Disclaimer: I do not own Code Geass or its characters.
Japanese is in italics. 'French is with a single parenthesis.'
March 5, 2023
Deithard Reid exits his car and walks towards his apartment. Over the past few years he gains increasingly less access to the emperor and his court. A small part of him is relieved that he can return to his previous occupation, but the larger part of him wants to be there as Lelouch pushes forward. He wants to be there as Lelouch changes the world. Now he is simply another television producer. Except that others have not forgotten his role in making Lelouch a hero. Deithard opens his door. It is the last thing that he does as an explosion sends him flying through the air killing him.
Kosetsu Urabe and Sora Cummins are providing security for Nagisa Chiba and her three children, the nearly three year old Takashi and Rei and the newly born Haruhi. Disguising the birth is simple since Nagisa uses her married name of Lamperouge which very few people can connect to her or the Emperor. However the greatest concern is not for her or her children but for Urabe. Only the most insanely fanatically person would attack the children or wife of Lelouch vi Britannia.
Sora glances at Urabe signaling that it is almost time for the operation. Urabe would rather the empress consort be inside her palace or the government building. Instead she is visiting the graves of her parents and grandparents. Urabe looks towards Tohdoh's grave which is about one hundred meters away. Unlike other Japanese rebels and usurpers, Kyoshiro Tohdoh is declared a hero and is given a place of honor.
As Urabe walks in that direction, he thinks of the genius of Lelouch vi Britannia. By declaring Tohdoh a hero and basically making his grave a museum, it is now a public place. Since they do not want to damage the site honoring their hero or injure innocent civilians, today's rebels only have one place to strike. Because of its size it is also a good place to hide important things like weapons, power suits, and more importantly soldiers.
"Lord Urabe, General Kouzuki is already in position," Lilicia Gottwald states, "From what I have been able to perceive, no one here at the museum is involved in the plot."
"I didn't think that they would try anything here," Urabe replies, "What is your plan to get Chiba and her kids of the area?"
"Colonel Futaba is taking care of that issue at the moment."
Urabe nods and prepares for his part. Ichiro Futaba may not be particularly skilled at any one thing, but he is extremely loyal at to Lelouch vi Britannia.
"Are you joining us today, Major?"
"No, I will stay and observe from here."
"Then I will get ready."
Lilicia nods as Urabe leaves. After he leaves, Lilicia swallows a few pills for her headache. She knows that they do nothing for her condition, but they make her feel calm. Despite all of Lelouch's warnings, she continues to use her geass to read people's minds. At first she does it to help with situation, but soon it becomes an obsession. She has to know what people are thinking. Even now knowing that things will most likely go as planned, she cannot stop using her geass. She swallows more pills hoping that it will help calm her down.
Sora Cummins is standing behind Nagisa Chiba holding the newly born Haruhi Lamperouge. Being an only child Sora loves being around children. It is also because her duties as a Knight of the Round keep her busy and unable to start a family for now.
"Lady Chiba, perhaps we should prepare to move. Colonel Futaba is on his way."
Nagisa nods in agreement. She does not care about the danger to herself, but the danger to her children bothers her. However there is no other way to draw out his particular group of rebels.
Nagisa hands her children to her servants.
"As soon as the explosions begin, make a run for the cart that Colonel Futaba is driving," Nagisa says.
The JLF are making their move towards the cemetery on the outskirts of the Tokyo Settlement. Because of the people that inhabit it, the cemetery is built on the opposite side of the Settlement from Shinjuku which in recent years has become the haven for criminal activity. Despite the possibility of police raids, the area provides excellent cover for their activities. Although some of things that go on bother Asahina and Senba, they understand the necessity.
They are traveling aboard a large land transport. Given Tokyo's size and commerce, this is not an unusual sight. Everyday there are several hundred land transports moving around Tokyo. In the air they also have their VTOL patrolling the sky. Again this is not an unusual sight since the small air units are used for transport around the city.
"Inoue and Yoshida are moving the VTOL into position," Takeshi Nagata states.
"Good, prepare the knightmares for the operation," Asahina replies, "Let's move in closer. We don't want to give them time to react."
The JLF have two Glasgow, three Gekka, and one Akatsuki in their position. A few of those knightmares have been constructed with various spare parts. They hope that their limited mechanical knowledge does not fail them today. Knightmares are such sensitive and finicky vehicles.
Asahina hopes that Chiba can get her children out of the way. Even though they are the children of Lelouch vi Britannia, they are innocent. Of course he does not mention this to any of his men because many of them would hurt the children because of this. Still he would like Chiba to pay for what she has done.
