Disclaimer: I don't own or have anything to do with Code Geass.
A/N: It has taken me way too long for me to produce this chapter. I had to re-write it three times due to unforeseen circumstances and even now I'm not sure so I'm just going to go for it and present it, so here it is.
Preparing For War: Gathering Strength
Kallen and CC were staring right back at the core members of the Black Knights.
"CC, what are getting at?" Kaguya asked.
"Kaguya and Xingke, you were told that Lelouch was Zero and you were most likely told that Zero was 'playing a con game'." CC said.
"Yes, that's right. Why? Are going to tell us different?"
CC simply responded, "I'm just saying that you haven't heard the whole story."
Ashford Academy
Jeremiah had just explained what he did and what was going on to Milly and Rivalz and it completely shocked the both of them.
"How could this have happened?" Milly asked.
"This couldn't be real, right?" Rivalz spoke then he looked at Jeremiah, "It's not really true, is it?"
"I'm sorry but I wouldn't even say these things if they weren't true," Jeremiah replied.
"But why? Why would they do this?" Milly asked shocked at what she heard.
"I understand this is a lot to take in and I also understand that this may seem impossible as well but it is the truth."
"After what just happened now, I'm finding hard not to believing it."
"I have to go to his majesty but please, I ask that you not tell anyone what I had just told you. It would cause either a panic or people would question the sanity you two and even his majesty."
"But-" Rivalz was about to protest.
"Rivalz," Milly interrupted looking at Rivalz and the back to Jeremiah, "Okay, understood. We won't mention this to anyone else," Milly then smiled, "you can count on that."
Jeremiah gave a bow to Milly, "I appreciate it Lady Ashford and his majesty will definitely appreciate this as well."
Jeremiah left to go back to the Merlin.
"Prez, are sure this is okay?" Rivalz asked.
"I have to agree to what he said, if we go telling people what we were just told, either they'll think we were crazy or if they do believe us, it would cause a mass panic in which can lead to serious consequences."
Rivalz thought for a moment, "Yeah, I guess that's true…but still…why would he…?"
"We won't know for sure unless we can ask him about it," Milly said.
Rivalz crossed his arms, "Yeah, I suppose you're right Prez."
Milly looked over and saw the Merlin and thought of one person, "Lelouch…be careful…"
The Conference Room in the Ikaruga
CC had just mentioned what Kallen had told her and Lelouch and that was regarding what Ohgi had proposed to Schneizel in exchange for turning in Lelouch to the second prince. This surprised Kaguya, Xingke, Empress Tianzi, Xianglin, and Hong Gu. To back up the claim, Kallen mentioned that Ohgi had spoke to her about it and told her that it was Lelouch who was evil with his geass power and made claim that it was best course of action.
"Is it really true?" Kaguya asked, "Are you just making it up?"
"No Lady Kaguya," Kallen replied, "what CC is saying is true. I know it to be true because Ohgi actually told me about it."
"Kallen…" Ohgi was surprised.
"Ohgi, you may have assumed that I would keep quiet about the details of your proposal but you never told me to actually keep quiet about it, you just assumed that I would," Kallen countered.
"Ohgi, is what Kozuki and CC telling us is true?" Xingke asked looking at Ohgi.
Ohgi was taken back, "Uh, well…" Ohgi didn't know what to say.
Kaguya looked around as well, "Well, Todoh, Chiba…" Kaguya waited for a response, "Minami, Sugiyama, Tamaki…"
"Did you all know about this?" Xianglin asked, "Did you all knew about this and didn't tell us?"
"What about the UFN?" Hong Gu asked.
"If what CC and Kallen are saying is true, then that would mean that UFN would have been left out," Kaguya deduced, "Japan might have been safe but as far as the UFN was concerned, it still would have been susceptible to attacks by Schneizel or Cornelia for that matter."
"So while Japan would have been safe from Britannia, for the time being, the rest of the countries that was part of the UFN would have still be targets for attacks from Britannia," Xingke concluded.
The other core members of the Black Knights were silent and wasn't sure how to respond.
"Oh my, this is indeed a surprised," Rakshata said puffing her pipe.
"You were there when the deal was made, weren't you Rakshata?" Kallen asked.
"Of course not, I was busy looking over the Guren since the Earl of Pudding and Cecile had violated it when they were discussing things. The only thing that I was told was who Zero was, his geass, and that he betrayed us. I wasn't given any more detail than that I honestly never knew that they made a deal with Schneizel to return Japan only."
"Wait, please," Viletta spoke up, "Ohgi…Kaname was just trying to do what he thought was right. He made the decision that he believed would be best."
Kallen chuckled, "Oh really? Do you even hear yourself Viletta?"
"Oh yes, and you would know when people try to do the 'right things', right?" CC added sarcastically, "a typical answer from someone who was only just looking for ways to beat Lelouch and only cared about her own status, not caring who got used and hurt in the process."
Viletta was upset at CC and Kallen, "Listen you two-"
"That's enough," Xingke demanded and then looked at Viletta, "Viletta Nu, it would be best that you stayed out of this."
Viletta was surprised looking at Xingke, "Wh-What are you saying?"
"Xingke, that's not fair," Ohgi spoke defending his girlfriend, "she's been with us for the whole month and she hasn't done anything suspicious nor has she done anything to lead to our downfall."
