A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8, Seerking for contributing ideas and Darklord331, but a HUGE thanks to both Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and Greatkingrat88 for the massive beta work and chapter enhancements.

Whew I am going to reserve whatever I would say for the end for the chapter, but (holds up a soft drink), here's to this chapter hopefully being worth the hype that matches the effort put into my first written endurance battle ever.

As always anonymous review replies will be at the very end of the chapter after the new specs for one of the prototype Gundams given to Yui's cousin.

So let us begin.

Chapter 14

The Battle for Sadogashima

The following morning the currently nameless ship arrived at Sadogashima, having departed from Fukushima Military Base. It received much fanfare as troopers showed up to cheer for it as it pulled into port. Morale hung on by a thread and any sign that Japan was not yet out of the fight was welcome.

Lelouch, Yui and the others were up early, scheduled to meet with the base's commander and the two leaders of the TSF reserve squads left to guard the island. Lelouch wore his Royal Guard uniform, as did Yui, the duo walking behind Maya to meet their guests in the harbor.

First out was a man in his early thirties with black hair and blue eyes, wearing a crisp dark green military uniform. He was followed by two young women who seemed to be in their early twenties. Both wore identical uniforms composed of a green shirt, black skirt, brown leggings, and black heeled shoes. One had short light brown hair and brown eyes while the other had medium-length reddish brown hair and gray eyes.

"Welcome aboard, Commander Tachibana," Maya said, saluting sharply.

"Likewise. Welcome to Sadogashima, Captain. On behalf of my command staff, allow me to offer my apologies for letting that fool take our TSF garrisons," Masakiyo Tachibana apologized, bowing, his voice filled with regret.

"You were following orders, sir. It's not your fault you were sabotaged," Maya reassured.

"I am grateful for your and the Shogun's understanding," Masakiyo stated, somewhat relieved, but feeling no less guilty. "Allow me to introduce the remaining TSF squadron commanders." He gestured to the woman with short light brown hair, "This is Commander Kaoru Sakazaki, the leader of the 3rd reserve of Alpha Squadron."

"Ma'am," Kaoru saluted, which Maya returned.

"And this is Commander Suzuno Ogura, the leader of the 3rd reserve of Bravo Squadron."

"Ma'am," Suzuno replied.

"These are Lieutenants Yui Takamura, Mariko Amemiya and Lelouch Lamperouge of the Royal Guard. Lieutenants Lamperouge and Takamura are the pilots of the Izanagi and the Izanami respectively, while Lieutenant Amemiya is the pilot of our experimental mass production model, the Minamoto," Maya introduced, pointing out the machines in the hangar and back to each respective pilot. "Its performance exceeds that of any previous TSFs and should serve you well in the battle ahead. I've brought two spare units for Commanders Sakazaki and Ogura to use in the coming battle. If you have any questions, Lieutenant Amemiya can assist you, she has the most experience so far in using it in battle."

"Thank you, but what about the rest of our squadron?" Kaoru asked after exchanging a look with Suzuno.

"We're trying to produce more, but I cannot make any promises that they'll be ready before the battle." Maya said regretfully.

"Understood. Shame, given Commander Sakazaki is already missing a pilot," Masakiyo stated. "We'll need every advantage we can gain if we hope to halt the BETA onslaught."

"Quite. The forces the Americans have promised should be arriving tomorrow, along with reinforcements from the navy. A detachment of the northern fleet will be moving to intercept the BETA invasion force. They've promised to do all they can to thin their numbers now that a typhoon is not impeding their efforts. The Americans are providing us with a squadron of destroyers that will provide us naval support," Maya explained.

"If you don't mind, can you provide us with a brief tour of your ship so we can understand its capabilities, then we can begin talking strategy." Masakiyo was stern and professional, but it was hard not to notice the worry written on his face. There was a lot at stake here; more than their lives, defeat could be disastrous for Japan's entire military campaign.

"Yes, let us begin," Maya replied. As they began the tour of the ship, Yui wondered how her cousin Kyoko was doing.

On the other side of the world, littered all along the barren, eastern bank of the Suez Canal was the debris of tanks and TSFs. The signs of the long fight to keep the BETA from invading Africa which had become home to millions of refugees displaced from the loss of Europe and Middle Eastern countries and where most of the world's food was grown. Now, once barren fields were littered with the broken and bleeding carcass of BETA aliens.

Thanks to the flight capabilities of the Takarabune, Kyoko was quick to arrive at the Suez Canal from Japan. Using its space flight capabilities, the Takarabune went into orbit before descending over Egypt, making a beeline for the battlefield and accomplishing it all within a few hours.

Upon arriving on the battlefield, Kyoko and her volunteers engaged the BETA. Their new models were outdoing the struggling TSFs. Kyoko's machine, the Benkei Gundam, was notable in this regard. Standing at an imposing nineteen meters tall, the black, blue and gold trim Gundam stood facing the waves of BETA. Kyoko's Gundam activated one of its unique features, the beam cloak. A cape made of energy materialized around the Gundam. The mouth of the Gundam opened as a yellow flash could be seen, venting energy before launching itself at the BETA with a burst of speed never seen from any TSF.

A short distance behind where Gundam Benkei had been standing, ten Minamoto units were standing in single file, armed with Beam Launchers as they opened fire upon the charging enemy. Their beams tore through the ranks of the Destroyer-class BETA, as the pilots spread out their shots for more effective damage against the thirty thousand monsters charging at them. Further back, long range artillery and unguided missiles were unleashed, raining down upon the aliens to eliminate any that might've survived the Minamoto's initial volley. The allied TSFs, a combination of United Kingdom F5E Tornadoes and Mirage 2000s, were providing support from the sides, staying close to the Minamoto's line.

Operating mixed units in a battle was deemed dangerous due to the difficulty in synergizing the different capabilities of TSF models, but the defenders couldn't be picky. The BETA invasion of Africa had diminished their numbers to dangerous lows. The intervention of the Empire of Japan's newer machines and their advanced warship had given the defenders a much needed reprieve. TSFs that could be spared were sent out to support them, consisting of pilots from Britain, France, Germany and Italy.

A French pilot behind the controls of a purple Mirage 2000, marked with a rose emblem on its shoulder, asked a question on an open communication channel.

"Where did that Japanese woman go with her fancy machine?" They couldn't keep the jealousy out of their voice.

"Behind the enemy's main lines to eliminate the enemy Fort and Laser-class," A Japanese Minamoto pilot replied.

"WHAT?! That's insane." The French pilot was a young woman with medium-length blonde hair and light blue eyes, wearing a standard issue purple and black pilot suit.

"Not for her," The Japanese pilot replied, trying to suppress his amused smile.

Behind the BETA's lines the Benkei Gundam struck, using its forearm mounted mega particle cannons to fire upon the Fort-class aliens. Thanks to the Gundam's power output, a single powerful beam was all that was needed to blow off the heads of each monster, killing them before they could respond. The Laser-class on the ground tried to retaliate, but the beam cloak protected Kyoko as she zoomed around the battlefield.. She decimated their rearlines with hit and run tactics, while her mobility made it difficult for the Laser-class to land a direct hit on her. The Benkei Gundam had a special feature, Heat Radiation Face Open; in which heat was vented through a special vent on the "mouth" of the Gundam, causing energy to surge through the machine, vastly increasing speed, and agility to levels that would almost impossible for most current machines to achieve.

Even with the Benkei Gundam's specialized G-force dampers in place, Kyoko could feel the G-forces being pressed upon her body, especially during tight maneuvers. She only smiled at this. The machine was like a wild horse, but she was mastering it and playing it like a deadly instrument.

Best not to ignore the laser-class, though, Kyoko thought. They could still get lucky.

Changing the settings on the forearm cannons, Kyoko opened fire. What was once a beam turned into a spray as dozens of Laser-class aliens fell as her cannons roared out with fully automatic fire. She used the large corpses of Fort-class BETA as cover when her guns overheated. She released a heavy white fog from a dispenser built into the machine. Coated with anti-laser chaff it helped to diminish the effectiveness of the Laser-class BETA's attacks. A surviving Fort-class, in an effort to protect the fragile Laser-class, swiped out with its stinger tail into the fog.

Acting quickly, Kyoko not only dodged it, but the fingertips on the right hand of her Gundam lit up revealing built-in beam claws. With just a single swipe she cut off the Fort-class's stinger. Using the head mounted vulcans on her Gundam, Kyoko cut down the last of the Lasers before adjusting the firing setting of the mega particle cannons to target another Fort-class.

"Laser-class BETA have been eliminated. I repeat, Laser-class BETA eliminated," Kyoko stated through the comms channel.

"Roger that. Elimination of Laser-class confirmed, retreating from the area. Aerial bombardment will commence within five minutes," a female operator replied.

"Copy that. Retreating. Major Takatsuka out," Kyoko said as she made her escape.

Without the Laser-class BETA for protection, bombers began dropping heavy ordnance to mop up the swarm. Kyoko watched the blips on the screen with satisfaction as they devastated the BETA lines. What few managed to reach the defense line were easily cut down. Cheers went out across the battlefield. The soldiers had come dangerously close to being overwhelmed, but the Gundam had turned the tides entirely. Not all were so content. Bernadette Le Tigre stared out from the cockpit of her Mirage, enviously glaring at the Gundam.

