A/N: once again thanks to JameyoftheMegacosmos for editing and cleaning of the chapter along with everyone else for their contributions that led to this moment in the story which has been planned for a very long time and refined over time as the story reached this point.
It only took me this long to post the chapter because I was still on the fence about the main pairing for Lelouch, which while I don't have a problem with Fate and Nanoha as a couple (but I did feel their relationship could've been better implemented when compared to more well known/similar pairings). However I am trying to find the best pairing to benefit the story and Lelouch as a whole especially for what I am planning for later on. The aces discovering Zero's identity isn't the only major factor that is coming and I can't say more about it without revealing some spoilers.
I am going to try a way to accommodate everyone regardless of pairing preferences and who I pair with Lelouch, without resorting to a harem.
Regardless it seems I started a shipping war as I got people preferring Nanoha/Lelouch, Fate/Lelouch or Quattro/Lelouch. Poor Hayate has no one backing her.
Still nothing is set in stone yet and I'll make a decision when the story reaches a certain point and the events I mentioned will happen and you guys will see why I have been on the fence about it for so long.
There is a LOT I am taking into account and the decision I am trying to reach is not easy by any means.
So without further delay let us begin.
Chapter 25
Willingness
"What do you mean we're removed from the investigation?"
Unaware the Black Knights were mourning for the death of General Katase, something else was happening in the TSAB's observation base. Earlier, a transport ship showed itself in Earth's orbit carrying Mages from Mid-childa to assist with the Mandarin's arrest as well as Zero.
A large number of Mages, hailing from both Aerial and Ground Forces, surrounded the base. They claimed that they were sent to worlds deemed far too dangerous for conventional Mages to operate.
The man leading the helm? Ginga's former superior himself: Hawkins.
"Yes, if you doubt my words, perhaps this seal of approval will convince you otherwise." The order came with a seal of approval in ink and paper to showcase the authenticity of the document. "They believe your current forces are ill-equipped for the task at hand."
Ginga was balling her fist looking at the man's sneer on his face.
"Who authorized this? Commander Gaiz?"
It didn't surprise a select few the commander of the Cranagan forces was responsible for the entire operation.
"You're expecting me to believe the higher-ups sent Special Forces on a war-torn planet?"
"After Miss White devil's failure last time? Drastic times call for drastic measures."
TSAB's higher-ups were getting less patient with the progress on earth. They are aware of what's going on based on the reports but to discover the Mandarin was hiding in that world was one step away from subjugation. This only had confirmed Lindy's worse fears regarding the purpose of the ship's arrival but worried the situation would just get worse.
Lindy didn't realize it, but it was all merely a prelude to something else on the horizon. The following morning Lelouch and Quattro were meeting with Peter via holographic commutation.
"You. Are. Out. Of. Your. Mind." Peter spelled out every word for emphasis with anger.
The mission proposal he got from Lelouch was beyond insane. No, it is just too early for the Black Knights to take on a mission so vast and drastic.
"What did I tell you about no missions until further notice?" He remembered specifically about having the Black Knights lay down for a while after Narita to wait until the storm ends.
"Or I'm turning this crisis into an opportunity." Lelouch countered the argument. "We won't get this chance ever again if we don't act soon. Nobody else knows that the JLF General is dead, yet we can exploit this to our advantage."
With General Katase's passing the night before, the general public, The Britannian military nor LOGOS is aware that the man is no longer in this world.
"Against the Britannians, yes, I would have no problem with that," Peter argued. "But you seem to forget one important thing: Gray." That was the main problem. Ever since the uprising, Gray has appeared prominently on the front lines. "If you haven't noticed or that mask is squeezing your head too tight, we're not armed enough to take him on just yet!"
That was the issue at hand; Gray presents a threat the Black Knights are not ready to face, but it would seem that Zero has other plans to overcome the significant hurdle.
Lelouch understood the plight. He had taken the heretical knight into the equation when he prepped the plan. It was in his nature to challenge the powerful and nothing would ever change that. It was neither overconfidence nor foolishness, merely wanting to destroy an obstacle in his way for him to move forward and continue the war with the Mandarin.
"Then when is the perfect time? At the rate we're going, we'll never be ready to take on the Mandarin."
Take down Gray, and The Mandarin will present himself before the Black Knights. To defeat the second in command would cripple the enemy hopefully because the Black Knights have little info to go on about LOGOS, but it's a fact that both men were old friends.
Quattro was standing silently behind Lelouch. Her devious smirk made no effort to hide her approval of Lelouch's plans because it was brutal, efficient, and bold. Naturally, Quattro was devising ways to help his plan and how to inflict the most damage possible. At the same time, Quattro recalled a conversation she had with C.C. the previous night.
This was shortly after Lelouch was forced to contact the Black Knights and make arrangements for an emergency meeting to discuss the implications of General Katase's death.
"We both know Lelouch's relationship to those three is a problem he cannot keep ignoring," C.C. said upon finding Quattro inside the computer core chamber, which was sometimes the place where she spent time.
Without turning around to face her, Quattro responded. "Yes, I know."
"How soon do you think they might figure out Lelouch is Zero?"
"Nanoha and Hayate don't believe Zero could be Lelouch," Quattro answered. "Fate seems to suspect Lelouch, although she isn't fully convinced."
"Do you think she might figure it out?"
Quattro shrugged her shoulders. Fate's suspicions were expected, given her status as an Enforcer and the number of cases she successfully solved.
"Hard to say. I can read computers, but not people's minds."
"Do you think Lelouch could use his relationship with them to sway them to his cause?" C.C. asked, but when Quattro didn't respond, she inquired further. "Would going as far as making them his lovers need to be done?"
"NO," Quattro snapped as she spun around to face the stoic immortal, "Even if Lelouch was willing to seduce them to win them over to his side, he would not go that far. Besides, I doubt it would be that easy in the first place."
"Then why are you making a move then?"
"Eh!?"
"Sooner or later, they'll find out Lelouch is Zero, which we know will lead to an unpleasant fallout between them," C.C. pointed out bluntly. "Don't deny it; you are in love with him."
