Super Robot Wars/Z2.2/Story2

Stage 11 - Go With Kallen

Klaus is impressed with his agent, Gene-1, who he had planned to use to infiltrate Celestial Being to get a better understanding of the organization and perhaps sway them to help Katharon's cause. It was unexpected that their secret agent would be approached by Celestial Being and not the other way around, even more enticing was that Gene-1 had even become a Gundam Meister apparently. Shirin isn't so sure that this will work to their benefit considering how Celestial Being operates but Klaus reminds her that they need Celestial Being since alone their efforts haven't really amounted to anything. Besides, they share the same goals so it's not like they're trying to get Celestial Being to do something they don't desire. Of course the issue is convincing Celestial Being to at least hear their case and that task lies with Gene-1 to set up.

On other news Shirin has received word that Marina Ismail has managed to somehow be made captive and is being held against her will and indefinitely by the A-Laws at a highly guarded and secret prison where only the most infamous enemies of the A-Laws are held. Which means that many Katharon agents and sympathizers are being held there as well. Klaus understands that Shirin feels like she should participate personally to save Marina but that wouldn't do well if he lost someone as precious as Shirin. Dying wouldn't accomplish anything, besides Klaus has already factored in Celestial Being sending aid and has worked out a plan to save Katharon agents during the chaos.

Nena Trinity is still alive and well and has become quite the obedient servant for Wang Liu Mei. Anyway, Nena can tell that this place is highly guarded and quite secret, it seems that the information they obtained was correct. If the A-Laws were going to hold someone as high profile as a Gundam Meister anywhere than it would be here of all places. Wang Liu Mei tells Nena that she has done good enough and to return back to the base until her next assignment. The rest will be handled by Wang Liu Mei who has quite the silver tongue, all she needs to do is lay out the bait and surely she could move mountains if she so desired. Assuming, of course, if said mountains are willing to believe her still. Nena decides that she will return though she can't help but become excited at the prospect of what Wang Li Mei has planned for the future.

Back at the comforts of her home Wang Liu Mei is plotting for the future. Hong Long though wonders what Wang Liu Mei could be thinking trying to play all the sides again considering how well that worked out for them last time. Using those like Celestial Being, A-Laws, Ribbons, and even Nena Trinity means trouble is destined to blow their awy. It's worrisome and Hong Long is right to be cautious that such parties may be the death of them if they get in over their heads. Wang Liu Mei finally answers Hong Long and tells him that if Celestial Being and Aeolia Schenberg are unable to overcome such adversaries as Ribbons than they aren't fit to change the world at all. Hong Long isn't exactly convinced but he's in no position to deny her. Wang Liu Mei continues that what she desires is a revolution. For that to occur there must be some necessary bloodshed before the one most worthy of changing the world ends up on top. Who ends up there really isn't her concern. Hong Long can't help but feel guilt, is he the reason Wang Liu Mei ended up like this?

Duo is surprised that Tieria has an announcement for them all, they just got word from a very reliable source that something of great importance is being held in this remote prison system. Tieria continues that this isn't something they can ignore, especially if it's true. Furthermore this isn't just in their best interest, it turns out out that the Black Knights who've been slated for execution for some time are being held there as well. This gets Kallen's attention immediately, her former comrades! At long last she knows where they're being held! Tieria cautions Kallen but informs her that they will do their best to rescue the Black Knights who are an important ally to Celestial Being.

Lasse is hopeful that this information turns out true, it would be great if they could be reunited with their former comrade and friend. Mileina has heard much of their friend, this Allelujah, who seems quite interesting and she would like to meet him. Lock-On asks who the heck everyone is talking about, who is this Allelujah? Haro prods Lock-On for being insensitive but Lock-On isn't having it. In fact Lock-On isn't so sure all this effort should be used on a guy that managed to get captured despite being a Gundam Meister. Is he reliable or just a loose cannon?

