Disclaimer: See chapter 1

Rise of Swords

by Storm Wolf77415, Wing Commander White Wolf, and Centurious the Azure

Die Hard On the Lake Part 2

(Lake Kawaguchi Hotel, Britannian Command Post)

Shirley and Nina wasted no time approaching the command post. They were both understandably frightened as they neared the security perimeter, cordoned off by barbed wire, concrete barriers, and lots of armed guards. "Please don't shoot!" Shirley cried out as loud and clearly as she could, holding up her hands to show she was unarmed, an action Nina mimicked, the poor bespectacled girl about ready to faint. "We came from the hotel. We managed to escape before they could take us hostage!"

"Stay right there!" the lead guard ordered, approaching with cautious steps, his rifle still trained on the two. "I'll need some proof of your claim. Let me see your identification."

"Uh, we kind of left them inside. We were in the swimming pool and had to escape in a hurry." Shirley offered a sheepish grin.

"Please, our friends are in there!" Nina begged.

"It's all right, Corporal." A voice called out, to both Shirley and Nina's relief, Viletta came up, in her full Silverwing uniform, the rank of Major on her collar. "I can vouch for both of them, Director Anderson can as well." This seemed to placate the guard, who lowered his rifle, allowing Viletta to lead the girls inside the perimeter.

"Are you girls both okay?" She asked gently, heading straight to the Archon.

"We're fine, Coach. Sebby got us out in time through the maintenance tunnel, and then he went back in to try and stop those horrible men." Shirley said, shivering all over. Viletta patted the younger girl on the shoulder before opening the door to the command truck, ushering both of them inside, past the command room and into the small conference room maintained for emergency briefings and other meetings.

"Have a seat here, girls. I'm sure Nathan will want to speak with you soon. He's currently with the Viceroy." Viletta said, extending an arm to the leather chairs surrounding the glass and metal conference table. The girls were all too eager to sit down and rest. "Is there anything I can get you in the mean time? Something to drink?"

"I would like some coffee, what about you, Nina?"

"Just a glass of water for me." Nina said.

How do you take your coffee, Shirley?" Viletta said.

"I'll take mine black with some sugar." Shirley said, eager to get some foo.

"There is one more thing." Nina asked, blushing slightly. "Is it too much to ask if we could maybe get some clean clothes? I'm kind of cold." She crossed her bare legs. Even with the hoodie she had on, the trailer was still drafty. Shirley blushed too.

"I'll see about getting you girls some coveralls." Viletta said, leaving the room.

Shirley sighed, putting her head down on the cold surface. "Oh Sebby, please be safe." She whispered.

(Lake Kawaguchi, Seventh Floor)

Private Hiroshi Emiya and his partner Private Kirtsugu Todaka prowled through the hallways of the hotel. They were on the search for a few of their companions when they missed the regularly scheduled check in. And Lieutenant Colonel Kusakabe wanted all under his command to be punctual. So, they were understandably rushing to find out what happened to their comrades.

The location chosen as the checkpoint was deserted, so it came down to the tedious endeavor of checking each room on the floor. One remaining outside in the hall while his partner covered each room. Todaka came out, giving a brief shake of his head. "Nothing in here, big surprise. Try the radio again, maybe they'll finally pick up."

The young soldier frowned before hitting the button on the radio. "Emiya to Makiri, report in. Makiri, do you copy? Come on Shinji, pick up!" The only sound was static. Emiya grunted in quiet frustration at the lack of response. "Damn it, where are they, Todaka? Everyone knows how pissed off Kusakabe gets when everything doesn't go just according to his time table!"

Todaka just shrugged. "Hell if I know, they're probably just taking a dumper." It was then they heard a banging sound from down the hall. The two of them immediately snapped their rifles up, moving on light feet to find the source, a trash can lying in the middle of the hall. They didn't need any words, going back to back to keep anyone from sneaking up on them, sweeping the corridor. "You see anything, Emiya?" He whispered.

"No." Todaka responded. "If you're out there, then show yourself!" He barked out, trying to make himself sound tough, although the slight hitch in his voice indicated he was fronting just a bit. "We represent the future of Japan and have no fear of death!"

"Is that a fact?" Todaka and Emiya both froze, not expecting a reply. They both prayed they didn't shit their pants at the sight of a white stark face emerge from the shadows. "Well, I hate to break it to you…if you are the future of Japan, then today is not your day to die!" the two teenagers yelled, ready to open fire, only for their rifles to be knocked from their hands. the last thing either of them saw was a fist racing at them before darkness took them.

Sebastian pushed up his Blade Wolf mask, looking down at the two unconscious JLF soldiers with a quiet disappointment. He could tell most of Kusakabe's followers were young, just about the same age as him. They were impulsive and brash, eager to finally liberate their homeland after years of oppression under Britannia's tyrannical boot. However, due to General Katase's overly cautious approach, many of them chafed at what they perceived as inaction and even cowardice. Kusakabe had played on that frustration, promising them the glory they sought so much.

It made Blade Wolf's disgust for the disgraced Lieutenant Colonel grow all that more. Kusakabe's entire plan boiled down to little more than a glorified suicide mission. The first time around, Sebastian had disposed of them all with little thought, but now he reasoned that maybe they deserved a second chance. "This is Blade Wolf, I've got a couple more here. I'll take them to the drop off point. Hopefully you can make them see the error of their ways."

"Roger that, Blade Wolf." Oghi's voice came though. "We've made it inside and we're moving upwards. I've got your uniform and other gear."

"Understood. I'm on my way now." Sebastian said, only to catch sight of something out of the corner of his eye, there was a dark figure peeking around the corner. He couldn't get a good look before the figure took off down the hall. "Standby on that. We've got company!" He shut off his radio before Oghi could protest and went in pursuit. He knew it was a bad idea, but he didn't want to lose the element of surprise. He rounded the corner, catching sigh of the figure at the end of the hall.

