Chapter 5: Rising Fog
That same evening, the Edelweiss's repairs are finished, and it takes off from the Gibraltar base. The Ra Cailum-class ship then begins its journey towards the boot of Italy. While the girls continue to perform daily patrols with the one remaining Murasame, Akito serves the rest of his penance under the watchful eye of Chief Petty Officer Ivanov. Michael on the other hand is relegated to simply wait and wait until they reach Taranto. After two days of flying over the Mediterranean, the Edelweiss finally reaches the Ionian Sea and arrives at Taranto. The pilots have gathered at the observation deck to watch. "This is it Space Boy, the next step in our path." Michael says proudly.
"Yeah…I just wish Takumi was here to experience this too…"
"I know what you mean. He would've loved to get a prototype machine."
"Michael, let's do our best from now on. We can't let Takumi down."
"You got it Space Boy."
As the ship flies over the city, the Captain contacts the base's control tower. "This is Captain Renner on the battleship Edelweiss. We request permission to land."
"Roger, this is Taranto control. You're cleared to land. Please change your course to vector 070. The underground dock has been prepared for your arrival."
"Understood." Renner then speaks to the helmsman. "Ensign Williams, change course to vector 070. They've prepared us a special place to land."
"Roger, changing course to vector 070."
Below the bridge, on the observation deck, the pilots notice that as the ship gets closer to the base, the ground becomes more littered with weapon emplacements, ranging from anti-air missile batteries to anti-air cannons to large beam cannons. However, there are only a few buildings surrounding the airfield. "Man, this is a weird lookin' base. I thought they had large hangars for all the mobile suits but there's nothin' here."
"Obviously. The Taranto base is partially owned by Gründer Industries, so all the critical areas are underground, including the mobile weapons factory and the test facilities. It's connected to the surface by those four elevator shafts located around the airfield. Then there is the underground hangar that can house up to four large warships. This was all done to keep the base secure from observation." Lucia explains to the others
"Looks like you prepared well for this assignment." Akito says as he tries to identify the shafts.
"Of course. Any time you are given a new assignment, you should always do research on it before hand."
"She's always so diligent." Jacky chuckles.
The Edelweiss hovers over a large square shaped flat area north of the airfield. Then, the section splits in two, revealing a large hangar around 400 meters below ground level. As the ship slowly descends, the massive armored doors close over the hangar. In the control booth, observing the landing is Helio Perez. "So, the Alpine Rose has finally arrived. I hope they'll prove to be useful for this project." He converses with the base commander.
"Indeed. Though, I still don't understand why we are letting that colonial use one those machines."
"Now, now, he's from Aquarius so he is technically a fellow citizen of the Atlantic Federation. Besides, my associate has personally recommended him for this project."
"Regardless, he's still from space and those spacenoids can't be trusted."
"You'd be smart not to express those views in-front of our quests. My brother would not like it if you talked about his friend like that."
"Hmph."
"Well, I'll go greet our new arrivals. I bet the pilots would very much like to see the new machines." Helio leaves the control booth and boards an elevator that takes him down to the hangar. Meanwhile, aboard the ship, Renner gathers the officers, the pilots and Chief Ivanov to the hangar deck's resupply hatch.
"Alright everyone, I've been instructed to bring you all here so we can go see the new machines while the base mechanics begin the ships refurbishment. Apparently, a representative from Gründer is going to meet us." Renner says as the Chief opens the resupply hatch.
After disembarking the ship, they are immediately greeted by a smiling, blond-haired man wearing a gun-metal colored suit and Michael immediately recognizes him and tenses up. "Ah welcome Captain Renner. I trust your journey was trouble free?" He shakes Renner's hand.
"We had no problems, Mr. Perez."
"That's good to hear." Helio proceeds to shake the hands of the other officers and the Chief. He then turns his attention to Michael. "Michael! It's great to see you again little brother!"
"Same here, Helio." As the brothers shake hands, Akito notices that Michael is far tenser than he normally is.
"I heard what happened at the valley. Absolutely terrible business. I can't express how glad I am that you're okay."
"Well, I'm here, aren't I?"
"Hah, I see you haven't lost that sharp tongue of yours." As Helio turns back towards the officers, Jacky whispers to Michael's ear.
"So that's your brother? He's pretty handsome."
"Don't let his looks trick ya. He's the most opportunistic snake you'll ever meet."
"So, I take it you two don't have a good relationship?" Lucia joins in on the conversation as Helio asks everyone to follow him.
"Let's just say we don't get along that well. The only thing he cares about is getting more power and influence than anything else."
"I see…"
Meanwhile, Renner speaks with Helio. "Mr. Perez, I believe we were promised a new pilot. Is the person here?"
"Ah yes, he is here. He's currently with the MS expert in the hangar where we keep the mobile suits. You'll meet them soon."
"I see…"
Helio leads them to a large door that slowly slides away and behind it, is a smaller hangar. There, five mobile suits stand next to each other while a sixth one stands at the back of the hangar, separate from the rest. Four of them appear very similar but the fifth machine has a noticeably different design and large shoulder binders. As they get closer to the machines, Michael recognizes the three on the left. "Dude, those are Gundam-types." He whispers to Akito who is equally impressed.
"Yeah…"
Helio and his entourage stop in-front of the farthest right machine. Though astonished like the others, Renner is still weary. "You're being awfully generous Mr. Perez. Giving such advanced machines to a small unit like us."
"Oh, don't be like that Captain. It's only fair that we provide you with compensation for losing your MS contingent in combat. Now, why don't we go through each machine individually?" He approaches Lucia. "Lieutenant Gronwald was it?"
"Yes." She says silently.
"Good. Allow me introduce you to your new mobile suit: the MSZ-006C1 Zeta Plus C1 Custom. It's a special variant of the normal Zeta Plus Gründer has modified for your personal use. Apart from its ability to transform to a Waverider, it is equipped with a Multi-Targeting computer system, allowing you to monitor multiple targets at once and a back-mounted radome provides you with better long-range sensors. Weapons wise, the C1 is primarily a sniper so it is armed with a beam smart gun. This experimental weapon can vary its output, meaning that you can fire different powered beams at different targets. Also, the barrel features a particle deflection system that can bend the beam by 20 degrees. Lastly, the C1 is equipped with a one-of-a-kind support A.I. We call her A.L.I.C.E. She is a self-learning A.I. so we thought is best to allow her to learn from you." After a moment of silence, Lucia nods while she observes the light-purple and gray colored C1. It even has her butterfly insignia in its left shoulder armor.