Naoto looks down at the two VTOL heading towards the cemetery. He suspects that they will use the few knightmares that they have to cause a distraction. From what his informants tell him, the JLF have six knightmares. None of them are a match for his renovated and restored Shen Hu. He even doubts that they can handle Lelouch's lesser specimens.
"Our targets are the large transport trucks to the southwest of the cemetery. Hit the transports before they unload their knightmares."
The four GX-01 Betas under Naoto's command slam into the transport trucks before the knightmares can get out. They quickly jam the doors and trap the knightmares inside. Naoto knows that the knightmares are only a distraction and that the two VTOL are going to be used to capture Urabe and Chiba. Naoto will have to take care of them.
Just as the JLF uses the activity to disguise its presence, Urabe and Sora do the same. Who would notice if a few more people were visiting the cemetery? Who pays attention to a few small trucks or air transports? The JLF is quite preoccupied with their own affairs that would not notice small details that did not pertain to their attack.
Asahina quickly realizes that things are going to get out of control. His transport trucks are rapidly attacked and disabled trapping the knightmares and pilots within. The VTOL must act quickly to capture Chiba before she can escape.
Ichiro moves to secure Nagisa and her children before that attack on the transport trucks. Once they are on the cart, they will be safe from anything but a direct knightmare attack. Who else but Lelouch would think of building a fleet of carts with blaze luminous. The two VTOL are quickly pursuing them. This is the moment that Naoto chooses to come down. He uses his wrist slash harkens to take out the two VTOL. Unfortunately the cart is boxed in by the crashing vehicles. One of the JLF transport trucks comes to life and charges into the cemetery straight at Naoto's knightmare.
Takeshi Nagata decides to put an end to situation by charging forward with one of the trucks. Before the operation all transport vehicles are loaded with explosives in case a suicide attack is needed. Nagata figures with the sakuradite and ammunition the explosion will be large enough to take out a city block. He smashes the truck into the leg of Naoto's knightmare disabling it. Nagata manages to grab the trigger.
"Nippon banzai!"
However Nagata does not see that the four GX-01 Betas quickly pursue his truck. One of the specimens leaps towards Nagata and decapitates him. The other specimens quickly clear a path for the cart to escape. After that they take the survivors out of the VTOL and trucks. Naoto exits his knightmare and walks over to the survivors. Ichiro returns after having dropped off his package. Urabe and Sora are directing the situation from a secure location. Soldiers and knightmares begin to pour into the cemetery from a nearby warehouse.
Naoto looks down at the survivors. He does not recognize any of them. That does not necessarily mean much since the pre-Britannian Japanese army is quite large. Of course Naoto or Ichiro would know anyone that has anything to do with knightmares. Since these guys did not blast their way out of the transport trucks, they are knightmare neophytes.
Naomi Inoue is in a lot of pain. She is still not sure if she is lucky to survive the VTOL crash. She wonders what sort of prison her Britannian captors will send her to. She instantly recognizes Ichiro Futaba but does not have the energy say or do anything to him. When she sees Naoto, she wants to curse at him, but she cannot contain her shock at who is behind him.
"Impossible, they are supposed to be dead."
Naoto kneels and lifts Inoue up.
"They are dead, but The Almighty Emperor has decided to grant them a second life. One in which they may be useful."
"General Kouzuki, the soldiers are here to take the survivors for questioning," Ichiro states.
Naoto looks around.
"These people don't know anything. Have them expand the perimeter. We will not stop until we find Asahina and Senba. They are the leaders of this little party. Those are my orders directly from Her Majesty Empress Kaguya yama Britannia."
"What do we do with these people?" Ichiro asks.
"Send them to the airship prison," Naoto replies as he lifts Inoue to his feet, "Except for this one, the Brit bastard may find her useful."
Ichiro nods and begins following Naoto's orders. Naoto takes Inoue aboard his knightmare and up to his airship. He places her in a holding cell. Naoto heads straight for his bathroom and begins to vomit. The look on Inoue's face when she sees the specimens is too much for Naoto to handle. He certainly would not dare move against Lelouch now knowing what he is capable of or more importantly what he is willing to do.
Inoue sit in her cell and begins to cry. Making it more painful is that her captors are Japanese. She wonders what they intend to do with her. She hopes that no harm comes to her family.
Kaguya looks out her window. In the distance she can see the commotion in the northeast section of the city.
"Your Majesty, Lady Cummins is on the phone."
Kaguya nods and picks up her phone.
"Is it over?"
"Yes Your Majesty."
"Very well. I will speak with Lady Chiba when she arrives."
