Toa Solaric: Hello, everyone. Welcome back to another chapter of Code Geass: Lelouch of Divine Providence. Here I bring you another chapter which is longer than the previous one.
Code Geass: Lelouch of Divine Providence
Ch20: Rescue Operation: Saving Todoh!
In the kitchen, Lelouch is talking with Jeremiah about the revelation of Villetta Nu being Tyrant which Jeremiah find out by accident.
"I was shocked to find out she becomes one and chased her straight into the forest before she get away from me. I am sorry that I wasn't able to perform my duty, my liege." Jeremiah apologized shamefully to Lelouch.
"You aren't the only one who is shocked by this unexpected event, Jeremiah. I thought Tyrant would be someone else, but I never seen her coming either…" Lelouch said. He think back to when he used his Geass on her and told her to forget that event so she doesn't recognized him. "It still odd on how she ends up in this predicament and not to mention she is obsessive with godhood."
"I work with Villetta for a long time and she never shown any interest of this godhood other than her goal of moving up the class. Something tell me outside influence plays with her." Jeremiah said with concerns about his former subordinate.
"Godhood… that is something no one can achieve." This made Lelouch and Jeremiah turns around to see C.C. leaning against the table.
"Let me guess you met lunatics in the past who think that they can achieve that, right?" Lelouch said with no surprised upon his face.
"Perhaps… but whoever give her that idea of becoming a god must have a serious delusion as it impossible and never work." C.C. said from her prior experiences.
"Oh, it not impossible." A new voice said as this made the green haired woman jump to see Sagara sitting on the chair. C.C. become startled once again by the man whose presence she couldn't sense and move few feet away. Jeremiah and Lelouch has caution expression upon their faces when Sagara show himself again.
"You… Don't you think that you messed around enough already?" C.C. questioned while glaring at the mystery man.
"It's been a while, Your Highness." Sagara said. "I see that you made it back alive."
"Not that I am surprised by how you know," Lelouch said mild, "Tell me… what this godhood is about?" he asked.
"Like I say before it not impossible to achieve and it something that will grant people's heart desire. Allowed them to be able to defy the very laws of physical itself. A fruit that will allows you transcending to godhood that lies hidden in the forest." Sagara said as this made the three raised an eyebrow.
"Is there really something like that exist?" Jeremiah wondered, surprised.
"That is impossible…" Lelouch said with surprised expression. He been through the forest and the ruins of the lost world, but he never know anything about power allow you become god…
"If you don't believe me, then seek those who been left behind when you prepared yourself..." Sagara said before vanished into thin air.
"Why doesn't anyone take the front door anymore?" C.C. asked, annoyed at Sagara's disappearance.
"How should I know, witch?" Lelouch remarked.
"Is this what Villetta being influenced? The promise of becoming a god?" Jeremiah muttered to himself.
"I don't know about what he mean by this or the possibility of godhood…" Lelouch said before a grimace expression appears on his face, "But I got a feeling that there is more to that forest than it appeared… and I don't like it a bit."
(Play GET MY FUTURE!)
(Instrument) The song begins with a full view of ruin building in Japan before the scene started with a ruined building with Zangetsu standing watching over the Tokyo settlement when the sun is set before the entire scene was replaced with the title.
Kodoku ni yureteru Emotion
The scene began with Lelouch yawning as he lying on the school yard as he thought about his past before Ayano appeared behind him which caused a scene of him being chased by Ayano around.
Itsu demo jidai no hadō ni nomikomarete
Unknown to them, Orpheus was chuckled at the scene with amusing before he and Akito spotted each other. The two stares at each other before they went on their separated paths with their Lockseeds in their hands.
Samayotteta setsunai kokoro
In his room, Rai holds tightly on the Orange Lockseed tightly as a memories of young girl flash in his mind. Soon the screen turns toward Gaim and he holds tightly on his Daidaimaru while looking at the viewers.
Just One Nation kizanderu I.D.
The scene changes to Helheim forest and shows Jam with dark aura.
Doko e mo ikenai jibun ga
Suddenly the scene changes to Japan starts being covered by Helheim forest and Inves began their invasion. This cause many civilian began to start run for their life, though Britannian soldiers try to fight against Inves, but they soon got overwhelm by the number of the creatures of in the forest.
Modokashikute kuyashikatta
Soon the scene changes to the Black Knight headquarter as the operative members monitor event going on.
Sore demo yume ni miteta
As the Inves got closed to them, Lelouch and his fellow Riders got out their Drivers. They soon locked their Lockseeds into their Drivers before they transformed and charge into battle.
Haruka tōku taiyō no shizumu oto ga suru
The Lancelot Club is seen race across the field while taking out large Inves and Britannia Knightframes at the same. Soon the scene focused on Zangetsu running at incredible speed slashing through Britannian soldiers and Inves alike while explosions occur around him.
Ano basho e yukō Sekai no hate made
Suddenly he becomes Zangetsu-Shin before getting out his Sonic Arrow and deliver a powerful slash to destroy an unknown Knightframe.
Dare yori tsuyoku naritai Jibun rashiku aru tame Dare ni mo yuzurenai Passion Ashita wo ikiru tame
Habakiri did a spin slash with her dual katanas; Ryugen firing several shots with his gun; Baron spins her Banaspear and thrust it forward; Kurokage spins his weapon; Knuckle pounced his Kurumi Bombers together.
GET MY FUTURE shinjitai michi wo Hitasura hashireba ii Mirai wo kirihiraku Action Tatakau yūki wo Kono mune ni daite
Soon a Britannia airship dropped bombs on the city and caused the Riders to struggle in pain until Zangetsu-Shin shows up and destroyed it with his Finisher. The scene changes when Zangetsu-Shin and Jam spotted each other before they clashed with each other as sparks flying everywhere.
To Be Free
The scene changes to Lelouch and Ayano were walking together, then they turned around facing the screen, then it zooms out revealing Rai, Kallen, Nunnally, Orpheus and Akito along with several members of Black Knights.
Not far from where the dock is a large ship as there are some grunts watching Japanese children being forced into the ship.
"Get moving you, rotten little elevens!" One of the men hissed to the children.
"Can't wait to get this job done before heading back to the homeland. Not to mention how much child servants cost this time." Another grunt snickered.
"If you have time to talk, then get to work!" The man who looks like the leader barked.
It wasn't long until bright light flash upon the ship immediately and this made the men to use their arms to cover their eyes. But it wasn't long until they could see again and their eyes were shocked to see who find out about their operation.
It was none other than the Black Knights!
"What the- how did anyone know our operation!?" Another exclaimed in panic. "We covered our tracks completely!"
"Almost completely." Zangetsu corrected dryly. "And we're here to save the children who are wrongful kidnapped from their homes by the like of you from being part of slave trafficking for Britannia! Hand them over or else!" he demands as the Black Knight members are ready with their rifles in hand. "You should surrender while you still can or there will be consequences…" he added cold.
Though his declaration scared most of the men on the ship, but one gunmen grinning.
"Don't forget that we have these brats!" One of the gunmen shouted, points his gun at a frightened young boy under Nunnally's age. "Come any closer and they are dead!"
"Hmm… My answer will be no." Zangetsu said with a cold tone.
Before the gunmen could response, their hands were all shot at the same time from shoots coming out of nowhere and made them gasp in pain. This made the other gunmen who onboard of the ship, trying to search for the shooter.
The black knight soldiers soon take their chance to advance on the gunmen while some like Ohgi and Ayano helping the Japanese children in getting away from the fight.
The cloaked revolutionist glance not far from where he was and seeing Rai with a sniper rifle in hand, not far from the trafficked ship. Rai gives him a hand gestures as Zangetsu response back with his own and the white hair teen soon ventured into the ship.
Zangetsu would want to get in, but he knows that he cannot do all of the fighting in every raid. Not to mention this way he can prepared his growing force fight before they can fight against Britannia and Helheim invasion.
Soon Kallen and the soldiers ventures into the large ship as they searching for anymore gunmen and rescued anymore children on the ship. It take them few minutes before Kallen and others return with other Japanese children that were kidnapped.
"Did you get the recording done?" Zangetsu asked to the only member who didn't fight.
Diethard have his recording sets on before the Black Knights' leader made their presence known to the gunmen.
"Of course," Diethard smiled.
"Tamaki! You aren't helping!" Kallen's voice snapped, got their attention and see what is the problem.
