A/N: So, after thinking it over a good bit. I feel the idea of at some point writing up a story going over some of the history of the Emblem of Blood era and the like will be a good thing to work on when I have finished up this current story! I figure it'll be good to have a look into some of the things George and all of his generation were up to back then. Of course now that I think about it, there is something I might as well mention, that something of course, is why Lelouch doesn't bother using his Geass to command people...

The thing is, even in canon Lelouch only really used Geass to help him with things he would have trouble handling otherwise, and yes it might help make things easier. But even if he didn't have access to it he would probably figure out a way to achieve his goals. After all, he did seem to imply he had plans in the works prior to getting it in canon, and in my story he DEFEINATLLY does have a long running scheme in the works. Really, all Geass did was help speed up things a fair amount, I mean, the 1st Black Rebellion alone really began on August 15th and ended September 9th. That means the entire Rebellion took around 24 days.

24, DAYS.

Lelouch managed to get a force that would have the troops, the weapons, and the drive to topple the hold of the major settlement of the worlds PREMIER Superpower.

And he got all of that done in 24 freaking DAYS!

Let that sink in for a moment...

Yeah, Geass REALLY sped up his plans, hard to say if he really would have been able to ensure they held onto it. But if it wasn't for V.V. interfering by holding Nunnally hostage, well, I'm sure the fact that the capital settlement of the Area being taken over by 'mere Rebels' would have been a major shock to the rest of the world...

Granted, someone else who is far better than me showed how even without Zero leading them, the Black Knights could have won if they had the proper orders and the like to win before he would have to leave...

Not to mention that it is totally within reason for Schneizel to do something that would Wipe the major islands off the map...

Seriously, how STUPID must he be to think that DESTROYING THE ONE REGION WHERE A VERY RARE AND UNREPLACEABLE MATERIAL IS NATURALLY IN ABUNDANCE IS A BETTER OPTION THAN JUST TRYING TO TAKE IT BACK BY FORCE!

The writing is great, don't get me wrong. It's not really a peeve with the Author. Rather how the mindset of guys like Schneizel can end up backfiring in huge ways. Again, I feel like I should stress this point like crazy, it's not the AUTHOR I have issues with. Nor is it anything with the story at large...

All I am trying to say is, it's that Schneizel is better off not being the Emperor for real cause he probably won't leave much of the Earth livable if he really went all out with his plans...

At least, most versions of the guy, anyhow...

Anyways, let's get on with the story!


Code Geass: Specter of the Rebellion

Chapter 28

The Battle for Tokyo...

Ashford Academy, Tokyo Settlement, September 9th 2017 a.t.b

Lelouch P.O.V.

I am trying, very hard, to keep myself appearing like there is nothing wrong with me...

'Doesn't appear to be working, want me to take over?'

No. I can handle this, I am simply trying to process what exactly happened the other day...

'You mean...'

YES! To think the Lord of Wraith's wasn't simply content with just replacing people with versions more applicable to it's interest...

No, it had to CREATE things based on what it had seen from the universe as well!

AND OF ALL THE THINGS IT HAD TO RECREATE, IT JUST HAD TO BE THE FUCKING FLOOD! DIDN'T IT!

'Lelouch, I am aware of how much it bothers y-'

No, you don't, you FUCKING DON'T!

'Oh, how so?'

That was sarcastic, you KNOW that as well as I do...

'I am aware of how such a thing functions, how it propagates itself. And how it gains intelligence...'

Then you can understand why I am feeling the way I am...

'... You don't think?'

Read my mind, after all, YOU ARE SHARING THE SAME BODY WITH ME AREN'T YOU?!

'Y-you're right...'

Yeah, let's just hope if such a thing IS made, then it is only in it's likeness and not the actual thing taking notice...

'Given what the Dream we had with Kallen had to offer, I would be mindful...'

I don't know, and I don't freaking care at this point...

'Yeah, anyhow, mind trying to focus on what the rest of the class is doing?'

Fair enough...

I happen to notice some of the random male students looking at the images and footage from Yesterday...

'Annoying how they find such things interesting, isn't it?'

Most cases, I would pay it no mind.

"Haha! Did you see that one Eleven take a grenade to keep the rest from grouping up on it! Talk about going out with a bang!" However, it is the fact those same boy's are taking HUMOUR and making LIGHT of what happened...

'They wouldn't think the same if they dealt with such things up close...'

Even still, can't say I would say they deserve such a fate, then again it's hard to find many people who DO deserve that kind of end...

"Ha! Look at this dumbass! It's almost like he is trying to get gunned down by the soldiers!" Another boy comments, his cronies laughing at the image of an infected seeming to run as if trying to get killed, and if they had any semblance of a mind still left, I couldn't blame them.

I feel like I should tell those brats to stow it if they know what's good for them.

"You do realize that those were People right." I say, raising my voice to get the idiots to focus on me.

"And why should we care? They are just worthless numbers after all, who cares if they get killed like that." The lead boy says, and oh I would like nothing more than to put a gun to his head and-

'Now, now, let me take it from here.'

Fine. See if you can deal with this...

I let the other one take over for me, if only to see how this unfolds.

"I suppose you forgot that there was a number of Britannian's who fell victim to such creatures as well. Then again, with how much you do in class, it isn't really surprising."

I know it should be weird hearing your voice speak with words you weren't exactly thinking, however it is good to see a number of those brats wince at the fact they were insulting their 'fellow countrymen'...

Nicely done, Vi Britannia.

'Is that what you are calling me?'

Hmm, might be a bit long, how about just 'Vi' for short?

'I'd prefer that.'

Yeah, simple and to the point.

The lead boy, however, doesn't seem all that fazed by having that fact pointed out. "So what? They were probably just a bunch of weaklings anyhow for actually going along with something that stupid. Especially that Princess! Let the Lord of Wraith's kill em all for all I care." He says with such a smug tone, as if he couldn't care less at the idea of people actually dying and suffering such fates...

'...'

...

'...'

...

'THAT IS IT! I AM GOING TO-'

Hold it. I have a plan...

'Oh?'

Just need to clear the stuff from this desk first...

'I like this plan.'

Glad you approve.

Kallen P.O.V.

Sometimes, I REALLY wish I didn't have to put up with this act of being a 'frail schoolgirl'...

'Like wanting to hit that asshole somewhere where it really hurts?'

Oh yeah, you got that right...

'Wonder how Lelouch is going to react to this?'

Vi, or Lux?

'Does it matter?'

Hmm, I guess not...

'Also, how are we going to distinguish ourselves now?'

Good question.

'I guess Kozuki could work, unless you'd rather have it instead?'

Why not 'Red'?

'Excuse me? Just because my Surname means 'Red Moon', doesn't mean you can just-!'

Look, I don't have any better ideas, do you?

'...'

Yeah, thought so...

'Huh, what's Lelouch doing?'

Wonder why he's clearing his desk out of all his stuff.

Okay, now he's just standing up...

Um, Lelouch, why are you holding onto the Desk like that?

'Is he...'

Yeah, he's actually holding it over his head...

Rai P.O.V.

I have to admit, I'm worried for Lelouch and the others.

What they had dealt with the other day...

I can't help the shudder at the images I saw, even from a distance I could feel an intense horror and dread from the sight of such things...

CRASH!

WHAT THE HELL!

D-did someone just throw a desk out a FREAKING WINDOW?!

Lelouch P.O.V.

Heh...

Hehehehe...

HAHAHA!

'Now we got him rattled, time for hit it home...'

I walk up to the worthless brat, grab him by the shirt collar, and hold him up bringing him close to the broken window.

"Wh-what the hell man!" The brat says in fear.

"Did you feel afraid when I threw that Desk towards you, WELL?!" I tell him, my voice making it clear just how much anger and rage I have kept inside me all these years, and now I'm directing it towards him just a small amount of it.

"Y-YES! I DID! I DID OKAY!" He says, his voice a worthless whining sound as pathetic as he actually is.

'Not to mention, it seems like you made him piss his pants!'

Good, he's learned his lesson for today...

I Drop him, away from the actual window frame of course, and in such a way it won't hurt him landing or anything like that.

"That sort of fear, is the kind I had to deal with when I faced those things. So next time, DON'T MAKE LIGHT OF THE DEAD!" I tell him, getting right and close to make sure he knows just what sort of guy I can be when I am angry.

Of course, it seems too much for the guy and he passes out...

Kallen P.O.V.

H-holy...

'Yeah, just-'

A-and, th-that...

'FREAKING ARSENE!'

I-I know...

Thankfully, all of a sudden the Aura of death and vengeance and the 'Demon Thief' that Lelouch has vanish like nothing and he looks rather calm.

"Apologies, I will take my leave of the class now and report to the headmasters office right away." Lelouch says and walks out, as if he didn't really do anything noteworthy or impressive...

'Well, at least he seems a bit more calmer.'

Yeah, although...

"Um, I'm going to the bathroom, excuse me." I say as I head off to it...

'They probably think you are just going to take a leak.'

Yeah, expect that isn't what I am going to do...

'HEY! It's not MY FAULT that Lelouch doing all of that is making you feel like you want to drag him off and screw him till neither of you can move!'

YOU TALKING ABOUT IT ISN'T HELPING ME!

Lelouch P.O.V.

I'll admit, the feeling of power I had there, it was...

'Intoxicating?'

That, and also liberating...

'Given the sort of life you lived before this one. I'd say it was good for you to vent out a little.'

