Darling in the Franxx: Alternate Core

by StrikeForceHeroeTeller

In a world where most of humanity is no longer what it was, how valuable are the values of the Old? Unknown to APE, a secret elite group of scientist and military broke off from their doctrine and founded the 'Restoration Front'. Their goal? To restore their home under the values of true humanity. What will happen when their pilots cross paths with Squad 13? Pray for answer...

12. Chapter 12

Darling in the Franxx: Alternate Core

Chapter 12: The Defense of the Ark.

Chapter 12 bois! This is one of the big ones for it will feature the first massive battle for our heroes of Squad 13 as for those in the SMC it feels like is just another Thursday for them. Now let's see how they fare!

On with the show!

---

2 hours before the start of operation 'Spirit Keeper', at the 'Cerasus'…

To say everyone in Squad 13 was nervous was an understatement, it was their first professional sortie with other professional forces that no doubt have more experience and knowledge about their enemy, not to say they were now on a spot of responsibility that will affect how everyone in the SMC AND the RF would judge them. It may look simple in theory, maybe even boring: be the one squad that's going to stay the closest to the Ark, literally taking care of strays and Cloakers to avoid them reaching the civilians. Even so, it was anything but simple.

Ichigo: - Sensei, what exactly are 'cloakers'? –

Orion: - Remember back at the kissing operation when we told you about the Shadow Conrads? *Ichigo nods* Cloakers are basically a more advanced version of them, not only are they hard to detect on radar, but they can also cloak themselves at will which makes them hard to detect either by visual or sensory support. Fortunately, their 'cloaking' has a weakness. If faced against a sudden source of light, like a spotlight or a flare, their shadows and outlines will light up like a beacon. They also tend to emit a unique sound when decloaking which happens when they attack Use those moments to hit them with trackers that will disable their cloaking for a long moment and finish them off. We will talk in more detail about those later when we're given the all-clear to proceed towards the Peleliu hangar where they will install some modules on your Franxx for the operation. –

Ichigo: - Wait, that means that even with a whole army, klaxosaurs can still get close towards the ark? –

Orion: - Yep, which is why our role is very important in the end. We are literally the last line of defense between life and death for the people in the ark. Because of it, High Command will grant us control of the support of a lot of units. Make sure to use their help wisely. –

She had spent the rest of the day checking and reading everything about her enemy and allies alongside Goro and sharing it with their squad. They even took an extra class of yoga, courtesy of Sally, to calm their nerves down a little but it was still not enough. Right now, everyone was having one final meeting with their commander as they were required to go towards the Peleliu in their Franxx so that they would receive some necessary modifications for the operation ahead of them.

Hachi: - According to the most recent intel acquired by the scouts, the enemy force numbers between six to eight thousand units, of which 80% are Conrads with 15% being Mohorovick's and the rest a mix of Gutenbergs and Reapers. –

Everyone was in shock at hearing that, except Raven.

Zorome: - Six to eight thousand?! Raven, are those numbers normal!? –

Raven: - Believe it or not, this is LESS than the SMC expected AND it is still LESS than the numbers obtained from the other 4 ark operations done before! Those numbered upon the tens of thousands! –

Mitsuru: - I don't know if I should be amazed or worried by this fact… are we sure that its only that? I have a hunch that we're going to be surprised like with the kissing operation when that Gutenberg appeared at the last moment… -

Hachi: - You're correct to assume that… intel obtained from radar and energy readings indicate that the klaxosaurs have a leader, category unknown for now. However, everyone expects it to be big and smart and will enter in the later stages of battle. –

Mitsuru: - Sometimes I hate being right… -

Raven: - There man, it tends to happen… and you got good forethought, only fools think everything in an operation is going to go according to plan. As the Prussian commander Helmont von Moltke once said "Plans never survive direct contact with the enemy." –

While Mitsuru smiled with pride, Titus asked: - Why is it that we don't hear or learn anything about those ancient commanders? It would help greatly with the preparation of APE Parasites back at the Garden. –

Raven interceded before Hachi would respond at his suggestion: - Because some of them have outdated tactics that won't apply against klaxosaurs, man. –

Titus: - I guess that makes sense… -

Raven: "Phew, almost went into dangerous waters there Titus…"

Hachi: - Anyways, the Peleliu has given us the order to proceed with the Franxx to receive the necessary modifications. The 'Cerasus' will be moving alongside the 'Oletros' and the 'Wolfsrudel' towards the rearguard while you're at the hangars. Communications from now on will be on a channel assigned to us by the SMC. Your Franxx's will be linked to it on the hangar. Dismissed! –

Nana: - Good luck children. –

Everyone, with exception of Naomi and Raven, went towards their respective changing rooms. And inside the girl's side, a change for the better was about to start…

Ichigo: - You girls are ready yet? –

Ikuno: *From the clothing machine* - Just a minute! –

The captain and Zero Two were of the first ones to be ready and were waiting for the rest outside the room. Ichigo had been used to staying with her in silent while waiting for the others, so she was surprised when she approached her…

Zero Two: - Hey Ichigo… can I talk to you something really quick before the rest arrive? –

Ichigo: - Umm… sure. –

Zero Two: - Listen… I'm being serious when I say this… thank you… for standing up to me back there at the conference… -

Ichigo: "Ah!" – Oh. Well, it's my job as your leader, you know? With what sensei Orion has taught us and the few interactions we had ever since we went under their tutelage… I believe you deserve to have a chance to clean your name with the SMC at least. –

Zero Two: - Are… are you serious about it? –

Ichigo: - Yeah… I would be lying if I say that it makes everything that happened between us… how did that phrase went? –

Zero Two: - I think it was 'water under the bridge'. –

Ichigo: - Thanks, but as I was saying, I still have trust issues with you and so does everyone else… but I'm more than ready to give you a chance to regain it for everyone. After all, it's thanks to you that Hiro is still with us… and in some way, I think it's thanks to you that we are here. Just please... don't waste this chance, ok? –

Zero Two smiled genuinely at her before saying: - No promises… but I will try my best, is that good? –

Ichigo: - Like the senator said back then, "it's all we could ask for." And you know what that means… -

Zero Two: - Fine, I promise I will stay in line with my darling for this operation, happy? –

The rest of the girls: - Say what?! –

That was when everyone else were finally done and just managed to hear Zero Two's promise…

Ikuno: - Wow, it seems miracles are possible after all… -

Zero Two: - You're pushing it a little, you know? –

Ichigo: - There, there, everyone. This operation is big so Zero Two's coordination isn't the only thing I need; I also need it from everyone else in here, understood? Can I count on you for this? –

Pari: - I'm the newest here and I don't know much about what exactly Zero Two is like, but Raven, you and Naomi put trust on her so I will too. –

Kokoro: - I will try my best to help, I don't know if the boys will be as open as us, but you can count on me Zero Two. –

Miku: - Well… if everyone else is going to give you their trust, I think I will too. This is also our ticket to see a city so please don't make us lose it please. –

Ikuno: - I believe that it is time we see you in a different light Zero Two. After all, most of the time we had with you, you had acted… different to what we pictured about you… -

Zero Two was, for the first time in a long time, glad to have met someone apart from her darling. If only he could remember her and everything that happened… then it would all be perfect.

Zero Two: "Maybe if I trust them all… maybe they will help me with him… but not now. After all of this is over…" – Thanks for the vote of confidence girls… I will… -

The intercom came alive interrupting her: - All pistils and stamens, please report to hangar 5. Please report to hangar 5. –

Zero Two: "Well, there goes the moment…"

Pari: - Seems your speech will have to wait for now. So, have you girls thought about what you want to do once we visit the city? –

Miku: - Well, I will certainly have to go with Zorome to keep his goofy personality in check… he has been talking non-stop about what he will do once we are finished here… -

Even after being interrupted, Zero Two couldn't help but smile as everyone talked with enthusiasm about a future in which she wouldn't mind taking part of if there was a way of sharing it with her darling…

They all soon arrived at the hangar alongside their stamen partners and soon found out that White Glint's dock was empty…

Ichigo: - Weird, where are Raven and Naomi? –

Dr. Franxx: - They went ahead to prepare their NEXT. Raven told me that apparently their unit is more sophisticated than a Franxx and needs a longer time to modify. He did say that he will "reserve your equipment". I don't know what he meant with that. Anyways, are you all ready for the operation ahead? –

After looking at everyone and seeing them nod their heads, Ichigo confidently said: - Ready… -

Dr. Franxx: - Good… code 015, from the moment you leave the hangars you will be put under the command of captain Orion and his superiors. Do your best to follow their orders and do your duty. Come back home safely everyone… -

Ichigo: - Thanks doctor… and we will. –

Everyone else: - Hai! –

They all soon boarded their Franxx and set off towards the 'Peleliu'. As they arrived, they saw the rest of the Man 'O' Wars preparing their squadrons for deployment, a few of them already outside. Here they saw that the SMC standard unit had a broad male frame that resembled that of a knight, but unlike Arthur, who was leaner, this one seemed to be designed to act more of a tank and had two shield-like weapons on each arm, the left one being bigger than the right one, even though the latter had three cannons installed on it. ('Northern Knight' from the SMC but on grey colors, like those of the regular Franxx.) Many of them were moving in unison towards the front line while a few were still being on the process of being deployed. Behind them they could see similar AC's but with a gunner design standing by, ('Zowort Heavy' from Gundam) alongside some modified Franxx from their auxiliary allies and, to their surprise, actual klaxosaurs painted with white marks and equipped with gear, their riders standing close to them…

Ikuno: - By Papa, they weren't kidding about having some of them for cavalry… -

Mitsuru: - Just how many aces do they have under their sleeves? –

White Glint: /Hey guys!/

The squad soon saw White Glint waving at them at the entrance of the hangar.

White Glint: - I managed to reserve 6 shoulder modules in good conditions for you! And we were lucky too, they were the last ones! –

Delphinium: - Glad to know Raven! Just what are they supposed to do? –

White Glint: - I will explain it ONCE they're installed so get in there! Clock is ticking everyone! –

Hangar control room: /Auxiliary Delphinium, please instruct your squad to proceed towards docks 5 through 11./

Delphinium saw as the corresponding docks turned on their lights indicating their positions and soon answered: - Roger, we're moving in… -

They all soon stepped in and waited as compartments located right on top of the docks opened and lowered many mechanical arms and repair mini-bots.

Hangar control room: /If you could set your franxx in 'standby mode' it would be very appreciated. Save your fuel and energies for when the battle really starts./

Delphinium: - Understood. Hey guys, if anyone wants to relax right now is a good time while they work… -

She was interrupted as she saw everyone power down before she even finished speaking.

White Glint: - Wow, are you guys really that lazy or what? –

Strelizia: - Cut it out, will ya White Glint? We have limited reserves you know. –

White Glint: - Oh! Speaking of which, Orion has told us that we will have a feeder with us during the operation. –

Squad 13: - A feeder? –

White Glint: - A drone unit designed specifically to refuel and rearm SMC units, both NEXTs, ACs or Franxxs, in the fastest way possible. It will carry extra supplies that will allow us to fight longer, but you better use them wisely because once it rans out of reserves, there's no stopping until the fight is over. –

Delphinium: - Got it… -

They all stood there in silence, watching curiously at how the arms and the bots installed a module that looked like a rocket pod (think of the design similar to Soundwave's missile pod, the cyberverse version) on their shoulders. It didn't take long until the system soon broadcasted: - Installation of RXGEXT-Hepta-F shoulder launchers completed. –

Hangar control room: /Squad 13, please proceed outside for test firing. White Glint, show them the ropes./

White Glint: - Sure! Okay guys, follow me please! Via walking by the way, it saves energy on your boosters. –

Alstroemeria: - Wait, walking? –

White Glint: - Yeah! Don't tell me you don't… ow! –

Naomi: - Raven… what did we say about showing off your SMC pride? -

Alstroemeria: - Thanks Naomi. –

Genista: - What does that mean Naomi? –

Naomi: - You will see… if there's something that the SMC prides themselves with… and this are Raven's words for it… watch your left! –

Everyone did so and BARELY stop before an AC glided right in front of them as it crossed their path…

AC LYNX: - Move it, morons! –

White Glint: - Watch it, dumbass! Sorry about that, whoever was piloting that AC is clearly a newbie. The ONE rule on every LYNX here… –

CRASH!

They were interrupted as the same AC crashed into the side of one of the Man 'O' Wars…

White Glint: - Is to never abuse the 'Overboost'… -

Zorome: - And everyone says I'm the reckless one here! –

Some of his friends laughed a little at the joke as they followed Raven towards a firing range.

White Glint: - Okay we're here. Pay close attention to this because in the future, if your caretakers allow it, the mechanism to use other shoulder weapons involves the same concept so always keep this in mind. Delphinium, you will go first to set the example. –

Delphinium: - Alright… -

She soon stepped into position just as a hologram appeared in the firing range.

White Glint: - Okey, so right now, just like with the PA modules, I need you to link up the weapon with the main system first. –

Goro: - Got it, it is the one with the message 'Arm module ready to link', right? –

White Glint: - Correct, activate the link and let it synchronize with the system. Everyone else, do the same. –

Squad 13 soon did so and soon enough, everybody saw the shoulder weapons become online.

White Glint: - Good! Alright so now, to activate any shoulder weapon is like activating the PA. Only difference is that shoulder weapons have two modes: standby and active. As you probably gathered by now, some shoulder weapons don't stay active all the time because of their energy consumption, size, or other reasons. The flare launcher you have right now is inactive to avoid misfires and consuming your magma fuel, but you can easily activate it by just thinking on it. Take into mind that it must be a synchronized thinking, meaning that both stamen and pistil must coordinate their thoughts in order to use it from activating it all the way to aiming with it and firing with it. It's easier said than done. –

Delphinium: - So, all I need to do is what we basically do every day to pilot our franxxs? –

White Glint: - Kind off, but trust me, it's harder than it looks, and you will soon see why. For now, synchronize your thoughts and fire at the hologram with the flare launcher. –

Delphinium did so and concentrated as she looked at the hologram. Soon enough, the launcher opened and fired a flare that hit it flawlessly.

