Disclaimer: I don't own Code Geass.
The Black Knights
The stolen Van 3 was heading straight to the area where the Britannian military was stationed and Zero was on top of the vehicle while soldiers asking what should they do. One of them asked if they should try to eliminate Zero and Darlton told them to just stand by and said that they'll capture him when they surround him. Zero was having his thoughts of how things will work out. For Zero, for Lelouch, his plan of action will succeed or fail and he knew the severe consequences if he failed.
"It's time," Zero said in his head, "we have hostages to rescue. No turning back. Hang on Nunnally, I'll be there soon."
In the van, Naoto was driving while the others in his group as well as Rai, Jinta, and Keitaro looked on as they wore their new uniforms that Zero provided for them.
"Say, what do you suppose he meant by being knights of justice?" Ohgi asked.
"Well Rai?" Naoto asked.
"We would fight for the weak against the strong," Rai said, "stand against those who would bully, torment, and kill others just because they can and it won't matter if they're Britannians, Japanese or any other. It's like what happened to Clovis for the heinous things he did…and the response we'll give to Kusakabe and his group."
"Hold on," Tamaki said, "so we're really not going to help them? Or even join forces with them?"
"We may or may not be able to have the JLF join forces with us down the road…but we cannot allow Kusakabe and his group to be part of it," Jinta said.
"Yeah, the way Zero sees for what they have now done, they're just as vile and it would actually hurt us to be associated with them," Rai added.
"So that's how it is," Keitaro said, "well, our escape routes have been cut off so we no choice but to succeed if we want to live."
"Say, why don't we use that trailer we have as our base?" Minami asked.
"What, you want everyone to know what are base is?" Sugiyama pointed out.
"Can we really trust Zero on this?" Inoue asked, "This plan of his is extremely risky. A small slip up and we're done for."
"Isn't it a little late to be asking that at this point?" Keitaro asked.
"Hey, it can't be helped," Tamaki said, "but not to worry, if something goes wrong, I'll do something about it."
"I thought you guys agreed to trust Zero completely," Naoto said, "if you still have doubt then you shouldn't have come join us."
"I was just pointing out the risk," Inoue said.
"I agree, we know what Zero is capable," Yoshida said.
"It'll be fine," Ohgi said, "let's just do as Zero says and we'll do fine."
"That's right and even if something goes wrong, Zero will make sure to have all of us here get out of it alive," Rai said, "remember that he said something like that when we all joined him."
"…Yeah, you're right," Inoue said, "sorry about my doubting."
"Don't worry about it Naomi," Naoto assured, "I can understand your concerns."
The van was getting close to the bridge and Knightmares arrived and cut off the path for Van 3 and the van stopped as the van was surrounded by Britannian forces led by Cornelia's Gloucester.
"Cornelia, I'm sure you want revenge for what happened in Saitama," Lelouch said in head, "however this is way more important than your own personal desire."
Cornelia came out of her cockpit, "Zero, how bold of you to show up."
"Quite the greeting Cornelia," Zero said, "If you're looking for a rematch then I'm afraid I'll have to decline for the moment. Besides, I didn't bring my Lionel with me."
"Is that right?" Cornelia responded a scoff, "So why are you here? Are you member of the Japan Liberation Front or did you come to assist them like you did for the Yamato Alliance? Well whatever the case may be, my business with you comes first," Cornelia drew her long barreled pistol, "so I will now have my revenge against you for the death of my Royal Guard!"
"Just your Royal Guard huh," Zero replied, "so Cornelia, have you finally decided to stop wasting your energy in wanting to avenge that scumbag Clovis."
Cornelia clenched his teeth and glared at Zero, "Don't think it proves that you were justified in killing my half-brother Clovis. It's quite disgusting what my younger brother was doing but still…"
"Anyway Cornelia, let me ask you this," Zero interjected, "who would you choose right now, your Royal Guard who are dead…or Euphemia who is alive?"
Cornelia was shocked and shook a bit and Zero saw her reaction.
"I was right," Lelouch said in his head, "it was just as I suspected. Euphie is among the hostages and that's why you haven't actually taken action Cornelia. You really haven't changed…you've always doted Euphie for as long as I can remember," Lelouch thought about Cornelia and Euphie back in Pendragon, "I have Euphie to thank for this in a way. Now then…" Lelouch nodded, "I'll save Euphemia."
"You'll what?" Cornelia said surprised, "I don't understand."
