Here's the next chapter. Anyway, I don't own Code Geass or any of the characters just the OC.
43. Schneizel's Guise.
—…
There was still a buzz flying around about the news of Manhattan being destroyed and the fact that Emperor Lelouch left suddenly when he was informed of that Britannian city being destroyed. Council members of the U.F.N were discussing the situation and there were opinions regarding what to do with the proposal of letting Britannia be part of the U.F.N.
Outside the school building, members of Lelouch's royal guard were talking amongst themselves about what was happening.
"The the Island of Manhattan's been obliterated?" A soldier asked.
"Is that true?" Another soldier.
"They say it was the F.L.E.I.J.A. warhead." A third soldier said.
"The thing that wiped out the Tokyo settlement?" Another soldier asked.
"An accident?" A fifth soldier asked.
"But I heard the F.L.E.I.J.A.s they built are all missing now." A sixth soldier said.
"Stop spreading wild rumours," Jeremiah commanded as he appeared before them. "It is imprudent to talk as if an entire city's been destroyed, even as rumours."
"No, I'm afraid it's all true." A voice called out.
"What?" Jeremiah turned and was surprised to see who it was. "You…"
It was Sayoko who had been missing ever since the first F.L.E.I.J.A. had destroyed Tokyo. Now she stood there hunched over with bandages shown on her body and a pained look on her face.
"Please take me to Lelouch. It's urgent." Sayoko pleaded before falling to the ground.
Bridge Of Lelouch's Jet
Lelouch couldn't believe what was happening. There she was, his sister Nunnally, alive and well and she just declared to be his enemy. He was sure was this was Schneizel's doing in an attempt to break him down by using Nunnally to confront him.
"Nunnally… It's you… You're alive…" Lelouch said unable to keep his composure.
"Yes," Nunnally replied. "Thanks to our brother Schneizel."
Lelouch's right eyebrow twitched. "Schneizel…"
"Nunnally… Do you understand what Schneizel has done?" Suzaku asked.
"Yes. He attacked New York Manhattan with a F.L.E.I.J.A. warhead." Nunnally confirmed.
"If you know about that, then why?" Rolo asked not liking that what was going on.
"Do you think that using Geass on people is better?" Nunnally countered and it stopped him in his tracks. "All of you and big brother has been lying to me from the very beginning, haven't you? You've kept the truth from me all this time. But… Now I know everything. Lelouch, you were Zero all along, weren't you? And Logan, you were Soul?" She accused, causing both of them to grimace. "You were helping my brother cause turmoil in the world."
"Nunnally, you don't know what Lelouch was trying to do," Kallen spoke up.
Nunnally was surprised when she heard that voice. "Kallen, is that you?"
Kallen nodded. "Yes, it's me, Nunnally."
"Kallen, did you know about my brother and his Geass?" Nunnally questioned her.
"…Yes, I've known about it since the end of the first SAZ," Kallen admitted it, reluctantly.
Nunnally frowned. "I see, so you were lying to me as well. You knew he was Zero and you lied to me."
"I had my reasons." Kallen justified. "It was important to keep his identity as Zero a secret."
Nunnally didn't like what Kallen was saying and turned to Lelouch. "Why?! Tell me why all of you did all this?! Were you doing it for my sake? Because if you were, that means—"
Lelouch interrupted her with a laugh. "For your sake? I see my little sister is presumptuous as ever."
Nunnally gasped when she heard those words and the sound of his voice.
"You think it's just natural for people to help you all the time out of sympathy and pity?" Lelouch asked condescendingly. "It's so easy to criticize others while you keep your own hands unsullied. You're the quintessence of the privileged aristocrat that I've rejected."
"You are… No…" Nunnally was at a loss, never having heard Lelouch speak to her in such a manner.
"Nunnally, you've taken the words of Schneizel but you don't really know anything of what's been really going on."
"What are you talking about?"
"Do you really understand what's really going on? Do you really understand what you are taking part in?" Lelouch was trying to hide the shaking of his hands. He knew it had to be done. He wasn't let anyone stop him from what he was trying to do, not even his own sister, Nunnally.
"Schneizel said that you are not really bringing in peace in Britannia, that it's just another plot for your own selfish reasons."
"And you just believe him, just like that…?" Suzaku questioned with a frown.
"Can't you understand that he's just using you?" Logan interjected. "You're just another piece of his plan, he only saved you because he thinks you're useful for the moment."
You're wrong about what you just said, Logan. Schneizel would never mislead me, they wouldn't use me." Nunnally insisted. "You don't know the terrible things Lelouch has done?"
"And what terrible thing are those? Was it liberating the oppressed Numbers? Or giving the colonised Area their freedom and independence? How about hoping to join the U.F.N. to end world conflict?" Logan questioned her furiously. "Tell me, what of what we've done do you consider terrible?"
"Let's not forget that for the past eight years, Lelouch was the one who helped you and protected you all this time when you were abandoned by your other siblings," Rolo pointed out. "Neither Schneizel nor Cornelia did that for you and now all of a sudden you declared yourself as Lelouch's enemy, the brother who looked after you all these years while you were blind, crippled and had no one else, now is trying to accomplish the dream you once had and now have abandoned that dream."
Nunnally shook her head, "No, you're wrong. That's not it at all."
Cornelia couldn't take it anymore and decided that she needed to speak up, "What about Clovis? Lelouch, did you forget that you killed Clovis in cold blood? On top of that, you killed father just so you could steal the throne for yourself."
"And how many lives did they kill in cold blood?" Lelouch countered, not backing down. "And you yourself Cornelia, you think you have any moral high ground to speak of? How high is your kill count again?"
There was silence. C.C had been looking at Lelouch the whole time to see if he can still stay strong.
"Lelouch—" Nunnally tried to speak but was interrupted.
"Nunnally, if you wish to destroy the Britannia I'm trying to reform for the better for not only for the country itself but for the future, then it is clear that you are indeed an enemy," Lelouch said with venom which made Nunnally cringe. "Are you prepared for that? You've just heard what had happened and yet you are siding with them. It looks like you have just simply followed them just because they were there."
"No, that wasn't the reason." Nunnally denied his accusations.
"Then what was the reason?" Rolo joined the interrogation. "Why should we believe you when you just participate in killing innocent people in New York. Is this what you wanted Nunnally? You wanted to kill an entire city of people just to prove a point. If anyone is being selfish right now it is all of you there, including you as well Nunnally."
"Those were innocent people that had nothing to do with this and yet you willingly fired a deadly weapon at them. Not that this would be the first time that Schneizel has done something like that." Suzaku pointed out, referring to the time Schneizel fired the first F.L.E.I.J.A.
"I do admit to firing the F.L.E.I.J.A. but I always had every intention of making sure Nunnally was safe and sound." Schneizel reasoned. "And you may accuse me of dragging innocent people into this, but let me return that sentiment in that I'm not the only one who is guilty of that."
"I'm sure you're proud of that silver tongue of yours, how many people have you ensnared that way?" Lelouch glared at him. "You took the truth and twisted it into lies with your selfish and pitiful views to force your own peace and righteousness on the world, you have no right to lecture me. You used Nunnally against me and what did you think was going to happen. Did you hope I break down? Did you hope I lose my resolve? How foolish you can be."