Delphinium: - That wasn't so hard… -

White Glint: - Well, then let's crank it up! Hit it again! –

The hologram reformed and Delphinium prepared to fire. However, just as she was about to, the hologram started moving around with the speed of an AC, and that was very fast. Needless to say, Delphinium soon learned why it was hard. She had to not only keep track of the target, she also had to calculate when and where to hit and that was without keeping in mind she would be moving too and dodging projectiles. It took her some minutes and a few missed shots until she finally got it on one.

Delphinium: - Damn… I guess I owe you an apology. –

White Glint: - The humiliation is enough. And relax, you aren't the only one to struggle with such. Let's see how the rest fair! –

The rest were not enthusiastic about it as they soon proved that their aim was also way off. Out of everyone in the Squad, Alstroemeria, Genista and Chlorophytum came out on top at first, second, and third respectively.

White Glint: - Man, it's clear our technology is not your forte, heh? –

Argentea: - Give us a rest! We're literally new to all of this! –

Arthur: /Did Raven told you that the weapons can AIM automatically at least?/

Squad 13: - WHAT?! –

Naomi: - Raven! You told me that they were manual only! –

Raven: - They are! You didn't ask me if they had an auto-aim feature! Word by word! –

Everyone was glaring at him…

Zero Two: - Damn… first time I ever get pranked like this… watch your back, Raven. –

Arthur: /Get used to it. Back in the academy Raven was known for being the 'King of the Pranks'. Everyone got served during his reign of terror in there… except me and Samuel of course./

Raven: - You two better watch your mouths because… -

Samuel: /Come on Raven. Do you want us to share the story about…?/

Raven: - SHUT UP! Fine! You guys win this time! –

Naomi: "I may ask them about it later…"

Raven: "Naomi, you're aware I can read your thoughts, right?"

Naomi: "So do you want me to hear it from you or from them?"

Raven: "… Touché. Man, are you gaining quite the spine. You're changing a lot from that shy girl at the Garden."

Naomi blushed at that but also smiled: "Thanks… I have you to thank for that, the dork that always found a way to make everyone smile, specially me."

This time Raven was the one who blushed…

Hangar control room: - White Glint, are the weapon systems working accordingly? –

Raven: "What's with the universe liking to screw touching moments?" – Yes, they have been tested and calibrated. –

Hangar control room: - Good, proceed towards your positions on the rearguard. Good luck! –

They all did so as they saw Bravo and Atlas squad waiting for them atop of one of the armored walls of the Ark. Apart from Atlas' mechs and Flamenco, the children knew nothing about the rest of Bravo's mechs so it was quite a surprise for them to see their designs.

Titus: - Raven, why haven't you told us about Bravo's pick of NEXTs? –

Raven: - Oh! Sorry, it must have slipped my mind. Want me to talk about them? –

Titus: - If you could, please! –

Ikuno: "Awww… it's cute when he goes nerd mode…"

Raven: - Alright, so first we got Marcus and Selina manning 'Trio of Enders'. *As he talked, he showed on the screen the file related to the mech. ('Trio of Enders' from the SMC)* He is Bravo's squad assigned DPS unit. –

Mitsuru: - Are you sure? He looks a little underpowered… -

*The image in the screen change to see Trio changing stance and suddenly pulling out more weapons out of his back and shoulders!*

Mitsuru: - Nevermind… -

Raven: - Yeah, you will see, Marcus is young but boy is he a gun nut alongside Selina. Trio's default weapon is an assault machine gun for all ranges but has other two weapons he can 'cycle' with, dual shotguns for close range that pack quite the punch and explosive rocket ordinance for long ranges and crowd control. And that is without considering his 'assault' ability which allows him to bring all guns forward when he needs that extra firepower. –

The image soon changed towards a NEXT that looked, in some way, like a priest with a halo behind him and a bigger one around his sides...('Gabriel' from the SMC)

Raven: - This is Gabriel, the sniper unit of Bravo. Tony and Jura pilot this one… -

Ikuno: - What's special about this one? –

Raven: - Well, for that I may need to talk a little about both pilots. You will see, Tony and Jura are… orphans. –

Pari: - Orphans? –

Raven: - Basically, when they were younger children, in the RF district there wasn't an adult assigned to take care of them. As such, they were raised in a little organization called 'The Priory of Mecha' whom have some… peculiar teachings but a great grasp on teleportation and levitation technology. Needless to say, Gabriel's special ability… *the images show Gabriel shooting with extreme power and accuracy at a Mohorovic that charges at him. However, moments before connecting, Gabriel looked towards another direction and pointed towards it as the 'halos' around him shined and next thing everyone saw was the mech TELEPORTING to a safe distance away, leaving the Moho confused before he finished him from his new spot.* Is teleportation and that makes quite a deadly sniper. After all, how can you attack at a sniper that can change position faster than the blink of an eye? –

Zero Two: - Well, you get close to it… but I can see your point. –

Raven: - Huh, you're learning to be humble… that's new. –

Zero Two: - I feel offended at that… -

Ichigo: *snickers* - So, what about the rest? –

Raven: *Images change to an orange NEXT that has a very round frame. ('Firestar' from the SMC)* - This one is Firestar, piloted by Imani and Derren, and she was designed to be this round on purpose. –

Miku: - But why? –

Zorome: - Pffft! It looks like it could turn into a ball! –

Just after he said those words, the images showed that it could, indeed, turn into a ball; a VERY HEAVY and literally on fire ball that punched through a whole pack of Conrads like a bowling ball against pins before transforming back into normal and laying fire all around the surviving dinos.

Zorome: - Oh… -

Raven: - Yeah, Firestar has mobility and crowd control in mind. Her ball mode allows her to move much faster than in her normal mode and packs quite the punch when using her charging attack. Now, because of this mobility, she is not heavily armored but don't underestimate because she is deadly at close quarters as she has not only an incendiary plasma shooter but also a flamethrower capable of melting whole chunks of klaxosaur skin alongside a napalm missile launcher on her left. –

Titus: - Stay away from her flames, got it. –

Raven: - Yep… *the images soon change to a bulky blue NEXT that seems to be part aircraft. (Hurricane from SMC)* This one is Hurricane, piloted by Himmela and Conrad, and she is the air superiority unit of the squad. And trust me, if you thought Andromeda was already good up there, well Hurricane is the ace in the skies. Her frame allows her to transform between three modes: normal, hover and flight. *The images show her doing so as she jumps and then changes into her flight mode, covering a gap quite fast before going into hover mode and started unleashing bullets and missiles on a group of Conrads.* -

Goro: - Wow, in some way they are like Atlas squadron. Well balanced and capable of versatility for many situations. –

Raven: - Yep, that's how most Ace squads usually form up their rosters so… -

Kokoro: - Wait, Raven, you seem to miss one. Who's piloting that one? –

She was pointing to a green mech whose design looked like it had been made out of the scraps of others but the quality and movement of its modules indicated it was new. ('Doomslight' from the SMC.)

Raven: - Oh… that's Doomslight and… well, it technically is piloting itself. –

Squad 13: - What? –

Raven: - It's a prototype NEXT that has an AI unit piloting it rather than a normal pair, like some of our MT's have. It's the tank of the squad and is even slower than Hotsteel but unlike him Doomslight can share its protective capabilities with its team. *Images show that Doomslight can deploy a shield with his left hand that is capable of absorbing both projectiles and blunt attacks from klaxosaurs followed by it deploying what seem to be pylons that once deployed were capable of shooting ray lights against the klaxosaurs or form barriers that hindered their movement. It seemed as something basic at first, until they saw Doomslight saturate the battlefield with its pylons that everyone soon saw the importance of its role. If done right, Doomslight can literally alter way of the battle and the fact it was an AI meant that it could still be improved.* And that's all! Pretty much all of what you need to know about them anyway. –

Naomi: - Thanks for the quick lesson, Raven… -

The intercoms and alarms at the frontlines suddenly sounded off interrupting her…

"ATTENTION! OPERATION 'SPIRIT KEEPER' IS NOW ACTIVE. WE REPEAT, OPERATION 'SPIRIT KEEPER' IS NOW ACTIVE! ALL UNITS, ACTION STATIONS!"

(Play "Aquila"- Extended version from Ace Combat 4)

That was when everyone realized that the sun had set down and without its light, everyone now could see a big wall of black and blue coming closer and closer to their position.

Futoshi: - Holy… those are a LOT of klaxosaurs! –

Dassia: /We just received the final intel on the dinos. Their numbers appear to be between 7000 and 7600./

Futoshi: - Yep… a lot of them… -

Dassia: - Do not worry kids, as Raven has already told you before, they had bigger numbers on the previous Ark operations, and we came out victorious. This one will not change that. –

As she said that, everyone saw the SMC units start to form a line, with the tank knights moving to the front. One of them had a different look compared to the rest and even looked bigger. (The default 'Northern Knight' skin, in-game lore in SMC says it's a commander version of the regular ones.) They soon were joined behind by the gunner units and the rest of the auxiliaries forming a second line behind them. The cavalry and the air units were away on standby, the former being on the flanks while the latter were standing on the Man 'O' Wars. And in front of them, siege AC's armed with artillery cannons were ready to shoot. ('Mobile Mechanized Artillery Unit' by psyper101)

Everyone waited as tension build up in the air as the wall of klaxosaurs got closer and closer. Eventually, it was close enough to show that it had an end and once these creatures saw the whole army of mechs in front of them, they charged and accelerated their pace as they opened fire. Most of their shots missed the line with a few of them being hit but shrugging them off. As they got closer, the children in squad 13 soon saw on their screens a map of the battlefield with an area covered with green in front of the defensive line…

Peleliu Operator: /The pack will be in range in 10 minutes!/

The commander unit soon said: - All knights, shield up! –

In a great act of coordination, the knight commander soon changed his stance as he linked both of his side shields in front of him, creating a bigger one while also deploying a gun on his right arm and two shoulder missile launchers. The rest of the knights on the sidelines soon followed his action and soon enough a line of shields appeared and covered the whole length of the battlefield. The kids were impressed at the display but their surprise didn't end there…

Knight commander unit: - Knights! Link up! –

Arcs of lightning started to connect between the knights and as they did so, their shields connected and soon enough, a blue wall more formidable than their shields formed.

Squad 13: - Wow… -

Arthur: - When everyone coordinates kids, we can do the impossible… -

The line behind them also got ready as the pack got closer and closer until…

Knight commander unit: - Line 1! Fire at will! –

Gunner commander unit: - Line 2! Fire at will! -

A sudden shower of fire erupted from both lines, all directed towards the approaching klaxosaurs who soon received the intentions loud and clear. Many of them at the front were butchered by the huge volume of fire with only a few of them being lucky enough to escape unscathed or with minor injuries. However, as they got closer and closer to the line, their casualties started to mount up that only a few managed to reach it and of those, they weren't strong enough to make the wall budge and were soon obliterated. These continued for a few minutes and the children were enraptured by it…

Delphinium: - Woah… I never thought it would be this easy… -

Flamenco: - Trust us, this IS the easy part, and it will soon crank up its difficulty. –

Just as he finished saying that the three squads could hear heavy footsteps getting closer to their position just as the next participants of the attack appeared: a whole pack of Mohorovicks making their way towards the line. Once spotted all units concentrated fire on them but only caused a few to fall as most of them continued their charge against the wall…

Knight commander unit: - Artillery! Time to play your part! –

Artillery commander unit: - Roger that! Artillery! Fire! –

Their units on the back soon came to life as in sequence they fired their shells and soon enough it was shown they carried quite the punch as it forced many of the Mohos to tumble and drop into the ground while other were unlucky and dropped dead as the shells went through their cores. Even so, it wasn't enough to stop their charge against the line and soon enough they covered the gap fast…

BLAM!

To the surprise of the children, the knights and the shield wall held against their mighty mass and staggered them, leaving them open towards the massive volumes of fire from the second line. Many more fell before the rest recovered their momentum and attacked again. They did this cycle of charging, staggering, and trying again many times, sometimes with more klaxosaurs, sometimes with less but the results were the same: the shield blockade was holding them out of reach of the Arc.

Strelizia: - I'm impressed. Never had I thought I would literally see a wall of mechs being more than enough to stop a whole pack. –

Firefox: - That's just the vanguard… -

Alstroemeria: - W-what? –

Firefox: - This isn't the entire pack, this is just the vanguard of it, the rest is either still trying to reach the frontline or waiting for the right opportunity. –

The thought of this huge army being only the vanguard left a few feelings of dread on the children, but that was soon interrupted as their communicators came on…

Knight commander: - Atlas squad, general Snow here, we have spotted cloakers near the area and seemed to have vanished. They're probably on their way to the ark, keep an eye out there! –

Arthur: - Copy general, okay guys, let's get to work. And kids, remember, if you hear a very distinctive noise behind you… -

Whatever he was about to say was interrupted as everyone suddenly heard a low humming before it grew on frequency and tone (the cloaker sound effect from the Payday series), and it was coming from…

Flamenco: - White Glint! Dodge! –

Raven and Naomi didn't hesitate and managed to dodge to the side just as a Moho looking like a spider tried to slash at the spot he was previously. White Glint then unfolded a cannon from his left shoulder and shot at the klaxosaur, the latter confused and unable to avoid the hit, leaving it stunned enough for White Glint to slash its head off and taking the core out in the process.

White Glint: - Well, at least they now know what to hear for… -

Similar sounds were soon heard nearby, and the three squads soon scrambled around as Arthur contacted the 'Oletros': - Admiral! Requesting flare shot! –

Dassia: /On its way!/

A compartment on the 'doughnut' opened and soon fired a flare that once it reached the zenith of its flight, it shined upon the area revealing all the cloakers, now staggered because of the blinding lights.

