April 3rd. EFF's HQ Jaburo.

The general mood within the Jaburo Headquarters of EFF these days could best be summarized in words of grim determination, one with which forces of the Earth Federation were currently waging their war. The expectations for a quick and decisive victory over Zeon were dashed away in the first engagements, hopes of keeping this war to space died when Island Iffish hit Earth, and last delusions about the nature of war were dashed away at Loum. Battered, bruised and bleeding, but not yet beaten or broken, Earth Federation was determined to fight, thanks to Revil galvanized the morale of the troops and leaders, leading to the continuation of war.

Any competent military specialist and officer could understand, that the war of attrition was exactly what Zeon could not afford, not against the Federation, who possessed colossal industrial and resource base. Unfortunately for them, while Federation could mobilize tens of millions of men and bring to bear tens of thousands of tanks and fighters, Zeon needed mere dozens of Mobile Suits to completely wipe the floor with them. They were the deciding factor in the victories of Zeon in space, and now were proving their worth on Earth, and though Zeon's seemingly unstoppable juggernaut was rolling, it's advance was not as swift as it could be. Garma Zabi was being stalled in Arizona and at Hoover's Dam, though at a high cost, especially after loss of California. And after the successful assassination of Zeon's top brass at Grenada, EFF Command had hoped they could breathe easier at Odessa's front, maybe even consolidate, create a stable front and perhaps even launch a counter offensive.

That hope died the moment they saw the live broadcast of Zeon's.

"…And now we watch as Earth Federation's Lieutenant-General Villard officially hands over the banners of his forces to our glorious commander. Garma Zabi, the esteemed and gallant Commander of Earth's Assault Forces, graciously accepts the General's capitulation, shaking his hand in a nigh sporting manner…" The top brass of Federation's Forces watched grimly the proceedings, before Revil spoke up.

"Turn it off." He said, and the projector stopped playing, with the old general letting out a heavy sigh. "Do we have casualty reports?"

"We are still trying to ascertain the full situation, sir, and at the current moment, it doesn't appear to be possible to get an approximate…" One of the Intelligence officers tried to stall, before Revil's grim tone silenced him.

"Get to the point." He made it clear he was not interested in excuses, and it was then that Jamitov Hymen spoke up.

"We've lost Army Group Northern Ukraine almost completely. Over half are Zeek's POWs, a quarter are gone, and those that came back amount to less than one fifth of the initial force." Hymen stated the facts to all. "And worse yet, Zeon was quick to capitalize on it, with Kycillia dropping her troops the moment the battle is done. We've lost all of Ukraine already, Belorussia will be lost on the next week, and Zeon's forces are on Don, fording it, with our forces retreating to Volga. As for the west… Vistula Defense Perimeter is now useless, without Villard's forces, and Zeon will take it before the end of next week. Best case scenario, they'll stop at Oder and Berlin, and worst…" Even Hymen decided not to voice his thoughts.

"What is the most realistic prediction?" Admiral Gopp asked, with Revil surmising it.

"We'll lose all of Eastern and Central Europe before May..." Revil stated, before giving orders. "Evacuate all forces from Baltic countries, Belorussia and North Western Russia, have them take defensive positions on the Elbe line, along with Armies Poland, Hungary and Balkans, and others. Russian armies are to withdraw behind Volga entirely, and have Middle Asian Group move out to them. This will be enough to stall Zeon, or at least it should be... However, we'll need to reinforce those forces."

"We'll dispatch everything we can, sir." One of the commanding officers confirmed, and moved to see it done.

"Still, that will hurt us not only in land, but in sprits as well." Elran noted. "Zeon's transmitting across the world, and the moral was bad enough. And now that they've shown one of our top field commanders capitulate like that… We'll probably have to fall as far back as the Rhine and Urals."

"Yes, though it is a rather surprising move for Zeon. Aside from General Revil, they are not very keen on taking prisoners, even high ranking ones. Even their "gallant" Garma Zabi never issues or accepts surrenders." Tiannem noted, with others also agreeing. "Do we know exactly who carried out that attack? Couldn't have been Garma, far too precise and well-coordinated for him, and he'd never fight with such odds against him, and Dozle was up on Solomon at the time."

"It was the new commandant of Odessa, Commodore Aerion Rogare." Jamitov stated, with the EFF's commanders discussing the name.

"That doesn't sound like one of those famed Zeon commanders or their Ace pilots." Gopp noted, not recognizing his name.

"I would not be surprised, since most of his successes have been appropriated by Dozle Zabi. Until M'Quve's death, he served as Dozle's Chief of Staff and is the man responsible for us losing our Space Forces in such numbers." Hymen informed them all. "He was behind almost every military operation of Dozle, from Cruiser Fleet's destruction to Loum and Landings."

"So this is the man we have to thank for Island Iffish?" Tiannem asked with clear anger in his tone, with Jamitov remarking.