Yeah, Ruben is probably NOT going to be happy about this though.

'Worth it?'

ABSOULTELY!

"Lelouch, take a seat." Ruben says to me, and I figure I might as well.

He sighs, and turns to face me in his chair.

"Why exactly did you do that, Lelouch?" Ruben asks me, his face serious.

"It's simple really, that student and his fellows were acting like what they were seeing was just something to make fun of and laugh at. I simply reminded them how such things are not to be taken lightly." I tell him. Calm and composed.

"You are aware you threw a Desk out the window, correct?" I was, it was part of my plan after all.

"Yes, did anyone get hurt?" I hope not, can't exactly say I know what might have happened after all.

"No one was injured, however more than a number of students were rattled by what happened." He tells me, good, no one got hurt.

"That is satisfactory to me." And it is, not much more to it really.

Ruben sighs and leans in. "Lelouch. You know that isn't the best sort of way to act towards a fellow student, even if they had some... Callous comments."

Hmm, you know what Vi?

'What?''

"'Callous comments'? 'CALLOUS COMMENTS'!"

I'm not done venting yet.

'Great, don't say I didn't warn you.'

Noted.

"I don't know if you noticed Ruben, but those 'comments' that brat had happened to disregard of innocent men and women, who had suffered a fate FAR WORSE than just being shot at by Britannian soldiers. At least they, give you a quick death. At least THEY, don't twist your body into some monstrosity. AT LEAST THEY-"

"Lelouch, as horrible as what happened the other day was-" Oh no Ruben, I'm not done yet

"HE INSULTED EUPHIE!"

"...Lelouch?" Don't try to play dumb Ruben.

"That spineless, weak-minded, COWARDLY. Brat, went ahead and claimed Euphie, my SISTER. Was weak and DESERVED to die by the Lord of Wraith's..."

'Done yet?'

Almost.

"I know, that she and I only really share Father's half of our genes, though knowing her and Nelly they no doubt wish Father was the only parent we share. And while I am willing to endure insults towards myself. No one, and I mean NO ONE! Get's to insult those I consider Family and get away with it. Do you understand me Ruben. DO YOU UNDERSTAND?!"

'Okay, are you done now?'

Yes. I am.

"Lelouch. You know what will happen if the Wraith Corps finds out about you and Nunnally, don't you?" Ruben says.

"Of course I do, it's just... I am getting so tried of having to hide who I am Ruben..." I admit to him, and really it is.

'It was already hard enough for me the first time around.'

Yeah, I really understand your plight, Vi.

"Le-Lelouch." Ruben says with a sad and pensive look.

"D-don't worry about me Ruben. I-I just have to keep playing my role, don't I?" I tell him, a sad smile as I look at him.

He gets up from his chair and comes around the desk to me, and.

He hugs me...

A simple hug, that all it takes for me to start bawling my eyes out.

'Go on, get it out of your system Lux. It isn't good to hold it all in.'

I KNOW! I know...

...

...

...

After a good half an hour just letting the tears flow, Ruben backs up from me and has his gaze level with mine.

"Lelouch. What are you going to do?" I can tell what he means by that really.

'What are you going to do as Zero with the Black Knights.'

Honestly, I don't know. I just don't know...

"I'm not sure." I admit to Ruben.

"Lelouch, you remind me so much of your Father back when he was your age." What? I don't...

He lets out a chuckle. "Confused? Well, just because your Mother was the one who brought my Family to prominence, doesn't mean I didn't know her and George once they were establish in their positions."

Huh, I never really knew all that much about their history, did you Vi?

'I can't say I really recall, then again there might be major differences between the versions we have lived in.'

Perhaps, still. It would be nice to know a little bit about Father's early days.

"Could you tell me? If it isn't too much to ask that is."

He smiles at me, like he is my own Grandfather, and given how my actual Grandparents are dead (at least on Father's side. Not sure about Mother's.) he really is the closest to one I have had in this life.

'And compared to the one in your old life?'

I had a few, but if I had to compare, Ruben would fit in alongside them.

'Oh?'

I tend not to really think much of my old life, much less the family I used to have, they all were just about gone from my life after it happened anyhow.

'I'm sorry, I shouldn't have asked.'

No, it's alright. If anything, it's comforting, knowing that even if my blood family has a number of empty spaces, the one I have from my bonds can make up for it.

"Well, your Father was never one to let people know who he actually was at first. He actually did the same sort of thing you have done you know, living out a double life appearing to the world as a mere commoner. I was one of the few to know of course from the start, along with Bismarck. I could tell you a lot of things that occurred, however I'll just tell you how he felt about telling those who he considered his friends about the truth of his identity. And what I told him, was to tell them the truth, because they would stand alongside him no matter what. And you want to know how that turned out?"

"How did it go?" I ask him, fascinated by how Father's own past is in many ways not unlike my own.

Ruben's smile is gleaming as he tells me "They were annoyed at the fact he felt he had to keep it hidden from them, but they understood he was just afraid. And the look on his face when he found out they didn't really care that he was a prince!" He laughs at the memory, and I can't help but laugh a little as well.

"Point is, don't be so afraid of telling those you trust. Just try not to let anyone else know, alright then my boy?" He tells me, to which I can't help but smile and nod.

"Don't worry Ruben, I'll just share it with the others in the Council, I'm sure Rivalz will be amazed how he is friends with a prince!" I tell him, to which we both share a good laugh after everything.

"Well, don't make me keep you waiting, best to get them all together now don't you?" Ruben tells me as I get up and ready to head out.

"Yeah, I will, thanks Ruben." I tell him as I walk out the door and head on to the Clubhouse, making sure to send a message to the others in the Council to come for an urgent meeting...

'Well, it's about time we tell them.'

How do you think Shirley will react?

'Blush heavy, then faint. You?'

My thoughts exactly...

Kallen P.O.V.

Geez, finally got all that tension out of my system.

'For now you mean.'

Sigh, do you HAVE to say that?

"Everything alright Kallen?" Oh, Milly, wonder what she's doing here?

"I'm fine, it's just. Well..." Geez, not exactly easy to get a conversation going...

"It's Lelouch, right?" Why is she so on point at times?

'Probably part of the reason she got into the news business in my old timeline.'

Fair enough, though I'm sure if her Grandfather started up the Business again she might also do a good job in managing things...

'Yeah, you have a point.'

Now, where was I?

Oh yeah, talking with Milly about Lelouch's antics.

"Yeah, I mean. He and I, we were both there and saw how it all went down..." I shudder as I recall the memories.

Honestly, I'm not sure what gets me the most, the fact that the Lord of Wraith's made it's own version of the Flood...

Or the fact Lelouch and I had a came up with a setting for the R.W.S. that wound up working like the one thing meant to take those things down...

'At least now we know why he called the Protocol: Halo.'

Yeah, an oddly fitting name given everything.

"I get why he'd react that way, Lelouch always had a fair bit of anger in him." Milly tells me, and it does make sense. I mean, if going by the 'canon' timeline alone, having your Mom dead, Sister crippled, Dad beating on you and sending you and your sis to a nation that he promptly has invaded. Starting a rebellion to avenge the death of your Mom and get back at your Dad and nation of birth who don't care about you. Going through all of that, only to find your Dad and Mom were planning on ending the world in a misguided belief to bring about peace, and all the other stuff that came after?

Yeah, I'd expect Lelouch to have a lot of anger inside of him...

"I've noticed. Honestly, I'm worried that if anything happens to those he cares for, he'll end up losing himself to his rage and just become little more than a thing that will try to destroy everything." And it is a fear I have, I know that sort of anger because I feel it at times inside me as well, wanting to just break out and rage...

"It's because you care about him, right?" Milly asks.

"Of course I do! He's one of the few guys here who actually treats me well!" I tell her, not trying to imply anything else for her to take advantage of or try and tease me with.

"So, why the act?" Huh?

"Act? What act?" Don't tell me she means-

"You being sick, why act like it?" CRAP! What do I say?!

'Well, you and I both know it isn't JUST to cover our activities among the Black Knight's'

You're RIGHT! How could I forget!

"I do it so I can keep potential Suitors from badgering me with marriage proposals." I tell her, and it is true! Honestly it's kind of annoying how much they try to get at me...

Made worse by all those assholes in Britannia and that Bitch trying to encourage me to pick some Noble to get stuck with...

'Even if that Bitch always takes the opportunity to sleep with whatever jackass she finds cause Dad doesn't bother trying?'

Yeah, not sure why he and Mom don't do it when the Bitch is away...

'Probably cause they don't want their 'precious little girl' to walk in on them...'

Okay, REALLY? Did you have to play THAT card?

'Do you REALLY think it wouldn't be an issue walking in on the two?'

...

'...'

...

'Why are we even talking about that?'

Good question.

"I wish I could do that, sadly my Parent's aren't ones to really care about what I want." Ah, I feel sorry for you Milly...

"It's why you cause so many events right? You want to have something you have a level of control over?" I tell her. And it wouldn't be surprising to me at all actually...

Milly looks at me, and nods. "Yeah, I mean, you know how it is right? With the ones who do care about you not being able to do much, and the rest not really giving much thought about how you feel."

"Yeah. I know exactly how it feels." I tell her.

I have to admit, it's, nice, talking with Milly...

'Kind of like a bonding moment, right?'

Yeah, kind of weird, but it's nice all the same.

"So, any other reason why you act like an invalid?" Milly asks me.

'Well, might as well right?'

