"Lelouch"-Speech
'What'-Thoughts
"{Live}"-Geass Command
"Stop"-Loudspeaker
"Report"-Radio
Chapter 23: The Double Edged Miracle
September 17th, Near Takayama, 12:02 P.M.
Kyoshiro Tohdoh
Tohdoh knelt down at a pillar in the middle of a forest near Takayama. It wasn't where his friend Genbu was buried, but it was close enough that it wouldn't draw attention. Since Britannia announced the death of Katase, he and the Four Holy Swords are the last significant symbols for the JLF, broken as they were.
'I wonder how you'd react to a Britannian Prince, of all people, leading the charge against Britannia, old friend. Hmph, you'd probably be stubborn about it, saying that we don't need him.'
He also knew his own men were split on the subject of the Black Knights. Senba is content knowing another force will take up the fight against Britannia, while Urabe is overjoyed, and has once asked them, after Narita, if they should find a way to contact them to join them. However, it's Chiba and Asahina that don't like them. Asahina simply doesn't like Zero, mainly because he looks up to tohdoh, and anyone perceived greater than Tohdoh shouldn't be trusted. Chiba called it a betrayal that Urabe would suggest such a thing. However, Urabe had a point. They were running out of time and space. However, his own loyalty is as stubborn as Cornelia is.
'Or was, I should say, since she's fighting against Britannia now.'
"Sir," Urabe said, "We should get moving."
"Why are we even paying respects to this traitor?" Asahina retorted.
'If only you knew the truth.'
"Sir!" Senba exclaimed. The others turned, seeing three men approaching. Tohdoh gripped his katana and stood up.
"Woah, woah," one of the men exclaimed, "Friendlies." He showed the inside of his coat, revealing a Black Knight insignia. "We've been trying to find you since Narita."
"And," Chiba scoffed, "You expect us to join you?"
"That would be preferable."
"I'd have to decline," Tohdoh replied, "My loyalty was to Katase, and now he's~"
"Alive and well."
'What?'
"Impossible." Asahina retorted.
"We got to him first, and embarrassed the Brits in the process. He heads our infantry forces. If you want, you can come an~"
Tohdoh gripped his sword. Everyone tensed up.
"You were followed."
September 18th, Ashford Academy, 2:32 P.M.
Lelouch
Lelouch finished the weekly budget schedule in the Lamperouge Manon. Since Mao was eliminated, and they didn't have any planned excursions, he felt comfortable going back to his school work. He may be a rebel leader, but he should at least attempt to do his school work. It was that, or face beration from his sister Euphie.
Euphie. When she got back, she was immediately put into the Ashford Medical. Luckily, they were able to keep the school students from finding out what happened, and simply said she got into a car accident. However, the Student Council knew the truth. Nina was in a state of shock when they were told, and stayed in Lamperouge Manor for the rest of the day. Shirley was also depressed, but glad that Mao was gone, and spent the next day simply working in the Nest alongside Milly. Kallen was furious, and had stepped up her training as a way of coping. Rivalz had the most drastic reaction. For the first day, he stood outside Euphie's medical room, making sure nothing got near her. When night fell, he still stood guard, and Cornelia found him slumped against the wall, asleep, the next morning. Luckily, she was now more mobile, and Cornelia didn't mention Rivalz little guard duty to Euphie. Though, he suspected she knew.
As for Mao, he should be considered lucky. Cornelia simply snapped his neck. A far quicker punishment than he would've given. C.C. was sent to the Chinese Federation the next morning. A bit of a delay, but one that can easily be recovered. He was severely worried, though, that Cornelia called in Jeremiah. While it did prove that there were some Britannians willing to fight for Lelouch and his sisters, a single slip up would've resulted in Jeremiah realizing who they were. Lelouch and Zero are two separate things, and loyalty to one does not guarantee loyalty to the other.
"Lulu?" Shirley said, opening the door. "I've been looking for you."
"Sorry. Had to do the budget."
"Given everything else you do, I'm surprised you'd continue school," Shirley sat down next to him, "I mean, the teacher wouldn't bother, seeing as you're their boss."
"Yes, but...Euphie."
Shirley nodded, seeming to understand the implication, before she looked concerned. "How is she?"
"She'll be wearing a cast for the rest of the day. You don't need one for a bullet wound, but the students don't know that. Except for the Student Council, none of the other students know what really happened."
"Yeah, that's kinda why I'm here."
Lelouch looked at her, curious what she was going to ask."
"Lelouch, what's Mao's relationship with C.C., and, is it the same for you?"
'Ah, is she concerned I might become like Mao, or is it C.C. she's concerned about?'
"Shirley," Lelouch replied, taking a serious tone, "What I'm to tell you must not leave this room. Even the majority of the Black Knights, yes, even the Dark Council, aren't aware of this."
Shirley looked worried, but nodded.
Lelouch placed a hand over his left eye. When he lowered it, his Geass was on. Shirley was frightened. She wanted to turn away, but she couldn't take her eyes off it.
"Lul~lu...It's just li~like~"
"Like Mao's. This is called Geass, a supernatural power given to people by Code Bearers."
Lelouch turned off his Geass, and Shirley head jerked to the side, like when someone pushed on a door, only to have the door open.