Quattro was caught off guard, but she quickly realized this was the real discussion the immortal was steering the conversation. Quattro smirked before she released a maniacal laugh. She stopped laughing after a moment as she had a moment of reflection during her outburst.
"I guess I can't deny it," Quattro said unable to deny it, although some aspect of pride wanted her to yet she couldn't. "Yes, I love him. I have never seen anyone possess such a devious and ruthless mind coupled with such charisma to inspire and confidence. In a such a short time we have accomplished so much, and with the right soldiers at his beck and call I think he could conquer even the TSAB."
"I knew it," C.C. said with a smirk.
"Experience, I assume?" Quattro slyly asked giving the immortal. "You have been around for a long time and dealt with all kinds of different people, right?"
C.C. merely smirked in turn, "I suppose that is one way to put it. However, what is stopping you?"
Quattro paused at the thought, but she couldn't come up with an answer.
Later that day, Lelouch and Sayoko tended to a matter essential to his plan. He had to take care of the issue he had delayed long enough.
"Where are we?" Looking around, there was only darkness surrounding him with the only light source above his head. The ninja woman from before was standing in front of him, arms crossed and sporting a bandage across her face and her arms covered in bandages. "You! You're from before!" He remembered the fight from Tokyo Settlement. "My camera!" If she's real, he took footage of that battle.
However-
The veteran journalist found himself tied to a chair. The one saving grace was that he's isn't gagged with a muzzle as the Britannians did to him days prior. He could feel the sweat from his brow, his heart pounding loudly from his chest with anxiety.
"Calm yourself," said the ninja in fluent Britannian. "Zero-sama will see you shortly."
"Zero-sama!? You mean Zero!? Zero's here! Haha, what brilliant luck! So I was rescued by The Black Knights!"
"So Mr. Reid, we finally meet," Zero emerged from the shadows like a ghost.
"Excuse me, Zero-sama." Sayoko bowed, pacing back into the darkness.
"You. You're-"
"I hear you're a big fan of mine. I would apologize for the way my ninja treated you on her way here, but there's something we need to discuss first."
Diethard was eager, although he was more grateful for at least being granted membership to the Black Knights. Zero dragged another chair until he placed it in front of Diethard, but it was during this time that the journalist noticed that Zero was holding a folder hidden under his cape.
"I must also apologize for how long it took to process your recruitment into my organization. You should understand that the Japanese members that compose my organization are suspicious about a Britannian joining the Black Knights. However, I know it's not unheard of for Britannians to be part of anti-government groups," Lelouch pointed out before taking his seat.
"Of course," Diethard answered as he watched Zero begin to open the folder he had kept hidden under his cape, "Though I would've been surprised if you had accepted me right away."
"I am glad you understand, but you can imagine that I am curious about your motivations for wishing to join."
Diethard had expected this question, which was only natural for Zero to ask all things considered.
"Naturally," Diethard answered before he explained. "Quite frankly, I find my current occupation to be very mundane to put it lightly. Having to watch my boss bootlick Clovis and fabricate news to bloat his oversized ego was already disgusting and boring to watch."
"I can't exactly argue against that," Lelouch recalled all of the broadcasts Clovis had usually given in the wake of some terrorist incident or completed public works. It was all apparently just to polish and improve his public image, which ultimately mattered little in comparison to his own incompetence as Viceroy.
"When you appeared, I realized your appearance and actions that night changed everything," Diethard said without hiding his admiration. "I bore witness to something I knew was just the spark to something more significant. Something I think I would find more fulfilling to report and document than my current post would allow. I wish to document your rise and quest to topple Britannia and maybe beyond that."
I see, so you are another one who is bored with his life as I was, the lie of living. Lelouch chuckled at the thought.
"Mr. Reid, you might find a lot more than you hoped for."
Meanwhile at a seemingly abandoned chemical plant, Quattro deviously oversaw the production of significant gallons of chemicals. She was grateful that Kirihara had access to such a facility and more so had everything she needed on hand, although Quattro had to bring some of the harder to find ingredients. Thanks to some hacking and creating some false orders and deliveries to ghost addresses, Quattro was able to gather everything she needed.
Quattro had the task to oversee a vital part of Operation Viking Funeral, an element that neither Peter nor Gil noticed.
The devious combat cyborg was grateful that Kirihara provided access to the chemical plant. It was all part of their secret facilities that assisted in the production of weapons and chemical components for critical pieces of machinery. He received a draft of Lelouch's overall plan to lure the Britannians and LOGOs into a trap, which required a tanker loaded with liquid sakuradite.
Another part was meant to include something else, which intrigued Kirihara when she had told him what she needed.
Lelouch will be pleased to hear that my part has gone smoothly.
Two days later, a clandestine meeting took place in an old bomb shelter in Shinjuku Ghetto, which had been converted into a hideout for the Black Knights. It wasn't anything special as similar bases were established across Japan its location made it ideal to hold a special meeting.
The meeting table itself is unlike the roundtable from the fabled knights of King Arthur's time. The room contained the inner circle members of the Black Knights including the maid and bodyguard Shinozaki Sayoko. Alicia Testarossa was kicked out for an apparent reason; the last thing she mentioned before making her leave was that she's to check out the Burai Kais belonging to Tohdoh and the Four Holy Swords.
Some were concerned, especially Tohdoh, that the girl would be trouble for his followers.
However, it didn't consist of only the leadership of the Black Knights, and Tohdoh was not the only odd one arriving to attend. Those who could not be there in person were able to participate in and observe the meeting thanks to assistance from Quattro.
"Gah! You're Kirihara Taizō, The Traitor!" Ohgi's reaction to the infamous old man working alongside the Britannians was unexpected. It took them a long-winded explanation that Kyoto House; precisely Kirihara Taizō and Lady Kaguya are allies of the Black Knights and had funded the group with Knightmare frames such as the Guren Mark II.
Peter was present as he sat next to Kirihara, or at least the seat that was occupied by his screen, who seemed troubled that Kirihara had made himself very comfortable and was leading the meeting alongside Zero. Gil sat next to Peter with Zero next to the former admiral. Kaguya, much to her annoyance, separated by Quattro from Zero.
