"Lelouch"-Speech

'What'-Thoughts

"{Live}"-Geass Command

"Stop"-Loudspeaker

"Report"-Radio

Chapter 24: Gathering Storms Part 3

September 18, The Nest, 11:42 P.M.

Zero

Zero's forces had just arrived at the Nest, with several soldiers waiting. As Zero exited the Morgana, he noticed that most of the soldiers present were former members of the JLF, including Katase. When Tohdoh exited his Gekka, all the soldiers saluted their returning Colonel.

"Colonel Tohdoh." Katase exclaimed.

Tohdoh saluted, "Sir, Colonel Kyoshiro Tohdoh, returning to active duty, Sir."

Katase saluted back, before giving a chuckle. "We're not part of the JLF anymore, Tohdoh. No need to stand on ceremony."

"Forgive me, Sir."

"You should be expecting people to salute you more often, Tohdoh," Celaeno commented, "As, starting now, you'll be the head of our Knightmare military forces."

"Starting tomorrow," Zero continued, "You and Katase will have the same rank as Commander, and fall under the command of Celaeno."

"Isn't this a bit rushed?"

"Not at all. I discussed this with Katase the day after we recruited him. This was always going to be the plan."

"Very well. However, Zero, may I speak to you...in private."

'I think I know what he's talking about.'

Zero nodded, and the two walked towards the Morgana, while the group dispersed. When the were under its legs, they stopped.

"During the battle, why did you order me to stop?"

(Flashback)

Tohdoh had heard about the trouble the Lancelot was giving the Black Knights. Tohdoh shouldn't be surprised. Of course it would be Suzaku. He only hesitated for a second, before he raised his chainsaw katana to bring it down on him.

'A shame.'

"Tohdoh, stop!"

'What?'

He hesitated for a moment, but that was all Suzaku needed to dodge the attack.

'Lelouch, what are you doing?'

Tohdoh continued the attack, quickly slashing across the Lancelot's chest. Suzaku backed up, but his men quickly surrounded him.

"Men, Spinning Life or Death formation!"

"Holy Swords, hold your attack!"

'Lelouch, this is not the time!'

This distraction proved detrimental, as the Lancelot launched four slash harkins from itself, disarming not only himself, but several of his men.

(Present)

Zero was silent, but he quickly took a look around the Staging Area. The only ones remaining were original Nest personnel. He looked back to Tohdoh, before beginning to remove his helmet.

"You and I both know how much he means to me," Lelouch replied, "The first real friend I made that wasn't either a deception, or some manipulation by Charles. I don't wish to kill him."

"And, yet, you ordered me to possibly kill him."

"When the cockpit was damaged, the auto-eject system should've sent him away. That was what I was expecting. When it didn't, it threw everything out of place. I couldn't figure out how to safely get Suzaku away from the battlefield."

Tohdoh sighed, but his steel gaze didn't waver.

"I can understand not wanting to kill a friend. Believe me, I do not wish to kill my student. However, Suzaku has chosen his side. The next time we meet, we cannot hesitate."

"I know. However, when we engage the Lancelot, I expect you to disable first, exterminate second. Understand?"

Tohdoh simply stood there, his gaze unwavering.

"Understood."

September 19th, Viceroy Palace, 8:42 A.M.

Nonette

Nonette sat in her chair, waiting for the call that, honestly, she didn't want to take. She already had too much on her mind. Not only is her best friend, Cornelia, alive and well, but she's leading a rebellion against the Emperor.

'I have to assume that means Zero is Lelouch. Does this mean Euphie and Nunnally are alive as well? Why would Nelly do this? She always loved her home and her family. I can understand Lelouch rebelling, given everything that's happened, but why Nelly? Is it because of Marianne's death?'

Before she could ponder, the video screen changed, showing the upper half of Emperor Charles zi Britannia. Nonette stood from her chair, and knelt.

"You Imperial Majesty."

"Nonette Enneagram. I require an update."

"Of course. The situation in Area 11 is escalating. The Black Knights have proven to be far more tenacious than~"

"They do not concern me. I am referring to your progress on retrieving Zero."

'Does he know who Zero is.?'

"I...regret to inform you that I have made little progress in retrieving him."

"You are a Knight of the Round, and, aside from Luciano Bradely, the best tracker of the Knights. Do you mean to tell me that, in your time being there, you have uncovered nothing?"

"It is as you say."

"You disappoint me, Enneagram. The next time I call, you better have made progress, or I may have to send Luciano himself."