He broke into a run, but his quarry ducked into the staircase, closing the door behind them. Sebastian nearly avoided eating cold steel, slamming the heavy metal door in frustration. He threw the door open, looking around for the mysterious stranger. He heard the sound of footsteps clanging on the metal steps. Sebastian looked upward to see his target on the landing, throwing up the steps to the eighth floor. Sebastian charged upwards, managing to keep it from closing entirely.

Sebastian growled, pushing the door open, finding the figure checking the doors but to no avail they were locked with card keys. "You're mine!" He said, managing to tackle them to the ground. The light of the near full moon illuminated the hallway, finally giving him a clear look at who he was chasing. Like him the person wore all black, complete with a balaclava covering their face.

Blade Wolf was about to ask who they were, but it was then he took note of a particular part of their anatomy; namely the chest and how soft it was. He squeezed a few more times and said, much to his surprise. "You're a girl?"

"You perverted asshole!" A very feminine scream rang out and the next thing Sebastian knew he got a Class A slap across the face, although it didn't have quite the same effect with his mask in the way. The girl winced before pushing him off. She took off down the hall again. Sebastian resumed his pursuit. The chase took them into a lounge, and there was no clear way out.

"Well, my dear, no place to run now." The Blade Wolf said, pointing his knife at her. "Look, I'm sorry about groping you, but I don't take kindly to stalkers. So why don't you tell me who you are and what you're doing here? Depending on your answer. I may just decide to spare your life."

The woman let out a delicate laugh. "Aw, you're too kind, but I'm afraid that you are going to have a very bad day. Unlike you, I didn't come alone!" Sebastian then got to know how Todaka and Emiya felt when a booted foot looked to connect with his temple. Although unlike the former, The Blade Wolf managed to avoid the worst, turning his head so the blow glanced off. He did a quick roll, getting back up to his feet.

A second figure dressed just like the one he had been chasing earlier dropped down before the Blade Wolf, although Sebastian could tell this new arrival was male. He stood protectively in front of his partner, clearly not going to let Sebastian harm, or feel her up, again. The two men crouched into fighting stances, combat knives drawn. They began circling each other, waiting for a moment to strike. Sebastian made the first move, slashing upwards, but his opponent twisted his body, while lashing out with a roundhouse kick, deflected by a combination of a low block and right cross, sending the masked man staggering backwards.

Sebastian then back kicked his opponent square in the chest, chaining it with an elbow thrust before whipping out with his knife once again, only for it to be parried. Blade Wolf grunted as he got a fist in his gut, and barely avoided being slashed across the belly by his opponent, but the razor shape blade still managed to take a chunk of his vest. He took note of the inch-long cut, the lining beginning to come out. "Close call." He muttered to himself.

The man in the black mask leapt up, hitting him with a flying knee to the Blade Wolf's face, sending him tumbling to the ground. The white mask came flying off, arcing through the air before landing at the girl's feet. Sebastian looked up, giving both of his assailants a clear view of his face. "Sebastian Connor?" There was disbelief in her voice. Something about her voice sounded so very familiar. A hand came up to remove the balaclava, revealing Konoka's face, tears forming in her purple eyes.

"Konoka? Konoka Sasaki?" Sebastian struggled to keep his own emotions in check, recalling the last time he saw those purple eyes, and how the life drained from them as she crumpled to the ground, bullet holes riddling her body. He looked to the other masked soldier, who's body language exuded disbelief, but also cautious joy. "Then that means…Yukimasa?"

"Hey Wolfie. Long time no speak." the mask came off, revealing the man in question's face, his red eyes holding a mischievous gleam. "Heh, fancy running into you here." Sebastian took the offered hand, pulling himself up to his feet. "Uh, sorry about the knee to the face and the whole trying to kill you thing."

"Although I'm not sorry for slapping you after you molested me earlier!" Sebastian bowed his head slightly as Konoka folded her arms, but the playful gleam in her eye said that all was forgiven.

"I wasn't expecting a woman." was his simple reply. "But just tell me, what are you guys doing here? I can't imagine you fell in with Kusakabe!"

"No, neither of us is that stupid, or desperate to see Japan free." Yukimasa's voice dropped a few octaves. "The two of had been keeping an eye on him for a while now. Once we found out his plan, we went straight to the boss men. Both General Katase and Lieutenant Colonel Toudoh are absolutely livid about what Kusakabe's done. Their orders were very clear." Sebastian didn't need to say anything as his old friend dragged his thumb across his throat. "No mercy offered, no quarter given. It helps I never liked him in the first place. I just wish he hadn't taken away so many of the younger guys like us."

"If it's any comfort, I did try to spare most of their lives." Both Yukimasa and Konoka visibly sagged in relief. Sebastian smirked, glad that he done well in winning his comrades over. "I figured they just needed to see reason. If you're here, that makes my job a whole lot easier. Because they will trust you."

"Agreed." Konoka said, she cleared her throat. Before holding up his mask. "So…you're Blade Wolf?"

Baring a sheepish grin. Sebastian decided the best thing to do was just own up. He wouldn't tell them about his trip through time. But he could trust Yukimasa and Konoka with at least part of his secret for now. "Yeah, I guess there's no point in hiding it. I am Blade Wolf."

"And if that's the case, then it means your royal buddy is Zero?" Yukimasa harrumphed, slamming his fist into his open palm. "Perfect! This actually works in our favor. Tell me, Wolfie. Can you get us an audience with Lelouch? We wanted to speak with him about forging a little business arrangement. I have a feeling it would be quite beneficial to both our respective outfits."

