Author's Notes: I want to make a quick correction to any Ace Combat Fans. I messed up one of the symbols for the four Russian jets. Replace Crown with a top hat with wings. Sorry for any confusion.

"Lelouch"-Speech

'What'-Thoughts

"{Live}"-Geass Command

"Stop"-Loudspeaker

"Report"-Radio

Chapter 30: Sutomuburinga Part 3, The Contract

Moscow, 11:07 A.M. Moscow Standard Time

Unknown

Moscow, the industrial heartland of the Russian Republic. During the Russian civil war in the early 1900s, it was the Bolshevik's main base of operations. As most of Russia's rail network connected to Moscow, it allowed the Bolsheviks near total control of the supply lines. For months they dictated the course of the war. Until her ancestor Tsar Nicholas returned from his exile in Japan.

Tsar Nicholas…wasn't a good leader. Too many wrong decisions led many to lose faith, thus leading to the Red Revolution, as the rest of the world called it. However, upon his return from Japan, the former Tsar was almost a complete opposite of what he used to be. Rather than an indecisive and cautionary man, he had the bearing of a true Tsar of Russia. Many Russian soldiers, both in the White and Red armies, thought that he was an imposter. However, when it came to light that the Reds had tried to assassinate Nicholas and his family, with the Japanese guarding them being the only thing stopping them, both sides understood everything. While Nicholas wasn't a good leader, he was, at least, a good father. And any father worth their salt would be enraged at the prospect of their family being murdered.

And so, Tsar Nicholas returned to Mother Russia, along with a detachment of the Japanese Emperor's personal warriors, the Dragon Guards. After a month of travel, he was able to unite the various White army factions into a single cohesive fighting force, and began pushing the Red Army back. While the Reds had the industrial heartlands, they lacked the experience of the veterans serving under Nicholas, and were quickly losing numbers as deserters switched sides. When Trosky was killed during a train supply raid, and with Lenin hospitalized due to an attempt on his life, the majority of Bolshevik command regrouped and fortified Moscow. It was here that the final battle of the Bolshevik revolution took place. Nicholas himself took part in the battle, something that was beyond inspiring to his countrymen, even dispatching the Dragon Guards meant to protect him in order to help wounded soldiers.

For over two months, the Reds fought with the desperation of hyenas, as every room of every building became a battlefield. However, the Reds fell, with the majority of their leadership wiped out. It was said that a thousand legends came about on that day, such as Nicholas storming the Ascension Church killing a hundred soldiers from the uppermost room. A ridiculous tale, as Nicholas was in the northern section of Moscow when this supposed engagement took place. Regardless, the Bolsheviks were defeated, Lenin was arrested and hanged for his crimes, and Nicholas became Tsar once more.

"Now, the beating heart of Mother Russia is preparing once more for war." a woman muttered. She had long, pale, almost white, blond hair with a touch of aqua blue. Her piercing citrine eyes gazed across the Moscow skyline, watching the industrial section working overtime. Catherine Romanov, granddaughter of Alexander Romanov. While a part of the royal family, she wasn't privy to the political ongoings. It's not that she wasn't interested, but rather, unlike her mother Alexandria (A for the naming, as many Russians joked), she wasn't required to learn them, as she wasn't directly in line for the throne. That was reserved for her older brother, Nicholi Romanov.

However, that didn't stop her from heavily investing in politics. Luckily, while her mother insisted that she have a 'normal' life (as normal you could get for Russian nobility), when she told her brother of her desires to get involved, he was overjoyed. He made sure she was kept informed on nearly every matter that could concern her. Ever since she could read, she had been devoting herself to knowing exactly what was going on, both in her country, and outside it, particularly with their long time friend Japan.

"Ma'am," her attendant exclaimed, "You're eleven o'clock has arrived."

Catherine checked her watch. "Hmm, a couple minutes late. Send her in." When her attendant closed the door, she dusted her suit. Unlike most of her family, she was a practical woman, who didn't think having a flashy leader was necessary. Made you too much of a target, she told her parents. When the door opened, a woman with long, light blond hair and lightish purple eyes, wearing a french military uniform, walked in.

"I present Lieutenant Leila Malcal, Maiden of Saint Petersburg."

Leila ignored the title, simply bowing her head. "Your excellence."

Catherine smiled, offering a hand to Leila, "I do believe this is the first time we've met face to face. Also, there's no need for formalities here. Ackor, see to it we aren't disturbed."

Leila shook her hand as Catherine's attendant left the room. "It is. I'm surprised you called for me."

"Why not? Given your history, I'm surprised my mother or grandfather haven't called you already."

Leila Malcal, Lieutenant in the French military. Two years ago, a rebellion, led by Britannian sympathizers, occurred in St. Petersburg. Had Leila, at the time a Major, not been nearby in the city of Volosovo, the rebellion could've turned into a full blown civil war, of which Britannia would no doubt capitalize on. She and her forces were outnumbered three to one, and she was still able to land a decisive victory with minimal casualties. For her actions, she was promoted, and unofficially was given the title 'Maiden of Saint Petersburg'.

"Do you know why I've called you, though?"

"I have a few suspicions, but nothing concrete."

"Well," Catherine took a seat at her desk, "Let me put those to rest. This is regarding Japan."

Leila nodded stoically, taking a seat. "I suspect this is involving the Black Knights."

"Among other things. Their actions there have rattled Russia's parliament."

Leila raised an eyebrow. "In what way?"

"Before, they were divided on the prospect of invading Japan, let alone declaring war on Britannia."

Leila nodded, "The rest of Europa United feels the same. They can't decide what to do. Our countries may have united, but it was mainly to deter Britannia from attacking us. I doubt any of them actually considered the other possibility. Our actions in sending supplies to the Middle Eastern Federation are mainly to keep Britannia occupied and not prepare for an actual invasion."

Catherine rubbed her head. "Just as I feared. I take it Zero and Celaeno's appearance hasn't swayed them."

Leila shook her head. "While more are open to the idea of open war, they also understand that we don't have the forces necessary to maintain a war indefinitely, especially in Africa."

Despite the E.U. having territory encompassing all of Europe, Russia, and nearly all of Africa, they didn't have the numbers to actively protect all their african territories. It was a miracle that Britannia hadn't already declared war after they captured the Middle Eastern Federation. Now that they had a direct launching point to Europe and Africa, they could easily take half of Africa before an effective response could be mustered. And any build up along the territories bordering them could instigate a war.

"What about your parliament?"

