Here's the next chapter. Anyway, I don't own Code Geass or any of the characters just the OC. This chapter will be pretty straightforward and won't have that many differences from the canon but it's still necessary so try to enjoy it.
30. Miracles Across A New Japan
All the core members of the Black Knights which consisted of Kallen, Ohgi, Todoh, Asahina, Chiba, Urabe, Inoue, Yoshida, Rakshata, Tamaki, Minami, Lyra, C.C, Kaguya and Euphie were all gathered in the meeting room aboard the Black Knights' Submarine. It was a short while after Euphie had spoken with Nunnally and she had just finished informing the others about how it went while they were waiting for Zero.
"So you told her we would join the Specially Administrated Zone," Asahina confirmed. "Guess that means we're really doing this."
"It is a part of Zero's plan after all," Chiba noted.
"Zero made this decision with the limited options that were available to us at the current time," Todoh informed them.
"And personally I don't see anything wrong with this idea long-term," Urabe added.
They all stopped talking when they heard the sound of the door opening and looked to see Zero walking in the meeting room, with Soul and R.R walking beside him.
"Zero… listen—" Kallen started before she was interrupted by Kaguya.
"Master Zero!" Kaguya expressed her joy as she ran up to Zero and hugged him. "How could you keep your new wife waiting!"
"Lady Kaguya, I'm glad to see you well and as lively as ever." Zero greeted her, not bothered.
"And I see you're still surprising everyone like you always do," Kaguya replied. "Offering to join the Special Zone, no one expected that at all!"
"Yeah, she's right." Ohgi agreed. "But listen, Zero. Is what you said true, is that really our plan?"
"It is," Soul confirmed. "Preparations have already been started and we have the necessary resources. All that's left is to implement the plan."
"Still though, it's different from usual," Tamaki remarked. "We usual just lure the Britannians in and nail'em! Now it feels like we're running from the fight."
"Fighting then more fighting and then what?" Zero asked. "Unless we look at the big picture we'll never accomplish anything besides an endless string of warfare."
"I agree," Euphie added. "It may not be ideal but the way I see it, this option is more productive for Japan as a whole for the current situation."
"The only question now is whether or not the people will accept this option," Todoh said. "The Japanese people have been fighting for freedom, there's no way to know how'll they—"
"Todoh! What is Japanese?" Zero asked, cutting him off.
That silenced Todoh.
Ashford Academy
The next day at Ashford, at the swimming pool the swim club including Shirley was in the middle of practice with Villetta overseeing practice and while that was happening the radio was on and there was a broadcast reporting the news. The Japanese are given the opportunity to apply for the Special Zone, but as Villetta later hears on the news while working on Shirley's diving, no Elevens end up registering, which the Britannians take as a consequence of Zero's noninvolvement, as it has not been made public yet.
"Thus far no Elevens have signed up for the Specially Administrated Zone of Japan commonly called the Special Zone." The reporter announced. "As there has been no contact from Zero, some officials speculate that he may be facing dissension within his own organization, the Black Knights.
Area 11 Government Bureau
Meanwhile at the Government Bureau Nunnally was in the Viceroy's office sitting at her desk and looking over a manuscript while Lohmeyer was standing beside her.
"I'd like you to please stick to the prepared manuscript this time," Lohmeyer advised her.
"I was acting as Viceroy—" Nunnally attempted to argue before she was interrupted.
"A Viceroy is not a King. Viceroys act as official representatives of the Emperor, ruling each Area prudently on his behalf." Lohmeyer reminded her. "We will support your attempt to reestablish the Special Zone this time, but henceforward please consult with me on such matters beforehand."
Ashford Academy
Later that day back at Ashford, on the school roof the members of the Student Council were creating a garden and as such were each working with different gardening tools and planting plant or digging up the dirt. While this was happening Suzaku started a conversation.
"Leave of absence?" Rivalz asked.
"Yeah, it looks like I'm going to be a little busy," Suzaku said while digging.
"With the Special Zone, huh?" Rivalz noted.
"Oh and what about all our plans for the garden?" Milly complained.
"Sorry, Milly. I'll be sure to come back and help out if I get a break." Suzaku assured her.
"That reminds me, Suzaku. Have you thought about Kallen?" Shirley asked, getting everyone's attention. "Isn't there some way you can help her out?"
"Yeah, right. Like a plea bargain. You know, something like that." Rivalz suggested.
