Here's chapter eight. Anyway, I don't own Code Geass or any of the characters just the OC.
8. The Rise Of The Black Knights
In Ashford Academy, Lelouch was in his room looking over his Chessboard, arranging the black Chess pieces around the Black King piece, C.C was also there laying on the bed. It was a few days after the battle of Saitama, and Lelouch was thinking of his next plan of action.
"I'll admit I'm surprised that you all won back there," C.C said.
"Oh, and why's that?" Lelouch asked.
"I had assumed you would be more reckless in that battle and allow yourself to quickly be cornered, and yet you all gained a total victory," C.C said.
Lelouch laughed a little at that, "Well then you clearly underestimated me."
"You can't really blame me, how could I have known you had such a powerful Knightmare."
"The Agravaine is a seventh-generation made by one of our contacts, you see the military distract of India has a scientist that rivals the one that built the Lancelot, in fact, she already built a different Knightmare called the Guren MK II, right now it's in the hands of the Kyoto group."
"Kyoto?" C.C asked.
"They're a group in Area 11 that supports resistance faction's including the JLF but they've yet to give the Guren to anyone, that's why we're going to show we're the most qualified to have the Guren by continuing to gain victory after victory against the Britannia's," Lelouch explained.
"And to make sure that happens you first gained a seventh generation Knightmare for yourselves, something no other resistance faction had, giving you a much greater chance at victory, how devious you are," C.C deduced with a grin.
"Yeah well this is a war, it's always best to have as many pieces as you can," Lelouch then moves the black knight piece to knock over the white knight piece, "Besides once we have both the Guren and the Agravaine then even the Lancelot won't be able to stop us."
C.C then sat up, "By the way where's Logan?"
"He's out getting necessary for what's about to come, which reminds me I should get going too." Lelouch then stands up preparing to leave.
"Where are you going?" C.C asked.
"I'm going to meet up with the new troops that will be a part of our army," Lelouch said before walking out the door.
(Area 11 Government Bureau)
In the Viceroy's office, Cornelia sat at her desk thinking back to the events that happened at Saitama a few days ago. The operation was a complete failure, almost all of her Royal Guard were killed, and for the first time, she was defeated. She thought back to the battle and tried to figure out how her enemy has such an advanced Knightmare, and when she thought about Guilford's fight she tried to figure out how his enemy beat him with just a Sutherland.
"I get don't understand it, no matter how I rack my brain around this," Cornelia said.
Soon there was a knock on the door.
"Viceroy, it's me Darlton," Darlton said on the other side of the door.
"It's okay, enter," Cornelia responded.
The door opened and Darlton walked in.
"Darlton what's the status of my request?" Cornelia asked.
"Princess, General Alex received your request and agreed to came to Area 11 along with his forces to help compensate for the loss of the Royal Guard," Darlton answered. "Also they'll be sending more Knightmares to replace the ones we lost in the last battle."
"That's good, after that disaster we'll need to strengthen our forces as much as we can, I can't afford to take Zero or Soul lightly anymore than I have."
"I agree, Milady, they're more dangerous than we were expecting."
"By the way where is Sub-Viceroy Euphemia?" Cornelia asked.
"She along with her two bodyguards went to a hotel at Lake Kawaguchi for some sightseeing," Darlton told her.
"Lake Kawaguchi?" Cornelia said. "Wait that's right today is the yearly national meeting of the Sakuradite Allocation, it's happening at Lake Kawaguchi."
"That's correct your Highness, it's starting in a few hours," Darlton said.
"Well since she's just sightseeing it should be fine as long as she's not recognised," Cornelia then stood up and began to leave. "Come Darlton, I have business to deal with."
(Elsewhere On Some Train Tracks)
A train was leaving to Tokyo Settlement and heading to Lake Kawaguchi. Riding the train was Milly, Shirley, and Nina, they were going to the hotel at Lake Kawaguchi since it was a popular tourist sight and they decided to take a trip there, they invited the other members of the Student Council but all of them had reasons not to come.
"I've never left the Tokyo Settlement before, this is my first time!" Shirley said with excitement.
"I'm sure you wish Lelouch could have come with us, don't you?" Milly said with a grin.
Shirley flinched at her comment and began to blush.
"No, ah."
"Don't be so shy." Milly continued. "Tonight we can stay up all night talking. Let's tell each other which boys we like from school."
"Then you'll probably have a lot to talk about, right Ms President?" Shirley said sarcastically.
"Who can say?" Milly asked with a smile.
The train enters a tunnel and Nina freaked out a bit and clenched her fists and teeth. Milly placed a hand on Nina's hand to calm her down.
"Nina, it's all right," Milly assured her. "There are lots of Britannian tourists at Lake Kawaguchi so security's fine. Don't be afraid, it's not the ghettos."
"Yes, but…" Nina replied still afraid.
"We'll be with you the whole time." Milly reminded her. "We won't leave your side for a second."
Nina started to smile and felt comforted, "Thanks."
Milly and Shirley were glad Nina was feeling better and then Shirley looked out the window as the train came out the tunnel and was in awe at what she was seeing.
(Somewhere Block's Away From Ohgi's Base)
"So this is it?" Kallen asked.
"Yeah this is the place to Zero told us to meet him and Soul," Ohgi replied, "Well let's go in."
The door opened and they walking in amazed at what they saw inside which was filled with luxurious furniture, at the end of the room they saw Zero and Soul sitting on a couch along with R.R who was standing.
