First off, let me apologize for the wait on this chapter. I've been busy with classes, as well as reading a lot lately instead of writing. I hope this chapter convinces you to forgive me. I truly enjoyed writing this story. This is a huge part in the plot, so I hope you all enjoy it.

Biscione- I agree. And yes things are about to take a dramatic change. Just read and see what I mean. And there will be some flashbacks here and there to Nunnally's and the other's time in Japan while Lelouch was in Britannia.

Matronium- He definitely has his work cut out for him.

CL- I'm glad you understand. But there must always be a starting point, and they were dating, and are now engaged so it was never friends with benefits.

Gacsam- but for real though.

CheapSk33t- Definitely going down my friend.

Islamy96- The games are most certainly beginning.

Mr. Indigo- A good correlation my friend. Hadn't even thought of that.

Blackinu- I'm glad you like it. And thank you for liking my style, and what sort of stories. Just like more Code Geass stories? Or some other fandoms perhaps. Let me know, I might have ideas I'm thinking of starting there anyways. Enjoy this new chapter will you?

Guest- Yes the Templars and the Grand Master thing was on purpose. All of it's… on purpose…

Chapter 11

Lelouch, Kallen's arm linked through his own, stood tall and proud in the throne room. Something big was about to happen. Lelouch had no idea what it was, his father refused to give any hints to any of his subjects. He's only commanded a meeting with all his children, concubines, and the nobles, along with several news cast crews who would be broadcasting this entire meeting to all of Britannia and their territory.

"Calm down. It's alright. I'm here, Sayoko and Jeremiah are here. Look even little Silvia is fine." Kallen commented, gesturing to the little girl who stood patiently by the side of her mother and father, in small, yet intricate and cute dress as she gazed at those around her. She was here to learn how the nobles act, see how she was supposed to act, as well as watch how her parent's acted around, as well as protected Lelouch and Kallen.

"I know. I know. It's just…. Something's off. I know something's about to happen, and I'm not going to like… I can just… feel it you know?" Lelouch whispered to her, drawing strength from their linked arms, stealing a kiss when he thought no one was watching.

"I know. I feel it too. But we are here for you, so there's no need to threat. We'll all be here. Oh! Here's your father." Kallen commented, quieting as the esteemed Emperor entered, followed by his retinue of guards, along with the Bismark and a cloaked and hooded stranger.

"Welcome! Loyal subjects, and my family. I thank you for joining me on this most momentous occasion. Today is a special day. For years, in secret I have been working on a project, and finally today we can see it come to fruition!" Charles boomed, raising his hands high as the crowd cheered, Lelouch merely watching everything with calculating eyes, especially he cloaked figure as his father continued.

"Now! Many of you remember the death of our dearly beloved Marianne vi Britannia. It was a sad day we lost her. But I must be truthful, I lied to you. For my beloved did not die, she was merely cast into a coma. But to keep her safe from those who'd tried to kill her, I hid her away, even sending my son and daughter away to protect them. A plan that seemed to have failed, but in reality was but a minor setback. Evidence by my brilliant son being here today, along with his beautiful and strong fiancé. Come up here you too. I have a present for you!" Charles shouted, gesturing to the two with a smile on his face, and a devilish twinkle in his eyes.

Lelouch's eyes were wide and staring at the cloaked figure, Kallen doing everything she could to keep him calm and from bolting as they stepped up on stage and beside his father.

"Now. For all the world I will reintroduce! After years of waiting, the new QUEEN of Britannia! Marianne vi Britannia!" Charles shouted as the cloaked figure dropped her cloaked revealing Lelouch's beautiful mother in all her glory, seemingly alive and well.

/-/-/

Lelouch couldn't breathe, couldn't move as he stared at his mother. His mind racing with thousands of thoughts, and emotion. "How can she be here? Alive. She's not supposed to…. How?!"

Even though he'd already known she was still living and had seen her in C.C.'s world their first time around, seeing her now…. In a real body, was too much. Only Kallen's arm in his, and her hand upon his shoulder kept him standing and from running.

"Come Lelouch. Is that any way to greet your long dead mother?" Marianne questioned, opening her arms for a hug.

Haltingly he stepped forward, releasing Kallen's arm as he stepped forward to greet his mother. Wrapping her in a hug, that he guiltily took pleasure in, if for but a moment. Relishing the contact.

His eyes shot open for a moment, quickly closing again as he felt something that he didn't think belonged on his mother's back. But putting those thoughts aside he plastered on a smile, forcing his eyes to water a bit as he saw the camera getting closer.

"As you all heard! Marianne is now Queen of Britannia, and second to only me in power! And I couldn't be happier to reunite her with her son, and soon daughter, I'll be sending for little Nunnally to arrive at the end of the week. And upon her return we shall a feast and celebration such as never before!" Charles thundered, his eyes never leaving Lelouch as he watched his reactions to what was happening. Thrilled when he saw the fear in Lelouch's eyes as he turned in surprise to face his father. "Also! I have found those who tried to murder my wife and beloved daughter, and have dealt with it accordingly. The perpetrators now lie dead I their own blood." Charles darkly intoned.