"It seems impressive…"
"There's no need to be humble. That MS is for you after all." The group moves in-front of the large, dark purple and pink machine with the binders. "This machine is yours, 2nd Lieutenant Blanc."
"Ohh this looks cool! It's got my colors too" Jacky jitters in excitement.
"I'm glad you like it. This is the AMX-017G Qubeley AC, a reverse engineered version of the Colonial Empire's AMX-004G Qubeley Mass Production Type. Originally, this machine was designed for so-called 'Newtype' pilots."
"Newtypes? What are they?" Jacky tilts her head as Akito also becomes intrigued.
"Well, Newtypes are a rather…questionable term used by the colonials to describe themselves. Regardless, we replaced the original machine's Psycommu system, which was rather complicated, with a much more simpler and easier to control DRAGOON-system. This system will allow you to easily use the Qubeley's main weapon: 10 remote-controlled weapon pods, each armed with a beam cannon. This gives the Qubeley the ability to engage with many foes at once. The pods or Funnels are housed in the rear skirt mounted tail binder. The original machine had 30 funnels but it was decided to lower the amount to 10, so as to retain high acceleration and mobility. Of course, that's not all this beauty can do. It also carries two Active Cannons, hence the name "Qubeley AC". They are very basic but deceptively powerful beam cannons, giving you more offensive options. The arms are equipped with retractable beam sabers for close combat. We removed the original's beam saber/launchers and replaced them with beam Gatling guns. They are housed in the wrists. Finally, we installed an "Armure Lumiere" light-wave shield generator in each of the shoulder binders, to increase survivability." Helio's explanation leaves everyone speechless.
"Well, you certainly know your machines." Renner says coldly.
"What kind of an Executive Director I would be if I didn't know anything about my company's products?" Helio says with a cool smile. "Are you impressed, 2nd Lieutenant Blanc?"
"Yeah! I can't wait to try it out!"
"Well, that chance might come sooner than you think. Anyway, let's have a look at the next one." He turns their attention towards the grey Gundam-type equipped with a rather extravagant backpack. "Now this one is a bit special. We build it from scratch to meet your abilities, 2nd Lieutenant Evans."
"Is that so?" Akito says silently.
"Indeed. This Gundam-type, GAT-X105E Strike Gundam E IWSP, is designed for multi-purpose combat and can adapt to any kind of environment. The key to this adaptability is the Striker-pack system. I believe you have previous experience of the system when you tested the Windam?"
"That's right but that backpack looks a bit…complicated."
"I'm glad you noticed. That is the Strike E's primary backpack, the Integrated Weapons Striker Pack, or IWSP for short. That pack was designed so that the Strike E can attack the enemy from any range. For long range, you have two 105mm cannons and two 115mm railguns. Mid-range combat is handled with the optional beam rifle and the shield-mounted 30mm Gatling gun. If you need to deal with close-quarters combat, you can use the two "Shorty" beam pistols, the rocket anchors or the 9.1 m Anti-Ship Swords. They possess a vibration blade that increases their cutting ability and are anti-beam coated so you can parry beam sabers. Also, the shield has a "Midas Messer" beam boomerang that can double as a beam saber should you have need for a beam blade." Helio then points at two MS equipment racks to their left.
"Of course, the IWSP is just one of the Strike E's Striker Packs. While it can mount any Striker Pack in service, there are two packs we've developed, the Sumbullet Striker artillery pack and the Caliburn Striker CQC pack, which are in essence upgraded Launcher and Sword packs. The Sumbullet is equipped with an upgraded "Agni Kai" hyper impulse cannon, the "Todesblock Kai" plasma-sabot cannon and a missile pod. The Caliburn on the other hand mounts the same weapons as the Sword Striker but has two "Panzer Eisen" Shield/Rocker Anchors, two beam boomerangs and the "Galadbolg" heavy beam saber."
"What power plant does it have? With so many weapons, there's no way that thing is battery powered."
"You really are sharp. Yes, the Strike E was originally intended to be powered by a battery, but we replaced it with a Minovsky reactor, since recharging batteries in the middle of combat is rather…hazardous."
"And what about the color? I don't really care about the color of my machine but that doesn't look like it has any paint on it."
"That is because of the Variable Phase Shift Armor system or VPS for short. It's an upgraded armor system that was first trialed with the Strike E's predecessor. It's basically a concentrated magnetic field that makes the machine immune to ballistic weapons. We designed it in case of a shortage of Luna Titanium or Gundanium, but don't worry, thanks to its reactor, the Strike E has infinite use of its beam weapons and armor like all the other machines here."
"I see…"
"Why don't we move on? This one is for my dear brother, Michael." Helio says with a smile, but Michael is not convinced as they approach the Gundam-type next to the Strike E, which is distinctly white with orange and silver highlights.
"This is the Gundam Kyrios. It is based on the Zeta-type transformable mobile suits but it is a next generation machine. Like the Zeta-types, it has a high-speed Waverider-form that allows it to fly in atmosphere and in space. Weapons-wise, the Kyrios is armed with a beam submachine gun, beam sabers and a scissor shield that also has an in-built heat blade. It can also be equipped with two arm missile units and a tail binder. However, the Kyrios's main feature is its propulsion system. Instead of reactor powered thrusters or propellant reliant ones, this machine can fly without wings, thanks to the revolutionary Laser Pulse Engine."
Renner interrupts Helio. "Excuse me. I remember you mentioning that the machines that attacked us in the valley were also equipped with this kind of a propulsion system." Her question surprises the others and Helio loses his composure for a split-second but then regains it.
"Ahh, so I did. Your memory is surprisingly good."
"I'll take that as a compliment."
"Well, you are correct but it is true. While we haven't been able to recover any more evidence from the site as you have, we have confirmed that they were equipped with this type of engine. But, like I mentioned during the hearing, Gründer only has two functioning examples, which are here. One is mounted on the Kyrios and the other is on that red machine. Now can I continue with the presentation?"
"It's okay Helio; I got the gist of it. That doesn't seem like a difficult thing to handle."
"Well if you say so. Of course, your mechanics will be briefed about these machines so you can ask them if you run into trouble."
"What about the last one?" Barros asks.