"What are you waiting for? Come in." Zero told them. "As of now, this place will be our hideout."
"We're glad you all could make it," Soul welcomed them, "Make yourselves comfortable."
"So, you think joining up with us is a good idea?" Ohgi asked as they all entered.
"Yes. We're comrades, after all." Zero said.
"Holy cow," Tamaki said.
The others looked around seeing the interior of the mobile base and were impressed by it.
"As of right now, this will be our hideout," Soul said.
"Hey, who's this guy?" Sugiyama questioned looking at R.R
"Ah, yes forgive us for not introducing him," Zero said now gesturing to R.R. "This is R.R, he is one of our comrades and was a key factor in defeating Cornelia's Royal Guard the other day."
"Really he was with you in that battle," Ohgi said impressed. "Then I guess he must be really capable."
"Correct, before long you'll see that for yourself," Soul said.
"I look forward to working with you," R.R said.
"Yeah, you too," Ohgi said, "Do you mind if I ask how you came by this?"
"We gained it from a group of people who were willing to lend us some support," Zero said.
"Are you serious?" Kallen asked surprised.
"Don't worry there were no tracks," Soul assured.
"It's huge," Yoshida said, "Check it out there's even a second floor."
"It's even got a TV," Minami said then turning the TV on to the news.
"I'm here in front of the Lake Kawaguchi Convention Center Hotel." A female reported stated. The hotel hijackers have been identified as members of the Japan Liberation Front."
"What the?" Ohgi spoke surprised as he and everyone else in the vehicle watched the news report.
"Members of the Sakuradite Allocation Meeting, most notably Chairman James, were taken hostage, as well as several tourists and hotel employees. This footage was taken by the perpetrators. In it, you can clearly see Chairman James, including some students."
Milly, Nina, and Shirley were seen being among the hostages in the hotel.
"Zero," Soul said directing Zero and R.R to the news.
The three of them were shocked to see members of the Student Council among the hostages.
"No...From the Student Council." Kallen said with worry.
(Base Of The JLF)
In the JLF base, Kyoshiro Todoh was also watching the news along with his direct subordinates the Four Holy Sword, Ryouga Senba, Shogo Asahina, Kosetsu Urabe, and Nagisa Chiba.
The leader of the group is claiming to be Lieutenant Colonel Kusakabe of the now-defunct Japanese Army." The female reporter continued.
"That imbecile!" Todoh said angrily while he punched the floor.
(Lake Kawaguchi)
The female reporter continued while Diethard watched while leaning on the side of the news van.
"Sakuradite, an essential component in the manufacture of high-temperature superconductors, is a vital strategic resource that directly affects world security. Area 11 is the largest producer of this material, providing 70% of the world's total supply. Here at the yearly national meeting of sakuradite producers, it will be determined how this resource will be distributed among the world's nations. It's no exaggeration to say that the outcome determines the balance of global power between Britannia and other countries. It is believed that the terrorists are using world interest in the annual gathering to their advantage by carrying out this violent hotel takeover."
The G-1 Mobile Base was stationed in the area in front of the bridge to the hotel. Near the G-1 was a trailer of the ASEEC and Suzaku was standing near the trailer hoping for a peaceful solution.
(Inside The Hotel)
In a storage room in the hotel, Kusakabe along with three members of the Japan Liberation Front stood in front of the door staring down at the hostages and Kusakabe held in his hands a sheathed katana.
"I'm Kusakabe of the Japan Liberation Front." Kusakabe said, "This stand we're taking is for the freedom of Japan and our countrymen. Even though you are not soldiers you are still Britannians. You are the ones who rule and oppress us. Sit still, be quiet, and you'll be fine. If you don't we'll dispose of one by one."
Nina was terrified and clung to Milly who was trying to keep her safe. Shirley was worried about what would happen to them and thought about Lelouch.
"Lulu." Shirley thought.
(Zero's Mobile Base)
"So this is their move," R.R said.
"They're easily the biggest anti-Britannian force in Japan," Ohgi said. "And now their pride's hurt."
"Because of us?" Sugiyama asked.
"Maybe, But it could be they also found out about Zero and Soul's victory against Cornelia back in Saitama and got desperate." Ohgi guessed.
"I don't know whether to feel happy or sad about that," Tamaki commented. "Because they're all gonna end up dead."
Zero looked at his cell phone that started vibrating. He looked and saw that Rivalz was calling him.
"Rivalz?" Zero thought.
(A Bar Within The Tokyo Settlement)
Rivalz was on the phone hoping Lelouch would answer and then the phone picked up.
"Ah, Lelouch," Rivalz said. "I've…! Huh?"
"This is Lelouch, please leave a message after the beep." The voice mail said.
"What the hell's he doing at a time like this?" Rivalz said angrily throwing his phone on the floor.
(Zero's Mobile Base)
Behind his mask, Lelouch clenched his teeth in frustration.
"I know, Rivalz." Lelouch thought, 'I know but…'
(G-1 Mobile Base)
In the bridge of the G-1, Cornelia was sitting on her throne and Guilford was standing at her side while the staff officers were standing by the large console discussing the current situation happening in Lake Kawaguchi.
"All bridges connecting to the hotel with the exception of the main one have been destroyed." One of the staff officers reported.
They were seeing images of Britannian forces using different methods to enter the hotel all of which end in failure.
"Our attempted approaches from the air and water have been unsuccessful." Another staff officer reported.