"Remarkably, but no. That was all Gihren's work, while Rogare coordinated diversionary and delaying actions to make it work." Jamitov responded. "Intelligence has been keeping tabs on him since his time in MIT, which he dropped due to rising tensions between Earth and Zeon. Entered military academy at 17, at 19 graduated 3rd of his class, first in a number of subjects, served his mandatory year and took two years of absence on Earth, before returning to service under Dozle Zabi. There, he quickly became a member and then Chief of Staff."

"In other words, he actually has an inkling on how war works on Earth." One of the ground commanders stated.

"Considering his success, I'd say he has more than just an inkling." Elran stated, before Revil spoke up.

"Aerion Rogare… Is he a son of Lysandro Rogare?" Revil asked.

"Yes, his third son, fifth child overall… and also firstborn from Rogare's second wife, Marianne Lamperouge." The mention of that last name by Jamitov drew everyone's attention. "Yes, the famous Marianne the Flash has married Lysandro Rogare and is a mother of his children, with her eldest having dealt us this serious defeat."

"Exactly how did a Spacenoid land himself such a catch?" One of the commanders asked, but Revil interrupted him.

"It doesn't matter, but I do want to find out how did he manage to make his way so far, being a Rogare." Revil received a nod from Jamitov. "However, this also means that our current state of affairs is no longer tenable. Aerion needed a tenth of men and less than a 66 Mobile Suits to cripple our Eurasian Forces and defenses. It is not just the tactics, but the Zakus that won them this battle… And with it, he showed what they can really do, and if Kycillia and Garma replicate this success, then we are done for. They will win before we can take the fight to them… And this is why you are here, Doctor Ray." Revil and others turned to Tem Ray, who so far sat quietly.

"Sir, I know what you want to hear, but… I am afraid that the progress…" Tem tried to find the right words, but couldn't.

"Doctor, I will be frank with you. Our entire strategy and all our battles and engagements with Zeon right now- all those are delaying actions. Every man, every tank, every bullet and more- all of it is traded so as to buy you time to complete Operation V." Revil stated grimly. "And the count is already in the millions of lives, Doctor, and millions more will die, before we have what we need. However, now we cannot merely sit around and wait for your final results. We need those results now."

"General, as I have stated earlier, none of the prototypes can be approved for mass production, especially not the RX-77, or RX-78. We are still trying to formulate final specs for them, before we can begin field testing." Tem stated. "You know all about the difficulties, sir, and I need not tell you about what we are trying to do."

"No, because I know about it. I know that neither of the two are anywhere near even prototype stage, but this is not the case about RX-75." Revil noted, with Tem surprised to hear it.

"General, I thought that it was general consensus that it was…" Tem tried to must his words, but Revil stopped him.

"Yes, that it was not what we needed to win against Zeon, but right now, we need anything that can stop or delay them. Now, can the Guntank be mass produced now?" Revil asked.

"W-well, if we omit certain features, such as Core Fighter and space capabilities, as well as simply design, then…" Tem didn't have the time to finish.

"Then get it done. We need it yesterday, if we are to survive until Gundam comes." Revil stated, knowing that it was not the solution they needed, but it was the best thing they had. "And expedite your tests. I need results by summer." Hopefully, they will survive to that point.

Later. Odessa Zeon's HQ.

Just as the grim mood ruled over Jaburo, a completely opposite one was permeating HQ of Zeon's, as a victory celebration was underway, with nigh every important member of Zeon's Earth Assault Command being present. The official ceremony of surrender was a propaganda masterpiece in the eyes of many, and to have Garma Zabi receive it was seen as appropriate for the occasion, given his position as the Commander of the Earth Assault Forces, de-facto making him Commander-in-Chief of all ground based units.

Once the procedure was completed, Garma personally rewarded the distinguished pilots, commanders and soldiers with medals and promotions, with Waldstein's Team included, with Colonel receiving a Medal of Valor and Zeon Cross, while the rest of his team was promoted from Lieutenant Junior Grade to full Lieutenants, along with Medals of Valor. With the official ceremonials completed, came the banquet and party, organized in the honor of this victory, with Zeon not sparing for the expenses. Despite the short time frame, the party was organized on the highest level, being fit for even Sovereign Degwin himself, if he were to make an appearance here. Officers and ladies, such as wives, paramours, or opportunistic debutantes, mingled with one another, finding some way to keep themselves entertained.

And as for the two masterminds of this operation, Leesa Kujo, now Captain, and Aerion Rogare, still in Commodore's rank and uniform, were entertaining the main guest of the party, Garma Zabi.

"The Captain's uniform quite suits, my dear, though in my opinion, a woman like yourself would shine even brighter in a dress." Garma spoke to Leesa, who answered with a smile and a small chuckle.

"Thank you, Commander. Unfortunately, I do not have any dresses, except for these." Leesa said.

"A crime that must be rectified. Perhaps when we have a new ball, I shall take you out shopping." Garma suggested in a very forward manner, now making Leesa slightly uncomfortable.

"If there is a chance, sir, I will take it under consideration." Leesa's tone was enough of an indicator for Aerion, and he took the initiative.

"Pardon my interruption, but I would like to borrow Captain for a moment, to discuss a certain matter, sir." Aerion said, before adding. "And I believe it would do well for our Pilots to mingle with you, sir." Aerion's slight nod towards two of Waldstein's pilots, and bait were clearly picked up by Garma, and he decided to follow it.

