Coup d'etat
Everything had gone according to plan, the Black Knights had successfully left Japan without conflict and now rested peacefully on Honai island. It was a manmade island designed for hydro-electric power because of the intense tide in the area. But now it was a home to the Black Knights, their own little Japan where they were free, where they could converse without hiding and where it seemed they were their own nation once again. But things were far from over, for the Black Knights and especially for Zero.
Tohdoh, Anya, and Rakshata sat in comfortable chairs out in the open, Rakshata lying down on a couch as her usual custom as Anya and Tohdoh read books. Chiba was making meals in the booth behind them, secretly eyeing the Round that has been treated rather well despite technically being there prisoner.
"Well, looks like all the matters have been settled for now. That only leaves the combat carrier." Tohdoh said as he made a few marks in the report book he was looking at as he looked up to see the Ikaruga being repaired and remodeled. "You're going to install a float system onto the Ikaruga"
Rakshata mumbled in acknowledgement before looking over at how the upgrades were coming along. "The Ikarugas hull was so damaged during that attack, its only proper it receives improvements."
"A floating submarine?" Anya asked smirking at the idea of it but really she was impressed.
"I suppose so when you put it like that" Rakshata said in agreement and started to grin. "But my children can become much more than meets the eye"
"Children?" Anya asked very confused by what the scientist meant.
"She considers all her machines her children" Tohdoh said looking as the bow of the Ikaruga was replaced with a giant shield with the Black Knights symbol on it. He didn't mind conversing with the round, she was quiet and seemed to be no trouble at all. He didn't understand why Karren and Zero let her roam around but so far she hasn't done anything worth noting.
"I see. And I suppose if she rebuilds the Mordred it will be her child as well?" Anya asked never taking her eyes off her book.
Chiba grunted at the idea of the Knight having a Knightmare made for her, let alone think of piloting one. "I suppose, but I would still make improvements. The research data Karren stole is a large help but a few ideas still need some tinkering" Rakshata said in amusement at all the data she had stolen, enough to keep her busy for a long time. "Which reminds me. Why is it that Karren gets treated like she's second in command? Zero lets her do whatever she wants. Heck he even told her of my latest project. It ruins the surprise."
"What project?"
"Like I said it's a surprise" Rakshata said smiling, thinking how her latest invention will work out for them.
"But Karrens treatment does concern me. Why do you think she its treated differently" Tohdoh asked looking over at the two females.
"My guess she knows Zero personally." Rakshata said thinking about the black haired pilot.
Anya didn't speak because of the geass command to not talk about Project Ascension. Her eyes held red rims as she simply ignored the question and kept reading.
"That is a possibility I've thought of" Tohdoh said looking back at the Ikaruga. He had come up with several possible reasons ranging from blackmail to being his daughter. But nothing held proof and over half of them seemed to far-fetched to be true. No one spoke as Anya kept reading and Rakshata thought about what other projects she should work on.
Tohdoh sat silently contemplating why Karren seemed to be hiding something. He had checked and she seemed to have absolutely no past, She didn't have a last name, and when he had asked Zero, he simply said she could be trusted. Tohdoh didn't like it. But then again Zero held even more secrets then Karren did. The only difference was Karren showed her face and has a first name. But still, Tohdoh couldn't shake the feeling something just wasn't right about the girl.
The room was dark as Dietard finished his report to Zero who stood before him and Kallen was behind him tinkering with the panel. They were in a communication center that overlooked the harbor. There was a small room behind it with chairs and a small table to relax with.
After Dietard had left, Zero walked over flipping a switch as all the lights and the door turned off making it so he would be free from someone disturbing him. Zero held his hand up to his mask and with a hiss the helmet came off as Lelouch breathed real air.
"I don't like Dietard. He acts too much on his own." Kallen said concerning as she grabbed a chair and began to mess with the wiring over the panel she was working on.
"On the contrary he is quite simple to read" Lelouch replied with a grin turning towards the red headed pilot and began to toss and catch the helmet.
Kallen seemed interested by what he meant and listened closely. "In that man's mind he is trying to turn Zero into a symbol of god. Going from there he is easy to predict. Besides he has a useful talent for manipulating information."
Kallen sighed, he seemed better than he was that night. It broke her heart but now it seems like it had never happened. He had never asked her of those things before and she hoped he never would again. But she cared for him, maybe more than that. Suddenly what Karren told her entered her mind. "Why do you care for him? It's the same answer" Kallen grinned at that not noticing Lelouch get closer.
"Kallen?"
Kallen jolts back into reality from her daydream as she fell hard on Lelouch. No one cried out in pain for the fact they were half an inch from kissing was cause for more concern. She stared into his deep amethyst eyes as he stared into her vivid blue ones. No one budged an inch in what seemed like forever until Kallens brain finally ticked and she slowly pushed up from her arms but was still on top of him. "Lelouch why did you come back to us?" She was concerned, she heard what she wanted to hear from Karren but now she needed it from Lelouch, the answer to answer everything.
Lelouch thought about the question. It was because of her, for the Black Knights, for Karren, for Nunnally's dream of a gentle world. When that word popped into his head he immediately thought of Ashford Academy. All the fun he had, just being himself, just having fun with no worries of losing or death. He remembered Milly, Shirley. Rivalz, Nina, Kallen. He had missed those days, and when this war was over he hoped to have them back. "Kallen. When this war is over will you return with me to Ashford"
Kallen seemed confused about the question but then thought about it. He meant after the war, for her to return with him to the fun times at Ashford, and although there were several embarrassing or moments she despised she still liked the school. "Because it seems that was the only time I could be me without worry and without risking or losing one's precious to me" Kallen thought it over. Was she precious to him? Thoughts raced through her head in an astounding rate. But still that answer only brought more questions, she needed the source.
"Who did you come back for?" Her eyes held their ground trying to see past his, trying to gain the information she seeked. Lelouch stared back into hers, seeing hard determination. But after hitting his head hard and knowing that she was a fighter and would eventual get it out of him anyway he decided to just tell her.
"For Nunnally, for Karren, for You, for everyone I care for." Kallens eyes stared to sparkle with hope and it was there Lelouch saw his mistake. She loved him and he let her know too much. It was for everyone else's good that they remain separate, but Kallen was stubborn. He shouldn't have answered her, not like that. But before he could say anything he felts her lips on his holding him down. He didn't fight knowing it was useless against her better position and strength. He didn't fight it but he didn't participate not wanting her to grow closer to him. Eventually their lips parted and he could breath.
Kallens eyes still hung onto that sparkle of hope and joy as she retreated back to just staring into his eyes. He held a dark passive look but that didn't seemed to detour her at all. Instead she just grinned already knowing what he was trying to do. They kept staring until the speaker turned on interrupting the silence. "Master Zero! Come to the Ikaruga hurry!" Kaguya said over the radio sounding hysterical. Kallen decided that if it sounded anything less important she would have held him there but knew he had a job to do.