Tieria gives Lock-On a serious look which quickly gets him to apologize for his discretion. If they're going to save this guy than Lock-On promises to do his best. Tieria isn't exactly convinced on Lock-On's word and still doesn't like that he replaced the man he looked up to. However he will let this slide and allow Lock-On to show what he's capable of in the upcoming operation. Shinn is quite furious over Lock-On being so rude to their friend who has been suffering for some time. Doesn't that guy not have friends of his own? Surely he should understand why they would want to bust a friend out of a hellhole like that. Esther isn't as angry as Shinn and instead decides to let it go despite Lock-On getting on her nerves as well. There's just no use in being at each others throats when they should be focused on what's ahead of them. Shinn is surprised at Esther's maturity and that she just made him look childish and immature, guess getting angry isn't okay in ZEXIS huh?

After meeting is over Feldt addresses Sumuragi about her returning to being their Leader since she had vanished after the last war ended and is glad that she's okay. Sumuragi informs Feldt that she isn't back yet. Lasse understands that she needs time though it would be great if she lead them again which Celestial Being tries to convince her that what happened wasn't her fault. Sumuragi seems to be shaken by this but Setsuna tells Sumuragi that this is something only she can do and they need her abilities. This hits Sumuragi hard with guilt which Kallen notices. Kallen berates Setsuna for being so insensitive, it's like Setsuna has no experience with women at all! Furthermore Kallen wants Sumuragi to return to her old self since this self-pitying thing is hurting everyone.

It's not like anyone else can do Sumuragi's job anyway but that isn't the only reason. Kallen just doesn't like seeing Sumuragi wallowing in her own self-guilt, Sumuragi though manages to gather her wits which surprises Kallen. Sumuragi says that she isn't their leader and doubts if she has it in her to do this once again but that doesn't mean she will exactly abandon them. Heero understands her pain but he knows that they aren't in a position to allow some as highly skilled as Sumuragi to just walk away. By no means will he force her to stay but this operation will fail without her genius.

Sumuragi is quite clear that she knows all this but it's a bit late to back down and as of right now they literally need her even if she doesn't want to be here. Kallen is just glad that Sumuragi seems driven once more, it's nice to see her resembling the woman she admired. Even Shinn can't help but smile. The old Sumuragi they know is making her return to them, slowly but surely. Quatre agrees that is this great, Esther though takes this time to mention that she had heard a lot of Sumuragi's tactical forecasting skills from Crowe. Quite frankly Esther is impressed and expects amazing things from Sumuragi and actually looks up to such a strong woman as her for inspiration. All of this persuading seems to effect Sumuragi who is at a loss.

Setusuna reminds Sumuragi of what they're all fighting for, her abilities, and what's at stake so they need one more Tactical Forecast at least. Sumuragi finally understands and asks that Feldt deliver all Tactical Information to her room later, though she isn't promising anything. Feldt quickly gets to work on that, Sumuragi though can't say if she'll ever return as their Leader and that this may very well be a one time thing as she leaves. Lasse isn't able to stop her, now that she seems to be back he doesn't want to see her leave again. Lock-On though is amused over these events though he can't understand what Sumuragi's deal is. Haro quickly berates Lock-On for being so rude again. Lock-On apologizes and promises Haro that he will behave. As for what he's thinking, well he's thinking of Katharon and wonders if they'll take advantage of this situation.

After a bit of work Feldt finished what Sumuragi asked of her and runs into Lock-On whom seems to have entranced her. Lock-On wonders what her deal is since she clearly wants something. Feldt is only able to stutter gibberish, he looks so much like her former crush. This only serves to confuse Lock-On who wonders what her deal is, seriously what is with the women on this ship? Haro announces that Feldt was in love with the former Lock-On which results in Feldt telling Haro to shut up already! Lock-On understands now, after all he does look a lot like his dead brother. In fact he's surprised his brother was able to attract such a beauty and Lock-On figures that Feldt wants to know if he's the same as his brother in more ways than just looks.

Feldt is unable to convey her true feelings so Lock-On takes this time to ask Feldt if she wants to be his girl. Feldt is shocked, Lock-On continues that if it's okay with her than they can totally date and if she wants she can come by his room later too. After all, it would allow them to get much better acquainted, right? A highly disgusted Feldt leaves, Lock-On figured that this would be the end result. Shinn though had seen everything and is furious that Lock-On would take advantage of Feldt's former crush and self-guilt over his unavoidable death. Seriously, is Lock-On nothing more than a horny animal with no restraint?! Lock-On doesn't like that he was being spied upon.