"Ah yes that is the Gundam Astraea…"
"It's mine!" An angry voice interrupts Helio and everyone's attention is turned towards a small side door. From the door, two young men wearing Lieutenant's insignias approach the group and Akito immediately recognizes the other person from his voice and his light-brown hair. "I told ya not to tell 'em anythin' about my machine!" The Lieutenant shouts with a crude voice.
"Hey Dean, don't shout in-front of our new Captain." The glasses-wearing, black-haired Lieutenant grabs him by the shoulder, but he ignores it.
"Ah good, you're here. I was starting to wonder where you went."
"Sorry Mr. Perez. Dean was adamant about not waiting. He said it was a waste of time."
"I ain't interested in these losers." the light-brown haired Lieutenant gestures towards the pilots, irking Michael.
"I'm already not liking this guy…" he whispers.
"Me neither. I hope he isn't what I think he is…" Jacky responds.
"I didn't like him in the first place." Akito says coldly.
"You know him?"
"I'll tell you later Michael." Akito stops the conversation as Helio introduces the newcomers.
"Captain Renner, let me introduce your two new crewmembers. This is Lieutenant Dean Gardner Jr., the pilot of the Astraea and your new pilot. He was specifically chosen for this project because of his exceptional combat ability." Dean lazily salutes with the Captain and the officers saluting back. "He has a special license to operate independently from the other pilots. Of course, he is still a part of the command structure, so he is obligated to obey you and your officers."
"I see…" Renner looks skeptically at Dean.
"And this is Lieutenant Kosuke Tsuda. He will be part of the bridge crew as a technical advisor." His surname shocks the pilots but they keep quiet.
"Tsuda is it? Hmm…are you perhaps...?"
"Yes Ma'am, Takumi Tsuda was my younger half-brother." Kosuke replies while adjusting his glasses.
"Is that so?" Renner is slightly surprised.
"One more thing Captain Renner: These machines are not yet 100% complete. The OS needs to be installed on the four excluding the C1 and there are some other minor tweaks that have to be dealt with. So, to make the transition easier, we have taken the liberty of installing an accurate simulation program onto your ship's simulator. I expect them to be fully operational in one or two days. The base commander will brief you further on your departure and such. Now, if you'll excuse me, I must catch a plane. Farewell." Helio quickly leaves the hangar while Barros starts speaking to the newcomers.
"Alright you two, you're comin' with me. I wanna know who we're dealing with and if you're good enough to be on our ship."
"Hah, if you're letting a colonial on your ship then your standards don't seem high at all." Dean says arrogantly while giving a spiteful glance at Akito, who ignores it. However, the other pilots and Barros are not amused.
"Watch your mouth kid. I don't care what kind of a license you have but keep talking like that and you're begging for trouble. Now move your asses."
"Yeah yeah…"
"What was that?"
"…Yes Sir." Dean responds begrudgingly and as they leave, he gives Akito another glare but is ignored again.
"I'm not sure I like this arrangement Captain." Aho whispers to Renner.
"It can't be helped I suppose…"
"Hey Captain, you mind if I bring the boys in here to inspect these things?"
"Of course Chief Ivanov, bring the mechanics here. The Commander Aho and I will go to meet the base commander."
"Roger that, Captain." As the officers walk away, the four pilots are left alone in the hangar and Michael is visibly angry about Dean's remarks.
"The hell's wrong with that guy?! He was really pissing me off."
"I know right, what a jerk. You can't say that to your new teammates."
"He seemed to have a real problem with colonials…"
"Did you see the look on his face when he said all that crap? I was this close to go punch him. Akito, don't tell me you didn't hear that?"
"I'm used to it. Remember, we met those types a lot in the academy." Akito says nonchalantly.
"Yeah but still. He was practically spitting in our face."
"You mentioned that you met him before. Where?" Lucia asks.
"Well, I met him back at that stupid medal ceremony. The guy got into my face the moment I walked in. He didn't seem to like the fact I was from the colonies."
"How did he know?" Jacky joins in.
"He saw my insignias, that's all."
Michael shakes his head and puts his hand over his face. "Why the heck do they have to force you wear that insignia anyway?"
"Whatever, it's his problem, not mine."
"Come on guys; let's forget him for now. We just got new Mobile Suits so let's get to know them better!"
"You're right Jacky. No point worryin' about that asshole."
"Agreed. I suspect Lt. Commander Barros will set him straight." The pilots nod and separate to study the new machines they've been given. Meanwhile, Renner and Aho go up to the control booth to speak to the base commander.
"Captain Louise Renner and Commander Maria Aho reporting." They salute.
"Welcome, I am Commander Rychel. Please take a seat Captain, I believe you have many questions."
"Thank you, Commander." As they sit down, the Commander's aid gives Renner a file containing a list of all the upgrades that are being installed on the ship.
"I believe Mr. Perez gave you a rather detailed description of your new equipment."
"Yes indeed he did." Renner replies, but does not voice her suspicions about this new assignment.
"Very well. Now then, you have already met your new replacement pilot, yes?"
"That's correct; however, he did seem rather…confrontational."
"He tends to be a bit cocky but he's a top-quality pilot."
"Mr. Perez mentioned something about a License. Would you care to explain what that is?" Renner looks at Rycher sternly.
"Ah yes well…Lieutenant Gardner is special you see. He's not enlisted in the EF military. Instead, he is a part of the Atlantic Federation Forces. He's also a member of the transfer program to promote good cooperation between our two militaries. I presume you've heard of that at least?"
"Of course. What about his credentials?"
"Yes, they are in his file in that folder." Renner opens the folder and reads through it.
"I see…what about Lieutenant Tsuda then?"
"He's a simple MS expert. He graduated from Japan and was hired by Gründer afterwards. His job is to provide you with up-to-date information regarding any weapon or mobile suit you may encounter. Given the rapid development in weapons technology, it helps to have him on board. Any other questions?"
"No."
"Good. Why don't we go through the projected schedule and then you can go back to your ship? Oh, and before I forget: Your crew will lodge at the barracks above ground. We have to keep the hangar as open as possible. After all, this base is in level 2 standby at the moment."
"Level 2 standby? Why is that?" Aho asks.
"Today is the ten-year anniversary of the Orbit War Peace Treaty signing. Because they are holding the commemorative event in Tycho lunar city, this is a precautionary measure. Given the recent events with the attempted nuclear attack on Tokyo and what not, tensions are rather high. I hope you understand Captain."