Interestingly enough, Quattro enjoyed the tense atmosphere. A sneer towards the former teacher's direction already made the man himself uneasy with the situation at hand.
"And you must be Kaname Ohgi. Huh, I didn't expect the second in command after Zero to look like a bumbling fool," Kirihara replied, answering through a screen Quattro created for teleconferencing meetings like this. "This can't be the best the Black Knights have to recruit, can you Zero? If you want, I can send you a few names that will gladly take the job."
"With all due respect Lord Kirihara, Mr. Kaname was my choice to be the second in command," Gil Graham defended the Japanese man. "A decision Zero supported as well. After all he was a member of the resistance group in Shinjuku as are most of our current members. It would not do well for troop morale if his position were stripped off from him so soon."
"Huhm, you have a point. Very well, if he doesn't show results soon, I'll ask you again Gil."
Ohgi, on the other hand, felt like the old man threatened his position. Being a top dog in the Black Knights is nothing like in Naoto's old group and apparently nothing like a teacher in school.
The meeting reminded Ohgi about meetings back in his school. The current topic at hand was about the Knightmare frames soon to be released from Lord Kirihara and Lady Kaguya. Already, he felt overwhelmed by how much progress has been made secretly to support the Black Knights.
"After all, I don't know much we can trust the JLF these days…" These words continue to sound ominous from Ohgi's perspective. The Mandarin compromised the entire group and there is nothing anyone can do to prevent further damage to Japan's new resistance against Britannia.
He was the representative of Naoto's group, the founding members of the Black Knights who appointed Zero as their new leader. There was no doubt that he was under tremendous pressure to live up to the expectations placed upon him.
The Black Knights were not the only force in Area 11 having a meeting. Rumors of General Katase's survival circulated Area 11 as of yesterday, coupled with additional information they had acquired from various sources.
"Gray, I have your next task." Instantly, Gray's grin grew wider. He flexed his fingers as he cracked his own neck for good measure before bowing to the Mandarin with a perfect posture and angle. Indeed, hearing that he would have a job today made Gray a leading example of an employee if only he got rid of his own bloodlust.
"What is the task at hand, my lord?" even Gray's voice sounded more like the knights of old, surprising Suzuka who was in the same room as the rest watching the spectacle. It was a stark contrast to how he behaved the night they beat up the criminal element in the Tokyo Settlement where he was nothing more than a savage dog.
Though one would argue she probably did worse
Kusakabe raised an eyebrow, considering that he never had the opportunity to watch this in person before despite his years of services. He and Gray worked separately until this campaign on Earth, but who can blame him? He wasn't the only one as Mao was chewing on a Britannian candy bar right now enjoying the show. Mao wasn't supposed to be here, but he lets himself in any way.
"The termination of Katase and the JLF remnants. My agents informed me that Katase and his followers are escaping to the Chinese Federation through Yokosuka." That caught Kusakabe's attention as he stood forward.
"Mandarin-sama, please allow me to take this task at hand!" Gray stared at the Japanese man with a raised eyebrow.
'This was the first time someone does something like this when the Boss is issuing orders,' Gray told himself internally.
"My troops and I are yours to command." If anybody has the right to end the Japanese Liberation Front, it would be him and nobody else!
"I appreciate your enthusiasm Kusakabe. However, this mission requires infiltrating the Britannian military. Unlike you, Gray resembles an elderly Britannian man and has the immediate firepower to kill all witnesses should his cover be compromised." The Mandarin explained. "However, I do expect that you won't purposely make it that way, won't you Gray?" Everybody was thinking it their boss has just said it Gray's bloodlust has proven to be a problem considering that he tends to overdo things. It was plausible that he shows his true colors when swinging his sword during the heat of battle.
"Unless it's outside my control," Gray replied, but Suzuka was about to freeze his head the moment she heard what the space templar knight has to say. He was already admitting that deliberately delaying the mission comes to his mind. "What princess? It's not my fault earthlings love violence!"
That comment earned him a snowball to the face by the ice-user in the room.
"Score!" Mao, of course, was cheering her on.
Little did they realize it was part of Zero's plan, a plan the rest of the Black Knights were being let in.
The meeting was long in Ohgi's opinion. His bladder seems full, and he's not allowed to leave until someone like Gil Graham announces for everybody to take a break. If the former teacher has to complain about anything, being on the field and being part of the Black Knights' inner circle are two different things altogether.
It didn't help that the topic revolved around Zero's next strategy against the Mandarin and the Britannians. Former general Katase's death shook Ohgi; rumors spread among the troops that the man himself has passed away in the hands of the Britannians back in Narita. The real story, however, is more sinister in Ohgi's eyes. Katase carried intel containing shipments of Wyvern drones, the Mandarin's unmanned weapons.
"Unacceptable," Tohdoh's protest sliced through the silence in the meeting room like his katana. "General Katase has just died! I will not allow us to stain his name with lies!"
The Lieutenant Colonel hissed with venom in his voice. Ohgi couldn't help cower before the man; his body feels tense. He was the same man who performed a miracle seven years ago, and his reputation was not to be taken lightly.
Blowing up a tanker ship to take out the Britannian military and the Mandarin's wyvern robot forces is fine in Ohgi's book. Baiting their enemies with a false confession from the dead man is nothing but disrespectful. However, the second in command of the Black Knight's was quickly outmaneuvered by the former colonel himself as they both argued about the tactic.
"It saddens me, Lieutenant Colonel- " Kirihara answered, intervening. "-But Zero presents a valid point. The Mandarin does not know that Katase has passed away it would be a waste not to make this to our advantage." Just like any shrewd politician, the old man presented his argument. "I believe the Britannians call it, kill two birds with one stone?" He phrased with little difficulty. "A former school teacher like yourself would agree with me, won't you Kaname-san?" The old man passed the verbal ball to Ohgi.
"W-what?" Ohgi stammered; feeling a slight pressure as all eyes are on him. "Yeah, I suppose it's something like that."
