Here's chapter Twelve. Anyway, I don't own Code Geass or any of the characters just the OC.

12. The Messenger From Kyoto.

In the Viceroy's Palace, The Area 11 Government Bureau, Cornelia was having a meeting with the government officials, Guilford and Darlton were with her, and Euphie attended as well, they were discussing the event of Narita, which was two days ago.

"The Japan Liberation Front was nearly wiped out by your Narita operation, viceroy." The vice-minister praised. "Now, we're hunting down the survivors, one by one."

"Are you being sarcastic?" Cornelia responded in a foul mood. "We're barely pulling our forces back together after that fiasco."

"No, I, I didn't mean to…" The vice-minister responded nervously.

"The Occupation Government is responsible for this," Guilford interjected. "They've done nothing about Area 11's subways and mining railways."

The government officials flinched at Guilford's words.

"In the ghettoes, they falsify the registries and property deeds as the rebellion spreads unchallenged." Guilford continued while glaring at them.

"Ah, the subway tunnels stretch over the whole country." The vice-minister pointed out nervously. "We can't just fill them all in. We don't have the budget."

"The terrorists are using them as their strike bases and escape routes." Guilford pointed out angrily.

"B… But, Prince Clovis instructed us." The vice-minister replied.

The vice-minister stopped when Cornelia gave him a death glare.

"Ah, he said forcing them would fuel the rebellion giving the Chinese Federation an excuse to attack." The vice minister said.

"They've already got their excuse." Cornelia pointed out. "Zero and Soul are gradually gaining influence and they're growing stronger and bolder every day."

"Vice-Minister," Darlton spoke. "Internal Affairs has appointed a special group of the Elevens to self-govern this area, isn't that right? A group who are called the NAC."

The government officials all gasped as they were surprised.

"When we stormed Narita, we looked for the evidence of the NAC's conspiracies." Darlton continued. "But it was buried in the landslide. Still, our suspicions remain high. If we suppress them now…"

"Hmm," Cornelia spoke. "A group of blue-bloods and plutocrats. Relics of their dismal past."

"Oh, wait! please!" The vice-minister spoke as he stood up from his seat. "These are just rumours. There's no evidence of that at all. If you suppress them, then the Eleven's economy will certainly collapse. That means no tax revenue to send to the homeland. Also, it's a prime directive of the Empire that Numbers should take care of their own kind."

"And what have you done to find the Black Knights?" Cornelia asked.

"We analyzed the shield machine they left showing Zero was behind the Narita operation." The vice-minister reported. "But that's all we've got. You can't squeeze information out of corpses."

"So you can't catch the Black Knights and you don't want us to hit Kyoto," Cornelia said in disappointment. "Do you know the word incompetent, minister? It's for people who can't get results."

Euphie said nothing and was looking at a list of casualties from their forces that were lost in Narita, Jeremiah was on the list.

(Mount Fuji)

In the base within the mountain, the members of Kyoto were discussing what took place in Narita.

"So, the Britannian viceroy has gone this far already," Kirihara said.

"With the Liberation Front smashed," Munakata said. "The last embers of Japan have died away."

"No, he may be on the run, but Todoh is still strong, still fighting." Kubouin pointed out.

"Even if that's so, I heard he lost his custom Burais." Osakabe said."So, there's no hope."

"There is hope," Kaguya said sitting behind the window pane.

The old men looked over to Kaguya.

"The Black Knights?" Kirihara asked.

"You've been infatuated with Zero since he rescued Suzaku Kururugi," Munakata said. "We even sent him the Guren Mk-II."

(Ashford Academy)

The class was taking place and it was a lecture about Elizabeth III. Shirley was discreetly opening an envelope that she received from her father and inside was two tickets to the orchestra and she was happy with her father's gift. Shirley was sad to see Lelouch wasn't there and was a little worried because she saw Kallen also wasn't there. Shirley couldn't stop thinking about it and was distraught for the rest of the day. Later in the Student Council room, Shirley was looking at the envelope while sighing and Milly and Logan noticed.

"Hmm… Um… H'm… Ha…" Shirley sighed.

"Something wrong Shirley?" Logan asked.

"Yeah, What's got you so worried?" Milly asked. "Constipated? Your monthly?"

"Huh? That's not it." Shirley responded shocked.

Nina and Logan were surprised at Milly's bluntness.

"Huh…" Milly spoke. "You're lonely 'cause Lelouch is gone, aren't you?"