"Let's not forget," Logan spoke with determination. "Lelouch isn't alone, he has us as well as many others who are willing to follow him, those who believe in what he is doing."
"If you insist on getting in the way and prevent a chance of peace, then you better be prepared because I will not show any mercy, not even to you Nunnally," Lelouch declared. "After all, the only ones who should kill are the ones who are prepared to be killed."
Kallen was surprised at how Lelouch was reacting to Nunnally, she never would have thought that Lelouch would be the way he was acting and she guessed that if he was going to continue with his plan for Britannia, he couldn't afford to lose his resolve.
Schneizel didn't like where the conversations were going and quickly cut off the transmission.
Sky Fortress Damocles
Nunnally felt like she was about to break down which caused Schneizel and Cornelia to rush to help her while Diethard and Kanon left to let them be alone.
"Are you all right, Nunnally?" Cornelia asked out of concern.
"That must have been very hard for you, Nunnally," Schneizel said. "I thought showing him the power of the F.L.E.I.J.A. might convince him to surrender."
"Schneizel, are the people of Manhattan really all right?" Nunnally asked. "Are you sure they are safe?"
"You needn't worry," Schneizel assured her. "We gave warning for them to evacuate well in advance. Of course, the damage to the city was significant but we did everything we could to minimise it." Cornelia and Darlton were shocked at Schneizel's statement.
"But now… We'll have to use the weapons on people, on Lelouch and his followers." Nunnally asked worriedly.
"If they stand in the way of world peace, we'll have no choice," Schneizel replied.
Nunnally thought about it and decided to make a request. "Schneizel, please. Will you let me have the F.L.E.I.J.A. firing switch to hold on to?"
This surprised everyone else around her and Nunnally continued.
"I can't fight battles or defend my country or my people, so at the very least I want this sin to be on my shoulders."
Before he could answer her, Cornelia narrowed her eyes at her brother and spoke. "Schneizel, may I please have a word with you?"
A room in the Avalon
Lelouch was angry and then he turned to C.C who was sitting on a couch holding her Cheesie-kun plushy while his Knights and Kallen were with them.
"C.C, why didn't you find out about Nunnally?" Lelouch asked angrily.
"I'm certainly not a god," C.C answered annoyed at Lelouch's question. "I can only read people if they're connected to the power of Geass."
Lelouch put his hand on his head. "Schneizel, you knew but you kept the truth from me all this time. Just so you could play this card at the right moment!" Lelouch swung his hand at a chessboard on the table and knocked down the chess pieces. "Still the way that you shuffled the deck was more than artful. It was remarkable and effective!"
"In the end, we fell for another one of his tricks," Logan bit down on his thumb with irritation. "Schneizel always tends to have something up his sleeve but this is something no one could have predicted, a worst-case scenario."
"Lelouch," Kallen spoke with concern. "Are you going to be okay?"
Lelouch calmed himself down. "No, I won't Kallen. I never would have imagined what just happened but I can't stop now just because I found out that my sister is alive. If I stop now, Schneizel will have already won and everything I've done for the past month would be meaningless."
"Then, what should we do now?" Rolo asked.
"We rethink certain details of our strategies, but the end result remains the same," Lelouch told them with authority. "We'll see operation Tabula Rasa through no matter what."
All those around the 99th Emperor of Britannia looked at him and nodded in agreement. Lelouch sat down on a couch and explained what they would do next.
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
Nina was watching a screen that was showing the destruction that was caused on Manhattan by the F.L.E.I.J.A. and the recreation of the blast on the city.
"The F.L.E.I.J.A. they used on Manhattan had ten times the effective range as the one used on the Tokyo settlement. If they haven't developed the new model, then…" Cecile planned to let Nina finish that thought.
"They've removed the limiter." Nina deduced with horror.
"Bingo," Lloyd confirmed it.
"By removing both effect range and detonation time limiter… Prince Schneizel, how could you…" Nina spoke softly watching in horror as she watched.
"Nina, the F.L.E.I.J.A. Countermeasure you were devising, what's the status on that?" Lloyd asked her.
One Of The Rooms Within Damocles
In a dimly-lit monitoring room within the Damocles, Schneizel was discussing things with Cornelia.
"Yes, what about it?" Schneizel confessed nonchalantly.
Cornelia was shocked at what she had just heard. "You mean the people of Manhattan were…"
"I made them… Vanish." Schneizel said bluntly. "It was better for them than a life swearing loyalty to Lelouch, wouldn't you say?"
"They're are our own people." Cornelia was appalled that her brother would go this far. "And you told Nunnally…"
"Lies are expedient." Schneizel neutrally said. "There's no need to tell Nunnally things that would get in the way of her opposition to Lelouch, is there? She'll never know the difference."
"You use everyone? Even your own sister?" Cornelia asked.
"Cornelia. What is it that people truly want?" Schneizel asked practically. "Starvation and poverty. Discrimination and corruption. War and terrorism. They want the problems that are flooding the world to go away forever. People can't understand each other under these situations at all."
"Your theories don't justify butchering civilians!" Cornelia argued.
Schneizel counterargued. "Even civilians who have rejected war depend on the police, don't they? Everyone knows, don't they? That people are driven by their own desires. The lust that dwells within the soul of man cannot be denied. So why win hearts and minds or tout some shining ideology. Why not bring peace to the world with the system 'power'?" Schneizel then activated the screen that showed the plan of Damocles' movement. "In ten days, Damocles will enter the air space of the United States of China. And then switch over to secondary acceleration. After that, we're scheduled to ascend 300 kilometres above the surface. From there, we will hit every enemy nation with F.L.E.I.J.A.s."
Cornelia's eyes widened with horror. "Are you insane? We only agreed to use them against Lelouch. This will destroy the world! You're trying to control people through fear!"
"Mankind's history is war." Schneizel countered. "Peace is an illusion. To turn an illusion into reality is an arduous task. It requires discipline."
"And you plan to discipline the entire human race all by yourself? Only a god could pull that off." Cornelia ranted.
"Then I shall become a god." Schneizel declared earnestly. "If that is what it takes to bring peace to the world."
Cornelia glared. "You're deranged."
Kanon, Darlton and Diethard walked into the room.
"Magnificent!" Diethard said with excitement. "I knew I was right to change sides and support you! Surpassing Zero and Soul's chaos with a state of perfect nothingness and kaleidoscopic transformation!"
"Kanon, what is the U.F.N's stance on the situation?" Schneizel asked.
"It doesn't look like they will join up with Lelouch," Kanon said. "Although it doesn't mean that they would be willing to join forces with us as well."
"If the Black Knights don't intend to get involved, it's fine," Schneizel decided magnanimously. "Besides, they don't know what is really happening. As long as they think this is merely an internal Britannian struggle, they won't help Lelouch. After all, those who are seeking peace won't want to involve themselves in another war. It's the purpose of doing things like this."
"Is that why you stayed back and let Lelouch get away with this until now?" Cornelia asked again.
"It was a way to minimize the damage." Schneizel reasoned. "But in the end, if we have to sacrifice one or two billion lives to achieve a state of permanent peace…"
"You're wrong!" Cornelia interrupted as she drew her sword much to everyone's surprise and causing Schneizel to look at her. "Peace attained by force is not peace!"