"C.C...Her hair hides it, but her forehead has a very similar symbol. Is she~"
"A Code Bearer? Yes. She actually gave Mao his Geass, as well as mine."
"Mao's eyes. He wore shades, but I could still see the red symbols in both his eyes. It was like he could read my thoughts."
"Because he could. His Geass allowed him to read the thoughts of those around him. C.C. gifted his Geass when he was a child. He saw her as a mother. However, when she left, he felt broken, and did everything in his power to get her back."
"Hold on, if C.C. raised Mao, then, how old is she? She looks about our age."
"Code Bearers don't age once they get a Code. She's lived for centuries."
Shirley looked ready to pass out, but she shook her head.
"Wait, if you have a Geass, then, can't you read my mind?"
"That's not how it works. I believe each person's Geass is different, based on who they are. I don't know Mao's story, but my Geass perfectly fits me."
"Meaning?"
"All my life, I've had my path chosen for me, decisions forced upon me. Not once have I felt that I could control my own fate. Even here, at Ashford Academy, though I was building my rebellion for years, I had to be someone I'm not. If not to fool the others, then to fool Nunnally. She could never be allowed to know the true me. My Geass allows me to force anyone to obey a single command, even if it's to kill themselves. I'm able to take control of my own fate, by forcing others into actions. Much like how my actions were forced."
Shirley covered her mouth in horror.
"Who else knows?"
"Cornelia, Euphie, Milly, Tolia and Talio, Robbie, as well as a couple other scientists that'll be monitoring me."
"Monitoring? Why?"
"Shirley, when you saw Mao's eyes, you said that both his eyes had the symbol, correct?"
"Yes...Wait, why is your Geass only in one eye?"
"C.C. has said that Geass is as much a gift as it is a curse. Mao's Geass eventually took over, and he couldn't turn it off, forcing him to listen to the thoughts of everyone around him. The only one he couldn't hear was C.C., as she is immune to Geasses. Over time, my Geass will get more powerful. They are monitoring the progress of my Geass. Eventually, I'll become just like Mao, unable to turn my Geass off," Lelouch looked down, "Huh, this is the price I pay for power."
Shirley then hugged Lelouch deeply.
"Oh, Lulu."
For a moment, he simply let her hug him, before leaning back.
"Lelouch. Have you used it on any of us?"
"Only Rivalz, and that was because he figured out that C.C. was the one who told him I was royalty. I only made him forget what she looked like."
"Is there a limit to it?"
"Several. First, distance. I can only command someone if they are within 275 meters. Second, contact. If I cannot see the person's eyes directly, then it doesn't work. This includes video calls. Third, I can only give one order. After that, they are immune from any further Geass commands."
"Well, if it can only be used one time, then, shouldn't you use it on Cornelia and Euphie."
'What?' "What possible reason could I have to use it on my sisters?"
"I'm not saying you should do something drastic. But, if your Geass will go haywire eventually, wouldn't you want to make sure your sisters don't accidentally get Geassed."
'That's...actually a fair concern. Why didn't I consider that?'
His phone rang.
"I'll see about doing that later," he told Shirley as he picked up the phone, "Yes."
"Sir, it's Ohgi. We have a situation."
The Nest, 3:02 P.M.
Zero
Zero entered the Staging Area, seeing four JLF soldiers speaking to Katase, Celaeno, and Ohgi. Based on Katase, it was the Four Holy Swords. Without Tohdoh.
"Give me the situation."
"Tohdoh has been captured." Katase replied.
"Our agents were able to catch up to him and the Holy Swords," Celaeno continued, "However, Britannian forces weren't far behind."
"They ambushed us," Urabe said, "Your agents sacrificed themselves to buy us time. However, it wasn't enough. Tohdoh himself had to distract them while we escaped."
"We have to rescue him!" Chiba exclaimed.
"Calm yourself, Captain," Katase retorted, "We shouldn't go charging in."
"Agreed," Zero replied, "The Tokyo prison is one of the most heavily guarded places in Japan. With two Knights of the Round here, we can't be hasty. We'll wait until they announce his planned execution, then work with what we got."
"That won't work." A new voice announced. They turned and saw Milly, now wearing a Black Knights uniform.
"Why?" Senba replied.
"Because of the intel I just got."
(Flashback)
Tokyo Settlement
Milly
Milly was being escorted to the ASEEC trailer by Jeremiah Gottwald. She half expected Cecile again, however, it seemed they were more busy than ever.
'Perhaps Lloyd would call this date off.'
"Millicent," Jeremiah said cautiously, "Did you give them our message?"
'So he is part of the group loyal to Lelouch.' "Yes. However, they are very cautious."
"Understandable," they approached the trailer, "We c~"
"~solutely not!" Castor's voice exclaimed angrily.
'What?'
Jeremiah motioned her to stay near the entrance. "Wait here."
As he entered, Milly leaned against the side of the entrance. He could see Viceroy Castor, Dorothea, Nonette and her Squire Rai, Cecile, and Lloyd all talking. When Jeremiah approached, the group noticed Milly, and took the conversation farther away.
'Unlucky for you, I brought something.'
She pulled out a small earpiece, and placed it in. She adjusted a small knob, cranking the volume. This allowed her to hear distant conversations. She just hoped no one would speak to her up close, or she may go deaf.
"As I've said, Lady Ernst," Castor continued, "I will not allow Suzaku to be the executioner."