Flamenco: - I count more than 50, let's get to it! And remember, the squad with the least kills invites the drinks! –

Arthur: - Flamenco, you bastard! Squad 13 is underage and broke! –

Flamenco: - Who said that they were on it? Get your head out of the gutter Arthur! –

Arthur: - Why you son of a… -

Delphinium: *Rushing towards the cloakers alongside her squad* - Hey! Are you going to teach us or are WE the ones who will teach you here?! –

Squad 13 was already on their way while their mentors bickered, snapping them back into the action.

Flamenco: - Who would have thought a squad of tweens would surpass us on the initiative? –

Arthur: - Less taking, more slashing! –

They all engaged into combat against the klaxosaurs, most of them being mowed down fast while others started to cloak themselves again…

Argentea: - They're turning invisible! –

White Glint: - Then use you're flares to mark them! –

Argentea: - Oh right! –

With some difficulty, she managed to fire one of the flares just as her target was vanishing. As soon as the flare hit the cloaker, it got stuck on it and suddenly sent a flashwave throughout the whole klaxosaur, disabling its cloaking and making it visible.

Argentea: - Ah! I see now how they work! –

She rushed at it and slashed it, before turning towards another one and repeating the process, followed close behind by her squadmates and the rest of the aces. Squad 13 struggled a little against the cloakers, considering it was quite easy to lose sight of them in the middle of a nighttime battlefield and more than once they had been hit by their attacks. But thanks to their mentors and their training, they were doing a little better than expected in comparison to the kissing operation. Their little battle raged on for a while until they got the last one which allowed them a little break…

Arthur: - Alright, that's the last of this wave. How many did you got? –

Flamenco: - 15! –

Strelizia: - 11! –

Arthur: - 12. –

White Glint: - 13. –

Delphinium: - Don't you think it would be better to count AFTER the whole battle is over? –

The distant booms and gunshots made them look at the situation…

Arthur: - I say we got time; the line is finishing off the wave… -

As he said that, the klaxosaur vanguard was now in shambles, the last survivors now retreating while some Moho's tried to futilely wreck the shield wall only to be rejected and destroyed slowly one by one, until only 3 remained that were smarter than the rest and bailed.

General Snow: - The vanguard has been repelled, prepare yourselves for the main force! –

Chlorophytum: - So… that was only the vanguard… for real? –

Genista: - Oh dear… those were a lot of cloakers… how many will the main force bring? –

Trio of Enders (Marcus): - About 5 or 6 times more than the ones we just faced against. When we said it was going to be a long battle, we meant it. –

Squad 13 gulped at hearing that and double gulped when they turned to see an even bigger sea of blue and black going directly towards the Arc.

General Snow: - Here they come! Artillery! Fire clearance NOW! –

Artillery commander unit: - On its way! –

The artillery soon spoke loud and clear and another hellstorm was launched into the incoming attackers. It wasn't enough to slow them down significantly though and the front line braced for the incoming impact...

General Snow: - BRACE! –

BLAM!

The shield wall bended for the first time, some cracks appearing on some sectors and worry crossing the face of the children. But it did not break, and the knights held. Everyone behind their line unleashed as many volumes of fire as possible but it was still barely enough to keep the klaxosaurs at bay as the pack rammed itself over and over again, making the line bend more…

General Snow: - Hold everyone! HOLD! –

The children were getting worried as it seemed that the shield line would collapse.

Strelizia: - Well, it seems they are having a hard time against them… shall we go and help them darling? –

Before Hiro could respond though, Delphinium and White Glint intervened…

White Glint: - Hey! I admire your eagerness to help but we have orders you two! We are assigned here, and we WILL stay here! –

Delphinium: - Not this again Zero Two! Remember that you promised you will stay in line for this operation! –

Strelizia: - Oh come on! I'm pretty sure we can… -

Arthur: - Strelizia. –

The tone he carried was one of seriousness that Orion used very few times.

Arthur: - Why is it that you always have a desire to put yourself into unnecessary risks? Is it for the adrenaline of the hunt, the desire of supremacy… or simply a wish to see the end of the road? –

The rest of her squad mates were confused at that last statement but the way it seemed to make Strelizia tense made them aware that it was important… or sensitive.

Arthur: - Do you fear you will not reach something you search for? Or is it that you have finally reached it… but are afraid to lose it? –

Strelizia stayed silent for a while before she finally answered: - Dammit… fine, you want to know why I want to fight them so badly? –

Everyone listened up as she finally unleashed her rant: - I had never being thanked not even once for helping from the rest of the squads before meeting this one. You could say that it's a habit of mine for seeking… -

Arthur: - For seeking the fact that you're worth of someone's attention, right? To let everyone see you as 'yourself' rather to what you're known for… –

She looked at the knight NEXT as he continued: - Many of our people go through that phase too, Zero Two. And I will be honest here, even I went through it for a little while for back when I was younger, I was always living under someone's shadow, the people only knowing me for being close to the one who casted it. It got me into trouble a lot of times before I finally realized that the only way to make a name of myself, was to use that shadow to create my own light with those that know and have a personal faith on me. –

As Orion said that memories went through his head of many times he got into trouble, seeking for the approval of "friends" that didn't deserve even that title. In the end, it was Raven, Sally, Samuel, and other great people he met that he finally learned his true value and cut off those leeches for good.

Arthur: - All I want to tell you is, maybe instead of seeking the attention of strangers or people of higher status, seek out for the wellbeing of your close ones. In this case, squad 13. After all, you said you would try your best to be a team with them, remember? –

Strelizia stayed silent at Arthur's words, but soon said: - I… I guess what you're saying is true… but what about your… comrades out there at the line? Shouldn't they receive all the help they can get? –

Arthur: - It's part of the inevitability of war. Say that we follow your suggestion and take off to help them. However, what will happen to the rearguard while we're gone and there's no one covering it from cloakers? It will leave the ark unguarded, and their people left for dead. Not to say that even with your best efforts, some of the pilots out there WILL die, no matter how hard we try to save them. We can't save them all without condemning others in the process. –

White Glint: - We appreciate a lot that you're reaching for their well-being Stre, but remember: they volunteered for this. They were made aware of the risks they were going to face, all the consequences that would come out in case things went wrong and they still volunteered to be on the front, where the heaviest tolls happen. Have faith on them, almost all of them are units that had been tested repeatedly in different operations and have enough experience to live through it. But their efforts will be in vain if we let go of our duty. –

Gabriel (Tony): - Tell me my child… it's it better to be known as a champion for the soldiers… or as the savior of the innocents? –

After hearing all of what she was told, Zero Two seemed to be with an inner dilemma as she watched the battlefield. It was the first time she was given a thought about it. After all, why should she have it when in APE she didn't need to? The adults inside the Plantations weren't worth anything and the Parasites all but avoided her… but here at the SMC it was a different story. When she realized that everyone already knew her by her moniker, she expected the typical reactions of disgust and horror to be plastered on every pilot in the conference room: she was pleasantly disappointed. Sure, there were some ex-Parasites that seemed to have a grudge against her, but the rest of the LYNXs seemed to be indifferent to it. However, when she said that she would do her best to clean her reputation… she received looks of hope and goodwill. Being sincere, she thought that doing that would be a waste of time… but now that she was seeing how they operated and how, even at frightening odds still held together…

Zero Two: - Maybe… just maybe… -

The alarm nearby sounded as their radio came alive: /More cloakers coming in fast!/

Arthur: - Okey squad, here we go again! –

As Atlas and Bravo left, Delphinium stood behind to say something: - Zero Two, I'm sure you need some time to think about it… if you want to go there, we won't stop you but please reconsider. Let's go guys! –

The rest of the squad left as Strelizia stood there, alone…

Hiro: - Zero Two? If I could have an opinion? –

Zero Two: - Hmm? –

Hiro: - I understand exactly what you're feeling right now… the first sorties my friends did, I desperately wanted to be there to help them, but I couldn't. And during the kissing operation, when I was… "gone" I thought I had done more than enough… but I was a fool to think so. I put you in harm's way and risked everything in there. –

Zero Two stayed silent, remembering the pain and sadness she felt when she believed she was so close yet so far again as he continued: - But it was that realization that I haven't done enough that allowed me to return to you. Since then, I promised to be your wings because I knew only you and I would be able to fly together. But even then, there's still risks about flying too high or too low. –

Zero Two: - Then what do you suggest we do, darling? You got wings now; how do you want to fly? –

Hiro stayed silent for some time, looking towards the frontline before looking back at his friends, keeping off a bigger number of cloakers from the ark.

Hiro: - To be honest? I would rather stay with our friends. There's simply something glorious about flying together with the squad rather than doing so alone, don't you think? –

Zero Two knew what he meant: the last sorties and training sessions that she had were the liveliest that she ever had in a long while, and the main difference? They were all done together with Squad 13. And it was at that moment that she soon remembered something that Sally told her before: "I thought that after being in the sea of solitude for so long, you would appreciate the island of companionship…"

Zero Two: "Dammit… she was right this whole time…" – Very well then, that's what we will do then, dah-ling. –

Hiro: - Great! Then let's not waste time! Otherwise, they will get the big ones without us! –

Strelizia: - You sure know how to cheer me up darling! -

They rushed back towards the action, where they soon saw Alstroemeria pulling one klaxosaur towards her using her Thorn Stingers and then slicing it in half with her lance, getting the core with another slice.

Strelizia: - You know, that's actually very good! – She said that as she rushed and impaled a cloaker behind the former franxx as she turned to greet her…

Alstroemeria: - Thank you! And we're glad you're here too! –

Strelizia: - Well, I certainly couldn't let you guys have all the fun, do I? –

A blast from behind her made her turn around to see that Genista had just shoot a cloaker saving Strelizia skin.

Genista: - Don't get distracted now! There's a lot of them around us this time! –

She spun right just in time to impale through another cloaker that tried to avenge its comrade before being blasted to smithereens. However, two cloakers ambushed her just then trying to catch her on a pincer move…

Delphinium: - Look out! –

One of them was intercepted by the blue and white franxx while the other one managed to hit Genista. However, the latter's new training kicked in and ducked, making her frame look smaller and making the klaxosaur's attack hit a smaller area, and missed its attempt to pin her down on the ground. And as it tried to recover, it was soon pummeled by Chlorophytum's guns, forcing its skin off before she then rushed in and used her magma legs to stab and destroy its core.

She was followed by Argentea whom rushed firing her 4 flares, all of them sticking to 4 klaxosaurs and disabling their cloak, revealing them right in front of the group.

Argentea: - These new lenses are awesome! –

She rushed towards the nearest klaxosaur, slashing at its legs at an odd angle, making it collapse on the ground before jumping up and then diving into its head, her claws soon slashing through its skin until reaching the core and tearing it out of the beast.

Argentea: - Ha! That was easy! –

White Glint: - Watch out! –

The warning came a little late as the other 3 charged at her. Argentea only managed to avoid 1 of them before the other 2 hit her hard and sent her into the ground.

Argentea: - Aaaaargh! –

Fortunately, before the klaxosaur could rush back against her, White Glint came from above, landing directly on the head of one, pinning it down with the force of the shock as he opened fire against the other 2 with his assault guns. The other two were forced to retreat and abandon their pinned brethren which White Glint stabbed with his right wrist blade, forcing the core out and retrieving it in the process. He then went to help Argentea up.

White Glint: - You're all getting better, but it's still not enough. –

Whatever Argentea was about to reply, it was interrupted as she was pushed away as the other 2 klaxosaurs came rolling like a saw blade towards both. White Glint caught the force of both their impacts forcing him away.

Delphinium: - White Glint! –

White Glint: - I'm alright! We all have the PA now, remember?! –

He said that as his shield shined around him before disappearing as it reformed, and he deployed his shoulder cannon.

White Glint: - Here, let me return you the favor. –

His shot connected and blew up the face of one of them. To the surprise of the children, rather than avenging its fallen brethren, the other klaxosaur grabbed the ejected core with its mouth and then ran away before cloaking and disappearing from their sight!

Argentea: - Did… did any of you saw that? –

Delphinium: - White Glint? –

White Glint: - Yes, it sometimes happens, I will explain it later! –

Arthur: - Hey kids! We wouldn't mind a hand on the West sector! Lots of big ones here! –

Delphinium: - Roger! Let's move everyone! –

They all proceeded to help, and as they arrived, they saw Atlas and Bravo trying their best to eliminate a big number of Moho's without being overrun, something they were having difficulty with…

Firefox: - It seems the pack is throwing their cards on infiltration in here! We need more firepower! –

Trio: - I have it all right here! Initiating LIBERTY mode! –

The NEXT soon pulled out all of his weapons to bare, looking like a mobile fortress with legs, and started blasting away at many klaxosaurs supported closely by Firefox, Hurricane and Andromeda.

Andromeda: - We will keep them at bay, cover our flanks kids! –

Delphinium: - Only us? What about the rest of your… -

CRASH!

Everyone saw Hotsteel and Doomslight collapse as they were thrown by a big Moho against each other.

Doomslight: - Damage assessment: superficial level. Hull integrity: 90%. All external modules working effectively. I'm not done here yet blue beast. –

Hotsteel: - Blyat! This beast is being very annoying! –

Arthur: - Tell me about it! –

Everyone saw the knight NEXT trying its best to hang on to his sword incrusted into the back of the klaxosaur.

Arthur: - The rest of us are busy as you can see! We're trusting you on this one, kids! –

Chuck: - You already made it this far! Don't give up now! –

Inspired, Delphinium said: - Alright! We will try our best then! –

Caramel: - Good! Because there is a BIG one going right at you! –

The ground shook as the mentioned klaxosaur charged towards them, and that was when they all realized it was a Gutenberg! Instead of the bipedal creature they saw in the kissing, this one looked more like reptilian creature with big, strong hind legs, which allowed it to walk like a bipedal creature. Its front leg, more like arms, were shorter, but they looked strong and had claws that looked VERY deadly. But what called their attention was the thick horned head, it looked like that of a dragon but smaller and with two horns on its front. (Inspired on the famous "Deathclaws" from the Fallout franchise).