At this Lelouch's mind began rushing…. "Did he mean V.V.? Is he taken out of the game so soon?" Lelouch questioned, but one look to his father's smirking face answered that question. Something has changed father's plans, and V.V. was no longer part of those plans.

"A pre feast has been prepared! Please follow me to the ball room for a feast!" Charles finished, smiling one last time in Lelouch's direction as he offered his arm to Marianne which she accepted with a bow and walked from the room, leaving a gasping Lelouch in front of the throne, Sayoko, Jeremiah, and Silvia quick to join them as the crowd began filtering out.

"Lelouch! Are you ok!? Lelouch?" Kallen demanded, trying to get through to her love as he stood, staring at the spot where his father had just been. "Lelouch it's going to be ok! We won't let them get Nunnally! It's ok!" Kallen all but shouted into his ear as tears began forming in her eyes. Jeremiah and Sayoko soon joining in with trying to comfort him with their words.

But it was Silvia who got through, running forward she wrapper her arms around his waist, hugging him as tight as her little ten year old body could. He suddenly looked down to see her head buried in his stomach as she hugged him. His eyes softened as he bent down and hugged her to him tight, her arms moving to around his neck as she hugged him. "It's ok master Lelouch. We're here." Her small voice said.

"We most certainly are." Kallen added, kneeling down to wrap her arms around the small girl, and her fiancé.

/-/-/

What are we going to do?" Ella questioned the group, looking around at the group gathered in Lelouch's room. Lelouch, Kallen, Jeremiah, Sayoko, Silvia, Gino, Suzaku, Anya, Ella, James, Michael Lloyd, Rakshata, and Cecile.

"We have to leave. We can't stay. You will all leave for Japan. Take everything we can from here. Withdraw all the money from any and every account I own or have access to. Pack all the Knightmares we've been able to make, as well as any and all equipment into the carrier or submarine. Then launch immediately for Japan. There you will liquidate everything we own. Keep on small underground base for the Black Knights, and leave a small contingent to man it. Otherwise load all our personal and their family onto our other two carriers and launch for China. Jeremiah and I will not be joining you." At this everyone erupted into outrage.

"SILENCE!" Lelouch roared, standing up in anger as he did so. "There will be no arguments. Jeremiah and I alone will leave from here for Japan. It's where I am to go to discuss a marriage with the Empress with the Eunuch's to gain a treaty and other such nonsense for Britannia. That shall be my excuse for leaving and packing everything up. In reality, I plan to awaken Empress Tianzi and Li Xingke. Together we shall wipe out the Eunuchs, and I shall have them grant me the same island as the first time around. That will be your destination. We will then quickly pronounce our declaration, and offer transportation to any Japanese who wishes to join us. We will have already sent the carriers back after being unloaded to pick up anyone who wishes to so that Britannia will have less of a chance to stop us. In that trip Cornelia, and whoever she trust's and wishes to join will come with. After that…. I don't know… I'll need time to think. Now go. Move this needs to happen tonight. Suzaku! Get Euphemia and bring her here to leave. Kallen. I'm trusting you to bring Nunnally, Rolo, and the others with you. However you have to, but see it done." Lelouch finished, turning to his love, fear evident in his eyes as he looked to her.

Love in her own she whispered back after a kiss, "Of course my love. And when we meet again, you may cry all night as I hold you. We'll figure this out together my love. Stay safe."

"And you stay well." Lelouch finished, nodding slightly to her promise as tears began forming in his eyes before an angry shake banished them away before his eyes lit up with an idea. "Sayoko! I want you to sneak into the palace! Quickly before the party ends, shadow my father, stay hidden. See if you can figure out how he brought my mother back, not all that's there is true, she had something under her dress at her back when I hugged her. Learn what you can and return at the latest by tomorrow morning. I want you all to leave as soon as you can. Wait for Sayoko, and do not leave till she returns or I call and say otherwise." Lelouch commanded.

"YES! Your Highness!" Echoed around the room as everyone scrambled to do as Lelouch had commanded.

/-/-/

Sayoko hid in the shadows, crouching above her mark as she gazed down from above at the Emperor Charles zi Britannia. Listening intently to everything he said to passing nobles, Marianne at his side, followed by the Bismark as they stood before the door to the Emperor's room.

As Charles saw the last nobleman off, his wife, the Bismark, and he entered the king's room, shutting the door behind him. He turned to his wife and his Knight upon entering. "Well that went better than expected. Did you see Lelouch's face when you dropped the cloak? It was priceless! He was ruined. Now we must just see if he is the man I believe him to be and he still fights, or if tomorrow I have a subservient son to win all my battles." Charles began, Sayoko perking up as finally something was said of interest.

"Indeed. I must say it was good to embrace my son again. Even after what he… did before. He can be changed this time around, or at worst forced to accept it." Marianne commented.

And for, not the first time, was Sayoko grateful for her training that allowed her to remain quiet to this statement. They knew this was another timeline! But how?!

"And excuse me, but can you tell me again how this happened. I still can't wrap my head around this… it's just so…. Unbelievable." The Bismark began, shuffling his feet a bit uncomfortably as the eyes of his monarch's came to rest on him.

