Disclaimer: I have no ownership of Code Geass, it's all fan based.
Mao
In Lelouch and Nunnally's residence within Ashford Academy, Lelouch was typing on his laptop in his room. Lelouch was going through the logistic and planning for the Black Knights' next move. Lelouch stopped and thought of what had happened last night with Shirley and her father and the fact that Madd was there as well up to the fact that Shirley found out that he was Zero. He didn't doubt that Shirley would keep his identity secret but at the same time he was concerned for her. Lelouch closed his eyes for a moment and then opened and continued his work. Lelouch's cell phone that was on his table suddenly rang and then Lelouch looked and saw the ID and answered the phone.
"Sayoko?" Lelouch spoke.
Sayoko spoke on the other line and Lelouch nodded.
"Excellent," Lelouch said, "I'm glad you're still safe…not that I doubt it but well, you know…"
Sayoko assured Lelouch which caused the black haired teenager to smile.
"Yeah," Lelouch said, "anyway Sayoko, we're looking forward for you to return. Nunnally missed you terribly."
Lelouch continued to speak with Sayoko while clicking on something and it was data that he had so far on the Lancelot and the Morgause during the recent battles and then he clicked on the data that showed his own Knightmare the Lionel and his sister Nunnally's Knightmare, the Lucan. Lelouch nodded as he told Sayoko what had happened the night before in Port Yokosuka with the success of getting the Katase and his group away safely.
Area 11 Viceroy's Palace
Cornelia was discussing things with Guilford and Darlton. Euphie was also there as well as both sisters sat on their thrones. Nonette was not present as she was tracking down the woman they knew as Cera as Nonette felt she was close in getting her hands on the woman that got in her way in Narita.
"Being defeated in Saitama," Cornelia said, "then in Narita, and now in Port Yokosuka," Cornelia shook her head as she was upset, "we've suffered such humiliating losses by Zero and the Black Knights and too many lives of our soldiers have been lost. If this keeps up, I can only imagine that I'll be removed as Viceroy."
Guilford and Darlton felt dread and wanted to do something for their princess as they each blamed themselves for what was happening.
"It seems that in this last operation," Darlton said, "as well as Narita and Saitama, the Black Knights have been succeeding in what they have set out to do."
"Yes, it seems that every time they make their move whether it's going against us or any raids they participate to stamp out criminal activity and corruption, they have overall succeeded," Guilford said.
"With the three instances with Saitama, Narita, and Port Yokosuka," Darlton said, "it's clear that the Black Knights and with Zero leading them are completely different from all the other cells we've faced before and not only that, I think I understand the meaning in what Zero had said back in Narita."
"And that would be…?" Cornelia spoke.
"Zero is not merely fighting against Britannia," Darlton said, "he and the Black Knights, they're fighting against everything Britannia stands for and with that I suspect that they won't stop in just trying to drive Britannia out of this territory but intend to actually defeat our empire as a whole."
"Oh please, I don't see that happening," Cornelia scoffed, "what's happening here is unpleasant I admit, but the Britannia itself is still superior. Even if what Zero goes by is true, Britannia is still superior and we control one third of the world. Our military might is still the strongest in the world. There's no way Black Knights could ever hope to really defeat our empire."
"I completely agree Your Highness," Guilford said, "but even so and if I may be so bold about this, we shouldn't underestimate the Black Knights. Zero may still have something up on his sleeve. We need to figure out what they may be planning to do next."
"Yes, I agree with Guilford on this," Darlton said.
Cornelia sighed and nodded, "Yes…I myself need to stop underestimating Zero. We'll get him and find out who he is behind that mask."
Euphie was silent and thought about when she faced Zero back in the hotel in Lake Kawaguchi.
Flashback: Lake Kawaguchi Hotel
"Tell me Zero," Euphie said, "Who are you really?"
"You really want to know?" Zero replied.
"I do so please tell me," Euphie replied, "what are you really trying to do?"
"Hmm…well, since you seem desperate to know, I'll actually tell you," Zero said.
"Zero…" Euphie spoke a bit surprised.
"Who am I? What I'm trying to accomplish?" Zero spoke, "I am someone who fights for justice."
"Justice?" Euphie asked.
"Yes," Zero replied, "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."
Flashback End
Euphie was certain she knew exactly who Zero was behind the mask and decided to confirm her theory when she faced Zero again and face him alone.
"He's dedicated to his cause," Euphie said, "that's for sure."
"Your Highness," Darlton said.
"Oh, don't mind me," Euphie said, "I'm just thinking…"
"Oh yes of course," Darlton said.
Cornelia looked over to her younger sister and stood up from her throne.
"Careful Euphie," Cornelia said.
"Huh?" Euphie responded looking at her older sister.
Cornelia placed her hand on Euphie's cheek
"I don't want another crisis like back at the hotel," Cornelia said, "…and back in Narita."
"I…but back in Narita…" Euphie said.