They turned to face Cornelia.
"There's only one route left that will allow us to develop a possible hostage rescue plan." The first staff officer explained. "The main utilities tunnel running directly beneath the Convention Center Hotel. Basically, we would go in through this route, destroy the foundation block, and submerge the hotel. Since the tunnel was also built to handle supply deliveries, it should be able to accommodate Sutherlands. Even if the enemy has taken precautions it should be no problem."
They then showed images of Sutherlands already moving underground driving through the tunnel that leads to the hotel.
(Inside The Tunnels)
Three Sutherlands enter the tunnel and charged forward to reach the hotel. As they reached further in the tunnel they saw enemy forces, two members of the Japan Liberation Front were operating a large coil gun made from four Glasgows in the cockpit; they picked up the signals of the three Sutherlands on screen.
"Enemy detected! As expected, they're moving through the underground tunnel." One JLF member said.
"Roger that." The second member sitting behind him said. "Raikou secondary startup, both quad-linkage legs locked. Super Electro Magnetic Shrapnel Cannon voltage confirmed."
The Britannian forces continued their advance and picked up the JLF's weapon with their Factsphere Sensors, they decided to spread out and try to break past them. The to JLF members prepared to fire the Super Electro Magnetic Shrapnel Cannon. When they fired, a shell shot out of the cannon and released dozens of steel balls and they spread out destroying all the enemy Sutherlands.
(Lake Kawaguchi Hotel)
In the room Kusakabe and other members of the JLF were occupying, they watched what happened on a monitor happy with the outcome.
"One shot!" One of the members said excitedly. "they did it!"
"Yes! It really worked!" Another member said with glee.
"The Raikou is a complete success!"
Kusakabe looked very pleased with this turn of events. "What do you think of that, Britannian pigs?"
(Bridge Of The G-1 Mobile Base)
"Wiped out? all of them?" Darlton asked shocked.
"That's correct, it looks as though they've modified a Glasgow into a linear cannon." One of the staff officers reported.
"Then that means there's no way we can breakthrough," Darlton said.
"What do we do now?" Another staff officer asked. "If we release the political prisoners as they demand…"
"We can't show weakness to terrorists!" Cornelia said strongly not even having to think about it.
Guilford kneeled closer and whispered in her ear. "But, Princess Euphemia, she's…"
"Yes I know," Cornelia replied quietly.
"So far it appears that none of them have discovered that fact," Darlton said. "If they learn that Princess Euphemia is among the hostages, they'll undoubtedly use her as a bargaining chip. She went there just to observe, therefore she isn't registered along with the other guests."
(Ashford Academy)
On the roof of Ashford Academy, the girl Lelouch Geassed to mark the wall every day was carving another mark, while C.C who was also on the roof watched her.
"Yes, yes, I know," C.C said. "I'll do well this time. I'll try to look out for him but I'm not their guardian." C.C smiled. "Besides the way things are going they won't need my help at all."
(Lake Kawaguchi)
Lloyd was sitting by the lake while Suzaku and Cecile stood next to him looking at the hotel.
"Can't the Special Core offer any assistance with the rescue operation? anything at all?" Suzaku asked.
"I've already asked them," Lloyd said. "But we're in a regular unit and they don't acknowledge our chain of command. Besides…"
"It's too risky to entrust the operation to an Eleven," Suzaku said. "is that right?"
"Yet I'm sure you're aware that Princess Cornelia is very discriminating about Britannians and Numbers."
"So the Japanese still aren't being accepted enough into your structure."
"If that were true, then what point would there be in even having an Honorary Britannian system?" Cecile commented.
Suzaku was taken back at what Cecile just said and looked away with a frown not knowing what to say.
(Zero's Mobile Base)
Members inside the base were unloading boxes and moving various things around the base. Zero and Soul were inside one room watching the news on a small TV getting an update on the situation at Lake Kawaguchi. They watched a man who was the father of one of the hostages and was angrily at what was happening saying he wants to know if his daughter is alright.
"We need to organize before we fight them again," Zero said.
"It's too soon though right, we're not ready, that's what your thinking," Soul said.
"That's right but we can't just sit here and do nothing either. Knowing Cornelia, she'll sacrifice the hostages." Zero said.
"It's pretty strange don't you think?" Soul said getting Zero's attention, "We know she would rather sacrifice the hostages than give in to the JLF's demands, but if that's true then why hasn't she yet?"
"Ah, yes you're right why hasn't she made her move?" Zero realized then thought of an explanation, "Is it possible…"
Before he could say what he was thinking Kallen knock on the door and then she and Ohgi entered the room.
"Zero, Soul… What will happen to the hostages?" Kallen asked worried for her friends.
Zero turned off the TV before answering. "Eventually, there will be no reason to keep those Britannians alive."
Kallen had a downcast look on her face at hearing that. "Yeah… I'm sure you're right."
"Hey Zero, I found these," Ohgi said bringing up the box he was holding. "Should I hand them out to everyone?" The box was full of black uniforms.
"That's right, make sure everyone gets theirs," Zero said.
"Where did you get those?" Kallen asked.
"We got them from Peace Mark," Soul said surprising Kallen and Ohgi.
"Wait, Peace Mark?" Kallen said. "Aren't they the organization that goes against Britannia, and they supply resistance groups with weapons and resources?"
"Yeah, and I've they have contacts all over the world," Ohgi said surprised.