"That's may be true, however, she's not an official member of the Black Knights. She's someone you've accompanied with without really given much explanation of the circumstances."
"Besides Viletta, isn't the real reason you exposed Lelouch to the others with Ohgi was because you were afraid that Lelouch would expose you first?" Kallen said.
"What do you mean?" Viletta asked looking at Kallen surprised.
"You're the very same person that shot Ohgi a year ago and you were afraid that if Lelouch exposed your relationship with Ohgi, you would lose credibility and your title as Baroness."
"Wait…what?" Tamaki said surprised.
This shocked the others as well and Ohgi didn't appreciate what Kallen had just said.
"You mean you're the one who shot Ohgi a year ago?" Sugiyama asked looked at Viletta surprised.
"Wait a minute, if that's true, then what the hell Ohgi? Are you sure it's a good idea to have her around?" Tamaki asked.
Viletta looked down upset.
"Listen, that's all in the past," Ohgi said defensively, "there's no need to be suspicious of Chigusa now, not after all this time she's been with us and I don't care that she did shot me, I still love her and that will never change."
Ohgi held Viletta's hand and Viletta herself was grateful to Ohgi's gesture and words.
"I have to say, it pretty convenient for someone that shot you and only cared about her place in Britannia," CC commented.
Viletta felt hurt by CC's word and Ohgi was getting angry.
"Listen CC, I don't want to hear that from someone like you," Ohgi said with anger, "someone who doesn't really actually have a care for the world."
"That's enough!" Xingke demanded.
"What's really going on here?" Kaguya asked upset, "How could you all make such a deal in exchange of handing or killing Master Zero for Schneizel? Didn't any of you think that if you had gone through it and that Schneizel actually gave you what you wanted, it would still lead problems?"
"I wonder that myself since we've been fighting against him and Cornelia all this time," Kallen said, "and yet, you guys made deals with them at the drop of a hat."
"I was sure that we could have worked something out for the UFN as well," Ohgi said.
"Did you really or did you just hope that things would just work out?" Hong Gu asked narrowing his eyes at Ohgi.
Todoh sighed as he thought about it a bit, "I guess…we didn't really think things through."
"Todoh…?" Ohgi spoke.
"General…?" Chiba spoke.
Todoh continued, "We were so caught off guard of what was told to us and we were angry and disgusted of what Schneizel and Cornelia told us and that we wanted Zero…Lelouch to pay for what he did and we just agree to what Schneizel asked of us without really giving it much thought. We were so agreeable to what Ohgi propose that we didn't really think the whole situation and Schneizel could have very well found a way to turn things against us."
"But sir, even that's the case, what was said was true and Zero said it himself when we confronted him, he admitted that he used us," Chiba replied.
"Yes, that's right," Ohgi agreed, "and he had the nerve to laugh about it when we confronted him about it."
"What if it all calculated by Schneizel?" CC asked.
"What do you mean?" Minami asked.
"You people don't realize this but Schneizel didn't reveal Zero's identity to you all just to simply help you. He did it to cripple the Black Knights as an organization."
"Cripple the Black Knights?" Chiba asked.
"He calculated Lelouch's mood when the F.L.E.I.A. was fired a month ago with the jet that was suppose to carry his sister Nunnally. Zero wouldn't show up with being in a sad state and it made it easier for Schneizel and Cornelia to get you all against him without him around to say anything in his defense. The fact is that not having Zero around, this organization would have been really easy picking for Schneizel if he was looking for an excuse to attack the Black Knights again."
"Also seeing Lelouch saw what was going on and when he was confronted by you all pointing guns at him and thinking that Nunnally was killed…he was backed in a corner and figured that he had nothing to live for. I know you may find this hard to believe but I know for sure that he never used his geass on any of us," Kallen explained.
"Are you serious Kozuki?" Chiba asked annoyed, "Let me guess, he told you and you bought into that."
"Even before he did and before I was accompanying him in Ashford for the conference, I always did have my doubts and I guessed right," Kallen was smiling and this caused the others to be confused although Kaguya, Rakshata, CC, Todoh, and Viletta had a good guess as to why and CC sighed.
"Kallen, you can't be serious," Minami said.
"What is with her?" Viletta asked in her head, "How could she possible be…wait, don't tell me that she's actually…"
"Kallen, you're not being reasonable and you're definitely not making any sense," Ohgi spoke, "if we had succeeded, Schneizel would have kept his word because he promised."
Xingke, Xianglin, Hong Gu, Kaguya, and Tianzi looked at Ohgi with upset expressions and Rakshata just smoked her pipe while shaking her head.
CC chuckled and that made Ohgi irritated.
"What's so funny?" Todoh asked glaring at CC.
"I'm sorry," CC responded, "it's just that it's amazing that you idiots would believe Schneizel so easily."
"What was that?" Chiba replied offended at what CC said.
"Because you hear something about Zero that you didn't approve and yet you are willing to betray the trust of the UFN by only looking out in freeing Japan only. Ohgi, you and Todoh as well truly are failures as leaders and it also shows that you don't really care about what was being built for the future of the Black Knights and UFN."
Ohgi, Viletta, Todoh, Chiba, Minami, Tamaki, and Sugiyama were shocked at the things that CC said.