"I've already said. My son messed up, one of our spies, sadly one of V.V.'s got ahold of a file of a transfer I'm sure Lelouch has done several times already, "Reawakening" their old memories, and supplying his own if they died before him in the first timeline. He was able to send this information to one of our receivers, those with the Geass ability to gather thoughts and memories from one, and put them into another's, luckily this one was loyal to me. I now have the same knowledge of the past timeline that Lelouch did. Though it's all but useless now that the timeline has changed so drastically. The only useful things was the knowledge of some of the Knightmare's we'd created, as well as the technology used to make Jeremiah whatever he'd become." Here he paused, wrapping and arm around his wife and pulling her close. "And using it on my beloved's body to make it livable again. It took several weeks of work to happen. But we did it. With the research we already had it was but a few simple steps to get here. And now look at her, strong as ever, and as lively. And should I be correct but this serum we've created, can do many useful things. Heal just about any injury or malady, as well as it has a sort of…. For lack of a better term youthful effect, slowing aging, maybe even stopping it completely if the right adjustments are made. With this, everything changes. We may not even need to rewrite the whole world. Though I will continue to do just that, but maybe we can just rule the whole world forever instead. Eventually I believe Lelouch could be made to see the light. Especially since soon his beloved sister shall be ours for the taking." The Emperor finished, his loud voice easily carrying through the door to Sayoko who was listening in from the other side, having already planted a device inside the room with a small camera.

"Yes. The Serum works wonders, I've never felt better. And it would be nice to rule with our son and daughter on our side. Even should they resist, they are but a capture and Geass away from becoming our loving children who know nothing of our cruelty and love us dearly as we love them." Marianne commented, receiving nods of affirmation from Charles and the Bismark.

"Is there any more of this… Serum around? Will it be passed on to your… more helpful subjects?" The Bismark questioned, wanting some for himself if what he'd been told was true.

"Yes actually. In our lab of course, there is a full batch I expect you to administer to all of the Knights of the round tomorrow. Without their knowledge as to what it is of course. I also wish to gather those of the cult who remained loyal to us in the cleansing and begin recruiting new help. I've found some interesting thoughts that Lelouch had while he was drifting in the eternal sleep. Ones that I plan to utilize if they can. My son truly is a genius my dear. He is everything we could have hoped for." Charles commented, pulling his wife into a kiss as he thought back to all the things his son had done and been willing to do. "He will rule perfectly once he is in the right state of mind."

Sayoko decided she'd heard enough and shot off down the hallway. She had a few more hours to try and find this lab. The Serum could be useful if she could find it. And from her time in Britannia in the past, she knew the exact location of the lab. Getting there would be her only problem.

But even though she'd left, the Emperor had a few final things to say. "Bismark. I also wish you to form another Valkyrie squad, I feel that the old one is…. No longer under our control, as well as set up those other groups I'd mentioned. I want everything prepared for the battle with the E.U. and Lelouch. I have a feeling that China will very soon no longer be a power in play." Charles finished with a devilish smirk before sending the Bismark away and turning to his wife. A wife he'd missed for many years.

/-/-/

Sayoko watched with a smile on her face as the last guard dropped unconscious onto the ground. Glad she'd thought to bring her blow darts and the tranquilizer darts with her, she quickly grabbed one of the fallen guard's key cards and accessed the lab.

It took her another twenty minutes before she found what she was looking for. Inside one of the many hidden vaults in the lab, ones she'd become familiar with the first time around, was the serum.

Labeled only as The M-Strain in honor of Marianne. She pulled out five of the fifty vials, careful to put other vials filled with water in their place. Though close scrutinization would reveal the fakes, at a glance the clear liquid matched the serum and would be overlooked.

"I must return. This is all too important." Sayoko thought, and with that she disappeared in a blink, on her way back to her love, daughter, and master.

/-/-/

Lelouch sat in the chair, barely able to compose himself as Jeremiah sat across from him, staring at the chess board that sat between them.

Not but twenty minutes after his commands had Lelouch and Jeremiah boarded his private plane, having sent a messenger ahead to tell China of their imminent arrival and how they wished to go through everything now so that, "I may return to my beloved mother with no foreseeable future plans and get close to her again." It was a valid excuse, and Lelouch saw no reason as to why the Eunuch's would turn him away upon arrival.

So now he sat in the plain, trying to play a game against Jeremiah, and failing as he made many mistakes, more than he usually ever did. A fact Jeremiah noted, but up to now had chosen to ignore.

With a sigh, Jeremiah had had enough, standing up he ordered all guards out of the room for a moment alone with the Prince.

"Lelouch! This is enough. You can cry and mope all you want once we are safe on the island and everyone is around you. But for now! You are a prince of Britannia, as well as Zero of the Black Knights. Your people need you, and if you want to get through what we're about to do with ease, then you need to get back to yourself. Lock away your emotions, do what you must until you are in your bed with Kallen at your side. Then cry all you need to. This is a shock, I wouldn't dare say otherwise. But this is not the time, nor the place for dreary thoughts. We all care for you, and we are all here for you. So use our strength if need be. But lock away your emotions, and rely on the "demon of Britannia" to get through this situation." Jeremiah finished, his piercing gaze causing Lelouch to think over what he'd said.

