"Lelouch"-Speech

'What'-Thoughts

"{Live}"-Geass Command

"Stop"-Loudspeaker

"Report"-Radio

The Messenger from Kyoto

September 9th, ASEEC Mobile Base, 10:39 A.M.

Suzaku

Suzaku jolted upwards, waking up violently. He noticed he was in a medical bed, and a nearby mirror showed him that his head was bandaged.

"Suzaku!" Miss Cecile exclaimed, moving to his side.

"Miss Ce~Ugh!" Suzaku's head felt like a derailed train. He shook his head, trying to clear it up.

"You took a head injury when the Lancelot fell down the cliff. The doctors say that you should be fine within the week, though. We're still at Narita right now."

"What about the battle?" Miss Cecile looked almost shameful.

"Though technically a victory, they did far more damage to us. Reports indicate that the JFL command structure, as well as their elite forces, were able to escape. The majority of the Black Knights were also able to flee before reinforcements arrived. Squire Rai is suggesting that attacking us wasn't their goal, but simply helping the JLF escape. I can only imagine how much damage they would've done if they were actually trying to defeat us."

'They did that much damage!'

"Suzaku, what are you going to do about what Celaeno said?"

'That's right. They must've heard what Celaeno said about the relief supplies.' "Did Lloyd hear?"

"No, he was throwing another fit over the Lancelot's damage, so only I was at the comm."

'What do I do? If I tell the Viceroy, then he'll crack down on the Japanese. If I don't, wouldn't I be committing treason.'

"Did you, by chance, look into it, Miss Cecile?"

"Yes. Despite saying they're giving your people relief supplies, they've been clever. Several charity groups received 'donations' on the grounds that they be given to the Elevens. Not only that, but those charity groups were also paid to do it. Before you ask if they could've smuggled weapons, each of these groups were already checked for such things by the ghetto checkpoint guards."

"...I can't tell them. If I do, then those supplies won't be delivered, and the Japanese will suffer." Suzaku held his head down and gripped his head. "Look at me. I call their methods evil, yet I'm allowing them to happen."

"Suzaku," Cecile gently gripped his hand, "You need to understand. Just because a method is wrong doesn't make it evil. And just because it's not your method, doesn't make it wrong."

Cecile's words did not alleviate the conflict growing within him.

'Then has all I've worked for been for nothing.'

"I'm not saying the Black Knights are right for what they're doing, but not all of their actions warrant a response."

"I guess you're right."

"Oh, I just remembered. Prince Castor wanted to know when you were awake."

'Prince Castor was concerned for me?' "Where is the Sub-Viceroy now?"

"Back in Tokyo. He's currently in a meeting with the Administrative Board, who help the Viceroy help Area 11."

Viceroy Palace

Pollux

'These men are USELESS!' Pollux thought as the meeting continued. 'Was Clovis not even trying to run an Area.'

"The Japan Liberation Front was nearly wiped out by your Narita operation, Viceroy," the Minister exclaimed, "Now, we're hunting down the survivors, one by one."

Minister Allen Crechsaw was the Prime Minister of Area 11, a man with short brown hair and blue eyes. His role was to assist Prince Clovis with running Area 11. However, it seems he was as bad at his job as Clovis was.

'Or maybe he was just as greedy as my late brother.' "Are you being sarcastic? Our forces are still reorganizing after that embarrassment."

"No, I-I didn't mean~"

"The Occupational Government is responsible for this," Guilford interrupted, "They've done nothing about Area 11's subways and mining railways. In the ghettos, they falsify the registries and property deeds as the rebellion spreads unchallenged."

"Ah, the subway tunnels stretch over the whole country. We can't just fill them in. We don't have the budget."

"The terrorists are using them as their strike bases and escape routes."

"But-but, Prince Clovis instructed us," the Minister gulped when Prince Castor gave him a harsh look, "He said forcing them would fuel the rebellion and give the Chinese Federation an excuse to attack."

"Oh," Castor retorted, "And they don't have one already. Zero's forces are getting stronger every day."

"Vice-Minister," Dalton interjected, "Internal Affairs has appointed a special group of Elevens to self-govern this Area, isn't that right? A group who are called the NAC. When we stormed Narita, we looked for evidence of the NAC's conspiracies. But it was buried by the landslide. Still, our suspicions are high. If we suppress them now…" He looked to him and his brother to finish his sentence.