Don't see why not.

"Well, the thing is. I also have it to make sure anyone who tries to go after me ends up getting a nasty surprise when they try to go after the 'weak little Stradfeld Heiress'." I tell her, and as a matter of fact. Yes, there have been times where some asshole tries to jump me cause of who my Family is...

"Assassins or Rival's wanting trade Secrets?" Milly tells me in a flat tone, like she has had to put up with this sort of stuff herself.

"Both, sometimes its more of one or the other. Can't help but feel like a lot of them are from the jackasses on Dad's side who would rather take over the company from him. At least it keeps the Maid's and Butler's busy." And yeah, it really is annoying having to put up with it all the time.

"Are the ones in your family's trained as well?" Huh, well now that I think about it...

"I can't recall exactly, but I think most of them are, most of the time the Automated Defenses can deal with most of the attempts, but on the off chance they do get past, well..." And yeah, might be weird for us to be talking about stuff like that, but then again. Normalcy is overrated anyhow...

"Ah, nice to have someone else who knows what it's like. How often do you come across them 'cleaning house'?" Well, since she asked.

"About twice a week, normally though there is around 10 attempts a week, so it's not that bad I guess." I tell her.

"Normally it's about 15 for the Estate Proper, granted the actual important stuff isn't really kept there. That is all here in the Academy." Huh, clever.

"Is Sayoko the one you have to deal with that or?" I was always curious why Milly seems to have no issue with Sayoko being a trained Ninja...

"Actually, all of the Maids and Butlers are trained experts in various combat roles. They are just really good at doing Domestic duties as well as being expert killers." Normally most girls would be freaked out by having someone admit their servants are all trained killers and would not hesitate if they deemed you a threat...

However, I'm not most girls...

"I should bring that up with Dad some time, maybe then those dimwit will actually get a hint and back off for once..." I tell her with a sigh, before both of us just start giggling at the fact we are talking about such things like it's normal...

'I never really did try getting closer to the others. I just.'

I know, and to be honest with the Black Knights, you probably didn't get that much time to really interact with them all that much anyhow.

Hmm, a text?

"Huh, wonder what Lelouch feels is so urgent he wants to call everyone up?" Milly says, granted I can pick up on the slight nervous tone in her voice...

Suzaku P.O.V.

Man, today feels like we are right on the edge of something major.

The fact Lelouch called everyone who is apart of the Student Council together means it's something big...

Still, he seems to be smiling as he sees everyone here.

"Glad for you all to make it, please, take a seat." He says, and well, who am I to refuse...

Once I and everyone else was seated, he closes his eyes and takes a deep breath.

Then opens them with a serious look.

I see Jeremiah and Sayoko walk in as well, why are they...

Wait, don't tell me...

"Lelouch, are yo-" I start, before he cuts me off.

"Suzaku, I know what you are going to say. And I'm sure, the others deserve to know." He tells me, only for Nunnally to realize what he means to share.

"Brother. Are you really sure about this?" She asks, walking up to her brother with a look of concern.

To which Lelouch smiles at her and hugs her. Honestly it is sweet seeing them be as brother and sister, even if she's only younger by a few seconds or minuets as opposed to years...

"I'm sure Nunnally." He tells her.

"Um, what exactly do you want to tell us Lelouch?" Rivalz asks.

Lelouch holds his breath and he looks at all of us. Milly seems scared at the idea of what he intends, but she realizes it was going to come out at some point.

Rai and I understand, as does Kallen, and he seems glad to have us here.

He breathes out and repeats it a few times, trying to keep himself calm.

"The truth is, Nunnally and I, as well as Jeremiah. We haven't been honest with you all." Lelouch says.

"Huh? What do you mean?" Oh Nina, you are going to be floored with this one...

"Lamperouge isn't our actual last names. For Jeremiah it is Gottwald. And before he was given the role of Teacher, he was a Margrave and a Knight in the Military." Okay, ease them up on it, try and get them to put it together. Clever Lelouch...

"I think I recall a Sir Gottwald, he was reported as being AWOL after the Upheval, right?" Shirley says.

"Yeah, wasn't he meant to act as a personal guard or something." Glad to see you are aware of that Rivalz.

"And, well, Lamperouge would be mine and Nunnally's last names, if we were to go by our mothers maiden name that is." Lelouch says, giving them a little more.

"But the only person really noted as having that was..." Ah, figured Nina would make sense of it.

"Y-you m-mean." Rivalz says, a nervous stutter in his voice, and who wouldn't. Knowing just who that person was...

"The Knight of Six, Marianne Lamperouge. Also known as..." Ah Lelouch, always with a flair of the theatric aren't you?

"M-Marianne L-Lux Britannia." Shirley says in a whisper, afraid even saying it would be a sort of curse...

Given how much of an effort it has been to keep the Lux Britannia line from popping up anywhere, it's not a suprise.

Lelouch smirks that devilish grin of his and stands up.

"Lelouch Lux Britannia, Eleventh Prince of the Empire and Son of Marianne and George Lux Britannia, at you service." He says with a formal bow. Jeremiah standing at attention at Lelouch formerly introducing himself to his friends properly.

Needless to say, the reactions of those who weren't in the know where about what was expected.

Shirley blushed heavily, then promptly fainted right after.

Rivalz jaw dropped and didn't really move.

Nina, just looked as if she was processing the fact still...

Needless to say. Hopefully Lelouch can get them back on focus.

Lelouch P.O.V.

Geez, the looks on their faces!

'I know, I must admit it is rather funny!'

Well, might as well get them to pay attention.

I put my hand up to my mouth and give of a shrill of a whistle, loud enough to get those who were previously unaware to regain focus and get past the mental freeze they found themselves in.

"Now that I have your attention, any questions?" I ask as if I revealed a rather normal and unassuming fact about myself.

Rivalz is first "Um yeah, are you sure you aren't joking with us man?"

Of course he might think it was some prank.

"Why would I joke about something that is liable to put a target on everyone present for even knowing who we are?" I tell him in a rather blunt and serious tone, the kind that they all know means I am being serious.

"W-why are you telling us this now Lelouch?" Shirley asks, truth be told she is a kind girl. And it saddens me that she might suffer because of me...

'Wouldn't they all suffer anyhow? Just by having been around us?'

Fair point there...

"It is because, quite simply. I am tired." I tell her.

"Tired, of what?" Nina asks.

"I am tired of having to hide who I am from those who I consider to be like family to me. And yes, I do consider you all like that. While much of my actual family has either acted as if I and my Sister never existed or simply consider us to be weaklings who are undeserving of being kin. Those few who still care for us are left unable to be with us, for we know just what that would entail for us. Needless to say, you all are as much a part of our family in bond, if not by blood." I tell them, to which they all smile at the fact we considered them as such.

I smile as well, along with Nunnally. Jeremiah and Sayoko look at me with pride at the fact that I am taking such a huge step forward for me.

"What about your parents?" Ah Rivalz, thought you'd never ask.

"They are fine, in fact. I'd say you all saw our Mother rather recently, granted she didn't really show much of herself." I tell them, to which they put it together rather quick.

"Wait, SHE was the one in the Ganymede?!" The others all exclaim in shock.

"Yes, she was. Needless to say, it was a rather happy moment for us to share in knowing that our Mother was able to do that much." I tell them, holding onto Nunnally's hand with my own tightly as we both smile warmly.

One day, we'll be reunited with Mother and Father properly...

'Yes, we will...'

Kallen P.O.V.

I can see it in his eyes...

The same sort of want and drive...

'Easy to forget they want to be a family proper again as well...'

Yeah, it's no wonder how he and I got along so well prior to finding that out about each other.

'How does it make you feel?'

What do you mean?

'With him? How does being around him make you feel? REALLY fell that is.'

I...

'You can take your time. There's no rush.'

I know, it's just...

'You're worried if I'm influencing your thoughts towards him, right?'

Well, the thought has crossed my mind...

'Don't worry, it's all you. I know how you feel about that.'

Of course you would...

...

...

...

Still, it's good to know that what I feel for him really is just from me.

Lelouch P.O.V.

Kallen, you really are something else...

'Aren't you concerned about me affecting how you feel towards her?'

Not really, I've always been good at telling my own feelings, I've just never been one to openly express them when it comes to such things.

'Glad to see you are able to understand your own heart. Are you going to tell her?'

Not just yet, there are more important things to deal with first.

"So, is there anything else you want to tell us?" Nina asks.

"I'll leave that for you all to figure out yourselves. But I'm sure you'll all find it interesting when you do figure it out." There, that should be enough to get them thinking for a time...

Only for all of a sudden, Euphie bursts through the doors panting like she just ran a marathon.

"Euphie? What are you doing here?" Suzaku asks with concern.

A concern I feel grip me as well, as the only reason she would do something like this, was if she or our other sisters found something that meant it didn't matter if anyone saw her...

"L-Lelouch, you-you need t-to see this." She says in between pants, holding out a USB drive for me to get ahold of.

"Nina, your Laptop, now." I tell her, short and to the point. With a tone I rarely ever bother using unless the situation was that bad.

Needless to say, making sure it is disconnected from any networks and and Data offloaded so it can't be held or used by anyone. I place the drive in and look to what it has...

'A video file? Who would send this?'

I have a good idea, and I don't like it...

Opening up the file, a video pops up, showing him...

'Schneizel. Should've killed him when I had the chance.'

Don't blame yourself, how could you have possibly known he could have broke free from your Geass after your death.

