A/N

Here is Phase 35 and as mentioned in the last phase, I am splitting what was phase 18 in the original.

Phase 35: Encroaching Darkness0

June 13th, 71 C.E.

Central Government Administration, The Republic

It was early morning, with tensions running high after the fall and destruction of Panama. Even the citizens were showing concern with events as they were. There were also visible signs of the defending military forces preparing for a potential crisis. Ellen had seen the worrisome signs showing in the open now, and it was painful to see them. The looming dark storm that was closing in was becoming clearer to Ellen, and it was saying the war was coming to the Federation. She could only feel frustration and sadness as she rode in her car to the meeting with her cabinet this morning.

The meeting had been called with a message that was sent from the Atlantic Federation late last night. And while it wasn't unusual for messages to come from them, by what Ellen's right-hand man had said, the message that came in was different than the previous ones. The way he'd talked about the message, Ellen suspected the Atlantic Federation had stopped "being nice." The question was what would they say to get their point of demanding cooperation from the Federation. The subject matter that previous messages had contained had been "urging" the Federation to help the Alliance. Those messages had been politely refused, which the Atlantic Federation hadn't liked but didn't publicly respond to.

Once Ellen arrived at the administration building, she found that the press had been outside asking questions as the soldiers kept them back. When she got inside, her secretary came to be beside her and handed her a small stack of papers. Ellen scanned over the top page, which iterated worrisome developments and the Republic's defenders being on high alert. From the news that Ellen had seen lately, it wasn't a great surprise the actions of the Alliance were having "ripple effects." And the Alliance didn't care about what their actions did, if anything, they were using their actions as a rallying cry to their cause. While Ellen expected such from the Atlantic Federation's leadership, it still strained things. The leadership of the Atlantic Federation was made up of those who hated Coordinators and even members of Blue Cosmos.

Ellen thanked her secretary for the papers she'd given her before Ellen headed for the conference room her cabinet used. After ending the room, Ellen saw that she was the last of her cabinet to arrive for the meeting. She was glad that all of those she had chosen to help her lead the Republic. Half of them had been alongside Ellen as cabinet members for the sixteen years she'd been the prime minister. All but two had been with Ellen for her last and current term as the Republic's leader. She had learned to listen to their views and thoughts as they gave her views she didn't have herself. So, as Ellen headed for her chair at the head of the table, she took in the reactions to the message of the Atlantic Federation. The mutterings did suggest strongly that the message's contents were ill-received. Some were mutteringly more angrily than others about what "crap" the "Atlantic Federation" sent.

As Ellen reached the head of the table, her secretary of state, Mark Lund, who was her right-hand man, approached her. Since its beginning, he had been with Ellen's cabinet and a trusted friend of hers that she was glad to have at times like this. Lund told her that the message from the Atlantic Federation was being taken as more than a normal insult. Ellen had figured that, but Lund was giving the feel of the room as he normally did for her. The two were talking when Ellen's secretary of defense came up and joined the conversation. The Republic's secretary of defense was a woman named Nicole Grace, who was not what one would call a "city girl," but a country gal. She, like Lund, had been with Ellen from the start of her leading the Republic. Grace added her view to Lund's, which she was disgusted by what the Alliance had sent to them.

Both of them did mention that elements of the message from the Atlantic Federation had been leaked to the public. That explained some of the things Ellen had seen on her way here with the citizens with panicked expressions on their faces. There was spreading panic as the leaks of the message. How the contents of the message had gotten out was unknown at the moment, there were several different possibilities of how it could've happened. Yet, that issue would have to be seen to later as there were more pressing matters to attend to. The responses to the Atlantic Federation's message needed to be set in motion as soon as possible. So, Ellen called all the members of her executive cabinet to order and to be seated before she took her own chair at the head of the table. "Now that we are all here and settled," Ellen stated, "we can get to the 'message' the Atlantic Federation has sent us on behalf of the Earth Alliance."

There was muttering of agreement before Mark Lund stood up, a page in hand which all had copies of, and he began reading. "The message from the Atlantic Federation is as follows:

To the Republic of East Asia:

This is to be seen as a final warning to your nation. The Republic of East Asia, which claims membership and to ally itself with the group calling itself the Human Federation, is being called upon to make a decision. The show of inaction by the group known as the Human Federation has shown said organization to have no proper interest for the human species. With that being the case, the Federation's actions are unacceptable. As a result, the governing body of the Earth Alliance, by unanimous vote, has denounced the organization as an official faction. Such is seen as effectively the same as the former United Nations body making the decision. Thus, your claim to membership is void by the group's denouncement, and the Republic is a nation of Earth.

And so, regarding the Republic of East Asia's inaction, as a nation of Earth, you have not considered the state in which the world is in. You have abandoned your responsibilities as a nation of Earth, showing concern for your own security and peace rather than the world's as a whole. Furthermore, the Republic has refused multiple requests for aid, support, and cooperation with the other nations of Earth. Therefore, on behalf of all signatory member states of the Earth Alliance, demands the following of the Republic of East Asia:

The immediate mass resignation of the current governing body of the Republic, relinquishing all its political and executive authority.

The total disarmament and dissolution of all its military forces.

Submit to inspections by Alliance assembly representatives in the governmental procedures of your nation

Should these three demands not be met in forty-eight hours, the Earth Alliance will conclude the Republic to be supporters of ZAFT and the PLANTs. And therefore be treated as enemies to be met with force to preserve Earth's safety against mankind's enemy.

That is the top page of the message, the following pages are suggestions," Lund finished, then sat down.

There had been quiet while the message had been read, but the moment Lund sat down, muttering started and rose in volume. The words may not have been easy to tell what they were, but the tone in which it was said clearly expressed anger to the message's contents. Ellen was disgusted by what the Atlantic Federation had said in their message. That they would openly denounce the Human Federation yet not do it publicly yet. They were on a slippery slope, and they were skating down that slope without thought of what waited for them at the bottom of it. The Alliance knew that denouncing the Federation would do nothing to help them, it was a poor justification to use. Ellen had wondered what kind of excuse the Alliance would eventually use to attack the Federation, but this was poorer than she had expected. Ellen was drawn back to the present as outcries began coming. "This is preposterous," cried a cabinet member, "do they really think such threats would sway the Republic to suddenly do whatever the Alliance commands?!"

"Are we even sure that this message is even from the Alliance as it claims and not just the Atlantic Federation using political pressure as they do," said another. "They threaten others in their methods of bullying often enough for this not to be new."

Angry mutterings and arguments began between some of the cabinet members. The order in the room fell into chaos which was the last thing needed in this situation. And while Ellen figured that the message would rile up many, but not to this extent. So, Ellen glanced over to Lund and nodded at him, signaling him to get things back in order. Lund stood again, "ENOUGH, THIS CABINET WILL HAVE ORDER," he shouted.

All in the room went quiet and looked to the head of the table where Ellen Blass got to her feet. "Whether or not this message is from the Earth Alliance or just the Atlantic Federation does not matter under the standing circumstances." Ellen picked up the page with the disgusting nonsense, "The message being sent is clear, enough of those within the Alliance is no longer going to accept the stance of neutrality that we along with the other member nations have upheld to the present."

Nicole agreed with Ellen and the view she had just stated. The Alliance was insulting the Republic and the Federation itself more openly than they had done before now. "Indeed Prime Minister, with the Alliance losin Panama, them varmints 'll be desperate to get their hands on a mass driver to reestablish their supply line to space and their Lunar base for their war." Nicole's rural draw stood out as she spoke, "ZAFT's strikin Panama was a wise decision on their part, but then that puts the pressure on us to deal with those no-good varmints in the Alliance." Nicole shook her head, "That they go and blatantly insult our citizens who are Coordinators with sayin 'mankind's enemy' like them in Blue Cosmos is worse than a slap when one is down."

While what Ellen's friend Nicole had said was completely true, it wasn't the point of the meeting. This meeting was to agree upon a fitting response for the Alliance's message. "Whether ZAFT meant for this to occur or not is irrelevant," Ellen said, drawing attention back to herself. "The facts are that an Alliance force will be coming to the Republic, and it will not be upon friendly terms." She put the page she had down, "These demands being made of us are unacceptable. If the Alliance believes such threats are all it takes to intimidate us, they will learn how wrong they are. We will not cave in to their demands, we will not throw away our standards just because some of their leaders say that we are wrong, and they're right!" As Ellen continued, gestures of agreement and support to the counters to the Alliance's threat came from those around the conference table. "Most of all, we will not cower before the Earth Alliance, we will stand up and show them they aren't superior or right in forcing their views on others."

There were shouts of agreement to Ellen's answer to the Earth Alliance's threat/ultimatum. Order was restored quickly by Lund, and the vote for the response began, "All those in favor of rejecting the demands from the Earth Alliance," stated Lund.

All present raised their hands, and when asked if any were opposed, none spoke up. Ellen nodded at the results, proud of the men and women that made up her cabinet. They all cared about the Republic and its citizens more than themselves and their safety. "Very well then, let us discuss what will need to be done going forward in order protect the welfare of our citizens." The discussion turned to the need for evacuation of the citizens that were in Shira and other cities in the Republic that was close to the ocean. As the discussion went on, it was clear that dark and hard times were coming because of the war between the Earth Alliance and ZAFT for those who didn't wish for any involvement.

There were large bunkers underground further inland within the Republic that were built for emergencies. The evacuation orders were broadcasted to the public, accompanied by a summary of the Alliance potentially attacking the Republic. While there was still panic with the citizens, the organized evacuation helped keep chaos from exploding. Ellen, her cabinet, and the Republic's elected congress kept charge and had things moving as smoothly as possible. They were helped by Federation military forces even as they prepared for the looming attack.

During the evacuation, Ellen caught sight of citizens running for safety. Mothers dragged their children along the routes designated for the mass evacuations. The worry was plain on the faces that Ellen would catch glimpses of. It was understandable, the Republic hadn't faced a threat as it was now before at any point during this war. The Alliance's war had been ongoing for so long, the Federation's involvement was more likely the longer it did. But with, the forced involvement was still a horrible thing for the Federation's leaders and its citizens. But what hit Ellen them most was the scenes of a parent who was part of the Republic's defenders bidding farewell to their families. Those individuals were fulfilling their duties, and yet such required them to leave their families with the potential of not coming back.

By the time evening came, evacuations were going as planned and on schedule with the timetable the Alliance had given. The last flight was coming into land before any transport would be denied until the issue with the Alliance was settled. Tyler was looking out at Shira on the aircraft while the plane was starting its final approach. The Republic's capital city was close to empty, telling him that it was being evacuated. Tyler expected his mother and those that worked with her would have decided to get the people away from likely combat areas. And it still hurt to see the place that Tyler considered as home as it was. Shira had always been a beautiful place, people came from near and far to visit. It did say that the Alliance had given some sort of message to say they were coming, which he expected.