'From a military standpoint, it's the most logical choice. However,' he looks to his brother, who instantly understood what Pollux was mentally asking.

"Our relationship with the Elevens would hurt, but this is short term damage. In the long term, almost every terrorist group in Area 11 will have their supplies cut off, possibly even Zero's forces. This will allow us to rebuild that damage done if we shut them down."

"Wait," the Minister retorted, standing up, "Please! These are just rumors. There's no evidence of that at all. If you suppress them, then the Eleven's economy will certainly collapse. That means no tax revenue to send to the Homeland. Also, it's a prime directive of the Empire that Numbers should take care of their own kind."

'Which makes no sense. You just conquered their home. Putting them in charge may seem politically sound, but it's just inviting trouble.' "What have you done to find the Black Knights?"

"We analyzed the shield machine they left showing Zero was behind the Narita operation. But, that's all we've got. You can't squeeze information from corpses."

"In other words, you can't catch Zero, and you don't want to make a move on the NAC."

"Minister," Castor continued, "Do you understand the meaning of incompetence? It's when people can't get results!"

'This meeting is going to take all day!'

Unknown Location

Kaguya

In a secret location, the Six Houses of Kyoto, the main organizer and supplier for Japanese resistance, were currently having a meeting. They had chosen one of their member's winter homes, and had gathered in the garden, under the cover of night. Five of them were elderly men, and were gathered around a small fire.

Kaguya Sumeragi, a girl of fourteen with long black hair and emerald green eyes, was also there, seated behind a curtain blind. Though she was young, she had as much say in Kyoto as the rest of them, as it was her words that convinced them to give Zero, her future husband, the Guren Mk-2.

"So," one of the men said, looking at a report, "The Twin Demons have gone this far already."

"With the Liberation Front currently on the run," another continued, "The last embers of Japan are dying away."

"No," a third retorted, "They may be on the run, but Tohdoh is still strong, still fighting."

"Perhaps," the fourth retorted, "But he and Katase are separated, with no way to reach each other. Even with the custom Burais, I don't think there's hope."

'That's because you aren't looking forward.' "There is hope."

"Mm?"

"The Black Knights?" the fifth member inquired, "You've been infatuated with Zero ever since he rescued Suzaku Kururugi. We even sent him the Guren Mk-2."

"They may be powerful," the third replied, "However, they clearly don't respect us. They melted down the Burais we sent them to make Britannian Sutherlands."

"Because," Kaguya retorted, "Zero understands that only a skilled pilot could use a Burai to beat a Sutherland. He would rather use Knightmares equal to his enemies, and rely on the skill of his warriors."

"I've heard," the second continued, "That he's been making infantry rifles that can destroy Knightmares."

"Ridiculous," the fifth retorted, "There's no way Infantry can take on Knightmare with simple rifles."

"Once more," Kaguya retorted, "You are not opening to the possibilities. Zero and Celaeno are more resourceful than we have ever given them credit for. With their hidden base, the relief supplies, and now these new rifles, they are the best chance we have of freeing Japan."

"How do we know that is what he wants?" the fourth inquired, "We still haven't discovered who his is."

"Which," the first one replied, "Is why I've sent him an invitation."

"What?"

"You can't be serious, Kirihara."

"I am," Kirihara retorted, "If he comes, I will find out who he is. We must know if his heart truly is for our people."

Kaguya huffed, but smiled, "He'll see your trap coming before the letter even reaches them."

"Oh? Explain."

"Based upon him destroying the Burais we've sent him, he clearly is not lacking in resources. The relief supplies also means he's well connected. If I have to guess, he's been preparing this for almost as long as we have. However, his massive progress indicates one possibility: He has Britannian forces on his side."

"Outrageous." The fifth retorted.

"Regardless of whether it's true or not," Kirihara exclaimed, "We shall learn his identity soon enough. Both him and his sister."

September 10th, Ashford Academy, 10:01 A.M.

Shirley

Shirley was currently sitting inside Lamperouge manor, with Milly a short distance away. The two were doing extra Student Council budgeting, though, that was the last thing on her mind.

'What should I do?' Shirley thought as she looked at the invitations. A few days ago, her father sent her two invites to the Roycee Theatre, the biggest one in all of Area 11. Instantly, her mind latched onto bringing Lelouch, however, that idea was squashed immediately.