"What's hard to understand? I'm saying that I'll rescue her and the other hostages as well."
"Are you serious?" Cornelia asked narrowed her eyes at her enemy.
"I am."
"Why would you do that?"
"It's because I despise the way Kusakabe does things."
Cornelia was shocked again.
"What Kusakabe is doing is inexcusable and I intend to end it and get the hostages out safely as well including Euphemia," Zero clarified.
Cornelia couldn't believe what she was hearing from Zero and then she thought about what to do, although it didn't take long for her to make her decision.
"Darlton," Cornelia said.
"Yes Viceroy," Darlton responded.
Meanwhile in one of the hotel rooms, Kusakabe was surprised in what he was just informed.
"Zero you say?" Kusakabe asked.
"Yes sir," One of Kusakabe's subordinates said, "the Britannian army had just contacted us."
Back at the main bridge leading to the hotel, Darlton was giving the orders to let Zero pass and Naoto drove the van to the bridge to get to the hotel as troops moved to let them pass. Cornelia didn't turn her head and frowned while Zero was being let through and under the mask, Lelouch glanced at his older half-sister and then looked forward again.
"I wonder if Nunnally is already planning things out on her end," Lelouch said in his head, "knowing my little sister, I'm sure she'll come up with something and Sayoko is with her to back her up…it'll be easier when we rendezvous with them but things may be complicated with Euphie…no doubt that they have seen each other now. I'll see what I'll have to do depending on the situation. As for Kusakabe and his group, I'll have to go with the option of eliminating them. It's too bad but people like him will only hinder what really needs to be done for Japan and its people. I'm sure they can't resist meeting me as Zero…I can deal with him myself."
The gate opened which allowed the van to move through and head for the hotel.
"Viceroy, are you sure about this?" Darlton asked, "Letting Zero go through?"
"I believe by letting Zero pass, we can buy some time before the next hostage is executed," Cornelia responded and then she smiled, "and this is our chance…we can eliminate both of them at the same time."
In the ASEEC trailer, Lloyd was just informed and was happy as what he was told was something that he had been hoping for all day since he made his request.
"Wonderful, thank you for the order," Lloyd said happily with a laugh and then turned to Suzaku and Cecile, "they said you got the green light Lancelot!"
"What?" Suzaku responded as he and Cecile turned to Lloyd surprised.
"Your order is to charge right to that linear cannon in the tunnel," Lloyd excitedly said.
"Wait a minute," Cecile said, "are you saying they're using him as a decoy to make an opening for them?"
"That's right; they plan to use the confusing to send in the main forces."
Cecile was shocked and didn't like what she heard, "They plan to? But Lloyd—!"
"Miss Cecile, wait!" Suzaku interrupted.
Cecile stopped and looked at Suzaku.
"I'm ready, please allow me to do this," Suzaku said with determination, "if Lancelot and I are needed, if we can give the opportunity for the hostages to be saved, then I'll do it and I don't mind being a decoy."
Afterward, Suzaku was preparing and starting the Lancelot and Cecile gave the briefing of the situation and explained the mission for Suzaku which was to go through the tunnel and destroy the foundation block of the hotel which would hold out for eight minutes and would give enough time to for the hostages to be rescued and Lancelot was equipped with the VARIS rifle for the mission. Lloyd also informed Suzaku to be careful and reminded him of the linear cannon that was in the tunnel. Suzaku responded that he understood and was ready to begin his mission.
Flashback: Two days ago, Ashford Academy
Suzaku was in the hall and Shirley came up to him.
"Suzaku, we're going to Lake Kawaguchi on Sunday," Shirley said, "Do you want to come?"
"Sorry but I have to work," Suzaku replied with a smile.
"Oh you do?" Shirley replied a bit disappointed, "that's too bad but I guess it can't be helped."
"Yeah sorry, but thanks for the invite," Suzaku said with smile, "I really appreciate it."
"Sure, no problem," Shirley said with a smile as well
"I hope you all have a great time."
Flashback End
The Lancelot was in the tunnel and Suzaku positioned the Knightmare to be ready to move in.
"Twelve minutes until operation start," Cecile said, "commencing countdown."
Meanwhile in the food storage room, Nina was shaking more and more and she couldn't take it anymore while Milly was doing all she could to keep her calm. A JLF member walked by and stopped near Milly, Nina, and Shirley and Nina gasped and felt horrified.
"Ah, an Eleven!" Nina said shaking.