Cornelia was stopped in her tracks as she was charging at Schneizel when the person in question snapped his fingers and suddenly a gun came out from the wall shot Cornelia. This caused the second princess to fall on the ground and the eyes of Kanon and Diethard were widened with surprise at what happened. Darlton did more than stare, he rushed to her as fast as he could react.
"PRINCESS!" Darlton roared as kneeled and embraced her body fearfully.
"This is so sad, Cornelia." Schneizel had an expression of pity.
"Prince Schneizel, how could you?" Darlton asked, looking up at him hatefully.
"She gave me no choice and if you plan to get in the way as well, then I'll have you shot as well I'm afraid," Schneizel warned him.
Darlton cared little for that warning as he couldn't stop the rage that was burning in his eyes.
Avalon Medical Room
It was now sunset and the Avalon remained hovering over Ashford as Sayoko was laying in a bed in the medical room while Jeremiah sat nearby and heard her explanation.
"Schneizel had maneuvered us." Sayoko said. "He had another escape plane as a decoy during the battle of Tokyo. And so…"
"The plane destroyed by the F.L.E.I.J.A. was the decoy." Jeremiah summarised.
"That's right," Sayoko confirmed. "And now he's trying to use Miss Nunnally to control Master Lelouch."
"His majesty has already resolved himself to see this through, so that objective will not happen," Jeremiah stated. "But still, this will be a daunting task either way."
"Yes, there's some truth to that." Sayoko agreed.
Avalon Private Room
Lelouch was now in a private room, sitting on a bed as he laments recent events and hopes to quell the ache in his heart. Soon enough, Logan and C.C enter the room and C.C sits beside him while Logan stands.
"I'm impressed. You didn't drop your mask in front of Nunnally." C.C said.
"You were struggling weren't you?" Logan noted. "It's always the hardest on you when you have to lie to her."
"No matter what angle I use to attack the problem, the answer was always the same. The conclusion we came to then wasn't wrong."
"Of course it wasn't." Logan agreed completely. "We all arrived at this conclusion because it's what the world needs more than anything."
"Listen, haven't you both done enough?" C.C asked them. "You've handled this well."
"C.C, you know we can't stop now, there's still more to be done, and it's something only we can do. If we don't, who will?" Logan said decidedly.
Lelouch nodded. "That's right, under the rule of Damocles people would become lifeless puppets. We can't allow that to happen."
"That's true. But Nunnally is aboard Damocles. Everything you've done from the beginning was for her." C.C pointed out.
"I can't treat her differently any longer, Logan already knocked that narcissistic way of thinking out of me. So many people have died since this began. For their sakes, we have to see it through to the end, don't we, C.C?" Lelouch asked emotionally.
"And it's not just for the sake of those who died, but also those who still live," Logan added. "It's for them that we're fighting this battle, the world is waiting for our answer."
"Yes. You're both right." C.C said with a soft smile.
The door then opens again and this time Rolo entered the room.
"Lelouch, it's time to meet with Rivalz," Rolo informed him.
"Right, of course." Lelouch stood up. "Let's go."
"Right." Logan turned to C.C. "C.C, Kallen is going to return to the Ikaruga to report to the Black Knights about what happened, you escort her."
"Fine, should be interesting." C.C complied.
Bridge Aboard The Ikaruga
A transmission was beeping on the bridge. This surprised the core members of the Black Knights.
"An open channel?" Minami asked.
"Who's contacting us?" Ohgi asked.
"Patch it through," Xingke ordered.
"Yes sir," Ayame obliged as she accepted the transmission.
The screen showed Kallen in a room.
"Kallen," Ohgi spoke. "Where are you?"
"Are you all right Kozuki?" Xingke asked.
"Yes, I'm fine," Kallen answered, "I'm in the Avalon."
"You're in Emperor Lelouch's ship?" Todoh asked narrowing his eyes.
"Yes…" Kallen confirmed.
"Kallen, why are you there?" Ohgi asked, "Did something happen?"
"Yes, we need to talk," Kallen said. "Can you call Zero and Euphemia back to the ship?"
Ohgi paused a bit. "All right, come back to the Ikaruga and then we can hear from you have to say, we'll make sure Euphemia and Zero are here too."
"…Of course, I'll be right there," Kallen said as she cut off the transmission.
Avalon Conference Room
Nina had agreed to help create a countermeasure against the F.L.E.I.J.A. and was now waiting with Rivalz and Shirley as Lelouch, Logan and Rolo walked into the room.
"Guys!" Rivalz gasped when they walked in.
"Long time no see, Rivalz, Nina." Logan greeted them.
"Shirley." Lelouch addressed her.
"Sorry, Lulu," Shirley said. "I know you said to only bring Nina but…"
"No, it's fine," Lelouch assured her. "This is something I should have taken care of, to begin with."
"You haven't told them anything, have you?" Rolo asked.
Shirley shook her head. "I planned to at first, but I figured it'd be better if they heard it from you."
"In that case, meet up with Kallen and C.C," Lelouch instructed her.
Shirley nodded and left the room, Lelouch then looked at Nina. "I appreciate your cooperation in helping us stop the F.L.E.I.J.A. Nina."
Nina nervously nodded. "I want to do what I can."
"Either way, we really appreciate you helping us now," Lelouch said.
Rivalz walked up to them. "Hey listen Lelouch…"
"I know," Lelouch replied. "You have some questions for us. Well, I'll tell you, however, what I tell you must not be repeated to anyone else as well."
Nina and Rivalz nodded in agreement to Lelouch's request and Lelouch began to explain.
Ikaruga
After Kallen along with C.C and Shirley returned to the Ikaruga, they arrived on the deck where she was greeted by Tamaki. He then leads the three of them to the bridge where they meet Zero, Euphie and all the core members of the Black Knights. After being greeted, Kallen gets straight to the point and explains what happened back at the Avalon.
"Nunnally is alive?" Euphie asked as her eyes widened with shock.
"Yes," Kallen confirmed unhappily. "She's joined up with Schneizel and is aboard the Damocles."
"That complicates things, that and the F.L.E.I.J.A." Zero said. "Now that there are variables we didn't account for, we need to rethink our strategies."
"Huh, how come?" Tamaki asked, unaware.
"Would you keep up?" Sugiyama said impatiently.
"The original plan called for Lelouch and the others facing Schneizel once they had a way to counter the F.L.E.I.J.A.s," Todoh said.
"But now that the Damocles has been launched and the F.L.E.I.J.A.s are being used, that plan is no longer possible," Xingke added.
"There's also its power to consider," Rakshata said. "The F.L.E.I.J.A.s being 10x more destructive than the first one is something we never thought was possible."
"So what should we do?" Minami asked meekly.
"Don't be so pessimistic," C.C spoke out. "Even if we need to rethink some things, the overall plan remains the same. Lelouch has already thought of a solution in fact."
"For real?" Tamaki asked enthusiastically.
"It's true, we came here to explain what it is he wants us to do next," Kallen said.
"Then tell us, what's our next move?" Urabe asked.
"Before that, there's something I want to say…" Kallen paused before looking at Ohgi. "Ohgi, with your permission, I'd like to go with Lelouch and the others."
This surprised some of them, not having expected her to bring this up.
"Wait, what brought this up?" Ohgi asked.