However, since Shinn is here Lock-On explains that he said those things so Feldt would hate him and stop trying to compare him with his brother which he hates. Shinn understands but it still pisses him the hell off! Kallen tells Shinn to calm down, she understands that Feldt needed a reality check and that this Lock-On is not the same one she fell in love with. It's best that she has this off her mind now than later since it'll let her focus on her duties now. Lock-On admires that not only is Kallen beautiful but she's very intelligent to have deduced all that so quickly. Perhaps they should later do dinner?

Kallen tells him to shut it, though she understands why he said those things she can't forgive him for how he seems to be objectifying women or how forward he has been with nearly every decent looking woman thus far. So Kallen warns him that next time he tries to pull something like this again she will BREAK him, got it? Lock-On understands and is quickly reminded that Kallen is quite scary. Tieria was watching all this and bitterly wonders if this guy really has the right to replace the former Lock-On...

Bismark is chatting away with Kati about the prison and the all important prisoners it holds. Kati has arrived to reinforce the place as they continue interrogating their prized prisoner. Audrei is also around, though it isn't strange considering that he's under Bismark's command a member of his team. Still, he can't help but ponder how much things have changed in such a short time. Just than Soma Peries enters and introduces herself, Kati acknowledges her and Soma's many achievements. Soma isn't here for praise, she's here for another reason. Kati wonders how Sergei is doing but Soma can't really say considering she was the only one called here. Still, Sergei has been a good father and it's a shame that he couldn't be here considering his reputation.

Whatever the case Kati gets back to business and introduces Bismark who in turn introduces his squad members - mainly Andrei. Soma is shocked to learn who Andrei really is, he's the son of Sergei! Andrei though would prefer that Sergei not be brought up anymore and that he had long since abandoned his "father". Soma doesn't understand but decides to keep quiet. Now that the introductions are in Kati would prefer everyone behave and they all get back to business. However before that can occur they're supposed be joined by another who... Isn't there. Where did he run off to now?

In a prison cell is the Black Knights who aren't sure how long they've been left to rot since the Rebellion failed. Tamaki tries to make the best of things but Ohgi doesn't seem all there. Of course this just gets Tamaki to try and cheer everyone up since he has his doubts that Zero had actually betrayed them, clearly there was a god reason that Zero left them all! Speaking of that, what exactly happened? Chiba is quite blunt in pointing out that Zero had left them all to rot, Tamaki though can't believe that his best buddy would do that! Have faith! Ohgi isn't one to jump to conclusions here but things are dire and he can't shake off something....

The Holy Swordsmen don't like that Ohgi and Tamaki haven't realized that they were screwed over and that no matter what the facts support that Zero abandoned them and is dead. Tohdoh doesn't understand what happened either, it just didn't make sense for Zero to abandon them at such a crucial time as far as he's concerned. Clearly something happened that changed Zero's resolve but it's a bit late now to ponder such things considering what happened. A stranger than approaches the cell and wishes to speak to Tohdoh. Turns out the stranger knows Tohdoh quite well and admires his Samurai spirit. A shame those bars are getting in the way though. Oh, before he forgets he's Mister Bushido.

Tohdoh is somewhat confused, who are you again? Mister Bushido isn't surprised that Tohdoh doesn't know him however he still remembers him quite well. Tohdoh is able to make out that this man is not Japanese, which isn't something Mister Bushido denies. Instead he would like a duel between the two of them. Tohdoh considers it and decides that he would accept such a challenge if he were able. After all he's Japanese and whether Mister Bushido is Japanese or not makes no difference in a battle between warriors. Despite how nice that sounds Tohdoh can't change that the Black Knights are to be executed any day now.

Mister Bushido decides to offer Tohdoh freedom and a chance to serve the A-Laws in a position of great honor as his equal. Doing this would allow them to duel and for Tohdoh to live like a warrior and not die as a dog! As enticing an offer that is to become a hound of the A-Laws it's something that Tohdoh can't accept. After all, what point is there to serving the A-Laws when they themselves lack any honor? Mister Bushido expected this answer and informs Tohdoh that his unyielding spirit is what convinced him to live by the Bushido Code all that time ago.