The Blade Wolf smirked. "A business arrangement you say? As a matter of fact, I think I just might be able to oblige you, Masa. Because I was hoping you could do the same for me. I want to have some words with General Katase and Toudoh-sensei about the potential future of not just the JLF, but the Resistance as a whole. I'd love to sit down and hash out the finer details, but I think we have more pressing manners to deal with." He took the mask from Konoka, sliding it face onto his face. "We did come here for the same reason after all."

The two Japanese operatives knew their answer, slipping their balaclavas back on. "Kusakabe is on the top floor, he'll have the rest of his people assembled there." Yukimasa said.

"Which means he still has almost twenty-five soldiers guarding him. And they are all armed to the teeth." Konoka said. "That's a tall order, even if it's all three of us."

"I'm not worried. Zero and the rest of our people will be here shortly. Part of my job was to thin out their ranks and open up the way. In fact, I believe they should be here any minute now. It wouldn't be wise to keep them waiting." The three slipped into the shadows, the hunt resumed.

(The same moment, outside)

The Second Princess's eyes were narrowed as she stared at the caped figure standing atop the news van. It infuriated her to no end how the mask obscured Zero's features. It meant she couldn't read his face, and that alone enough to make Cornelia not trust him despite the intel he had given at Saitama. "Even if you did give me a small sliver of hope that my siblings were alive, how do I know you're on the level?"

"Quite simple, it's only because of me your brother and sisters survived the invasion at all." Lelouch wished his helmet had a camera so he could capture the look on her face. He would have to think of adding that feature in the future. He spread his arms out. "Oh yes, Princess. I found all four of them while they were wandering through the wastes of Kyushu. They were scared, but not in despair. Your younger brother can be quite stubborn you know. He swore he wouldn't let the actions of your father break him. But words mean little here right now. I consider myself a man of action, and by those actions I will deliver the hostages to you, alive and unharmed. Give me an hour, and if I don't show up, then go ahead and send in your men. The decision is yours, Princess Cornelia."

Cornelia felt someone grab her arm. "Come on, Nelly." Nathan whispered, pulling her out of ear shot. "I know what you're thinking right now. The commander in you wants to dismiss his words as nothing but a huge farce, but the sister in you wants to believe it's true. So let me spare you the trouble, Cornelia. It would run counter to your whole being, but I know you well enough, that your love for your siblings trumps everything. Forget the Emperor, forget the Empire and what it stands for! I know the real you, and that is a good person who loves her family. If anything else, have faith in Zero. He may just surprise you."

She looked from Nathan, her oldest friend and confidant outside of Guilford and Darlton. Over to Zero, who had remained silent through the entire exchange, back to Nathan, and then to Zero one more time. The Witch of Britannia finally relented. But not before fixing the Steel Fox with the sharpest glare she could manage. "When this is over, we are going to have a long talk, Nathan. Because I get the impression you are not telling me the entire truth, and I do not like that! But for right now, I just want this whole mess to end." She squared her shoulders and walked with purpose toward the news van. Each step taken was the drilled step of a disciplined soldier, but also the grace and poise of a princess.

"I trust you've made a choice, then?" Zero drawled, knowing full well what his sister what do.

It was all too apparent just how much Cornelia didn't want to say this. But her pride would have to take one for the team. "Very well, Zero. If you think you can you do it, then you have a green light. But let me warn you right here and now! If even one of them is harmed in the slightest way, and it's because of you. I will call down every legion of the Britannian Army I can get my hands on! And I will not rest until your head is lodged on the tip of my blade! Do I make myself absolutely clear?"

"Absolutely crystal, Your Highness. But you needn't worry at all. The hostages will all be fine. After all, I'm what you call a miracle worker." Zero tapped the van's roof, the signal for them to move across the bridge and enter the hotel.

Nathan took hold of Cornelia's hand as she watched the van disappeared into the parking garage. "Come on, Nathan. We still need to prepare a backup plan in case he fails." She held up a hand to stall any protest. "I'm giving Zero just enough rope to either hang himself or pull him out of the brink, but I'll be damned if I deal with that monster Kusakabe any longer than I have to! I will do whatever is required to save them. Is that understood?"

"Whatever you say. Madam Viceroy. The Silverwing Brigade is ready to move at a moment's notice." Nathan said, snapping to attention, offering a picture-perfect salute. "I'll retire to the Archon for right now. Nelly, remember…have faith." Cornelia said nothing, just giving a slight nod, before heading back to the G-1.

(Lake Kawaguchi Hotel, Parking Garage)

Sebastian stood at attention, Yukimasa and Konoka flanking him on either side. The van rolled up in front of the trio, Zero still atop it. The doors of the van slide open, disgorging Oghi and the others, now all wearing the Black Knights uniforms, visors obscuring their faces. It gave Sebastian a happy burst of nostalgia to see them. It was one more piece of his world back in position. The Demon King descended from the van with a fluid grace, approaching Blade Wolf, who dropped to a knee in salute. "Welcome Zero, I trust you didn't have much trouble getting through the blockage?"

"Not at all, Blade Wolf." Zero said, handing him a duffle bag from out of his cloak. "The rest of your gear, can't go and visit Kusakabe improperly dressed, now can we? And of course." He held out the other hand, which held Fenrir. "I can't forget this as well." He then took note of Konoka and Yukimasa, both standing ramrod straight. "I see you've got some friends with you. I wasn't aware there were any other players on the stage tonight."

"They're here on the same mission we are, Zero. They can be trusted." Sebastian lowered his voice. "They're old friends after all." It then dawned on Lelouch just who was under those masks. He blinked once, vaguely remembering Konoka's death. While it hadn't had the same impact on him as Euphie's or even Shirley's, the Japanese girl hadn't needed to die for him. She was yet another person they needed to save.