"Wha…" Shirley spoke and looked away nervously with a blush. "It's more like Kallen is absent the same day he is… again."

"That's really what this is about?" Logan asked.

"Oh, so carefree," Milly said. "While the rest of the world grapples with what happened at Narita. Suzaku's been out for two days because of that, too."

"I know that! But Lulu and Kallen, gone on the same day together. That's serious." Shirley pointed out.

"Hehehe!" Milly started laughing, "I envy you, Shirley. That's what I love about you."

Nina was surprised at looked over at them.

"Don't make fun of me!" Shirley said agitated

"Then just tell him already," Milly stood up from her chair and started walking. "Three little words; I like you!"

"She's right," Logan agreed. "Just get it over with,"

"Uh… Uh… I couldn't. I just couldn't." Shirley insisted. "I mean what if…"

"What if he rejects me," Milly spoke in a worried voice impersonating Shirley. "It can ruin our great friendship. Hahahahahahahahahaha!"

"You don't have to laugh that hard, you know?" Shirley said blushing.

"Well, what did you expect?" Logan said. "After all, that's the most convenient excuse someone can make to not confess."

"Logan, be honest with me," Shirley said. "If Lulu and Kallen were together, would you tell me?"

"Yes, I would," Logan answered.

"Okay then, are they together?" Shirley asked.

"No, they're not," Logan answered.

Shirley didn't look convinced and asked another question. "If Lulu and Kallen were together and wanted to keep it a secret, would you lie to anyone who asked you?"

"Yes, I would," Logan answered instantly.

Shirley almost face-faulted at that.

"Wha, then how does that make me feel better!" Shirley asked loudly.

"All I did was answer honestly," Logan said casually. "If it didn't make you feel better, that's your problem,"

"It's comfortable isn't it?" Milly interjected getting their attention, "This place now. The way we are together."

"That's true," Shirley said quietly.

"Still we should prepare ourselves a bit," Milly said. "The fact is nothing stays the same forever, you know."

Shirley was surprised by those words, and Logan thought about it.

"She's right after our rebellion succeeds, these carefree will just be a thing of the past," Logan said in his head.

"Oh, forget it. Please don't take me too seriously. If it's bothering you why not you just ask him the next chance you get?" Milly looked over to her side and smiled. "So, how do you feel about it on your side?"

Shirley wondered what Milly was looking at and when she looked, she was surprised to see Lelouch was there.

"Huh? Wha… Lulu?!" Shirley spoke. "I thought you were absent!"

"Nunnally had a little fever this morning and Sayoko was busy," Lelouch replied. "So, I stayed home to help."

"Oh really, you don't say. So, is Nunna feeling better now?" Shirley asked.

"A bit," Lelouch said then looked at a stack of papers. "Madam president, those papers?"

"All right." Milly said with a nod, "Make sure you organize all of them by year and class, OK?"

"Yeah, I will," Lelouch said picking up the stack. "You have a talent for ordering people around."

"And you are a great subordinate," Milly replied amused.

"Subordinate?" Lelouch said with a shrug as he left. "Huh, I guess that's what I am."

"Well I'm not," Logan said as he got up to leave. "I'm out,"

"Wait there's still stuff you need to do," Milly said.

"Make Rivalz do it," Logan said before walking out the door.

Milly sighed. "Darn, and that one is a terrible subordinate," Milly said.

"Oh, madam president!" Shirley said looking at Milly. "You nearly gave me a heart attack doing that!" Shirley looked and noticed her envelope containing her tickets was gone. "Huh?! Oh, where are my tickets? HUH!" Shirley said panicking.

Shirley was shocked and mortified as she realized that Lelouch unknowingly picked up her envelope along with the documents. Shirley rushed after him and fortunately, she was able to find him outside the building and called out to him.

"Lulu!" Shirley called out.

"What is it?" Lelouch asked turning around.

"Ah… Um… is my dad's letter mixed up with that paperwork?" Shirley asked,

"Huh? Oh, sorry." Lelouch said handing her the envelope. "Huh? What's wrong?"

"Ah! Lulu!" Shirley responded.

"Shirley?" Lelouch replied.

Inside one of the buildings, C.C was watching them through a window and frowned.

"Ah? Stop being so suspicious." C.C said looking at her side. "That's hardly the case. To me, he is nothing more than a…" C.C's last word in that sentence wasn't heard.

Meanwhile outside Shirley ran behind a building a was excited.