Tohdoh is amazed that such an honorable man serves the A-Laws even if he doesn't recall who he is. Anyway, Mister Bushido announces that they will clash blades one day soon and that he's looking forward to besting such a proud and respectable Samurai as Tohdoh. With that Mister Bushido leaves. Ohgi is confused, who the heck was that strange fellow? The rest of the Black Knights also wonder who he is and why he seems to know Tohdoh so well. Tohdoh though thinks that though he may not know the man he can relate to his emotions. However Tohdoh had learned a long time ago that men ruled by emotions will never obtain mastery over Bushido...

Allelujah Haptism, or better known as Subject E-0057, is in a cell all by himself. When the door opens he's blinded by the light and is surprised to be greeted by Soma Peries whom he knows as Marie Parfacy. Soma remembers that in the past she suffered headaches when near him, yet this time there is nothing. Perhaps his last battle all that time ago had disrupted his Quantem Brainwaves? Allelujah though continues to call out to Marie and tries to get her to remember who he is. Soma has no idea who this Marie is which gets Allelujah to shout that she is Marie! They knew each other back at the institute!

Soma becomes agitated and says that she is not this "Marie", whoever that is! Allelujah is at a loss, Marie clearly doesn't remember him or herself at all. This angers Soma who shouts that she is Soma Peries! Hearing this shocks Allelujah, why doesn't Marie remember anything? Could it be that she's just like he was? Just than the twins come in, they warn Soma to control herself. After all, Soma was granted a chance to speak with the prisoner freely not to inflict harm upon him out of anger. Soma questions why she's being interrupted. As far as she's concerned she doesn't need anyone to keep tabs on her at all, especially when she wasn't told of their arrival before hand. The twins mention that the prisoner is a prized prison after all so they aren't exactly sorry for getting in the way of her interrogation.

This gets Soma's attention who questions why they're all here and who the twins really work for since this isn't adding up. The twins announce that they aren't really to picking sides though if they had to be on one they would be with the Secret Society that Soma has clearly heard about but knows little of. Soma than questions what they want, the twins counter that they're very interested in the prisoner and Soma. After all they are perfected Super Soldiers and they would very much like to study both of them. Obviously this disgusts Soma as the twins continue that they could gain a lot of useful information from those two so that they could better perfect the Perfect Soldier.

Unwilling to be made into a lab rat Soma tells them that she wont play ball. This angers the twins but at the very least Soma says they may do with the prisoner as they see fit before she walks off. The twins expected such a response but at the very least one Super Soldier is better than none. As they ponder what to do next Allelujah sadly mutters Marie's name as she vanishes. This gets Yplison's attention who wonders why he calls out that name so much. Allelujah mentions that she is the reason he still yet lives and the one he will do anything to get back. This strikes true with Yplison who can understand considering his woman trouble as well.

Yplison asks for the prisoners name whom he learns is Allelujah Haptism. That name, he'll be sure to remember that. With that out of the way Yplison bonds with Allelujah and informs him that he desires to reach perfection through what they can learned from Allelujah though he does sympathize with him. Just before anything can be done the alarm goes off which angers the twins who were looking forward to experimenting on Allelujah. This is the worst of times! The twins tell Yplison to watch Allelujah as they head off to see what the heck is going on. This doesn't suit well with Yplison who says that if a certain AT is spotted he will fight. The twins ask him if he's willing to disobey just for a chance like that? Yplison mentions that it is something he must do, Allelujah wonders what could be up with Yplison...

Outside Feldt confirms that the Operation is starting off quite smoothly. Sumuragi explains that the Operation will go as follows. As the main force engages the enemy defense force the 00 will open a way for Kallen and Chirico to break into the prison. Kallen will go after the Black Knights while Chirico will go free Allelujah. Chirico acknowledges his mission while Kallen swears that she will liberate her comrades without a hitch. Feldt asks Setsuna if he wants to add anything, he's confused. Feldt continues that Marina is being held here and that she knows he is close to her.

