Calm before the storm
Zero, the man that killed prince Clovis, took the world by storm and became the most wanted man in the empire for his successful royalty assassination. It wasn't just that the purist faction was also being shamed by Zero as their being suspected of conspiracy hiding secrets as they lose the public trust as no one wanted to align anyone suspicious, as those who support them they already jump off the boat.
As of right now, Lelouch was with the green-haired girl again as she made Origami with Nunnally without any trouble.
"I'm so glad. I was worried," Nunnally smiled.
"I assumed you ate out tonight judging by your appearance," the girl said as she put down a blue paper crane.
"Thank goodness!" Nunnally became relieved."I was worried you got caught by the uproar caused by the masked man Zero. I wanted to tell you Miss C.C. has been waiting for you as well."
That made Lelouch gasp."C.C.?"
"Your friend goes by such an unusual name. Only her initials." Nunnally giggled.
"Yeah, I guess so…"
"I was wondering who you are C.C.?" Her cheerful demeanor was gone.
"Huh?" Nunnally quickly pulled two of her Nichirin jagged blade as its aim at C.C.'s throat.
C.C. balked back.
"Do you think just because I'm blind that I'm a stupid, defenseless girl? I just pretended to let you lower your guard." That caught her off guard.
"Who are you?" Lelouch said again for confirmation.
"She said my name," The green-haired girl said, almost sounding mellow."I'm C.C."
"I meant why are you even here?" Lelouch narrowed his eyes.
"I got nowhere to go."
"How do you even know where we live?" Nunnally questioned as they always covered their tracks.
"I just followed the trail of chaos and stalking that part was more of a joke. How did you learn swordsmanship? How can Nunnally walk?"
"I asked first; why was Clovis interested in you?"
"I have no obligation to answer that question." Nunnally was annoyed by her response. "What is your reason to start this rebellion?" C.C. just smiled looking at the former prince.
Rather than being upset Lelouch just looked far away."I saw a person who lost everything, but he didn't give up. That inspired me to do something to be better and to fight Britannia for a better future."
"You think you can destroy the empire with a skill and a sword?"
"I had intended to do it, but I will do it in my way as a Demon Slayer." Lelouch clench his fist hard.
The word was foreign to her."Demon Slayer?"
"It's the path I and others like me follow. I will slay the corrupted, protect the innocent, and create a new world of peace and prosperity for a brighter future."
"I just knew he'd turn out to be a fascinating guy."
Lelouch raised an eyebrow. Was that sarcasm, or was she talking to herself?
"What will you do now?"
"I'm sure the military is after you after what Clovis did to Shinjuku…"
"Not the entire military, just a small fraction of it. So, it shouldn't be difficult to find a hiding place. I can make do here." With that, she headed upstairs after Nunnally lowered her blade, finding the green hair girl was no longer a threat.
"You can choose any room to sleep in."
"How gentleman of you," C.C. mused, "I choose your room."
He hung his head in a shake."Why I am not surprised?"
"It's been a while since I slept in a normal bed, and I think a gentleman would sleep on the floor."
"No thanks. I can sleep in the other rooms."
"Good night then, Lelouch." She said leaving both siblings.
"Big brother, what are we going to do?" it was Nunnally's question.
"We will discuss it in the morning. I'm exhausted."
She nodded and left, knowing how tired Lelouch was.
A few days later at Ashford, everything seemed normal even with an uninvited guest. But news of Zero's action came out causing civil unrest. News about a new governor would be assigned area 11 would come to maintain order.
Lelouch was, as usual, going to class along with the student council as was normal, but deep down there were many questions about the woman C.C.. That title couldn't just be her name. She didn't answer any questions and Lelouch didn't push, everyone has their secrets including him.
But either way, what's important was that someone was coming to take control of area 11, probably Cornelia. Knowing her she would be ruthless to search for Zero and avenge Clovis.
As the class finished for the day, Lelouch went towards the clubhouse to train for the inevitable fight with Cornelia, while Rai said he wanted to venture to Shinjuku Ghetto to see all the aftermath of the battle. He wanted to record it in a written article knowing that the pen is mightier than the sword.
Kallen wanted to talk with Lelouch, everything regarding the consequences of their actions was still fresh in their mind. The reason why she and the others were reckless was due to the death of her brother Naoto; they wanted to avenge him but instant caused more death.
As of right now, she walking towards the forest as Sayoko guides where her master was, it wasn't just Lelouch she saw the little Nunnally who was practicing using the sword as she was sparing with Lelouch as he had the advantage.