No one seem to be hurt. But the children are still crying and some of them look scared. Some of the soldiers try to calm down the children, but none of their ideas seem to work. Even Ohgi who used to work as a school teacher seem to having trouble.
"What happened, Kallen?" Zangetsu asked the redhead.
"We're trying to calm the children before Tamaki makes things worse by pointed his gun at one of them." Kallen said as this made the cloaked revolutionist glare at Tamaki who gulped in fear.
"Despite resist Britannia… It seem that most of you are ill-equipped when it comes to calm children down." Diethard remarked. This is come from learning that most of Japanese recruits in the Black Knights were fighting for most of their lives after being born. So it make sense to him that they won't have much experience in calming children down.
"I don't see you do anything better!" Tamaki rebuked.
"Oh, I am." Diethard said with no shame. "Making sure that what Black Knights find about corruption in Britannia to public. Though your action might give Black Knight a bad image."
"That is enough, you two." Ohgi intervene between the two. It wasn't long until they noticed the crying seem to calm down and they noticed the children seem to calm down.
And the one who seem to calm them down was none other than Zangetsu himself. It even surprise the Black Knight soldiers as they never imagined that Zangetsu himself being able to calm the kidnapped children down by talking to them. Those who are still new to the force, cannot help look shock when seeing their mystery leader being able to calm them down. Ayano watching the scene quietly and decide to let him focus on the job of calming the children. Kallen wants to speak up, but she hold herself back while she and everyone watched their cloak leader able to calm them down.
It was easy for the revolutionist in calming them down since he has the experiences of calming down Nunnally on several occasions in the past.
Zangetsu soon get himself up and looks at everyone who seem surprised by his action. "Don't worry. I make sure they won't panic again after what they've been through." He said. "We'll move these children to somewhere safe with their parents."
Everyone else nodded to their leader's plan.
"Not to mention moving them somewhere safe without being trafficked again." Rai added.
Soon the Black Knights starting escorting the children with Zangetsu stay close to them, giving them reassuring that none of the Black Knights will actually harmed them.
Princess Euphemia is seen walking with Darlton, couple bodyguards, and the curator through an exhibit of paintings.
"Art Week will be opened with the dedication of the Clovis Memorial Museum of Art." The curator explained.
Soon Euphemia saw a nice painting of a farmstead in the forest with a mountain in the background.
"This painting… I rather like this one!" She remarked but the curator seemed skeptical of it.
"Yes, well, an investigation revealed that the artist of that one is one-quarter Eleven-blooded." The curator reported. While the princess hated the discrimination that her kingdom was known for, she had to keep her feelings suppressed.
"Then won't it have been better not to have it displayed in the first place?" She asked.
"We have to maintain the appearance of fairness." He explained before pointing at a portrait of the emperor saluting the nation of Britannia during what seemed to be a speech or conference. "This was painted by the son of Marguess Nicolai."
Kirihara is in a meeting with Lelouch. The old man was surprised to find the young man who he knew from the past decide to come visit him. But what Lelouch come visit about surprised him with regard about the death of Suzaku's father is nothing more than murdered.
"So you know the truth about why I lied about Genbu's suicide…" Kirihara said, frown.
"I am sure there is an important reason," Lelouch said, knowing that it to protect Suzaku back then. "Does anyone else know about it beside you? Does Todoh know?" he asked.
"Kusakabe was the one who finds out about what happens," Kirihara said as this made Lelouch's eyes wide in surprises.
"W-What, Kusakabe was the one who know?!" Lelouch remembers Kusakabe and how the meeting went before that guy turns into an Inves with few other men. Though he imagines Todoh finds out, but Kusakabe find out about what happens is unexpected for him.
"Kusakabe wants to use this information to get Suzaku to join him." Kirihara continued.
"Suzaku won't budge from the fact," Lelouch said. "From what I know…"
"Yes," Kirihara sighed sadly. "Listen, Lelouch, the reason I made the claim Genbu commit suicide, it was…"
"So it true…?" Lelouch and Kirihara turns around to see Kaguya who has a heartbroken expression upon her face.
"Yes, it true." Kirihara said.
"It's been a long time." Lelouch said to the young heiress.
"It good to see you again, Lelouch." Kaguya said with a sad smile, "How is your sister Nunnally doing?" she asked.
"She is fine." Lelouch answer before focus his attention on Kirihara.
"Tell me, what are you going to do with that information?" Kirihara asked to the young man before him. Even Kaguya want to know what Lelouch going to do.
"If Suzaku even reach up to his goal, more Japanese will followed him by becoming second-rate citizen like other Areas when it comes to following that sick system..." Lelouch started. "That is why I am going to reveal the truth about false suicide. To make sure that others won't fall into the system like he did." He said with resolved.
"I see…" Kirihara sighed.
"He will be hated by everyone, but do you think that he will understand their feeling of angry?" Kaguya asked Lelouch.
"I doubt it. He will likely continue run away from his problems than accept the truth we see." Lelouch said.
In Ashford Academy, the Student council seem to be nearly empty except for Lelouch and Suzaku. Suzaku is working on his homework in the student council office. Lelouch is currently busy with the bill papers that Milly left for him after he returns. This didn't bother Lelouch as he always does this before even establishing the Black Knights.
"So Lelouch… is there a reason why you didn't leave a note to anyone about your absence?" Suzaku asked to his old friend. Though he doesn't bother with Lelouch's life since he lives here… but he can't help feeling a bit concerned about how often Lelouch's long disappearance.
Though he shouldn't feel like this since he and Lelouch hadn't seen each other after separating from each other. But he cannot notices that Lelouch keeps disappeared on his own even after he promised no gambling when Rivalz was recovering from his accident.
"Oh that… An old acquaintance call me and want to exact a favor I owe them. Apparently, they have someone who they believed to be worthy to match my intelligence." Lelouch explained, which wasn't far from the whole truth. Suzaku just glanced at him and await for explanation. "Though I have to make sure it wasn't someone from my past who know me and Nunnally which is why Ayano accompany as my guard. But to my relief it wasn't him and I have really good time with their player. I make it up to Nunnally by buying presents for her."
"I see…" Suzaku said, sound a little intrigued. "Though it hard to believe you find someone who gives a good time in chess game since the only who you cannot beat is your brother."
"That is true…" Lelouch muttered as he focuses on the paperwork once again.
"Hey Lelouch…" Suzaku said. "There is something worry me and it about our classmates."
"Did they discriminated against you again?" Lelouch asked.
"That is not it…" Suzaku said. "They seem to like the Black Knights more and I am worried if their behavior will make them want to become terrorists." He said, thinking about his conversation with Rai and Rivalz.
"Not to mention that Milly is an admirer of their leader." Lelouch pointed out, still focused his attention on the paperwork. But the raven hair teen still inward feeling awkward that Milly cannot figure out that it was HIM.
Suzaku, on other hands, clenched his hands at Milly's infatuation with the Black Knight's leader. Though he felt it wrong for Milly to feel something for Zangetsu and she should choose someone less dangerous. He still feels bitter about his previous defeats and that they're getting in his way of changing things.
(Flashback)
"Ego huh?" Rai muttered. "Isn't that a given among the forces of the Britannian Military who see their wars as nothing more than a way to prove themselves rather than actually protecting their people?"
"What?" Suzaku can't help but feeling offend. "No, that-"
"But that's just your opinion though." Rivalz pointed out. "I mean you don't know anything about him as a person and all we know for sure is that he acts and speaks in the name of justice, which he proved countless times."
(Present)
"If it wasn't for them… Rai and Rivalz won't be interested in them, if it wasn't for them… my goal will be-" Suzaku soon stopped himself and shook his head. But it was too late as Lelouch's eyes glance upon him with shock expression.
"Suzaku, what did you just say?" Lelouch asked, glancing at his childhood friend from the paperwork.
"I-It's nothing…" Suzaku said, nervous. "Just forget about it…"
But Lelouch refused as he get close to him. "Don't lie to me, Suzaku. I hear you were saying something about them getting in the way of your goal. What are you going to do?" he questioned serious.
He already know what it is, but Lelouch wants to hear it from his mouth.
"That's-" Suzaku spoke and then he looked away.
But Lelouch soon stand in the way and glared down at his friend as he grabbed onto his shoulder.
"Don't dodge my question, Suzaku." Lelouch stated serious. "Spill it now."