Thus Setsuna should be saving her, right? Setsuna seems completely taken aback by this news and what's expected of him. Heero tells Setsuna that he should go. Setsuna understands but is still conflicted. Tieria continues that he will remain to watch their backs, after all there should be plenty of time for someone like Setsuna to rescue Marina during the rescue operation. This touches Setsuna who decides to save Marina after all. Sumuragi figures this in her plans and tells everyone that they have 3 minutes to get those 3 into the prison if this operation is to succeed since it's the amount of time for the defense force to organize. Marking the prison Sumuragi warns that if they don't hurry they will be overwhelmed. Lasse notices that Sumuragi is wearing her old uniform again which Sumuragi acknowledges though it doesn't mean a thing yet.

After some banter Sumuragi warms up and says that they owe the Japanese and the Black Knights this much at least, they can't fail to save their friends. Feldt tells everyone that the initial defense force has gathered forth! Kati is in charge and can't believe that Celestial Being had arrived so close while being undetected! Immediately she deduces they're here for the prisoners and orders a full attack to prevent this from happening! Bismark will see to that. Kamille figures that Allelujah really is here after all and is in danger, this large showing of force proves that. Kallen notices the ATs and worries for Chirico who seems deep in thought. Chirico suspects that Yplison may be here. Sumuragi quickly reminds everyone that they're on the clock and that Setsuna, Kallen, and Chirico need to reach the prison in time! Once they're in the initial forces must be taken out before the rest of the defense forces arrive! Mission acknowledged, Sumuragi orders that Operation is to begin!

[Work in Progress]

Stage 13 - Go With Kallen

The sudden appearance of Insalaum and its flagship cause ZEXIS more than enough problems. It seems that the Imperum isn't quite dead after all. During the fighting Setsuko appears out of nowhere to lend aid much to ZEUTH and Shinn's delight(If on the Go With Kallen Route). She's not exactly sure why she was brought here to this world but is glad to finally encounter familiar faces after her aimless wandering.

After the battle is over Setsuko meets with the ZEUTH crew members and is properly introduced to ZEXIS. Setsuko hits it off with Esther who has started taking to seeing Setsuko as a beautiful big sister type figure which is something Setsuko doesn't seem to have an issue with and is glad to be quick and close friends with Esther.

Stage 15

Traiya and Esther are discussing how ZEXIS is coming back together though Esther lets slip that she hopes to meet with Crowe soon which she soon regrets saying. Traiya asks Esther what could she possibly mean by that and a blushing Esther tells Traiya that it's for ZEXIS only, her being in with ZEXIS is just a coincidence.

It's not like she's likes him and is looking forward to meeting up with him again or anything, ZEXIS just needs Crowe since he's an important member which is the only reason she's asking for him! Right... With that out of that way they get back to business at hand, being with ZEXIS means she's made a lot of enemies after all.

Meanwhile ZEXIS decides to take a break and relax, they've earned it after all considering all they've accomplished already. While they go enjoy themselves Esther trails off on her own and arrives at the ruins of a city. DMs were clearly the ones responsible for this which causes her to remember her painful past. As she reflects she is approached by Setsuko who wonders what Esther is doing out here all by herself. Esther brushes it off that is nothing but Setsuko knows something is wrong, however she wont press Esther. Instead she tells Esther that she is always willing to listen and that she doesn't need to keep her emotions all bottled up, Setsuko than leaves.

Alone once more Esther ponders what Setsuko has just said but is than approached by a young looking woman in a Lolita dress. The woman seems to be lost and unsettling innocent and girly. Esther wonders what a strange woman is doing here at these ruins. Marilyn feigns ignorance but soon gets tired of the charade when Esther actually starts she's just an innocent and reveals that she is Marilyn Catto, like Esther is supposed to care. Marilyn says that she is the leader of Firebug, mercenaries that frequently clean up "accident" sites of all witnesses, fan the flames of rebellion, and that Crowe was a part of Firebug whom she personally trained. In fact Crowe was there all those years ago when Esther's life went to hell!