'No! He'd enjoy torturing Celaeno if he got his hands on her.'

"As you say, your Majesty."

The Emperor simply stared at her. She couldn't end herself, as he was the Emperor.

'What is he waiting for?!'

"You're hiding something."

'!'

"There's more to your report. You are to tell me now."

'Damnit, what do I do? If he discovers that it's his children leading the Black Knights, who knows who he'll send. What do I do?!'

Nonette then got an idea. Instead of telling him one concern she has, she'll tell him a different one.

"I am concerned over my decision to bring Dorothea Ernst into the situation. I had believed that her experience would outweigh her flaws. However, I seem to have been mistaken."

When the Emperor made no comment, she continued.

"Here in Area 11, the ASEEC Knightmare Lancelot is piloted by an Eleven, one Suzaku Kururugi. He is an excellent pilot, and a key asset here. However, Dorothea doesn't acknowledge, or doesn't care about that. I fear her actions may prove detrimental."

"It was your decision to bring her in, and you must face the consequences of your actions. Do not bother me with such triviality. Dismissed."

"Yes, your Majesty." Nonette stood up, and began walking away.

"However."

'What now!?'

"The next time I demand an answer, I expect you to not simply dodge the question."

Nonette eyes widened. It seems the Emperor knows she is still hiding something.

"Yes, your Majesty."

Rai

Rai stood outside the room, waiting for Nonette to finish his call. When the door opened, he looked inside, and saw Nonette exiting. He briefly saw the Emperor on the screen, before it shut off not a second later. However, upon seeing the Emperor, he lurched forward in pain.

"Rai?"

Rai then fell to the ground, as his vision went black.

"Rai!"

Once more, Rai stood in the village. However, there were no people around. One of the buildings was larger than the rest. He figured it must be the town hall. Rai could vaguely hear voices coming from the building. Upon taking a step towards it, he found himself inside the building. He saw the woman from his last vision, her face still blurred, flanked by two samurai wearing kevlar (Modern Samurai by Kaibugboy). Rai was surprised. The two samurai were the Doragongado, the Dragon Guard. Elite warriors charged with the protection of the Japanese Imperial family. The person opposite of her was a boy, the same boy he saw in his previous vision, flanked by two OSI Cleaners. Now, however, he could see his face. While it was also blurred, he could make out the eyes, which were a dark shade of pink. He noticed that the two were in a heated discussion, with the woman looking angry, while the boy looked annoyed.

The doors burst open, and a Japanese man, looking to be nearly forty, entered. He had long black hair in a ponytail with a goatee. He wore an open black haori, with a white robe underneath, and a red cloak over his haori. Oda Tamaguchi, younger brother to the current Emperor of Japan. Much like the woman, he was clearly unhappy.

"Ah," the boy said, "I see you've finally arrived."

"Yes," Tamaguchi replied, "And I see that what my sister told me was true. You wish to take one of our people to experiment."

"It's actually quite simple. The boy is~"

"Off the table," the woman venomously replied, "I will not let you take him."

"This isn't up for debate. Emperor Charles has plans, and, if you give me the boy, I can persuade him to delay his plans."

"But why my son!?"

Rai had figured that the woman might be his mother, however, this all but confirmed it. Especially when he looked up and saw a young him, watching from a hidden spot above everyone. Apparently, so did Tamaguchi.

"You and I both know why I want that boy. Your trip to Britannia wasn't as quiet as you'd think."

"Why don't we ask for his opinion?" Tamaguchi exclaimed, "Raijingu!"

"Eep!" his younger self squeaked out. He then came downstairs.

Rai resisted the urge to laugh. Either his father knew his full name, but simply shortened it, or he had ironic luck.

"Boy, what do you think?"

"Well, if it will protect Japan, then, why shouldn't I go?"

"There," the OSI boy retorted, "If he's willing, then there's no discussion needed."

"Like Yomi it is!" his mother protested, "Tamaguchi, you can't possibly allow this."

"No, I will not. Not on their terms."

"Oh?" the boy inquired.

"He will remain in Japan. Not only that, but four Dragon Guards will accompany him at all times. If they so much as get a whiff that you'll cause great harm to him, they'll bring him back, consequences be damned."

The boy growled. He didn't like things not going his way. However, this was too good of an opportunity to pass up. Besides, he could always take the boy once Charles invades Japan.

"Your terms are...acceptable." The boy then approached young Rai.