"Kallen, you're here!" Nunnally shouted.
"How?" Kallen was surprised that the blind girl knew who she was.
"I heard footsteps and you smell of rice and seaweed, which is your favorite onigiri."
She blushed knowing how her love of Japanese food gave her away. "You got me Nunnally but I'm surprised that you can fight for being –" She tried politely to say it.
"I trained hard along with Lelouch. It has helped with my legs' rehabilitation and increasing my other senses." She didn't find its offense.
"So, since I know this isn't a social gathering, what's up?" Lelouch sheathed his training sword.
She swallowed the lump in her throat while trying to convey her words. "Lelouch, after much thinking, I believe we need to think bigger to avoid more consequences. I already told you about my past." Kallen had previously told Lelouch about her life as he was the first one to tell her about the tragedy and of course, still kept the secret about him being a prince. Kallen told him about how happy her life was before the invasion and her brother's demise by Britannia. It could be said their background was a similar tragedy.
"We need your help."
"I refuse." That wasn't the response she wanted. "Kallen, what are you fighting for? Revenge, freedom to regain back the lives we lost, or for the Japanese?"
"Of course, I'm fighting for Japan!"
"Even if your actions have dire consequences." She flinched hearing that, remembering the Shinjuku massacre was their fault.
"Then tell me Kallen; rhetorically speaking, what happens if you and the others manage to free Japan from Britannia. Then what? Punish the innocent Britannians, leave them to the wolves? Then what of the other Nation like E.U., the Chinese federation, everyone who has eyes on Japan? What if Britannia decided to attack again but you can't repel back? How are you going to govern the country if some random person even worse became the prime minister?"
Those were the questions that Kallen couldn't even answer. She couldn't do that; she remembered how Nina was almost been assaulted by the Japanese who took on her out of spite.
"I don't know," was her honest answer. She and her friends had no plans beyond liberation.
"Kallen, listen. I'm not fighting for just Japan, but for the world, to erase this corrupted system where the strong can push around the weak. I'm fighting for a world where people can be equal in footing no matter who or what they are. A happy but understanding world. I'm trying to break the wheel." He patted her shoulder. "You need to discuss with your comrades what they truly want, then we'll talk again."
Nodding, she said, "I understand. We need to think bigger. Thank you, oh wise and powerful Lelouch-dono." The sarcasm dripped off of that last sentence.
Nunnally chuckled.
"I'm not that old." She had left by now.
"Is this alright big brother?"
"That needs to be in their minds; they need to focus on the bigger picture, and trust in each other if we're going to work together in the future."
Meanwhile Aseec…
Cecile and Llyod were reading up on the events happening since Zero made his debut and confession to killing Clovis, as well as Clovis' crimes behind the massacre and his secret project. They already heard Fukushima, Kochi, and Hiroshima were under terrorist attack. With Clovis dead and no one who could presume governing area 11 they became bold enough.
Enough to attack.
The higher-ups were looking for those involved with the orange including tight-lipped Bartley and Jeremiah who were questioned out of suspicion. They couldn't find anything as such the Mangrove reputation was tarnished along with the purebloods.
Britannia military wasn't the only one affected by Zero's actions. The Japanese liberation front was discussing what to do.
"Avenge them, Todoh," Kusakabe suggested. "Britannia is in chaos thanks to Zero. Now is the time for us in the Japan Liberation Front to make our debut!"
"Keep calm Kusakabe," Todoh replied. "It's too early to make our move, and we're not ready."
Kusakabe scoffed. "We have to get revenge for what Clovis has done… make all Britannia's pay for what happened to Shinjuku."
Todos narrowed his eyes, saying, "Kusakabe, I'm warning you, don't do anything foolish."
XXX
Kururugi Suzaku was released from his prison as they lacked evidence. During that he met a girl with pink hair that had just dropped off on him and introduced herself as Euphie. Despite the company, all he could think of was Zero.
Suzaku fought the masked man and couldn't put a scratch on him. His swordsmanship was both powerful and beautiful; it was like a dance as opposed to swordsmanship. The fear of facing him again caught his face.
Euphie then requested that she wanted to visit Shinjuku to give her respects to the departed.
Meanwhile, the remaining purists led by Kewell prepared for vengeance, especially toward Jeremiah. Including Kewell who was disowned, they all blamed him for the predicament.
