Disclaimer: I have nothing to do with Code Geass.
A/N: I know in the previous chapter that I said that it would be the conclusion with the aftermath of the Black Rebellion but I have set that for the future chapter and changed the ending part of the previous chapter. My apologies.
The Black Rebellion Part Three
In the Knightmare Hanger of the Avalon, Lloyd was sitting on the floor holding an ice pack placing it on part of his face where Suzaku punched him and Cecile sat next to him.
"Lloyd, are you okay?" Cecile asked with worry.
"I'll be fine," Lloyd answered nonchalantly, "although I admit that I underestimated Suzaku's stubbornness."
"I know what you mean," Cecile said with a sad expression, "but I suppose that it was bound to happen eventually. I just wish you wouldn't act like you always do. Do you see why there are people who can't stand you?"
"Does that include you Miss Cecile?" Lloyd asked amused as he looked at Cecile.
Cecile sighed, "Yes it does but do you think that I would continue to work with you if you angered or annoyed me every time you did something?"
"And this is why you're the best," Lloyd said happily, "Not even Rakshata could hold a candle to you."
"Oh Lloyd," Cecile said with a smile.
"Still in the end, it won't be good for our dear boy," Lloyd said with a serious expression.
"We know that Suzaku is hell bent in getting Former Princess Euphemia back," Cecile said.
"He is also so obsessed in ending Zero and Void," Lloyd added, "but still it's not going to go well for him considering what His Highness said when he contacted us."
"We explained our situation to him," Cecile said, "although I didn't think Prince Schneizel would actually get help from Sir Trenton, the Knight of Two."
"The Bloodhound of Britannia himself," Lloyd said, "capable of finding anyone no matter who and where," Lloyd sighed, "he was able to find where Reggie and his team were when they went into hiding a while back and now Prince Schneizel wants us to actually start to look for a replacement. What an absolute pain."
"If only we could have reasoned with Suzaku," Cecile said sadly, "for him not to be so narrow minded in beating Zero and Void."
"Yes and speaking of those masked siblings, there's something that I have been thinking for some time," Lloyd said.
"Huh, what do you mean Lloyd?" Cecile asked.
"Zero and Void," Lloyd said, "I've been wondering who they really are behind their masks."
"I'm sure many of us have been wondering the same thing including Suzaku," Cecile said.
"Yes but unlike most, I've been doing some looking into for any clues that I could get," Lloyd said.
"Lloyd?" Cecile asked looking at Lloyd with a raised eyebrow.
"Miss Cecile, what do we know about Zero and Void, the leaders of the Black Knights?" Lloyd asked.
"Are you asking me that now?" Cecile asked.
"Yes, tell me, what do we know about them?" Lloyd asked looking at Cecile with a grin.
"I don't think there is much we know so far," Cecile said, "as far as what it is already known about them."
"What is the name of Knightmare that Zero owns?" Lloyd asked.
"That would be the Lionel," Cecile answered.
"Yes and what is the name of the Knightmare that Void owns?" Lloyd asked.
"That would be the Lucan," Cecile answered again, "Lloyd, why are you asking such…" Cecile thought about it and realized something, "Wait…"
"Are you getting what I'm getting at?" Lloyd asked, "Those names of the two Knightmares… do you remember a certain prince that was training in a Knightmare? His mother being a former Knight of the Round and not only that… this prince decided on a name for his own Knightmare if he got one and that name of course… would be the Lionel. After all, Rakshata herself talked about him a while back as well."
Cecile was wide eyed as she looked at Lloyd, "Lloyd, what are you…?"
"Here's the thing, what if to say that Zero is connected to the long lost prince that was thought to have been dead for seven years… or maybe he and Zero are actually one in the same," Lloyd said.
"If that's true…" Cecile said shocked at the possible revelation.
"After all, do you really think someone from Area 11 would call their own frames names that would come from our country?"
"Now that you mentioned it, it is odd," Cecile said, "but if that's the case, could it be the same with Void and her Lucan?"
"They are siblings after all," Lloyd said, "and of course, let's not forget how the Knight of Nine tried to rationalize getting Zero and Void to come back as she said. I think Lady Enneagram had already known who they were behind their masks."
"If that's the case," Cecile said as she was thinking about and then thought about a possibility, "Lloyd, do you think that maybe Suzaku may have realized as well? It may explain the rash decisions he has made recently."