"It would seem that CC is correct," Kaguya said, "it sounds that none of you had any faith which is why you were willing to leave and betray the trust of the UFN."
"Wait, they didn't betray the trust of the UFN," Viletta said.
"Oh yes, they did Miss Viletta Nu," Kaguya was glaring at Viletta, "they betrayed the UFN when they made the deal to free Japan only in exchange of turning Zero over."
"Also, they never told Xingke and Lady Kaguya the truth about it, that can't be good for the organization itself," Rakshata added.
Chiba spoke, "Surely you don't actually believe what Kozuki and this witch is saying, do you?"
"Oh, so the part of the deal you made with Schneizel was a lie?" Xianglin asked glaring at Chiba.
"Uh…well…no, but…"
Ohgi, Todoh, Chiba, Sugiyama, Minami, and Tamaki didn't what to say at this point, they didn't think things would be this bad and Viletta was feeling that things were going to be uncomfortable from here on in the Ikaruga.
"Well, I guess it doesn't matter at this point," Kallen said and then looked at everyone, "it's like I said, I'm leaving the Black Knights and I'm going to assist Emperor Lelouch and stop Schneizel from threatening the world with F.L.E.I.A. warheads. Good bye."
Kallen got up from her chair and along with CC were about to walk out the door.
"Kallen, are you sure you really want to do this?" Kaguya asked, "Leave the Black Knights and join Emperor Lelouch?"
"Are you certain about this Kozuki?" Xingke asked.
"Yes," Kallen responded, "I've thought about it and this is what I've decided for myself. Lelouch may have given up the role for a different one, but to me, he's still Zero. I still believe that."
Everyone was taking in what Kallen had said and CC couldn't help but to be impressed with Kallen's resolve.
"Hmm, in that case, mind if I help out for a while?" Rakshata proposed surprising everyone in the conference room.
"What do you mean?" Kallen asked looking at Rakshata.
"Well, I'm sure you intend to pilot the Guren, right?"
"Uh, yes…if that won't be a problem…"
"Well, as the mother of my giant mechanized child, I have to make sure it's in good shape and treated well. I should come along to assist you for the time being."
CC and Kallen thought about it for a moment.
"Do you intend to come back?" Kaguya asked.
"If it won't be a problem, I just want to make sure that the Guren is in top shape and ready for battle because it sounds to me that they will have a huge battle ahead," Rakshata said.
"Rakshata, you can't," Ohgi said, "you think you just go to them and help out? It's not the concern of the Black Knights."
"Ohgi, you don't have the right to say what goes on here so be quiet," Xingke berated.
This shocked Ohgi, "What do you mean? You can't just say things like that. This is a matter for the organization. We're talking about one of our top members aiding Britannia in their internal struggle."
"This coming from someone who did things by betraying the very ideals of the organization," Xingke countered, "also, did you forget that I'm the highest commanding officer of the Black Knights? I outrank you Ohgi and I say that you keep quiet. In fact, considering of what we have heard, as of right now, I'm stripping all command from you, Todoh, Chiba, Minami, Sugiyama, and Tamaki as of this moment."
There was shock again.
"Are…are you serious?" Tamaki asked.
"Very serious."
"But you can't," Chiba argued.
"I can and I just did."
"Wait Xingke, be reasonable about this-" Ohgi argued.
"Ohgi, stop," Todoh interrupted.
Ohgi was shocked looking at Todoh, "Todoh, you're not going to say anything about this?"
"Right now, I think it would just make things worse if we continue to argue about this. We have to stop now."
"General…" Chiba said sadly, "you can't be…" Chiba stopped and looked down with an angry expression.
The others that were just stripped of their rank stood back quietly and Ohgi was shaking as he was upset with Viletta trying to comfort him.
Garden Room in the Damocles
Nunnally was just in her wheel chair thinking with the key that controlled the F.L.E.I.A. in her hand.
"Lelouch, I have to do this," Nunnally said in a low voice, "…for when this is over, this will become the symbol of hatred for the people and then people can really look forward to the future."
Bridge of the Damocles
Suzaku was watching the monitor that was showing Ashford Academy. Suzaku had a downcast expression. The door opened and Gino walked in.
"So this is where you've been," Gino said.
Suzaku was bit surprised and turned to face Gino, "Gino…"
The Knight of Three stood next to the Knight of Seven and watched the monitor showing Ashford Academy.
"Looking at Ashford, huh?" Gino spoke.
"Yeah," Suzaku replied, "Gino, I want to thank you."
"Thank me for what exactly?" Gino responded.
"You know, for joining us to fight against Lelouch."
"There's really no point in thanking me."
"I don't mind Gino, it's good that you're not buying in to Lelouch's deceit and I'm glad you didn't give in to what Jason said to you when you fought him."
"No Suzaku, you misunderstand, it's true I'm fighting against Lelouch for what he did but don't think I actually trust you or Prince Schneizel for that matter."
Suzaku turned to Gino surprised, "Gino?"
"I refuse to condone your involvement in killing the Emperor Charles as well as Prince Schneizel supporting it. When this is over and we defeat Lelouch and his forces, it will be Princess Nunnally that will rule Britannia, isn't that what Prince Schneizel said?"
"That…is what Prince Schneizel said," Suzaku said although he knew what Schneizel really had in mind.
