>>23316445

>Hayato: You can not expect us to just sit here and watch while the Federation just bends its knee!
>Wong:...It could benefit us in the long run to allow them to ruin their own credibility with the public. Should Neo Zeon break off negotiations and begin attacking occupied sections-
>Hayato: Absolutely not! We are not using the people of Earth as some sort of political ploy to-
>Wong: Listen to me! If we act now, they will just begin slaughtering innocents while using our deployment as an excuse! It is an awful thing, but we have no other choice in this matter...unless Karaba were to act independently of us.
>Hayato: Chairman...
>Wong: We need every able body up in here is space right now, but if I can't convince you to listen to reason on this and you will deploy for Earth regardless...the AEUG will have no choice but to divorce itself completely from its ties to Karaba.

Meanwhile, the Argama fends off yet another attack from Neo Zeon's pursuit fleet, only to find themselves above the atmosphere of Africa.

>Bright: At this rate, we will be pincered between their forces and the fleets at Luna II. I can't believe the Federation would capitulate so easily...
>Emma: Please, try to get some rest. I can take over until you can have a few hours of sleep.
>Bright: No, I-
>Emma: I insist, sir. Nothing is more dangerous to a crew than an irrational Captain.
>Bright:...Thank you, Emma.

Making his way to his quarters, Bright rolls his eyes as he sees Elpeo raiding the Argama's food storage for any sweets. As Bright seals himself within his room, he collapses onto his bed, almost immediately falling into a deep sleep. Slipping out from a vent, Asherah slowly creeps closer to Bright, before moving her face to his. With a small gulp, the young girl plants her lips to Brights. After a few moments of holding the kiss, Asherah slowly moves her head to Brights chest, planting her ear to his chest to listen to his heartbeat.

>Asherah: Papa...