"That I can't say," Lloyd said, "it may be the reason or may have nothing to do with it at all and Suzaku just despise Zero and Void for ruining things as he puts it," Lloyd grinned as he was getting a bit excited, "it really is interesting when you think about it."
"Okay but here's another thing," Cecile said, "if we find that it's true, do we tell Prince Schneizel?"
"Hmm, I don't see why we wouldn't," Lloyd replied with a shrug.
Ashford Academy
Reuben was sitting in his desk in his office and there were several teachers in the office with him and they had concerns of the Black Knights being in the school.
"Principal Ashford, I can't agree with this," Mrs. Crane said with a frown, "just letting the Black Knights come here in the school and interrogates two of our students and other things as well."
"I agree," The male PE teacher said, "this is just unacceptable."
"Those two were involved in that incident in the Special Zone," Reuben said, "They need to answer for what they've done."
"There's not a single one of us who disagrees with that," Mrs. Crane pointed out, "What they did was inexcusable but that does not mean we should just let the Black Knights act in the manner of them getting to be the judges even with Euphemia with them."
"Right now the conflict is happening with the Black Knights and military forces here in Area 11," Another female teacher said, "do you think they will tolerate the fact that our school let the Black Knights come here and question our two students within our building? How do you think that they are going to react?"
"And how do you think it going to reflect on us as faculty members of this school?" Another male teacher asked, "Principal, please think about this more logically."
"We can still reverse this right now," Mrs. Crane suggested, "let's drive the Black Knights out of the school or at least call for help from the military."
"Do you think that would work well as you all hope?" Reuben asked.
"Well what you're allowing doesn't make sense," Mrs. Crane countered, "And with respect sir, if you want to look real bad in the eyes of Britannia, that's your business but please don't drag us into it as well."
Reuben sighed and shook his head.
"If you think you can get the Black Knights here and drive them out, you're welcome to try," Reuben said, "I just know that the Black Knights have no intention to cause problems here but I just want you to remember something."
"What is it?" Mrs. Crane asked.
"The actions that those boys took, the actions which started that horrible event not only cost the lives of many Japanese but there were Britannians that lost their lives as well," Reuben said, "I just want you all to keep that in mind that those boys have blood on their hands."
The teachers in the office looked at each other and then they all left Reuben's office. As the teachers were leaving Reuben's office, someone was standing by the door as the teachers were leaving and it was Milly. After they left, Milly went in her grandfather's office and Reuben saw his granddaughter and sighed.
"Well that went as we expected," Milly commented.
"Yes it was," Reuben said and shook his head, "I am a bit worried."
"Yeah, I know what you mean Grandfather," Milly said with a nod.
Meanwhile there were only four people in one of the classrooms and it was Gene and Martin who were being questioned by Euphemia and Rai. Kallen, Naoto, and Alice were out keeping guard of the classroom as others students looked on.
"Hey, are you really letting us go?" One of the female students asked.
Naoto, Kallen, and Alice turned and nodded.
"We just want to question those two," Naoto answered, "since they were involved."
"The rest of you can go and do whatever," Alice said with a shrug.
The other students were curious and a number of them left while some stayed.
"You know, we could go and inform the military and point them to you guys," One of the male students said.
"Yeah we're fully aware of that," Kallen said, "and if you want to do that, you go right ahead. It won't change what we do."
"Stadtfeld," Another male student spoke, "still shocked that you're one of them."
"Yeah, so am I," A familiar male voice spoke.
Kallen and Alice looked and saw someone they knew.
"Rivalz," Alice said.
They saw Rivalz who had a concerned expression and but then it was turned to an expression of relief.
"Hey you two," Rivalz greeted in a friendly manner with a smile.
"Rivalz," Kallen said.
"Another friend of yours?" Naoto asked.
"Yeah, from the Student Council," Kallen said.
Rivalz approached the three Black Knights much to the other students' surprise.
"Are you two okay?" Rivalz asked.
Kallen and Alice looked at Rivalz and smiled.
"Yeah, we're fine," Kallen replied.
"We're alright," Alice added.
Rivalz smiled and nodded, "That's good to hear. So um, is Rai…?"
"Yeah, he's inside," Alice answered pointing to the classroom.
Back in the classroom, Euphie and Rai were facing Gene and Martin and Gene was shocked when he was just told something regarding his father.