"I know Euphie," Cornelia said, "but still…"
"In that case, why not have a knight for Princess Euphemia?" Guilford asked.
"A Knight?" Euphie responded as she and Cornelia looked at Guilford.
"Yes, if we assign one knight as a permanent sentient," Guilford said, "we could build a complete royal guard unit around him."
"…I see," Euphie said, "I suppose it wouldn't hurt to have my own Knight."
"Then it's settled," Cornelia said with a nod, "of course we'll need someone capable and competent."
"I will think long and hard about this," Euphie said, "if I'm to have to knight then I would like to consider—"
"Wait a minute Euphie," Cornelia interjected, "I sincerely hope that you're not considering Gottwald as a potential candidate."
"Um, if I was…?" Euphie replied.
"I would suggest that you get that out of your mind," Cornelia said, "Gottwald is not fit for the task. Don't forget what happened in Narita when he disobeyed orders and that disgraceful display in the streets with this Orange thing."
"Oh speaking of disobeying orders," Guilford said, "I heard that Villetta Nu did such a thing last night."
"Yes," Cornelia said with a frown, "Gottwald informed us that Nu allowed that weasel to escape and after all the effort that Euphie and Nonette put in tracking him down," Cornelia turned to Euphie, "she had her chance Euphie and I'm done giving chances."
"I understand," Euphie replied, "and I agree. I'm disgusted in what she did."
"Good," Cornelia said with a nod, "then you feel the same as I do."
A Park within the Tokyo Settlement
Shirley walked through the park and she looked around and then she saw a bench and decided to sit down on the bench. She sighed and thought about what her father had told her and her mother earlier.
Flashback: An Hour Earlier, Fenette Residence
Shirley and her parents were in the dining room sitting in the table.
"The Code-R Project?" Shirley asked.
"Yes," Joseph said with a nod, "All of them who are involved in the illegal human experiment are all coworkers of mine in the pharmaceutical company."
"And you all worked under General Bartley Asprius?" Susan asked.
"Yes, when General Bartley and the late former Prince Clovis introduce the Code-R Project, they introduce it for us to make extra money," Joseph said, "however, with it being a human experiment project and for me finding out what it entailed, I actually refuse to take part of it."
"You refuse," Shirley said relieved hearing it.
"Yes, of course none were happy that I refused but I didn't want to take part of something illegal. Bartley and Clovis were sure that I would change my mind and convince me that I should take part of it but it was never to be," Joseph said, "however with Madd, I suspect he misunderstood and saw as me traitor even though I took no part of it. For him, that fact that I was worked for Bartley and the former Prince Clovis registers for Madd being part of it regardless and making it an iron rule for him that I had to suffer the consequences for not going along. I needed to gather evidence about the project and I worked on doing just that. Of course, Zero had already beaten me when he revealed the project to the world."
"Dad…" Shirley said.
"So that what was going on," Susan said.
Flashback End
Shirley looked up at the sky.
"I'm so glad," Shirley said, "I'm so glad that my father refused to take part of it. But still, for this Madd guy to want to kill my father just because he refuse to take part of it and actually believe that he should have…"
Shirley looked forward and stood up from the bench.
"It's time," Shirley commented.
"Oh it's time all right," A male voice said, "but it won't be as you desire it Shirley Fenette."
Shirley flinched and turned and saw someone approaching her and the person that approached her with a smile was Mao.
"What are you talking about?" Shirley asked suspiciously, "Who are you and why do you know my name?"
"Oh I know everything about you Shirley Fenette," Mao said and then he grinned, "you and your dear Lulu…or maybe I should refer to him as Zero."
Shirley was wide eyed and was shocked.
"Wait, w-what are you talking?" Shirley replied.
"You know exactly what I'm talking about," Mao said, "the fact that the guy that you're in love with is the masked enemy of Britannia called Zero, leader of the Black Knights."
"H-How did you…?" Shirley responded shocked with worry.
"How do I know?" Mao spoke with glee as he clapped his hands, "Oh I've known for a long time. I see through him hiding with his so-called 'good intentions'. But I know exactly what he is. Lelouch is a sinner, a vile individual who has committed crimes against others."
"No, you're wrong!" Shirley immediately responded, "Lulu isn't like that! Lulu is fighting against—"
"Oh, you would say that," Mao interrupted, "since he helped your father in Narita," Mao still had his grin, "but let me ask you something. If Lelouch isn't a bad person as you say, then why does he need to hide his face with a mask? Actually, here's a better question, why didn't he admit to you that he was Zero when you told him about your father?"
"That's…" Shirley spoke, "He had a good reason to do so and he couldn't risk things."
"Oh, even when it was just you and him alone when you two headed for that theater?" Mao asked, "Even when you talked about not resenting Zero. You would think that Lelouch would have told you there and then but he didn't."
"W-Well that's…" Shirley spoke but couldn't continue.