"You're right. I'm sorry. Can you excuse me for a few minutes? I shall be fine upon your return." Lelouch questioned.

"Of course my Lord." Jeremiah finished, bowing before leaving the room.

With that Lelouch walked over to a mirror over the drinks station. "By order of Lelouch! I command you to be strong, and lock away your emotions like sadness, misery, and other such useless emotions until you are in the arms of your love!" Lelouch commanded, his eyes aglow with the power of Geass.

He shuddered for a moment, his grip slipping and knocking over a bottle of brandy before he controlled himself and stood up, once again looking into the mirror to the strong face of his self, his eyes bereft of all emotions but a slow burning anger in the background, and the controlled face of a prince of Britannia. "Please return Jeremiah, the guards as well!" Lelouch commanded.

Jeremiah entered, took one look upon his master, who now sat intently in his chair, looking at the chess board like he was just now seeing it for the first time. Lelouch's voice snapping him from his gaze.

"Come Jeremiah. Let us finish the mess with a victory so we may move on." Lelouch commanded, waving Jeremiah to his seat as the guards looked on in confusion at the sudden change in emotion of their lord. But none were willing to question him. Especially not with that glint in his eye.

/-/-/

Cornelia met them at the docks where they landed. "How's Lelouch?" She immediately questioned when Kallen exited the carrier and into the waiting arms of Cornelia. During their time before leaving for Britannia, the two Female Knightmare pilots had become close, Cornelia taking the spot of an older sister for Kallen.

"I don't know. He left as soon as he learned. I have no idea how he's dealing with it. He didn't want to talk about it or anything, he just left." Kallen cried, tears in her eyes as she fought back the urge to let them fall.

"Sshh. It's ok. This is all going to be fine. Come on. Let's go get Nunnally, Rolo and the other's. Suzaku already called ahead and told me what's going on. Does Euphemia still not know?" Cornelia finally questioned, still hugging the red head tight to herself.

"Yes. Lelouch reminded her just as he was boarding the plane, he was practically sobbing as he begged her forgiveness, and having waited so long to tell her. But you know Euphemia. She'd simply hugged him till he stopped crying, whispering over and over that "It was fine. I still love you. I'm just glad we're both back." Over and over again to him. I think they are planning to have tea or something once everything settles down and we're on the island. But you should go see her. She's asleep right now, but I don't think you'll get out of not telling her so easily." Kallen finished with a smirk, giggling slightly as Cornelia sighed, nodding her head in agreement.

"Of course. Her favorite brother gets her killed and then atones for it, and I just don't let her in on a secret, and I'm the one in trouble. Only Euphemia." Cornelia scoffed, heading towards the largest of the three carriers that Kallen had departed from. "Oh! And you can load everything here, no need to use your secret coves. I've told everyone that I'm moving secret equipment we found. As long as everything is in unmarked bins, or at least his your Black Knight's symbols and colors, you can do everything here, and no one will be the wiser."

"Thanks! That will make this easier!" Kallen called back, before taking off at a sprint to find C.C., and then retrieve Nunnally and Rolo.

/-/-/

When Kallen finally made it to the School, after having fully debriefed C.C. and Ohgi on their plans, the two immediately beginning to load everything up and looking for potential buyers of their property they'd been able to buy and find. They had a lot of work to do. But C.C. and Ohgi had planned for this in advance since Lelouch's leaving, and so had already lined up potential buyers for everything, as well as many transporting vehicles and boxes for everything. C.C. could sense something big coming through her link to Lelouch and the other's.

She burst into Nunnally's room to see Rolo pulling his knife from the ribs of one of Charles zi Britannia's royal guard.

"Thank god you're alright! Good job Rolo. Come on Nunnally! We've got to go. We've got a special ship to board. Come on sweet heart." Kallen began immediately. Getting behind Nunnally's chair to wheel her away.

"What's going on?! What happened to the guard!? Where's Lelouch. I want to see mother!" Nunnally began crying, panicking as she had no idea what was happening.

"Sshh Nunnally. It's ok. It's me Kallen, the Royal guard left when he saw me arrive." Kallen began, glaring meaningfully at Rolo to keep quiet about the true reason. "Lelouch is heading to meet us somewhere right now. We just need to get to his ship. So come along. And you'll see your mom soon enough." Kallen finished with a lie, biting her lips and hoping Nunnally wouldn't sense it.

"I can tell you're lying Kallen. At least about mother… but… there must be a reason, I can tell it's true Lelouch is meeting us, I could hear it in your heart. So for now I will comply…. But… we'll be talking of this later Kallen." Nunnally gravely intoned, suddenly becoming quiet and sullen, facing straight ahead, hoping the disappointment in her voice would reach the love of her brother.

"I couldn't as for more." Kallen stated sadly, pushing her out of the hall and out of the building, away towards the docks.

/-/-/

Lelouch sat across from the disgusting Eunuchs, them in their slightly raised thrones compared to Lelouch's grand, yet smaller throne. Jeremiah stood at his side, his eyes blazing at the treatment of his lord, his gaze causing each on in turn to look away, fearing what would happen should they hold his gaze.