"My father is… dead?" Gene asked.
"Yes, your father, Colonel Paul Kinman has died," Euphie said.
Gene was wide eyed in shocked and looked at Euphie and Rai with hatred.
"You damn Black Knights killed my father!" Gene said angrily.
"No, we didn't kill your father," Euphie replied with calm, "My sister Cornelia killed your father."
"Princess Cornelia?" Martin responded as he and Gene were shocked.
"Yes my sister killed him and the other Pluton agents in retaliation of not only trying to frame and kill me but also trying to kill both her and Marrybell when they tried to stop it," Euphie pointed out.
Gene was taken aback and stepped back shaking with grief.
"Princess Cornelia killed my father," Gene said upset, "my father is dead, killed by Princess Cornelia…"
"You seem to want to completely ignore what your father did," Rai said glaring at Gene, "what you and Martin had done that started the whole heart-breaking tragedy at the Special Zone."
"It's not my fault," Martin said.
"Excuse me?" Euphie replied looking at Martin.
"It wasn't my fault," Martin insisted.
"How dare you say that after what you two did," Euphie said getting upset.
"But it's true," Martin said, "I… well, I was tricked."
"Tricked?" Rai replied raising an eyebrow.
"Yeah, I didn't know what was going to happen," Martin said and then pointed at Gene, "Gene wanted to please his dad and I was forced to go along with it. Honestly, I didn't really want to do it."
Gene was shocked in what Martin just said and turned to him wide eyed.
"Hey, what the hell man?!" Gene responded upset.
Martin turned to Gene and pointed at him, "I told you that it was a bad idea and that we shouldn't do this but you insisted strongly. You and your dad even assured that no one would really find out but look what happened just like I said it would. The Black Knights found out and even worse that your dad tried to not only have Princess Marrybell killed but Princess Cornelia as well as well as the fact that we helped kill other Britannians that were there who were against the zone. This is because of you and your dad. I told you that we should just do the right thing, but no, you didn't want to and now my future may be destroyed and not only mine, but my family back in the Homeland as well. I never should have listened to you! I should have gone and informed Princess Cornelia or Princess Marrybell or even Princess Euphemia here of what was happening."
"Martin, you backstabbing traitor!" Gene responded angrily and pointed at Martin, "Don't act like you were innocent in all of this. You had no problems going along with it so it's stupid to try to pin the whole thing on me and my father who was murdered by the way," Gene turned to Euphie with hatred, "your sister killed my father and I'm not going to let that go!"
"Damn you Gene!" Rai responded angrily.
"Oh is that right?" Euphie responded in a cold tone, "And what about the people who lives were lost in the Special Zone that you helped destroyed. Those people had friends and loved ones as well," Euphie looked at Gene and Martin with hatred, "what about them?! You go on ranting about how you lost your father but what about the people who lost people they cared about as well. Are you saying they don't matter?"
Gene was taken aback but decided to respond, "W-Who the hell cares about them?! They are not part of my family. This is about my father! Your sister Cornelia killed my father and I'm never going to see him again. You help take away someone that I care about so why should I give a damn about other people whose lives don't matter and were necessary to sacrifice in order to stop you for disgracing Britannia any more than you have!"
Euphie was shocked beyond belief of Gene's callous words and she quickly rushed and slapped Gene hard in the face which caused Gene to fall to the floor. The three boys in the classroom were surprised at Euphie's action. Gene held the place on his face where Euphie slapped him.
"A-Again, this is the second time that you slapped me," Gene spoke shocked, "W-What the hell is wrong with you?"
"What's wrong with me?" Euphie replied as tears started to stream from her eyes upset that someone was this callous towards the people who lives were lost at the Special Zone, "What is wrong with you? You're disgusting and heartless!"
"Y-You… what the hell did you just call me?" Gene responded shocked.
"Euphie," Rai spoke softly.
Rai placed his hand on Euphie's shoulder which made Euphie look at Rai and calmed down.
"Rai, I…" Euphie spoke.
"It's okay," Rai assured her, "here, let me handle the rest, okay?"
"Yes, of course," Euphie replied feeling better with Rai.
Euphie went and sat in one of the desk and then Rai turned to Gene and Martin.
"Gene, you just showed your true nature," Rai said in disgust, "and you Martin, you are no better. Anyway I think there is one thing that we need to know and that how did you two get involved in this despicable scheme."