"Ah huh huh huh huh… I did it! I actually really did it!" Shirley said to herself. "So, now what happens? He'll come, right? I mean he didn't say no. Then again… N-n, he is just coming with me to a little concert. So, it's no big thing but still, it's a chance."

Shirley then took a deep breath her closed her eyes and smiled.

"Huh… Thank you, father."

Shirley's phone started ringing.

(The Black Knights Mobile Base)

Zero, Soul, R.R, and the core members of the Black Knights were having a meeting in their mobile base.

"Kyoto praised us for using the Guren Mk II so well," Sugiyama said. "I thought that was encouraging."

"They were really impressed with you Soul," Yoshida said.

"With me?" Soul asked.

"Yeah, you actually beat the white armour," Kallen said impressed. "That was amazing."

"And you got your hands on the VARIS," Yoshida praised. "They were really impressed by that,"

"I see," Soul said and then nodded. "That's good after all that means we've got their attention, not to mention the Lancelot won't be a problem now until it's repaired since Cornelia wasn't a threat without him."

"And it's also a relief for me," Soul thought upset.

(Flashback, Lelouch's Room)

Lelouch stood shocked at what he had just heard. Rolo was also surprised.

"W-What did you just say?" Lelouch asked.

"I'm afraid it's true," Logan said with a downcast expression.

"Suzaku was piloting the Lancelot?" Rolo asked. "But how can that be?"

"It looks like, Schneizel's research team was the one who chose him, and Cornelia doesn't have a say in the matter," Logan explained.

Lelouch sits and tries to calm down.

"It does make sense," Lelouch said. "Schneizel doesn't care about things like race, as long as they can produce results, but still."

Lelouch thinks back to all the times they saw the Lancelot.

"All this time it was him," Lelouch said. "But why?"

"He did say he wanted to change things from within," Logan reminded. "So this must be his answer."

"Even so, what do we do now?" Rolo asked.

"I know that, and yet," Lelouch replied upset. "This was so much easier when the Lancelot was an unknown enemy, but now this changes everything."

"Lelouch," Logan said. "We need to think of something, while we still can,"

"I know but, we also need answers," Lelouch said.

(Flashback End)

"If I were to face the Lancelot right now, knowing that Suzaku is in there, I can't win, I need more time to wrap my head around this."

"Hell yeah," Tamaki said excitedly. "We just keep winning and winning and it's awesome, Hahahahaha! Ahahahaha!" Tamaki laughed.

"Yeah, it does feel good to win," Minami said.

"And it was good that we suffered no casualties," Sugiyama added.

"That's right," Soul said turning to face R.R. "R.R, make sure the VARIS gets to her,"

"Right, I'll send it to her," R.R responded.

"Um her?" Inoue asked.

"Who are you talking about?" Kallen asked.

"We mean Rakshata Chawla," Soul answered. "She's a genius scientist from the military district of India, and the one who built the Agravaine and the Guren."

"Also she built the Burais and hands them over to Kyoto," R.R added.

The other members were surprised by that.

"Wait, she built the Guren," Kallen said surprised.

"Then, Kyoto is backing her in making Knightmares," Sugiyama said.

"Correct," Soul said nodding. "She gives her Knightmares to Kyoto and they place them on the resistance groups, mostly the JLF, and now us too,"

"Wait," Yoshida said. "Kyoto sent us the Guren before Narita, but then how'd you get the Agravaine?"

"That's simple," R.R replied. "The Burais and the Guren were designed and built by Rakshata, but the Agravaine was designed by Zero and Soul."

Everyone was surprised again.

"Wait, you designed it," Tamaki said.

"That's right," Soul said nodding. "We made the design, got the funding for it ourselves, and then sent them to Rakshata to build for us, we knew we would need something that powerful if we wanted to win."

"Wow, you thought things that far ahead?" Kallen asked.

"We needed to, that's the kind of battle this is," Soul replied.

Throughout this whole conversation, Zero sat there and said nothing, thinking about what happened with Shirley.

"Why would Shirley just out of the blue?" Lelouch wonders.

(Flashback, Ashford Academy)

"My dad works where really long away from here. But he likes to send me great stuff like this to keep my spirits up, you know?" Shirley said holding a ticket.

"So, I was just wondering…" Shirley then hands the ticket to Lelouch.

(Flashback End)

Back at the mobile base, Ohgi hands an envelope to Zero

"Here," Ohgi said.

"Hmm? What's this?" Zero asked.