"Huh, what the hell?" The JLF man responded angrily offended that he heard that term and gave a hateful glare to Nina, "What the hell did you just say?"
Nina gasped again and held on Milly tight shaking not looking at the man.
"Not Elevens, we're Japanese!" The angry man said pointing his gun at Nina.
"Yes, we're aware of that!" Milly said glaring at the JLF member, "Just lay off of her!"
"Then correct her damn it! We're not Elevens!"
"Fine, we're correct her!" Shirley said.
"How dare you speak to me like that!" The angry JLF member said, "As I recall, you're the ones who had the audacity to mouth off to Lieutenant Colonel Kusakabe! I've had it, you three will come with me right now so I can teach you a lesson."
Sayoko, Nunnally, and Alice glared at the JLF member as the angry JLF member grabbed Nina by the arm and dragged her up.
"Come here!" The angry JLF demanded.
"No! Let me go!" Nina shouted.
"That's enough!" Sayoko said as she stood up, "Let her go."
The JLF members in the room were surprised to hear Sayoko and most of the other hostages were shocked to see Sayoko standing up and opposing the men.
"You, the disgusting shameless traitor," The other JLF member said, "stay out of this!"
"I will not," Sayoko responded as she quickly moved and grabbed the angry JLF member's wrist forcing him to let go of Nina, "it's disgraceful to see such bullying."
"You bitch, how dare you!" The angry JLF member responded as he freed himself and pointing his gun at Sayoko, "You're the one who's a disgrace!"
"Disgusting Britannian lapdog!" The other JLF member said furiously as he also pointed his gun at Sayoko, "Die traitor!"
Sayoko saw what was going to happen and quickly sprung one of her kunais and Nunnally sprung her own kunai as well as she was quickly ready to back up Sayoko while Alice quickly activated her Geass while no one was looking.
"That's enough!" Euphie spoke up as she stood up.
The others looked at Euphie and a woman who was acting as he guard begged her to keep quiet but Euphie ignored her.
"I demand you men stop this heinous act right now!" Euphie ordered, "I also demand that you take me to your leader this instant!"
Nunnally and Sayoko were shocked as they did not expect this as they quickly put away their kunais as was Nina, Shirley, Milly, and Alice who quickly deactivated her Geass. All eyes in the room turned to Euphie who stood her ground as she decided what she felt she needed to do.
"Euphie, you…" Nunnally said with concern for her sister.
"Who the hell are you?" One of the JLF members asked annoyed.
"Yeah, who the hell do you think you are?" The JLF member who grabbed Nina earlier spoke.
Euphie took off her glasses, "You're addressing to Euphemia li Britannia, the Third Princess of the Holy Britannian Empire."
There were gasps and people were shocked that Euphie had just revealed her identity in the room. Euphie looked over to Nina with a smile.
"Are you all right, Miss?" Euphie asked genuinely, "You haven't been hurt?"
"Ah, y-yes," Nina responded with nod, "I'm fine, thank you."
Euphie nodded and turned to Sayoko with a smile, "Thank you for what you did, helping that girl. You're a woman of honor."
"Oh yes, why thank you," Sayoko said with a smile.
The angry JLF soldier pointed his gun at Sayoko and Sayoko just looked at the barrel annoyed and was not intimidated.
"All right Princess Euphemia," The other JLF member said with venom, "let's go!"
"Fine, but first let go of her first," Euphie said pointing at Sayoko.
"Butt out of this!" The third JLF member said, "This is now a matter between us Japanese, not something for you to be concern with, Britannian."
"No, I will not accept this!" Euphie responded.
"It's all right," Sayoko assured.
"Huh?" Euphie looked at Sayoko.
"I'll be fine, I promise," Sayoko assured Euphie with a smile.
"I heard your name is Sayoko, correct?" Euphie said.
"Yes," Sayoko said with a nod.
"Hurry up," The JLF member who pointed his gun at Euphie demanded.
Euphie glared at the man but nodded, "Fine."
"Sayoko," Milly said with concern.
"Sayoko," Shirley said with concern.
"Please, let her go," Milly pleaded.
"I'll be fine Lady Milly," Sayoko said, "I promise. Please do not worry."
"Nunnally," Alice spoke softly.
"It'll be fine Alice," Nunnally said softly, "Sayoko can take care of herself."
"Are you sure it'll be okay?" Alice asked with worry, "I don't want to think what they'll do to her just because she stood up against them."