Suzaku flinched, "Lelouch, this doesn't concern—"
"I have the right to be concern after finding out that you were part of the military! I know that it have to do something with the Black Knights and why you are upset with them. You're saying that they're getting in the way of your goal? You blamed them for ruined your plan. What exactly is this goal of yours?" Lelouch demands as he glared at him.
"It…" Suzaku spoke frustrated, "It because of them… that I couldn't change the system from within! Because of Black Knight and Zangetsu, my goal won't be able to accomplish! That is the only I can repent for what happened back with my father! If I get them to trust me, then I have the power to gets Japan back and everything back to where it was before!"
Lelouch looks at him with angry look.
"Suzaku…" Lelouch said, "I will tell you something. There is no way the system will change for even Nobles much less Honorary Britannians such as yourself."
This made Suzaku flinched, "Lelouch…"
"In order for you really change Japan's fate…" Lelouch said, "for chance of changing things for Japanese better, you would have to climb over a mountain of bodies and swim through an ocean of blood just to make it towards the Knights of Round. But not just any knights, the Knight of One. The Knight of One can make choices that will change things for the better."
"I know that!" Suzaku said.
"But in order to be the Knight of One… you will have to face Bismarck the current Knight of One," Lelouch continued, "that you have to face him in combat and slain."
This made Suzaku looks startled by the information alone. "So I have to… kill him and get to be the Knight of One?"
"But the combat must be approved by him. The emperor." Lelouch said with disdain on the last part. "Sadly for you… there is no way he will approve such a match for you." That part made Suzaku's eyebrow narrowed.
"Why wouldn't he approved of the match!?" Suzaku questioned, angry. "Why?"
"It because it something that never allow due to how important Bismarck's abilities and comradery to the emperor. There is no way he will replaced someone that important to him in the force." Lelouch said. "Even with your abilities… you will end up died by even lay a finger on Bismarck."
"Lelouch…" Suzaku spoke, looking upset.
"Do you remember that we almost died upon reunited after seven years?" Lelouch said, "Cornelia started massacred lives? There are corruptions within the police force. Those who you call terrorists also lost their families during the Britannian invasion and being killed because of being indifference. That all come from Britannia focuses too much on their status quo. There is no way that they will even allow you to join the Knights. By the time Suzaku Kururugi ever becomes a knight…" Lelouch said blatantly. "The support he has would be nonexistent. And that Suzaku has been exposed to the exception of Britannian people, not the norm."
Suzaku was taken back by what Lelouch had just said. He wants to say something, but he can't find himself to say it.
"The change of you invoke changes by become the Knight of One is impossible since you won't have the emperor's approval as he will never give it to anyone. You will only end up died and won't be able to make things better." Lelouch said.
"So what? It not any better than what the Black Knights doing by wasting countless lives for their meaningless goals!" Suzaku argued.
"Do not force your own beliefs onto others, for that by itself is an act of evil. You cannot force others to change their opinions and beliefs. You can tell them, enlighten them, but you can never force them to change their beliefs Suzaku." Lelouch stated. "And even if you do have the right to challenge the Knight of One, are you willing to slaughter even more people for that goal? How many families are you willing to tear apart? How much blood are you willing to soak yourself in? How much people are you willing to kill in the name of atonement for the death of your father?"
This made Suzaku looks uncomfortable. "I…"
Lelouch takes his papers before leaving the student council. "See you around, Suzaku." He said before heading out of the room.
As Lelouch continued down the hallway, he didn't notice that Shirley was hiding nearby after seeing him passing by.
Lelouch and Rivalz are seen on the rooftop together. They hadn't talk with each other after Lelouch return to school, but Lelouch decides he needs to get it off his chest since Rivalz has a Sengoku Driver now.
"Are you okay with this?" Lelouch asked to his friend.
"I am." Rivalz said. "Especially after what happens with Shirley. I cannot let another friend of mine being hurt again."
When Rivalz mentions Shirley's name, Lelouch cannot help feeling sorrow again. Compared to killing Clovis for his crimes, hurting Shirley is much worse. The two still cannot look at each other eye to eye after what happens as they still remember what happened.
"Not to mention people can turns into Inves…" Lelouch said with a downcast expression. "Aren't you afraid of that?"
"I know that, but still I cannot sit around and doing nothing." Rivalz said. "But there… is something else I want to tell you. Shirley think that she recalls what happened after being influence under that belt and she wants me to tell you..." He said as this got the raven hair teen's attention.
"S-She remember who was it?" Lelouch asked, surprised.
"When she told me… I don't understand how something like this can happen." Rivalz said with confused and conflicted expression. "But that belt and Lockseed belong to her father." He whispered to him quietly.
Lelouch can't help wide his eyes in shock.
"No way…" Lelouch whispered in disbelief. "Rivalz, can you give me the exact account from her point of view." He requested.
"From what she told me that she saw the things in her father's room. She got curious about how he gets the device before she end up find herself being drawn into it and someone whispers that it will grant her deepest wish." Rivalz recount. "I cannot help feeling that her father knows something about the forest if he has it and didn't react to it missing. What do you think, Lelouch?" he asked to his friend.
But Lelouch wasn't response due to being overwhelmed by the information that Rivalz provide to him. After finding that Shirley remember, Lelouch will gladly hunt down the one who was responsibility before finding the culprit is none other than Shirley's father. This cause conflicts within the young man himself.
It doesn't make sense to why it has to be her own father since Shirley mention him a lot.
"Why does it have to be him?" Lelouch wondered bitter and confused. "Shirley's father supposed to be gentle and caring for his own family… but why?" It doesn't make any sense to him why he will have such things on him in the first place before end up in his daughter's hands.
"There is one thing I don't get. Why did he left it out for her to see it than locked it away?" Rivalz asked.
Soon Lelouch stop feeling confused as he listen to Rivalz's words.
"… or maybe he want her to find it…" Lelouch said bitter, making Rivalz look surprised. "The reason he bring it home… because he need someone to test it on. After all, it is an experimental driver."
"Experiment…?" Rivalz asked, shock.
"Shirley is a test subject for his experiment on the suit." Lelouch concluded bitter as this made Rivalz look shock. "That is the only explanation why he wasn't concerned about the disappearance of it."
"But why… would he do this?" Rivalz asked, confused and hurtful.
Maybe it similar to Clovis who wants to use the power of Helheim to get the throne. But Lelouch cannot be sure unless he has more information and that is find out about the father's secret.
"I don't know what is going on… but I will find out and get the answers out of him." Lelouch said serious. This might not be enough to atone for what happens between himself and Shirley, but he will made her father spilled the truth whether he like it or not.
"Is there anything I can do?" Rivalz asked, wanting to know if he can assist in anyway.
"If you ever find yourself alone with her father… you should be careful with getting any clues as we don't know who could associated with him." Lelouch explains. Though he don't know if he can count on Rivalz for getting information, but he manages to keep up with looking after Shirley.
"But what do we do if we find answers… we don't like?" Rivalz asked with uncertain expression.
"We will crossed the bridge if we get to that point…" Lelouch said. "Did Rai provide you with a LockVehicle yet?"
Rivalz nodded. "If something go worse… I will used it to get away quick."
"And call me if anything bad happens." Lelouch reminded.
"I won't keep you here for too long, buddy. So see you around." Rivalz said before leaving the rooftop by the stairs.
Lelouch stays where he was and looking out at the clouds as he let out a sighed.
"How long are you going to be there?" Lelouch asked without moving an inch from where he was standing.
Emerging out from behind the wall was none other than Kallen herself.
"Long enough to make sure no one overhears you." Kallen said. "So it true that Shirley's father has something with what happens to Shirley?" Kallen asked.
"Maybe. We still don't know a lot about what going on…" Lelouch said. "I want to make sure that he didn't collaborate with Clovis since he keeps his secret from the main land. I will get answer out of him before I make a decision about whether or not he should deserved forgiveness for getting his daughter involved."
In the Britannia Government Bureau, someone seem to be busy with getting over the events happen after she arrived here.
She is none other than Nonette Enneagram, the Knight of Nine. She is looking over the papers that were given to her by none other than Euphemia.
"If only Nelly had focus on investigating the corruption within the police, she won't be any better than Clovis." Nonette muttered sadly to herself. It was because of her actions that the Black Knights gain more popularity and good reputation than Britannia itself.
She then looks at the picture of the white samurai theme Rider with his Black Knights.
It hard to believe that his Majesty sends me here to confirm something about Zangetsu. But I am still skeptical about how it can be true… Nonette thought.