"Absolutely." Once the three officers finish the schedule, Renner and Aho leave the control booth. As they enter the elevator, Aho notices that Renner is visibly displeased.
"What's wrong Captain?"
"This whole thing still feels like a set-up. Ever since we arrived at the Jerada base, we've been moving on a set track with all these events just falling in-front of us. First the new pilots, then "Grosse 5", then Gibraltar and now we've been turned into Gründer's personal guinea pig unit…"
"I agree, this feels rather forced but not all of those things have been bad. We got three great pilots and highly organized mechanics."
"I know. They're not the problem. Anyway, let's hope things get easier once we leave here."
"I hope so too, but we might have to deal with some internal strife from the pilots. I doubt Lieutenant Gardner is going to get a warm welcome after that showing."
"Indeed…"
…
That same evening, the pilots are returning to the ship from the hangar, having finished their familiarization with the new mobile suits. "Man, our new machines are really fancy. The Windams we used, feel like toys compared to these." Michael says cheerfully.
"I know right? I can't wait to try out my Qubeley."
"You could just test it in the simulator. Didn't Mr. Perez say that they installed new software?"
"But Lucy it's not the same!" Jacky exclaims as they approach the ship when a guard stops them.
"Excuse me; are you the pilots from that ship?"
"Yes, I am Lieutenant Lucia Gronwald and these are my squad mates." The pilots salute and the guard salutes back.
"Good. I've been ordered to escort you to the elevators."
"Why? We were about to board our ship."
"Unfortunately, due to the major overhaul your ship is going through, it cannot be used for accommodation at the moment. The ship's crew will be housed in the surface barracks."
"Barracks? Dude, did we just do a full circle or what?" Michael whispers to Akito, as they a reminded of their time in Jerada.
"You said it."
"Now, if you'll follow me." The guard leads them to the large elevator and as they board it, the pilots continue their conversation.
"Anyway, what do ya think of those two new guys?" Michael asks, promting Jacky to cross her arms and frown.
"Well, we already know that guy with the ear-ring is a massive jerk."
"And the other one appears to be related to Takumi." Lucia notes as Akito nudges Michael.
"That's weird; he never said anything about having siblings, right Michael?"
"That's right. I guess that wasn't the only thing he hid from us…" Michael says solemnly as they exit the elevator. Once outside, they walk about 100 meters alongside the airfield before they arrive at a large, single story light gray building with two doors.
"The women's barracks are on the left and the men on the right."
"What about our stuff? They're still in the ship." Jacky asks.
"This is just a temporary arrangement so your belongings have not been moved. The barracks have all the necessities you need. Now if you'll excuse me, I am needed elsewhere." The guard salutes and walks away.
"Oh, that's just great, how am I going to take care of myself if I don't have my essentials?!" Jacky shouts.
"Calm down Jacqueline, it's only temporary."
"Let's just go in already. This wind is ready getting nasty." Michael remarks as they enter the building before he and Akito go to the right-hand corridor and arrive at small lounge: The room has two doors on both sides and a small table with chairs in the middle. Right of the table is a brown sofa and opposite to it on the wall a flat screen TV. "Man, this is just like Jerada."
"You said it…" Akito sits down on the sofa and leans back, staring at the roof.
"Hmm…I wonder what's on?" Michael grabs the remote for the TV and switches it on. As he flicks through the channels, he ends up the one that shows the Treaty commemorating event. "Hey, it's the event the mechanics where talking about."
"Leave it on!" Akito shouts stares intensely at the screen, startling Michael.
"Whoa, what's gotten into you all of a sudden?"
"Ryo said he'd be attending this event."
"What? Really?" As they both look for Ryo on the TV, Jacky and Lucia walk in.
"Hey guys. What are you doing?" Jacky asks.
"Where looking for my brother. He said he was going to take part in the Treaty memorial."
"Wow that's cool. Mind if we stay here for a while? These barracks are so barren."
"Fine by me. Ladies are always welcome here." Michael winks and the girls sit down at the table. The room becomes silent as the boys vehemently keep looking for a glimpse of Ryo. Then, the camera turns towards a silver haired young woman wearing a light-blue dress and a tiara, who is talking to a man wearing dark-red sunglasses.
"There he is! That's your brother, right?" Michael points at the scream and Akito nods.
"Yeah…but who is that woman with him?"
"Lemme see!" Jacky squeezes between the boys and immediately recognizes her. "Oh my god, that's the Princess!"
"Who?"
"You don't know? She'a third in-line to the Colonial Empire's throne, Felicia Aurora von Waldreich. There's huge debate going on in the net about who is prettier: Shelly or the Princess. Man, you and your brother really get lucky with celebrities." Jacky smiles cheekily while Michael keeps staring at the screen.
"Dude, how have I not seen her before? She's a total bombshell."
"Probably because the Waldreichs are the ones who declared the colonies independent and started the war 10 years ago. She might be popular in the colonies but it's no surprise that we don't hear much about them down here on Earth."
"Right…" Akito remembers what Ryo told him and continues to watch the broadcast. "So that's the Emperor then." He points at a man in his late 50's, wearing a ceremonial Colonial Empire officers' uniform. He has a short, thin gray moustache, a short goatee and short light gray hair and is holding cane in his left hand.
"That's right. Emperor Werner Johan Klaus von Walfreich. He's led the Colonial Empire since its inception. I'm surprised he's willing to actually even attend this event, considering how much he hates the EF." Lucia says while leaning on the table.
"Why's that?" Michael turns around to face Lucia.
"From what I've read, The Empress, Angela von Waldreich, died during the first days of the war when the EFSF fired a nuclear missile at the neutral lunar city of Fra Mauro. She had been sent there by the Emperor to keep her safe."
"That's pretty ironic." Akito says silently.
"Yeah. The EFSF has denied that the attack was deliberate, but they did take out two birds with one stone. Fra Mauro did supply the Colonies with the resources they used to build the first mobile suits."
"Damn, you really know your history."
"She did graduate at the top of our class." Their conversation is interrupted by the sound of footsteps and talking.
"Man, that commander really pisses me off. He called me a kid! A KID!"
"I don't think it's smart of you to start getting in trouble with your superiors on the first day."
"Whatever. All I care about is killin' a few colonials so I can go back to the Atlantic Federation and get a real assignment. This job blows."
