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 37: Wars Vindication

Aboard Admiral Norma Miles' flagship the situation was not any better. Their main focus was now trying to find a way out without losing too many pilots. "Admiral! The enemy hangar is being targeted by Kontoyannis's flagship!"

"Damn it Demetrios. You truly wish to go down saying you gave your life to stop the Earth Sphere?" She turned to one of the nearby crewman ordering, "Estimate their flight pattern. We must meet with them at their location."

The desperation showed that the Coalition wasn't going to win this battlefield and even some of the concerned operators showed signs of worry. "We haven't met with the objectives Admiral."

"It's better we retreat. If we stay here any longer we will be destroyed by the enemy. We can at least have a chance if we destroy the enemy shuttles before they reach their target entry point to Earth." The Admiral pressed on the order hoping there wouldn't be any signs of insubordination.

There wasn't any when the operative agreed, "Roger that Admiral." He quickly relayed the order to the remaining units one the battlefield nearby. "All units return to the flagship! We must begin a launch towards the enemy location!"

Tano's flare got the attention of a Leo III which then stretched its hand. When it was offered, he climbed on but still holding onto his broken arm. He waved to the main camera as thanks and to signal the pilot to go. He looked at the destroyed Sagittarius and what remained of his squad torn to pieces by the Gundam with the shotels. It was like if he has already died and wished he was killed by the Gundam. He cursed his luck on being alive while his remaining squad members were wiped out.

It was at that moment the Leo III holding Tano knew it was time to return. "Just hold on. I'll get you to safety." She told him when she moved towards Norma's flagship. Along the way she noticed the Gundam they had received from Davenear being towed to her target location. "Unit, is that the Anaconda?"

"It is Nhung. We need to take it from Demetrios's forces before he decides to get himself killed."

"Did the enemy manage to defeat it so soon?"

"Probably. Devon seems to be dead, but we might be able to repair the suit itself."

Colonel Rumfoord heard the hail from the shuttle next to him and was thankful there was going to at least be some extra help for the trip home. He agreed to the escort. "This is LS-1101. We read you. You are clear to follow our course. Be prepared to launch once we give a signal."

Alberto saw the personnel lights had been lit and the chance to begin the launch had to be made now.

"Colonel, we are now reporting all personnel accounted for. We are good to go."

"Good work. Let's get out of here and achieve our objective." Elias ordered to the Gundams on the battlefield, "All Gundams we are prepared for launch. Return to the main hangar bay and prepare to board."

Mercurio heard the order and despite the remaining enemy trying to hold its own against the Sol Thero units alone he knew they would have to begin their decisive victory by returning to Earth. "Looks like it's time to head back." It wasn't long before he saw the flagship Demetrios was manning brought to the front lines. "Another one! Here goes nothing." With the mighty maneuver Zero System had given him he was able to sweep in and destroy the bridge with ease while dodging the enemy fire.

He pointed out to Dana and Donna on their order, "We should be clear now. We should report back to the hangar."

Simone sat at where Architect I once sat. He observed the battle, thinking that it will be the last battle Luna will have to see. A soldier approached from behind with updates. "There are survivors that are trying to escape with the Earth Sphere forces sir." He reported.

Simone sighed at the report, knowing some people would try to escape. "Do you have the shuttle ID?" He asked.

"Yes sir." The soldier replied. He established the connection between LS-1138.

The Chairman took a breath before speaking. "Shuttle LS-1138, you will cease rebellion, or you will be destroyed for rebellion." He said to them. "Escaping by yourselves will bring nothing to end this war. You have families left on Luna and you're thinking of abandoning them? Those that want to see them again will be given a chance to surrender."

Donna received the news to returned to the hangar while fighting through the storm of gunshots. Once she maneuvered out, she gave her response. "Got the message." She replied to Mercurio. "Heading back now." The Sandesgeist moved back to the hangar at full-speed.

Ermes began setting the shuttle up so it can be boarded by the Gundams once they arrived, with the hangar inside the shuttle left open. "Life support, check." He noted, making sure nothing can go wrong. He frequently checked the cameras on the shuttle to find any approaching Devanear soldiers he has to shoot before they can interfere. He worried on how long he would be able to take before the Gundams arrive to enter the shuttle. He connected to the Gundam pilots thought the comms on the shuttle. "Agent Arch here. The shuttle's been prepared for your arrival." He informed them.

"Already heard from Mercurio." Donna replied from the other side.

"Looks like my job is already done then." He commented back. When he saw more soldiers on one of the cameras, he grabbed his assault rifle to fend them off.

While being brought back to Norma's flagship, Tano felt his injury taking toll. Because of his pilot suit, it was hard to see if there are any internal injury and he didn't expect it. "Am I slipping away?" He thought to himself and tried to fight it. "I still need to bring justice... to the Gundams..." He passed out from his injury and fortunately for him, he would make it in time to be treated.

Dana received the order and knew it was probably time to get out of there before the enemy was able to catch up to them from the inside. Pursuit would probably be suicide for them anyway so she left the others to their fate. "This is Captain Houston. Returning to designated shuttle. We'll be ready for that trip back home." The Artemis made it full speed towards the hangar bay with her designated shuttle and transformed back to normal mode to permit loading.

Once the leading operator heard the warning to the shuttle he had to give a quick warning to the Major.

"Damn it. Looks like they have us now." He shifted his communication with William, "Major! The enemy wants us to stand down!"

William had an immediate response when he ordered, "Ignore that warning! Get out of here!"

Another one of the operators overheard this and voiced her opposition. "Major you can't say we're supposed to leave you and the others behind!"

"That's what I'm ordering! I'll speak for the surrender and try to make sure we don't lose anyone else out here!"

It was a reluctant idea, but they had to follow the order or risk losing everything they hoped to achieve for the Earth Sphere. "Begin the launch! We have to accompany Colonel Rumfoord out of here!"