"Yes, I can see your point, Commodore. Until later, my dear." And with this, Garma moved towards his new targets, that being Nonette and Cornelia, allowing Leesa to breath out a sigh.

"Thanks." She said in an informal manner, knowing others were not here to hear them. "Could you do me a favor and make sure I do not get invited to one of these?"

"Not quite looking forward to that shopping?" Aerion said with a hint of amusement, with Leesa shooting him a judging look. "For all his "charm," he does have a point about you looking well in a dress, as memory serves." Aerion caught a hint of blush on Leesa's face, before it disappeared.

"Perhaps, but I'm not quite in the habit of posing before those that see me for my mere looks." Leesa said, before she put her drink down. "Or who see me as their mere conquests." She hinted at the way Garma was now trying to worm his way into good graces of Cornelia and Nonette.

"Then you best disappear, before he finds those two to be unconquerable." Aerion said, before giving a nod to Leesa. "I'll cover for you."

"Thanks. I owe you." She noted, and quietly left the ballroom, while Aerion observed the interactions between Garma, Cornelia and Nonette with no small part of hidden amusement.

"I must admit, that I find surreal, to see such exceptional beauties as pilots of the Mobile Suits." Garma complimented in his usual way to Cornelia and Nonette, with the former accepting it stiffly, while Nonette had a half- smirk on her face. "You belong in the most fabulous of dresses, grazing and shining in the ballrooms."

"I am not much of a dancer, and dresses are pain to move in, so you will have to excuse me." Cornelia stated with a bit of a harsh tone, with Garma even flinching at it. "If you are looking for dance partner, Commander, then I suggest you try elsewhere. Unless you wish your legs to end up in a cast." Garma almost jumped from this barely veiled threat.

"Ease up, Cornie, before you scare the kid to death." Nonette spoke up in a half-hearted manner, nudging her cousin in the side, before turning to Garma. "Sorry to disappoint you, but I'm not big on dances myself… But I'm quite a fan of riding." Nonette's remark and it's real meaning escaped Garma, and he decided to cling to this, not realizing the pit he was falling into.

"Really? I've not had much experience in it, but I've always found it a fascinating thing." Garma almost innocently, and completely obliviously stated, with Nonette's smile widening to that of a cat that ate a canary. "Tell me, what type of a horse do you prefer?"

"I don't really have a favorite type, since I can ride pretty much everyone: from wild stallions to shy palfrey. I especially love breaking them in, when it's their first time." Nonette said, licking her lips a little bit, with Garma quite transfixed at that. "Would you like to try it, Commander?" That finally got Garma's attention.

"T-try what?" He asked, with Nonette not letting up.

"What we were just discussing. Naturally I'll be the rider." Nonette answered, and at that point all of flirtatious interests evaporated from Garma's mind, and his shyness came to light.

"I… I-I think I should b-better go a-and see o-other pilots…" Garma tried to make his escape, before Nonette leaned in a bit closer and whispered to him.

"Don't worry, I am very good at this. After we are done, you will be begging for more…" And at that point Garma was shaking with indecision at what to do, before Nonette pulled back and let out a hearty laughter, completely unlike that of a lady. "Ha ha, you should see your face, Commander! HA!" She almost doubled over, with Garma stunned from what just happened, before growing red in the face, and leaving without excusing himself, with Nonette merely continuing to laugh even harder, before he reached Aerion, nursing his drink, while others watched and commented what had happened.

"I see you've made acquaintances with both Cornelia and Nonette." Aerion remarked in an innocent tone, with Garma stopping to shoot a glare at both of them, before fixing his hair and continue to twirl with it. "Do not take it personally, what they have said."

"Ugh, what an outrageous woman, that Nonette!" Garma stated with indignation. "H-how dare a lady like her make s-such suggestions, a-and so brazenly, and then laugh! I-I should have her demoted for such an act!" Garma stated in a fuming tone, with Aerion turning and gaining his attention the moment his eyes landed on Garma's, and the man froze from the steel they displayed.

"Demoting a hero mere hours after being awarded by one man is not a good form, especially for a gallant and gracious commander like yourself." Aerion said, with Garma now clearly reconsidering his idea. "A more mature and responsible thing would be to let this small incident go, and learn from it."

"Ah, ahem, yes." Garma picked up on that, and decided to agree, with Aerion's gaze softening. "Of course, naturally. I was merely jesting."

"Naturally." Aerion said and took a sip of his drink. "Before I forget, Captain Kujo sends her regards and apologies for abruptly leaving. There was a matter with the supply drop points that needed her attention."

"Such a triviality could've been handled by a Lieutenant or even lower." Garma commented. "A shame that because of that she will miss the rest of the party."

"To some, it may appear so, but give our current situation, matters of logistics do take precedence over social gatherings. An incorrectly inputted coordinates or even a slight mistake in aero-space conditions risks our soldiers finding themselves without ammo, medical supplies and more." Aerion commented. "As it stands, we are currently fully dependent on our supply ships and HLVs, which can be disrupted. And Federation knows this and will do so."