"You're not making my job any easier Dean. I'm supposed to give a report about you back to Gründer but it won't look pretty if you continue pissing everyone off like this."
"Results are the only thing I care about. The more kills I get, the faster I get out of here. Besides, didn't Helio tell you to only report the results anyway. So, don't worry about it." As Dean and Kosuke enter the room, they are met by their new teammates. "What the hell is going on here?" Dean immediately shouts.
"What's your problem?" Michael responds coldly while the others also give Dean cold looks.
"Looks like you guys already found your way here." Kosuke says with a fake smile.
"You're the problem blondie. This is our room, get outta here!"
"No can do. We got two rooms with 4 bunk beds. Go and pick your own, Cowboy." Michael stands up while facing Dean who is seething.
"No way in hell am I gonna share a room with a Space rat!" His comment draws the ire of Lucia, Jacky and Michael while Akito ignores him. Kosuke steps aside and leans his back against the wall right next to the door as he calmly observes them.
"Is everyone from the Atlantic Federation this xenophobic?" Jacky hisses at Dean.
"That's none of your business red-head. I can say whatever I want."
"No, you can't. You keep calling my buddy a "Space Rat" and you're gonna answer to me!" Michael walks up to Dean who simply smirks.
"And you'll do what, '2nd Lieutenant'? In case you haven't noticed, I'm a Lieutenant and I've got a license. You lay a hand on me and you'll be the one in trouble." His smirk makes Michael even angrier but before he can say anything else, Lucia interrupts him.
"Lieutenant Gardner, I would appreciate it if you wouldn't try to pull rank on my teammates."
"What did you say?!" Dean turns towards Lucia who continues to glare at him.
"While it's true your license lets you operate independently from us during combat, that also means that you're part our MS team only in name. You have no right to give commands to or punish my teammates."
"Huh, looks like you've done your homework. But that doesn't matter. If you've got a problem with me, take it up with Gründer and the Atlantic Federation HQ." Dean says nonchalantly before Akito breaks his silence.
"You said that you'll simply get 'kills' and get a better assignment. Do you actually have any real experience fighting in a mobile suit?"
"Off course I do! I've never lost, mock battle or a simulation."
"So, they sent us a complete amateur with a bloated ego. Great."
"AMATEUR!" Dean snaps and rushes through the room towards Akito who stands up and they stare down at each other. "You just keep pissing me off Space Rat. You think your seom sort of a bigshot cause you got lucky, or did that damn medal got to yer head?!"
"You wanted it that badly? I saw you staring at it during the ceremony. If you want it, I'll give it to you once we go back to the ship." Dean immediately grabs Akito by the collar, causing Michael to rush to his friend's side but Akito gestures him to stay back. "You think this is just a game? You walk in here saying things like 'I'll kill colonials' and 'Only results matter', when you have no real experience. The only result you'll get is an early grave if you take this lightly. You might have a state-of-the-art MS and a license but that doesn't matter if you act like an asshole and treat your assignment like a joke. Don't expect any of us to pity you when you get blown up on your first sortie."
"Ooh burn." Kosuke says under his breath, causing Dean to glare murderously at him.
"You shut up four-eyes! I don't need to take this shit from a spacenoid!"
"Just saying what I wanted to say. Now get your hand off me." Akito forces Dean to let go of his collar and he backs away. Noticing the cold stares aimed at him, he marches out.
"Screw this" I'm outta here!" He slams the door shut behind him while Akito lets out a silent sigh and sits back down on the sofa.
"That guy really likes making others mad." Jacky huffs.
"Yeah, sorry about that." Kosuke stops leaning against the wall.
"Well, you weren't much help."
"It's not in my best interests to get involved in Dean's fights, 2nd Lt. Perez. You see, his dad is an Orbit War hero and a general in the Atlantic Federation MS forces. That's why he's like that."
"Then why does he hate people from space so much?" Jacky asks while sitting next to Akito on the sofa.
"That's normal in the AF. The current regime spreads propaganda and hate towards the spacenoids. Though Dean is especially vicious towards them. I don't know why."
"Right…that makes sense…We got stuck with someone like him just cause his dad is an AF bigshot." Michael rolls his eyes while Kosuke shrugs.
"He did graduate at the top his class and performed well during war games. That's why Helio took an interest in him." he replies and Michael turns to face him.
"So how did you get stuck here with us?"
"Heh, well I've known Dean for a long time and Gründer wanted someone to keep an eye on him. Plus, I'm quite knowledgeable about technology and I'm a qualified CIC operator so…"
"Are you really Takumi's half-brother?" Jacky interrupts.
"Yup. We had the same father but different mothers. My mom died while giving birth to me and dad re-married a year later. You guys already know by now that Takumi was younger than what his file stated."
"Yeah…but why did he do it?" Jacky stands up and tries to press Kosuke for answers but he gives her another fake smile.
"I don't want to talk about it."
"But...!" Akito pulls Jacky back down to the sofa.
"Just drop it."
"But we need to know!"
"No, we don't have any right to get involved in his family business"
"But!"
"I hate to say it but Space Boy's right. Give it a rest." Jacky tries to say something but Lucia also gestures her to stop. The room soon falls into silence except for the TV, that continues to show the memorial event and everyone's attention is slowly drawn to it as the event's presenter speaks with a calm and almost whispery voice.
"And now we will move our attention to the grand auditorium here in Tycho's Capital Building. The Earth Federation's Chief Representative, Sir Mario Benítez has just finished his speech. Up next will be possibly the evening's highlight as the Sovereign of the Colonial Empire, Emperor Waldreich will hold a speech. While the tension between the Earth Federation and the Colonies are at an all-time high, the very fact that the royal family is in attendance is monumental. Many believe that if this memorial goes well it will warm up the relationship between them." The camera pans across the entire auditorium and zooms towards the speaker's box on the stage as the Emperor walks up to it. He places his right hand on the box and straightens the microphone.