'Not only is he with Milly, but he's a Prince. Not only was Milly a former noble lady, but she is his childhood friend. What chan~'

"Hello!" Milly exclaimed, who was now in front of Shirley, sitting on top of the table, "Earth to Shirley."

"Eep!"

"Man, you were really out of it for a moment there, Shirley. What's got you so worried? Constipated? Your monthly?"

"What? No! It's just that...well…" Milly then noticed the invitations.

"Oh, so that's how it is. You're wondering who to bring with you, but all your thoughts drift towards Lelouch."

"Ahputabate…" Shirley stopped herself, and shook her head, "He's with you. It'd be rude to invite him when he's dating you."

"Aaaah, I see now." Milly then leaned across the table, and flicked her forehead.

"Ow!"

"Even after all these years, you still haven't figured me out."

"What do you mean?"

"Okay, I'll spell it out for you: Lelouch likes you. However, while he never said it to me, I can tell he's worried he'd end up like his father in the romance department."

"But he's with you, so why woul~Wait, end up like his father?"

"Shirley, do you know how many wives Chuckles has?"

She shook her head.

"Over a hundred." Shirley jaw dropped.

'ExcusaWHAT!'

"And, can you guess how many he actually loves, and weren't just political."

"I'm going to guess not many."

"I'll do one better. How about none of them. Lelouch is unfoundly concerned that, if he starts a harem, he'd be more like his father. I've been beating it over his head these past few years that just because he likes other women does not make him more like Charles."

"B~Bu~But~"

"Okay, then I'll make this plain and simple: I don't mind sharing."

Shirley's cheeks lit up like a volcano.

'This pervert!' "Milly~" The door opened, revealing Lelouch.

"Is something up?"

"Oh, Shirley was just wondering when you were available, cause she needed to ask you something."

'Milly, you DEVIL!'

"Oookay," Lelouch replied, looking incredulously at Milly, "Why don't you ask me outside."

"Sure." Shirley got up and followed Lelouch outside, and stopped a short distance in front of the manor.

Lelouch

"So, what is it Milly says you need to ask me about?"

"Well," Shirley sheepishly replied, "My father gave me two invitations to the Roycee Theatre. His workplace is far from here, so he likes to send me gifts like this to keep my spirits up."

'Ah, I see.'

"Would you like to go with me? As friends, of course." He saw Milly's arm briefly swing past a window.

'No doubt she facepalmed. Well, I did hurt her father over a week ago. Consider this my way for atonement.' "Very well."

Shirley had a look of dumbfoundedness. "Really?" She replied, hope in her eyes.

"I've got some business to attend to, but it shouldn't be a problem. Though, you'll forgive me if I turn up late."

"Oh," Shirley replied, going back to her nervousness, "Of course."

Lelouch then walked back into the manor, leaving Shirley with her thoughts. He quickly made a beeline towards Milly who, upon entering the room, had her trademark smirk.

"You are relentless, woman."

"Hey, I'm just helping out a close friend, and now, potentially more. Speaking of helping out, how's Cornelia?"

"About to have a talk with Euphie, if my timing is correct."

Cornelia

"Cornelia," Euphie Levett venomously said, sitting on her bed while Cornelia stood near the door, "Do you have any idea how idiotic sacrificing yourself was?"

"I made a tactical decision, Euphie, and I don't regret making it. Lelouch wouldn't be able to reach me without sacrificing our army. Not only that, while my death would've been a blow to morale, it would also encourage them to never allow it to happen again, focusing~"

"I'm not talking about how Zero or the Black Knights would feel. I'm talking about how Nunnally would feel!"

'Nunnally?...Oh, dear god!' Cornelia's look of horror told Euphie that she didn't even consider that.

"Not only would Lelouch and I be devastated, but Nunnally would eventually find out that you two are leading a rebellion, one where you got killed. She'd go into a panic. She's become dependent on us ever since Marianne died. She'd use your death as a way to try to convince Lelouch that this fight isn't worth it." Cornelia stood there, shocked. "And that's not even considering how Lelouch would feel."

'Please stop, Euphie.'

"I'm not blind to your actions. For years, you've subtly conveyed the message that 'We shouldn't do this.'. You've simply wanted us to live a peaceful life away from Britannia, which, I can understand. The only reason you even joined this fight is for Lelouch's sake. And, if I can see that, Lelouch can see it as well. To him, if you died, he'd see it as his fault. That guilt would wash over him. So tell me, Cornelia, was sacrificing yourself really the tactical decision."