"Hm, yes, they have already been at it in America. Their anachronistic tanks are nothing to us, but those planes of theirs… I suppose even such antiques like that have their uses under the thrall of gravity." Garma stated. "And while we may dominate the Space, air remains out of our reach, even with the Dopps at our disposal. Somehow, they are less than what I had expected and was promised by their developers."

"Yes, I too have found their performance lacking, hence I've put in a request for a better aerial fighter, one that is derived from examined Federation's examples we've captured and shipped off to Zeon." Aerion revealed, with Garma surprised at that.

"You had Federations planes shipped off to be examined?" Garma asked again. "Commodore, forgive me, but it almost sounds like you admit that Federation is superior to us."

"Of course it is. We are in a war against an enemy that surpasses us in multiple categories. It would be delusional to not acknowledge that fact." Aerion stated with a casual tone, surprising Garma again. "Our success was ensured much in part thanks to being able to adapt and learn, hence why we have Mobile Suits. And since the enemy has a superior air force to ours, we should learn from theirs and adapt to effectively combat them. This is how, for example, the Romans have managed to build their empire back in the ancient times."

"Do you study history, Commodore?" Garma asked. "My father, the Sovereign, has a great appreciation for it. Did you know that he has a degree in it?"

"No, I was not aware of it, and yes, it is one of my interests." Aerion said. "My parents have made sure to give us all a proper education in many subjects. My mother in particular believed in the value of history, and what it could teach those that learn of it."

"Is that so? I did hear of your father, I never did catch the name of your mother, though I did hear she was something an extraordinary figure in Zeon. Is she from one of the big business families, or an old aristocracy?" Garma asked, with Aerion responding.

"None of that. She was born in North America to a common middle-class family, before she became a Federation Fighter Pilot." Aerion stated, with Garma stunned by that information. "She was regarded as a rising star, until an accident had nearly cost her life and career. She was such a good pilot, that they even called her "The Flash," since her flying appeared as if she were a creating a flash of light in her wake."

"Your mother is an Earthnoid, and a commoner at that?" Garma said, before adding. "But I thought that was of aristocracy, given that I heard about Waldstein being your de-facto bodyguard."

"Yes, I've heard those rumors too. I am not quite sure how they sprung up. All I know is that at some point, Bismarck had pledged his loyalty and services to my mother, and I've not felt it necessary to expand beyond that." Aerion explained, as he finished his drink. "And before you do ask, no, she is not in contact with the EFF, or serves as their spy."

"No, I was simply surprised by this fact. It is a rather rare sight in Side 3, especially given the situation." Garma noted. "It must've been a difficult transition for her."

"I've never felt it appropriate to ask her, but she is quite content and happy with the life she has now, even with the prejudices against people of her place of origin." Aerion said. "In all actuality, this was almost never a point of problem for her and others in her circle, or our family. My elder siblings view her much the same way as I do."

"Oh, so you too have older siblings?" Garma remarked. "It appears that we have far more in common than I initially thought, Commodore. Now that I think about it, we are quite alike, you and I."

"Oh, in what way, might I ask?" Aerion raised a brow at that one.

"We are both young, ambitious, brilliant and enterprising men, in our very prime and at spear tip of triumphant and glorious events. Both of us have great fathers, I, in Sovereign, and you in Lysandro, wishing to escape the grasp of their shadows, and the one casted by our older siblings." Garma stated with complete confidence, with Aerion staying quiet for a moment, before speaking up.

"If that is how you see it." He replied in a bit quieter tone. "I've never found myself feeling such way, being in the shadow of my father or older siblings." Garma flinched at that fact.

"Well, still there are quite a few things that make us practically siblings, if not in blood, but in other ways." Garma laughed at that joke, with others who heard it doing the same, but not Aerion. "Although it must be quite a contrast for you, Commodore. You can relax and enjoy a good jape. I imagine serving under Dozle's command was quite a different experience for you than this. I know my brother can be rather overwhelming and overbearing, as well as being a bit too militaristic, but you have nothing to fear of it from me. In fact, I believe this may be a beginning of a good and prosperous friendship."

"If you say so, Commander." Aerion replied with an even tone.

"Yes. Speaking of friends, do you happen to know Lt.-Commander Char Aznable?" Garma suddenly asked of Aerion. "Of course you do, given your former station. Well, it may surprise you, but we were actually roommates back in the academy. In fact…" And so the party continued on.

Later. Commodore's private quarters.

"At last, it's finally over." Aerion said with a sigh, as he sat down in his chair, with others taking spots to relax as well.

"Yeah, you can tell that again." Kallen noted, as she relaxed on the sofa and poured herself some water. "I swear, another hour of all that ball and stuff, and I would've punched someone. And don't get me started on all those jokes about women in uniform…"

"It wasn't so bad. I actually had fun." Monica noted, looking as fresh as she ever does.

"Of course you did. You didn't have to endure that Zabi ponce and his "courting." Cornelia scoffed, as she undid the top button of her uniform, to breathe easier after the tiring event.