Kaguya ends the call and sighs. She never imagines ruling a nation to be so difficult. Of all Lelouch's wives she is the one given the opportunity to rule her own nation. Although Lihua is still Tianzi in China, but she still does not rule of her own accord. After a few more minutes of work Kaguya decides to head home. She boards her personal VTOL which is quickly surrounded by other VTOL and knightmares. They arrange themselves in a particular pattern and activate their absolute defense shields. In this formation much like Lelouch and Euphie's knightmares, Kaguya's VTOL is untouchable. Although it takes several people to work the shield while Lelouch can handle it himself.
Once she arrives at her palace, Kaguya schedules a meeting with Nagisa. She hopes that everything goes according to Lelouch's plan.
Cassius ru Britannia is traveling his new assignment. Despite having been in southeast Asia for over a decade, the emperor finds it necessary to move him elsewhere. While the Middle East and North Africa are contested territory, Iran and the Central Asia states are still very much under Britannian control. He does not understand why Lelouch moves him closer to potential allies in the EU and Africa. However he is grateful for the distance because now he can make moves. In addition his new territory is large enough to hide his new projects. Through various channels he contacts Peace Mark in order to complete a certain task. He does not care about Karine's revenge. His biggest issue is getting what he wants.
Maribelle and the Glinda Knights are on their first mission from Lelouch. They are providing protection for Dr. Rakshata Chawla as she performs several tasks in China. Apart from her own knights, Maribelle also has the Knights of Nine and Ten at her disposal. She is certain that this will be enough o dissuade any potential attack.
Orpheus Zevon, Rai, and Ze Dien are preparing for their mission. Someone hires Peace Mark to capture Rakshata Chawla and anyone that is with her. Ganabati is performing the final maintenance on their knightmares. With the gold from recent raid, they are able to purchase better parts on the Black Market. They also have new recruits although they are not of good quality. Britannia has crushed several small uprisings over the past few years depleting the number of available.
"Let's go boys. Things are about to commence," Miss X remarks
Oldrin instantly recognizes the Peace Mark airship.
"Your highness, I have spotted the enemy," Oldrin remarks.
"Stay in formation," Maribelle commands, "As long as we maintain our positions, they cannot get near their target."
The four Glinda Knights maintain their position in front of Rakshata's airship. The Granberry is flying above to provide cover. Waiting to finish the trap in the distance are Hannah Gottwald and Chelsea Nu.
"This time we take Peace Mark down," Maribelle comments.
The Peace Mark knightmares rush towards Rakshata's airships forcing the Glinda Knights to contend with them.
"Finally we get to see some action," Sokia says, "Lets see if these guys are worth anything."
Hannah and Chelsea come behind the Peace Mark airship to trap the terrorist group.
Orpheus, Rai, and Ze Dien are moving towards their target. The Peace Mark airships are taking a beating. They notice that two of the knightmares attacking their airship are Knights of the Round. Down on the ground three VTOL are also slowly making their way towards the target. According to their information, Rakshata's airship contains a small garrison and mostly contains scientists.
"We are making the final approach to the target," Orpheus remarks.
"Just take it slow," Ze Dien comments, "We do not want them getting a close look at our knightmares and noticing that they are not genuine."
Orpheus grunts and signals for the VTOL to begin its ascent. This is the most crucial piece of the plan. Without the men aboard the three VTOL, they will not be able to take over the airship. It is a rather sneaky plan, but it is their only chance to succeed.
Rakshata is performing final adjustments to Xingke's programming. Over the past year the Chinese man has been undergoing a massive cyberization. For Rakshata, he is one of the more perfect specimens since he is still performing his inner most desire, protecting his empress. However there is the annoyance of a battle occurring nearby. Rakshata certainly does not like being used at bait in this situation. Suddenly several alarms begin to sound. Rakshata ignores them and continues with her work.
"Dr. Chawla, shouldn't we investigate that alarm?"
Rakshata looks at her assistant.
"Don't be silly. One of the soldiers probably got overly excited. Just keep watch over his vital signs."
"You are right about a few things," Ganabati states, "One of the soldiers did get excited and set off the alarm, and you should continue with your work."
"Are you here for me or my little toys?"
"Actually both," Ganabati replies, "Are these specimens ready to be used?"
"These others are ordinary, but this one is special," Rakshata says pointing at Xingke, "In fact his loyalty may make him more useful to your side than to this side."
"Mr. Ganabati, is everything secure down there?" Miss X asks, "We have secured the bridge are beginning take control of the airship."
"Everything is fine down here," Ganabati answers, "We will launch a diversion soon enough."