"Which doesn't make sense. You said that you wanted him to prove his loyalty, and this is the best way possible."
"No, it's the best way to scar him mentally. He's already guilty about betraying his teacher by telling us where he went. Unless you have another pilot that Lloyd is willing to take, we can't afford a mentally unstable pilot."
"I would like," Lloyd happily replied, "My devicer to be at his best, thank you."
"Besides, we're already going with Lord Valstar's suggestion."
Dorothea scoffed, "And what, praytell, has the Squire suggested."
"Simple," Rai replied, "The announced execution will happen in two days. The Black Knights, or Tohdoh's men, or both, will attempt to rescue him. However, they'll never reach him before it's too late."
"Draw them out into the open. And what's so special about that?"
"Because, even if we fail to stop them, Tohdoh will already be dead."
'?'
"Explain."
"Simple. If we record killing him now, then announce his execution, we can release the footage, but under the guise that it's 'Live'. The Black Knights will come to try to save him. Best case, we capture Zero, Celaeno, or any other high ranking members. Worst case, they would've spent resources trying to rescue a dead man."
Milly wanted to cover her mouth in horror, but she was still within eyesight of the group. Dorothea smirked at the deceit of Rai.
"A brilliant idea. Nonette, it seems your Squire may turn out better than yourself one day."
Nonette was aware of the insult, but chose not to comment on it.
"So," Castor continued, "It's decided. Nonette will execute Tohdoh tomorrow morning. Your preference?"
"He's a warrior," Nonette replied, "So I might as well treat him as one. Sword through the heart. Quick and relatively painless."
Dorothea wanted to scoff, but held it in.
"That settles it, so, you have no reason to intrude upon Suzaku's workspace. Understood."
The last part was a demand rather than a question, but Dorothea got the meaning.
"Yes, your Highness." The group disbanded, with Lloyd, Cecile and Jeremiah staying in the trailer. Milly quickly turned the earpiece off, and put it back in her pocket. Jeremiah returned to her, giving a slight bow.
"Forgive the delay, Lady Ashford. The Sub-Viceroy was having a discussion."
"It's no issue. Have a good day, Sir Gottwald."
"And you, Lady Ashford." Jeremiah then left, leaving Milly for her 'date'.
(Present Day)
Zero
Zero sat at his desk, Milly having finished her report.
'I've got to give this Rai credit. Not many would think of such a plan. They'd be too prideful to not do it live.''
"Rakshata, did you finish those Seventh Gen Knightmares?"
"Just this morning."
"What Knightmares?" Kallen inquired.
"I was making more than one child before the Guren. These were intended for the Four Holy Swords. I have also made four more because of Zero's men."
"Good," Zero commented, "Inform the Four Holy Swords. We're rescuing Tohdoh tonight."
Katase
Katase looked up at the newest shipment. Nine Knightmares, built by Rakshata. Seventh Generation, they resembled the Guren in many ways, however, the most notable exceptions are that they don't have the silver claws, and their head units are cycloptic. Not only that, but one was black, with red twin taits coming off the head.
"General," Chiba commented, "Are you sure this is a good idea? Joining the Black Knights after we rescue the colonel."
"I can understand your hesitation. Kami knows I was too stubborn to actually give up when Zero first showed up. We've been fighting for seven years, so why let some new blood take the reins? However, the point is that I failed, and still am failing, to adapt."
"That's ridiculous." Senba retorted.
"No, it isn't. I'm the highest ranking member of the JDF that survived the invasion. However, I was meant to command infantry, armor, and artillery. Not Knightmares. No doubt, if I had promoted Tohdoh to General, he would've done much better than I ever could. However, I stubbornly believed I could bring us to victory. When I conceded, and joined Zero, I expected to be pushed to the side, as I expected a fossil like me wouldn't be of use. I wasn't surprised when he put me in charge of the Infantry Force, as I expected it would be a minor role, seeing how battles are fought with Knightmares. But, then, I saw the Arcadons. When I did, it all became clear. To be sure of my suspicions, I asked Zero what he felt about the Knightmares in general. Can you guess what he said? Actually, different question, what do you think of them?"
"They're the future of war, General." Asahina replied.
"Agreed," Urabe replied, "Seems there's no other path."
Katase smirked, "He called them the equalizer. If you live long enough, maybe you'll understand what he meant by that."
Zero entered, followed by four other people.
"Naly," he exclaimed, "Is Widow Squad ready?"
"Ready to roll." Daigoro.
Katase already anticipated their question, so he decided to answer before they asked.
"Those four are Widow Squad, charged with protecting Zero on the battlefield. One of them took a serious blow during Narita, and only now is he fully recovered."
"Twins," Zero exclaimed, "Are the upgrades installed?"
"Yeees," Tolia sheepishly replied, standing next to a diamond-like object, "Though, there are some issues. First, we couldn't attach them directly, so they have their own power source. Now ability to recharge it during battle. Second, we can only guarantee that it'll last a minute under fire."
"I thought the Gekka's would be more suited."
"They are, but we're more familiar with Britannian models, not these Gekka's. If we had more time we could easily handle the issue."
"Handle what?" Senba.
"Glad you asked," Talio replied, standing on the diamond object. He put a wrench into it, and turned.
