Author's Note - Yes, I know it's been quite a while since I last touched this story. To be honest, it's been a combination of work being in an upswing and also my writing muse deciding to go on an extended vacation. However, I think the muse is back and work is a little bit more manageable right now. But, for now, we're back in business. Once again, reviews are nice. I'll try to answer a few as they come rolling in. Anyhow, enjoy the newest installment.

Edit (8/18/18) - Made a minor adjustment to the timeframe on one point. It'll make sense in the next chapter.

Chapter Eight – Always In Motion

As the lights faded and the cameras went offline in the conference room, Colonel Anatole Leonard was in a mood that most of his colleagues back at Macross Command would have found strange and totally out of character. Normally known for his no-nonsense and dour demeanor that bordered on full apoplectic rage on even the most mundane of occasions, the newly minted commander of the RDF ground forces in the South American Quadrants had a broad smile across his face as he exited towards his office. Most of the minor functionaries that passed by him in the corridors tried not to take notice at the drastic change in their overall commander's demeanor, but it was pretty hard not to notice this change. Paying no mind to those around him, Leonard continued on his walk back towards his office area, thinking over the next steps of what was to come in the near future.

Getting the groundwork for Southern Cross was relatively simple enough, he thought as he continued on his walk back. Was hoping some of the governors would have gone along with this, but it seems they decided on a different path. Oh well, at least they did serve a minor purpose today, he added with a bit of malice. As for the commanders, most got the hint it seems. Now it's a matter of if they learned from the little object lesson as well. I'd hate to go ahead with a repeat of this morning.

The smile lessened as he found himself thinking of some of his other RDF colleagues. I doubt this went over well back at Macross. I can only imagine Henry's reaching out to Monument right now trying to find out what is going on. And the two children are probably figuring out ways to avoid any potential moves of forces from their precious Macross Command. A slight sneer came over Leonard as he continued to think through the possibilities. Don't fret, Hunter. I have no plans of calling in you or your precious Skull Squadron. At least not yet. Not until there's been some changes in command. And by that time, it won't be any of your concern or that of the Commodore either. By that time, you both will be well out of the picture. Along with your benefactor.

The smile returned, but had a heavy dose of darkness behind it.

Henry, you had every chance to be a part of this. We could have set things right and shown those foolish greedy bastards in Monument how to run things. But, sadly, you've become as much a part of the problem as they have. I hate to have to push friends aside, but frankly, tovarishch, you only did this to yourself.

Leonard reached the wing where his office was located and gave the orderly at the front a quick nod, silently communicating that he did not wish to be disturbed. Making his way down the hall towards the main office, the smile that was in place grew at the next thought.

And as for my 'sponsors' up in Monument, your time is coming as well. As much as I want to see you go as well, I do still need you for the time being. But, your usefulness is running out and I would really hate to be you when that day comes.

Opening the door to his office area, Leonard reached into his pocket for a cigarette. Lighting it up as he walked over to his desk, he sat back in the chair and blew out a large cloud of smoke. Time to see if those idiots actually listened or if we're in for a replay of what happened in Buenos Aires this morning, he thought to himself as he checked over some of the news feeds from the surrounding quadrants.

A smile came over Leonard as he watched the latest information stream in. One by one, the other quadrants he had mentioned in the speech were having a secondary press conference start up as each of the commanding officers took their role as the new government lead as ordered. Picking up the receiver to his phone, he dialed a well-remembered extension and waited.

"Raven, it appears we don't have to invoke our contingency plan after all. They're playing ball on this."

"Indeed, Colonel. I believe you were able to reason with them effectively. That and the object lesson didn't hurt either."

Leonard nodded. "Unfortunate some could not see through the error of their ways. No matter, let us put that in the past and look ahead."

"So, I gather Phase One of the plan is to start shortly?"

"Yes. We just need to have our assets fully in place before we go ahead with that step. San Rafael will be an effective starting point. Are your men ready?"

"We should be all set within the next hour."

"Also, the backup for your forces are in place as well. If things get out hand, we should be able to take care it without any issue."

"The men are rather pleased that they actually have some authorities backing them for once. Beats being on the other end of an armored division."

"Not that a little thing like that ever stopped you before," Leonard added with a hint of sarcasm.

"You do have a point there," came the rejoinder from the other side. "Also, you aren't going to let a little criticism of your 'heavy-handed' actions get in the way of going forward either, am I correct, Colonel?"

Leonard took a long drag off of the cigarette and stubbed it out in the ashtray. "Hardly. However, some voices are going to be a bit louder than others if we proceed. Voices that actually will get listened to if they talk to the right people."

"Hmmm. I thought you said that was covered."

"Rather be safer than sorry on that. However, you did say something about something that could help us going forward and keep our friends up North occupied? I think we may have to implement that, against my better judgement."

"Understood. It's a little unorthodox, but it will pay dividends in more than one way."