Rai was at Shinjuku taking pictures for his article about the massacre; he wanted to show that the eleven didn't deserve to die the way they did. He wanted Ashford to feel emphatic.
Ever since he lost his memories Rai had been a big help to Lelouch, especially about Knightmare frames as he was the one that fixed the club. His insight brought to light the new system uses spiritual energy to increase the capability of the frame. His pen pal Rakshata Chawla helped him learn about certain cybernetics through the net.
They're also how he knew the breathing styles and the Nichirin blades, one of which was in his grasp holding for dear life by the time Milly and Lelouch found him. The blade was white with a small blue hilt when he was holding it.
He thought that becoming a journalist for the school paper might give students awareness of Britannia's corruption and the war.
Then he heard a shout and followed.
Tamaki was being manhandled by the traitor Kururugi after he defended the two students who took pictures; he declared it to be disrespectful to the dead. Just because the Shinjuku incident was their fault didn't mean he liked someone taking pictures for fun. After that, they left the traitor alone as the two students accused of him not handling him like a slave.
Rai hiding from sight, heard this took a pebble and threw it hard at one of the student's knees as he yelped in pain. His camera broke by accident, leading to him blaming the eleven. And the pink hair girl slapped the students, which even surprised Rai. They just left after that incident.
"I hope I'm not interrupting." Rai decided to make his presence towards the two. "I heard about what happened and you've earned my respect.
"Think nothing of it," Euphie assured. "I just couldn't stand what they were doing. It was despicable."
Rai nodded. "Yes, I agree," Euphie looked over to Suzaku, "Suzaku…"
"Huh?" Suzaku replied.
"Are you okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine," Suzaku said with a smile.
Euphie smiled and then looked at Rai, saying, "I take you to go to the same school as those boys judging by your uniform."
"Yes, I'm a student at Ashford Academy, I'm Rai Watsons," Rai answered.
"Ashford…." Euphie spoke thinking that name was familiar.
"And you're Suzaku Kururugi, right?"
"Y-Yes," Suzaku replied with a nod.
Rai decided to make conversation. "Yeah, I saw you on the news last night. It's a good thing isn't it, that you were proven innocent of Clovis's death."
"Yeah…" Suzaku said with a nod but felt uncomfortable hearing it.
"And you Miss?" Rai asked looking at the pink hair girl.
"I'm Euphie. It's nice to meet you Rai Watsons." Euphie smiled.
Rai nodded as Suzaku walked over to the statue.
"May I ask you something Rai?" Suzaku asked. "What brings you here in Shinjuku?"
"I came to write an article for the school newspaper," Rai said as he looked over to the memorial area, "and to pay my respect to those that died here."
"What reason do you want to write?" There was a hint of anger in her voice and he didn't need to know why.
Rai decided to explain. "I want those in Ashford to understand how war affects everyone. Euphie, the eleven, and the Japanese are no less human than the rest of us; just because we share different cultures or skin color others feel entitled to put themselves above them. My article will be to help them see a different perspective."
"That's amazing! Is it not marvelous how you want to convey through the power of words, Rai?!" Euphie said with much admiration that someone else was like her helping the Japanese.
"Yes… I know it's not much but it's still a start."
Euphie just shook her head. "No, Rai whatever you're doing is good enough, and I believe might work."
Suzaku was watching both Britannians and was surprised that there was another person like Euphie.
"Can I ask you something Suzaku?" Rai asked, catching the aforementioned person's attention. "…Do you still plan to continue to serve in the military?"
"Yes, I do." Suzaku nodded without a hint of hesitation.
"Even though you were being accused of something they knew you didn't commit, from what was said last night by Zero, they knew you were innocent but were going to use you as a scapegoat for their agenda and they didn't bother to do a real investigation." Rai looked at Suzaku.
"It is true…but I believe that it can change, that if someone works hard within the system, then it can be better so that something like what happened to me doesn't occur again."
"Suzaku, do you believe that?" Euphie asked.
"Yes, I do."
"I don't know, it's just…no offense Suzaku, but I can't see how that will work with the way things are right now with Britannia." Rai may have amnesia, but it didn't mean that he should be blind to the world's situation.
"Even with what's going with Britannia as a fact, I still have to try."
"May I ask Suzaku why you're determined to do so?" Euphie was puzzled.
Suzaku looked at the stone monument. "When I was ten years old, the world seemed like a sad place for me."
"I mean seven years Britannia already conquer Japan and turned it into area 11," Rai said.
"Yes… starvation, disease, corruption, war, terrorism, this unending cycle of hatred… someone has to break that cycle."