"So, Oda Raijingu," the boy outstretched a hand, "Shall we form a contract?"

No one besides the boy understood the significance of those words. To them, it seemed more like a 'Last chance to back out' question. Raijingu grabbed the boy's hand. The last thing Rai saw was the symbol of a red crane.

Rai awoke, inside the room Nonette was just in, with Nonette watching over him. He couldn't believe it. He, an amnesiac orphan, was a member of the Japanese Imperial Family.

"What did you see this time?"

Rai groaned, the headache from last time coming back. "I was in the village again. This time, I saw the same woman, who may be my mother, talking with a boy, who might possibly be working for the OSI, as he had Cleaners flanking him. Then, Oda Tamaguchi entered."

"Tamaguchi? The Sword of Japan?"

"Yeah. Apparently, they made a deal. They get to experiment on me, and the boy said he could convince the Emperor to delay his 'plans'."

"You mean the invasion? And what experiments did they do to you?"

"I don't know. My memories stopped there. As for the invasion, I don't believe so. It's possible, however, that the Emperor already had plans for Japan before he invaded."

"Was there anything else?"

"Yes, actually. The boy said to my younger self 'Shall we form a contract?'."

"Contract? That...doesn't sound good."

"No, it doesn't. The last thing I saw was me taking his hand, and then a red crane."

"A crane? Could you draw it?"

"Yeah." He got up and got a piece of paper. Drawing the symbol, Nonette frowned.

"Rai," Nonette said, her voice dangerously low, "Are you certain this is the symbol you saw?"

"Yes."

Nonette turned, and walked to the nearby fireplace. She turned the burner on, and tossed the paper onto the logs. Eventually, a fire began, and the paper burned to ash.

"I saw the symbol only once. Years ago, shortly after I became a Knight of the Round, I heard a rumor of a secret group within the OSI."

Rai looked terrified. If the OSI were the Black Ops secret branch of Britannia, then how dangerous would you have to be to have a secret group inside of a secret group.

"I investigated, and I only got that symbol. Even just seeing the symbol, I somehow knew, if I investigated any further, I wouldn't live to see the answers. A good thing I stopped, as, soon after, every person who started that rumor went missing."

"God damn."

"Yes. Your father told you not to investigate, right?" Rai nodded. "Good. This is even more of a reason to not investigate."

"But, why did I get a memory flash by seeing the Emperor? I've seen his face plenty of times."

"Perhaps because this is the first time seeing him after you started getting your memories back."

"The boy said my mother visited Britannia, and it wasn't as quiet as she thought."

"Hmm, perhaps your mother had an encounter with the Emperor? Do you have any idea why the Emperor may have spoken with, or had any interaction at all, with your mother?"

"...No."

Nonette groaned, "Then, like the last vision, we have more questions than answers. Get some rest, my Squire. If we get anymore memory flashes, you're going to need those rests."

Nonette then left the room, but Rai felt dejected. He did have an idea of why his mother would meet with the Emperor. She was a member of the Japanese Imperial family. So the question remains.

'Why? Why did I lie to her?'

Gilbert Guilford

Guilford entered the roof of the Viceroy Palace. The top of the palace was a lush and luxurious garden, designed by Clovis himself. As he surveyed the area, he remarked that it looked very similar to the Aries Villa gardens back in Pendragon. He would never forget the day Empress Marianne was murdered, because it was the same day he was going to be transferred to Marianne's Royal Guard. With her. He saw Jeremiah at one of the edges of the garden, overlooking the city. Jeremiah had told Guilford that the two needed to talk, but he was vague about the details.

"Margrave Gottwald." Guilford dully exclaimed, trying to contain the bitterness in his voice.

"General."

"I hope you have something to say, besides simply wasting my time."

Jeremiah looked around, the only guard over a hundred feet away. He lifted the cuff of his uniform, and an orange USB was revealed.

'Project Orange.'

"I feel you should know."

"So, you plan on finally telling us what it is."

"No, just you."

"And you think I won't tell the Princes. How do you intend to convince me."

"I won't need to convince you. You'll do it willingly."

Guilford raised an eyebrow.

"Project Orange was me and Prince Clovis's investigation into the whereabouts of four members of the Imperial family, who went missing after the Second Pacific War."

Guilford was shocked.

'Princess Cornelia and her siblings...Alive?!'

"Gottwald, if this is some sick joke~"

"It isn't," Jeremiah tossed him the USB, "You can see the data yourself. They've been hiding out with the Ashford family ever since."