The Gundams had been loaded and prepared to begin their trip to Earth. It was a clear bay until a few Devanear soldiers made their way in. The motion was quick when Mercurio and the other pilots made their way to the front of the shuttle hoping for the flight to be somewhat easy. He reported to the Colonel, "We're in our designated shuttle sir. Ready to begin the launch whenever."

"Begin the launch!" With the final order the four shuttles began their six-hour voyage to Earth and with it a new hope for the Earth Sphere in their struggle against the Coalition. A few moments after the launch Alberto saw the enemy disappearing from view and there was a renewed sense of enthusiasm for the future battle. "We made it out of this one as well. Now it's just another six hours before we reach Earth."

Elias agreed with him hoping for luck to be on their side. "Let's just hope we can make a difference now." The mobile suits they carried and their assigned mission was all the ragtag military had but they would soon be a force to be reckoned with.

Ermes confirmed that all the Gundams are loaded. He didn't see the 'pilots' for the Mobile Dolls though, making him more suspicious. "All accounted for?" He asked them.

"Just go." Donna replied.

The agent piloted the shuttle with the confirmation and orders to launch. The activation of the thrusters blew back the Devanear soldiers trying to give chase and the shuttle joined the others in leaving the hangar. The agent's concentration went on navigating past the debris from destroyed battleships, noticing a large chunk of a battleship heading to the LDS base. They were lucky to leave before they were crushed by it. Once the concentration of debris lowered, he took the time to relax. He turned to the Gundam pilots. "Estimated time will be six hours." He informed them and left the cockpit.

Once the shuttles had begun their launch Dana could feel the flight beginning once again. This time it would only be another six hours before they were ready to begin their return to Earth. "I hope you guys are ready to head back to work. We're going to have a serious mission on our hands."

William saw the shuttle launch and shielded his eyes from the rocket blast once the force made itself present within the hangar. "There you go people..." He got down on his knees prepared for a surrender with the Coalition soldiers in the room. "I did sign up ready for this. How long before I face the music now?"

"Sir! The shuttles have left!" One of the Devanear soldiers reported.

Simone was infuriated that they were allowed to escape. "Shoot them down!" He ordered.

Another soldier ran with bad news. "There's a debris heading to Luna!"

"Get the artillery online!" The Chairman ordered with fear.

"They're offline!" The soldier responded.

Simone was furious. "What do you mean offline?!" He shouted, looking at the soldier. When he noticed behind there was the debris, what remained of the Coalition Fourth Fleet's Flagship approaching and his anger turned to fear. "Get the Coalition to intercept it!" He ordered.

The soldier received a new report. "The Coalition fleet is retreating." He read.

The retreat of the fleet meant that Luna was condemned to take the attack. Belmonte tried to desperately outrun the coming debris but the crash vaporized the whole LDS compound.

As the Uriel made its descent to the runway along the Admiral's ship things for the Coalition had become that much more desperate. Much of the crew was wishing they would be up against one of the Sol Theros right now. One operator tried to maintain his calm when he reported the immediate danger. "Sir! One of the Gundams is headed this way!"

Even Demetrios began to show his concern for their position when he shouted the order. "Intensify the forward batteries! Avert all firepower to that target!"

While the turrets might have made some minor damage they were essentially nothing to impeded on its progress. "We can't hit it sir! It's moving in too fast!"

Once the buster sword had come swinging in the fate of the ship was sealed. "Admiral!" With that final shout the flagship of Demetrios Kontoyannis had been destroyed along with one of the leading forces seeking to take Luna. The bridge exploded leaving the remainder of the ship to falter.

Private Cao Nhung tried her best to support Tano's weight as she rushed him to the sickbay. She asked the doctor for a quick analysis, "What is his condition?!"

The doctor laid Tano's body on a nearby table and did a quick observation with his scanner. "Major fracture to the right Humerus and possible minor ones on the Radius and Ulna. Lacerations are present most of it probably from internal hemorrhaging. We'll have to get to work on seeing him fixed up."

Once the Gundam had been loaded the crew was more anxious than ever to get out of a battlefield. Norma was quickly reported by one of her operators on the retrieval. "We have the Anaconda Admiral! Our bay is holding its maximum capacity!"

Norma hailed to the captains of her remaining fleet for the quick escape. "All ships plot a course for the location of those shuttles! We'll beat them to their location and see them destroyed once they enter our field!" The Earth Sphere shuttles may not have seen them, but several Coalition battleships made their way out of the Lunar orbit and towards the location of where the shuttles would have to stop to prepare Earth entry.

Mercurio and the other pilots found themselves on their way towards Earth when the launch began. Maddox knew it would be a desperate ending to the operation at this point but everything they had accomplished over the last two months had would amount to this point. "Well at least we'll have a chance after all of this."

Roy didn't sound so excited when he reminded, "Yeah... Back to three battles in a single day. Really exciting."

Keijo reminded him of their trump cards, "It's going to be kind of one sided once the Gundams are out there tearing up the Coalition forces don't you think?"

Roy conceded to the question when he admitted, "That'd be better than the other way around."

Mercurio knew that it was going to be a problem and made sure to add, "This will have to be a group effort. We can't expect to win back our homeland if we don't."

Nasir asked, "So it's another six hours before we get there?"

Gawel answered, "That is how it works. Once we reach the last edge of Earth's Thermosphere, we'll begin the descent. If we launched on target, we should be able to hit the Mediterranean just south of France. After that it will hopefully be another few strikes before we're ready to take back the capital."

Ludwika agreed, "If it stays that easy. We've still got a troop of soldiers who need to think their cause is going to be winnable."

Mercurio observed when he saw what damage had been done to the Uriel. There wasn't much damage done but it could accumulate at some point. "Well it's another six hours now..." It would be around this point when he and the other pilots were asked to engage in combat to retake their nation's capital and hopefully turn the war around before it was too late. When he found Donna near the Sandesgeist he tried to find out if she thought it was the right time. "Hey Donna. So, do you think the others are ready to act as a team for the retaking of Brussels?"