Leonard nodded. "It's not something I'm overly comfortable with, but, you're right. Sometimes going against the grain keeps everyone off balance, and we need Macross to be off balance." He scanned over a terminal and smiled. "I think this may do the trick."

A brief pause came up before Raven continued. "Definitely. This will work out nicely. Although, this may be a gamble here and there is the potential this could backfire."

"Only if we're not careful. Also, if it does blow up, we'll be far enough away from the epicenter that we'll be in the clear." More like, I'll be in the clear, Leonard added silently.

"Guess I have a few calls to make. I'll update you once everything is all set."

With that, Leonard placed the receiver to the phone back in its cradle, reached into his pocket and lit another cigarette.

I'm not a complete fan of what you had proposed earlier on, Raven, Leonard thought as he took a drag. But, as you said, it's unorthodox, but if successful, would clear a major obstacle or at least keep a potential one tied up until it's way too late.

Back at Macross Command, one of the larger conference rooms found itself in use as the fallout from Leonard's speech was being fully assessed. The current conversation going on in the room involved the commanding officer of the massive base, Admiral Henry Gloval, and a member of the UEG Senate that represented the Macross Quadrant. This conversation had come about due to the invocation of a piece of legislation by Colonel Leonard during the speech in question.

"So, Senator," Gloval intoned with a slight hint of frustration. "You mean to tell me that this act taken by Colonel Leonard was in fact, legal?"

"Afraid so, Admiral," the senator stated. "Under the circumstances down there, it was a legal use of the Emergency Powers Act as it was written. As the ranking official left alive at the time, he would be able to take control in his capacity as a quadrant commander and also institute martial law as needed."

"Strange that we were never notified that this act was in place."

"The act was just passed recently. Senator Russo fast tracked this about a month ago and it went through last week, over the objections of the Council might I add."

Gloval frowned and shook his head. I should have known he'd be involved in something like this, he added silently.

The senator continued on. "I voted against this as it was a clear violation of the UEG Charter regarding the separation of powers between the executive branch and the military. That's also why the Council rejected it as well. Somehow, our old friend had enough votes to override that veto."

Lisa was taking in the conversation and noticed the concerned looks coming up from the assembled pilots in the room with her and the Admiral. Most notably, she was focused in on one pilot in particular. Turning towards Captain Rick Hunter, she could only sigh.

"Sorry, Rick," she said softly. "Looks like we'd be obligated to help him if he asks for help."

"So I noticed," he responded. Looking over at the others, he sighed resignedly as well. "I'm not in favor of it, and it appears I'm not alone in that."

It was just then that the transmission with Monument cut off and the Admiral turned towards the others that were assembled in the room.

Taking his pipe out of his jacket pocket, Gloval struck a match and lit the pipe. Taking a puff, he sighed as he expelled the smoke out into the room.

"As you have heard, it appears that Colonel Leonard has the backing of Monument on this issue and has a free hand down in the South American Quadrants thanks to that oprometchiivyy piece of legislation that was passed. This means we would be technically obligated to help him if he requests it."

Gloval scanned the room and saw the sour looks from the assembled group. Nobody seems to be very keen on lending a hand to our old friend either, he thought. It is a decision I would not want to make as it is one I cannot support. However, as long as Anatole has the ear of Monument, our hands are tied.

"So," Commander Tom Wilcox stated plainly. "We're damned if we do and damned if we don't, Admiral?"

"It seems to be the case, Commander," Gloval answered.

It was just then one of the others in the room, Lieutenant Commander Ben Dixon to be exact, noticed something on one of the viewscreens.

"Are you kidding me? What the hell are you doing, Leonard?"

The others turned towards the source of the outburst. The Admiral was the first to speak. "Is there something I should be aware of, Lieutenant Commander Dixon?" he stated with a undercurrent of malice.

"Sorry for the outburst, sir," Ben stammered. "But I think things in Buenos Aires are about to pick up." He pointed to the viewscreen.

Lisa noted which viewscreen it was was and brought it up on to the main screen. The picture that it projected was not a pleasant one. It was a feed from one of the news channels covering the situation in Buenos Aires and the latest images showed what was the entrance to one of the areas the Zentraedi in the city called home. It appeared to be surrounded by a number of men in black uniforms, with some number of the local police force, and a few regular RDF forces as well. What caused more the of the concern were the number of Destroids that were near by.

"Well, that escalated quickly," Wilcox deadpanned.

Rick looked over at the other pilots assembled and shook his head before averting his gaze towards the ceiling. Damnit, Leonard, you're going to start a damn war by doing this. The more I see of what you're doing, the more I'm against this. He then looked over to Lisa and smiled grimly.

Lisa caught sight of Rick's look towards her and matched it. I don't see a good way out of this, Rick, she thought to herself. Especially if Leonard is about to do what we think he is. And I can tell you don't like this. I don't either.

Admiral Gloval took in the incoming pictures and information and felt his anger growing by the second. Thundering asteroids, Anatole! This madness needs to stop!