"Do you know who really hide their faces behind masks?" Mao asked, "Villains, only villains hide their faces behind masks because if they didn't, people would eventually see them for who they really are, cowards and sinners and that is what Lelouch is and that's what you are as well for supporting him, yes, you Shirley Fenette, you are a sinner as well."
"M-Me a sinner?" Shirley responded confused, "What the hell are you talking about?"
"You intend to use what happened to your father to get close to Lelouch," Mao said.
"Wha—" Shirley spoke.
"Using the situation of your father and fishing for his attention," Mao chuckled, "you know, only evil and vile witches do that and that's exactly what you are Shirley."
At this point, Shirley was shocked and was shaking in fear.
"Devious little witch," Mao said.
"No, you stay away from me!" Shirley demanded.
"You're a sinner," Mao said as he clapped his hands, "just like Lelouch."
"You're wrong!" Shirley responded, "You don't know what you're talking about!"
"Oh I do," Mao said, "I know everything."
Mao gave a piercing gaze toward Shirley with his Geass on both of his eyes.
"I think it's time for you sinners to repent," Mao said, "yes only then will you find redemption and be truly saved."
Shirley was wide eyed and tears formed from her eyes as Mao continued to verbally torment Shirley. Mao was in glee and was enjoying himself in what he was doing to Shirley. Mao planned for his next step to get to Lelouch and relished in what he was going put Lelouch through and thought that it served him right for what he has done.
"I'll get revenge for you CC," Mao said in her head.
Black Knights Mobile Base
Most of the core members of the Black Knights were sitting and relaxing.
"Got the word from Lelouch," Ohgi said, "General Katase and his group made it into the Chinese Federation."
The others were happy with what they were just told.
"Haha, great!" Tamaki said happily.
"Lelouch and Nunnally wanted me to pass it on that they thank us for the hard work," Ohgi said, "especially dealing with Cornelia's forces."
"We stuck it to them again," Tamaki said with grin, "we just keep winning and winning against those guys."
"Yeah no kidding," Sugiyama said.
"Although there were two serious threats to us," Naoto said.
"Oh yeah, you mean Kururugi and Enneagram," Minami said.
"Hmm…" Kallen responded, "Suzaku and I…we were evenly matched in our fight."
"Is that so?" Inoue asked.
"Yeah," Kallen said, "it's frustrating that I wasn't able to beat him."
"Hey at least your Knightmare Frame didn't lose an arm," Jinta said.
"Oh yeah, you, Nunnally, and Alice were in some serious trouble," Keitaro said.
"Yeah, we had no choice to get the hell away from her," Jinta said as he felt shiver, "that woman is dangerous."
"Well it's to be expected," Naoto said, "her abilities and prowess is why she's one of the Knights of the Round."
"Yeah, it's just as Lelouch and Nunnally has said," Ohgi said, "and they says that are there are seven others stronger than her."
"Just having to deal with one of them is hard enough," Sugiyama said.
"By the way, where's Diethard?" Yoshida asked.
"Back in the news studio," Ohgi said, "he said he'll be gathering information for our next operation."
"So about this Diethard guy," Keitaro said, "do you think that he's really trustworthy?"
"Huh, didn't we go over this yesterday?" Gen asked.
"Yeah we did," Keitaro replied back, "but it's just…"
"Keitaro, what is the issue you have with Diethard?" Naoto asked.
"If I may," Ohgi said, "I think I get why Keitaro is asking."
"Ohgi?" Tamaki spoke.
"He seems to have a problem with how the operation went last night," Ohgi said.
"With last night's operation?" Minami responded, "How? We succeeded. We got General Katase and his group out and prevented them from being annihilated."
"Yes but, well…" Ohgi said, "I can't help but think about what he said before we began."
"What he said?" Kallen asked.
"Yeah…" Ohgi said.
Flashback: Last Night at Port Yokosuka
"Sure, it's just…" Diethard said and then looked at the freighter.
"What is it?" Ohgi asked.
"Is this really the best plan?" Diethard asked.
"Zero knows what he's doing," Ohgi said as he climbed down the ladder.
"It feels like he's doing this for some childish notion of justice," Diethard commented.
Flashback End
"Sounds like he's insulting the way our buddy does things," Tamaki said feeling offended.
"Perhaps he's looking at things so far and felt disappointed thinking this was not what he had hoped for when he joined us," Kallen deduced.
"Then in that case, we'll have to be cautious with him," Jinta said.
"Yeah, I agree," Ohgi said.
"We'll have to be careful from now on with everything as we move forward," Naoto said, "regarding in our battles in the future. We'll need to be fully prepared," Naoto said, "even if we don't face against Nonette Enneagram or any other Knights of the Round, there are still Britannian soldiers who are capable and if we don't fully prepare, we'll lose big time. With that, Lelouch and I have been talking and we decided on something."
"Oh yeah?" Yoshida replied.
"And what did the two of you decide?" Kallen asked.