'The Ashford?' It made sense to him. The Ashfords set Marianne up to become Empress, if indirectly. So they would shelter them. He still found it hard to believe.

"This is unbelievable," Guilford replied, the first time he spoke to Jeremiah in a positive tone, "I'll assemble a team, and we'll go get them back."

"That wasn't the plan."

'What!?' "Explain." Guilford said venomously.

"Clovis and I figured that, if they had remained in hiding for all these years, even after Britannia fully controlled Area 11, then it must mean they have no desire to return. Given what happened, can you blame them?"

'No...No, I could not.'

"So, before we discovered they were with the Ashfords, we made a plan. Find them, contact them, then set them up with enough money that they could remain in hiding for a long, long time."

Guilford had a look of realization. "The warehouse full of Britannian pounds?"

"Yes. That warehouse would have been 'lost' shortly after we found them."

'Damnit.' Guilford was the one who discovered the mysterious money disappearances, which led them to the warehouse. If he hadn't been so observant, Cornelia and her siblings would be set!

"However, that is now irrelevant. We have three issues to deal with."

"And they are?"

Jeremiah held up a finger, "First, Ashford itself. We have to assume that Lelouch and Cornelia have some early warning systems. If they spot us approaching, they'll hide. If they're aware that we're looking for them, they'll bolt, and we may never find them again." He brought up a second finger. "Second, the Black Knights. Remember, Zero knows about Orange, which means he knows about the siblings."

Guilford clenched his fist.

"Luckily, they have no interest in holding them hostage or killing them. They have done nothing wrong, so the Black Knights are simply leaving them alone."

"How can you be so certain?"

Jeremiah held a third finger up, "Which leads to my third concern. The people who killed Empress Marianne aren't done yet."

Guilford's eyes widened in horror. "How can you be sure?"

"Because, a few days ago, I got a call...from Celaeno."

Guilford was concerned, for multiple reasons.

"It's likely whatever spy we have was able to discern my number, and provided it to her. She told me that an assassin had kidnapped Euphemia in order to draw the others out of hiding. Cornelia took the bait."

"Why would Celaeno contact you, if the Black Knights are 'keeping an eye' on them?"

"The assassin had, somehow, hacked into their systems. Any move they made, he'd be aware of it. I grabbed Suzaku Kururugi, a friend of Lelouch, as well as Cecile Croomy, a colleague of Suzaku, and we were able to eliminate the assassin. Celaeno then informed me that they'll watch the siblings more closely."

"And how do you suggest we go about this?"

"I...don't know. However, the first step in figuring that out is by eliminating the spy within our ranks."

"Agreed. I'd suggest we start by~"

"Not we. You will investigate."

'Huh?' "What?"

"Guilford, you've despised me ever since you first got here. The spy is already watching me, and, with Suzaku and Cecile involved~"

Things clicked with him. "Wait, you involved another Britannian, and an Eleven? A skilled Eleven, but one nonetheless!"

"Suzaku's family hosted the siblings when they were first banished here. From what he's told me, they formed a good friendship during the months before the war. And Cecile Croomy has proven herself in helping us find out where the siblings were hiding."

Guilford grumbled, but he didn't continue.

"As I was saying, the spy is watching me, and anyone associated with me. He'll see me, Suzaku, or Cecile coming. However, you, a man who's only hated me, he won't see coming."

"So, you want me to continue my now unfounded anger at you, in order to trick the spy?"

"Correct."

Guilford sighed, "You know, Dalton told me about the same strategy that you used on Officer Soresi. However, he also mentioned how you didn't bother telling Kewell the plan."

"A mistake that I won't repeat. Speaking of Kewell, has Prince Pollux or Castor informed you of what I found."

"Yes. I don't know what Code R is doing with him, but, given what was told about this C.C. girl, I can't imagine it's good."

"Hopefully our next raid will turn up better results."

Guilford looked shameful. 'Then, he hasn't heard.'

"What's with that look?"

Guilford looked to him, "Prince Pollux finished a call yesterday with the Prime Minister. As of now, Code R will be reintegrated, and fall under Prince Schneizel's command."

Jeremiah looked horrified and infuriated. He placed his hands on the edge, trying to contain it.

"You mean that, now, I can't save Kewell without committing treason."

"Unfortunately, yes."

"Damnit!"

September 20th, Tokyo Settlement, 9:02 A.M.