Gino nodded, "That's right. She's the only one who would never resort to dirty tricks and would have never agreed with what you've declared."
Suzaku wasn't surprised at what the tall blonde knight said and responded, "Gino, I bear no delusions that you will understand or forgive me but sometimes, you have to get your hands dirty when trying to obtain your goal. I know it's hypocritical of me since I was always going on about changing things through the right means but-"
"Spare me your reasons Suzaku," Gino interrupted.
Suzaku was upset that Gino cut him off, "Gino…"
"Listen, whatever your reasons, understand this, I will only be cooperative with you and Prince Schneizel to defeat Lelouch and that's all."
Suzaku didn't like what Gino said to him but nodded, "I see…"
A snapshot was heard and Gino and Suzaku turned to see Anya with her electronic diary.
"Anya…" Suzaku spoke.
"Recorded…" Anya said as she then looked at the picture she just took.
Gino took the time to walk out and left the bridge. Anya watched Gino walk out and then looked at Suzaku while the Knight of Seven himself just went back and looked at the monitor showing Ashford Academy.
The Merlin
Soldiers were escorting Lloyd, Cecile, and Nonette through the hall. The three guests were looking around in the flagship.
"I never would have thought that the Merlin would be finished," Lloyd commented.
"Indeed," Cecile replied, "Emperor Lelouch must have ordered it to be completed."
"Well, Schneizel was the one who originally started to have this flagship made."
"Now, it belongs to Lulu," Nonette said smiling, "well, he certainly knows when and where to get things done."
Soldiers were surprised of the nickname the Knight of Nine had for the 99th Britannian Emperor as they thought that only the Knight of Eight called him by that nickname. They soon arrived at a certain door. It opened up and it was the bridge and there was Lelouch discussing things with Carter, Sarah, and Jason.
"Excuse us Your Majesty," a soldier spoke, "we've brought the three people here as per your order."
Lelouch, Sarah, Carter, and Jason looked over to the people in question.
"Excellent, you two are dismissed," Lelouch said.
"Yes, your majesty," the two soldiers said as they saluted the emperor and left the bridge.
"Earl Lloyd Asplund, Miss Cecile Croomy, and Lady Nonette Enneagram, welcome to my imperial flagship, Merlin," Lelouch greeted.
"Thank you for having us your majesty," Cecile replied with bow.
"How nice see you your majesty," Lloyd greeted in a casual manner.
Nonette ran to Lelouch and gave him a gripping hug, "Hello Lulu."
Lelouch laughed a bit nervously, "It's nice to see you again Nonette."
The Knight of Nine was all smiles while Carter and Jason simply sighed while Sarah smiled.
"How nice to see again Nonette," Sarah greeted.
Nonette released Lelouch and greeted Sarah, "Nice to see you too Sarah."
"When we were told that you desire to join us, we were really surprised. I would have thought you would have joined with Bismarck and try to remove Lulu from the throne."
Nonette nodded, "Let's just say that I started to see what was really going on and I couldn't bring myself to agree with Bismarck anymore. Bismarck wasn't happy with me and vowed that I would pay when he said, 'taught the usurping brat a lesson'. But well…we all know how that turned out for him and the others."
Sarah went up to Nonette and the two female Knights of the Round smiled.
Nonette saw her other two fellow Knights of the Round, "Well Jason and Carter, aren't you boys going to greet me as well?"
"Hello," Carter said.
"Hi," Jason said.
Nonette was a bit disappointed and pouted a little, "That's it? Is that all you'll give me?"
"Um, yes…" Carter responded as he and Jason looked away.
"Jason, Carter, what's with you two?" Sarah asked.
Nonette looked at the two male Knights of the Round and grinned, "Oh I see," the Knight of Nine went and gave both the Knight of Two and the Knight of Five gripping hugs, "Oh, are two embarrassed?"
"N-No, of course not," Jason responded nervously.
"You're just thinking we are," Carter added, "we're not," Carter and Jason were blushing, "anyway, Nonette, could let us go? We have serious business to discuss."
Nonette released them, "Yeah, that's true, we do have a serious matter on our hands, don't we Lulu."
"Yes, we do," Lelouch replied.
Jeremiah entered the bridge and was surprised to see Nonette and glares, "Nonette Enneagram…"
Nonette sees Jeremiah and smiles, "Well, well, hello Jeremy…"
Jeremiah got irritated and then calmed down and went to Lelouch, "Your Majesty, I understand what you have told me earlier but are you certain we can trust her?"
"Of course you can," Nonette answered and then had a serious expression, "besides; I saw what happened to Ector. If Prince Schneizel is willing to kill many people just to get his way, then I want to help to put a stop to it."
Jeremiah had a serious look and went to Nonette, "If you betray the trust of his majesty, you will suffer the consequence."
"Jeremiah…" Lelouch spoke.
"I'm just giving her a warning sire," Jeremiah said respectfully.
"Relax, I promise I won't be betraying Lulu," Nonette said offhandedly.
Kallen, Rakshata, and CC entered the bridge were surprised to see Lloyd, Cecile, and Nonette.
Lloyd and Cecile saw them.
"Well, hello Guren thief," Lloyd said sarcastically to Kallen.
Kallen twitched, "Guren thief? You're calling me a thief? You act like it was yours. You just had it when I was captured."