"Well as you know, Rai, Alice, and I got our own Knightmare Frames now just like Zero, Void, and Jinta courtesy of Rakshata and her team," Naoto said, "however though we all know that just because we have custom Knightmares does not guarantee us victories and there is no point if the pilot is not skilled. However, the Burais we have doesn't make it less helpful to us. Anyway, what we decided that we all will have Knightmare training regiments."
The others were surprised and intrigued in what Naoto had just said.
Ashford Academy
Lelouch was in his casual clothes and walking through the campus with his thoughts.
"I need to have a talk with Shirley," Lelouch said in his head and had a remorseful expression, "I may need to—"
Lelouch's cell phone suddenly rang and Lelouch stopped himself and picked up the phone and looked at the caller ID and saw Shirley's name.
"Oh…" Lelouch said and then he pressed the button to answer, "Hello Shirley?"
"Sorry, this isn't Shirley," Mao said on the other line.
Lelouch was shocked to hear Mao's voice.
"What the…who is this?" Lelouch asked as he narrowed his eyes, "Why do you have my friend's phone?"
"Oh, friend?" Mao replied, "Are you putting her in the friend zone?"
"Who the hell are you?" Lelouch asked losing his patience, "What happened to Shirley and why do you have her phone? What have you done to her?"
"Temper, temper," Mao responded, "no need to lose your temper Lulu."
Mao said Lelouch's nickname with a mocking tone.
"Well if you want to know who I am, you'll have to come to me," Mao said, "come meet me in Narita and you'll learn. Call this number when you arrive in Narita."
Lelouch narrowed his eyes.
"Oh and just to give you a warning, I do indeed have Shirley with me and she's not harmed but that may change depending on you so you shouldn't refuse my request," Mao said, "because if you do…well, I'm afraid that I'll have change that and give her pain."
"If you so much as give her a scratch, I'll kill you," Lelouch said with a venomous tone.
"Oh scary," Mao mocked, "but you're doing things on my terms. I'm expecting you at Narita and don't keep me waiting. Oh and don't inform nor bring anyone with you, not your friends, not your sister Nunnally, and definitely not any of the Black Knights. Do I make myself clear to you…Zero?"
Lelouch was shocked when he heard the last part.
"Wait, how did you—?" Lelouch asked.
"Bye-bye," Mao said.
Mao hung up the phone and Lelouch was wide eyed as he was shocked. Lelouch clenched his teeth in anger and frustrated.
"How could this have happened?" Lelouch asked himself upset, "…Shirley…"
Somewhere in Narita
Mao looked at Shirley's phone and grinned.
"Time for you to receive retribution Lelouch," Mao said.
Mao looked over and saw Shirley on the ground and shaking and tears streaming from her eyes.
"Both of you," Mao said.
"Lulu," Shirley said in her head shaking, "Lulu…"
Area 11's Viceroy Palace
Jeremiah and Villetta were facing Euphie and Cornelia who was sitting on their thrones and Euphie frowned at Villetta making the female Britannian soldier looked away.
"Villetta Nu," Euphie spoke, "Why did you let Reginald Madd get away when you had him cornered?"
Villetta didn't say anything and Jeremiah looked at Villetta urging her to answer the 3rd Princess.
"Silence is not what we want," Euphie said strongly, "We need an answer from you. Why did you let Madd go?"
"Your Highness," Villetta spoke, "I…I apologize for my error in judgment. It's just that Zero was there and I acted as loyal servant of the empire trying to have Zero captured."
"Oh really?" Cornelia replied, "So did you didn't think it was necessary to inform myself, Darlton, Nonette, or Guilford for that matter?"
"The battle sounded intense over there," Villetta said, "I assumed that that…well…"
"You assumed what?" Cornelia responded glaring at Villetta.
"I assumed that none of you would be able to make to where I was," Villetta answered.
"Villetta," Jeremiah said shaking his head.
"How did you know that?" Cornelia asked, "Did you see what was happening in the battle?"
"W-Well no," Villetta said.
"Not only that, Nonette arrived to get Zero so tell us," Euphie said, "why didn't contact her? You and Jeremiah had the means to contact her as well as Darlton, Guilford, and even the Viceroy but you didn't do that."
"I just…I was trying to make thing easier for you and help," Villetta answered.
"Well you didn't," Cornelia said upset, "because of you, Reginald Madd got away and you very well have exposed two civilians to danger because of your selfish choice."
Villetta flinched and was offended and she shook her head denying the accusation.
"If I may," Villetta said, "the problem was with Joseph Fenette."
"What do you mean?" Euphie asked narrowed her eyes.
"Joseph Fenette and his daughter were reckless in confronting Madd," Villetta said, "they were the ones that caused the situation for them to be in danger."
"Villetta!" Jeremiah responded upset.
"It's true," Villetta said and turned to Jeremiah, "you said it yourself Lord Jeremiah, that what Joseph Fenette did last night was reckless."