Donna was first surprised but realized the voice was Mercurio. She turned to his direction. "Umm... Yeah..." She commented. "I think we can pull it off..." She hid her worries on what they were resorting to in order to win.

Ermes noticed the conversation. He went to see and found Mercurio and Donna having a conversation. "Hey, sorry." He interrupted. "Know anything about the new Mobile Suits?" He asked.

The question was what made the Gundam pilot feel worse. She continued to keep a straight face. "Um, yeah." She was about to reply.

The agent scratched his head. "I don't see the pilots for them." He pointed out.

Donna knew someone that could disguise himself well for years can be able to tell. She could tell the truth or have someone back her up like before but even Mercurio may be reluctant to help out.

It seemed that Mercurio had to remember some key details he had just been asked to agree with and ones that Donna wasn't very enthusiastic to follow. She didn't like the idea of mobile dolls being utilized and obviously wasn't pleased to see Zero System integrated into the mobile suits. He initially had an idea that his feelings on this question were completely inconsequential, but it was probably not an answer for anyone trying to find reason behind their cause. "I never did appreciate the idea of mobile dolls on the battlefield. As it is now however, we are a moment we can't change anything without victory. We can only follow with what we have been given and hope we have a chance to change things." The encouragement he tried to offer from a soldier's standpoint was reiterated when he pressed, "It's a situation we must see through. We have a duty to our nation and our leaders need our help." He noticed Agent Arch had entered the conversation as well when he was trying to find out about the pilots of the Sol Thero units stored. He wasn't sure if it was time to make the facts of the units known. He tried to remain discreet when he asked Donna, "... Do you believe he should know by now?

When Dana found the message within her message box, she was able to find a message from Architect I. It didn't have a subject title, but the address would be enough. Once it opened it would display a video of Architect I announcing part of a final message for the Artemis' pilot. "This message is only authorized by the pilot of the Artemis Mercurio Yuy. Requesting authorization."

Dana was curious about the message and only wondered, "The Architect? What's he doing on this message?" Apparently it was something that wasn't meant for her eyes but for Mercurio. Somehow he was meant to be the pilot of the Artemis? She might have to ask him about this at some point if he wasn't too concerned about the fate of the Earth Sphere.

"We're almost back on Earth."

Gawel inquired on the period when he asked, "Anything we haven't busted ourselves getting ready for?"
Dana shook her head answering, "We've pretty much worked ourselves hard enough as it is. Any more and we'll keel over from the stress." There wasn't much left for the pilots to prepare for anyway. The enemy was going to have more advanced weaponry on Earth but it would be for nothing when the Gundams returned.

Gawel gave a sigh of relief when he sarcastically asked, "Now it's an issue huh?"

"Wonder what was the message Artemis sent?" Dana wondered as she made her way to the Artemis.

Suchart was in the hangar with some of the Ursa pilots, looking at the interaction. "Anyone still wanting to bet on who will be paired up" He asked. "Since we have a new entry, we have to start bets over again."

Ermes saw by the Sandesgeist pilot's body language that she wasn't comfortable with what they are talking about. Even with the Uriel's pilot's attempt to back her up was seen forced. "Sorry for asking." He apologized. He figured it out that they are mobile dolls not only through their design but also by the pilot's reaction as if she had a hidden hatred for them. He remembered about how she's nobility so her family could've been OZ members that disagreed with mobile dolls. He switched to a lighter subject. "Also, the Ursa pilots and I decided to end the codename game." He said. "Name's Ermes Peacecraft."

Donna felt that he knew about the mobile dolls and decided not to ask further. She was able to reply.

"Donna Lindemann. Can't believe they finished the game without us- wait. You said Peacecraft right?"

Ermes nodded. "Yeah, Peacecraft." He replied.

The conversation became unusual now that Donna can wild guess that the Martian agent is the son of Milliardo Peacecraft, and Mercurio's cousin as a result. She tried to find some resemblance between the two but Ermes looked like if he got most of his traits from his mother or grandparent if they do look like that.

"Peacecraft..." Mercurio realized just who had joined their cause. He hoped to find out about the other side of his family when he asked, "Is Uncle Milliardo still on Mars?" He realized what he forgot to agree with and answered, "Excuse me. I'm Mercurio Yuy."

"Yeah, dad's still on Mars." Ermes answered, "He's leading the Resistance. Since Federov's been overthrown, he'll be moving with my sister to take back Mars." When he heard Yuy, he realised that it's his cousin. "Mercurio right?" He asked.

Donna saw the interaction. "So you're cousins?" She asked.

"But it's the first time we've seen each other." Ermes replied. "I kept reading about Mercurio and his sisters through mail that arrives every few months."

"Same here. Sorry our first meeting had to be like this." The situation for Ermes and Mercurio turned out to be the same thing and both had met in the same conditions. Anyone could meet for the first time in war, but it was supposed to be in peaceful times that families would be able to meet without worrying about who would be next to die.

While the conversation continued Suchart had apparently wanted to restart the pot with a new factor at this point. One of the pilots agreed, "Yeah, Lindemann's not gonna resist Ermes for long."

Keijo entered asking, "You kidding? He's not even a Gundam pilot. She can't set her standards that low."

Roy gladly started writing the thoughts from the pilots, "Let's take account of those bets. We'll have some real entertainment before long."

"Hey! I thought this was just supposed to be between the Gundam pilots!" Gawel protested this at first but decided the bet wasn't going to be affected by his influence after all. "Ah to hell with it. Mercurio hasn't got what it takes so let's see which one Ermes gets."

Trenton brought his curiosity asking, "You sure about that?"

Gawel began a speech on it when he explained, "Hey if a whole month alone doesn't do it then nothing will..."

When Dana's presence was known she broke the ice by offering something to the pilots, "Maybe just for a tip people. I have a thing for dark hair guys." As she left the pilots felt a bit of relief when they weren't being taught a lesson for continuing their game. It was effective enough to give the Captain some silence while she walked on by.

Gawel came to one conclusion regardless of what she was implying. "She's gettin' Ermes."