Slowly she rose up and extended her arm out to help him up. He complied and gentle rose up. Nether spoke as Kallen knew everything she needed to as Lelouch tried to contemplate how to deal with the new issue with her. He slowly put on the Zero mask but not before catching a glance at her swirling blue eyes as she watched him. The mask hissed closed as Zero strode out the door without a word.
The door behind him closed with a hiss as Kallen sighed, silently thanking Karren for giving her all the courage to do that. Suddenly she hears clapping and her head jolts to behind her seeing the other two occupants of the room she didn't realize were there. Karren sat clapping as C.C looked to be tied up on the floor beside her and gaged. Kallen was deeply confused why that was but decided she would have done that any day to the witch.
"Nice job. Your broke his mask." Karren said smiling while loud cheers rang through her head at how they were making progress finally. C.C eyed her evilly, squirming some as she tried to get loose. She was tied and gaged with the some string and clothe that were around. It wasn't like she was never tied up before, but what irritated her was she was in the middle of eating her pizza.
Kallen took notice and was deeply confused by Karrens rough treatment of her. "Why is C.C tied up?" C.C looked over at her, somehow begging her to untie the green haired witch.
"Oh her? I didn't want her to ruin yall's moment" Karren replied cheerfully. She decided not to get tangled up in everything she did and got straight to the good questions. "So how was it?" Karren leaned closer to hear better as Kallen let loose a blush to rival her hair. She immediately realized Karren saw everything that happened, even the kiss.
"Um it was good" Kallen replied in a shy tone not wanting to discuss details of her first kiss mere minutes after it happened. She knew Karren was trying to get them together, and so far she was exceeding greatly.
"Come on you can give me more detail than that!" Karren was ecstatic as C.C continued to wiggle around.
Kallen kept blushing and stayed silent wondering if she could simply walk away but decided if she did shed end up like C.C being tied up. Karren sighed as she closed her eyes and opened her left burning with geass. She instantly got all the details and smiled at it. Kallen wasn't scared of Karren with her geass, the girl uses it all the time but it doesn't hurt anything. Well hasn't hurt anything yet.
"I see. Soooo dreamy!" Karren said closing her eyes again and putting her hands together somewhat making fun of her. Kallen kept blushing, this girl was a little over a year old yet she acts like Milly sometimes. That geass she has was useful, and unlike Lelouch's she could use it all she wanted. Suddenly a thought occurred in Kallens head that stopped her blushing.
"Karren?" Karren opened her eyes, the geass gone away with as she wondered what the sudden change of attitude was for. "You said geasses have drawbacks?" Karren didn't see what she was getting at but decided to go along with it.
"Yes?"
"What is that geasses drawback? The power to read minds, memories, and emotions?" Karren started thinking about it but couldn't think of any drawbacks, just limitations. C.C looked like she was laughing even though she was gaged. Karren seem frustrated by the witch's action and decided to see what was so funny. She took the gage off but kept her tied up just to spite her. C.C grinned evilly still silently chuckling as Karren grew more frustrated.
"Whats so funny?" C.C smiled at the question knowing the answer after studying the girl, Lelouch was far too busy and Kallen was more interested in the girl than her power. With the geass to copy geass most would actually go insane with ether the power, or with the cost. Karren didn't but that was because it hasn't gone wrong... yet. But C.C decided that was a secret for another day. Her power to read minds and memory was useful but she concluded its drawback with ease.
"My guess is anytime you read a person's thoughts or memories a piece of their personality stays with you." C.C kept grinning as several things ticked at once in Karrens head. She remembered how passionate she was on the battlefield. How quiet and hollow she was at some moments, Then fun and cheerful and carefree at others. All in all she really couldn't pin down what even herself was like, And every one of those was after using her geass on someone. Mainly Kallen and Lelouch. Then something entered her thoughts. Those weren't my emotions.
"What does that mean?" Kallen said walking over as Karren was still thinking over things. Karren didn't move or fidget unlike C.C who was still trying to get untied. Kallen decided it was enough and began to untie C.C. "Well?" She noticed Karren still staring off. Kallen didn't know what C.C meant but it was obvious Karren did. Kallen shaked Karren who suddenly jolted back not expecting it. "Are you ok?" Kallen asked in concern. The black haired girl had looked as deep in thought as Lelouch was before a battle. It was a bit nerve wracking.
"Yah I'm fine." Karren sayed putting her hand up to her head like she bumped it. "I... Need to think over some things" Karren got up straight away and walked out without a word. Kallen was disturbed by the girls behavior and turned back towards C.C which she was about to untie. C.C grinned as Kallen grew angry by how what the witch said the drawback was. The answer she couldn't come up with.
"What is the drawback?" Kallen said as the tightened the bond instead of untying it. C.C sighed, knowing Kallen wouldn't untie her but she had no need to further explain what she just said.
"Ask Karren" C.C replied in monotone. Kallen grew angrier as the witch was impassive about it. Kallen didn't say a word as she half hazardly got up and walked away, throwing her poach knife at C.C before exiting the room to go look for Karren. C.C sighed again before attempting to squirm to the knife that would eventually cut her loose.
"What a political marriage?" Zero said astounded by how quickly things were moving.
Karren walked into the room with her head low holding sad eyes. Everyone looked frustrated so something bad must have happened. She decided to just listen in and wait, she would have to talk to Lelouch about her fears later. Seconds later Kallen walks in. She immediately saw something was wrong so she listened in as she made her way to Karren who was leaning against the wall by the door. Karren looked at her and nodded thanking her for her concern.
"Yes, the bride is to be the Tianza, icon of the federation. I'm her good friend and she wants me to attend." Kaguya said already knowing her friend would never consent to that.
"And the groom is to be the first prince of Britannia" Tohdoh said thinking of the situation.
"That one they call Odysseus." Rakshata said from the couch in the middle of the bridge.
"It's too soon to activate the plan we set up." Deitard said as he stood at Zeros side. "I didn't expect that the high Eunuchs would..."
"No this is a Britannian plot" Zero said cutting him off
"So what do we do about it?" Ohgi said in concern..
"The worst possible situation" Lelouch said beneath his mask as he plotted his next move. And I was going to move in and grab the Empress before they had a chance to. I never imagined that mediocre man could act so quickly.
"Aw why worry about it. It's not like we're involved in Britannia anymore." Tamaki said nonchalant not realizing the situation.
"What?" Kallen said wondering how hard headed Tamaki really was.
"We've been kicked out have you forgotten."
"You do realize they still hate us though? The high Eunuchs are betraying us." Karren spoke wondering why Tamaki is even here.
"So what does that mean for us? The Black Knights are wrapped up and given as a wedding present?"
"Actually that's an apt way to put it." Kaguya added in.
"Why are you here again?" Karren asked resisting the urge to face palm.
"We're in big trouble here. This is no time to sit around and make jokes!"
"Which is why..." Rakshata mused.
"We are discussing the matter at this moment." Ohgi added sounding a little more angrier than intended.
"Zero the one behind this..." Deitard said knowing who the mastermind was.
"Yes... There's another person. The one who overnight developed this fiendish move in order to reverse there embittered relationship with the Chinese Federation." Lelouch said as he thought of the culprit. There was only one man he know was smart enough to pull it off. The one person who was a master of politics, Sniezel.