"We all know you are working for world peace and all. But family and friends are important too, right? Couldn't you discuss it with the Viceroy? I mean you're her aid now right?" Lelouch asked feigning ignorance.
Suzaku smiled, playing along. "Well I could try, but don't expect too much."
Everyone got back to work on doing their part to finish the rooftop garden.
Area 11 Knightmare Train Station
A little while later Suzaku had left Ashford and was now at the Knightmare train-station looking over a military division along with checking on a batch of Sutherlands. Suzaku was dressed in his Knight of Seven uniform and occupied by his own thoughts.
"Lelouch, I don't know why you chose to join the Specially Administrated Zone. But I'm sure you had your reasons." Suzaku thought to himself. "I know you and Logan well enough to know that you must have a plan for this, and so I'll trust that along with trusting you to fulfil the promise the two of us made."
At that moment, Suzaku was taken out of his thoughts when an Eleven disguised as a Britannian soldier suddenly charges at him with a knife.
"Suzaku Kururugi, you traitor, time to die!" The Eleven roared while charging.
Before the man could reach him, red rings appear around the pupils of Suzaku's eyes that come from the effect of Lelouch's Geass. The Geass command to "Live" still affects Suzaku and by its influence Suzaku easily stopped to man and flipped him, knocking him to the ground. Two Britannian soldiers came running to the scene and witnessed what just happened.
"Sir Kururugi! Are you all right, sir?" One of the soldiers asked, concerned.
Suzaku nodded and the other soldier apprehended the Eleven. Suzaku looked up at the sky and went back to his thoughts
"At one time I had considered this Geass that forced me to live a curse, but now it's something I'm grateful for." Suzaku thought to himself. "It's a reminder to help me never forget my resolve, my resolve to live with Euphie and everyone else I hold dear. I'll live for as long as I can until I can finally put an end to these senseless battles."
Chinese Federation
It was sunset near a port by the shoreline of the Chinese Federation, where Diethard stood talking to Zero over a phone giving him a status report.
"Yes, that's right. I believe it will be. We've already sent Sayoko Shinozaki there." Diethard reported.
"I see. Well done, Diethard. You really are an expert at this. An outstanding job. You're truly irreplaceable." Lelouch commended him over the phone.
Diethard looked extremely pleased by his words. "Thank you for those words. I'm deeply honoured. Are you sure your plan for the following stage would be consistent?"
Lelouch's residence
"Yes, I am. Our tactics may have changed but our strategic objective remains the same. Take care of things on your end." Lelouch finished before hanging up the phone.
It was sunset at Ashford as well and Lelouch along with Rolo was in Lelouch's room. Lelouch was sitting on a small couch with a Chessboard in front of him, while Rolo was sitting on the bed.
"So is that everything? Have you finished all the preparations?" Rolo asked.
"I have. All tasks at hand have been cleared and Logan has finished everything on his end as well." Lelouch confirmed while moving a Chess piece. "All that's left is to wait for Orpheus to gather the people, then at the ceremony, we'll make our move."
"But even if we succeed in this, that'll just be the start of our real battle, won't it?" Rolo asked.
"Yes. We'll have to confront Britannia in real battle next and it begins with Schneizel." Lelouch said, serious. "He'll most likely make his move immediately after we make our own."
"And from the information we've gathered, his military strength is consistently growing after colonizing fallen territories from the E.U."
Lelouch grit his teeth with irritation. "I expected as much. He's always been a bane to my plans."
At that point, the door opened and Villetta walked into the room.
"Sorry, I'm late. Club activities run overtime." Villetta stopped in front of Lelouch and looked at him nervously. "So Zero, what can I do?"
"Please miss Villetta. Just saying that name alone could cost us our lives." Lelouch reminded her.
"Lelouch, what did you want?" Villetta asked again, still nervous.
"About Ohgi, do you miss him?" Lelouch asked, which surprised Villetta.
Holy Britannian Empire, Dallas Research Institute
In Dallas, Nina is inside a research lab working on some science project with three other scientists. They all seem deeply absorbed into their research and because of that, they don't hear the door open when Kanon and Schneizel also walk in.
"I'm back, Nina." Kanon greeted her.
This got her attention as she and the other scientists turned to see both him and Schneizel approach them.
"Kanon!" Nina noted surprised as she and the others bowed to Schneizel.
"Hello, it's been a while." Schneizel greeted them pleasantly.
"Prince Schneizel as well!" One of the scientists said amazed.