Firestar (Imani): - Daaaaaaamn… a 'Grimclaw'! Now that is a tough nut to crack! –

Derren: - Careful kids! The claws on that beast will tear you apart very badly! Stay away from them and don't let it grab you! –

His warning came in time as the klaxosaur rushed towards Squad 13!

Delphinium: - Evade! –

(Stop previous music and play 'The Sky Crawlers: Innocent Aces [The Wolf of Kiriki]')

They all managed to swiftly dodge its charge by strafing to the sides. They were surprised however when the klaxosaur turned very fast on its right leg and sweeped his hand, attempting to grab one of them, and the target was Strelizia!

White Glint: - Watch out! –

Strelizia ducked and raised her shield over her head. Thankfully, this made the hand bounce off from it failing to get a grip on her. However, the impact on the shield was enough to knock Strelizia a few feet away before regaining her balance and stopping.

Zero Two: - Grrrr… -

Hiro: - Ugh! Let's see… *Checks Strelizia's status and realizes something bad* Crap… that thing hits hard, we lost 30% of the PA! –

As a matter of fact, just one near miss hit was enough to fill Strelizia's shield gadget to the max. She soon banged her lance on it restoring half of the energy lost of her PA just as the klaxosaur turned around for another charge. However, Alstroemeria intervened by firing her rope-darts at his left leg and once she saw them hit, she pulled at them with all her strength. Surprisingly, it worked! It made both of them lose their balance and fall into the ground, but it left the Grimclaw vulnerable!

White Glint: - AIM FOR THE BELLY! THAT'S THE WEAKSPOT! –

Chlorophytum, Genista and White Glint unleashed their firepower as Argentea, Delphinium, Alstroemeria and Strelizia rushed and slashed at it. Unfortunately, the creature managed to recover fast and was smart…

White Glint: - It's going to roll over, MOVE! –

His warning came in time as Argentea, Strelizia, Alstroemeria and Delphinium disengaged just as the Grimclaw rolled its body in an attempt to crush them under its weight.

Delphinium: - Okay, I think I got the strategy to defeat this thing! We make him trip whenever we can to expose its belly! Raven! Is its core on that part only! –

White Glint: - Yeah! That's the only redeemable thing of the Grimclaws! Because of all the dense armor in all of its body, the only place to settle its core is in the belly! Always! But they're smart too! It won't fall for the same trick that easily! –

Chlorophytum: - Then we must distract it, so it doesn't notice the trick then! –

White Glint: - Correct! And I got an idea for this one! –

Delphinium: - Which is?! –

White Glint: - *Evading incoming fire* Distract it so it doesn't see me coming from the side! You will soon see what happens! –

He sped off out of the creature's sight just as it was charging again at them.

Strelizia: - He is basically doing a 'me' movement! That's not fair! –

Delphinium: - Now you get to know how we feel then! –

She then fired one of her flares towards the Grimclaw, managing to get its attention and ducked just as the creature tried to grab her and dashed out of the way. Strelizia and Argentea used the opportunity to dash and slash at its legs, the attack wounding it but not enough. The klaxosaur responded by stomping its legs and forcing the two Franxx away. It was then pummeled by Genista's cannon at its right leg while Chlorophytum bombarded its left. The creature tried to locate them only for the distraction to be used by Alstroemeria who used her Thorn Stingers to launch herself at the backside of the legs and slashed at them, worsening the wound. The Grimclaw let her know the pain it suffered by swiftly backhanding her just as she appeared from below it because of her momentum.

Alstroemeria: - Agggh! –

Delphinium: - Titus! Pari! Are you guys alright!? –

Alstroemeria: - Aggh… that hurt… -

Titus: - Our PA dropped to 45%! –

Argentea: - Look out! –

That was when both realized that the Grimclaw didn't waste time and was ready to slash at the yellow Franxx.

Titus: - Crap! –

He pulled hard on the controls and just BARELY managed to move Alstroemeria out of the way as the right claw descended upon them. The creature tried again with its left only for Argentea to swoop in and move her out of harm's way.

Alstroemeria: - Thank you Miku… -

Chlorophytum: - Look! It's stuck! –

Effectively, the Grimclaw seemed to be struggling to pull its claws out of the ground…

Delphinium: - White Glint! Where are you?! –

White Glint: - I AM HERE! –

At that moment, everyone saw him appear out of nowhere and charge very fast against the Grimclaw's face, hitting it hard and loud! His charge was powerful enough to force the Grimclaw sideways, leaving its belly exposed again!

White Glint: - Hit it with everything you got! –

He then activated his wrist laser blades and proceeded to CQC, followed closely by the rest. They managed to make the wound on the belly bigger and deeper.

Strelizia: - Are we doing good progress White Glint?! –

White Glint: - A few more stabs and it will be history! –

Genista: - Watch out, it is recovering! –

The Grimclaw got angry at this and after much effort managed to break free! The squad managed to break off in time to avoid its fury.

White Glint: - Okay, we just need one more shot at the belly and it is done for! The problem will be that the Grimclaw will not allow itself to be tricked again! –

Delphinium: - What does that mean?! –

As they avoided another charge from it, White Glint continued: - It means we must pin it down with brute force now! –

Delphinium: - I see! Well, we got the expert for that! Strelizia! –

Strelizia: - You don't have to tell me twice! –

She sped off towards the creature, soon baiting it into attacking her. The Grimclaw took it and swiped both of its hands to make sure she didn't escape this time. But to its surprise, she used her lance to basically pole jump over its attack and then rush at its face, hitting it hard. Even though it didn't damage the creature, it did piss it off.

Strelizia: - What's the matter? Getting a little riled… -

It roared loudly into Strelizia that it created a shockwave that stunned her as she was taunting her…

Strelizia: - Aggh! You little… -

As she tried to reorientate herself however, she soon realized that the Grimclaw had a very clean shoot at her and was going to use it to chomp down on her. It was too late to evade or block it…

Squad 13: - Strelizia! –

Strelizia: - Crap… -

However, at the last moment, she felt herself being carried, away from the maws of the creature! As it roared in anger for being denied its prey, she looked to see it was White Glint!

White Glint: - Is this going to become a recurring theme with you guys? Me saving everyone in the squad? –

Strelizia: - Shut it! We still aren't on the clear jerk! –

Delphinium: - Heads up! –

They both barely managed to avoid a tail slam coming from the angered klaxosaur…

White Glint: - It seems we will need something more than brute force to pin this one down… -

Strelizia: - Oh… I wonder how… -

Both separate just as another tail slammed on the spot they were few moments ago the creature tried to swip only to receive blaster and cannon shells on its flank, courtesy from their mentors.

Hurricane (Himmela): - We will keep it distracted! Go and force it down! –

Argentea: - But HOW?! This thing is smart and BIG! –

Firestar: *Rolling through a pack of cloakers like a bowling ball* - Maybe using those rope thingies that your homie Alstroemeria has! Pretty sure you can tumble the bluey down again with it! –

Alstroemeria: - *Slicing apart a few cloakers* I mean, she is not wrong. –

Genista: - *Blasting away some cloakers* And you think they can be strong enough to hold? –

White Glint: - They're made of a material that is WAY better than the magma ropes APE uses! They WILL hold! –

Delphinium looked at how fast the Grimclaw moved: - Even so, we won't be able to tie him up in time unless… *Le idea* Unless… YES! I have a plan everyone! Genista, Clorophytum! Stay here in this side! Argentea and Alstro, with me! White Glint, Strelizia, keep baiting him and prepare yourselves to dance! –

White Glint: - What do you mean… OH I see! –

Argentea: - What is she planning to do? –

Delphinium: - You will know when I give you the signal! Alstro! How much rope can you extend? –

Alstroemeria: - Technically infinite! Why? –

Delphinium's response was to grab the hooks of the Thorn Stingers and dash alongside Argentea under the legs of the Grimclaw, distracted by the suppressing fire. It did notice them once they reached the other side and turned to face them.

Delphinium: - Alright, Argentea! Here! Take them to Strelizia and White Glint! –

He tossed the hooks and Argentea grabbed them and sped up towards the pair while their leader distracted the klaxosaur. Diving below the legs, she managed to pull up to the two just as the Grimclaw sensed her and turned again.

Argentea: - All yours! Let's hope this works! –

White Glint and Strelizia grabbed one each and looked at each other…

White Glint: - So, I heard you already know how to dance… does that mean you know how to do a duet? –

Strelizia: - Only one way to know… just promise me you can keep up. –

White Glint: - The same I would say to you… -

The Grimclaw attacked, the ropes already underneath him tensing up a little and almost causing Alstroemeria to fall but was held back by Genista and Chlorophytum. The Grimclaw felt the tension and slowed down to rectify it, only for its slowness to be used by the pair who rushed between its legs and started moving around them in such a pace their friends haven't seen before! The Grimclaw saw them move around and tried to move around them, but the ropes began doing their job of constraining its movement. He tried reaching them with its claws but it was when it realized that its tremendous profile and size made it difficult for it to reach them. Eventually, soon both Strelizia and White Glint finished their 'dance' and dashed, the former to Chlorophytum, Genista and Alstroemeria while the latter went with Delphinium and Argentea.

Delphinium: - Everyone! PULL! –

They all grabbed their side of the ropes and pulled HARD. The trick worked! The sudden extra tension constrained the legs and the Grimclaw lost its balance and fell to the ground, belly exposed!

White Glint: - NOW! –

Everyone, except Alstroemeria, rushed at the fallen creature, and unleashed havoc at the belly. It's skin couldn't hold it together and soon enough, it gave way exposing the prize: the core of the creature, however, the Grimclaw had one more trick up its sleeve and the core started to disappear!

White Glint: - Dammit! It is going to hide it underneath! Strelizia! –

Strelizia: - Got it! –

In surprise coordination, White Glint and Strelizia held hands and proceeded forward, then the NEXT made a slingshot with the red and white franxx, sending her very fast towards the core!

Strelizia: - HYYYYAAAAAAAH! –

With her warcry, she went right through the body, the core shattered with her lance! Once it was destroyed, the Grimclaw gave one last pained roar before collapsing, dead.

(Stop the music…)

Delphinium: - We did it everyone! We got a Gutenberg! –

Everyone celebrated for this little victory, as it showed the results of their training! Before they almost DIED, but now they managed to take it down without many injuries.

Firefox: - Nice work! –

Firestar: - Hot damn! You kids know how to kick ass! –

Trio of Enders: - Hey! We still got more incoming! –

Even with the fall of their big brethren, the rest of the cloakers were still attacking…

Delphinium: - Alright, let's get going guys! –

Exhausted but determined, after retrieving the Thorn Stingers, the whole squad went to keep the rest of the klaxosaurs at bay while their mentors dealt with their respective beasts. And to be fair, it looked like theirs was longer because they were doing it on purpose, as it seemed they were using the big ones to smash and roll over the little ones.

Flamenco: - YIIIIIIIIHAWW! –

Argentea: - Oh come on! You make our feat look easy! –

Arthur: - We go by the objective, not the glory kids! –

Eventually, once there wasn't any more cloakers, Arthur, Flamenco, Doomslight and Hotsteel finished off their Gutenbergs easily as everybody else regrouped…

Genista: - What now? –

Alstroemeria: - Look! The line is changing! –

Everyone saw that the flanks were holding but the center was falling back…

Delphinium: - Crap, they are about to be overrun! –

Arthur: - No wait! Quite the contrary, they got this in the bag! –

Delphinium: - What?! But the center is… *Reflects and remembers some of the lessons* Wait… this is planned? –

Arthur: - Glad to see you still got your tactical thinking on check. Yeah, this is part of our deployment plan… -

Argentea: - But how exactly? –

Chlorophytum: - Wait… I think I remember it… something about the tactic being done first by a guy called… Hannibal was it? –

As everyone watched, the klaxosaurs continued assaulting the central force of the line, sensing that they were about to reach a breakthrough as the shield line in that sector seemed to weaken more and more after each charge. Unbeknownst to them, their numbers had descended a lot on the flanks and their reserves had ran out. The knights holding the sides knew about this, soon sending a signal to General Snow for the next part of the plan.