"That's right, you could say that we're one of their connects, you can also thank them for our weapons." Zero replied.
"Well I mean as far as gear goes it looks pretty good but..."
"Something wrong?" Zero asked.
"Is it really okay to go through this much trouble, I mean maybe this is more than we deserve after all we're just a resistance group so…" Ohgi trailed off.
"Wrong! We're not a resistance group, is that clear?" Zero insisted
Kallen and Ohgi were surprised at that.
"We're not?" Ohgi asked. "Okay then, what are we?"
"What we are," Zero said. "what we're trying to be… are knights for justice!"
"Knights..." Kallen spoke.
"For justice?" Ohgi spoke.
"That's right," Soul said. "And our justice will bring down Britannia."
(Lake Kawaguchi)
Meanwhile, outside the hotel near the bridge, the Lancelot was being prepared by Suzaku and Cecile.
"Those teenage hostages are friends of yours from school aren't they?" Cecile spoke.
"That's right," Suzaku said.
"They're still negotiating so let's not give up hope," Cecile assured.
"I have faith in the system. I prefer the logic of systems to individualist emotions." Suzaku said.
Cecile smiled and walked to Suzaku to stand behind him. Suzaku suddenly saw something on the screen and was surprised.
"Ms. Cecile, look." Suzaku said.
"Huh?" Cecile looked and saw what Suzaku saw.
What they were seeing was on the roof of the hotel three members of the JLF holding one of the hostages whose hands were tied up by rope and was about to be pushed off.
"That's…" Suzaku said shocked.
"What are they going to do to him?" Cecile asked worriedly.
"Oh no, don't do it," Suzaku spoke in horror as the JLF members pushed the hostage off the roof. "Ah! Nooooo!"
(G-1 Mobile Base)
"Our demands have gone unanswered," Kusakabe said appearing on the screen in the bridge. "Therefore, we will throw one hostage from the roof every thirty minutes until our terms are met. For the sake of the hostages' negotiations better be in good faith."
A few minutes later Cornelia, Guilford, and Darlton were walking down the G-1 hallway.
"This is their warning? killing hostages to show their seriousness?" Darlton said disguised by their actions. "Barbarians."
"For now, we could negotiate just to get the women and children out," Guilford suggested.
"Forget it!" Cornelia injected strongly. "If you give in to their conditions even once then you're simply legitimizing terrorism."
"Then do we use force?" Darlton asked.
"We would pursue that course of action after we secure the safety of Princess Euphemia," Guilford said.
"Euphie…" Cornelia spoke in her head with worry. "I…."
"Viceroy," A soldier said rushing up to Cornelia. "It's Zero! We just received a message from Zero."
(Lake Kawaguchi)
Diethard was sitting by the lake fishing when one of his co-workers told him something.
"What?" Diethard said surprised. "What do you mean Van 3 was stolen by Zero? What the hell was Gibson doing all the while?"
"He said that when he realized what was happening it was too late." The co-worker said.
Diethard sighed clearly annoyed. "Then where's Van 3 now?"
"Driving straight towards the military."
Diethard was surprised by that bit of information, meanwhile, the stolen Van 3 was driving up to the bridge area that was currently being occupied by the Britannian military and Zero and Soul stood on top of the Van.
"We confirm, it's Zero and Soul." One of the soldiers said. "Should we open fire?"
"No, just stand by," Darlton replied. "We'll capture them after they're surrounded."
"Now we'll show them," Soul thought in his head. "We'll show the world how we operate."
"It won't just be saving the hostages," Zero thought in his head. "This will be the first step to our objective."
In the van, Ohgi was driving while Kallen was sitting next to him as they wore their new uniforms.
"Hey, when they went off about justice earlier, what do you think they meant?" Ohgi asked.
"Don't know, but we may die first before we find out," Kallen said. "Seems all of our escape routes have been cut off."
While the rest of their group along with R.R who was also wearing a uniform along with a hat sat in the back of the van.
"I'm just wondering, why didn't we use that other vehicle?" Minami asked.
"Oh, so you want the whole world to see where we hide out huh?" Sugiyama pointed out.
"I don't know about this, those two, you think we should trust them?" Inoue asked.
"No, that's why I said he looks shifty to me. But if anything goes wrong I'll do something about it." Tamaki said.
"If that's how you feel why did you come in the first place?" R.R thought dryly at them. "Guess they're not as smart as we hoped."
The van stopped in front of the bridge and three Gloucesters arrived in front of the van, they were piloted by Cornelia, Guilford, and Darlton, while Britannian forces surrounded them from every angle.
"Cornelia, she probably wants to kill us now more than ever," Soul thought. "Too bad in this situation we have the upper hand."
Cornelia came out of her Knightmares cockpit, "Zero and you as well Soul, I didn't think you had the nerve to show your faces here."
"Cornelia, you'll find that we hardly ever act in a manner that others can predict," Zero said confidently.
"But don't worry, we didn't come here to fight with you," Soul said. "After all we didn't bring a single Knightmare with us, not even my Agravaine."
"Is that so," Cornelia said with a scoff. "Then why did you come here is it because you're members of the Japan Liberation Front? Or perhaps you intend to help us? Regardless, our concerns take priority over yours at the moment." Cornelia then drew her long-barreled sword-gun. "And so for the death's of my Royal Guard as well as my half-brother Clovis, I shall take my revenge right here."