"When did you get back from the EU?" Nina asked.
"A short time ago. I just completed peace negotiations with the French." Kanon explained.
"In that case, you should keep pushing forward." Nina encouraged.
"If you press victory too hard or too fast you are inviting defeat," Schneizel advised her while going up to one of the scientists who handed him a data-board that had their research information on it. "In every corner of the world people look for hope. Our victories can trample that hope underfoot. That can be true for enemies and allies. Everyone has something they yearn for."
Area 11 Government Bureau
That night back at Area 11, Anya is sitting in Cornelia's garden looking through her electronic diary when Arthur playfully pulls on her hair.
"What?" Anya turned to see Arthur behind her. "You're Suzaku's cat, huh?"
She calmly pets Arthur a bit when Suzaku comes up to her.
"He seems to like you, Anya," Suzaku noted.
Suzaku was wearing tradition Japanese training clothes at the moment.
"Japanese clothes?" Anya noticed.
"Yes. I always wear them for any of my training sessions." Suzaku explained.
"Do you miss them? Japanese things?" Anya asked, curious.
"Yes I wonder. I do have some good memories but I…" Suzaku trailed off.
"Sir Kururugi, I've been looking for you," Claudio said approaching them.
"What is it?" Suzaku asked.
"I need your signature on this." Claudio held out a document on a clipboard in front of Suzaku. "It's the order to execute the Eleven who tried to assassinate you, sir. I need authorization from a Knight of the Round to carry out the sentence."
Suzaku took the clipboard but just stared at it upset.
Holy Britannian Empire, Dallas Research Institute
Back at Britannia, Nina, Schneizel and Kanon were now riding on a horse-drawn carriage and were now having a conversation regarding Nina's research while Schneizel was still looking over the data-board.
"The experiments are continuing. I won't squander the faith you've shown to me, Your Grace. I promise." Nina assured him, which got Schneizl's attention.
Nina was referring to the fact that her current position was given to her after Lloyd recommended her after recognizing her genius. Schneizel saw how much potential she had and therefore gave her a position on his personal research team in Dallas.
"I haven't been able to construct a stable prototype yet. But if you give me a little more time I'm certain I can build one that works." Nina promised him.
Schneizel looked at her with a gentle expression. "Nina, you seem upset, in fact, I've noticed you look like something has been on your mind for quite a while."
Nina's eyes widened before having a downcast expression.
"It's just… The situation at Area 11." Nina admitted, hesitant. "And… Princess Euphemia."
"I understand, it surprised me too," Schneizel said, looking out the window. "I had always believed in her, but I never once expect that Euphie would go this far. It saddens me greatly to see her declared as an enemy of Britannia."
Nina's hands started shaking. "But still… I can't see her that way. She helped so much and was always so kind."
"I agree. The world may see her as a traitorous figure but I still believe in my sister. I believed that regardless of our differences in methods or the paths we've taken, I still believe that in the end, she's only doing what she believes is right like she always has." Schneizel assured her. "So do Cornelia and Nunnally also Kanon and Suzaku and many others whose life she touched. And you, you believe in her. And that's why I believe in you."
Nina smiled having calmed down. "I'm grateful your highness."
Area 11 Government Bureau
Back at Area 11, Suzaku is still holding the clipboard but still hesitating to sign the document.
"Excuse me, is something wrong, sir?" Claudio asked, wondering why Suzaku hasn't signed it yet.
Anya seeing Suzaku's hesitating takes the clipboard and signs the document herself.
"I'm a Round. I'll sign it." Anya hands it back to Claudio.
"Yes, that's fine. Thank you, ma'am." Claudio saluted and left.
Now that they were alone again Anya decided to ask something.
"Suzaku, are you some kind of masochist?" Anya asked, surprising Suzaku. "You know you're disliked here yet you volunteered for Area 11. Hated as the hero of the Numbers as a traitor to Japan, as the man who betrayed Euphemia. You're always on trial here and out of envy and hatred they try to pull you down."
"There's no point in trying to make people understand why I'm doing all these things. Because there are people who do understand." Suzaku said with a soft smile, thinking of Euphie and his friends. "Anyway, when you get down to it I am a sinner, all I can do is live to try and right my wrongs."
Soon Gino came up to them.
"Hey there you two." Gino greeted, getting their attention. "Looks like we gonna get that call we were waiting for. The one from Zero and Soul."
"Lelouch." Suzaku thought, inwardly preparing himself.