"Now that situation is different, I believe they'll be in more danger and need more help," Kallen explained. "I want to be there for them, I want to lend them my aid."
"But, you'll be—"
"Wait, Ohgi." Ohgi was stopped when Euphie stepped forward. "Tell me, Kallen, what did Lelouch say when it was decided he'll have to go against Nunnally?"
"He said he'll fight regardless," Kallen answered. "Even if it's her, he won't let anything stop him from executing the plan."
"So he's resolved himself." Euphie thought before saying out loud. "In that case, I don't mind you going."
"Are you sure?" Kallen asked relieved.
"Yes, I know you've thought long and hard about this. If it's the decision you've decided upon, we'll respect it." Euphie said. "Also, I can tell that in spite of what he says, this is still weighing on his heart, having Kallen there as well will be good for him, emotionally."
"I agree completely," Zero said. "If Lelouch and the others have decided they want you beside them, then we have no reason to object."
"In that case, let me go with her." Shirley requested as well.
"Shirley?" Kallen said.
"Please, let me," Shirley said seriously.
Tamaki scratched his head. "You too?"
"Well, she originally joined because of Lelouch." Yoshida brought up.
"Plus, it's not like it'll be a problem," Minami noted.
"Very well, Shirley, you may also go." Zero decided.
"Then, now that that's out of the way, let me tell you what Lelouch's strategy." C.C started.
Avalon Conference Room
Lelouch had just finished his conversation with Rivalz and Nina. Nina had left the room to go back to Lloyd and Cecile while Rivalz was still sitting there and processing everything.
"You understand now, don't you Rivalz?" Lelouch asked.
"Yeah, but that doesn't mean I agree with this, I really want to help," Rivalz said.
"I understand and I appreciate that you want to help but like I said, there's no need for you to get involved in this fight. You're not a soldier." Lelouch said.
"But Lelouch—" Rivalz didn't get to finish because he was interrupted by someone calling for the Emperor.
"Your Majesty," A soldier called out.
Lelouch looked over in his direction, "What is it?"
The soldier saluted the Emperor. "Sire, Lord Jeremiah has brought in someone."
Lelouch and Rivalz were surprised and Lelouch asked. "Who?"
"A Japanese woman who says that she serves you as a maid and wants to talk to you about Princess Nunnally. Her name is Sayoko Shinozaki." The soldier said.
Lelouch's eyes widened as he heard that name. "Where is she?"
"She's in Meeting Room Three, Your Majesty." The soldier reported. "Sir Raymond has already been informed and is there now."
"All right, I'll be right there," Lelouch looked at Rivalz. "Also, keep my friend here company until I have someone escort him back to Ashford."
"But Lelouch—" Rivalz tried to say.
"Yes, Your Majesty," The soldier obliged and looked at Rivalz while Rivalz himself just sighed.
"It'll be fine Rivalz," Lelouch assured him.
Avalon Private Room
Back in the private room, a bit of time had passed and now the Avalon was on its way back to Pendragon. While that was happening, Logan had just finished taking care of some things and was now sitting on the couch. Soon enough, Rolo entered the room.
"Big brother." Rolo greeted him.
"Hey, Rolo." Logan said.
"How was Sayoko?" Rolo asked.
"A few scratches but nothing too serious," Logan said. "She'll be back on her feet before long."
"That's good news," Rolo said relieved.
"Not much else good news though," Logan said. "Even if Nina and the others are working on F.L.E.I.J.A. countermeasures, nothing they make has a 100% chance of being successful."
"Well, we are pressed for time," Rolo noted.
Logan sighed. "We'll just have to make do with what we have."
"Is that a problem, that's how we've always done things." Rolo reminded him.
Logan stayed quiet for a bit, not saying anything all of a sudden. Until he finally said what was on his mind.
"Rolo, forgive me," Logan said.
Rolo blinked. "What?"
"When we were young and I first found you, we became brothers in all but blood and I wanted to give you a happy life, but look where we are," Logan said regretfully. "I made you into a soldier who fights on battlefields at the frontlines and kills others even though you're only a high school student, it's something I've always hated myself for."
"That's odd, after all, that's something I've always been grateful to you for." Rolo pointed out.
Now it was Logan's turn to be confused. "What?"
"It's true the life I have now isn't what some would consider as orthodox happiness, but it's not like you or anyone else forced me, I chose to follow you on battlefields," Rolo said.
"But even so—" Logan was cut off.
"Do you know what Euphie once told me?" Rolo started. "The hardest part about having a sibling who was in the military was seeing them leave to fight, waiting for them to return and wondering if they would return at all. We're different from them but I'm sure I would have felt the same way."
"Yeah, I'm sure anyone would feel that way." Logan understood.
"That's why I'm happy I learned how to fight, how to use a Knightmare, I didn't have to wait for you to return, I was always right there beside you, fighting with you and we always came back together," Rolo said happily. "I'm happy that you found me and gave me the life I have now, I'm happy that you're my brother."
Hearing his heartfelt words made Logan see things completely different from how he did a moment ago. Even though he felt he should say something in response, he couldn't find the words. In the end, he only had a small response.
"In that case, let's come back from this battle to, one last time," Logan said with a smile.
Rolo nodded. "Yeah, our last battle."
Lelouch's Jet
The jet was soaring through the air across the ocean to follow the flight path of the Avalon. After departing from the Ikaruga, Kallen, C.C and Shirley were all riding on the jet that was heading to Pendragon.
"Shirley, are you sure about this?" Kallen asked.
"Of course," Shirley said without doubt. "Despite what he might say, I can tell that Lulu is going through a difficult time if he has to go against Nunna, so I want to be there for him." She placed a hand over her chest. "Like I promised I would."
C.C smiled at her. "Shirley, you truly love Lelouch, don't you?"
"Yes, I do," Shirley answered without any hesitation, which got a reaction out of Kallen. Shirley continued. "And C.C, you love Logan don't you?"
"Huh?" Kallen reacted again.
"That's correct," C.C answered with no concern. "He made a promise about our future together." She added jokingly.
"Enough of that!" Kallen said loudly. "This isn't the time to be talking about stuff like that!" She was clearly flustered.
"Why not, it's not like we're doing anything." C.C pointed out.
"Even so…" Kallen looked away.
"By the way, Kallen, which one do you love?" C.C asked.
"What?" That got Kallen's attention.
"It's been something I've been wondering for a while, Lelouch or Logan, which one do you love?" C.C asked, almost teasingly.
"Why are you asking me that?!" Now Kallen was flustered.
"Because I'm curious," C.C said, obviously enjoying herself.
"Actually, I've wanted to know about that too." Shirley joined in.
"Shirley!" Kallen said loudly.
"Come on, we already admitted it, so you should as well," C.C said.
"Yeah, it's only fair." Shirley agreed.
Kallen still seemed reluctant but could tell they weren't going to drop this. This whole situation felt reminiscent of her time in the student council. With a sigh, she confessed.
"Both of them."
Both Shirley and C.C were silent as Kallen continued.
"I don't know when I started to feel this way but after I learned who they were behind their masks and spent so much time with them, my feelings started to grow beyond just a leader and an elite guard," Kallen admitted with a blush. "The time I spent with Lelouch and the time spent with Logan, both are meaningful to me. I just can't help but feeling like I fell in love with both of them."