"Cornelia," Zero interjected. "Tell me which would you choose Clovis, who is dead, or Euphemia, who is alive?"
Cornelia was shocked and shook a bit and they both saw her reaction.
"Good, Lelouch's prediction was correct." Soul thought.
"My suspicion's confirmed." Zero thought. "The first task at hand is completed. It's just like when you were little, dear sister. You've always doted on sweet little Euphemia. That's why you won't take aggressive action, your emotions are getting in the way." Zero then said. "It's within our power to save Euphemia for you."
"What do you mean?" Cornelia said surprised. "I have no idea what you're talking about."
"What about what he said did you not understand?" Soul asked. "We're saying we're able to rescue her and we will along with the hostages if you just let us pass."
Meanwhile, in one of the hotel rooms, Kusakabe was informed about what was going on and was surprised.
Zero and Soul you say?" Kusakabe asked.
"Yes, sir." One of his subordinates said. "Word came from the Britannian Army."
Back at the bridge leading to the hotel, was giving the order to let them pass and Ohgi drove the van forward to reach the hotel.
"Attention all forces, let them pass. I repeat, let them pass."
"Either the Japan Liberation Front will accept us as their ally, or they're going to treat us as nothing more than a nuisance. In any event, I highly doubt that they can't resist the temptation of meeting the infamous Zero and Soul. We shall see." Zero thought as the van drove forward.
"Right now we don't know why Kusakabe did this or his reasons, but we'll find out soon, we need to see if he'll be useful but if his reasons are trash we'll just get rid of him." Soul thought as the van moved forward.
The gate to the hotel opened and the van drove inside.
"Viceroy, what are we doing?" Darlton asked.
"I believe that by letting them go in, we can buy some time before the next hostage is executed," Cornelia responded and then smiled. "So, this is our chance. We can hit them and the JLF at the same time."
In the ASEEC trailer, Lloyd was informed of the situation and received orders that made him very excited. "Wonderful! I want to thank you for that lovely order. Hahaha!" Lloyd said happily with a laugh then turned to Cecile and Suzaku. "They said you've got the green light, Lancelot. You've had orders to charge right into that linear cannon in the tunnel." Lloyd said excitedly
"Wait a minute," Cecile said. "You mean they're using him as a decoy to make an opening for them?"
"Yep that's right, seems like they'll use the confusion to send in the main forces."
Cecile was shocked not liking what she heard. "Seems like? But Lloyd…"
"Miss Cecile," Suzaku interjected.
Cecile stopped and looked at Suzaku
"I'm ready. Please let me do it. Suzaku said determinedly. "If Lancelot and I are needed, and we're able to give the hostages an opportunity to be saved, then I'll do it. Even if it means being a decoy."
Afterwards, Suzaku was preparing and starting the Lancelot and Cecile gave him a briefing on the mission.
"Warrant Officer Kururugi, here is a guideline for your mission. According to prime search, the hostages are located on the hotel's middle floor and believed to be locked inside a food storage room. Advanced prototype weapon Z-01 Lancelot will use the utility tunnel to move under the hotel. Once on-site you will destroy the foundation block and submerge the building. The area with the hostages should hold out for 8 minutes. Hostage rescue and mop up of the terrorists will be handled by other units. You will be using the VARIS to destroy the foundation. Set the Impact Rail to Anti-Material Level 3."
"The only variable in this is that pesky linear cannon waiting for you in the tunnel," Lloyd said. "Space is tight in there, the Lancelot will only have a 47.8% evasion rate."
"Are we really going through with this?" Cecile asked.
"Yep, make sure you both pull out of there before it's too late." Lloyd reminded him, "Lancelot might be wrecked, that would be unacceptable."
"Before it's too late?" Suzaku said to himself before responding, "Understood sir."
(Flashback: Two Days Ago, Ashford Academy)
Suzaku was in the hallway when Shirley walked up to him.
"Suzaku, the president and Nina and I are going to Lake Kawaguchi on Sunday." Shirley said, "Wanna join us?"
"Sorry, I have to work that day," Suzaku replied with a smile.
"Huh, you do?" Shirley said disappointed, "Too bad, but I guess that can't be helped then."
"But thank you for inviting me, I really appreciate it. I hope all of you have a great time."
(Flashback End)
The Lancelot was in position in the tunnel and Suzaku was ready to move.
"Twelve minutes to operation start," Cecile said. "Commencing countdown."
(Inside The Hotel)
Meanwhile, in the room filled with the hostages, Nina was shaking more and more unable to bear the situation she was in while Milly kept trying to calm her down. A JLF member walked by and stopped in front of them and Nina become more scared.
"An…Eleven," Nina said shaking.
"What!" The JLF Member responded angrily feeling offended by what Nina called him and sent her a glare, "What did you say?"
Nina gasped and clang to Milly shaking in terror.
"Not Elevens! We're Japanese, dammit." The JLF member said angrily while pointing his gun at them.
"Yes, we're aware of that," Milly said glaring at him. "Just lay off of her."
"Then correct her, we're not called Elevens."
"Fine, we'll correct her," Shirley said.
"How dare you speak like that to me? You three, come with me to the next room and I'll teach you a real lesson."
"No! No!" Nina shouted.
Euphie saw what was going on and was about to stand up and intervene but one of her bodyguards stopped her signalling her not to get involved.
The JLF Member then grabbed Nina's arm. "I said get up now!"
"No! Let me go!" Nina screamed.