In his secret base, Lelouch is going over the fight against the Wild One before there is a ringing on the screen and he clicked on the voice message.
Soon Lelouch come to face with C.C. on the screen. After what happens with Mao, Lelouch thought it might be good for her to do something to help and change of scenery than coop in their dorm. The green haired immortal is wearing a business suit.
"C.C." Lelouch said.
"Lelouch." C.C. said with a nodded.
"How are things in the Chinese Federation?" Lelouch asked.
"It looks like everything went normal so far," C.C. said, "but that is not what I call you."
"What is it?" Lelouch asked.
"General Katase contact me and informed me of something that you should be aware ahead of time." C.C. said.
"What is it?" Lelouch asked.
"You see, he and his men is meet up with a man. A man name Atsushi Sawasaki, he used to be part of Kururugi Administration." C.C. said.
"I think I remember his name a while back... So he went hiding in the Chinese Federation after the invasion..." Lelouch said.
"Katase says that in a few months Sawasaki is going to lead a force with Chinese in reclaiming Japan." C.C. revealed as this made Lelouch's eyebrows narrow.
"Is that so…?" The raven haired teen asked C.C.'s expression didn't changes.
"Katase and his men refused to be part of his plan since it will go against their debt to you. Not to mention that Sawasaki says he will forced the Black Knights to hand over everything especially the Rider armors." She continued as this made Lelouch looks angry and gritting his teeths.
"I see…" Lelouch added. "What do you make of this?" he asked, glancing to Ayano who was leaning against the wall with her arms crossed.
"His claim will be nothing more than an empty promise. It just all for the Chinese Federation to claim for more power than anyone else." Ayano said.
"What are you going to do about the upcoming invasion, Lelouch?" C.C. asked.
"When they come, I am going to give my own response to Sawasaki." Lelouch said.
(Next day)
Orpheus is currently sleeping on a rocking chair nearby in a room. However, his face is starting to twitch as if some distant memories bother him in his sleep. He soon finds himself waking up and let out a gasp.
"It was only a dream…" Orpheus said after doubled check to make sure that everything in the room is normal.
After the mission and team up with Lelouch and Hyuuga again, Orpheus decide he need some time for himself. Like them, he is surprised to find out there is another group researching in that forest but their location lies in the Chinese Federation and there is the mystery CD that might hold some information.
Orpheus soon got himself up and walking down the hallway until he stops by one room. In that room, there was someone resting in what looks like a sleeping capsule.
"Euria…" Orpheus whispered as he touched the glass with his hand.
He still remembers that horrible day… he and Euria helping the villagers, but Orpheus himself fought against the enemies and Euria got hurt really bad. Even with the power of his armor, it wasn't enough to let his love one getting hurt and close to death. If it wasn't for the cure that Lelouch working on for his sister, he wasn't sure if Euria survived but stay in comatose state.
He soon noticed that his phone rang and answered the call.
"Orpheus, how are you doing?" Lelouch asked from the other line.
"I'm fine… Just a bit tired." Orpheus answered.
"Don't overwork yourself too much. After all, she will be upset that you aren't looking after yourself." Lelouch said.
"I will do that eventually…" Orpheus said. "Though this occur to me… Did Hyuuga give you any death threat about your Geass yet?" he asked.
"He did have a bad reaction to confirm my suspicious, it still hard to believe Geass really the cause of his strange behavior." Lelouch said.
"I know few that can drive the user close to the edge of death, but Hyuuga's case is by the FAR oddest I ever seen. It might be similar to yours, so watch yourself." Orpheus said.
"That is a good point… Though I want to tell you that you should be careful around the forest." Lelouch said.
"You don't have to tell me twice, but still I want to figure out what those guys want with that monster... and how is it related to Helheim." Orpheus said. If the invasion is coming, he wants to be there to protect Euria when she awake just like Lelouch with Nunnally.
"That is true. If we have more information, then we have more options in making plans without careless risk ourselves like we always did." Lelouch said. Orpheus cannot help but smirk a bit as Euria talk a bit like that before her comatose.
"True, but don't we always do the risking part?" Orpheus remarked.
(In Black Knights' hideout)
Ohgi was about to eat his lunch as others were refueling their mobile command center. Soon Naomi approached him.
"Excuse me, we have visitors. They have introduction from Kyoto." She said before introducing four people. They were wearing the same uniform used by the JLF but Ohgi immediately recognized their faces.
"The Four Holy Swords!" Ohgi recognized as he got up and bowed in respect while the oldest of the Swords, Senba, started talking for them.
"I'll be blunt; we need your help. We contact Kyoto to find you." Senba said.
Ohgi got a feeling there is something important. "I take it that this is urgent?" he asked with an eyebrow raised.
"Lt. Colonel Todoh has been captured." Senba explained as he clenched his hands back to the memory of his leader's capture. "He sacrificed himself so that we could escape."
Ohgi looks surprised by this information before he nodded.
"I will get in contact with our leader." He said.
In the empty hallway of Ashford Academy, Lelouch and Ayano are listening to Ohgi's explanation about why the Four Swords that served under Todoh come to them in aiding for the Black Knight's help.
"I see." Lelouch said. "I know it will eventually come to this. We'll rescue him."
"So how do you want to do this" Ohgi said.
"Tell the Black Knights to prepare as …we're pulling a jailbreak." Lelouch said before giving some instructions to him and end the call.
"It's been a long time, but it great to have Todoh on our side." Ayano said, smiling.
"That is true. He might be even jealous that we can pulled a miracle. Greater than his own." Lelouch said with a smile.
"Do you think we should tell him about Suzaku?" Ayano asked. "After all, he is Suzaku's sensei."
"Maybe. Although I don't know if he can get him to change his way. Suzaku wasn't convinced after I shot down his goal of changing things within." Lelouch said as he still think about his talk.
"I think it probably the time to tell others about what driving Suzaku to be a thick head and neglect of the corruption in Britannia." Ayano said serious.
"You sure about it?" Lelouch asked. Ayano nodded.
"We did promised to expose it to the public. I think it will be fair for the original found group you work with to know about it before we make that announcement. They have the right to know about what happens." Ayano said.
"Alright." Lelouch said. "I would want to wait until the right time… but I trust you on your decision about telling them." He said.
"Today Kyoshiro Todoh will be executed," Guilford informed.
"I won't be present for that now the remaining Japan Liberation Front fled like the cowards they are," Cornelia said.
"Right," Guilford said with a nod.
"No wait," Cornelia said and she turned her head to her knight with a smile, "let 'him' handle the execution."
"Viceroy!" Euphemia called as she enters the room and meets up with her older sister.
"Sorry to summon you like this," Cornelia said, "how is everything in the museum?"
"The dedication is later on," Euphemia informed, "A great importance though, the NAC reported that there's unrest in Ishikawa."
"That's probably backed by the EU or the Chinese Federation. We also have intelligence which confirms Gun-Ru units are there." Cornelia remarked as she mentally groaned. She had enough to deal with as it is. "Still, this is a good chance for us to bring the north coast under our control. I'll leave Darlton behind here. If anything happens, consult with him."
Cornelia then received a book from Guilford and opened it up before showing it to her sister. Inside were several pictures and short bios of several Britannian soldiers that are both excellent and came from respected noble families.
"Oh right," Euphemia said with a downcast expression, "that matter."
"You may choose any one of them to be your knight," Cornelia said. She thinks it will be alright for her to have her personal knight to attain to her safety at the time like this.
A press conference was going to the museum and Euphemia standing behind a podium and had microphones as the press was present.
"Sub-Viceroy, is it true that no Elevens were used in constructing this museum?" One reporter asked.
"Hmm, we're still looking into it on that," Euphemia answered, "so we have no answer to that question."
The pink hair princess glance at Daltron who beside her and he nodded slightly.
Another journalist stood up.
"Keriman from Interstate. There are rumors lately that you're close to choosing your knight."
"Really?" Euphie replied arching an eyebrow, "Rumors you say? And exactly where did you hear these rumors?"
"Ladies and gentlemen," The curator interjected, "we ask that you please limit your questions only on the museum."
In the under section of Tokyo Settlement Freeway, the Black Knights' Mobile Base was parked and the members are prepared for an important operation. Some were working on Kallen's Guren Mk-II's system.
Rai is studied the system for his own Gekka as he can tell that this is much better than the Burai he used to pilot. It help much since he still think back to finding out about what happens to Suzaku during the meeting that Lelouch set up with his close group in his office. To find out about why Suzaku is obsessive with changing Britannia's system start make sense to him while shocked for Kallen's cell members about the truth behind Genbu's death.