"Where did they get such machines?" Bernadette muttered out loud, not realizing she left her comm channel open. An Italian pilot, a seventeen-year-old girl with long wavy black hair, green eyes, responded,

"Someone sounds jealous."

"Must be jealous of those guns they got," Another, older, Italian pilot remarked. The girl's older brother from what Bernadette knew of the two. "I mean, that Japanese woman taking the fight to the BETA is bold. She's my kind of woman and she's hot too."

"Brother, not now. Not on an open channel too," The girl replied, embarrassedly.

"Easy, Monica. I meant it as a compliment."

"Uh-huh. Just count yourself lucky that a lot of people outside of our unit don't understand Italian. Flirt outside of battle," Monica Giacosa warned, exasperated with her brother Valerio.

"Sure thing sis," Valerio replied with a chuckle. He was in a good mood. The Battle of the Suez Canal was a major victory for humanity. Africa was secure, for now.

Elsewhere in Japan; Yuzuka, Asagi, Haruko and Haruka were busy practicing in their own Minamoto units. They were in a forest north of Fukushima Military Base, conducting maneuvers through an obstacle the course they had to avoid "enemy" fire while eliminating targets set out for them. Marimo watched their progress from an overlooking hill.

"Good work, but you can be five seconds faster," she called out into the comms.

Marimo ignored the grumbling from the pilots. Hearing footsteps, she turned around to see a twenty-one year old woman walk up toward her. She had long black-hair tied into a ponytail with a set of glasses placed over deep blue eyes, and wore a standard military uniform.

"Lieutenant Sayoko Komaki reporting for duty," Sayoko said, introducing herself with a salute.

"Welcome Lieutenant. Thank you for coming," Marimo replied, returning the salute. "I hope you'll be helpful in developing these rookies into capable pilots."

"I assume they've completed their Comprehensive Skills Evaluation Exams?"

"They have. We've been focusing more on preparing them for battle by conducting daily mock battles and practice in TFS and the new machines. Their training would've been finished by December, but given the situation I believe command may call for them to join the fight before then," Marimo explained, her expression grim. "I understand the situation, but with the cadets being as they are, an early deployment will just get them killed."

"I understand," Sayoko said with an equally grim expression. "I'll help in any way I can to get them up to standard."

"Thank you. I just hope time can stay on our side for a little while longer," Marimo said. If Sadogashima fell, it would leave Northern Japan open to BETA invasion. As advanced as the new machines were, as much as Marimo hoped she could make a difference, she knew an act of god would be needed to give the Japanese victory.

It was the night of September 23rd. Two days had passed since Lelouch had arrived. He'd joined Kazusa and Yui on the ground. They were walking around the fields behind the defensive walls of the Sadogashima. The island had been fortified early on as more of Asia became lost to the BETA. Enormous walls had been erected, pointed towards mainland Asia and the ocean floor around the island and beyond had been turned into a minefield.

The US forces had arrived, consisting of a carrier, the USS John F. Kennedy, two Iowa-class Battleships- the New Jersey and the Missouri- and six Zumwalt-class destroyers. Each of them had brought as many TSFs they could carry, with the Kennedy carrying the bulk for a total of thirty six Tomcat TSFs.

This was more than doubled the amount of TSFs that had been left for the island's garrison, a mere sixteen Gekishin units, with the two new Minamoto units for the squadron leaders. There were plans to try and field the rest of the island's garrison with them, but there was no guarantee that sufficient numbers could be produced in time. Six more had arrived yesterday, fresh off the assembly line. As for Japan's own naval power, Japan had dispatched two of their own battleships. Two Yamato-class Battleships named the Musashi and the Nagato, and six Mogami-class Cruisers.

Submarines were also deployed, deploying new mines and depth charges to weaken the oncoming horde. They couldn't approach the Asian coast due to the presence of Heavy Laser-class BETA watching the ocean. Despite their efforts, the BETA force traveling underwater showed no signs of breaking away, continuing in a straight line.

So far I guess Claude's advance warning and tech has allowed them to muster a proper defense, Lelouch thought, his expression grim.

This advance warning was provided by the new satellites Japan had launched from the Takarabune from its brief time in orbit while it was heading for Africa. The satellites were able to track and pick up more potential incursions by the BETA compared to their counterparts, thanks to tech provided by Claude.

The BETA seems to be planning to hit the island's defenses like a battering ram. The secondary concern would be if a group of them break off to attack other parts of the island or make a run for the Japanese mainland, Lelouch thought. They still lacked the proper defenses to protect the mainland. The US and Japanese Naval Forces would try to spread out their ships to both provide artillery fire against the main horde and any BETA attempting to get around their defenses. A job the American TSFs would be ready for; while some would aid the defenders, some would be held back as a rapid response force in case any BETA tried to circumvent them.

Lelouch had studied the tactical map of Sadogashima, examining it as he contemplated a battle plan to aid in the defense. Something the Shogun had encouraged him to do. He didn't back down. Was this what Hannibal Barca felt like when planning ways to counter the Roman Army who had greater numbers on their side? Or Julius Caesar, or Alexander? Those are big shoes to fill, Lelouch thought.

The sea floor should funnel the BETA to me and Yui at Mano Bay, where the island's defenses and fortifications are the most concentrated. He still worried incursions from the north and south could pose a danger if they were not mindful. We have mountains to the north and south, but they won't stop the BETA if they choose to borrow through them. At least any attempt to do so would be slow and easily detectable.

The island was split into three parts. The Ōsado mountain range to the north, a natural barrier against the BETA. To the south was the Kosado mountain range. With their flanks covered, the enemy would have to focus on Mano Bay as their easiest option for a breakthrough in the defensive line.

Kazusa's Gundam will allow her to intercept any enemy groups that try to breach the northern side of the island and she will have Aki as back up, Lelouch thought. He went over the defense plan he had devised with Maya, who had presented it to the island command as her own to ensure they would accept it. Shimako and Izumi will cover the southern corner with the island's two remaining TSF battalions split between them to assist. Even so, we're stretched dangerously thin. Even with Mariko and Tsukiko, who were experienced pilots, their overall numbers were small. Laughably so for the size of the BETA army marching towards them, even with the US backing them up.

An estimated thirty-thousand BETA were bearing down on them from the Cheorwon Hive in Korea. They aimed to seize Sado Island as part of a larger pincer move, opening the mainland up to invasion. Although they could travel the sea floor, they too had their limits. They would funnel toward the center of the island due to its accessibility. The BETA preferred taking pathways with fewer natural barriers. As they approached the bay, they would face an absolutely hellish crossfire, with bunkers and heavy gun emplacements set up in a wide firing arc. The whole of Mano bay had been heavily fortified over the years. If its garrison had been at full strength, they could have held back a force like this with relative ease. The walls' defensive guns and tanks had been replaced with railgun technology and the bay itself was riddled with mines left adrift with proximity fuses.

The aliens would doubtless burn past the mines, but it would slow their advance and thin their ranks. Once they surfaced, they would immediately face a massive barrage of the heaviest guns humanity could bring to bear. This would not stop them, unfortunately. The hellish firepower will barely be enough for a force of the size heading for them. Their destroyers will try to break through the defensive walls of the bay, and if they can't break through the walls, they will try to climb over them.

A head-first assault would tax their defensive capabilities to the maximum, but they can hold. The death toll would be brutal for the invaders, and in the right circumstances it might prove too much.

As long as we can contain the BETA to the bay and keep the defensive walls from being breached and suppress any Laser-class before they can set up on the beach, we can turn the bay into a killing field. All we would need to do is protect the northern and southern areas of the island from incursion, so they can't flank us, Lelouch thought. In theory this was a winnable battle.

"Lelouch," Yui called, shaking Lelouch from his thoughts.

"Sorry, what?" Lelouch said, looking at Yui who was walking beside him on his left. Kazusa was walking alongside to his right, looking at him with a concerned expression.

"Are you worried about the battle?" Yui asked, concerned.

"More like… anxious. I am surprised and impressed that the residents of the island chose to stay," Lelouch.

"I know. Many of them have been assisting with preparations for the invasion by helping the men at the base in whatever ways they could," Yui said.

"Indeed," Kazusa said, "They're making food, moving things around, all the little things. It's been quite the help."

"And helping the medical wing prepare for wounded and injured soldiers," Lelouch commented. "These people are quite brave. Most would have run. I wouldn't have blamed them if they did."

"They are stockpiling the shelters with food and weapons. Hopefully it won't come to that, but best to be prepared for the worst I suppose," Yui said.

With so much of Japan lost to the BETA, these people don't have anywhere else to go. They're fighting for their homes, Lelouch thought. He couldn't let them down.

"All the more reason we must succeed," Lelouch said.

Meanwhile, Shimako watched them from a distance, hiding behind a warehouse. Her own thoughts were a mess. Part of it was because of Claude. She fully understood why the pink-haired woman earned so much ire from Yui. It made it all the more impressive how she endured months in Claude's pocket dimension with Lelouch while dealing with Claude.

