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In the briefing room, there's a quick discussion of the encounter with Alfimi. Judging by her use of human language, she might be a human being; in fact, Irm's quite certain from the voice that she'll turn out to be a pretty girl just like Latooni. 
Kyosuke is also sure that she looks like a human girl, at least outwardly - although when asked, he can't explain exactly why he thinks that way beyond intuition. Bullet's willing to run with the idea: when the red mech appeared, he felt something, like a will or a consciousness.
Kyosuke: (But why was I the only one to hear their voices? Why did that girl Alfimi want to talk to me?)
Irm: "Whatever they are, it's safe to say they're hostile."
Rai: "Right. They hit that burial mound as well, so we can expect more attacks from them."
Irm: "This is a hell of a way to kick off Operation Mole Hunt."
Kyosuke: (They might be after you as well, Excellen. Be safe...)
Way ahead of you there, buddy.
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After their delay, the Hagane is back on track and ready to head for the rendezvous point...
...When an encrypted message comes in from Command. The DC remnants are launching a surprise attack on the Federation.