"A love letter," Ohgi replied.

"Oh? From you?" Zero asked.

Tamaki laughed loudly from his response. "Ahahahaha! And they say you have no sense of humour. Ahahahahaha!"

"You laugh too much," Kallen said annoyed.

"It's an official letter from Kyoto." Ohgi clarified. "They urgently request a meeting."

"Really, now of all times?" Soul asked laidback.

"Is this really such a big deal?" Zero asked also laidback.

"A big deal?!" Kallen asked surprised. "It's Kyoto!"

"If they accept us it means funding and support," Ohgi told them. "It could solve our financial crisis."

"Crisis?!" Zero said.

Ohgi flinched.

"What financial crisis?" Soul asked.

"There shouldn't be any problem if you are following the budget I laid out." Zero pointed out.

"Oh, well…" Ohgi spoke nervously at their question.

"Hey! It's not my fault!" Tamaki responded defensively. "We're turning into a big organization now! That means new expenses, you know!"

"Like French dinners for the new recruits so you can show off?" Kallen asked annoyed.

"Hey, you?!" Tamaki responded glaring at Kallen.

"I know where you've been taking them, big spender?" Kallen accused.

Tamaki was taken back. "Uh-ugh?! You know about it?!"

Zero and Soul sighed irritated.

"We'll put Ohgi in charge of the treasury for now," Zero said.

"That seems for the best," Soul added.

"Hold it right there!" Tamaki spoke standing up. "I'm the one that's in charge of the cash! That's my job!"

"If you want me to trust you then show me some results," Zero said.

"Did you actually just say trust a guy who hides his face from his own partners?!" Tamaki said in a low tone.

The others were surprised by what Tamaki just said.

"How about it Zero, Soul, Huh?!" Tamaki continued. "And what about R.R?!"

"Hold on… That's a…" Ohgi tried to calm him down.

"They aren't the problem here." Kallen stood up defending them. "Who cares who they are? They had the skill to outwit Cornelia, didn't they? And they beat that white armour, that's why they are the leaders of the Black Knights. Do you really need to know more?"

Tamaki still looked upset.

Zero then placed his arm up and signalled Kallen to stop,

"Kallen that's enough," Zero said, then looked at Tamaki. "You're free to not trust us if that's what you want, but I don't really understand how after giving you all weapons, victory, and rank, and yet not showing our faces is a deal-breaking, I can't see how that's fair,"

Tamaki was taken back not expecting that response.

"Tamaki, we wear these masks for a personal reason, not because we don't trust you all," Soul added. "Yet if you truly feel that trusting us is impossible otherwise despite all that we've accomplished, then that is a shame,"

Zero, Soul, and R.R all stood up and then walked away leaving the others, and now Tamaki looked distraught and Kallen looked upset.

(Ashford Academy, Nightfall)

It was nightfall in Ashford Academy and Nina was in the Student Council room alone with the lights off and she looked at a magazine article that was about Euphemia with pictures of her, Nina looked at Euphemia and blushed while panting.

Then Nina went to the edge of the table and started using the corner to pleasure herself while thinking of Euphemia, she then let a loud moan, which was heard by Nunnally as she entered the room.

"Nina? Is that you?" Nunnally asked. "If you are not feeling well, then…"

"Oh no. It's nothing." Nina said quickly putting away the magazine and stepping away from the table, thankful that Nunnally can't see. "Don't worry about it."

(Black Knights Mobile Base)

Meanwhile, the core members of the Black Knights were discussing things.

"I think you overdid it," Ohgi said looking at Tamaki.

"Yeah, you totally stepped on a landmine back there," Minami said.

"Well, how was I suppose to know that?" Tamaki defended.

"Still though, Kallen doesn't seem to mind," Sugiyama added.

"I guess even if we're the senior commanders, there are some secrets they don't have to tell us," Yoshida spoke.

"Listen, guys," Ohgi said. "I think, it's better we don't pressure them about this, I mean think of all we've got done because of them, and if all they ask for in return is the right to keep their faces hidden, then what's wrong with that?"

The others thought for a moment, then nodded showing they agreed.

"I get it," Tamaki said looking down. "I messed up."

Meanwhile, in the room on the second floor of the mobile base, Zero, Soul, and R.R with their masks off, we're looking at a laptop on the table that showed a list with pictures of the members of the Houses of Kyoto.