"The nerve of you Earl of Pudding," Rakshata said as she walked up to Lloyd and Cecile angry in the bridge.
"Rakshata…" Cecile said.
Lloyd was also surprised and annoyed, "What? Why are you here?"
Rakshata was twitching pointing her pipe at them, "You two have a lot of nerve to you violated my child!"
"Rakshata, I'm surprised that you're here," Lelouch said.
"Rakshata Chawla, the Black Knight's head scientist," Jason said in his head.
"We brought her along," CC said.
Rakshata looked at Lelouch and smiled, "Greeting Emperor, I know this is surprised to see me here but with Kallen here as well and the one who pilots MY Guren," the Indian scientist glared at Lloyd and Cecile and back to Lelouch with a smile, "I decided to help out to make sure that Guren is in top shape for the upcoming battle and while I'm at it, I'm willing to help with whichever knightmares that you may have… especially with the knightmares of your knights."
This surprised the four Knights of the Round.
"Would you really do that Dr. Chawla?" Jason asked.
Rakshata smiled, "Of course."
"That won't be necessary," Lloyd said, "as you can see, Cecile and myself are here and I'm confident that it will be suited well and besides, what about your obligations with the Black Knights? It can't possibly sit well for them that you came here…especially since some of the top members have a bit of…certain distain for our young emperor."
Cecile didn't like the way Lloyd worded things, "Lloyd, please…"
"Hmph, it's not really a problem. Xingke and Lady Kaguya didn't mind at all. In fact, Xingke gave the go ahead."
"Really? Is that true?" Lelouch asked.
"It's true," CC said, "Kallen and I basically told the Black Knights what was going on when Kallen resigned from her position."
"I see," Lelouch went to Kallen, "How did they take it?"
"There were some mixed reactions," Kallen said, "in fact, Xingke and Lady Kaguya will be contacting us soon."
"Contacting here?" Sarah asked.
"Yes, in fact-" Kallen spoke.
Kallen was interrupted when an incoming transmission beeped in the bridge.
"Oh, it must be them right now," CC said and looked at one of the operatives, "hey, accept the transmission."
"Uh…right," the operative said as he accepted the transmission and the screen showed Xingke and Kaguya.
Lelouch walked up a bit, "Well, well, The UFN's Supreme Chairwoman, Lady Kaguya Sumeragi, and the Black Knights' own General Commander Li Xingke.
"Emperor Lelouch, we trust that Kozuki and CC have told you," Xingke said.
Lelouch nodded, "Yes, you know what's really going on?"
"Schneizel intend to threaten the world with F.L.E.I.A.s," Kaguya said, "to control the world."
"Unfortunately, that is the case. If Schneizel gets his way, it will not only be Britannia who will actually suffer, it will be the rest of the world. I intend to put a stop to that," Lelouch said with determination.
Xingke sighed heavily, "It's seems that Ohgi, Todoh, and the others really messed up on this. They kept the matter of the deal they made with Schneizel a secret from Lady Kaguya and me and now that very person intend to point F.L.E.I.A.s at the world."
"Emperor Lelouch vi Britannia, regarding about the conference, we will resume…if you manage to win against Schneizel We still haven't heard your answer regarding the terms we've set up for you," Kaguya paused for a moment and then looked at Lelouch with a serious expression, "also, I hope you understand that even with all this and even if…" Kaguya shook her head, "no, when you win, it does not mean that Britannia will automatically be allowed to be part of the UFN. In fact, even before the news of one of the Britannian city being destroyed by Schneizel, some of the members had been voicing their doubts of Britannia's sincerity."
"I understand," Lelouch said knowing what Kaguya was saying, "I know what you're saying and that absolutely fine. My only concern right now is defeating Schneizel and destroying his plan and it will be done. I can worry about what the result will be regarding the UFN after we defeat Schneizel."
"Emperor Lelouch, can you really defeat Schneizel?" Xingke asked.
Lelouch thought about it for a bit and had a determined look on his face, "I can and I will."
Xingke was silent for a bit and then spoke, "Very well, then on behalf of Lady Kaguya and myself, we wish you luck and hope for your success," Xingke looked at Kallen, "Kozuki, take care of yourself and be careful."
Kallen nodded, "I will, thank you."
"Emperor Lelouch," Kaguya spoke.
"Yes," Lelouch answered.
"After you take care of things, we wish to speak to you further about…certain matters."
Kaguya and Xingke cut off the transmission.
"Hmm, I wonder what she wanted to talk you about," Jason asked.
"I think I know…," Lelouch said and then he looked at his subordinates, "We're heading back to Pendragon. Everyone, be prepared."
"Yes your majesty," Everyone in the bridge said as they prepared to head for Pendragon.
UFN Conference in Ashford Academy
Kaguya stood in front of the podium and had told the members of the UFN council that they would hold off and resume making a decision of whether or not they would allow Britannia to be part of the UFN if Emperor Lelouch succeeded in ending the conflict was against Schneizel el Britannia and his forces.
The council members looked at each other and little discussions were going on.
Schneizel's Quarters in Damocles
Schneizel was looking over his flight plan of the aerial fortress and was quite please with himself at the moment. He was confident that things were going his way. It was a way that he felt it would work the best in order to assure that his own peace to the world. He believed that the masses in general were incapable of actually working on trying to be peaceful and history had proven such in all generations, centuries, and in any era, there had always been ravish with war and conflict. Schneizel sat on his couch and began his thoughts.
