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Squad time as per usual. Forced deployments are Banagher and Kio. Squads are solo Setsuna, Alto/Luca, Hikaru/Izumi, Ryoko/Obright, Youta/Zeta, Lockon/Seric, Ozma/Canaria, Leon/Shanalua, Michael/Klan, Allelujah/Aisha, and Akito/Akatsuki. All Aestis are in their flight frames due to the terrain in the next stage. Make sure your tactician is Flit to satisfy a secret.
Last time, we defended Torrington Base from the Zeon Remnants. Now they’re attacking our HQ.

[Ra Cailum, Captain’s Quarters]

Welcome, Ensign Riddhe Marcenas. I’m sure you’re tired from your trip here.
(Bright Noa. Gundam Unicorn. CV: Ken Narita)
(TL Note: Riddhe is supposed to be an Ensign. Military ranks are hard.)

(Captain Bright Noa… This man was the Commander of all of the Federation’s Gundam units, including Amuro Ray’s…)

I know it’s asking a lot of you so soon after you arrive, but you’ll be staying on board this ship on its mission to South America.

South America… Are we heading to the federal army’s HQ, Rostroulan?

If you know of its existence, then that’ll speed things up. It appears that all the Vagans on the surface are gathering in South America to attack HQ.

So our mission is to defend it?

Since you’ve only just been assigned and you haven’t met the rest of the unit yet, how about you sit this one out?

Um… Captain Bright, what do you know of me?

Of course, I’ve read through your personal file, as with all other crew members.

I want you to treat me as an ordinary soldier. To hell with my family, I’m a Federation pilot! You can’t take me off of a mission like that!

Don’t be so conceited!

!?

By merely suggesting it, you think you’re special. I don’t care who you are and I don’t intend to treat you any differently. You will follow my orders.

…

But if you ever go out on a mission, make sure you come back. If you can do that, then I’ll consider you a proper pilot.

Sir… Excuse me.
[Riddhe leaves]

That enthusiasm is also a sign of youth…
[Beeping]

The secret line… Did she find what she was looking for?

It’s me. Do you have an update on that thing I asked you to do?

After investigating Luio & Co, it appears you were on the right track. I believe the purpose of the guest aboard your ship is as you imagine.
(Beltorchika Irma. Gundam Unicorn. CV: Maria Kawamura) (Phone)

Thank you, Beltorchika. We’ll take care of the rest.

Do you have a plan?

If the enemy is acting in an unofficial manner, then we’ll have to act in kind.

[Ra Cailum, Hallway]

The Commander of the Gundam Unit… Gundam… The Key to the Box…

Yo. You the new guy?
(Nigel Garrett. Gundam Unicorn. CV: Yuichi Nakamura)

Y-yeah…

Being assigned a non-standard mobile suit at a time like this is a bit shady.
(Daryl McGuinness. Gundam Unicorn. CV: Anri Katsu)

If you slow us down, I’ll shoot you in the back. Remember that.
(Watts Stepney. Gundam Unicorn. CV: Hiroki Yasumoto)

I’ve heard of the “Tri-Stars’” valor. I’ve always wanted to join you guys.

Heh. If you want to audition, just shoot one of us in the back.

…I’ll remember that. Though it seems that’s easier said than done.

(Good grief… At least pick up that I’m joking around. All those skills but no sense of humor.)

It’s awfully windy today. Did anyone open a window?

Yeah. Some flies from Anaheim keep wandering in.

Anaheim?

Speak of the devil.

Oh my. What a coincidence to meet you in a place like this, Ensign Riddhe.

Alberto Vist! Why are you here?

Oh, like you’re one to talk. I’ve heard you were MIA until recently. Seems you’re in good enough health.

…No thanks to you.

Well, I guess there are some things you can’t talk about. There are circumstances going on here that can’t be put into words. We at Anaheim are grateful for the military’s cooperation.

Keh! You even brought that weird mobile suit onto our ship.

Weird mobile suit?

It’s our secret weapon against the Unicorn.

You’re going to fight the Unicorn?

Oh, didn’t you know? The Unicorn and its pilot are en route to the same destination as us. He’s with that unit you were once helping out…

Banagher is coming to Rostroulan…

[Diva, Briefing Room]

How’s Banagher doing?

He’s surprisingly calm. Right now he seems to be talking to Akito and some others.

He may seem calm, but I’d bet he’s still worried about those Zeon Remnants who joined the Vagans. Otherwise he wouldn’t have come with us, even temporarily.

But we don’t even know the next coordinates for Laplace’s Box.

I think he has his own thoughts as to what would happen if he revealed the coordinates.

Let’s just keep him around people his own age. We have our own discussion to hold.

The defense of Rostroulan.

HQ has stepped up their patrols, but for security reasons, Rostroulan has been kept a secret even within the normal rank and file. Since it’s not easy to assign troops there, an uphill battle is inevitable.

Um, about that… How about you take over as the Diva’s Captain, former Commander Asuno?

What?

Um… As you probably know, I was assigned to Captain this ship even though I lacked any sort of combat experience… When I realize that my decisions could mean the difference between life and death for everyone here, I just can’t bring myself to do what I need to…

Now that I think about it, aren’t you Vice Admiral Einus’ daughter? I thought it was a bit odd, but were you assigned here because of your parents?

Um…

Admiral, that’s off topic. Please don’t talk about unrelated matters.

Is it really? I was scouted based on my abilities, you know.

Leaving aside the matter of your family, you want former Commander Asuno, the leader during the last final battle against the Vagans, to serve as the Diva’s Captain?

Yes… My poor decisions will only get us killed. It would be better if…

You’re right. An indecisive Captain would get us killed. The longer instructions are delayed, the greater the damage we’ll take.

…

But I have no intention of captaining the Diva.