Dana came to the group with the news to point out, "Mercurio. I think there's something you should see."

Mercurio heard Dana's request and decided it must have been something significant. "Okay. I can see what it is." He turned to the other two when the conversation was ended, "I have to see what's happening."

"Sure." Donna and Ermes said when Mercurio left. They continued the conversation by themselves.

Suchart continued to observe. "I should get some drinks for the winning couple." He said to himself. "They seem to rarely notice me so I can go and buy them." He returned to counting the bets. "As far as I see, the top contenders seem to be Donna plus Ermes and Dana plus Ermes! Place yours bets!"

Dana led Mercurio to another portion of the hangar towards the Artemis. "Alright so here's what's happened. Some message from Architect I just patched through to Artemis in the middle of the previous battle." She pointed to the panel showing the message ready for playback. She became more curious about the situation when she pointed out the obvious question behind the message. "I don't know what he's on about but for some reason he thinks that you're the pilot of the Artemis."

Nathaniel looked at the gathered forces of the Italian and French brigades that had given his men so much trouble even with the war in its supposed final days. The holder of a major power was meant to be difficult, but the amount of effort he was feeling in trying to end the resistance had begun to visibly show on his face as he struggled to remain awake and process the situation as best as he could. Zelma was next to him when she told him, "We have received word from the generals that every man who joined in this defiance to the occupation has been accounted for. Do you require anything else from me Mr. President?"

Nathaniel kept looking on as he answered, "You are to remain at my side at all times. I need you to cover every angle in which I could be met with even the slightest chance of being assassinated. You will be compensated of course."

Zelma told him, "This will not even be necessary Mr. President. The ones who are claiming that this breakdown may be against you are those who have already met their end."

Nathaniel turned to Zelma when he asked, "And do you say this only because I supposedly no longer have Bertram potentially planning to have my position upended? Or is General Blare offering a higher reward for making him appear the better option?"

Zelma answered, "I do not have any reason to be under the employ of General Blare in his plan to remove you as an obstacle Mr. President. I do not intend to question your judgment, but this betrayal has shaken you in a way that does not present you to be a leader the men outside wish to follow."

Nathaniel agreed, "I have been shaken greatly. These conflicting reports do not offer me any clarity for who is my betrayer or my ally. If have chosen a greater or a lesser evil."

Nathaniel made his way over to his desk when he told Zelma, "If it's an excuse to leave my side you are looking for then I suggest that you begin an investigation in this very room to determine who the true conspirator in my ranks is. We cannot allow for anything else to pass other than the execution of the prisoners until we are clear that everyone has united to see justice is achieved and not their own personal bottom line."

Zelma saw a computer nearby when she accepted, "I will do as you order sir." She began to work as she searched through the Coalition files. Shortly after she began, she heard the front door of Nathaniel's room open as Rayen made his entry and greeted, "Mr. President, you cleared our meeting?"

Nathaniel nodded from his desk when he greeted, "You said you have a proposition for clearing away one of our problems in occupying this capital. Elaborate."

Rayen gestured to the window on his right, "We now have the forces of General Mauro Carmine and Alphonse de Lombard as our prisoners along with Klaus Ulbricht still in containment. But to some of the recent developments however we would benefit from having them disposed of instead of keeping them prisoner."

Nathaniel told him, "If your suggestion is that they are al executed general, then I'm afraid that your thinking is gravely misguided. Having each one killed even after President Kecker's currently imminent execution will only serve to fuel an even greater fervor for the Earth Sphere cause. We cannot afford to endure such a relations nightmare with the remaining Earth population at this time or any after."

Rayen nodded, "It is fortunate that you are still able to think reasonably after such a scenario as one that has passed Mr. President. The proposition I have to offer however is not quiets so simple but one that will be beneficial to us in the long run. A plan that should the Gundams arrive on Earth prove to be our saving grace."

Nathaniel asked, "What is even the point? We have received word from the current situation on Luna. If the siege does not destroy them, Admiral Miles is prepared to assist in overseeing their destruction."

Rayen agreed, "As well it should be Mr. President. However, we have seen less probable scenarios play out even recently. There's a very real chance right now that they will find their way down to Earth regardless of our efforts. We should be prepared in any other case."

Nathaniel accepted, "Just tell me what it is you propose then. If it's our men you are hoping to lead, you will have no approval right now."

Rayen told him, "It is something I will need but we will not be required to cause strain. Rather we should use the very prisoners that we now have. Hear out this proposition, these men could as easily be used if they recognize they are forced to sacrifice themselves for the good of their government. If we limit this knowledge only to them, we shall have an assured way of destroying the Gundams. Even if they are capable of overcoming two brigades as they are said to be capable of, we will have something that will unite the entirety of humanity against them. We will all be united in an effort to see them destroyed."

Nathaniel turned to look outside when he considered the proposal. He decided, "The plan does make a good deal of sense and could easily rectify us of capable men and woman fighting for the Earth Sphere ideology. Your plan is one that I do to hear in such an uncertain time general. I must ask that this knowledge does not leave this room, until I give full approval to see it enacted. Not even to Agent Zelma here."

Rayen nodded, "I would not even consider it being revealed so soon Mr. President." He turned to Zelma to see her at work when he asked, "We have your word that you will not attempt to expose this plan to the public agent?"

Zelma nodded, "I will not release this information sir. Your plans are safe."

Rayen nodded as he turned to the door he came through and left Nathaniel to his work. Nathaniel asked, "You are capable of appreciating the importance of this decision aren't you agent?"

Zelma continued to work when she told him, "I would say my insight is irrelevant but if I am able to maintain my favor with you then I will confirm my commitment. If it isn't too much of a request can I at least confirm something with your plan Mr. President?"

Nathaniel agreed, "If I haven't clarified everything."

Zelma asked, "Is President Kecker to be among the prisoners executed soon?"

Nathaniel breathed when he told Zelma, "Franz will see justice when the time is proper. Until then he must witness everything fragile that he has created simply crumble as a consequence of his destructive leadership. This is the only path we will be following until our own ranks can be solidified under a true unity."