Turning to his console, Gloval stabbed at a button. "Get Colonel Leonard on the line and tell that suka I wish to speak with him. I do not care if he is about to lead an attack or if he's on his way to the head to take a der'mo. I want him on this line. Right. Now. You got that? Thank you." He stabbed the button to cut off the communication with a bit more force than usual.

During this time, Lisa had felt her phone vibrate in her pocket. Walking towards the back, she took out the phone and tapped the screen. A few seconds later, she turned back towards the others.

"That was Lieutenant Young over in Signals. She has a direct communication in place with Breetai."

Gloval smiled grimly. "This may be of help here. At the very least, we will know of their disposition with these actions in Buenos Aires. And hopefully, we can keep from having any...misunderstandings as well."

Rick nodded as he heard this. Having Breetai and his remaining fleet turn into enemies is the last thing we need. Even with the minimal amounts of ships he has, well by Zent standards, he could still wreak havoc on us if he decided to.

Gloval nodded to Lisa, who then tapped the phone again.

"Lieutenant, go ahead and patch that transmission through."

In the area between Earth and the moon, a small, but significant remnant of the once mighty Zentraedi fleet that menaced the planet years prior remained in orbit above. The fleet, commanded by one of the Zentraedi's most feared and respected commanders, Lord Breetai, had gone from being an implacable foe to that of strong ally to the residents of the planet below.

However, the events of the day on the surface of the planet looked to be challenging this notion. Above the bridge of the main cruiser in the fleet, Breetai and his trusted aide, Exedore, watched events from below with a growing sense of dread and dismay.

"What is it that this madman is trying to prove?" Breetai questioned as he viewed the latest transmissions from the surface. The image in front of them showed a shot of a barrio with a number of Destroids surrounding part of the perimeter of the location, accompanied by a number of ground troops in various uniforms, with a majority wearing black.

Exedore could only shake his head. "The Micronians have proven to be unpredictable in their actions, my Lord. Even after the last five years, we still find ourselves learning something new each day about how they operate and think."

"Indeed, Exedore. However, these events on the surface are rather dismaying. Especially with the insinuation from Colonel Leonard that their Supreme Council is in favor of these actions."

"What our our assets on the surface? Do we not have any in that particular quadrant or any near by that may be able to lend some further insight into what is going on?"

Exedore shook his head. "Unfortunately, my Lord, we did have an asset in place in this 'Buenos Aires' settlement that is becoming most prominent on their information blasts. However, this asset, a warrior called Vondin, has not reported back in the last standard week. There are unconfirmed reports that he may have met a less than satisfactory end."

A grimace came over Breetai's face at this news. "Unfortunate indeed. And knowing how tight knit the Malcontents are on the surface, if Vondin had been able to infiltrate and is now no longer operative, it would take time to get another one in place in one of these cells." It was one thing that Breetai had silently applauded Khyron about with his setting up of the Malcontent resistance on the surface. He had made the cells very difficult to infiltrate, thus making any attempts to see what was going on with the groups that much more difficult to discern.

"Speaking of this," Breetai continued. "Have we been able to infiltrate the ones in Macross itself yet?"

Exedore cracked a smile. "Indeed we have, my Lord. I have been in touch with our operatives there and I can confirm that one has been able to gain the confidence of a rather prominent cell. One of the survivors from the 'Army of Righteousness', a warrior by the name of Pyoto if I recall correctly, is one of the leaders. Our asset should be able to give us a more detailed view of their attitudes and positions in the coming days." A quizzical look came over Exedore as he continued. "Should we let Admiral Gloval know about this as of yet?"

Breetai shook his head. "Unfortunately, we cannot, at least right now. We do not know if he endorses the acts by Colonel Leonard or ordered them himself. Remember, Leonard was stationed at Macross Command before shifting his operations down to those quadrants. We still do not know if he moved down there on Gloval's orders or not."

"It would be dismaying if the Admiral was behind this course of action."

"Indeed it would. He has become a valued ally over the years and also a good friend. I would be very disappointed if he, Captain Hunter, and Commodore Hayes agreed to this. I do not wish for them to become our adversaries again, but if that is how fate has spelled out how these events are to transpire, so be it."

A high-pitched squawk came over the speakers, followed by a tinny voice. "My Lord, we are being hailed by the surface. Macross Command to be exact."

Exedore looked over at Breetai. "It appears the Admiral is reaching out to us. No doubt, it's to gauge our knowledge of the situation on the surface and see, as they would say, where we stand on the matter."

Breetai nodded and looked towards the pick-up. "Go ahead and patch them through."

The main viewscreen in the conference room blinked to life and within seconds, a view of both Breetai and Exedore came up on the screen. Concerned looks on both sides were noticed by the individuals involved in the conversation. The room was silent for a few seconds before Admiral Gloval started the awaited conversation.

"Lord Breetai, Councillor Exedore, I wish this was under better circumstances."

"Indeed, Admiral. Let us, as you would say, cut right to the chase. What is exactly the meaning of what is going on in that quadrant right now?"