"Yeah, shame he's all hot air and no substance. Couldn't even back up all that suave and swagger when it came to handling something more than an innocent school girl." Nonette said with a chuckle. "Though I doubt he's even gotten to the first base yet."

"You had best not mention it in front of him, Nonette. He was half way ready to see you demoted, right after your little stunt." Aerion noted, with Nonette shrugging at it.

"Eh, not my problem that the kid's not had his cherry popped." Nonette said in a crass tone. "Besides, you know I wouldn't have done anything with him. He's far too girly to me, without any of the fun parts for me."

"Nonette…" Aerion sighed, but she continued.

"No, if you put him and Kallen before me and made me choose, I'd rather go out with Kallen him." Nonette continued on. "You can tell that he is like a fancy pie, but with no filling, whereas Kallen here's got both the pie, and the filling." She said with a bit of lecherous eye.

"Yeah, and a boot for your ass, you crazy perv." Kallen scoffed at her, though without any animosity.

"Girls, please do not lower yourselves to such baseness." Bismarck sighed, reprimanding the two girls that were all but daughters to him in name, before he turned to Aerion. "Nonette's joke aside, it would appear that you have struck a quick friendship with Commander Garma."

"Yes, it would appear so to him as well." Aerion remarked. "He even seems to think that we are quite similar to one another. Almost brothers, he called us." Aerion nearly scoffed at the idea.

"Oh, and you do not quite agree with this?" Leesa asked of him.

"If I wanted to find new friends, he would be near the bottom of the list. He may not be entirely devoid of commanding skills, but they may well be non-existent, with how he conducts battles." Aerion said with clear disgust at the idea. "His mop up operations at Loum would make Himmler and Heydrich proud with the indiscretion he showed. It was not even a mop-up but a slaughter… But to Zabi, victory conditions always must include extreme and unnecessary casualties, and middling results at best."

"And yet, you are going to play nice with him." Cornelia surmised, with Aerion nodding. "Hopefully there's something good in it for us. Otherwise we'd be dealing with that headache for free."

"Thankfully, there are advantages to it, such as priority for trial testing new Mobile Suits." Aerion said, before he pulled out a few files and handed them to Bismarck and Leesa. "Zeonic are sending several new prototypes down here for trial testing. All of them are variants of Zaku, adopted for ground combat, and we get to test and see what that thing can do. Zimmad is also sending a prototype of their own down here, which is supposed to be an all new machine."

"Hopefully they've got better balance that the ones we've got here." Nonette remarked. "'Cause what we have wins only because of its armor and mobility, but one wrong move, and you are face down in dirt. Great for space, but really not so down here."

"Hence why we need a dedicated ground variant of Zaku, or a fully new MS for it." Aerion said. "Hopefully it will happen before the Federation begins fielding their own Mobile Suits, and once that happens, it will be an entirely new war we'll be fighting."

"Do you believe they are close to making their own Mobile Suits?" Monica asked.

"Hard to say precisely, but this is their highest priority, if the intel we received was correct." Aerion noted. "One thing is certain- if Federation finishes it before we manage to take out their main industrial sites, then we may as well pack up and surrender." Aerion's analysis of the situation was not something that filled everyone with optimism, but it was clear to others, that he had a point.

"And in the meantime, what are we to do?" Kallen asked of Aerion. "That victory opened up a massive gap in Federation's defense, and we've got troops already advancing. How soon can we expect marching orders?"

"Only when the things start to turn south for Kycillia's forces, if I were to guess. We were ordered to remain at Odessa and stick to what we are already doing. In addition to securing it, I am not responsible for not just Odessa District, but entirety of Ukraine, Southern Belorussia, Eastern Poland and south-eastern Russia. We are to ensure those places are pacified, garrisoned and provide war materials for Zeon." Aerion stated, before continuing. "To ensure that it goes smoothly, along with strengthening the defenses of supply lines, we'll get reinforcements, but it is Kycillia and her commanders who will be carrying out the offensives to Russia and Central Europe."

"So we are just going to sit around twiddling our thumbs?" Nonette asked. "Is that witch really so butt-hurt over you outshining her with Kiev?"

"Given the fact that she didn't mention a word about an impending attack, I'd say that sums it up." Leesa stated. "So we are on logistical duties now."

"Yes, though I wouldn't say that we'll be doing nothing." Aerion said, as he turned to Bismarck. "Bismarck, I want you to start forming up squads of MS pilots and begin training them as fast attack and immediate response units."

"You suspect that Federation will attempt a breakthrough into the Zeon controlled territories?" Bismarck asked, with Aerion nodding.

"Sooner or later, gaps in the front will start to appear, once Zeon becomes stretched to the breaking point, especially out in the East." Aerion said, before he looked at the map. "The way I see it, the Federation will now pull back to their best defensive lines. In Russia, that's Volga River, which on average can be as wide as 2 km., while out in Europe, they'll either fall back to Elbe, or the Rhine. The latter is more likely, since it will shore up their supply lines, but I wouldn't put it past them to try and mount a defense on the Elbe line."