"L-Like I said, I was forced to go along with it," Martin said.
"You're a damn liar Martin," Gene said in disgust, "you're a coward," Gene then turned to Rai and hatred and disgust, "As for you Winston you shitty Eleven sympathizer, I have nothing more to say you or her for that."
Gene pointed at Euphie.
"Oh you're going to talk," Rai said, "both of you are going to tell us everything you know."
"Or what, you're going to torture us?" Gene said with a grin, "it won't look good for you Black Knights if you resort to torturing students like us."
"Oh I don't need to do that," Rai said, "because you're going to tell us willfully."
"You're out of your mind," Gene said feeling confident.
Rai sighed and then he activated his Geass.
"Gene and Martin, you will tell us everything you know," Rai said with his activated Geass.
Gene and Martin were suddenly hit with Rai's Geass. Meanwhile outside of the classroom, Kallen, Alice, and Naoto were angry at the things they had heard in the classroom and Rivalz was upset to hear Gene say such horrible things.
"I mean, I know they were prejudice even towards Suzaku," Rivalz said, "but man, Gene is actually a lot worse."
"Sadly, this doesn't surprise me," Kallen said with a frown, "anyone who took part of what they did would definitely be that callous and don't care if innocent people or even people who agree with them die in the process."
"I guess with everything that has happened," Rivalz spoke and then he had his thoughts and then looked at the trio, "say, if you don't mind, may I talk to you three?"
"Rivalz?" Alice asked as she, Naoto, and Kallen looked at Rivalz surprised.
Elsewhere in Tokyo
Suzaku and Lelouch faced each other out of their pods of their Knightmares.
"Lelouch, it was you all along," Suzaku said upset, "all this time trying to figure out who Zero was and he was right under my nose," Suzaku looked at Lelouch with anger, "you're the one, you're the one who started it all."
"Yes I am Zero, one of the leaders of the Black Knights that fights against Britannia," Lelouch declared, "and I am dedicated in finally putting down the empire that is destroying one third of the world."
Suzaku clenched his teeth when he heard Lelouch say that and then calmed himself down.
"Are you proud of what you have done?" Suzaku asked.
"Why wouldn't I be?" Lelouch replied, "After seven years, Japan will finally be free. With the aid of others with me, I have helped bring hope to the people and the means for unity against a nation that was thought to be too powerful and untouchable."
"What you've actually done is started conflicts and created chaos," Suzaku countered, "That is what you've actually done and worse is that you're dragging the Japanese people down the path that is not beneficial to them."
"Once again you don't know what the hell you're talking about," Lelouch rebuked annoyed, "Your delusional rantings are old and tiresome."
"Delusion rantings?" Suzaku responded upset but then calmed down again as he glared at Lelouch, "It's not delusional if it's the truth especially since I know your true aim with Euphie."
"I don't know what you're getting at but is no doubt another bit of nonsense you've have planted in your head," Lelouch said.
"Really, even when it comes to Geass?" Suzaku replied raising an eyebrow.
Lelouch was shocked in what Suzaku just said.
"What?" Lelouch spoke.
Suzaku gave a disgusted look towards Lelouch.
"You possess the power called Geass," Suzaku said with disdain, "It must be real convenient to have it. You use that power to force people to do what you want. You hide while your victims take the blame. That's who you really are and that's what you intend for Euphie."
"You can't be serious!" Lelouch responded upset, "I don't how you found out or who told you about Geass but I would never use it on my own sister Euphie and even my own sister Nunnally or any one of my friends, allies, and supporters for my own benefit or to even just to help or save myself."
"You can spare me the lies!" Suzaku responded back, "I already know what you're going to do. You're going to use Geass on Euphie make her to do what you want and then toss her aside and even have her killed for your convenience."
"You are absolutely so wrong that it is unbelievable," Lelouch said as he got in his Knightmare, "I don't know who planted that disgusting thought in your brain but that does not matter. What matters is that you had the gall to show up and oppose not only me, not only the Black Knights including Euphie, but to oppose the hopes of the people who just want to live their own lives and not be under the thumb of a power hungry, corrupt nation."
"You're a disgrace, a liar, and a con artist," Suzaku rebuked as he got in his Knightmare and did a fighting stance facing the Lionel, "Zero, as a Major in the Britannian military, I hereby place you under arrest for murder, conspiracy, and inciting rebellion against the Holy Britannian Empire. Once you are taken down, the rest of the Black Knights will fall as well and this pointless rebellion will swiftly end."