Yukimasa and Konoka stepped up in perfect cadence, offering their best salute. "It's an honor to meet you, Zero. I am Jackal, and this is my partner, Nightshade. We are with the special Tenchu unit of the Japanese Liberation Front, on the direct orders of Major General Tatewaki Katase and Lieutenant Colonel Kyoshiro Toudoh. Our mission is simple, the elimination of Lieutenant Colonel Josui Kusakabe. He has disobeyed the directives of JLF high command and gone rogue, and we can't have that now, can we?"

"We have a mutual goal then. The Black Knights are always glad to have those who are willing to fight for true justice." Zero offered a hand out, which Yukimasa gladly took, the two men shaking hands.

Sebastian looked on grinning underneath his mask. This simple gesture marked the first step of his grand plan, but he would keep it to himself for right now. Instead he would just sit back and enjoy the show to come. He cleared his throat. "While I'm glad we're on the same page, it wouldn't be proper to keep Kusakabe waiting now, right?"

"Indeed, even a pretentious blowhard like Kusakabe deserves a little respect." Yukimasa joked. "Of course, that's like saying that the mud on the bottom of your shoe deserves respect."

"Indeed, Jackal. Before we go and meet him though. I have a bit of an offer to you and Nightshade." Sebastian whistled to Inoue, who tossed a duffel bag over to him. "If you up for it, go and change into those. I think we got the sizes right." Yukimasa opened the bag, finding a pair of Black Knights uniforms. He threw a questioning look to Blade Wolf, but just shrugged before heading to the bathroom so they could change. At least they got some cool swag out of the deal.

While they were making their way to the elevator, Sebastian quietly switched to the channel he shared with Nathan. "We're getting ready to move on Kusakabe. Oghi's team is going to take the hostages over to the dock and put them in the rafts. It might be a good time to get Suzaku in here so he can take out the Raikou."

"Understood, Blade Wolf. Be sure to give the good Colonel my regards." There was no love in Nathan's voice. Only a deep satisfaction over what was to come next.

(Britannian Command Post)

Nathan adjusted his glasses. Walking up to Cornelia. "Your Highness. I think I know a way we can provide some support to Zero and his people. The giant cannon that the JLF set up in the maintenance tunnel. If we take that monster out. It could allow us to move our troops in and rescue the hostages."

"But we tried that already, Director Anderson." One of the advisors pointed out. "The Sutherland platoon was completely shredded by the oversized shotgun shell that monster spit out."

"We just need to use something that's faster." Nathan grinned, the light reflecting off the lenses of his glasses. "And I know for a fact that we have just the thing. Put me through to Earl Asplund. Tell him to have the Lancelot lowered into the tunnel and be ready to launch at my direct command." The officer seemed reluctant, but just gave a curt nod. This was not a move the Second Princess approved of.

"You want to rely on the Eleven for this? Even if the Lancelot is a wonder machine. It won't end well to allow a non-Britannia to have any kind of recognition!" Cornelia exclaimed, only to be met by a frigid glare from her longtime friend.

"Warrant Officer Kururugi is more than capable of carrying out this assignment, You Highness!" Cornelia never thought Nathan could make those two words sound so chilling. "You would be able to see that if you dropped your prejudiced, xenophobic views for five seconds, Cornelia!" He snapped. Everyone said a silent prayer for the Steel Fox. All were certain that Nathan had sighed his own death warrant, but he wasn't afraid at all. They had known each other too long. And as much as he hated to admit it, sometimes you had to be taken down a few notches.

"Yoo hoo!" Lloyd's irritating voice rang over the speakers. "The Lancelot is ready to go, Director! All we need is the final word."

"Well, Cornelia? What will it be?" Nathan asked. Cornelia just shrugged, and grunted. Going back to her throne to sulk.

"Lancelot has the green light. Set him loose!" Nathan smirked.

"Marvelous, it's the chance to finally test the VARIS!" Lloyd cackled madly, all the while Cecile just sighed in the background.

(Lake Kawaguchi Hotel, Penthouse)

"Todaka, Emiya, respond now!" Kusakabe angrily spat in to his radio, but all he got was static. "Todaka, Emiya, you better not be goofing off like the last time!" Again, all he got was static. "Damn it, where are those idiots?" He banged the tip of his sword on the floor. Kaguya allowed herself a little smile, noting how distressed the renegade Colonel was getting. It meant he wasn't thinking straight, and thus, would be open to mistakes. All she had to do was look for an opening and then she could slip away.

The radio finally crackled to life. "Apologies, Colonel. But we have an unexpected guest here in the main entrance. It's…It's Zero! As well as his second in command, Blade Wolf!" It was almost comical how excited Kusakabe got, seemingly like an excited fangirl at meeting their idol. Kaguya watched as the renegade officer began straightening himself out. Apparently, he had gotten so lost in meeting with Zero he didn't consider just who had relayed that message. But Kaguya did, her delicate pink lips curling upwards in a mischievous smile at having heard Yukimasa speak.

"If that is the case, then send them right up!" Kaguya put her passive mask back on as Kusakabe turned to sneer at her. "Now we'll see true results, Lady Sumeragi. Zero is a forward thinker, when he sees something he wants, he takes it! It's through him that Japan will finally be free!" She just gave a vapid smile and a slight nod, all the while hoping it wouldn't be long before the loudmouth was finally silenced forever. It was then the double doors swung open, admitting Zero in all his glory. Blade Wolf took a place at the door, standing at parade rest. Also accompanying them were a pair of soldiers clad in strange black and silver uniforms, their faces covered by dark visors.

"Welcome to you, Zero and Blade Wolf!" Kusakabe stood up, offering a formal bow, while also raising the pomposity meter by two full levels. "I'm overjoyed you've come to join our stand! Your presence here is a powerful message that Japan isn't dead!"