Kanon entered the room, "My lord."
Schneizel looked and saw his aide, "Is there something wrong Kanon?"
"My lord, it seems that Prince Odysseus has left carrying Princess Cornelia with him. He has taken one of the jets and left."
"Hmm, is that so?"
"Should we go after them?"
"No need let them go."
"Are you certain about that? There may be a chance that they will tell what you told them."
"So what if they do? It won't matter in the end. We will be successful and the people will have no chance and when it's over, it will be over for not only Lelouch, but for the Cornelia and Odysseus as well."
"Are you sure your highness?"
"Absolutely so let them make a run for it. Besides, who's really going to bother to actually help them?"
Kanon thought about what Schneizel said and it seemed to make sense to him, "You do have a point, my apologies for bringing it up in the first place."
Schneizel waved it off, "Please, there's no need to apologies Kanon, you did fine telling me and now for my own question; how are things for our own end?"
Kanon nodded, "Yes, our forces are prepared. We've begun in making the final preparations now that our forces that are being led by Gino, Anya, Suzaku, Princess Guinevere, Princess Karine, and Prince Cassius."
"Excellent," Schneizel said as he looked back at the flight plan for Damocles, "everything is set and the world will finally know peace at last and its peace will last with a system and power."
"Yes, with your lead," Kanon added, "your younger brother is all that really stands in your way."
Schneizel smiled with confidence, "That's true and I've never lost to Lelouch, not once and I don't see that changing ever. Time is see how everyone is doing," Schneizel said as he stood up from his couch left the room with Kanon following him smiling at his prince.
Pendragon, Holy Britannian Empire
The Merlin and the Avalon had arrived and descended on the flagship landing deck. Lelouch came out of the flagship with CC and Kallen followed suit and where he was greeted by General Bradford and others that were with him followed suit. Kallen looked around and was amazed. She never thought that she would enter the capital of Britannia in way she did. Lloyd, Cecile, and Rakshata were still 'discussing' things regarding the designs of the knightmare frames. Jeremiah, Sayoko, Carter, and Jason were talking to each other and Sarah, who was with Nonette, were talking about old times as well. Nina and Natalie came out last and the Einstein sisters were talking about what they been doing for the past year.
General Bradford walked up to Lelouch, "Your Majesty."
"General Bradford," Lelouch replied.
Bradford went to Lelouch and spoke to him something in a low tone and Lelouch nodded and smiled.
"Excellent," Lelouch said.
"It wasn't easy but we managed all thanks to your planning sire," Bradford said.
"Great work, you have my gratitude. Now prepare the forces, we're in for a war against Schneizel."
"Yes, your majesty. Also, everything is set for your public address as you ordered."
"Good," Lelouch said and then looked back at the people that were with him, "Our enemy is Schneizel and his Damocles. Schneizel has no doubt has in part of his own forces are remaining factions still against us. We will make it the last huge battle for the future. I'm counting on all of you and let us all make out of this. Do not falter for we have come so far and we will not let any stop it."
"Yes Your Majesty," his entourage said in unison.
Lelouch and the others walked further and headed for their destination.
Horai Island
Ohgi, Viletta, Todoh, Chiba, Minami, Sugiyama, and Tamaki were on the island where they were escorted out of the Ikaruga and they still couldn't believe what was happening. They headed inside the building and were bitter losing their positions in the organization.
"What do you think will happen now?" Minami asked.
"It's hard to say but we know that Xingke and the others are not pleased with us right now," Todoh said.
"I still can't believe that Kallen quit the Black Knights and decided to join with Zero, uh, with Lelouch," Ohgi said upset.
"I just don't understand," Chiba said.
"But you all heard what Kallen and CC said," Tamaki said, "we played right into Schneizel's hand and he didn't really care as he wasn't actually concerned about Zero using us and now he actually plans to threaten the world with those damn warheads. I can't help remember the damage it did to Tokyo."
"Do you actually believe that?" Sugiyama asked.
"Yeah, I mean, I knew we should have never trust that damn prince and I always knew that Zero wasn't really a bad guy, after all, he's my buddy."
"Tamaki, I can't believe that you say that with a straight face," Ohgi said annoyed, "how can you call him your buddy when you didn't really know anything about him? He wasn't someone who really trusted us and kept secrets from us."
Tamaki just looked at Ohgi, "Are you saying what you've did was any better?"
This surprised the others in the room.
"What is that suppose to mean?" Ohgi said.
"I'm talking about her," Tamaki looking at Viletta.
Ohgi saw that Tamaki was looking at Viletta, "Why are you looking at Chigusa like that?"
"Ohgi, I think what Tamaki is getting at is why you didn't tell us about her?" Sugiyama asked, "Why keep her a secret?
"What?" Ohgi said and then he looked around and saw that others had the same thing on their mind.
"You can't be serious," Viletta asked.
Ohgi got defensive, "We've gone over this last month so don't start acting suspicious toward her again just because of what CC and Kallen said."
Chiba shook her head and turned on the television and it was showing a news report and this surprised Chiba as what she saw.
"Hey, look at this," Chiba spoke bringing the others their attention as they saw what was going on.