Both C.C and Shirley stayed quiet as they processed all this until C.C broke the silence.
"Well, I think in some regards, they both love you too," C.C told her. "You know them in ways hardly anyone else does and are someone they can always depend on."
"She's right, it wouldn't surprise me if that was true." Shirley agreed. "After all the time you with them and all you guys have been through, it'd be weird if feelings weren't developed."
"Yeah but…" Kallen looked down. "I knew how you felt about Lelouch and yet. Isn't it wrong of me to feel this even though you both love them?"
"Not really," C.C said right away. "At least, not given their current positions."
Kallen blinked. "What do you mean?"
"Both the Britannian Emperor and top Knight of the Round, in this case, the Knight of Zero are legally permitted to engage in polyamorous relationships," C.C informed her. "So as long as both sides have consent, there's nothing wrong with loving them even if someone else does."
"That's not…" Kallen said.
"If that's the case, I don't mind," Shirley said.
"You what?" Kallen asked surprised. "You didn't feel this way before?"
"I decided that what I wanted to bring joy to Lulu's life so I don't mind if it'll make him happy," Shirley said honestly before having a jokingly smile. "That's not I'm okay with anything, I'm only okay with this because it's you."
"What a minute!" Kallen became more flushed.
"I agree, if it's Kallen, I don't mind either," C.C said with a smirk. "So I guess that settles it. And like Kaguya said, grown-up men, have basic needs."
"What you both you just stop already!?" Kallen shouted, becoming flustered again.
U.F.N Conference in Kagoshima
Over the course of the next 10 days, everyone was preparing for the final battle in their own way.
Many flagships were gathering to Kagoshima. It was there that Zero and Kaguya were giving a speech to the U.F.N. People were discussing and talking among themselves about the situation of the war that will go on between Lelouch and Schneizel. As they were doing that, Xingke coughed a bit, covering his mouth and then saw a bit of blood. Xianglin saw what was happening to her leader and was worried again about Xingke's health.
The council members looked at each other and little discussions were going on.
Schneizel's Quarters in Damocles
Schneizel was looking over his flight plan of the aerial fortress and was quite pleased with himself at the moment. He was confident that things were going his way. It was a way that he felt would work the best in order to assure that his own peace to the world. He believed that the masses, in general, were incapable of actually working on trying to be peaceful and history had proven such in all generations, centuries, and in any era, they had always been ravishing with war and conflict. Schneizel sat on his couch and began his thoughts as the Damocles was approaching its final destination.
Horai Island
All the core members of the Black Knights were on the island where they were established their Nation and they all spread out to do their own duties in the preparation for what was to come next. All except Ohgi who was meeting privately with Villetta. As they talked, Villetta placed a hand over her stomach that showed signs of her being pregnant.
Pendragon, Holy Britannian Empire
The Avalon and Lelouch's jet had arrived and descended on the flagship landing deck. Lelouch came out of the flagship with his Knights who followed suit. C.C, Shirley and Kallen followed behind them from the jet. Kallen looked around and was amazed. She never thought that she would enter the capital of Britannia in the way she did.
Cecile, Lloyd and Nina begin reviewing the F.L.E.I.J.A. data and construct a new Lancelot, painted pink and named Lancelot Frontier, for C.C. Nina picked up one of the rolls that was beside her on a plate and took a bite and were surprised. Cecile told her that she made them which caused Lloyd to be pale, knowing Cecile's history of 'unique' food making.
Suzaku was surprised when he was told by a soldier that Gino had arrived and came to request a meeting with him. Suzaku went to one of the meeting rooms and they began a conversation. Gino came to request if he would be permitted to join them in this battle against Schneizel.
"Are you sure you want to join us?" Suzaku asked.
Gino nodded. "I am, I gave it some thought and decided, if what you guys are after is peace, then I want to help with that."
"Even after what happened before?" Suzaku asked.
"I was angry about how you guys took the throne but compared to what Prince Schneizel did to New York…" Gino trailed off. "I decided, to the end, I want to be a Knight of Britannia, and as a Knight, I can't just do nothing after so many innocent lives were thoughtlessly killed."
"I'm glad we can count on you then," Suzaku said before looking down. "But, about our fight."
"Don't worry about it," Gino assured him. "Maybe I needed a good kick to the head to knock some sense into me, we're still friends after all."
"And what about Anya?" Suzaku asked.
Gino looked upset. "I tried to convince her to come with me, but she chose to stay with Prince Schneizel."
Suzaku became downcast when he heard that. "I see."
Japan
After the 10 days, Lelouch's forces and Schneizel's forces were now facing off to begin this final battle. Lelouch had almost the entire military force of Britannia on his side and Schneizel had the remains of the military along with all the personnel forces of the Nobles and Royal who stood against Lelouch, that made the military might of both sides almost even.
The armies of both sides were spread out to different locations all over the world to fight on different battlefields. The main forces led by Lelouch and Schneizel were facing off in Japan in the area around Mt Fuji. In the centre of Lelouch's army was the Avalon while in the centre of Schneizel's army was the Damocles.
Standing atop the Shinkiro, Lelouch was giving his speech to his entire forces.
"This battle is the ultimate test!" Lelouch declared. "Not just Britannia but the entire world is at stake! If we defeat Schneizel and his entire forces, then there will be no one left to threaten us! This world will be ensured of a new bright future by all of us who are willing to embrace a new era. Crush them and destroy Schneizel and his sky fortress Damocles! We have nothing to fear! My name is the future of this world!"
Lelouch's forces chanted loudly and with passion. "ALL HAIL LELOUCH!"
Meanwhile, Schneizel was giving his own speech to his forces. "Lelouch intends to spread malice and turmoil not only in Britannia but all across the globe. Lelouch is the true enemy of peace therefore he must be a wipeout. It is time for us to stand together and remove open the mask of the false benevolent Emperor. The people of the world are ready and waiting for our song of victory. I pray for all time, this shall be the last battle in the last war that mankind will ever need to fight."
Garden Room of Damocles
Nunnally was hearing her brother Schneizel's speech and clutched the key to Damocles' F.L.E.I.J.A.'s warheads.
In The Cockpit Of The Sutherland Sieg
Jeremiah was in his Knight Giga Fortress and looked at the opposition that was against Lelouch. "Your Majesty." He muttered.
In The Cockpit Of The Mordred
Anya looked at the picture of the times in Ashford Academy and stared at Lelouch in the photo. "Lelouch, I'll make you into records of my hard drive."
Damocles Bridge
"Are you sure Anya will be all right in the battle?" Kanon asked. "I know you promised to restore her memories your highness but…"
"We need every bit of battle strength we have," Schneizel interrupted. "So…" Schneizel was interrupted by an incoming transmission. "Oh, an open channel."
The transmission was accepted and it showed Lelouch.
"Official greeting, Schneizel." Lelouch greeted.
Schneizel wasn't surprised. "Lelouch, if you plan to give up, now's the time."
"What a silly thing to say Schneizel," Lelouch replied as he then looked at Diethard, who had a smirk on his face and the 99th Britannian Emperor was not surprised.
"Lelouch, tell me, do you really think you can win?" Schneizel asked.
Lelouch was surprised. "What's this, are you actually asking me?"