I never thought this is your reasoning, Suzaku… Rai thought to himself. 'You're burdened with the guilty of killing your father when Britannia invaded the nation. You think that you can change everything back to where it was like before. But there is no way for you to do it. No one possess the power of changing the past even if you try to change Britannia system.'
Even though there are still some holes in his memory, but Rai knows that there is no way Suzaku can change Britannia since every Britannians are in love with the duo quo. He has a bit of understanding of what Britannia back then. Diethard brought out something for the Kozuki cell since he also know what Britannia politic the best. The emperor will never give the position of Knight of One to anyone or grant approved of the match with Bismarck.
Though he cannot help feeling bad for Suzaku despite their families relation, Rai cannot bring himself to join the system after everything he seen with the Black Knights and not to mention there is still some part of his past hazing bothers him.
Like what happens to his little sister Stella after they were kidnapped? Is she alive or not?
The Four Holy Sword looked on as they watched the Black Knights continue with the preparations. There were some contemplate whether it is a good idea to work with them.
"That's also what Kyoto said, that they'd lend us the new models." Urabe pointed out.
"But still their principles seem to be a little wrong." Asahina countered.
"We can worry about the details after we've rescued the colonel." Senba pointed out as they had much more pressing concerns to worry about.
"Understood. Wherever Todoh goes, that's where I belong." Asahina said, showing his devotion and loyalty to his leader.
Meanwhile, everyone was rushing to get both Kallen's and Rai's Knightmares prepped before the jailbreak plan start.
"Look, let's just stuff them in and close the lid," Tamaki yelled impatient, "almost time for us to move out!"
"Take your time and treated it with the upmost care!" A female voice demanded, caught everyone's attention.
Yoshida, Minami and Tamaki looked over and they saw a woman with blonde long hair wearing her lab coat over her clothes and holding a pipe with two men with her that wore a lab attire and one of them had a case in hand.
"They were a hundred times more delicate than you guys when I gave birth to them!"
"And who the hell are you?" Tamaki asked.
"I'm their mother!" Rakshata answered firmly, referring to both Knightmares.
"So you come, Rakshata Chawla…" Lelouch said as he emerging from the trailer with Ayano standing behind him.
This made Tamaki's eyes wide in surprise at the woman's name.
Rakshata saw the hooded teen and grinned.
"So you're Zangetsu? It's a pleasure. I heard a lot about you." She said.
"The pleasure's mine, Rakshata. I used to read about you a lot on the net." Lelouch said politely as he shook her hand.
"About me?"
"The articles relating to medical cybernetics."
"I hate talking about the past." Rakshata remarked. "But from what I hear, you're no stranger to make some toys yourself especially that armor of yours and the ones developed for other Riders. Maybe one day we'll talk shop."
She then brought out sets of keys, "Here." Rakshata then opened up the case that had Knightmare pilot suits, "gifts from Kyoto."
"Excellent." Lelouch said.
Kallen arrives and wore a red Knightmare pilot suit with Black Knights symbols and scanned on what she was wearing.
"Excuse me," Kallen said, "is really going to improve the interfacing system?"
"No of course not," Rakshata answered.
"Huh?" Kallen replied surprised.
"What is really going to do is improve your life expectancy," Rakshata said.
Todoh in a white straight jacket kneels on his knees with his eyes close. There are footsteps heard close to his cell, but Todoh didn't open his eyes.
A guard holding a rifle came by and stood in front of Todoh's cell with a smile.
"I was just informed that a change was made for your executioner," The guard said, "it's going to be Warrant Suzaku Kururugi. You should be glad that it's someone you know."
Todoh opened his eyes and thought about Suzaku and the choices he had made.
Lloyd was signing a document regarding the change of executioner before he finished, then another paper was presented to him… much to his annoyance. This doesn't sit well with Lloyd for something he considered tedious.
He was sitting on a couch and next to him was Cecile and next to her was Suzaku and standing was the prison's warden.
"Wait, you need my signature again?" Lloyd asked, surprised.
"Even though Princess Cornelia ordered it, there are still some formalities that need to be followed," The warden explained, "a change of executioner is the most exceptional circumstances."
Cecile looked at Suzaku and saw that Suzaku was horrified at what he was ordered to do and Cecile was felt sad for Suzaku and thought that it was too cruel to make him kill someone he knew.
Suzaku had the right to freaked out since he would be the one to execute his former martial arts teacher as he reminisced on the past with his times when he trained under Todoh. Killing his former teacher felt like a kick to the gut.
*BOOM*
The explosive sound caught everyone's attention. This even snapped Suzaku out of his thoughts.
"W-What the!?"
Everyone looked out the window to see a massive explosion out in the distance.
"Oh good, finally something to end all of this dreadful paperwork." Lloyd said casually, finding a silver lining in this situation.
At the exterior area of the prison, Sutherland units responded and appeared in order to contain the attack. But it wasn't long until the Sutherlands were shot down one by one. Soon appeared out of the smoke were four Gekka knightmare united and their pilots are none other than the Four Holy Swords.
The Sutherlands started firing at the Gekkas but the Gekkas dodged the shots and cut down the shooting Sutherlands. They followed up by shooting at another groups of Sutherlands with their left arm mounted custom handguns.
The Four Holy Swords were determined and they're determined to rescue their commander as they moved in.
"Colonel, we're coming to save you!" Chiba declared.
Meanwhile Asashina noticed two Sutherlands were firing at him before he cut them down.
"These Gekkas are awesome! Way better than the Burais!" he remarked.
There were other Sutherland try to attack them from behind, but Rai in his Gekka intervene by snipe them from behind and leave a trail of explosions. Though he would want to change to his armor, he felt that he should save it for another time and give Holy Four Swords the chance to make a difference.
Back in Black Knights' Mobile Base, Rakshata and her team were watching the battle and data that they were receiving. They were discussing on things were faring with the Gekka models they gave to the Four Holy Swords while some of the core members who were looking over things on the screens of their laptops.
Todoh ignored the commotions coming from outside of his cell before he hear the cell door opens. He then looks up and see a Britannian soldier with a handgun.
"My superiors just ordered that you be unofficially executed before you're busted out of here." The guard said, "Any last words?"
"It's a life I gave up before," Todoh said, "it's worth nothing."
The guard pulled the trigger of his gun and the sound of bullet fire. But Todoh didn't felt anything and watched the guard collapsed in front of him. And standing in front of him was none other than Zangetsu himself.
That wasn't only thing happened as there a hole on the wall created by the Club Knightframe.
"If that's how you feel then perhaps I should claim it for myself!" Zangetsu said.
"Zangetsu…" Todoh said, looking at the white Rider.
"Kyoshiro Todoh," Zangetsu said, "the only Japanese who seven years ago brought the mighty Britannian forces on their knees."
"Hmph, you're referring to Itsukushima?" Todoh asked, "Let me guess, you want me to perform a miracle for you as well?"
"That was not a miracle you made." Zangetsu rebuked, "That victory was the result of excellent tactical and intelligence work. For that Todoh, I wish for you to join me."
"I'm going to have refuse Zangetsu," Todoh replied, "I pledged my loyalty only to General Katase. However, since you're here I give you my thanks for what you did. Thanks to you, General Katase and the others were able to escape. I thank you for making it possible. As long as General Katase lives, there is still hope and as for me, I can die satisfied."
"Don't be too willing to die!" Zangetsu barked strongly.
"What?" Todoh responded surprised at Zangetsu.
"Someone like you shouldn't be ready to just die," Zangetsu said, "after all you need to take responsibility for the miracle you made!"
Todoh was surprised at the things that Zangetsu said to him.
A figure was watching the event of the raid like everyone else and got a feeling that her target is going to be there. She soon move out of the public's attention and walking not far from where she won't be spotted by others. She got out a Genesis Driver and equipped to her waist before getting out an Energy Lockseed with peach on it.
"PEACH ENERGY~!"
Soon appeared above the crack was a metallic peach. She then pressed the Seaboll Compressor immediately.
"SODA~! PEACH ENERGY ARMS!"
Todoh and Zangetsu faced each other while there is still a big hole in the building.
"The resistance movement here in Japan is more intense than in any other conquered nation because Japan surrendered before exhausting all of its military strength," Zangetsu explained, "it is a shame that what was known as the Miracle of Itsukushima did not continue on."