Lelouch…

Ever since Kyoto, Shimako's mind had been clouded, which had only worsened with the revelation that she had originally died. Lelouch had saved her life as well as the lives of the others, with only the loss of their superior. He was… something else. There was emotion there that she did not understand. Seeing Lelouch's growing closeness with Yui felt weird- wrong, somehow.

Why couldn't she understand what was going on with her?

What am I going to do about this?

"Say Shimako, what are you doing?" Aki asked, appearing behind her with Izumi in tow.

Shimako nearly jumped out of her own skin, putting her own hand over her mouth to keep her yelp silent. Thankfully neither Kazusa, Lelouch or Yui noticed anything. The trio had continued on conversing as if nothing was amiss.

"What are you two doing?" Shimako demanded, her face bright red.

"We might ask you the same," Izumi said, as she and Aki eyed Shimako suspiciously whose face was a mix of panic and embarrassment. "Looks to us like you've been spying on them. Care to explain why?"

"I… I… I… don't know how to explain it," Shimako said, on the verge of tears. She was so confused, and so deeply embarrassed.

"I could," a familiar voice said, causing a feeling of dread to creep down Shimako's spine.

Sure enough Claude was there, behind Izumi and Aki wearing a pink camouflage battle dress uniform.

"No, don't say anything," Shimako pleaded.

Ignoring her pleas, Claude shrugged.

"Shimako is in love with Yui, but ever since Lelouch saved her, she has been just as interested in Lelouch as she is in Yui," Claude revealed, much to Shimako's distress. "I caught her red handed ogling Lelouch and Yui in their swimsuits. So I suggested, why not just do a threesome with them? Oh, you should've seen how red her face turned then."

"Hey, our friend's feelings aren't something to joke about!" Aki said angrily, trying to sucker punch Claude with her fist. Suddenly, a full size balloon blow-up doll of Claude stood where she had been. As Aki punched it, the ball fell back before it suddenly came forward, smacking Aki in the face, knocking her back. Grunting, she rubbed her forehead.

"Damn it. No wonder Yui hasn't tried strangling her more often."

"Don't enable her," Izumi warned sagely. "Calm down, Shimako. It's nothing to be upset about. You and Yui have known each other since you were children. It's not shocking you'd like her."

"Thank you," Shimako sniffed, "but you know our families wouldn't accept it, right?"

"I know, but they don't decide your life, do they?"

Same-sex relationships were not uncommon among TSF pilots, while Japan was not the most accepting, it was something the military preferred to look the other way for. The situation was worse under the Royal Guard families whose first concern was continuing their lineage.

"Thank you for understanding," Shimako said as she calmed down.

"Lelouch saving your life complicated things, seeing how Yui and Lelouch have been together. You don't want to get between them?" Izumi asked.

"Yes… maybe? I'm just so confused," Shimako groaned frustratedly. "I don't know what I'm really feeling, if it's a real thing or if I'm just screwed up from… the whole having been dead thing. I just don't know."

"I may not be able to relate, but I can still sympathize with you. Being thrown into a war we weren't fully prepared for didn't help any of us. TSF pilots don't see combat until seventeen or eighteen after training, outside of special exceptions such as us."

"Yeah, didn't they just reduce the draft age to sixteen recently?" Aki asked, done rubbing her forehead.

"I doubt anything will happen with them. They all know they're too young for a serious relationship. Meanwhile, you still have some time to work out your feelings. There's probably no rush. Yui doesn't seem willing to make a move yet, and Lelouch is oblivious," Izumi said reassuringly.

"I suppose," Shimako said, seemingly more at ease.

"And look at the bright side- we might all be dead in a few days, and then it won't be a problem anymore," Izumi said with a smirk.

"Gee, now I feel much better," Shimako muttered, unable to suppress her growing amusement.

"Now, why don't we go back to the ship. Maybe get a calming cup of tea?" Izumi suggested, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"Okay," Shimako said, as Izumi and Aki led her back to the ship.

Claude looked on from the roof. No thanks for helping out, huh? That girl needed to vent. Going into battle with her head all messed up would have gotten her killed.

Two days later, on the dawn of the twenty-fifth of September, the day had arrived. The BETA were expected to reach Sadogashima in mere hours. Lelouch, Yui, Kazusa, Shimako, Izumi, and Aki were stationed in their Gundams, ready for battle. Tsukiko and Mariko positioned themselves on the launch platform of the nameless ship that had brought them. Standing with Lelouch, ready to launch within the hangar of the mountain-side base was Izumi along with the base's defenders. Half of the garrison's TSFs had been replaced with Minamoto units along with those of the squadron commanders; thanks to Mariko who helped train the pilots how to use them.

Kazusa, Shimako and Aki were placed on standby behind the wall. The old tanks that once lined the defensive walls had been replaced with brand new and powerful Linear tanks.

Even the weather was on their side; it was a clear sunny day.

The wait is becoming unbearable, but sooner or later…

Tapping a screen in his cockpit, Lelouch brought up a tactical display map of the island.

Based on all he knew about the BETA and previous battles he had researched, they should funnel into the bay as expected. Thanks to its natural geography providing an ideal path for their forces. Most strains of the BETA have difficulties scaling cliffs and mountains, hence their preference for low-land paths. Their inability to swim would ensure they would enter the bay. Unfortunately, he couldn't count on things to be that predictable. War was chaotic by nature, and it would be foolish to expect his enemies to never adapt.

In past battles the aliens had shown that when they were unable to break through strong defenses, they found other ways. They would sometimes burrow underground, or find an alternative route to flank the defenders. Taking this into account, Lelouch laid out his strategy to Maya, accounting for potential alternative routes of attack.

The American destroyers and their submarines can monitor the northern and southern points of the island. If the submarines detect any hostiles, they will be fired upon with torpedoes while the destroyers will drop depth charges in tandem with the navy ships, Lelouch thought. The other outposts and defense bunkers dotted around the island will monitor for any attempts at incursions from underground.

There were beaches near the southern and northern ends of the island, areas the BETA could make landfall if they chose to make the longer journey around the island.

Kazusa would be ideal to send out to intercept them and Aki could be sent to back her up if needed with reinforcements. If the BETA appear on the southern end of the island, Izumi and Shimako could engage them with the support of the island's TSF garrison with additional support by the American TSFs.

Maya had signed off on the plan. It was solid, simple, and in theory quite doable- but you could never predict how a battle would turn out.

Should the BETA breach the first defensive walls, they had a second defensive wall, protecting the city of Sado, they could fall back to. The second wall was more heavily fortified and the land beyond the first wall was open farmland, so the BETA would have no cover.

Lelouch's thoughts were interrupted by sirens sounding throughout the area. In the distance were explosions from the minefield.

"It has begun," Lelouch said, gripping his control sticks tightly. He felt his heart beating faster. This was it. This is what we prepared for. And if we fail…

He shook the thought off. He couldn't let that sort of doubt creep in, not now.

"We have a faint reading at sector 1905 and it's growing stronger. We have confirmed detonation of some of the first line of proximity mines," a female operator announced from her station.

On Lelouch's screen, a mass of red was heading for the harbor.

"I want increased observations on Areas A-15 through A-20," a male operator said, speaking to another soldier.

"Hurry and clear up the noise from those explosions. We need a clear environmental picture. We must be able to monitor for if any BETA break away from the main group," another older sounding operator ordered.

"A corps-size force of BETA is approaching the first alert line," A female operator announced. "It has cleared the first minefield!"

"All defensive lines, prepare for battle. All artillery, hold fire until targets are within effective range," Masakiyo commanded.

"Yes sir," Masakiyo's adjutant replied, relaying the orders.

"The BETA have entered the final minefield. Minefields four through nine are gone," a female operator announced. "They are barely being slowed down."

"Have our TSFs ready to sortie," Masakiyo commanded, his eyes glued to the screen as the BETA force drew nearer.

Outside, more underwater explosions drew close to the mouth of the bay. The only visible sign of the approaching invaders. Despite their losses they mindlessly pushed forward, unimpeded by their losses. Lelouch listened on in silence to the chatter from the command center. Maya oversaw the battle from the bridge of the nameless ship she commanded.

"The first wave has passed the second alert line," an operator announced.

"Prepare all weapons. I want shields on full power," Maya commanded. "Target the area where the BETA will surface with the main linear guns. Be ready to fire!"

"Yes ma'am!" A female gunner operator replied.

Commander Masakiyo gave similar orders.

"I want all guns on fixed coordinates. Do not fire until the enemy emerges from the water. I want a clean shot on them!"

The tension had grown thick enough to cut with a knife. Lelouch couldn't hear everything going through the comm channels, but it wasn't hard to imagine the feelings going through everyone right now as the BETA drew closer to them.

These men and women know what will happen if the BETA establishes a new hive here, Lelouch thought, knowing that despite the tension, there was a determination. A fire within them to protect their homes and deny the BETA any further gains. For the Japanese military this was a chance for redemption and to truly halt the BETA from claiming more lives.

The first of the aliens began to break the surface. There was a moment of quiet, as the invading horde surged forward, the water frothing white as they burst up from the depths.

Then, in an instant, all hell rained down upon them. The Linear tanks opened fire. It was hard to miss the writhing mass of alien flesh. A Destroyer was hit straight on, erupting in a fountain of gore as it was killed in an instant. There was the whine of railguns firing into the horde, cutting huge, red swathes of gore at the advancing monstrosities. The water began to dye red as dozens died in the opening volley alone.