"NO WAIT!" Tolia instantly hit the deck, as an emerald disk extended around the object, "You whore! That could've taken my head off!"
"Would that have been so bad?"
Tolia growled at him, much to the Holy Swords' confusion.
"Are they~?" Chiba inquired.
"Actually, the best for us is when they're angry at each other. Otherwise, they might decide to have fun with us. I heard that, early into the Black Knights' creation, they placed a confetti bomb in one of the construction Knightmares, and gave the pilot the callsign 'C4'."
Urage snickered, Senba smirked, Chiba looked gobsmacked, while Asahina looked offended.
"Do they have no discipline?"
"Captain Asahina, you have to understand. Before the Black Knights, it was simply the Nest. The people here spent years working in secret. They don't see each other as part of a military group, but a family. Since the formation, they've been more professional, but old habits die hard."
The Four Holy Swords nodded in understanding. Though they were professionals, they were a little slack in their etiquette when it came to each other. Only a little, if Tohdoh had anything to say about it.
"Now, let's go rescue the Colonel."
"Yes, Sir!" All four saluted.
Britannian Prison Complex, 5:12 P.M.
Tohdoh
Tohdoh held his eyes closed as he sat in his cell, wrapped in a prisoner straight jacket. Knowing his men, they'll most likely go to the Black Knights to help rescue him. And, knowing Lelouch, he'll do it soon.
Lelouch. The Britannian Prince exiled by his country and left for dead. Tohdoh couldn't find anything more poetic. His sister Cornelia, however, was a surprise. Despite her promise to Lelouch that day, he couldn't imagine Cornelia willing to face her people. He surmised that she'd either convince Lelouch to stay hidden forever, or simply keep an eye on Euphemia and Nunnally. Nevertheless, he was actually concerned if Britannia would break her.
'If Cornelia is this dangerous when she's hesitant to fight them, I may not want to know what she'll be when she actually puts her heart into it.'
"{Sensei.}" A voice spoke in Japanese. A voice he hadn't heard in years.
"{Suzaku.}" He opened his eyes, revealing Suzaku, standing outside his cell. A woman, with blue eyes and indigo hair, was standing nearby.
"{I should've known that it was you that led them to me. Still wishing to change the system?}"
"{It's the best hope for our people. If the JLF had helped our people instead of wanting revenge, the ghettos wouldn't be in such a sorry state.}"
Tohdoh bit back a chuckle, "{Truth be told, I knew the Japan Liberation Front wouldn't be able to push Britannia off of our home.}"
Suzaku looked confused, "{Then why fight?}"
"{Two reasons, Suzaku. First, I am a warrior. Fighting is all I know. To simply give up on my home would disgrace all of our people. Second, to make way for Zero.}"
"{Are you saying Zero was in league with you?}"
"{Maybe not Zero specifically, but someone like him. It's easy to give up hope when no one fights. However, so long as one man is still in the fight, he can inspire others to either join him or start their own fight. That is why I fought. So that, one day, someone will have the strength to finally reclaim our home.}"
"{And what about all the people who would die in that fight? All the families that would be ripped apart. You would give them no choice in the matter.}"
Tohdoh eyes turned cold, "{Like you gave your father, and all of Japan, no choice?}"
Suzaku stood, shellshocked. His entire mind froze. "Wh~Wh~what d~do yo~"
Since he doubted anyone here could speak Japanese, Tohdoh felt confident enough to say this.
"{I found his body. I couldn't save him, but he told me enough. He wanted Japan to fight until the bitter end, but you disagreed. When he refused to listen to reason, you stabbed him, and left him for dead. I can understand your reasons, however, the point is, you didn't give either your father or Japan a choice. Worse than that, you have never claimed responsibility for that. Our people call your father a coward and traitor for his death, but you and I know the truth.}"
"{We never stood a chance! We had no one to help us. Even Russia abandoned us! After everything we did for them! The system is the only path our people have left. I cannot allow it to be destroyed.}"
"{Did you really think they were in a position to help? Before the invasion, the Britannians deployed their elite forces to Africa, and even sent in the Emperor's flagship. All eyes were there. The Russian Republic most likely had sent forces to prepare for an attack. When Britannia invaded, none of them could come to assist us before you killed your father. After that, Russia couldn't help us with them being destroyed as well.}"
"{So my actions not only saved our people, but also the Russian people!}"
"{Once again, you're trying to divert the blame. It's either you had no choice, or you say that your actions did more good than harm. Regardless, you never claimed responsibility for your actions. You don't see any faults in your actions, and that anyone else's opinion means nothing to you. So, tell me, Suzaku, why did you join the Britannian military?}"
"{I'm going to change the way they think of our people. By climbing through the ranks, I will earn their trust.}"
"{...Fool. You just claimed you will follow the system, yet you wish to change it. A boy like you could never change things like that. But, even if you did somehow reach the place you believe you could change things from, your joy would turn to ash in your mouth. The Britannians wouldn't see a reason to change. All they'd see is a loyal Number. If anything, it would encourage them to keep on conquering lands, in hopes of finding more men like you. Loyal dogs, who believe they can change the world by listening to their masters. I will say this, if you truly believe in what you say, then you must continue down your path. You'll achieve nothing unless you're prepared to sacrifice everything. That includes countries and ideals. I have nothing else to say to you. Let me accept my fate in peace and quiet.}"
The fury in Suzaku's face knew no bounds, though he did notice a tear run down his face, as he stormed off. He noticed the woman gave Suzaku a concerned look. He was familiar with the look, as Captain Chiba had given him that look several times.