"I've narrowed it down to twelve possibilities," Zero said. "Now let's see which bets pay off. For that, I'll have to meet them face to face…"

"And with this, the Black Knights will operate the way we envisioned," Soul said. "Things are starting to move forward."

"Indeed, and it's faster than I planned," Zero said.

Suddenly there was a knock on the door and the three of them quickly reached for their masks.

"Hm? Who is it?" Zero asked.

"It's me," Kallen said behind the door. "Um… I'm sorry if I was out of line when I spoke up back there, and just wanted the others to know where I stand."

"Kallen, tell me honestly, Do you wanna know our identities as well?" Soul asked,

"Hmm… Would it be wrong if I said yes…?" Kallen thought, feeling down before answering. "Hmm… No, sorry to bother you." Kallen then walked away.

The three of them, then put their masks back down.

"She's pretty loyal isn't she?" R.R said.

"Yes, that's one of her strong points," Zero said with a smile.

(Ashford Academy, Nunnally's Room)

Later that night Lelouch went back home and went to Nunnally's room to check on her fever, Nunnally is lying in bed and hears Lelouch enter.

"Lelouch?" Nunnally asked.

Lelouch then checks Nunnally's fever, Nunnally sits up.

"Looks like your fever's gone?" Lelouch said.

"Maybe I was just a little moody," Nunnally said.

"Moody?" Lelouch asked.

"Huh… It just seems to me lately that you've become a little distant like you have other things weighing on your mind." Nunnally replied.

Lelouch was surprised by her words.

Nunnally then lies back down and smiles. "Huh. Perhaps my body just did this on its own to get your attention."

Lelouch then holds Nunnally's hand. "You're wrong. I haven't changed." Lelouch desperately assures her. "No matter what, I'll always be at your side, Nunnally."

"So then, can I be a little selfish now?" Nunnally asked tightening her grip on his hand. "Please hold my hand just a little bit longer. If I fall asleep alone, I'm afraid I'll have that dream again."

(The Next Day, Outside The Student Council Building)

Lelouch was with C.C on the campus and C.C was leaning on a tree.

"You are serious?" C.C asked. "You are asking me for a favour?"

"Yes, I got the idea from something that you said," Lelouch said. "No matter what Kyoto's intentions are I want their power."

"Is that what you truly wish for?" C.C asked. "If it's at the very core of your reason for living then I'll try to help you."

"Then do it," Lelouch said. "C.C, I need you."

"Hmm, I understand." C.C nodded. "By the way, you forgot something."

Lelouch know she was talking about Shirley,

"Huh?! I didn't forget! I don't know when I'll be back tonight so I was planning to call her and cancel." Lelouch then takes out his phone and calls Shirley.

"Stick to your contract. Huh?" C.C said.

After a few rings, the phone picks up.

"It's me," Lelouch said over the phone. "Oh good timing, I wanted to call. You see…"

"Um… Listen, Lulu?" Shirley interjected. "I know I made a date with you but I may be late."

Lelouch was surprised at that.

(Tokyo Train Station)

Shirley in her casual clothes was at the train station with her mother, they were waiting for a train to Narita.

"Sorry, but anyway, I'm sure it'll be fine, really. Hmm, but I promise you that I'll be there." Shirley said before hanging up the phone.

(An Unknown Location, Two Hours Later)

The place was foggy and Zero was standing there waiting, and a limo arrived and pulled up, the driver opened his window.

"Please bring your command staff along as for my master's instruction, understood?" The driver said.

"They are patrolling the perimeter in case of any unpleasant contingencies." Zero responded, "I'll call them soon. However, before I do…" Zero then activates his Geass.

(Narita)

The recovery efforts were being done as Britannian soldiers were picking up bodies of the casualties from the battle of Narita, the bodies that were buried in the landslide were being taken to tents. Body bags filled the rows in the tents and there were civilians who were watching from behind the barricade that had been set up. Work to recover the bodies of soldiers continued as medical workers and Knightmare pilots were continuing their recovery work. In one of the tents Suzaku looked around and sighed sadly, he then looked over at Cecile who was looking over logistics and doing other calculations. He then looked at the sky and thought back to his fight with Soul, how the Lancelot's arm and torso were severed and how the VARIS was taken and tried to figure out why Soul didn't kill him.

"I don't get it," Suzaku thought. "It was the perfect chance to get rid of me and the Lancelot, so why didn't he? Is there something that I'm missing here?' If so then…" Suzaku then closed his eyes and clenched his teeth. "Just forget it. It doesn't matter why I'll just beat him next time."