Cornelia at this point had a hand covering her mouth. There were no tears, but the weight of her actions was starting to show.

'Dear god, how is it that Euphie is better at this than I am.' Euphie then walked up and hugged her older sister.

"As I said years ago, all we have is each other. So please, in the future, take that into account."

Cornelia wrapped her arms around Euphie, "I'll try. But, you know I'm too militant for my own good." The two sisters separated.

"Oh, I know. Now, about me coming into the Nest, I'm not sa~"

'Oh, look at the time!' She held a hand up while the other hand went to her earpiece, mimicking as though someone was contacting her. "Sorry, Euphie, I've got a meeting to get to."

The look of Euphie's furious face showed she didn't buy it. "Oh, just like the last time! Don't you think you can just walk away. We need this ta~" Cornelia closed the door. As she walked away, she swore she could hear a teapot boiling.

The Nest, 10:42 A.M.

Lelouch

Lelouch and Cornelia, wearing their outfits but not their helmets, were currently in the Council Mobile Base, discussing both Kannon's Embrace, as well as reviewing the Narita Operation once more.

"Casualties?" Lelouch inquired.

"We lost about a quarter of our forces during the battle," Minami replied, "most of them being infantry."

"That's less than I was expecting." He said solemnly.

"Wait," Tamaki exclaimed, "Did you know we were going to lose that many?"

"Believe it or not, I predicted an almost 50% loss of infantry personnel."

"And you still put us in that situation!"

"Tamaki, this was our trial by fire. You've all fought as guerilla fighters, hit and run. You needed a taste of true combat. At Saitama, the Twin Demons didn't fight us seriously until it was too late. Here, they fought just as hard as we did. I didn't expect to actually accomplish our mission to capture or kill either of them. So the real mission was not only to severely damage their forces, which we succeeded, but to also put you all through a challenge that would force you to adjust to real warfare. I won't ask for forgiveness, but don't blame me when the experience gained speaks for itself."

The other Councilmen looked at each other, clearly understanding him, but not liking it.

"Onto other business," Cornelia interjected, "What about the town?" Kallen tensed up, a part of her not wanting to hear what she did to the village.

"Right," Minami continued, "There were several casualties, about a few dozen civilians, and nearly fifty soldiers, that were around the impact zone. However, with our agents informing the police there about the upcoming battle, the rest of the civilians were either evacuated from the town, or moved to the farthest part of the town." Kallen slumped her shoulders.

"Don't blame yourself," Lelouchexclaimed, "Given the situation, that was probably the best we could hope for."

"Alright, Lelouch," Kallen solemnly replied, "But I still don't like it."

"We'll be dealing in missions that will risk far more innocent lives. The only thing we can do is minimize that possibility, and continue our mission for those that do fall. So that no one else has to make that choice. Continue."

"Kyoto gave us some praise on the Guren Mk-2, that sounded encouraging."

"However…"

"They also criticized us on melting down their Burais."

"So what," Tamaki replied, "It's as Zero said, a Sutherland is better than a Burai. It may be a Britannia weapon, but unless Kyoto builds more of those Guren's, why downgrade our gear."

"They messed up." Lelouch exclaimed.

"Huh?"

"We haven't sent any messages to Kyoto. So how would they know we melted down their Knightmares."

Silence engulfed them. Once again, Zero's suspicions on Kyoto was proven right. They don't trust the Black Knights. More specifically, they don't trust Zero or Celaeno.

"Minami, I want you to work with MacNamara and find their spies."

"Yes, Sir."

"But, let's continue this debrief."

"Right," Minami replied, "The Arcadons were a success, and we'll be starting to have them be the standard rifle for all our infantry."

"Excellent. That should make things very interesting. Only thing that could scare a Knightmare before was a better Knightmare. Now, though, anyone can pick up an Arcadon and, with skill and luck, take down a Knightmare. Granted, it tookInoue a team of nearly twenty men, and they still needed a Knightmare to help, but the results speak for themselves."

"Not only that," Inoue replied, "But these were the prototypes. The official rifles will have improvements."

"Correct," He turns his head to his sister, "How's the state of the Britannian forces?"

"They've regrouped, but are still recovering. However, striking now may prove counterproductive. Even though a Knight of the Round is already here, attacking too much might provoke them into bringing more in. I don't want to state how bad things could get if they send someone like Luciano Bradley, the Knight of Ten."

