While the knights duty is to serve the lord, it is the lord`s duty to inspire confidence and build trust in the heart of his knight. The knight has left all his comforts and happiness of his home just to protect his master and uphold the name of his manor. Therefore, the lord must keep his knight as he would keep his kin.

Laws of the Nobility, year 546 a.t.b.

Chapter 3:- The Lords of the Knights

The day after the Zero Requiem

All the heads of the former nobility, which numbered around 50, were gathered in Pendragon. More specifically, the palace of the former grand duke of Pendragon which was ironically around a 100 miles from the said city. They were all kidnapped in their sleep and brought over to the said palace. The elite 50 included former area viceroys, heads in the army and others. When they woke up, they were all told to wear their old aristocratic costumes and made to proceed to the banquet hall. They all had their reservations but chose not to voice them. As they entered into the grand hall, the maid servants and butlers told them to 'entertain' themselves until the master arrived.

"Who do you think could have done all this?"

"I do not know, my dear fellow. Why not go ask one of the butlers"

"And get murdered? They may all look tame, but their build suggest they are trained. Hell, I might say they are better than many former knights!" spat one of the generals.

As the current thread of conversations kept becoming louder and more heated, the sound of screams and a gunshot brought it all down to hushed, fear filled whispers and an eventual stop. As the congregation turned to the direction of the source, they were met with the former baron of Berlin in a pool of his blood and a butler standing next to his fallen corpse holding a 9mm glock 17 in his hand.

"Pardon us for the interruption, my lords. I am head butler Ashely Leblanc. It was as per the master`s instruction that you all would WAIT till he arrives. This includes necessary actions to restrain anyone. So please, abide by this and no one else will be hurt."

The voice betrayed the smile on the head butlers face. This was followed by the sealing of the doors and windows by the maids, clearing of the corpse and the presentation of alcohol to those assembled. The sudden change in atmosphere in less than 3 minutes, sent a chill down the spines of the 'powerful'. They were in no doubt now that the consequences of 'ill behavior' would be lethal and more torturous as the one they whispered. All they could do was take the drinks offered to them and huddle in groups awaiting their fate.

It was in this gloomy atmosphere that the doors once again reopened and the sound of crisp, staccato rhythm of footsteps filled the air. The Lords were now literally at the edge of their seats and not in a good way. "Excuse us, my dear lord`s for the delay. I trust you had a good time?" came a deep, cultured voice from the inside halls.

The voice was unmistakable to those assembled. His name was legend and feared among those gathered there due to his outstanding service to Emperor Charles, only for it to be tarnished and sullied by the Knight of Zero. And out of the great door way came Sir Bismarck Waldstein along with the remnants of the knights of the round flanked beside him. The uniform they wore was the same pristine white suit with a black laced with gild shirt under it. The capes they wore now, however was totally the colour they preferred with no patterns in it, thus completing the dramatic appearance of the group. They had that same air of dominance and confidence around them before the 'Great Knight' had vanquished them. If one didn`t know better, you could say they looked stronger, more fierce yet more in control.

"What`s the meaning of this, Bismarck. How did you survive the onslaught of the grim reaper?"

"Yeah we saw you beaten to pulp. Much like the rest of the rounds. Disgraceful, I say"

"Maybe they needed a little soul searching and time to lick their bruised egos. They are our elite soldiers. Or perhaps they are like headless chicken before a number."

At that, the general was tackled unto the ground, hands caught in a vice like hold while allowing subtle pain to run through his body and held at gunpoint by Nonnette. "You should learn when to hold your tongue, General." came the icy reply

"Now... now Nonnette, we do not want to frighten our guest, do we? Bismarck leered as he walked up to the helpless man. He knelt down and lifted his chin up so that he was directly facing him. Nonnette, meanwhile pushed her elbows deeper into his spine.

"Besides it would seem that certain people should learn to respect their superiors irrespective of the circumstances."

"What do you want from us?" croaked the general in his anguish. Nonnette had a sadistic smile plastered on her face. Bismarck however remained impassive.

"Now we are talking." He said as he released the said man`s chin and strode over to the large long table which were furnished with ornate chairs. He sat in the one made to resemble a lion i.e. at the head of the table, told Nonnette to release her captive and gestured the nobility to sit down.

