Author's note: The author's note for this chapter is a tad longer than my usual ones, because this work is completely different from how I usually write (unfortunately, since the sections themselves are short, this pretty well doubles the length of the chapter). This story will consist of 17 parts, in which I identify an arcana, compare it to a character from Code Geass, and write a short soliloquy from that character's point of view. I wasn't sure how to categorize it, because it's not really poetry OR prose.

For those who don't know, the "arcana" are the 23 unique cards that make up the higher deck of Tarot Cards. Each one has a number from 0 to 22, a distinct name, and a variety of philosophical interpretations. Comparisons to anime are very common, and some anime series (such as X and Trinity Blood) release their own versions of the arcana cards with the characters featured in them. I will be using the first seventeen (numbers zero through 16), though I might use more, depending on how well received this is. I'd give you the list of arcana, as well as my interpretations of them, but has a very strict rule regarding lists.

While I already have an idea of which character I'll represent with each card, I want to hear your opinions as well. If you think a certain character embodies a certain card, tell me who they are in addition to your review. If a majority feels a certain way, I'll change my writing accordingly. Anyway, without further ado, here's the start:

Arcana 0: The Fool
Lelouch Lamperouge

The fool represents infinity. It is the absence of wisdom or experience, and because of this it is the potential for anything. All sensible men know what is impossible. They achieve their prosperity by living within the boundaries they create with their own common sense. A fool is one who strives for what we all know is beyond accomplishment. He bears insult and jeer. He endures the extremes of pain and despair that only a fool can ever know.

Should he fail (as most do), he will perish in disgrace. Those who knew him will look down upon his life, and shame his lack of sense. Should he succeed, then live or die he will be reborn as a legend. In short, all men who pursue their dreams are fools. We must remember the devotion and strength it requires to give one's all for their desires. We must also bear in mind that the number of the fool is "zero"- emptiness with unlimited potential.

I am Lelouch Lamperouge.

I was the sole mourner at the existential funeral of the naïve boy known as Lelouch vi Brittania. In truth, I have no name. Neither my life nor my ambition is my own. I adore my sister, who was robbed of her light. I loved my mother, who was robbed of her life. They are my raison d'être. I am the spirit of vengeance and the wind of change who acts for his sister's future and his mother's memory. I take blood unto my hands to keep theirs untainted, and for their happiness adorn the disgraceful title of 'fratricide.'



… I exist for them, thus I am nothing.

…I am Zero.

Run to me, all who have suffered and known defeat! Justice is my siren's call. Assemble before me, unite beneath me, and help me to destroy this ugly world. When the dust has settled it is you who will recreate it: A glorious and peaceful world. A land that is truly worthy of my beloved sister, Nunally. You have nothing to fear, for my failure is impossible.

I will fight on!

Even if all who exalt me are vanquished I will fight on!

Even if my humanity is lost, and I become chaos incarnate I will fight on!

My resolve cannot be broken. I will assuage my hatred with my father's blood. The nation of Japan will be my sword. Geass will be my shield. Nunnaly's smile will be crest and flag.