Makeshift Studio, Tokyo, Japan
Milly was giving her news report, "This is Milly Ashford, reporting bringing you a breaking news update. The city of Ector that was located in the Nevada District has been completely destroyed. The cause was done by the launch of a F.L.E.I.A. warhead. According to a reliable source, the one who was behind the attack was Schneizel el Britannia, the former second prince and Prime Minister of the Holy Britannia Empire. The attack happened during the UFN conference with the request by Britannia's 99th Emperor, Lelouch vi Britannia to allow the Holy Britannian Empire to join the UFN. Emperor Lelouch returned to Pendragon to counter against the former prince, Schneizel. We now bring you live coverage from Pendragon, where Emperor Lelouch will respond to the situation."
Pendragon
A podium was shown and people where there waiting for the arrival of the 99th Emperor.
An announcer spoke, "Ladies and Gentlemen, the 99th Emperor of the Holy Britannian Empire, Lelouch vi Britannia."
Lelouch entered with a serious look expression. He stood behind the podium and looked on.
Lelouch started, "As all you are now aware, the city of Ector was attacked and completely obliterated by the hands of my brother, Schneizel. This is his attempt to scare the masses and to give in to his demands. He has no qualms of killing innocent people to get his way. My brother will claim that he is actually doing this for the benefit of Britannia in general and this attack against Ector was only to serve as a warning to me and desires for me to step down as emperor. But his own tactics is to threaten the world with F.L.E.I.A. warheads and his way 'disciplining' mankind and practically make himself a god. If he is allowed to go through with it, there will no safe place for the world. Everything would be in a stalemate and any chance to change and grow will be shot at with one of the warheads. We must not give in to threats. We must stand together and united and by doing so, we will show that we will not give in to old ways of Britannian culture that gave no real future for this country and the world."
Lelouch raised his fist in determination and got the crowd chanting.
Various Cities in Britannia
In various cities in Britannia, people were watching very closely to Lelouch's public address and most were nodding and had serious and determined looks.
Kagoshima
While Lelouch's public address was being broadcast from Pendragon, flagships were gathering to Kagoshima. It was there that Li Xingke was giving his speech to the UFN. People were discussing and talking among themselves about the situation of the war that will go on between Lelouch and Schneizel. As they were doing that, Xingke coughed a bit, covering his mouth and then saw a bit of blood. Xianglin saw what was happening to her leader and was worried again about Xingke's health.
Elsewhere Unknown
Diethard was watching Lelouch's public address in a room in Damocles and smiled, "Zero, your time is all ready over. You have already been surpassed."
Schneizel and his allies were preparing for their war against Lelouch and his allies. Suzaku was looking on as his knightmare frame, the Lancelot Albion was being maintained and checked and he was holding Arthur. Arthur looked back at Suzaku and meowed. Suzaku looked at Arthur with a sad smile. Gino was elsewhere looking at the people that were repairing and improving his knightmare frame, the Tristan. Gino had a serious expression as he crossed his arms and then looked at the split damaged MVS Excalibur that he managed to salvage. Elsewhere, Anya just looked over her knightmare frame, the Mordred while she typed on her handheld diary.
Back in Britannia
In various cities, the armies were getting prepared for the upcoming war against Schneizel and his allies. Volunteers were gathering and signing up and being directed by soldiers. High ranking soldiers were directing others soldiers. In the Avalon, Nina, Lloyd, and Cecile along with some of the scientists that were being directed by Roland Meyers were working to come up with something to counter the F.L.E.I.A. Nina picked up one of the rolls that was beside her on a plate and took a bite and was surprised. Cecile told her that she made them which caused Lloyd to be pale, knowing Cecile's history of 'unique' food making. In a knightmare hanger, Rakshata and Natalie were directing in repairing and improving knightmare frames. Things were looking well for the two and they smiled. Nonette went to joined them and directed the mechanics how she wanted her knightmare frame to be. Carter, Jason, and Sarah were at the other side watching as they were looking at each of their own knightmares. In the halls of the Pendragon Imperial Palace, Jeremiah and Sayoko were walking and talking, mostly of their histories and what the future held for Lelouch and Nunnally and they both were very worried about both vi Britannia siblings. Sayoko expressed concern for Nunnally and Jeremiah agreed with her and they were both wondered what Lelouch would do should he confront his wheel chaired bound sister.
Aries Villa in Pendragon
Lelouch was showing Kallen around in his old home and the memories that he had of his early childhood with his mother and his sister.
"So, this is where you lived," Kallen said looking around.
"Yes, this is where I lived with my mother and Nunnally," Lelouch replied as he continued to show Kallen around.
"It doesn't look like it's been well maintained."
"No, it hasn't since my mother was 'killed'."
"Lelouch, the things you told me what happened at Kamine Island…"
Lelouch chuckled a little, "It's hard to believe, right?"
"Yeah…but after what I've seen as of late, I don't doubt what you and CC have told me."
Earlier, Lelouch and CC told Kallen what happened at Kamine Island when they confronted his father Charles and his mother Marianne and what they had planned all along. It shocked Kallen and she couldn't believe that during the whole time when the Black Knights was at war with Britannia, that the previous emperor had simply ignored the affairs of the world and attempted to change it to his liking and used Lelouch to simply lure out CC just to get her back in the fold. Kallen couldn't believe that Lelouch and Nunnally's parents were willing to abandon their children just for the sake to do something that wouldn't really benefit the world.