"Then you are saying you won't follow on General Vasquez's plan unless the true traitor in our ranks has been revealed?"

"That is precisely what we are to do. Every action we take as of right now could very well be a benefit to our enemy insider. If you are insistent in seeing the president be given justice then I suggest that you find something in our feed in regard to whether Edward, Bertram, or some other name is responsible for sowing these seeds of doubt."

Zelma recognized the situation when she accepted, "I will be as efficient as possible Mr. President." As Zelma continued her work, she recognized an e-mail with a subject line "Interest". When she opened it, she saw a line of text that read, "Pardon my eavesdropping but I believe I have what can support this process forward. Outside the main doors." Zelma closed the windows on the computer when she stood up and told Nathaniel, "One of our men has reported something of importance. I will report back shortly."

Nathaniel accepted, "Make sure that it is brought to me immediately."

Zelma left the President's room as she made her way to the main doors of the building.

Hyrum knew that there had to be some security personnel within the Parliament seeing how quick the arrest was. There was only one who would possibly have a chance at leading them now. He would have to be their only shot at giving a newfound hope for the captured soldiers. He found the room Relena was kept in and asked her quietly, "Excuse me Mrs. Yuy. Is the Building Chief of Security here?"

When Heero heard Hyrum enter the room of representatives he was the one to answer the whisper for the Chief of Security. "I'm here."

Relena realized who he was talking to and asked in the same quite tone, "Heero... Are you planning something?"

"If the worst comes around, we'll have something to fall on." He left her this much in the dark and asked, "How can I help private?"

Hyrum knew by now that the General would be on his way out for the execution block and knew he would have to see if even Heero Yuy himself was willing to bear such a burden. "Mr. Yuy. Here's the situation. We need somebody to lead us now that the General is leaving. We need to find a way to get weapons and we need to get the President to a safe place. I know it's probably a lot for you to take up, but we need a leader now."

Heero knew Hyrum had the spirit but he also needed the leadership. An insurrection of this sort would be very risky and was likely to get more than a few people killed. It would be old times again. "We can't let this sort of talk be made public. I'll do my best to help but I can't guarantee much."

"Heero... You're not seriously considering this?" Relena offered a quiet protest at his agreement but found herself reminded of her duty quickly after.

"These men came here to stop the Coalition. If we work together, we might be able to take the fight back to them." It was a yes for Hyrum and his men. They needed a new leader and one who had the most combat experience. They would need to find a way to the weapons and then a way to the President.

"... I suppose there's no stopping you then." Relena knew at this point Heero was back in the fighting ground and would not be stopped. Hopefully if anything came to pass it wouldn't be the worst outcome for the Earth Sphere.

Hyrum found the agreement to be a perfect breath of fresh air once Heero agreed to it. "Perfect. Thank you sir. We'll find a way to get the weapons back. We just need your authorization to act when it's time." The soldiers had a leader but they still needed to be able to make their plan actually work. He quickly added, "I have to go. The guards might get suspicious of something." Hyrum searched around the room unable to find anyone trying to expose his position. If he could maintain this secrecy, he might be able to work with Alphonse's final plan for insurrection.

Zelma stood outside the front of the Parliamentary Building when she checked the area around her only to see Coalition soldiers on patrol. After a few seconds she heard a familiar voice greet, "I am glad you still recognize my messaging. Thankfully it would seem Nathaniel hasn't found any of the equipment we have planted but this must be taken advantage of now."

Zelma turned to see Barra waiting for her when she asked, "You believe we have the resources necessary to cause the president to immediately regain confidence in his men?"

Barra held out a piece of paper when he told her, "This message was sent from Bertram to Edward. This is the proof he needs to see Bertram was the one plotting to upend the president and had no desire to destroy Brussels. He had Edward framed out of hopes that the president would eventually grant them the authority to command his own army. The very fac that this has only been passed by hand should be enough to convince the president this is the work of someone who wanted to remain under the shadows."

Zelma took the document when she asked, "And you were listening to the conversation that General Vasquez began? If so then you know what the consequences will be if this commits the president to his previous plan."

Bertram nodded when he told her, "It is unfortunate. But we have crossed a threshold where it is now inevitable that more lives will be lost. The fact is that we are fortunate to see the fighting men and women of the Earth Sphere live up to their duty rather than potentially see a greater chaos erupt. Franz cannot be allowed to fulfill his underlying goal no matter what thy might have been. As long as he meets his end, we can be assured that the human race will be able to heal itself quickly rather than endure greater devastation."

Zelma didn't find herself at ease with the idea when she told him, "Our intention was to see this war end but now you say more lives are to be lost than we would have desired."

Barra reminded, "These men and women all know they could meet their end potentially dying for what they believed in. The only scenario where they don't meet their end is if the Gundams are destroyed in their breach to Earth. We must be as prepared as the president will be to see a favorable outcome."

Zelma had a look of regret on her face when she blinked and lightly sighed at the situation. She told him, "I do now see this as the only choice we have. There has to be another chance for us to spare us of any more lives lost."

Barra remained committed to the idea when she tried to hand the document back to him and told her, "The president will not accept seeing you return empty handed. Assuming that he knows or inquires further about the matter."

Zelma had a little more hope insider when she heard this but slipped the document into her coat when she accepted, "I'll make sure that your contribution is kept anonymous to enforce your innocence. Hopefully this won't be a matter that continues to bring concern."

She turned to face the main doors when he accepted, "I am grateful for your decision." As Zelma entered, the main doors were closed as soon as she made her way in. Julian appeared from behind a column when he commented, "Damn, did it really have to take that much to convince her?"

Barra turned to see Julian when he explained, "There is a conflict that she herself is facing. In a way you could say she is worried about the outcome of seeing the Coalition see the end in their favor."

Julian withdrew his pistol when he observed, "So she and Tsubarov aren't the same after all. Either we're the highest bidders or she has intel that even I haven't been able to get a hold of."