"Quite the opposite. We were mainly divided on the subject, but, since the Black Knights appeared, we've been steadily shifting, not to a war with Britannia, but liberating our, quote, cousins. Now, about eighty percent of parliament is in favor of liberating Japan. Of course, the Tsar is the only one that can call a vote for war, unless there's a ninety five percent approval beforehand."

"And your grandfather?"

"He understands the need to wait, as does the rest of parliament. My only question is, if Zero is able to liberate Japan, or, at the very least, stage a large enough rebellion, will the rest of the E.U. be motivated to declare war?"

Leila pondered the question, eventually giving a deep sigh. A declaration of war had to be approved by the E.U. Parliamentary, each country represented by three senators. A majority of 3/4s had to approve for a declaration to be enacted.

"I'm not sure it will be. It'll be a close vote, but I'm not sure enough senators would be motivated."

Catherine muttered a groan. "I was afraid of that. Then you should know that, if they don't call for war, the Russian Republic would leave the E.U."

Leila's mouth dropped. "What?!"

"It's something my mother and grandfather have discussed, at length. The Japanese, despite our past bloodshed, we see them as our cousins. If the E.U. refuses to help them, and we just stood back, our people would be outraged. I don't like the idea of leaving the aegis the E.U. provides, but it's either that, or potential riots over refusing to help."

"But why leave?"

"Because we aren't going to drag the rest of Europe into a war that we got involved in. If they don't want to fight, that's their decision. I doubt Britannia would simply forgive the E.U. if one of its members attacked them."

Leila's eyes twitched.

"They'll likely still attack in response."

"Perhaps. But, at least we've taken one justification out of there."

'And also ironically forced the E.U. to seriously consider war.'

"...What are you doing to prepare?"

"We've stepped up production of the Akula-molots, a compact version of the Akula Knightmare frame. We can't send our fleets to the Chukchi or Bering seas, as that will provoke Britannia, but the third and second fleets are in the Laptev sea, arming themselves. Once war is declared, they'll make a run for Japan, with the second fleet holding position in the Bering sea. More than that, Īsutansutā has been fully rebuilt."

Leila raised an eyebrow. "Eastern Star?"

"Yes, a Japanese style city several miles east of Yakhroma. After the Russian Revolution, it was built to honor the Japanese that came to help us. However, it has largely been ignored these past couple of decades. After Japan fell, grandfather thought it best to rebuild the city, a not cheap investment. The city is still not up to par with many of our own cities, but that's mainly due to the difference in architecture. Japanese refugees flocked to the city, and, now that it's rebuilt, I suspect grandfather will look amongst the people there to see if any of them could potentially be Knightmare pilots. Anything more I'm not aware of. My brother may be keeping me up to date, but even he doesn't know all the details."

Leila took a moment to process the information, before calmly replying. "There might be a way to help even more. Have you announced this city?"

'Huh?' "No. Why?"

"There are several ghettos across Europe that house Japanese refugees, the largest one being the Île de la Cité in Paris. I should be able to discreetly move some of the Japanese there, so you'll have more people when you eventually declare war."

'That's…surprising.' "Why would you do such a thing?"

"Many officers in the French military, and other E.U. militaries, see the Japanese as simply disposable soldiers, referring to them by their derogatory 'Eleven' names. I can understand the logic, but I disapprove of the intention."

"But isn't what we're doing the same thing?"

Leila shook her head, her reply stern. "No. They would simply use them to defend their own land. You are implying that, once Japan is in rebellion, and once Russia declares war, that these Japanese would be fighting to defend their home."

"Ah, so same thing, but different intentions."

"No, I do not see them as the same."

"How long would such an act take?"

"I would say…two weeks, at the earliest."

"That long?"

"Without making it obvious what we're doing to the other countries? Yes."

"Ah, I see."

Despite their alliance, the members of the E.U. didn't like the idea of other countries siphoning potential resources or assets, even if, for right now, they aren't being useful. The Japanese in these ghettos are only taking up space, but, if they can use them as cannon fodder, they won't want to lose them. Her pocket containing her phone began ringing. Pulling it out, she saw it was from her brother.

"Nicholi, what is it~"

"Get here," Nicholi responded, harshly, "Now."

'What the~?' "Nicholi, what's~"

"I don't have time to explain, as I don't know either. Only that mother and grandfather are enraged, and grandfather has called an emergency session, even having the other parliament members on video chat for it."

Catherine widened her eyes in shock. "Alright, I'll be there." Hanging up, she was about to call her aide to escort Leila out, when she had an idea. "Lieutenant, would you like to be my witness for this session of the Russian parliament?"

"You're having one now?"

"Yes. Grandfather called an emergency session, for what, there are too many to guess. However, if I had to press our luck…"

Leila nodded, "Britannia."

With that, the two left the office.

Sredinny Mountain Range, 5:17 P.M. Japan Standard Time

Zero

"I must say," Zero said, "It's certainly been worth the trip."

Tarish grinned. "I hoped you would say that. This monster has been our fruit and labor for ten years. The project began long before the invasion of Japan, and now we are close to seeing it's fruition."

"But what exactly is its purpose?"

"Overwhelming firepower, put simply."

Zero turned to Tarish, prompting him to continue.

"Tsar Taigun no is, for lack of a better term, an aircraft carrier. But it's far more than that. Each one is outfitted with an AI system capable of extracting data, then uploading it to other systems to improve its combat capabilities. The white shirts call it the Instant Action Analysis System."

"Like an active After Action Report."

"More or less."

'But why would that be essential? That's the same as simply getting reports during battles.'

One of the soldiers came up to them, holding a clipboard, to which Tarish took it.

"Thank you," he responded to the man, before returning to Zero, "It might seem redundant, but it's only part of the beauty."

He handed Zero the clipboard, and Zero looked at the attached papers. They showed schematics for a fighter jet, though he noticed that they lacked a cockpit.

"Tsar Taigun no can carry up to eighty drones, each one linked to the IAAS. More than that, they are hooked onto the bottom of the aircraft. As such, when it's deployed to a battlefield~"

"Tsar Taigun no can simply drop the entire air force if it wanted, with quick deployment. What are their weapons?"

"Normal machine gun, as well as a tripod for three missiles."

"And Tsar Taigun no itself?"

"The usual turrets, rocket pods, the boys are trying to get a laser to work, but it's slow going. But the real punch is the shield."

"Did you make your own blaze luminous shield?"