"It won't matter," Nunnally said, "Sayoko will make sure of it."
"Huh?" Alice looked at Nunnally confused.
Nina looked on surprised that Sayoko had just gone out of her way to help her as Sayoko and Euphie were being escorted out of the room. Sayoko continued to be escorted by one of the JLF members through the hall and then JLF member glared daggers at the maid while Sayoko herself had her arms in front of her.
"You really are a disgrace," The JLF member said with venom, "you should have stayed out of it."
"I couldn't bring myself to do that," Sayoko replied.
"Really? Well it won't matter anymore at this point."
"You're right," Sayoko said as she sprung one of her kunais, "it won't."
Sayoko suddenly did a back flip going over the JLF member and got behind him. The JLF member was surprised and before he could really react, Sayoko stabbed him in the neck with her kunai and grabbed the gun off the man's hands.
"Damn it," The JLF member said in shocked and looked at Sayoko, "you…"
"This is the fate for you, your comrades, and your leader Kusakabe," Sayoko said with cold eyes, "for the sake of my master, Zero."
The dying JLF member looked at Sayoko surprised as he fell on the floor.
"You're with…Zero?" The JLF man asked.
"Indeed," Sayoko said coldly towards the JLF man.
"No…Kusa…kabe…sir…" The JLF soldier breathed his last as he died.
Sayoko sighed sadly, "It really is unfortunate," Sayoko took something out of her pocket and it was her cell and she dialed and called someone.
"Sayoko?" Rai spoke on the other line.
"Master Rai," Sayoko said.
"Sayoko, you're okay," Rai said happily, "thank goodness. Where are you? I'll meet up with you."
"Right, where's Master Lelouch?"
"Right now, meeting with Kusakabe," Rai informed.
"So you all did arrive," Sayoko nodded, "figured as much. Master Rai, listen…"
Meanwhile, Zero was in one of the hotel rooms and faced Kusakabe and a few of his men.
"It's a pleasure to finally meet you Zero," Kusakabe said smiling, "in such a short time since you made your appearance, you've made quite an impact. You've even defeated Cornelia in Saitama who was known to be unbeatable in battle. You're gaining quite a reputation."
"I suppose so," Zero said.
"You have the Yamato Alliance joined with you and you know...it would benefit if you did the same for us. Let's join forces Zero and we will be unbeatable. First though, take off that mask; it's quite disrespectful to not show your face."
"I refuse," Zero answered.
Zero's answer surprised and stunned Kusakabe and his men.
"What was that?" Kusakabe replied, "What, the request to take off the mask?"
"That is correct," Zero clarified, "I won't show my face to you nor will I work with you."
"Hey, what the hell?" One of Kusakabe's men asked, "Are you seriously turning down the Lieutenant Colonel's offer?"
"What, you think you're too good to work with us?" Another JLF member asked.
"You're willing to work with the Yamato Alliance but not us?" Kusakabe asked feeling insulted, "They're small and never got anything done."
"The same can be said about the Japan Liberation Front," Zero responded, "you specifically Josui Kusakabe."
"How dare you!" Kusakabe replied angrily.
"Let me ask you this Kusakabe, what do you hope to accomplish by this action you have taken?"
"What I hope to accomplish? Hmph, to gain attention of course. I want to show this country and the whole world that the Japanese are not dead."
"That's your reason for this despicable and cowardly act?" Zero responded with a disgusted tone.
"Despicable?" One of the JLF members said shocked, "Cowardly?"
"You stupid bastards," Zero continued, "you don't know nor understand the serious ramifications of what you've done."
"What do you mean?" Kusakabe asked upset that Zero had just insulted them.
"You're setting not only yourselves but the rest of the Japanese to a terrible fate, one with little to no hope to recover from."
"What the hell are you talking about?"
"You don't know this but there is someone here in this building that's keeping Cornelia from mowing down on all of you. She would rather sacrifice the hostages than give in to any of your demands."
"You're lying!" Kusakabe responded.
"It's no lie, it's the truth."
"Who is that then?"
"I see no reason to tell you that."
"Zero, you…" Kusakabe growled.
"You want to show that the Japanese are not dead? Taking innocent civilians is not the answer to do so!"
"Zero, don't tell me that you're actually sympathize with these Britannians," Kusakabe said coldly.
"My fight is against Britannia itself, not the civilians."
"Not the civilians? You're trying to tell me that these Britannians we have held are innocent or something? Are that stupid or just naïve? We the Japanese have suffered because of these Britannians. I see nothing wrong in making them suffer as well!"