Rakshata selects several specimens for Peace Mark to launch as a diversion as they steal her airship. As a further distraction Peace Mark scuttles their airship.
Maribelle shockingly stares as Rakshata's airship begins to fire at friendly knightmares and vehicles. She is about to order her team to attack it when the Peace Mark airship explodes.
As Peace Mark escapes with Rakshata's airship, Shin Hyuuga Shaingu and the Darlton brothers capture Rakshata's secondary airship.
Hannah and Chelsea board the Granberry to discuss the situation with Maribelle. The Glinda Knights are quite disappointed in their performance.
"What do you think Lelouch will say about this?" Maribelle asks.
Hannah and Chelsea remain silent.
"I have been looking into the history of Dr. Chawla's airships," Toto Thompson says.
"For what?" Oldrin asks, "They have been captured by the enemy."
"It is just interesting that is all. The airship that we were ordered to protect was formerly the Excalibur I. The secondary airship was once the Boudicca and was also used as a prison ship."
"I recognize those names," Chelsea remarks.
Like any good military academy student of the past decade, Hannah knows the names of Lelouch's knightmares and airships by memories. Those students that have hopes of advancing will know all the names and pilots of the era.
"I figured you might," Toto states, "The Excalibur once belonged to the Emperor, and the Boudicca to Princess Nunnally."
"Are you saying that the emperor plans for this to happen?" Oldrin asks, "That he plans for our failure."
"No," Maribelle states as her subordinates stare at her, "we did not fail. In fact I believe that we have succeeded in infiltrating the enemy. I assume that is the plan of this mission all along. I hope Lelouch knows what he is doing."
Euphemia and Anya successfully stop the knightmares attacking Cornelia and Nonette.
"Too bad these guys are so weak, eh Anya," Euphemia comments
"This is not memorable," Anya remarks.
"Do you think that those knightmares are all they brought?"
"If that is so then, it is a foolish plan."
"That is what I thought," Euphemia states, "Keep looking for anyone else while I go down and check on my sister."
Euphemia disembarks her knightmare and walks towards Cornelia and Nonette. By now soldiers are surrounding the empress-consort and former KOR. She knows that these soldiers can be trusted since they are selected by Lelouch, but that does not mean that they are free from danger.
Suddenly a flash grenade is tossed blinding everyone but Euphemia whose power suit shields her eyes. She quickly jumps to protect Cornelia as a man charges at her with a sword. Euphemia can see the man's smile as he drives the sword in deeper.
"You made a huge mistake attacking my big sister," Euphemia states as she raises her arms and fires at the man driving him back.
Euphemia pulls the sword out of her chest. She tosses it aside and withdraws her MVS.
"Now then, let's finish this."
Euphemia rushes at the man. Soon other attackers rush the pink haired princess. Euphemia leaps in the air and attacks the men once she lands.
"Euphie?" a startled Cornelia gasps.
"That is badass," Nonette remarks, "Sorry Nelly, but she is going to surpass you by a mile."
"Your highness, you have to come with me," Anya states as she takes pictures of Euphemia kicking ass.
"What about Euphie?" Cornelia asks.
"The Empress will be quite angry if I interrupt her fun."
Milly, Liliana, and Marika are providing protection for Faramond and Monica. This is one of the easier tasks that Lelouch's subordinates have since they live in Neo-Pendragon. Faramond is a member of the restored Britannian Parliament. Despite Lelouch's absolute power, the Parliament assists in smaller everyday details of Britannian life. Milly is here because she oversees the actions of Parliament.
"It appears that we will not see the sort of action that the others have seen," Milly disappointedly states.
"I suppose it would be foolish for them to try something here," Liliana comments, "Still we should not let our guard down."
"I know, but this is not what I was expecting."
The three young women continue to wait for anything to happen.
Lelouch and Kallen are traveling back to Neo-Pendragon. Suzaku and Nunnally stay with Dorothea and her son as well as to continue the search for culprits.
"It seems like most of our operations have been successful," Lelouch states, "Even though Milly didn't see any action, she managed to capture a few suspicious characters."
"Is it really part of your plan to have Rakshata captured?" Kallen inquires.
"No, but it does not effect anything. If Karine managed to keep the information from Odysseus' group, then she should have the information on cyborgs."
"Yes, but isn't handing them Xingke along with Rakshata dangerous."
"I suppose it is, but Rakshata was getting restless. It is probably time to cut her loose. At least if they keep her on the airships, we will be able to track where she is."
Kallen sighs and shrugs her shoulders.