"You mean those glowing green things the Brits have been using? Yes and no. Surprised us when we saw them the first time. Rather, this is a see-through bubble shield that can project itself around Tsar Taigun no. There are smaller shields more reminiscent to the blaze luminous, but they are only for guarding the engines. It takes a couple minutes to charge up the dome shield, but, once activated, nothing we've tested could get through it. We couldn't do too big, as we had to conduct these tests both safely and covertly."

Zero looked back at the airship. 'A literal flying fortress.' "I must say, commander, she is as powerful as she is majestic."

Tarish chuckled, nearly cackled, "And the IAAS makes it damn near unstoppable. And, quick correction, there isn't a 'Commander' rank in our military. I'm a Major General."

Zero didn't care much for the distinction. "I take it the AI enhances all of them?"

"No, just the drones. See, this airship is built for battles of attrition. Each drone records its combat data, then, once it's destroyed, that data is sent to the main ship, which then distributes amongst the remaining drones."

"Thus making them smarter."

"Yep. As our enemies shoot down the drones, they make the rest of them harder to kill. Quantity becomes quality."

Zero smirked beneath his mask. 'I take it back. This isn't a fortress. It's a monster. However…' "What about after the battle?"

"That…was one of the biggest issues. As I just said, during battle the AI gets smarter and smarter. Originally, Tsar Taigun no would be fully automated, the AI piloting the thing. But we didn't want it to get too smart, enough of us had seen enough science fiction movies for that to be an issue, so we had to find a way to make sure the AI would delete the combat data afterwards. Eventually, we scrapped the idea of having an AI pilot it, and decided to have a pilot. Had to build a whole new ship for it, but we got the job done. Now, the pilot manually deletes the combat data, making sure it doesn't get too smart."

"Wouldn't it be easier to simply use the original?"

"Yes. But the white shirts want to see if they can get the AI to work in the end."

"What about refueling? How does it resupply any fallen drones?"

"Ah, that's another thing the boys created. It happened completely by accident, but we were able to construct…I'm no scientist, so I can't be more specific, but a system capable of making something out of nothing."

"Clarify."

"To me, it's damn near magic. You'd have to ask the tech boys how it works, but, in short, it can construct new drones by…" Tarish took off his cap to rub his head in frustration, "Something involving atoms to create materials out of thin air. When a drone is destroyed, and when the main ship isn't in battle, the system, which we have attached to Tsar Taigun no, will begin to build a new one. It can only do one at a time, and takes a full twenty four hours to do it, but it creates a new drone, only armed with the machine gun, though."

"That's…" 'World changing.' "Incredible."

"I know! With this, we could easily create entire cities without having to mine any materials for it. Oil and other fuels? No issues for that anymore. We nearly sent it off to the heartland. But, the boys and I quickly discovered its greatest, and most dangerous, potential."

'If a nation can constantly make material out of thin air, then their ambitions would be boundless.' "If something like this was stolen by Britannia."

"Yes. If Britannia got it, I don't even want to know what kind of monstrosities they could create. So, we rigged the system so that, if Tsar Taigun no is destroyed, the material conversion device is completely and utterly vaporized. A shame, but something of this magnitude cannot be allowed to become widespread. At least, not until we learn to stop fighting each other."

"Unfortunately, General, human nature may make that impossible."

Tarish nodded solemnly. "The scientists agreed on that."

The two stood in silence, saddened that such a wonderful technology had to remain hidden.

"What's her name?" Zero broke the silence.

"Sutōmuburingā."

"Stormbringer. A good name."

"Yes. Now, while you're here, how about we discuss when to deploy her."

"Agreed." Zero and Tarish continued down the hallway.

Tokyo

Suzaku

Suzaku walked through the Imperial Palace, heading towards the Viceroy office. Viceroy Pollux had requested his presence, though the reason was not stated. Just to 'Arrive as soon as possible.'. He stood at attention, waiting for the two guards to allow him through the office doors.

"The general will see you now."

'General? I thought I was meeting the Viceroy. Is he part of the meeting?' Suzaku entered, seeing General Dalton standing at the desk, looking over some papers.

"Major Kururugi," Dalton said, not turning his attention from documents, "I see you're recovering well."

"Yes, General."

"Good. Soldiers like you should make speedy, but also healthy recoveries."

A brief moment of silence fell between them. Suzaku wasn't sure what the meeting was about, so he didn't know what to say. Not to mention that, despite his rapid rise through the ranks, he was still in front of a general.

"You may speak freely, Major."

"General, do you know why Prince Pollux has requested me?"

"He hasn't. He only told you to head to his office. I am the one who requested you."

'What?' "Why did you ask the Prince?"

"I have a meeting with him here in ten minutes, and I needed to speak to you. I simply decided to condense them more closely. But, you are more curious about why I needed to speak to you."

Suzaku nodded, unsure of what General Dalton wanted. If it was either Prince Castor or Pollux, he had a few guesses, but nothing with General Dalton.

"Prince Pollux told me that he's looking to make you a Knight."

"That's correct, General."

"His Highness is finding…severe trouble getting that Knighthood for you."

"If it's causing him trouble~"

"Trouble?" General Dalton chuckled, "More like headaches. He's trying to find a way to make you a Knight without the added baggage of it."

"Baggage, Sir?"

"Yes. Unless you become the personal Knight to a member of royalty, you must be a member of the Britannian nobility in order to gain Knighthood. And the nobility are notorious for being unwilling to accept new blood, especially from those they see as the 'conquered'."

"But, wasn't Villetta Nu a Knight?"

"Legally, no. There's a misconception that, if you're a Knightmare pilot, you're a Knight. That is incorrect, but no one bothers on the discrepancy."

"Even so, if someone has proven they're worthy of becoming a Knight, shouldn't they be obliged to make them one?"

General Dalton sighed, "You are dangerously naive, Major Kururugi. My people are resistant to change, to an unhealthy degree. After all, even though the late Empress Marianne vi Britannia was one of the most skilled Knightmare Pilots, and one of the original pioneers into Knightmare technology, she was mocked by the other Consorts. Never in public, of course. Simply put, Kururugi, even if it would make their lives better, the nobility doesn't like changing the status quo."

'But, then what hope would there be of getting high enough to change Britannia itself?'

"Before I continue, I'd like you to look at these documents. Tell me what you see."

Suzaku was confused, but walked over to the desk, seeing the papers. The maps showed Area 18, formerly the Middle Eastern Federation. Not only that, but several lines from both Turkey and Russia, though Russia had many more lines.

"Troop movements?"

"No, supply lines. Area 18 has been getting pacified, but far slower than we could've predicted. We have confirmed that the E.U. is covertly sending supplies into Area 18, supporting terrorist groups in the area."