They soon ended up on the top floor of the villa and looked out through the balcony.
"What a lovely view," Kallen commented enjoying the scene.
"Yes, it is lovely," Lelouch replied smiling.
They took the time to enjoy the scenery.
"Tomorrow, we will fight," Lelouch said seriously.
"Yeah, we will," Kallen said as she looked at Lelouch, "Lelouch, we will win this," Kallen then saw Lelouch had a worried look and it worried her, "Lelouch, is something wrong?"
"…Kallen…" Lelouch stopped himself and shook his head, "No, it's nothing…"
"Are you sure?" Kallen asked concerned.
Lelouch wrapped his arm around Kallen and put his head on top of hers causing the red head to blush, "Yes, I'm sure."
Kallen liked the way she was being held, "If…if you're worried about me, then don't."
Lelouch was surprised, "What?"
"You're worried about my safety, aren't you? You're worried about what may happen to me tomorrow when we face your brother and his forces."
The young emperor sighed, "You must be able to read me well, Q-1."
"I have to…Zero," Kallen said smiling.
"You got me…"
"You're also worried for the others too."
"…In truth, I am…"
"That's not the way an emperor should behave," CC's voice said, "an emperor should be more confidence."
Kallen and Lelouch looked behind them and saw CC walking towards them and joined them at the balcony.
"CC…" Lelouch spoke.
"It wouldn't do any good for Britannia if their emperor is acting like a worrywart," CC said with a smirk, "come now Lelouch, you should know better than that."
Lelouch smiled, "Hmm, you're right. Thanks for the reminder CC. If I was like this during the battle tomorrow, it wouldn't look good for our allies and my troops."
"Exactly," CC said as she wrapped her arms around Lelouch's free arm making Lelouch surprised a bit and Kallen not liking what CC just did.
"CC, what are you doing?" Kallen simply asked.
"Oh, whatever do you mean Kallen?" CC replied as she snuggled on Lelouch's arm.
Kallen looked at Lelouch, "Lelouch, say something-"
"Hey Lulu, there are people who are-" Nonette called looking and finding Lelouch with Sarah but she cut herself off when she and Sarah saw at the balcony surprising them, "oh Lulu, what's this?" she smiled.
Lelouch, Kallen, and CC saw Sarah and Nonette.
"Oh my," Sarah said smiling, "a lady on each arm, such a ladies' man. You've always did know how charm women."
Lelouch just sighed, "You two wanted to see me about something?"
"Hmm, changing the subject now, are we? You're no fun," Nonette responded with a grin, "oh well, anyway Lulu, there are people that came to see you. They're here to discuss the matter of the operation for tomorrow."
Lelouch nodded as he knew who Nonette was referring to, "Understood," Lelouch looked at Kallen and CC as he released Kallen and freed himself from CC, "I have to go. You two get ready for tomorrow as well."
"Yeah, sure," CC responded.
"You got it," Kallen responded with a smile.
Lelouch left with Nonette and Sarah and then Kallen glared at CC.
"You're determined to ruin any good moments I'll have, will you?" Kallen asked upset.
"Kallen, I don't know what you mean?" CC responded with a smirk, "It's just that you two looked like you were having fun and I didn't want to be left out."
Kallen got irritated, "You got some nerve, we don't like when you do things like that."
CC still had her smirk, "Again, 'we don't like it'? You mean you don't like it."
Kallen got angry, "This immortal witch still gets on my nerves…"
CC then looked back at the scenery with a serious look, "Kallen, there is something that I want to make clear to you."
Kallen raised her eyebrow, "What?"
"I'm sure you can understand why some of us are uneasy of letting you be part of this."
Kallen was about to say something but was silent.
CC continued, "It's clearly obvious that Lelouch does love and treasures you so much so just be careful about tomorrow," CC looked at Kallen, "I know you're very skilled but there are people on Schneizel's side that are very skilled as well, Suzaku included."
Kallen gritted her teeth when mentioned Suzaku, "Suzaku, I will settle my score against him once and for all and unlike him I will never betray Lelouch, just to suit for my own personal needs. I have no intention in leaving his side again, no matter what. I've pledged to stay by his side and I will not break that vow."
"Even if Ohgi and the others see it as an act of betrayal on your part."
Kallen got irritated mentioning them, "I don't want to hear about them, not Ohgi, Minami, Viletta...not any of them and not even Todoh and Chiba."
"…So, you really intend to cut your ties with them, well, even with staying with Lelouch, it won't be easy for what Lelouch is doing. Are you sure you can handle it? Can you really bear the burden as well?" CC asked looking at Kallen with a serious look.
Kallen sighed, "I'll do my part to help him, you just make sure you do yours, after all, you and Lelouch are accomplices, right?"
CC smiles, "Yeah, that's right."
Kallen nodded, "You know CC you still irritate me to no end, but let's work together on this and beat Schneizel."
CC nodded, "Fine by me."
Kallen and CC looked back at the scenery from the balcony of the Aries Villa again unbeknownst to them; Natalie was on the other side of the wall and had listened to their conversation. The green haired Knight of Eleven looked up took a deep breath.
That's it for this chapter. Next chapter: The Britannian War between Lelouch and Schneizel begins.