Most of the Councilmen grimace. Though they may not have known much about Britannia's elite Knights, they all heard rumors of the Vampire of Britannia.

"Not only that, but I've rattled their ace pilot's mind."

'Ace pilot?' "Clarify."

"When I fought Suzaku Kururugi and the Lancelot, I told him of Kannon's Embrace."

"You WHAT?!" Kallen screeched.

"Dude, are you trying to hurt us?!" Tamaki continued.

'Why would she reveal such a key part of Izanagi's Burden? Unless…' "You knew he would keep his mouth shut."

"Yes. And, on the off chance he did tell his superiors, it would still help us. He has called us villains, and that our methods are wrong. Now, he has been presented with two options: keep it secret; or inform his superiors. If he keeps it quiet, it'll damage his resolve, as he would be allowing our 'unjust methods' to continue. However, should he inform his superiors, they will no doubt begin stopping all the charity groups from helping our people."

"And how does that help us?" Kento inquired angrily.

"If the Britannian Military was to stop terrorist trucks, it wouldn't help us. However, if the trucks were owned by charity groups."

Zero finished the puzzle his sister placed before him, "If they stop the trucks, the Japanese would be enraged, and more would flock to us. Not only that, the Britannia citizens would see that their own government not only doesn't care about the 'Elevens', but would actively try to ensure they suffer, once more generating sympathy. Not only that, but seeing how he caused more suffering to the people he supposedly wants to help would weaken Suzaku's resolve even further. Sister, you're finally starting to act like me."

"And you're starting to get good at commanding armies, or would you like me to tell them your first time playing Starcraft."

"Excusame!?" Tamaki screeched joyously, while the other giggled at the statement.

"That was five years ago, and you know it."

"Yes, and we've both come a long way since then."

"Also," Ohgi exclaimed, no one noticing his serious tone, "There's one more thing. Here." Ohgi was holding out a letter.

"What's this?"

"A love letter."

"I'm sorry to disappoint, Ohgi, but, outside this life, I do have a girlfriend."

Tamaki howled in laughter, while the others started laughing as well. Even Cornelia's lips tilted upward.

"No, it's from Kyoto." Everyone fell silent almost instantly. Lelouch took the letter and opened it.

Zero,

We are greatly impressed upon your actions. With very few resources, you've done great things this past month.

However, we believe you can do much more. We'd like to invite you to a meeting with a representative of ours. We believe together, we can free Japan.

Kyoto

The rest of the letter detailed the pickup point, but that didn't matter to him at the moment.

'And now they show their hand.' "They want us to join the greater resistance."

"Gah," Kallen, "I hate it when you're right."

"Sometimes, so do I, Kallen. Normally, I wouldn't bother showing up. Our finances are just fine without them. However, if they have a spy..."

"Then we can't afford not to go." Cornelia finished.

"Correct. If two groups are making separate plans without the other's knowledge, it would prove disastrous. However, they have made a big mistake in giving me the coordinates to the pickup point. Sister, I believe you'll be critical in this next endeavor.

She raised an eyebrow to him, mildly concerned about what he's planning.

Several Miles from Mount Fuji, 5:48 P.M.

Zero

Zero, Kallen, Ohgi, and Tamaki were currently in the ruins of an abandoned city near Mount Fuji. The coordinates listed detailed the meeting point, as well as the exact time. A thick fog had descended upon the area, making visibility difficult.

"I don't like this." Ohgi exclaimed.

"Same," Kallen replied, "I can already spot seven different sniper spots, thirteen with the sensors for my mask. We may have scouts patrolling the perimeter, but that's in case the Britannians show up. If Kyoto~"

"Come on, guys," Tamaki retorted, "Just because they don't trust us doesn't mean they'd try to ambush us. Those princely bastards would stomp over Kyoto without us."

"Quiet," Zero interjected, "Something's approaching."

The four turned, and saw a black car with tinted windows approaching them. It stopped in front of them, and the window rolled down.

"Please bring your command staff along," the driver said, "As per my master's instructions. Understood?"

"Very well." The four entered the car and began moving.

Narita Mountains

Suzaku

Suzaku, after having left the ASEEC mobile base, was currently surveying the infirmary areas, assisting with the recovery operation. Though, it wasn't as large as he expected it to be.

"It seems," a voice called out to him, "That the town was warned of the Viceroy's attack before it began." He turned, and saw Rai approaching him.

"What makes you say that."