Todoh narrowed his eyes at Zangetsu, "Indeed. It's a burden that I bear and add to the fact of how the war ended."
"A heavy burden indeed," Zangetsu replied, "and people grasp on illusions because they're desperate for hope and miracles. Think about, why else has there been a disturbing rampant use of Refrain?"
Todoh was silent and he just nodded.
"But despite that you must continue," Zangetsu continued, "you must endeavor for the sake of a better future for Japan. Will yourself to keep going till the name Todoh the Miracle Worker is grown ragged and tattered."
"You're saying that the Japanese can't accept defeat until then?" Todoh asked.
"That is necessary for the people. Even since I came to the war, I vowed to make their dream a reality. The dream of Japan can get independence, to be free from Britannian control, for the Japanese people to truly take back their lives." Zangetsu answered as this made Todoh smile a bit. He sense there was no argument or protests from him, Zangetsu grab his Musou Saber and cuts the bindings from the man's arms.
"And now for the highlight of today's event," The curator announced, "Princess Euphemia will select the grand prize winner," The curator handed Euphie a flower, "the work of art that you place this flower will be deemed the winner, Your Highness."
Euphie turns around and looks at the paintings.
The Four Holy Swords and Rai continued to battle and defeat units of Sutherlands. Two Gekkas shot their arm-mounted handguns in the air. It was a signal and huge black truck broke through the wall with Guren accompanying the truck was parked and the back of the truck opened revealing a black customized Gekka Knightmare Frame. The Club came by and stopped in front of the customized Gekka and turned its back on it and then the Club's cockpit opened and revealed Todoh emerging out of there.
The four Gekkas came by and the cockpits opened with the Four Holy Sword pleased to see their leader.
"Colonel!" Chiba said happily.
"Welcome back, Colonel Todoh." Asashina said happily.
"Thank you," Todoh said, "you all worked so hard for this."
"We're glad to do it, sir." Senba said.
"Aiding you is something we're willing to do," Urabe said.
Todoh nodded and then got on the customized Gekka. As of now, he has a debt to paid to Zangetsu for helping Katase and others away.
"As of this moment, we're allying ourselves with the Black Knights," Todoh declared, "so with that, we're cooperating with Zangetsu!"
"Yes sir!" The Four Holy Swords complied.
"Any enemy units left?" Todoh asked.
"No, I think we took down all of them," Urabe said.
"…All right," Todoh said as he nodded.
In the cockpit of the Club, Zangetsu was pleased with everything that was happening so far.
"You did it," Kallen contacted to him.
"Yes, we'll have plenty of time to chat later with Todoh and Four Swords." Lelouch said then had a serious expression, "however, regarding the other matter…"
"Kururugi hasn't shown up yet," Kallen responded.
"Or maybe…" Zangetsu ponders before he picks up something from Club's radar.
The Club deflected it with the sword before the slash harken flew back to the charging Lancelot.
"Kururugi!" Kallen barked angry.
"He is here…" Club muttered.
In the cockpit, Zangetsu stares hard at the Lancelot.
"Even after what I told you… your head is thicker as always." Zangetsu muttered before contact Todoh. "If you heard from Q-1, that is unfortunately none other than Suzaku Kururugi." He said.
Todoh seems to be shocked of finding out that Suzaku is piloting the Lancelot, but manages to keep his composure. "I see. He should've kept up with his schedule of execution me instead." Todoh remarked.
Euphie just started at the painting, still unsure of who to choose as the winner.
"Your Highness, I think it's time for you to decide." The curator said, hurrying the pink-haired teen since she's been doing nothing but stare the whole past few minutes.
"I know, but…"
RING! RING!
Cellphones started ringing with all the journalists answering, leaving the government officials confused until a solider report to Darlton and whispered something.
"Escaped!?" Darlton whispered.
"Yes sir," The soldier whispered.
"What about Lady Enneagram?" Darlton asked.
"We try to find her, but we cannot find her." The soldier said as this made Darlton look confused at her disappearance. Where could Nonette be right now?
"Hurry. We need to get Kururugi help." Darlton said quietly.
Back in the Black Knights' mobile base, others were watching the battle from the large screen and Ayano just looked on with her arms crossed.
"So that's the Lancelot," Rakshata said.
"Yeah, that's it." Ayano said.
"So it pilot by the former son of Japan Prime Minister?" Rakshata asked.
"Yeah. Of course." Ohgi said.
"And Zangetsu," Rakshata said. "he seems to be pilot something similar to the Lancelot."
"I heard that it was the sister unit of the Lancelot… before being modified." Ayano explains, though she doesn't know how to describe Sagara.
"I see." Rakshata said.
Back in the battlefield, the Club and Lancelot trading blows with each other before Club shooting the Lancelot with rifle. This made the Lancelot moves away and Club went into pursued while the other Black Knights charged into fight with the white Knightmare.
"Zangetsu, do you have any data on Kururugi's battle style?" Todoh asked.
"Yes, I do. I have a plan." Zangetsu said as he remembers the simulations and patterns that Suzaku goes in his Lancelot. "Will you and your Four Holy Sword assist me?" he asked. He is not going to play any more ideal games with Suzaku anymore, but get him out of the field for good.
"Of course." Todoh replied. "Chiba, Asahina, Senba, and Urabe. We're joining in!"
"All units, take your distance from him!" Zangetsu ordered as his Club stop pursuing and resume shooting again.
The Lancelot did its best to dodge the bullets before meeting up with one of the Gekkas that tried following Zangetsu's advice. "Its movements have a regular pattern! Its initial attack is straight on! There's no way he will feint!"
Zangetsu soon moving his to a new location based on his predictions. Meanwhile the Lancelot saw Guren coming for him. Suzaku attacked but Kallen had her machine jump over.
"If that's dodged, move immediately to avoid the next attack. Reading the movement data I'm transferring to you!" Lelouch instructed as he uploaded the data. "Coordinates: S-5-7!"
The Lancelot jumped and was about to land in those coordinates before Asahina's Gekka arrived before.
"Well, well, he actually did it." The Japanese soldier remarked as the Lancelot landed. The white knightmare was about to fire its VARIS rifle but the Gekka slashed it out of its hand. Suzaku had no choice but have his Lancelot jump back before Asahina can fire his gun.
"Right! And in that case, his action will be… falling into the rear!" Zangetsu said before looking up to see the Lancelot about to land in his position. "So predictable."
The customized Gekka came from behind the second the Lancelot landed and thrust its sword towards the Lancelot. Suzaku was shocked and barely dodged the first thrust and then the second thrust but the Lancelot got hit with the third thrust that got the top of Lancelot's pod. In the cockpit, Suzaku was shocked but he also recognized the move that was done. Todoh cut off the top of the pod. It was inside revealed Suzaku as he looked at the damage of his pod. Todoh narrowed his eyes in seeing his former pupil. The Four Holy Swords were surprised to see their commander's former pupil from their monitors.
"So it really is true." Senba spoke.
"It's him alright," Urabe said.
"Just as they said," Asahina said.
"How can he be so willing to serve Britannia?" Chiba asked. "Killing his own father wasn't enough, he willfully serves the country that conquered and has desecrated our homeland and tormented our people." Chiba looked at the customized Gekka, "Colonel…"
Zangetsu about to do something before he noticed something on the radar.
"Club, what is wrong?" Zangetsu asked.
"I sense a presence of unknown Genesis Driver somewhere in this prison. But it seems to disappear while I keep pinpointing on it."
A Genesis Rider is somewhere here? Zangetsu thought, growing with concern as he looks around the monitor.
He then saw something that looks like a metallic bird, but it vanished in front of him and this surprised the white Rider. Did it vanish when he saw it?
"What in the world was that!?"
At the lounge, Lloyd and Cecile were shocked and worried at what they were seeing.
"Dammit, the Lancelot doesn't have an ejection block on it!" Lloyd said.
Cecile was shocked and looked at Lloyd.
"You mean we still didn't install one?" Cecile asked, "Why on earth didn't we do that?"
The reporters in the museum and even the curator were shocked to see that Suzaku was the pilot of the Lancelot. Mix responses of the fact that an Eleven was piloting the Lancelot and the fact that Suzaku was once accused of killing Clovis and the fact it was Zangetsu who rescue him.
Darlton looked around stepped forward and Euphie looked on.
"All right that's enough," Darlton said, "turn off the monitor right now!"
"No wait!" Euphie responded and it surprised Darlton, "I want to see this to the end."
