>>23332942

[Jown Kowen's fleet has been redeployed to eradicated the Neo Zeon remnants on Earth. The EX-S prototype has been assigned to Bernard Wiseman's use in eliminating the fleet under Beecha Oleg's command. AEUG will allow Orthodox Zeon to move forward with its planned efforts against Neo Zeon]

The barely intact remnants of AEUG's forces on Earth move to quarantine Beecha's forces from deploying into Europe. While Beecha's forces have not begun to mobilize yet, tension remain over concerns of the already ravaged biosphere of the Earth being further taxed.

John: Another experimental Gundam...Lieutenant Wiseman, I understand you are confident in being able to control this new machine?
>Bernard: Given how well the Zeta II was performing, everything here seems like a straight upgrade. I won't let you down.
>John: If we can isolate them from leaving what remains of the United Kingdom, it will give our allies time to reorganize.

Acquainting himself with the EX-S's systems, Bernard takes notice of the "A.L.I.C.E" system also outlined in the Superior Gundams design.

>Bernard: This must be that self learning system that was being touted...

As Bernard looks into the design further, he can't help but feel he is being watched by something outside of his sight. Meanwhile in space, Elpeo tries to rest from the previous battle, only for the noises that had come from Asherah's heartbeat to haunt her dreams once again. As she springs awake however, Elpeo panics as the noise continues even in her awakened state.

>Elpeo: (M-make it stop...just make the noises stop...!)
>Emma: Another bad dream? Is this about...where we are going? I know your father is the leader of Neo Zeon, but if you are unsure about-
>Elpeo: Miss Emma?
>Emma: I know the crew is being told to treat you as an adult, and you have more than enough to prove yourself as a-

Pressing her head against Emma's chest, Elpeo clings onto her body to listen to her heartbeat, just as Asherah had done.