"Yeah, that's right!" One JLF member said.
"They act like they're superior but they are nothing but arrogant spoiled snobs!" Another JLF member said.
"Who cares how many these stinking Britannians we have kill in the process?" The third JLF member said, "Hell, you yourself expose that Britannian pig Clovis didn't give a damn when he ordered the death of our people in Shinjuku just to protect his dirty secret. In a way, this is our revenge for what Clovis did. They have to pay for the actions of that Britannian prick!"
"So this is your answer, your path to take," Zero said and then he shook his head, "there really is no hope for you scum. You're taking the coward's way by victimizing these people just because you feel it's your right, you rather kill civilians than fight against the real enemy which is Britannia itself, the ones who you should really go after! In that point," Zero pointed at Kusakabe, "you're actually just as vile and heinous as Clovis!"
Kusakabe and his men were shocked that Zero had just compared them to Clovis.
"Zero, you bastard," Kusakabe said in rage, "Don't act so cocky just because you got lucky in your feats!"
"You're the one that's acting cocky Kusakabe," Zero countered, "so much that you're too blind to really see and understand anything. I refuse to associate myself to an imbecile like you! My credibility would actually take such a damaging hit."
Kusakabe's eyes widened and he was full on rage, "Zero!"
"You're stale and obsolete, an absolute disgrace which leads me for only thing I have to do."
Kusakabe glared at Zero, "What's that?"
Within the tunnel
The countdown had ended for Suzaku as he was ready to launch the Lancelot.
"M.E. Boost," Suzaku said.
"Lancelot, launch!" Cecile said.
The Lancelot launched and charged straight towards the JLF's Raiko. The two JLF who were controlling the Raiko began to counterattack against the Lancelot, confident that they would destroy it just like the rest of the Britannian Knightmare Frames. They shot their Super Electromagnetic Shrapnel Cannon. Suzaku saw the shot and activated the Lancelot's Factshpere Sensors and was able to dodge the steel balls and hit the areas away from the Lancelot. It caused a quake above and it was felt by Cecile and Lloyd and the others near the ASEEC trailer.
"I told you this would happen!" Cecile said.
"My, my," Lloyd said happily, "it seems he had no intention of just being the bait and prefers to fight and finish them off instead."
Back in the hotel
Meanwhile, the Zero's group was setting up plastic explosives in various areas within the hotel while contacting each other of the status and giving their reports to Rai, Naoto, and Keitaro. Jinta was in the hall and arrived at the door that led to the food storage room.
"This must be the place," Jinta said.
Jinta knocked on the door and when the door opened by the unsuspecting JLF soldier, Jinta grinned and punched the man in the face, causing the surprised JLF member to fly across the room and get knocked out. The hostages gasped and wondered what happened and Jinta put on his hat and visor and entered the room.
"Hello ladies and gentlemen," Jinta greeted, "do not be alarmed, I'm not with the JLF. By orders of Zero, I've come to lead you out of here."
Jinta glanced over to Nunnally and Nunnally smiled.
"Perfect timing," Nunnally said in her head.
The other hostages including Milly, Shirley, Nina, and Alice were surprised in what they were hearing and Nunnally decided to lead them by getting up first and talking to Jinta. Meanwhile, two of the JLF soldiers who escorted Euphie had arrived at the room Kusakabe was in.
"I've brought the hostage as reported to the Lieutenant Colonel," One of the JLF soldier said.
"Understood," The JLF soldier who stood guard said, "so she's the one?"
"Yes, she claims to be Euphemia li Britannia."
In the room, Zero glanced over to the door and heard what was said outside the room.
"Euphie…" Zero said in his head.
"Zero!" Kusakabe interjected angrily, "There's no point talking anymore!"
Kusakabe drew his katana and charged toward Zero. Zero quickly caught the blade with his gloved hands and Kusakabe and the other men in the room were surprised.
"I agree that there is no point in talking anymore," Zero said with venom, "because now you're going to die."
Zero directed the katana that Kusakabe held and disarmed him taking the katana for himself. Zero spun and slashed Kusakabe's back which caused the Lieutenant Colonel to scream in pain as he fell on his knees bleeding from his wounded back. Kusakabe's subordinates were shocked and were livid of what Zero had just done.
"Zero, you bastard!" One of the soldiers said angrily.
"How dare you do that to the Lieutenant Colonel!" The other soldier added angrily.