'Interesting.'
"Miss." Tohdoh called out to her.
"Yes?"
"Keep an eye on him. While he may be misguided, he isn't an evil person, and doesn't deserve the fate he will force upon himself."
The woman nodded, "I'll try my best."
With that, Tohdoh was left to himself. Was he cruel for revealing that he knew the truth to Suzaku. Yes. However, his former pupil needed a wake up call. And he felt he wouldn't get another chance. He closed his eyes, awaiting his fate.
Ashford Academy, 5:15 P.M.
Euphie
Euphie sat next to Nunnally, helping her with her origami. Of all the people affected by Mao's attack, Nunnally took it the worst. She refused to sleep until she felt Euphie's hand, and didn't leave her room until the following day. Since then, Euphie has kept close to Nunnally, and would for another day or two.
"Brother's planning on us leaving," Nunnally said out of nowhere, "Isn't he?"
Euphie, caught off guard by the question, looked shocked.
"Yes," she replied, solemnly, "Yes, he is."
Nunnally was starting to tear up. "After our friends had accepted who we were, to leave them all of a sudden."
Euphie stood up and hugged her sister.
"Nunna, with everything happening, Lelouch can't guarantee that Ashford alone could keep us safe."
"...When does he expect us to leave?"
"I don't know. But, we have to be ready."
The two simply sat there in their hug for a time.
"Let's talk about something happier." Nunnally said.
"Oh? And what could that be."
Nunnally giggled, "Remember when Lelouch and Milly first started dating?"
Euphie joined in the giggles, "I remember Cornelia getting fed up with them not admitting their feelings, and locking them on the roof until they sorted things out. Though, she didn't tell them why she was locking them up there."
"Don't forget the storm that came in."
"In her defence, she didn't know about the storm."
"What about your 'phases', before you finally settled for fashion designer."
Euphie covered her face in embarrassment.
"Like how you got bucked off a horse when you thought your calling was horse racing."
"Please stop."
"Didn't you also paint at one point."
"Yes. While I can say I was decent, I wasn't Clovis."
"Do you have any of those paintings still around?"
"No." Euphie then looked deep in thought. "Actually, there is one. I donated it to the Clovis Art Museum. It might still be there."
Nunnally looked concerned, "Wasn't that risky?"
"I wasn't dumb. I only had it delivered, and I paid quite a few pounds to have it labeled as anonymous."
"How much?" Nunnally, her concern gone, now replaced with curiosity.
"...About 8000 pounds."
Nunnally looked flabbergasted.
"Please don't tell Lulu or Nelly."
Which then changed to laughter.
Tokyo Settlement, 9:42 P.M.
Castor
'Boy, this is dull.'
Castor walked through the art museum, alongside Dalton and Rai. Due to all the activity, he had forgotten the Art Exhibit. He would've cancelled long before, but, now that it had arrived, cancelling now would seem both rude and concerning. However, he was simply going on autopilot, acknowledging the museum owner's words, but not truly putting much thought to them. Much like back home, giving too much thought into someone could lead you open.
At that moment, his wrist phone rang. Placing an earpiece, he answered.
"What's the situation?"
"Seems that the rumors were only half true," Pollux replied, "While there was unrest in the southern provinces, no evidence of Chinese Federation influence was found."
"Good. We don't need to deal with them as well. You know, you could've come here instead of me."
"The invitation was meant for the Sub-Viceroy. Sending me would be improper."
"Come on. You and I both know you'd rather be doing this than piloting a Knightmare." Castor then held back a chuckle.
"What?"
"I don't know why, but it always amused me. The difference between us. We always enjoyed what the other was better at."
"Hmm. Have you finished that song you were writing?"
"Without the piano back in Cambodia? Never."
"And what, pray tell, is wrong with the piano in the Viceroy Palace?"
"Nothing. It's just not our piano."
"A fair point. I need to return to duty. I'll be returning tomorrow for the execution."
"Goodbye." He hung up. The museum owner then directed him towards a picture of his father. However, he was drawn to another painting. It showed a blue butterfly, flapping its wings. Behind it was a campfire with snow around it. The snow blew upward, along with the fire. They swirled around, higher and higher, until it was a tornado of fire and ice.
'A strange sense of serenity.'
Clovis then noticed the label below. 'Wings of Nature.' By~Anonymous.
'What?'
"Who painted this?" Clovis asked the owner.
"We received it two years ago. The artist wanted to remain anonymous, even had a second delivery person. They paid a great sum of money to have it labelled as such."
"And Clovis allowed it?"
"He was fascinated by the painting, and respected an artist's desire to remain quiet."
'Yes, he would think that way. Oh well. If they don't want the attention, who am I to judge them.'
"Let's continue."
Viceroy Palace
Suzaku
Suzaku was beyond shellshocked. He had believed that only he knew the truth of his father's death. He wasn't an idiot, though. He fully knew that the people who found him would believe he was murdered. However, he always believed that only he knew who killed him. He was in a bathroom, with Cecile outside. He cupped some water from the sink, cleaning his head, hoping to clear his head.