"Figures," Tohdoh muttered to himself before giving a short glare to Ohgi. "Kaname-san, I don't know why Zero chose you to be his second in command, but at the very least show some spine and stand up for something." The irony of someone like Ohgi being lectured like a teacher towards a student did not escape his thought process.
"The information has spread thanks to our newest recruit and Lord Kirihara's efforts," Lelouch intervened. "We passed the point of no return. However, we can achieve vengeance for General Katase if this plan succeeds and I have proposed to Lord Kirihara that he will be remembered and buried as a hero to Japan. It may not mean much, but it's all I can offer."
It did little to diminish Tohdoh's anger, but a part of him demanded that the traitors who sided with Kusakabe and brought about the demise of the General needed to be brought to justice.
"If the plan succeeds we can deal a huge blow to both the Britannians and the Mandarin," Quattro offered.
Tohdoh offered little resistance after that but chose to remain silent throughout the rest of the meeting.
"The operation begins the day after tomorrow, and Lord Kirihara has begun preparations on his end, so we'll have everything ready by then," Zero added as he provided everyone with details via documents and maps of how the operation would be carried out.
"What is Zero thinking pulling a stunt like this!"
From Nanoha's point of view, it was hard to see the angrier side of Admiral Lindy. The Japanese girl has known Chrono's mother almost all her life and to see her losing her cool was a sight she doesn't want to see. The latest news has confirmed or at least cemented the idea that the Black Knights have finally gained the upper hand against the Britannians. As such, it wouldn't surprise anybody that arresting Zero has become next to impossible now that he has a hostage, which draws more attention from the Britannian army.
With the Mandarin not far behind.
"Do you think the Mandarin would retaliate?" Chrono asked. He was more concerned with the aftereffects of the Viceroy's capture and how the inter-dimensional terrorist would react from this. "Cornelia is a fearsome Knightmare pilot, so I wouldn't count her out being a test pilot for his creations." A theory he came up with is that the Britannian princess is working closely with the interdimensional terrorist.
"Or they could be lovers." Hayate wasn't one to joke, but the air was so thick that she figure light humor would be appropriate despite knowing she would be reprimanded for it later. As such, an annoyed look on Chrono's face was enough to tell that he comment was unappreciated. She entertained the thought that something was going on between them only to fulfill her curiosity. There were so many possibilities from that alone! It's like overthinking Nanoha and Lelouch's future together from her childhood days all over again.
"I'm not sure. I haven't found any leads connecting both the Mandarin and the viceroy. It is possible that Cornelia only recognizes him as an arms dealer." Fate explained. Her investigation to connect both the royal family and the Mandarin hadn't been going very well after Signum's testimony from the man Erik. "If only we can get close to Prince Clovis. Perhaps he can shed some light." Her own theory was that Clovis's approach in ruling Area 11 was lax enough for the Mandarin to set up his base before Cornelia takes charge and making it difficult for the interdimensional terrorist to move around.
"Anyone else wondering about Euphy?" Nanoha suggested. "Her onee-chan's captured, and taking charge of Japan. I'm more worried what's going to happen from here on out." Euphemia may be of royalty, but her lack of real-world experience is a sign for enemies to strike against the Britannia. It could be the Black Knights, the Japanese resistance, or in the worst case scenario, the Mandarin.
"That would be a better question considering what's going on right now," Lindy agreed. "She's no threat to the Mandarin, and we don't know how much of the Britannian military is under his influence."
"Is it possible that she's under his command-"
Nanoha stood up before Hayate could continue, realizing that she nearly made a scene. "I-I'm sorry, I was just-"
"It's alright," Fate comforted her. "I don't like it either, but I can't dismiss this possibility. With Cornelia out of the way, Area 11 is under the rule of a less experienced Viceroy. At this point, anything is possible."
Instead of the large and opened conference room, Euphemia had been used to attending meetings in this one was being held in the underground bunker below the Viceroy's Palace. Instead of various ministers present, the gathering consisted almost entirely of military personnel including Dalton and Guilford. The only non-military members were Euphemia and Schneizel as the Acting Viceroy and Prime Minister of the Empire respectively.
"Our agents have confirmed this information," Dalton began as he led the meeting. "General Katase and what remains of the JLF is planning to flee Area 11 for the Chinese Federation."
"They are planning to make the trip aboard a tank filled with liquid sakuradite," Schneizel added having seen the report earlier.
"Yes, we confirmed that as well, Your Highness," Guilford answered with a nod. "Katase won't board the tanker for another two days. According to our intelligence the tanker will be ready to depart from Port Yokosuka."
"I have begun mobilizing the Royal Marines for this mission to seize the tanker and take Katase alive," Dalton said, "But like this meeting, I have been making certain to be very discreet about it."
"We still haven't found the source of the information leak?" The Prime Minister of the Empire asked.
"I am afraid not," Dalton replied with a saddened tone.
No one was sadder than Princess Euphemia. She was the Acting Viceroy, but she never felt so useless.
"I shall oversee the operation at Port Yokosuka," Euphemia offered with the intent of ending her uselessness and try to do something.
"Princess Euphemia," a military commander offered in protest. "With the capture of your older sister, we cannot risk you as well."
"And what I am supposed to do here?" Euphy demanded. "I can't just sit around and do nothing!"
"Euphy, please calm yourself," Schneizel said before raising a hand to stop any attempt of protest from his younger sister. "If you wish to oversee this operation, may I suggest then that Dalton will assist you. I can ask my assistant to accompany you as well. Lord Guilford should be able to oversee everything directly from the field while you and Dalton oversee everything from the harbor master station, providing a vantage point for our forces."
"I apologize, Prince Schneizel, but isn't that risky?" Dalton asked.
"I understand my sister frustrations, but with the loss of Cornelia, morale is at an all-time low. Maybe her presence might help lift the men's spirits. Naturally, we will take every precaution for her safety."
"I suppose," Dalton replied reluctantly.
The sun was setting over Port Yokosuka. The tanker was ready to sail thanks to Lord Kirihara who used his connections to fill it with liquid sakuradite, but unknown to many involved with the operation another liquid had been loaded onto the tanker. Its contents were isolated from the liquid sakuradite, but it was connected to the storage tanks and was ready to be released and mixed at any time.