"Is it wise to be going to Japan at a time like this?"
It is time for my official visit," Lelouch grins, "You cannot keep me to yourself."
Kallen grunts, "I don't do that," Now Kallen grins, "Or is it that you want to see your new little pets so that they know that they are still good girls."
"Don't be a child. I have prisoners to interrogate."
Kallen wraps her arms around Lelouch.
"It's a long flight. How do you want to spend it?"
"Don't be silly. We are using the Pendragon Thought Elevator to Kamine Island. The airship can make the trip without us. I told you I have prisoners to interrogate."
Kallen kisses Lelouch.
"I guess I will have to change your mind about your plans."
Lelouch shrugs and lets Kallen have her way with him.
March 6, 2023
Lelouch is walking aboard the prison airship towards Ichiro.
"Where is Kouzuki?"
"I believe he is with his wife," Ichiro responds.
"Good, why don't you do the same."
"Your Majesty, these prisoners are dangerous."
"No, I am dangerous! You may leave Colonel Futaba."
Ichiro is startled for a moment, however he nods and does as Lelouch instructs.
"You didn't have to yell at my brother," Ayame remarks.
"He does not have the stomach for what we are about to do," Lelouch states, "Are Urabe and Sora here?"
"Yes, they arrived about an hour ago," Ayame answers.
"I assume that they have captured the targets."
"Yes, they have also begun interrogations."
Lelouch smirks, "I hope they left something for me."
Naomi Inoue is sitting in a dark room. She has been trying to sleep, but her captors are drugging her. Eventually her body will reach its limit, and she will die. Throughout the night she has been hearing noises, but she cannot confirm anything because her eyes are not accustomed to the dark. A light turns on and sitting in front of her is the demon of Britannia himself.
"Good afternoon, Inoue-san."
She simply nods in response.
"Let's make this quick so that you can get the release that you want."
"I won't tell you anything."
"That is disappointing to hear," Lelouch says as he pulls out several pictures, "This is a beautiful family you have here," Lelouch places a picture on Inoue's leg, "Your parents look like good people. They must be because they are taking care of your son. Souta is his name, isn't it? These other two must be your brother Kenta and your sister Miyako. This other girl, I believe her name is Hoshi, isn't this your daughter? You must have been young when you had her."
"Don't hurt my family. They have nothing to do with this," Inoue says as she begins to sob. Inoue feels her hand restraints being released.
"That may be, but unless I get something from you. They will suffer," Lelouch says as he holds up a small monitor, "All you have to do is play nice. The choice is yours."
Inoue quickly begins to wonder what she should do. She is completely unrestrained. Perhaps she can take Lelouch hostage to get away.
"I wonder what is going on in that beautiful mind of yours," Lelouch states as he pulls out a knife and runs it across Inoue's cheek, "You must be thinking of ways to overpower me and take me hostage," Lelouch squeezes the blade with his left hand. Blood begins to drip on the pictures, "But as you can see, that will not work," Lelouch shows her the cut hand which begins to heal before Inoue's eyes, "Now do you have anything to tell me."
Inoue stares at the pictures and monitor which shows her siblings playing with her son.
"They should be in Shinjuku at the Nakamura Hotel."
Inoue is not sure if her eyes are become accustomed to the light or if the room is being slowly lit up. She notices purpled haired Japanese girl hand something to Lelouch. The girl reminds her of Ichiro Futaba.
Lelouch notices Inoue looking at Ayame and smirks.
"I told you that you look like your brother. Even she recognizes you because of it," Lelouch turns his attention back to Inoue, "It seems that your information is incorrect."
Inoue shakes her head.
"You couldn't have checked so fast."
"You did not let me finish. Your information is incorrect because they are all here," Lelouch says as he raises his hand.
All the major players of her resistance cell are sitting in the room with their mouths completely covered. With the exception of Asahina and Senba, they all appear to have suffered through some sort of torture.
"Ayame's note likes to point out that even though they would have not been at the Nakamura Hotel by now, they were caught there. She thinks that you should receive some sort of compensation for your cooperation," Lelouch lets out a sigh, "I guess that means I should give you this."
Lelouch shows Inoue a small pill.
"What is this?" Inoue asks.
"It is release from your pain," Lelouch says as he places the pill in her mouth.
…...
-This is a Tokyo Broadcasting Service news break. The culprits of yesterday's attack at the Hero's Cemetery have been apprehended. According to reliable sources the targets of the attack were Senba Ryoga, Asahina Shogo, Urabe Kosetsu and Chiba Nagisa, all formally known as the Holy Swords. At this moment we do not have any news are their condition.