Esther can't believe what she's hearing and says that Marilyn is lying. This causes Marilyn to laugh, she pities Esther. Such an ignorant girl and clearly untrustworthy since Crowe never told her the truth of his past and how closely it is connected to Esther's. Esther isn't going to stand for this woman slandering Crowe's good name or say that Crowe kept such things from her which gets on Marilyn's nerves. No matter, she doesn't need Esther to believe a thing. All Esther needs to do is be a good little kitten and just let herself be used as bait to draw out Crowe.

Many people are very interested in Crowe and she personally wants to punish Crowe for betraying Firebug over a girl who wasn't exactly drop dead gorgeous. At least not compared to her, for Marilyn is perfection! Firebug than attempts to capture Esther who isn't some cheap damsel in distress! She punches, kicks, and manages to escape their clutches and get to her Brasta Es. However before she can escape and contact ZEXIS her signal is jammed and Firebug appears and there are a lot of them.

Marilyn explains to Esther in great detail more of Crowe's past as a member of Firebig to torment her. Such as Crowe being her star prodigy that she spent years training or how Crowe killed innocents with the media classifying them as "Accidents" when they were really cover ups. Or that Crowe took dirty money, did horrifying things to his fellow human beings, and obeyed her every command which usually involved breaking many laws, at least until Esther ruined everything. After all, Crowe meeting Esther ended up erasing years of work she had put into Crowe since she had wanted him to proudly take up the Firebug name. Sure many would have to die by his hands but think of the honor of being a true successor of Firebug!

If anything Marilyn would have been fine with Crowe just having his way with Esther since Crowe is a man with needs and Esther for some reason left an impression on him which she'll never know why since Esther is like an A, or a B though C is pushing it, and Marilyn is a DD+ which is a generous understatement. Than when he was done with her he could have even taken her in as a pet which Marilyn may have even let Crowe keep if he behaved himself and remembered to feed Esther every once and awhile. Instead the fool ditched Firebug for a whimpering girl that couldn't stand the sight of mass murder! Oh... Before getting too off track Marilyn reminds Esther that Crowe was there when her family died and participated in cleaning up that mess too before he betrayed Firebug. So isn't it grand how dirty the hands of the man she's in love with is?

Despite all that has been said Esther fights back her disgust and chooses to resist and believe in Crowe which pisses off Marilyn who calls Esther a naive child since Crowe is no saint. After a bit of foreplay Marilyn eventually gets bored at watching her Firebug fail to capture Esther and calls forth for the Firebugs star formation. Her four bodyguards quickly surround and bombard Esther who is now at the mercy of Marilyn. She damages the Brasta Es and warns Esther to stay down or her next strike will be fatal. Esther can only do just as that as Marilyn wonders how to best use her freshly caught bait. Just as Firebug moves in to secure Esther they are attacked by Crowe who appears out of nowhere and rushes to Esther's aid.

Esther is glad to see Crowe and Marilyn is as well since this saves her the trouble of luring him into a trap. Crowe asks Esther to come to his side which she happily obliges to, she's still seeing stars and hearts from being saved by the love of her life. ZEXIS than appears as well but receives a hefty bombardment from Firebug. After shrugging that off Crowe and ZEXIS go move to smash Firebug. While that is going on Esther meets a strange woman, Siony, at the beach who gives her some Tuna Buns. Strange.

When Crowe attacks Marilyn she says it's nice they have a chance to meet after all this time. If Crowe is a good boy Marilyn will even let him rejoin Firebug after his "Punishment". Crowe isn't exactly taken in by this offer and tells Marilyn he'll make her pay for the hell she put him through. Fine, but that was Crowe's one and only chance to get out of this in one piece! Crowe tells her that things have changed and she's about to learn just how far he has come and is no longer just her former student but more than enough to be her equal. So rude, perhaps Marilyn should have put more effort in obtaining that girl after all to use as leverage.

Once Marilyn is defeated she taunts Crowe and tells him that this is just the beginning of things to come and that she'll be back to later play some more with not only him but the little kitten as well. Arksabers than appear after Marilyn leaves though they prove no match for ZEXIS. Soon enough their leader, Gerard - Knight of Knights, appears and he's looking forward to beating Crowe. After all Crowe was the one that killed Cheval, right? This is payback, honor, and the such! Despite his determination he is defeated and forced to retreat before he can get "serious". Clearly it was his Mecha's fault he lost.