"So what's the plan this time Zero?" Karren asked as she looked up at him.
"We will have to act before they do. Rakshata ready the knightmares for the wedding date. Dietard, get lists of who all is attending the ceremony and the wedding. Tohdoh, make sure the troops are ready for combat. We will soon have the entire Chinese Federation to contend with."
Everyone began to get back to work, do what duties Zero assigned and ready for what is to come. Zero walked over towards Karren and Kallen who stood side by side. They looked like almost twins besides the hair and eyes and the fact Karren was an inch shorter. "Would you mind being my escort for the ceremony?" Zero asked facing towards Kallen. She immediately knew he meant bodyguard and she agreed without hesitation.
"Of course"
Suddenly Anya walked up to the group. She had on some of the casual clothes Karren had gotten just for her. It was a white long sleeve shirt with black jeans. It was a wonder the Knight didn't say anything during the whole conference but then again people wouldn't like her for it ether. She had pretty much free roam to do anything thanks to Zero and Karren. She held an expressionless face but Karren could see deep anger in her eyes.
"Zero may I make a request?" Anya asked looking at the masked man who towered over her.
"Yes, what is it?" Zero asked wondering what she would want. She never asked anything of anyone since she arrived, Karren had treated her well and pretty much shared her room with Anya.
"May I join you at the ceremony?" Kallen was surprised by the question. It didn't sound like she was trying to leave them, but if she went, if they saw her with Zero it would send a lot of messages to the world. Karren was equally surprised but couldn't think of a reason Zero should say no.
"Yes you may" Zero spoke in his metallic voice. Lelouch saw the anger in her eyes and knew it wasn't because of them but because of the Britannians. Anya knew the Empress was far young and Odysseus was far far too old. She was being sold, a pawn, a tool. It was something she hated ever since Karren captured her then stood up to Tamaki. Anya had gained a new view on life because of her.
"Anya. Don't mention me at the ceremony ok. I don't want them to know my identity" Karren said as Anyas eyes held red rims. She knew she wouldn't purposely endanger her but she had to be sure.
"No problem" Anya turned back towards Zero as her eyes returned to normal. "Thank you" She said as she walked away back towards her and Karrens quarters.
Zero walked away soon after before Karren remembered why she came it was to talk to him. She looked over at Kallen who looked back with concern. She had come to check up on her so Karren knew it was alright to tell her her worries. "My geass, it changes me" Karren said in a whisper so no one would hear. Kallen looked confused but even more concerned than she just was. "It makes me act, makes me feel the way the person I use my geass on does. It changes me." Karren held sad eyes as she retreated to looking at the floor.
Kallen realized what it meant, having the thought of her choices being influenced by the geass would ruin anyone's day. "Is the change permanent?"
"I don't know" Karren said thinking it over. She had used the geass a bunch but still she couldn't pin down if what C.C said was real. It was highly possible, but still the thought alone was scary.
"You should stop using it for a while, just to be sure." Kallen said as Karren nodded her head in response. Karren couldn't think of anything to say so she walked away to go to her room to rest.
"Thank you." Karren said not looking back at her. "For everything." Karren thought about what had occurred earlier between them, Lelouch would try something, and Karren would sure ruin that idea of his. "Lelouch will try to push you away in order to keep you safe. If you want to get closer to him you have to push forward. Break his mask again." She looked back at Kallen as she nodded. Karren indeed tried hard to get them together, it was obvious but they were her technical parents so why shouldn't she. Lelouch liked Kallen, she liked him back, Karren was just helping them out.
Kallen nodded a thank you as Karren strode out the door wanting to go to her bed and rest.
The door hissed closed as Karren silently made her way to her room. However down the hall was Anya leaning against the wall. She looked over as Karren approached her. Anya held a passive face but was full of emotion from the choice she made. She had to see, had to be certain it was just one person doing the evil instead of the rest. She couldn't imagine Gino or Suzaku liking what was happening, however she couldn't see them doing anything to stop it ether. She would have been the same, but now she had a choice, she wasn't a soldier right now. And she would fully protest it.
"Am I stupid? For doing this?" Anya asked as Karren stood in front of her knowing what she meant.
"No. Your brave. You want answers, just like everyone else wants one."
"Am I betraying them?" Anya didn't know how else to put it. She didn't want to fight Britannia but ever since she was captured she saw no reason to help it. It looked evil, like the Black Knights and Britannias roles have been switched. She wondered if she was being brainwashed but she knew she wasn't. It was real, she could remember everything perfectly ever since she arrived. Still the thought of what she was to what she is now. She definitely has changed.
"No. Your just refusing to betray yourself." Karren knew she was in conflict. But Anya would come around eventually, she hoped. She just had to look at things a little longer. Anya nodded thanking her. Karren thought of something that seemed ridiculous but it may be the chance to tip Anya towards the Black Knights. "Don't ask me how I know this but..."
Anya looked at her wondering what it was. "I promise that I will do all I can to return your memories." Anya's impassive face instantly broke. She was confused, not angry but full of wonder at how she found out.
"How do you..."
"Like I said don't ask." Anya held many questions but suddenly the realization of her words gave hope to Anya. She had promised to return her memories. Not as a way to use her but in a way to help her. She didn't ask anything in return. Anya wanted her memories back so badly, she didn't know what happened at so many moments, so many times she had recorded them on her phone only for her to look back and it is different than what she remembered. So many moments of her life stripped away.
Suddenly Anya grabbed Karren in a hug that left her surprised. Anya never showed much emotion but she seemed suddenly full of energy. "Thank you." Anya said quietly in monotone before releasing her.
"No problem." Karren said slowly wondering what was next.
"How did you know?" Anya asked in a whisper as she retreated back to leaning against the wall.
"It's a secret. But I have my suspicions on who did it." Karren said in an equal whisper. Anya was interested, Karren meant that someone altered her memories, it wasn't a medical issue it was something else. Someone was altering her memory.
"Who?" Anya asked wanting the name that may harbor so many answers.
"The same man who wanted to control me." Karren said as several things ticked in Anya's head. Project Ascension, the person who had wanted to control Karren so she may be used as a weapon. The Emperor himself, Anya was a Knight of the Round, his weapon. Her memory was taken so she would be controlled. It held no proof but it was a lead to work on. If the Emperor could make a human from scratch what say he can't alter her memory. It was a huge lead, one that may be false or make her end up dead but it was something to search for. Something for Anya to search for.
"Thank you. For everything." Anya said as she walked away back to her and Karrens room with Karren following her. They both needed to think. About what has happened, and about what is to come.
The party before the wedding next morning was bustling with activity. Suzaku, Lloyd and Cecile waited within close proximity of the Tianza and the prince. The little girl looked scared beyond belief which made Suzaku deeply concerned about all this.
"Tell me did the empress willingly consent to this wedding?" Suzaku kept looking at the shaking girl with white hair and red eyes. She was still a minor yet she would marry Odysseus who was over thirty, the most unlikely pair to marry.