"I have an arsenal of F.L.E.I.J.A. warheads and it's like I told you, I'm ready to use them against you. You will lose and all the efforts you have put for the past month will be for nought."
Lelouch chuckled. "Schneizel, for the very first time, you will lose."
Schneizel smirked at his half-brother's comment. "Hmph, you actually think so? I guess we'll see, won't we?"
The transmission ended and the staff in the bridge, as well as Kanon and Diethard, looked at Schneizel, who was smiling.
"Transmit pattern signet to our forces," Schneizel commanded.
Knightmares of Schneizel's forces began to make their move.
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
Aboard the Avalon, Lelouch was sitting on his throne in the bridge with Sayoko standing beside him while Cecile was standing in front of the monitor to report the situation on the battlefield.
"Enemy fleets are in motion and deploying into a wide field aerial formation," Cecile reported.
"He's using conventional forces. Good. Stretch our left-wing," Lelouch commented. "Assume Half-Moon Spear formation."
"Yes, Your Majesty," Cecile said.
Knightmares of Lelouch's forces begin to move to the formation Lelouch instructed.
Damocles Bridge
"Their main wings are undermanned," Kanon informed.
Schneizel nodded. "Have the second unit advance. Keep the enemy's left wing from extending."
The Knightmares in the second unit followed that command.
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
"Checking my move," Lelouch said in a low tone and then gave an order. "Reverse the direction of our left-wing."
Cecile looked back at the 99th Emperor. "That will break our formation."
"Do it." Lelouch insisted.
Lelouch's forces reverse the direction.
Damocles Bridge
"Major General, halt your advance now," Schneizel said.
The soldier in question was surprised and contacted him. "But why, sir? We should strike while they're in disarray."
"It's a false opening," Schneizel then chuckled. "I'm not buying it."
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
Lelouch narrowed his eyes. "Not falling for it, huh? Switch our battle plan to Ursa Major formation."
Lelouch's forces switch battle formation.
Damocles Bridge
"Sixth unit, follow Anya and move to the northeast," Schneizel instructed. "Elevate 40 degrees."
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
"Bombardiers, prep for anti-air combat," Lelouch commanded.
Damocles Bridge
"Anya, stop there and climb 200 meters and stabilize," Schneizel instructed.
Forces of Lelouch and Schneizel were constantly moving and it began to test the patience of those in Schneizel's forces.
On the surface, it looked as though no one was fighting. But a trained eye knew that contests fought between two masters are decided instantly.
Right now an invisible battle is now raging between the two of them. A battle of wits to determine who would strike first and neither could afford to make a mistake.
Avalon
Lloyd and Nina were continuing working on the measure to counter the F.L.E.I.J.A.
"We have to hurry," Nina said. "They're going to attack each other any moment now."
The monitor showed that Schneizel's forces were spending out and starting to surround Lelouch's left and right flanks.
"They're surrounding us!" Cecile reported urgently.
Lelouch gritted his teeth before giving another command. "Countermove! Reinforce the front line with the Dreadnought. Hold at combat speed 4! And send out Ward's unit."
Damocles' Bridge
"Aha, you haven't changed, Lelouch," Schneizel said when he saw an opening. "You'd rather attack my front line than defend your own flanks. I now have a small window."
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
"The enemy's left-wing is breaking away!" Cecile said.
"Intercept their advance, have Jeremiah's force move in," Lelouch commanded.
In The Cockpit Of The Sutherland Sieg
Jeremiah and his unit were advancing to counter the enemy.
"Stand fast!" Jeremiah told them loudly. "Live up to his majesty's trust in us!"
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
When both forces collided, the fighting had finally begun, Schneizel's forces had the initiative, but thanks to Jeremiah, Lelouch's forces were pushing them back.
"We're holding them at bay," Lelouch said calmly.
"Should we have more forces move in?"
Lelouch shook his head. "No. That's what Schneizel wants us to do. Draw in the battle line! Fall back and regroup."
Damocles' Bridge
"Their main fleet is falling back," Kanon reported.
"This is the moment." Schneizel decided. "Anya, fire at their left-wing!"
In The Air
Anya moved in with the Mordred and readied her Stark Hadron Cannons as the Knightmare units of Schneizel's forces moved out of the way as she was prepared to fire. The Knightmare frames and the flagships of Lelouch's forces began to attempt the scatter and activate the shields that their units had as the Mordred fired its Stark Hadron Cannons. Some of the Knightmares in Lelouch's forces didn't make it and were destroyed. Some barely made out of the firing range and had their shields activated. Some of the Knightmares that had their shields were but was not fully activated were still susceptible to being destroyed.
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
Lelouch looked at the monitor seeing the destruction that plagued his forces and he was balling his fists and gritting his teeth.
"I want a status report now!" Lelouch demanded.
"Half of the entire left wing was destroyed," Cecile reported.
"Send in the Gareth units to fortify our defences," Lelouch commanded.
In The Air
Upon Lelouch's command, his forces moved in to fill in the gaps left by their lost Knightmares. While they were doing that, Anya moved in to get ready to fire away once again.
"One more should do it," Anya said.
"I won't let you!"
With a yell, Jeremiah closed in and fired a blast at Anya with his Sutherland Sieg. Anya manoeuvred around his attack as the two engaged in battle.
Bridge Of The Damocles
"It seems that Lelouch overturned our advantage to recreate a statement," Diethard said.
"Aside from the Damocles, our greatest source of offence is the Mordred." Schneizel pointed out. "With the limited amount of pieces we have, it'll be hard for either of us to establish dominance."
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
"Lord Jeremiah is keeping the Mordred at bay," Cecile reported.
"Right. Thanks to Jeremiah, we were able to hold off their attack long enough to rebuild our left-wing." Lelouch narrowed his eyes. "But, I have no intention of staying on the defensive."
In The Air
The battle raged on for a long stretch of time, hours had gone by and the sky that was clear and bright when they had started was now covered in thick black smog that blocked out the sun and made the battlefield dark and gloomy. As the battle raged on, both sides have already lost have of their forces and the fighting never slowed down as the sky was filled with Knightmares from both sides firing their weapons at each other. Lelouch and Schneizel were still giving orders to take the lead in this battle, but they found that neither one could outsmart the other.
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
Lelouch still sat on his throne, looking calm but more aware, almost as though he was waiting for something. "What's the status?"
"We still haven't broken through their encirclement," Cecile reported.
"No, I mean the of the main object." Lelouch corrected.
Suddenly the door to the bridge opened and Shirley walked in to approach Lelouch as the others noticed her.
"You don't have to worry about it," Shirley told him. "It's all taken care of."
"Shirley," Lelouch said.
"Then, Miss Shirley, does that mean that…?" Sayoko asked.
Shirley nodded. "The others already contacted me, it'll just be a few minutes."
"Excellent," Lelouch said now pleased. "Now, it's time we take control."
Damocles Bridge
As Schneizel was watching the battle rage on through the monitor, one of the staff members gave him an urgent report.
"Prince Schneizel! Our rear flank is under attack!" He reported.
That shocked Schneizel, Kanon and Diethard.
"What? Did Lelouch have some of his forces circle around to attack us from behind?" Schneizel wondered.
"No sir, it seems a new fleet is closing in." The staff member informed him.