The perpetrators are from a terrorist cell calling itself the Japanese Terrorist Force, the JTF. We have also received information that the Imperial Military Police used an informant code named Naomi Inoue to bring down the terrorists. They are being held at Shikine Island Air Prison until their sentence date. At this moment only a pardon from the Empress can save them. The IMP will continue to investigate if further attacks are planned. Any information will be rewarded.
In other news the Stadtfeld Company is donating five hundred million pounds to the Shinjuku Redevelopment Project. The Stadtfeld Company has long had ties to Japan through…
"The media can be so irresponsible. You give them some information, and they spread it around like a wildfire," Lelouch comments.
Naomi Inoue sits up and continues to watch the television. She notices that Lelouch is sitting at a table with his red headed wife.
"Isn't your wife connected to the Stadtfeld Company?" Inoue asks.
"Actually she is legally the head of the family. Can you believe she gave that much money to that silly project of Kaguya's? It is more than the average person would make in ten thousand years."
"Why did you make Asahina and Senba targets as well?"
Lelouch shrugs his shoulders.
"Why not? I made Tohdoh a hero before. It seemed to quell the Japanese people. They are so simple minded. Silly Japanese."
Inoue notices that Kallen is not happy with this comment. It could also be that he pats her head when he says it.
Lelouch continues, "Besides in a few weeks, all this will be forgotten as the Shinjuku Redevelopment Project gets bigger and provides jobs. Not only that but over the past year, there have been less volunteers for the Japanese Self Defense Force and more for the Britannian Unified Armed Forces. I suppose you can tell which one pays better."
Inoue slides off the bed and stands.
"What happens now?"
"Kallen says that I can keep you so you get to stay here. Besides if the media finds that there is a real Naomi Inoue out there, they will hunt for any information to show that there are some good cooperative Japanese out there."
"What about my family?"
Like I said," Lelouch answers as he walks towards the bed, "all you have to do is play nice."
Inoue grabs Lelouch's hand.
"Do you have any more pills?"
"When I am done with you, you won't need any more pills," Lelouch says as he pushes Inoue back on the bed, "Now let's have some fun."
May 20, 2023, Forbidden Palace, Beijing, China
Lelouch is preparing for his return trip to Britannia. He discovers that he impregnates Lihua during his trip a few months ago. While Lelouch spends time in Japan and China, Kallen uses the time to check on the situation in India. Maribelle and the Glinda Knights go with Kallen to India and patrol the area beyond.
In addition to spending time with his wives Lelouch gets to know Inoue better. He does allow her to see her family.
"Just keep things under control until I return in a few months," Lelouch instructs Xianglin, "Milly should visit in a few weeks. She will give further instructions if necessary."
"As you wish, Your Majesty."
Lelouch boards his airship and heads home. Traveling back with him is Maribelle. Hannah, Chelsea, and the Glinda Knights are staying in the area.
Inoue eyes the pink haired princess with some trepidation. Along with being used by Lelouch, several of his wives join in as well. The big breasted blonde one, in particular, is quite frightening. Inoue wonders if Maribelle is more like Milly or Shirley who seems to travel with Lelouch.
"Hey Lulu, is Maribelle going to come home with us?" Shirley asks.
Lelouch carries Maribelle to the bed.
"Now the four of us are going to have some fun."
Meanwhile Kallen is traveling with Naoto because she is worried about he feels about the recent operation.
"So are you just going to let Lelouch alone travel with Inoue?" Naoto asks, "Now that I think about it, aren't those other girls with him, as well, the Glinda Knights?
"Ayame is with him as well," Kallen replies.
"I wonder how he can handle it all."
"Ayame says that Lelouch is like the Energizer Bunny," Midori remarks.
"Can we change the subject?" Ichiro inquires.
"Oh Ichiro dear, this is a perfectly adult conversation," Mutsuki Minase Futaba comments.
"I agree with him," Kallen states, "Because then the subject might turn elsewhere, and he will remember that Jinta has not been trained in various forms of marital arts."
"What is up with your little brother, Ichiro?" Naoto asks, "You probably should have prepared him better."
"Lelouch and your sister have had sex everywhere and in every position," Ichiro replies.
"That was a low blow, Futaba."
Karine is looking at her recent acquisitions. Even though it is Peace Mark with Cassius' aid that captures Rakshata Chawla, Karine is the one who gains. Cassius cannot hope to hide something like that in his territory. Therefore Karine gets to have some new toys, and she plans on using them soon. She even gains the support of Peace Mark for her efforts. With Lelouch is tightening his grip on Asia and North America, there is no place for them to go. Since she cannot attack Lelouch directly, she decides to go after his enemies and transfer the blame to him. It will be a tricky operation, but one that she has confidence in. In addition it will send a message to Jamison and Olivia that they better accomplish something.