"That is what they told us so we can only take thier word for it. Besides this may be the path to piece." Cecile said taking a sip of the whine she had.
"True" Suzaku said as Gino walked over full of energy as usual.
"Hey this is that charred newt stuff you were telling me about right? So how do I eat it?" Gino said eyeing the decoration he mistook for a meal.
"That's a decoration made out of food?" Suzaku said wondering if Gino was to hyper again or if he really did mistake it for a meal.
"Huh? But didn't I see you eat a bird like this earlier in the reception?" Gino looked at Cecile who gulped a bit more wine realizing she made a mistake.
"You mean the Chinese Phoenix?" Suzaku turned towards here thinking that he should teach them about Asian delicacies soon.
"Oh that. I thought it was meat but it was really carrot"
"Now introducing the prime minister of Britannia of the Holy Britannian Empire, second prince Sniezel.
Suzaku and Gino immediately walked over towards him, although as his escort was none other than the shy girl he used to go to school with, it was Nina. Gino and Suzaku immediately bowed before him. "Sir, we have been ordered to place ourselves under your command" Gino said humbly.
"My my two Knights of the Round, what an honor. But this is a celebration please relax and enjoy" Sniezel gave off a smile that even a movie star would never be able to master. One that ladies would fall over for, yet one that commanded authority.
"Yes Sir." Gino said with a grin as him and Suzaku stood up.
"I trust everyone at school is doing well Suzaku?" Nina said with a smile. Even though he was an eleven he was also a round. She didn't like his heritage but he was more decent than the others.
"Mhm. See for yourself." Suzaku turned towards his right where Milly Ashford was in her vivid blue dress waving.
"Hi there" She announced with a smile at her old friend.
"Milly it you!"
"Now introducing Miss Sumaragi Kaguya of the Sumaragi Conglomerate." The doorman yelled out for all to hear.
"Kaguya?" Suzaku said realizing it was his cousin but upon looking around he saw the man he hated most. Everyone gasped as none other than Zero walked up standing beside Kaguya. With them was Kallen, most likely as there bodyguard. But what disturbed Suzaku the most was Anya was which them in her Knights of the Round uniform with her pink cape. She looked untied but she was still there prisoner, they were probably showing off their prize.
"Zero. How dare he" Kanon said angrily at his audacity.
"Anya!" Gino said recognizing his fellow friend and Knight looking healthy and unhurt.
"Well, well, well." Sniezel said raising his glass of wine still giving off his fake smile.
Sniezel, so you are the puppet master Lelouch thought as he stared at his half-brother.
So Sniezel planned it. How typical, he was always the best politician...still... Anya thought as she looked around seeing Suzaku and Gino in the crowd. Suzaku looked angry beyond all belief but Gino looked extremely happy to see her, if only he knew.
Suddenly guards in red suits and held spears surrounded them in a tight circle ensuring no escape. Spears ready to kill, Anya could probably take out a few, as could Kallen but Zero and Kaguya couldn't they were dead if they attacked.
"Kaguya!" The Tianza screamed out as one of the High Eunuchs put a hand on her shoulder.
"Well our wedding present has arrived of its own accord, my this worked out wonderfully." He said evilly looking a the doomed group.
"You're giving them Kaguya too?"
"Put that girl out of your mind, her crimes warrant the death penalty." Another high eunuch said just as evilly as the first.
"No, that's wrong this isn't Britannia!"
"Your majesty, the Black Knights are the ones who killed Gow Hi. Please don't get involved and just leave the politics to us. Isn't that what you've always done, just let us do things our way?"
"But she's a friend..." She was losing the situation, if this went on her only friend would be dead.
"Can we please stop quarreling now. Today is a day of celebration." Sniezel said not wanting Zero dead just yet, he had plans for him in the future.
"But sir..."
"Miss Sumaragi, can you refrain from having Zero attend the wedding tomorrow?"
"Well I suppose I don't have a choice now do I." Kaguya replied grinning.
"If that is the wish of the prime minister of Britannia then withdraw!"
All the guards spears were lifted and they filed out in order towards there respective places at the party.
As Sniezel approached the group Suzaku jumped in front of him, blocking Lelouch from using his geass. As watchful as ever I see.
"Suzaku Kurarugi, do you remember me? We're cousins you and I." Kaguya said spinning around in front of Zero.
"Of course I do" Suzaku said blankly wondering why his cousin would dare be with Zero.
"We're the last remaining houses of the six houses of Kyoto aren't we?"
"Taizo Kirihara and the others supported terrorists, the was no way to avoid his execution."
"But this is different. Suzaku did you forget that Zero once saved your life? Do you plan to execute someone you owe your life to?" Suzaku seemed angry simply by the idea of him owing Zero anything.
"There's no comparison!"
"Oh how sad. It's a good thing we aren't able to kill anybody merely by the words we say" Kaguya said closing her eyes and putting her hands together with a grin, taunting him.
"Prince Sniezel" Zero interrupted catching everyone's attention. "May I interest you in a game of chess?"
"Chess?" Sniezel said grinning at the idea of having an actually worthy opponent.
"If I win I'd like to have sir Kurarugi"
"What?" Kallen said in surprise as Anya looked over at Suzaku's equally shocked face.
"I'd like to give him to you lady Kaguya"
"Oh that would be absolutely splendid!" Kaguya said in glee. If he could get Suzaku out he could use geass on all the others. Anya wondered if Zero planned to show him what she has seen. He loved Japan but he also followed the rules to the letter. They wouldn't be as lenient with him.
"And if we win we get Anya back!" Gino said butting into the conversation, determined to get Anya even by force if necessary.
"No." Sniezel said taking a sip of wine.
"But... my lord"
"She is no longer our ally" Sniezel said darkly noticing what Anya was wearing. It was her Round uniform but there was a difference. All Brittannian symbols were gone, it was blank. Signifying she was no longer with Britannia but not with the Black Knights as well.
Gino looked over at Anya who was passive about it. This was the message she wanted to send. Even if it hurt Gino, it needed to be done.
"No, if I win you will remove your mask and reveal to use who you really are"
"Agreed" Zero replied without hesitation. Kallen gasped as Anya kept staring at Sniezel impassively. This would be a difficult situation to get out of.
"What a fine evening of entertainment this has become." Sniezel said as people began to set up the match.
As the game was being set up the Tianza and Odysseus were moved to a separate room away from Zero. Suzaku and Gino stood beside Sniezel as Kallen and Anya stood the same beside Zero. Kallen was in front of Suzaku as Anya was in front of Gino, he looked confused beyond all reason. The game started out quietly before Suzaku spoke what was on his mind.
"So you've switched sides?" Gino felt a pain in his mind at those words, the words he never thought were possible to associate a Knight with.
"No, I've simply come to light of what Britannia has done. But I'm not betraying it by doing this" She was impassive, it would be hard but she was determined she would speak truly about her decision.
"Associating yourself with Zero is betrayal Anya"
"Is it? I was captured mind you. I didn't really have a choice." It wasn't a complete lie, she was captured and they never said she was allowed to leave, but allowing her free roam made her feel less as a prisoner. She stayed because of Karren, because somehow the more she stayed the more she saw why they fought.