The Lionel got in a fighting stance with its MVS Claiomh Solais.
"Hmph, you're too late," Lelouch replied, "This will not end with me. Even if you succeed in taking me down, the Black Knights is already a force that won't fall with me. In fact with everything that is happening right now, this is just the beginning. You on the hand Suzaku, it is time that I put an end to you for good."
"Are you saying that you're actually going to kill me?" Suzaku replied upset, "Is that what you're getting at, that you want to end my life?"
"You are nothing more but a hopeless hypocritical scum who is willing to have the Japanese people suffer just for the sake of your own ego," Zero said.
"You don't know the hell you're talking about!" Suzaku countered.
The Lionel charged with speed towards the Lancelot and forced the white Knightmare to quickly block the attack with its dual MVS.
"Damn you Zero!" Suzaku yelled, "No, Lelouch!"
The Lancelot pushed the Lionel back and the black lion headed Knightmare spun a bit and got in its stance again.
"Tell me Suzaku," Lelouch said, "who told you about Geass?"
"Why should I tell you?" Suzaku replied as he piloted the Lancelot to charge.
The Lancelot and the Lionel clashed their blades against each other with intensity.
"I know what you truly plan to do and nothing you say will keep me from stopping you," Suzaku declared, "I'm going to take Euphie away from you and the Black Knights and take her back to where she belongs."
"I told you before I won't allow it," Lelouch responded back, "As her brother I won't allow you to force Euphie to go where she will be murdered for someone's convenience."
"Euphie will be killed if she stays with you," Suzaku rebuked, "she doesn't know your true nature like I do and you're just taking advantage of her, you and Nunnally. You two should be ashamed of yourselves. I swear that I will protect Euphie."
"The one who should feel shame is you," Lelouch said, "You left her and toss away your duty as her knight. You lost the right and you're incapable to protect her. Your naïveté and gullibility will only get Euphie killed."
The Lionel pushed harder against the Lancelot with fast sword swings against the Lancelot which led to the Lancelot to take a defensive approach and could only respond with dodging maneuvers and blocking the Lionel's sword attacks.
"Dammit!" Suzaku cursed upset that he was the one on the defensive.
The Lionel quickly followed up by using one of its shoulder-mounted Slash Harkens to knock one of the MVSs out of the Lancelot's right hand. Suzaku was shocked and he quickly looked at the Lionel drawing its VARIS Rifle and shot a round. The Lancelot quickly dodged the shot but the Lionel was not done as it kept shooting more rounds from the VARIS Rifle. Suzaku decided to fight fire with fire and Lancelot drew its own VARIS Rifle shot rounds at the Lionel. A shooting match ensured between the Lancelot and the Lionel. The Lancelot backed away and kept shooting and the Lionel moved forward and kept shooting at the Lancelot. In the cockpit of the Lancelot, Suzaku was frustrated as he clenched his teeth.
"Why?" Suzaku asked in his head, "Why couldn't Lelouch use his leadership and abilities for Britannia instead of rebelling against them? He could have helped changed Britannia from within and really help Japan to be truly accepted by Britannia. He could create that path and Japan and Britannia could have worked side by side but he refused to do so. He'd rather hold on to his hate to his own country and drag others to do the same thing against Britannia. He'd rather cause chaos just for his revenge!"
The Lionel continued to swing at the Lancelot with its MVS and shooting rounds from its own VARIS Rifle forcing the Lancelot to keep backing away and shooting at the Lionel but the Lionel kept dodging the shots. The Lancelot flew up in the air and the Lionel followed suit. The Lionel swung its MVS Claiomh Solais at the Lancelot and the Lancelot blocked the sword attack again with its MVS. Meanwhile, battles between the forces led by Schneizel and the Black Knights continued to be intense and Knightmares and their pilots from both sides fell one by one by their opponents. The Lucan was in the air and then the customized Gekka piloted by Todoh met up with the Lucan in the air.
"Todoh, what is the status so far?" Void asked.
"We're suffering major damages but it is also the same with the enemy," Todoh said, "also, your brother is currently engaging against Suzaku."
"I see," Void said, "I got a report from Diethard that he and the others are completing their tasks on their side and our allies are right on schedule on their own operations."