They pulled out their pistols and Zero quickly sprung his three kunais from his left sleeve and threw them striking the necks of the three soldiers before they had could even pull the triggers of their pistols and fell on the floor dead.
Within the tunnel
The Raiko fired another shot from the Super Electromagnetic Shrapnel Canon and again, the Lancelot quickly dodged the volley of steel balls and the Lancelot drew its VARIS rifle. In the cockpit, Suzaku narrowed his eyes.
"I have to stop them," Suzaku said.
Lake Kawaguchi Hotel
Euphie and the JLF soldiers heard the noises in the room.
"What the hell's going on?" One of the soldiers asked.
They opened the door and were shocked to find Kusakabe on the floor still in pain and bleeding from the back while the other soldiers were on the floor dead. They looked over to Zero who had Kusakabe's katana in his hand.
"What happened?" One of the JLF soldiers asked.
"Kill him!" Kusakabe ordered, "Kill Zero! He did this!"
"What?!" The soldier asked shocked and they looked at Zero.
"Indeed I did," Zero said.
Zero quickly threw another kunai and it hit one of the JLF soldiers to the heart and that soldier fell to the floor dead.
"Zero!" The other JLF members said angrily.
They were suddenly struck by kunais and they fell on the floor and all but one of them died. The one that survived looked over and saw a woman wearing the same black outfit as the others in Zero's group with a hat and visor and it was Sayoko with her kunai in hand and standing next to her was Rai who had his hat with visor on. The wounded JLF soldier couldn't believe this and tried to pick up his gun to shoot but was shot dead by Rai. Euphie was shocked in what she was seeing and didn't know what was going to happen. Sayoko walked by and entered the room. Euphie tried to follow but was stopped by someone in Zero's group who arrived and it was Keitaro and shook his head towards Euphie. In the room, Kusakabe couldn't believe what was happening.
"Damn you," Kusakabe said and glared at Zero, "do you understand what you have done?"
"Yes, we do," Sayoko said, "we stopped your heinous act."
"Are you all right?" Zero asked Sayoko.
"I'm fine Master Zero," Sayoko answered.
"Kusakabe, this is the end for you," Zero said to Kusakabe.
Zero handed Sayoko Kusakabe's katana and Sayoko charged and stabbed Kusakabe with his own sword. Kusakabe flailed and swat the hat and visor off of Sayoko and Kusakabe was shocked to see the maid again.
"It's you?" Kusakabe said surprised with his eyes widened.
"Yes, the one you insulted earlier," Sayoko replied.
"I don't believe this," Kusakabe said shocked with blood seeping from his mouth, "you actually work for…Zero?"
Sayoko took the katana out of Kusakabe's body and raised the blade in the air and cut him down which caused Kusakabe to hit the floor hard. Kusakabe looked on still shocked as he was drawing his last breath.
"This is the end of you Josui Kusakabe," Zero said.
"Damn you," Kusakabe cursed with hatred, "damn you to hell. If it wasn't for you…"
Kusakabe breathed his last breath and died. Zero stood near Sayoko and spoke to her and Sayoko nodded with a smile. She then picked up her hat with visor and wore them. Keitaro stuck his head in the room and Zero signaled him and Keitaro nodded as he opened the door and let Euphie inside. Euphie was shocked to see what had happened.
"Euphemia li Britannia," Zero said, "I had heard that you stood up in order to protect the common people," Zero smiled behind his mask, "that is so like you."
"Huh?" Euphie said surprised.
Near the main bridge
Cornelia was informed about the Lancelot and was surprised.
"What, that Knightmare Lancelot?" Cornelia asked.
"Yes and at the rate it's going, it will break through soon," Darlton informed.
"Huh, do we dare hold out hope?" Cornelia asked as she clenched her fists.
Within the tunnel
Suzaku continued charging forward as he still was getting shot at by the Raiko. The two men who were controlling the Raiko couldn't believe that the opposing Knightmare Frame was still coming at them and breaking through. It was called for the measure to do whatever it took to destroy the Lancelot even if it meant that would die in the process.
"Miss Cecile, I'm going to use the VARIS!" Suzaku declared.
"Wait Suzaku!" Cecile responded, "That's too dangerous! You could be killed!"
"I don't have much time left!" Suzaku argued, "I'll risk it and blast it regardless of the explosion!"
The Lancelot aimed the VARIS rifle at the Raiko.