Government Bureau Conference Lounge
Suzaku changed into his Knight uniform and the three Knights of the Round joined Lloyd, Cecile, and Lohmeyer were inside a fancy lounge with a small bar on the side of the room, fancy chairs, a fountain and a communication screen attached to the wall, they were waiting for the call. All of them were dressed in their usual attire expect for Cecile who was wearing a skimpy red dress.
"Should I really be here for this?" Cecile asked nervously.
"You wanted to see Zero and Soul, didn't you?" Lloyd reminded her.
"Yes, but…" Cecile muttered.
"Sorry, all the other rooms are in use for Special Zone preparations," Suzaku informed her.
"Oh, I see. You have to keep this confidential too, I guess." Cecile noted.
"Is there some diplomatic reason for that outfit?" Lohmeyer expressed her displeasure for Cecile's dress.
"Yes, ma'am. I apologize…" Cecile dismayed.
"Here it comes now," Lloyd commented.
And just as he said the static on the screen cleared up and Zero and Soul appeared on the communication screen.
"Ah, three Knights of the Round. However, I don't see the Viceroy with you." Zero noticed.
"We don't need to worry her with the details," Suzaku responded.
"I suppose since she already had her chat with Euphemia, there's no need to discuss this matter with her further," Soul added.
"Excuse me, I just wanted to ask you. I already know Soul is the same but, are you the same Zero as before or are you a brand new one?" Lloyd questioned offhanded.
"Zero's truth is not based on who is within it's the actions that measure the man," Zero answered.
"Ah. A philosopher." Lloyd commented.
"Enough, all you need to know is that he is a leader of the Black Knights, nothing more. Now I ask that we stay on topic." Soul interjected.
"Yes, you're right." Suzaku agreed. "We're here to discuss the details of your cooperation."
"You said you'd stop fighting and join in the newly established Special Zone. But do you have full consensus on that from all the Black Knights?" Gino asked.
"We have more than that. With all the people from the previous Zone along with all the people we've gathered to join our cause, a total of One Million, Seven Hundred Thousand people have been mobilized."
"One point Seven million?" Cecile repeated amazed.
"And they'll all participate?" Suzaku asked.
"Yes. But there's one condition. You must let the two of us go." Zero offered, surprising Suzaku. "Of course you'll have to explain this to your own people. So I suggest you punish us. By sending us into exile."
Suzaku stood up. "And the Black Knights?"
"They don't care about them." Gino brushed off. "They just want to save their own skin."
"If word of this gets out, your own people will string you up." Lloyd reminded them with a grin.
"That's why I've taken the precaution of keeping these top secret." Zero responded.
"Besides, it's not as though you can refuse since this deal is in your interest as well." Soul pointed out.
"How boring," Anya commented.
"Area law section 12, paragraph 8. It is within the Viceroy's authority to apprehend subversive all rebellious elements and send them into exile." Lohmeyer recited.
"Miss Lohmeyer, are you suggesting we let them go?" Suzaku asked unhappily.
"I'm simply stating the legal basis of action." Lohmeyer reasoned.
"In that case, you can make the announcement at the opening ceremonies." Zero suggested.
"Unfortunately we won't be able to be there in person," Soul added.
Gino threw his arm over Suzaku's shoulder. "That's some kinda sweet deal! If the big terrorist runs away then the little terrorist will shake and quake and disappear."
"Perhaps, but still…" Suzaku said, still unsure. "I don't get it, what are you two planning?"
Government Bureau Viceroy's Office
A short while after the message from Zero and Soul all the others left to prepare for the opening ceremony, while Suzaku went to inform Nunnally. He was standing beside her inside the Viceroy's office and had just finished telling her of the situation.
"Our legal counsellors have confirmed that exiling Zero and Soul would be appropriate and within precedent," Suzaku said.
"Right. That might be for the best. Crimes have been committed, my own desire to forgive them is a personal matter." Nunnally said with acceptance. "After this is all over we'll finally be able to have a more peaceful world, won't we?"
Suzaku seemed hesitant to answer, but soon did. "We can only hope so. A peaceful and gentle world we can all enjoy."
Nunnally smiled. "And hopefully, we'll be able to enjoy it with Euphie as well."
Suzaku didn't respond to that and just kept his smile, though it wasn't genuine.
Black Knights' Submarine
The Black Knights' Submarine was docked at the port and Soul stood outside on the harbour until Orpheus came up to him.