Suzaku then to his bottle of water then empty it on his hand to calm down.

"Dug enough bodies out of the landslide, yet?" Lloyd said approaching him.

Suzaku looked over and saw Lloyd.

"Lloyd are you okay now?" Suzaku asked nervously. "I mean have you calmed down?"

"Oh well," Lloyd said still smiling. "I do admit I got a bit carried away when the Lancelot was damaged, but it can be repaired in a short amount of time, and as for the VARIS, well I can always make another one."

"I glad you okay then," Suzaku said before answering Lloyd's first question. "I'd like to continue recovery operation if that's possible."

"Be my guest till it'll out of your system," Lloyd replied. "Considering Princess Cornelia's pleasure to indulge you."

Suzaku then thought for a moment and then asked. "Ah, Lloyd, Zero and Soul and the Black Knights what are they trying to do? What do they hope to achieve by sacrificing all these lives?"

"They are knights for justice, haven't you heard?" Lloyd replied nonchalantly.

"Is this..." Suzaku started but then thought back.

(Flashback, Ashford Academy, Student Council Room)

"You know for someone who seems to hate self-righteousness you sound pretty self-righteous yourself," Lelouch said.

Suzaku was surprised at what Lelouch said.

"Suzaku, this envoke change from within may work for you, but not everyone is allowed into the system, some people can't be Honorary Britannians," Logan said.

"And besides, for others resisting is the only option available to them, they're doing this because they can't do anything else," Lelouch said.

"But even so that doesn't mean it's right." Suzaku countered.

"Then what makes it right?" Logan questioned him, "is something wrong just because it against the law, that's a one-sided point of view that not everyone can agree with, you alone can't decide if it's right or wrong"

"Exactly, and did you ever stop to think about others feel about this, how is it fair to condemn others for not adhering to your morals and principles when you won't look at things for their point of view," Lelouch said.

Suzaku was surprised at what they said and then upset that he couldn't think of an argument.

'They do have a point, but...' Suzaku thought.

(Flashback End)

"I can't start thinking that way, otherwise I'd be self-righteous just like they said," Suzaku thought upset. "I mean we killed just as many people to, both here, in Shinjuku, and in Saitama, I have to try to be more open-minded."

"Hmm, well what is it?" Lloyd asked. "Didn't you have something to say?"

"No, it's nothing forget it," Suzaku replied.

Suzaku then looked and saw Shirley and her mother being escorted somewhere by Villetta.

Lloyd then walked away and meet up with Cecile.

"Cecile," Lloyd spoke.

"I checked the units including the Pure Bloods," Cecile said.

"And I was right, wasn't I?" Lloyd said.

"Yes, a radiant surge," Cecile said.

"Rakshata," Lloyd said thinking of the Indian woman. "I never thought she'd work with our enemies."

"Plus their pilot was extremely skilled, almost as skilled as Soul," Cecile said. "Even if we repair the Lancelot now If we have to fight that Knightmare again…"

"You don't think it could win? Against my dear Lancelot?" Lloyd said.

(An Unknown Location)

The large limo was that was carrying Zero, Soul, R.R, Kallen, Ohgi, Sugiyama and Tamaki was still riding through a dark tunnel.

"This is taking too long. Tamaki complained. "When do we get there?"

"Ah, could you chill out?" Kallen said. "You are embarrassing."

Tamaki frowned in response. They suddenly felt a shake and felt the limo going up.

"Hm," Tamaki spoke. "What the hell?"

"We are going up?" Kallen asked.

The limo was being lifted by an elevator. The elevator stopped and the limo moved forward a bit and then stopped. The door was opened by the limo driver.

"Sorry for the inconvenience." The limo driver said. "The master is waiting for you."

They all got out of the limo and were surprised by the view they saw outside.

"This is… the Fuji mines?" Ohgi said amazed.

"That is not possible," Tamaki said shocked. "There's no way we could be here."

"It has to be! There is only one mountain like this." Kallen said.

"That means the Sakuradite is right below us?" Tamaki said. "The damn treasure that caused this whole war. You know, what they do to intruders here? Execute them!"

"The power of which is all the way up to here? Kyoto group is amazing." Ohgi said.

"It's repulsive!" A booming voice said.

The lights turned off and the room was light in dim, red light and the Black Knights turned their attention to a man who was veiled and sitting holding his cane.