"Evacuation orders by the police prior to the attack. Which is concerning. The attack was supposed to be kept in absolute secrecy. For not only the Japan Liberation Front to be ready for us and the town to begin evacuating before the attack…"

"You think that the JLF knew of the plan?"

"Unlikely, given their track record. No, I believe the Black Knights discovered our plans, and moved accordingly."

'They warned the town, thus saving lives. But, their methods are wrong.' Even Suzaku found that last thought shaky, at best. "These Black Knights."

"Hmm?"

"Zero, Celaeno, what are they trying to accomplish?"

"They want change, I would assume. Either Britannia will change its ways to placate the terrorists, or Britannia will break. That's what they hope for."

"And sacrificing lives is how they'll do it!"

"They're called Black Knights, Suzaku. They'll bloody their hands so that no one else will have to make the choice. They don't care if they're seen as villains, because, in the end, if it brings about the change they want, it doesn't matter. 'I will cast my soul into hell, so you may rise amongst angels'."

'What?' "Ummm..."

"Sorry, I read a lot of books. But it is one of my favorite quotes. I think it perfectly describes them."

'I will cast my soul into hell? So they expect to do even worse acts. 'So you may rise amongst angels.' So they want to bring about peace, but they know that they won't belong in it?'

His question to Rai was meant to alleviate his concern about not informing the Viceroy about the supply trucks. However, his mind seemed more conflicted than ever now.

Mount Fuji

Zero

"Man, how long will this take?" Tamaki complained, "I don't like being boxed in like this."

"I agree," Kallen, "Even if this is a trap, I would rather not have it in such a confined space."

The car stopped, they felt themselves sink deeper into the seats.

"We're going upward." Zero commented. After a moment or two, the lift stopped, and the car door opened.

"Sorry for the inconvenience," the driver said, holding the door, "The master is waiting for you."

The four exited the car, revealing a large room with a massive glass wall.

"Woah," Tamaki exclaimed as he ran up against the wall. The other three looked over and saw a mountain in the distance. However, a third of the mountainside was replaced with metal structures.

"This is the Fuji Mines." Ohgi commented.

"That's not possible. There's no way we could be up here."

"It has to be Mt. Fuji," Kallen retorted, "There's only one mountain like that around here!"

"That means the Sakuradite is right below us. The damn treasure that caused this whole war!"

'Which means they can't afford to have us refuse, and we'll know that.'

"You know what they do to intruders here? Execute them."

"Their power reaches all the way here? It's impressive."

"It's repulsive," Zero barked out.

"Huh?" all three of them exclaimed.

"For untold centuries, Fuji was the most sacred place in all of Japan. It's clear waters and gentle beauty inspiring countless people spiritually, creating poets, writers, scholars, and many others who could benefit the world. Now, it's a symbol of what Japan has become: a husk of a nation, being bled dry by it's new imperial masters."

"AHAHA," a voice behind them roared in laughter, "Truer words could not have been spoken."

The glass wall was then turned opaque, and the room dimmed with a red lighting to it. Zero turned, and saw three men. Two of them had black suits and sunglasses, as well as prewar earpiece comms, and prewar pistols. The third, however, was hidden behind a japanese veil, preventing anyone from seeing his face. But, to Zero, his voice was all that was needed.

'Of the five Kyoto members they could send, they send the one person who would know me. Perfect.'

"You are correct," the man said, "Fuji's state is a cruel mirror of Japan. It pains me constantly. I apologize for not showing my face. However, Zero, your face is hidden as well. Unfortunately, I cannot allow this. I cannot take the chance that you are not Japanese, and don't have Japan's interest at heart." Kallen and Ohgi tense up at the man's words.

"To trust you, I must know who you are. Therefore," the man swung out a wooden cane, "You will show me your face."

From the shadows, four Burais appeared, all leveling rifles at Zero's group. Kallen, Ohgi, and, though much slower to react, Tamaki, all stood in a half circle around Zero, arms outward, 'shielding' Zero. Kallen and Ohgi were furious, while Tamaki looked nervous

"You bastards!" Kallen roared, "After everything Zero has done, you wou~"

"Silence!" the man countered, "Now, which one of you is Ohgi?"

"That would be me." Ohgi replied, though his angered look didn't change.

"You shall remove Zero's mask."

For a moment, there was silence. When Ohgi didn't move, the Burais aimed their weapons more accurately, to emphasize a point.

"Well?"

"Do it yourself," Ohgi replied.