To their right sat Tianzi in her throne, only slightly bigger than the Eunuchs, with Li Xingke and Zhou Xianglin on her right and left.

"Now before we finish this marriage contract, to which I'm extremely grateful you have offered my dear Empress. Could I have a word alone with you and your two guards?" Lelouch questioned carefully.

Just as he'd hoped the Eunuchs had waved away his excuse saying they understood perfectly and that to hurry along with the deal would be just a profitable, especially with the "Extra Land" Lelouch promised if things went fast enough.

It sickened Lelouch how easily these people were deceived, and how willing they were to betray that which they should have cared for the most. He wished them a death fitting their crimes once everything was said and done.

"Of course Prince Lelouch." Tianzi complied after a quick argument with Li. "Please excuse us my dear Eunuchs." She commanded.

"Of course your highness." The head Eunuch responded, turning to nod towards Lelouch, thinking nothing of his question.

Lelouch waited till he was sure they were gone, looking to Jeremiah who nodded that he they were gone after peeking out the door.

"I'd rather take my time, but I certainly do not have it at the moment. So my dear Empress, Li, and Zhou. I must question if you remember your last fight with the Eunuchs?" Lelouch questioned. Watching as all three locked up, memories flashing before their eyes.

Li was the first awake, making to storm out the doors after the Eunuchs, only to be stopped by Jeremiah, sword drawn as he faced him.

"Now. Now Li. There will be enough time for that later. Do I not even get a welcome back from you. Let alone an apology?" Lelouch questioned innocently as Li turned to face him, fuming a bit before it all faded from his body.

"You are right. Where are my manors? Welcome back Lelouch. Surprisingly it's good to see you. And once again, thank you for rescuing my Empress from a horrid marriage to Britannia by those pig of Eunuchs." Li spat, nodding his thanks to Lelouch and Jeremiah.

Lelouch could barely turn before the tiny body of the Empress barreled into him, hugging him tight. "Welcome back Zero! I'm glad you're back because Nunnally will be happy. Thank you!" She rambled, hugging him tighter as a smile broke out on Lelouch's face as he hugged her back after getting over the shock.

"Thank you your highness. How are you feeling?" Lelouch questioned.

"Better now Zero!" She said excitedly, returning to her throne as Li took his position beside her.

"I'd like to say I came here just to free you, but sadly I had not planned on awaking you yet, but…. Fate has forced my hand." Lelouch grimaced.

"Yes. We say the news. I wonder how things will fair now." Li commented, empathizing with Lelouch's pain.

"Regardless. My army, Knightmares, and personal along with their families are on their way here. I was hoping we could have that artificial island again. I'm willing to pay if you wish. But the sooner I can get it, the better." Lelouch finally asked.

"Of course it's yours!" Tianzi answered, not even waiting for Li to advise her. "You've done so much already, what is one island, something we can simply recreate?!"

"Thank you your highness. I cannot tell you what this means to me." Lelouch spoke, bowing to the young Empress. "Now on to one final matter. I have documents here showing that the Eunuch's tried to overthrow and kill the Empress, we even have video evidence." Lelouch began, grabbing a file from Jeremiah, along with a DVD and showing the others, a devilish smirk on his face as the same look appeared upon Li's face.

"The only option then, was to defend the Empress upon their attack. Leaving none alive as witness." Li finished, nodding his appreciation to Lelouch as he walked to the hall to call for a servant to fetch the Eunuch's. All of them.

/-/-/

The Eunuch's entered the room with a confident stride, thinking soon they would be nobles of Britannia after marrying off the Empress. They took their seats, happily looking down on the royalty in the room, a sure sign that they would succeed. Their confidence was only stopped by Lelouch's next words.

"I'm sorry my dear Eunuchs. Seems we found some dirt that just can't be cleaned away. It must be cut down." Lelouch sinisterly spoke as of one accord Jeremiah and Li drew their swords and each swiftly struck down a Eunuch.

The others were quick to follow.

"I thank you Lelouch. Though you had no reason to, you came to us and re awoke us, as well as saved my Empress from marriage someone far too old for her. I thank you from the depths of my heart. In one week our courier's will announce the betrayal and our intentions of joining a special nation at the mention of Zero. We'll be awaiting your announcement before we make ours. We can keep this under wraps till then. As well as we've decided to send workers to begin work on getting the island up to par with what it used to be. We'll send everyone we can, with as many workers in construction and such that we have, everything should be ready in the week of their arrival. It isn't well known, but we have the quickest, as well as most skillful construction workers of any other nation. It is rumored that a Chinese man was the one to design and build most of Pendragon." Li spoke, finishing with a bow.

"That would be most welcome, I have the full designs for what I'd like them to make for now. Nothing to grand. Most of what I'll need should already be on the island. But still, thank you.

"No. Thank you Zero." Li finished, before showing Lelouch and Jeremiah out and to the room where they would await the head construction workers who would begin work immediately.