"Even though you pointed all these things out…"
"Of course, I doubt that anyone can make all the terrible things go away, but I don't want to lose any more loved ones. Maybe there was a way to at least have a world without war."
"Suzaku, that's…" Rai frowned knowing what he wished was a fantasy. War had been engraved in humanity's genes since the first spear.
"How would you go about it to try to do that? When you say you don't want to lose anyone else, do you mean like your father, Prime Minister Kururugi?" Euphie asked again.
"I don't know how it should be but if I stop," Suzaku took out his father's pocket watch and looked at it, "my father's death will be in vain."
They suddenly heard an explosion coming from the old stadium. Within its faded structure, there were five Sutherlands. Four were piloted by Kewell and three other members of the Purist Factions equipped with Jousting Lances against one by Jeremiah.
Euphie, Suzaku, and Rai kept watching as they saw a trailer pull up and park. The door opened revealing Lloyd and Cecile.
"Suzaku!" Cecile called out.
"Miss Cecile!"
Suzaku responded as he approached them with Euphie and Rai following him.
"It's dangerous here, get in!" she shouted, pointing to the infighting that was happening.
"It seems that the Purist Faction members are fighting each other. We should get out of here. It's a shame that you were acquitted, for now, you have to work for me again." Lloyd just smirked.
"Wait, please! Isn't this a good opportunity to get battle data for the Lancelot?" Cecile was surprised and Lloyd grinned happily to hear what Suzaku had just said.
"Suzaku, are you…?" Euphie was concerned.
Suzaku nodded and faced both Euphie and Rai, "Euphie, Rai, I'm sorry, but we have to say goodbye here."
"You are going to stop the fighting with the Purist Faction." Rai didn't like how this was going. It's more like Suzaku wanted to intervene with the infighting.
"Yes, I have to do this. I'm sure I can stop them with the Lancelot; it was a pleasure meeting both of you." Suzaku smiled and nodded, one identical to one Lelouch warned Rai about.
He was going to die.
Euphie gave a slow blink before saying, "I understand… in fact, I would like that to happen. I need to speak to a certain someone."
"To who?" Suzaku asked curiosity.
"Yes, I want to speak with the man who led the false accusation against you… I need to speak to Jeremiah Gottwald." Euphie said with determination.
Suzaku, Lloyd, and Cecile were surprised and Rai raised his eyebrow wondering how Lelouch and Nunnally were going to react that someone was this suicidal or naive or probably both.
XXX
The situation was chaotic. The purist was gunning down Jeremiah, vehemently blaming him for their predicament. He pleaded that he knew nothing, not even the secret project, despite Prince Clovis trusting him. But, that meant nothing to people who needed a scapegoat.
As Jeremiah was about to finish him off, Suzaku's timely intervention in the Lancelot stopped the purist. As well, Villetta arrived for assistance, turning the tide of the battle completely one-sided in the Lancelot's favor.
But then, chunks of debris from the building flew straight towards Euphie.
"Look out!" Rai screamed, but by pure luck, the pink hair girl tripped. The debris missed as she ran towards the battle despite Rai's insistence and attempts to stop her. Even though Kewell would then use chaos mine to kill Jeremiah, with Euphie the Lancelot shielded against the attack.
"Your Highness, are you all right?" Jeremiah asked out of concern.
"Wait, what?" Kewell said in shock.
"Kewell, you fool! Do you not know who this is?" Jeremiah said angrily.
"Wait Euphie, are you…" Suzaku asked.
It was then Euphie knew that enough was enough. "Everyone, lower your weapons!" Euphie ordered as she continued to walk forward, "In my name, I command you!"
Kewell looked at the pink-haired girl and realized what that meant. "It… can't be… but it's true, she is…"
"I am Euphemia li Britannia, the third princess of Britannia!" Euphie declared strongly.
Suzaku was speechless. This whole time she was her?
Rai stood by, impressed by what he heard. It didn't dwell at the moment as he took pictures of the scene; it would make a great story for the papers.
"I will be taking command here, now move back. You will stop this foolish fighting immediately!" Euphemia declared for all to hear.
Lloyd and Cecile were watching with taciturn amazement. The latter even asked, "Lloyd, did you know who she was?"
"I did," Lloyd said with a smile. "She was a student so she was never seen in public."
Kewell and his cohorts were still in shock seeing the third Britannia princess and then they had their Knightmares kneel, including Villetta and Jeremiah.