Zero said nothing to him, just throwing back his cape with a flourish, as he ignored Kusakabe to instead walk up to Kaguya, taking her hand. "Well, I wasn't expecting to find you here, Lady Sumeragi. Your beauty is well known, but it's quite something else to see it in person. Although I'm a bit surprised at your choice of attire." Lelouch smirked under his mask at how Kaguya's pale cheeks flushed, pulling her jacket shut to hide her bathing suit to no avail.

"Please Zero, let's not lose focus!" Kusakabe protested, slightly incensed at being ignored, but trying to stay professional. "We are on the brink of victory here, and can't let ourselves be distracted by minor annoyances." This earned him a disproving frown from Kaguya, but she said nothing more.

"You wish to forge an alliance between the JLF and the Black Knights, then?" Lelouch asked.

Kusakabe just spat. "Pah! I have nothing to do with Katase and his ilk anymore! This victory is mine alone!"

"What victory do you speak of here, Colonel?" Blade Wolf asked, hand resting on the pommel of his faithful blade. "What have you accomplished here that would warrant such a thing?"

"It's as I told you, we've proven that Japan isn't dead!" Kusakabe declared, liking to think he was projecting the image of a valiant hero. The two revolutionaries and Kaguya just thought he looked stupid. "With the two of you here, no one will be able to ignore us now. Of course, if our alliance is to be cemented, then I must know who you are under those masks."

"Hold on just a minute, Colonel." Blade Wolf said. "So far, all you've done is take a bunch of innocent people captive and throw some poor soul over the side, just to prove a point of how scary you are, and most likely you and your men were all going to commit mass suicide out of some twisted sense of honor." He said in a mocking voice, all the while enjoying Kusakabe getting angrier by the second. "I hate to break it to you, pal. We didn't come here to forge any alliance with you…we just came here to say how much you suck!"

Zero did his best to stifle his laughter. "While I wouldn't exactly put it in such a crude manner. I'm afraid my knight speaks a sad truth, Colonel You're too old fashioned and set in your ways. There's no place in the future world we're building for the likes of you."

"How dare you speak to me in such a manner!" Kusakabe roared, pulling his sword out. "I am a son of Japan, a true Samurai! Yamato Damashi courses through my veins! I will show it to you now! Omae O Korosu!" He lunged at Zero, only for Blade Wolf to immediately step in front, blade out in a second.

"Oh, so that's how you want to play it, Colonel?" Sebastian was half way tempted to pull his mask off to show his contemptuous sneer. "Then prepare to find out just why I'm called Blade Wolf!"

(Lake Kawaguchi Hotel, Main Ballroom)

While most of Kusakabe's group were younger guys that had been suckered in by their esteemed leader's promise of seeing their beloved Japan restored, and the glory that would come with being directly involved in it. Kusakabe's own direct subordinates were nowhere near as idealistic. They were hardcore nationalists who knew the bitter truth, and decided if they were going to die, then they may as well kill a few Britannians while they were at it.

Once the hostages had been herded into the ballroom and forced to take a seat on the floor. One of these senior officers started harassing Nunally, finally culminating in him kicking the wheelchair over, sending the former Eleventh Princess tumbling to the ground. This enraged Euphie, and rightfully so. She about ready to march up and slap the Japanese soldier for being so rough to her little sister, only for the Ashford Heiress to stop the former Third Princess, shaking her head. "This isn't the time for it, Euph. The last thing we need right now is for you to get shot full of holes."

"Be lucky my sister wasn't here to see that. That man would be dead where he stood." Euphie's icy demeanor gave Milly new respect for the pinkette. Despite being a demure and kind-hearted person. No one harmed Euphemia Li Britannia's family. Placated for the moment. Euphie went to check on her sister, who thankfully had no serious injuries. All the while scowling as a guard passed by, and also reflecting on how rough the carpet was against her bare legs. She noticed how the leader of the soldiers at the front of the room, conversing.

"Filthy Britannian scum. Forget what Kusakabe says, I say we just finish them all here and now!" One Lieutenant said, sorely tempted to point his assault rifle at the crowd and pull the trigger.

"Could we at least spare some of the women? Say what you want, Britannian females are pretty attractive. I haven't seen a good-looking woman in a long time and I need to relieve some stress." A Corporal leered.

"Ew, gross." A Sergeant looked with disgust, before addressing his commanding officer. "But seriously, why are we keeping them here, Captain? We've already killed one of their number. It's not like we're going to honor our word and let them all live!" The Captain, an older man in his late thirties, his face scarred by countless battles said nothing.

"Because however I may feel about Britannia and what they've done to our home. They are an insurance policy. The Britannians won't harm us as long as we don't harm them any further than we already have."

It was then they heard the sounds of gunfire outside. The Captain was about to give them an order. Only for the door to pop open slightly, and a metallic cylinder all the soldiers were quite familiar with rolled in. "Flashbang!" The Captain barely could say before the stun grenade went off, blinding and deafening everybody. Figures in unfamiliar looking black and silver uniforms began spilling in, dropping the JLF renegades with rapid two and three round bursts.

"We are with the Order of the Black Knights!" A woman announced in a loud voice. Nunally and Euphie both grinned, catching sight of spiky red hair under the hand. Even with the visor on, they knew Kallen from anywhere. "Rest assured you people are in good hands now. Please follow us and we'll get you out of here."

"My sister is crippled and can't walk. Perhaps one of your people would be so kind as to retrieve her wheelchair after what those brutes did to it earlier?" Euphie's smirk at that moment would have made Lelouch proud. Kallen's exposed lips twisted upward in a bemused smile.