"It has now been exactly 10 years since the end of the Orbit War, the greatest tragedy in humanity's history. A history that has been plagued by countless conflicts and bloodshed. If we cannot get something we want, we use force. I myself believed in that idea when We declared our independence but now, it has changed. As we grow older, we look back on our past and judge what we have done. I have too and I have realized what horrible mistakes we have done. I do not regret fighting for our rights, but I deeply regret the blatant genocide the war became. My hands are covered in the blood of millions. When the war finally ended, we swore we would not repeat the same mistakes again, yet why is it that after 10 years, the threat of war continues to loom over our heads. We continue to spread lies about each other and throw blame. Has the word "Trust" disappeared from our lexicon? I have no doubt that many of you present and watching this from around the world accuse me of hypocrisy and I do not blame you. However, humanity can change, and I have always believed in forgiveness despite my flaws. So, I believe it is time for remission, so that we can work together for the greater good of humankind. To expand our horizons and go where we have not been able to go before. I call upon on both Space and Earth to come together and strengthen the fragile peace we paid for in countless lives."
The Emperor bows to the stunned audience who stare at him in awe. Then, the EF Chief Representative stands up and begins to clap, followed by others until the auditorium is filled with applause and cheering.
Back on earth, Akito and his teammates are equally surprised by the Emperor's speech. "Damn, that was pretty convincing."
"I'll say. I have to respect him for his willingness to forgive those who wronged him but…" Kosuke notes as Akito hunches forward.
"It's not that easy." Akito says bluntly.
"True…" Lucia nods.
They continue to watch the broadcast as a brown-haired man with blue eyes and a strong jawline joins the Emperor on the stage. He wears the same blue ceremonial uniform as the Emperor but his one has a different emblem on the left side of the chest. The EF's Chief Representative also joins them and shakes their hands. Then suddenly, a loud bang is heard as a section of the auditorium's glass skylight shatters, followed by the sound of gunfire. Mass panic ensues as the stage is raked by bullets. The Emperor pushes the Chief Representative off the stage as he is hit by multiple shots. As he collapses next to the box, the man with the strong jaw line and two bodyguards run to his aid. They drag him off the stage while under fire and rush him out of the auditorium. Akito recognizes his brother among the panicked people, protecting the silver-haired girl from the gunfire. Then, multiple armed guards arrive from behind the stage and open fire at the broken skylight. The camera moves towards the roof, and it catches a glimpse of the assailant who pulls out a grenade and shouts: "DEATH TO THE COLONIES!" as he pulls the pin and blows himself up. Then the broadcast cuts off.
Everyone in the room are shocked by the events as they stare at the screen. Jacky has stood up with her hands over her mouth while Lucia, Michael and Kosuke watch in disbelief. Akito however, looks almost motionless. His mind is immediately filled with Ryo's words. "It's just like he said…No…this can't be happening…"
"What happened?! Did someone seriously just attack the event?!" Michael shouts in disbelief.
"It was most likely an Anti-Colonial terrorist…but how did he get past the security? Shouldn't those kinds of events have top-level security?" Kosuke sits down just as the base's general alarm goes off.
"What now?!" Jacky looks at the others in panic and Lucia gestures her to calm down.
"It's just an alarm."
"ATTENTION ALL BASE PERSONNEL. THIS BASE IS NOW IN LEVEL 2 BATTLE STATIONS. ALL COMMISSIONED OFFICERS, REPORT TO THE CONTROL BOOTH IMMEDIATELY. ALL OTHER PERSONNEL ARE TO REMAIN ON STANDBY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE."
Lucia immediately stands up and begins to leave the room, much to Jacky's distress. "Where are you going Lucy?!"
"As an officer, I must report to the control booth."
"When you come back, give us the rundown too."
"Of course. Now if you'll excuse me." Lucia replies to Michael and as she walks out, Kosuke follows her outside.
Upon they approach the elevator, Dean manages to catch up to them before they board it. "Damn, why the hell did they call us to the control booth?!"
"A soldier has no right to complain about orders." Lucia says coldly.
"Shut up!"
"Oh boy, this is going to be a long elevator ride…" Kosuke sighs as the elevator takes them to the lower levels.
One hour later, the three lieutenants return to the barracks in silence while Akito, Michael and Jacky have spent the whole our in the same room, waiting for any news and as Lucia opens the door, Jacky immediately jumps up.
"Lucy! Do you know what's going on?!"
"Calm down. We've been ordered to remain on standby. At least for now, we are not going anywhere."
"Did they have any info on the attack?"
"Sorry Michael, but they refused to say anything. They only said that all information channels are blocked and Tycho is in full lock-down."
"Hey, stop standin' in the doorway! I'm going to sleep!" Dean forces himself past Lucia and slams the door behind him as he enters the right-side bunkroom.
"Sorry about that, Lieutenant Gronwald."
"Non taken, Lieutenant Tsuda." Kosuke walks silently across the room and enters the same room Dean went into. "Anyway, I believe it's best if we go to sleep. We'll probably get more information tomorrow. Come on Jaqueline, let's go."
"Okay…good night you two. Akito, I hope your brother's all right."
"He'll be fine." Akito smiles weakly as the girls leave the room. As Michael stands up and opens the left-side room's door, he notices Akito staring blankly at the turned-off TV with a haunted look on his face.
"Dude, is everything okay? You really are worried about your brother, aren't you?"
"Yeah, but he's got a habit of getting out of bad situations."
"Alright, just don't lose sleep over this. We're still on stand-by you know?"
Akito nods in response and leans back on the sofa. As Michael is about the close the door behind him, Akito turns towards him. "Michael?"
"Yeah?"
"This isn't going to lead to a war, right?"
"I hope not. That's all I can say…" As he closes the door, Akito is left alone in the lounge, staring his reflection on the TV screen.
"There's no way…"
...
It's quarter to 3 AM, and as the moon shines on Taranto, Akito is still sitting in the lounge, wearing a white t-shirt and gray trousers. For the last 4 hours, he has gone through the events on Tycho in his head. "Dammit…" His left-hand brushes through his dark hair as he gets up and stares out of the window. He looks up towards to clear night sky when he notices lights flying upwards to space. "Those look like…warships. They must be headed for the Orbital Defense Ring…" But before he can sit back down, the base alarm once again goes off, waking up everyone.
"ATTENTION ALL BASE PERSONNEL, ALERT STATUS HAS INCREASED TO 1. AS OF THIS MOMENT, TARANTO BASE IS IN FULL LOCK-DOWN. ALL COMMISSIONED AND NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS ARE TO REPORT TO THE CONTROL BOOTH AT ONCE. I REPEAT…"
Akito runs to the other room to wake up Michael, who yawns loudly. "We need to go Michael! They need all officers to report to the control booth!" He shouts as he scrambles to put on his uniform.