"Have all the preparations been completed?" Soul asked.
"Yes. That was the last thing. The ship will arrive right on schedule." Orpheus confirmed.
"Good. Now there's nothing stopping us from succeeding." Soul said, satisfied.
Shizuoka Ghetto
Some time later in the middle of the day at the Shizuoka ghetto, the opening ceremony begins to approach just minutes away, with all of the One Million Seven Hundred Thousand people, including the disguised Black Knights, being present. The ceremony is taking place over a large grass field that is many miles long and near the ocean, there were large screen monitors placed over the field in large numbers so everyone can see and hear. There were also a few Britannian Knightmares over the field. At the very end of this area was a large stage where Nunnally and many other officials sat and Suzaku and Anya stood. It looked similar to the stage for the Special Zone Euphie created. The Avalon was also floating in the air nearby.
An announcer that was inside a helicopter was flying over the ceremony grounds and was reporting Live on the news.
"This is the area of the Shizuoka ghetto that will soon become the Special Zone. A huge number of Elevens has already gathered for the opening ceremony. As there are over half a Million people here, verifying personal IDs will have to wait until after the event." The announcer reported. "The presence of this many Elevens is a clear testament to the enormous power and influence that Zero and Soul commend."
Britannian Knightmare Docking Bay
Gino was getting ready to enter his Tristan and could hear the announcement through his radio communicator.
"What they don't know is that Zero and Soul have already betrayed them all," Gino noted.
"You think there'll be a riot?" A soldier asked, through his communicator.
"If there is, we'll have the perfect excuse for a full-scale crackdown," Gino answered, half-serious. "Ah, but remember, we don't move until they do, got it?"
"Yes, My Lord." The soldier responded.
Shizuoka Ghetto
Back at the ceremony grounds, Villetta is also seen there on the stage looking over the Japanese, trying to spot Ohgi; however, he sees her first while sitting next to Tamaki and Chiba whom were all in disguise, Ohgi covers his face with a cap to avoid her seeing him.
"It can't be, Chigusa!?" Ohgi thought surprised.
"Kaname Ohgi, are you out there somewhere?" Villetta thought worried.
Chinese Private Jet
At the same time, Xingke and an accomplice, Zhou Xianglin, prepare to head home and were currently riding on a private jet heading to the Chinese Federation. They were sitting next to each other in the passenger room.
"Thank you for coming and for taking me back home," Xingke said.
"Are you all right with this now?" Xianglin asked.
"Of course I was just an acting consul. Once a new consul is chosen I simply have to return home. Besides this is an excellent opportunity." Xingke said.
"But what about the Black Knights?" Xianglin asked.
"The request I made to Britannia yesterday should set us up for the future—" Xingke stopped talking and started coughing painfully.
"Lord Xingke, are you all right?" Xianglin asked, worried.
Xingke stopped coughing and smiled, while a small bit of blood leaked from his lip. "Don't be concerned. I just have to last a little longer."
Shizuoka Ghetto
Nunnally come up in the middle of the stage and began her speech. She spoke into a microphone and her face appeared on all the monitors.
"People of Japan, welcome to the Specially Administrated Zone's expansion ceremony," Nunnally announced. "I'm overjoyed that so many of you have gathered here for this great event. Please lend me your help so we can once again make history together."
Soon after her speech, Lohmeyer stepped up to the microphone and made her own announcement. Now her face appeared on the monitors.
"Now then before the ceremony officially begins there is a matter we wish to confirm regarding Zero and Soul," Lohmeyer announced. "As imperial subjects, all those participating in the Japan Special Zone along with all those who were originally apart of the initial Zone will have criminal charges against them reduce and criminals that are class 3 or lower will have their sentences suspended. However, the instigators of the murder of former Viceroy Calares cannot be forgiven. Therefore under special Area law, section 12 paragraph 8, Zero and Soul shall be banished and sent into exile."
Ashford Academy
In the Student Council room, Milly, Shirley and Rivalz were watching the broadcast of the ceremony on TV and were surprised by the announcement they had just heard.
"Huh?" Milly uttered surprised.
"Just those two?" Shirley questioned.
"So that means, they get to run away all by themselves?" Rivalz wondered.
Shizuoka Ghetto
Suddenly Lohmeyer's face on the monitors was replaced by Zero and Soul who appeared on all screens. Which surprised everyone on stage.
"Thank you! My Britannian friends." Zero announced.