"Stop it!" Euphie then stood up and yelled at them.
The others looked at Euphie.
"I demand you take me to your leader right now, understand?" Euphie ordered.
All eyes in the room were on Euphie who stood her ground doing what she felt was right.
"What? who the hell are you?" The JLF member asked.
"No Sub-Viceroy, please." The woman who was Euphie bodyguard quietly tried to stop her but Euphie ignored her and took off her glasses before announcing her name.
"You're addressing Euphemia Li Britannia. The third princess of the Britannian Empire."
Everyone gasped in shock and surprise that Euphie just revealed herself. Euphie then looked at Nina with a smile.
"Are you all right, young lady?" Euphie asked her gently. "You haven't been hurt?"
"Huh? No." Nina responded, "I'm fine."
Meanwhile Zero and Soul were meeting with Kusakabe along with some of his men in one of the hotel rooms.
"I'm glad we can finally meet Zero, you as well Soul," Kusakabe said with a smile, "You've both only recently appeared and yet you've made quite an impact, killing Prince Clovis, saving Suzaku Kururugi from his execution, and gaining victory over Cornelia who was said to be unbeatable."
"All true, so is there a point you're trying to make?" Soul replied.
"Yes, my point is... it would benefit us all if we joined forces. If we do they no one could stop us,"
"Oh really?" Zero said. "How interesting,"
"First though remove your masks and reveal your real faces to us. It's disrespectful not to." Kusakabe said to them.
"We refuse," Zero answered.
Zero's answer surprised Kusakabe and his men.
"You refuse?" Kusakabe replied. "Do you mean you won't remove your masks?"
"That's right, but besides, we'd like to ask you something. What exactly do you hope to accomplish by this? What reason do you have to commit this action?" Soul asked them activating his Geass inside his mask.
"My reason do I do this?" Kusakabe said before smirking. "Hmph, I'm trying to gain attention. I want this country and the world to know that the Japanese aren't dead yet." He answered.
Zero then looked over to Soul.
"Well, is he telling the truth?" Zero asked.
Soul said in disappointment. "Unfortunately yes, that's a complete truth."
"I see, so that's it," Zero said now looking at them. "That's the reason you pointlessly orchestrated this ridiculous hotel jacking."
"Pointlessly?" One of the JLF members said shocked. "Ridiculous?"
"You truly are stale." Zero continued. "You people are obsolete, there's no saving you."
"What? Why you arrogant…" One of the JLF members angrily responded by pointing a gun at Zero.
"Explain what you mean by that, Zero," Kusakabe said while feeling insulted.
"Let me explain," Soul cut in. "You want to show that the Japanese aren't dead? How will taking civilians hostage and then executing them going to show that?"
"Don't tell me you care about their live's, their just Britannians," Kusakabe said coldly.
"Our fight is with Britannia itself, the civilians have nothing to do with it," Zero said.
"Nothing to do with it? Are you trying to tell me that these Britannians we hold hostage are innocent? Do you two even realise what you're saying? how much do you think we the Japanese have suffered because of them," Kusakabe said strongly, "they act like they're superior to us like we're not human but they're nothing more than over-privileged pigs, so who cares how many of them we kill in the process, they should all pay regardless of whether they're civilians or otherwise, I see no wrong in what we're doing."
"If that's truly how you feel then you're even more pathetic than I thought," Zero said coldly. "In fact, you're nothing but scum."
"You may not see what you're doing as wrong, but that's because you a fool who doesn't see the big picture," Soul in a low tone. "What we desire is true change for the better and to do that fight against our real enemy Britannia, but you would rather victimize innocent people thus answering hatred with more hatred, that makes you just as bad as the Britannian's, no you might be even worse."
Kusababe's eyes widened and he was filled with rage, "You—You bastards,"
(Within The Tunnels)
The countdown ended and Suzaku was now ready to launch the Lancelot.
"M.E Boost." Suzaku said.
"Lancelot, now launching!" Cecile said.
The Lancelot launched and charged straight towards the JLF's Raiko. The JLF members piloting the Raiko began to counterattack trying to destroy the Lancelot. They fired the cannon, Suzaku saw the attack and using the Lancelots speed easily dodge it thus causing a quake above ground which was felt by everyone near the ASEEC trailer.
"I warned you about this, Lloyd!" Cecile said.
"He doesn't wanna play decoy, he's going for the goal," Lloyd said happily.
(Back In The Hotel)
Meanwhile, members of Ohgi's group were setting up C4 plastic explosives in different area's of the hotel, while Ohgi, Yoshida, and R.R were in the hallway leading to the room where the hostages were being kept.
When they arrived at the door R.R stopped them, "That's the room, you wait around the corner until I give the signal," R.R instructed them and they nodded.
R.R then walked up to the door and knocked, the two members of the JLF guarding the hostages opened the door, R.R quickly activated his Geass freezing them, the hostages inside the room, and Ohgi and Yoshida who were around the corner, then while they were frozen he took out a switchblade and slit their throats killing them instantly and then deactivated his Geass, and the bodies of the JLF members fell to the floor. R.R signalled Ohgi and Yoshida to follow him and they walked in the room surprising the hostages who wondered what was happening.
"Everyone, do not be alarmed," R.R tells them. "My name is R.R and the three of us are here on orders from Zero the save all of you."
The hostages were surprised at what they were hearing including Milly, Shirley and Nina, while Ohgi and Yoshida walked and R.R turned around,
"You two get the hostages out of here," R.R said before walking away. "I have some additional orders to take care of.