This was part of the plan conceived by Lelouch with Quattro's help as the day of the operation was upon them.
The atmosphere of a warehouse was intense as a large number of Black Knights members gathered inside. They were all facing a stage made of crates with several Knightmares stationed behind, including the Guren, another Commander-type Burai and the custom Glasgow. On the boxes were the recognizable leaders composed of Zero in the center, Ohgi on the right, and Quattro flanking the left.
A good reason why the air was so intense was the new mission they have, which was right around the corner at Port Yokosuka. One even wondered if they would be discovered or at least eavesdropped, mainly since this involved a ton of Britannian troops again.
"This operation is going to be a special one," Zero began the meeting. "Though considering a number of you to be veterans from Narita, I doubt it would mean much. But this represents a rare opportunity and requires perfect timing to get it right, which will further increase our efforts. Quattro will discuss the mission for us."
Quattro stepped forward to brief.
"As you all know, General Katase of the Japan Liberation Front is dead," Quattro began. "However, only we the Black Knights know this and the Britannians are in the dark. We decided to take this as an opportunity to catch the Britannians by surprise and deal another devastating blow. You already noticed by now that we're under an area that's heavily occupied by the Britannians. That's because they've gone through to believe Katase is alive and is boarding a nearby tanker full of liquid sakuradite headed for the Chinese Federation. Considering how much of a target he is out of all JLF survivors, the Britannians are preparing an attack against the tanker, hoping to capture the General before he can escape. You can already agree where this will head to."
"You can also thank our Britannian recruit for handling the misinformation," Lelouch said extending a hand towards the man in question.
Zero faced Diethard to their right, who was surrounded by Sette, Otto, and Deed in their own Black Knight uniforms.
"Yes well, we had to make it convincing enough for them to fall for it."
He showed discomfort about being escorted by three young girls and wondered why they had to be the ones protecting him. Diethard had interest in working with Zero and tricking the Britannians to believe that Katase was alive was an essential first-day assignment as the newest member of the Black Knights.
"Indeed," Zero agreed with him. "And even Cornelia's elite forces are once again taking command, lead by General Andreas Dalton and Lord Guilford. In case you're wondering how they'll be convinced the tanker really is housing the General, we already have plans for that. You thank Quattro for setting that up for us."
"Once we have them right where we want them, we make our move," Quattro slammed her fist into the palm of her other hand. "And crush them."
Ohgi nodded to his superiors, but he felt uncertainty considering the strength they had.
"Isn't it still rough for us that were the only ones participating in this mission?"
"It'll be fine, even though it's understandable," Zero proceed to explain what Ohgi meant. "The Japan Liberation Front protested this operation in honor of General Katase. They decided to sideline themselves from this operation, which means we'll again be on our own."
"I'm still surprised you could conjure up something like this."
"Any methods are necessary."
"What about the other reason?" Kallen called from the crowd below, one of the first few in the front row.
"Yeah, wouldn't you wanna tell them the other reason this is special?" Tamaki supported.
"Don't worry," though Lelouch grumbled behind the mask before proceeding. "You should also be aware this is a special mission for another unique reason."
The Black Knights and faced back towards Diethard just as Zero did. A moment later, Zero went back to his followers.
"Diethard gave some us special information regarding the aftermath at Narita. It turns out that Britannia has a skilled assassin working for them. While we can't get his face, he's our culprit responsible for severely damaging resistance forces, including the destruction of the JLF and the death of General Katase. Many rumor him to be a super soldier, perhaps a secret weapon developed by the Empire."
Lelouch chose his words carefully as he didn't want to tip them about the real enemy they were dealing with. Even the dimwitted Tamaki agreed that it was best for them to keep the true nature of the Black Knight's enemy as limited as possible. Should their footmen know what they were really dealing with, they might be unnerved and unable to go along. Briefing things precisely without giving too much detail were in their best interests.
"This is our option to deal with this special enemy along with eliminating Dalton and Guilford. With that in mind, achieving either objective would make this operation a success. The Britannians attack tonight. Until then, we are to prepare. And with it, we shall give our farewell gift for General Katase."
"Before we end this meeting I will be asking for those we have deemed to be those with an excellent aim," Quattro began motioning for a pair of Black Knight soldiers to wheel forward a large flat-metal cart with a dozen metal cases on top. "Our prototypes for this operation have been prepared, but as I explained yesterday, we have only been able to create a handful of them, so please handle them with care."
"Quattro will run CIC for this operation while I will command everything from the field once the tanker is detonated," Lelouch offered as he and Quattro walked through a connecting hallway leading to an indoor harbor. It was where something new they had received from Peter's friends in the Militarized Zone of India was docked, an Asura-class high-speed submarine designed with speed and maneuverability in mind thanks to its multiple navigation fins.
To prevent it from being found Peter oversaw the installation of different stealth systems and additions made by Peter to make the submarine invisible to sonar and most modern means of detection allowing their sub to quickly move about the waters around Area 11 as long as it avoided being seen visually.
Boarding the submarine, Lelouch and Quattro retreated to his cabin to go over some last minute details, especially since they had a few hours before the operation would begin. Once the door to his cabin and office was closed, Lelouch removed his mask.
"Is everything ready?"
"You mean the automated guns and holographic projectors that will show the tanker crewed by JLF members or the surprise," Quattro asked as she began smiling at the last part.
"The surprise," Lelouch asked with a devious smile.
"Everything is ready, of course," Quattro answered with confidence. "The bomb only needs two minutes for the liquid sakuradite to be mixed with Peter's special explosive cocktail. I can begin the detonation preparation at any time, but as a precaution, if my control signal to the tanker is cut off for any reason, the bomb will automatically arm itself before detonating after both substances are mixed."
"Good, but if possible I would like to set the bomb off once we have lured in as many of the Mandarin's troops as possible," Lelouch said because the more soldiers and drones that belonged to the Mandarin they could destroy the better.
The augmented explosion from the tanker alone was sure to eliminate the Britannian Forces in the area.
Suddenly, a knock on the door interrupted their conversation.
"It's me, Kallen," Kallen said from the other side of the door, "do you have a minute Zero?"