"You can leave things here with us," Todoh said, "you can go ahead."
"Are you sure?" Void asked.
"Yes, you can leave things to us here," Todoh said, "We have Aoyama and his crew, Jinta, and Peace Mark members leading the charge plus myself as well as Chiba, Asahina, Senba, and Urabe are here. We can lead things here."
"…Okay, then I'll leave things to you all," Void said, "Just don't hesitate to call for help if things get bad."
"Of course," Todoh said, "Although we should hope that it does not come to that."
The Lucan turned and went on its way and the customized Gekka went to the opposite direction and descended to the ground. The customized Gekka landed and faced several Gloucesters. The customized Gekka drew its MVS and charged towards the enemy Knightmares.
Ashford Academy
VV was on the roof of the building that Lelouch and Nunnally used to live and he was on his cell phone talking to someone.
"I see," VV said, "so Suzaku Kururugi is currently engaging against Zero," VV was silent for a moment and then he nodded, "Yes, go ahead and send them down. They should do well as distractions."
VV looked and saw someone and that person was heading towards the school.
"Oh, now this is interesting," VV said.
Meanwhile, the teachers were meeting in the Clubhouse.
"Are we really going to do this?" One of the male teachers asked.
"Yes, we're going to get the Black Knights out," Mrs. Crane said.
"Okay but how are we going to do that?" One of the female teachers asked, "I doubt they will just leave just because we demand them to do so."
"Are you sure we need to go this route?" Mr. Olsen asked, "They seem to be reasonable people. I'm sure we can come with an agreement with them."
"Not a good idea to make comprises with the enemies of the empire," The male PE teacher said.
"But I'm sure it will be fine," Mr. Olsen said, "after all Miss Macleod is there with them and Princess Euphemia is now among their ranks."
"Euphemia is no longer a princess," Mrs. Crane pointed out, "and as far as we know, she is considered a traitor to Britannia."
"Even though it was not really her fault," Mr. Olsen pointed.
"Look even with what had happened, she is not justified in the path she has chosen," Mrs. Crane said.
"Would you be saying that if it had happened to you?" Mr. Olsen asked, "What happened to Euphemia would have happened to you as well?"
"That's enough of that," The male PE teacher said.
"We should not get off track," Another male teacher said, "this is about the Black Knights being here in this school and we need to drive them out."
"We can just contact the military," A female PE teacher suggested, "I'm sure they are those that can come and get the Black Knights."
"Do we have the means to do so?" Another female teacher asked, "From what we heard, the battles against the Black Knights are getting even more intense in not just here but all over the country."
"Of course we do," Mrs. Crane said, "there's no reason why we would not be able to."
HiTV Studio
Clark and Leslie were reporting on the conflict between the Britannian military forces and the Black Knights and both of the reporters were not looking pleased. They would glance over to the side and they were looking at Diethard and the group of Black Knights with them while Diethard himself was smiling. One of the female Black Knights with brown long hair tied to a ponytail walked up and stood next to Diethard.
"They really don't like you," The female Black Knight said.
"It can't be helped," Diethard said still smiling, "and quite frankly, I really don't care. Most of them are too eager to just do what they are told instead actually reporting on the facts although to be fair, if they were opened about it, they would have trouble coming to them and their families and not long ago, I was no better and was doing the exact same thing."
"Back when Clovis was in charge, right?" The female Black Knight replied.
"Exactly," Diethard said.
"Diethard," A male voice called.
Diethard and the female Black Knights turned and saw one of the male Black Knights who had short and curly black hair.
"Yes?" Diethard asked.
"We have everything ready," The male Black Knight said, "and ready to have you be one of the people to give the word."
"Understood," Diethard said with a nod, "what's the status so far?"
"We have reports that everything is set over at Ashford," The male Black Knight said, "Lt. Colonel Todoh and the Four Holy Sword is pushing through with the assist of the Deputy Commander Aoyama and his team. Peace Mark is taking on the forces in Kyushu and Zero is fighting against Kururugi."
"I see," Diethard said, "alright then we need to get started… and hopefully, the worst case scenario does not occur."
"You mean with Zero?" The female Black Knight asked.
"Yes," Diethard said narrowing his eyes, "even with how the Black Knights is set up as it is now, I still feel—" Diethard stopped himself and shook his head, "No, I shouldn't think that way," Diethard smirked, "I'm sure they would get on my case if they heard me say what I was going to say," Diethard turned to the two Black Knights, "I'll get started."