'What?' "Why?" His tone was indicating not anger, but horror, to which Dalton noticed easily.

"Because the E.U. is expecting a fight. They want us to bleed resources into Area 18, to make sure we can't properly defend it in the event of a war, although, I'm sure the E.U. believes that we might invade them if we built up enough of a force there."

"You..you wouldn't, right Sir?"

"Hmm, given that such a buildup wouldn't be easy to hide, we might have justification already with them supplying the terrorists. Besides, we can't afford a war with the E.U. right now, not with the Black Knights involved. It's likely the E.U. is supplying the terrorists in Area 18 because they believe we won't be able to handle them alongside the Black Knights."

'Them again! I may have become a Major because of them, but they are now risking global war?!'

"The reason why I'm telling you this is because my personal forces, the Glaston Knights, are the ones working on cleaning up the terrorists groups there."

"I'm unfamiliar with that group, Sir."

"Not surprised. Me and Guilford started them, along with eight others. However, they got reassigned over the years, leaving just me and Guilford. As we conquered new territories, those numbers grew until we reached our current number of seven. When the Emperor assigned Prince Pollux and Castor to run Area 11, the other Glaston Knights volunteered to remain in Area 18 and clean up while we headed here. Now, though, it seems they'll be bogged down for even longer."

'Makes sense. You don't want to remove good fighters if the fight isn't done, but…' "How does this relate to me, Sir?"

"I'm getting to that, Major. Each of the Glaston Knights are members of Nobility, and, aside from me and Lord Guilford, do you know what they have in common?"

"No, Sir."

"They are all Numbers."

Suzaku's eyes widened in shock. 'How the hell did Numbers get into the Nobility?' "How long did it take them to reach that?" 'If getting that high up is possible for a Number, then perhaps I can change Britannia from within.'

"Under normal circumstances? It would never happen. However, if a member of the Nobility adopts them, they are technically considered Nobility, if only second-rate."

'Lelouch once said the Nobility were a bunch of snakes, easily turning on each other. What Nobles would risk retaliation?' "Which houses adopted them?"

"Only one. The Knights are Alfred, Bart, Claudio, David, and Edgar Dalton."

'Wait…' "Dalton?"

"Yes," Dalton smiled, "I found those boys over the course of a ten year period, each one displaying incredible skills in certain fields. As Numbers, I knew they wouldn't get the proper chance to display these skills to the Empire, so I adopted each one of them into House Dalton. As a minor House, it wasn't that much of a backlash, especially as they got results. By now, it's just an expected thing for me to adopt Numbers that show promise. Which leads to my last question," Dalton turned to Suzaku, his smile returning to a neutral stance, "You're an orphan, aren't you?"

"Yes, Sir." It was only after he said it that Suzaku realized the implication, "Wait, you aren't~"

"If you wish."

Suzaku didn't even know what to think. 'Adoption…into a Noble House?!' "But…why?"

"As I stated, each of my sons are Numbers who lost their families and displayed great skill. You lost your mother in childbirth, your father during the war, and, when you joined the military, the rest of your family disowned you. You possess beyond incredible skills, on par with some of the Knights of the Round. And you deserve a reward. Becoming a Knight, a member of Nobility, and a member of the Glaston Knights seems like a pretty good reward, all things considered."

Suzaku felt light headed for the upteenth time in recent times, as he placed a hand to his head. 'Such a large advance in the ranks, as well as being a member of nobility!? I could start to make changes from within~'

"Of course, you'd have to abandon the name 'Kururugi'."

Suzaku froze. 'Abandon my family name?' Suzaku didn't know how to respond. A chance to make some changes, even if it was a small chance, and the only thing he had to give up was his name?

"I…I…"

General Dalton raised a hand. "You don't need to make a decision now. Abandoning your family name isn't an easy decision to make, and I would fully understand if you said no. I'd actually prefer it if you wait before giving me an answer."

"Why?"

"Once the Glaston Knights are done in Area 18, I want you to meet them when they arrive. Get to know the Knights you'd serve alongside before you made your decision."

"Do they know that you plan to adopt me?"

"No. I don't want their interactions with you to be biased, geared towards you accepting my offer. I want them to treat you as normal as possible, so they will meet you for the first time sincerely."

Suzaku nodded, glad he didn't have to make a decision right now. "Okay, Sir."

"Dismissed."

Andreas Dalton

Suzaku saluted him as he turned to the door. Opening it, he was greeted by Prince Pollux.

"Your Highness." Both Suzaku and Dalton saluted the Prince.

"At ease."

"I was just leaving, your Highness."

"As you were, Major."

Suzaku stepped to the side, allowing Prince Pollux to enter, to which Suzaku left the room, closing the door as he left.

"I arrived but a moment ago, and decided to wait until you were finished with your discussion. How did he take the news?"

"He's clearly conflicted. Anyone would be if they were told they might have to abandon your name. But, he clearly wishes to rise through the ranks, so I say my offer is tempting enough."

"Yes. We need to make the offer as tempting as possible, without making it clear that we want him to accept. And without tipping off Schneizel to what we're doing."

Dalton nodded. His offer to adopt Suzaku was twofold. If he accepted, not only would Suzaku become a Knight, but, as he is a member of the ASEEC group, he'd have to abandon it, as the Glaston Knights do not fall under the command of Prince Schneizel. The Prime Minister could technically keep Suzaku in there, but it would involve much more paperwork. Overall, it's a win win. Either Schneizel loses an expert pilot, or he has to deal with more paperwork and allow the Glaston Knights some control over how the ASEEC operates.

Prince Pollux sighed. "Now, what's going wrong with Area 18 now?"

Suzaku

Half an hour later, Suzaku walked down the hallway towards the ASEEC facility. Adoption into the Britannian Nobility? As a Number?! Honestly, it was both a dream come true, and a conundrum. He could get into the nobility, and all he had to do was change his family name. While it was only a minor noble house, it would be a major stepping stone to enacting change.

'You would so easily abandon me and your heritage,' Genbu said, 'Then again, you killed me to get what you wanted, so I shouldn't be surprised.'

'No, but..the Japanese...'

'Remember, Suzaku,' Tohdoh responded, 'If you aren't willing to sacrifice everything, you will achieve nothing.'

'I know, and General Dalton's offer seems too good to pass up.'

'And,' Genbu finished, 'Like Zero and Celaeno have said, you are becoming the very thing you fight against. You're becoming the enemy.'

Suzaku snarled. 'I am NOT!'