"You don't look like a prisoner now. What's stopping you from attacking Zero right now?" Kallen clenched her fist but Anya remained motionless with a straight expression, unaltered by his question.
I promise I will do all I can to return your memories. That was what Karren told her, she had understood so much more, maybe if she stuck with them she would get all she desired. "A promise" Anya said truthfully. Kallens hand unclenched as Gino was shocked by what she meant.
"What do you mean? Who promised you what?" Gino said as Anya's eyes held red rims.
She remained mute on the subject as Suzaku grew frustrated. "You really are a traitor" Suzaku said harshly as Kallen grew angry at how they were treating her.
"At least she isn't fighting against her own country!" Kallen said with a snarl as Suzaku glared daggers at her.
"I'm fighting to protect Japan" Anya heard him say that was his reason several times and really it didn't make sense to her.
"And do you not care that you're bringing down China now?" Anya said as everyone gasped and she could see Sniezels head tilt slightly in listening as him and Zero kept playing chess.
"I have no idea what your..."
"Please don't give me that. Odysseus is over thirty, the Tianza is a little girl, don't tell me you believe they actually wanted this." Anya said harshly. Suzaku swallowed knowing what she meant, still it was a peaceful path.
"Its a path to peace" Suzaku said simply not finding more words to say.
"When was Britannias path ever peaceful" Anya said harshly as Kallen, Suzaku and Gino all gasped and flinched. She sounded like a Black Knight, like she hated Britannia. She held a perfectly straight poker face not giving any hint of her emotions on the subject.
"So you really have switched sides." Gino said in almost a whisper as he kept staring at the pink haired girl.
Anya didn't know what to say to that. She didn't want to fight against her own country but she no longer wanted to fight the Black Knights. By all accounts they were in the right from what she has seen. She didn't want to be known as a traitor but she couldn't get it out of her head that what they were doing was wrong. She was a Knight of the Round yet now she didn't want to fight for them. She didn't know which side to choose. The path that's just but she would be hated for, or the path of the wrong were she was prestigious and highly looked at. She didn't want to fight ether, she couldn't but it was inevitable. She was an enemy to one side or the other. Anya felt like she couldn't breath as thoughts rushed through her head. Suddenly the tension was broken as Zero moved his king forward.
Everyone looked at the move as Sniezel eyed it with interest. "Your king?" He asked.
"If the king cannot lead how can he expect his subordinates to follow?" Zero replied quickly and fluidly.
"Interesting strategy, in fact ill do the same" Sniezel moved his white king forward as the conversation the four were having stopped.
They kept moving forward and forward until Sniezels king was once space away from Zeros. "So you can't advance any further"
Sniezel eyed the piece thinking of the possible outcomes. "Hmmm we'll get into a threefold repetition at this rate"
"It was not my intent but shall we declare this a draw?"
Sniezel grinned at Zero's comment already knowing the way out. "You should not underestimate the white king" He said as he moved his piece forward directly in front of Zero's.
"But if Zero moves forward..." Suzaku said as Gino interrupted.
"He'll capture..."
"Prince Sniezels king..." Kallen interrupted as they all were confused by him giving up.
"Oh that's too big of a joke" Odysseus says as he watches the move.
"Sniezel doesn't want Zero to be given the pleasure of winning fairly..." Anya said at how Sniezel's move was a blow to Zero's pride.
Zero's hand shook slightly as he held up his black king and forcefully moved it back a space in retreat. Everyone gasped at the move as Sniezel simply smiled at it. "With no hesitation whatsoever the Emperor would have grabbed it. I've just learned a little more about what kind of man you really are Zero."
Sniezel! You dare look down at me! Lelouch thought angrily as Nina rushed from the crowd.
"Zero! Princess Euphiemia will be avenged!" She screamed as Suzaku held her wrist stopping her.
"Stop it Nina drop the knife!" Suzaku commanded as he tried to hold her back.
Nina screamed trying to break lose and slay Zero. "Ahh, why are you stopping me, you of all people should know since you were princess Euphiemias knight!" Nina had tears streaming down her face as she tried to get free.
Suzaku looked fazed by her response as he quickly thought it over. She's right... so why am I...
"You're just an eleven after all" She yelled as she broke free and dashed for Zero only for Kallen to catch her. Kallen twisted her wrist until she released the knife. Nina backed away holding her wrist wondering why people couldn't see how much of a monster Zero was.
"Why Kallen your half Britannian yet you choose to defend that monster!"
"No that's incorrect, I'm Japanese Nina" Kallen said with a straight face as the Nina looked on the brink of insanity.
"You're not... You're an eleven. You're an Eleven and you pretended to be my friend!" Kallen look struck by how low Nina was going. Anya quickly and quietly picked up the knife so she would not go to grab it again.
"Give her back to me! Give back princess Euphiemia! I needed her! She was a goddess to me!"
"Nina" Suzaku said in a whisper as he held her back from attacking.
"Zero... Killed her..." She said as she slumped down, broken and defeated.
"A follower will go as low or high as there idol. This girl is lost, by all accounts I should..." Anya said readying the knife in her hand only for Kallen to grab her wrist. Anya looked over as Kallen nodded a no. Anya knew Nina was traumatized but she was clearly insane. Princess Euphiemia massacred the Japanese and this girl would do the same. She didn't deserve that peaceful world Karren spoke of. "Nina is lucky SHE is not here."
Kallen realized what she meant. Karren killed many many people, and Nina would have definitely died if she was here. Still felt bad for her. She was not as harsh on punishment as Anya and Karren. Milly came out of the crowd and gripped onto Nina wanting to take her someplace else to spill her tears. "What I wouldn't give to go back to the days at Ashford" She said just loud enough for Milly to hear.
"Me to" Milly said resisting the urge to cry as she help Nina away.
"My profound apologies Zero" Sniezel said breaking the scene. "Let's put an end to our little game here. Now that I've confirmed my suspicions I would like to remind you not to attend the wedding tomorrow. Otherwise a game of chess won't save you.
The wedding looked stupendous as the bride and groom stood at the alter ready to be married. The room was majestic in with a red carpet and several balconies for people to watch. Kaguya and Kallen watched from one waiting for the operation to commence. They just had to wait for it.
Suddenly Xingke burst through the large doors at the end of the ile with his sword firmly in hand. "By the roar of the land and the hearts of the people, how does this benefit the Chinese federation?" He asked in his prepared dramatic speech.
"Xingke have you lost your mind?" A high eunuch asked as guards began to swarm for Xingke.
"Silence Shouh Ho. I challenge the legality of this wedding" Two guards tried to spear him only for Xingke to knock them away and cut the spears in half as he ran down the lie.
Odysseus quickly made his way away from the girl to Sniezel and his guards for safety.
"Showtime" Kallen said as her and Kaguya ran away to get prepared.