But…

Be confident in the fact that you were entrusted with this ship. The Diva is now yours. Think carefully about what that means.

Sir… I’m sorry…

[Diva, Hallway]

Haaaaa…

Ahaha. They were squeezing you dry.

Captain, stand up straight. Your hat is crooked too.

Captain Yurika… Lieutenant Commander Seric…

Cheer up, Captain Natora. Let’s go get dinner together. Just as Yuki always says, “eating delicious food will make you feel better”.

Captain Yurika, you’re always so cheerful. You don’t seem to be feeling the pressure of being the Captain of an entire ship. The other Captains are also all very fine people…

Leaving aside Captain Jeffrey and the others, I think you and Captain Yurika are quite similar.

True that. I also started off without any combat experience. I thought I was just some product of nepotism.

You were?

Actually, Omoikane does most of the heavy lifting on the Nadesico.

So then how can you keep calling yourself Captain?

Because I want to!

Because you want to?

At home and at university, I was always treated as my Admiral Misumaru’s eldest daughter. Here, I can be whoever I want to be.

…

That’s not just her point of view, but her will as Captain.

What I’m getting at is you should just do your best and be yourself!

Just be myself, huh… Thank you, Captain Yurika. I feel a little bit better now.

I’m not a stranger or anything! We’re the same age, so just Yurka is fine. We’re both the same rank, after all!

That’s right… No. You’re right, Yurika. Then please just call me Natora.

Of course, Natora!

I also have something to add. Don’t take former Commander Asuno’s words too negatively. He basically takes an “indifferent” attitude towards people he doesn’t care about. So…you get what I’m saying, yeah?

Yeah…

Ahaha… Flit’s especially strict with you. Though he’s soft with his grandson, Kio.

The Commander’s son… I heard when Kio’s father went MIA, Flit was devastated. You can tell based on how much he cares about Kio, who was left behind.

Yup…

(But I am a bit worried that Kio is being too influenced by the former Commander…)

[Nadesico, Cafeteria]

I can’t believe anyone who lives in the Earth Sphere would just join the Vagans.

Zeon and the Vagans are very alike. They’ll use any means necessary to achieve their goals!

I don’t think you can assume that so easily…

Megumi?

They’re humans too. How can you just assume things about them? That’s why I…

…

The enemy has their own circumstances and beliefs, just like us.

But Zeon has done terrible things, like dropping entire colonies and the Axis thing. I can’t think of any belief that justifies those actions.

Kio…

Banagher, what do you think?

Me?

I want to hear about what you think about the people of Zeon.

They’re more normal than I thought they would be…

Normal how?

They’re just normal people. Just like us, they have friends and families, and their own lives…

Everyone has their own story.

…

But thanks to everything they’ve gone through, they’re also filled with sorrow and obsessed with revenge…

People who’re tied down by the past are troublesome… Words just don’t ever reach them. They think only what’s in front of them is just and that there’s only one path they can take.

I…guess so…

Even the Vajra, who can’t speak the same language as us, were able to come to an understanding at one point.

It’s ironic that humans struggle to understand each other this badly. Seriously… I wish life was black and white like Gekiganger.

“Good vs Evil” is rarely ever that cut and dry. Especially in real life wars.

But if they attack us first, we have to respond with force, right? And not just people from the Solar System, but we’re dealing with invaders from other worlds too.

Of course, when we go out onto the battlefield, we fight with a sense of purpose. We’re pilots, after all.

It’s unfortunate that, on the battlefield, it’s either shoot or be shot.

But we don’t want you to become the kind of person who only thinks about killing other people, especially as a kid. You kids have your entire lives ahead of you after the war is over.

You’re right about that.

Although, considering we’re about to fight to defend Rostroulan, that kind of thinking may be a bit hypocritical…

That’s not true…

Um, can I participate in the next battle as well?

Are you sure? If you go into battle, you’ll end up fighting people you know.

I know. But if we don’t stop Zeon here, the war will continue forever…

…I wonder if people like Audrey can live in peace once the war is over.

What did you just say?

Hmm? I was wondering if we all can live in peace…

No, not that. You said Audrey’s name…

There was a young woman who accompanied us for a bit. Her name was Audrey Burne.

I knew it…

Do you know her, Banagher?

Yeah… Though we weren’t together for very long… Where is she now?

I think she was off to a federal army base to act as a witness for some stuff we were involved in.

A witness…

You can rest easy. Ensign Riddhe, who was assigned to the Nahel Argama, was accompanying her.

Ensign Riddhe… Is that so… Then she’s probably…

Huh, so that’s what your real face looks like.

Huh?

You didn’t notice? Banagher, you’ve been having a very worried look on your face this whole time.

Ah…

But it seems Audrey is more than just an acquaintance to you, eh?

That’s not true…

You don’t have to hide it. There’s not many people who can make a face like that after having only met someone else for a short time.

…I wanted to share the burden that she was carrying.

What kind of burden?

…

I think you should just be honest. It’ll be easier to get your point across.

Akatsuki?

Audrey Burne… Her real name is Mineva Lao Zabi.

!?

[Atlanta, Back Alley]

…I might be reaching my limit soon…

(Ronan Marcenas is no fool. He wouldn’t allow me to escape for no reason…)

But even if I run away like this, I’ll…

Who goes there!?

No need to be cautious…but I guess I don’t blame you.
(???)

Who are you?

I’ll help you escape. You’re free to trust me or not. Now decide, Mineva Zabi.

…

[Nadesico, Cafeteria]

Mineva Zabi…

The sole survivor of the Zabi Family, the ones who started the One Year War…

You… Why did you…

It’s not just me. Some other BX members knew, including the Captains. Obviously Celestial Being knew too, right?

Yup. But no one asked.

I wonder if there’s a reason why she came to Earth in disguise.