'Why. Why can't anyone understand?'
'As I said before,' Genbu spoke, 'It's you that doesn't understand.'
'What other choices do we have?!'
'...I see now. It's not that you don't have a choice. It's that you don't want a choice. You don't want the burden of making hard decisions. The last time you made such a choice, you killed me and doomed Japan.'
'Shut up, shut up~' "Shut up!" Suzaku slammed a first into the sink.
After exiting the bathroom, Cecile looked at him concerned.
"Suzaku, I don't understand Japanese, but I can clearly see whatever Tohdoh said to you has affected you badly. I want you to know," she placed a hand on his soldier, "Whatever it is, you can talk to me. I won't speak a word to anyone else."
"Thanks. Tohdoh was...still is, a harsh teacher."
Neither of them were aware of a tanned woman watching them from a distance.
Three loud booms were heard in the distance.
"What was that?" Cecile exclaimed. The two ran to the nearest window that looked in the direction of the explosion. Suzaku gasped.
Three pillars of smoke were rising from the perimeter walls, specifically near the prison complex.
Zero
"All forces," Zero exclaimed over the radio, "All entry points have been successful, begin diversion."
"Right!"
With little time to formulate a plan, Zero had come up with a simple one instead. Three strike teams would assault the prison. Oda Group, consisting of the Four Holy Swords, would lead a central assault. Niju, led by Celaeno and 14 Sutherlands, will lead an assault from the north. And Kira, led by Zero, Kallen, and his Widow Squad, will attack from the south. Zero's group would rescue Tohdoh, while the others would distract the Britannians as much as possible.
The Guren gripped a Sutherland before destroying it. The Widow Squad remained in their static positions surrounding Zero. The new armament, a diamond shaped object attached to their right arms, made them slower than the normal Gekka's. Not to mention their skill level. They were not expert pilots like Kallen or the Four Holy Swords, so it might seem wasteful to give such advanced Knightmares to them. Luckily, being good wasn't their job, protecting Zero was.
"Widow Squad, status?" He also had the same concerns, and wanted to make sure they were all good.
"We're fine," Yagi replied, "Just surprised by the new upgrades, and falling back on default."
"Understandable."
"Hey," Mizuka exclaimed, "You think these new suits will make the interface better?"
"Nah," Daigoro retorted, "The lady said that they will 'Improve your life expectancy' as she puts it. Whatever that means."
"Cut the chatter," Celaeno retorted, "We need to move fast."
"Agreed. Pick up the pace."
Castor
Castor stood at the podium, looking over the reporters, keeping a professional smile and answering questions. It was nearing the moment that he had to choose a winning painting. Obviously, he'd choose the picture of his father, for political reasons. It's the most logical from a Britannian standpoint.
"Prince Caster," one reporter exclaimed, "There are rumors circulating that you are soon to choose your Knight of Honor. Do you have a comment on them?"
Dalton was about to reprimand the reporter, but Castor simply raised his hand slightly, making him stop.
'A simple question, nothing more.' "I can neither confirm nor deny these claims. Furthermore, I would prefer if we keep our questions to only those relating to the current subject. Thank you."
Dalton then got a message on his earpiece.
"What?" He gasped out. Castor looked at him suspiciously.
'What's happening?' He then noticed all the reporters were also getting calls. Castor extended his wrist watch, pulling a very thin plastic metal. Activating it, it showed the news, which was broadcasting the prison assault.
'Oh, bite me in the ass.' "Dalton."
"Yes, your highness."
"Kill Tohdoh. Now."
Tohdoh
His cell door began rising, with three Britannian guards waiting for him.
"Our superiors have just ordered that you'd be unofficially executed before you're busted out of here. Any last words?"
"I have given up my life before. It's worth nothing."
"In that case," Zero's voice echoed out, "I'll claim your life for myself."
All four gasped, as the wall behind them took an eerie red, before collapsing. The middle guy was instantly killed by the rubble, while the other two dodged out of the way. When the dust cleared Tohdoh saw the red Knightmare Guren and a black Sutherland, with Zero standing upon it. He walked down, but then the two Britannian soldiers got back up, aiming pistols at him. Zero charged at the one on the left, using his cape as a shield. When the men fired, they impacted the cape, but fell instead of piercing.
As he neared the first one, he pulled a katana and unsheathed it, bathing it in fire, and slashed the man across the chest.. Tohdoh's eyes widened as he recognized the blade.
"Hoshi no nai sora?!"
"WHAT THE FUCKING BLOODY FUCK!" Clearly, the second guard had no idea what just happened. Taking advantage of the hesitation, Zero charged the man, and impaled the blade through his heart, fire still erupting on the blade that didn't enter the body. Pulling it out, the flames quickly cooled.
"So," Zero inquired, flicking the blood of the blade, "How's my technique?"
Tohdoh regained his composure, "Sloppy. Despite your surprise, I saw three openings I could've used to best you."
Zero chuckled, "Then I'll have much to learn from you."
Normally, he might've asked if Katase truly was alive. However, this rescue proved it. Zero wouldn't say Katase lived, then go through the trouble of rescuing him, if it wasn't true. After Zero used his dagger to cut Tohdoh's bindings, he stood up.
"I assume you have a Knightmare for me?"
Somehow, Tohdoh knew the Zero was smirking. The two entered Zero's Knightmare before closing it.