Meanwhile, Euphie was begin escorted by two JLF members to Kusakabe room, but suddenly the two of them are shoot in the back of their necks and die surprising Euphie.
"I take it you're Princess Euphemia?" R.R asked appearing behind her holding a gun.
"Yes, and are you the one who killed these two," Euphie said without fear.
"That's right," R.R responded. "Now come with me, I have orders to take you to Zero and Soul."
"What?" Euphie said surprised by what she just heard.
In the room, Zero, Soul, Kusakabe and his men were in.
"Enough," Kusakabe said drawing his katana. "There's no point talking anymore!"
Kusakabe charged towards them intending to kill them but Soul caught the blade of his Sword with his gloved hand surprising everyone else but Zero in the room.
"Do it," Zero said and Soul quickly disarmed Kusakabe taking the katana for himself and used it to stab Kusakabe in the stomach which caused him to scream out in pain. Kusakabe's men were shocked and Soul took advantage of that to use his other hand to take out a gun and before they can react he shots them all in the forehead swiftly killing them.
"You were right," Soul said then removing the katana from Kusakabe's body, and Kusakabe fell to the floor in pain holding his bleeding wound. "There was no point talking, from the beginning this was the only way."
"You scum, you'll pay for this," Kusakabe said weakly with blood in his mouth. "I swear I'll make you two regret what you've done,"
"Are you prepared to repent?" Soul simply raised the katana and stabbed Kusakabe again, this time in the back, thus killing him.
"Your a fool Kusakabe," Zero said looking at the corpse. "We have no reason the fear a dead man."
Afterwards, there was a knock on the door.
"It's me I've brought her," R.R said outside the room.
"Good, come in," Zero said and R.R opens the door and walks into the room along with Euphie. Euphie looks and is shocked to see the dead bodies of Kusakabe and his men.
"Euphemia li Britannia," Zero said. "You were willing to sacrifice yourself for the commoners. You haven't changed."
"Eh?" Euphie said surprised.
(Outside The Hotel Near The Main Bridge)
Cornelia was informed of Lancelot's progress and was surprised.
"What? The AE6 Knightmare?" Cornelia asked.
"Yes. At the rate it's going it'll break through soon." Darlton informed.
"Huh. Do we dare hold out hope?" Cornelia asked as she clenched her fists.
(Within The Tunnel)
Suzaku in the Lancelot continued his charge as he was getting shot at by the Raiko.
"That thing broke through salvo number five. I can't believe it." One of the Raiko pilots said shocked.
"Just don't panic." The other pilot said. "Deploy the quad-link free-fire arm gun, batteries too. We'll shield this final defence with our lives."
"Ms Cecile, it's time for me to use the VARIS!" Suzaku declared.
"No, you could get killed!" Cecile warned him loudly.
"There's no room for me to evade," Suzaku argued, "I'll risk getting blasted to take the first shot."
The Lancelot aimed the VARIS rifle at the Raiko.
(Lake Kawaguchi Hotel)
In the room, it was Zero, Soul, R.R, and Euphie as well as the corpses of Kusakabe and his men.
"I heard that you're the Sub-Viceroy now your Highness, Princess Euphemia li Britannia," Zero said.
"It's not an appointment I'm happy with," Euphie replied.
"No, of course, you aren't, because the reasons you have this position is because Cornelia wanted you close to keep an eye on you," Soul said.
"And also, it's because Clovis was murdered," Zero said. "That was our handiwork. He begged pathetically for his life to the very end. He pleaded with the same tongue that ordered the deaths of Elevens."
"So is that the reason that you killed my brother?" Euphie asked.
"That was one of the reasons, but not the main one," Zero said.
"Then why?" Euphie asked upset.
"Because Clovis was an offspring of the Britannian Emperor. That reminds me." Zero said before taking out a gun, "You're one of his children too, aren't you?"
Euphie looked surprised thinking he would shoot her.
"Zero, there's no need to scare her like that," Soul said to Zero and Zero put down his gun.
"I suppose so," Zero put away his gun. "Don't worry, for now, we don't intend to kill you,"
"For now," Euphie said quietly before asking. "Who are you two? I mean why are you doing this and what are your intentions?"
"Who are we you ask?" Zero said. "That's simply we are Knights for Justice, and we do this because we don't care who they are, if the weak are endangered by the strong we will take up arms and save them," Zero declared proudly.
"And as for our intentions, we want to so everyone where we stand on the matter, we want the strong to fear us and the weak to rally behind us, as we turn their despair into hope," Soul also declared equally as proud.
Euphie was shocked at their words while R.R was smiling beneath his mask.
(Within The Tunnels)
"Use maximum output!" The Raiko pilot said. "I don't give a damn if it destroys the guns. Be prepared to die defending this spot. Smash him!"
The Raiko fired at maximum output and the Lancelot fired the VARIS rifle. The shot from the VARIS broke through the shell and steel balls and destroyed the Raiko killing the pilots inside and causing the tunnel to explode.
(Outside The Lake Kawaguchi Hotel)
The Lancelot jumped up and emerged from the lake around the hotel. Lloyd looked pleased and Cornelia was surprised.
"It's the Eleven," Cornelia said.
The Lancelot then fired the VARIS rifle at the support pillars of the hotel and the hotel began to sink.