Maybe it has something to do with those spies running around?

You’re wrong! Audrey was trying to stop the war between the Federation and Neo Zeon!

Audrey was trying to stop a war?

That’s right! She told me not to hand over Laplace’s Box to the Sleeves! She came down to Earth to talk to Ensign Riddhe’s family!

By the way, Ensign Riddhe’s father is Federation Senator Ronan Marcenas. He’s the leader regarding Spacenoid policy.

Wha…

So that’s why…

Alto, did you know about Ensign Riddhe’s family?

No… But I felt there was something noble in the way he carried himself. I thought he was from an upper class family, but… So that’s the reason why he didn’t rejoin his original unit after leaving BX…

He was trying to get her to meet his father.

So that’s why Audrey…

It’s all good. Audrey wasn’t lying to us for a bad reason.

Huh?

Things get dicy when you involve Mineva Zabi, or the Zabi Family in general. To be honest, I don’t really care that much since I’ve only ever lived in deep space.

That’s…

But Audrey Burne is a different story. We’ve shared good and bad times together, even though she was only with us for a short time. Her attitude spoke volumes about her character.

Besides, she was only a newborn during the One Year War, right? It’d be awful to blame her for any of that.

So you guys see Audrey as Audrey?

I can’t speak for everyone, but it seems most of us feel that way. More or less.

I’m sure Churull and Doris think the same way.

I think I understand why Audrey was with you guys…

Glad we got that sorted.

Did you reveal her identity to clear any resentment and help us understand each other?

Unlike an Innovator like you, I’m just an ordinary pilot. But at least he trusts us a little more, right?

Yeah.

Banagher, I would like you to participate in the next battle. I’ll speak with Sumeragi myself.

Thank you very much!

(This pointless war that Zeon is fighting must end. I’m sure Audrey feels the same way…)

[Fa Zeos, Bridge]

Zeheart, why did you show mercy to those losers?
(Phone)

I don’t recall showing any mercy. They’ll be useful as meat shields when we attack the South American base. That’s all.

Thanks to outsiders like Mardoul and Drake, there’s been major changes to the original invasion plan. Not to mention a certain someone ran away with their tail between their legs.

I won’t make any excuses. I will clear my name on the battlefield.

I know how important this operation is. I won’t cause any trouble while you’re still fighting in space.

Even if you have to use those strays as sacrificial pawns, make sure this operation is a success.

(Hmph. You’re just Lord Ezelcant’s spoiled brat…)
[He hangs up]

Don’t call us sacrificial pawns…

I won’t refute what he said. That’s just the nature of this operation. Will you participate despite fully understanding that?

I’d be happy to sacrifice myself as long as it means I get revenge for my comrades.

You’re a very brave woman. I don’t dislike that kind of person.

I don’t expect us to get along. Don’t forget, we will never forgive the Vagans for what you’ve done.

I was going to say the same thing. As long as you live in the Earth Sphere, you’re all the same to us. But I have my pride. I also have fallen comrades who need to be avenged.

Then we’re the same… Kirks…

Was he a good guy?

Not quite. He’s someone who made a place for me in this world.

We all have our fair share of grudges. That’s what makes this alliance possible.

You’re free to try and kill us after the mission. I’ll do my best to end you quickly.

Took the words right out of my mouth…

Lord Zeheart, repairs to your Ghirarga have been completed.

In addition to repairing the mech, we’ve also installed a new X-Transmitter developed by the Engineering Department. With it, you should be able to bring out the full potential of your X-Rounder abilities.

I guess we could call it the Ghirarga X… Alright. I’ll try it out in the upcoming fight.

The adjustments are perfect.

I’ll do whatever it takes as long as Lord Ezelcant’s dream comes true!

(It’s about to begin… No. Our war is about to end!)
ELS Route Chapter 20: Scattered in Rostroulan

Vagan mobile suits are descending in large numbers! We’re detecting 80 of them!

It’s just as former Commander Asuno told us! Commence AA fire! Don’t let any of them set foot on the ground around Rostroulan!

Oh no! Vagans have appeared in the underground base! It appears they’ve infiltrated through a hidden underground waterway!

Grr. That was supposed to be a SS Class secret! How far have they infiltrated the army!?

The Urozo Squad has succeeded in their infiltration!

I’ve set the stage for you. Now, show me what you’ve got.

You don’t need to tell me twice! The Federation base will BURN!


The falling enemies are a diversion… No! It’s a two pronged attack by sky and sea!

I can see their faces now! Let’s torture them to death!


Damage to the ground forces is increasing! We can’t hold the defensive live!

Our main force is focused on defending our underground HQ! We must hold out somehow!

(Dammit! We can’t even properly assemble a defense garrison because we’ve been trying to keep this place a secret! Of course the soldiers on the ground pay the price for their superior’s cowardice! Things might have turned out better if Commander Algreus was still here!)

If things continue this smoothly, then this wouldn’t be a hunt and I’ll get bored…

Looks like your prayers have been answered.

This feeling… It’s you, Banagher!

[You can select your Tactician here. Make sure you chose Flit]

This is BX! HQ, please respond!

Oh! Yurika, you came!

Yurika…?

*Ahem* Thanks for the reinforcements! As you can see, shit has hit the fan. BX, intercept them!

Withdraw your damaged troops! We’ll hold down the defensive line!

R-roger that!
[The NPCs withdraw]

BX, sortie all units!

Loni! Why are you with the Vagans!?

Do I really need to tell my enemy?

Your enemy… That has nothing to do with this!

You’re young, Unicorn pilot. Well, maybe that youth is what attracts Gundams to their pilots. Isn’t that right, Kio Asuno?

Don’t make fun of me! Zeheart Gallette! I will defeat you in place of my father who was unable to settle things himself!