The moment Tyler and Lisa exited the aircraft, they both could feel the tense air. Soldiers were waiting for them and saluted, which both returned as they were guided towards the tram station. The journey to the station was silent, the city empty and eerily quiet which didn't sit well with Tyler. Shira was normally alive with the bustling night life it had, and it felt odd for it to be absent. It seemed a long trip from Shira to the Republic's military command center, longer than normal in Tyler's mind. And the tense air was getting worse the closer both he and Lisa got to the command center. The only other time Tyler had felt such a tense air was when the announcement of the Bloody Valentine was made. Tyler was left to wonder what the Alliance had said in a message to get such a reaction from all. The messages that came before which Tyler had seen had been implying bad things would happen if they were ignored. However, none of them got the serious reaction Tyler saw from the soldiers.

Upon arrival at the command center, Tyler instantly noticed it was abuzz with activity and focused on their task. As Tyler studied the personnel, he could see they were rushing about with clear worry or borderline panic. Seeing that concerned Tyler as it said things were potentially worse than he feared they would be. There had been preparation before now for the possibility of attack from both ZAFT and OMNI. But tensions had never gotten to what it was now. Yet, by what he saw, the Republic's Federation's military forces were fully mobilizing, which hadn't happened during the war itself.

Both Lisa and Tyler were told to report to General Maxwell, who was currently in the main command room. That General Maxwell was in the main command room said things were more serious than either had feared. The two headed for the room, observing the tense air with which all were working. After entering the large room, Tyler took in the scene and wasn't encouraged. Every console and station had someone at it, which was unusual, all working intently. The large displays on the side walls showed maps of the shoreline that faced the Pacific Ocean. Tyler could see the dots marked were the hidden automated defense the Republic had to work with. Other screens displayed data on the ships which being readied to go to battle. The other data that Tyler got glimpses of were the fighter squadrons being prepared for battle.

Tyler spotted General Maxwell at the main tactical holo-table, looking over the displayed data. There were those Tyler knew as Maxwell's commander officers who were normally delegated to. While Tyler didn't know them as well as Maxwell, if the General trusted them, so too would Tyler. So, Tyler and Lisa walked up to the table and saluted, "Commander McGregor, Lieutenant Malto," Tyler stated, "Reporting for duty, sir."

Maxwell glanced up and saw the two standing there and saluting. While a pilot of McGregor's caliber would be more than welcome at this time, Maxwell just wished it wasn't needed. With the Alliance stating point-blank the Republic was to surrender or prepare to fight, all defending forces were on high alert. Maxwell had even called upon all the reserve soldiers for the crisis the nation was facing, though he had been hesitant. Intelligence had reported a sizable OMNI force already heading towards the Republic, yet no specific details on the fleet's composition. That a fleet was confirmed making its way toward the Republic was being taken as the Alliance wasn't just threatening as they had before but intended to force the issue. Maxwell had hoped he wouldn't have to oversee the defense of the Republic from invaders during his military service, but such had been wishful thinking.

Specially skilled soldiers had been coming in when the call for shoring up the Republic's defenses had been given. It was a show of solidarity for the Federation's military, and though expected, it was still comforting so many would rally for a just cause. And the rumor of McGregor and another showing up had come to Maxwell, and he had hoped it was true. McGregor was more than a special skilled soldier, he was both a licensed pilot and a SOLAS operative. So, Maxwell returned the salute, "I heard you were on your way, good to have you both here," he greeted. "No doubt that you have gotten the impression of what's going on currently?"

Tyler would have to be blind to have missed the feel in the air and what it had to be coming from. Tyler was not happy to have been right that OMNI would send a force to attack the Republic. And while ZAFT was lowering their standards lately, they hadn't reached the level the Alliance was at yet, but it was yet another sign of this war getting worse. Tyler feared ZAFT would soon reach the same disgusting level with its direction. Thus, the Federation would have been drawn into the war eventually, whether by the Alliance or ZAFT. So, Tyler nodded, "Indeed, sir," he replied, "Dare I ask what the Alliance has gone and done to have everyone on edge like this? Or should I assume their normal behavior is being lowered further than expected and they are more than prodding us?"

Maxwell sighed as McGregor had said the point better than most had cursed to say. The message that had been forwarded from the governing body had been clear enough. The intelligence reports had only given details upon the Alliance's dedication to their cause. While not an official declaration of war, the message and the actions to follow may have well been. And it would be easier for McGregor to read the message to understand the danger. So, Maxwell picked up a page and handed it to Tyler, "See for yourself."

Tyler took the page and began scanning it over to see what the fuss was about. The opening line lit anger in him instantly, the term "final warning" was beyond foolish and ridiculous. The Alliance had been trying for years to get the help of the Federation and had been rightfully denied. Their leaders should know they would have no success in swaying any of the member nations and likely did. Tyler's anger grew at reading about the Alliance denouncing the Human Federation's existence. They had no authority to do such a thing, it would take representatives from all three factions coming to a majority agreement even to consider that officially. And the Alliance knew that fact, so their statement more stated they no longer saw a reason to observe the international procedure due to it being inconvenient for them. To Tyler, that implied that enough of the Alliance's leaders were agreeable enough to dismiss long-standing laws.

The second paragraph was just as ridiculous and infuriating as the first. The Alliance's claim that the Republic had "abandoned" their responsibilities was their way of saying it wasn't helping them. The Federation had no responsibility to assist the Earth Alliance in their war as they insisted it was for all on Earth. It had been made perfectly clear to the Alliance even if they didn't like the point that the Federation was independent of their vendettas. While the member nations were nations of Earth, that in no way meant they had to take part in the violence OMNI did. The standing had been stated in the form of the colonies having been seen once as part of the human family, the extended part yes, but still a part of the species. Some in the Alliance had violently denounced the view and screeched its wrongness to any that would listen, and that group had been growing. Yet, in the end, the refusal of aiding in any way the Alliance was a mere statement of the Alliance's frustrations of their denial.

The demands listed fueled Tyler's anger and drove it close to fury, but he prevented that transition. Tyler knew his mother, her cabinet, and the elected legislature would never agree to resign or disband under the threat of violent responses. Ellen Blass didn't buckle under pressure period, end of story, and she had displayed that. If anything, then she rose to the challenge and worked to overcome it instead of shrinking or struggling under pressure. The disarmament demand was a no-go as it was a part of the Federation's military, a much larger organization that stood together. And the Federation's Military wouldn't back down to a mere threat, let alone the potential declaration of war the Alliance was implying. Then perhaps it was the final demand that disgusted Tyler the most out of the three. It may, at face value, seem like a simple thing, having others inspect the governing body's work and to act as "checks and balances." But in reality, it was the Alliance sending those who would overseers and make sure the government was tailored as Alliance leadership wanted, not as it could work best. It was controlled from the shadows, making the Republic a puppet government they had in their pocket.

So, the message's conclusion that gave the timetable really gave the defenders a set time to prepare. The Alliance's statement that the Republic would be seen as an enemy should their demands not be met was nothing more than an excuse to justify. And even if Tyler expected an excuse from the Alliance, this was one of the lamer ones they could've used. But they had never been that creative, so expecting any good excuse from them was doomed with a failed result. And now, the preparations of the defending forces made complete sense, even the focused air with the timetable Tyler had read about. Then, if it was a final slap or insult, the reference of "mankind's enemy" echoed Blue Cosmos. It was a show that the Alliance was being heavily influenced by the terrorist organization more than in previous times.

Lisa had been watching Tyler as he read the page he was given, and she was worried as anger appeared on his face, and it grew as he kept reading. When Tyler was done, he passed the paper to her, and she looked it over. She was horrified at the contents as it was more than just an urge or even an insult. It was as close to an official declaration of war as could be made against the Federation. And by the message, the Alliance made it clear they would attack this time and likely wouldn't hesitate to continue doing so with the other member nations. Lisa glanced at Tyler, who was still showing anger as he faced General Maxwell, "How long ago did that 'message' get sent to us," he queried.

As the message had come earlier that morning, the time window had been started when the message had been received. And all evacuations and defensive preparations were on track and scheduled to be done before the window closed. At the current speed estimated by intelligence, OMNI's fleet would arrive at the window's close. They would come into range of the defenses when the Republic was essentially ready. Still, Maxwell frowned at the question, "Approximately fifteen hours ago."

While that still left more than half the stated time, Tyler didn't trust the Alliance to keep to their stated time frame. But there was a lot to do within the remaining thirty-three hours the time window stated there was to be. The Alliance was through playing nice and would do what they wanted to get what they desired. This event was long in coming, the Alliance had never liked the Federation not helping them in their war against ZAFT. The Alliance had also wanted to bring down the same authoritarian reign they had over their own territories. And Tyler didn't doubt Blue Cosmos members would enjoy terrorizing the Federation's citizens as they had wished to do. The Alliance protected such individuals and looked the other way with their horrible actions or encouraged the practices. Then, many in the Alliance and most in OMNI wanted to get their hands on Federation tech to use as they saw fit. OMNI would be more than happy to use Federation stealth technology to attack the PLANTs, among other places.

Maxwell could see McGregor saw some of the Republic's problems right now. So, he continued, "However, evacuations of the citizens further inland have already started and are progressing well right now. With the governing personnel working as they have a gift to do, those should be finished by the time that the deadline comes."

That sounded right to Tyler, it was what his mother would do the moment after she and the rest of the governing body rejected the demands of the Alliance. His mother had always put the safety of the Republic's citizens first, which was one of the reasons she and her cabinet kept being elected for their fourth term. The people of the Republic knew what they got with Ellen, and they were quite content with how she ran things. Tyler knew his mother was stubborn, it was where he had acquired and learned the quality himself. It was why Ellen had the nickname the "Dragon of the Republic," which the Alliance and even the PLANTs referred to her as. So, the Alliance should have known that demand for surrender would be rejected straight out. Thus, the message was more along the lines of a declaration of war than a warning and was an opportunity to embarrass the Republic. Tyler focused on Maxwell, "There is no time to waste then," he stated, "What can we do to help, sir?"

McGregor was right that there was no time to waste, Maxwell wouldn't deny that. So, Maxwell saw blunt, "Your orders are to go over to Teswa R&D, both of you have been selected as licensed pilots to use recently developed mobile suits. Make your preparation and head to the complex and do so in a timely manner. While we may have more than half the time with thirty-three hours left, we need the time."

Tyler and Lisa acknowledged their orders and left the room to carry them out. Lisa insisted that they get a meal before heading out to Teswa, which Tyler begrudgingly agreed to. They stopped by the cafeteria to get the meal and ate with little conversation. After the meal, they headed for the tram that would take them to Teswa. On the tram ride, Tyler took stock of what the Republic had to defend itself against the coming invaders. Tyler was fairly sure OMNI would strike Shira first as it was a control center for the Republic. Plus, it would be the easiest place to make landfall and move inland from there. It came from the Republic's shoreline, having become made of cliffs over time and dense jungle shortly beyond them. It resulted from the forestry and environmental restoration done after the Reconstruction War.