In The Air
A loud explosion roared as many of Schneizel's forces were destroyed, the one responsible was none other than the Guren S.E.I.T.E.N. Next to it was the Lancelot Frontier, a Knightmare that looked exactly like the Lancelot, except all the white parts were pink. Behind them was a large squadron of flying Akatsuki Knightmares and Britannian Knightmares.
"That took longer than I expected." C.C said inside the Lancelot Frontier.
"All that matters is we made it." Kallen said inside the Guren.
Damocles Bridge
"The Guren?" Kanon said with disbelief. "But why?"
"Status report, multiple fleets are closing in on us!" Another staff member announced urgently.
In The Air
More explosions appeared as more and more Knightmares arrived on the Battlefield. On one side, Todoh's Zangetsu sliced through an enemy Knightmare, while Chiba, Urabe and Tamaki's Knightmares were with him. With them was another squadron of flying Akatsuki Knightmares.
"All forces advance!" Todoh commanded.
""Yes Sir!"" Urabe and Chiba said together.
"Let's go!" Tamaki roared.
At another part of the sky, Xingke was tearing through enemies with the Shen Hu, alongside him was Gino in his new Knightmare, the Tristan Divider, a remade upgraded version of the Tristan. With more Akatsuki Knightmares.
"Heh, think you can keep up with me?" Gino joked with Xingke.
"Just be careful not to trip up," Xingke responded in the same manner.
Appearing in the sky near the Avalon were both the Lancelot Albion and the Agravaine Meliodas. Along with a squadron of Britannian Knightmares.
"Sorry to keep you waiting," Logan said inside his Knightmare.
"Now let's finish this," Suzaku said inside his Knightmare.
Approaching the battlefield from the distance while being close enough to see was the Black Knights' flagship, the Ikaruga. Flying around it was a horde of Black Knights' Knightmares and leading them was Orpheus' Gouka Byakuen along with Rolo's Vincent.
"We made it in time," Rolo said inside his Knightmare.
"Surround the enemy and go on the attack!" Orpheus said loudly inside his Knightmare.
Damocles Bridge
"It can't be!" Diethard stared in disbelief.
"The Black Knights?" Kanon uttered. "But why?"
They were interrupted when another incoming transmission appeared on the screen. When they accepted it, Kaguya aboard the Ikaruga appeared onscreen.
"Greetings, Schneizel el Britannia." Kaguya said on screen.
"Lady Kaguya, may I inquire as to what is the meaning of this?" Schneizel questioned her.
"And exactly do you mean?" Kaguya asked.
"I'm sure you know?" Schneizel replied. "Why have the Black Knights involved themselves in an internal conflict between Britannia who is not a member of the U.F.N."
Then Euphie appeared onscreen beside her. "Had this remained an internal conflict between two different factions of Britannia, we wouldn't have involved ourselves, but the situation has changed and now we have no choice but to stop you as well."
Next, Xingke appeared onscreen. "Schneizel, we know what your plan is. You intend to use the F.L.E.I.J.A.s to attack and destroy all enemy nations around the world, including every member nation of the U.F.N."
Schneizel, Kanon and Diethard all reacted as their eyes widened a bit when they heard Xingke's accusation.
"How did they know?" Diethard asked taken aback.
"Was it leaked?" Kanon wondered.
"But the question is by who?" Schneizel to himself before looking back at the screen. "Then, can I assume that Lelouch informed you of this?"
"That's right after Emperor Lelouch came to us with this new information, he requested that the aid of the U.F.N. to stop you," Euphie confirmed it.
"After coming to a unanimous decision, all representatives opted to send the Black Knights to support Emperor Lelouch," Kaguya said.
"I see it now." Schneizel connected the dots in his mind. "The formation of his forces, the reason why his most powerful Knights weren't here, he was setting the groundwork this whole time."
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
Lelouch smirked victoriously as he watched his forces and the Black Knights decimating Schneizel's forces one-sidedly.
"Are you surprised Schneizel, it's not just here, with this we've taken out all the enemy forces on all the battlefields throughout the world." He said to himself.
Flashback: One Month Ago — Ikaruga
After returning to the Ikaruga, Lelouch, Logan and the rest of them told everyone their plan to take over Britannia.
"So, you're plot is to launch a take over of Britannia from within and then restructure the Empire as a whole before joining the U.F.N." Xingke summarised.
"Yes, right now Britannia and the United Federation of Nations are the two dominant powers in the world that are locked in battle," Lelouch said. "If we take control of both, we can finally end this war."
"And now that the Emperor is gone, Britannia is now in a delicate situation, making this the perfect moment to act," Logan added.
"Hold on, if that's the case, wouldn't it just be better to bring the fight to them and beat them all?" Tamaki suggested.
"There are reasons as to why that wouldn't be the best option," Lelouch said. "Even if the Emperor is dead, they still have plenty of heirs eager to replace him, not to mention overwhelming military might and the remaining Knights of the Round, led by Bismarck."
"And at the centre of all that is Prince Schneizel," Suzaku pointed out. "Not only is he a bigger threat than the Emperor himself but he also has the F.L.E.I.J.A. at his disposal."
At the mention of that weapon, the room became silent as everyone was aware of how serious it was when taking that into account.
"The F.L.E.I.J.A. Is more than just a devastating weapon, it renders military power almost meaningless." Todoh said.
"That's why we formulated this operation," Lelouch said. "This way we can drastically reduce the military strength of our enemy while increasing our own. Not only that, if we control Britannia as a whole, we can end the conflict in the fastest way possible."
"Any royal or noble that tries to go against us would only be able to act independently and on their own, they won't be a real threat," Logan said. "All we need to do is systematically crush them until our reign can no longer be challenged."
"We'll even be able to defeat the remaining Knights of the Round at that rate," Rolo added. "Once Britannia has been reformed and resistance has been quelled, no one will be able to say a word if we choose to join the U.F.N."
"That sounds like it could work," Ohgi admitted.
"But the problem of Schneizel still remains." Euphie pointed out. "He won't just sit back and do nothing during all this."
"I know, and I already know how we're going to deal with him," Lelouch said. "I have no doubt that Schneizel will challenge me and use the F.L.E.I.J.A. as his greatest weapon, that's why we need a countermeasure."
"But does such a thing exist?" Urabe asked with doubt.
"Only in theory," Lelouch answered.
"What's that mean?" Tamaki asked.
Lelouch looked at Suzaku, planning to let him answer. "When Nina first designed the F.L.E.I.J.A. I asked her to also make a way to stop it to reduce the damage it could potentially cause. Prince Schneizel fired it anyway even though the countermeasure was never completed, but if we have Nina work on it along with Lloyd, they should be able to find a way to stop the F.L.E.I.J.A."
"But confidence can we be that that'll work?" Orpheus asked.
"I have full confidence if Nina is the person I know she is." Lelouch proclaimed.
"Lelouch, I agree this plan makes sense, but does it have to be you guys taking on Schneizel and the F.L.E.I.J.A.s on your own?" Kallen asked upset. "At least let me go with you."
"Kozuki," Todoh spoke out with a frown. "Think clearly, you know that isn't an option."
"He's right, the reason it can only be them is that their true identities are hidden behind masks." Xingke pointed out. "Zero, Soul and R.R are the only ones who can execute this operation without damaging the Black Knights."