"But Your Highness…" Darlton replied.
"Please Darlton," Euphie pleaded.
Darlton looked at Euphie and then gave in.
Back in the battle, Suzaku was checking the controls of Lancelot.
"Okay, I can still—" Suzaku cannot finished his sentence when the customized Gekka charging toward him. Suzaku had to move the Lancelot away and then saw the Guren and Rai's Gekka were rushing towards him as well.
The customized Gekka rushed towards the Lancelot from the left side and swung its sword but the Lancelot quickly grabbed the sword arm. The cockpit of the customized Gekka opened up revealing Todoh.
"So this is the path that you have chosen, Suzaku!" Todoh said, making Suzaku's eyes wide in shock.
He has reason to be shock when seeing his former martial arts teacher in the Gekka.
"Todoh-sensei!" Suzaku spoked, "But what about you? You've chosen that you want to live instead of following your own principles, is that what you've decided?"
"Hah! You seem disappointed," Todoh said amused, "if that how you feel, then just try to keep to your schedule. Try to execute me like you were ordered to!"
"Zangetsu, what do we do about Kururugi?" Kallen asked, but she notices that Zangetsu wasn't respond and the Club seem to be distracted by something. "Zangetsu, what is the matter?"
"What's wrong!? Isn't that why you're here!?" Todoh taunted as his and Suzaku's machine were still locked in combat. "You've become a cowardly boy who's afraid to change the status quo!"
"Denying everything in our society as it is now is pointless! Once they trust me, I'll have the power to change everything!" Suzaku stated firmly.
"You're serious!?" Todoh asked with disbelief.
"I am!" Suzaku replied strongly, "Dead serious!"
"That's nothing but a fantasy!" Todoh responded.
"It's not a fantasy!" Suzaku replied strongly, "I can and will make it possible!"
"A delusion fantasy for a child who cannot see the whole picture. Then go do that path!" Todoh encouraged. The machines pulled back on each other. "Regardless of victory or death, you won't gain anything unless you're prepared to pay the ultimate price. That applies to countries and individuals!" he said as his cockpit closed.
Suzaku stared at the machine and nodded.
The Club saw the invisible machine again and fire at it before it once disappeared again.
"Zangetsu, what is the matter?" Rai asked Zangetsu as the Gekka comes to Club's side. "Why were you shooting?!"
"Something is here, but my sensory cannot pick on it." Zangetsu explains.
"Is that so?" Rai said, slight surprised. "But what about the Lancelot and Kururugi?" he asked.
Zangetsu ponder a bit before he noticed Todoh and Suzaku move away from each other. Not to mention there is an invisible enemy somewhere here and got a sinking feeling that someone tried to intervene if Suzaku fell.
"Torn the Knightmare to pieces!" Zangetsu shouts to his units. 'Hope that my theory is correct… Not to mention that Suzaku will have it worse now.' he thought as he scanned the surrounding for the target.
Kallen looks surprised but Senba beats to her in response. "Got it!"
The Four Holy Swords charged forward at the Lancelot with Senba first. But Suzaku blocked the attacks with his Blaze Luminous shields and processed to counterattack.
"Captain Senba, taking Rotating Spinning Life or Death formation!" Chiba ordered.
"Right!"
Soon all of the Holy Sword Gekkas started circling the Lancelot.
"There is no way he will avoid this!" Asahina explained with a smug look.
Meanwhile Lloyd got to Suzaku via comms.
"Kururugi, release the harken booster! The password is my favorite food!" Lloyd said and Suzaku immediately typed it into the Lancelot's mainframe. The white Knightmare than released all four of its harkens as a result before using them to unarm most of the Gekka, leaving them astonished. Suddenly the Guren come from behind and charged forward with its Radiant Wave Surger. Lancelot tries to dodge, but Guren is too quick and torned off one of its arm immediately as this made Suzaku look shocked.
"If he says that it alright… then I am happily to compile. You been nothing more than trouble to us." Kallen said smirk and crushed the arm.
"Damn you!" Suzaku cursed before Guren jumps away from the Lancelot. Senba charged from the other side, but Suzaku saw him and then throwing an MVS at a Senba's Gekka, damaging it while Asahina and Club fired their weapons as sparks appeared on Lancelot.
"You okay!?" Asahina asked to his wounded comrade.
"What an interesting fighting style he uses!" Senba remarked.
"Okay, this time. Asahina, circle around to the left!" Chiba ordered before…
"PEACH ENERGY!"
"Look out!" Zangetsu warned to his units before an incoming rain of pink arrows emerged out of nowhere and hit the customize Gekka, Guren, and three of the Four Holy Swords before they collapsed to the ground. Rai made his Gekka to dodge the energy arrows and hide behind the wall but stay close enough to reach his comrades.
Zangetsu saw the next energy arrows target and he soon moved the Club in to protected the Black Knights' mobile and bring up the large Melon Defender to shield the pink energy arrows.
"W-What in the world…?" Suzaku said with disbelief at what just happened.
Rai soon moved his Gekka to Guren and others as he checked on them while Zangetsu noticed someone revealed herself.
She was dressed in a pink bodysuit which included a loincloth and a Genesis Driver with Energy Lockseed with pink core. The suit also included a black top. Over the suit she wore peach-colored armor with a silver shoulder pad on her right side. Her helmet, which was shaped like a peach, sported large eyes, each shaped like the half of a peach.
Zangetsu suddenly remember the design from the blueprint he once saw at the factory in E.U. and narrows his eyebrows. It seem that he is right about someone come to help Suzaku from the shadow.
"So you were the one was watching us…" Zangetsu said cold. "Who in the world are you?"
"Hmm… You can call me Genesis Rider Marika." The peach theme Rider said.
At the Lamperouge resident, Jeremiah suddenly uncharacterized spits his tea on the floor when he hearing the pink Genesis Rider announced her name on television. Did he hear that name correctly?
"Mister Jeremiah, what is the matter?" Nunnally asked with concerned.
Sayoko, on the other hand, is giving the older Britannia a stern look for his behavior.
"Forgive me. Miss Nunnally." Jeremiah apologized for his uncharacterized behavior. "I-It just that a coworker's sibling I used to know shared that same name. I hope that it wasn't really her." he explained. The name Marika happens to belong to Kewell's sister.
"I see… I can tell that this will caused problem for those who shared the same name." Nunnally said, sympathy.
"I will clean up after myself." Jeremiah said before Sayoko tossed him a towel and Jeremiah started cleaning the spill he made on the floor.
I pray for your safety, Your Highness… Jeremiah thought.
"Genesis Rider…?" Suzaku asked, dumbfounded at the sudden appearance of peach theme Rider.
"Who exactly are you?" Zangetsu questioned.
"I am simply someone who interested in your strength after all you're the only one who will give me a challenge," Marika answered, holding her Sonic Arrow.
"What are you going to do?" Todoh asked Zangetsu. He did hear a rumor about a Rider with bow-like weapon but he never imagined that can do damages to their Knightmares.
"Get them out of here and retreat immediately," Zangetsu said. "I will hold them off for you all to escape!"
"But Zangetsu!" Kallen protest by his decision of being a distraction for them.
"Do you think you're in the condition of fighting someone like me?" Marika asked in a mocking tone.
"I am not okay with it!" Suzaku interjected angrily. If he doesn't beat Zangetsu on his own, there is no way he…
Marika then response by shooting down one of the Lancelot's leg and caused the large Knightmare to collapse straight to the ground. This made the Black Knight members look surprised to see that she just struck the Lancelot down when they originally thought she was helping him.
"You're too annoyed, little boy." Marika said.
"Are you sure that you can hand this?" Ayano asked as she appeared on Zangetsu's screen. "There is no doubt that the Britannian will send back up during the fight!" she said.
Then Rai appeared on the screen.
"I agree with Ayano on this, we can fight together!" Rai said.
"There is no time to debate." Zangetsu said strongly and then spoke in a calm tone, "Please just go."
Todoh looked like he was about to say something before having a sighed. But if Zangetsu return, there is need to talk to do.
"Very well… we'll retreat for now." Todoh commented before he and other Black Knight Knightmares started to leave. "Releasing the chaff smoke."
Zangetsu soon opens the cockpit of Club as he knows the Black Knights retreated like he ordered them. He knows that they won't want him to leave them, but he had no choice. The Genesis Rider will be too much for them to handle and he needs to make sure the Genesis Driver won't fall straight into Britannia's hand.