Anyhow the video is as follows...

"Greetings Brother, I'm sure Euphemira has given you the drive containing this message. I'll keep this rather brief, if only to try and give you all a bit of a head start. The fact is, you seem to have gotten quite the attention with yesterday's event, a bit of a shame for our Sister no doubt. But really, could you actually expect something like that to really survive in the Empire? Regardless, as much as I'd like to gloat upon how our sister's dream had been crushed so soundly and in such a fashion. We don't really have time for that, you see. As I am sure you are aware, when certain Area's are shown to have a number of issues, the Lord of Wraith's likes to send it's own forces to 'pacify' the Area in question. Needless to say, one such force is heading straight for Tokyo, and you want to know something else. The Herald is leading them... Now, I'm sure you plan on dealing with it and it's Wraith's as a show of defiance against the Lord of Wraith's. But really, it won't do all that good if you try and act as if you own the Area, for you see. I have orders to fire off some rather heavy weapons across the major Sakuradite deposits across the Area if I find there are any Black Knights active once I arrive. And of course, you all know what that would do. Needless to say Lelouch. Please do try and make it entertaining will you? It would be a shame to see the one person who actually made me put some effort in be beaten so easily. Oh, and Suzaku? I know you are probably going to be there with him, if you and Corenlia's forces try to interfere in anyway, then you will all die. Goodbye."

And that is when it ended...

...

...

...

"I'm going to Kill him..." Suzaku says.

"Get in line." I tell him.

We both stare each other down, before smiling and embracing each other like brothers.

"But for real though, what are we going to do?" He asks me.

"You, are not going to do anything. NONE of you are." I tell him and the others.

"But Lelouch!" Euphie starts, before I put my hand on her shoulder.

"Don't worry sister. I know what to do to get us all out of this. But please make sure Cornelia knows that she can't send her forces in, no matter how badly she wants." I tell her, even still, it doesn't stop her from crying.

"H-hold on, didn't he say that the HERALD was leading this?" Rivalz says in fear, and who wouldn't?

From what is known, the Herald is among the most capable and powerful of the Lord of Wraith's servants, said to be considered invincible by those who were lucky enough to survive wherever it went. Which was rather rare, if only because there were few if any survivor's whenever it was deployed...

"Yes, what of it?" I ask him.

"Dude, if you think you can fight the Herald, it's not like chess. It really would be IMPOSSIBLE to win against him!" Rivalz, how little you know.

I flash my Zero grin at them. "Do not think I have spent all these years not getting ready to deal with them." I tell them as I move to where my room is and grab my Zero outfit from where it is stored.

Kallen P.O.V.

Okay, now this is going to be a serious fight on our hands. I just hope the others are able to live through this...

'Knowing Lelouch, he'll do everything he can to keep them from dying.'

I know, even still. It's going to be the fight for our lives. If we mess up...

'I know. But we'll make it. Trust me.'

Heh, fine, I'll humor you for this.

"Kallen, are you ready for us to go?" Lelouch calls for me, I nod and go off to follow him.

The other's who are unaware don't know it, but they'll figure it out later...

I just hope Suzaku listens for once and actually stays put.

Lelouch P.O.V.

I know this is going to be important, but there is little else we can do, but prepare for the coming war...

'At least they are all here and ready to hear what we have to say...'

I know, just doesn't make it any easier to tell them they might very well be marching towards their deaths...

'Such is the price of leadership.'

I know, I've known that for a long time...

"Black Knights! I have called upon you all today for one very specific reason! For we have done what few if any could have deemed possible! We have held firm against those who would crush justice, be they Britannian or otherwise!" I start with, it is strong given how the others respond to me.

I take a deep breath and steel my nerves, for having to inform them what is no doubt the worst news they could have ever heard.

"Even still, what we have gone against before are little more than forces meant to deal with the regular sort of resistance, but we. We have dealt with something far beyond what any mere Cell could face against. And it has caught the gaze of that which is the reason for why we stand and fight. We have caught the attention of the Lord of Wraith's, who has deemed it necessary to send it's Herald after us." I feel regret for having to tell them all, and yet. Even with having said that, I can feel the links we all share holding strong. Though they are afraid, they are willing to stand by me...

I can feel their souls reach out to me, resolute and unwavering to our cause. In truth, it is amazing I am able to feel such things. I let myself open up to them ever so much. And I let myself feel them all. The strength and will they all share, it is empowering in it's comfort. To know I do not stand alone against the forces of despair...

And not just from the Black Knights, but of the soldiers who serve my half-sisters without question, the duty and devotion of Jeremiah and Sayoko, the bonds of friendship I hold with those among the student council. And the feeling of familial pride that resonates loud and true from my Mother and Father...

And yet, the one that is the loudest of them all. The one who's essence feels so grand yet is also restrained...

Kallen Kozuki-Stradfeld...

She really is just like me, in so many ways.

I let my senses return to focus on what is important. "The fact you all are willing to stand beside me only strengthen my belief that what we are to do is that which the world itself cries out for! It wishes Justice be brought to those who would defile our homes, twist our very beings, and leave us nothing more but desolate husks devoid of all hope! But do not think I have forgotten what so many of you have wished for when this all began. I do not forget easily, nor will I not abandon any of you! For what we will achieve is not simply the liberation of Japan! It will be something more! The reason why so many had failed at doing what we have is because they seek to regain that which can not be reclaimed! They seek only the past. But we! WHAT WE WILL ESTABLISH IS A NEW FUTURE FOR ALL JAPANESE! WHAT WE SHALL ESTABLISH IS A NEW NATION! AND THAT NATION SHALL BE CALLED... THE UNITED STATES OF JAPAN!"

Naoto P.O.V.

Heh, got to hand it to you Lelouch, you really know how to make a speech.

"You know, it kind of seems a bit weird, but that whole... USJ thing, it feels right." Tamaki says.

"Yeah, it's not exactly what we thought we wanted, but really it feels more like what we wanted was just a Free Japan, not exactly the old one." Ohgi says.

"What do you think, Nagata?" I ask him, knowing he hasn't really had a whole lot to do for some time now, at least compared to the rest of us.

He seems a bit in thought for a moment, before saying "That kid helped me out when he had no reason to, he could have left me for dead. But he didn't. If he think's his idea for a new Japan can work, then who am I to complain."

Still, I know Lelouch is nervous. We all are, facing against something that could strip cities clean of life if it was deemed it as such...

Guess it's a good thing it only really does it in the Mainland of Britannia, though I can't say it really is that much better really.

Suzaku P.O.V.

Damn it, I HATE THIS!

Schneizel knows how I would turn my back on EVERYTHING I have sworn to as a soldier of Britannia and fight by Lelouch and Kallen's side. And as such he says if I were to try and do ANYTHING, he would deem me and all the other's as hostile and kill us all without a second thought!

Damn him, FUCKING DAMN HIM!

"I don't get it." Rivalz?

"Huh? What do you mean?" Shirley asks.

"It's just, why go through all that trouble to send us a warning when he clearly has the advantage?" That...

That's a very good question actually...

"If I know Schneziel like I think I do, he wouldn't do anything if he felt it wasn't any benefit to him." Euphie says.

Hmm, what are you planning Schneizel?

...

...

...

Lelouch P.O.V.

It's time, either we stand to fight and show they can be beaten, or we fall and be like so many...

'This isn't going to be easy, even with the Gawain and it's arsenal...'

I know, we have to try either way.

'Too bad our project isn't anywhere near combat ready...'

Even if it was, I'd rather not risk it. And regardless of what happens...

'After this day, everything changes...'

Yes, after this battle. It is when the war will TRULY BEGIN!

Kallen P.O.V.

Okay, calm down Kallen. The other's back at Ashford will be alright, and so long as the others in the Black Knights can hold it together, then we should all come back more or less okay...

'And yet you can't help but feel on edge, like nothing is going to be the same for us...'

You mean aside from us fighting against the one the Lord of Wraith's sends to shut people up for good?

'Yeah, I mean. You can feel it don't you?'

Kind of, even the Guren feels like it's tense...

'Still, we need to focus. We need to fight with everyone.'

Right!

Naoto P.O.V.

"You asked for me Zero?" Was wondering why he called for me before we start the operation.

"Yes, it's about how we are going to proceed with the battle." Alright, sounds easy enough.

"Mostly going to be us just fighting the Wraith's right?" To which he nods.

"Yes, however, more importantly. The real issue is the Herald. We will need to focus him down to really defeat the enemy." Can't say I'm surprised, deal with the enemy commander and the troops will be easy pickings, simple enough strategy.

"Alright, what do you want me to do?" I ask him, it'll probably be an easy thing like-

"I want you to take over command of the Black Knights should I fall in battle against the Herald." ANYTHING BUT THAT!

"WHAT THE HELL! Are you freaking INSANE?! You know what you are going up against right?!" I tell him, please tell me I can actually get him to think reasonably about this!

"I know what might happen, that is why I am officially stating that should the worst comes to pass, you will take over as the Leader. I know you are capable enough to lead them. Besides I won't be fighting alone..." Why do I get the feeling I won't like this...

"Let me guess, Kallen insisted on tagging along?" I ask him, please say no, PLEASE say no!

"Yes, she did. And I couldn't really refuse her at that point." WHAT THE HELL! IT'S ONE THING TO PUT YOUR LIFE ON THE LINE LELOUCH! BUT KALLEN?!