"This is Zero to all forces."
Urabe
"Tohdoh the Miracle Worker has been rescued." Zero announced over the radio. In unison, the Four Holy Swords raised their gun arms into the air and fired.
"Begin a fighting retreat to Oda Squad's position."
Urabe and the others retreated to the hole they blew in the wall, where a truck drove through the flames. The truck turned and reversed, with the four Gekka's guarding it. Eventually, Zero's squad arrived, with the Morgana parking just in front of the truck. The backs of both the Morgana and the truck opened, revealing Tohdoh and his new Knightmare.
"Welcome back, Colonel."
"All of you," Tohdoh said, "Have sacrificed much for me. Thank you." Tohdoh then entered his Knightmare.
"All of you. Follow Zero's commands."
"Yes, Sir!"
"Celaeno," Zero said, "Your group hasn't arrived. What's wrong?"
Celaeno
Celaeno fired her rifle into the last two Sutherlands.
"Just cleaning up. Heading to your position now."
"Contact!" The group looked up, and saw a blue Gloucester on top of a building.
'The Palomides.'
The hatches on the Gloucester's arms opened, and four miniguns (two for each arm) raised up. The shoulders opened up, revealing another set of miniguns. All six guns aimed towards them.
"SCATTER!" The entire area was blanketed with bullets, as two BK Sutherlands were immediately eviscerated by the hellfire. Celaeno's group was caught out in the open, with nowhere to go. At that moment, a Knightmare hanger nearby opened, revealing a dozen Sutherlands.
"Make for the hangar, NOW!" Niju squad made a beeline for the hangar, even as more of their comrades were being ripped apart by Dorothea.
"Zero, we're under heavy fire from Dorothea. Taking an alternate route through a hangar into the prison.."
"Roger. Based on the schematics, follow this path, and you'll blast through to our side."
A mini map was sent to her heads up display. Celaeno activated the KDS and took out as many of the Sutherlands as she could before continuing her run to the hangar. She couldn't stay in the open, as it was a death sentence.
The Gorgon and three BK Sutherlands reached the hangar, out of Dorothea's line of fire, but could only watch as the rest were ripped apart. Even the ones who ejected were simply gunned down, defenceless. One of the BK Sutherlands began to move back out of the hangar, but the Gorgon raised an arm to block him.
"There's nothing we can do for them."
With sorrow, the four left, follow the path through the prison.
"Zero, we're moving to your position. Only four members of Niju Squad made it, including myself."
Zero
"I understand," Zero replied, "We'll hold here for as long as we can."
"Incoming!" A green ball rocketed towards the Morgana. Two Widow Guards blocked the attack with their gauntlet shields. Through the WoS, Zero saw who was coming. The Lancelot and Lancelot Club.
Suzaku and Nonette.
However, Nonette's weapon looked different. The normal axe she wielded now resembled a halberd, no doubt modified with MVS tech. Not only that, but the bar itself looked to be converted to function as a VARIS rifle.
"Men," Zero announced, "Our opponents are Suzaku Kururugi and the Knight of Nine. Use caution, and follow my instructions. Suwa, distract Nonette. Holy Swords, prepare to engage Suzaku."
"Zero," Naly exclaimed, "My shields down."
"Mine's less than ten percent." Yagi confirmed.
'The VARIS shot must've done some serious damage. Perhaps I should show them mine, then.'
The Morgana reached behind its back, pulling out a black rifle.
"I'll divide them."
He fired, the energy of the round forming a red ball of energy. It impacted between the two Lancelots, causing a massive explosion, and forcing the two apart. Two compartments on the rifle opened up, shooting steam out to cool the gun.
The VARIS-Type 02. An optimized version of the original VARIS. While it has more destructive capabilities, it also has a ten second firing rate.
Kallen charged at Nonette, while the Holy Swords went after Suzaku. Suzaku blocked and dodged every attack they made, but they dodged every attack he made. When Nonette dodged Kallen and tried to regroup with Suzaku, Zero fired again, cutting off Nonette.
'We'll deal with you once Suzaku's down.'
"Zero, Suzaku was once a student of mine. I know how he'll fight."
"Possibly. However, your knowledge is seven years old. Mine is recent. Not only that, but I have experience dealing with this Knightmare."
"Very well. I'll defer to you."
"Suzaku follows a predictable pattern. He'll attack straight on, not feinting the initial attack."
Suzaku charged at Chiba, intending to slash at her, but she jumped over him.
"Once you dodge his attack, he'll move to avoid your offensive. Senba, Asahina, wait at these two coordinates."
Suzaku screeched to a halt before leaping away. Suzaku gasped, as Asahina was waiting for him. When Suzaku landed, he raised his rifle, but was too slow, as Asahina slashed the weapon away.
"After, his next move will be falling back. Coordinates X23."
Asahina raised his gun arm to Suzaku, who jumped back. When he landed, Tohdoh was waiting for him, and thrusted his blade at him. Suzaku dodged the initial attacks, but the cockpit was quickly pierced.
'So,' Tohdoh thought, 'It is Suzaku. No matter.' Tohdoh pulled the blade upward, ripping the top of the cockpit off.
'What,' Zero thought, 'Why didn't the ejection work?'