After the battle Esther separates from ZEXIS and is all by herself on the beach looking at the sea. Crowe finds her all by herself and can tell she's conflicted and confused, he than opens up about his past as a member of Firebug, who Marilyn is, and that he has done many regrettable things in his life and that he did save her all those years ago. In fact meeting Esther also played a part in saving his own soul since he was in a dark place before meeting her even though the circumstances weren't exactly ideal. Crowe than says that he's sorry that Esther lost her family, friends, and innocence all in one day and that fate has been most cruel to her and that he is also at fault for her suffering.

However fate wasn't entirely cruel, it brought them together after all right? Esther says there's nothing to forgive and she doesn't hate Crowe even though he did some questionable things in the past and may have even worked with those responsible for the failed experiment that took the lives of her family and friends. Instead she's glad that they were able to meet and cherishes all the time they have spent together so far.

At this point ZEXIS appears and are very loud in voicing how much they missed Crowe and that they were surprised at catching the Brasta rushing at ridiculous speeds to go to Esther's aid. Esther is embarrassed that Crowe went to such lengths for her sake but she's glad. Kallen sees her blushing and wonders if Esther is "in love" but she protests that that isn't the case. ZEXIS than piles on and they all tease Esther over her obvious feelings for Crowe who enjoys watching Esther being her Tsundere self once more since her being sad just doesn't suit her. Curious civilians notice the commotion and head over to where ZEXIS has gathered at on the Beach and quickly demand that the pilot of the Brasta pay for all the damages.

Turns out Crowe had really pushed the Brasta to its limits and the accompanying sonic boom had caused a large amount of damages. Crowe is pressured to pay and has no choice but to ask for a loan and gets stuck back in debt. However, he isn't all mad since he did get to enjoy his freedom for a time before getting wrapped back into battle against debt. Esther wonders if this means they'll be working together from now on which he says that seems to be the case. Esther is happy since this means she can spend more time with Crowe to win his heart and build up the courage to let him know just how she feels about him.

Elsewhere Marilyn has concluded that with all of that extra firepower that ZEXIS is throwing around she may actually need help to get back at Crowe after all. Thus she convinces Uther to let her serve as his guide to this world and she offers the services of Firebug as well. Naturally Wayne and Anbrorn protest but Uther is taken in by Marilyn's princess-like behavior and agrees to let Marilyn tag along and she get a new mecha(Pearl Nail) as a sign of good faith. Marilyn in turn is looking forward to this new partnership and she always wanted to get in good with real royalty, especially one so handsome.

Stage 16

Uther announces his intentions to the World(Which isn't healthy at all for anyone but Insalaum considering they're basically making giant bombs) and the power of ZONE which they just built in a city crater of their own making. Really swell bunch, huh? ZEXIS moves in to intercept Insalaum since this ZONE business sounds bad but they still don't have a good idea what it's supposed to do.

Zero tells them that even with such unknowns they're the only ones that can intervene, so no matter how bothersome it is to go in blind they have no choice in the matter. ZEXIS agrees, though Setsuko seems to have a better idea on what's going on than the rest but she keeps it to herself. She silently puts it upon herself to protect ZEXIS, Esther, and Crowe with her life if need be if things take a turn for the worst.

When they finally arrive Insalaum is waiting with a large force around ZONE. Crowe leads the charge and smashes up the Arksabers pretty good, though during the fighting Marguerite will try and challenge Crowe. Crowe lets slip their history, from Hakai-Hen, and that they're fighting once again. Uther is shocked that Marguerite seems to know the enemy pilot personally but she remains that she's loyal to her Prince and will fight. Crowe sees no way around it so he lays the smackdown on Marguerite with Esther who isn't all too happy with fighting Marguerite since she had helped ZEXIS and her in the past though she's starting to get suspicious just what Marguerite's relationship is with Crowe.