Two more guards began to block Xingke's path. "Fool! Do you think the Empress belongs to you and no other"
Xingke didn't know what to think of that. He didn't know if she had even wanted him to do this. He remembered the promise that he had made to her, to protect her, to serve her, to take her to the outside world. Suddenly the Tianza started to hold up her pinky finger calling his name over and over. She did remember and he felt a new burst of courage at that. "I will take her to the outside world!" He screamed as he knocked several guards down and rushed for her. "Xingke!" She yelled in happiness holding out her arms only for the Britannian flag to fall in front of her blocking his view.
When it fell completely, Zero stood behind the Empress, looking as menacing as ever. As Xingke took a step forward Zero pulled a gun and pointed it at the little girls head. "Don't move" Zero said coldly as Xingke stopped in his tracks.
"You scum!" He yelled out in anger at what Zero was doing. He couldn't move, couldn't risk her life.
"Oh am I?" Zero said as he laughed hysterically that shook the spin of every person in the room.
Xingke had to think quick to save her. He didn't know what he could do though. "I thought the Black Knights owed us for what we did in Japan?"
"Indeed, which is why I'm ruining this wedding. Exactly like you people wanted. The only difference is I'm taking the Empress with me." Zero said coldly as the Empress shivered confused about what was going on. Suddenly the wall behind Zero collapsed making his cape blow in the wind. As the dust cleared it showed a black knightmare with red hair like extensions.
"Never thought the Zangetsu's first mission would be to kidnap a bride from a wedding."Tohdoh said to himself as he marveled at his new Knightmare. He open fired on several guards, slaughting them.
"Tohdoh get Sniezel"
"Right" The Zangetsu reached to grab the prince only for a slash harkens to hit it away. "Damn, he's already here." Above the Lancelot and Suzaku raced to stop Zero as Tohdoh shot into the air to attack.
Their swords clashed in the sky as nether backed down.
"We should take our leave here" Sniezel said as the Britannian group walked away.
"Right, us to" The high eunuch said as they left as well.
"I need backup now!" Xingke screamed into his mic desperate to get the Empress before it was too late.
"Right were AHHHHHH" the man said as his knightmare was covered in a black energy beam and exploded.
"Very nice upgrade" Karren said as she shot another energy beam at a group of rebel Gun Rus, electrifying and disabling them as there sakuradite cores detonated. "Now for the palace." Her knightmare took to the air and began to blast away all the Gun Rus that were left as she headed for the forbidden city palace.
"Remember your only a diversion. But don't expect it to be easy, you'll attract a lot of attention" C.C said as her, Anya and Tamaki began to get the truck in place.
Karren smirked, the Chinese were nothing compared to the Britannian knightmares, and with her knightmares upgrades she felt invincible. "I would never settle for a less dangerous task" She turned on her spread shot and disabled a swarm of VTOL watching them ether detonate or fall to the ground doomed.
"Damnit" Xingke said as the Guren flew behind Zero carrying a large container. Zero and the empress quickly went inside as the door for it shut. Your majesty!" He cried out as he ran for the container only for Kallen to fly away with them.
"Ready the dragon cavalry!" he commanded as the high eunuchs re-entered the room.
"That will not be necessary Xingke" one of them said as the guards went to arrest him. He had lost, he had lost her. He had failed her...
Tohdoh and Suzaku fought tooth and nail as swords clashed. When they locked swords Suzaku looked over and saw the Guren flying away with a container, the one that held Zero and the Empress. He pushed Tohdohs knightmare away as he dashed for it only for the black knightmare to slash at him again. Suzaku moved his sword to deflect as Tohdohs black sword suddenly was covered in lightning and broke clean through his mvs and sliced his wing off.
"My float system!" Suzaku rotated and used he momentum to unsheathe a gold blade and cut a large gash in the knightmares arm. The sword was the same metal as a lance so there was no sakuradite to shut down. but it was heavier and less nimble.
"He can still launch a direct attack." Tohdoh said readying the Zangetsu for another attack.
"You've damaged the Lancelots float unit so he can no longer pursue us. Rendezvous with Chiba at the planned point." Zero said over his monitor.
"Right" He replied as he flew away from Suzaku as he growled at how he was powerless to stop them.
All was clear ahead as swarms of aircraft followed the truck that now contained there Empress. Kallen carefully lowered the container into the green truck as the top began to fold closed. Kallen redirected her attention to the swarm of aircraft following them.
"Get lost!" She said as she used her spread shot to disintegrate all the aircraft in a red wave. Explosions covered the sky before it cleared and no one seemed to be left to follow them. "We're clear"
"Ok now take a left here." Tamaki said as C.C turned to follow the directions. "Oh wait no!"
"Idiot!" C.C said as she sharply put the truck back on the main road.
"Ok now take a..."
Anya grabbed the map out of Tamakis hand knowing he was the worst with directions. "Go straight here and take the next right" Tamaki eyed her not knowing why a Round was with them, and why even she had no respect for him like everyone else.
"You know your much more useful than him. Maybe you can take his place" C.C joked as Tamaki was in deep confusion.
"Hmm ill pass." Anya said in monotone as she looked at the map. Suddenly C.C braked and stopped. In front of them was what was once a bridge. It looked to be demolished to stop their progress. Behind them dozens of Chinese Gun Rus and even a pyramid shaped carrier were in hot pursuit to catch them.
"What the hell!" Tamaki said freaking out that they were going to die.
C.C sighed as Anya shook her head. Even she knew the plan. Suddenly Knightmares began to climb out of the trench and hills surrounding the Chinese.
"Let's try out these new weapons." Several red missiles were shot at the enemy forces. They struck as the Gun Rus bubbled ad boiled before exploding in a red fire. Two groups of knightmares raced down the hill with swords that spun giving off a red color. They cut the helplessly slow Guns Rus to pieces and demolished the entire Chinese force in only a few minutes with absolutely no casualties.
The Ikaruga flew majestically over the field after the Chinese were wiped out. "Mm the Micro Vibration Chain Swords seem to be effective" Rakshata said looking at the red blades. Lloyd had a few useful toys that she would be sure he will go hysterical when he sees she was copying and upgrading them.
"Indeed" her assistant said nodding behind her.
"I hope Karrens getting me useful data" She said thinking over her part in the plan. She had the far more dangerous mission but if all they threw at her were these heaps of junk she had no doubt Karren would cause some serious damage.
It was dark in the pit as the rebel Chinese waited. They were on a carrier ship that was pursuing the Black Knights but they constantly heard explosions coming from the palaces direction. They didn't know if they were being invaded but Xingke knew the Britannians or the Black Knights didn't have enough manpower to control the city, it was a diversion.
The High Eunuchs appeared above them with scowls on their faces, which Xingke already knew that it meant they failed. "The strike force was ambushed at the Han lo Ravine wasn't it?"
"How did you know?" a high Eunuch asked wondering if a guard had told them.
"Its something I would do in his position."
They seemed interested at how maybe he could outwit Zero. "And after that?"
"Id meet up with my main forces in Zanghi"
The high Eunuchs smiled as a cunning plan was formed in their heads instantly. "We are willing to overlook your crimes if you can bring back our Empress." "We'll even give you a new weapon." Xingke looked up wondering if heaven was on his side. He would be given a chance to save his Empress, that was all the motivation he needed.