Settle things, huh…

There are so many Vagans… Um…

Everyone in BX! We’ll intercept the enemy ground forces invading HQ!
So our first objective is to defeat all enemies. There’s a mix of Vagans and Zeeks and some of them can’t fly. Remember that when targeting someone who may be underwater. After mopping up most of the enemies, send a few units to the four corners of the map.


In terms of bosses, we’ve got Loni’s Shamblo, Zeheart’s upgraded Ghirarga (Mode X), and both Godom and Leil in stronger grunt units.
SECRET ALERT
AGE Characters Optional #2 and #3
Make Flit your tactician on this map. Also have Kio fight Zeheart at least once.
Loni Mandatory #A2
Have Banagher defeat at least two enemies
I told you about Flit earlier, so hopefully you followed that advice. Zeheart is way in the back of the map with a really long range. Just move Kio into his range with a defensive Spirit active to satisfy the condition. Thankfully, he won’t run due to the plot. Getting Banagher 2 kills should be easy enough if you remember to weaken some enemies first. Plus, there are plenty of helicopters or tanks that he should be able to one-shot with either his Beam Magnum or NT-D Attack.

Once we take down the Earthlings’ HQ, our debt will finally be repaid! This’ll be fun!

This feeling… It’s the same guy we fought in Hinobori? Raijin-Oh may not be here, but me and my Gundam are more than enough for someone like you!

Guh! Don’t think this is the end. My hunt isn’t over until I avenge them!

This plan is key to our surface invasion strategy… For Lord Zeheart’s sake, I can’t retreat yet!

Stand down, Leil. You’ve done a good enough job. Leave the rest to us and retreat.

But I can’t retreat before you!

I still need you as my second in command. I hope you understand that.

Roger…

You defeated Godom Tyneham and Zanald Beihart. You’re a warrior who inherited the Gundam! But even though you’re an Earthling, as an X-Rounder, you should be able to feel the difference in our strength!

Grandpa told me a lot about what kind of enemy you are! You’ve fought my father so many times… I have to defeat you! I am Asemu Asuno’s son! I am Kio Asuno!

The federal army HQ… Of course it wouldn’t be easy to take it down head on…

Lord Zeheart, the preparations are almost complete. Please retreat.
(Phone)

Roger. There’s no need for me to keep fighting. Don’t you all die in vain!
[Zeheart retreats]

We will not die in vain… We will engrave the sorrow of our friends and families in this place!
No dialog against Loni yet, but she will fall sooner or later.

Dammit, even though I tried to fix it, they were just temporary repairs… I couldn’t fully fix the damage taken at Torrington…
[Shamblo powers down]

Enemy giant mobile armor’s deactivation has been confirmed!

Loni! If you can hear me, you need to leave that mech!

Sir Banagher, I know how you feel, but we need to focus on the enemies still around us!

If it's shut down, the enemy’s Psycommu must also be down. We can secure the pilot later.

Roger…that…

Banagher… You’re just delaying the inevitable… But I won’t go down here. This Shamblo is like a part of my body.
[Shamblo retreats]
The plot continues at the start of turn 3 or when there are 8 enemy squads left. You don’t have to defeat any of the bosses to trigger this, but I wanted to get all the boss stuff out of the way first.

Enemy reinforcements are approaching!

This land is a hallowed place permeated with Earthling ideology!

Places like this must be wiped out so we can build our own Eden!

Man! Just how many are coming to attack Rostroulan!?

We can expect more enemy reinforcements! All units, protect HQ at all costs!
And another wave comes in when there’s another 8 squads left, but from the east.
The actual plot continues when all enemies have been defeated.

Hell yeah! That’s the last one!

It looks like we’ve managed to repel the enemies who landed on Earth…

This marks the end of Loni’s war…

Yeah… I hope so…

It’s too early to relax. There’s still those enemies who infiltrated underground. We must help them immediately.

There’s no need for that. We’ve dealt with those Vagans and Zeon Remnants ourselves.

You already repelled them?

Sumeragi, do you think…

Yeah. This was far too easy for an assault on our HQ.

You don’t think…

Admiral Misumaru! Please investigate the enemy’s mechs immediately!

Looking at the way they retreated, it’s possible that they’re planning something!

On it!

What!? What!? What’s going on!?

I hope my hunch is wrong…

Bad news! We’ve discovered a Plasma Particle Bomb planted among the remains of the enemy mechs!

I guess my bad feeling was right on the money!

Send a bomb disposal team immediately! If they can’t defuse it, then detonate it in the sky!

Sir!

Will they make it in time?

Y-yes! We can deactivate the ones inside HQ, but it seems they planted some on the surface as well.

Do you know where they are!?

The analysis on the Bomb’s EM signatures are in! The locations are here…




(TL Note: They’re near the four corners of the map)

These four locations!

If we can get there, we can defuse the bombs right away!

[The same enemy squads occupy the other three corners]

The Jovians and Vajra! Are they trying to prevent us from defusing the bombs!?

Looks like they’re using every card in their hand!

But the Vajra don’t want this!

Save your anger for the Vagans! There’s not much time left until the bombs detonate!

We’ve found a timer on one of the bombs! If it’s accurate, they’ll detonate in five minutes!

Five minutes!? We’re almost out of time already!

Can you do this!? It’ll be difficult to break through the enemy and deactivate them at the same time!

What’s the play? I’d recommend a speedy retreat.

You’re suggesting we abandon everyone still in the HQ!?

There’s not just Federation people here, but also Zeon and Vagan survivors!

There isn’t time to discuss this!

So what should we do?

Everyone, split into four groups and defuse the bombs!

!?

If the HQ falls here, even if we survive, the outcome of the war will be all but decided. We have to do our duty as federal soldiers until the bitter end!