"We are truly sorry Your Highness! Please forgive our insolence." All could see how quickly Kewell mended.
Euphie narrowed her eyes at him and his three cohorts, not buying it.
"Your Highness! Please forgive me. I didn't realize who you were," Suzaku spoke as he rushed towards Euphie and bowed to her.
"Don't worry about it," Euphie assured as she smiled at Suzaku. "I decided not to tell you who I was."
"Excuse me, Princess Euphemia," Rai called as he closed in next to Suzaku, "Are you hurt? I apologize if I offended you in some way." He bowed similarly to the others.
"It's fine Rai," Euphie assured while looking at Rai with a smile before it converted into a downcast expression.
"I loved my brother Clovis, he was very dear to me." Her words exuded sadness. "However, what my brother was doing here in Shinjuku is inexcusable. To take human life is bad enough; to do so without remorse was the line."
Eyes on Suzaku with determination, she continued: "Suzaku, just as you lost your father to the war, I'm sure there are people here who have lost their loved ones from the unjustified massacre here. Suzaku, based on what you said, I ask of you… will you help me?"
Suzaku was surprised. "Me?"
"Yes, you will help me so that a repeat of what Clovis did never occurs. That is what I desire Suzaku."
Suzaku was amazed and knelt before Euphie. "I am unworthy of your kindness." Suzaku lowered his head. "If it pleases you, then I will do everything in my power to assist you."
"I'm glad to hear. And please, both of you, call me Euphie." Euphie spoke this to the two people that she befriended.
While Rai was bowing, there was a lot of thought about this situation, especially how she dodged the debris. That wasn't pure luck; she pretended to trip to hide that she dodged with minimum effort.
XXX
Area 11's Government Bureau
There were two file lines of soldiers standing at attention. Euphie, having changed into her formal dress, was walking between the two lines. She stopped before her older sister Cornelia, with her Glaston Knights standing in attention through the screen.
"I've heard what you did Euphemia, You shouldn't be so reckless," Cornelia screamed furiously.
"I'm sorry sister," Euphie responded, "but I—"
"Call me Viceroy here, Sub Viceroy Euphemia. The distinction is necessary between us in this matter."
"…Yes, I understand Viceroy."
Cornelia nodded with approval and a smile. "Excellent, I'll be in area 11 in a few days. Be well Euphie."
"Yes, sister."
Once the communication cut off, Euphemia released the breath that she was holding before she left for her room alone. She removed her royal clothes leaving her in her undergarments including a sports bra before going to a secret room. Inside was sports equipment used to build muscle.
Euphie did everything to hide her secret. After Lelouch and Nunnally were exiled, she started having dreams of someone. As someone.
As an incredibly strong woman named Mitsuri Kanroji. This morphed her body as well, making her stronger than normal women.
Kanroji had an Abnormal Muscular Constitution, making her muscles eight times denser than normal humans. Despite how thin her limbs were, she possessed unbelievable strength and endurance surpassing three sumo wrestlers. It also rose her appetite to their level.
With the help of her constitution, Mitsuri possessed a level of physical strength superior to average humans, matching that of Giyu, Kyojuro, and Sanemi. When she was 13 months old, Mitsuri possessed enough arm strength to lift a rock weighing 15 kg
But such abnormality made her an outcast and Euphemia felt a connection with her as they were similar in a way.
She remembered how she kept getting hungry very fast despite the royal chef cooking an entire course meal fit for five. Then it changed to ten; this wasn't puberty or a phase as others said.
But certainty was that in the Pendragon everyone knew her body didn't change no matter how much she consumed food. Her body also grew to allow her to lift things heavier than her weight.
The only one aware was the knight of Bismark, Waldstein; he saw the princess lifting weights like they were pillows. While embarrassed, she was approached for her potential. Of course, she had to explain it was a growth spurt since a dream causing this change would be inconceivable.
And that's how the knight became her mentor after offering this proposal. While she accepted after conflicting thoughts, it came with conditions; no one else would know, especially her sister.
As the years passed Euphemia's strength was almost equal to a knight of the round. But then came Cornelia's campaign as commander and bringing Euphemia wherever she went, disrupting her training.
She never did skip her training luckily, and when she came to area 11 she dreamt about Mitsuri again, featuring her Love Breathing.
XXX
Rai was discussing the situation about what he saw at Shinjuku, perplexing both Nunnally and Lelouch that their half-sibling was in area 11 as Sub Viceroy for a moment before Cornelia's arrival.