"We are grateful for your lenient treatment," Soul announced.
"So they came here after all." Nunnally said relieved.
"Make your move, Zero." Guilford thought while piloting his repaired Vincent that was hovering over the ceremony ground. "If there's a riot we have full license to wipe out all the radical elements. Duly authorized by miss Lohmeyer."
Suzaku took the microphone and spoke. "Show yourselves, Zero! Soul! I'll escort you both safely out of the country myself, I guarantee it!" He promised.
"There is no need for you concern yourself with that, Suzaku Kururugi," Soul responded. "However we have a question."
"What does it mean to be Japanese?" Zero asked, surprising Suzaku. "A Nation. Is it language? Territory? Bloodlines?"
"No! That's not it," Suzaku answered, before placing a hand over his chest and looked determined. "It's in the heart!"
"Then we both agree." Soul declared. "A feeling you carry within, of belonging somewhere, the dignity of your people that fills a person with pride. That more than anything else is what it truly means to be Japanese. And those feeling are deeply carried in the heart and soul. You're Japanese no matter where you are."
Suzaku could feel he meant those words but still didn't understand their motive. "Yes that's right, but why do you bring that up now?"
"Zero…!" Todoh thought.
"Soul…!" Orpheus thought.
And on that cue, every Japanese person takes out a small switch and presses the button, this activates a large number of smoke devices that were hidden in their bags or jackets and thus creating a white smoke cloud that covers all of the people, soon everything and everyone on the ground was shrouded in a large cloud of white smoke that stretched on for miles. This got the attention of everyone on stage.
Lohmeyer grimaced. "I figured they'd try something."
All those on stage were moving around while Nunnally was just looking around confused. "What is it? What's going on?"
"Viceroy." Anya addressed her as she pushed Nunnally's wheelchair away to a safe place.
"So be it. All forces, prepare to cut them down!" Guilford commanded in his Knightmare.
"Yes, My Lord." A soldier in a Sutherland responded as he aimed his weapon towards the ground.
"Hold on! They haven't made any violent moves yet." Suzaku contacted them, hoping to stop them.
"Zero and Soul may have been the ones who planned this, but do they have the guts to come out in the open and show themselves?" Gino wondered in his Tristan hovering above the ground.
Soon the smoke started to clear and a single person could be seen. That person was revealed to be Zero.
Lohmeyer saw this as well. "Well, well, it looks like he was right here on the grounds all this time."
But stopped when the rest of the smoke cleared it is revealed that every single person has promptly changed into Zero and Soul costumes with different colour schemes, horrifying all of the Britannians. It is revealed that the One Million Seven Hundred Thousand people knew beforehand that Zero and Soul were going to be exiled, and had everyone wear a costume as a countermeasure.
Suzaku was jaw dropped and at a loss for words, while Lohmeyer could only utter in shock. "All of them!?"
"This is outrageous!" This announcer said loudly, also shocked. "Zero and Soul have appeared but not as expected. That is…!"
"So this was your plan!" Gino said, blown away. "Despite our overwhelming firepower, you figured a way to move over a Million people."
"Viceroy Nunnally has ordered Zero and Soul into exile." Zero declared still on the screen. "Since we are all Zero and Soul we must all leave this country at once."
"What?" Guilford said in dismay.
"You are Japanese no matter where you go, and thus we are Japan regardless of where we are." Soul declared. "Let us depart from this place and set out for a new land!"
"C'mon all of you here, let's go to a new world!" A bright-Pink Zero (Kaguya) rallied everyone.
"Time to get exiled everybody. We are all Zero and Soul so we are all out of here!" A dark-Brown Zero (Tamaki) joined in.
"That's right! I'm Zero!" A random person shouted.
"I'm Soul! Let's get deported!" Another person shouted.
"I'm Zero,too. C'mon!" A third person shouted.
Avalon
On the bridge of the Avalon, Lloyd and Cecile were also watching and Lloyd seemed almost impressed.
"Aha, they wanted legal excuse to get them all out of Japan," Lloyd noted.
Shizuoka Ghetto
"We prepared for a riot but we might have to them let them go," Guilford said reluctantly.
"Don't panic. It's a bluff. There's no way they can transport more than half a Million people." Lohmeyer reasoned.
As she said that a Britannian soldier came up to her and informed her of something.
"We just got word from the port authority." The soldier reported.