"Tamaki, get that wheelchair!" Kallen barked. The man looked like he wanted to complain only for another of the visored operatives to cuff up him upside the head. Grumbling Tamaki stood the chair on its wheels, before begrudgingly placing Nunally in it.

"Why thank, sir knight. I'm glad to know that chivalry is not dead." Euphie said, winking to Tamaki, eliciting giggles from Nunally and Kallen. "Would it be too much to ask if you would be willing to push my sister's wheelchair?"

"Uh, yes ma'am!" Tamaki said, taking the handles of Nunally's wheelchair. "Come ladies. To safety we go!" Kallen and Euphie hung back. They both laughed. Even an obnoxious hothead like Tamaki deserved a moment to be the shining hero.

(Lake Kawaguchi Hotel, Maintenance Tunnel)

Suzaku checked the charge on the VARIS rifle one last time, ensuring it would be enough to destroy the Raikou and the support structures. "Lancelot, taking off!" He declared, hurtling down the tunnel at high speed. His reticle locking onto the Raikou. "Sebastian, Lelouch, I hope both of you got all the people onto the boat in time!" The giant linear cannon fired its devastating payload, the canister exploded outward sending the deadly spray of steel balls that would shred.

But the Z-01 Lancelot wasn't the most advanced machine the Holy Britannian Empire had produced without reason. It nimbly skidded along the roof, avoiding it entirely. The Raikou's arm mounted machine cannons came up in a vain attempt to stop the oncoming attacker, but the Blaze Luminous shields held under the withering salvos, bullets ricocheting in every direction, tearing chunks of concrete out of the tunnel roof and sides. "Damn it, he keeps coming!" One of the Raikou operators cried out in terror.

"It doesn't matter! Bring it up to maximum output! We will defend this place with our lives! Full power!" The Raikou charged up another shot.

Unlike the hapless JLF operatives. Suzaku was calm as he brought the rifle up. His gaze locked on the slowly glowing muzzle of the monstrosity in front of him. "I'm sorry about this, but sometimes sacrifices must be made." He intoned, pulling the trigger, launching the projectile outward trailed by green light. The electrical discharge left from leaving the weapon knocked the canister out of the sky and obliterated the oversized buckshot, punching down the barrel of the Raikou, destroying it.

A giant plume of water skyrocketed upwards. Cornelia's eyes widened as the Lancelot leapt upward. "Unbelievable. That Eleven actually did it!" She looked over to Nathan who just gave her a wide smirk. It was galling to think she would have to give credit to Suzaku for this. The VARIS rifle snapped up again, firing in rapid succession, hitting the pillars as the hotel slowly began sinking into the lake.

"Sebby!" Shirley cried, as Nina began sobbing once they saw the explosions from their place in the command truck. Only for Viletta to put comforting hands on both girls' shoulders.

"Don't despair, Shirley. We have everything well in hand." Viletta's smile set Shirley at ease. She hadn't been privy to what the others had planned. But she was smart enough to know that Lelouch would have prepared down to the most minute detail. She gave Viletta's hand a squeeze as they watched the action unfold.

(Penthouse, the same time)

Sebastian sweated under his mask as he locked blades with Kusakabe, he hadn't expected him to put up a decent fight, but he was still confident that he would prevail. Unlike his master, Toudoh, who always lead from the front and shared the risk of battle with his men, Kusakabe rarely set foot on the battlefield and let others do his dirty work for him, while taking all the glory.

The JLF renegade broke the lock, swinging his blade in a wide diagonal arc, but Sebastian's deftly avoided it, going in for a quick thrust. Only for Kusakabe to quickly snap up his blade to parry it, he stumbled about a bit, just barely avoiding getting the tip of Fenrir in his right arm. Kusakabe tried slashing vertically, hoping to cleave off his left arm.

However, youth and a cool head was on Sebastian's side. He backflipped out of the way, bringing his blade up into a guarding position. Kusakabe's rage just grew more. They locked blades once more. Kusakabe's brown eyes were bloodshot, all the veins inside larger than normal. The two blades slammed against each other in a symphony of tinkling metal and flashing steel. Kusakabe went high, hoping to decapitate his foul rival.

However, Sebastian was quicker. Fenrir flashed once, and Kusakabe screamed out in pain as the Blade Wolf's fangs drew first blood, the crimson fluid beginning to leak out from the deep cut across his torso, turning his uniform a deep brown color. "You little punk! How dare you cut me!" Kusakabe raged, swinging his katana with a single arm. Sebastian just shook his head in mild disgust as he parried Kusakabe's blade once more time.

"Wow, just one cut and you're crying like a bitch? You're no revolutionary." Sebastian mocked, slashing through one of Kusakabe's shoulder guards, causing him to wince in pain. "Just a spoiled child who probably never even killed a man in his entire life!"

Beneath the visors, Yukimasa and Konoka watched with great satisfaction as Blade Wolf continued his beatdown on one of the most hated figures in the Resistance. He also had to admit that Lelouch at least had good fashion sense. The new uniform not fit perfectly, but actually looked cool! Konoka had been somewhat embarrassed by the shorts she had to wear, but took it in stride. He whistled at the broad overhand strike Blade Wolf delivered only to be denied as Kusakabe raised his own weapon to deflect it. "Wow, I guess the good Colonel has some moves after all."

"Not many." Kaguya said, amazed that the fight had gone not his long. "Kusakabe was always more inclined to sit behind a desk rather than polish his skills."

"Blade Wolf is going to win this." Konoka said with all certainty. "Kusakabe always was a sub-par swordsman. He's nothing compared to Sebastian." Indeed, while Kusakabe was holding his own. The tide was turning in Blade Wolf's favor, swinging in an upwards diagonal motion, staggering the older man, before delivering a solid kick to his midsection.