Natora…

We must break through the enemy defenses and head to the bombs within the time limit! During this time, Sergeant Ethan will receive bomb defusal instructions from HQ and forward them to everyone. Nadesico and Ptolemaios, please provide backup using Omoikane and Veda!

…

…

Huh? Did I do something wrong?

No, you’re doing fine. What are you all waiting for? Hurry up!

Roger!

Let’s do it! Right, Captain!?

(The only thing I, a new Captain, can do is to believe in everyone in BX. That’s all I can do now…)

(Just “be yourself”!)

(Natora Einus… It looks like you’ve grown a little.)

We’re not strictly military, but we can’t run away at a time like this!

Banagher, are you alright with this?

Of course I am! If they explode, many people would die! There’s no way I can let that happen!

Good! We’ll break through the enemy defenses and defuse the bombs! All units, formation Totsugeki Love Heart!!
You’ve got five turns to put any unit on top of the bomb squares. The main problem is that a particularly bulky Vajra is on top of these squares. Depending on how you tackled the previous part of the stage, you could possibly have soft locked yourself and might have to retry.
When a unit is placed on a bomb square, they can no longer move or act until the plot advances. And of course, you get reminders every turn to hurry up.
When the first unit is on the square…

We’ve reached one of the bomb placement points and found a Plasma Particle Bomb!

You’ve gotten the defusing instructions! Begin the process!

The mech will be defenseless while defusing the bomb! Don’t let any enemies get close to them!

The same goes for the remaining bombs as well! You’ve got this, everyone!
The plot continues when all four bomb squares are occupied.

Just got a report from the troops! It seems they’ve successfully defused all of the Plasma Particle Bombs!

Whew…

Good job, everyone. We’ve also disabled all the bombs underground. With this, Rostroulan has been defended.

Wait a sec! It’s very weak, but there’s still an active Plasma Particle Bomb reading! There’s one bomb left!

What!?

Luca, where is it!?

The reaction is very weak, but it has to be somewhere on the ground…

We don’t have much time left…

…Kio, I’m sure you can find it.

Shanalua?

With your X-Rounder abilities, I know you can find where the bomb is.

Is that even possible for an X-Rounder?

Kio has amazing potential, far beyond what I know. Maybe…

It’s fine for us adults to die here, but you kids have to live. The power of the X-Rounder isn’t to defeat your enemies, but to protect others.

…Alright. I’ll give it a try!!

…

Kio…

I see…something dark… But this is…

Watch out!


Banagher!?

Guh… Why… Why are you still fighting!? Loni!

You tried to see into my mind, Gundam pilot…

It’s her! Was she just pretending to be defeated!?

It’s that mobile armor! The last bomb is inside of it!

They’re planning to die like that!?

What have you done…

Omoikane finished its analysis. The final bomb has been connected to the enemy mobile armor’s Psycommu.

So to defuse the bomb, we have to destroy that massive mech!

Loni! Please stop!

Get out of the way, Banagher! I won’t listen to you!

But you have to! You’re following a plan that’ll kill you! You’re just being used by the Vagans!

All we care about is taking out the federal army’s HQ with us!

Loni!

Why are you hesitating, Banagher!?

!?

If you don’t shoot, everyone will die! You’ll die too!

Ensign Riddhe!?

The resentment for the muder of my parents… The hatred for having Kirks taken away from me… The pain of losing so many friends… I’LL TEACH YOU EARTHLINGS A LESSON!!

That pilot… She’s spreading her hatred everywhere through her Psycommu!

It’s no use… I have to stop her… Otherwise, neither this place nor Loni will…

How long are you going to care about the enemy!? There’s no point in talking to that pilot! We have to destroy them!

Force will never solve anything! She’s just a prisoner! I will free her!

Putting aside your feelings towards the enemy, I don’t want to die in an explosion!

We first need to stop the enemy mobile armor!

Ensign Riddhe! It’s been a while since we last fought together, but we’re counting on you!

You don’t have to tell me that. I was ordered to kill them!

No, don’t destroy it yet. That’ll cause the Plasma Particle Bomb to detonate!

…Fine.
The final objective for this stage is to lower the Shamblo’s HP to below 10% (4430) without killing it. Destroying it will lead to a Game Over, so watch your attacks. Riddhe is here to help too!

Zeon’s grudges… I guess that’s what’s causing their resolve to be this deep… No, this isn’t the time to be thinking about things like that! I need to focus on the fight right in front of me!
SECRET ALERT
Loni Mandatory #A3 and #A4
Have Banagher convince Loni at this point. Also, have Banagher be the one to lower her HP to the threshold.
The first step is simple, just move Banagher next to Loni and use the Convince command. The second step is also simple because Banagher comes with the Mercy Spirit (leaves an enemy at 10 HP if your skill stat is higher). I believe Banagher will always have a higher skill stat, but it’s worth double checking just in case.

Without the existence of Gundams, Zeon would never have been defeated! My parents and Kirks would never have died!

The enemy pilot is agitated. It’ll be difficult to persuade her. There’s no way to stop the explosion other than disabling that mobile armor!

Please stop, Loni! If you follow through, then your parents will…

Banagher, this isn’t about logic! If I don’t do this, then everyone will be sad! That’s all there is to it! So…

I’ll stop you! I’ll definitely stop you! Even if it leads to an outcome you don’t want, I’ll…

You can’t stop the Shamblo with that machine! You’ll pay for what you’ve done! Die!

There’s no way we can stop someone like that, Banagher… But I’m not like you. I won’t hesitate to pull the trigger. I’ll stop it no matter what!

What are you thinking!? If you explode that bomb, you’ll die too!

That’s my plan from the start! This is a battlefield… We risk our lives to kill our enemy! That’s what this place is all about!

She’s serious! It’s not like I can’t kill her, but considering the risk of the bomb going off, I have to go easy on her!