"Europe we can more or less secure, but Baltics, Finland and Western Russia is a whole different problem. This entire area is half of European mass, and it's not as urbanized as the rest of Europe." Leesa stated, as she examined the map. "One can lose battalions, brigades, divisions and even army corps here. This region is historically known to be a graveyard of invading armies, and with the forces that are assigned to take it and then form the defensive line will not be enough. Not to mention that Federation can easily block further advance toward Urals by flooding Volga, which has multiple water storages, dams and hydroelectric plants on it. Add to that their continued air superiority, and we are looking at constant raids from them."

"Yeah, thankfully those AA defenses are starting to come along well enough around her. That and also moving most of the industry into those underground spaces Federation left behind helps a bunch." Kallen noted. "Still, those fighters are proving to be a serious pain our backside, and we need to do something about it."

"Fortunately, before Kiev, Kycillia saw fit to greenlight the contest for the new fighter plane, so if we are lucky, we'll have one sooner, rather than later." Aerion said. "Even she must realize the disaster that the Dopps are." Aerion said, as he and others soon began to turning for the night.

April 4th Side 3. Copernicus Colony. Eagle Aerospace Dynamics HQ.

Lawrence Taylor sat in his office, reclined in his chair with a fairly grim look in his eyes, as he looked at the latest reports of the selling and production. As it was expected, he and his company had made less than half of what they needed to effectively sustain themselves since the last report, and that number continued to drop. He knew that sooner than later, he will probably either have to start making budget cuts, or sell the company all together, and there were already buyers on the horizon, looking for a way to acquire the company for cheap. MIP, Zimmad, and the one that Taylor hated the most, Zeonic, were all eager to get his company and their work for themselves, but he wasn't going to let them take it so easily.

He and his fellow immigrants from Earth had started up this company after Hervic saw fit to fire them all, when they merged with their original company, Eagle Dynamics. After that, he and multiple others decided to go to Side 3, which offered actual potential for growth and sustainability, or at least that was before Zeon Zum Deikun came to power. While at first he did admire the man for his passion and dedication in caring for those that came to space, he quickly realized that he was almost as bad as the Federation.

Zeon granted government support, contracts and funds not based on the quality of the products, but on the origins of the companies, and because of that his start-up was largely cut off from any good contracts, while Zimmad, MIP and Zeonic were able to grow into giants they are now, all because they were "pure Spacenoids." Good thing that they were able stay afloat through civilian and commercial contracts, and things did seem to improve once Zabi came to power. Once the government placed a contest for an aerial superiority fighter, this was the golden hour for Eagle Aerospace Dynamics, for they had great experience in designing high-quality planes.

They sent their prototype to the contest, but before the tests could even properly begin, it was announced that Zeonic's machine, the Dopp, was going to become Zeon's aerial fighter. In short, Zeonic made sure that the deck was stacked in their favor, and so, based purely on simulations, the Dopp was adopted, while Eagle's prototype was shelved, and after that things began to go south. Company was on the brink of going bankrupt, and the proposals for buying his company were starting to become more and more appealing, even though the price offered was less than a third it was really worth. Taylor didn't have it in him to keep on fighting, and was already considering reaching out to the buyers for a better offer. Just as he pondered this inevitability, the door into his office opened, and in stepped Jackson Smith, one of the core engineers with whom he had started this company from scrap.

"Taylor, you're not gonna believe me what I'm about to tell you." Jackson was all smiles, something that Lawrence didn't find appropriate at the moment.

"Let me guess, now Anaheim wants to take a bite out of us?" Lawrence said with seething sarcasm tone.

"No, even better. Here, take a look at this." Jackson handed the man a pad with the news on it, which Lawrence read.

"A new aerial superiority fighter contest?" Lawrence now gave it his full attention. "Base technical specs… Aerial compatibility… Basic specs of… What is this? I thought that Zeon was mighty happy with their "homegrown" Dopps. Why the sudden need for something that can actually fly in the atmosphere?"

"They are keeping it under a tight lid, but I've heard rumors that Federation's planes are tearing those Dopps to shreds, and they are basically sitting ducks in the air. And now that the supplies are being destroyed before they get to Zeon, the command's realized the mistake they've made with Dopp." Jackson said. "Now take a look at the requirements. This and more our prototype's already got under its belt, and what's more, we can even have it outfitted with a Minovsky reactor and all the rest the goodies we devised for it."

"Maybe so, but did you forget about Zeonic and their lobbyists?" Lawrence asked of him. "They'll just steal this one as well and probably make a copy of one of Federal planes."

"Not this time they won't. Take a look at who's supervising the whole thing, and who placed the order." Jackson said, with Lawrence doing just that.

"Vice-Admiral Dozle Zabi and Commodore Aerion Rogare… You are shitting me." Lawrence said, knowing full well who those two were.

"I'm not. Look, I know that we are on our last legs, and the guys know you've done everything to keep us afloat and not sell this company for pennies. It's clear that even with the contract, we ain't gonna be able to sustain ourselves. But, what if we didn't have to sell our company for pennies, but did so for a full buck and then some more?" Jackson offered. "Now, even with their new Zaku models coming out, Zeonic will be begging to get a new plane for themselves, and once we show off our improved prototype, it will be us setting up the price. And once that is done, we can basically retire with fashion on Luna or Side 6 without any worry for this war. So, what do you say?"