General Snow: - Center, HOLD! Cavalry and air support! Now! –

The leaders: - Roger! –

And with that call, the cavalry, both in land and on the air, charged at the flanks of the klaxosaur force, soon enough overwhelming the decimated remnants before circling behind the main attackers. The knights holding the flanks marched in coordination and soon enough, the SMC defenders had formed a triangle with the klaxosaurs trapped inside. That was when the creatures soon realized what had really happened: they had been trapped inside a cramped area in which their overwhelming numbers were now an issue rather than an advantage. Many tried to escape but their movement was blocked either by the closing defenders or their own brethren. Some used their superior agility or ability to fly to escape from the kill-zone, not to return for the rest of the battle while leaving behind the unlucky trapped ones. What followed was a massacre for the klaxosaurs the Squad 13 haven't seen before and it soon showed how and why the SMC seemed to be doing more progress than APE. Back at the 'Cerasus', the doctor was looking with interest at the battle footage while the rest of his subordinates did too, alongside a familiar face through the screen…

Dr. Franxx: - Impressive, you used Hannibal's strategy of enclosure to use the klaxosaurs main advantage against them… long time since I had seen such a battle maneuver be performed so effectively. –

Senator Armstrong: /It shows you how much better we are compared to the forces of APE, doesn't it? After all, you all seem to keep losing pilots like flies while ours thrive and become experienced battle after battle…/

Hachi: - With all respect Senator, but APE's strategy is… -

Armstrong: /Obsolete and inhumane, I really wonder how is it that you're still floating after losing too many sailors while the 7 captains don't give a sh**…/

Dr. Franxx: - Still holding that grudge, I see… -

Armstrong: /Call me 'childish' all of what you want doctor… but you know deep down inside you that you're having a turmoil. After all, I'm proving that you were wrong about what you said all those years ago./

Nana: - You two already knew each other doctor? –

Armstrong: /As a matter of fact, I used to serve WITH him lady. Him and the 7 old geezers up there…/

Nana: - WHAT?! –

Hachi: - Is this true doctor? –

Dr. Franxx: - *Sighs and takes a deep breath* Yes, it is true… so, how did the rest of your rebellious crew did it? –

Armstrong: /Ah, ah, ah… I know your games doctor. You seem to forget that even after all these years apart, I'm aware you haven't changed that much… and I also know that you're still holding contact with the old geezers up there, or at least you're trying to, considering that you're looking intensely at the repeater status…/

For once, Dr. Franxx was caught completely off-guard! He was, indeed, trying to relay footage of the battle directly towards the APE HQ, 'Cosmos', in secret only for the transmissions to not reach them! For once, he was thankful that his cybernetic body and face could easily help him hide all of it…

His two subordinates seemed to be tensed after that statement…

Hachi: - Have you been spying on us?! –

Armstrong: /Don't act that surprised; your organization would have done the same with us. As a matter of fact, I know about the many 'deals' that you had been doing with Admiral Dassia Cronwell to try and pry over our secrets./

Tension rose between the APE adults until Dr. Franxx said: - Well played, Steve… well played. It seems you're right, I haven't changed at all. –

Armstrong: /A shame, really doctor. Aren't you supposed to be a scientist? Your kind is supposed to be the one more susceptible to change for you research on it. *Pulls out a cigar and smokes* Since when did science allowed itself to become a puppet?/

Memories were triggered at the mention of that word…

?: - YOU'RE SIMPLY A PUPPET, WERNER! A PUPPET OF PAPA! I USED TO LOOK UP INTO YOU BECAUSE OF YOUR RESOLUTION, BECAUSE OF YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS UNDER YOUR OWN WILL ALONGSIDE KARINA'S! EVEN AFTER HER DEMISE, I STILL BELIEVED IN YOU! BUT NOW YOU SIMPLY ACT AS APE'S FAVORITE PET! YOU'RE A SHADOW OF WHAT YOU WERE AND I WILL NOT TOLERATE IT ANYMORE! GOODBYE! –

He had them suppressed as he answered: - Hasn't history taught us that it always happens all the time? –

Armstrong: /True, but it always ends up being brought into the public eye, no matter how long it takes. Science never allows itself to be manipulated to just one group. It always goes for everyone…/

Franxx: - Is that so? Then why aren't you sharing what you have with us? –

Armstrong: /*Takes a puff out of the cigar* It seems that even if with you being their favorite pet, the geezers still don't deem you worthy of all their secrets still. Have you ever heard about the 'Alamo'?/

Franxx: - Seems to be a recurring theme amongst your troops. What is so special about it? –

Armstrong: /On the next negotiation with Admiral Cronwell, she will give you a special folder containing all the antecedents you need to know. Then we will see if you're worthy of knowing the truth. *Throws the cigar away* I'm doing this in the name of our old friendship, doctor. Don't make me regret this if your lips slip, capiche? The same applies to you two also./

The three APE adults caught up on the message but as Nana and Hachi seemed to be ready to argue, Franxx took the lead and answered: - Alright… just this once, for the sake of an old friendship. –

Armstrong: /Good… *a notification appears on his screen* Hmmm… what's this? *Reads it and slowly smiles* Well Werner, you wanted to see us at our fullest… you will get soon our wish. I hope you still have a lot of memory in your recorder…/

The doctor was confused until the notification appeared on his screen and as he, Nana and Hachi read it, he could simply sigh and say: - Oh dear… -

Back in the battlefield, the children were observing with great attention at the massacre that was finishing just now. To their surprise, the SMC army didn't butcher every single klaxosaur and let a few remaining survivors go. These survivors were either too injured or too demoralized to continue the fight, so they took the chance to flee, surprising the kids even more…

Genista: - You let them go? Aren't you afraid they will turn back to finish the job if given the chance? –

Gabriel: - There's no will to fight when the soul is injured. But there's always gratitude when it is spared. –

Argentea: - I don't want to offend anyone but is he always this… weird? –

Flamenco: - You have no idea… but most of the time what he says has wisdom. –

Strelizia: - Really? May I try? –

Flamenco: - If you're going to ask him about 'the mystery of life' or something similarly vague, don't bother… -

Strelizia: - Awww… -

Delphinium: - So that's it? That's the end of the battle? –

Hurricane: - Not exactly, there's still the rearguard to take care of. But we can say that the hardest part of the operation has been completed, the rest of it should be a walk in the park. –

That was when all of them received an urgent notification from the 'Wolfsrudel'…

Admiral: - Rearguard unit, this is Admiral Erika Blitz! Give us a status report on your units! –

Arthur: - Atlas squad accounted for. All systems on the green, hull integrity at 90% tops, energy levels at 85%. –

Flamenco: - Bravo squad accounted for. All systems on the green, energy reserves at 83%, Doomslight's shield arm electronics received some damage and Firestar' flamethrower needs replacement, the new thermal alloys didn't do the trick to contain her fiery temper. –

Erika: - Again?! That's the 3rd one this month! Imani, what did we say about controlled bursts?! –

Imani: - Hey! In my defense, those bluejays were trying to use Firestar as their soccer ball, like hell I would allow them! –

Derren: - She is not wrong on that statement. –

Strelizia: - Oh let her be, there's nothing wrong with having some fun time going wild. –

Firestar: - Awww yeah! That's how I talk, high five missy! –

She presented her left hand to Strelizia, whom decided to humor her request and high-fived her while everybody else looked and had the same thought: "Great… there's two of them now…"

Erika: - *Sighs* Moving on, Auxiliary squad 13, what's your status? –

Delphinium: - Ummm… all systems on the green, everyone's accounted for… uh, frame integrity at 80%...and we have between 55% to 65% of magma fuel remaining. –

Erika: - That's not good. Squad 13, proceed alongside Doomslight and Firestar to the 'feeder' unit. We got intel that the leader is finally coming, and you all need to be prepared for it. -

Flamenco: - Ah, so it finally reveals itself! Any intel on what category is it? –

Erika: - Negative. There aren't even sightings of it except for the energy signatures… -

Arthur: - Hmmmm… that does not bode well… what is the plan? -

While the aces discussed, the children alongside Firestar and Doomslight proceeded towards the feeder unit, a mechanical unit that looked like a metal brick with tracks. As they reached, some compartments opened and out of it came hoses and mini-bots. As Squad 13 linked up to the hoses, both Doomslight and Firestar received repairs; Doomslight arm was replaced by another one while Firestar's flamethrower was dismantled, then the inner metal alloys were replaced by new ones before being reassembled and then reattached to Firestar.

Strelizia: - I got to admit, I wish we had those with us at APE. It would make a lot of our missions way easier… -

Firestar: - I think what you need is a change in the way APE handles their pilots… -

Doomslight: - APE wastes… the SMC… recycles… -

Delphinium: - W-what? –

Firestar: - Doomslight… different meanings… remember? –

Doomslight: - Analyzin recent statement… syntax error recognized, 'recycles' has different meaning… correcting previous statement… APE wastes lives… the SMC cherishes them… -

Firestar: - Better… -

Delphinium: - Wait… wait… what do you mean that APE wastes lives? –

The pilots of Firestar suddenly realized that they had spoken a little too much of the truth…

Doomslight: - APE negates to change… change would save lives of their pilots… neglecting change is to neglect lives… APE… -

Firestar: - Doomslight! Protocol 'Silencer'! –

Doomslight: - Acknowledged… shutting vocal system until next command… -

This made the children suspicious… what did the AI meant with APE being neglectful of their pilots? They were their only protection against the klaxosaurs! You can't simply neglect the defenders of humanity!

Zero Two: "It seems that they had come to that realization way earlier than me… no wonder they stayed in secret this whole time…"

Hiro: - Zero Two, what's wrong? –

Zero Two: - Nothing darling, just thinking on what that robot said… -

Hiro: - It doesn't make sense, right? Why would Papa…? Ngh! –

Another sudden flashback hit Hiro, this time his mind taking him in front of a window… were he saw a little red girl bound to a table being… tested in many wrong ways… and it left him scared…

Hiro: "What?! NO! STOP!"

He was suddenly jerked back to reality as it seemed that Zero Two had turned around and hold him still as it seemed he had moved the whole time…

Zero Two: - Darling! Are you alright!? –

Hiro: - I… I… -

Zero Two cupped his cheek and told him: - Darling… I think is time that you tell me what's wrong. You have been helping me this whole time, and I think it is fair that I do the same with you. But I won't be able to unless you tell me. So please, what's wrong? – "Could it be?"

Hiro looked at her for a long time before he sighed and soon said: - I… I don't know. Ever since we met Raven as White Glint, I had been having these sudden images on my head and every time they induce a headache on me and not only that… those images look so real… like I have lived them before… Zero Two, is there something wrong with me? –

Zero Two looked calm on the outside but on the inside, she was celebrating with joy! Her suspicions had been confirmed and her fears had been dissipated (mostly)! Hiro WAS her darling!

Zero Two: "Okay, calm yourself down Zero Two! Remember what sensei said about this 'resurgence syndrome' and how to treat it well… otherwise we will end hurting darling more than helping him…"

Orion: - Memory Resurgence Syndrome is not something to be treated lightly. To suddenly make him regain his memories is like showering his brain with cold water. Little by little, it becomes a nuisance but without risk. Dumping on him this whole bucket of memories can cause him to go into a mental shock that will have severe consequences for his health. So, we need to do this with care. The first step to go through is to make him aware that he may be sick. It is a lot easier to treat a patient when they recognize they are sick and can accelerate a lot the healing process. Next time he goes through one of his flashback 'episodes', make sure to incentivize him to share it with an expert… in this case, me or Sally. –

Zero Two: - I don't know what to say darling… but maybe sensei can help you? He and miss Sally seem to know a lot about Parasites more than we do so maybe they can tell what's happening to you… -

Hiro thought about it and soon concluded that maybe Zero Two was right: the SMC already rescued lots of pilots, maybe some of them went through the same problem he is suffering now? His decision had been made…

Hiro: - Very well, after this I will talk with them. Just do me one favor, please? Promise that you won't talk about this with everyone else for now. I don't want to give everyone another reason to be worried specially now… -

Zero Two: "A little late for that darling…" – Ok, I promise. –

Delphinium: - Hey, how are you all holding up guys? Tired already? –

Strelizia: - Are you kidding? I feel very alive! –

Alstroemeria: - A little, but at the same time still with a lot of energy! –

Argentea: - More than ready to do this again boss! –

Genista: - We are alright. –

Chlorophytum: - We are more excited than tired to be fair. Let's just hope that the leader isn't that hard. –

Alstroemeria: - To be fair, considering we just eliminated a very dangerous Gutenberg with teamwork and an 'outside-the-box' strategy, I would say we are on the way to victory! –

Derren: - That's the spirit! Even so, don't worry kids. It is very probable that the leader will be intercepted at the frontline so that means back to keeping cloakers off the Arc. –

Raven: - Oh well… at least that means we will have a good time, right Naomi? –

Naomi: - … -

Raven: - Naomi? –

Her silence worried him, specially when he noticed via the link that she was getting increasingly worried…

Raven: - Naomi? What's wrong? –

Delphinium: - Naomi? Are you alright? Are you tired? –

Naomi: - Uh…? Oh! No! I'm fine! It's just… I got this feeling… a bad feeling… -

Raven: - What do you mean? What sort of feeling? –

Naomi sighed before continuing: - I had this sort of dread very few times in my life but for some reason I think it was because it made me think something very, very bad was going to happen soon… -

Raven: - Sort of a like a sixth sense or similar? What exactly happened that made you believe it was like that? –

Naomi: - I believe on it because the first time it happened to me… was on the last night you were with us… -

That did silence Raven up and made the rest get worried…

Ikuno: - Naomi? –

Naomi: - I couldn't sleep peacefully that night and when morning came… you were already gone. And it wasn't the only time to happen to me… the next time was when me and Hiro took our final tests… and you already know what the result was. Then, the most recent one, was when I was about to board my transport to the Orphanage. The same transport in which I almost died… -

Everyone was now very, very worried. It may be as well a false alarm or simply Naomi overthinking things… but considering that those moments she felt that dread were symbolic moments of her life which turned out to be true for her… could that mean there is a possibility that something really bad will happen here?

They were all pulled out of their thoughts as the 'feeder' AI announced: - Field maintenance of unit complete. –

Firestar: - Ok kiddos, let's get back to the match! Doomslight, disengage 'Silencer' protocol. –

Doomslight: - Confirmed. –

Everyone walked back towards their assigned position although a feeling of uneasiness loomed over White Glint…

Raven: - Naomi, do you want to call it quits? –

Naomi: - Why Raven? –

Raven: - If what you're saying about your hunch turns out to be right… then I am not going to risk you again… -

Naomi: - No! I refuse to do so! –

Raven: - But you just said… -

Naomi: - Raven, I simply said this so that everyone got prepared for whatever will happen. And the last time I got these feelings I was unable to do anything to stop them… but not this time! I'm piloting through this operation towards the end, whether you like it or not! –

Raven: "I was only offering you the chance, not ordering you to take it…" – Very well then… -

Naomi: "Raven, if you simply knew that I want to be by your side at all times…"

They were brought out of their thoughts as the intercom came alive: /To all armed forces. High energy signatures have been detected closing in! Everybody, prepare yourselves to receive the leader of the pack!/

At once, the units at the frontlines formed back into their initial positions while the Man 'O' Wars nearby opened all their gun ports and a few of them at the front even prepared their atomizers, and waited… and waited… and waited… and then the ground shook a little…

Caramel: - Hey, isn't the area supposed to be far away from the nearest tectonic plate? –

Doomslight: - Analysis… nearest tectonic plate: the Pacific plate. Distance: 250 km southeast. Conclusive statement: not caused by the land. –

Chlorophytum: - Wait… if it wasn't caused naturally then… -

Another quake, stronger than the last one, interrupted her and soon was followed quickly by another one, and another one, and another one, each increasing in strength that soon enough it was becoming difficult to stand for everyone…

Peleliu command center: /The energy signature is increasing by the second! It's right in front of us! It… its… dear God, its HUGE!/

Seconds passed as the frequency of the quake increased and loud rumbles were heard until eventually, something BIG and blue came out from under the ground! It looked like a giant whale, easily the same size of the Ark, that had multiple pores around its skin that could be as well little volcanoes! As it emerged, it made the earth around it crumble under its weight and it soon roared to the heavens as it opened its eyes around the 'mouth'! The roar was loud enough to cause everyone to cover their ears, even shattering or cracking some of the optical devices on the mechs!