"So Suzaku was the pilot of the white frame?"
"Yes, Lelouch. I saw him get on the Lancelot as they called it."
Lelouch gritted his teeth hard knowing his friend not only had no spirit but was the pilot of the Lancelot. The question was why. Suzaku held pride in his countrymen, treating hearing his people slaughtered for no reason akin to someone killing his relatives. And he didn't care.
Nunnally was sad; she was happy Suzaku was alright but still. "Something must have happened to Suzaku's big brother. He would never join Britannia even if he knew the truth."
That was the question; there must have been some trauma as a deciding factor. It happened to Tanjiro after all. "We'll worry about it later. Cornelia is coming and they need preparations."
While everyone was busy, Rai was using the pictures he took to write his article about the Shinjuku massacre. He also sent a picture to any journalist he can think of to know about what was going to happen to princess Euphemia after she almost got killed by purist infighting.
XXX
A few days later Cornelia arrived in area 11 after the conclusion of her campaign conquering the middle east Federation (postponed as they say) and she was out for blood. With the corrupted bootlickers handled with an iron fist, she turned her attention to questioning Jeremiah Gottwald about Orange. Again, he knew nothing, which still rose suspicion as he was closest to his highness. A scapegoat.
Cornelia already had Dalton interrogate the purist to no avail. Jeremiah knew nothing about the Clovis Secret project even the name Orange.
Kewell and his men were already tortured after their near-fatal attempt on Princess Euphemia. But their lives were spared as they held use. Instead, like Jeremiah, their titles and rank were stripped.
She had a bigger migraine dealing with the limited information regarding this Zero. He sliced the Knightmares using a katana, but there much have been more to it. Maybe a trick.
"Sister, may I come in?"
"Of course Euphie. What is it?" Euphemia entered the room.
"I've seen Clovis's body the other day, and his face was peaceful."
Cornelia was puzzled, only because her sister felt the same as her. Clovis appeared joyous, like a burden upon him was gone. It stuck at the back of her head.
"So how's the situation in area 11?"
"It's chaos. Whatever Clovis did was incompetent."
"Oh, I spoke to Gottwald and the situation about Orange is kept secret even from his knights and us."
"Of course it is. Whatever his involvement is will be kept secret from anyone. I only managed to get the title Code R."
"Ooh, ominous."
Mentally agreeing with her, Cornelia pondered the photo of a familiar green-haired girl on the table.
Lelouch could only gape and widen his eyes in shock to see a familiar face in a school uniform, now introducing himself in front of the class.
"I will be joining the student body of Ashford Academy, beginning today. My name is Suzaku Kururugi. I am pleased to make your acquaintance."
"That's him, isn't it?"
"The Eleven?"
"He's an Honorary Britannian."
"Why the heck is he doing here?"
"He was the one Zero rescued, right?"
All the other students at their desks, including the student council, couldn't contain their surprise to see not only an Honorary Britannian in school clothes but the one who had been involved in the Orange Incident concerning Zero. whispers going on about the eleven already
"Thank you, Mr. Kururugi, You can take a seat now." Suzaku nodded and went to take a seat in a vacant spot.
Soon, the class was dismissed. But Suzaku felt a bit different in Ashford as the eyes of Britannia didn't have the resentment as he thought. There were some but others had pity and understanding. Until he saw Lelouch did something.
XXX
Rooftop…
"Seven years since we used this signal." He pulled the neck of his uniform, and that made Suzaku smile nostalgically. "Long time, huh?"
"Meeting on the roof like the old days," Suzaku said.
"Yeah. I'm glad you're okay. I've been worried."
Lelouch smiled. "Alive and kicking, thanks to you." He narrowed his eyes almost choking on his words. "You almost died to protect me."
"I was just returning the favor from seven years ago." Suzaku took a moment to sigh, before he asked, "What were you doing in that truck in the first place?"
"It was an accident," Lelouch said honestly. "A truck crashed in the construction, and I thought people were hurt. I was going in to help and well… things happen."
"You mean…"
"Yeah… When I tried calling if the driver could hear us, the truck suddenly pulled out and we found ourselves stowed away by accident."
"It was terrorists…" Suzaku said, with a look of concern. "My unit was told that it was poison gas… but actually, it was a girl."
"Yeah…" Lelouch said.
"So, what happened? When I was shot… how did you escape the royal guard?"
"There was an explosion. I was trying to follow the people with me, but somehow I was knocked out. Next thing I knew… I was safely outside of Shinjuku."