A suicide attack is idiotic! I don’t want to see a friend or enemy do something like that! I’ll avoid your power source and shut you down!

Don’t think you can ever stop the Shamblo! I’ll take you all down with me!

You have nothing to do with my revenge, so get away!

Yeah, it’s none of my business! And that’s why I’m stopping you with my own free will! Feel free to hate me!

Stop this and surrender! If things continue like this, you’ll kill your comrades as well!

If I can get even one more Federation soldier involved, then it’s worth it! People who don’t understand our resolve shouldn’t come to the battlefield!

I lost my family… You killed my family! You took everything from me!

That Zeon woman… I don’t think she’s seeing things right.

It’ll be hard to get her to understand, but all we can do now is to stop her machine.

But even so, her hatred will remain… I know I can’t save everyone, but…
And here’s Banagher’s Convince conversation with Loni.

This murky, black feeling… There’s no point in being stained by something like this!

Are you out of your goddamned mind!? Banagher!! Don’t approach her unarmed!

Don’t get swallowed by it, Loni!

It’s the way of the world that children are consumed by their parent’s wishes, Banagher! I’m not in the wrong!

This isn’t a wish! It’s a curse!

The role of a child is to do what their parents entrust them with! That’s the price for life! That power of yours was also given to you by your parents!!

Give up, Banagher! Understanding an enemy like that is a pipe dream!

Loni!

…
The map is over when Loni’s HP is reduced below 10% without killing her. The cutscene may be different if you didn’t do the Loni secret’s steps, but this LP will proceed as if you did everything right.

Guh… The Shamblo is…

Haa… Haa… Loni, now you can…

I won’t lose! I can’t lose this war!

Gaaaaaaaah!

That woman’s still going at it!?

How can she still move like that!? It’s impossible!

The Psycommu’s output is increasing at an abnormal rate! That’s probably the reason!

I’m sorry… I couldn’t see you grow up… But I’ll at least protect Side 3…

Guh. Loni?

Please wait… Eden… Once we achieve Eden, then your future will surely be…
[More random explosions]

Gah! Why is that pilot saying such strange things!?

It’s not just the pilot that’s in there. The thoughts of the Zeon Remnants and Vagans are being relayed through the Psycommu!

So those are the Zeon and Vagan’s…

Sieg Zeon… Achieve Eden…

Sieg Zeon… Sieg Zeon… Achieve Eden… Achieve Eden…

Loni… Why are you…

Do you understand, Banagher? You can’t escape from the curse of blood…

But even so… I have to stop it!

What!?

Power beyond the present… People have an inner god called Potential!

(Is that why you pilot the Gundam? Banagher Links…)

I… I want to stop her! We have to stop her! Gundam!

Lend me your power!!

This is…

Highly concentrated GN Particles? Setsuna, are you doing this!?

It’s not me. The 00 Raiser is being controlled by the Unicorn Gundam.

Some of its functions were hijacked by the NT-D!?

I don’t know why.

But I’m going to create a field of shared consciousness! The only way to save her is to bet on him!

Setsuna…

Change it, Banagher Links! Change the future of the pilot who’s trapped in the past!!

Yes!


[???]

Banagher…

Listen to me, Loni! Is this really what you want to do!? Is this really what you’re like!? Loni!

For me…I have no other choice…There is no other meaning to live…

Find another reason. Hatred and anger being your reason to live is too sad…

It’s only human to get angry when something is unreasonable. Humans aren’t gods. You too, in this Shamblo, can feel the will engraved in this land. Both Vagan and Zeon’s… That’s why…

That’s enough…
(???)

Kirks…?

Loni… Our war is over… You shouldn’t…be like us…

“Live by your own will”... Is that what you’re trying to tell me, Kirks…

Loni…

It stopped? Impossible…

Not yet. The Plasma Particle Bomb and the Psycommu are still linked!

Why!? She doesn’t want to fight anymore!

It’s no longer moving according to the pilot’s will alone! The Psycommu must still be holding onto a grudge!

No…

Lockon! Michael! Can you guys snipe it out!?

Even if I could, I don’t know where the control system is!

If we’re not careful, it could blow up!

Then what can we do…

Banagher, Fire! You should be able to find the Psycommu’s location with NT-D!

I know… I know, but if I shoot there, Loni will also…

Possibility will kill you! Throw that crap away!

But Loni…

…

I…

…It’s fine.

!?

It’s fine, Banagher.

…

I…can’t shoot… I CAN’T SHOOT!

Banagher, you…

That’s just like you, Banagher…

The mobile armor is leaving!?

Loni, what are you doing!?

“Live by your own will”, huh…

Loni, you can’t…

It wasn’t given to me… This is my own will… But… It’s sad…

LONIIIIIIIIIII!
[Sounds of a massive explosion]

Plasma Particle Bomb explosion confirmed… There’s some EM interference in the surrounding area, but there’s no damage to the underground base…

Is she…safe…?

Aaaaahhh… Loni…

They finally understood each other at the end, but…

This is reality, Banagher… You cannot escape reality…

(“Life is hard…” Is history repeating itself, Yurin?)
[Alarm]

What’s the hell is that!?

There’s something dropping from the sky! IFF shows it's friendly! Affiliation shows Londo Bell!

What!?

Master’s orders… Secure the RX-0…
(???. Darkened)

That mech is just like…

A black…

Unicorn…?

Gah!

Sir Banagher!

It’s trying to capture the Unicorn!?

I’ve restrained it with my Armed Armor. There’s no point in resisting.
(Ple Twelve. Gundam Unicorn. CV: Yuko Kaida)

M-Marida…!?

I am Ple Twelve. My name isn’t Marida or anything like that. Now the RX-0 is…

!

What was that!?