Cecile
Lloyd and Cecile were watching the battle from inside a tower. Cecile gasped in horror seeing the cockpit exposed.
"GAH!" Lloyd screamed, "The ejection module wasn't installed yet!"
"What!? Why didn't you install one?"
"I've been busy working with Nonette and Dorothea."
"I meant before they arrived, you idiot!" Even Cecile was surprised that she insulted her boss.
Suzaku dashed away from the Black Knightmare, before quickly becoming surrounded.
Lloyd quickly got a commlink, connecting to the Lancelot.
"Kururugi, quickly. Release the Harkon boosters. The password's my favorite food."
Zero
The Lancelot fired four slash harkens, all hitting a Gekka, and disarming them.
"Huh?/It can't be!/How?/What just?" Four of the Holy Swords exclaimed. Suzaku then threw his MVS at the remaining Gekka, causing a flaming wound.
'Why didn't the ejection seat launch? Don't tell me that Lloyd didn't bother installing one. Damnit, I don't want to kill you, Suzaku.'
"This is Celaeno. We're at the coordinates."
"Good. All forces, pull back. Kallen," Zero raised his VARIS, "Dodge now."
Nonette
Nonette danced around Suwa. She had to admit, Suwa was a good pilot. If her estimated age is to be believed, she'd make an excellent Knight of the Round. However, she still had a lot to learn.
"Impressive, Suwa. Though, I have to ask. Is it the Knightmare, or the Pilot?"
"It doesn't matter what you think. As the first Obsidian Knight of Zero, you'd be best to not underestimate me!"
'Obsidian Knight? PRAHA! They're making a jab at my group.' "Well spoken. So, while I enjoy Celaeno's company much more, I think you might prove entertaining."
Suwa dodged as a red ball of energy passed by them, hitting the wall. As the wall collapsed, Celaeno's Knightmare and three others came charging out.
"Another time, perhaps. We're done here."
'What?!' "Oh, no you don't." She could reach Suwa, who was already leaving. But she could reach a certain Gloucester. She slammed her halberd in front of Celaeno, before picking it up and thrusting at her. She moved so fast that Celaeno didn't have time to pull out her swords.
She had her.
It all happened in a second.
Celaeno pushed the halberd down using her right hand.
Going into a spin, she pushed the halberd into the ground using her right foot.
Finishing the spin, she hammer kicked the Lancelot Club, knocking it to the ground.
Nonette was shocked. Her brain was on meltdown.
'That's...That's my move.'
Then, it all clicked for her. Why she felt odd around Celaeno.
'No...That's our move.'
Zero
Zero could see dozens upon dozens of Knightmare dropships approaching.
"We've delayed for too long. All forces, retreat now!"
All BK Knightmares began pulling back.
"Deploying chaff smoke." Tohdoh exclaimed, before the Four Holy Swords began producing smoke behind their Knightmares. Using the cover of the smoke, they escaped the prison.
Castor
'That was a mess.' Castor observed on the big screen overlooking the museum.
"Nonette and the Eleven held them off," a reporter exclaimed, "The Black Knights."
'Wrong. They simply had no reason to remain here.'
"Why aren't they chasing them?"
"It's because he's an Eleven, like them."
"No," Castor spoke up, "He's simply not an idiot."
The reporters turned to him.
"His cockpit is damaged. He can't rely on the sensors to tell him what's going on, so he has to use his eyes. And a smoke covered area is not a good place to fight with only your eyes."
The reporters kept silent, but he could sense their disdain towards the Number.
'It seems one thing is inevitable. Escalation. Zero kills Clovis, we come in. We bring in a Knight of the Round, they bring in a Seven Gen Knightmare. We bring in another Knight, they bring several more Seven Gen Knightmares. As my father likes to preach, evolution is always true. The same goes for the escalation of war. It's simply the rules of evolution. The rules of nature.'
Castor's eyes widened, as he turned his head to the paintings.
"I've decided on a winner."
The reporters turned back to him. Castor walked towards one of the paintings before placing the winning flower upon it.
"The 'Wings of Nature', from an anonymous artist."
Suzaku
Some time later, both Lancelots were returned to the ASEEC trailer, waiting for repairs. Suzaku had exited, with a relieved Cecile and Lloyd waiting for him. Needless to say, to find out that the Lancelot didn't have an ejection module may have annoyed him.
"Don't worry, Kururugi," Lloyd offered, "I'll be putting one in as soon as the repairs are done."
"And, what about Lady Enneagram?"
"She hasn't come out of her Knightmare since the fight ended," Cecile replied, "I've tried calling her, but she hasn't responded. She even turned off her radio completely."
"Strange," Lloyd commented, "Isn't it? Something about that fight must've shaken her."
Nonette
Nonette sat in her Knightmare, her arms wrapped across her chest, her heaving turning into laughter, then back to heaving. Her mouth twitching from dread to joy.
"You live," Nonette wheezed "After all these years, you still live. My best friend. I should've known you couldn't die."
Nonette looked up, tears running down her cheeks.
"Nelly, you're alive."
Author's Notes: Yeah, can you guess the Double Edged Miracles, X).
I figured that, since Mao isn't around to tell Suzaku about him killing his father, it had to be conveyed another way, and who better than his own Sensei.
Next chapter: Gathering Storms Part 3
As always, leave a review, favorite/follow, and I'll see you next time.