/-/-/

Lelouch sat, overlooking all the building taking place around him. Just as he'd assumed the island already had most of what he wanted at the immediate moment. But there were still small changes he wished to be made before Kallen, Nunnally and the other's arrived. Which if he was correct, should be in two days. They were in radio silence, trying to avoid any searching Britannian ships. Britannia was already in an uproar at the disappearance of Prince Lelouch and all his loyal servants. Only the guards, maids, and servants who hadn't been in on everything having stayed. Except a few well-placed spies, if Lelouch was any judge of Michael, James, and Ella's planning.

The island had changed a bit between timelines for some reason. Though it was good changes so Lelouch wasn't too worried. The island was bigger this time around, having over room for six mountains with the empty buildings of a town around each of them, including skyscrapers, houses, business buildings, offices. Anything they would need. And he was using the workers to put the finishing touched into it. Any other plans he had for it he wished to be done by his own Black Knight workers, along with Lloyd's and Rakshata's teams.

He already had plans for the island. Plans that would help him in any situation he could think of happening. Not that anything he'd thought would happen had happened. Instead... Things he hadn't counted on had occurred. Going to Britannia, his father learning of everything, the Serum… his mother. He'd been surprised when he'd gotten the video file from Sayoko when they'd arrived in Japan, emailed to him before they entered radio silence. He'd watched it over and over, replaying everything they'd said. He knew now he must win.

Even more disturbing had been C.C.'s cryptic message about having "Not discovered all the gateway's." That there was "One last gate. The final gate." But that's all she'd been willing to say, and his mind rushed with thoughts on what she could mean. His only though being the Geass marked gates that his father had used to link the world when trying to enslave god.

With a sigh he put aside those thoughts, shaking his head as if to physically dispel them. Sipping from the tea Jeremiah had brought him he turned to face his companion. "Excellent tea Jeremiah. I thank you for your consideration. How are the buildings and such coming along?"

"Very well your highness. They said they should be finished tomorrow around midday, and judging from our last contact with Kallen and C.C. they should be arriving the day after that. They even said they'd be able to finish that large Knightmare bunker you wanted built near the middle of the island, unground and heavily armored so as there being no way to destroy the Knightmares without sinking the whole island. As safe as they ever they will be." Jeremiah informed, trying to hide his grimace as he saw a ring of red appear around Lelouch as he pushed down his raging emotions he'd kept locked away.

Though Jeremiah had never asked what Lelouch did to hid his emotions, he had known. Especially as he'd seen Lelouch's eyes glow red often throughout the day, especially in the mornings. He shuddered as he remembered checking on him in his room while he was sleeping and in the dark just seeing to red rings staring at the ceiling as he tried to control himself. Jeremiah was sure that Lelouch hadn't slept at all for the whole week they'd been away from Britannia and Kallen.

"Thank you Jeremiah. Well then, let us go thank the Construction workers before dinner with Tianzi and Li." Lelouch finished, setting his tea cup down to be taken away by a servant on loan to them by the Federation.

/-/-/

Lelouch watched with red ringed eyes as the three carriers came into view, docking on what would be the main city, and the main dock. Immediately people came flocking off the ship, but he had eyes for none except a certain red head, pushing a wheelchair bound blonde towards him, followed by a watchful purple haired boy.

Lelouch had to control himself so as to not run forward to hug his sister, but it broke as soon as she was close enough and he heard her shout of "Onii-San!" did he surge forward, hugging her close as she did the same, hugging him tight. "What's wrong? Please tell me? You've been hiding something and I'm tired of it being hidden. I haven't seen you for three month's Onii-san!" Nunnally exclaimed, and Lelouch grimaced as he was reminded of those very painful months away.

Next he embraced Rolo, pulling him in for a tight hug, thanking him over and over for watching over Nunnally and himself, for keeping each other safe.

"Onii-san?" Nunnally questioned.

"Yes Nunnally?" Lelouch asked, turning to face her.

"You already know Rolo?"

"Yes dear. He's very close and dear to me. Have you become good friends?" Lelouch questioned.

"Oh more than that Onii-san. I will re-introduce you. Onii-san this is Rolo, my knight as well as boyfriend. Just like Euphemia and Suzaku!" Nunnally exclaimed.

/-/-/

"Tell me now! What happened?!" Lelouch exclaimed, looking at the down trodden faces of Rolo, Euphemia, Ohgi, and Suzaku, and the smirking face of C.C.

"Well. After being around for a month or so, Rolo began experiencing feelings for Nunnally, and apparently she did to. But he was hesitant to act on them. He wasn't sure he was allowed to both love you…. And Nunnally." Suzaku began.

"But when she heard about you naming Sayoko and Jeremiah as your knights, and your engagement to Kallen well… she decided to do the same. It was all we could do get her to just announce him as her Knight. Everyone was ecstatic about it. It was a huge celebration in Japan." Ohgi added.

"Then when she got on the ship with us, and began telling Euphemia about her feelings well… Euphemia encouraged her to ask him out, and force—I mean asked," Suzaku corrected at a glare from Euphemia, "to get Rolo to do the same. And so by the second or so day aboard the ships they were dating. And the Nunnally pushed Euphemia and me to well… make a significant step in our relationship…" Suzaku drawled.

It was only then that Lelouch noticed beautiful pink diamond ring upon Euphemia's hand. Groaning his covered his face with his hands, "And now Cornelia's going to kill me when she arrives."