The palace was smoking from fire at several points as Karren marveled at her work. 5 carriers, 158 Gun Rus, and 67 VTOl were destroyed by her with ease. They stopped altogether attacking her knowing it was ether useless or they needed to organize to attack her. She looked at the time, they should be far away enough by now. She checked again to make sure no one was around before she flew towards a random tower, well random to anyone else. Inside was an energy filler that she quickly replaced her own with. It would be enough to get her to them and even have a small fight. She just had to hurry. She launched her knightmare back into the air going towards the rendezvous.
The skies and road looked clear as the Black Knights went to meet up with the Indian forces. Anya and C.C walked into the bridge where everyone was doing their duties with no haste. You'd almost think they didn't realize all of China wanted them dead now. No one said a word about Anya. Not after what they heard she did at the ceremony. Some considered her a fellow Black Knights, others a nuisance, others were impassive. Honestly Anya didn't know where to stand now. Even after her trying so hard not to seem like she was betraying them it still looked that way. Her musing was ruined when suddenly lost signals began appearing on their forward units.
"All forces halt here" Zero called out as the everyone slowed to see what was going on. We shouldn't have run into enemy forces for at least an hour Lelouch thought as the dust cleared.
A shadowy figure appeared in the smoke, when the smoke finally cleared a blue, red, and gold colored knightmare stood there blocking there path. "You will go no farther Zero. I have but one demand. That you return the Empress. Release her at once!" Xingke cried out over an open channel.
"Xingke" Zero said in distaste. He was the only Chinese he had met that was as much a skilled tactician as he was.
"What's that doing here?" Rakshata said standing up from her couch.
"You know what it is?"
"Of course, we built it. But it was too high spec to handle though, piloting it takes skill almost beyond human levels. Knightmare frame Shen Hu."
"But there's a person piloting it now right?" Ohgi said looking at the blue knightmare.
"Indeed, but its unstable so exertion on the pilot is extreme."
"I see. Kallen!"
"On it sir!" She yelled as a red beam ripped in front of the Shen Hu as it darted away into the sky. Xingke tried to look through it only for a claw to suddenly appear on his screen, he darted to the right narrowly avoiding its grip.
"You will not stop me" Xingke said as the chest of the Shen Hu opened up as the cannon prepared to fire.
"Like hell I can" The Guren shot another red beam at him as he released a yellow beam. They collided nether giving in.
"The heavenly particle cannon. It's just as powerful..."
"As the radiant wave surger." Kallen finished in awe that it was truly powerful.
She checked her energy, it was low, she hadn't gotten a chance to switch fillers. She would have to make this quick. After a while the colliding beams exploded and the Guren charged at the Shun Hu ready to grab at it with its claws again. The Shen Hu deployed gold wires that began to spin rapidly creating a shield.
Kallen decided that the spinning shield would be too much for her to get close so she fired off rockets instead. The Shen Hu smacked the rockets away with ease before shooting he cord in a whip like fashion at her. She deflected it with her knife and shot another radiant eave beam at him which he hastily dodged.
She readied her spread shot as the blue knightmares whips began to spin making shields. She fired off the red energy wave as the spinning shields took the damage instead of the knightmare. When it was done the blue knightmare was intact.
Kallen cursed as her energy dropped lower and lower.
"Is the Zangetsu ready?" Tohdoh said as he zipped up his pilot suit.
"Um we just took off the float unit so..." The crewman said regretting taking it off at this time for a simple arm repair.
"Damnit" Tohdoh said scowling.
"We'll help her." Chiba said as her and Nagata headed towards their knightmares.
Another explosion occurred as the yellow and red beams collided. The Shen Hu spun its cords and whipped them at the Guren. She had no time left. She grabbed the cord with her claw arm allowing it to wrap around.
"You're finished" Kallen said as she pushed the lever up allowing red energy to cover the Gurens claw arm. Xingke cursed trying to pull it away before suddenly the Guren shut down.
"What? No, no, no, no, NO!" Kallen screamed trying to get something, anything to work.
Xingke wrapped his second whip around her frame tightly preventing escape. He had won.
"You've brought this on yourself, I ask only one thing. Will you release the Empress?"
Chiba and Nagata flew close looking at the helpless Guren.
"Damnit" Xingke said as he coughed up blood. He could easily kill Kallen, but even if he did that or released her he would get killed by one of the two knightmares.
"We can cut the cords with a pincer move" Chiba said readying her mvs chain sword.
Suddenly explosions appeared all around them as a huge Chinese attack force approached.
"Anti-Aircraft barrage. Cover master Xingke."
"Thank you" He said in relief as he flew towards them.
"No. NO!" Kallen said as she banged her hand on the side of the cockpit.
"The Chinese federation..." Ohgi said in horror.
"She's.. She's their prisoner." Lelouch finished.
"Kallen is your radio still working?" Zero asked almost yelling.
"I'm.. I'm sorry I failed you..." Kallen said almost coming to tears.
"Forget about that" He said as Kalens interest was piqued. Was this Lelouch without the mask. The one who cared for her.
"Don't give up. I promise I'll save you. Am I clear? No hasty moves" Karren was right, he was affectionate about her. But he'd be damned if he'd let a simple mask get in the way of this.
"Right. I understand. I won't give up. I'll do what youzzzzz..." She said before the connection got jammed making it screech as a chill went up everyone's spin. They had lost her.
"Hurry bring the Ikaruga around immediately!" Ohgi said wanting to get his best friends little sister back.
"What are you saying we'll be crushed!" Dietard said standing up.
"How long till Karren gets here?" Zero said as he contemplated what to do.
"Ummm eta 5 minutes. From behind the Chinese forces" One of the crew girls said as she looked over the Chinese formation.
"Bring the Ikaruga round and prepare for combat" Zero said as he came up with a sketchy unthought-of out plan, but it was his best shot.
"What but Zero!" Dietard said wondering what was wrong with everyone.
"We will hold them off while Karren tries to rescue her. C.C where are there holding cells?"
"Next to there back hanger, she can bring in her knightmare and go on foot to get her." C.C said already knowing nothing she said would stop him. And it was better than telling Karren to just retreat because she would disobey and tear apart all of China to rescue Kallen, even if she died doing it.
"See to it she knows the plan. Now Bring the Ikaruga around and prepare combat level 1"
"Yes sir!" Everyone but Dietard and C.C yelled.
Karren saw explosions in the distance as she neared the rendezvous. The Black Knights were preparing to combat the chinese head on, it didn't look like something Lelouch would so daringly try.
Suddenly she was getting a signal connecting her to the Ikarugas bridge. "Need some help?" She said cheerfully, mocking the Chinese.
"Listen, they have Kallen. There is cells next to there back hanger." Zero said as Karrens face grew with seriousness and anger. She wound murder them if they hurt her. She was one of her only ties here, she would not allow them to have her, no matter what.
"I'm on it!" She said as she bolted at high speeds to towards the back of the pyramid shaped carrier, catching them completely by surprise.