"We just got notified about this ourselves in the same manner I believe you were, that is through the information blasts."

Both Breetai and Exedore nodded to confirm this fact, while Gloval continued on.

"From what we've gathered, it appears that Colonel Leonard is attempting to find those responsible for the incident earlier today. Although I do agree that those responsible do need to answer for what happened, going about it in this way is only going to escalate what is an already tense situation."

"Agreed, Admiral," Exedore stated plainly. "We did have assets in place in that quadrant, but we have not heard from them in about a standard week of so. We believe that one of the Malcontent cells was trying to, how you say, 'send a message' to your Colonel Leonard by liquidating one of his key staff members."

A number of the assembled officers back at Macross shook their heads at this news.

"We believe the target was one Lieutenant Ortega, who was the head of the RDF Intelligence wing in that quadrant, if I am not mistaken?"

Lisa's nod confirmed this fact for Exedore. "We haven't heard from Lieutenant Ortega since the blast this morning. It's assumed he was one of the casualties in this attack." She paused briefly and looked over to Admiral Gloval before continuing. Gloval gave Lisa a short nod. "Also, it appears that most of the regional governors for that area were in a scheduled meeting when the attack happened."

Breetai nodded in understanding. "So, that is what Leonard meant by 'assuming control'?"

Gloval nodded. "Yes, he and the other RDF military assets took command of the civil authority along with their military command. Right now, thanks to the void created by this attack, they are the final authority in these areas. It is something we do not take lightly. Earth has had way too many military types supersede the civilian governments in the past. It has a very predictable habit of causing nothing but further troubles."

Exedore caught something in how Gloval responded. You do not agree with the step your colleague took, Admiral. That is plainly obvious. I can also tell from the looks from Commodore Hayes and Captain Hunter that they do not agree either.

Breetai glanced over at Exedore and got a nod back in return. He sighed briefly before asking the question that had been in his mind for some time. "So, Admiral, I can assume that you did not give Leonard this order to surround that settlement?"

Gloval nodded. "Colonel Leonard has not even bothered to respond to my inquiries, Lord Breetai. And any time he would have needed my approval on something, he's circumvented it by going to the Council first."

Both Zentraedi on the other side of the screen had a shocked look at the disclosure of this information. As you Micronians would say, Breetai thought. I know that feeling, Admiral. Leonard is acting much like Khyron did when we were pursuing you.

"I have tried to get a hold of the Colonel again," Gloval continued, punctuating his point with a resigned sigh. "But, seeing how he senses that he has the Council on his side, I doubt he would listen to any sort of reason from myself."

"This is a very unfavorable situation," Breetai stated. "At least one of my concerns has been wiped away with this conversation. I was hopeful you and your staff were not involved in this madness. That thought, I can see, is one that had zero merit. And for that, I am grateful. I would have hated to see us become foes again."

"The feeling is mutual, Lord Breetai," Gloval responded. "Unfortunately, for now, there is not much we can do here at Macross outside of keep an eye on the situation with the settlements where the Zentraedi are situated. Hopefully, events down there do not cause any issues up here."

Both Breetai and Exedore nodded. "Indeed. It is a delicate time. A wrong move could cause greater problems. We will keep an eye on the situation up here and check back if we have any further insights." With that, the screen went black, leaving both sides deep in conversation as to their next steps.

On their ship above Earth, Breetai looked over at Exedore and nodded. "Reach out to our operatives in Macross. I want as much information as we can get. As soon as we have it, I will be sharing the information with Admiral Gloval."

Exedore blinked for a second. "Are you sure it is wise to share anything with the Admiral right now?"

Breetai nodded. "If there is one thing I know about Gloval, he is honest. I did not detect any dishonesty in his statements and he also appeared to be as genuinely surprised as we were at the moves happening on the surface."

Exedore nodded in return. "I did not detect any malice on his part either. Also, it appears that his subordinates are just as disgusted with the events as we are."

"I did notice that as well," came the response. "I'm sure our sources in Macross will confirm what we feel, that Gloval and his staff had nothing to do with this madness. If that is the case, then I see no issue in sharing information with them."

Exedore smiled. "I should be able to confirm this when they report in."

"Make this a high priority, Exedore. Even though I have faith in the Admiral and the others at Macross Command, one cannot ever be too sure of things."

A quick nod of agreement followed. "We will need to communicate this to the others as well," Exedore replied. "I can sense that these actions will not be taken lightly and it would be highly detrimental if members of our fleet decided to act independently."

Breetai nodded as he considered this potential issue as well. "It would be another issue on top of the others that this action has caused. I will be speaking with all of them shortly. For now, I think it may be best if we get in touch with our assets on the planet soon rather than later to get a better scope of what is exactly going on and what the situation is like there."

"As you command, my Lord."