"I will start with a simple question, how many here want to be back in power?"

This was met with laughter in the room "You got to be joking. Is this why you called us here? We can never get our titles back after what the demon did. Despite all his handiwork, people still are pleased with what he did to us".

"Besides the angel who will replace him will be in our way and as we know, she opposes the true system and favours the uncouth democratic system. After all like brother like sister."

Than Fredric Laurus, the Former Grand duke of Pendragon spoke "Don`t forget Bismarck, Schnitzel and Cornelia will supports Nunnally vi Britannia as the new empress. And if that was not enough, even Zero supports her openly"

"Who said we are working with them?" he asked simply.

"What are you trying to imply, Bismarck?" he asked cautiously.

Then, Bismarck stood up "As we know, the demon brought down our beloved empire, shredding through it`s core and left it to whither into nothingness. Thus, the pride of being the strongest and fittest people amongst the nations has vanished. Also, the system which rewards the most successful, that is, the nobility had been abolished and replaced by the equality principle. With this power was centralized and exercised at will. Due to this, we were and are well and truly, dogs to the numbers."

"Cut the chase, we are not here for poems. Tell us why you have us gathered here."

"Do we need to explain that to?" asked an irritated Dorathea.

"Calm down now everyone. As I was saying, our situation as that of the people were deplorable. But since the death of the demon, we just might be able to seize power again." He said while looking out of the window.

"It`s obvious what we must do for that. Since Britannia is unstable, we can have an attack and take over power." Said the head of the Land forces. "I second that. Besides, it would be more entertaining and will satisfy my blood lust." This was where Luciano voiced his opinion. Surprisingly everyone in the room was for it. Except for the grand duke and the other knights of the rounds.

"That is not your plan, is it?" asked the duke now sporting a small smile.

It was returned by Bismarck "You have read my mind, duke. No, but I intend to take over eventually. As you have rightly pointed out, the empire has a large power vaccum generated. Even though the empress has the backing of the main people, those under her will still be loyal to Charles`s ideals and the fear of the invincible demon has disappeared. Thus, we need to use this power gap, which they will cover up, to our advantage." He then turned towards them and continued. "This is where all my lords come in. Even though you all have been stripped from your titles, there are still those loyal to you. I intend that you put a front of supporting the new regime…"

"while behind it`s back, we prepare to damn it all the way to hell." Said one of the area generals.

"Exactly my point. Money won`t be an issue, I have some people who will take care of that…. Also, we need you to use the loyalty of the people who support you and mobilize them in similar fashion as that of the Black knights, albeit in a subtle way so as to not raise any suspicion among the numbers. The people are currently 'unified'. All we need to do is feed them with some 'truths'. This way, the people will see that peace is a mirage and will start finding faults in the system to come. Thus, we use their unity to put themselves on the edge. All we do later is give the masses a push and win them over to our side."

"What about Zero? He is sure to get wind of the news. As we know, his intelligence network runs extensively in the former areas." Spoke the Chief of the knight academy.

"Who said anything of going to area 11 or any other for that matter?" answered Dorathea. "We will base our operations here in this mansion. The work done in the areas will be a façade for what we intend to do. As we know, he doesn`t have any agents here in Britannia."

And so the discussion went back and forth, various topics were discussed related to logistics, manpower, technology espionage and future course of action.

"This is all well and good now my lords. Now is the time for voting who will be our leader." Said Bismarck.

"Wouldn`t you want to take that role?" asked a certain Arch duke.

"I am afraid I can`t my lord. Now that Emperor Charles is dead, we the knights of the round swear to obey whomever you choose to be the leader. Also, a knight needs to obey his lord."

After much debate among the ecstatic crowd, it was decided that Arch Duke Fredric Laurus would lead the "The League."

As it was decided, Bismarck got of his chair and allowed Fredric to take over as the 'Emperor'. The rounds bowed down before him and took the oath of obedience and service before him. Then all the respective members departed, leaving Fredric ask the retreating knights.

"How did you all survive?"

Monica turned and her left eye to started glowing red "How we survived, you will know in due time. For now, just do as the council has suggested, your highness."

Luciano answered him with his left eye going red "We have business to take care, so please excuse us."

Same day, back in the imperial palace, Tokyo.