The Black Lion… Will it protect the “Lady” with its fierceness?
(???. Darkened)

That man…

Don’t interfere! I will take care of this!
(Graham Aker. Gundam 00. CV: Yūichi Nakamura)

[Fa Zeos, Bridge]

The giant mobile armor was obliterated by the Plasma Particle Bomb. There’s nothing left to salvage.

I see… Make sure she’s treated well.

Sir…

How generous of you, considering she’s the reason the operation failed.

I respect warriors who fight with everything they’ve got. No matter who it is, I will never forget them.

…

Did Lord Ezelcant say anything about the failed attack?

He didn’t seem to care. As for our fate, we’re ordered to go in space, link up with Zanald, and make sure we control the space around the planet.

He had a backup plan in place in case we failed?

Lord Ezelcant has been the Vagan’s guiding light for hundreds of years. He has a perspective we cannot even imagine.

What about the Plasma Particle Bombs?

Let’s see…

(At times, it seems Lord Ezelcant is purposefully giving the Earthlings a reprieve… It’s almost like…)

[Rostroulan, Briefing Room]

It’s like they weren’t trying?

Yeah. If they were planning to blow up this underground base, there shouldn’t be a reason to use time bombs.

That reminds me of certain actions they took during the previous wars, back when we called them the “UE”.
(TL Note: Unknown Enemy)

When they attacked the colony where I lived, they didn’t attack the power plant directly. Instead, they used a method to cause it to slowly collapse. As if they were giving us a chance to survive…

So they’re testing us to see if we can save ourselves? You’ve got to be kidding.

But thank you, Shanalua.

For what?

If you didn’t suggest what you did, we wouldn’t have found the last bomb.

…That’s not something to thank me for. Besides, the one who saved us was that poor woman…

Right…

(That’s right… She saved us… We were saved by someone from Zeon…)

…

Are you alright, Sir Banagher? Did that black machine hurt you anywhere?

My body is fine. The medics treated me before anything serious could happen.

What was that black Unicorn thing anyway? Why’d it attack us?

Banagher, you seem to know the other pilot. Do you?

She’s a soldier from Zeon… Before I came to Earth, back when I was in the Sleeves’ base, Palau, we spoke a few times.

We fought her once before, but the pilot was taken prisoner aboard the Nahel Argama in space.

Surely Riddhe must know something, considering he’s part of Londo Bell.

Ensign Riddhe returned to his ship, together with that blue mech that helped us.

Something about this stinks. It’s been a bit since we last met, but he could have at least said hello.

I agree. I want to ask him about Audrey…

Audrey…

…Banagher, a word?

What do you want?

There’s someone I’d like you to meet.

[Ra Cailum, Hangar]

So this was the secret weapon you were talking about…

It seems there was a slight hiccup, but I’d call that adequate for its first operational test.

Don’t mess with me! What is that black Unicorn!? Why the hell is there another one of those things!?

Don’t touch Master.
[Ple Twelve throws Riddhe]

Guh. Why you…

This is a family matter. Even the military has no right to involve themselves in this.

A family matter?

I’m embarrassed to say this, but that kid, Banagher Links, is the child of my father, Cardias Vist, and a mistress.

!?

So please refrain from prying.

Banagher is a Vist…

If you even think about spreading rumors… Well, speak of the devil.

Banagher…

Mardia! You’re Mardia, right!?

…

B-Banagher! Why’d you run off!?

It’s me! Banagher Links! I came down to Earth with the Captain…your Master!

Don’t talk to me so casually.

Huh?

Ple Twelve, just ignore him.

Roger that, Master.

Ple Twelve? Master? You! What did you do to Marida!?

Stop it, Banagher.

Grrr…

It’s been a while, Mr. Anaheim Executive. What brings you here? Weren’t you on the Nahel Argama back in space?

We have our own circumstances as well.

Does that include the black Unicorn?

…The RX-0 is rightfully ours. We will come to take it one day. You should just enjoy your twilight years with your homemade Gundam.

Gladly, but there are still parasites like you running around.

Hmph… Let’s go, Ple Twelve.

Roger.
[Alberto and Ple Twelve start to leave]

Wait! Why are you piloting that mobile suit!? The Captain and everyone else are worried about you!

Who are you talking about? I don’t know a Captain.

What…!?
[She leaves]

What’s going on? Wasn’t that Banagher’s pilot friend, Marida?

She’s probably been reconditioned.

Reconditioned!?

So she’s a Cyber Newtype…

Cyber Newtypes… They’re artificially created Newtypes, right?

She was one of the Newtype clones created towards the end of the first Neo Zeon War. It seems one of them survived… She too cannot escape her fate…
(TL Note: Watch Gundam ZZ.)

Fate…

Umm… Ensign Riddhe, you seem different from before, but I’m glad you’re doing well.

How’s Audrey doing?

!

… There’s no way I’d know where a random civilian is.

You don’t have to hide it. We already know who she is.

…Is that right?

Where’s Audrey? She came down to Earth with you, right?

I don’t know. She escaped from my house.

What do you mean she escaped!?

I’d like to know that too!

!?

…I have a report to make, so excuse me.

(Banagher, if only you weren’t here…)
[Riddhe leaves]

Ensign Riddhe…

How should I put it…he’s a bit rougher than before. Did something happen?

Maybe he’s burdened with something.

Like what?

One can’t free themselves from family or bloodline, especially if that family is powerful…

…

(And since he’s part of the Marcenas family, then perhaps…)

[Ra Cailum, Captain’s Quarters]

…Come in.

Excuse us.

It’s been a while, former Commander Flit Asuno. This is the first time we’ve met since the fleet review back when you were in charge, right?

Captain Bright, the current Commander of Londo Bell. I’m not sure that’s much of a promotion though.

Haha, you got that right. We’re just an independent unit that’s not part of the mainstream military.

Let’s skip the formalities. I’d like to introduce you to someone. This is the pilot of the RX-0.