Zero gestured to Quattro who promptly made herself invisible before he responded.
"Come in Kallen."
"I am sorry for bothering you," Kallen began after the door open. "But I wanted a chance to speak with you.
Reading her expression, Lelouch saw Kallen's face clouded by doubt and worry, so he asked, "Having second thoughts?"
Kallen was surprised that Zero saw through her so quickly, but since her troubles were evident, she spoke. "I thought the goal was to save this world from the Mandarin and liberate Japan. The only reason I fought because I thought it was the right thing to do, so I can live with the killing but now-"
Lelouch remained silent allowing Kallen to empty her heart before him.
"Tell me! Is this real? Is what we're all doing will really save us?"
"Yes, it will. Or rather, it has to."
"But," Kallen began, but Lelouch cut her off.
"Will there be sacrifices? Not only soldiers, but the innocent as well," Lelouch admitted. "And yet, because of all these things, we have no choice but to continue on no matter the cost even if people see us as cowards we have to prevail. If it means more blood will shed, then so be it. We've spilled so much to get here; we can't let it be in vain."
Kallen was frozen and left speechless, but she understood what Zero was saying and the full weight behind them.
"I won't force you, Kallen. If you wish to turn back, now is the time."
The young woman was silent for a full minute before after some careful contemplation she said. "I've made my choice. I'll follow you to the very end."
"I'm grateful, Kallen."
The sun vanished below the horizon as a blue four-door passenger car driving along Tokyo Bay, approaching Port Yokosuka where the word was that a significant military operation would take place tonight. Hawkins sidelined Fate, Ginga, and Vita as well as their other friends. That didn't mean they could not wait nearby because Chrono and Lindy agreed something would go wrong.
"I think the Mandarin might make an appearance. We found signs that he tried to have General Katase killed," Ginga said while she drove the car they had rented. Their vehicle was a means to move around without their magic to avoid being noticed for a day or two.
Fate nodded her head, "I agree especially given what we found on the far side of the Narita Mountains. The high ranking officers indicated Gray was dispatched to intercept the remains of the JLF's command."
Somehow, assuming he was with them, General Katase escaped the crazed knight in what was apparently a coup to wipe out the JLF leadership, allowing Kusakabe to assume control over the rest. It was the only explanation for the ambush, although it was possible there was another reason they didn't know.
"Hawkins thinks Katase is connected to the Mandarin," Vita asked from the back seat.
"I don't think that's the case. Otherwise, Narita would've been better protected from Britannia," Fate pointed out from the passenger seat in the front.
"So it's likely a dead end, but what do you think your old boss will do?"
Ginga sighed while she feared what her old boss would do.
"He probably called in some favors to get out of whatever mess he was in, assuming Gaiz had a hand in it. He's more likely to please Gaiz, and so he'll pursue the quickest way to capture the Mandarin," Ginga answered, already suspecting Hawkins will only complicate matters more.
"Long story short, he'll do more harm than good," Vita said flatly.
No one sought to argue with her.
Around the same time a long distance away from the port floating along the currents of Tokyo Bay. A loaded silver hydrofoil adrift in the middle of the bay, almost in direct line of sight of Port Yokosuka. The lights aboard the vessel were off so no one from the shore could see the hydrofoil, although there was a risk of something below noticing them Quattro confirmed the Royal Marines would be launched from a nearby harbor that wouldn't put them anywhere near them.
Wyvern Drones were the only real danger. Mainly, if they were detected by them while cursing to their target, but Quattro would do everything she can to cloak their presence from their sensors.
They are more likely to come once the trap is sprung, Lelouch thought as he sat on the cockpit of his Knightmare Frame.
They would be a possible problem once the drones become involved. Thankfully, Lelouch and Quattro have already planned for them while providing an opportunity for a weapon test.
Speaking of weapons, a disguised Dieci was in position at the top of a container crane. She was among those of the Black Knights who possessed the best aim, so Dieci was given one of their new rifles. The rifle resembled an anti-material rifle designed for shooting through armored vehicles. However, the gun was apparently much more than that as it had elements of a long-range sniper rifle incorporated into it. Despite the new hardware, it was lightweight and easy to handle.
It's supposed to be a miniaturized version of the VARIS used by Britannia's Lancelot, Dieci thought as she inspected the weapon.
The rifle was an impressive feat of creating a handheld railgun that was both a sniper rifle.
"It's remarkable they managed to make that using Earth technology," Cinque commented as she was sitting inside crane's control booth.
"Yes, or so it seems," Dieci said in agreement.
Cinque had managed to make her way to the highest portion of the crane to stay near Dieci while Sein and Nove were hiding in one of the warehouses near the tanker to observe the coming battle more closely.
This is strange, Cinque thought.
The eldest of the cyborgs present couldn't help, but notice how odd was it for Zero to have snipers positioned so far away from the tanker.
We're almost on the far side of the bay, but you still see the tanker clearly from here, Cinque noted internally.
When she had learned some of the details about Zero's plan she spoke to Uno who confirmed that while a tanker carrying liquid sakuradite would make for a very destructive bomb. The resulting explosion would heavily damage anyone on the shore nearby with some minor structural damage to buildings there would be no other danger as long as they were away from those areas.
Caution was one thing, but the distance was much further away than needed in Cinque's mind.
There must be something else, Cinque thought before opening a communication line.
"What's up," Sein greeted casually.
"Sein, I want you and Nove to fall back and find someplace sturdy to hold up in until the tanker blows," Cinque ordered.
"Huh," Nove muttered overhearing the conversation.
"I have suspicions to believe the explosion from that tanker will be more destructive than we are expecting," Cinque answered.
Hiding behind a row of shopping containers stacked atop one another was the Lancelot and a company of Sutherlands armed with long-range rifles. The intended goal was to take the tanker intact and capture General Katase alive. For once, Suzaku was actually asked to take part in the mission instead of being sidelined which was likely because of Euphemia was overseeing the operation.
"Remember Suzaku, our objective is to eliminate everyone, but the target," Cecile reminded through the open channel between the Lancelot and its transport trailer.