"Do it. If we are going down, then we are going down fighting." Lawrence said, and Jackson immediately went back to work, with Taylor finding his mood improving massively, now that he had hope.

April 11th Odessa District's Testing Grounds.

Shots were fired on the testing grounds from machine guns, as they hit their targets, before moving on the testing terrain, demonstrating to the observing officials, scientists and officers with their abilities. Overall, 3 machines, two from Zeonic and one from Zimmad were being tested, with Zeonic's being modifications of Zaku II, while Zimmad's model was only based off of Zaku, but an entirely new machine at that. From the way that the machines acted, it may have appeared that they were evenly matched, but the overall performance was not the only thing that was being judged here.

Once all of the tests and trials were completed, an extensive review was being conducted, and the pilots of each machine was interviewed extensively on the handling and ways in which the machine was handling. When all was said and done, the commission more or less dispersed, with only Aerion remaining behind, observing the three machines in the hangar from the observation point, with the leader of the Zeonic's delegation entering and speaking up.

"Commodore Rogare, you wished to see me?" Zeonic's official stated, with Aerion nodding and motioning him to move forward. "If I may be so bold, I'd say that we've managed to achieve all of our intended goals with those two machines. The YMS-06J and YMS-06K are exactly what our forces require here on Earth."

"Their performances and operations do meet the requirements, but it would appear that the two models suffer from issues that each of them actually fixes. The J type has a better stabilization overall, while K has improved joint response and protections." Aerion noted, as he examined the two units' reviews, with the official speaking up.

"Yes, we have noticed it as well. Such matters didn't exactly come to light when they were undergoing initial testing, but that was in Side 3, so we've not had the most sufficient ways to examine it." Zeonic's official stated.

"Can the two modifications be made into a single model, combining and fixing the problems of the two?" Aerion asked, and the man nodded eagerly. "Then get it done before May. Now, about the other matter we have discussed. I assume you have had the chance to examine the proposed facilities?"

"Ah, yes, our technicians and engineers did, and we believe we can actually set up both a repair and a production plant in there. The executive office will, naturally, assign an overseer, but I do not suspect any problems." Official reported, before continuing. "I have also had a chance to pass to the head office your ideas and suggestions for future Mobile Suits, and they have assured me that they will give it consideration, even if it involves finding common ground with Zimmad."

"I suggest that they look past their business competition and see this as an advertisement and learning experience, demonstrating to all that even rival companies unite in times of need like now." Commodore stated, before handing over to the official a file. "This is the finalized version of the United Maintenance Plan, and it has already been approved by Vice-Admiral Dozle and Kycillia Zabi. It will be brought up in four days, so I suggest you get a head start, with Zimmad also having received their copy."

"I… I understand what you mean, and will have it transferred as soon as possible." Zeonic's official stated, with Aerion continuing.

"Now, in regards to the new Mobile Suits, in regards to the development of the YMS-07, while I understand that is being developed as primarily a close-quarters unit, I and my pilots find the lack of ranged offensive options rather concerning." Aerion noted. "I believe it will be addressed."

"It will, and thank you again for your time." And after that, Zeonic's official left, with the executive from Zimmad soon taking his place.

"Commodore Rogare." The executive breathed out a heavy sigh. "I take it our model hasn't been able to satisfy your demands."

"Not quite. From the standpoint of pure technical and tactical specs, your model is a superior one in every category that we have put out to the Zeonic prototype. However, due to the current strategic situation we are facing right now, it is simply more efficient for us to modify our Zakus to their current standard over wait for the new machine to be completed." Aerion stated, while looking at Zimmad's prototype. "But even that doesn't hide the fact of you using the internal frame of the EMS-04 Zudah." Aerion's eyes hardened at the executive.

"W-we have eliminated the problems with the frame, and outfitted the unit with a better Saturn engine…" Executive tried to explain himself, but Aerion did not let him.

"Mr. Triste, you may not know this, but I was one of the technical evaluation officers during the Zaku vs Zudah trials, and I have had a very good look at the internal frame of both machines. I took a look at the prototypes' frames, and I've recognized the structure." Aerion's eyes hardened at the man. "I am well aware of your higher ups wishing to see Zudah in form or another succeed, but it is time they've laid it to the rest for good."

"It may not be as simple as you may say, sir." Trieste said with a defeated tone. "It has backing of powerful officials, people who have invested considerable funds into the project, and want to see those investments pay up. It… It may prove difficult to have them move away from it." And then Aerion produced from his table a new folder with files and handed it to Trieste.

"Then I suppose I have a solution to their hesitation in form of this." Aerion stated, before continuing. "In exchange for Zudah's line complete discontinuation, and your shift to a new MS, I will back Zimmad before the military in the adoption of a new MS. The criteria for it are next ones: internalized power cabling, reinforced hull and armor, space/ground capabilities with minimal modifications, general purpose platform with possibility for modification, ease of production and repair. Along with that, it is to have an energy output over 1200 Kw and anti-mobile suits weaponry and capabilities."