The day was done and Lelouch was given and granted his final greatest wish, a chance to rebuild a peaceful world. The people were celebrating outside with grand fireworks displays, parties on the street and the destruction of everything that reminded them of the demon emperor. Unfortunately, that included everything he cherished. Even Ashford Academy was torn down, brick by brick, so that it could be built 'anew' as the people put it. All in all, they had won back their freedom and it was all thanks to the miracle man Zero.

As the people celebrated, the leaders of various rebel groups forged an alliance to set up a democratic system within the countries. Political analysis was done by all those around the world as to what the people wanted and who should lead them on. In Japan, a people`s parliament was being set up with the 6 houses forming the interim government along with the black knights lead by Ohgi. This coupled with Kaguya`s excellent oratory skills, calmed down the people and gave a sense of control.

But to the little sister who lost everything, the world had just turned into a cruel place. She just couldn`t believe her brother had done this all on a silly little promise she had forced him into. He had said in just that it would hurt to eat all those needles. Unfortunately little did she know, the countless needles had forged themselves into a sharp, bejeweled longsword that pierced his compassionate heart and that to, by his own free will. He had given her his blessing to live on the best she could …and in happiness. That was his primary concern and his dearest wish despite all his troubles. It was with regard to this and her desire to honour his wish, she had decided to face with her guardian…

…She asked for an audience with Zero, despite her fragile emotional condition.

"You summoned me, Empress?" said the robotic voice from the doorway. She visibly flinched at that. Being given the throne at a time of grieving isn`t the best of things. That of a broken nation was even worse. She wasn`t ready to face him so early, yet she summoned what little strength she had and spoke in a neutral voice.

"Zero, you said that you would support me in my endeavours to make the world a better place?"

"Of course, empress. You may be…" And he was about to start the speech that he was supposed to say (and prepared for despite his condition to) when he was interrupted

"Take of your mask." Was the simple command.

"… I am afraid I cannot do that." Came a slightly nervous reply.

"Afraid? AFRAID? Is this really Zero, who has supposed to save the world from the demon or a cheap imposter? You, who does not have the strength to face yourself, should not be leading the world towards the future we envisioned."

Suzaku stepped back at this short attack on him. Sure he expected hostility, but this was something else. For beneath all that, there was a longing to be comforted by someone as well as rage promising the purest tortures of hell.

"At least remove the mask, Suzaku" came her strained voice

"How did you …?"

"As I held Oni-sama`s hand, I don`t know how…but I saw his memories….each and every one of them…hence, I know."

Seeing that he was still hesitant, she came forward and tried to get of the wheelchair so as to kneel before him in humble submission, begging him to fulfill her request. She needed someone to hold onto. She wasn`t used to do things on her own. She desperately needed answers. Suzaku noticed this and quickly sprinted to her side.

"Nunnally… please. Don`t do this. It is already hard for me. Don`t make it any worse. Lelouch would kill me."

"But he is already dead." Came a monotone reply.

He looked into those beautiful eyes, 2 shades lighter than Lelouch`s, starting to become dark with despair. He needed to act fast, else she would be break from the inside even more. So he did what only he would do.

He removed his mask…

As the mask was removed, Nunnally saw his face for the first time. Curly brown hair, emerald expressive eyes and a handsome face, with soft features. All this however was dulled by the fact that he and her brother always moved as an inseparable pair. On hearing one of their voices, she knew the other was nearby. Despite their closeness….all her thoughts were in a disarray. Hence, the anger, sorrow and anguish she felt came out by a simple question.

"Why?"

"It was all-"

"I know that part Suzaku, but WHY did you agree to kill him?"

This was where he held her tight and broke down. All the emotions he held until now everything came out along with the grieving sister. He wanted to tell her so much. About how Lelouch suffered thinking about her every day in the palace, how each deed he did nearly drove to insanity, how he had cleared Euphemia`s name, the plan he made for the world to reach its golden age and how much they both loved her. About…how he forgave him. For now however, they were both comforted and consoled in each other's company. They remained huddled like this on the floor, only to be warmed by the rays of the rising sun. This morning would be the first of the new world. The Emperor had left his empire and would watch over his people, having given them a chance to change their lives. It was now up to the people to lead their lives in peace. It was here that the two not blood siblings promised to fulfill the wish of the Emperor.