Kusakabe raged inwardly as he went for a mad flurry of strikes. This wasn't how it was supposed to be! This plan was initially for him and his men to make a final stand, and from there all of Japan would be moved by their honorable sacrifice and incite rebellion amongst the population. He was overjoyed that Zero and Blade Wolf appeared. It gave his cause legitimacy, and the hope he wouldn't have to die. But now it was all falling apart. He let out a roar of feral rage.

"I'll admit you actually have a degree of skill, but it means nothing in the end!" Kusakabe roared, now completely overtaken by his rage. Coming around for another wild swing. "if you won't support my cause, then you will die with it and me!" Kusakabe's rant was cut short by Blade Wolf's tall leather boot implanting itself right in his jaw, the sickening crack of shattering bone ringing in the air.

"Why don't you just shut up?" He snarled in a low voice. "I'll say this nice and slow since you're clearly too stupid to realize it. The Japan you claim to fight for is long dead! In fact, I'd even say you're not even fighting for what Japan stands for anyway!" He delivered a powerful snap kick to Kusakabe's gut, causing his hand to go limp, the sword falling to the ground with a clatter.

Sebastian finished it up by punching Kusakabe in the face, sending him slamming into the full length window, the impact so tremendous it caused a star shape of cracks to form in the glass. He kicked him a few more times for measure, each time the cracks growing larger and larger before the entire pane shattered, causing a huge gust of air to rush in. "Had enough, little man?" Blade Wolf put as much menace into his voice as possible, taking a silent pleasure out of the fear in his eyes. "Because I guarantee the pain will keep coming."

"Please, spare me!" Kusakabe begged before turning to face Lelouch. "Zero, I can be a worthy help to your cause! Just call your man off!" This just earned him another kick in the face from Blade Wolf. Who then grabbed him by the collar pulling himself up to his feet.

"Hmph, you dare call yourself a true samurai?" Sebastian spat out, holding Kusakabe by his throat. "A true samurai would never beg for his life in such a pitiful manner! He would accept his death with as much dignity and grace he could muster up!" Sebastian pulled back his mask slightly, revealing a single blue eye and a contemptuous sneer. "Toudoh-sensei is a true samurai! He taught me these lessons well! He's worthy of building a new Japan, and you're just another footnote in history!"

"Sebastian Connor?" He was able to rasp out of ear shot, eyes narrowing in rage.

"Poor choice of last words, but who am I to judge? Enjoy the ride, and remember it's not the fall that kills you." Sebastian gave a little shove as Kusakabe let out a choked scream as he fell to his death, slamming against the concrete eighteen floors down. "It's that sudden landing at the end!"

"You've watched way too many action movies, Blade Wolf." Zero stated.

"Oh come on, who hasn't wanted to throw out a one liner after someone gets offed?" The masked warrior shot back.

"My my." Everyone turned to see Kaguya standing there, a look of clear amusement on her face. "I had heard you two gets things done, but it's quite something else to see it in action for myself! Zero, Blade Wolf, allow me to introduce myself properly." She bowed low in a graceful manner. "I am Kaguya Sumeragi of the Six Houses of Kyoto. It is a superb honor to meet you two at last."

Zero and Blade Wolf both returned the gesture. "The honor is all ours, Lady Sumeragi." Lelouch said. "Now we do have a little business proposition we'd like to share with you concerning the future of Japan, but I'm afraid it will have to wait for a little bit. We have less than three minutes to get out of here before this entire place sinks into the lake."

"While you're certainly dressed for the occasion, milady." Sebastian chortled at how she blushed pulling her sweater close, trying again to hide her swimsuit. "I doubt you want to take a swim in that water. Let's get down to the dock, we have transportation prepared and everything."

"What about the hostages?" Kaguya asked, Sebastian and Lelouch knowing she was worried about Milly, and most definitely Nunally. "I wouldn't dare leave any of them behind, regardless of their nationality."

"Our people are already moving them out, there is nothing to worry about at all in that regard." Sebastian said. "I dare say, Lady Kaguya, that the whole game is about to change from here on out. You have the chance to be in on the ground floor. I can't imagine you would want to let this opportunity pass you by. Y"

"I would be very interested, Blade Wolf." Kaguya winked, putting her arm in his. "Would it bother you to be my escort for a while? It just wouldn't be right to let a lady wander about all alone now, would it?"

"Not at all. in fact you'll have front row seats to a very exciting show." Sebastian grinned under his mask. He had a feeling that Kaguya would keep their secret.

(Outside Hotel)

Suzaku caught sight of the two dark clad figures in the window, and even though he knew they couldn't see him. He still nodded. The plastic explosives the Black Knights had set up earlier went off seconds after the hotel began sinking. A chain of explosions ripped through the windows, causing shards of glass, chunks of concrete, and bits of steel to fly outwards in all directions, landing in the lake with splashes of various sizes.

The entire world watched in disbelief, horrified at the thought of all the hostages dying. Only for a large yacht to cut through the debris, followed by a large group of rubber life rafts. It took a few moments but it was now apparent that the hostages had indeed been rescued. Cornelia sagged in relief at the sight of the civilians floating around them. "My dear Britannians, have no fear. I, Zero, return the hostages to you safe and unharmed."

Cornelia seethed in rage. "Of all the brazen audacity! If we attack them, he could easily take them hostage!" Nathan just shook his head, clearly upset at how narrow minded Cornelia could be.

"Well boys, the stage is yours. Put on a show!" Nathan said. He wouldn't be disappointed, for it was time for the curtain to rise.

The deck lights came on, illuminating the small group of ten people standing on the foreword deck. The Demon King himself standing in the center with his masked Lupine Knight at his right side. The two were flanked by nine others, all wearing the same uniform in black and silver. Beneath their masks, Lelouch Vi Britannia, Sebastian Connor, and Kallen Kouzuki didn't bother hiding the huge grins on their faces. This was a moment they had been awaiting for a very long time, with that the Black Prince began his speech.