"Understood," Suzaku replied, although he was resolved to see the mission through to the end Suzaku wasn't looking forward to this mission.
Even if any of them survived the best they could hope for is life imprisonment otherwise torture and execution awaits them, Suzaku reminded himself.
He steeled himself for what would amount to a one-sided massacre. Those men had made their choices, but it didn't ease the discomfort in his heart.
Inside the submarine, as it lurked below the waves a safe distance away, Quattro was smiling as she remotely activated the tanker's engines. The ship began moving, heading out of the port. Everything was green across the board, which included the hidden remote guns and holographic system that would project JLF soldiers onto the tanker's deck.
"Let's see what kind of catch our trap will net us," Quattro replied as she readied the bomb, setting it to standby mode.
It was active and ready to be armed.
As the Britannians were all set, Euphemia was contacted through a phone next to her. Though sitting at a desk with a laptop she could speak through, she had used this kind of communication.
Euphemia wasn't precisely at Port Yokosuka, but near where the targeted tanker was docked, closest to the main forces for the eventual operation. It was a VIP room within the Port Authority building for the harbor. There wasn't much except her main desk, a light above and a bookshelf and nightstand next to her. Just outside were a few personal bodyguards and Royal Guards. Next to the door was a window covered by a curtain that cloaked her presence. Stubborn as she was, Cornelia's Inner Circle advisers preferred this specific location to ensure her safety.
Admittedly, she was not a combat princess like her older sister. There wasn't much she could do personally; she may be the new Viceroy of Area 11, but she still had to rely on his siblings and trusted officials like Dalton and Guilford to get anything done. This applied to military affairs such as now.
That's mainly why she had to be brought in. The military commanders could organize operations, but they could not carry them out without consent from the Viceroy. Many of them were uneasy with Euphemia being Viceroy due to her sympathy for the Elevens. They worried she might call off the operation before it began or during it, allowing the JLF remnants to escape to China and cause more problems.
I can't let them down, Euphemia thought about this. Not just those for officers, but for everyone else.
The one she had in mind was Suzaku. She understood the pain of this operation, having to kill armed Elevens when they had no chance. It was just something that had to be done.
"It's time, Your Highness," Dalton advised on the phone. "We await your authorization now, Viceroy." With that, Dalton hung up.
The pacifist princess was still unnerved, but the JLF showed who they really were and they no longer had a place in Area 11. She must do this, for Britannia, the Elevens and everyone close to her.
Just remain strong, Euphy, until it is over.
The princess took a deep breath before opening the laptop. She opened a window, linked to a military channel with a camera, and issued to her nearby forces.
"My dear Britannians, you are all clear. Commence the operation...now!"
In that instant, two squads of RMI-13 Portman were launched into the water as they began making a beeline below the surface heading for the tanker. Gunshots rang through the air as the concealed Britannian forces made their presence known as they started shooting at the JLF soldiers standing upon the deck of the fleeing ship. This would also distract them from the approaching threat the amphibious Knightmare Frames below the water represented.
One by one JLF soldiers fell to gunfire, but the tanker kept gaining speed determined to escape the port as quickly as possible. Quattro knew the ship had no chance of escape, but everything that was happening was only to keep up appearances.
"Ceasefire!" the radio message came out to the Britannians. "This is the Japan Liberation Front! Please, ceasefire! The General is not on the ship! We're just scattered remnants! I repeat, the General is not here! We're just survivors! Ceasefire! We surrender! I repeat, we surrender!"
The still hesitant Suzaku was first to listen. He contacted his superiors.
"General, are you hearing the message?"
"We hear it," Dalton confirmed. "Don't worry about it. Just continue with the mission."
"But sir, they're issuing a surrender on an open channel!"
"Ignore it!" another officer ordered.
"Yes, but sir-!" he was interrupted by small shaking. The tanker was still struggling to escape.
"They are just trying to buy time. Don't give them a chance," the officer assured his point before moving on. "Now, Royal Marines, carry out your orders."
"Yes, Milord!"
As the tanker became surrounded by open water, a Portman already fired a Slash Harken onto the ship. Unlike the others Knightmare Frames moving in coordinated formation, this one seemed to act alone. The officers nearby noticed him it struggling to get on.
"Lone Portman," Dalton contacted through the radio, "Please report. You're going against the plan."
"I'm on a classified mission," Gray spoke in frustration, still not used to piloting a Knightmare correctly. "This is my first time having to use a Knightmare, but I've been assigned personally by my superior. I'm to deal with the General ASAP and before the Marines come in as support. Guilford has been filled in on the details."
Guilford froze for a moment before confirming it.
"Affirmative."
"I understand," Dalton said. "Proceed with your assignment."
It took a while for Gray's Portman to reach the top of the ship. Once the Knightmare pulled itself up, Gray turned off its systems before exiting. He first went to the center of the deck, surrounding himself with sakuradite containers and port equipment to hide him from the Britannians. There, he exchanged his Britannian uniform for his own jacket and cast a Temporal Field around the ship that followed its movement.
While activating the field, he noticed some Mages closing in on the ship. That apparently meant the TSAB were also coming for the supposed-to-be-dead General.
"Britannia is one thing," he said to himself. "But those pests coming means I have little time. Still, I wonder how Zero will play in this..."
Putting the thought aside, Gray took Neagling out from his back and ran for the bridge.
"I better wrap this up quick, before the Boss chews me out again."
Lelouch observed what was happening thanks to the feed Quattro was providing them from the submarine. So far, everything was going according to plan. Once the rest of the Portman Knightmare Frames were onboard, they would detonate.
However, there was that lone Portman that had forced its way aboard.
"Quattro, I think our target is onboard," Lelouch called on an open channel.
"Yes, and some of the chatter I have been listening in on confirms it," Quattro replied. "I have armed the bomb and its building up to detonation. One minute until it goes off."
Suddenly, a beeping sound from Abyss Soul alerted him to an incoming communication from Sette.
"What is it, Sette?"
"Report to Zero," she said. "Multiple targets detected overhead. Mages inbound."
"What," Zero said feeling concerned.