In the distance, the whine of missiles could be heard. As they impacted, the whole bay erupted in a shower of watery gore. It was a brutal killing field, tearing the aliens limb from limb with every volley.

And yet, despite the carnage, they kept on coming, mindlessly ignoring their casualties.

The invading aliens showed no signs of self-preservation as they kept charging forward. Soon artillery from the warships on the other side of the island began raining down. The destroyers fired volley after volley to slow down the advancing aliens.

Things seem to be going well so far, but this is only the vanguard. The main force has yet to arrive, Lelouch thought. As if on cue, more and more of the aliens began emerging from the ocean. The Destroyer-class creatures seemed oddly spread out.

Is it because of the losses they sustained crossing the minefield? It couldn't be; the mines had all been spent by now.

"Observation posts have noticed Tank-class and Destroyer-class BETA coming ashore on the northern side of the island," an operator from the base announced. "They've been spotted at Futatsugame Beach."

That was fast, Lelouch thought, alarmed by how the BETA had managed to send a part of their invasion force to another area of the island. This was not unexpected, but the smaller force had managed to reach the location undetected.

"Lieutenant Yamashiro, move to intercept," Major Tsukuyomi ordered through the shared open communication line.

"I'm on it," Kazusa announced, as the Suetake Gundam sortied with Bravo Squadron.

Her role in the battle was to be a hit-and-run interceptor, a role her machine was well suited for. Its wings of light not only doubled as a powerful propulsion system, but could manipulate the energy, allowing the wings to be used offensively- or defensively, to create a shield. That speed meant she'd function as the first responder, tying the alien forces down until further reinforcements could arrive. The northern mountain ranges would contain them for now, but they could still proceed deep inland if left unimpeded

"Kazusa, tell me how spread out the BETA are when you arrive," Lelouch asked, hoping what he was seeing was just a fluke.

"Roger that," Kazusa replied.

The Suetake Gundam's wings of light erupted to life as the Gundam flew over the mountain with a blinding speed that rocked and uprooted the nearby trees as it flew over the mountain. Upon arriving at the Northern beach of the island, the Naval vessels had already launched a bombardment of the area to stem the tide of enemies.

Targeting, Kazusa thought, as the special electronic eyepatch she wore, part of the Gundam's advanced targeting systems, marked the BETA emerging from the water.

Flipping over its shoulders were its railguns, which fired upon the Destroyer-class BETA. She tore into their ranks, shredding multiple rows of Destroyers before changing to the Variable-Speed Beam Rifles mounted onto the sides of the Gundam's hips to begin mowing down the Tank-class BETA. Zipping back and forth in the air, always aiming for the optimal firing position, Kazusa rained hell on the aliens, tearing scores of them to shreds. Moments later Bravo Squadron arrived, led by Suzunoa Ogura, providing support in mopping up any BETA that managed to make it through Kazusa's onslaught.

"Lieutenant Yashishiro, we're ready to back you up," Suzuno said, vaporizing a Tank-class with her beam rifle.

"Thank you," Kazusa replied without taking her eyes off the task before her. "Don't let a single one escape!"

"Roger that," the members of Bravo Squadron confirmed. But as more BETA emerged from the ocean, Kazusa noticed the same pattern Lelouch had spotted. She opened a comms channel.

"Lieutenant Lamperouge, the BETA are spreading their forces out."

"Then we have a problem," Lelouch replied, analyzing the formation of the approaching forces. It was becoming clear that the wave of aliens far exceeded the number of a traditional corps division size, which explained how they had the numbers to spread their forces out. Kazusa's report on the BETA attacking from the north confirmed his fears, the BETA were already adapting to reduce their casualties. Despite their superior numbers the BETA suddenly didn't want to fight a battle of attrition. "This looks way beyond your normal BETA force."

"What do you mean?" Mariko asked, having listened in.

"How many could they be?" Maya asked.

"I can't be sure, but from what sensors have picked up, forty thousand so far. Looking at how they are spread out… if there are that many, then they shouldn't be concerned with preserving their numbers. They are already fighting cautiously. We can expect the south to be facing a major attack," Lelouch warned.

"That's not all is it?" Yui said, realizing something else.

"Take a look at how they are widely spaced," Lelouch brought up, realizing something as his machine has been keeping track of the number of confirmed kills collected. "The Tanks and Destroyers now coming on shore are spacing themselves apart from one another instead of condensing together. The thirty thousand are just the main assault force, but they're sending god knows how many more in these landing parties."

"Will that be a problem?" Tsukiko asked.

"It's a problem when it comes to using our Beam Magnums," Lelouch replied. "It will minimize casualties from our wide effect weaponry. Not just our weapons, but our artillery won't be as effective. If we try to spread out to counter them, the defensive lines won't be as effective and we will be risking a breach."

"But the Beam Magnums aren't our only weapons." Yui chimed in.

"The main issue is that it'll make our Beam Magnums ineffective. With the limited ammo we have, it won't even take out a significant percentage of the enemy force if they're spread out like this. Even the regular ammunition reserves will be depleted at a much faster rate," Lelouch said, which led to Maya adding her own thoughts to the discussion.

"Then clearly the BETA are up to something, we'll need to be on guard," Maya said, understanding Lelouch's concern. "Commander Tachibana, has there been any signs of the BETA attempting to strike at other areas of the island?"

"So far, they have been emerging from the North and by the bay, but I share that young man's concern. I suggest Lieutenant Noto and Alpha Squadron prepare to sortie to defend the southern edge of the island," Masakiyo advised. "There are areas along the southwestern end of the island the BETA could make landfall on."

"I agree. Lieutenant Noto and Commander Sakazaki, did you hear that?"

"Yes, I am ready," Izumi replied.

"So is my squadron," Kaoru replied as she and her squadron were ready to launch.

From the water, a Fort-class BETA emerged near the walls, having stayed in the deep water closest to the shoreline while the Destroyer-class BETA drew their attention. Soon enough, two more began to surface.

"Even the Fort-class BETA are spreading out too," Tsukiko remarked.

"We're going in. We need to eliminate them and keep them from deploying any Laser-class BETA," Lelouch said, as he launched from the deck of the ship, followed by Mariko and Tsukiko.

"Command, permission to sortie to assist them," Yui asked, preparing to launch.

"Granted. Take out the Fort-class closest to the base, there will likely be more following it," Commander Sakazaki said.

"Roger that. I am launching," Yui said, launching in her Izanagi. "I'll take out the closest one. Lelouch, you get the other one."

"Got it," Lelouch replied, as the Izanami flew to intercept the second Fort-class.

"We'll take care of the third one. Lieutenant Fujisawa, with me," Mariko said.

"Roger that." Tsukiko followed Mariko to engage the third Fort-class.

Using her Beam Magnum, Yui shot the enormous creature. The beam impacted directly, the intense heat of the ray making it burst like a balloon. Lelouch followed suit, using a focused charge shot from the Izanami's chest mounted mega-particle cannon, blowing off the head of the other. Mariko and Tsukiko in turn made short work of the last Fort-class, using their beam rifles. The three gargantuan creatures had been destroyed quickly. Unfortunately, they were just the beginning. Already more were beginning to emerge from the ocean.

"We need to send Izumi and Alpha Squad to the south," Lelouch said, suspecting more Fort-class BETA would try to land on the southern end of the island.

"I agree," Commander Tachibana stated, while Maya offered no objections. "Alpha Squadron head for the southern edge of the island, intercept the BETA."

"Understood," Kaoru replied as she and Izumi launched from the base.

"Lieutenants Kai and Iwami, prepare to launch," Maya commanded. "Lieutenant Iwami will head north to support our forces. Lieutenant Kai, stay near the ship and stand by to provide support."

"Roger," Shimako and Aki replied as Shimako's Gundam, then the Sadamitsu stepped onto the linear catapult. "Shimako Kai, Sadamitsu, launching!"

After the Sadamitsu was launched, Aki and her Gundam stepped onto the catapult.

"Aki Iwami, Kintoki, taking off!"

Once in the air, the Kintoki headed north while Shimako stood by, preparing to kill the growing number of Fort-class BETA emerging from the ocean. The linear tanks had so far been able to keep the Destroyer-class to a manageable number, but they might need backup any moment now. The beam cannons from the nameless ship floating above the defensive wall joined in, bombarding the attacking BETA.

Firing from the wing mounted Dual-Linked Variable Speed Beam Rifles on the Izanami, Lelouch exterminated as many Fort-class as he could. If they unloaded their Laser-class cargo, they could pin down the island's defenders. He also couldn't ignore the other BETA, emerging from the sea. Some had made it to the first defensive wall. Tsukiko and Mariko quickly moved to eliminate them, while Lelouch followed behind.

They are stretching our forces too thin, Lelouch said. They were handling the bigger creatures well enough, but smaller BETA like the Tank-class were slipping through the fire-screens and could reach their defenses. As much as he didn't want to spread their forces any thinner than they already were…

"Tsukiko and Mariko, check the areas around the mouth of the bay. I need confirmation the enemy isn't attempting to scale the mountains and hills surrounding the bay," Lelouch ordered.