"I did but that doesn't mean—" Jeremiah spoke.
"Jeremiah," Euphie interjected.
"Your Highness," Jeremiah spoke looking at Euphie.
"Villetta," Euphie said, "Jeremiah has informed us what had occurred last night and it is true in what you just said, Joseph Fenette was reckless in his choice of action however, that does not excuse what you've done. It doesn't negate the fact allowed Madd to leave which means that he may try to kill him and his family again. You had the perfect chance to stop him last night but you chose not it."
"Not only that," Cornelia said, "I gave you and Gottwald specific instructions to not pursue or make any attempt to capture Zero. So tell me, why did you decide to disobey your orders again?"
"I…" Villetta spoke and then she looked away, "I'm sorry for my error of judgment."
"Saying sorry is not going to cut it," Cornelia said harshly, "you should have considered yourself grateful that you had the chance to do something well but you blew it and now I see only two possibilities as to why you did what you did last night."
"Pardon?" Villetta replied.
"You either got greedy in wanting to capture Zero just to win my favor or…you're actually conspiring with Madd," Cornelia said.
Villetta was shocked in what Cornelia had just said as was Euphie and Jeremiah.
"Viceroy Cornelia, surely you don't think that I would conspire with him," Villetta responded shocked and offended.
"Well why not?" Cornelia responded with a glare, "Your friends in your old group did so I can see that it would be possible with you as well. I mean why else did you let him go so easily?"
Villetta was shocked and Euphie looked at Villetta and she actually wondered if that was the case and so did Jeremiah.
"Villetta, are you actually working for Madd?" Jeremiah asked shocked, "Have you actually stoop low like Kewell and the others?"
Villetta was shocked and looked at Jeremiah, "How could you even ask me that?"
Narita
A train arrived in the station and people were getting off the train and heading to their destinations within Narita. Lelouch was also getting off the train and he looked around. Lelouch left the train station and as he did, he was got a ring from his cell phone. He looked at the caller ID and saw Shirley's name but he knew it wasn't Shirley and he frowned as he answered the phone.
"Yes?" Lelouch answered.
"I see that you arrived and by yourself," Mao said, "very good. You actually kept your word."
"That is what you wanted, isn't that right?" Lelouch replied angrily.
"Of course and if I may Lelouch," Mao replied, "You really want to keep your temper in check. You don't want to do something stupid and make Shirley suffer for it, right?"
"Look, it's obvious that you have a grudge against me and I can think a few reasons why," Lelouch said, "but Shirley has nothing to do with what you have against me. She's innocent."
"My my, caring so much for your woman," Mao replied, "for the witch."
"Don't call Shirley a witch!" Lelouch responded angrily, "She's—"
"Not as innocent as you would like her to be," Mao interjected, "besides, she needs to atone for her sins…just like you do."
"Damn you…" Lelouch spoke shaking, "What sins? Shirley hasn't done anything wrong!"
"Anyway Lelouch, as for the place where we'll meet," Mao said.
Lelouch clenched his teeth in anger as Mao was telling him where to go next.
ASSEC Knightmare Hanger
Lloyd was typing on the computer and looking over the data that he got from the battle in Port Yokosuka. Cecile came by and looked at the computer screen.
"I'm really worried about Suzaku," Cecile said.
"Really?" Lloyd replied, "I suppose that it is the case with what happened last night. Oh boy, the Black Knights really outwitted us."
"Suzaku was quite upset with how things went when he took on that red Knightmare Frame, that Guren," Cecile said.
"Yes but unlike when he fought against Zero and the Lionel," Lloyd said, "he didn't lose that fight."
"Yes but he didn't win either," Cecile pointed out, "I'm worried about his state of mind."
"His state of mind you say?" Lloyd replied as he stopped typing and looked at Cecile.
"Suzaku's obsession of saving and helping others as well as his desire to beat Zero," Cecile said with worry, "with the way he's going, I'm worried that he's becoming reckless with his own well-being."
"He's a soldier Cecile," Lloyd said, "we all are here and a soldier risking their life is just part of that duty."
"I know but still…" Cecile spoke.
"Still, there's no problem as long as he providing data," Lloyd said with a smile.
"You're certainly not helping things Lloyd," Cecile said narrowing her eyes at her boss, "if you keep treating Suzaku as part of the machine, it's going to have serious consequences. Suzaku's a human being, not some part of a machine. We need to deal with the human issue or there will be trouble."
"Pardon me Miss Cecile," Lloyd said with a smile, "but aren't you treating him more than just a colleague?"
Cecile flinched a bit and was taken aback.
"Uh well, I'm not so sure about that…but…" Cecile said.
"Yes?" Lloyd spoke with curiosity.
Ashford Academy
In the Student Council Room, Suzaku was by himself sitting on a couch and reading a chapter in his textbook for class. But even thought he was reading pages from the textbook, he couldn't help think about the battle at Port Yokosuka.