(Play 'Artificial Line' from Armored Core 3 Silent Line in a loop.)

General Snow: - PRIMAL ONE! EVERYONE, PROCEED WITH PROTOCOL 'APARTHEID'! THIS IS NOT A DRILL! I REPEAT! THIS IS NOT A DRILL! –

Even at the sight of the terrifying creature in front of them, discipline and willpower were still strong on the SMC forces and proceeded to follow the orders. However, the auxiliary units hesitated…

General Snow: - Auxiliaries! Stick. With. The. Plan! Move out, NOW! –

Auxiliary leader: - Y-Y-Yes sir! –

Squad 13 was then surprised to see all the auxiliaries fall back instead of following the vanguard.

Delphinium: - Hey! Why are they retreating?! And what kind of klaxosaur is that!? –

Arthur: - It's a Primal One: klaxosaur 'mothers' that have lived long enough to have more than a millenia worth of offspring and still producing more. Protocol: Apartheid was made in response for their apparitions; the auxiliaries don't have the experience nor the power to fight against Primal Ones, so the protocol states that they are to be sent to the rearguard while the elite SMC take care of it. In other words, Delphinium, you're now in charge of what is basically the last line of defense of the Arc. –

Delphinium: - Wait, what?! –

General Snow: - Captain Orion, Captain Samuel! Proceed with the protocol! Let the auxiliaries handle it! You're needed in the front! –

Arthur: - Good luck kids! Remember your training and everything you have done until now! You can do this! –

Flamenco: - Take care! –

Both captains, alongside their squads, left faster than what Ichigo could process. She was literally just put in charge of what is basically an APE force as the last standing wardens of the Ark! She literally was the LEAST qualified for the role!

Strelizia: - Wow… I never thought abandonment could be this formal… I guess I can't blame them… -

White Glint: - Oh come on, that's a harsh way to describe it. This is the most humane course of action they can do: send the rookies to the back instead of risking a massacre with them. –

Argentea: - But how are they suppose to learn if they are basically held back? –

White Glint: - Argentea, take a good look at them and tell me if they look like they want to risk it… -

She did so as the auxiliaries approached their position and she soon realized that Raven was right: all of the auxiliaries seemed relieved to be in the back, and whenever they looked at the frontline, fear spread on them. It was clear they were not ready for this…

Argentea: - Hmph… just like in the kissing again, the elites having all the fun… -

Strelizia: - Now you know how it feels… -

Chlorophytum: - Delphinium, are you alright? –

Everyone then noticed that the leader had stayed silent for a while…

White Glint: - Yo, cap, everything alright there? –

Goro: - Hold on a sec, guys… Ichigo? –

Ichigo was going right now for a very justified panic attack, hyperventilating a little before Goro soon helped her out of her trance…

Goro: - Ichigo! Are you alright? –

Ichigo: - No… no I am not. I literally oversee what is basically an army alongside the lives of millions of peoples inside a giant city and you ask me if I'm alright?! –

She disconnected and brought her hands to her face, grumbling all the time before collapsing on her seat…

Ichigo: - Stupid sensei! Why did it had to be me?! I'm the least qualified for this! –

Goro simply let her break loose her feelings while the rest of the squad waited with sympathy on their faces. It didn't take long before she took a few deep breaths and soon reconnected…

Delphinium: - Well… no use on complaining about it the whole time, the last time I did something like this it did not prove well. I'll need your help for this Raven… -

White Glint: - Sure, count on me. And don't bring yourself down, we're doing good thanks to you! –

Delphinium: - Thanks, I just hope it is enough for now. –

She soon received a transmission coming from the ark. It was senator Armstrong himself…

Armstrong: - Captain Ichigo, are you aware of what is happening right now? –

Delphinium: - You mean apart from the obvious? *Sighs* Yes, I was just made aware that; because of protocol 'Apartheid', I'm now the one in charge of all auxiliary forces… -

Armstrong: - Good, then that makes it easier to explain it to you. Do not be alarmed, we already had a few encounters with klaxosaurs of this category and we have a general idea of their strategy. –

He soon showed to everyone a map of the battlefield…

Armstrong: - Those pores that the klaxosaur has function both as projectile and klaxosaur launchers. –

Alstroemeria: - Klaxosaur launchers?! You mean it can deploy them anywhere?! –

Armstrong: - Exactly, which is why the protocol was made on the first place: the SMC will focus on containing the beast alongside the atomizers of the Man 'O' Wars, while the auxiliaries will be focused on eliminating all stragglers and flankers that deploy from their host. –

Delphinium: "Huh, that's actually manageable." – Very well then, we'll try our best sir. –

Armstrong: - Well said… attention all auxiliaries! Because of activation of protocol 'Apartheid', command of your force resides now in captain Ichigo. Good luck and pray for answer! –

Auxiliaries: - Pray for answer! –

Male auxiliary: - Code 015, what are your orders? –

Delphinium: - You can call me by my name… no need for codes for now… -

Male auxiliary: - Apologies ma'am but some of us are still using our codes for we haven't earned our names yet… -

Strelizia: - Earned your names? What do you mean? –

Female auxiliary: - She is still here? Huh, I guess I was wrong then… -

Strelizia: - What do you mean by that? –

Female auxiliary: - Considering who you are, many of us thought you would go wild again and start hunting… but I guess captain Orion can actually work miracles. –

Strelizia: - Grrrrr… -

White Glint: - There, there, Strelizia, I would consider this a compliment… and what is this about earning your names? -

Male auxiliary: - In some way it is something of a tradition. Many of us follow your example, Raven, we want to earn our name through our actions… -

White Glint: - Oh! Ummm… I'm honored… -

Naomi: - Not a fan of having followers? –

Raven: - Not exactly, that is Hiro's part… -

Dassia: - Hey! We are on the battlefield people! Captain Ichigo, order everyone to form up! The main force is already engaging the Primal One! –

Everyone looked to see big green laser rays being fired from the plantation and landing on the giant klaxosaur. A green aura travelled through all of it alongside lots of green lighting, making the colossal beast grumble as it stopped. Meanwhile, all the units at the front were firing everything at it, just at the same time the pores started shooting out something…

General Snow: - Rearguard! Incoming jumpers! Prepare yourselves! –

Arthur: - They look and attack like Wolfblade! You are familiar with his kind! –

Delphinium: - Roger! Okey everyone! Form up in 2 lines, spaced from each other! I got an idea for them! –

Female auxiliary: - Wait! You went against Wolfblade!? The Wolf king himself?! –

Delphinium: - Long story, alright?! Get into formation now! –

The auxiliaries soon did so, forming two lines with their mechs lining up with each other.

Male auxiliary: - So what's the plan? –

Delphinium: - Those in the front will not like this but I'm planning to use those 'Thunderspears' for this… -

The 'Thunderspears' were basically an upgraded version of the standard Magma lance, as it was a hybrid between one and a cannon, allowing the auxiliaries to act as musketeers rather than only spearmen.

As she explained her plan, Chlorophytum and Argentea went ahead to spot the jumpers. Using Chlorophytum's radar and Argentea's lenses, they soon saw that, indeed, these klaxosaurs looked similar to Wolfblade but smaller. And they were getting close fast…

Argentea: - Here they come Ichigo… -

Delphinium: - Good, get back to the line! –

It wasn't long enough before the klaxosaurs were upon the auxiliary line, and soon enough, all of them jumped towards the air and started spinning, simulating Wolfblade's spin attack. All the while, the auxiliaries waited for them on the ground…

Male auxiliary: - Let's hope your plan works captain! –

Delphinium: - Steady everyone… -

Soon enough, the klaxosaurs started to descend upon those on the front, but just when they were about to connect to the ground…

Delphinium: - NOW! –

In surprising coordination, all of the franxx's at the front dodged to the side just as the jumpers landed their attacks, getting them stuck in the ground! The second line then blasted at them, making most of them eject their cores because of the damage suffered, only for those to be stabbed by those at the front! The ones who managed to tank the hits soon got unstuck and went for a melee frenzy that didn't last long because the auxiliaries made sure to always bring their numbers against them. Eventually the first wave had been dispersed easily.

Delphinium: - The first wave has been successfully repelled… -

Female auxiliary: - That was a genius idea! No wonder you are an special squad on APE too! –

White Glint: - Thanks for the compliments but we still aren't done here! –

He pointed towards the empty land between the vanguard and the rearguard as he fired a powerful flare towards it. It soon revealed more cloakers coming towards them…

Delphinium: - Everyone to your positions! These ones may be easier but they're still dangerous! The Ark counts on us! –

Everyone: - Roger! –

A melee soon ensured between the auxiliaries and the new wave of cloakers. The blue dinos tried to overwhelm them as they sensed that their numbers were now even but the auxiliaries showed that, even if they were rookies, they were as dangerous as their mentors and the regulars. Both sides went furiously against each other, the vanguard containing the 'mothership' while the auxiliaries made sure any cloaker and jumper didn't lay their claws or jaws on the city of 50 million. Both sides took losses, and with time they began to exhaust themselves, but as night went by and dawn was slowly approaching, it could be seen that the battle was going to end soon in a RF victory… but it wouldn't come easy…

Squad 13 alongside the auxiliaries had been giving hell to their attackers and right now they were recovering from another wave of cloakers, that had been progressively become weaker and weaker. Alas, they too were tired already and running low on their reserves…

White Glint: - The end is close people; we can feel it! –

Strelizia: - At last… it was fun but even I am starting to get tired of this. –

Alstroemeria: - *Panting* No wonder… your people are very good Raven… *phew* if they fought 4 operations like this one… -

Genista: - They did say that… those 4 were harder… -

Argentea: - They have my total respect then! –

Delphinium: - *Breathes deeply* Command, Delphinium here… how's the situation? –

Hachi: - Energy readings indicate that you're in the clear for now. Great work out there. –

Erika: - The vanguard has taken lots of losses but the 'Primal One' is giving signs of exhaustion. It's only a matter of time before she leaves. –

White Glint: - I guess we got this in the bag now, huh? –

Naomi: - No… not yet… -

Raven: - Naomi? –

Naomi: - It's happening again Raven… the feeling… it's back… something big is about to happen! –

Raven: - You sure about this? –

Whatever she was about to respond, it was interrupted when admiral Erika soon spoke to the radio: - Auxiliaries! High energy spike detected right in front of you! It's coming from below get ready! –

Delphinium: - Form up! –

Everyone did so just as the ground started to shake and break as whatever was coming soon emerged like a projectile! It flew for a few moments before landing with a loud THUMP and roaring to everyone present! It was giant spherical klaxosaur with only 8 limbs and other pores surrounding the entirety of its body and it looked ANGRY! (Inspired by the 'Hedgie' boss from Atomic Heart.)

Everyone: - WHAT THE HELL?! –

White Glint: - Is another Reaper class! Everybody, prepare yourselves, this is going to be hard! –

Genista: - Look out! –

Suddenly, the klaxosaur retracted its limbs and started to roll towards them! Everybody was just barely able to avoid its charge as it impacted against the 'Wolfsrudel'. Fortunately, the crew of the Man 'O' War were able to activate their defensive shield system and absorb most of the impact…

Defensive Systems Crew Chief: - Energy shields at 68% integrity! That attack was hard! –

Erika: - All weapons, fire at will! –

All 3 plantations opened fire against the giant, alongside the auxiliaries who managed to recover from the attack. It didn't do much against the giant as it recovered unfortunately and soon enough it started rolling again, slower than before but fast enough to get back into the middle ground…

White Glint: - It's going to charge again! We must do something to distract it, or the Man 'O' Wars and the wall will be done for! –

Male auxiliary: - Maybe if we distract its attention with a bait or something! –

Delphinium: - But who do we send?! I don't want to simply send someone to their death! –

White Glint: - I'll do it! –

Squad 13: - What?! –

Chlorophytum: - But White Glint! –

White Glint: - No time! Millions of lives are at stake here! That's what our duty is for! –

Male auxiliary: - Well said White Glint! Skeletor squadron will volunteer for this! –

Female auxiliary: - So will Blackjack squadron! –

White Glint: - Good, on me everyone! Delphinium, make sure this thing goes to the grave! –

Before she could object to his plan, White Glint sped off towards the Reaper followed behind by the two squadrons and unleashed all of his weaponry on it, successfully grabbing its attention as it began to spin again towards them…

White Glint: - Make sure it only follows us and doesn't go for the wall. –

Blackjack and Skeletor leader: - Roger! –

As the creature went towards them, White Glint gracefully dodged it and sled through the battlefield with Reaper on his heels while the rest of the forces fired upon it. Soon enough, it got irritated and switched directions…

White Glint: - It is going for the wall! –

Skeletor: - We're on it! –

Skeletor squad sprang into action and fired heavy ordinance from their grenade launchers on their shoulders, catching the beast's attention again…

Skeletor: - It is on us now! –

White Glint: - Good, keep at it! –

They too proceeded to slide around it and distract it until the creature had enough and jumped before slamming hard into the ground, creating a shockwave that forced them to stop and crouch to keep their balance and the klaxosaur used this to open one of its pores and pointed it towards the leader… and then it started sucking them in!