"Mount Fuji, a sacred mountain once known for its clear water and quiet beauty. Now it is bent to the empire's will," The man hidden behind the veil said with sadness and anger. "A place of the hideous violation. Our reflection on what Japan has become. It pains me so," The veiled man then turned his attention to Zero. "I apologize for not showing my face. But, Zero, Soul, your faces are hidden as well. Unfortunately, I cannot allow this. To trust you, I must know who you are." The man then pointed his cane at them. "Therefore you will show me your face."

At his words, he signalled to have four Burais appear with Assault Rifles in hand pointing their weapons at them. The others looked shocked and surprised at what was going on.

"Please wait!" Kallen said standing in front of Zero and Soul in her attempt to shield them. "Zero and Soul have given us power and victory. That should be…"

"Silence!" The veiled man interjected loudly. "Now which of you is Ohgi?"

"Huh…! That's me." Ohgi said standing forward.

"You will remove Zero's mask." The veiled man said.

Ohgi then walked in front of Zero.

"Ohgi!" Kallen said wanting to stop him.

"I'm sorry Zero, but we need a reason to put our faith in you, too." Ohgi said placing his hands on Zero's mask, "So help us to put our trust in you."

Ohgi then removed the mask and they were all surprised to see C.C was behind the mask.

"Huh?! A woman?" Tamaki said shocked.

"It can't be!" Ohgi added.

"It's not!" Soul said getting their attention. "This isn't Zero, she's actually an accomplice of ours, she has been for quite some time."

"You there, girl, is this true?" The veiled man asked.

"It is," C.C responded.

"So you are not Japanese?" The veiled man asked.

C.C smiled before answering. "Correct, clan chief of Kyoto, Taizo Kirihara."

The veiled man and his two bodyguards with him were shocked and prepared to take out their guns.

"Anyone who can identify him must die." One of the bodyguards said.

"Especially one who is not Japanese!" The other one said.

The Burais aimed their Assault Rifles at the Black Knights.

"Hey, hold on!" Tamaki said raising his hands. "I'm not part of this!"

Suddenly one of the Burais fired its slash harkens at the other two bringing them down, this surprised the others and the last remaining Burai tried to stop the rogue Burai, but was brought down as well, the rogue Burai quickly made its way to the veiled man and aimed its Assult Rifle at him.

"You are soft and your methods and thinking are outdated!" Zero said coming out of the Burais cockpit. "That is why you'll never win!"

"Zero?" Kallen said.

"When did you…? Huh!" The bodyguard said before pointing his gun at him.

Suddenly R.R uses his Geass to freeze everyone, except C.C, then quickly, takes the bodyguards guns, and ran back to where was standing before unfreezing everyone.

The bodyguards then noticed their guns were gone. "Huh? wait, what happened to our guns?" One of the bodyguards asked.

"They're right here," R.R said holding their guns surprising them.

"That's the trick R.R uses every now and then," Ohgi said.

"Yeah, ever wonder how he even does that?" Tamaki said.

Zero then steps down to the floor and starts walking towards Kirihara, and Soul and R.R walk there too.

"Taizo Kirihara, founder of Kirihara Industry which has a monopoly on Sakuradite mine," Zero spoke. "Formerly a key backer of the Kururugi regime."

"However, when Japan fell, you dodged the tribunals by collaborating with the colonial rulers," Soul spoke. "Commonly known as Kirihara the traitor."

"In reality, you are one of the leaders of the Six Houses Of Kyoto, who support resistance groups throughout Japan," Zero said. "A double agent. How cliche."

"Show some respect, you swine!" One of the bodyguards said with a growl.

"Stop!" Kirihara said to his bodyguards.

"It's as you guessed though, the three of us are not Japanese!" Zero declared.

The others were shocked at hearing that.

"Is he serious?" Tamaki asked. "No wonder they never showed their faces."

"If you are not Japanese, why do you fight for Japan?" Kirihara asked. "What is it that you want?"

"The destruction of Britannia." Zero replied.

"And so, do you believe that this is possible, that you can do it?" Kirihara asked.

"We can because we must," Soul said. "If we don't who will?"

"Not to mention, we have reasons which compel us execrably," Zero said while taking off his mask, along with Soul and R.R. "I'm glad I'm dealing with you."

"You…" Kirihara was shocked to see their faces because he recognized Zero and Soul.

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

"Seven years if we're not mistaken," Logan said.