Barra changed the subject, "Speaking of which, how exactly did you manage to receive this document in the first place? Something like this could have been very incriminating and not very forward thinking if Edward did in fact keep tit while Bertram didn't watch him destroy this himself.

Julian explained, "Edward and Bertram didn't talk together very often. This one Edward gave to me personally to guard with my life. When he was taken prisoner, he especially asked me to protect it if justice was to ever be done. And why not before retaking the Testudo? Well he was worried about having the victory of the Coalition being compromised. Trust me old man, that's my story. Right now, like you said earlier, it's either let Franz have a chance at making a comeback or letting the Coalition win. Nathaniel Falson wants justice and you know it is always given at some point."

Barra nodded when he accepted, "I have forced myself into this situation. I suppose for me it is difficult to accept the scenario you have laid out."

Julian agreed, "It's kind of crazy isn't it? But really, it's not like the chaotic stuff happening in war is any anomaly."

Barra corrected, "Rather I refer to the fact that Edward was the victim of this scenario. I knew him when I was younger, and I never thought I would see him so easily tricked."

Julian was interested in the observation but told him, "Well we all make big mistakes don't we? Bertram's mistake was thinking that he could trust the first general he was assigned to. Thankfully we've all been able to benefit from this in the best way possible."

Barra was reluctant before he agreed, "There might be validity to your idea. As much as I did not want to force these choices between everyone viewing this conflict's end, there may yet be those who will be forced to give their lives for the path to recovery to begin." He turned to the main doors when he told him, "Ensure that you are not enthusiastic when you meet with Edward. Inform him that I am willing to see how he has fared after this long."

Julian nodded as Barra made his way back to the building when he and turned away to offer, "You never know. The general might be ready to accept that sort of audience soon enough."

The Nornir Triumvirate made its way through Feldberg before passing into the fire into the first open patch of land the three pilots entered. Richard asked, "So how does it look out there? Do we have a lock on any enemy signatures?"

Christoph checked his radar when he answered, "There seems to be just a small one nearby. I don't know if it's one we can hold our breath for anything huge."

Christian commented, "As long as we have something to finally test this thing out on, I don't see what the holdup is supposed to be."

Christoph told him, "We've ben out here for the last few hours surveying the area so we could make sure we had a clear area to attack. We compromise that and we're just three pilots striking out on our own and we'll lose the support of key officials in the Earth Sphere ranks."

Richard agreed, "We're in a tight situation alright. I thought the worst we would have to go through is expecting the Coalition to find us."

Christian accepted, "If we at least find a way to get going before General de Lombard finds himself in serious trouble."

Christoph checked his radar when he told his brothers, "I've got a ready on the enemy base. We'll have to make sure we're ready to offer an effective offense."

Richard agreed, "I'm ready whenever the plan is."

Christian prepared the jets of his arm unit when he announced, "We're going in now!"

The Nornir Triumvirate made an advance with its arm jets before the legs were ready to catch up to the trajectory. The heavy framed Gundam made its dash towards the location of the enemy base. Christoph groaned at the progress when he commented, "We won't have the element of surprise unfortunately. Take out the patrolling units and try to save any inactive mobile suits you can find. We have our guys to think about still."

Christian saw the first number of Leo III units making their way to his location when he adjusted several levers and prepared his hands on the trigger buttons. "We've planned enough!"

The Nornir Triumvirate made a mighty punch as the it landed square into the first area of the first Leo III. The Nornir backed away as it exploded and the remainder of the squad open fired in its direction. The Nornir chest took every hit while the arms offered additional defense. The Gundam took the damage without fail but Christoph saw the armor ratings flash a warning on his screen. "Christian! We need some long-range attacks!"

Christian heard Christoph's announcement and prepared his arm units for another attack. He warned, "I'm' not sure what kind of punch this is going to be." The Nornir continued to strafe away from the enemy fire as it drew out its fists and opened panels on its fingers to reveal a multitude of missiles ready to be fire before launching towards their multiple targets.

Richard congratulated, "Good shots. We've got one thing out of the way."

Christoph directed them, "We've got to take out their tower before they have our location. Fire now!"

Christoph aimed his fists in the direction of the communications tower as the missiles flew again to give way to another explosion. Christoph was quick to prepare his next directive, "Let's get them and stop them from fighting back!"

Richard prepared the jets of his legs when he confirmed, "The scramble in there is only getting started. Let's get to those remaining mobile suits!"

The Nornir made a dash into the base while Coalition soldiers were left to endure the sudden attack that ended their fortification. Richard saw Coalition soldiers entering the hangar bay from every side when he warned, "One of them might be going active!"

Christian told them, "No they aren't!" The Nornir prepared its fists as they punched through the rooftops and fired Vulcan cannon fire inside the building. Christoph looked over the growing destruction they were causing as he had to process the looks of horror that Coalition soldiers had to wear in the face of such sudden destruction. He wasn't sure if his unit had any offensive abilities and the sight of the devastation didn't make him feel ready to add to it.

Christoph kept track of the soldiers scrambling at the incoming destruction before checking his radar to warn, "To the left! Mobile suits are popping up!" The Nornir was brought back upright as it looked for the next target about to pop up. One Leo III popped out of the roof of the warehouse before the Nornir made a dash in its direction with its right fist dashing forward and splitting its upper body off. The panels of the fists opened again as they fired a volley of missiles that swarmed over the base and gave way to a series of explosions.

Looking across the damaged field, Christian asked, "How many of them are left?"

Richard checked the view on his camera system when he answered, "After all of this there's probably only going to be critically injured. I'm not finding any signs of further resistance. This place was awful minimally sized for a base."

Christoph looked over his radar when he told them, "It looks like we won't have much to deal with by now. We'll have to see if any of these guys can be taken prisoner and offer us some information."

Christian accepted the idea, "Only if we get something of real value. We shouldn't finish off everyone who is just following orders like they'll usually say."