"And Sir Kururugi's along with my own position is only known by the core members as well." Jeremiah joined in. "So it won't arouse any suspicious if I returned to the side of Britannia."
"But if any of us who are internationally acknowledged as part of the Black Knights and U.F.N. were to present ourselves alongside the ruler of Britannia which is still considered our enemy, it will have consequences," Euphie informed her. "They'd be seen as a turncoat and a traitor, that'll send negative signals both in and out of our organisation."
Kallen still looked upset as she looked down. "I know but… But what'll happen to the Black Knights when you're gone?" She looked up at them. "Are you forgetting your our leaders, we've only made it this far because of Zero and Soul, what'll happen when those two are gone?"
The others became silent, some of them could see she had a point but could still understand that this was the more practical option long-term. Lelouch was the one who stepped forward.
"Kallen, what does it mean to be Zero?" Lelouch questioned her. "What does it mean to be Soul?"
"Huh?" Kallen looked up at him.
"They are no longer just people but symbols. And symbols are what move peoples hearts." Lelouch declared. "Our masked personas represent justice and that justice is ending conflicts with the least amount of bloodshed and making sure that peace follows after, is that not what Zero and Soul would do?"
Lelouch's argument rung true and no one could disagree, but it wasn't over as Logan followed up.
"The Black Knights are now the Sword and Shield that fight for the world whenever there is a just cause." Logan proclaimed. "As long as the ideals we create and spread always remain, Zero and Soul will remain even if we as individuals aren't here."
Their words and eloquence were just a reminder as to why they all followed these two in the first place. It was the charisma they possessed that made their thoughts and ideals almost impossible to argue with. Not even Kallen could disagree, though she still wasn't happy.
"That said, we'll still need someone to act as the commander of the Black Knights to keep the organisation stable." Lelouch walked up to Orpheus and held out his mask to him. "Orpheus, as of now, you must act as Zero."
"You want me to be Zero?" Orpheus asked with eyes wide.
"You're the only one I can ask, it can't be anyone else." Lelouch looked at him seriously. "Will you do it?"
Orpheus looked away from Lelouch to the mask and stared at it before he gulped and took it to show he accepted. "I'll try."
Lelouch looked grateful. "Thank you."
Flashback End — Avalon
"Originally, the plan was to have our forces face Schneizel's forces," Lelouch said. "With our two 9th generation Knightmares, we would have easily overwhelmed Schneizel's army and moved on to the Avalon."
Cockpit Within The Agravaine
"But the F.L.E.I.J.A. being that much stronger forced us to change our plan. We needed much more time and bigger forces." Logan said.
Cockpit Within The Zangetsu
"That is why the Black Knights have joined this battle," Todoh said. "While they were fighting Schneizel with the minimal required forces, we spread around the world to reinforce all others battlefields with conflicts taking place."
Cockpit Within The Shen Hu
"Our new strategy was to take out all the forces comprised of the remaining Britannian military siding with Schneizel and all the personnel forces of the former royal whose titles were stripped by Lelouch," Xingke said. "Once we defeated all of them, the only forces Schneizel would have left would be the ones he brought with him to Japan."
Ikaruga Bridge
"If we all gathered here from the beginning, Schneizel would have just unleashed the F.L.E.I.J.A. right away, and since the countermeasure wasn't ready yet we would have been decimated," Euphie said. "But he wouldn't fire it if it wasn't necessary and if it meant he'd destroy as much of his own forces."
"So we used this strategy to keep the battle going longer to buy time and to destroy the remains of Schneizel's army," Kaguya said.
Cockpit Within The Lancelot Frontier
"This has drastically depleted the enemy strength," C.C said. "Now with all of us here, we just need to finish off the remaining enemies. Which will leave Damocles…"
Cockpit Within The Lancelot Albion
"…Wide open!" Suzaku finished as he sliced through an enemy Knightmare and charged toward the Damocles.
Damocles Bridge
"Prince Schneizel, our entire right-wing has been wiped out!" A staff officer reported.
"Our defences are being torn apart!" Another staff officer reported.
"We're being surrounded from all sides!" A third staff officer reported.
Schneizel remained calm. "This was a trap he was preparing from the start, now Lelouch is calling Check."
"I don't believe it, they wiped out all the forces we had around the world," Kanon said surprised.
"There weren't any noteworthy commanders leading them but still," Diethard said dismayed. "It's barely been half a day, could the difference in their strength be that great?"
"There's no reason to be concerned," Schneizel stated, still calm. "In reality, it's then who's been checked and they brought it on themselves." He then spoke to the communicator that directed to the Garden Room. "Nunnally, targeting is complete."
Garden Room Of Damocles
In a higher part of the Damocles, there was a wide-open room that was filled with flowers and greenery, it was a largely built garden and in the centre of that room atop a staircase case was Nunnally. She was clutching to the key of the Damocles' F.L.E.J.I.A. while Schneizel's voice spoke over the intercom.
"Now that our main forces have been smashed, we must use the F.L.E.I.J.A.'s power." Schneizel informed her.
Nunnally was shaking but nodded with agreement. "Yes." Nunnally pushed the button. "With this act, I will wipe away my brother's sins."
Once the button was pushed, a F.L.E.J.I.A warhead was launched from the Damocles.
Bridge of the Avalon
Cecile looks at the monitor, seeing the signature of the warhead. "Incoming! It's a F.L.E.I.J.A.!"
"So it's finally launched," Lelouch said before turning on his intercom. "Special division 3!"
In The Air
"Yes, Your Majesty!" A soldier responded.
A squadron of Vincent Knightmares was sent in an attempt to stop the F.L.E.J.I.A. They get to the warhead and stick lances on the launching warhead.
Damocles Bridge
Schneizel saw what was happening and thought it was laughable. "It's useless. It can't be stopped. The F.L.E.I.J.A. went critical the moment it was fired from the Damocles."
In The Air
The F.L.E.J.I.A. exploded taking all of the Vincents with it and causing a huge sphere-like explosion.
Bridge Aboard The Avalon
Lelouch had his hand on his chin. "Even though we have the advantage in and manpower, considering the number of remaining F.L.E.I.J.A. warheads, I'm at a disadvantage of one move." Lelouch then had his thoughts. "Meaning I have to depend on Nina now. Can she do it? I know that I have faith in her ability as a scientist but there was never any guarantee that this would work. Yet, to defeat Schneizel… I accept any risk."
Damocles Bridge
Schneizel was still very confident and could not imagine even for a tiny bit that he would lose. Kanon and Diethard were confident in Schneizel and saw that he had a plan.
"I wonder," Schneizel spoke. "Do you really think you can defeat me, Lelouch? Because if you do, you're at the end of your path." Schneizel narrowed his eyes and had a sinister grin. "A man who has not mastered the use of the mask can never prevail."
To Be Continued
And that's the chapter.
I thought I'd have more to say once I reached this point. I sent the first half of this chapter focusing on dialogue and world-building because I wanted to take care of any remaining loose ends and the second half was on the battle itself, as you can see I changed the course of the fight because the circumstances are much different from what they were in the canon.
I also showed the flashback to explain why Orpheus is now Zero and what it was they discussed and were planning this whole time, I always planned on having that happen here because it seemed like a good time.
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.