"Black Knights struck again last night," Suzaku said in his head, "the Japan Liberation Front must have asked help from the Black Knights to help them escape. That was the only thing the Black Knights had intended to do and fought us to keep us from going after them," Suzaku sighed as he closed his textbook, "I can't concentrate feeling like this."
Suzaku placed the book down on the couch.
Flashback: One Month Ago, Shinjuku Ghetto
"I ask of you," Euphie said, "will you help me?"
Suzaku was surprised, "Me?"
"Yes, you will help me so that a repeat of what my brother Clovis did never occurs," Euphie said, "that is what I desire Suzaku."
Suzaku was amazed and kneeled before Euphie, "I am unworthy of your kind words," Suzaku lowered his head, "if it pleases you, then I will do everything in my power to assist you."
Flashback End
"I made a promise to Euphie," Suzaku said.
Suzaku then had a sad expression as he thought about being defeated by Zero in Narita and the fact that he wasn't able to stop him or the red Knightmare's pilot that had gotten in his way and he was upset at the fact that the Black Knights had escaped when they aided the Japan Liberation Front's escape.
"I haven't lived up to my promise to her," Suzaku said, "I need to change that and quickly," Suzaku thought about Zero and clenched his fist with determination, "I will defeat you Zero. It's only a matter of time."
Old Tokyo Tower
Nunnally and Alice in their casual outfits were looking at the view from the top of the damaged tower that had been turned into the Britannian Victory Memorial Center.
"So Sayoko will be back?" Alice asked.
"Yes, she was able to do what she set out to do and will be back," Nunnally said with a smile, "I'm so glad. I was worried when she decided to do what she set out to do but from Lelouch told me, everything went well."
"That's good to hear," Alice said with a smile.
Nunnally and Alice walked and headed to another area within the tower. Alice suddenly stopped and frowned and Nunnally stopped as well.
"Alice," Nunnally said.
"Yes," Alice said and then she and Nunnally turned to the side, "you three might as well come out. We know you're there."
"Oh, well this is a surprise," One female voice said, "We of course would expect you to notice us Alice but certainly not your friend, the former princess."
Three people came out of hiding and it was the three agents of the Geass Order who were Sancia, Lucretia, and Dalque.
"Suspected as much," Nunnally said.
"So you three are here," Alice said as she got in front of Nunnally, "no doubt you three are here under the orders of Colonel Madd to bring me in."
"That we are," Lucretia said sadly, "and if it's possible, we would like it if you didn't resist."
"It is what we want," Dalque said, "if fact, we're willing to let Nunnally vi Britannia go on her own."
"Wait seriously?" Nunnally replied surprised.
Alice was surprised as well and the three agents nodded.
"That's right," Sancia said, "we're sure you're aware that the emperor knows about you and your brother however, the colonel isn't interested in you two at all. He's only cares about two things, the Code-R Research with those involved and keeping the four of us in line since we're under his direct command. Since Alice has gone rouge, he wants to deal with her insubordination."
"So what do you say?" Dalque asked, "You be on your way and leave Alice with us and we won't bother you. We know you've got enough enemies to deal with as it is and you certainly don't want us to add on that list."
"Nunnally, please run," Alice pleaded.
"Alice…" Nunnally said with concern.
"They're not lying in what they're saying," Alice said, "and it's no lie about Madd's intentions…"
"But even so," Nunnally said, "I can't leave you here. No, I refuse to do so."
"Nunnally…" Alice replied.
"Alice, you're my best friend," Nunnally said and got in front of Alice, "and I'm not going to abandon my best friend."
"N-Nunnally…" Alice spoke again.
Sancia, Lucretia, and Dalque saw what was happening and they shook their heads.
"Oh dear," Sancia said with a sigh, "truth be told, I figured this would happen. We still don't have any quarrel with you Nunnally vi Britannia and we could care less about what your father the emperor wants or what VV wants for that matter."
"Yeah but since it's obvious that you no intention of backing away from Alice," Dalque said as she activated her Geass, "unfortunately you've just tied our hands."
"This is sad," Lucretia said with a sad expression as she activated her Geass, "I am sad about this."
"It really isn't worth it," Sancia said as she activated her Geass, "but we have our orders and we have orders to deal with those who would obstruct our mission."
On the other side, someone was watching and took a step.
Narita
Lelouch had arrived in the area within Narita where work was still being done due to the rockslide. Lelouch looked on seeing how the rockslide he ordered didn't go far within the city.
"Of all places…" Lelouch said.
Lelouch's phone rang again and he looked at the ID and saw Shirley's name. Of course again he knew it wasn't Shirley and he answered.
"I'm here," Lelouch said.
"Very good Lelouch," Mao said on the other line.
"Now where the hell are you?" Lelouch asked.
"Why I'm right here," Mao said.
Lelouch was surprised and he quickly turned around and there he faced Mao who was holding Shirley's cell phone.