It’s nice to meet you…

So you’re the RX-0’s… Why have you brought him to me?

Let me just ask you upfront. Is the purpose of this ship to recapture the RX-0 and Banagher?

(Waaaaah. Yurika! Isn’t that a bit sudden!?)

Our only orders were to defend Rostroulan, just like the orders you got. As for the RX-0 and its pilot, we wanted to protect them in case of an emergency.

Um… Can we assume the current situation doesn’t constitute as “in case of an emergency”?

It appears the RX-0 is safe aboard your ship.

The black machine that attacked the RX-0 seems to be on board this ship. What is it anyway?

…I’m embarrassed to say but there are things aboard my ship that I’m not exactly happy with.

(It seems the Vist Foundation is involved in this matter… So the mech that saved the Unicorn was probably…)

Please don’t say something that pathetic.

?

You’re Bright Noa, right? The one who fought alongside Amuro Ray and other Newtypes!? And yet, you made Marida do that…

Calm down, Banagher!!

!

Captain Bright had nothing to do with her. Just think about it for a moment.

I’m sorry…

I also apologize, Captain Bright. Banagher is just nervous…

What happened?

The Zeon soldier we fought in the last battle was someone he got to know as a POW, and…

(He got attached to her… Is history repeating itself once again?)

Don’t ever give up, Banagher Links.

?

You have strong eyes that can turn difficulties into strength. As long as you don’t give up, you’ll be able to seize whatever you want.

…I don’t have that kind of power. If I did, then I could save everyone… Even Loni…

Banagher…

This is all just a freak coincidence. Everything from piloting the Unicorn to standing in this room…

Is that really the case?

Huh?

It may have been a coincidence that the Gundam was in front of you at the time. All the Gundam pilots I know had similar beginnings.

…

But whether or not they pilot a Gundam is a decision they made themselves. That can’t be a coincidence. Am I wrong?

That’s…

What drives you to keep piloting a Gundam?

What makes me pilot the Unicorn…

!

You have a reason, right? There’s something that makes you the way you are.

…There’s someone I want to help. Audrey Burne. The girl everyone calls Mineva Zabi.

Are you going to use your Gundam just for the sake of one girl?

Someone once told me Audrey is carrying a heavy burden. One that a single person can barely handle. To be honest, I still don’t understand what it is… But I still want to help her.

That’s fine, isn’t it? It’s all about “being yourself”, Banagher.

Captain Natora…

I like to believe that those who pilot Gundams are chosen by them. That this was always going to happen eventually…for better or for worse.

Hmm… Maybe there’s some truth to that…

The rest is up to you. Don’t let the situation overwhelm you.

Yes. Thank you very much!

Well then, we’ll continue to protect the RX-0.

I leave it in your care.

Thanks for the help, Captain Bright! For both Banagher and for everything else!
[BX Leaves]

…

I was waiting for you to notice me..
(???. Darkened)

My apologies, Major. I almost locked you out.
[He opens the door]

So that’s the RX-0’s pilot? I sensed a strong will in that young man.
(Back to normal)

If the Federation’s Top Gun feels that way, then he must be the real deal. Thank you for responding on such short notice. Thanks to you, the Foundation didn’t steal the RX-0.

The debt I owe you for your efforts in establishing the Sol Braves cannot be repaid.

There’s no thanks needed. I was supporting the forces I felt were necessary for the Federation to keep existing.

However, a normal man wouldn’t hold up against the pressure to not use new models from Anaheim.

We can only say that because we won in the end.

That white machine, the RX-0 Unicorn Gundam… Another machine named “Gundam” in the midst of war… Is this fate?

That just shows how powerful a name can be. Well, it’s more like people’s expectations are what gives a name power.

You’re quite the romantic, Commander. I believe you’re a Virgo too, yes?
(TL Note: Bright does not have a canon birthday.)

Don’t tease me. If you’ve been around Gundams as long as I have, there are times when you feel this way.

That’s probably why former Commander Asuno brought him to you.

Banagher Links, huh…

(Have the courage to reject despair. As long as you’re a Gundam pilot…and a Newtype.)

[Ptolemaios 2 Kai, Briefing Room]

Did their meeting with the Commander of Londo Bell go smoothly?

Yes. At the very least, they don’t have any intention of taking the RX-0.

That’ll help. Although not directly, he’s the one who fought alongside us against “Char’s Rebellion”. Both emotionally and strategically, I’d rather not fight someone like him.

This should be enough to stop the Vist Foundation from intervening for now, but the main issue is what the Sleeves will do. It seems after Palau, they can find out where the La+ Program points to next.

Are you saying they’ve bugged the Unicorn back when they captured it?

Perhaps…

If the next set of coordinates are to the Box itself, then they’ll get their hands on it first…

I don’t think you’ll have to worry about that.

Banagher?

Did the next coordinates not reveal themselves?

If you didn’t get the next location, then was Torrington a dud?

No, the coordinates the NT-D gave us was without a doubt Torrington Base. And we’ve found traces of something trying to unlock. But the Unicorn never revealed anything. I don’t know why, but that’s the truth.

Perhaps I haven’t been deemed worthy by the Unicorn yet…

Why do you want to give us the coordinates?

I want to see this world together with you guys, those chosen by Gundam… And by following Laplace’s Box, I’m sure it’ll lead to a way to save Audrey.

I see.

Pleasure to have you, Sir Banagher.

As for our next move, we’re to rejoin the BX detachment that stayed behind in Japan. The rendezvous point is the Photon Power Lab, also in Japan.

The Photon Power Lab? That’s an odd place to meet up.

Professor Yumi, the Director of the Photon Power Lab, also gave us an investigation request. We’re to help them look into a certain energy reactor that was abandoned before the new millennium, the Gravity Reactor.