"Is it really you?" Kirihara said amazed. "Both of you,"

Kirihara thought back to when he last saw them as kids. "It's been eight years since I finally received you as a hostage, and you came there along with your father shortly after."

"Yes," Lelouch said.

"But then," Kirihara said looking at Rolo. "This boy?"

"Don't worry," Logan said. "He's one of us, you can be sure of that,"

"It's a pleasure to meet you," Rolo said respectfully.

"And we appreciate you taking care of us then," Lelouch said.

"If I hadn't come tonight, were you planning to take our messengers as hostages?" Kirihara asked.

"Not at all," Lelouch replied. "I came to ask for your help, that's all I'm seeking from you."

Kirihara smiled and then laughed pleased at what he had heard. "So the flowers planted eight years ago have finally bloomed!" Kirihara said.

With the Black Knights, Tamaki was leaning trying to see their faces.

"I can't see them!" Tamaki said.

Kallen then pulled him back.

"Ohgi!" Kirihara said getting their attention.

"Yes!" Ohgi immediately responded.

"These men are true enemies of Britannia," Kirihara said. "Their faces must remain hidden for vital reasons, I urge you to follow Zero and Soul, And I guarantee that if you do, we will assist you generously with intelligence and strategic support."

Ohgi was surprised and bowed gratefully at what Kirihara said,

"We thank you," Ohgi said.

"We are grateful, Lord Kirihara," Lelouch said turning around and the three of them began to put their masks back on.

"Are you embarking on the path of blood?" Kirihara asked lifting the veil.

"Embarking? no, we've already taken the path of blood," Soul said as they began to leave.

(Tokyo Train Station)

The train had just arrived at the station and the people getting out of the train and Shirley and her parents were among them. Shirley's father was as it turns out, in Narita during the battle, and was among the survivors, Shirley and her mother were both glad and relieved that he was alright. She then went off the meet Lelouch at the theatre.

(A Few Hours Later, Tokyo Settlement)

It was a rainy night at the Tokyo Settlement and Lelouch was rushing while holding an umbrella over his head while looking around.

"Of course, it's too late already." Lelouch thought. "Anyway, things are finally moving forward. Now the Black Knights will operate as I envisioned."

Lelouch kept looking and then saw Shirley standing with her umbrella. Lelouch then goes over to her.

"I'm sorry I was late," Lelouch said. "I thought you'd already been back home by now."

"I'm just glad you're here," Shirley said. "I was worried you wouldn't show,"

"I see," Lelouch said. "Well I'm here now, come on let's go inside."

Lelouch and Shirley walked together and make their way inside the theatre and Lelouch noticed from the look on Shirley's face, she had something on her mind.

"Shirley," Lelouch said.

"Yeah," Shirley said looking at him.

"Something you want to say?" Lelouch asked.

Shirley paused and they both stopped walking.

"Lulu, do you know why I was late?" Shirley said. "It's because I was at Narita with my mother, to go see my father,"

What Shirley said surprised Lelouch.

"Your father?" Lelouch asked.

"Yeah, my father was at Narita during the battle that happened the other day," Shirley explained. "Thankfully though, he was one of the survivors, I was so happy,"

"I see," Lelouch said before thinking. "Her father was there, I'm glad we minimized the landslide, I don't want to imagine what would have happened if her father died back there."

"Say, Lulu," Shirley said getting his attention. "Zero and Soul, they fight for the weak, don't they?"

"What? Yeah, well, that's what they say." Lelouch responded.

"Well, I've been thinking, maybe they're not really a bad people," Shirley said surprising Lelouch.

"Really?" Lelouch asked.

"Yeah I mean, they saved us back at the hotel, and they've been helping a lot of people, they even take out over terrorists," Shirley listed. "I think maybe they're just doing what they think is right, in their own way,"

Lelouch smiled happily at Shirley's words. "Yeah, maybe your right about that,"

Shirley smiled and they both continued to make their way to the theatre.

"Shirley." Lelouch thinks. "I'm truly grateful that you feel that way, and soon, I hope others can too, hopefully, I can even make Suzaku understand."

To Be Continued

And that's the chapter, as I'm sure you were already aware but I decided not to kill Shirley's father, because I plan on giving Shirley a different role in this story, both her and Suzaku, as you saw Suzaku's conversation with Lelouch and Logan affected his point of view and he's taken their words to heart, I want his way of thinking to slowly change throughout the course of the story making him less self-righteous and more open-minded to the thoughts of others.

So see you next time, hope you enjoyed, and have an awesome day.