"I know that as her older Brother you can't help but want to tell her no. But let's be real, do you really think she'd want to be apart from me?" Okay, I can admit the fact he understands that, but still...

"Do you know how she considers you?" I ask him. I'm not blind to the fact she happens to take an interest in him, and really he would be a good fit for her. Kami knows those two have had it rough that really it makes sense they'd bond over that fact.

"I do." He tells me, even still I need to ask.

"And what do you consider her as?" I tell him, face dead set on looking into his mask where his eyes are behind it.

To my surprise, Lelouch actually takes off his Mask to show me his face, his expression with a deadly seriousness to it that tells me well enough he cares for her.

"I consider her to be more than just a mere piece on a chessboard. I know her designation of Q-1 is meant to refer to how the Queen in chess is able to do far more than most others, however. I don't simply refer to her as that just because of her role. But rather because she is the one who I feel I can open up my heart to. Before I met her, often times I felt I was living a lie, the lie of being alive. Yet since she came into my life, I feel as if I am in fact alive. That I am not just existing, but living alongside all of those who I consider as friends and family. When she and I wound up sleeping side by side that day when we both broke down. I found myself having a shared dream with her. It was a pleasant one, full of joy and merriment, full of people we already know, and other's we have yet to formally meet. But even still, I couldn't help but let myself feel all that it held. And as for me and Kallen, well, we both sat beside each other as if we were a King and Queen. If you wonder how I regard her as Naoto Kozuki, then know that I regard her as worthy of being a Queen above all else! My only wish is that I may prove myself worthy of being beside her as her King."

Wow, he, really put a lot of emotion and feeling into all of that...

Still, I can't help but smile. It's humbling that he thinks himself lesser than Kallen, but really...

"You're already worthy for her as far as I'm concerned. And I'm sure Mom and Dad would agree with that sentiment. Really, the only one who think's he isn't worthy is you Lelouch. I felt similar sort of thoughts when it came to me and Inoue. So don't worry, you've got my approval." I tell him, pulling him in for a hug.

He stiffens up, no doubt surprised at how I reacted, before returning the hug himself.

Heh, he's got a good grip, that's for sure...

"Thank you Naoto, I suppose we should get ourselves ready for the battle. And please, try to make sure you and the rest of your old group all make it out alive?" He tells me as he puts his mask back on, and I nod to him. We both know our roles, we just have to do the best to our ability.

Kallen P.O.V.

Alright, final checks complete, ready to engage!

"So, who you going to have with you in the Gawain Zero?" I ask him over the comms.

"No one." Oh oka-wait...

WHAT?!

"Um, are you sure Zero? From what Rakshata said that isn't really a good idea." Does he really think he has the means to handle all of that by himself?!

'If he can pull it off, I'd be impressed.'

Yeah, I mean. It would be kind of cool if he could do that.

"I am aware, so I've done some modifications to the control systems to enable total control for one Pilot." Not bad, also it makes sense in the event where in a two Pilot system if one Pilot found themselves unable to function, then that means the other could take control in a last ditch effort...

'The fact he want's to use the Gawain alone though, it really show's how much he would rather have few people as possible getting in harms way...'

You'd know that well enough. Given how he didn't do anything when you kissed him. Honestly it just shows how much he cares about you.

'And you?'

Well, I...

'Come on, tell me.'

I... I really wish one day he'll let me stand beside him as his Queen...

'Even if it means you would be considered a Demon?'

Let them call me what they wish, all their words mean nothing if only for the fact what I feel towards him is real. And I will NOT abandon him, even if that would cost me my life!

'Let's just try to stay alive for the time being. Wouldn't be right to die from this mission of all things now would it?'

You read my mind Red!

Cornelia P.O.V.

I've been used to the feeling that I have right now, the sense of tension in the air. The uncertainty of what will await you on the battlefield, the worry that it might be your last...

It doesn't make it any easier the fact that I and my soldiers are to be kept from doing anything!

"Everything alright Princess?" How annoying it is to deal with these bureaucrats!

"Am I alright? I have to deal with the fact that the Herald has decided to come to Tokyo as if it were just 'another cleaning of pests' and I can't do anything about it while. DO YOU THINK I WOULD BE ALRIGHT!" I yell out, letting my Temper flare to indicate I have no interest in hearing what this coward has to say...

It is enjoying to see such fools squirm though, but he and the rest of his entourage leave right after. Gilbert comes up to me and stands next to me.

"With all due respect Princess Cornelia. I find it odd the Prime Minister would bother to leave information on what is to occur and have instruction's to ensure Zero would hear of it. It just seems, Out Of Character of him to make such a play." I know Gilbert is aware I have been thinking that all day since we found the drives containing the messages. And even if the Schneizel who sent us this is somewhat insane, it does seem unlike him to make such a move, not unless he had another motive about it...

There is also the fact for the data aside from the message for Lelouch, it detailed plans on having ordinance who's method of delivery seems, rather oddly easy to intercept with the forces under my command...

"Hmm, might I offer an idea?" Asplund? Well, it's not like he has much better to do.

"Very well, but make it quick." I tell him. Honestly I don't really understand what goes through that man's head sometimes...

Yet part of me is fine with not really knowing.

"Well, all things considered, the orders stated simply said how it was simply on not having any direct aid towards the Black Knight's. I doubt it would be an issue if our goals happened to be in alignment, wouldn't it?" Ah, well I must give credit to Asplund. Schneizel always made it clear the words he used are to be treated in the exact way, so if any active and direct aid was sent, it would be an issue...

Indirectly however...

"I do believe the majority of the soldiers would be easily capable of defending the sites in question, might I suggest having them focus on defense from any sort of incursion?" Oh Gilbert, for what it's worth. I am very glad to have you around...

"Very well then, deploy the troops as seen fit. If any dare attempt to cause issues, tell them they are allowed to use whatever force they deem necessary." I tell them, a smirk on my face.

I don't know what exactly your motive is Schneizel, but I'm sure Lelouch is willing to bet that it will work out...

And if there is one thing my time around Lelouch from the time he lived with us has told me.

Never try to bet against Lelouch...

Suzaku P.O.V.

I suppose it's a good thing that I was allowed to head over to where Miss Cecile and the others in the A.S.E.E.C are. And standing beside the Lancelot, it almost feels like it has a fair amount of tension at wanting to fight alongside Lelouch and Kallen as much as I do...

And while before I might have thought such things to be preposterous, after everything I have seen and dealt with...

Well, I figure it would be better to not turn against such sensations whenever possible. Not to mention it wouldn't be the weirdest thing I've dealt with in my life.

I happen to notice Lloyd coming around looking like he has something he has been eager to do, and doesn't care if it happens to annoy anyone. Most times I'd take that as a sign to be afraid of what he plans on having me do. But right now...

I'd do just about anything to fight alongside Lelouch and Kallen, even if it meant getting considered an enemy.

"Well everyone, get yourselves ready. We are going to take the Lancelot out for a run." Lloyd says, and honestly I couldn't be more eager to get ready!

"Um, Lloyd, are you sure this is a good idea? If we help out the Black Knight's we-" Cecile starts before Lloyd puts up a hand to shush her.

"Honestly my dear Cecile, no one ever said we were going to Help the Black Knight's, only that we would be having the Lancelot get put through it's paces. And if it just so happened Suzaku here got himself in the middle of a battle, well. Can you really blame him for acting in self-defense?" Ah Lloyd, you pudding obsessed Sociopath!

It doesn't take long for her and the other's to get what he is saying, and they start getting the Lancelot ready for it's 'run'.

"Is it just going to be me out there Lloyd?" I ask him, while I am more than capable of handling things on my own for the most part, some back-up would be nice.

"Hmm, as it turns out. I had happened across Princess Marrybell and her Knights discussing how they would like to engage in a joint exercise with you. And it appears Princess Cornelia and her Knight Guliford and General Darlton will be accompanying as well." Nice! Now just have to make sure we all make it out of this alive...

Lelouch P.O.V.

Thankfully, the Wraith's appear to be acting in a pattern of random skirmishes, and even then they only have a few at a time, more than enough for the combined firepower of a squad of regular Black Knight's to handle things...

Still, it appears the more intense fighting is around those who are more capable, such as Todoh and his Holy Swords...

I should be thankful then that they are all more than skilled enough to handle these things in combat.

As for myself and Kallen...

"I thought when the Wraith Corp's was going to assault the Settlement, that it would be an ACTUAL CHALLENGE!" I exclaim through the Gawain's speakers as I manage to blast through yet another set of Wraith's with it's Hadron Cannon's.

Of course, it is a good thing the various civilian's knew well enough to get to whatever shelter they could and stay out of the fighting...

"Zero! Academy is secured!" I hear the voice of Tamaki on the Radio, hopefully he is able to keep himself in line and doesn't try to risk anything by being stupid.

'It's Tamaki, can you really expect him not to be an idiot?'

True, but he might surprise us for all we know...

...

Keeping an eye on the Gawain's Energy Level's I'm glad to see the readings are alright given the battle as it is.

Of course, being a Mech designed as a sort of Testbed for the feasible application of Flight System's as well as Hadron Cannon's, it would be designed with the intent of having a large Energy Reserve in mind to see how long the system could endure under the stresses of combat...

'Now, where is that Herald hiding?'

Good point, think we should call him out?

"HEARLD! SHOW YOURSELF! IS YOUR REPUTATION GENIUNE? OR SIMPLY BUILT UPON THE FACT YOU HAVE OTHER'S DO ALL YOUR DIRTY WORK?!" I yell out, figuring he will have to respond to that if nothing else...