Layla Makal, Anna Clement, and Kate Novak are returning to Europe. In addition to Lelouch not being home, the latter two have to get back to work. Layla's subordinates leave a day earlier.
Lelouch allows them to see some behind the scenes action in Britannia's knightmare development. Naturally this causes Anna to tease Layla about it.
'Hey Layla, the emperor is really cute. Are you sure you didn't do anything to make he act so nice?'
'What are you saying?' Layla sputter in response.
'Oh come on. You can tell me what happened between you two.'
'Nothing, just concentrate on the information Lelouch shared with us.'
'Ah, Lelouch is it. Doe he call you Layla when you to are alone?'
Layla crosses her arms and turns away. Anna smiles and turns to converse with Kate.
'Colonel Makal, there is call for you,' someone on the airship's staff says.
'I will take it here.'
Anna mumbles something about Lelouch wanting to wish Layla a good journey.
'Can you repeat that?' Layla shockingly asks.
Anna turns back to face her friend after noticing that her tone is one of distress.
'What is it, Layla?'
'My father and brothers were in an accident. They probably won't make it.'
Anna reaches over and comforts her friend.
A few days later the funerals are being held. Since Layla's family is a major noble family, Lelouch and Nunnally make an official visit for the funeral. It is their first official visit to Europe since the war. Gino and Suzaku accompany them. After the funeral, Lelouch boards his airship. In the morning he has meeting with several members of the EU government to discuss the situation in disputed territory.
CC is already onboard playing with Lelouch's new partners. CC looks a little disappointed by something.
"You didn't bring the cute little blonde girl up here."
"He just buried her father and three brothers. I would think that even you would have some respect for that."
"You could have cured her sadness by burying yourself in her."
"You have a sick mind."
"It's because I'm CC."
Layla is sitting alone in her house. Since she is adopted, a part of her has never felt comfortable in this house or with her family; however it is all hers now. She decides to give the servants some time off since many of them are depressed about the deaths as well. Layla is usually self-sufficient. Either way in a few days she will be heading to Paris to give her report and receive new orders.
To ensure her safety, members of the W-0 are guarding the property because there are still unanswered questions about the deaths. Akito follows Layla as she goes to her room.
'I will check with the others about the shifts,' Akito comments.
Layla grabs his arm.
'Akito, wait stay with me," Layla says as she pulls him towards her.
Akito holds her arms to the side.
'I have to check with the others.'
Layla nods as Akito leaves. She walks over to her bed and drops onto it sobbing.
June 2, 2023, Makal Estate, Marseilles
"I am sorry that I couldn't come sooner," Lelouch remarks, "As you must know I have been in meeting after meeting."
"It's no problem," Layla replies, "I'm sorry if the tea isn't up to your standards. I have given the staff some time off. Many of them have worked for my father for years."
"It's fine. Usually Ayame or some poor lieutenant makes my tea because I travel so much. This is delicious compared to that."
Layla smiles at Lelouch's compliment.
"You are too kind."
"I thought your friend would be staying here with you."
"Oh Anna is preparing to get back to work. I will be going over there myself soon."
"I hope I didn't keep you from anything important."
"No, it is nice to have some time off."
This causes Lelouch to chuckle.
"You say this even though you are always wearing your military uniform."
"I feel comfortable in it."
Gino and Akito are staring at each other in a nearby room. Gino wonders if anything is going on between Layla and Akito, sort of a bodyguard effect.
"Gino, if you stare at Akito any harder, I will probably have to tell your wife about it," Lelouch says with a chuckle, "Let's go. We have to prepare dinner because Layla and Anna are joining us tonight."
As Lelouch and Gino leave, Layla notices that Akito is staring after them.
"Is something wrong, Akito?"
"They speak Japanese."
"I thought you knew that Lelouch spoke several languages. I know he spent several years in Japan."
"I know about the emperor, but the Knight of Two understands Japanese as well."
"That is interesting to know. I wonder how fluent he is."
"You are joining them for dinner up in that thing."
"Yes and Anna is coming too. They want me to dress up so we will be spending the afternoon looking for dresses."
Akito frowns because Layla does not even wear dresses to major social functions, but she is willing to dress up for Lelouch.
Akito decides to remain on the ground with the rest of the W-0 instead Kenta Sato and Keiko Takahashi accompany Layla, Anna, and Kate.