"You know what to do if they choose to interfere." Zangetsu said to his Club.
"Understood." With that, Zangetsu jumps down onto the ground.
Zangetsu then swapped his currently Driver for his Genesis Driver and pressed on his Melon Energy Lockseed.
"MELON ENERGY~!"
A crack appeared above him as metallic Melon Energy Arm emerged. This made Suzaku look speechless at that thing.
Zangetsu insert the Energy Melon Energy Lockseed into the Genesis Driver before pushed the Seaboll Compressor.
"SODA~!"
His currently armor vanished and his bodysuit morphed change after Melon Energy Arms descend onto his shoulder. The Melon Energy Arms soon formed his armor as Zangetsu-Shin. Materialized out of his hand was none other than the Sonic Arrow.
"MELON ENERGY ARMS!"
"What the hell…" Suzaku whispered disbelief at the white Rider's appearance changed completely.
The two Genesis Riders stared at each other before Marika gives a charged at him with her Sonic Arrow in hand. Zangetsu-Shin got out his Sonic Arrow and started shooting at Marika. Marika quickly dodged the shots and sidestepped and swung her weapon. Zangetsu-Shin reached a bit late as he struck by the Sonic Arrow and was sent flying and it crashed on the wall.
"Damn," Zangetsu-Shin said.
"I know you can do much better than that!" Marika taunted in a mocking tone.
Zangetsu-Shin then changed into a white blur as this surprised both Marika and Suzaku before slashing Marika in the chest, causing sparks flying off her armor.
"I am surprised that you recovered that quickly…" Marika comment surprised after feeling the blows from him.
'Her Peach Energy Arms, it can only enchanted the person's sensors… But she has impressed combat skills to back up her armor.' Zangetsu-Shin thought as he remembers the abilities of Peach Energy Lockseed.
Marika soon fired energy arrows at him, but Zangetsu-Shin deflected them with his Sonic Arrow before charging at her. He swung his Sonic Arrow at her but she easily dodged the swings. It wasn't long until she nailed him hard in the chin with a heel kick. Zangetsu-Shin stumbled backwards before getting hit more by her kicks to move him backward. Marika then pulled the shaft of her Sonic Arrow and loosed an arrow but Zangetsu-Shin brought up his Sonic Arrow to defend himself.
"I am not done yet!" Zangetsu-Shin said as he fired his energy arrows at her.
Marika dodged the attacks then aimed her Sonic Arrow and fired a volley of energy arrows at him which he dodged by rolling to the side and retaliated with his own. She dodged his shots and retaliated in kind, locking the two into an arrow fight.
However there is a difference between the two Riders as Zangetsu-Shin has more experience with the bow and land a clear shot when she prepared her fire. She then reeled, Zangetsu-Shin find the chance and keep on firing more energy arrows at her. Though she got hurt by the attacks, Marika soon charged forward at him immediately and the two Genesis Riders are in a lockdown with their Sonic Arrows collided with each other.
"Who in the world are you!?" Zangetsu-Shin demands.
"If you want to know… then you will have to defeat me!" Marika scoffed.
"I will be doing more than that!"
The deadlock was broke and Marika nimbly dodged his swings, but none of her shots hit him since he was able to read where she going to fired next.
Zangetsu-Shin rushed at Marika who was waiting for him and slashed at her. She blocked with her Sonic Arrow and grunted as her arms trembled from the force of the blow. She then lower her Sonic Arrow, only for him to parry with his own. Zangetsu-Shin soon brought up his arms to blocked flying kicks coming from Marika before he caught her leg and send her flying to the damage Lancelot, causing more damages to Suzaku's Knightmare.
However, she recovered fast and got up as she fired arrow at him which Zangetsu-Shin ducked. The two Genesis Riders glared at each other intense before they charged at other.
The two run at each other while firing their arrows and dodging arrows. Marika actually performed a crazy somersault to avoid his arrow and while upside down she shot at him. He dodged it and fired two arrows in succession but he dove away.
Before Marika can reach for her Shaft, the two Riders were soon interrupted by an unexpected missile aiming between the two Genesis Riders. They saw many air gunships and VTOLs were coming toward them.
"Damn…" Marika cursed as she was about to leave. But Zangetsu-Shin refused to have that as he won't let her escape with the Genesis Driver and possibility vital information.
"This can't be good…" Club muttered. If they get this close, then they won't be able to escape from them even if his partner get any information out of Marika.
"It end here." Zangetsu-Shin declared before pushing the Seaboll Compressor twice.
"MELON ENERGY AU LAIT!"
Marika saw that his blade of Sonic Arrow glowing in green and yellow aura. She had no choice and pressed onward as she does the same.
"PEACH ENERGY AU LAIT!"
The bladed edges of her Sonic Arrow glowed pink and the two ran towards each other and collided their Sonic Arrows. The two Genesis Riders pushed each other, trying to overpower the other. The energy mixed together before growing more intense and over their limit before a huge explosion occur.
The explosion hits the nearby air gunships and VTOLs that were in close range which result several chain of explosions.
The Lancelot become heavily damaged in the result. Suzaku find himself alright, but with several bruises and his forehead is bleeding.
He looks outside as he see the two Genesis Riders and the Club aren't there anymore. But he was shocked by the damages that they made to the air gunships and VTOLs.
"Damn… they got me," Suzaku said, feeling frustration. Not to mention he cannot help feeling inferior compared to those two Genesis Riders as he see their power.
"Todoh… Zangetsu… I will be your enemy!"
Back in the museum, the reporters were upset that the Black Knights were able to escape.
"Why didn't Suzaku Kururugi go after them?" One of the reporters asked.
"Isn't obvious?" Another reporter replied, "Because he's an Eleven."
"Of course," another reported said being cynical, "In the end, all these Elevens are the same. So much for being an honorary citizen."
Euphemia clenched her hands a little, hating how every person can find a way to insult Suzaku just because he's an Eleven and that he just survived an almost unwinnable battle. It hard to believe they didn't consider the explosion could kill anyone in close range.
"Princess Euphemia?" Darlton called as he saw that the young princess was lost in thought.
"Everyone!" She called, getting everyone's attention. "I will now answer the question that has been asked before. My knight shall be the man you see before you!"
She pointed at the screen.
"Warrant Officer Suzaku Kururugi!"
"Oww… what the hell?" Lelouch asked as he finds himself waking up in his office bed. But he still feel sore from the fight.
"I see that you're awake…" The familiar voice of his Club from the Lockseed on his table.
"Club, did you get me out of there?" Lelouch asked, surprised.
"Yes, I did. Unfortunately that the peach Rider somehow escaped. But the explosion caused by your energize quite a chain of explosions to the air gunships and VLTs." Club explains.
"I guess that I should be more careful…" Lelouch noted.
"Yeah, you shouldn't made us leave like that." Ayano interjected as she coming into the office with Kallen and Rai.
"How are you feeling?" Kallen asked, shows concerned for the raven hair teen. It a shock to them that Club return with a bruised up Lelouch.
"Fine…" Lelouch answer with a sighed. "It just that the peach rider… Marika, she escaped and I cannot get both her stuffs and vital information."
"But still I am worried about what happens if you get caught…" Ayano said with a worried tone.
"We'll get her next time." Rai said with determined expression. This seem to lighten Lelouch a bit about there is always a next time.
"Do you think she could be Cornelia? She is the only I can think be her…" Kallen asked. Lelouch shakes his head to the redhead.
"It definitely not her… but she was watching since we broke Todoh out of prison as if she know we're going to come for him." Lelouch said.
"Is that why you command the attacks on Suzaku?" Kallen asked, surprised. "To draw her out?"
Lelouch nodded.
"I am surprised that she didn't finished off Suzaku even when she had him at her knee." Ayano said.
Nonette had enter her quarter and collapsed on her bed. She let out a sighed.
"It looks like Zangetsu was able to get away with Todoh," Nonette said. "I am sure that I completely underestimated him… That wasn't part of the plan. But I won't rest until I fulfill my mission. I will stop him before he goes too far."
She then looks onto the table nearby to see the Genesis Driver and Peach Energy Lockseed there. There are vines appeared within her vein.
"I will make sure that I will destroy him." Nonette said in a deep and malicious tone.
To be continued…
AN: That is the end of the chapter with finished rescue Todoh and introduction for Marika here. Anyway, be sure to review or message me for any questions, comments, or concern. And don't be afraid to look at my other stories.