But terrain wouldn't stop the Alliance in their goals, only slow them down somewhat. The major goals, of course, were the Teswa R&D complex and the mass driver Shen Lóng. The Alliance hadn't admitted the point out loud, but it was as clear as if they had done so. The only way the Alliance would accept the truth would be if they were beaten back with force. The shoreline guns are what OMNI faced first, but that wouldn't deter them Tyler was sure of that. Those defensive guns were made up of three large cannon-like guns and many turrets. Inland, missile launchers could pop up on command and gatling interception turrets. None of the guns were visible most of the time as they were stored underground. The three "Grandous" 300cm high-energy beam double barrel cannons could rotate within a 180-degree range and were set on the shoreline of Shira. They were augmented by the "Blarin" duel barrel turrets that were less powerful than the Grandous but still pack a punch. Last but not least, in the shoreline defense, M15 "Lapua" 60cm triple cannon, and there are quite a few of them in between the larger guns. Then as Tyler understood it, for inland defense systems, there was the new deflection field emitter networks strategically. The deflection system was based on the Lightwave Barrier that OMNI invented for Artemis. However, it had been improved from what OMNI had used by Teswa and built over the last year. The networks were placed around the areas of importance like the mass driver, the Teswa complex, and the bunkers for the citizens.

Even with all of those fixed defenses, that was considered before the defending forces made up of vehicles and fighters. Tyler bet that the Alliance didn't see a reason to be concerned with Federation forces anymore with their new mobile suits. But Tyler figured that this upcoming battle would reveal that the Federation had mobile suits themselves. Fighters could transform into mobile suits, they need just hadn't come up until now. And Federation pilots had much more experience using a mobile suit than OMNI pilots. The experience made a difference in combat, Tyler would swear to that with his military service. And in this, Tyler knew the pilots defending the Republic would protect the nation or die trying. Thus, OMNI would be in for a nasty surprise that they were too blind to see and try to prepare for.

Until this point, OMNI nor ZAFT had considered prodding the Federation, let alone attacking a member nation. It came from the knowledge that attacking one meant there would be serious unavoidable consequences they would face. That fact had kept the Federation out of the war for more than five years alongside the treaties in place. The Federation's military had made sure to hold parties responsible for violations. Tyler wondered if the Alliance had been avoiding taking on both other factions simultaneously before now, so why do so now? And while Tyler was sure some in the Alliance's leadership was missing some important marbles they should have, he didn't think it would be this bad.

Lisa could tell Tyler was seriously thinking about the battle looming for the Republic and what was going into it. She couldn't blame him, the Republic was his home, the place he had grown up around, to see it coming under attack was painful. As she considered the results of the Alliances coming actions, it was foolish for them to do what they were. OMNI was doing poorly against ZAFT right now, and yet, they were about to pick a fight with the faction they weren't at war with. But with the loss of Panama, the Alliance had seemingly lost all of its sensibility and any view of logic. Thus, the Alliance was trying to take control of as much of Earth as possible. The Alliance's direction would cost them any advantage they could potentially have against ZAFT. The Federation wouldn't fold or back down from the Alliance and would stand against them. "I supposed coming back here to what we did must irk you," Lisa said.

Tyler glanced at Lisa, "Hell yeah, I'm irked," he replied. "A bunch of idiotic fools that heed terrorists are coming using force to take what they want from its proper owners. And they think there is nothing wrong with what they are going to do."

Lisa had no response to that as it was a feeling she shared even if the Republic wasn't the place she claimed as home. The ride was around an hour and a half, as the tram system was running on less power than it normally would. Tyler knew the output of the Republic's power grid was being redirected to the defensive equipment, which left less for non-essential systems. The two arrived at Teswa's station, and they found the security was tighter than normal. With protocol locking down things, it was completely understandable. It took double the time it would usually take to get through the security checkpoint. Once inside the complex, Tyler and Lisa noticed that the command center was abuzz with activity. Tyler figured whatever had been told to Teswa from the military command, it had driven up the stress levels.

A soldier quickly came up to the two and asked them what they were there to do. Tyler told them about the orders they had received from General Maxwell. The soldier nodded and escorted them to the mobile suit development floor. Tyler instantly spotted Carlos, who was delegating tasks to others. The sight of mobile suits, including the Aurora, were undergoing adjustments. That strongly suggested to Tyler the mobile suits would be deployed in the coming battle. And the glimpses that Tyler got of some of the other mobile suits while he and Lisa were being escorted had him wondering how much OMNI's project result had been applied and improved. The units that Tyler got glances of were all "Gundam-types," much as the Shadow and OMNI's prototypes had brought about. The deployment of Gundam-types with competent pilots made a difference, recent history made that crystal clear.

Their escort brought them to Carlos, who was finishing his task handout when they came up to him. Carlos had been delegating the needed tasks prioritizing what needed to be done as soon as possible. Battle was less than thirty-two hours away, and there were still things that needed to be done for the mobile suits to be readied. Pilots were already going to be sent for the seven models Teswa had built in the last few months. Specific unit to pilot assignments hadn't been determined, but that would come later. Only three out of the six pilots stated from the Republic military command were coming. From what Carlos understood, those looking for a final pilot weren't having a great deal of luck yet. Communications from military command stated six "licensed" pilots were on their way, which had come hours ago.

Yet, just as he handed out the last assignment, Carlos noticed a group coming up to him. The group's lead was one of the security personnel, followed by none other than Tyler and the woman who had been with him the last time. "Tyler, Lieutenant Malto," Carlos greeted, "I wasn't expecting you two would be some of the pilots we'd get." Carlos paused as Tyler being here gave a little cause for hope. Tyler was among the top pilots the Federation had, easily in the top ten, though Carlos couldn't say what "position" his young friend may have in that ten. "Perhaps, there is some cause for hope with this looming battle not being as horrible as it could be. Even better than being told there would be licensed pilots were coming for the units that we have been working on."

That was news to Tyler that licensed pilots would be using what Teswa had produced. Yes, he and Lisa had licensed pilots Tyler a tad longer than Lisa had been by conversations between him and her had said. Licensed pilots were not entirely rare, but they weren't very common either, so to have so many in the same place was odd. It said how serious the situation was, the battle required so many specialized and skilled pilots to vee in the same place at the same time. So, Tyler nodded, "I hope us coming is cause for optimism, Carlos," Tyler replied. "With trouble coming, the Republic needs as much good going for it as it can get." Tyler shook his head and focused back on the task at hand, "But on to standing matters, Carlos. We've been told that you and those here who have finished recently are ready for use in the upcoming battle, and we are to pilot two of them at least. With that said, what do you got for us, Carlos?"

Carlos could hear the serious tone in his friend's voice, meaning he knew what was at stake. OMNI coming to the Republic was not for talks, it was for battle there was no longer a question about that. But with Tyler here, he would get his request of working with the Aurora as he had asked the last time. So, Carlos smiled, "Well, for you, Tyler, you'll get your wish since you will be assigned to the Aurora," he stated. As for Tyler's companion, Lieutenant Malto could choose from the remaining two of the Aircraft Z series or the remaining Ground runner X series.

Out of the three licensed pilots already here before Tyler and Miss Malto arrived, they had chosen both the Aqua Y series units and one of the ground runner units. Thus, Carlos turned to Lisa, "For you, Lieutenant Malto, you have a few options to pick from that haven't already been assigned. The other two units from the Aircraft Z series are still available as well as one unit for a different series."

Tyler would have jumped for joy at being told he would get to pilot the Aurora if the situation wasn't as serious as it was currently. Plus, Tyler knew he was to talk things easy on himself with his health still not at a hundred percent yet. However, he looked forward to putting the mobile through its paces and seeing what the machine could do. But Tyler was curious about the other "options" that Carlos mentioned Lisa had to pick from. Tyler had always been fascinated by what those at Teswa could create, having tested some of their inventions. Carlos had said the Aurora was part of a series, meaning there were other units that Tyler hadn't seen. But different potential Gundam-type series certainly made Tyler interested in knowing more about them. On the other hand, Lisa merely gestured to Carlos to show what Teswa had to offer for her to use. If the units were anything like the one Tyler was getting, that would help on the future battlefield. It wasn't the most surprising that Teswa made more custom units besides the Aurora, though there were other series. And with OMNI coming to take over, those defending would need any advantage or help they could get to prevent that.

Carlos got the hint the gesture was giving and led the two to the second unit of the Aircraft Z series, which was the HFS-Z151 Athena. It had been designed with not just carrying a payload, unlike the Aurora, but for swarming tactics and countering the same. And once the three came to be in front of the mobile suit, both Tyler and Lisa just stared at the machine. Tyler could see that it was slightly shorter than the Aurora and had more of a head modeled like the Strike's. However, the torso section looked like something between the Duel and the Justice rather than the others of OMNI's prototypes. Tyler noted the unit was gray, just as OMNI's units were active without phase shift armor. However, the real difference between the unit and others was its backpack that also wrapped around the shoulders of the machine. Parts on the backpack part over the shoulders appeared to be some kind of targeting scopes. From what Tyler could see, the backpack system was around the shoulders with wing apparatuses on hinges connected two-thirds of the way up the wings with boosters built into the wings. Then on the backpack, two cannons that had dual barrels positioned above and behind the head of the suit.

Carlos gestured to the unit they were in front of, "This is the HFS-Z151 Athena," he began. "It was developed for swarming enemies and also countering the same. The cockpit is standard other than the seat lowering into it equipped with the new restraint system that works with the normal pilot suit. Like all the Aircraft Z series, the suit can do atmospheric descent and ascent on its own. The power plant for this unit is a new compact battery system with two batteries synced to work together. The plant has an experimental recharge function slow as it is, but then it is being fine-tuned still." Tyler was impressed with what Carlos was saying the machine before them had to work with. Carlos continued, "It has the new phase shift armor the Aurora does along with the Phantom stealth system. The other system in common with the Aurora is the HiMAM system for aerial combat. However, it has a feature that the Aurora doesn't: a grapple carrying system. The carry system is usable in the Athena's flight mode, allowing it to lift and carry another machine or payload and deliver it to the battlefield."

Neither Tyler nor Lisa said anything as Carlos gave a rundown of the Athena. The new phase shift armor had been explained with the Aurora's sell, as had the HiMAM and Phantom Stealth systems. However, the power plant and the grapple carry system were new, and Tyler would applaud the work they were said to be able to do. The carrying system had potential in Tyler's mind, payload delivery capability could change the flow of a fight. "Moving on to armaments," Carlos kept going, "there is a pair of CIWS guns on both sides the head codenamed 'Sting Ray' loaded with anti-phase shift rounds standard. Next, we have the MA-M25 'Halzer' beam lance holstered on the back skirt, and it collapses down into a third its length when it's not in use. We have the M2M3 75mm machine guns mounted on the undersides of the forearms. And the last of the universal fixed weapons would be the two 'Gauss' 90mm twin railguns, and they pack a serious punch with the impact they have. Moving onto the flight mode only armaments, you've got a pair of M2 Vulcan guns mounted on the long nose section that's on the backpack. Then on the wing booster sections, there are two missile swarm pods named 'Locus.' They're loaded with eight missiles each pod, so more bang for your buck as the saying goes."