"He really did it," Cornelia said and then turned to Guilford, "Guilford!"
"Right!" Guilford replied.
Suzaku looked at the sinking hotel and was surprised as he saw Zero and Soul through one of the windows and they saw him.
"Ah, no way," Suzaku spoke.
"The Lancelot." Zero thought.
"So you were here too." Soul thought.
Zero then pushed a button on a remote controller and the C4 bombs planted around the hotel began to explode shocking Cornelia and horrifying Suzaku.
"Euphie!" Cornelia screamed.
The Lancelot landed on the ground and Suzaku piloted it into the falling hotel.
"My friends!" Suzaku screamed.
"Warrant Officer Kururugi, don't!" Lloyd called out. The hotel was completely destroyed there was nothing left but the smoke from the explosion.
Meanwhile, Diethard was in Van 2 trying to figure out what happened.
"What about the cameras in Van 3?" Diethard asked.
"I told you, Zero took the Van…" A crewmate said.
"Well then, let's hope we pick up a signal from them." Diethard interjected then thought, "What are you doing, Zero? Soul? Wasn't that part of your plan… to show us something?"
The smoke around the ruins of the hotel cleared and the Lancelot could be seen, Lloyd and Cecile were relieved. Suzaku shed tears of despair believing the hostages including the members of the Student Council were dead.
"I couldn't rescue them," Suzaku said in tears. "They're dead, I failed. Not again!"
Suzaku slammed his fist on the control panel of the Lancelot. Emerging from the smoke was a ship and several small lifeboats around it. In Van 2, they finally got a signal and it showed Zero and Soul on screen.
"We've got it," Diethard said.
The screens and monitor throughout Area 11 showed Zero and Soul and the people watching were shocked wondering what was going on.
"My dear Britannians," Zero started. "Have no fear. All of the hostages from the hotel are safe and sound."
The small lifeboats floating around the ship showed all the hostages on them including Euphie and the members of the Student Council,
"Don't be worried, we shall return them to you unharmed," Soul said.
"They're fine," Suzaku said relieved.
(A Bar Somewhere In The Tokyo Settlement)
Rivalz was watching the broadcast along with some Britannian nobles who were playing chess.
"Ah, they're all right," Rivalz said happily.
(Lake Kawaguchi)
Cornelia was not happy however because she knew what this meant.
"Of all the brazen audacity…" Cornelia said angrily. "If we attack, you'll make those people your hostages, won't you?"
On the ship, Zero and Soul appeared and lights flashed on them and the members of their group who help in this operation and they were all wearing their black uniforms along with hats and purple visors to hide their identities.
"People! Fear us, or rally behind us as you see fit!." Zero declared, "We, are the Black Knights."
Cecile and Lloyd who were watching were surprised.
"Black Knights?" Cecile asked.
"Ironic, isn't it?" Lloyd said with a smile. "The terrorists referring to themselves as knights."
"We of the Black Knights stand with all those who have no weapons to wield." Zero continued, "Regardless of whether they be Elevens or Britannians."
"We will also fight for the sake of the weak who are hurt by the injustice of others or fight against those who use violence for their own selfish ends,"
"The Japan Liberation Front cowardly took innocent Britannian civilians hostage, and they mercilessly executed them." Zero declared.
"To make matters worse they did it for no other reason than to gain attention, and for the sake of their own prejudice, to the point where they dragged civilians into it," Soul added.
(Base Of The Japan Liberation Front)
"It was a wanton, meaningless and unforgivable act, therefore they have been punished for it with their lives." Zero explained.
Todoh and the Four Holy Swords were watching and Tohdo narrowed his eyes at the screen.
(Lake Kawaguchi)
Diethard was in production at Van 2 giving instructions through communications.
"You heard me right, I said let it run," Diethard instructed. "Liable? I'll be the one responsible for this."
"Just as former Viceroy Clovis was punished for ordering the slaughter of countless unarmed Elevens without a single regard for their lives," Zero continued, "we could not stand by and allow such cruelty to be carried out, and so we made him pay for his actions as well. We will not repudiate battle on a fair and level field, but neither will We tolerate a one-sided massacre of the weak by the strong. The only ones who should kill, are those who are prepared to be killed!"
(Tokyo Settlement Bar)
Rivalz was watching the speech along with the two noblemen he was serving, they were unable to look away.
"Wherever oppressors abuse their power by attacking those who are powerless, wherever those who think they can hurt or victimize the innocent because you don't fear retaliation we shall appear again. No matter how mighty, how formidable our foe might be, if the law won't punish them we will!" Soul declared.
(Lake Kawaguchi)
Kallen stood behind them and was amazed at what they were saying.
'Knights…for justice?' Kallen thought
In the cockpit of the Lancelot, Suzaku was also listening to the speech and was not pleased with what was happening.
"Those of you with power," Zero said bringing out his left arm. "Fear us."
"Those of you without it," Soul said bringing out his right arm. "Rally behind us."
Then they both bring out both their arms and talk at the same time.
""We, the Black Knights, shall be the ones who finally and the foolish cycle of oppression, fight against all injustice, and stand in judgment of this world!"" They both declared.
To Be Continued.
And that's the chapter, and again sorry for taking longer than usual I had the worst luck writing this one, first when I was halfway done my computer crashed and all my saved files were gone so I had to start again then there was a problem with my documents so that made things take longer, I'm just glad I got it done, So see you next time, hope you enjoyed and have an awesome day.