw that none of the more loyal guards would be able to hear him. He told him in a low voice, "If that is so then we must devise another strategy. The occupation grows by the day and the President has even assigned two soldiers for every Representative. If we fired the Testudo now even being justified for our action, we won't be able to answer for all of the additional casualties to our people."

The growing occupation was going to provide a problem when Edward considered the new troops in Brussels. "And many of them vital to the creation of a new foundation. Nathaniel was too eager to see the occupation under way. This turn now requires a more subtle strategy. How soon can you have troops arrive to this location?"

Rayen promised him, "We might be able to bring a company to this area in a relatively short period of time. The motion will only require a realistic reason."

Edward checked around him as he saw no one was overlooking him. He accepted, "As expected. Can I at least expect to see you return with those forces within that time period?"

"I guarantee that it shall be done. Once we arrive, we shall do everything to take back the Testudo. We might be able to determine our next step afterwards."

"See that this plan moves forward General. Do not allow anyone near Mr. Stephens to hear of this."

Edward sat back in his bunk when he recognized the situation he was only about to slowly progress over the short peroid of time. He knew that Rayen was correct on the matter of hoping to take back the Testudo. He also knew it would be enough to hope for getting back control of his mobile fortress once he allowed for another mutiny to take place but in his favor. Only then he would be capable of destroying Nathaniel and his vision.

Rayen left the prison area allowing him to return to the where he had entered the mighty machine. Bertram along with a squad of guards welcomed General Vasquez back to the entry bay when he began to leave.

Bertram stood across from Rayen when he simply asked, "And have you discovered any new information on potential traitors in our ranks?"

Rayen gave a deep breath when he answered, "One of my men could be preparing to lead a usurpation of my position for what has happened. He saw Bertram draw a gun from his holster when he heard him respond, "A convenient scenario that you would portray yourself as a victim general. Rayen rolled out of the way of Bertram's aim as he drew his own gun and fired in his direction. Both men missed when Rayen asked, "So you are willing to take a gamble and assess my intentions are you?"

Bertram kept his aim at Rayen when he answered, "It is better that a man such as you have no opportunity to attempt such a threat."

"Even if my death meant the death of the president regardless of your intent?"

Bertram was surprised by the claim but kept his gun leveled on Rayen when he asked, "What are you referring to?" He paused before scolding, "If you are truly loyal to the Coalition then you will reveal your knowledge.

Rayen brought his hands up when he countered, "If you have any loyalty Bertram, then you will allow the one man who is capable of leading a front against General de Lombard. Ask yourself Bertram. Do you trust the enemy in its intention to undo everything we have achieved? Or will you allow me to hold them back?"

Bertram shook before lowering his gun to ask, "When you leave, you will reveal the coordinates of the enemy on its way here?"

Rayen nodded when he answered, "Yes. You and I are not so different Bertram. You and I are both soldiers. We believe in a greater cause to the point of which we may both risk our lives even to the point of risking our lives even in needlessly intense time. A key difference however is that I will not bring about a needless period to try our loyalties. You had best be grateful Bertram that today I will allow you to see the results of allowing yourself to trust me as you should."

Bertram lowered his weapon when he was forced to endure the current situation. He grudgingly accepted, "You may have your victory. Understand that I will not allow it to be a complete one."

Rayen gave a brief smile before he turned away from Bertram and saw several soldiers rushing towards him while Oleg trailed behind as he watched. Rayen walked towards them when he was asked by one of the soldiers, "Are you alright general? What were those shots?"

Rayen dismissed the concern when he answered, "An interrogation technique to intimidate Blare, nothing more. I apologize for the concern."

Oleg was the next to point out, "I thought there would be a breach sir. It sounded like there was some kind of exchange fire."

Rayen recognized Oleg as he simply requested, "Your concern is a well-founded one private. Now would you be so kind as to follow me to the exit?"

Oleg had a look of confusion at the request only to find the others with him had the same reaction. Bertram broke the silence when he told Oleg, "You have permission to meet with him private. He is for us both our superiors."

Oleg hesitated when he heard the defeat in Bertram's voice before he checked his pistol still at his side. Both men left the remaining men to process the situation while Rayen waited for a chance to meet face to face with Oleg. The private and the general were both able to enter a secluded area of the Testudo halls when Oleg asked, "How is this so important general?"

Rayen turned to Oleg to confirm, "At least you recognize your importance. I believe that you do recognize the importance of your placement here."

Oleg confirmed, "To defend the Testudo. And from what I've heard it seems like that's going to happen soon."

"You will do so because you wish for a victory for the Coalition am I correct?"

"Only if it gets me my money. I don't give a shit about anyone in this thing."

Oleg was about to apologize but was caught by surprise from the smile Rayen had for the answer. "I suppose that given such circumstances I might be able to offer an incentive for what is to come. I must warn you of something that will come to pass since I hope to offer a fair warning. There is soon to be one final struggle within the Coalition."

Oleg's attention was caught when he heard the warning and asked, "And you want me to participate somehow?"

"My hope is that you can be refrained from participation. Our forces are about to lay siege to the Testudo. I intend to bring about the swiftest end to this war that we could offer. This plan the president has will fall. But men of strength will be capable of preventing the inevitable chaos."

Oleg shifted slightly when he told Rayen, "You want me to hold out on being a snitch and you better be ready to grab me by the balls sir."