Lisa and Tyler were both impressed by the list of fixed armaments the Athena had to work with. The list was longer as Carlos had talked about fixed armaments and said that specifically. And while Tyler knew Carlos's sales pitch was more for Lisa than him, Tyler was always interested in hearing about what Teswa was producing. "For its optional armaments," Carlos continued, "there is two "Spatter-fire" 85mm rapid-fire railgun rifles. If you recall what the Shadow's Kale set had, it works much the same way but is of a higher caliber. The rifles are usable in both flight mode and mobile suit mode, in flight mode, they are held by the hands and turned sideways." Carlos paused and looked Lisa in the eye, "This is an option for you can choose from to work with the looming fight."

Unbeknownst to the three in front of the mobile suit, another had nearby listening to the "sales pitch." The man listening had blonde short to medium length hair and green eyes, standing at almost six feet. His name was Graham Aker, and he had the charisma that most would never obtain, yet he tended to be what most would say was easy-going. He had come here after volunteering to help with the looming fight. Graham had become tired of just sitting around and watching the war go on and get worse by the day. And machine's rundown Graham had heard, the mobile suits made here were even better than what the Integrated Design Bureau came out with. Even if helping in the coming battle would have Graham on the Federation's side, he felt it was right. The Federation wouldn't attack the PLANTs, which Graham swore he would protect its people. So, the military leaders of the Republic had been more than willing for Graham to help and pilot a mobile suit in defense of the Republic.

Then Graham got to see Tyler McGregor again, and the kid was different than most Graham ever met. He'd liked him, Tyler may be serious when needed, but he had a heck of a sense of humor which Graham appreciated. Tyler had come by the place Graham had been given to live a couple of times, and talking with him had been a highlight for him. Plus, the Republic had become a second home to Graham, so he wouldn't see it attacked by invaders. No, he would oust any that would try to invade this wonderful nation, even should it be by ZAFT. This nation and its people had welcomed him when he had no place to go, and he would repay that kindness. And from the last line that had been said, there were other mobile suits to be assigned. Graham could use one to work with it to force OMNI back and leave this nation alone. It didn't matter if what was being said about OMNI having mobile suits now was true. He would still use every skill he had to make them regret attempting to take this nation from its people. So, Graham began walking forward, "I must say, quite a well-made machine, and I've seen some good ones before."

Tyler, Lisa, and Carlos turned to see Graham walking up to their group. Tyler was left to wonder what Graham was doing around Teswa. He'd met Graham more than a year ago, and it had been what some might say by mistakes. Tyler had come across Graham shortly after he'd finished his SOLAS training. And Tyler hadn't an idea who Graham was when they first met, it wasn't until the second meeting during a story Graham had been telling that Tyler had figured out the man's real identity. Tyler had been in shock when the facts came together, and he came to the conclusion Graham was ZAFT's ace of aces, their "Comet." Graham was nothing like his reputation as the Comet suggested, he was way too easy-going. And because of that, Tyler couldn't figure out what Graham was doing here with a fight looming. "While I don't doubt you have a reason for being here, Graham, even if it would make sense only to you," Tyler said. "Now isn't the time to be touring around, there's a serious situation building, so explain what you're doing after you introduce yourself. Not everyone knows who you are, especially on first meeting, much like I hadn't a clue on our initial encounter."

Graham looked at Tyler, knowing that he would be in a testy mood with the Republic in danger. And Graham did have a reason to be here at Teswa to pilot a mobile suit out to battle. But Tyler was amusing with people not knowing him, with what Graham had done during the early part of the war, most knew of him. As the ZAFT champion the Comet, Graham had fought to protect the PLANTs and had given inspiration for many stories that were told. Thus, Graham adopted an expression of mock shock, "Not heard of me? Tyler, you do come up with some good jokes from time to time. Why some say you have little sense of humor, I'll never know," Graham said, but then he paused. He saw the confused expressions on the other two people's faces. So, he then bowed to them both, "My apologies for my lack of manners, my name is Graham Aker."

The name wasn't familiar to either Lisa or Carlos, so it didn't help clarify anything for them. Tyler clearly knew who this Graham Aker was and how neither could say as Tyler had never mentioned him. Lisa watched as Tyler shook his head in minor irritation before pointing at Mr. Aker, "This guy here is a former ZAFT pilot," Tyler began. He still remembered the moment he'd figured out who Graham was and the unbelievable shock he felt. "And he isn't your run-of-the-mill pilot, not in any way, I assure you. Hard as it is to believe, and I know the feeling well, but he was one of the best ones if not still the best."

While Tyler was right in what he said, he wasn't saying it in reverence like many used to around him. Graham remembered what Tyler had questioned if he was the "comet" that ZAFT had fighting for them in the early part of the war. The expression on Tyler's face had been amusing as it had been pure shock which was so out of place for Tyler. Then Tyler was making compliments for Graham when he normally did not do such things. So, Graham chuckled, "Now Tyler, stop, you're embarrassing me," he replied. "Yes, it's true that I'm no regular pilot, but I just took the time to polish my skills along with my love of a challenge."

Graham's easy-going attitude was hard enough to deal with after knowing who he was. He was almost modest if not for him knowing he was good yet didn't tout it. Graham's personality was a "flavor" one had to get used to, Tyler was all too aware of that. It was his flare that Tyler wasn't the fondest of, something about it just annoyed Tyler, and he couldn't exactly say why. But now wasn't the time to vent frustration, there were more pressing matters. So, Tyler rolled his eyes at Graham before he turned his gaze to Carlos and Lisa, "You wouldn't think it of this guy, I assure you I know all too well," Tyler stated. "And if not what I learned from talking to Graham, I wouldn't believe it either. But this guy," Tyler gestured at Graham, who kept smiling, "is the pilot who's called "the Comet" as in ZAFT's Comet."

Lisa blinked at what Tyler had just said as she swore she couldn't have heard right. It had sounded like Tyler had said the man in front of them was ZAFT's ace of aces, their "comet," but that couldn't be. ZAFT's Comet had vanished more than two years ago, though ZAFT firmly stated "missing in action" when asked. The PLANTs and ZAFT took it hard when the Comet had vanished since they had been their hero. Since then, there had been no information on the Comet, so what were the chances they would pop up here and now? And yet, Tyler wasn't one to exaggerate about things without clearly stating that before getting into the subject. Thus, Lisa was glancing between Tyler and "Graham" as the point Tyler called him the Comet was sinking in. Her eyes widened as she understood Tyler was telling the truth as he knew it, "Hold on, you're saying that man," she questioned, pointing at Graham, "Is ZAFT's champion of champions, their ace of aces?"

Graham knew his efforts and escapades were still the stuff of myth and legend. He remembered when PLANT citizens would whisper tales of him protecting the colonies. For Graham, protecting the PLANTs had become a life mission, even with him being a Natural. Those who claimed all Coordinators needed to die just because of their genetic type had never made sense to him. All life was precious, so he had fought for the PLANTs and Earth as in his opinion they needed one another. Lanus had always said to Graham that he was a rare kind of man and that the human race needed heroes like him. So, Graham bowed to Lisa, "Indeed I am dear lady," he confirmed, "However, I prefer the title of ' defender of the people' personally as I work to be that."

Tyler wasn't interested in listening to Graham going off on a "fighting the good fight" or "being a hero" rant. Tyler had done that twice and had become annoyed with such as it was idealistic, and most of the time not how things worked in the world. Plus, time was of the essence, so there wasn't the opportunity to listen to war stories right now. There was a battle looming in soon enough, and that was the priority. So, Tyler exhaled before speaking, "Graham, what are you doing here," he asked with a serious tone, "We don't have the time for your stories right now, if you haven't noticed, a lot is going on."

Graham didn't blame Tyler for being blunt and to the point with OMNI coming to try and take the Republic from its people. His young friend's homeland was threatened, so his tenseness was completely understandable. But that was what Graham was here for, to help in this crisis and make sure the Republic didn't fall to the Alliance. Thus, Graham's smile disappeared, and a serious expression replaced it, "I'm not here to tell stories, Tyler." Graham shook his head, "I'm through sitting on the sidelines and being in so-called "retirement." I'm here taking up the mantle I had in this horrible war before coming to the Republic. I, Graham Aker, have come to defend those whose fight is just, those who are doing what they can to see a future that isn't dark. This now transcends which faction is right, for two of them have lost their way. I am here to become a hero of the people once again, not just for the PLANTs this time, but for the best of humanity. And to be what is needed, I will work with the Federation to save humanity from the hatred it has been infected with and being corrupted by."

Carlos had been listening to the conversation but had said nothing as it had gone on. If this man was who Tyler said he was, and there was little reason to doubt Carlos's young friend, then the seventh pilot was here even while waiting for the sixth. Arguably the best pilot seen to date was one the Republic could use to help in its defense. This Graham could likely use any of the new model mobile suits and make them more than effective on the battlefield. So, Carlos cleared his throat, "If you are who Tyler says you are," he started, "Then none here will say no to you offering help. The upcoming battle with OMNI will not be pretty, I fear, and we need any advantage we can get."

Tyler didn't have a good argument for Carlos's last sentence. One of Graham's skills was not to be refused when they volunteered to help out in a battle. So, Tyler nodded, "You are right, Carlos," he admitted. "With that in mind, why not show us what the other options are."

Carlos led the group to another dock with a mobile suit which Tyler assumed was a part of the same series that the Athena and the Aurora were. The machine was gray like the Athena had been, which would change when the phase shift was activated. It was the same approximate height as the Athena had been from feet to head. Yet, the head looked more like the Aegis's, where the Athena's had been like the Strike's. However, with the backpack system, it appeared that it would shift differently than the Athena would for its flight mode. The difference with this backpack system from the Athena's was it didn't go around the shoulders. There were wings on the backpack's sides which were made of two half wings with a hinge between them. The upper wing was half the size of the one below it, and the lower wing had a length from the elbow of the suit's arm down to just about the knee.

Tyler did spot two cannons that were behind the shoulders and would likely drop to be over the shoulders for use. There was another cannon barrel, bigger than the other two, along the center of the backpack. Tyler guessed the third weapon was part of the nose section for the suit's flight mode. And finally, Tyler saw a rifle in the suit's right hand, which was modeled after a compacted sniper rifle. Those were just the visible weapons that Tyler could spot, but he wouldn't doubt there were more. So, Tyler looked to Carlos, "Give us the rundown of this unit, Carlos," Tyler said.