"I see…" Suzaku's face softened a bit. "So, what about your name? Do I still call you Lelouch?"
"The records count my old identity among the dead. I go by Lelouch Lamperouge, now."
"Oh." Suzaku understood.
"Still, this school is a bit different. I didn't see anyone showing resentment toward me."
"It's probably my fault." This took Suzaku by surprise. "I found a way to help others in need."
"That," Suzaku paused, "uncharacteristic of you to do."
"Seven years can change a man." Lelouch thought back to the reason why but didn't bother delving in. "And you? What happened at the court-martial? And why did you enroll at this school?"
He smiled. "That surprised me too. Like, what are the odds we'd end up at the same school? Truth is… someone arranged for me to receive a proper investigation. And that person said that a certain 17-year-old should be in school."
XXX
Suzaku froze upon seeing a face he had not in seven long years. There sat Nunnally, on a chair, and she had grown. What was once curly pigtails had grown out into long wavy hair. He almost gulped, but he overcame and knelt at Nunnally's level. He looked at Lelouch who nodded, allowing him to take the girl's hand with both of his.
The blind girl gasped when she felt the palm of his hands in hers until she recalled it immediately.
"This hand…" Lelouch smiled. "Thank heaven!" Nunnally wept with relief.
"I knew it! I knew you'd be all right!"
"It's been a long time, Nunnally," Suzaku said as he smiled.
An hour later, the reunited trio shared a lovely dinner while reminiscing happier times. "I want to show you something." Nunnally promptly stood up normally, causing Suzaku's eyes to fall out.
"Nunnally! you can walk?!"
"Yes. it took years of hard work, and it was worth the effort!"
Words couldn't describe what Nunnally endured, but to him, it felt miraculous. "I'm very happy for you."
"Suzaku's enrolled as a student at Ashford Academy now," Lelouch spoke. "So, you can see him anytime you want to."
Nunnally was very excited. "Is that true?!"
"Well, I still have military duties. I can't be here every day."
"Oh, you're… you're still in the military?" Nunnally's smile faded, knowing fully what that meant.
"Don't worry. I've been re-assigned to the engineering corp. It's a lot less dangerous." Suzaku smiled reassuringly.
While that gave her relief, it provided Lelouch pause as he collected the plates. "Oh, cool. Engineering, huh?"
"Oh, let me help you!" Suzaku said, acting on instinct.
"You just sit down. Unlike seven years ago, we get to be your hosts now." That made Suzaku pause and smile. "It's funny, but you're a lot more mellow than you used to be."
"And you're a bit rougher, but still the same," Suzaku sat back down.
Lelouch chuckled."Heh… I suppose. Anyway, you should meet with the student council tomorrow."
"Lelouch I don't want to put you into-"
" Stop right there Suzaku please everyone in the student council is a good person and you can trust them to accept you being Japanese, besides we can spend more time together by you becoming a member, won't that makes Nunnally happy."
"But-"
"No, but Suzaku just accept my brother's suggestion." The little angel gave him the sad smile.
"Alright, Nunnally you win. No one can say no to that."
"I'll get more tea." Lelouch left out with the teacup entering the kitchen. There, C.C. leaned against a wall with crossed arms.
Before he could ask what she wanted, she spoke, "That boy in there is the Britannian soldier from Shinjuku. Is that wise?"
"Don't worry. He's an old friend from the past."
The next day at the student council room…
Everyone saw Lelouch bringing the eleven inside the student council. Their reaction was a complete shock.
"This is Suzaku Kururugi, my friend," Lelouch said, causing everyone to look at him in surprise again.
He looked to Milly. "Madam President, would you permit him as a member of the student council? The rules are clear: all students are required to join a club, although…"
"Well, you are the Vice President, so I suppose I can't refuse," Milly said before smiling. That surprised most of the student body, including Nina, while Rivalz, Shirley, and Kallen smiled.
"Hi there, I'm Shirley. It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Oh, right, I'm Rivalz."
"Milly Ashford, the Student Council President, of course."
"We've already been acquainted, Suzaku." Rai introduced himself.
Kallen smiled and realized the tide was turning for the best. "Hello, I'm Kallen. Kallen Stadtfeld."
Nina stood back with a very nervous and fearful feeling when she glanced at Suzaku. In her heart, she still held fear and grudge for him, but she remembered Lelouch's words. Suzaku was different, so she should at least give him the benefit. "My name is Nina Einstein. Hello to you."