Christoph stepped out of his cockpit seat and prepared his pistol when he warned, "We aren't going to finish off any noncombatants. Do you really need a reminder?"

Richard opened the front of the Nornir when he told his brothers, "Why don't we head out before they have a chance to recover?"

The three brothers leapt out of the Nornir after the other as they landed on the ground and prepared themselves for the potential reinforcements they feared. The sounds were quick as fire burned away at the remains of the Coalition hangars and corpses among the sounds.

Richard heard a groan stand out from the scenery. He turned with his pistol in both hands before seeing a Coalition soldier on the ground raise his hands and beg, "Don't! Please! Not me!"

Richard stepped forward when he told him, "Give us a reason not to why don't you? Your base info isn't worth shit now so how about you tell us where everyone else is?"

The soldier had his hands on his head when he agreed, "Sure, anything. Ask away."

Christoph asked, "We want to know where the rest of the guys are around here. Give us an idea now."

The soldier answered, "They all left. They moved out to Moselle to meet at the drop zone."

Richard asked, "Drop zone? Something headed here?"

The soldier confirmed, "General Darren Celler is going to arrive shortly. He's requested all forces not needed for keeping watch over General Ulbricht be assigned to him for reinforcements."

Christian cursed, "The Coalition just has one army to send after another against us don't they?"

Christoph asked, "How soon is General Celler supposed to be arriving?"

The Coalition soldier answered, "His forces will probably be landing in just a few minutes give or take. We were called out yesterday and had minimal forces left to have reconnaissance over nearby German areas. From the looks of it we did miss one after all."

Christian stepped forward when he informed, "That's your last mistake." He drew his pistol and fired in the head of the Coalition soldier.

Richard asked, "The hell did you do that for?"

Christian told him, "We don't trust traitors. Not even ones that are in our favor."

Christoph yanked the gun out of Christian's hands as he smacked him across the face with the blunt end. When Christian was on the ground Christoph told him, "Next time you wait before being the executioner." He told both him and Richard, "Let's return to the base and get the others ready. We have to let them know this equipment is ready. Christian, you take one of the trucks to load them in."

There weren't any further words discussed as Richard silently followed Christoph to the Nornir Triumvirate. Christian could recognize the anger his brother had when he simply cursed, "I was already an executioner you idiot."

Zelma felt great reluctance as she prepared to enter the president's office but knew it was only holding back the inevitable demand for a report. As she entered, she saw Nathaniel looming over his computer screen with a face of conflicting emotions. She couldn't tell if he was concerned, distraught or furious but heard him request, "Agent. I need your confirmation."

Zelma walked to his side when she looked at what Nathaniel was observing. In an instant her hopes for delaying Nathaniel's judgement was undone. In front of them was an electronic copy of the document that Barra had shown to her. The handwritten letter between Bertram Stephens and Edward Blare detailing one mans plan to claim the Coalition presidency for themselves. She recognized the situation she was now forced into and had no alternatives.

Nathaniel asked, "Is this exchange of words bearing any semblance of truth?"

Zelma reached into her coat when she told him, "I have the original document sir. I was asked to deliver this to you."

Nathaniel reached for the document when he held it right next to his computer screen and compared the two with one another. Only a brief few seconds passed before Nathaniel slammed the document onto his desk and cursed, "How is it I was supposed to choose? How was I supposed to be asked with choosing to see either one of them be my betrayer? Just how starved for supremacy is man that they would endure war to this point before finally having the chance to prepare their true plan? Every one of our traitors was to have met their demise."

Zelma's heart was heavy when she agreed, "I served under General Blare. He was determined as you are now to see every able man who wished to utilize the death of Ewan Falson to his gain. The fact simply remains that the most patient are capable of hiding within the deepest shadows."

Nathaniel sat down as he slammed his fist in an effort to handle the situation. After a deep breath decided, "Everything now points to having the blame of deception on the shoulders of one man and he is now dead. Our good fortune remains that we will soon have four brigades to ensure this city will soon be the beginning of having the Earth set in place. If enough blood has been spilled then perhaps maybe my duty to see as little is done as possible. We are far past the point of allowing fewer sacrifices." He turned to Zelma when he told her, "Bring General Vasquez and Blare in here."

Zelma made her way to the door when she opened to find Edward and Rayen making their way to Nathaniel's office. She held the door open as the two generals entered and saluted to Nathaniel who greeted, "You were both anxious to see me. What is your business?"

Edward answered, "I was hoping to learn that you have discovered the confirmation of guilt that one of my personal guards was tasked with holding."

Rayen added, "I was hoping to hear confirmation on the progression of my plan as an option, but this development is an interesting one I admit."

Nathaniel told them, "I have indeed received proof of your innocence Edward. I have been struggling to determine who it was that was my true enemy and yet he has been dealt with as I have now come to understand."

Edward nodded, "I had difficulty accepting Bertram being a traitor when I first discovered his intentions. But even going against the harshest of realities has only revealed our true strength and resolve."

Rayen agreed, "He certainly hoped to achieve this with as little damage possible. The fact remains that there is a worrisome fact that hangs its shadow over us. If Bertram was indeed hoping to reclaim the city for himself without the use of the Testudo's force…"

"There are men who are still loyal to him. And they were not all aboard the Testudo." Nathaniel finished. "He was capable of gathering an army of such size to be his support in being able to remove me at some point. Those men could be among us."

Edward agreed, "We may however have removed their leader but there still could be at least one man while the idea that your death would be to the benefit of the human race."

Nathaniel agreed with the sentiment when he told everyone, "There must be some indeed. But we have no current confirmation as of yet. General Blare, you and your most trusted men are tasked with finding every man who even thinks that this war must be continued further for whatever reason. Interrogate every soldier in your reserves as fast and efficiently as possible. I want regular reports and I want General Celler and General Kung's men to have the same treatment. Weed out everyone who hopes to end our efforts here from this day onwards."

Edward agreed, "We shall follow through your order without question Mr. President. Justice will be served on every level."