Lake Kawaguchi Hotel
In the room, it was Zero and Euphemia and the corpses of Kusakabe and his subordinates.
"Third Princess Euphemia li Britannia, I heard that you became the Sub Viceroy here," Zero said.
"It's not a position that I'm happy with," Euphie replied.
"That's understandable and it's because Cornelia appointed you that role just to keep you close to her."
"And the fact that you killed my brother Clovis," Euphie added.
"Yes, it was retaliation for the deaths of innocent people in Shinjuku…ah, but I'm sure you know all that already giving what I expose in the broadcast and the details of the illegal human experiment he was involved in."
"Yes," Euphie said with a sad expression.
"I'm sure it wasn't easy for you to hear that one of your brothers that you held dear would commit such atrocities."
"I find myself asking why, why would he do this?"
"I think you already know the answer to that," Zero replied.
Euphie clenched her fists and looked at Zero with determination.
"Tell me Zero," Euphie said, "Who are you really?"
"You really want to know?" Zero replied.
"I do so please tell me, what are you really trying to do?"
"Hmm…well, since you seem desperate to know, I'll actually tell you."
"Zero…" Euphie spoke a bit surprised.
"Who am I? What I'm trying to accomplish? I am someone who fights for justice."
"Justice?" Euphie asked.
"Yes, justice against those who would torment, bully, and kill those who can't defend themselves just because they feel they can. It was how I responded against Clovis and Kusakabe just now."
Euphie was surprised again, "Zero, you…" Euphie paused a bit, "I see…you remind me of someone."
"Pardon?" Zero asked.
"Yes, a brother who I love more than anyone else would be the same way…although I haven't seen or heard from him in eight years. I was told that he died. Zero, I think you might guess who I'm referring to. In fact, I think that—"
"Anyway, I said what I needed to say and with that Euphemia," Zero interrupted, "it's time to get you and the other hostages out of here."
Euphie just looked at Zero and blinked, "I see…"
Behind the mask, Lelouch felt nervous.
"Damn it," Lelouch said in his head, "did I say too much or perhaps…?"
Within the tunnels
"Turn on maximum power!" The JLF soldier said, "I don't care if it destroy the guns, we're going to defend this spot with our very lives!"
They shot their cannon with maximum output and Suzaku fired the VARIS rifle. The shot from the VARIS rifle broke through the shell and steel balls of the Raiko and it destroyed the Raiko killing the pilots as well as it caused a massive explosion.
Outside the Lake Kawaguchi Hotel
The Lancelot emerged from the lake and reloaded the VARIS rifle. Lloyd looked and was pleased and Cornelia looked on and was surprised.
"That Eleven…" Cornelia said.
The Lancelot fired the VARIS rifles again and it struck the supporting pillars of the hotel and the hotel began to sink.
"He actually did," Cornelia said and then turned to Darlton, "Darlton!"
"Yes Milady!" Darlton replied.
Suzaku looked on as the hotel building was sinking and then he was surprised that he saw a familiar figure inside the hotel and it was Zero and Zero himself saw the Lancelot.
"Zero!" Suzaku spoke.
"Well, well," Zero said in his head with a grin, "hello Suzaku."
Zero waved at the Lancelot and then gave a 'V' sign and Suzaku was stunned.
"Is he serious?" Suzaku asked.
"Zero, we're ready," Naoto said on the other line through communication.
"Excellent, here...we…go," Zero said as he pushed a button of his remote control.
There were explosions that were occurring within the hotel and Suzaku was horrified with what was happening and Cornelia was shocked as well.
"Euphie!" Cornelia screamed.
The Lancelot landed on the ground.
"My friends!" Suzaku screamed.
Suzaku piloted the Lancelot to rush over in his attempt to try to save everyone.
"No Warrant Officer Kururugi, don't rush in!" Lloyd called out.
"Suzaku, stop!" Cecile pleaded.
Suzaku ignored the calls of Lloyd and Cecile and rushed in. The hotel was completely demolished and all was left was the huge smoke from the explosion. Meanwhile Diethard was trying to find what was happening in Van 2.
"What about the cameras from Van 3?" Diethard asked.
"I told you Zero took them," A crewman said.
"Well then, let's hope we pick up a signal!" Diethard interjected and then had his thoughts, "What are you doing Zero? Wasn't that part of your plan, to show us something?"
The smoke started to clear and the Lancelot was seen and Lloyd and Cecile were relieved. Suzaku felt depressed and he figured that the hostages included the members of the Student Council along with Nunnally and Alice was gone.