Cornelia

Cornelia walked down the sidewalk, towards Ohgi's house. Each of the Dark Council Members' houses were very close to the Ghettos, so as to not attract too much attention. Minami had noticed that Ohgi had been visiting his new house far more often over the past few days. On its own, it wouldn't be cause for concern. However, Kallen had once heard Ohgi mutter to himself about women's clothing. It was clear that Ohgi had a lady friend at home. However, a strange chain of thoughts plagued her.

The Pureblood Villetta saw her face back at Shinjuku. Even if Lelouch's Geass worked, she was at Port Yokosuka. She was presumed killed. Ohgi goes back to Yokosuka, returns, and now he has a woman in his house. Too much to be coincidence.

Approaching the house, she used her skeleton key to unlock the door. Quietly opening it, she entered the house. However, when she closed the door, a loud click occurred.

"Ohgi?" a familiar voice exclaimed from the kitchen, "Is that you?"

Cornelia walked towards the kitchen, and entered, seeing Villetta making breakfast. Villetta looked concerned, seeing that it wasn't Ohgi.

"You're not Ohgi."

"No, I'm his boss." Cornelia replied coldly.

Cornelia's hand was on her hidden pistol, and it took every ounce of self-restraint to not gun her down. She was a security risk, one she didn't want to linger. However, she noticed something different about her eyes. Before, Villetta's eyes showed a sense of superiority, and her voice matched it. Here, her eyes showed concern, and curiosity.

"Ohgi doesn't talk about work that much. He's said he's helping his people in the Ghettos."

"Yes. That is his primary role. I came here wanting to discuss his next step in private, as it concerned me. Imagine my surprise when I find you. He never mentioned you. So, I must ask...Who are you?"

Villetta looked down with a small amount of shame. "Honestly, I don't know. It appears I'm suffering from amnesia. Ohgi found me and nursed me back to health. Until I remember, just call me Chigusa."

'Amnesia? Lucky break for you.' She removed her hand from her pistol.

"You don't remember anything?"

"Nothing. The earliest memory is the feeling of getting shot."

'When Diethard shot you.'

"Forgive me, but, have we met?"

'Red flag!' "Possibly, however, I work with many individuals. We may have met, but I wouldn't remember."

"I guess so."

"What are you going to do when you do remember?"

"I'm...not sure."

"Well, I'll simply tell you this. Ohgi found you. He could've taken you to a hospital, but, given he's an Eleven~"

"Don't call him that." Chigusa eyes narrowed.

'?' "Pardon?"

"I don't care if you're Britannian, he's a person, not some number."

"Funny, coming from a fellow Britannian."

"I just don't get it. Why should you look down upon someone just because they're from a different place. It makes no sense."

Cornelia cocked an eyebrow. 'Interesting.' "Very well. Ohgi saved your life. When you do remember, take that into account."

Chigusa nodded, before both heard the front door open. Cornelia left the kitchen, to a very startled Ohgi.

"Ug~Boss?!"

Cornelia tilted her head towards an empty room. Ohgi seemed to get the message. When the two entered, she closed the door.

"Cornelia, I can explain~"

"I'll simply say this, Kaname Ohgi. That woman has seen both me and Lelouch's face. The fact that she has no memories is the only reason I'm not killing her. However, when she does remember, and she will, I expect you to deal with it."

The cold gaze in her eyes told him this wasn't negotiable. "Yes, Sir."

"Another thing. Don't keep something like this from us again. It isn't good for morale if a Dark Council member is keeping a secret like this from his fellow Council."

"I understand, Sir."

"However, that is for another time. I need you back at the Nest."

"For what?"

"A member of Kyoto is arriving this afternoon."

Ohgi looked shocked, "Are you serious?"

"Yes. Apparently, they have information that could prove useful, and they can't trust it to a simple carrier."

Ashford Academy, 3:59 P.M.

Euphie Levett

Euphie stood alongside Lelouch, Cornelia, and C.C. inside his office. Lelouch had said that he needed to talk to them about his Geass, but she was not aware of what. C.C. herself had just returned, saying she established contact with Xingke, but would discuss details later.

"Euphie, Cornelia, Shirley has brought something to me that's very important. Since my Geass will eventually go rampant, she suggested I Geass you now, to prevent an accidental Geass later."

Euphie was nervous, for obvious reasons. She never liked Lelouch Geass, as it reminded her too much of how easily Charles could manipulate his own children.

"I'm surprised you didn't consider that sooner." Cornelia replied.