Lelouch takes Anna's hand and kisses it.
"Major Clement, you look lovely. Do you remember my man-servant Gino?"
Anna chuckles and bows towards Gino.
"I pleasure to meet you again, Lord Weinberg."
After further introductions, Gino takes Anna and Kate on a tour of the airship. Lelouch takes Layla to his office and sits her down on his couch.
"You look beautiful in that dress."
Layla blushes and takes the wine that Lelouch pours for her. After Layla takes a sip, she sets the glass down. Lelouch takes her hands and pulls her towards him. She moves closer and kisses him. Lelouch's hands begin to wander causing Layla to pull away.
"I can't do this," Layla states.
"Why? Is there someone else?"
Layla shakes her head.
"I just can't handle something like this right now."
"Fine," Lelouch pouts, "but I am going to continue kissing you."
Layla nods in agreement.
After dinner, the three young women decide to stay aboard the airship. In the morning they will all have to head out the EU knightmare lab. Knowing that Layla and Anna are going to be impossible, Lelouch makes a move towards someone he has had before.
Kate has her limbs wrapped around Lelouch pinning him back towards his door. During her visit to Britannia, she finds herself extremely attracted to Lelouch. Soon she ends up in his bed. Now they get one last opportunity to be together.
As Lelouch places Kate on the bed, CC walks in with Shirley, Maribelle, and Inoue.
"Lelouch, you are such a naughty boy," CC comments, "Well let's see which of these girls can pleasure you more."
In the morning Layla notices that Kate is walking funny, however Akito's sourpuss face warrants her attention.
'Did you enjoy yourself up their, Colonel Makal?' Akito asks.
Layla knows that she should be reasonable in her response, but she is a little upset at her subordinate.
'Yes, I had a pleasurable time with the emperor. In fact we all did. Now let's get back to work.'
Lelouch watches as CC prepares to return to Marseille.
"Are you sure that you want to go back?" Lelouch asks, "Now that you are here I figured, you would just back home with me."
"You can't expect me to abandon the others down there. We almost have what we need. It will only take a few more weeks."
"Very well but be careful."
"Ah isn't it cute that you are worried about me. I have lived a very long life. Now I am actually doing something useful. I will see you soon."
Lelouch pulls CC in for a kiss before she leaves his airship to return to her spy team.
July 3, 2023, Paris
Layla Makal is meeting with the French representatives to the Central Hemicycle. It is very likely that after next months' election one of these men will be the chairman of the EU's ruling body.
"Sit down, Lady Makal," the chief representative states, "We have all read and are impressed by your reports about the current situation in the Britannian homeland."
"Thank you, Your Excellency," Layla replies.
"You are here for two reasons. The first is that sadly our domestic military situation is in disorder, and a few individuals would like to take advantage. We would like for your team to deal with these situations," there is a slight pause which intrigues Layla, "Secondly, there is another mission that we would like for you to undertake, however, we cannot discuss it until you agree to take the mission. We will give you some time to consider it."
As Layla leaves the meeting, she begins to think of the many possibilities. There is only one mission that she can think of that will require such secrecy. She is not sure whether or not she wants such a dangerous mission, but she knows that it must be done and that she is the most qualified for it.
A few days later after a second meeting with the French representatives, Layla looks at the file on her target.
"Lelouch vi Britannia," Layla says with a sigh, "Things are about to get interesting."
Author's note: Before I begin this note, I want to mention that I have seen the first part of Akito the Exiled. It continues the shades of gray morality from the anime. It is not a battle between good and evil, but evil and a lesser evil with a potential for good. Honestly in my opinion Akito and OZ cannot end well for the "good guys" given what happens in season two since both stories take place between seasons one and two.
Originally chapters four and five were one huge chapter, but it go really big so I split it up. Chapter five should be out as soon as I put some finishing touches on it. Some pretty heavy stuff will happen next chapter.
All maximum security prisons are airships. The navigation systems are rigged so that only those on the highest levels of authority are able to enter the control room. Unlike the prisons we are all accustomed to seeing on television and movies, the prisoners are just that. There are no work crews. There are very little opportunities for them to create weapons although prisoners are creative. The only interaction they have with any staff is when someone is injured or a prisoner is needed for questioning. I spent the last week watching Prison Break so this stuff popped into my head.
Lelouch slides the knife across Inoue's cheek to show her that there is nothing on it. He cuts down to the bone to show her the power of his code. They have all spent the last two years or so working on their pain threshold. They understand the difference between knowing that you can survive anything and being able to handle it. Obviously this is something that CC adapted to in the anime.