"I failed," Suzaku said depressed and was about to break down in tears, "I failed to save them. Damn it, not again!"
Suzaku hit his fists on the control panel and cried a bit. Emerging from the smoke, several small boats were floating and it was the hostages including members of the Student Council and Euphie along with her guard that were on the small boats and there was a ship in the center. In Van 2, they finally got a signal and it showed Zero.
"We got a signal!" Diethard said with excitement seeing Zero.
The screens and monitors in Area 11 showed Zero and people were shocked to see Zero and wondered what the masked man was up to now.
"My dear Britannians," Zero started, "have no fear, all the hostages from the hotel are safe and sound. I, Zero return them to you unharmed."
The footage shows of all the hostages were safe and unharmed. Although Nunnally kept her face hidden and Sayoko was with Zero in her black attire with the others.
"They're fine," Suzaku said happily.
A bar within the Tokyo Settlement
Rivalz was watching the broadcast with a couple of Britannian nobles who were playing chess.
Oh, they're all right," Rivalz said happily.
Lake Kawaguchi
Cornelia was not pleased as she figured that she really couldn't do anything against Zero.
"Of all the brazen audacity," Cornelia said angrily, "if we make an attempt to attack you, they'll quickly become your hostages, won't they?"
On the ship, Zero appeared and lights flashed on him and the people with him who aided him in the operation and they all wore black attires which included hats with purple visors.
"People, fear us or rally behind us as you see fit!" Zero declared, "We are the Black Knights!"
Cecile and Lloyd were watching and were surprised.
"Black Knights?" Cecile asked.
"Ironic isn't it?" Lloyd said with a smile, "The terrorists referring themselves knights."
"We of the Black Knights stand with those who have no weapons to wield," Zero continued, "regardless of whether they are Japanese or Britannians. The group within the Japan Liberation Front led by Kusakabe cowardly took innocent Britannian civilians hostage and then mercilessly set to actually execute all of them."
Base of the Japan Liberation Front
"It was a wanton, despicable, and meaningless act, therefore they paid the consequences with their lives," Zero explained.
Todoh and his Holy Swords were watching and Todoh narrowed his eyes at the mask individual who appeared on the screen.
"Zero…" Todoh said in his head.
Lake Kawaguchi
Diethard was in Production Van 2 giving instruction through communication.
"You heard me right, I said let it run!" Diethard said and heard the person he was talking to the other line speak about being liable, "Liable? I'll be the one responsible for this!"
"Just as that scumbag Clovis was punished for ordering the slaughter of countless unarmed Japanese people in Shinjuku just to protect that fact he was involved in human experimentation and cared only about not being disinherited," Zero continued, "we could not stand by and allow such cruelty to be carried out and so with that, he pay for his actions with his life. I will not repudiate battle on a fair and level field, but neither will I tolerate a one-sided massacre of the weak by the strong!"
Cornelia clenched his teeth and glared at Zero, "You've got to be kidding me…"
"The only ones who should kill," Zero said, "are those who are prepared to be killed!"
Tokyo Settlement Bar
Rivalz was watching the broadcast along with the two noblemen he was serving.
"Wherever oppressors have abuse their power by attacking those who are powerless," Zero spoke, "we shall appear again. No matter how mighty or formidable our foe may be!"
"Is this for real?" Rivalz asked, "If so, then I wonder…"
Lake Kawaguchi
Kallen and Naoto were amazed in what Lelouch as Zero was saying.
"Knights for justice…" Kallen said in her head.
"Bringing hope in a way that I never actually realized," Naoto said in his head.
On one of the boats, Nunnally looked on as her brother continued with his declaration.
"This is our way of changing things," Nunnally said in her head.
Alice looked on and raised her eyebrow, "Is he serious about fighting for justice? Too often, people use that word for their own selfish end…"
In the cockpit of the Lancelot, Suzaku looked on and he was not impressed with what Zero was declaring as he figured that what Zero was just doing was all self-gratification.
"Those of you with power," Zero said bringing out his left hand, "fear us! Those of you without it," Zero brought out his right hand, "rally behind us if you choose to! We, the Black Knights, shall be the ones who stand in and fight against the injustice of this world!"
Zero raised his right arm in the air.
That's it for this chapter. Next chapter: Nonette arrives in Area 11 while Zero and the Black Knights begin stamping out wrongdoings.