"What?"

"So if he isn't Japanese? What difference does his race make if he can accomplish what we've all been failing to do. The Japanese people's best interest? From all I hear of Kyoto, all you've done is supply resistance groups. Have you even bothered to try helping the ghettos themselves? Don't answer that, because I wouldn't care. Zero's first action and second actions weren't to target Britannia. It was to stop a massacre of Japanese people, and then prevent an innocent man from being executed. Zero, you were right. We don't need them! They need us!"

"WHAT!" one of the guards exclaimed, and Zero zoomed in to see the man tighten his hands around his cane.

"BAHAHA," Zero barked out, "I couldn't have said it better myself. This is the spirit of the Black Knights. It'll take a lot more than two guards with outdated pistols, and three Burais to break it, Taizo Kirihara!"

Taizo Kirihara

The guards instantly tensed up when Zero mentioned Taizo's name.

'He knows who I am?'

"Anyone who can identify him must die," one of his guards said.

"Even if it's someone like you, Zero," the other continued.

"Wait!" Taizo countered, "What do you mean three?"

Instantly, one of the Burais launched its slash harkens at the two across, taking out their guns. It activated a stun tonfa on its left arm, and slashed at the gun of the Burai next to it, dropping it and causing it to fall to the ground. It then charged at Taizo and aimed it's rifle at him, though his guards did pull out their pistols.

"If you had to ask, then your methods are sloppy and outdated," a female voice exclaimed from the Burai, "You're soft."

Taizo tightened his grip on his staff once more, as the Burai opened up, revealing Celaeno.

(Flashback, 2 Hours Ago)

Third Person

A Kyoto guard was currently near his Burai, getting it ready for when Zero's group would arrive. From there, Lord Kirihara would ambush and force Zero to remove his mask. After finishing getting his Burai ready, he left and continued his patrol. Down the hall, he saw a door to a storage room open.

He investigated, but found nothing in the doorway. After closing it, he began going down the hall, only to hear the door open again. This time, he entered the room, not noticing something behind him shimmer in the figure of a person.

Celaeno knocked out the soldier and tied him in the room, making sure to not only lock the room, but also give the man an injection that would keep him asleep for several hours. She then, still cloaked, entered the Burai, and waited for their trap to be sprung.

(Present Day)

"You'll never defeat Britannia like that."

"When did you?" One of the guards inquired, before dropping the matter and aiming at her.

"Hold on! She can fire at us with that remote. Everyone, stay back! Don't make a move!"

"Taizo Kirihara," Zero exclaimed as he walked past his shocked group, toward Taizo, "Founder of Kirihara Industries, which has a monopoly on Sakuradite mining. Formerly a key backer of the Kururugi regime. However, when Japan fell, you dodged the tribunals by collaborating with the colonial rulers. Commonly known as 'Kirihara the Traitor'. In reality, you are one of the leaders of the Six Houses of Kyoto, who support resistance groups around Japan."

"A double agent," Celaeno finished, "How cliche."

"Show some respect, you swine!"

"Quiet!" Taizo exclaimed. The last thing he wanted was for either of the two to have a reason to fire.

"You were right about one thing, though," Zero said, "Neither of us are Japanese."

'What? Then why fight for us.' Taizo noticed the three that came with Zero have a concerned look on their face, but aren't surprised by his words.

'They must already know who's under the mask.' "If you aren't Japanese, why fight for Japan? What is it that you want?"

"I have seen the suffering of your people, the suffering no doubt present in many other areas ruled by Britannia, and I wish to see that end."

"And do you believe that is possible? The only way I could imagine that being possible is with Britannia's destruction. Can you do that?"

"I will, because I must. I not only have reasons that compel me forward, but the motivation to keep going. Hehe," Zero then moved his hand to his helmet, and a whizzing sound could be heard, "I'm glad it's you I'm dealing with." He took off his helmet, revealing a young man with jet black hair and purple eyes.

'Wait, it couldn't~' Zero then pulled down the mask cloth, revealing his full face to him.

Taizo gasped, "You…?"

"It's been a long time," Lelouch softly said, "Lord Kirihara."

'But,' Taizo thought as he turned his head to Celaeno, 'That means~'

Celaeno beat him to it, taking off her helmet, revealing a woman with black hair, dark pink highlight, and indigo eyes.