Rayen smiled when he agreed, "It's not every day that one soldier is enough to claim the course of a conflict so grand scale. Given how long this conflict has gone on however, I should like to know, do you not wish for a more immediate conclusion than now? There are men and women who have struggled and toiled longer and harder than any of us who are now either dead or incapable of attempting to continue a fight. From what I am to understand you must have witnessed that dedication firsthand."

Oleg was brought to a pause when he heard what Rayen was alluding to. The events of it weren't even so long ago. "Aglaii…" He lifted his head back up when he said, "I've seen it, but I can't bring myself to give a shit about what they're fighting for."

"So you might say, but you do recognize that you could easily save and avert the course of all these lives should we be successful. And for you, there will be an immediate honorable discharge."

The words sounded too good to be true when Oleg heard the general's offer. He was cautious with his expectations when he asked, "And I'll receive my wages for my service?"

Rayen nodded with confidence, "I promise to see that you and any immediate relatives will be compensated."

There was a pause between the two men as Oleg looked around to see if he was not being watched. He couldn't fully understand what Rayen was attempting to accomplish, but he was being offered a way out with just what he was working to earn and he wouldn't have to do anything to earn it. Even then he could still remember what sort of words Celso and Kieran would have for his consideration.

"No one of any real power is here to stop me. I'd say you've got an absence general."

"Good to hear." Rayen then walked up to Oleg and shook his hand. "an excellent arrangement private. I had hoped that you would listen to reason. Once you hear the situation outside, simply pass it off as the rupture to the end of your required services."

Oleg shook the general's hand back when he asked, "And how is it that you expect me to follow through on my agreement sir? I could just as well be ready to report you to the strategist what you want to bribe me with."

Rayen didn't offer any sign of concern when he answered, "I have made sure that the strategist will not be able to get in our way. If there is any reason you should be considered endowed with your own independent spirit, simply view what will become of Bertram once he has met his final fate." The words were heavy on Oleg as he watched Rayen make his way to the descending platform while offering a salute as he made his way down. Oleg turned away from the exit of the fortress. He saw one of the Testudo soldiers walk up to him when he asked, "Did the general have anything to say?"

Oleg paused before continuing his walk. "No. Just to congratulate me is all."

Bertram found himself unable to allow himself a moment of calm as he leaned over his view of the main control panel on the Testudo bridge. One of the operators made his way next to Bertram when he asked, "Do you feel okay sir?"

Bertram paused before asking, "Do you know of any man who has not fought for the cause of the Coalition, but for the one who now leads us? Or even prior?"

The operator paused before answering, "I don't think so sir. With all due respect isn't that a bit counter-intuitive? We were supposed to be fighting for the cause of preventing Earth tyranny, not for the good of one man who leads us."

Bertram nodded when he agreed, "I suppose that is what we have formed the Coalition for isn't it? Unfortunately even with a civil war we have those who still doubt what we have built up to. Perhaps there is no perfect cause. Perhaps no one man can keep all men loyal under one banner."

The operator was surprised by Bertram's lamentation when he pointed out, "If there was someone then there probably wouldn't be any wars."

Bertram agreed, "An excellent point. But even when we face the potential end, even when it would seem there is nothing left to struggle for, there can still be those who have the ambition to achieve their personal ambition at the cost of what could end the continued ear of destruction." Bertram then commanded, "Prepare for a total information system purge."

The operator was more surprised than before when he asked, "A systems purge sir?"

Bertram turned to his own computer when he answered, "There is a situation we must prepare ourselves for. We cannot allow for any further decimation of what we have achieved. What is worse, we have no way of preparing ourselves for this attack. For right now we must all bring ourselves under the absolute worst-case scenario."

The operator pointed out, "Sir, I don't understand how we're going to be facing this kind of situation. The capital has been taken over and we're going to win the war when everyone responsible for this mess is brought to justice."

Bertram looked at him with a stern gaze when he told him, "You have no right to question the orders of your superiors. Follow through before I determine that you are to be brought to those trials within the capital."

The operator gulped at the warning when he heard Bertram placed a heavy emphasis on his order. Without any further protest, he prepared the password system when he told Bertram, "Pattern Binary Delta is prepared for input sir."

Bertram entered the password as he went through the motions of commands on the screen in front of him. As he prepared the series of deletions to the main Testudo servers, he allowed himself to have a brief thought as he reflected, "Nathaniel. Even after the number of betrayals you have seen through these wars you seem to have nothing but the complete faith in the human spirit to do good or even be within redemption. There was a time I did believe this could be a true achievement. But all this lunacy has achieved for us is an extended conflict that I know you did not intend to see unfold."

Bertram made a step away from the computer panel as he allowed the deletion process to continue and averted his gaze to the outside window when he remembered seeing Nathaniel Falson ever since he was very young. When Nathaniel was the idealistic man who believed that everything his father strived to achieve was the right way for humanity to achieve what it could become. After today however, Bertram struggled to muster the same feeling when he could believe that his original dedication was possible.

He continued to view the outside window as he lamented for Nathaniel from the mobile armor, "Perhaps some of the Falsons were prepared for leadership. Perhaps none of us were meant to be leaders. All we can do now is achieve the best results with where we are now situated. For all the faults that we have borne and all the mistakes we have made, we can now only strive for a better future. It is my only desire right now that you are able to live long enough to see what those days will bring. That one day you may be the truly strong leader that the world needs. Even if it is without me at your side, that day will as of now be the best outcome for what us mere humans have created for ourselves. For now, we shall all be ready to endure the worst of days to come."