A safe distance away, atop another container crane opposite of the one Dieci and Cinque occupied, were Ohgi and Diethard. They were stunned to see streaks of light land onto the tanker while the Britannians were closing in. Only Ohgi had an idea what was going on through the scope. He could see the shiny uniforms of the Mages as they were trying to cast something. A barrier, as Zero and the others described it, like the one back at Lake Kawaguchi.
"We see them, too, Zero," Ohgi confirmed using a modified radio in his right hand. "It looks like the Time-Space Bureau have arrived in this conflict."
"Time Space Bureau?" Diethard repeated to himself in confusion.
"What do we do now?" Ohgi asked for the turn of events. Even though they were outnumbered, but the bomb aboard the tanker was already counting down so it would detonate within the next minute.
Before Lelouch could give an order as he considered telling Quattro to disarm the bomb, something unexpected happened.
The crew aboard the Arthra had detected it before Lelouch would realize what was happening. Lindy, Nanoha, Hayate, and Chrono were monitoring the situation unfolding at the harbor. What they saw worried them significantly, which added to their concern and anger over how reckless Hawkins was being by having his Mages swarm the fleeing tanker.
It was known that he was leading the Mages on his quest for personal fame and glory by seeking to capture the Mandarin.
"Why is he casting a containment barrier around the tanker and the docks?" On the Arthra, the crew shared a similar sentiment. Their time on earth taught them NOT to do something like this. The standard operating procedure was to cast a barrier that doesn't trap the locals during missions. An error like this was bound to have serious consequences. To create a containment field spell of such size would only mean that the Special Forces that Hawkins brought in were to eliminate witnesses.
The question was, why he would go so far?
"Get me in contact now!" Lindy ordered the command.
"We can't! The communications are jammed," said the communications officer as he struggled to get a signal through.
"I can't get out!"
The Lancelot pounded on the bizarre wall the moment he noticed something was off the moment it tried entering the battlefield.
"Lloyd, what's going on here!?"
Suzaku was not known for panicking, but the circumstance he was in started to creep him out. Indeed, besides what he found in Narita, he has never witnessed such oddities in his entire life. His worldview shattered the moment he realizes he was in a compromising situation.
"Lloyd! Cecile! Can you hear me!?"
To make things worse, he could only hear static from the comm channels.
Along with him were technicians working on the Lancelot on-site. They too were in a state of panic, pounding against this bizarre wall of distorting color as they scream for help.
"Zero, this is bad," Quattro reported although she was rather calm about it. "Those Mages just cast a large temporal barrier that has not only encompassed the tanker, but most of the port as well."
"Damn it," Lelouch cursed because this meant their control signal to the tanker had been cut. "We have lost control of the tanker haven't we?"
"Yes, and the bomb can't be stopped now."
Near the border of the barrier, Fate, Ginga, and Vita became aware of its appearance after their devices picked up the arrival of Hawkins and his men. They were outside the field, unable to breach it for the time being. However, the implications for casting such a massive barrier that trapped even the Britannians inside was very worrying.
The fact they couldn't reach the Arthra was alarming.
"What the hell are those guys thinking," Vita snapped as she used her weapon to hit the barrier trying to break it.
"I can't reach anyone," Ginga noted, "and I think teleportation magic is out of the question."
Inside the ship, Gray was approaching the captain's quarters. It was the most likely place that General Katase would be hiding. If he's not dead, he sure will be soon.
As he dragged his Device onto the metal floor, he was less than a meter from the door as he heard a voice.
"So it's you, isn't it?"
The voice sounded like an old man, coughing right after he made the statement. The low tone even sounded like he was dying.
Gray merely gave a grin as he opened the door, showing the whole quarters decorated with Japanese flags and swords. The seat in the quarters faced away from Gray as the man continued.
"Have you come to kill me?"
"So, you've already resigned to your fate," Gray spoke to what sounded like Katase. If only you weren't so reluctant, my Boss might've provided a good deal alongside your little Colonel."
"I am an old man…filled with regret…waiting to die alone."
"You waste your words, old man. Perhaps you'll be good fun once I send you to Hell."
"No," the old man's voice started distort, which cause Gray to tilt his head. He swore he even saw static from what was supposed to be Katase not covered by the chair. "But I don't waste a precious life."
The chair then turned, and figure of Katase began to distort even more along with the voice. The fact the General's face looked like a robotic skull even creeped him out.
"Besides, the one who is going to Hell…IS YOU."
The visage of the old general faded before the holographic image was replaced with a digital number. The clock was counting down by the second, which indicated something was to occur once the timer reached zero. The fact the ship was filled with liquid sakuradite could only mean one thing that left the man laughing in a crescendo.
Behind Gray, a triumphant Hawkins smashed down the door to the captain's cabin, unaware that Gray was inside.
"Alright, you are under arrest by the TSAB for," Hawkins began mockingly basking in this moment of glory as he was sure to capture the general who would lead him to the Mandarin.
Instead, he froze as he saw Gray. The sight caused him to nearly panic as he didn't expect the second-in-command to be waiting for him. However, the Knight wasn't interested in dealing with a simple officer as he instead cut through a wall to escape.
"I have no intention of dealing with the likes of you! Better run for your lives, suckers!"
As the Knight smashed his way out of the quarters, Hawkins could tilt his head, confused by what he meant. His eyes widened once he found the projected digital clock.
'3…2…1'
A/N: it goes without saying the next chapter will start off with a bang, both figuratively and literally.
Hawkins's reckless and glory seeking has turned what should've been a trap for Gray and the Mandarin's Forces into a bloodbath. Consider how much damage the smaller sakuradite bomb Quattro used way back in the early chapters of the story compared to the amount used for this explosion, but then consider the type of damage such an explosion will caused in an enclosed space like a temporal field.
Closing your fist around a firecracker will do much more damage than leaving your hand open and letting it explode.
So yeah this was one hell of a cliffhanger I thought it would be good to end on, but clearly it seems Fate and/or Vita will have a shot at Zero. This time he isn't alone and he has three combat cyborgs to back him up.
Expect some serious battles next chapter, but until then I'll see you guys next chapter and thank you in advance for your reviews.