As Exedore left the bridge area, Breetai looked out the main viewscreen, which was dominated by the Earth. The Micronians always maintained that from this distance, the planet does appear to be peaceful, he mused. However, events as covered on their information blasts seem to contradict that. I can only hope that this is not an instance when the fighting is to restart. Especially if it means that we would be on opposite sides. I can speak for myself that I would not attack, but I cannot make those assurances for others in the fleet. I can only hope I can reason with them that by interfering, we may make things worse.

As attention was focused in on events in Buenos Aires, deep in the Paraguayan Quadrant, a black sedan made its way down a little used dirt road towards a clearing. Inside of the car, the driver was focusing on what would be happening once they reached their destination. In the back, the passenger also had the same apprehensions, but found himself trying to put his thoughts into words without much success for most of the journey.

"So," the passenger finally stated. "Where is you are taking me to and how can your 'friends' help out?" adding a twinge of sarcasm when stating the word 'friends'.

"We're meeting up with some friends that feel the same way I do," the driver stated plainly. "Have faith, amigo. I'm sure they will be able to assist. They've never failed me in the past."

"Sorry if I am not, as you say, confident, Lieutenant," the passenger shot back. "I've been hearing how your 'friends' operate on the communications blasts we've been listening to since leaving Buenos Aires."

"You're gonna have to trust me on this one," came the response. "Right now, you don't have a lot of options. Especially seeing the Iron Brigade now mixed up in this. They have no love for your kind, that's for sure. Or for the RDF for that matter."

"So why is this insane Colonel of yours getting them mixed into this if they are not allies of the RDF, or did I assume too much, Ortega?"

"That is something I'll need to research when we get to our destination. For now, once we get there, we'll need to hide out until things blow over a bit and its a bit safer to travel. If those Brigata de Ferrer pendejos are about here in this quadrant, there's a good chance they'll be in other nearby quadrants as well. Look, Cryndor. We're both wanted beings right now. Hopefully our little diversion back on the autostrada will throw them off the trail just long enough to get us out of here safely."

Silence followed as the information relayed was being processed. "But we were able to scram.."

"They're also going to figure out that two of their guys are missing," the Lieutenant shot back. "Eventually, they'll do the math and see that it wasn't us in that other car. Hopefully by the time those morons figure it out, we'll be well out of their reach." Ortega's attention was distracted for a second as he saw the forest drift aside and a clearing open up. "We're here," came the quick response.

In front of the car was a tiny compound that appeared to look like a ranch. Attached to it was a small chapel. Inside of the gates of the compound were men in robes, tending to the farm animals and working on other minor chores around the grounds. As they approached the gate, one of the men in robes stood silently by as if he were manning a checkpoint.

The car rolled to a stop and Ortega put the window down.

"Greetings, brother. The Abbot was expecting us."

"Indeed he was, my child. Welcome to Santa Isabel Monastery."

"Gracias, hermano."

With that, the gate opened and the car was motioned through. Heading towards a more secluded area, the car came to a stop by one of the barns.

"More of this religion thing, Lieutenant? With all this superstition, it is a wonder how you beat us."

"God works in mysterious ways, Cryndor," came the response. "This is our best bet right now. The monastery is secluded enough and won't attract attention. Also, Colonel Leonard wouldn't dare try anything with this, not if he doesn't want the people of these quadrants to rise up against him. Besides, this place is full of surprises," Ortega added with a wink.

"Once again, not a comforting thought, Lieutenant," Cryndor deadpanned. "Seeing what you Micronians call surprises usually ends up badly for my kind, you'll forgive my apprehension."

With that the two exited the car and made their way over to the main residence area. As they approached, one of the monks that called the monastery home came towards them and smiled.

"Lieutenant Ortega, Mister Cryndor. I am Brother Maynard. His Grace is waiting in his office."

Polite smiles came over the two. "Lead the way, Brother," Ortega stated quietly as they entered.

Back at Macross Command, the meeting among the higher level officers had broken up and the members of Skull Squadron that had attended had arrived back in their wing of the complex. The assembled officer staff for the squadron was in a separate area, going over the details of how they were going to relay the information that had been disclosed earlier.

Among the assembled officers, the commanding officer of the squadron and the overall Commander of the Air Wing for Macross Command, Rick Hunter, sat in a chair, staring at the ceiling, contemplating the next steps that would need to be taken.

The silence in the room was broken by a somewhat unexpected voice, that of Major Amelia Niebauer. "Boss, what are we gonna do on this one? It seems that it's pretty likely we're gonna get roped into whatever it is Colonel Leonard is doing if he asks for help."

Rick nodded sadly. "Yeah, it's really lookin' that way, Nibs."

"I don't like this, not one damn bit," came the response from Lieutenant Commander Ben Dixon. "What Leonard is doing down there is beyond reckless. I mean, he's apt to touch off a firestorm if he goes through and attacks that neighborhood."

The others assembled nodded in agreement. Rick also joined in this and stood up from his chair.