"Understood," Mariko said, the two pilots departing immediately.

"Just be mindful of the water. A Fort-class could ambush you near the shoreline," Lelouch warned.

"Roger that," The two women said, speeding away.

Suddenly the tactical computer of the Izanami picked up an energy spike from the water near the shore. The computer zoomed in. Lelouch saw a black eye peeking out of the water, and then he saw a flash. His blood ran cold when he realized what it was. Quickly, Lelouch raised a shield and placed himself in the expected path of the laser, which was aimed at the linear tanks on top of the wall. There was a flash as the weapon fired, and Lelouch's machine shook and trembled from the impact. Glaring warning signals echoed in the cockpit as several systems shorted out momentarily from the power overload. Lelouch felt an intense heat overtake the cockpit that felt like he would be boiled alive. The machine went dead for a second, and for a horrible moment Lelouch wondered if he would fall into the sea. Then, mercifully, the screens flickered back to life, the systems quickly rebooting and bringing his machine back up to speed. The Gundam had taken the hit head on and survived, leaving both him and the vital tank battery still alive.

"Lelouch are you alright?!" Cried Yui over the comms.

"Don't worry about me, we have bigger problems. There are Heavy Laser-class BETA among them," Lelouch warned, leveling his beam rifle at the Heavy Laser-class he shot, exploding its head. "They are hiding in the water and trying to snipe us from the sea while the Fort-class BETA draws our attention. Aki and Shimako, use your I-fields and Panzer Deflection systems to protect your allies, monitor the water's surface for signs of them!"

"Sneaky bastards," Aki snapped upon hearing Lelouch's warning.

The Kintoki Gundam moved to the front, its I-field generators functioning. When one Heavy Laser-class poked its head out from the water and took a shot at Aki, the field redirected it to hit the hills behind the Gundam.

"You want to get some? Well, come and get it!" Aki shouted defiantly, but six more Heavy Laser-class BETA began poking their heads out from the water. A dozen Fort-class rose from the sea to protect them.

"Lieutenant Iwani, pull back," Suzuno called, worried that Aki might've been biting off more than she can chew.

"I got this," Aki said, as her Gundam switched to Burst Mode, its plasma cannons in its wings unfolded, ready to fire, along with its hip-mounted railguns.

Its Multi-purpose Assault Weapon "Kujaku" took aim, as did one of its combat shields, which had a mega-particle cannon mounted onto it. In the cockpit, her screen showed one display after another of Target Locked. With a toothy smile, Aki pulled the trigger unleashing a barrage of well-aimed plasma, railgun, and particle beams from the Kintoki Gundam. To an outside observer it might have looked like the Gundam was just firing wildly into the approaching ranks of the enemy, but thanks to the Gundam's targeting systems each shot struck its intended mark, the Laser-class that tried to hide under the Fort-class' shadows. The Kujaku weapon alone, its only hand-held weapon, ensured no enemy could escape the Kintoki's assault.

The Fort-class fell like dominos and the Heavy Laser-class were taken out before they could threaten Bravo Squadron or Kazusa. The waters off the shore quickly turned red, the shredded remains of the battle group floating limply in the water before sinking.

Before Aki could celebrate, a new herd of Destroyer-class erupted from the water, intent on running her down while her weapons were cooling off. Before Aki could open fire with her remaining weapons, Kazusa intervened, shooting the Destroyers with her mega beam rifle, and her back mounted railguns. Aki joined in, using her Kujaku and her Gundam's railguns to finish off those Kazusa's attack had missed.

"Don't let your guard down, Aki," Kazusa lightly scolded her friend.

"Geez, I know," Aki replied, slightly exasperated. Grumbling, she added, "Maybe you should get that huge stick out of your ass."

"I heard that," Kazusa said. Aki froze up momentarily. Shit. But despite Kazusa feeling slightly annoyed, they both had bigger problems. The battle was still raging. Flying overhead, she could now see that the bulk of their invasion force had diverted their attention so a smaller contingent of BETA could reach the island and launch surprise attacks on the defender's flanks. Lelouch's concerns were soon proven true, as she spotted a group of Tank-classes scaling the cliffs a distance away from the shore. The cliffs were likely too steep for the Destroyers to swiftly dealt with them, and those she had detected had already made it into the forests. She shot them from the safety of the air.

Leaving her no time to breathe, more Forts emerged from the water. Kazusa calmly killed them, using a sudden burst of acceleration to fly past the giant BETA. The wings of light erupting from her machine's wings doubled as blades, cutting two of the Fort-class in half. Her mega-beam rifle did the rest.

Just how many are we dealing with? Kazusa wondered as she continued searching the area for any BETA attempting to circumvent past their defenses. No matter their losses they kept coming, even climbing over the piles of corpses of their fallen.

"American Tomcats are launching to search for any BETA that might've slipped by," Maya announced.

But even as she spoke, her ship took a direct hit from a Laser-class. The ship shook under the assault, but it had been designed to withstand such hits. Its shields flared as it absorbed the hit. Its hull, protected by a thick layer of Laminated Armor, could harmlessly disperse the thermal energy.

"Status report!" Maya demanded.

"Shields are holding steady and the armor is holding up," a bridge operator announced.

"Good. Return fire. Target those Heavy Laser-class. We should return the favor," Maya commanded. "Then get this ship moving. Let's give them something to focus on so the base defenders can do their job."

"Yes ma'am," the helmsman replied as the nameless ship continued their retaliatory strikes against the Heavy Laser-class BETA attacking them.

Meanwhile, Yui downed another Fort-class using her machine's beam sabers, splitting the creature's head in two. Laser-classes sprung from the corpse. While not many made it to shore, even a few could pose a danger if left alone. They would not make it far, though. Once Lelouch noticed them, he didn't just deal with them himself, he also fed the tactical data of their locations to Maya's ship allowing the vessel's beam cannons and missiles to dispatch them before they could begin attacking.

"Lieutenant Lamperouge, requesting that you back up Shimako. She and Alpha Squadron are struggling," Yui asked.

"Understood. Can you hold down the fort here?" Lelouch asked.

"I can for now. Mariko and Tsukiko have been busy dispatching landing parties from other points near the mouth of the bay," Yui replied. In the distance,Mariko and Tsukiko were working together, eliminating any Tank-class and Fort-class they found attempting to scale the mountains along the edge of the bay.

"I'll try not to take too long," Lelouch said, flying off to aid Shimako and Alpha Squadron.

While en route, Lelouch switched to auto pilot, using the time to quickly take the BETA's latest actions in the battle to devise counter strategies.

I can't say I expected Heavy-Lasers to be part of this invasion. It's unprecedented, Lelouch thought, sharing the data his Gundam collected to aid their allies. What else are they planning?

Lelouch sent a message to Maya, recommending the submarines should expand their sonar search. Thanks to the American and Japanese naval forces gathered, much of the waters around the island were covered. However, the unexpected appearance of Heavy Laser-class was deeply concerning. He only hoped there were no more nasty surprises.

He sent counter tactics for dealing the Heavy Laser-class with his message. It didn't take him long to reach the southern side of the island, where he found Shimako pinned down, using the panzer deflection system of her Gundam to shield the members of Alpha Squadron from attacks from the Heavy-Laser class. They were holding for now, but unless something changed, it was only a matter of time before Shimako was overwhelmed. Lelouch had an idea to turn this around. He just had to hope it could work.

Izumi was also busy fending off other groups of BETA, trying to take pressure off of Shimako. The Tsuna Gundam, despite lacking the defensive capabilities of the Sadamitsu, could perform physics-defying feats of agility. Its GN fangs were causing disruptions among the BETA ranks. They fired upon the aliens and thanks to their blade-like design, the projectiles could fly through the ranks of the Tank-class, shredding them to pieces.

Without a word, Izumi activated the defensive system of her Tsuna Gundam. Its GN field projected a spheric shield around her machine. It intercepted fire from the Heavy Laser-class. None of their attacks could get past the field; even the stinger tail of a Fort-class was deflected.

With a look of hardened determination, Izumi sped her Gundam forward, ramming a Fort-class. The GN field and the force of the impact knocked the alien over. That the Heavy Laser-classes would not fire on their own also worked in her favor, as she used the other Fort-class BETA spread out as cover. Dropping the GN shield so she could attack, Izumi finished off the knocked down Fort-class. Then she sped away before the other BETA could retaliate, her GN Rifle transforming into its GN Buster Sword as it lowered into the Gundam's right hand.

Another Fort-class tried to strike the Tsuna Gundam with its stinger tail, but Izumi cut its stinger off before promptly cutting the Fort-class in half. The blade's energy and physical blade combined with GN particles increased the blade's cutting power enormously and so she carved through it like a hot knife through butter.

"Izumi, can you continue to keep the Fort-classes occupied?" Lelouch asked, arriving on the scene.

"They are already being handled, but Shimako needs help," Izumi repiled, sounding relieved.

"Understood," Lelouch said, switching communications. "Shimako, do you read me?"

"Yes I read you, I am trying to keep Alpha Squad safe, but there are too many Heavy Laser-class."