If Anbrorn is defeated she restores the flagship through the power of ZONE and reminds Marilyn that the power and mysteries of ZONE are unlimited, which is no mere boast. The flagship is now immune to all damage so ZEXIS turns their attention at the reluctant Prince. After he takes any form of damage he panics and retreats, not the best showing for Insalaum's Leader. Anbrorn than releases 4 large DMs to cover their escape, after their defeat Setsuko moves in to examine ZONE up close. Just than ZONE reacts and starts going crazy and threatens to destroy everything within close radius, the city is no exception.

Asakim than appears to greet ZEXIS and Setsuko after their time apart. Setsuko and Shinn are furious at Asakim and if ZONE wasn't in the way they would make him pay for all he's done. However Asakim isn't here to fight, in fact he just came here to explain just how dire their situation is(If ZONE goes off they're all going to be engulfed by it) and wonders what Setsuko will do. Setsuko understands and uses her sphere to stop ZONE with ZEXIS telling her to wait. She isn't persuaded and wishes them the best of luck, especially for Crowe and Esther since things will get rougher from here on out.

Asakim is giddy over Setsuko's "sacrifice" and getting her away from Crowe since she could prove problematic, but now isn't the time to reap. Asakim leaves and ZEXIS mourns the loss of Setsuko but promise to save her. This hits Esther particularly hard since she had grown very close to Setsuko despite their short time together. With Setsuko gone there's also no one to help Crowe deal with his sphere since there's always a chance he will awaken and lose control. If that time comes than only tragedy will follow...

Stage 18

ZEXIS is forced to participate in the Ashford hat event, at least the the members that got caught on Ashford property when Milly made her announcement that is. The students at Ashford go crazy for Lelouch and the pairs of lovers in ZEXIS split off on their own. Crowe isn't really the type to get involved in such childish antics and is set in to relax until things calm down.

Unfortunately it seems like he's going to be waiting for quite a while. Lock-On is amused over the antics of the Ashford inhabitants, many of which are smitten by his good looks, and ZEXIS members pairing off with their loved ones. Just than Esther interrupts the relaxing pair with the intent on bagging Crowe herself. Crowe finds this very amusing and decides to "play" with Esther by taunting her and telling her she must try harder which motivates her to chase after him. With that Crowe runs off with Esther chasing after him as Lock-On watches the chaos unfold.

During the events Heero runs into Lelouch and deduces that Lelouch is Zero. Just when things become tense Relena comes in and wants to talk to Heero, Lelouch senses the weakness from Heero when it comes to Relena and "excuses" himself so that the pair may be alone. Heero thinks that this isn't over but he can't exactly just ditch Relena.

When Terrorists lock up students Lelouch acts as bait and allows Shirley and his friends to escape which puts elouch in avery wakward situation - a room full of angry Terrorists. Just when Lelouch is faced with possible death the window is broken through by Crowe, Heero, and all the badasses of ZEXIS at this point who save Lelouch from the angry Terrorists who retreat to get in their mecha. Before Lelouch can join ZEXIS, Heero has a chat with "Zero".

ZEXIS gets in their mecha as well to put a stop to the terrorists, just than Suzaku, Gino, and Anya appear. Suzaku wants to take out Zero now but knows that innocents comes first so the knights of the round reluctantly work with Zero to save Ashford. When Esther confronts the terrorists she's furious, they got in the way of her making Crowe hers! They will suffer greatly this day!

After the fighting Suzaku reluctantly allows ZEXIS to leave the scene, this time. Back at Ashford, Shirley ambushes Lelouch and gets his hat and than gives him hers. Milly than shows up to reveal that the whole event was a ruse to get the two to admit their feelings for each other. Lelouch still has a harem he's trying to juggle so he isn't exactly committed to this but Shirley tells him that she'll continue loving him. Than maybe one day he will grow to love her as well. - Death Flag.

When Lelouch returns to his ship he's in his room with Kallen and C.C.(They aren't doing anything dirty, stop thinking that!). As they discuss the day's events Heero arrives to the girls shock since Zero isn't wearing his mask! Lelouch tells everyone to calm down, Heero already knows. Kallen is cautious but Heero promises to keep Lelouch's identity a secret since Zero's goals line up with Relena's at this time.