"Is it really you?" Memories of his past came back. Of him with the Kururugi family, as was Kaguya, waiting to meet with four members of the Britannian Imperial Family. He saw three children, two of them kneeling to the third in a wheelchair, and a woman standing in front of them, almost guarding them.

"It's been eight years since that family received you as hostages."

"Yes," Lelouch replied, "And I appreciate you taking care of us back then."

"If I hadn't come, were you planning on taking a messenger as a hostage."

"Of course not," Cornelia retorted, "We can because we'd be able to help each other out, nothing more, nothing less."

'Oh, Britannia, how you have colossally messed up.' "So, the flowers planted eight years ago have finally bloomed." Taizo then began to laugh loudly. "OHGI!"

"Uh, yes, sir?"

"These two are true mortal enemies of Britannia. I can assume you know their faces, but not their full stores. They must be kept hidden for vital reasons. I urge you to continue placing your trust in them. In return, we will assist you with intelligence and strategic support." The tension seemed to leave the room, as Kallen and Tamaki smiled.

"Thank you, Sir."

"I am grateful," Lelouch bowed before placing his mask back on, "Lord Kirihara."

Taizo pushed the veil up, revealing himself. "Are you embarking on the path of blood?"

"If that is the only path left for me, then yes."

"Celaeno. May I have a private word with you?"

"Very well. I have my own ride home, so it's not an issue."

After a couple of moments, the only ones remaining in the room were Taizo and Celaeno. She took off her helmet once more.

"So," Taizo exclaimed, "You've finally chosen a side."

"Yes, though, not your side."

"Oh?"

"I made a promise to Lelouch. I wasn't going to abandon him. Do I agree with the path he's on? No. However, I will protect him to the best of my ability. I'm on his side?"

"So you still believe it's impossible to defeat Britannia."

"I…" Cornelia stopped herself, and looked deep in thought.

'After her actions as Narita, she can't be thinking that it isn't possible. There's something else.' "It's not that you don't think you can't win. You just don't wish to fight your family." She looked at him, slightly shocked. He smiled at her.

"Well, you can try to tread that line, but, eventually, you'll reach a point where you'll have to choose. And I'll understand no matter what choice you make." Taizo left Cornelia where she stood. He knew she'd be able to find her way out.

After all, she was able to sneak in.

Tokyo Settlement, 8:52 P.M.

Shirley

Currently, Shirley was at the Roycee Theatre, Lelouch having kept his word. Though he was an hour late, Shirley didn't care. She was on a 'date' with Lelouch, though she did specify that it was 'as friends'. The next play was about to begin, and Shirley felt a little daring. Lelouch's face looked like he wasn't into the play itself. She placed her hand upon his. Lelouch took a quick glance at his hand, and moved it out from under hers. Shirley looked dejected, Milly's point being proven wrong.

'What was I thinking? There's~' She felt something wrap around her shoulder. She looked, and saw Lelouch had stretched his arm across her back, and pulled her in. And he had a small, but genuine, smile.

'He's not smiling about the play. He's smiling because he's her with me.'

Shirley's eyes gleamed with hope as she turned her attention back to the play, leaning her head against his shoulder.

'This is the perfect night.'

Osaka City

Unknown

On the ports of Osaka City, a boat pulled.

"Alright," the sailor exclaimed, "My payment."

A man in a light blue jacket and silver hair paid the man. He had a visor on, so it was difficult to see his eyes. As he walked away, he pulled out a set of headphones.

'Such a freak,' a thought spoke to him, 'But, at least his money's good.'

'I hope she's cooking tonight,' another thought spoke, 'I'll be too tired myself.'

'My sister's birthday is tomorrow, and the delivery hasn't even arrived yet.'

'Why,' the man's own thoughts said 'Can't they all SHUT UP!?' The man put on his headphones, cranked the volume up to max, and pressed play.

"Good job," the soft and gentle voice of his true love said to him, "You can do it, Mao."

'Soon, C.C., we'll be together again.

Soon.'

Author's Notes: And so, Kyoto will now be assisting the Black Knights. In the canon story, Zero went to them because Tamaki messed up the budget, and, while he didn't need them, it would make thing easier. This time around, they didn't need Kyoto, but figured that burning that bridge would be more trouble than it's worth.

Good news: Shirley, after severe pushing from Milly, has gotten much closer to Lelouch.

Bad news: Someone close to C.C. has arrived.

With that, I hope you enjoyed, follow and favorite, leave a review, and I'll see you next time.