Carlos nodded, "This is the HFS-Z127 Thanatos, an assault-type mobile suit like the others of the Aircraft Z series. Like the Athena, it's equipped with a compact duel synced battery with the recharging function." Carlos paused for a moment, "They were intended to have nuclear reactors, but there hasn't been the time to install such." He shook his head before he continued, "It also has PS-S armor as part of the suit's defense. The Thanatos has the systems that the Athena does like the HiMAMs, Phantom Stealth, and grapple carrying system. And finally, on the outside of the shoulders are the Wing Shields. They can add to the effectiveness of the HiMAMs and are coated with an anti-beam coating to be able to block incoming beams."

Carlos brought up the specs for the Thanatos on the datapad he had with him before he kept going. "In the area of armaments, the unit has a fair arsenal for both one-on-one combat as well as for fighting groups. First, the pair of 115mm 'Howles' railguns sits over the shoulders and are part of the backpack. Along the center of the backpack is the "Shano" plasma cannon, which has the highest firepower other than the optional rifle. You'll find two beam sabers stored in compartments along the outside of the forearms, they'll shoot out to the hands from there. The sabers can be combined much like the Aurora's can in their "dual corseque" configuration. There are CIWS guns in the head on either side just below the optical sensor cameras, which are M85 55mm and are loaded with anti-phase shift rounds. There also are MMS-GUA 'Spitfire' 65mm Vulcan guns, only usable in flight mode and are mounted in the nose section." Carlos stopped for a moment, "There is only one optional/handheld armament, which is the SR23 'Barret' 250mm long-ranged beam rifle. The weapon can also be used as a sniper rifle or a short to medium-range rifle as well."

Graham had to say the suit before him was quite the step up from GINNs and CGUEs. Of course, Graham hadn't been around mobile suits since he had vanished from the war. And the Thanatos would work for Graham better than the other he'd seen. Graham was not the pickiest when it came to the unit he used. So his decision was made, "I'll pilot this unit," Graham stated, "It will work nicely enough for me."

The other three turned and stared at Graham, having said he would take the Thanatos. Tyler was sure it wouldn't matter what mobile suit Graham picked, it would end the same. Graham's skills were so good that he could use an outdated machine, and he would more than likely win in a fight. So, that he would be piloting a Gundam-type would only make those he went against all the more doomed. Much like any of ZAFT's champions, they were in a different league than other pilots. Even special forces pilots would be challenged by any of the champions, let alone Graham. Thus, while OMNI losses would be bad with the defenders of the Republic going against them, it would be worse with Graham out there.

Carlos nodded, "That is fine, I wouldn't doubt you'll use the Thanatos well," he replied. "That leaves one other option for Lieutenant Malto to choose from." Carlos guided the three to the free unit from the ground runner series.

Once in front of the machine, Tyler scanned it over, taking in its features. The unit was clearly from a different series than the Aurora and the other two he'd seen. What stood out was for the feet of the machine, it looked to have three animalistic claws/talons instead of what was normal for mobile suits. There were claws behind the "wrists" that appeared to flip over the hands. The torso section appeared to be quite similar to the Freedom's, while the head was like the Strike's. The suit was shorter by a margin than the Athena and Thanatos. The backpack system was made up of two wing-like shroud structures, but Tyler saw no wings in the shrouds. There looked to be some sort of guns mounted on the backpack, but Tyler couldn't see them well enough to guess what they were. Attached to the shoulders' edge were what looked similar to the beam boomerang Tyler had seen with the Justice's file. Whether that meant what Tyler was seeing were beam boomerangs, he couldn't say. Tyler couldn't say what functions they served were with the flaps attached to the front of the shoulders. The robust beam rifle in the right hand looked around the same size as the Thanatos's had been but had a longer barrel.

Carlos cleared his throat, "Before you is the HFS-X115 Longinus mobile suits," he began, "which is a part of the Ground Runner X series. As the name implies, this unit is designed for ground combat, though it can be in the air for a period of time. Its alternative mode is a quadruped mode."

Graham thought for a moment as the word quadruped made him think about BuCUEs. It was a bulk of ZAFT's ground fighting force used on Earth. "Is this quadruped mode anything like a BuCUE," he asked.

Carlos nodded, "Yes, ZAFT's BuCUE was the foundational basis for the ground runner X series. However, it doesn't have treds on the "feet" as BuCUEs do, instead, it has claws and talons which have a better grip with the terrain." Carlos paused before returning to the previous subject, "Like all the new generation mobile suits, it has the new Sigma-type phase shift armor and the Phantom Stealth system. However, as with those with the ground runner series, they have our "Homura Deflection" system. For the Longinus, the emitters are built into the shield flaps on the shoulders which can spin and adjust for use in its alternative mode." Carlos paused, bringing up the system information for the Longinus, "It also has a new targeting system called the Sensory Neural Precision Extended Range Targeting or SNIPER-T for short. It is based on what the Shadow had but has been improved and made for even longer range use."

Carlos switched the data displayed over to the weapons the machine possessed. "The arsenal is a bit smaller than what the Aircraft Z series has on average, but it makes up for it in different ways. The fixed armaments include a pair of M2M3 45mm CIWS guns mounted in the upper torso. Next would be the MA-M979 "Tanzor" beam boomerang blades stored in sheaths built into the shoulders. They can be used much like the Justice's beam boomerangs that ZAFT produced, but the beam blade made by them is longer, but not as long as beam sabers tend to be, they are about two-thirds the length at most. They don't have to be thrown, they can be used as a close-quarters combat weapon as well. Lastly, there are two "Spitfire" 95mm gatling guns that are mounted to rails that are a part of the backpack system. They can be swung forward to be used in the suit mode of this unit. The backpack system can be used with the platform it has and the rails are attached to and swivel and fire while in its quadruped mode."

Carlos brought up the data on the rifle the Longinus had to work with before he continued, "Its single handheld weapon is the ranged beam rifle. It is called the "Morphious" and is 275mm in caliber, so more powerful than the Thanatos's rifle. It doesn't have a fast firing rate, but it has the longest range we can get effectively. The beam from the rifle is concentrated enough to penetrate armor at extreme distances. And while in quadruped mode, the rifle is connected to the backpack's platform so can swivel and have three-hundred-sixty degree coverage and use."

Lisa was impressed with what the unit in front of her was able to do. But by what she had heard, the Longinus was meant for ranged combat to be the most effective. Lisa would be the first to say that sniping was something she could do, but she wasn't too good at the skill. Thus, the Athena was the better option to go with rather than the Longinus. "While this unit is impressive," Lisa began, "Sniping isn't my forte, so I believe it would be better I use the Athena."

Carlos nodded, "Very well," he replied, "Then the pilot who is on their way will get to use the Longinus."

"Didn't you say there were other machines, just assigned already," Tyler asked.

Carlos turned to face Tyler, "Yes, the other Ground Runner machine, the X133 Atlas, was claimed by the first licensed pilot when they arrived. The two Aqua series were taken by the two licensed pilots who arrived before you. Those are the Y124 Cancer and the Y142 Leviathan, which have the specialty of a system that can blind sonar." Carlos took a deep breath, "We are working on the final adjustments, they will be done just before the battle is set to start if OMNI keeps their timeline."

Carlos walked off, leaving Lisa, Graham, and Tyler where they were. Lisa looked at Tyler, "You should get some sleep while there is the chance, it will help your health," she stated.

Tyler glowered before he sighed, "I suppose you have a valid point, even when I curse it," he replied. "Sadly, I know the rooms here those who work here use when they are working hard on a project."

Graham laughed, "No need to worry, Tyler," he spoke. "We will wake you before all the action starts."

Tyler's head fell, and he exhaled before he headed off to the closest room that could be used as a place to sleep. Once he got there, he dropped down to the cot he set up and became lost in his thoughts. While he didn't doubt the Gundam-types would help in defense of the Republic, he was still worried. Tyler knew the defenders, including himself, would do their utmost to protect the nation against OMNI. But not knowing the size of OMNI's force or what they would be using other than their new mass-production mobile suit model made things difficult. Tyler was pretty confident that the Republic's defenders would push OMNI back, but the question was how long it would take. The longer the battle went on, the more lives lost and the more damage to the Republic's cities there would be.

Meanwhile, OMNI's First Seaborne Fleet was making their way toward the Republic as per its mission orders. The fleet's flagship was the Spengler-class Lawdon was in the center of the fleet as it sailed forward. They were around halfway across the Pacific Ocean, with a little more than half the set time left for the Republic to surrender. The mood of the fleet overall was a tense somber one. It was the first time OMNI would directly go against the Federation during this war. All there really was on what they would face was guesses on previous battle records, which were not helpful.

The captain of the Lawdon was looking over the latest information that had been acquired on the Republic. The reply to the Alliance's message had been pretty much what was expected, they would not submit. According to the higher-ups, the ones who had taken charge had been amused with what reply they'd received. So, the First Fleet was to go and take the Republic by force to show the Federation they were serious. The captain was left to wonder if the ships, aircraft, mobile suits would be enough to overcome the Federation's military. There were just so many unknowns in the looming battle that little planning could be done effectively. But in reality, the captain avoided giving attention to the woman sitting on the bridge staring out the forward windows.

The woman in the chair next to the captain's own was close to five feet and three-quarters of a foot in height. She had neutral brown hair, unbound and straight, that went down to her waist. Her eyes were blue and fit her smooth pretty face that was framed by her hair. The woman was fit, no fat could be seen, and her figure was one that many women would love to have. She was wearing a black tank-top with a white lab coat over it and black dress pants. Her name was Mina Moss, a Natural-type human and a brilliant scientist that wouldn't normally be found on a military ship. If one just went by her appearance, she was in her prime and would be popular with most of the men on the ship to make passes with. By what the captain had been told by his officers, some had tried and had been hit with the results that matched the reputation the woman had. Such hadn't lasted long with what the woman had done to those who had made a pass at her.

The captain had looked up the file on the woman, Dr. Moss. The file had been quite the read and not for the best reasons. Mina Moss didn't have a nationality stated on the record, but it was assumed she was from the Atlantic Federation. She was known by name much like Director Azrael and others, which normally was a black mark. The captain had read that the woman was painted as close to the definition of tyrant without being one technically. She didn't take talkback from those around her, and she was more than willing to call out another's failures. That was all before the rumors about Mina Moss which were plentiful with what came out of the Lodonia Lab. The woman was supposed to run the place in a way that would make dictators and tyrants come to ask her for advice on how to run things. So, a fear of Dr. Moss had quickly come about, and she was avoided within hours. And the attempts made to talk to her had been met with cold and unsympathetic responses.