"Major Kururugi." Prince Castor's voice exclaimed, knocking him out of his trance. Suzaku didn't even realize he was walking towards Lady Enneagram's office. Ahead of him was Prince Castor and Rai.

"Prince Castor." Suzaku saluted.

"At ease. Something on your mind, Kururugi?"

"Why would you ask that, your Highness?"

"Because I said your name twice, and you didn't respond."

"Sorry, your Highness."

"It's nothing too serious. I was just conversing with Lord Valstar concerning Miss Croomy."

'Miss Cecile? What happened?' "What's wrong?"

"Only that Lady Ernst," Rai replied, "Is getting increasingly hostile to the ASEEC staff. She was threatening Miss Croomy."

"About what?"

Rai looked at Suzaku, then at Castor, before shaking his head. "I would prefer not to discuss it."

"Regardless, Dorothea's action may hinder ASEEC operations. I'll make sure to ban her from entering their operations center. It won't stop her from harassing them outside their work place, but it should help."

"Thank you, your Highness." Suzaku replied. Having Cecile and Lloyd not be harassed by Dorothea would ease his conscience. He wasn't even aware it was happening. Was it because Dorothea couldn't legitimately harass him, so she went after the people he works with?

"But, what's on your mind, Kururugi?"

"Well, you see~"

"NAILED IT!" Nonette cried out in joy, making all three jump in shock. The door quickly opened, and Nonette ran out.

"Nonette," Caster exclaimed, "What just happened?"

"Oh, good, Rai, you're here, good good good," Nonette gripped her Squire's uniform, "In here, now! You guys can listen in as well."

In an instant the Knight and her Squire entered the room, the door slamming shut. Suzaku and Castor both had a perplexed look.

"What just happened?" Caster questioned.

"I'm…not sure, your Highness."

"Well, we won't find out standing here. Let's hear what she has to say."

"Yes, Prince Castor."

"And drop the 'Prince' title. We'll be alone here, so it's fine."

The two entered Nonette's office, with Rai in a chair, and Nonette giddy as she paced.

"Oh, the bastards finally got their heads out their asses!" Nonette joyously declared, oblivious to her surroundings

"Lady Nonette," Castor interjected, "What's going on?"

"Rai's Knighthood has been approved!"

"What?" Suzaku questioned, to which Rai turned to him.

"Despite being Lady Enneagram's Squire for almost a year, I have yet to be properly Knighted. Normally, when a Knight of the Round accepts a Squire, they are Knighted within two months, less than that if they see active combat. Unfortunately, due to Enneagram's…unique personality," Rai ducked from a water bottle thrown by said Knight, "Many consider her Squires to simply be low class, and that she only made them her Squire due to her being, as they would privately say, craziness. This is why, for the past two months, she's been trying to get my Knighthood approved."

"But the bastards think that I'm simply trying to push a soldier up that hasn't proven themselves. Luckily, due to the craziness happening here, they finally decided to approve his Knighthood."

"Even though I wouldn't say I've proven myself that much."

"Nonsense. Just surviving these past few weeks is enough to get Knighted, in my books."

"But," Suzaku questioned, "Don't the Knights of the Round answer only to the Emperor? Why would you need other nobles to get approval."

"Not other nobles, other Knights of the Round. You need three other Knights to approve your Squire for Knighthood. And you can't simply ask specific ones to support your Squire. When you make a request, all the current Round Knights get it. Only other way, as far as I know, to become a Knight."

"So who approved?" Castor inquired.

"Gino Weinberg, Monica Krushevsky, and Michele Manfredi."

"Michele?"

"Yeah, it was a surprise. Gino and Monica were already in favor of Rai, but the rest were either indifferent or against it."

"I'm sorry," Suzaku interjected, "But, who are they?"

"Right, right, right, you aren't so familiar with our Round Knights. Basically, Monica, Gino, and Michele are the Knights of Twelve, Three, and Two, respectively. Gino's highly energetic, if a bit…dimwitted, at times. Monica's extremely loyal to the Emperor, even commanding a section of his Royal Guards, but is awful at social gatherings, usually choosing to hang at the darkest corner of the room. Michele is…honestly, I've only met him a few times in all my years as a Knight. Weird, but it doesn't matter. He's a bit of a mixture between Bismarck and Gino. A caring man off the field, and a good family man, if I hear rumors correctly. But, once on the field, he's hardcore. Anyways, that's irrelevant," Nonette wrapped an arm around Rai's neck, pulling him up, "You're a Knight!"

"Nonette," Rai groaned, "You do realize it isn't finalized until we conduct the ceremony in the Homeland, right?"

"Semantics. It's basically a done deal. Once they approve of it, the only person who can disavow it would be the Emperor himself."

"I must admit," Castor added, "This is a very good thing for you. Especially given your history of Squires dropping out."

"Any other news to make this day better?"

Suzaku opened his mouth fractionally, not enough for the others to notice, before his eyes looked down.

'Should I tell them? Maybe getting second opinions might help?'

"Dalton called for me just a half hour ago."

"Right, my brother said he was having a meeting with Andreas soon. He didn't mention what he wanted, though."

"He told me he may have found a way to get my Knighthood."

"Really? My brother has been trying to get past the nobles ever since~" Castor's eyes then widen as he thought about it, "Oh. Well, that's an option."

"What?" Nonette inquired.

"Dalton just offered to adopt our dear Kururugi."

Both Rai and Nonette looked at Suzaku in shock, who only nodded in response.

"That's amazing," Nonette, placing a hand on his shoulder, "The Glaston Knights are a respected order. Whatever the nobility says, the military knows that they are amongst the best Knights of the realm, not counting me and the Round."

'Yeah, if only I abandon my family name.'

"However," Castor retorted, seeing the dejected look on Suzaku, "There's a catch, I take it."

"Yeah. I'd have to abandon my family name."

Nonette's face twisted in awkwardness. "Yikes, yeah," Nonette took a seat, pondering, "That would be a problem. A big hit to our relations with the Elevens."

"What do you mean?"

"Don't tell me you haven't noticed," Castor retorted, "Your quick rise through the ranks has inspired the Elevens. Not as much as the Black Knights, but the effect is still there. If you accept Andreas's offer, they might think you're abandoning them."

"So, you think I should refuse?"

"Absolutely not. As Nonette said, they are a highly respected order. Not only would you become part of nobility, but, as Andreas's sons are all numbers, you wouldn't have to worry about being discriminated against in your own unit."

"But my family name…"

"If you aren't willing to sacrifice something as simple as that, then what are you willing to sacrifice?"