"Oh I wouldn't count on that Lelouch. She'd commented before we left that if "That stubborn fool takes too much longer I'm going to force him to marry you." So I think you'll be fine." Euphemia commented with a smirk. "And just because I forgave you Lelouch, didn't mean I wouldn't get you back." She finished gleefully, walking over and hugging Lelouch till he finally gave in and hugged her back.

"Fine! You win. Rolo." Lelouch growled, "I swear you hurt her, or one wrong word and no matter how much I love you and the others… well it won't be pretty. You'll see how truly talented Sayoko is." Lelouch threatened, deciding everyone in front of him was deserving of the threat.

"This was not how I expected my first two hours of your return to go." Lelouch finally said, deciding to ignore the snicker from C.C. as she watched him pace. "But either way. I'm glad you all made it, and I'm impressed with how much you were able to make selling off our property and the items we didn't need. And it's good to know that Lloyd and Rakshata are so eager to begin upgrades on all of our Knightmares. It's relieving I suppose."

Kallen zoned out as she watched Lelouch pace in front of her his voice still going as he spoke, she knew he was putting up a good front, she could see it in everything about him. She could see the bags under his eyes from untold nights of no sleep, she could see his eyes lighting up with the ring of obedience every time he looked to Nunnally. She wished to take him in her arms there and hold him, but knew it wasn't appropriate. She only hoped she'd have the chance that night. She prayed she did. He needed her. She could feel it in her soul.

It was then she was snapped from her thoughts as Lelouch offered her his hand, his voice finally registering in her mind.

"Now it's time for an announcement from Zero for our people. And the rules and such to be laid down. Everyone ready?" Lelouch questioned. Kallen only then noticing that the full inner circle of the Black Knights was present as well. "But first… Nunnally." Lelouch finished, fear evident in his voice as to how she'd react.

/-/-/

Lelouch sat opposite of his patient sister as she faced his direction, both sitting in a room bereft of anyone but the other The question evident on her face. "Nunnally, before anything else. I need you to know that I love you more than anything. I would do anything to keep you safe. Anything! Even…. Even rule the world." Lelouch all but mumbled the end, but still he knew she heard him. "Nunnally, I'm just going to ask, as painful as I expect this to be…-"

"What is it Onii-san? You know I'll always love you. No matter what." Nunnally comforted, taking Lelouch's hand in her own.

"Let us see if you think so after this. Do you remember my dearest sister?" Lelouch questioned.

He watched with trepidation as nothing happened.

"Nunnally? Do you remember?" He asked worriedly as still she just stroked his hand lovingly.

"Oh my dearest Onii-San. I always did." With that her eyes opened slowly as she gazed at Lelouch. "I overheard you talking to Sayoko when you first woke her, since you didn't direct enough to just her, well… also remembered. I always loved you, even then, as you died in my arms Onii-san!" Nunnally said, tears in her eyes as she pulled Lelouch into her arms.

He couldn't move as she held him. "She'd known?! For that long. And she hadn't said anything?! He hadn't noticed any change. She still loved him. After all that. She still…."

His grip tightened around her as tears of joy fell from his eyes. "Thank you. Thank you. I'm so sorry." Lelouch all but cried as he held her.

"And before you say it. I understand why we can't see mother and father. I'm fine. As long as I have you. I'll be fine." Nunnally finished pulling Lelouch into a tighter hug as she saw his face, again for the first time in years. And so they sat and held each other for hours till it was time for his announcement to the Black Knights and their families. And he felt all the stronger for knowing his sister was behind him for this.

/-/-/

His voice echoed out across the crowd as they looked up in awe at the man before them. Zero, clothed in his usual attire stood before them. Commanding their attention as he spoke.

"My fellow Black knights! People of Japan!" Lelouch began, resounding applause forcing him to stop for a moment as they calmed down.

"Today I come before you to finally reveal who I am! As well as how this place is going to work! I pray that you all still love and follow me after this, but if not, then you may return to area 11 on the ships as I send them to pick up any who wish to join me." Lelouch once again waited as everyone slowly wound down from the talking, deathly silence reigning.

"Before I do remove my mask I first say this! From this day forward this place shall be known as Avalon! A place of rest and protection from those who would force us to change our ways. It is also the first of many states of the United Federation of Nations! China has already approached me to join this, and we have lucrative treaties from several nations and countries who wish to remain anonymous. And so they shall remain so. But here you may be who you are! The Japanese! This entire town, this… city of this new island is to be known as Japan from her on!" Lelouch had to pause at the deafening shout that erupted from those gathered.

"Now! It is with caution that I remove my helmet, and let the world see the face of Zero!" Lelouch shouted. Putting his hands to his face, everyone was deathly silent again, the camera's zooming in for a close up of his face to broadcast to the world.

The mask came off, and soon Lelouch vi Britannia was bared before the world. "It is I! Lelouch vi Britannia, who hates what his nation has become, and wishes to see every nation, every area! Free to do as they wish, to become what they want. For equality to reign, and peace to be my Legacy. I understand if you can no longer stay with me. But I beg you to do so. I only wore this mask for fear that you wouldn't follow me as a Britannian. Especially royalty." Lelouch shouted out.