"I don't like this either. It goes against everything we've signed on for and fought for over the past years." A deep sigh followed before he continued. "However, if the Admiral or Lisa says its a go, we pretty much have no choice but to go, even if we're not in favor." The only way we don't go is if we disobey a direct order, which means court martials aplenty, he added silently. And trips to New Leavenworth. I doubt Lisa or the Admiral would sign off on that. The only other option would be to resign from the RDF, but that's another extreme.

"Like Wilcox said," Commander Max Sterling stated plainly, "We're damned if we do and damned if we don't." He shook his head and looked over at his wife and fellow officer, Lieutenant Commander Miriya Sterling. A faint smile came over Max's face. "However, it hasn't come to that yet."

Rick nodded. "True. Right now, we just have to plan for that eventuality if it does come up."

"Also," Ben chimed in. "What's to say that the Frag doesn't go bonkers over this either. That's another consideration."

Rick nodded. "Very true as well. I don't see anything Leonard doing playing well there at all. It may mean we may have our hands full here at home and couldn't assist him, even if he demanded it. And neither the Admiral or Lisa are going to sacrifice Macross or Monument for Buenos Aires."

The others nodded, understanding what was implied.

Rick continued. "So, right now, our best course of action is to brace the others that yes, this may happen. Right now, it's business as usual, but keep your guard up."

With that, the group started to make their way out of the office area towards the main common area for the squadron. As they left, Rick motioned over to Max and Ben. Once the others had left, he turned towards his two most senior officers in the squadron.

"So, we have one other minor complication," he stated. "That is Graham's inability to pass the checkout for the VF-4. The Lightning is close to being cleared for active duty and we'd be the first to change over. From what the guys at Dexter's Lab told me, it should be all set by the end of the week."

Both Ben and Max nodded.

"She still hasn't passed it, from what Ben and Nibs have said," Max stated plainly. "I'm guessing if she doesn't really soon, she's finding a new home?"

Rick nodded. "Yeah, she will be. She'd be attached to a squadron not going over to the VF-4's as fast as Skull is."

"So, basically its put up or shut up time for Mystique," Ben added. "I'm guessing she's getting the standard 'pass or else' speech?"

"Yeah," Rick stated with a hint of disappointment. "Basically, her next one is her last chance. I don't want to do it, but we can't wait up for one pilot on this. Also, there's another consideration that came up."

Rick walked over to the door and shut it.

"This is high level stuff, so none of this gets said to anyone outside of this room without my OK."

A quick nod of acknowledgement came from the others.

"It seems from what Doctor Koromatsu was able to find over at the Skunk Works, someone has been hacking into the VF-4 programming and making slight changes to push the deployment back."

A shocked look came over the faces of Ben and Max.

"We were able to trace it back here to Macross as the source of the hacking. These instances also coincided with when the Lightning was close to being fully rolled out. The most recent one was.."

"The whole issue with the weapons system a few months ago?" Max asked. "Probably also explains the issue with the Guardian mode getting stuck too."

Rick nodded. "Yeah, that one. Also some of the other janky stuff that has happened over the last months as well. I've had Major Rodgers from over at the Geek Squad keep an eye on things since the Doc reported back. He found a solid trace that looks like it came from somewhere here in New Macross right around the time of the incident with Weeble and Meeseeks. He double-checked with the guys at the Skunk Works and they pretty much backed up his finding. I can't fully prove it's someone that's RDF or not, but I have my suspicions."

That would explain a lot with what we're seeing with...no, that couldn't be it, Max thought. He shook his head as if to chase the implication out of his head.

A look of grave concern came over Ben's face while thinking over the information that was just presented. It'd answer a whole lotta nagging questions, but if that was the case, it doesn't make any sense whatsoever.

Rick looked at the others. "That's why I want to keep it quiet for now. And if it is proven true, I want to have enough evidence that we can present a good case when I take this upstairs."

Max shook his head. "So, if, and that is a huge 'if', it turns out it was someone here on base and they get shipped off, wouldn't that possibly encourage them to do something a lot worse?"

"Like possibly screw with the weps system and other things while they're actively deployed?," Ben remarked darkly. "It wouldn't be that much of a stretch and that would be potentially a helluva lot worse than just screwing around with it while in the shakedowns."

Rick nodded. "Yeah, that was one thing that crossed my mind." Like suddenly cutting off the life support while we're sub orbital. That'd put an end to things really quickly, he mused to himself. "It's also all the more reason why we need to get this resolved." A sigh of frustration followed the statement by Rick before he continued.

Max asked the next and most expected question. "Do Lisa and the Admiral know about this yet?"

Rick shook his head. "Not yet. This info only came to me about three or four days ago. I wanted to check with Danny first before going to them. When Doctor Koromatsu said something about what was going on, I frankly didn't believe it. Not that I distrust the good doctor at all, but it was just too unbelievable."

Both Ben and Max nodded. "Well," Max stated plainly. "I think they probably should be in the loop on this. And the sooner the better." Ben nodded in agreement.