"My, my. Zero, to think you would be so bold as to demand me to face you outright. Well then, if you want me to fight you. Who am I to deny such a request. It would make my job that much easier to accomplish." A man's voice says as a rather large Slash Harken lands right where the Gawain was standing, however I am good at evading so it didn't even get to land a blow on me...

Wait a second...

'Don't tell me...'

Unfournetly I'm afraid yes...

"A Siegfried, can't say I am overly surprised." I say as Kallen and I get ready to clash with our respective frames against the Machine...

"If it were anyone else I would be surprised to find anyone else to know, however given it's the two of you... Well, it was to be expected." The Herald say's as I look up at our opponent...

While it does look like a standard Siegfried in most senses, aside from it's color scheme being not unlike the Wraith's themselves. Being all Black with just a tiny amount of Red. Kallen and I both know better than to assume it's weapon's and abilities would be the same. Even if they were however, it doesn't mean it would be easy by any means, as the Herald would no doubt be trained in using it to devastating effect...

"I'm guessing the Lord of Wraith's told you about us?" I ask, even if it isn't much, I'd expect him to gloat about all sorts of things...

'Do you really think that would work?'

"Indeed he did. And it was a rather fascinating thing to be sure. I mean, really, it is something to hear about the worlds part of you two came from, of course. Some of the other's I have been working with have interesting tales from their own worlds as well. Especially that one who gave up his humanity as he thought that mankind wasn't really worth keeping around... To think he would have his plans derailed by a lone mercenary of all people!"

You were saying?

'Okay fair enough. Wait. Why are you starting to freak out a little on the inside?'

Lone Mercenary, guy who gave up his humanity because mankind wasn't worthy in his eyes...

'Am I missing something?'

...

...

...

SHIT! I REALLY FREAKING HOPE HE DOESN'T TRY TO REMAKE THAT ONE OF ALL THINGS AGAIN!

'Do I want to know?'

Hopefully you'll never find out...

"I suppose that should tell you well enough to not underestimate anyone. Even the most unassuming of individuals." Heh, that ought to get him to take it a bit seriously...

"Oh, I am quite aware. After all, why else do you think I was chosen for this assignment? Not to mention I have a personal reason to be here..." Okay, what does he want out of this?

"And what, pray tell, has caught your interest to be sent here?" I ask him.

"If you can actually deal with my Siegfried, then perhaps I'll tell you what I'm here for..." He says as we all know the time for talking is over, now is the time to fight...

Kallen P.O.V.

Geez, for such a big target, this Siegfried is HARD to actually land a hit on!

'Given how the Guren is meant mostly for close quarters combat, it ain't exactly easy to deal with something that could... Well, stun it for lack of better words.'

Any ideas on how to work around it? The one thing we've got going is that we are able to move pretty fast to avoid it's Slash Harken's, but even that is rather hard. Not to mention we can't afford to waste our energy...

'I might have an idea...'

If you want to take over than by all means do so!

'Alright, here goes!'

It would be strange to feel and see yourself moving and acting without your direct input, and yet. For what it's worth, having Red take over for this fight is rather helpful...

"Hmm, Impressive, relying upon your counterpart to deal with my Siegfried by relying upon experience they already have? Clever, clever you two." Guess Lelouch is doing the same with Vi taking over as well, and to be honest we'll need every advantage we can get right now...

...

...

...

Lelouch manages to do a major blast with the Hadron Cannon's that would be enough to knock the Siegfried off balance as it were. And that is enough of an opening to get the Gawain to lift the Guren up, just to drop it on the Siegfried and both Red and I just put the R.W.S. to it's limit and utterly blast the thing full of energy...

Thankfully we manage to get off as it blows up.

"Think we got him?" I ask Lelouch, taking control back from Red.

"Stay Alert, we don't know if that is enough to beat him." Lelouch says, and for some reason I know it's Lux that is in charge rather than Vi.

As the smoke clears from the slagged remains of the the Siegfried, I feel a sense of Dread as the Herald stands up, his armor showing wear and tear. Yet he doesn't seem all that fazed...

'Damn it. Don't tell me he's immortal!'

Yeah, that would be really bad!

Lelouch P.O.V.

This is not good, how much energy do we have left?

'Not much I'm afraid, plus it seems like the Cannon's aren't able to do much right now...'

Damn it! At least we took him down a bit.

Of course the asshole start's Laughing...

"HAHAHA! EXECLENT! It's been a long time since anyone actually did something that made me take things seriously!" The Herald Gloat's.

"So? You going to tell us the other reason you're here, or do we have to beat it out of you?" Kallen asks, and oh am I glad to have her here. Even still, both the Guren and Gawain didn't come out unscathed from the fight, both of them aren't in a good position to fight now as is.

"But of course! But first..." He says before all of a sudden a multitude of Wraith's swam us...

"Why don't you come out of those Knightmare's you two?"

'DAMN IT! HE HAD THEM WAITING ALL THIS TIME!'

They probably won't do anything unless the Herald says so...

'Are you suggesting we actually GO ALONG WITH THIS?!'

If only to get up close so I can beat this asshole into the ground...

'Fine. If you say so...'

Both Kallen and I climb out of our respective Frame's and walk towards him.

"Oh my, operating the Gawain by yourself Zero? You seem more talented than I thought you'd be." He says to me, like I'm meant to be impressed...

'Annoying Jackass, wonder what he wants to gloat about this time?'

"You said you'd talk, so TALK." Kallen says, just about ready to go at the guy.

"Well, since you asked. I'll tell you. Not like either of you have much of a chance of making out of this alive! HAHAHA!" That annoying brat! I'll-!

'Hold on, look at his helmet.'

You're right, it's breaking...

"Huh?" It seems like he wasn't intending it either.

As the helmet begins to crumble, we finally see the face of the Herald, only to see that he has Blond hair and Light Pink eyes...

'Wait a minute, doesn't he...'

Yeah, you're right!

"V.V.? But I thought you were still a an annoying little child who acts as much as he looks like one!" I say in disbelief.

"I AM NOT THAT MIDGET! I AM VINCENT VI BRITANNIA! THERE IS A MAJOR DIFFERNCE!" He says in annoyed anger.

"I'm not seeing it, are you Kallen?" I ask, a flat look underneath my mask. Is this guy for real?

"Nope, not really. I mean he is throwing a temper tantrum for crying out loud!" She says, also clearly exasperated at whoever this guy is.

"I AM NOT THROWING A TEMPER TANTRUM!" He yells in annoyance.

"Yes, you are." We both say deadpan.

"NO! I AM NOT!" He yells back.

"Yes you are."

"NO I'M NOT"

"You aren't."

"NO I AM! Wait- WHAT?!" To which Kallen and I burst out laughing.

OH THAT IS SO FUNNY, THE LOOK ON HIS FACE. PRICELESS!

Unfortunately our laughter is cut short as 'Vincent' grabs us by the Throat and squeezes, not enough to knock us out or choke us, but enough to leave us gasping regardless.

"I can't say I'm surprised you came across my Double, given how he is the one who tends to show his face when it comes to that."

'Does he mean that...'

"Which one is the Reflection then, him or you?" I manage to gasp out. To which he lets go of us and drops us letting us breath.

"He is. Given given how 'George' made an effort to tell that useless Code Bearer to make herself disappear so she wouldn't get her Code taken by me. Not to mention how he and that damn commoner girl made sure to get rid of me and leave me to rot..." He spits out. I think I can get where this is going...

"After everything I did, he went and left me and our dream all because that worthless Guardian of yours went and showed him and those two how things would turn out if they went along with our plan. Do you have any idea how MAD THAT MADE ME!" He yells out.

"I have a guess, and to be honest. I don't give a single damn about it. You're just some annoying ass child in the body of a grown man." I say, laughing a little before feeling a hard kick to the gut.

'OW!'

You said it...

"I have to admit I've been looking forward to this day, I know my Lord himself would prefer to do it, but I'll make sure it will be enough to satisfy him." He gloats, a sadistic smile on his face.

"And *cough* how exactly did you come into his employ anyhow?" I ask him, figuring he would go ahead and talk about how he came to his current state of being...

"Well, since you asked. I'll tell you! After all, it's not like you'll live long enough to make it through anyhow." He says.

'Am I the only one getting a sense of Deja Vu here?'

Nope, but honestly if those losers among the Reflect-Clovis's Royal Guard were willing to spill the beans on such an important fact, well I might as well see what I get this time.

"You see, it began all those years ago. Where my Brother met with that Girl who he would claim as his Empress, honestly I always hated her from the start, such a worthless girl. A mere Commoner of all people! And C.C., that annoying Witch actually seemed hesitant to go along with what we planned!" He starts.

"Get to the point." Kallen growls out, before getting a kick to the stomach as well.

"I WILL IF YOU BOTH JUST SHUT UP FOR ONCE!" He yells out in anger before taking a breath.