"Understood. I am going to help you use the deflector system of your Gundam to redirect their fire to create an opening so we can work together to eliminate them," Lelouch replied.

"Ok, but how?"

"Well, I am hoping this can work for that purpose," Lelouch said, activating the Coupling System. "Do you know how to use the Coupling System?"

"Uh, yes," Shimako replied, realizing his intentions. "Connective, Lieutenant!"

"Acception!" Lelouch replied, triggering the coupling.

For what seemed like forever, Shimako felt like she was in freefall feeling her thoughts becoming synced with those of Lelouch's. In the exchange of knowledge at that moment, not only did Shimako experience crystal clarity of mind, but she understood what to do. Like it was second nature to her, Shimako adjusted her shields according to the new knowledge she obtained from Lelouch. Assisted further by the tactical data the Izanami was feeding to her Gundam, Shiamko moved the shields into key spots to redirect them.

The first redirected beam hit one Heavy Laser-class in the eye, killing it instantly. A second struck down a Fort-class, followed by another Heavy Laser-class going down. Thanks to the Coupling System's future prediction, it was that much easier for Shimako to predict and position herself just right to redirect the incoming lasers. Lelouch was far from idle for his part, using the mega-particle scatter cannon to rain down death upon the Tank-class and Destroyer-class BETA trying to storm the beach. Soon, Alpha Squadron were safe to rejoin the fight, with most of the Heavy Lasers now eliminated.

The number of Heavy Lasers involved had disturbing implications. They were rarely seen in BETA attacks, typically relegated to defending their hives or reinforcing captured territory. Having them hide in the ocean and attacking from the water, showed a new level of deception and aggression. They were rapidly adapting.

Could it be possible that they are learning from us? No, it's way too soon for them. Granted, adaptation is a must, even for alien creatures like them, but even if they are able to adopt human tactics, they shouldn't be able to generate a strategy against us and our Gundams so fast.

The battle dragged on. Hour upon hour. Lelouch and the officer corps putting out one fire after another. It was grimy and brutal with the casualties racking up by the minute, but the line was held as BETA corpses piled up in their thousands. Then in the late afternoon, a new problem emerged from the sea.

To the north and south of the island, new waves of attackers revealed themselves. Lasers stuck their eyes out, targeting the missiles and rockets coming towards them. In between the Laser-class BETA were Grapplers, acting as some sort of defensive meat shield Some even taking hits from Shimako's redirection effort, dying in the Laser-class' place. Already they were striking at whatever patrolling gunships within range, which up to this point had managed to avoid being targeted by the BETA. It wasn't long before several more Forts emerged from the back, all of them evenly spaced out like those in the main force. The aliens had taken utterly gruesome casualties, the likes of which would have broken any human army, but they still kept coming, heedless of their own slaughter.

"There are so many of them!" Shimako cried out, returning fire against the Lasers.

With the approach of Grappler-class, she began attacking with the Sadamitsu Gundam's Hresvelgr Plasma Induction Cannon. Now more comfortable and at ease with redirecting the enemy's laser attacks, she was ready to add onto it. Firing the plasma cannon, she tore into the oncoming horde. It didn't stop there, however; she began aiming the railguns mounted onto the shields and unleashing a hailstorm of absolutely brutal firepower.

"Good job, Lieutenant Shimako," Lelouch said encouragingly.

"Yes, I won't let them pass!" Shimako said, confidently. Together with Izumi, she continued laying down punishing fire.

While the Tsuna Gundam still dealt with any Grapplers and Destroyers in its range, Alpha Squadron pressed their attack, seizing on the opportunity. Izumi was wielding her Gundam's buster sword in one hand and her GN pistols in the other. She did her best to trim down the number of enemies to keep them at a manageable level.

"Let's pick up the slack people. We can't let these kids do all the work," Kaoru said, rallying her squad to start pushing back against the BETA.

"Yes, ma'am!" The members of Alpha Squad shouted together in unison, their morale high.

Meanwhile, Yui was helping the defenders hold the bay. Parts of the wall had sustained damage from some of the Heavy Laser-class BETA, but they, thankfully, held. Now Grapplers were joining the fight en masse, but Yui had no problem dispatching them. Neither did the nameless ship and the linear tanks upon the wall. A few were close to breaching the wall, but Yui and missiles from the nameless ship stopped them. But as the corpses of the BETA slain at the wall and the bay began to pile up, they effectively formed a ramp for their comrades to march over, putting them closer and closer to the wall's edge. Yui considered using her Beam Magnum to clear some of these piles.

If I use the beam magnum, I could damage the walls, maybe even accidentally create a breach, Yui thought.

The lack of other ranged options was becoming a noticeable problem, but Yui still had her Gundam's beam sabers. Her mobile suit had a pair of sub-arms that could grasp and wield the Gerbera Straight Katana and the Tiger Pierce Katana, physical blades stored on its waist. Using them in tandem with her beam sabers in her hands, she engaged the BETA in melee, trying to stop those who were using the corpses of their dead to climb up.

Igniting the beam sabers built into the feet of her Gundam, Yui cut down a pair of Destroyers from behind. She turned around to engage another pair of Grapplers with the physical blades, before counter attacking with the beam sabers, cutting off their arms before dealing a fatal blow to them.

Whenever the number of enemies were becoming too much, or beginning to surround her, Yui retreated to the air, looking for more enemies to attack from behind. Using its feet mounted beam sabers, she cleaved them apart before attacking the remaining aliens before they could counterattack and retreat when needed. Whenever the aliens attempted to flank her, the Grappler-class aliens found themselves facing Yui's beam sabers; even a kick when activating one of the beam sabers mounted on her feet, which at the right angle could decapitate an enemy.

Controlling four arms is difficult, Yui thought. The Gundam was far more complex to pilot than a TSF.

"Lieutenant Takamura," came Lelouch's voice over the comms, "I am going to stay with Lieutenants Notou and Kai for a bit. Alpha Squadron's TSFs need to return for a resupply," Lelouch informed via their communication line.

"Roger that. I can handle things here until they are done. I think Bravo Squadron's TSFs are also returning to resupply their machines," Yui said, noticing in the corner of her eye a group of TSFs heading back.

"The Amercians are sending a squad of TSFs to help support our units in the north, until Alpha Squadron returns," Maya reported. "They've deployed one of their reserve squads to switch out with their units supporting us to resupply as well."

"Understood," Yui replied, returning to focusing on defending the bay until Lelouch returned.

On the bridge of the nameless ship, Maya was observing the battle, despite their forces being stretched dangerously thin, more so than she was comfortable with. The battle was going well for them. But she felt a growing unease in the pit of her stomach, a bad feeling that wouldn't leave her alone. Using the console on her chair, she opened a channel to the base commander.

"Captain Tsukuyomi," Masakiyo greeted.

"Commander, are there any signs of the BETA's numbers slowing, or…?" Maya began.

"Concerned that something else might be coming?"

"It seems we are of the same mind."

"Yes, you and Lieutenant Lamperouge as well. Heavy Laser-class, are rare, especially in these numbers. They're usually on hive defense duty. They've never been a part of any invasion forces before," Masakiyo explained.

"Something's changed. We're up against something new. We need to be ready for anything."

"I concur. I have already asked our lookouts to double their efforts and our operators are keeping a close eye on our listening posts in the sea to look for anything that could be unusual," Masakiyo reassured.

Sadly, both Commander Masakiyo and Maya would be proven right.

"Commander!" A panicked operator at her station shouted. "I am getting a reading from one of our listening buoys! It's unlike anything I've ever seen.."

"We're picking up something large approaching the bay among the latest wave of BETA!" Another operator exclaimed in alarm.

Near the bay's entrance, a small head poked up from the water. It had the three sets of eyes common to the Heavy Laser-class. Taking aim, the new BETA fired. The laser beam was indiscriminate, cutting a swathe through its own ranks before searing a giantantic hole into the wall. It tore through it with ease, tearing all the way into the hills behind it.

As it drew nearer, a second similar head emerged, this time taking aim at the nameless ship.

"BRACE FOR IMPACT!" Maya roared. The laser fired, its wildly destructive beam rocking the entire ship. Alarms went out, the power surged, but its protective shielding and armor held against the blast. For all aboard, it felt like a calamity; smoke and fires were breaking out all over the ship.

"Damage report! Damage report!" Maya ordered as emergency power kicked in, bathing the command bridge in red light.

"Shields holding firm, Captain!" A technician cried out.

"Minor hull damage, leaks currently being contained in sectors four and five, Captain!" Another called out.

"Are our weapons systems operational?" Maya demanded.

"Confirmed, Captain," her gunnery officer replied.

"Then return fire!"

"Aye-aye, Captain!" The officer replied, saluting sharply. The ship's guns took aim.

Meanwhile, as a third head tried to repeat the process, Yui attacked, hitting it with her beam magnum. The head exploded like an overinflated balloon. The other two heads retreated back into the water. Suddenly a dark green stinger erupted from the water, trying to impale Yui's Gundam, but she was quick enough to dodge it.

What was that? It couldn't have been a Heavy-Laser class, Yui thought, pulling back to assess the new threat.

Rising from the water as it drew nearer to shore was a BETA strain Yui and Lelouch had seen during simulated battles. It was missing one head, but its appearance was unmistakable. Yui's blood ran cold.