"And while you're doing that, we'll keep watch when members of Schneizel's forces show up," The female Black Knight said.
Diethard nodded in agreement, "Please let me know when they do show up."
"You got it," The male Black Knight said with a nod.
On the other side, the chief was watching and frowned at Diethard as he was being watched by a two Black Knights.
"You know you're going to be in trouble when they show up," The chief said.
"And we'll be ready for them," One of the Black Knights responded.
The chief just sighed and shook his head.
"If only you people wouldn't oppose the empire," The chief said, "your lives would've been so much easier. To be honest, I actually feel sorry for you people because you won't get out of this unscathed."
The two Black Knights looked at and glared at the news chief for his comments.
"I get it," The chief continued folding his arms, "what happened with the Special Zone and what was revealed is horrible but opposing the empire in retaliation is not going to go well for you and the end result will be just like seven years ago, no, I say it would actually be worse."
"Why you…" One of the Black Knights spoke in anger.
The other Black Knight stopped him and shook his head at his partner and then turned to the chief.
"Remember what Zero and Void said," The second Black Knight said, "and Diethard said as well."
"Right, I know," The first Black Knight said calming down and then turned to the chief, "Britannians like you may feel that way but people like us just want to live our lives and nothing is ever easy or clean if you're fighting for something. That's all I will say."
"Exactly," The second Black Knight said with a nod.
"Suit yourselves," The chief said, "nothing will really change."
Old coliseum in Shinjuku
There was a loud clash and something flew up in the air before it fell on the ground. It was the severed left hand of the Lancelot holding its VARIS Rifle that was cut in half. The Lancelot slid back with its MVS in its right hand and there were also cuts on the frame as the Lionel landed and stood facing the Lancelot with its MVS Claiomh Solais on its right hand and its own VARIS Rifle on its left hand. There was silence and the Lionel pointed its VARIS at the Lancelot. In a desperate attempt, the Lancelot threw its MVS at the Lionel but the lion headed black Knightmare quickly shot the thrown MVS and the Lancelot quickly fired all of its Slash Harkens at the Lionel but the Lionel countered them by deflecting them with its MVS. Feeling that he was out of options, Suzaku piloted the Lancelot to turn around and retreated but the Lionel quickly chased and cut the path of the Lancelot. In the cockpit of the Lancelot, Suzaku was frustrated as he clenched his teeth in what was going on.
"Even with all of this, I still can't beat him," Suzaku said upset, "This is not good at all. If I don't beat him, this madness will continue and Euphie will be…" Suzaku thought about Euphie and shook his head, "Euphie, I have to save her. I have to get her out of there but where can I find her? Is she at the Viceroy Palace or in the G-1 Mobile Base?"
"Hello Suzaku Kururugi," VV contacted.
"VV?" Suzaku responded surprised, "Why are you…?"
"It seems that you're in a bit of trouble with Zero," VV said.
"How do you…?" Suzaku responded surprised.
"Don't worry about it," VV said, "but are you sure that it is okay to just leave Euphemia?"
"I have Zero to deal with it," Suzaku said, "on one hand, he can't get to Euphie and do whatever terrible thing he plans to do to her using his Geass."
"You may be right," VV said, "however there are his subordinates who are with Euphemia right now and do you think that they won't do something to her?"
"Oh, but would they…?" Suzaku asked.
"Nunnally is on her way to where Euphemia is and you know she would do anything to please her brother," VV said, "she may not have Geass however it won't keep her from doing whatever it takes to please Lelouch. What I am saying is that the longer Euphemia is with the Black Knights, the closer she is in meeting her demise."
Suzaku was scared for Euphie's safety and clenched his teeth.
"Do you know where she is?" Suzaku asked.
"Yes, she actually in Ashford Academy," VV said, "your school."
"She's there?" Suzaku replied surprised.
"Yes, I know for a fact that she is indeed at that school," VV said.
"Well then I need to go and save her but I can't do it with Zero blocking my path," Suzaku said.
"You don't need to worry about that," VV assured, "I have people coming to deal with Zero."
"Huh?" Suzaku replied confused, "Who are you referring to?"