"Anyhow, so, along comes this strange looking figure, I never really cared to know what it was. So I never really bothered with it. But my Brother, he and those damn girls were oh so curious about what it had to offer to them. I allowed them to mess around with it figuring it would be of some help to our plan, only to find my own Brother stabbing me in the back! MY OWN BROTHER! And I asked him 'why? Why would you do such a thing?' and you want to know what he said? He told me 'that a world without lies is worthless if it means there is no future to make it worth everything'. Oh I was so FREAKING MAD AT HIM FOR DOING THAT! He even abandoned his birth name right then and there, telling me the only sort of man he would become, was as 'George Lux Britannia'. The ARROGANCE of him to just throw away all that he and I had as connections between each other! And after he and that Marriane bitch and C.C. left me to bleed out and die. I found myself unable to do anything, partly because he got me rather good in the spine, but also because I was simply left utterly shocked. He gave up on me, all for those two Bitches who wanted to create a future with him! Of course someone took notice of me. And not only did he take notice of me, but he held power. Actual POWER! Forget Geass, forget Codes of Immortality! What he held, it was something I never could have imagined in my wildest nightmares! He offered me his power in exchange for acting as his Herald. And I accepted... As for my goals since that day, I don't care for a world without lies. They wanted to create a future where they could all enjoy life? Well the, I'll just simply ensure the only world that would come into being is one full of Suffering and Misery! JUST AS MY LORD DEMANDS!" He said, and truth be told...

'Yeah?'

I'm not all that impressed...

'You too huh?'

Talk about cliché, am I right?

'I know. But I suppose for some it's reason enough. Not like 'killing god' is really all that more original of a reason.'

Yeah, I know.

"Okay, I think I've heard enough, is there anything else you want you little brat?" I say with boredom in my voice...

He looks at me and Kallen with a twisted smile.

"Actually, let me tell you the reason I'm here. It's so I can find those worthless parent's of yours and KILL THEM! I wonder how they'll feel when I describe how your Sister screamed when I let her see your broken corpse? Oh, and perhaps I could go after the rest of those half siblings you care about as well! Oh, that would be a wonderful family reunion, a reunion in DEATH!" He says with a giddy tone.

...

...

...

I AM GOING TO FUCKING DESTORY YOU VINCENT!

'No one, I mean NO ONE. Get's to threaten our family like THAT!'

Kallen P.O.V.

FUCK YOU VINCET! FUCK! YOU!

He has has his grip on Lelouch's left leg as he starts to pull on it, as if he intends on breaking it.

"Hmm, oh I just recalled something my Lord mentioned about your Prior life, what was it? Oh yes, now I remember. It was how you had a constant pain in your left leg. How about I refresh your memory a little Lelouch" He says with a twisted tone in his voice as he makes the leg bend.

CRACK!

Until it cracks...

Lelouch, amazingly, only let's out a slight grunt to imply his pain...

'Oh Kami, how. Just. HOW!'

"No screaming? I'm disappointed Lelouch. Why won't you SCREAM!" Vincent says with anger as he presses on the leg more, trying to agitate Lelouch into letting out something to imply just how much pain he's in.

"I-I've dealt with so much pain in my old life. I'm used to it all." Lelouch says, his voice being so strong and defiant, even though he is dealing with such pain...

Oh Lelouch...

Vincent seems to be getting enraged as he puts even more presser on the leg...

S-SNAP!

Oh my gosh, h-he just broke his LEG!

'And yet, Lelouch still isn't letting out a peep'

Lelouch, why do you have to suffer so much!

WHY!

"DAMN IT! And here I thought I was going to get somewhere. Still, leaving that girl of yours to see you suffer is alright. Don't think I'm going to do it to just him Kallen, you'll get your turn as well..."

I'd like to see you TRY, ASSHOLE!

"Ooh, Feisty, not unlike this brat's Whore of a mother. Why is it that you take after your father in such a way Lelouch?" Vincent says with a sneer as he goes for the right arm instead this time, twisting it in such a way to leave a crack along the forearm.

"Heh, perhaps it's because I happen to prefer a woman who can hold her own alongside me." Lelouch says, only giving a wince at what happened to his arm...

Vincent seems really agitated and decides to pick Lelouch up by the head, or at least the back of it and slam it down. Part of the mask breaks, leaving part of his face exposed, thankfully the breakage of the mask only leads away from his face, so it didn't really cut into him there.

"What does it take to make you SCREAM?!" He yells out in anger, he really must be getting tired of not getting any sort of reaction from Lelouch...

He drops Lelouch and turns his gaze towards me.

"Perhaps you'll be more accommodating than he did."

"BITE ME YOU MAN-CHILD!"

Lelouch P.O.V.

I'll admit, even if I am used to major amounts of pain from my old life...

Having an arm and leg crack and break still HURTS!

'I'll say, OW! OW! OW!'

Nice to see Kallen get back at him though.

SLAP!

That.

Fucking.

ASSHOLE!

HOW DARE HE LAY A HAND ON KALLEN!

'He thinks he can slap her around like some BITCH!'

Speaking of...

"I'm sure Grandmother would be disappointed in you, Grandfather as well. Having a son who turned out as vile as you." I snipe back at Vincent.

He turns his eyes to glare at me, both of them teeming with rage.

"You think I'd give a damn what THEY think about me? They are DEAD! AND HAVE BEEN FOR YEARS!" He says as he stomps his foot down on Kallen's right leg.

"THEY!" Stomp.

"ARE!" Another Stomp.

"NOTHING!" Once more, though I could hear her bone crack a little.

"TO!" Now it's cracked proper.

"ME!" He finishes with one last stomp, breaking her leg not unlike how mine is.

I can't help but feel proud at the fact Kallen is swallowing her pain and not giving him the satisfaction of hearing her scream out in pain.

'Probably had to do that alot in her prior life.'

Wouldn't be surprised, having no one to really care for you, means you'd have to internalize the pain...

"AGH! WHY IS IT THAT YOU BOTH SEEM INTENT ON NOT SHOWING ANY PAIN!" Vincent yells out, all the while breaking Kallen's Left arm in the process...

And still, she keeps quiet.

Afterwards he just throws her so she is on top of me. I use my good arm to hold onto her.

"I was going to make a spectacle out of the two of you, but it seems you won't bother making it worthwhile. So instead I'll just save that for anyone who gives a damn about you two to find out instead." He says as he pulls out a pistol. And aims it right at where our chests are.

BANG!

Is, is this what it feels like to get shot?

'If so, I'd rather take a stab to the heart from Suzaku instead...'

"K-Kallen, I..." I try to tell her, even if it is a bit hard.

From what I can feel, it seems the bullet went through our lungs in a spot where it won't kill us right away, but is meant to cause the most amount of pain.

"L-Lelouch..." I hear her stutter...

...

...

...

I'm feeling, kind of faint...

'Hold on, just hold on!'

Trying to, stay awake, but, feels, kind of. Hard...

'HOLD ON LELOUCH!'

Might as well, open up my soul to Kallen, let her know how intense my feelings are to here.

'DO WHATEVER YOU CAN, JUST DON'T LET YOUR EYE'S CLOSE!'

Kallen and I let out a gasp as we feel the full amount of our souls against one another...

So, beautiful...

'STAY AWAKE LELOUCH! FOCUS ON THE BONDS YOU HAVE WITH EVERYONE! KALLEN, SUZAKU, YOUR PARENT'S AND HALF-SIBLINGS, THE STUDENT COUNICL, THE BLACK KNIGHTS, NUNNALLY! JUST FOCUS ON THEM ALL!'

I-I am...

Wh-what the?

'WH-? What is this power?'

...

'...'

...

I can't help but smirk and Kallen does as well...

"What are you both smirking about? WHAT?" Vincent says as he notices our expressions.

And it's at that moment, chains appear to wrap up all the various Wraith's, only to pull and shatter them all to pieces...

"It's simple really, they have awoken to the sort of power they have held inside them all this time." A voice that I have been waiting for a while finally says.

"YOU! IMPOSSIBLE! I WI-" Vincent tries to say, only to get cut off as he is stabbed by four Katana's of course Kallen and I both know who's blades they belong to...

"Oh do us all a favor and shut up for once!" Ah, nice of you to join in as well Wayfinder.

Needless to say, the two of them just beat on Vincent with their blades with no real issue. And they cut him up so much he seems just about spent himself.

"Ghurk! You may have won the battle. But the war, the war is just beginning!" He says as he falls back, unmoving. Only for him to start to fade into specks of black.

'Yeah, no way he's dead from that, probably some sort of BS power to let him reconstitute somewhere else...'

No, agh, no doubt about it.

"Hold on you two." Ranger says as he picks me up carefully, while Wayfinder does the same for Kallen.

"We need you both to get to some proper medical help now." Ranger says in a rather calm tone, given everything...

"W-what about the others?" I ask him.

"Don't worry, all the wraiths have been dealt with." He tells me.

"How do we know that's true?" Kallen asks.

"Look into the connections you have with everyone, and tell us what you both feel." Wayfinder offers.

We both decide to go along with it, and can sense that, aside from a number of rattled nerves. Pretty much everyone who we both know on a personal level is alive still. A number of losses of lower end soldiers who are mostly just faceless recruits is to be expected, and as shallow and harsh it might seem, the fact is they knew their place. And they accepted it for what it is...

"Alright you two, time to get moving. MIGUEL! Mind giving us a hand?" Ranger says, calling out to someone, only to see a Knightpolice Glasgow show up.

"Geez, looks like you two have had a rough fight. Hold on and try not to move, alright?" Officer O'Hara's voice says through the speakers as he lays the hands of the Frame down to have me and Kallen be placed on it.

"Didn't know you got raised to the level of operating as a part of the Knightpolice Officer O'Hara" Kallen says.

"Technically I'm not. But given everything that's been going on, well, let's just say it won't be an issue if no one notices. Where to?" He says, heh, even if he's acting outside the law he want's to help people.