"So it's you," Lelouch said with a hateful glare.
"It's me," Mao said with a smile, "here, you can have it."
Mao tossed Shirley's cell phone towards Lelouch and Lelouch caught it and looked at it. Lelouch then turned his attention back to Mao.
"I'll ask you again," Lelouch said with a venomous tone, "who are you and what have you done with Shirley?"
"Oh I like that," Mao said amused and he clapped his hands, "that's the unforgiving face I wanted to see. The face of a man whose woman has been taken from him."
Lelouch was livid and was getting tired of Mao's taunts.
"I'm getting sick of your taunts!" Lelouch reacted angrily, "I swear if you hurt her, I will—"
"My goodness," Mao interjected, "temper, temper Lelouch," Mao shrugged, "Didn't I tell you earlier to keep your temper in check? You really should listen to people."
Lelouch cracked his knuckles, "I'm seconds away of beating you to a bloody pulp and breaking your limbs."
"You know that's not smart on your part," Mao said, "anyway since you want to know so badly about your dear Shirley and about me, first I challenge you."
"Challenge me?" Lelouch replied.
"That's right," Mao replied back and pulled something out of this pocket.
Mao showed Lelouch a white chess piece and Lelouch raised an eyebrow.
"That's…" Lelouch spoke.
"You're really good at this game," Mao said, "so I want play against you in this game and it'll be all clear to you."
Black Knights' Mobile Base
Diethard entered the base and had files in his hands.
"Oh you're back," Naoto said.
Diethard looked and saw Naoto sitting on the couch.
"Yes I've gather some information that will be quite useful," Diethard said with a smile and handed Naoto one of the files, "here, take a look."
"Oh sure," Naoto said as he took the file, "thanks."
Naoto looked at the contents of the file and Diethard sat on the couch.
"So where are the others?" Diethard said.
"They all went on errands and taking care of things," Naoto answered.
"I see," Diethard said, "so it's just us two right now."
"That's right," Naoto said with a nod, "So Diethard, how did you feel in your first operation with us?"
"Hmm, well it wasn't how I expected," Diethard said, "that's for sure."
"You sound disappointed," Naoto said.
"Hmm, well I'd be lying if I said otherwise," Diethard replied, "but I haven't given up hope on Zero," Diethard smiled, "I'm sure that he still has a lot to offer."
Naoto looked at Diethard and narrowed his eyes at the man.
Narita
Lelouch followed Mao within a railcar that was going up. They sat in their seats and there was chess board with the chess pieces. Lelouch looked on and was worried about Shirley and her well-being. Lelouch looked the chess board and deduced that it was a distraction as he figured that it was all to lure him away from the sight of other people. Mao just looked on and smiled.
"Just so you know Lelouch," Mao said, "I've never actually played this game before."
"Really?" Lelouch replied glaring at Mao, "And yet you challenged me to this game? Why?"
"You'll see," Mao said with a grin.
Lelouch was trying to figure what he was trying do and he was still worried about Shirley and wondered where she was. Lelouch tried to figure what the guy's angle was since he knew he was Zero. He wondered what he was going to do.
"There's an opening that you can use, right?" Mao said suddenly.
Lelouch was suddenly out of his thoughts and looked at the chess board.
"Shouldn't you be concentrating more on the game?" Mao asked as he moved one of his white chess pieces, "you'll lose otherwise."
Lelouch looked at the chess board and back to Mao, "You said you never played before. You're a liar."
"Oh no, I promise it's the truth," Mao responded.
Lelouch clenched his teeth and moved one of his black chess pieces.
Area 11's Viceroy Palace
Nonette had arrived in one of the rooms and she felt upset as she sat in the chair. She activated the computer screen and Bismarck was on the screen.
"Nonette," Bismarck said.
"Hello Bismarck," Nonette said, "I guess I'm reporting to you."
"Yes, His Majesty is concentrating on other matters at the moment," Bismarck said.
"I understand," Nonette said.
"By the look of your face," Bismarck said, "I assume that it didn't go well for you."
Nonette sighed, "No it didn't."
"Well you don't need to worry about it anymore," Bismarck said.
"Huh, what do you mean?" Nonette replied confused.
"Regarding Reginald Madd," Bismarck said, "His Majesty has sent someone to go retrieve him, him and the people involved in the Code-R Research."
"Wait what?" Nonette replied surprised.
Narita
Lelouch was shocked in what he was seeing and what he was looking at was that he was actually being beating in chess by Mao.
"Impossible!" Lelouch said in his head, "He's actually beating me?!"
Mao made his next move and he grinned as he was satisfied with what he was doing.
"So…" Mao said, "May I assume that I've won?"
The railcar stopped at its station and Lelouch was shocked as he couldn't believe that he actually lost.
"How did you…?" Lelouch asked.
"Well you can look at it this way," Mao said, "now you know how your opponents in the past felt when they lost to an arrogant know-it-all punk like you."