Skeletor 3: - Skeletor 1! –

Skeletor 1: - We can't resist it! It's way too strong! Help! –

Just as it seemed about to trap him in, White Glint managed to rush towards the leader and pulled their franxx out of the vortex…

White Glint: - I gotcha! –

Skeletor 1: - Thank you White Glint… -

White Glint: - No time to rest! It's spinning again! –

The creature was mad at being denied its prey and took it out by spinning towards the line of auxiliaries. This time, many of them weren't fast enough to avoid it and ended up flattened on the ground. Screams were heard on the radio as the unlucky pilots trapped below were crushed, some of them being lucky to survive while others weren't…

Skeletor 5: - Oh dear god! –

Dassia: - Moskava squad has been wiped out by that attack alone! Vira and Vitaliya squad members are heavily wounded, get them out of there! –

Out of 12 units crushed by the giant, only 8 were still alive and 2 of them were barely crawling their way out just as the giant turned around to finish them…

Vira unit: - HEEELP! –

Vitaliya unit: - I don't want to die! –

Fortunately for them, their pleas came in the form of Strelizia and Argentea rushing in and taking them away moments from being crushed under…

Argentea: - We got you! How are you doing in there?! –

Vira unit (female voice): - Thank… you… -

Vitaliya unit (male voice): - My Pistil needs medical attention, urgently! –

Dassia: - Argentea and Strelizia, please drop the wounded near our medivac access. –

A plataform on the 'doughnut' of the 'Oletros' soon opened to reveal the drop point…

Argentea and Strelizia: - Roger… -

Vira unit: - Wait… what about… the others? –

As they were taken away, the other survivors, who had less wounds but with their rides out of order, activated the emergency ejection on their franxx, making all the outer frame on the heads explode, exposing the inner cabin for a few moments before they were suddenly propelled upwards into the air. Once they reached the zenith, 8 mini thrusters appeared around the cabins and glided them towards the same drop point…

Argentea: - *Carefully setting down her rescue…* Woah! So that's how you save your pilots then! –

Delphinium: - You can ask later! We need you back here! –

While they performed the rescue, the Reaper had become infuriated and took it out by opening 3 of its pores again and firing blue scorching fireballs at the defenders. Fortunately, everyone was alert and managed to maneuver around them before they all unleashed their fury against it. To everyone's surprise, a few of the shots went right through the pores and exploded inside making the giant roar in pain!

White Glint: - Eureka! We just found its weakness! –

Delphinium: - So that's what hurts it? Then that means… -

Ichigo's mind raced as she came up with ideas using the new intel, eventually settling up on the most likely to work…

Goro: - Got an idea Ichigo? –

Ichigo: - I just hope it will work… -

Delphinium: - Strelizia, Argentea, are you both up for a challenge? –

Strelizia: - Depends on what is it about… -

Argentea: - What do you mean boss? –

Delphinium: - If we are to defeat this thing, we have to bait it into opening its pores so that he receives some of his own medicine… but for that, we need someone fast and strong for it. –

The Parasites soon got her message…

Argentea: - I'm up for it! –

Strelizia: - Now that's a challenge I like! –

Alstroemeria: - I'm with you!

Delphinium: - Let's all work together alright? You have seen how dangerous that thing is on the inside! –

Argentea, Alstroemeria and Strelizia: - Got it! –

White Glint: - I will follow you closely as backup, cap! –

Delphinium: - Sorry Raven, but this time, I have to do my role as a leader! Stay with Genista and Chlorophytum and coordinate our efforts with everyone else! Attention everyone! New plan! Strelizia, Argentea, Alstroemeria, and me will bait the Reaper and force it to use its pores. When that happens, I want everyone to fire everything you got at it! It's the only way we have for now! –

White Glint: - Very well cap. Chlorophytum, Genista, on me! Everybody else, prepare yourselves and point your weapons at the pores! –

Skeletor 1: - Roger! Be careful out there you 4! –

Female auxiliary: - Good luck! –

Male auxiliary: - We'll be ready! –

Female auxiliary: - Watch out! –

The beast started spinning again and went directly towards the 'Oletros'! It impacted hard against its shield…

'Oletros' AI: - Warning! Defensive shield integrity reduced by 28%! –

Dassia: - Whatever your plan is kids, you better start it now! –

At her order, the 4 volunteers sped towards the beast and proceed to hit it everywhere to call its attention as it recovered from his charge. They succeeded as it collapsed on the ground trying to stun them and opened up 3 pores in an attempt to suck them in…

Strelizia: - Okey, they weren't kidding about the vortex! –

Argentea: - Woaaaaah! –

Delphinium: - Everybody! Now! –

White Glint: - FIRE! –

Everybody with a clear shot at the pores fired and their projectiles were literally sucked inside, maximizing the damage once they detonated! The creature got MAD and jumped towards them!

White Glint: - Evade! –

Thankfully, this time everyone managed to stay out of the impact zone, but the shockwave still sent some away making them impact hard against the ground and receiving some injuries in the process…

Male auxiliary: - My legs! –

Female auxiliary: - My arm! –

Blackjack 2 (male voice): - Have strength everyone! It's attacking again! –

The Reaper started spinning, slower than before but exposing its pores at the auxiliaries as it started firing against the defenders. Everyone had to scramble to avoid getting hit but that didn't save a few from it…

Female auxiliary: - Aggh! It burns! –

Female auxiliary: - Hang on! We can… woah! –

Chlorophytum: - Keep shooting people! –

But their will was bigger to their fears for now, and everybody fired twice the amount the beast fired and soon enough, everybody saw chunks of its flesh starting to melt from the inside and detaching from its body…

Genista: - It's working! –

White Glint: - Keep firing everyone! We will soon make this creature's core visible and vulnerable! –

This little dance between the beast and the auxiliaries went on for as long as the will and determination of the auxiliaries could take them against the might and sheer force of the Reaper. As the battle raged on, the efforts made by the auxiliaries started to pay off as little by little, the beast lost more and more parts of its armor…

And they weren't alone too! The SMC forces containing the Primal One had been winning their battle as the giant host had been losing slowly its ability to send more klaxosaurs of her brood. It was only a matter of time before she was forced to fall back…

General Snow: - Peleliu command, general Snow here. Status report! –

Grand Admiral: - All Man 'O' Wars still accounted for. Wave readings of the Primal One indicate that it is soon about to leave… status report on the units, general. –

General Snow: - We lost about 15% of the normals with only 8% of their pilots being rescued. The elites have lost 5% of their units, and only 1% fatality on the pilots. The Aces are alright for now… -

Grand Admiral: - What about the rest of the forces? –

Colonel Maya: - We have lost 10% of our units! 5% of them are salvageable–

Colonel Chima: - Both Cavalry divisions had lost 13% of their forces. Only 7% can be recovered… -

Grand Admiral: - Those losses are acceptable, make sure to finish the job fast and efficient to avoid more. –

Arthur: - Grand Admiral! Can I ask what's the situation with the auxiliary forces?! –

Grand Admiral: - Hang on… *establishes connection* Admiral Dassia, what's the situation on the back? –

Dassia: - Grand Admiral, we have been successful in repelling all the jumpers and cloakers that had been able to get close to the Ark. Right now, they are busy fighting against a Reaper with success. Those new auxiliaries captain Orion brought are an actual blessing, they had been leading the defense with good coordination. –

Flamenco: - Well, I'll be damned! It seems they are really something compared to the rest of APE forces! –

Grand Admiral: - Chat about it later, finish up the fight against the Primal One first Aces. Admiral Dassia, tell the auxiliaries to finish up their part too. –

Dassia: - Understood… -

As this conversation was happening, the auxiliaries were taking the lead on their fight. All of them could sense that the Reaper was at its final moments and as such, they were giving their best to finish it. At this point, only one cape of armor covering the center of its body was all it had left, and everyone were convinced it was in there were the core would be…

Delphinium: - Just one more and then the core will be exposed! We got this everyone! –

The creature had gone very, VERY mad with fury for the supposedly 'weaklings' in front of it were proving they were anything but that! This, combined with all the injuries it had sustained, finally reached a breaking point as it gave a huge strong roar to the heavens that made the auxiliaries stagger…

They recovered soon enough however and were surprised to see that the Reaper had discarded its last armor itself, revealing its core to everyone!

Strelizia: - That just makes our job easier! Let's finish it off now! –

Everyone else: - Roger! –

As she dashed headfirst, she failed to notice that the armor was glowing more and more by the second… fortunately for her, Alstroemeria noticed this.

Alstroemeria: - Strelizia! Watch out! –

In quick thinking, she launched her Thorn Stingers towards her, reaching and seizing her waist before pulling hard on her. The sudden momentum managed to stop her even though it made her angry…

Strelizia: - Alstro! What the hell?! –

Alstroemeria response was to pull her harder just as the armor, right in Strelizia's path, overheated and suddenly exploded with great magnitude!

Strelizia soon realized what happened: - Oh… I see… thanks you. –

Alstroemeria: - No problem! –

White Glint: - Self destructive armor? That's something rare to come by. Well, at least… -

Naomi: - Wait, wait! Raven… don't you think that the other discarded pieces…? –

Raven: - What do you mean…? –

That was when he looked at another one of the discarded armor pieces that was starting to glow dangerously like the previous one, then saw in horror as the rest of the pieces, discarded all around the battlefield and VERY near to most auxiliaries, started to do the same…

Raven: "OH CRAP!"

White Glint: - EVERYONE! FALL BACK! I REPEAT! FALL BACK! GET OUT OF THE AREA NOW! –

Everyone looked at him in confusion…

Strelizia: - WHAT?! But we're so close to finishing the beast off! –

White Glint: - WE ARE IN THE MIDDLE OF A BLAST ZONE! GET OUT OF THE AREA IMMEDIATELY! THE REST OF THE ARMOR PIECES WILL EXPLODE! –

Whatever arguments everyone had for him, they all died as they noticed that he was right! And the amount and sizes of the remaining pieces indicated that it was going to be a big blast!

Delphinium: - AH SH**! EVERYONE RETREAT! –

Panic set in almost everyone as they tried to get out of the blast zone but only a few would be able to retreat in time before the whole field was covered in a big shockwave, followed by big heat wave and smoke, before silence reigned in…

(Stop the music…)

The SMC units felt the shockwave of the explosion, saw the smoke, and were justifiably worried…

SMC normal unit: - That was big! Is the rearguard alright? –

SMC elite: - Shall we break off and support them? –

Just as they said that suggestion, the Primal One opened her giant mouth to reveal an incoming wave of Conrads and Moho's to deploy…

SMC Ace: - Negative! We got incoming! –

SMC Elite: - But we can't leave the Ark unguarded! –

Grand admiral: - Everyone, stay calm! I will soon order an emergency squad to control the situation! I'll contact the 'Oletros'! Admiral Dassia, report in! –

The response he received was static which left him worried: - Oletros, report in! –

More static was the response, but he soon received a communication from the 'Wolfsrudel'…

Erika: - Great admiral! *static* Communications are scrambled! *static* Emergency MT deployment confirmed… *static* requesting backup! *static* …auxiliaries down…! –

Then it was interrupted one last time, as the smoke cleared and revealed that the damn Reaper was alive! Even without its armor, it was still a danger to the Ark!

Grand Admiral: - Colonel Maya! Grab 3 squads of reserve units and proceed towards the rear now! –

Maya: - Roger! –

Grand Admiral: - Everyone else, stay on your positions and contain the incoming wave! We have a job to do here still! –

And as everyone kept discipline and followed the orders, the mentors of Squad 13 only had one thought: "Please be alive, kids! And if so, then please return to duty!"

Meanwhile…

All Hiro could see at that moment was white as he walked without a sense of direction through the familiar void…

Hiro: - This is… just like when I 'died' on the kissing… did I really die now? –

He then remembered something that Raven once told him…

Raven: - Hey Hiro, next time you BELIEVE you're dead, do this little trick to confirm it. Try pinching yourself very hard, if it hurts it means you live, if it doesn't… well I hope you have enjoyed being alive… -

Hiro followed his advice and pinched himself on his arm. The pain that flared up there calmed him down as he let go of the pinch…

Hiro: - Ok, good news, I'm still alive, but now the bad news, where exactly I'm at? –

He was interrupted of his thoughts as he suddenly felt something soft underneath his feet. Looking down, he saw that he was now stepping on snow…

Hiro: - Snow? But the whole operation is on the desert… -

He then heard the sounds of little footsteps in front of him and saw two little kids running through the white field of snow as fast as their little legs could take them…

Hiro: - Hey! Wait! –

He proceeded to run towards them but for some reason they were faster than him! From the distance he could see that one of the kids was wearing a winter version of the uniform he used to have on the Garden and upon closer inspection, he saw that the kid was…

Hiro: - Wait… is that… me? –

It seemed as time slowed down as he then looked at the other child: this one was wearing only a black hood that covered most of her body but even that wasn't enough to cover the fact it was female. And as they ran, he saw it drop revealing… pink hair and red horns…

Hiro: "Is that…?" – Wait! –

?: - Wait! –

To his surprise, another voice resonated with his, coming directly from him! And what was weirder was that the voice was a female one. He slowed down and that was when he saw the silhouette of an adult lady going right through him, like he was a ghost, followed by a male companion at her side. Both adults were wearing some sort of armor that looked powerful and bulky, but it was surprisingly mobile and looked very strong… like it had power on it…

Because they were running faster than him, Hiro only managed to glimpse the behind of the feminine figure, whose body was covered mostly by the armor, except for the head which showed that she had long, straight, pale sky-blue hair. Her companion was fully armored and as such, Hiro couldn't see any noticeable characteristic of him…

Female figure: - Wait! Please wait children! –

Hiro slowed down to a stop without realizing it and only looked as all 4 people disappeared into the white fog of the void when he was suddenly surprised by a loud BANG! He suddenly felt a sudden chill around his body as he then became tired out of nowhere and collapsed, losing consciousness as he heard screams, one distinguishing itself from the others…

?: - Daaaaaaah' liiiiiiiiing! –

That was when he suddenly jerked up awake inside Strelizia's cockpit, Zero Two checking on him whom also got surprised at him waking up…

Zero Two: - Darling! –

She lunged forward and hugged him, with Hiro corresponding the hug before finally asking: - Wha… what happened? –

Zero Two: - We went unconscious after the explosion. We barely made it out of the blast, but the shockwave still hit us strong enough to knock us out… -

Hiro: - So are you alright? No injuries on you Zero Two? –

Zero Two smiled sweetly at him: - I should be asking you that dummy… but I'm fine, thank you. –

Hiro sighed and relaxed before remembering his squad mates: - And what about the others?! How are they?! –

That was when Zero Two frowned in concern too: - I, I don't know darling… I honestly just woke up too and… I had to check on you first… -

Hiro: - Thank you Zero Two… but still, what about them? –

That was when their comms came alive…

White Glint: - Hello?! Squad 13?! Anybody there, respond! –

Delphinium: - Guys! Where are you all!? –

Both Parasites response was to connect back and bringing Strelizia online.