"The port?" Lohmeyer repeated before looking upset. "They wouldn't! The Chinese Federation requested safe passage for—"
"Yes. The iceberg ship. But the applicant has already left the country." The soldier finished.
"It can't…" Lohmeyer grimaced.
As they said, sailing through the ocean and approaching the Shizuoka ghetto was the iceberg ship. A ship that was built around a large iceberg that also had metal attachments around it and smaller ships around it, this ship could be seen off the coast of the grass field and was for everyone to leave on. Sayoko was already on the ship.
"We're getting on that?" A light-Blue Zero (Yoshida) asked surprised.
"But it's ice!" Dark-Brown Zero (Tamaki) noted.
"Won't it melt?" A Light-Purple Soul (Minami) asked concerned.
"We'll be fine." A Yellow Zero (Rakshata) assured them. "The iceberg ship is indestructible. It has so much insulating polymers and super-peltierfilm that ice will never melt.
"Plus I spoke about it with Xingke." A dark-Blue Soul (Orpheus) added. "He confirmed the iceberg ship has been used before without trouble, so we don't have to worry."
The members of the Britannian military who were in their Knightmares were flying around the ceremony grounds with confusion.
"Target the leaders! Take out the real Zero and Soul!" A soldier in his Knightmare order.
"Right, but how do we know which one they are?" Another soldier in his Knightmare asked unsurely.
Ashford Academy
The members of the Student Council were watching with both shock and disbelief.
"This is…" Rivalz utter, at a loss for words.
"What's gonna happen?" Shirley asked unsurely.
"It's that… Zero and Soul are more than an idols now, they're a symbol." Milly said before she shook her head. "They've made themselves into a living avatar for everyone."
Shizuoka Ghetto
Villetta jumped down from the stage and pointed a gun at the people on the ground.
"Elevens, take your masks off!" Villetta demanded.
"Britannian witch!" Dark-Brown Zero (Tamaki) tried taking out a gun himself.
"Don't shoot!" A light-Brown Zero (Ohgi) stopped him and walked in front of them. "Don't let them drag us into a fight! That's not why we are here!"
Villetta recognized his voice.
"Ohgi, it that you?" Villetta asked surprised.
"N-No, I'm Zero." Light-Brown Zero (Ohgi) answered nervously.
G-1 Mobile Base
Inside the G-1 Nunnally was moving her wheelchair through the hallway while Anya was walking beside, there were two executives walking alongside them.
"Please tell me what's going on." Nunnally requested.
"Miss Lohmeyer has stayed behind for operational oversight." A guard informed her.
"You mean leave everything to her?" Nunnally asked unsurely.
"It'll be all right. Suzaku is there with her." Anya reassured her.
Shizuoka Ghetto
Back on the stage Lohmeyer took out a gun herself and looked to Suzaku.
"Sir Kururugi, we can't let more than a Million labourers leave the country," Lohmeyer said. "Making an example of—"
"Hold on, please!" Suzaku stopped her from finishing and started to think. "I get it now, Lelouch. This is what you and the others were planning, in order to stop there from more fighting you used this option instead of giving up."
"Now that it's come to this, what do you suppose the Britannians response will be?" A dark-Green Soul (Urabe) asked.
"In the end, the choice falls onto Suzaku." A dark-Gray Zero (Todoh) answered. "And even if we're all unmasked, no one would know who the real Zero or Soul are."
Guilford brought his Vincent closer to the stage and turned on his loud-speaker.
"Sir Kururugi, this is an act of rebellion! Order us to fight!" Guilford said loudly.
"He's wrong. This is a way of resolving things without fighting." The light-Brown Zero (Ohgi) defended.
Gino in the Tristan descended closer to Suzaku and turned on his loud-speaker.
"It's your call, Suzaku. You're in charge." Gino told him, with acceptance.
"Let them escape. That's what you want me to say isn't it?" Suzaku thought, looking at the monitor. "That's why you set things up like this, you planned on living things up to me."
"If the Black Knights leave, peace will come to Area 11." Zero thought. "And Nunnally's reign will no longer be threatened by our presence."
"And by doing this you can avoid almost all the problems the Zone had." Suzaku thought. "This way will trying help the people."
"That is why there is only one thing for you to do." Soul thought. "Give the order Suzaku."
Suzaku clenched his fist. "I must give the order to let them go free."
Lohmeyer saw he still didn't give an answer and aimed her gun at the audience, preparing to shot. "I'll do it. Zero!"