Before anyone could register the monstrous alien's appearance, it towered over the remaining Fort-class BETA. One of its two heads began releasing a bombardment of smaller laser beams, targeting the defenders on the wall and Yui. The second head began charging up for a much more powerful shot. As it fired, it blew another large hole in the wall. The mighty structure ruptured and cracked, slabs of concrete tumbling into the bay along with dozens of the defenders- those were the ones who had not been evaporated by the blast.

"Laser Fort-class!" A horrified member of the nameless ship's bridge crew announced as the ship's computer identified it. Alarms went off, blaring across the base. "It appeared among the main force. It blasted a hole in two of Sadogashima's walls! The BETA are breaking through!"

Using the distraction provided by the Laser-Fort Class, the smaller strains of BETA were rushing towards the opening. Yui couldn't stop them; she had a much larger threat to deal with. Thankfully, Tsukiko and Mariko were moving in to intercept them.

"Massive breaches on the shore wall!" Lelouch heard an operator shout from the command center, as an image provided by Yui on the state of the wall was transmitted to him. Aliens were pouring through the breach, even as railguns and artillery continued to rain hell upon them. Seeing the melted walls and everything in a straight line turned to black ash, he felt nervous. In one go their battle was now on the brink of defeat.

"We have signs of severe damage from the attacks of those beam weapons! All units are currently reporting other damage," the operator relayed.

"Lelouch." Yui grabbed his attention. "Is that what I think it is?"

"Yes," he answered begrudgingly. "It's the same creature we fought in the simulator."

"What are you talking about?" Izumi asked.

"That thing is not like any other Laser-class out there," Lelouch said, opening a communication channel. "Keep moving as much as possible! That thing doesn't care if its allies are in the way."

"Lieutenant Lamperouge, you and Lieutenant Kai should go and back Takamura up. Me and the others can hold the line," Izumi said.

"I'll ask the Americans to reinforce your position," Commander Masakiyo informed, before adding with urgency. "Hurry and stop that monster before they overrun our beach defenses!"

"We'll handle the breach," Mariko stated as she and Tsukiko hurried over. "Just hurry and take down that BETA!"

"Roger that," Lelouch replied as he and Shimako hurried to Yui.

Meanwhile, after narrowly avoiding the Laser Fort-class BETA's stinger, the massive alien followed up its attack with dozens of smaller stingers, firing from cone-like protrusions on the front of its body. The Izanagi narrowly dodged the attack, using a beam saber in one hand to cut apart those that got too close. Focusing its guns at Yui with a less focused scattershot of lasers, her gundam was bombarded, and her Beam Magnum was damaged beyond repair.

The wall's surviving defenses unleashed all they had on it. There was the characteristic whine of railgun fire, the batteries running hot as they concentrated all fire on the Fort-class in front of them. Under their relentless barrage, the Laser Fort-class went down fast, but a second Laser-Fort class BETA emerged from the ocean not far behind it. Before the railguns could reload, the creature opened fire, unleashing a barrage of lasers. The I-field of Yui's Gundam protected her, but the same couldn't be said for the various tanks and gun placements upon the wall. They were vaporized instantly.

With her guns exhausted, Yui had to make do with the Izanagi Gundam's melee weapons. Equipping one of its beam sabers and readying the beam shield Yui charged at the gigantic monster. Yui dodged a flash, as its three heads continued their bombardment of the area around the bay. It missed her, striking the hills in the distance. The wall was crumbling and the aliens were swarming through. Yui needed to take this monster down, now.

It fired its stinger again, but Yui was one with her machine as she weaved and dodged elegantly. Unfortunately, as she closed in, all three heads were ready to fire, point blank.

How could she have known that they could recharge this quickly?

"YUI!" Shimako cried out, her machine slamming into Yui's, forcefully shoving it out of the way. Her Sadamitsu's armor and shields took the full blunt of the laser head on. The world went red as muzzles flashed. As Yui's screens cleared up she saw the remnants of an explosion.

"SHIMAKO!"

The smoke cleared. The Sadamitsu Gundam had survived, just barely. Its shield mounted arms had been destroyed in the blast. While the machinery had overloaded from trying to withstand such an intense blast, she had still managed to redirect it into a Fort-class BETA heading for the shore. The Sadamitsu Gundam and its pilot were on their last legs. Firing its remaining plasma cannon, Shimako retaliated by blowing its left head off.

But there were still two heads remaining, and they both took aim at her. Shimako could see the glow of their lasers from her barely functioning screen, and grunted.

I can't move away. Sadamitsu can barely even fly anymore. This is it.

But then, both heads erupted in a sudden flash. Looking behind her, she saw Lelouch, the magnum of his Gundam smoking from its last shot.

He had made it in time, and Shimako breathed a shaky sigh of relief.

"Shimako, are you okay?!" he cried out over the comms. Her Sadamitsu wasn't down yet, but that didn't mean she was unharmed.

She tried to redirect that hit at the last second. The power of that shot must've caused a system overload.

"I am fine, just deal with the Heavy Laser. I got this," Shimako said boldly and with a hint of anger. "This time I'll protect you two, instead of being the one protected."

She readied its beam glaive and aimed her remaining weapons systems.

"Roger that. Lieutenant Takamura, return to the ship and rearm. Get a beam rifle. Your combat options are too limited. Your Gundam should be able to use it as a replacement."

"I… understand," Yui conceded, reluctantly retreating to grab a new weapon. She knew Lelouch was right, but hated moving off the battlefield while her comrades still fought. "Just don't let them gain an inch while I am gone."

"We won't," Lelouch said with a smile.

"We're not out of the fight either," Maya said over the open comms. Green beams tore through the air, hitting the Laser Fort-class dead center, turning its hulking body into a bloody mass, gore showering over the sea's surface. "We took damage, but this ship can still fight!"

"This is Lieutenant Lamperouge," Lelouch called out across the comms. "If another Laser Fort-class appears, call it in immediately. Absolute priority is to be given to these targets!"

"Come on!" Tsukiko snapped defiantly as she took down another Grappler-class with a well-aimed beam rifle shot.

The aliens continued to crawl over the bodies of their dead, careless of their own lives. Mariko was right behind her, firing her beam rifle; a monster falling with each shot. They were creating constant new piles of corpses all on their own. As the nameless ship opened fire in return, the piles only grew larger.

"Geez, how many are there?" Tsukiko spat frustratedly.

"I wasn't keeping track. Stay focused. We can't let them past this point," Mariko replied matter-of-factly.

"No kidding. I'm just getting kind of exhausted doing this…"

The pilot suits were designed with measures to help them keep fighting for hours, even days at a time if conditions were favorable, but it was a hellish experience, and the stress would take a toll on even the strongest of soldiers.

"Just hang in there."

"I can do this all day if I have to," Tsukiko said firmly.

Following the Laser-forts destroying much of the first wall and leaving a hole in the second, Tsukiko and Mariko had positioned themselves in between to halt the BETA from getting further inland. Although Lelouch, Shimako and Yui had dealt with the larger creatures, hordes of smaller ones were still pouring through the gap. They were successful so far, but the corpse piles were getting taller and taller, even when their beam weapons vaporized the smaller strains easily. So far, the pair were holding fast, keeping the invaders from getting into the residential area beyond the second wall.

The fight continued to drag on, even as the sun began to set. With most of the bigger beasts slain, the BETA's lack of firepower began to turn the tide. Thrown against the brutal defenses and the gun emplacements, the battle turned from a desperate struggle to a methodical extermination. The whole sea around the wall ran red with alien blood. By nightfall the last of the Heavy Laser-class were slain, and no more appeared. The entire rest of the night was spent wiping out the thinning lines of aliens; only when the sun began to rise was the last BETA eliminated. Exhausted, the Gundam pilots could breathe a sigh of relief. They had done what seemed impossible. They had repelled a direct BETA invasion, something the Imperial Army at Kyushu had failed to do.

This battle would be remembered as the Miracle of Sadogashima.

The Gundams and other machines returned to the ship for repairs and resupplying, while fresh American support units would keep watch, allowing the base's exhausted defenders a chance to rest.

Even as the battle wound down, assessments were already being made. Their losses had been shockingly light in comparison to the army they just fought. They had only lost six TSFs between the two island's defense squads, while the Americans only suffered a few casualties among their own pilots. The worst of the casualties were among those stationed on the wall which only racked up to a few dozen. Many attributed their success to the firepower and advances of both the Gundams and the nameless vessel that had supported them. There were others who also praised the tactics of one Lelouch Lamperouge, directing the battle and allocating the Gundams to where they were needed had also been a boon to the defenders.

Within the Sadogashima Base headquarters, Maya, Masakiyo, a Japanese Admiral and an American Admiral were meeting. The American was an older man with graying hair, a mustache, and wore a crisp, white uniform with his hat sitting on the table of the meeting room. It wasn't an official meeting; rather, the leading commanders were celebrating the miracle, one both Japan and the world sorely needed. The three were sharing a toast, already drunk on victory.

"I must congratulate you, Commander Tachibana. And you too, Captain Tsukuyomi," The admiral cheered, raising his glass. "The odds were stacked against us, but you gave them absolute hell."