"Mainly because I never intended to have it be used on you two." Lelouch retorted.

"And," Euphie jerked her head at C.C., "Why is she here?"

"I'm very curious at what Lelouch will make you do. For obvious reasons, he'll need you to confess a secret."

"Which," Lelouch angrily replied, "We'll be keeping in this room. We will not divulge what we discover, even to each other. Do you understand, C.C.?"

"Of course." C.C. gave her trademark smirk, which didn't give Lelouch much confidence.

"So, which of you will be first."

Euphie sighed, "I'll go."

Cornelia went into 'Big Sister' mode, and gave Lelouch an evil eye. Euphie sat down on a chair. She looked at Lelouch, and saw his eye turn red, with the familiar red crane.

Euphie blinked, and saw three different reactions.

Lelouch looked sheepish.

Cornelia looked ready to burst in anger.

C.C. was giggling, more at their reactions than at her.

'Oh dear.'

"Lelouch," Cornelia said dangerously low, "A moment."

The two exited the room.

"What did I say?"

"Ah ah," C.C. retorted, "Remember, we're not allowed to reveal the secret to you."

*SMACK*

Both swiveled their heads. The door opened, revealing a still angry Cornelia, and Lelouch, who's left cheek had a red handprint.

"That bad?"

"We're not discussing it!" Cornelia interrupted, "Just get this over with."

Euphie stood up, while Cornelia sat down.

'What could Lelouch say to make Cornelia spill. As a military woman, there's not much that Cornelia would want to hide from us.'

Lelouch activated his Geass once more. "{Cornelia, what am I to you?}"

Euphie back ramrodded, and she gasped. 'Lelouch, you are evil!'

Cornelia looked at him, in a trance. "Ever since I first saw you, you were a little brother to me. Someone I wanted to protect. After we were banished, however, things started to change. I had to care for you and our siblings. During those years, I had a strange feeling I couldn't explain. The day you called me your mother, in my opinion, was when I truly started to understand those feelings. I started to see you as a son."

"{Then why haven't you voiced that to me, or Euphie, at the least?}"

"Because I still care about your mother, Marianne. She's my hero, and it would be beyond insulting if I were to take her place."

Lelouch took a deep breath, before deactivating his Geass. Cornelia blinked, and shook her head. Euphie had quickly taken a stoic expression, making sure Cornelia wouldn't question it.

"We're done. Like I said before, we'll never discuss what was said."

"Agreed."

Cornelia left the room first. Euphie turned to her brother.

"Lelouch~"

"We have a meeting to prepare for," he interrupted solemnly, before leaving the room himself. Euphie, slightly dejected, followed out herself.

C.C.

C.C. was the only one left in the room. She was quite interested in what she heard.

"I wonder~"

'Wonder what?'

C.C. nearly jumped. "How much did you hear?"

'None. You blocked the connection. What happened?'

"More private discussions."

'Oh, please. Besides, you still haven't told me who Zero is.'

"Nor will I. I already have to deal with both Lelouch and Zero as my contracts, I don't need more problems."

'Oh, come on. We both know you're only doing this to increase your chances. Me and Charles already agreed to take your Code.'

"Forgive me, my Lady, but, for some reason, I don't believe you'd uphold your end of the bargain."

'Have I really sullen our trust?'

"Maybe not. Even so, I feel Lelouch would be able to do things quicker. And, if you're correct about him, he'd agree with your plans, so there's no need to worry."

'Okay, but don't think this means I'm enjoying it.'

C.C. could feel the woman leave, and she sighed. She was beginning to wonder if she should tell them who her other contractor is. However, with Cornelia seeing Lelouch as a son, it put those thoughts on hold. She couldn't tell them. Not right now, at least. With that, she left the room.

The Nest, 6:07 P.M.

Zero

The Dark Council, now with Milly, Shirley, and Tohdoh, were waiting in Zero's office. Tohdoh's Dark Council uniform was a customized blend of both the normal DC uniform and his JLF uniform.

"A member of Kyoto will be arriving any minute," Zero exclaimed, "The representative will be taking a secondary route in order to avoid any members of our group from spotting them. From what I understand, they appear to have sensitive information for us."

"Sensitive information?" Ohgi replied.

"Yes. From what they said, it pertains to the Tsar Taigun no file we found."

"Speaking of which," Tamaki exclaimed, "Have we cracked that thing, yet?"

"Unfortunately," Cornelia replied dejectedly, "We have not. Whatever protection software is on the file is beyond state of the art."