To their relief, both Delphinium and White Glint were nearby them, and apart from the blast marks, sooth, and some damaged limbs, they looked both fine…

Strelizia: - We're back into the fray! –

White Glint: - Oh thank goodness! There you are! Have you seen the rest?! –

Strelizia: - We just woke up and barely know anything right now! What's the situation?! –

White Glint: - The situation went Fubar! There are only very few auxiliaries left on action! The rest was KO'd and don't seem to wake up! And that damn beast is still alive! –

A roar interrupted him as it was wildly smashing against the emergency unmanned MT's. It was clear that they were running out of time…

White Glint: - Dammit! Listen! We need the whole squad to take this thing down! Search for the rest! I will distract it and buy some time! –

Strelizia: - But how?! –

Hachi: - Squad 13! Respond! –

Delphinium: - Delphinium here! Commander Hachi! Our squad is spread out and we need to find them fast! –

Hachi: - Life support indicate they're alive! We can't get a clear signal of their franxx's because of the shockwave so you will have to use the trackers! They will increase in frequency the closer you're to them! –

Delphinium: - Roger! Strelizia! We will have to split up! Stay safe White Glint! –

White Glint: - The same to you girls! –

They separated and White Glint soon sled towards the beast, almost done with the MT's and eyeing the Ark…

Naomi: - Raven… do you think we can do this? –

Raven: - We cannot fail now, we had done so much this whole time through great effort and coordination… we just need to stall it, not defeat it for now… -

Naomi: - But… what if it isn't enough? What makes you so sure we can still win this after this whole mess? –

Raven stood silent for a moment which made Naomi believe he didn't have an answer until he said: - Because I keep my promises… and I promised myself… that I wouldn't let something like the Alamo incident happen ever again… listen Naomi… if you're afraid of continuing the fight… -

Naomi: - No! Don't say that! I'm not afraid of dying here! I'm just afraid that it won't be enough, and others will suffer because of it! –

Raven was surprised by that: - You… made peace with death already? –

Naomi: - Remember what I said back when I got 'knighted' as you said? I said that I will do my best to pay the debt to the SMC… even if it means that we both die… I just want to know if it will be enough now… -

Raven was glad to witness how Naomi was becoming more and more assimilated to the SMC rather than to APE… and in some way seeing her becoming like him too: - What about this? I wanted to tell you this AFTER the battle but considering the situation, maybe it will be the incentive that will allow us to win! –

Naomi: - What are you talking about? –

Raven breathed deeply and soon said: - Naomi, in the case we win this battle, will you please go on a date with me into the city?! –

Naomi had been learning a lot about the lives and norms that 'old' humanity used to perform daily before APE tried to seal them all away. And to her luck she knew the implications of Raven's declaration...

Naomi: - F-f-f-for real?! –

Raven: - I know! It's not good timing to do so but…! –

Naomi: - Screw that! I accept Raven! I will go on a date with you! –

Naomi and Raven: "FINALLY!"

White Glint seemed to shine with that declaration as he loudly said: - I'M HAVING THIS DATE NO MATTER WHAT! –

(Start playing 'Toward Revival' from Ace Combat 6)

The NEXT rushed towards the blue dino and shoot it with everything he had while also loudly taunting it…

White Glint: - HEY! YOU STUPID OVERGROWN ROLLER! I'M BACK! –

The taunt had the desired effect and the klaxosaur started to focus on him.

White Glint: - I got its attention! You better hurry girls! –

Strelizia: - We're on it! –

Both franxx had been searching nearby through a lot of debris for their squad mates, pulling out other units whenever possible and right now, Strelizia had 2 strong signals nearby…

Strelizia: - Hey! Anybody from squad 13 still alive here!? Do something! Whatever you want to call our attention! Heck, if it's you Zorome, start boasting like you usually do! –

A piece of debris flew right at her head which hurt slightly as she turned and saw that the pink franxx, alongside Chlorophytum, trapped underneath a wreckage.

Argentea: - Is this enough?! –

Strelizia simply smiled, sled towards them and started removing the wreckage: - More than enough! Glad to see you alive you two! –

Argentea and Chlorophytum were soon freed from the wreckage and checking their systems…

Hiro: - Are you guys alright? Nothing broken? –

Mitsuru: - We're… fine… the new PA's really are a life saver… -

Argentea: - We only got some scratches from it, nothing to worry for now… -

Strelizia: - Alright, let's get going and help White Glint then! –

Delphinium: /You will have to put that on hold!/

Argentea: - Boss! You're alright! –

Delphinium: /Glad to see you alive and well, you two! But I need help! I found Genista and Alstro alongside many others but all of them are trapped under heavy debris! I'm located here!/

The radar pinged her location and they all rushed towards it to find Delphinium trying to lift a big piece of metal that was ripped off from the 'Wolfsrudel' on the explosion and had trapped both their squad mates and other fortunate survivors…

Male auxiliary: - Hey! Give us a hand over here! –

White Glint: - You better hurry guys! –

Alstroemeria: - Lift this thing from the spots I marked! It is too heavy to lift it completely, but I have an idea! –

With no time to waste, they all moved towards indicated spots and soon got to work…

Delphinium: - On three! One, two, THREE! –

The 4 of them pulled hard, the weight of the Man 'O' War armor letting itself be known.

Argentea: - No wonder… grrrh… their plantations… are stronger…! –

Soon enough, they had lifted it up enough so that Alstroemeria used her spear as a lever to help hold the weight…

Alstroemeria: - Pass me your swords Delphinium, hurry! –

With some effort, the leader soon did so and Alstroemeria soon put them to use inside as she and Genista used them to push the top of the armor until it turned sideways, finally releasing everyone inside…

Female auxiliary: - Thanks! –

Delphinium: - Go and rescue the others! Genista, Alstro, how are you two holding up!? –

Genista: - All systems are on the green! –

Alstroemeria: - We got VERY lucky in there! –

White Glint: - Hey! I STILL NEED SOME HELP HERE! –

Squad 13 saw the white NEXT starting to have trouble as the beast was getting more aggressive on him. They all soon boosted towards him…

Delphinium: - We're on our way! Just hold it for one minute! –

White Glint: - What do you think I've been… AAAAAGH! –

To their horror, one of the beast's attacks came to fast on him and hit White Glint hard enough to send him against the Ark's wall! Fortunately, he managed to stabilize himself and slide to a stop before reaching the walls.

White Glint: - We are… fine… -

But then it took a turn for the worse… the Reaper charged at him! With White Glint being in front of the Ark's wall, that meant that even if he dodged the attack, the wall wouldn't!

Squad 13: "No! After all of that… we lost?!"

They all looked with hopelessness as the creature, step by step, came closer and closer to its objective. They had failed… many lives counted on them to keep them safe… and they had failed… after all the fight, sweat and injuries on them and the auxiliaries, all they could was watch, unable to do nothing as they were too far away to do anything… except for one…

White Glint: - No! I… I… I…! –

And as the creature was almost upon him…

Naomi/Raven/White Glint: - I REFUSEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! –

And then to everyone's surprise, White Glint's armor deployed some sort of electrical rods out of his armor that then activated alongside his PA and then EXPLODED IT as a blue-green electrical shockwave! The explosion was powerful enough to STOP the beast's charge and force it on its back! And not only that! The shockwave managed to even reach the SMC line in the form of little tremors, which made many look back in surprise!

Normal: - Did… did White Glint just did? –

Elite: - It… it can't be! –

Everyone: - An Assault Shockwave attack! –

Once it had died out, Squad 13 look astonished as the attack had managed to also stagger the unit! But when they looked at White Glint, they saw him collapsing on his knees…

White Glint: - Dammit… that took… all my energy… -

Both pilots looked like they had been drained of it too and were now breathing heavily as they looked at the beast, now trying to stand up…

Raven/Naomi: "Dammit… even that… won't do?"

The creature soon stood up and turned to finish off the white NEXT, but before it could even do so, its feet were suddenly tangled up by the Thorn Stingers!

Alstroemeria: - NOT THIS TIME YOU DAMN REAPER! –

She pulled hard on her ropes forcing the creature to fall again! The creature got angry and soon started to tug back as it tried to stand up again!

Alstroemeria: - DON'T STAND THERE LIKE THAT! THIS IS OUR ONLY CHANCE! –

White Glint's resolve to stand up to the Reaper at the last moment had paid off, and it renewed the hopes and energies of everyone nearby now that they were given one more chance, and Squad 13 was NOT letting it go! Soon enough, the other five franxx went to grab different parts of the ropes and pulled alongside Alstroemeria!

Delphinium: - PULL! DON'T LET THIS THING EVEN GET AN SCRATCH ON THE WALL! –

The squad and the beast went on a tug of war that would determine the fate of the Ark but it seemed that the creature was gaining ground…

Skeletor 1: - YOU'RE NOT ALONE ON THIS! –

Blackjack 1: - FIRE! –

Until one by one, the rest of the auxiliary squadrons regrouped on them and fired their own spearheads on the Reaper, soon enough their strength matching that of the Reaper and keeping it in place!

Blackjack 3 (male): - HAS ANYBODY SEEN THE FREAKING CORE OF THIS BEAST?! –

That was when Ichigo received footage from White Glint that soon showed its location: it was right underneath one of the frontal pores facing directly to him!

Delphinium: - Dammit! It's on White Glint's side! Raven! Naomi! Both of you! Wake up! –

Alstroemeria: - Don't fail on us now! –

Argentea: - We're so close to finishing this battle! Come on! –

Genista: - We need you now! The Ark needs you! –

Chlorophytum: - After everything you and the sensei had taught us, you can't simply give up like this! –

Strelizia: - We need your power more than ever! You have given us a new reason to fight in this world! SO. WAKE. UP! –

Nothing happened for a few seconds, everyone worried that the pilots had been knocked out for good… until they saw his boosters charging up alongside his face!

White Glint: - FOR OUR HOMEEEEE! –

Transforming his left hand on its pile bunker mode, the NEXT rushed towards the Reaper's core… and connected! Everything slowed down for everyone involved as White Glint went through the mighty the beast before appearing and landing on the other side, core impaled on its hand. The Reaper simply looked at the walls of the ark, its prey, seeing how he had come so close yet so far as it expired and collapsed on the sterile land…

Everyone went into a ROAR!

SMC Elite: - THEY HAVE DONE IT! THEY ACTUALLY DONE IT! –

Colonel Maya: - WAY TO GO! –

SMC Normal: - UNBELIEVABLE! –

Grand Admiral: - Secure their victory and finish off the Primal One! Don't let the efforts of the auxiliaries go to waste! –

Arthur: - Roger! Flamenco! It's time we end this now! –

Flamenco: - Understood! Bravo squad! Prepare for our own 'shock'! –

Arthur: - Atlas! Assault configuration now! Fire on my mark! –

The two Ace squadrons of dispersed around many key points of the Primal One and after a few moments of intense fighting…

Flamenco/Arthur: - NOW! –

In great coordination and with deadly accuracy, the NEXTs from both squads soon unleashed their own versions of the Assault Shockwave! The results were deadly as many chunks of skin from the Primal One separated while the unlucky klaxosaurs caught on them were literally INCINERATED…

Once the attack had passed, the Primal One roared in pain, taking one last look at the Ark before it rapidly sucked with his pores the surviving cores and klaxosaurs and then submerged into the sand…

(Stop the track.)

After a few more tense moments, what everyone had been hoping to hear was finally heard…

Grand Admiral: - Energy readings indicate that the Primal One has retreated! Everyone, mission accomplished! The Ark is safe! –

Cheers erupted everywhere! Everyone hugged, celebrated, and flew around as the battle came to an end! And for certain squad, this was the best feeling ever!

Argentea: - WE DID IT! WE WON! –

Alstroemeria: - That was crazy! But I'm glad we made it! –

Genista: - You were amazing White Glint! You saved the ark! –

White Glint: - No… I didn't save it… WE saved it… all of us, together. –

Everyone smiled at his humility and then received a communication from the senator…

Armstrong: - The people of the Ark will now have a peaceful night for your efforts and sacrifices today had guaranteed that alongside their future. Congratulations heroes! The people living inside will never forget what you have done today! Now, go back to your homes away from home! You deserve it! –

Grand Admiral: - All units, RTB! Well done everyone. Specially you, auxiliary squad 13! You are the MVP's today! –

That was when Squad 13 experienced for the first time what it meant to be famous, as everyone nearby them converged on them and started cheering for them! From auxiliaries to aces, all the attention was on them today!

And as the children bathed themselves on their hard-earned glory and fame, a certain doctor looked enraptured, as thoughts he had deemed useless and trivial once, came back with enough force to, for a long time, make him doubt one thing he had deemed so sure before…

Dr. Franxx: "Is it possible… that maybe this is the best way of humanity and not Papa's?"

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(Play "'Cosmos New Version' Armored Core 20th anniversary".)

Aaaaaaaand that's a wrap! Boi was this a HUGE challenge for me! Good ol' action with mechs, beasts and big guns, all fitted into this chapter like a delicious combo! I hope you have enjoyed the whole battle; it took quite a lot of effort to keep it linear and to avoid the ever tempting extensions! Now that our favorite squad has done it, the next chapters will be about Raven and Naomi's date alongside the promised tour on the city! After that, is back to the canon! Till next chapter!

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... pray... for answer...

... One trial has been answered...