The Lionel charged and swung its MVS Claiomh Solais at the Lancelot but suddenly the Lionel quickly stopped itself and moved back with speed as Slash Harkens were fired at the Lionel. In the cockpit of the Lionel, Lelouch was surprised and he looked up and was surprised in what he saw. In the cockpit of the Lancelot, Suzaku looked and was surprised in what he saw as well. What they both saw were several Knightmare Frames that were floating in the air and they were unusual Knightmare Frames.
"What the hell is this?" Lelouch asked.
"Zero, we finally found you and we have you cornered," A familiar male voice declared.
"That voice," Lelouch said, "so is it you… Kewell Soresi."
"Wait, what?" Suzaku spoke surprised again.
In the cockpit of the one of the several unusual Knightmares, the cybernetic Kewell was grinning as he had wires connected to his cybernetic body.
"We finally got you Zero," Kewell declared, "this is time you will fall by us and these Knightmares gifted to us, these Siegfrieds will be our aid in your defeat."
In the cockpit of the Lancelot, Suzaku was confused.
"Wait," Suzaku spoke, "Siegfried?"
In the cockpit of the Lionel, Lelouch clenched his teeth as he was annoyed.
"So more scum getting involved," Lelouch said, "Are they part of Schneizel's forces as well or are they acting of orders of Madd or even VV… regardless, these bastards are a problem as well."
Back in the cockpit of the Lancelot, Suzaku looked and decided to take the opportunity.
"I don't like this and I don't agree with this," Suzaku said, "but right now, Euphie's safety is my most concern right now."
The Lancelot quickly turned and went on its way. The Lionel turned seeing the Lancelot take off.
"Suzaku!" Lelouch called.
The several Siegfried Knightmare Frames surrounded the Lionel.
"You're not going anywhere Zero," Kewell declared.
"Damn you," Lelouch said angrily.
"Finally, we'll get pay back for the disgrace you inflicted on us," Kewell said.
In the cockpit of the Lionel, Lelouch clenched his teeth.
"You fools are in my way," Lelouch said.
Schneizel's Flagship
In the bridge of the flagship belonging to Schneizel, Schneizel and Kanon looked on as the battle continued that had spread over in Japan.
"This battle has gone on and much blood has been shed," Schneizel said, "Do we still have not have the location of my sister Euphemia?"
"It seems that we do now," One of the crew member replied, "our ground troops have reported that they have received information that she is in the school called Ashford Academy."
"Ashford Academy?" Schneizel asked.
"Oh yes, I remember that Nonette mentioned it," Kanon said, "The principal of that school is Reuben Ashford."
"Oh yes," Schneizel said, "Lord Ashford who was a loyal supporter of the late Lady Marianne, may she rest her soul. Are they certain that the information is accurate?"
"They are certain of it as it came from someone who is currently working with Sir Trenton," The crew member said, "also we're getting report that the Lancelot is heading to that school as well."
"If Suzaku is heading there," Kanon said.
"Then Euphie must definitely be there," Schneizel said, "then in that case…"
In the air
Three Knightmares were in the air and they were piloted by Bismarck, Nonette, and Jarvis. Jarvis was in the cockpit talking to Schneizel.
"Yes Prince Schneizel," Jarvis said, "that would be Villetta Nu that I have on it and since Kururugi is on his way there…" Jarvis listened what Schneizel said on the other line, "Yes of course…"
Jarvis ended the communication with Schneizel.
"So Kururugi is heading to that school after getting unexpected help from those Siegfrieds," Nonette said, "should we assume that VV sent them?"
"Yes, after all VV has intentions against Euphemia and is duping Kururugi," Jarvis said, "the poor fool doesn't realize that he being tricked in regards to Euphemia."
"Euphie is indeed being threatened but not by Lulu nor Nunna nor their band of misfits but by VV," Nonette said angrily.
"In his defense, I doubt that there was any way that Kururugi could have known," Jarvis said.
"None of that matter," Bismarck said, "we should head out and be on our way."
"You're right Lord Bismarck," Jarvis said.
"Jarvis, go ahead and complete the task that you volunteered for," Bismarck said, "Nonette, you deal with Princess Nunnally while I deal with Prince Lelouch. Eliminate anyone that stands in your way, no matter who it is."
"Understood Bismarck," Nonette said.
"You got it," Jarvis said.
The three Knightmare flew and went on their way to their destinations.
That's it for this chapter. Next chapter: The three Knights of the Rounds make their move and the trappings set forth on individuals.