Suzaku saw this and stopped her. "No. I've made my decision and besides, Nunnally wanted to forgive them."
"We're dealing with Zero and Soul!" Lohmeyer reminded him.
Suzaku snatched the gun from her hands. "Zero and Soul are to be exiled! That was our agreement. If we break it the people will never trust us again."
"The people? These are Elevens." Lohmeyer said hatefully. "Only you speak of them as people because you're are one of them."
"This has nothing to do with that! If they're all subversives why do you want them here? So you can massacre them!?" Suzaku asked frustrated.
"They have challenged Britannian rules. So let them burn in hell!" Lohmeyer said unforgiving.
"Shouldn't we get rid of these destructive elements then? They're exiling themselves." Suzaku reasoned.
"But…" Lohmeyer still wanted to argue.
Suzaku looked back up at the monitor. "Zero, can you both promise that you'll lead them to salvation?"
"Of course. And you Suzaku Kururugi, can you promise the one's who stay behind will find salvation in your hands?" Zero asked.
"That's exactly why I became a Britannian soldier," Suzaku answered honestly.
"I'll remember those words. And we will trust in the promise you've made." Soul said.
After those last words the picture on the monitor screens changed and now all that was on screen was the symbol of the Black Knights. At the same time Zero and Soul walked up to the edge of the iceberg ship, revealing they were on the ship the whole time and behind them was Euphie.
"Did you hear that? All of you, Sir Kururugi has declared it. Rebels are hereby exiled." Zero declared loudly, to all the people.
"Nothing holds us back now. Forward, let us all step aboard this ship and cast off to the land of freedom!" Soul also declared.
And by that declaration, all the people on the ceremony grounds dressed as Zero and Soul all started walking towards the iceberg ship intending to leave.
"Let's go while we have the chance." Dark-Brown Zero (Tamaki) suggested before leaving as well.
"Goodbye then, lady of Britannian." Light-Brown Zero (Ohgi) said to Villetta before walking away.
Villetta watched him go both sad and unconvinced.
Guilford slammed his fist on the sidewall of his Knightmare's cockpit, upset.
"The perfect chance to kill them all and he's throwing it away!" Guilford said, dissatisfied by Suzaku's decision.
Chinese Private Jet
But on the plane Xianglin just finished receiving a communication and turned to Xingke.
"My Lord Xingke, it seems the Area 11 operation has succeeded," Xianglin informed him.
"I see. Looks like their next performance would be on our stage." Xingke said interested.
Avalon
"So Suzaku managed to save over a Million lives and no one will ever thank him for it," Lloyd noted.
"I think he knew that going in. He's used it now." Cecile pointed out.
Shizuoka Ghetto
It was now sunset and Suzaku was the only person left standing on the stage, looking out at the large field that was now completely deserted and left with nothing but empty bags that littered the ground for miles.
"Their whole plan was based on one prediction. That I would give the order to hold fire and let them go." Suzaku thought, before smiling. "I guess that makes me easy to read, at least when it comes to you two."
Meanwhile, on the iceberg ship, all the core members of the Black Knights which consisted of Kallen, Ohgi, Todoh, Asahina, Chiba, Urabe, Inoue, Yoshida, Rakshata, Tamaki, Minami, Lyra, C.C and Kaguya stood together each dressed as either Zero or Soul but now without their masks and were looking out towards the ocean proudly because of their success. While Zero and Soul were standing away from everyone else, also looking out at the ocean.
"You are my best friend. I know you, Suzaku. And I also know Nunnally. I know her heart. That is why I can foresee the outcome." Lelouch thought. "And for now I am grateful to you, Suzaku."
"Suzaku, I will never forget the promise I made to you and I know you won't ever forget the promise you've made to us. That's why I know, you'll do everything in your power the protect Nunnally and the Japanese who stayed behind." Soul thought. "And so, we'll protect all those who came with us. But for now, we part ways. Friend."
To Be Continued
And that's the chapter. And as I said this was a pretty straightforward chapter it was more or less the same as the original but that's because I honestly couldn't see any way to make it different that would make sense, plus like I said this outcome was necessary. I decided to make there be one million seven hundred thousand this time because I included all the people from the Special Zone and the Black Knights are bigger than they were in the canon.
So now when can move on to the Chinese Federation and this will be a little interesting for me as I have some ideas regarding this point. Anyways thanks for reading, hope you enjoyed, if you want more leave a review, if you like the story click the follow/favourite, and as always have an awesome day..