Suzaku watched as Kallen was dragged from the cockpit of the Guren Xingke had captured. Chinese federation soldiers immiediatly handcuffed her with barely any struggle. She was in her red pilot suit which matched her hair. She looked angry, sad, and determined all at the same time. But upon seeing Suzaku the anger showed more.
"Did you really think you can get away with kidnapping our Empress?" The high eunuch said as the guards handcuffed her forcefully. He was the only one of them here in the hanger. Suzaku just wanted to tag along since his Lancelot was being repaired, still he had no idea they would actually capture her.
Kallen held her mouth shut refusing to speak to him, but she had determination in her eyes. "I see" The high eunuch said softly. He nodded towards one of the guards and the man nodded back before pulling out a pistol and pointing it into her ribs. This was unfair justice in Suzakus mind.
"Wait stop." Suzaku said as he stepped forward halting the guard from whatever he was going to do.
"Why she is a terrorist?" The eunich said raising an eyebrow at him.
Suzaku quickly thought of several reasons. First and foremost execution this way wasn't right. Second was she held information of Zero. Information he didn't just want but what he needed. He had to see if Lelouch was Zero again. "Hand her over to me. It will be a huge favor towards Britannia."
The high eunuch seemed interested as he looked from the red headed girl back to the boy. She remained silent but they both seemed determined to do something. He could use a few favors from a Knight of the Round when he became a nobleman. And certainly this girl was as cheap a price of anything for power. "Very well"
The guards immediately tossed Suzaku the keys as he pushed Kallen towards him as she stumbled. He caught the keys in his left hand as he grabbed the neck piece of her pilot suit with his right. She eyed him but still remained silent as she regained her footing. "Thank you very much" Suzaku said as he stared straight into Kallens eyes which for once in the entire conversation showed a hint of fear.
Rec Alarms started to blare out when suddenly the hanger door ripped open as the Black Knightmare climbed through. Men were tossed from the catwalks as the knightmare tossed everything to its side. Suzaku immiediatly grabbed his gun and pointed it into Kallens back. She shivered wondering if this was the end but Suzakus eyes were surrounded in red of the live command. He knew then, his best shot to use Kallen against whoever this was.
The High Eunuch and his guards immediately started running as Suzaku stood his ground with Kallen as his hostage. The Black Knightmare shot two of its slash harkens above his and tore the High Eunuch to pieces as blood and body parts littered where he was. The knightmare used its sword to slash a Gun Ru in half as the pilot climbed in.
It stomped towards him destroying and killing all the helpless soldiers and workers until it stood before Suzaku. Suzaku clenched his teeth as his hand with the gun shaked. The live command demanding he not pull the trigger. The knightmares claw arm flowed with black energy until it shoved it into the wall beside his as sparks flew around before everything went dark except for the fires that were made. No one moved, no footsteps of running soldiers heard as everything was silent. Blood covered the dark knightmares sword and harkens looking like a demon from hell.
No one moved, no one was alive... The entire hanger had lost power, and it would be sometime for help to get here. But the knightmare stood there looking down at him a good ten feet away. It could strike him down at any time, but not without hitting Kallen to. Kallen shaked until finally the silence was broken. "Will you release her?"
Karren didn't even know why she had bothered. Perhaps she hoped the slaughter would scare him to release her and run. But no he held her by the neck and signs that he had a gun to her back. She was handcuffed but any sudden move and she would die, she couldn't risk that, she would never risk that.
"No" Suzaku said gritting his teeth. Kallen shaked not knowing what was going on. Karren sighed, she had to hurry, had to rescue Kallen. The Chinese would get here soon and she didn't have enough energy to battle now.
"I purpose a trade then, me for her" Karren said as she let loose a deep sigh and a shiver ran down her spine. She couldn't think straight, didn't know what else to do. She had to rescue Kallen, Karren had been imprisoned and tortured for over half her life. She would never allow Kallen to be treated the same.
Suzaku lifted his eyebrow wondering if it was worth it. This girl in the black knightmare was a better pilot than Kallen, but Kallen had information he needed. Suddenly there was a hiss as Kallen and Suzaku both flinched. Suzaku was frightened as Kallen was scared, she didn't want this. Didn't want Karren to go through with this, she was the one to fail not her.
Karren climbed down in the darkness since the fire only lite half her knightmare as well as half everyone else's faces. She sighed again as she looked at Kallen, she was scared beyond belief with tears in her eyes. Was it for her, or for her own life? Karren stepped out into the light Kallen jerked but Suzaku held her back by the neck piece of her suit. He wasn't surprised, he had thought of this outcome.
"So it is you Karren?" Suzaku said darkly as Karren stood there a few feet away with a mask of apathy on. "I'm sorry but Kallen is more valuable" Suzaku said gripping Kallen a little tighter. Karren may have been the pilot but it didn't mean she knew what Kallen knew.
Kallen flinched at that. She knew how to spicen the deal, but it would cost her. She had to negotiate. She was too emotional to use her geasses properly, she wouldn't risk screwing up and getting Kallen killed. No she wouldn't let her die. So she did the only thing she knew would save her. "I have geass"
Kallen jumped at that as Suzaku held her back again with a deep gaze at her. "Won't you take one of Zeros more valuable weapons away?" Karren said as Kallen looked like she wanted her to turn and run away.
"Karren dont!"
"Quiet!" Suzaku yelled as everyone was silenced. He needed to think, Karren knew about geass, so maybe she knew who Zero really was. In either case, getting rid of Lelouchs, or this new Zeros more valuable weapons would make the Black Knights far easier to take down. Suddenly the value of ths girl rose 100 fold. She was one of the most valuable pieces, and he held the card to take it away from him. Suzaku looked at Kallen as she looked like she was about to break into tears again.
"You have a deal" Suzaku said darkly.
"Karren you can't!" Kallen said as Suzaku continued to hold her back.
Karren stayed silent but she held sad eyes and looked like she was as close to crying as Kallen. Suzaku carefully put the key in the handcuffed as he let Kallen go. She immediately ran and hugged Karren as Suzaku pointed his handgun at the two. No hasty moves. "Karren don't..." Kallen said now spilling tears.
"The Dark Guardian is yours now. Go help Zero." Karren said putting the black feather key into Kallens hand.
"What? No I..."
"Go" Karren said as she looked over Suzaku who held the gun ready to kill.
Kallen hugged her tight and Karren hugged back hoping they could have a moment like this peacefully sometime. "I will come back for you..." Kallen said quietly. "And I do consider you my daughter." she cried openly as tears poured down her face. Suzaku didn't seem like he heard her, she was thankful for that.
Eventually she released Karren from her embrace as Kallen looked back at Karren who walked up to Suzaku and turned around with her hands behind her back. He quickly cuffed her and put the pistol to her back. Kallen could do this. She closed her eyes and turned away as she boarded the Dark Guardian. Karren looked up at it as the knightmare shot out of the hole she had made previously.
"Be safe..." Karren said as everything grew quiet once more.
"Let's go." Suzaku said as he pulled her away. "Karren" He said in distaste.