"Thank you. The assistance of the navy and your forces was invaluable, Admiral Walken. If not for your men helping cover any gaps in our defenses when our pilots were resupplying, our casualties could've been much higher.

"Of course. And I should thank Admiral Taira. The naval operation was a team effort," Admiral Walken replied, looking at the Japanese Admiral. He was an older man with graying hair and blue eyes, wearing a white uniform.

"I am glad we were able to work together. I hate to think how it might have gone, had we not done so," Taira remarked. "But that… Laser Fort-class, as they called it… what a monster that was."

"I am glad no more than two of them showed up. Just one completely destroyed two of the bay's defensive walls and the second wiped out our defensive weapons." Masakiyo said, still feeling chills.

"Perhaps the BETA cannot produce such strains in bulk," Admiral Taira commented.

"Yes, we should count ourselves lucky. I have already shared what we have on it with Admiral Walken to pass along to America," Maya said.

"Much appreciated. In turn, I'll share with you something headquarters shared with me. Since the BETA committed a large number of Heavy Laser-class to this battle, satellite images shows that the Cheorwon Hive had depleted much of what they had, most notably the aforementioned Heavy-Laser Class, so we decided to seize upon it," the American Admiral said with a knowing grin.

"A nuclear assault?" Maya said. Nukes had always been deterred by the defenses of the Heavy Lasers shooting them down before they could land. Without those defenses, they would have been wide open.

Admiral Walken nodded.

"We managed to rapidly dispatch forces via orbital drop to the Hive after using a nuclear bombardment to clear the area. That kind of opportunity doesn't come often. As of right now, that area is under US control. They should be arriving in the area soon, but they won't stay around. Just long enough to investigate the hive and find anything useful from it before leaving a nuclear bomb within to destroy it."

"It cannot be captured?" Maya remarked.

"Regrettably we just don't have the forces to hold the area, but with its destruction, it should give Japan some breathing room to rebuild their defenses," Admiral Walken explained. "My fleet will be sent to pick them up at the shoreline once they've finished their mission. I'll leave some TSFs and ships behind to support the garrison here until I return."

"Then I hope their mission is a success," Masakiyo said before adding, "We'll take care of your troops until you return."

"My ships will work with those who stay behind. With the hives responsible eradicated, we shouldn't see any further attacks from Asia for the time being," Admiral Taira stated.

"Thank you for your words, Admiral. My men have been ordered to be on their best behavior in the meantime. This is a critical time for our alliance," Admiral Walken replied.

"Agreed," Maya said before adding. "The Shogun and the Prime Minister are formally working out details to share the new technology we have with America publicly. Our victory here will assure the people of Japan of the value of our alliance with America. In turn, we will work together to rapidly develop the new anti-BETA technology demonstrated today."

"Our production facilities will no doubt be available to aid Japan in upgrading their forces as swiftly as possible," Admiral Walken replied, seeming relieved. "Those Gundams performed impressively well, but I suppose they are not invincible."

"True. But a small force of them still accomplished what our armies of TSFs couldn't accomplish. But those flanking maneuvers mid battle… It proves the BETA can adapt to our tactics. We must do the same, and develop this technology even further," Masakiyo said calmly.

"Agreed. This was a great victory, but it's only a first step toward ending this war. We have many battles yet ahead of us," Admiral Walken agreed. "In the meantime, if you don't mind me asking, how are the pilots of those Gundams?"

"They are exhausted, but they are doing well. Promotions are expected for all of them, along with commendations," Maya said while giving them praise at the same time.

"Yes. First Lieutenant Lamperouge in particular ought to be promoted for his skillful defense, his role in planning the defense and quick response to these unexpected attacks," Maya said.

"Well deserved, from what I've heard," Admiral Taria added.

"Indeed. Perhaps eventually a Major, but he'll likely be a Captain until he properly graduates," Maya revealed.

"Is that really necessary, given his accomplishments?" Admiral Walken said with an amused smile.

"No. I suppose it's only a formality at this point. Speaking of promotions, for your handling of the situation, Commander Tachibana has been promoted by the Shogun to Brigadier General effective immediately," Maya revealed, stunning Masakiyo. "You'll have complete command over the defenders of this island and much of the surrounding area. That should prevent anyone from pulling rank to press you into giving up men."

"I… I am… at a loss for words. I humbly accept," Masakiyo said, stunned.

"Things seem to be moving quicker now," Admiral Walken commented.

"Yes, and with a war against the BETA to still win, let's keep up the momentum," Admiral Taria commented.

They toasted once again and drank deep, knowing the joy would only be fleeting. The war was only getting started.

A/N: Whew I hope the battle was worth the wait, and I am hoping I can post chapter 15 on time in the next two weeks. It along with chapters 15 through 17 are done, just awaiting the beta work to be done on them.

And I did want to make the battle difficult and still show the BETA can be a threat, because they can adapt and the Laser Fort-class being unleashed is proof of that. Expect new BETA strains to appear in the future including some from the other games. Still this was hard fought victory with some close calls and Lelouch likely to see a promotion for his efforts, and thanks to Kyoko helping in Suez, America didn't need to leave Japan, which provided the defenders some good support.

Next chapter our heroes will take a well deserved break, with Lelouch beginning to understand the pros and cons to come with his new fame.

Finally in response to some surprising responses I got when I inquired on what the fate of a certain character from Infinite Stratos should be, I was so taken aback by some of the suggestions I got, I decided to do a new poll on my profile page to see if anyone else felt the same. It won't alter my overall plans very much, but it might affect the end game slightly.

Thank you all for reading, so I'll see you all next chapter.

Kyoko's Gundam, the Benkei, for its appearance it uses the Crossbone Gundam X-2 as a base, but with parts from the main body of the Amakusa/Jupiter Gundam and its weapons and EZM-S01 Midas's Beam Manteau.

Model number: TMP-00X (This was the first Gundam model produced too)

Code name: Benkei

Unit type: Prototype Psycho-Frame Close Quarter Combat Mobile Suit

Pilot: Kyoko Takatsuka

Manufacturer: Unknown

Operator: Order of the Black Knights, Empire of Japan ("sponsors" of the Black Knights)

First deployment: September 29th 2016 A.T.B

Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso

Dimensions: head height 19.10 meters

Weight: 57.5 metric tons

Powerplant: Ultracompact Fusion Reactor

Sensor Range: 23,700

Psycho-Frame

Intention Automatic System

Coupling System

Fog Dispenser: The Benkai apparently has the ability to release a thick fog to engulf the battlefield or to hide its location. This serves to obstruct the vision of other mobile suits and their pilots.

Heat Radiation Face Open: It can temporarily "Open Face" to release Heat and increase performance. This allows the the Gundam to perform otherwise extremely demanding maneuvers or attacks that would normally be considered impossible.

Fixed Armaments

2 X 60mm Vulcan Guns

4 X Beam Sabers, two are stored in the shoulder armor for easy access and the final two can be found in the knee armor

10 X Beam Claws: Beam Emitters mounted on the nail of each Mobile Suit Finger, they are powerful enough to shred through beam Shields with ease.

1 X Beam Manteau: A cloak-like beam shield that is powerful enough to defend against the Crossbone Gundam X-0 's "Kujaku" at close-range.

1 X Electric Shock Whip: An electric shock whip that can wielded as a handheld weapon in MS mode. The segments are connected by lines of magnetic force that can operate even under dispersed Minovsky Particles , which disrupt electromagnetic waves. The magnetic lines can be extended to increase the whip's reach, allowing attacks at a considerable distance to compensate for the lack of ranged weaponry stored in the rear skirt armor.

2 X Mega Particle Cannons: A fixed armament mounted on the forearms, they are the suit's only ranged weapon and are power rated at 4.7 MW. By adjusting the relevant parameters/settings of the particle cannons, such as its output, the weapon can have a variety of firing modes, including a beam machine gun-like mode that have a high rate of fire at the expense of penetrating power. Despite being set at automatic fire, they carry enough power to tear through most Mobile Suits with ease.

2 X Cold Blades: Also known as "Nacht Blade," the Cold Blade is a ninjato-style physical blade. As its name suggests, it is not heated in order to avoid heat detection. It appeared to have been treated with anti-beam coating, as it was capable of clashing with beam sabers. They are stored in the side hip armor.

Anonymous Review Responses:

iHeartMecha: Thank you I appreciate that. I am not sure on Eureka 7, but it is a reserve series depending on how everything else places out and what I can work in with as easily as possible. I am trying to be careful too not to overload myself with too many series in a story that could drag it out for too long.

LeonKennedy: I can understand that, since thanks in part to their training and having more disciplined instilled in them tends to do that. Well that could if conditions are right, which will make some girls jealous of course, but others might not be surprised.

Samurai Seven: Michiru is able to give good advice every now and then, depending on who you ask of course (looks at Tsukiko), and yeah thanks to Lelouch being some place where he doesn't have to hide who he is, has helped him a lot in that regard too. Yes and maybe once the BETA are dealt with along with Britannia, he might depending on how things play out. Well the girls knowing who he is and what he is really like does help him in their relationships with him, the CG girls to be fair to them probably didn't know the real Lelouch besides C.C. But C.C. is C.C. XD.