"God dammit, I just fell asleep…" Michael yawns again and grabs his uniform, which he had sloppily thrown on to the chair next to his bunk bed. The two pilots then run out of the room and into the hallway where they see Dean and Kosuke running slightly ahead of them. Without saying a word, they run out of the building and towards the elevator. There, they meet the girls, who are also wearing their uniforms. "Man, how did you two get here before us?" Michael says while panting slightly.
"We couldn't sleep." Jacky replies.
"Heh, figures. Looks like I was the only one sleeping then."
"Dean was snoring when I went to our room…" Kosuke mutters.
"Shut up, four-eyes!"
The elevator slowly makes its way down to the control booth level and stops 3 floors above the hangar floor. The young officers disembark and walk down a dimly lit hallway until they reach a door guarded by two soldiers. Lucia salutes them first, followed by the others and the soldier standing in the right opens the door for them. Waiting inside is the Base Commander Rychel sitting behind a desk, his aide by his side and the commanding officers of the Edelweiss, standing against the left side wall, right next to the window. "Dude, was our ship the only one getting maintenance here?" Michael whispers to Akito who doesn't reply.
"Velge Team reporting." Lucia salutes as do the others and Commander Rychel gestures them to sit down.
"Please be seated. Now, you are all aware of the events that unfolded in Tycho 6 hours ago. Well, at 1 AM, the Colonial Empire released a statement regarding the incident and they have confirmed that Emperor Waldreich has succumbed to his wounds." A sense of shock goes through Akito and the others, but Dean just huffs loudly.
"Hah, serves that bastard right!"
"They also released a second, televised statement which was delivered from the Emperor's personal ship, the Maelstrom. They have repeatedly broadcast it throughout the Earth-Sphere. Here it is." Commander Rychel presses a button on his desk and the large screen behind him begins to play a video.
It shows the man with the strong jawline standing in-front of a microphone. Beside him is a younger man with silver hair and wearing a dark purple and yellow Imperial Officer's uniform. "So, who's that guy?" Michael whispers to Lucia.
"Archduke Gilliam Wilhelm von Waldreich, the Emperor's younger brother." Akito overhears her and looks intensely at the screen as the man begins to speak.
"Today, the Colonial Empire has lost someone, who can never be replaced. To his people, he was a strong and charismatic leader. To me, he was an older brother who I admired. To his children, he was a kind and caring father. To our nation, he was our founder. A nation that once again has suffered at the hands of the Earthnoids! The Emperor, Werner Johan Klaus von Walfreich, was taken from us, by a faceless coward! My brother, who, like all Spacenoids, had suffered greatly because of the Earth Federation's actions yet he was willing to extend a hand of forgiveness towards them. He wanted to change this world, so that the war we fought ten years ago would not repeat. Yet, what did he receive for his attempt of remission? Death! At the hands of a terrorist! The Colonial Empire will not simply stand by and let this unforgivable crime go unpunished. The culprits behind this hideous act will receive their due punishment but who allowed them into the memorial in the first place?! We have asked this same question from the Earth Federation, but they have refused to respond to us! As such, the Colonial Empire has issued an ultimatum to the Earth Federation: They are to hand over the terrorist's co-conspirators, withdraw all of their armed forces from beyond their Orbital Defense Ring and disarm their Lunar Bases. If they do not agree to these demands within the next 5 hours, the Colonial Empire will be forced to seek alternative methods to deal with this situation and then, we will not be held responsible for what follows! My fellow Spacenoids, we will rise from this and…"
Commander Rychel cuts off the speech and looks at the shocked faces of the officers. "They're blaming the Federation for this?!" Jacky says in disbelief.
"Why?! That doesn't make sense?!"
"Leave your questions for later!" Captain Renner shouts, silencing the room as Commander Rychel adjust his collar slightly and turns the screen off.
"Thank you, Captain. Now, as you saw, the Colonial Empire is threatening with war if the Federation doesn't comply to these frankly impossible demands. As such, the EFSF is now at DEFCON 4."
"DEFCON 4? That's serious." Michael whispers to Akito who nods silently.
"Now, HQ has ordered all space-capable ships to leave their assigned missions and join the Orbital Fleet at Armstrong Station. That also includes the Edelweiss. Here are the official orders." Rychel has his aide hand Captain Renner a printed copy of the order.
"Glatizant? They want us to go there?"
"That is correct. From there, you are to join other Sleeper Hunter ships and head to Odin's Shield in Northern Scandinavia. The mass driver there will take you to space. You must leave before mid-day tomorrow."
"But Commander, we just arrived here to receive those mobile suits and repair the ship. We can't go to space with untested machinery and a damaged ship."
"I am aware. That's why I've ordered the hangar mechanics to work on the ship as much as they can. Your mobile suits don't need to be ready until you reach space so they can be made operational while you head north."
"I see…but are you certain you can get the Edelweiss ready before we need to leave?"
"Like I said, they'll work as hard as they can. But considering the circumstances, I suggest you put your entire crew to work as well. It would make things easier." Renner looks at the Base Commander and nods but she is clearly dissatisfied. "Now, there are other important matters I must attend to, so I'll leave you to it Captain." Rychel salutes and along with his aide, walks out of the room with his hands behind his back. Commander Aho turns towards Renner and looks her in the eyes.
"Captain, how should we proceed?"
"Right…Lt. Cmdr. Barros, I'm leaving the pilots under your care. Me and Cmdr. Aho will head down to the ship to oversee the repairs."
"Understood Ma'am." As the Captain and Commander leave, Barros turns his attention towards the stunned pilots. "Alright, you heard what's going on. You lot are gonna go to the MS hangar and help get those machines ready for combat. We got a long day ahead, so you guys better do your best, understood?"
"YES SIR!" Everyone responds with a salute and they quickly leave the room but Kosuke stays behind.
"What about me Lt. Cmdr.?"
"You go too, since you're the 'expert'. We need every hand available."
"Yes Sir."
The pilots immediately head to the hangar and begin assisting mechanics to prep the new mobile suits. Akito sits in the Strike E's cockpit, silently typing with a folding keyboard. After 10 minutes, he pushes the keyboard aside and gestures to the mechanic standing on a maintenance scaffold in-front of the cockpit. "I'm going to test the VPS now. Tell the others to stand back."