Lelouch clenched his teeth and glared at Mao who was still smiling much to Lelouch's dismay.
"I wonder Lelouch," Mao said, "didn't CC tell you about me?"
"CC?" Lelouch responded surprised and looked at Mao.
Mao clapped his hands happily reading Lelouch's mind.
"Yes, you finally realized and you are correct," Mao said, "I am indeed Mao and yes like you," Mao took off his sunglasses showing his Geass on both of his eyes, "I possess Geass."
"Your Geass allows you to read a person's mind," Lelouch deduced, "so that's it, that's how…"
"That's correct," Mao said, "that's how I know about you Lelouch and your Geass for that matter."
"Where's Shirley?!" Lelouch asked, "Tell me where she is!"
"Calm down," Mao said, "she's physically fine. I didn't touch her. Although…"
"What?" Lelouch said.
Lelouch saw someone through the window and he was surprised to see Shirley.
"Shirley!" Lelouch said.
Lelouch was shocked to see the state Shirley was in and that was when Shirley looked shook up and was her eyes were red as he guessed that she was crying. Lelouch was mortified at the state Shirley was in and he glared angrily at Mao.
"You bastard!" Lelouch said enraged, "What did you do to her?!"
"I didn't touch her," Mao said, "like I said before. Although I did make her realize that she's evil…just like you."
"You what?" Lelouch replied upset.
"Lulu," Shirley spoke weakly.
Lelouch looked at Shirley and Shirley was shaken.
"Lulu, I'm sorry," Shirley said feeling ashamed, "I'm so sorry."
Lelouch rushed out of the railcar and got to Shirley and held her shoulders.
"I'm here Shirley," Lelouch assured, "I'm here. I don't know what messed up things he said to you but can disregard them. Whatever he said to you, it's not true."
"You're wrong Lelouch," Mao said as he came out of the railcar as well, "the fact is that she's a sinner, like you and both of you need to atone for your sins."
"You're going to pay for this!" Lelouch declared with hatred towards Mao.
"No, the ones who are going to pay is you two," Mao said, "you especially Lelouch after what you did."
"What I did?" Lelouch asked.
"Yes, I'm referring to CC," Mao said showing an expression of hatred towards Lelouch, "you had the audacity to treat her like dirt and then you kicked her to the curb. What you did is unforgivable."
Lelouch was shocked as looked at Mao.
"So this is what this is about?" Lelouch asked, "How did you make the conclusion of it happened if you saw?"
"It is how I saw it and now you're going to pay," Mao said, "just like Shirley is going to pay for supporting an evil bastard like you who then uses situations to get what she wants and take advantage for whatever suits her."
"You son of a—" Lelouch reacted angrily.
Mao cut Lelouch off when he drew a gun on him and made Lelouch stop.
"It's time for both of you to die!" Mao declared.
Lelouch was wide eyed and tried to quickly think of something but then someone suddenly shot a bullet and it knocked the gun out of Mao's hands. Lelouch, Mao, and Shirley were shocked and they wondered what happened.
"What was that?" Mao asked surprised, "And why didn't I sense someone?" Mao guessed why and realized, "Unless, could it be?"
"That's enough Mao," A female voice said.
Mao looked and was surprised to see someone that he had not seen in years and Lelouch was shocked to see the woman as well. It was CC who had her long green hair tied to a ponytail and wore a lavender dress with black boots with white socks and wore a brown belt around her waist. CC held a gun on Mao and Mao was ecstatic to see CC again.
"CC!" Mao said happily, "I'm so happy to see again!"
CC had a sad expression as she looked at Mao.
"That dress is stunning on you," Mao continued happily, "You're just as beautiful as ever CC."
"Mao…" CC said.
Suddenly Lelouch charged towards Mao and punched his jaw hard and sent him stumbling back in the railcar. The door closed and the railcar started to move again and went back downward.
"No! No!" Mao said as he was being taken down, "CC, I will come for you again! Don't you worry, we'll be together again. I promise!"
Lelouch picked up the gun Mao dropped and shot at him. The window shatter from the first shot and Mao ducked to avoid the shots as Lelouch kept shooting at him. Lelouch emptied the bullets out of the gun and was frustrated as he threw the gun on the ground after there were no more bullets. Mao peeked up and glared at the Lelouch and swore that he would make him pay.
"This isn't over Lelouch!" Mao yelled.
Lelouch clenched his teeth with hatred and anger towards Mao and then calmed himself down and looked at CC.
"I never expected to see you again CC," Lelouch said.
"Yes well…" CC said, "My options weren't very good for me."
"Your options?" Lelouch asked.
"Don't worry about it," CC replied.
Lelouch soften his expression when he looked at Shirley and he rushed over to her and held her. CC looked on and then looked back to where the railcar was going down with Mao in it.
That's it for this chapter. Next chapter: Lelouch tries to come up with countermeasures against Mao while the one in question sets up a place to meet CC again.