The door slid open, revealing Euphie, now in a Dark Council uniform.

"Hi everyone." Euphie exclaimed happily.

"This here is Euphie Levett," Zero announced, "My younger sister. However, you will not make any references to her being our sibling while outside this room. I'm sure you can understand."

Everyone agreed, with Tamaki giving a half-hearted salute. "No problem, Boss."

"Sir Tohdoh," Euphie said, "It's good to see you again."

Zero was sure that he saw Tohdoh's lips curl up for a second.

"And it is a pleasure to be in your company once again, Miss Levett."

"I assume you're helping my brother with his training."

Zero rubbed the back of his neck. 'That's one way of putting it. Seriously, I think I preferred Sayoko's training. Less bruises.'

"Of course," Tohdoh replied, "It would not do to have the leader of the Black Knights not fluent in our way of fighting."

"In my defence, Tohdoh, I'm used to short sword and dagger, not katana and dagger."

"Speaking of Tohdoh," Celaeno continued, "As of now, Kyoshiro Tohdoh, you'll be made the newest Obsidian Knights."

Tohdoh eyebrow raised slightly, "And, what, may I ask, is that?"

"Much like Britannia has their elite warriors, the Knights of the Round, we have our own elite warriors. Kallen herself is Obsidian Zero, call sign Suwa Myojin. You'll be Obsidian One, though, given your reputation, I doubt you'd need a call sign."

"Wait," Kallen sat up, "What happens if I'm killed? Would Tohdoh get my title?"

"No. Unlike the Knights of the Round, who see it as Prestige, and many would want to become Knight of One, the Obsidian Knights are based on skill. If one dies, no one has their number changed. What, worried about your position?"

"Uh, no!"

Yes.

Zero's helmet radio buzzed.

"Sir, the representative has arrived."

'Please don't let it be Kaguya. I can't deal with three right now!' "Good." He stood, conveying the message to everyone that Kyoto has arrived. The side door opened, revealing Taizo Kirihara.

'Oh, thank Kami.'

"Zero," Taizo said calmly, "A pleasure to see you again, under less tenuous circumstances."

"Agreed," Zero shook Taizo's hand, "And, about that request I sent you."

"That's actually why I'm here. And, might I say, it warms this heart of mine to see that smile of yours again, Miss."

"It's good to see you, too, Mr. Kirihara." Euphie replied sweetly.

Taizo then took a separate seat to address the group.

"Now, I have two pieces of information. First, regarding Kyoto itself. Recent events regarding Zero's identity had nearly shattered Kyoto."

"They really don't like Zero being Britannian?" Yoshida inquired.

"Yes. I feared a schism would've occurred. As of now, the threat of a schism...Isn't gone, but it's mellowed. Me and two other members fully support you, a fourth is indifferent, while two others despise you, and are waiting for you to mess up."

"As I expected, Kyoto is very divided on their opinion of me. However, I am surprised that you were able to keep them under control, Kirihara."

"Hmph, more like keep them from betraying you right now. As I said, they are waiting for you to make a mistake. However, onto the second piece of information. Project Tsar Taigun no. Surprisingly, even with all our resources, we can't find many references to it. However, we may have found a connection. Tohdoh, do you remember General Jinjang."

"Yes, I served under her during the invasion, before she was killed."

"And she visited Genbu Kururugi frequently. Apparently, they talked about the project. From what I've gathered, they were discussing with Senator Yul Brynner, of the Russian Republic."

"Forgive me," Tamaki interjected, "But my histories...Well, it's nonexistent. What's our relations with Russia?"

Zero sighed, "I'll start with the latest development. Ever since the Russian White Army defeated the Bolshevik Red Army during the Russian Civil War in 1920, our nations have been friendly towards each other. At the outset of WWII, China, wanting the territory of Korea, joined the Axis, and invaded. Russia, though having a pact of non-aggression with Germany, declared war on China. While the European nations defeated Germany and Italy, Russia and Japan crushed China, and divided their territories in provinces. Japan held a vote, and released Korea to placate the Chinese from reuniting their country."

"Which did nothing," Celaeno added, "Two decades later, the provinces, after years of political alliances and subterfuge, united the provinces under one banner, the Chinese Federation. Needless to say that Russia and Japan were allies in all but name."

"Yes," Taizo commented, "Which leads to the project. Supposedly, the Russians were nearing the completion of it and, if Japan could hold out long enough, it would've been deployed."