Nathaniel turned to Rayen when he told him, "Await the status of the Earth Sphere shuttle's return. We will determine what to do with our prisoners once they have been confirmed."

Rayen gave his agreement, "Gladly Mr. President. You will not have to endure any further disappointment." The two men gave another salute as they left Nathaniel and Zelma alone.

Zelma pointed out, "You are still willing to allow trust to guide your judgements. Do you believe that it is wise even now?"

Nathaniel told Zelma, "We cannot lose our sanity especially in a time such as this. I've questioned a good man and friend of his true intentions and this could have been the end of us all. Franz and his conspirators in the Earth Sphere cannot be allowed to think that they are right about the Coalition's foundation."

"You want to confirm that we are still united even in the face of adversity such as what we face now? That justice can be given without sacrificing many?"

"That is the very belief that my people have followed since we first declared the Earth Sphere's corruption. Soon I will be able to demonstrate what such victory over treachery will look like.

As soon as the General was brought to his office, Nathaniel greeted Alphonse with an evaluation of his recent attempt. "Greetings General Alphonse de Lombard. It was quite foolish but at the same time bold of you to see a final offense against our forces." It was then that Nathaniel brought the conversation to the matter at hand. "I recognize that you have limited options, but I have brought you here to offer a deal that will save your Parliament from further harm. That is what you came here to accomplish isn't it?"

Alphonse heard out Nathaniel's proposal but answered with less enthusiasm he might have had. "I suppose this is a situation where I must hear out your offer rather than issue a counter offer." He stayed to hear out the offer when he challenged the President, "Do your worst to me Falson."

It was correct for Alphonse to see the offer he was being given as something of a scam but there would be something to stand out from what he would be offered. "This is what I have to offer General. The Earth Sphere United Nation is finished. There is however one significant threat that will threaten to see our hold over the Earth taken. The Gundams are believed to arrive here on Earth. Various members who were found guilty have given this warning." He brought another face on screen for another General far away from Brussels. "This is General Mauro Carmine. He is ready to hear out any possible chance to see the Parliament saved as you clearly are. If you follow my condition, I will spare the remainder of the Parliament." With that he gave the final order he had brought the General to follow. "Engage the Gundams. Destroy them."

Mauro greeted on the other line when the President finished speaking. "General. I regret having to point out the victory of the enemy. But now this appears to be the only option we have to saving the Parliament." He emphasized their duty when he reminded them of the necessity beforehand. "If we are to fulfill our duty to our leaders we must follow with his offer. That is the only time we will be able to prevent the worst execution the Coalition will have for us."

Alphonse continued to feel the shakiness in his limbs when he heard Mauro confirm what was presented to him. He struggled to find a reason to deny his desire to follow through the condition when he pointed out, "Even if I were to believe your word on such a proposal, how can we be expected to be successful? The Gundams were built to be the most powerful mobile suits we could offer and we can only offer mobile suits they will easily destroy."

It was the moment Nathaniel had been waiting for and had to address with the proper motivation. He first had to give the General an idea of what the destruction of these Gundams would mean for his vision. "You have legitimate concern for such an idea General. This should be your main motivation to see them wiped out however. We cannot achieve peace when these machines are still waging a war on their own shoulders. The pilots must also be executed. They have felt the power and they will not be willing to relinquish it. They are individuals that must be removed from the global picture if we are to even consider peace as an option." If the end of the war wasn't enough to remind him of the Earth Sphere's futile struggle another example of their ineffectiveness would be in order. "Are you reluctant to agree to the idea because you have no desire to protect the remaining Representatives? We will see the Gundams destroyed either way. The deaths of the Representatives found guilty will only continue to mount." For a final effect he had been saving Evangeline's life for this moment as well. One that would surely stir the emotions of even the most hardened soldier. "I should mention as well that your wife will be among the next of those to be executed."

In the long moments Alphonse heard the deal offered by the President there was much that he did not want to agree with. The idea of destroying the pieces of technology that had brought them to have a chance at defeating the Coalition was probably the worst scenario he could be brought in. The mention of Evangeline soon to be executed however was something that truly made him concerned for the future of the Parliament. The representatives would continue to die if he did not agree to it. He had to fulfill this duty above anything else. He had to make the most regrettable decision at this point. "... If it is the only option... Then I will follow this condition." He tried to add his own condition when he asked of the President, "I must ask of you this much however Mr. Falson. Please spare my men from this mission. They have already endured so much that they cannot hope to fulfill this battle."

Nathaniel thanked Alphonse, "A wise decision General." He answered the question on the soldiers and assured him of their safety. "Don't worry. I will see to it that the men who survived their way here to Brussels will be given the same accommodations as the Representatives. For the most part it will be the effort of both of our forces as well as yours to show our first mutual operation." He gave a final order as though he was talking to one of his own commanding officers. "You will meet with General Carmine and await further orders. Remember to ensure your success General."

When Alphonse was escorted out of the room and towards the airport, Rayen found himself curious about the decision to use him. "Are we going to continue with the executions Mr. President?"

Nathaniel greeted Rayen when he told answered, "No. We shall wait to see the end results when he meets with the Gundams."

Rayen gave a light chuckle when he relished the inevitability of his proposed plan, "You know that every effort we have given has been in vain."

Nathaniel confirmed, "And this one will not be any different. It will be necessary however to seeing the world move on from this war."

The realization of his plan was occurring at such a perfect pace that Rayen was given the luxury to wonder about his own morality. He still accepted the outcome about to arrive when he observed, "…These Gundams will bear a new burden unlike anything they could imagine."

"The young men and women who are forced to answer such a dilemma will never be able to overcome it." As Nathaniel gave the answer, Rayen heard a heavy tone that wore on him from the death sentence he was giving to a multitude of men and women who might not have even deserved it.

Rayen tried to discover how much weaker he was when he asked, "Should we assume their resolve will be so weak however?"

Nathaniel staved against the weakness that was creeping into his mind when he answered, "Perhaps not. But once they do arrive, we shall see if the plan manages to work through."