Suzaku looked more confused than ever. 'They all want me to accept. So why is it so hard for me to accept?!'

Nonette snapped her fingers. "There is another way. Although, I'd say it much more dangerous."

"And that would be…" Castor inquired.

"As I said, Rai is now a Knight~"

"Not until the ceremony." Rai interrupted.

"You shut your mouth," Nonette retorted, to which Rai smirked, "Technically speaking, I could make you my Squire."

Everyone went wide eyed at the statement. Nonette taking another Squire right after Rai is Knighted?

"Um," Suzaku said, "Is that legal?"

"Technically speaking," Castor answered, "It isn't legal to have more than one Squire. However, there is a technical loophole in the laws regarding Squires."

"If a Squire is accepted into Knighthood, they are technically no longer a Squire, but, until the Knighting ceremony is conducted, they aren't legally a Knight, either. As such, I'm no longer her Squire in legal terms. She could take you on as her Squire."

"You would get to keep your name, and be at a much higher position politically than if you joined the Glaston Knights."

"So," Suzaku turned to Nonette, "You think I should take it?"

"In my opinion? Absolutely not."

'What?!' "Why?"

"Because you aren't ready for the dangers."

"But~"

"Before you make any statements about your skills in combat, that isn't the danger I'm referring to. As, with increased prestige, comes increased attention from the nobility."

"The nobility?"

"Please tell me you haven't even thought about that."

"Well~"

Nonette sighed, "Oh boy. Suzaku, let me make it perfectly clear. If I accept you as my Squire, the nobility will tear you apart. I can protect you from the worst, but, you'd be expected to accompany me to any formal gatherings I'm invited to, and you aren't ready for that battle field."

"But you said that I could do more if I accept your offer."

"Yes, but you don't have the training needed to survive long enough to do it."

"So…What should I do?"

Nonette sat down in the chair, leaning back. "Honestly, that's up to you. It's a choice between two contracts. A small rise, with a good team, but you can only apply minimal change. Or a large rise, with the nobility ready to pounce on you at the slightest mistake, and no training to prepare you. You must decide for yourself."

Suzaku contemplated her words. 'Decide for myself? But both can help!'

"Now, Suzaku," Castor exclaimed, "Perhaps you should get back to the ASEEC, before Lloyd starts throwing a fit about where you are."

"Oh, right, your Highness."

Suzaku left the room, only to run into a familiar woman.

"Oh, Lady Ernst." Suzaku saluted, resulting in Dorothea narrowing her eyes. Without a word, she simply strode past him. Suzaku lowered his hand and continued walking, curious why she didn't say a word to him.

Dorothea Ernst

Dorothea walked past Nonette's room as Nonette herself came out. She briefly saw Prince Castor talking to Lord Valstar, but didn't pay much attention.

"You heard that, didn't you?" Nonette all but demanded.

Dorothea stopped in her tracks, but didn't turn around.

'The Number is highly skilled, but making him her new Squire? The audacity of her knows no bounds. Besides, under her, the Eleven will simply be a blip on the radar, nothing of importance. However~' "On your head, the consequences will fall, should he accept your offer."

"And I'm more than willing to accept them, Dorothea. That boy can do great things for the empire, if only given the chance."

Dorothea turned her head, eyes narrowed once more.

'A chance, eh?' Dorothea thought as her eyes softened, before she continued down the hall.

"Just don't embarrass the rest of us. A Squire is an extension of yourself, after all."

Tsar Taigun no Project Base, 8:07 P.M.

Zero

Zero and Robbinson walked beside through the hallways, occasionally getting a salute from a Russian soldier. Zero and Tarish had finished their discussion regarding when to deploy Tsar Taigun no. Unfortunately, it was impossible to tell exactly when it would be best to deploy it, so they would send a coded message when it was time. Tarish gave them full range of the base, with the exception of the surface runway.

"Have to say, boss," Robbinson commented, "The boys here have done a great job here."

"Yes," Zero replied, "Their work on the project is more fruitful than I expected. Especially the material generation device."

"Yeah. Shame we can't share it with the rest of the world. Be able to solve a whole lot of problems. But we'd likely make more problems in the process."

"Once Britannia's been defeated, perhaps. But not now~"

"Yeah, yeah, we got a war to win. Speaking of which, I got to meet the pilots of the jets that saved our skin."

"And…"

"Three of them are Britannians, while the fourth is Japanese. Of the three Brits, two of them are orphans, one of them by choice, while the third is a deserter. All three of them joined the E.U., being reassigned to Eastern Russia. Specifically the coldest regions. Seems whoever reassigned them wanted them to freeze to death, but they got picked up and assigned her to improve the drone fighting skills. Didn't give me names, but gave me their callsigns. Wiseman, Tabloid, and Count.

"How are they as people?"

"Count and Tabloid are the most loose of the group, sometimes bad mouthing their leader Wiseman, but he knows they don't do it maliciously, so he only gives them a slap on the wrist, metaphorically. Just so long as they don't take it too far. Wiseman himself is a stern but fair leader by all accounts, though, we don't know until they get into an actual warzone. Dogfighting is much different than a battlefield."

"But no less dangerous, MacNamara. And the Japanese?"

"Right. She didn't speak, but the others called her Trigger. She's their ace pilot. She pulled that backflip trick on the Brits when we got attacked. Like I said, didn't say a word, and mostly kept to herself, but every soldier I've asked about her say that she's arguably the best pilot in Russia."

"Then it will be important to acquire her once Russia joins the war. Pilots like her can help revolutionize fighter technology."

Robbinson gave a smirk. "Pilots that can handle the strain, much like with Knightmares?"

"Precisely."

The intercom system whined on before a male spoke up.

"Zero to the command center. I repeat, Zero to the command center."

The two looked at each other, before picking up the pace. Entering a large room that overlooked the Stormbringer, Tarish was supervising his men, his face deeply concerned.

"Zero!" Tarish called out from across the room. "Good! Follow me."

"General," Zero exclaimed as he followed, "What's going on?"

"I just received a priority message."

'Message? Is Russia contacting them?'

"From the Homeland, I assume?"

"Correct. This is the first message from anywhere outside our base ever since we went dark."

Zero turned to Robbinson. "Prepare to move out. We don't know what to expect."

"You got it, boss." Robbinson then ran off to collect his provisions.

"Any news?" Zero inquired, turning back.

"None. Just said that it was a priority call, and that I should take it in the conference room."

"I didn't know this place had a conference room."