"What was the plan after it was deployed?"

"I'm not sure. Only that it would buy time until Russia redeployed their troops to Japan."

'Wait, if Genbu was planning to continue the war, then~'

"Hold on," Inoue exclaimed, "That doesn't make sense. If Genbu Kururugi had a plan to save Japan and win the war, why did he commit suicide to protest the war?"

"Unless," Zero replied, "He didn't commit suicide."

The Dark Council looked shocked, as Zero's words were clear. If he didn't commit suicide, then that meant he was most likely murdered. Zero noticed Taizo clench his cane, and Tohdoh looked away in shame.

'They know something.' "However, we need to move on. Kirihara, is there anything else?"

"Yes. Only one word. Okonomiyaki, a Japanese food."

'Okonomiyaki. Why that word. Wait~' "Celaeno, isn't there a password that's~"

"On it." She contacted R&D, "Twins, do you know the Tsar Project. Yeah, that one. Try using Okonomiyaki." After a moment, Celaeno jerked her head, like someone yelling in her ear. Zero smirked.

'Looks like we're in.'

"Okay," Celaeno commented, "The Twins are sending data, however, it's not much. The entire file is corrupted, either from the years, or the Britannian's previous attempts."

"That's alright. We'll take any data over nothing."

The screen behind them changed, and two green filtered images appeared. The first looked like the upper part of a plane...with a wingspan of over 3000 feet. It appeared to be propelled by several propellers behind the plane.

'What is this?' The second image was an overview of the Kamchatka Peninsula, with one point on it red instead of a shade of green.

"That must be where the Project is located."

"However," Celaeno commented, "We don't have time to investigate. We have another operation in two days. I want all of you well rested, understood."

"Yes, Sir."

With that, the Dark Council began funnelling out of the room.

'I might need either a bigger office, or a dedicated room for my Council.'

"Not you." Celaeno told Tohdoh, who stayed behind.

"Might I ask, Zero," Taizo said as the door slid closed, "What is your operation?"

"A Britannian black ops group called Code R was reported to be on Kamine island. We plan to investigate why. However, we'll need to deal with the garrison on Shikine-jima, northeast of Kamine. However, I think you and I both know the question I'm going to ask you."

Taizo sighed, before telling Zero and Celaeno the true fate of Genbu Kururugi.

Unknown Location

Unknown

Inside a room, watching the rain pour over the Chinese city, a man with black hair and dark brown eyes watched the rain pour down.

Atsushi Sawazaki, the former Chief Cabinet Secretary for Genbu Kururugi. He fled to the Chinese Federation just before Japan became enslaved by Britannia. Now, he and his men waited for the day that they could retake their homeland.

"Sawazaki." A voice exclaimed behind him. He turned and saw a man garbed in traditional chinese military uniform. Cao, a general in the Chinese Imperial Military.

"I assume that things are proceeding well, despite our setbacks."

"Yes. We should be able to begin in less than a week."

"Good."

Despite the vigor of his men, he held no real idealism that he could retake Japan on his own. So, he 'made a deal with the Devil' or, in this case, the High Eunuchs. They would provide Knightmares and ships, and Cao would 'defect' to their side. Once Japan is retaken, they'll become a subject of the Federation.

'Soon, Japan, you will be liberated. Even if we simply trade one occupier for another. However, at least, with the Federation, we'll be able to call ourselves Japanese again.'

"Not only that, but, your Russian allies have sent us a gift."

"A gift?"

"Yes. A prototype for their first Knightmare."

Sawazaki gasped. Russia had many natural resources. However, the one thing it lacked was sakuradite deposits. Not only that, but, per Europa United policy, each nation had to build their own Knightmares. Russia easily had plenty of Knightmares, all bought from the Germans, but none of their own. To hear they finally got one. He grinned.

"Show me."

Author's Notes: More moving pieces. The attack on Shikine is about to begin, and the Chinese Federation looks to be preparing their own moves.

Rai's origins will be...similar, but not the same, clearly.

As for the lack of Lelouch's thoughts on his semi-parent Cornelia, that's intentional. I intend to have that a crucial moment.

As always, leave a review, fav/follow, and I'll see you next time.

Side Note: If you want to know what Lelouch asked Euphie to admit while under Geass, look up Cornelia of the Defection. I put it there as a Easter Egg, but also to pay homage to a big inspiration for this fanfic. That story may be dead (as far as I know), but it's still one of my favorites.