Dr. Moss was with the fleet by what orders the Lawdon's captain had received for two main reasons. First, she was to observe and report the fleet's performance likely to Azrael himself. Second, she was responsible for the three custom mobile suits and the pilots that came with them. Those pilots were girls who ranged in an age in their late teens to early twenties. In fact, Dr. Moss had said that no one was to touch those who came with her, which she called "her girls." There had already been one incident while Dr. Moss had been on the ship, it had started when one of the doctors had tried to do something to one of the girls. The captain hadn't heard what the doctor did, but in the end, it hadn't mattered. The ship doctor had gotten a scalpel in the shoulder, and they had said Dr. Moss had done it without hesitation. The woman had not denied it when confronted, she only said that the doctor had been interfering with things that were none of their concern. Dr. Moss had said she would aim for a more painful place should it happen again and to tell that to the rest of the crew.

At the moment, Dr. Moss was simply staring out the window, but in actuality, she was internally fuming at how the current situation was going. She'd been planning to do work at Ladonia like she normally did. It was her preference, she did the job of management and research at the lab while one of the few who could be around her and not sweat or cower in fear would work with clients. It had been the best arrangement the lab could ask for, her friend Lori Kall was a people person, whereas Mina was absolutely not. Mina's methods had control, and discipline had kept Lodonia in good working order. Other labs for the Enhanced Human Project that were being built were going to use the same mentality and format with its success. But things had changed a week ago, which she cursed as it had interrupted the smooth operation she ran.

Shortly after the news came in, Panama had been attacked by ZAFT and destroyed in the end, so too had the call. Mina couldn't care less about that, OMNI was at fault for underestimating their enemies. Yet, some of the lab's clients were part of the Alliance and funded the project. There had been calls for demonstrations before now, but Lori had gotten those to be pushed away as the project wasn't ready. Then came the call from one of the lab's big donors, who were listened to more than others with the funding they gave. Lori would have usually handled that, but the client had asked for Mina specifically, which was rare. Mina had been annoyed a client wanted to talk to her directly, but she had taken the call.

She'd found it to be Muruta Azrael that had been making the call. The man said he had an "opportunity" for her to "field test" the project's work and that he would love to see her work in action. Technically, the project had borne some fruit, but Mina would've liked a little more time to adjust things better. However, Azrael hadn't taken her reply as "no" and "go away" instead, he had said she could show off what she had. Her issue wasn't with the current director of Blue Cosmos exactly, the organization was one of the funders of the lab after all. No, what was bugging Mina Moss was that the enhanced human project she had been putting her life into over a decade now was likely being overseen by some of the fools back at the lab that was incompetent! Mina was of the mind it was better for her to manage things at the lab herself, there was no one that could do it as well as she could. However, there was nothing she could do about that issue right now, hopefully, those at the lab were doing business as usual.

The three girls here on the ship with her were some of her best candidates in the Enhanced Human Project. They were definitely the best performers thus far and were very obedient to Mina, who they saw as their mother. The problem was that the other group made up of three candidates of the project, who were decent scoring subjects taken out and now with Azrael. Those three biological CPUs, as some nicknamed them, were males and were under the supervision of one of Mina's subordinates. The said subordinate was one that Mina didn't have confidence in. They had a history of doing things sloppily or 'his way,' which was unacceptable to her. Now those three and their "handler" were on their way to the Orb Union, and it didn't sit well with her. And an unhappy and ticked-off Mina wasn't one that was in any way pleasant to be around at all!

The silence on the bridge was adding to Mina's frustrations, so she rose and made her way further into the ship to see her girls. The three girls had come into her possession eight years ago while Mina had been out viewing some testing of work she'd contributed to. They had been abandoned in a small town near the test site, huddling together. The girls had seemed lost, and they had quickly clung to her when she came across them. It had served her well in her work and really helped save a part of the Enhanced Human Project back at that time and several times since. She wasn't mean to the girls no, the three had shown potential beyond any of the other children that had come to the lab. They almost always performed beyond expectations, which was welcome in Mina's mind.

While traveling through the ship, Mina didn't miss crew members running away or ducking into another room as she was approaching. Where the severe avoidance would put some off, Mina found it nice as it was normal for her. Candidates would either run or go to the floor when she was nearby and would comply with any order given to them. And even a small bit of normalcy was appreciated right now with the mood Mina had. So, once she arrived in the room her girls had been given, she found all three of them. Mina had instructed them to say in the room and not interact with the crew after a ship doctor was foolish. They had orders from her that if anyone other than her came into the room, they would toss them out by whatever means was required. Currently, they were spread out in the sitting room, one on the single couch in the room, another in an armchair, and the last on the floor in front of the couch.

The young woman on the couch was lying across the whole length of the piece of furniture. She had a length or height of five and a half feet and was the tallest of the three as well as the oldest of the girls, being twenty years old or so. She had face-length orange hair that was wavy and complimented her deep blue eyes. Her name was Deborah Galiena, and she had an overall figure that was average, not too thin or too wide. She was wearing a black t-shirt and shirt with tight black long pants under the skirt. She had a red jacket over the black t-shirt. And currently, Deborah was reading a book, though she wasn't completely engrossed, it was still clear that she was listening to the activities of the other two girls. Deborah was the calm and collected one of the trio and was the 'big sister' figure for the bunch, being the oldest. She even was protective of the other two under almost all circumstances. Even at the times that Deborah snapped and lost it, she still protected her sisters, it just became far more violent, usually ending with those threatening her and her sisters being killed! But due to her normally calm demeanor, Deborah was the leader of the trio.

The girl that was on the floor in front of the couch was the youngest of the group, who had just turned eighteen a few weeks ago. Her name was Lafter Galiena, and she was a small margin shorter than Deborah and was a tad thin, but not unhealthily so. Lafter had light brown hair that was tied into two twin tails that framed her oval face and complimented her green eyes. She was wearing a tight pink tank-top with a white leather short jacket, denim shorts, along with white knee-socks and cowgirl boots. Lafter happily munched on sweets while lying on her stomach, waving her boots in the air. She looked at a book that Mina couldn't tell much about from where she stood at the doorway. Lafter was the cheerful one of the three, though she could be childish at times. A determined girl that didn't accept losing easily at all, so a good girl.

The last girl in the armchair was over five and a half feet but was shorter than Deborah. She had neck-length hair that was black and straight. Her neutral blue eyes were a common trait among the girls showing their relations to each other, accenting her oval face. Her name was Rossweisse Galiena, and she was the middle girl at the age of nineteen. Rossweisse was in a long-sleeve purple button-up shirt with tan dress pants. She was playing a handheld game and looked to be concentrating heavily on that. Although she had a temper and difficulty controlling it at times, she was doing well at controlling it in a place like this room.

Mina cleared her throat to gain the attention of the three, who in response looked up at her, "Good afternoon, my dears," she greeted.

Lafter reacted first, "Mama," she cried as she leaped up and rushed over to Mina and hugged her. Mina didn't mind the girls hugging her, it didn't feel horrid as it did with most children. Plus, it helped the girls' bond with her, which boosted their performance. It was the reward her star trio got regularly, they could do what they wished within reason.

Deborah sat up on the couch at hearing and seeing their mother in the room. Mina had been in a bad mood after leaving the lab, and it had only gotten worse the longer she was away from Lodonia. Deborah knew her mother preferred to oversee the lab's running, and she did a good job at keeping things running efficiently. Yes, candidates were scared of Mina, but that should be motivation to perform at their best if not more. "How nice for you to visit, Mother," she said in a caring tone. "You appeared to be in a worse mood when we got to this ship than after you said we would be traveling."

Mina waved a hand in dismissal, "Oh, I'm still displeased by how things have ended out," Mina stated in a pleasant toned voice. "Having to leave the three other candidates in the hands of a witless buffoon never has sat well with me." Mina gained a soft smile, thinking about how wonderful these girls were for her work and just how good they were. "Admittedly, those three boys aren't as wonderful as you girls are, yet I wouldn't leave any of you with anyone else. You are mine, and I would never trust another with you three. Nevertheless, there's been an amount of work put into those boys already, and it would be very irritating if that work were wasted." Mina turned to her 'middle daughter', "Rossweisse dear, would you please come over here," said Mina, then faced Deborah, "You as well, Deborah."

And three girls gathered around Mina, waiting for instructions from their mother. She always counted on them to help with her work, and she rewarded them for good performance. And after a task, Mina would tell them they could ask for anything they liked, words she didn't say to others. "Now listen up, all of you, I have a job coming up that you three are very well suited to accomplish, and I'm confident that you girls are up to doing the task as only you can. The job is to give the three mobile suits that came with us a full field test. There's the need for viable data with them to make adjustments that we at the lab haven't been able to do. Are my girls up to it?"

Lafter smiled broadly while Debora smiled, and Rossweisse nodded, "We'll do our best mother/mama/mom" they answered together, "You can count on us!"

Mina gained a genuine smile, "I knew I could count on you three, after all," she started leaving open the line she told these three often.

"We're your girls, mother/mama/mom," they finished the line.

Mina nodded, "That's absolutely right," she clapped her hands together, "And when you get back, you can tell me what you want for your rewards. As always, you complete the task and ask for what you wish. You three are special in that regard as you are the best I have, and so are my star girls."

A/N

And I'll leave off with this phase there and the battle will come in the next phase. Okay now on to the points I want to expand and elaborate on with this Phase. The first thing I want to point out has to do with the "cabinet meeting." The message from the "Alliance" did change for you readers that didn't notice from the original. I feel this version is more to the point and makes the Alliance look more "despicable" than in canon and my original version. The denouncement specifically is meant to show that the Alliance isn't going to follow the rules anymore. Next, as you readers noticed, I introduced other Gundam-types made by the Federation. Specs for them will be at the end of this to give some details about them, and there are some changes from the original version. Also, I made Graham's introduction a little different as I wanted to give some back story of how Tyler met the man.

Finally, for those who have and haven't read my original version of this story, let me discuss with you a bit about Mina Moss and the Galiena sisters. Mina is an original character of mine, one that I didn't base off of any other like I have with some in this tale. If you got the impression that she is "mean" and "unfeeling," then I got it right. The woman cares more about the Enhanced Human Project than pretty much anything else if it wasn't obvious. That point will be reiterated later on by others both as a good and bad thing, but that is her character. Mina isn't a people person if I didn't make that clear. The way she is around others with OMNI and with the candidates should show you what she is like. I will describe later why the project candidates fear Mina, there is a very good reason which I went into in the original version. Then we have the Galiena sisters, Deborah, Rossweisse, and Lafter. Should you want images of them, put those names in Gundam Wiki and you'll see the appearance basis I used, but ignore the character descriptions they aren't correct. They see Mina as their mother and Deborah will talk about how that happened in later Phases. They are also the project's stars and best show of what the work can do.