Rick nodded as well. "Agreed. Guess I have a few phone calls to make." If things weren't bad enough, it only figures something else would come along to add to the fun, he mused with a sense of resignation. Just a little extra on the plate.

In Buenos Aires, the San Rafael barrio was becoming more and more tense as the day wore on. The arrival of the police squadrons and the new wrinkle of an auxiliary force to hem in the residents heightened an already tense situation to a new level.

This was not lost on both Nadtal and Izadu as they observed the growing situation from the roof top of the modest house Izadu called home.

Shaking his head, Izadu sighed as he looked over the mass on the other side of the barriers. It would appear that the Micronians are, as they would say, spoiling for a fight, he thought to himself. Looking back over at his counterpart, he felt a bit of anger rising, but pushed it back down. Yes, you and your comrades bungled this operation badly, and I probably should have executed you as I did that fool Alondo, but that wouldn't solve our current problem.

Nadtal broke the silence. "I gathered as many of the warriors as I could."

"What do our numbers look like?"

A resigned shake of the head came from Nadtal. "Not even remotely enough as we would need, Izadu. Maybe a few hundred at most. The rest are hiding it out in their houses at present and are apprehensive about coming out."

So this is what we've become. Passive. Accepting. That is not the Zentraedi way, Izadu thought darkly. Exposure to the Micronian culture will surely be our end, more so than any military solution by this madman.

A sigh of frustration came forth from Izadu.

Nadtal continued on. "Hopefully that may change if things were to escalate. I would think instinct would kick in if the Micronians were to attack in force."

"I would think it would at that point," Izadu stated plainly. "While you were gathering the men, I did reach back out to some of our friends to the North. For now, we are to not to engage the Micronians first."

"Understood. Is it due to our smaller numbers?"

"No. Something else came into play." With that, Izadu pointed towards a helicopter up above. "You see that up there? That is how they're transmitting the information blasts. I was advised we do nothing until the Micronians take the first shot."

"That's madness!"

"Yes, it goes against everything we know of the military arts, Nadtal. I don't agree with it either, but it was stated that if we were to wait, it could cause other problems for the Micronians. As a group, their warriors only comprise a small part of their totals. However, the non-warriors have much more sway in their decision making."

"Yes, I've noticed that over our time here. Seems a bit out of place."

Izadu nodded. "Indeed. Our friend I consulted indicated that if we were attacked as opposed to us attacking them, the non-warriors for the Micronians would become angry and potentially cause their warriors to back down. It was something he described as, 'public opinion'."

Nadtal gave Izadu a quizzical look.

"I don't understand it either, Nadtal," Izadu continued. "However, if we can use it and anything else to our advantage, we would be foolish not to."

Nadtal nodded. "I will relay that information to the men."

"Good, and let them know that if anyone deviates from those orders, it would be grounds for immediate termination. Do I make myself clear?"

"Very much so." With that, Nadtal made his way off of the roof and back down to the surface, leaving Izadu to observe the situation.

Like my colleague, I have my apprehensions about the course of action we're embarking on, he mused. However, if this works, my source stated that it could trigger infighting among the Micronians. And that would be a definite advantage for us.

The situation in the Frag back in New Macross was slightly less tense than that in Buenos Aires. The reports of the situation were all over the news and were being followed intently by the residents. In one dwelling in the neighborhood, a solitary figure was gazing out of a window at the relative peace and quiet of the area.

In the background, the TV in the main room was on MBS and it's coverage of the situation at San Rafael. Two others were sitting on chairs nearby, watching intently. After a long pause, one began to speak.

"Why haven't the Micronians moved in yet?," one remarked. "It's obvious they have the advantage in manpower. If the roles were reversed.."

"Most likely, they are probably waiting for word from their commanders to move in, Quazmin," another stated. "Much like us, they usually do not go against orders." Of course, there are exceptions to that, the other figure thought as he looked over at his counterpart. I can think of one right off the top of my head, he added darkly.

"That I do understand, Xamdar," Quazmin responded. And I also understand your implication with that remark too, he added silently. Turning to the third figure in the house, Quazmin continued.

"How are things around this area, Pyoto?"

"Quiet for now. I've been in contact with some of our fellow warriors. Nothing out of the ordinary beyond the usual patrols by the Micronian security authorities. No RDF activity at all among them either."

"That is good to know. Although that may change if events change in this 'San Rafael' location."

Pyoto and Xamdar both nodded as Quazmin turned back to Xamdar.

"I am not totally sure about this advice you and Pyoto gave me regarding my instructions to Izadu. It goes against everything we've been taught."

"The Micronians are an interesting race, Quazmin," Pyoto explained. "The non-warriors have much more of a say as to how things are run than among us. This could be of an advantage to us, especially with the news that Xamdar related earlier."