"We used for small meetings, such as combat drills and white shirt discussions. But it has a retractable large screen for away communications."

They entered the conference room, a slightly inclined fifty by fifty foot square room, giving the impression of a theater. Tarish pressed a button next to the door they entered, and a large screen was lowered.

Tarish pulled up his radio. "Звонок еще доступен?...Хорошо, покажи это на экране."

The screen went static, before revealing an elderly man, to which Zero quickly recognized as Tsar Romanov.

"Главный~" Alexander began, only to quickly notice Zero, "Ah, that would explain things."

"Your Radiance!" Tarish saluted as Zero gave a light bow, "We are honored by your presence."

"At ease, General. I assume we have you to thank for nearly bringing Russia to war, Zero?"

"Forgive the sudden attention, Tsar Romanov. I had learned of the Tsar Taigun no, and I had come to see if the project was still underway."

"Yes, well, you certainly gave us attention. Shortly after your little incursion into our territory, half of the Britannian fleet guarding Japan moved into position between our two countries. Likely anticipating possible aggression on our end. When I heard of the incursion, I ordered an emergency meeting with my Parliament to discuss what to do."

"Your Radiance…" Tarish nearly stammered, "Are we…?"

"No, General, we are not at war. When I informed Parliament of what happened, a couple members discussed declaring war, but they were convinced of a more cautious approach."

"Such as?" Zero replied.

"Contacting Japan's current Viceroy, and demanding answers. Unfortunately, we should've expected the Britannian Prime Minister to respond instead of the Viceroy."

"Yes. Prince Schneizel is certainly a far harder foe to handle. He purposefully left a gap in their perimeter network, believing I would use it as a means to reach Russia."

"And, when you decided to go, it allowed him to easily find you, as he only had to look in one spot."

"Correct. What did the Prime Minister have to say?"

"I was the only one to contact him, and he gave the usual denial policies, but expressed concern that more radical elements of their military may have gone rogue."

'Interesting. They can't deny that the planes were Britannian, so they'll simply say they were rogue elements.' "How did you respond?"

"I didn't. A Lieutenant Malcal of the French military did. She proposed that, if Britannia was truly innocent, they'd allow an unarmed relief fleet to land on Japan." Tsar Romanov then gave a harsh cough.

"Your Radiance?" Tarish exclaimed in worry.

"At ease, Commander. I won't let a cough stop me."

'His health may be failing. I don't know much about his daughter, but I hope she shares his mindset.' Zero continued. "What is this 'relief fleet'?"

"Just under three dozen large civilian ships stationed in the Sea of Okhotsk, carrying supplies for the Japanese in the ghettos. She's a humanitarian at heart, and wanted to help ease the burden of the Japanese."

'An interesting woman. But it's strange. Schneizel wouldn't allow such a thing, even if it was completely unarmed. Unless…' "How did he respond?"

"He said that they must be unescorted, and that each ship will be searched heavily before being allowed to dock. He also wants a manifest of every crew member on each ship, of which he'll account for them when they arrive. Any crew members that disembark must return to the ship, or said ship will be detained should they attempt to leave. I suspect he knows that we'll try to slip you back into Japan."

"A reasonable assumption. Send the fleet."

Tsar Romanov raised an eyebrow. "You aren't worried that the Prime Minister will discover you?"

"No, as I won't be on those ships. Tarish, does this screen have a map function?"

"Yes, it does." Tarish moved to the center, an electronic podium standing before him. The image of Tsar Romanov shifted to the right, and a map appeared. Zero moved to the podium, and Tarish allowed him control.

"While the relief fleet is inroute," Zero exclaimed as he moved the map, "I'll have my submarine pick us up at a second location." He zoomed in on a bay, "What is this?"

"Bukhta Bol'shaya Sarannaya."

"Then that is my pickup point."

"Then everything is set?"

"Yes. Send the relief fleet. Schneizel can waste time trying to find me there, and I'll safely return to Japan."

"Good," Tsar Romanov responded, the map disappearing and returning to normal, "However, Zero, I'd like to give you two key pieces of information. Should you liberate Japan, even if Europa United refuses to fight, we will not."

"Oh?"

"If the E.U. chooses cowardice over courage, the Russian Republic will leave the E.U., and join Japan in the war against Britannia."

Zero raised an eyebrow. 'Why would they willingly choose to leave the E.U.? If Britannia invaded~' "Clever. Very clever, Tsar Romanov."

"Am I missing something?" Tarish questioned.

"If Russia leaves the E.U., it all but guarantees their involvement in the war."

"I'm…not following."

"Simply put, if Russia leaves to join Japan, it seems like Russia isn't willing to drag the E.U. into a war with Britannia. However, should Russia fall to them…"

Tarish's eyes widened in shock. "It would give Britannia practically a backdoor into Europe!"

"Precisely. And the E.U. couldn't afford to have Britannia so close to their borders, and with a large amount of resources they'll gain from subjugating Russia. In other words, to protect themselves, Europa United would have to join the war."

"I will neither confirm nor deny the accusation."

Tarish whipped to the screen. "Your Radiance!"

"These are trying times, General. Sometimes drastic measures are needed."

"How much support can we expect?"

"One of our naval fleets will be sent to reinforce Japan, while another will hold the Bering and Chukchi seas. If they are successful, we'll allocate more fleets. All the while, ground forces in Eastern Russia will move to make the journey to Japan, as well as fortify our own defences. Luckily, despite our agreements with Britannia prohibiting our fleets from coming close, they don't mention ground forces stationed there, though it's a thin line."

"And the second."

Tsar Romanov took a deep breath before sighing. "Do you know of the Petersburg Revolt?"

"Vaguely. Britannian sympathizers tried to stage a rebellion."

Romanov nodded. "Yes. While most of the traitors were arrested and or executed, we still have yet to find their ringleaders. Not only that, but, recently, the symbols they used before the Petersburg Revolt have begun to appear once more. I suspect that they'll make another move in less than a year, possibly much sooner if you succeed in starting a rebellion."

"Do you have any idea on their identities?"

"Yes and no. We've discovered some of the ringleaders, but have yet to find them. Worse, we believe they take orders from someone else. Specifically, four individuals: Michael, Raphael, Gabriel, and Uriel. However, our Intelligence believes these to simply be code names, not their actual ones. At this point, we can do nothing to hunt them down, so we are simply on standby until they make another move, unfortunately."

"Understandable."

"General General Tarish Zhokov!" Romanov declared, Tarish instinctively saluting, "As of this moment, each and every man of this base is to be placed under the direct command of Zero, until further notice. Is that understood?"