"People! Fear us, or rally behind us as you see fit. We are the Order of the Black Knights! We of the Black Knights stand with those who have no weapons to wield; regardless of whether they be Elevens or Britannians. The renegade forces of Josui Kusakabe cowardly took innocent Britannian civilians hostage, and then mercilessly executed them. It was a wanton and meaningless act, therefore they have been punished. Just as former Viceroy Clovis was punished for ordering the slaughter of countless unarmed Elevens, we could not stand by and allow such cruelty to be carried out, and so we made him pay for his actions." Even now after all this time, Lelouch knew the speech by heart, albeit altering slightly.

"I will not repudiate battle on a fair and level field, but neither will I tolerate a one-sided massacre of the weak by the strong. The only ones who should kill, are those who are prepared to be killed! Wherever oppressors abuse their power by by attacking those who are powerless, we shall appear again. No matter how mighty or formidable our foe may be!" Lelouch held his arms out with each final line. "Those of you with power, fear us! Those of you without it, rally behind us! We, the Order of the Black Knights, shall be the ones who stand in judgement of the world!"

The yacht continued across the lake, leaving the rafts with the hostages behind. "Get those rafts in here right now!" Cornelia barked. "Follow that boat, I want to know where it goes!" Her hands clenched into a fist as Nathan came up to her. "I don't know what kind of game Zero is playing. But if what he is saying is even remotely true. I will pursue him to the ends of the Earth itself in order to find out what he knows about where my siblings are! That is a promise Nathan, and you can be sure of it!"

"I have no doubt of your claim, Nelly." Nathan said. "Rest assured Silverwing is at your beck and call."

"Indeed. But I'm also going to call in some extra muscle of my own." Cornelia turned to her faithful Knight. "Guilford, I want you to have a private jet prepared at once. We're flying to Buenos Aires."

Guilford was always known for being on the uptight side at times. It unsettled the Steel Fox just a bit at the uncharacteristic smirk the man known as the Spearhead of Britannia now wore. "So, it's time for the Ivory Dragoness and her cohort to return home is it?"

"Indeed, I know Nulla was quite vehement at never setting foot on her native soil ever again, but Mina and the other girls would certainly be able to put pressure on her to return." Cornelia let out an evil little chuckle. "After all, they are the adopted daughters of William and Andrea Connor. They would be quite eager to know their dear brother may still be alive."

(Black Knights Mobile HQ, Later that night)

"Bravo! Bravo to you all!" Kaguya cheered from her place on the sofa. "I must say you put on quite the show for everyone, Zero, not to mention pulled off a very masterful escape." While the bulk of the hostages had been put in the rafts, Kaguya, Milly, Euphie, and Nunally were on the yacht with the Black Knights. After traveling across the lake, the group had boarded their mobile transport and departed back for the city, stopping in an abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of the Settlement.

Sebastian had called Shirley at the first opportunity he could, Nathan had taken both her and Nina back with the Silverwing convoy, much to the relief of the girls' parents. The redhead had given him an earful for making her worry, but remarked how dashing he looked standing next with his fellow Knights. He, Lelouch, Nunally, Kallen, Euphie, Konoka, Yukimasa, and Kaguya were in the main living area of the trailer, and it was time to get down to business.

"If I had the authority, I would offer Kyoto's full support to the Black Knights right here and now. I know Master Kirihara would certainly approve, although I'm certain the rest of the old men would argue otherwise." Kaguya folded her arms. "But I'm not too bothered about that. I can make them see reason, especially after today."

"We're glad you hold us in such high regard, Lady Sumeragi." Lelouch said. "While we have no respect for Kuskabe, we do respect you greatly. Respect you enough to share with you our greatest secret." Kaguya gasped as the elaborate helmet folded in on itself, revealing a head of jet-black hair and regal violet eyes. Blade Wolf's gloved hand came up to the carved mask, and in a single gesture the boys both revealed themselves.

"Surprised, Kaguya? I told you I had a connection to Zero through Blade Wolf. I just didn't specify what that was!" Sebastian grinned. Only for Kaguya to give him a playful smack in the arm. "But all things aside, Lelouch and I did want to speak to you, and eventually with Master Kirihara and the others about the future of the Resistance. We'll get right down to it. In the seven years since the occupation began, what has Japan done to push the Britannians off their own soil?"

"Not a lot I'm afraid to admit." Kaguya frowned. "While the JLF is currently the backbone of the Resistance. General Katase and the other leaders of Kyoto are content to sit on their laurels and just wait things out. At this rate, I'll be an old woman before Japan is free. We need to take the offensive now."

"In that regard we agree completely, Milady." Konoka said, announcing her presence by taking off her visor. "But I dare say that the JLF's time may rapidly be coming to an end. What Lelouch and Sebastian have done here tonight will ring out, not just across Japan, but the entire world. It's time to change our thinking. The Resistance has to evolve otherwise we're going to die out and the yoke of oppression will fall on our countrymen for the rest of time. But with the two of them leading the charge, we may very well see Japan liberated before we hit twenty."

"I have to agree with Kono on this one, boss lady. It's ironic to be sure, a member of the Royal Family heading up the fight to liberate our country, but Lelouch is a bonafide genius. He proved that tonight. I'm curious to see what other rabbits he can pull out of that helmet of his."

Kaguya's smile was all the indication she had been won over. "It seems both of my people vouch for you. Tell me boys, you have my full and undivided attention. What do you have in mind for getting the Britannians off my property?" She asked.

"We thought we go with this little number first." Lelouch said, and the groundwork for the liberation of Japan began right there.