"1200 Kw? That… That is possible, if we overhaul Zudah's power plant." Triste stated, with Aerion nodding to him. "But if I may ask, what exactly is the point for such a powerful mobile suit? By all accounts, Federation's fighting capabilities are severely lacking when compared to our MS. Why do you require something like that, when a more efficient and cheaper option exists?"

"Because we are not going to be enjoying that advantage for long, if Federation wishes to continue existing. We are currently engaged in an arms race against them, and while we are winning with our current Zaku, it will not be long before they create their own Mobile Suits, and those will be tuned to fight Zaku II." Aerion explained his position. "I want something that will be able to stand up to that. And I very much hope you can deliver."

"We will see what we can do. And thank you for your input." And with that said, Zimmad's executive left the hangar, with Aerion soon leaving to attend to other matters.

April 17th Side 3. Ingolstadt Colony. Rogare Mansion.

It was always a rare occasion for Degwin Sodo Zabi, the Sovereign of Zeon, to be travelling anywhere out of the Zabi stronghold of Zum City, and even rarer it was when he did so incognito. This was one occasion where it had actually come to be, and now Degwin Sodo Zabi, dressed in a civilian three-piece suit instead of the usual uniform, exited the car and now headed with his personal security detail towards the mansion.

Out of all the colonies in Side 3, Ingolstadt was probably one of the most well developed, prosperous and with highest quality of life in all of Zeon, along with other 4 of it's associated colonies. One could almost call it the symbol of Zeon's ideals come to life, except for the fact that it wasn't Zeon Zum Deikun who brought about its prosperity, but the Rogare Family. Indeed, even now, when nigh entire population followed Zeonism to varying degree and practically deified Zeon, population of Ingolstadt and their associates was far less fervent in their approach. Indeed, if there was one colony that Gihren Zabi, Degwin's son, would consider as traitorous, it would be this one, if only for not crying out Sieg Zeon every time he gives a speech. If it had been any other colony, Degwin suspected that his son would either decimate, or purge it entirely, though quietly, and make it into a martyr. Reason for Ingolstadt's immunity lay in its vital economic importance, with every major company having production plants and offices here, with over 1/3 of all of all ore refineries and 1/4 of ship building industry was centered around here, and that's not to mention over a quarter of mobile suits being also produced by the Ingolstadt Association, as it is known.

Going after them would be enough to ignite a civil war and cost the Zabi the war entirely, and Degwin understood that, hence why he had made it his policy to play ball with the Rogare. Unlike his predecessor, he understood that there are limits to his power and how to exercise it, something that Zeon seemed to have not learned. Had he done his homework properly, it is possible he would've been still alive, but that is in the past, and in the present, Degwin was moving towards the mansion of Rogare. It was an Earth-style mansion, made in the likeness of Château de Cheverny, along with the grounds, elegant and welcoming with the right amount of wealth. Compared to the Zabi Palace, it appeared almost like a priceless work of art, compared to the monstrosity that Gihren had designed. When he finally made his way to the front door, Degwin was greeted by a maid, who immediately bowed and spoke up.

"Master Rogare shall see you in the terrace. Please, follow me." A Japanese-looking maid immediately led Degwin towards the man, with his guard following behind. "Master also stated, that it is a private meeting."

"Of course." Degwin nodded and the guards stand down, as he followed the maid through the grounds to a small roofed terrace, overlooking a forest and lake in the distance.

There sat a man of formidable posture and height, with a head of well-kept long white hair, once sandy brown, with an accurate beard on his chin and blue eyes. Dressed in simple and plain clothes for outdoor walk, he seemed entirely focused on observing the distance, though Degwin knew that this man knew of his presence here. The moment they had closed distance, he spoke up.

"Thank you, Sayoko." Lysandro Rogare said, before addressing Degwin. "Please." He offered the man a seat in front of him, with Degwin accepting.

"Thank you. I fear my legs are not quite what they used to be." Degwin said, as he sat down in a chair, looking at the master of the house.

"Would you like refreshments, Master Lysandro?" Sayoko asked.

"Something light would be lovely, thank you." Lysandro said, with the maid nodding, and then leaving for the moment.

"The place seems to have hardly changed since the last time I was here." Degwin noted. "I believe it was some 11 years by now, right before Zeon's death."

"Yes, it was also the last the time since you and I have spoken. Since we've made our agreement." Lysandro recalled, as he turned and looked at Degwin. "I admit that I was surprised by your sudden decision to reach out and ask for this meeting."

"In light of the recent events, I felt it was an appropriate time for us to finally meet, old friend." Degwin said. "After all, we must have a lot to talk about, Lysandro."

"That we definitely do, old friend." Lysandro said, and the two former colleagues settled for a discussion.

Well, here you have a new chapter, a shorter one, but I hope still filled with enough content for you to enjoy. As you can see, Aerion's victory had really screwed Federation over, and now it has to take desperate measures, as gears of war are turning.

Hope you enjoyed this chapter and will leave a comment with a suggestion, question or other content. Your contributions help make it better.

See ya!