"Yes, Your Radiance!"

"Zero, if these traitors make a move, it will make things much harder for us to assist you. As General Zhokov has likely told you, he and his forces will be assisting you regardless of our situation. Use them wisely."

"I will, your highness. I'll be informing my associate that we'll be leaving soon."

Major General Tarish Zhokov

Zero left the room, and Tarish saluted his Tsar.

"Any remaining orders, Your Radiance?"

"Zero…what do you make of him?"

"Charismatic, decisive, and, as shown when he deduced your intentions with the E.U., incredible intelligent."

"Hmm…"

"Your Radiance?"

"While our friendship with Japan is certainly important, I can't help but get some strange feeling around him. Like there's something missing here."

'Come to think of it.' "I felt it too. We walked with such determination, his speech decisive, and his very aura was comparable to those damn speeches Charles zi Britannia makes."

"Clarify."

"He gave the presence of someone who's already won, but is simply making it fact. Honestly, it felt almost…regal."

"Hmm. Despite me ordering you to be under his authority, I do have one command."

"Anything, Your Radiance."

"Every two months, anything regarding Zero and Celaeno's personalities, you are to report to me, understood."

Tarish saluted. "Yes, Your Radiance."

The screen went dark, leaving Tarish alone. Tarish understood why Tsar Romanov wanted to learn more, as he had the same belief. He has spent only a few hours with Zero, and already he has more questions than answers about the man, or his sister. He can only hope that, should Zero discover this, he understands.

Ashford Academy, 8:39 P.M.

Cornelia li Britannia

Cornelia walked to the rooftop of the building that C.C. frequented, her pistol's holster unfastened, and the safety off.

'One way or another, this has to end.'

"So," C.C. called out as she reached the rooftop, "What exactly do you want to talk about."

Cornelia had called C.C., telling her to meet up on this rooftop. She was going to demand that C.C. cut off communications with Marianne. Even though she still respects Marianne greatly, the potential danger outweighs it. Cornelia has no idea where Marianne has been, what condition she's in, and, most importantly, what side she's on. She thought she knew Marianne, but if she could hide something as big as 'Hey, I'm alive!' from her children, then she didn't know what her true motives were.

However, if she was going to convince her to sever the connection, she had to play this right. She had to offer something, and, unless she knew what kind of person C.C. was, she had nothing.

"I had wanted to discuss something you said with Mao."

C.C. briefly raised an eyebrow, beforel looking to the side. Cornelia couldn't tell if she was feeling ashamed or not for how it ended.

"Mao's been dead for a while. Why ask me now?"

"Because it just occurred to me. How exactly does one remove your Code?"

C.C. remained silent.

"C.C., how would someone take your Code?" Cornelia gripped her pistol, to which C.C. noticed.

"Do you intend to shoot me?"

"If I have to, yes. While you're 'dead', I'll lock your body up, and we'll wait until you give me the answers."

"I doubt Lelouch would appreciate that."

"You're correct, but he'd understand why. I will not allow you to force Lelouch to take your Code."

The amused glint in C.C. eyes shifted to a dull fury. "I will never force someone to take my Code."

Cornelia narrowed her eyes. 'So she only wants someone to take her Code willingly, but she also wants it removed, even willing to abandon her Contractors if she feels like they won't do it.'

"Then answer my question."

"...Fine. As I told you, once you get a Geass, eventually, it'll become rampant, being permanently on. However, there is another effect that can happen. It can appear in both eyes instead of one."

"Does that increase its power?"

"No. It's only the indication that the person qualifies to take the Code. At which case, the Geass bearer can simply take it from their Code Bearer. They gain immortality, but, as the one that gave them their Geass, they lose their own as a result."

"Does it have to be from the one that gave them their Geass? Couldn't I just find a different Code Bearer, thus having both."

C.C. showed a rare face of curiosity. "That's an interesting prospect. There are so few Code Bearers in the world, that the chances of finding two are highly unlikely. So I cannot tell you if that would work or not."

"And what exactly happens if someone takes your Code."

"..."

Cornelia narrowed her eyes. "C.C…"

"All these years, time has been on pause for me. Once my Code is taken, those years catch up."

"You die."

"Yes. When I got my Code, my previous Code Bearer turned to dust in mere moments. I doubt it was painless, but I'm sure it's a relief."

"You want to die? I do recall you saying that your Code has been nothing but a curse."

"You came to that yourself," C.C. replied condescendingly, "But, yes. I do wish to die. I've gone off long enough and, while Lelouch is the most interesting Contractor I've had, it doesn't change that I want this Code gone."

"You'll fail."

"What?" C.C. replied venomously.

"I'd like to think I know Lady Marianne, and she would never have accepted immortality. She loved her children, and even extended that love to me and Euphie. To watch them grow old and die while she carried on? She'd never accept that. No parent should have to bury their child. And the same will go for Lelouch. He won't admit it, but he needs me, he needs Nunnally, Euphie, Milly, all of them, to keep himself grounded. To take your Code, and be alone for eternity? He'd go insane within a year. So, unless you force your Code upon him, he will never accept a Code."

C.C. showed her trademark annoyance. "Then why should I even bother staying here? If he doesn't plan on taking my Code, I have no desire to remain here." C.C. turned to head for the stairs.

"Are you sure about that?"

"What?" C.C. replied, not turning back.

"You had to have known that Lelouch wouldn't take your Code, after seeing how much he loves his family. Yet, you stayed. Which means something is making you want to stay. And I think I know what that is…You want to find a reason. You said it yourself, Lelouch is your most interesting Contractor. Which means there's something you want him to do besides taking your Code. You obviously won't say what it is, but, if I had to guess, it's a reason to go on So, I propose a deal."

"A deal?"

"I propose that, by the time this rebellion is over, me and Lelouch will give you a reason to live. However, if you still don't want to, your Code will be taken."

"And, if Lelouch won't take it, how do you plan to~" C.C. whipped around, her eyes widened like she just had a revelation.

Cornelia smirked, extending a hand. "C.C., shall we form a contract?"

Author's Notes: You can see why this chapter is called 'The Contract'.

Anyways, lots of moving parts, and big life choices coming up. Suzaku now has a chance to advance even further, but he has to choose between two contracts. Dalton or Nonette's offer. Both have merits, as well as setbacks.

And now Cornelia has set up her own contract with C.C.. I'll let you guys imagine what her Geass could be.

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

Next Update: Mama Hound Vol 1 AND Mama Hound Vol 2