Suzaku couldn't believe what he was seeing. These Britannians were letting him in; their smiles were as real as their atmosphere. He glanced at Lelouch who nodded, and he smiled. "Thank you. The pleasure's all mine."
Kallen, looking at Suzaku, reminded her of a conversation with her friends after conveying her message from Lelouch. Some took a lot to take in the information; it gave them time and a lot to think about before they decided to do anything first.
Then an emergency call from the academy intercom commanded everyone to the auditorium.
The whole student body gathered in the assembly to watch a broadcast from Pendragon. It was going worldwide as the Emperor spoke about Clovis' death, essentially turning his passing into propaganda. It worked too as those in Pendragon were riled up, declaring throughout the city:
"ALL HAIL BRITANNIA!"
For Lelouch, he still hated the Emperor but at the same time, he pitied the man. All that power and he couldn't use it for the benefit of others. He was deplorable, demeaning, and demonic, just as Muzan Kibutsuji had been.
He was better, but he could never be the same as Tanjiro. Still, nothing would stop Lelouch from brightening a better future for the world.
As you might notice there's no cat chase scene as Lelouch wasn't that careless when hiding his mask. So Arthur didn't cause the so-called incident.
During the time Lelouch showed his way to those in Ashford and his kindness gave a lot of students to be more open-minded about the eleven as they sympathize with their plight. As Tanjirou helped to make himself better.
Nina's situation as she didn't get assaulted as such she has no fear towards Suzaku but is still afraid of him a bit and with Lelouch's encouragement, she tries to be brave for once.
Nothing much action.
Mitsuri idea with Euphemia came because of the pink hair and gave me an idea of what would happen if Euphemia had a monstrous strength.
An omake idea
Star wars Rebels x Kimetsu no Yaiba.
Ezra and Kanan were facing the Sith lord Darth Vader in a one-sided battle. Vader was toying with them, treating the two as Padawans at the origin of their training. He could see their attacks and movements swiftly.
Still, it was a perfect opportunity to test their skills and power in the Force. But it was disappointing.
"Ezra, he's too strong! We can't beat him!"
"We have to try!"
Kanan went in for a stab, easily anticipated and parried.
Ezra closed his eyes for a brief moment, thinking of anything he could do to get themselves out of this situation. That was when a memory long forgotten resurfaced:
There, standing before him in the dark shadows of his mind was a boy named Tanjiro. The boy drew a black katana and held it before him, water splashing off with each movement.
Vader threw Kanan aside with a psychic push, eyes set on the little one. He had to put an end to this farce by killing them, starting with the weakest. But staring at him through his black mask, he felt something.
The boy was breathing slowly. Through the Force, the Sith Lord felt the calming splash of water. It flowed like a stream around the boy before manifesting.
"Very interesting."
Zeb saw this and asked, "When the heck could Ezra do this?"
"You tell me!" shouted Sabine while preparing the detonators.
Kanan was also surprised to see Ezra's different stance and the force flow like water around him as water manifested by the force physically.
Vader felt a bad premonition before using a motion with his free hand. The ground rose into a boulder and flew at the boy in anticipation of his next move before Ezra sprinted toward him. His attack was sliced with ease, but in a brief moment, Vader saw that the sides sliced weren't melted or burnt.
They were wet.
"Water Breathing!" shouted Ezra as he got near. The combination of heat and water produced steam to blind the Sith Lord. "First Form! Water Surface Slash!"
Ezra stopped to Vader's right, passing by him while kneeling. The man in black watched as his mechanical hand fell to the floor along with the crimson Lightsaber still held.
The fighting stopped as everyone just witnessed the impossible; the Stormtroopers who knew about Vader's strength were shocked to see their lord lose a limb. Even the ghost crew couldn't let their eyes go seeing it.
Kanan was even more perplexed. There was no way his apprentice could close the gap of power between him and Vader.
"Impressive…" Darth Vader spoke, ominous yet undeterred by Ezra's rive action. Whatever it was, it wouldn't happen again as he saw the boy lacked the oxygen to continue.
"It's been some time since I've lost a limb. You may be too dangerous to let live." The Force retrieved the star sword in his left hand to finish the job.
But that was when the AT-ST exploded. This distraction allowed Kanan to escape along with the others. As the ghost crew was safe, Kanan addressed the elephant. "Who taught you how to do that?"
"You wouldn't believe me if I told you."
This is my idea of Star wars using breathing style in a sword fight, especially Jedi.