Xamdar smiled. "It was a good thing I had, what the Micronians call, an ace up my sleeve." Turning towards Quazmin, he smiled again. "Do not ask me to explain what they mean by that. I've tried for the past three or four years to figure it out and I still do not understand." A quick nod from Quazmin came forth before Xamdar continued. "I was able to reach out to an old contact and they were able to advise the course of action I had you relate to our brothers in San Rafael. This would have a benefit of causing a situation that would completely distract the Micronians to the point that they would be caught unaware when we were to strike in force."

"So, by not fighting, we could cause them to fight among themselves?"

"Exactly," Pyoto added.

Quazmin smiled and then turned back to Xamdar. "And the other part of your idea?"

"That is still in the works right now. But my contacts are interested, but I am waiting to see how this situation resolves itself first. If it goes according to Colonel Leonard's usual pattern of behavior, we may have some very willing allies among the Micronians. They have a saying about this; 'the enemy of my enemy is my friend'."

"They also have another saying too, Xamdar," Pyoto added. "'Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.'"

"True, Pyoto, but they would have to actually be 'friends' first."

The three turned back towards the TV in the room, intently watching the unfolding situation.

Back at Macross Command, the Mess Hall was a buzz of activity as the lunch hour came up. At one of the tables, a few members of Skull Squadron were enjoying a little time away from the simulators. Conversation had been bouncing between both the current state of events in the Argentine Quadrant and also towards the changes that were approaching.

One of the pilots, Major Jack Baker, took a glance at one of the monitors on the wall that was tuned to MBS's coverage of the events going on in Buenos Aires.

"Man, that is not looking good at all," he stated. The current image was that of the massed police and militia around one of the access points to the barrio in question.

Another of the pilots, Sergeant Karen Penn, adjusted her attention towards the monitor after Baker's comment. "All it's going to take is one stupid act by someone on either side to touch off a major situation." She then turned to another at the table. "Think the Admiral sends us down there if the Meatgrinder cries enough, Screech?"

"Not sure," the pilot with that call sign, one Major Fred Malinkowski, responded. "I know we're all hoping that's that not the case, but it's also not our call."

"At least if things do kick off, we may have the VF-4's online by then," Baker added. "That'd be a game changer." He then looked over to one of the others at the table. "Speaking of that.."

A combination of a hard look from the target, one Sergeant Susan Graham, and a light slap on the head from Karen cut Baker off almost immediately.

"Jeez, Jack," Karen stated with a hint of frustration. "You have about as much tact as a Zentraedi sometimes."

Baker rubbed his head and muttered a soft "sorry" towards Graham. The pilot that had been singled out sighed.

"Actually, Jack's got every right to bring that up, Karen," she stated. Graham's issues with passing the final check on the VF-4 simulator program had become a rather notorious concern among the members of Skull Squadron. "Look, I know you guys all talk about how much of a screw-up I must be that I can't pass a simple sim," she said with a hint of frustration. "I'm trying, really. It's just that..."

The conversation was interrupted by someone tapping Graham on the shoulder. She turned around and saw it was Major Amelia Niebauer that had come over.

"Sue," she said without as much as a hint of her usual upbeat attitude. "Boss wants to see you tomorrow at 1300 in the briefing room. It's pretty important and I think you know what it's about." The others watched with a hint of concern.

Graham gave the officer behind her a hurt look. "I understand, ma'am," came the response, with the last title having just the slightest hint of venom behind it.

This in turn caused Amelia to take a bit of a step back. "Sorry, Sue. I'm just relaying the message on this one. He already tried reaching you on your cell, but never got a response back. That's why I got sent down here."

"I think I had it switched off when I was in the sim and just never turned it back on," Graham responded. "But, yes, I'll be there at 1300." A quick salute followed as Amelia headed back towards a different part of the Mess.

Graham turned to the others and sighed. "I think I'm going to head back over to the hangars. I suddenly just lost my appetite." With that, she grabbed her tray and made her way towards the exit, leaving the others at the table in silence for a few moments until Baker turns towards Karen.

"Hey, do you think that...?"

Karen nodded with a sense of resignation behind it. "Yeah, I do."

They returned to their meal, eating in silence for the rest of the time, processing the implications of what had just happened.

Making her way out of the Mess Hall, Susan found a quiet area off to the side of one of the main corridors. Looking around quickly, she pulled out a cell phone and tapped in a somewhat rehearsed number. Waiting for a second, she heard the call pick up and a familiar voice answered.

"Strange that you're calling now."

"Never mind that. I think there's going to be a change to our plans."

"How so? Were you compromised?"

"I believe that may have potentially happened. Can't confirm it as of yet though. I was careful and made sure I had covered my steps."

A long silence came over the other end of the line.

"This would put us as a disadvantage."

"I know. What should I do?"

"Go along with whatever happens. As long as they totally do not suspect, we may be able to salvage something. Reach back out to me when you have a clearer picture of what is going on. If I do not hear from you within 72 hours, I will assume the worst and take all necessary actions to clean up."

"I understand. With honor."

"With honor."

The connection went dead. Sliding the phone back into her pocket, Graham gazed out a nearby window, pondering her fate and what would be the next step going forward.