In conclusion, this phase is to set up for the next two really which as I said will be the Republic's battle with OMNI. I'm working on those as there will be changes to the battle from the original version, I assure you. As always, please some of you take the time to write a review, been getting a couple of those lately and I would love them to keep coming. I do read them and answer the best I can the questions I get. I also appreciate the comments on how I can improve or what I'm doing well in the writing. So, enjoy the specs below and since many have been asking for images, I have made references for four of them, working on the others. I'll see you in the next Phase, titled "Freedom's Fight" peace out!

Model number: HFS-X115

Official name: Longinus Gundam (For images, look up on google Dust Gaia Gundam)

Unit type: Prototype Transformable Long-Range Assault Mobile Suit

Manufacturer: Teswa R&D

Operator: Federation Military

First deployment: June 1st 71 C.E.

Accommodation: Pilot only, in standard cockpit in torso

Dimensions: head height 17.9 meters

Weight: 85.3 tons

Armor Material: Phase Shift Armor

Powerplant: Advance Ultracompact Duel Sync battery, slow recharging function (experimental), Nuclear compact reactor (later)

Equipment and design features:

Phase Shift Type-Sigma (PS-S)

A new variation of the Phase Shift armor system, developed by the Federation. Works similar to the original idea, but is now made to be more efficient by distributing the voltage to the needed areas more than the non-needed areas

Sensory Neural Interfacing Precision Extended Range Targeting system (SNIPER-T)

The system is used for long-ranged sniping and involves the pilot using a hidden scope and focusing on sniping, while others fight off any who should get close enough to attack the mobile suit. The central fin raises up, uncovering the large mono-ocular optic scope for use for enhanced image targeting.

" Homura Deflection" system emitters

The system is made up of two separate collections of emitters, they are mounted on shield flaps on either shoulder fin that flip forward for use and can deflect beams.

Phantom Stealth system

An improved system and based on the Specter Optical Camouflage Field. It is harder to see through this stealth system and is more efficient with its energy consumption

Operating System

The OS that the Longinus has is the G.U.N.D.A.M. Intrigue, the Federation's Operating System for mobile suits that Natruals and Coordinators can use

Fixed armaments:

M2M3 45mm CIWS guns

A pair of the CIWS are built into the forehead area of the Longinus' head. They're fire-linked so that they will fire at the same time with a single command and are loaded with newly developed anti-phase shift rounds, where are effective against mobile suits with a Phase Shift Armor system. Their purpose is to intercept missile and other projectiles, but they can also penetrate light to moderate armor.

MA-M979 "Tanzor" Beam Boomerang Blades

The main close combat beam weaponry the suit has and are stored in sheaths built into the shoulders. They can be used much like the Justice's beam boomerangs with being throwable. The beam blades can be used like beam sabers though they are not as long as beam sabers tend to be, being about two-thirds the length at most.

"Razar" Sonic Talons

A secondary close combat weaponry the suit has usable in both suit mode and quadruped mode. The talons fold over the hands made of super-hard carbon that can extend out to doble its length. Theu can vibrate at a high frequency, causing pain to the ears of nearby people not properly protected, and has high cutting capabilities like the Federation's Valkyrie fighters.

"Spitfire" 95mm Gatling Guns

The second of the Longinus' closer range weapons, the pair is mounted on two rails on the back that come out right above the hips, and they are loaded with anti-phase shift rounds

Handheld Armaments:

"Morphious" 275mm multi-range beam rifle

A long-barreled beam rifle, the "Morphious" Rifle is the Longinus' primary armament. While its firing rate is low, it is able to snipe at long distances by working with other powerful sensors. As such, its for Longinus to attack enemies from outside their search operation area. Only users with high marksmanship skills are able to use the weapon effectively.

Model number: HFS-Y124

Official name: Cancer Gundam (Based on the RAS-96 Anksha)

Unit type: Prototype Transformable Aquatic Stealth Mobile Suit

Manufacturer: Teswa R&D

Operator: Federation Military

Accommodation: Pilot only, in standard cockpit in torso

Overall Height: 18.2 meters

Weight: 89.09 tons

Armor Material: Phase Shift Armor

Powerplant: Advance Ultracompact Duel Sync battery, slow recharging function (experimental)

Equipment and design features:

Phase Shift Type-Sigma (PS-S)

A new variation of the Phase Shift armor system, developed by the Federation. Works similar to the original idea, but is now made to be more efficient by distributing the voltage to the needed areas more than the non-needed areas

"Ghost" Jamming System

A system that is specifically designed to scramble sonar that seaborn ships. This is done by amplifying all signals and in essences "deafening" all sonar being used that aren't prepared to deal with such a thing.

Operating System

The OS that the Atlas has is the G.U.N.D.A.M. Intrigue, the Federation's Operating System for mobile suits that Natruals and Coordinators can use

Fixed armaments:

MMI GAU20A 40mm CIWS Guns

There is one pair of CIWS that are mounted into the upper torso of the Cancer. They are fire-linked so that they will fire at the same time with a single command and are loaded with newly developed anti-phase shift rounds, where are effective against mobile suits with a Phase Shift Armor system. Their purpose is to intercept missile and other projectiles, but they can also penetrate light to moderate armor.

"Voroars" 75mm Railgun

The Cancer has two railguns mounted on the back, and they can flip up and over the shoulders to firing position.

M103 "BarCoot" High-Energy Beam Cannon

A pair of these mounted on the shields on both arms and cannot fire underwater.

"Zrack" Torpedo Launchers

Three launchers built into each of the Cancer's shields, behind the beam cannons and are the offensive option other than the railguns.

Handheld Armaments:

"Cutlass" Anti-Ship Sword

The Cutlass is one the first attempts to produce an anti-ship sword that collapse down when stored. It still utilizes a beam cutting blade along one side of the blade, however, it is a thermal beam so that it can be used underwater as well as above. It is stored on the backpack when not in use.

Model number: HFS-Z127

Official name: Thanatos Gundam (for image look up ZZII on gundam wiki)

Unit type: Prototype Transformable High Mobility Mobile Suit

Manufacturer: Teswa R&D

Operator: Federation Military

First deployment: June 1st 71 C.E.

Accommodation: Pilot only, in standard cockpit in torso

Overall Height: 18.12 meters

Weight: 85.9 tons

Armor Material: Phase Shift Armor

Powerplant: Advance Ultracompact Duel Sync battery, slow recharging function (experimental), nuclear compact reactor (later)

Equipment and design features:

Phase Shift Type-Sigma (PS-S)

A new variation of the Phase Shift armor system, developed by the Federation. Works similar to the original idea, but is now made to be more efficient by distributing the voltage to the needed areas more than the non-needed areas.

Wing Shield

There are two wing shields, mounted on the sides of the backpack. the pair of Wing Shields are movable and boost the Thanatos's turning ability when its dogfights in flight mode and adds to the High-Mobility Aerial Maneuver system. They can also be a defense as they are coated with anti-beam coating and their length provide excellent coverage.

Grapple Carrying System

The system is made up of hooks that slot into holes on what it carries, and this allows for carrying another mobile suit while in flight mode and drop them somewhere else on a battlefield. This system can also care a payload instead of a mobile suit for the same purpose.

Phantom Stealth System

An improved system and based on the Specter Optical Camouflage Field. It is harder to see through this stealth system and is more efficient with its energy consumption.

Operation System

The OS that the Thanatos has is the G.U.N.D.A.M. Intrigue, the Federation's system for both Naturals and Coordinators.

Fixed armaments:

"Shano" 225mm Plasma Cannon

The cannon is mounted in the center unit of the backpack, which is also the nosecone in flight mode and is a movable beam cannon. It is the most powerful weapon the unit has at its disposal and is usable in flight mode and MS mode. When not in use in MS mode, the backpack center unit, but it can rotate and flip forward when for ready use.

"Howles" 115mm Railguns

The two railguns are mounted in the backpack section and they're usable in flight mode and MS mode. In MS mode, they can flip forward when in use while in flight mode, they face forward.

M85 55mm CIWS guns

There is one pair of CIWS that are mounted into the head of the Thanatos on both sides. They are fire-linked so that they will fire at the same time with a single command and are loaded with newly developed anti-phase shift rounds, where are effective against mobile suits with a Phase Shift Armor system. Their purpose is to intercept missile and other projectiles, but they can also penetrate light to moderate armor.

MA-M978 "Mazan" Beam Saber

The Thanatos is equipped with two "Mazan" Beam Sabers, which are stored in recharge racks in compartments on the outside of the forearms when not in use. The two beam sabers can be combined into a double-bladed beam saber, much like the Freedom and the Justice can do with their beam sabers in the form known as 'Ambidextrous Halberd' however, the Thanatos' is called the "Dual Corseque".

MMS-GUA "Spitfire" 65mm Vulcans

The "Spitfire" 65mm vulcan guns are the shell firing weapons of the Thanatos's Flight mode and serve the same purpose as the CIWS. They are located on the backpack on either side of the nose section of the Thanatos' flight mode.

Handheld Armaments:

SR23 "Barret" 250mm Long Beam Rifle

The SR23 "Barret" 250mm Long beam rifle is the main weapon of the Thanatos Gundam. It can be used as a sniping-type rifle or a medium range weapon and has decent penetrating power.

Model number: HFS-X133

Official name: Atlas Gundam

Unit type: Prototype Transformable Artillery and Assault mobile suit.

Manufacturer: Teswa R&D

Operator: Federation Military

First deployment: June 1st 71 C.E.

Accommodation: Pilot only, in standard cockpit in torso

Overall Height: 18.2 meters

Weight: 87.25 tons

Armor Material: Phase Shift Armor

Powerplant: Advance Ultracompact Duel Sync battery, slow recharging function (experimental)

Equipment and design features:

Phase Shift Type-Sigma (PS-S)

A new variation of the Phase Shift armor system, developed by the Federation. Works similar to the original idea, but is now made to be more efficient by distributing the voltage to the needed areas more than the non-needed areas

Phantom Stealth system

An improved system and based on the Specter Optical Camouflage Field. It is harder to see through this stealth system and is more efficient with its energy consumption

Operating System

The OS that the Atlas has is the G.U.N.D.A.M. Intrigue, the Federation's Operating System for mobile suits that Natruals and Coordinators can use

Fixed armaments:

M2M5 "Todeh" 50mm CIWS Guns

There is one pair of the "Todeh" CIWS that are mounted into both sides of the Atlas' head and the other pair is built into the upper torso. The ones in the upper torso is only operable in quadruped mode. Each pair is fire-linked so that they will fire at the same time with a single command and are loaded with newly developed anti-phase shift rounds, where are effective against mobile suits with a Phase Shift Armor system. Their purpose is to intercept missile and other projectiles, but they can also penetrate light to moderate armor.

"Ra" 90mm Railgun

The Atlas has two railguns, one mounted on the insides of the "Gozer" beam cannons and they come out at the same time as the beam cannons.

"Gozer" 225mm High-Energy Beam Cannons

A pair is mounted on backpack and come over the shoulders when they are in firing position

Handheld Armaments:

MX90 Arm Shield

The shield is attached to the left arm of the Atlas and its coated with anti-beam coating.