"Gotcha." The mechanic nods and waves towards the others who are working on the Strike E's legs. "Hey, get back a bit. We're doing an armor test." The other mechanics stop what they are doing and move away from the machine. "Okay, go for it." The mechanic gives Akito a thumbs up to which Akito replies with a quick nod. He then presses the master power switch, causing the MS to hum slightly as it's Minovsky reactor springs to life. He then presses a red button next to the main display and a loud hiss is heard as the Strike E begins to change color from dull gray to white, black and red, much to the amazement of the mechanics. "This VPS armor system is pretty handy. Good thing they put a reactor on this thing, otherwise you'd run out of power."
"Yeah…" Akito replies silently.
"Right, we're gonna run a pressure test on the joints and check if the ion pumps are running properly. You can take five, kid." Akito nods and gets out of the cockpit. As he steps on to the scaffold, he sees the lone, broad-shouldered mobile suit standing in separately from the others.
"Hey, what's that mobile suit?"
"That? No idea. You should ask the Chief about that. I think he's helping with those to two Laser-Pulse units."
"Okay." Akito climbs down the scaffold's ladders and walks past the Kyrios. He sees Chief Ivanov conversing with Kosuke in-front of the Astraea.
"Chief!"
"What is it kid? You done already?"
"We just finished running the VPS test. They told me to take a break."
"Heh, you're lucky, kid, having such a simple machine to use. Not like these. I've never even seen half of the things they've installed on these machines. So, what do you want?"
"I was just wondering about that mobile suit over there." Akito points at the blue machine in the back and Chief adjusts his sunglasses slightly.
"Hmm…well I'll be damned. Haven't seen one of those in years."
"Chief?"
"That's a Byarlant, kid. We used to have one of those on the Gray Phantom during the war. The first Federation mobile suit capable of flight under its own power. It didn't make it to mass-production before the war ended. I'm guessing Gründer got their hands on one and tested it here."
"I see…"
"Looks like that thing's been configured for atmospheric flight only though. Not much use since we're going to space."
"Right, I'll go to the barracks to rest."
"That's good, kid. We need you guys in top shape if this ship goes to battle."
"Chief…do you think they'll start a new war?" Akito question surprises the Chief slightly.
"Well…I dunno kid. The politicians can say whatever they want, but the truth is that their leader was killed by an earthnoid. I don't think they're gonna let this go just like that."
"Yeah…I don't think so either…" Akito salutes the Chief and walks away.
"Man, he still salutes me, even though he's higher ranked now." The Chief adjust his sunglasses once again and continues his discussion with Kosuke, who looks on as Akito leaves the hangar. Once he reaches the surface, he sees the sun peak slightly from the east, but the sky is still dark and clear. Then, his eyes widen, and he sees flashes in the sky above him.
…
Meanwhile, beyond the Earth, in the debris-shoal zone at Lagrange point 2 in space, a lone mobile suit with a radome attached to its head, flies silently among the debris and the pilot is wearing a green and gray normal suit and he has an orchid-insignia emblazoned in his suit's chest. The red mono-eye of the dark gray EWAC-Zack moves from side-to-side, looking for something when suddenly, its sensors begin to pick-up targets. The pilot quickly contacts his mothership. "This Owl 1, Zieger do you copy?"
"This is Zieger, we copy Owl 1. Status report."
"Enemy fleet located. Their formation consists of fifteen vessels."
"Have you identified them?"
"…Three Agamennon-class carriers, two Irish-class battleships, four Alexandria-class heavy cruisers and six destroyers."
"Confirmed. Those ships belong to the EFSF's Lunar fleet. Maintain position. Our fleet will move into attack formation shortly."
"Roger, Owl 1 out." The pilot position's himself behind a small asteroid and continues to observe the fleet.
"Now you're going to pay for what you've done, you damn earthnoids!"
At the opposite end of the shoal zone, 7 ships glide through the debris. Onboard the lead ship, the Zieger, the commander in-charge of the formation, gives out orders. "Now that we know where their fleet is, we can begin the operation. Captain, stay on course. Start deploying the Big Gun-units to the shoal zone."
"Yes Sir."
Various mono-eyed mobile suits are deployed from the 7 ships and they begin to move large tri-pod mounted beam cannons to the debris field, securing them into asteroids or anything else big enough to keep them in place. As the formation continues towards the Lunar Fleet's six o'clock, the large cannons begin firing from the shoal zone, alerting the Federation ships.
"Captain! We are under attack!" One of the CIC operators shouts to the lead carrier's captain.
"Where is it coming from?"
"From the debris field, Sir."
"Can you identify them?"
"No, Sir. There's too much interference."
"Sir! The sensors are picking up Minovsky particle emissions! Our coms are jammed!" Another operator shouts.
"Dammit…All hands, level 1 battle stations! Send mobile suits to the shoal zone! Find the attackers!" 10 Jegan's and 5 105 Dagger's take-off from the carriers and fly in amongst the debris.
Meanwhile, the 7 ships have positioned themselves behind the Lunar Fleet as the commander aboard the Zieger smiles slightly in his seat. "Excellent, they've fallen for the bait. Captain, commence attack. It's time we sink that fleet."
"All hands, level 1 battle stations! Disengage optical camouflage, launch all mobile suits."
Then, as if out of nowhere, the seven unknown ships appear behind the fleet adn the CIC operator aboard the flag-ship is shocked. "New contacts, 7 ships, 5 Nazca-class and 2 Endra-class!"
"What?! Those are Imperial ships! They are attacking us without even declaring war?! Damn them! Return fire, call back the mobile suits!" The shoal zone is turned into a field of chaos as the two fleets engage each other.
Note: This chapter gives us a first glimpse of Velge Team's new mobile suits, Lucia's C1, Michael's Kyrios, Akito's Strike E, Jacky' Qubeley AC and new boy Dean's Astraea. The idea behind these five getting new machines came from Majestic Prince's Team Rabbits and their machines. Of course, all of them are different to their canon counterparts, like the C1 having the S Gundam's A.L.I.C.E. AI or the Strike E using the Raigo Gundam's Sumbullet and Caliburn packs instead of the Actaeon Striker Packs. The Strike E is also reactor powered, to make it even with the others.
Because this series is a "crossover", both the colonies and the earth forces will use machines from various Gundam series and mix them up, as shown in this chapter where the EFSF use both CE and UC mobile suits together.