He cringed as a "Damn Straight!" Reached his ears and many hesitantly looked back towards the ships. AS he began to fear that he would lose many, one voice rose high above the other mumbling voices. That of Tamaki.

"WHO CARES?! You've brought us victory! A place to call our own! Freedom! Jobs that will pay! Who cares where you came from, all of us surely came from somewhere we weren't proud of anymore. But you gave us our pride back! You made us Japanese again!" Tamaki's voice rang out clear and strong as the crowd listened. And at the end of his speech there was a moment of silence, before shouting and clapping erupted. Everyone realizing his words were true. They'd been beaten till Zero had come along. And now everything was looking up.

With a tear in his eye, Lelouch once again spoke, the crowd quieting as he spoke. "I thank you all for your support. And I promise to live up to it, and continue my Legacy as Zero. We will still stand for those who are being oppressed! Whoever they may be. As my last announcement. I will introduce some new groups, as well as leadership to the people. Are you ready?!"

Lelouch was answered by a deafening applause. "Good. First I am instigating the Order of the Templars. Our defense against such groups as Britannia's Knight of the Round. These stand above all others! The best at their job, they will answer to me only, no one other is above them, no leader of our country, or this federation. They are the law, the highest order. No one is above the law, therefor no one is above them. Their Aces, Omega and Alpha. The leader and Grand Master first Templar Jeremiah Gottwald, His second Templar seneschal Sayoko, Third Templar C.C., Fourth Templar Rolo, Fifth Templar Gino, Sixth Templar Anya, Seventh Templar Tohdoh, Eighth Templar Li Xingke, Ninth Templar Villeta Nu, and finally our Tenth and Eleventh Templar's shall be announced in weeks' time." Lelouch began, thunderous applause and cheering as the named individuals knelt before Lelouch to be knighted, receiving their Pins and badges showing their rank.

"Next is the Royal Amazons! Their Leader at all times, and only one able to command them other than their leader, as well as their main person to stay with in battle an protect, is my Queen and Fiancé Kallen, Known as Alpha and Pilot of the Guren!" Here he was once again forced to stop as the loudest cheering yet erupted from the assembled crowd. "The leader of the Amazons shall be Marika, her second in command Lilliana, and third being Nagisa, as well as Aika, Kyou, and Mari. These seven strike fear into the hearts of our enemies!" Lelouch shouted, smiling as they knelt before him to be knighted, receiving their pins and badges.

"The Spartans! Our elite fighting force and leaders of squadrons during battle. Their leader shall be Tohdoh! Second in command is Zhou Xianglin, followed by Tamaki, Nagisa, Hong Gu, Asahina, Inoue, Sugiyama, Yoshida, and Minami!" Lelouch finished. The named bowing before Lelouch, except for an excited Tamaki who ran forward, hugging his leader quickly before kneeling, giddy as a school girl at his new position. All of them receiving their pins and badges.

"And finally our leaders. As prime Minister I announce Ohgi, Head of Social Affairs is Milly, her second in command being Rivalz! Our law shall be created by a democracy that shall be established once we have more nations in our fold. Until then I shall remain as acting head, along with Ohgi, but after we have a government, I shall step down and remain in leadership of our military the Black Knights, and police force of the United Federation of Nations! And should anyone have a compliant, or go to court, they shall be judged by our four prestigious judges, unless the case be sent to the military of course. I present to you the judges for these cases. Euphemia li Britannia as head judge, Nunnally vi Britannia as second judge, Sumeragi as third Judge, and finally Tianzi as the fourth and final judge. The fates of those in court, or with problems lie in the most understanding and fair among us!" Lelouch announced as the named leaders stepped forward to be sworn in.

The crowd was ecstatic as they saw this unfold. This was better than they dreamed. Sure there were Britannians up there, but the Prime Minister was a Japanese, and a head of one of their ancient houses was a judge. And a democracy to make laws, cutting our rulers entirely and freeing the people. They couldn't be happier. And their cheering and shouting of approval told Lelouch that as he smiled down at them.

/-/-/

Kallen entered hers and Lelouch's new room with trepidation, after having commanded Jeremiah to let no one enter the room without them having first exited. Wondering what she would find, an emotionless man, who had nothing but either anger or laughter in his eyes. Nothing more. Or a man broken, and irreparable. Or just her love, in need of her presence.

She found him sitting on the edge of the bed, in naught but his sleeping pants, his eyes open and staring at the wall, red rings vibrant and angry in his eyes as he sat that, trying to control himself.

Without a word she walked over, stripping off her clothes she crawled into bed, pulling him with her. As she covered him up he turned and buried his face in her embrace as she held him, watching his eyes as the red ring disappeared.

It was then the tears flowed, streaming from his eyes as he wept, and soon she wept as well, holding him tight, protecting him from the world. His shield. His love. His… Queen.

She held him tight, through the night until she heard his breathing steady out, having finally falling asleep from exhaustion. She slowly pulled him up, cuddling into his frame as she too fell asleep. A smile gracing her lips as she knew her Lelouch was still there. He may be in need of love and a strong shoulder, but he was there.