- "Lowus" 100mm Dual Ram Cannon

A pair of beam cannons mounted on the shield, they have an excellent rate of fire.

- GDR-17/A "Panzer Eisen III" rocket anchor

The Atlas is also equipped with a shield mounted "Panzer Eisen" rocket anchors, which are of similar type as the one used on the Strike with its Sword Striker pack. However, they are grappling claws that are shot out on a line to hit or grab an enemy unit and not a smaller anchor.

Model number: HFS-Y142

Official name: Leviathan Gundam

Unit type: Prototype Transformable Underwater Strike Mobile Suit

Manufacturer: Teswa R&D

Operator: Federation Military

First deployment: June 1st 71 C.E.

Accommodation: Pilot only, in standard cockpit in torso

Overall Height: 18.5 meters

Weight: 88.18 tons

Armor Material: Phase Shift

Powerplant: Advance Ultracompact Duel Sync battery, slow recharging function (experimental)

Equipment and design features:

Phase Shift Type-Sigma (PS-S)

A new variation of the Phase Shift armor system, developed by the Federation. Works similar to the original idea, but is now made to be more efficient by distributing the voltage to the needed areas more than the non-needed areas

"Ghost" Jamming System

A system that is specifically designed to scramble sonar that seaborn ships. This is done by amplifying all signals and in essences "deafening" all sonar being used that aren't prepared to deal with such a thing.

Operating System

The OS that the Atlas has is the G.U.N.D.A.M. Intrigue, the Federation's Operating System for mobile suits that Natruals and Coordinators can use

Fixed armaments:

M95 52mm CIWS Machine Guns

There is one pair of CIWS that are mounted into the upper torso of the Leviathan and. They are fire-linked so that they will fire at the same time with a single command and are loaded with newly developed anti-phase shift rounds, where are effective against mobile suits with a Phase Shift Armor system. Their purpose is to intercept missile and other projectiles, but they can also penetrate light to moderate armor.

"Fujin" 80mm Railguns

There are two mounted on the outside of the shoulders. When deployed, they swing up and forward to fire. When submersible mode is used, they flip upward and face forward to be used.

"Voltz" 60mm Railguns

They are mounted on the inside the backpack and only usable in submersible mode

"Sone" Torpedo Launchers

There are six launchers, three built into each shoulder and they are only usable in submersible mode

"Miyolnor" 300mm Multi-Phase energy cannon

A high-powered energy cannon mounted on the backpack of the Leviathan. Based upon the same cannon incorporated into the GAT-X303 Aegis, it can deal serious destruction to anything in its path. It can also be used to discourage enemy units from closing in and is often used just after popping up above the surface of the water for a precision strike that is nigh impossible to counter.

Handheld Armaments:

"Horus" Thermal Beam Anchor

Modeled on a javelin, the beam anchor has three separate cutting beam blades, two of them go off to either side of the center opposite of each other, while the third is in the center creating a piercing point. All the beam blades are experimental thermal version that are usable underwater as well as above.

Model number: HFS-Z151

Official name: Athena Gundam (for image look up LGZ-91 Lightning Gundam on gundam wiki)

Unit type: Prototype Swarm Assault Transformable Mobile Suit

Manufacturer: Teswa R&D

Operator: Federation Military

First deployment: June 17th 71 C.E.

Accommodation: Pilot only, in standard cockpit in torso

Overall Height: 18.3 meters

Weight: 86.6 tons

Armor Material: Phase Shift Armor

Powerplant: Advance Ultracompact Duel Sync battery, slow recharging function (experimental), Nuclear compact reactor (later)

Equipment and design features:

Phase Shift Type-Sigma (PS-S)

A new variation of the Phase Shift armor system, developed by the Federation. Works similar to the original idea, but is now made to be more efficient by distributing the voltage to the needed areas more than the non-needed areas.

High-Mobility Aerial Maneuver System (HiMAMs)

Similar to the HiMATs, the system gives higher maneuverability. Gives a great advantage in flight mode, but also in MS mode and is better suited for aerial dogfighting.

Grapple Carrying System

The system is made up of hooks that slot into holes on what it carries, and this allows for carrying another mobile suit while in flight mode and drop them somewhere else on a battlefield. This system can also care a payload instead of a mobile suit for the same purpose.

Phantom Stealth System

An improved system and based on the Specter Optical Camouflage Field. It is harder to see through this stealth system and is more efficient with its energy consumption.

Operation System

The OS that the Thanatos has is the G.U.N.D.A.M. Intrigue, the Federation's system for both Naturals and Coordinators.

Fixed armaments:

"StingRay" CIWS guns

There is one pair of CIWS that are mounted into the head of the Athena on both sides. They are fire-linked so that they will fire at the same time with a single command and are loaded with newly developed anti-phase shift rounds, where are effective against mobile suits with a Phase Shift Armor system. Their purpose is to intercept missile and other projectiles, but they can also penetrate light to moderate armor.

MA-M25 "Halzer" Beam Lance

The Athena is equipped with one "Halzer" beam lance, which is stored in a recharging rack on the rear skirt. It collapses down into a third its length when it's not in use and in its holster.

"Locus" 8-tube Micro-Missile Pod

There are two sets of eight pod launchers built into the left and right Booster Units. The missiles can be fired one at a time or fired all at once in a large swarm.

M2M2 70mm Vulcan Guns

There is a pair mounted in the flight nose section, only useable during flight mode and are the shell firing weapons of the Athena's Flight mode and serve the same purpose as the CIWS.

M2M3 75mm Machine Guns

There is one mounted on both the left and right forearms on the underside. They rapidly fire a barrage at the target at close and medium range effectively.

"Gauss" 90mm twin Railguns

A combination of two railguns side by side into one weapon, there is one mounted on the both sides of the lower backpack to give four in total.

Optional Armaments:

"Spatter-fire" 85mm Rapid-fire railguns Rifles

A short length rifle which is built to be like a machine gun but fires energy like the Shadow's Kale pack railgun rifle. The Athena has two of these rifles and can store them on the side skirts. While in Flight mode, the rifles are held by the hands and turned sideways. [Think of Airmaster gundam]

Model Number: HFS-Z201
Code Name: Aurora Gundam (for image, go to deviantart and search for GMF-X05A-A-Aurora-Gundam, that was my basis)
Unit Type: prototype transformable assault mobile suit
Manufacturer: Teswa R&D
Operator: Federation Military
First Deployment: March 71 CE
Accommodations: pilot only, in panoramic cockpit in torso

Dimensions: overall height 18.71 meters
Weight: 78.27 tons
Power Plant: ultracompact nuclear fission reactor
Armor Material: Phase Shift Armor
Equipment and Design Features:

Neutron Jammer Canceller

As with the other four ZGMF-X series of Gundam units produced in that time period, the Freedom is equipped with a Neutron Jammer Canceller, which counters the effects of the ubiquitous Neutron Jammers and allows these suits to be powered by nuclear reactors. This gives them almost limitless combat endurance, even with Phase Shift armor activated.

Phase Shift Type-Sigma

A new variation of Phase Shift Armor, developed by Teswa R&D after they got data on Phase Shift Armor from the Alliance's G Project. It works similar to the original idea, but is now made to be more efficient by distributing the voltage to the needed areas more than the non-needed areas.

High-Mobility Aerial Maneuver system (HiMAMs)

Similar to the HiMAMs, the system gives higher maneuverability. Gives a great advantage in flight mode, but also in MS mode and is better suited for aerial dogfighting.

Rapid Target Lock system

Similar to the Multi-lock on system the X10A Freedom has, but instead of locking onto multiple targets to shoot them all at the same time. This system does singular target shooting but will switches to the next target in milliseconds

Phantom Stealth system

An improved system and based on the Specter Optical Camouflage Field. It is harder to see through this stealth system and is more efficient with its energy consumption

Operating System

The OS that the Aurora has is the G.U.N.D.A.M. Intrigue, the Federation's system for working with a nuclear reactor.

MOBILE SUIT NEX OPERATION SYSTEM
Generation
Unsubdued
Nuclear
Drive
Assault
Module

G.U.N.D.A.M Intrigue
_Series GN125-O6 NR 02-13756_
Human Federation

Fixed Armament:

MMI-GAU26 50mm CIWS guns

A pair of the CIWS are built into both sides of the Aurora's head. They're fire-linked so that they will fire at the same time with a single command and are loaded with newly developed anti-phase shift rounds, where are effective against mobile suits with a Phase Shift Armor system. Their purpose is to intercept missile and other projectiles, but they can also penetrate light to moderate armor.

"Lunarious" Plasma Cannons

The "Lunarious" Plasma Cannon is the Aurora's main long-range weapon and are close to comparable to the Archangel's "Lohengrin" when firing at maximum output. The Aurora has two of these cannons which are mounted on the backpack section on the inside of the wings and they can swing forward to be used in MS mode. While in Flight mode, both cannons are set forward and center of the just under the flight sensor array. The pilot can also choose how much power the cannons uses per shot, at full power the forward half of the barrel splits open for a wider beam.

MA-M978 "Vajra II" beam sabers

The Aurora is equipped with two "Vajra" Beam Sabers, which are stored in recharge racks in compartments on top of both hips when not in use. The two beam sabers can be combined into a double-bladed beam saber, much like the Freedom and the Justice can do with their beam sabers in the form known as 'Ambidextrous Halberd' however, the Aurora's is called the "Dual Corseque".

MMI-MML262 duel micro-missile launchers

There are two launching tubes in the upper section of both front skirts of the Aurora. Each tube has a supply of three micro missiles before needing to be resupplied. They are only operable in the Aurora's flight mode.

MKII-GAU27 90mm vulcan guns

GAU27 vulcan gun is a rapid-fire gun that is much like machine guns or CIWS and use ammunition that is 90mm caliber. The Aurora has two of these mounted in the outside on both sides of the forward flight sensor array and are only operable in the Aurora's flight mode.

Handheld Armament:

MX2351 "Imperious Deflection " shield

The "Imperious Deflection" shield is the main defensive tool other than the Phase Shift Armor system. The shield is covered with Anti-Beam Coating and it's also built with "Homura" Deflection Shielding system, which is made up of network of emitters that's in the center of the shield. The emitter is covered when not in use and when activated, the shield expands in vertical length and four fins pop out making an X shape with the emitter in the center of it.

MA-BAR77/S2 high energy beam rifle

The beam rifle is the main offensive weapons of the Aurora has, and the only multi-range versatile weapon it has and can be stored on rear skirt armor when not in use and in flight mode, the rifle is positioned on the right of the right Plasma cannon. The rifle has two different modes, the rifle mode and stream mode. In rifle mode, it works like a standard beam rifle would, while in Stream mode, the forward half of the barrel can split open horizontally for a constant beam that can be used for cutting or penetration.