"Ashford Academy, don't stop for anyone or anything." I tell him.

Agh, it's kind of getting a little hard to talk, at least the pain isn't as bad as before.

"No problem, what about you two?" He says to Ranger and Wayfinder.

"Just need to get these out of way first, can't afford anyone trying to steal such things afterall." The two of them say as they climb into the Guren and Gawain and have the frames head off...

Suzaku P.O.V.

When I noticed the Wraith's all vanish, I know they done it...

Thankfully, based on the reports from the various sites Cornelia had set up defenses in, they didn't have to intercept anything, so it seems like it was enough for us to breath easy for now.

It's when Euphie told us that Lelouch and Kallen came in as hurt as they were though, it's when my blood ran cold...

I didn't even bother waiting for anyone else to say anything, I just pushed the Lancelot to head straight to the Academy right away...

Managed to make it first before the other's in my 'run' got there. However now wasn't the time to gloat or anything, besides that was more of Lloyd's thing.

I noticed a Knightpolice frame nearby, however I could care less if a cop was involved, as far as I was concerned, Lelouch and Kallen's well being was my ONLY priority.

Nothing else really mattered...

And when I finally got inside, when I finally saw them.

I let out a wail and cried my heart out at the sight of them looking so broken...

From what Nunnally told me, they slipped into unconsciousness as soon as they got here. Needless to say Milly made quick work to ensure they would get the proper treatment...

The fact that the Staff the Ashfords have were as skilled in medical treatment for their injuries as much as much as domestic duties and 'cleaning house' really makes me glad Milly is a friend of mine.

"To think, those two are the most important among the Black Knight's, and we never noticed." Rivalz says as he holds a tearful Milly. Shirley herself looking devastated at the sight of Lelouch and Kallen. While Rai was holding onto Nunnally tightly and not letting her go, just as I was for Euphie, and we held onto them both as they cried their hearts out in pain and sorrow for what befell upon Lelouch and Kallen...

Soon enough Cornelia and Guliford rushed in as well and just stared at Lelouch and Kallen, before Cornelia actually fell to her knees, Guliford held onto her as she began to sob constantly, Marrybell wasn't all that much better as Oldrin tried to comfort her. The rest of the Glinda Knight's seem saddened at the sight as well, and Darlton had a hardened gaze, as if he was recalling his own memories of seeing people so badly injured in his time in the military.

Then, Dark Ranger and Shadow Wayfinder came in...

"We don't have much time, are they stable at least?" He asked Ruben, to which he simply nodded.

"Good, this should make it easier on them then." Wayfinder said.

"Suzaku, Euphie, here." He says, both him and Wayfinder holding one of their blades out for us to grab.

"W-why?" I ask him, tears still flowing from my eyes.

"Because, they have gotten to the point where the only option going forward, means we have to rejoin with them." Wh-what?

"C-could you explain, what do you mean 'rejoin' exactly?" Shirley asks. Bless her heart, even after all of this she tries to have some amount of strength.

Dark Ranger seems, almost reluctant to speak, before his armor begins to change color.

I see how it alters somewhat, with the right half of it still reflecting his Dark Color's, the left half showing his former Lighter Color's shining true.

It's, rather impressive in a way...

"The Lelouch and Kallen you all know, is but one half of the souls that make up them both as individuals." Wayfinder explains, her own color's shifting to match Ranger's

"What's that supposed to mean? That they are just half a soul in each body?" Nina asks, even if she is a scientist, she seems to at least be willing to make sense of it if there is anything to suggest it.

"Actually, it's more there are two halves of a soul in each body." Ranger says, to which everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, falls silent at...

"W-what?" Nunnally asks, her voice barely audible.

Oh geez, this is going to be a shock to them all...

"You and Rai know of other timelines, right Nunnally?" Wayfinder asks to which said girl nods.

"Quite simply, the Lelouch and Kallen you both know have one half of a soul that lived in one such timeline, what some might consider the 'base point'. And half of a soul that existed in an entirely separate timeline that was, to put it mildly. Went down a totally separate chain of events." Ranger explains.

The other's are rather confused, but those of who Euphie and I shared the events of our prior timeline's understand what it most likely means.

"You mean, that parts of them lived out an entire life where it ended up with him dying to bring about world peace, and her to live in such a world forever yearning for him?" Cornelia says, seemingly doing all she can to not just pass out.

"Until Schneizel blew it all up that is." Wayfinder said, her voice dark and full of anger, and I couldn't help but feel my own flare up at being reminded of the fact...

HAVEN'T THOSE TWO SUFFERED ENOUGH! WHEN WILL IT END?!

"Hold on, what about the other part's of them? The one's that lived in a completely different life?" Nina asks, as she is the one who is rather composed, and is no doubt curious what that all meant exactly.

"That isn't our place to tell, nor is there time to really go over it, all you need to know right now is that those lives went through a lot of pain in their own right that only shows how much they are willing to endure, I mean. When the Herald broke their limbs, they didn't even cry out in the slightest." Ranger says, with a bit of pride in his voice at the fact...

Even still.

I want nothing more but to DESTROY THAT WORTHLESS EXCUSE FOR A BEING FOR ALL THAT IT'S DONE!

"Suzaku, calm down, we know how much anger you have for what happened to Lelouch and Kallen. But don't worry, we made sure that brat felt a lot of pain for what he did to them." Wayfinder says, and while it isn't much. It will have to do.

Taking a deep breath to calm down, I ask them. "What do you want us to do?"

Ranger seems rather calm when he says "I want you to take the blade I offer you, as well as have Euphie take the one Wayfinder is offering her, and, well. I think you can guess well enough what we are going to do with the other blades."

N-no way...

"S-Seppuku!" I exclaim in shock.

"The physical act may appear as such, however it really is just releasing our part's of the souls back to where they are to belong." Wayfinder says, not at all bothered by the idea one bit.

"Is there no other way?" Euphie asks, terrified at the idea of doing something of such a degree.

Ranger comes up and offers a comforting hand on my shoulder. "Don't worry, it won't be the end for us, if anything, it just means we won't be so limited anymore. These shells we inhabit, they are meant to limit our power until both our other halves showed they could handle it. And they have shown they can handle it. So now, we can finally reunite with them and be made whole once more. We'll even show up in these sort's of forms if you all would prefer. If you'll ever need our help, we'll be there to lend a hand. And do far more than we ever have done before as well."

I grab for the blade he offered to me. "I'll do it." I tell him, it is something I am willing to endure, just so the ones I care about may yet live on...

Euphie takes her own offered blade. "I'll do it as well. And no Sister's, you can't tell me otherwise. It is my choice." She says before either Marrybell or Cornelia can Protest. Nunnally however doesn't really say anything against her doing so.

After making sure we have proper space set aside, both Ranger and Wayfinder take the formal siting position across from each other to look into one another, right at the foot of the beds both Lelouch and Kallen are in, respectively.

I grip my blade firmly, knowing what must be done...

Ranger P.O.V.

Finally, after all this time...

'Yes, I know. It has been so long...'

We should take our helmets off, it is only fair we see one another for who we truly are, as well as to let those who are gathered see us for what they have always wondered no doubt...

'Indeed. Let us hide our faces no longer!'

We both move to release the helmets from their locks, the gathered crowd gasping at what we are doing, and we both slide them off at once...

I look upon and see her, her hair not unlike Kallen's in it's spiked form, a mixture of black and red, while also showing a Brown and Blue eye in the left and right, respectively.

And I know she sees my own, hair black as it was for both lives, with it neat and smoothed like Lelouch's, no doubt she is looking into my own Hazel and Purple eyes as well.

I let myself bask in the feeling of her love, as I shower her with my own in return...

'Handsome as always my dear.'

And you are beautiful as ever my sweet maiden.

We both take upon our other blade, and plunge it into our stomachs...

Even though it should hurt, I feel no pain.

"I-I'm home, my love." I tell her.

"W-welcome home, my dear." She tells me, as we both gasp out in joy at feeling the chains which kept us bound being to unshackle.

Suzaku and Euphemira both can't help but cry along with the the others as they witness our display...

The two of them say to us "Welcome home you two." Before crying out as they move to bring the blades down upon us...

And now finally...

'We return to where we belong...'

UNITED AS ONE ONCE MORE!


A/N: Okay, yeah, this was, a bit of a work to write. Kind of got a bit complicated on how to get it done at one point or another. However, I hope it does well enough for you all as is...

So, yeah, Ranger and Wayfinder are reunited with their other halves that make up Lelouch and Kallen now. I'll admit, it felt a bit tear jerking writing that scene out. But as they said, don't worry, it won't be the last time we hear or see of them they'll just be, different, is all. Granted they won't be doing as much as our Red Queen and Black King, however if they want to do something, don't be so surprised if they do end up doing it after all. Anyhow, next chapter will probably be dealing with the immediate aftermath. After all Schneziel is still meant to arrive. And while Cornelia, Euphie and Marrybell won't be viewed as Traitor's or anything like that. That doesn't mean things will be easy for the Britannian forces who have been in Area 11, as for what that means, well. That would be spoiling now wouldn't it. Aside from that though, there is another story arc I plan on doing, as for what that entails, let's just say it involves the E.U. front, and a certain Mercenary who happens to have a history with the figure Vincent referred to, or rather. One of the many lives said Merc has lived in his rather unusual exstience...

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Anyhow, till next time!