As they walked out of the chambers, anyone who saw the girl said that saw had the determination and spirit of a warrior queen of old ready to take any challenge. She would no longer cry, but cherish her memories and move on. Backed by Zero, they would be unstoppable together….

…..or are they?

Present day, Tokyo.

It was customary that Nunnally would visit all the former areas once during the year to monitor the progress of recovery as well as the administrative health of these nations. This measure made her known as the gentle reformer and thus, won the trust of the masses back to the Britannian family. This however, kept her wheels purring all the yearlong and was wearing on her health. It was in these times that Zero, who saw the little girl struggling to keep a steady conversation after 12 meetings a day, would interrupt her engagements and take her to her chambers to rest. Today was one such day. She had landed in Tokyo and was greeted by Prime Minister Kaname Ohgi and his cabinet. This was followed by the usual procedure of talks along with the memorial zone of Nippon. Since, Euphemia`s name was cleared, the zone was to be redone as that to benefit the economically backward people in her honour. As soon as the particulars of the meeting were done, Nunnally had to meet with Chairperson Kaguya. This was done on a schedule of 6 months so as to keep track of the former empires working and affairs. Later, Britannia would be allowed to join the UFN.

It may be exhausting for her, but it was worth it. If anything she loved next to that of her family, it was helping others.

"You should have held the meeting later, Nunnally." Came the familiar 'human' voice that spoke to her. She turned about to see Suzaku take of his mask.

"I would have, but the parties necessary asked me to advance the meeting. As you know, we need a representative from our side to help in the zones administration. I have several names under consideration…"

Looking at the young girl, Suzaku felt pride for being part of her life and showed the impeccable upbringing of his dear friend. She was growing well, both in beauty and maturity. She held command of her country well despite her age. She truly was Lelouch`s sister in all respects. Except…in hand gestures while he spoke.

At that he couldn`t help but smile fondly at his childhood memories…

"Um….Suzaku?"

"What is it Nunnally?"

"I asked your opinion on something and you were spacing out. Are you feeling well?"

He mentally smacked himself for letting his concentration waver. "Sorry about that. What were you asking about?"

She just frowned at the reply. "No, you are exhausted and tired. Take some rest. I will tell Sayako to bring for you a proper meal. Honestly, you had such a wonderful appetite, what happened to it?"

"Hey, I eat a little less and I am okay, I don`t-"

Then his stomach rumbled. Suzaku scowled at himself, while Nunnally giggled.

"Guess your appetite is intact. Please Suzaku, I insist. It is for your good only."

It never ceased to amaze him how she could be compassionate to him in spite of everything that occurred over the last 4 years. Just how much was her capacity to care?

"… very well then. I shall do as you say."

He then had a mischievous smile on his face and moved towards her. Nunnally was ready for it.

"But only if…"

Before he completed the sentence, he swooped down and picked Nunnally from the wheelchair. Despite all these years, the gesture never stopped to cease her from giggling like a toddler. He would spin her in slow circles, all the while listening to her laughter and then place her in bed.

"Do you need me to tell Sayoko to get you something?"

"No, I had my dinner during the meeting. Don`t worry about me."

"Okay then, I will take my leave. If you need anything, just press the button."

"You are such a worrywart" she giggled.

He just smiled tenderly at that. Besides, he was her brother now in all but blood. Who could not want to protect and worry over her? He brushed the strands of her hair and planted a kiss on her forehead

"Good night, my princess."

He left the empress`s company, putting on his mask and made his way to his section of the chamber. It was there that he saw Sayako waiting with a tray of piping hot food placed on his study table.

"Good evening, Zero sama, I assume the day went well?"

"Well…. Not actually, I was stuck with the strategic details of security arrangements of the zone and logistics."

She executed on low bow and said "Then I shall take your leave. Enjoy the meal, Zero sama. Please look at the papers on your study. It contains the names of the representatives of the zone from the Britannian side. The empress wanted your view on the matter."

"Very well. I shall meet her along with Cornelia on this matter tomorrow. Thank you."

As the made left he flopped down on the sofa. How he missed being free to all the people he knew and valued. Alas, they were all dead. This was also a reason he hated leaving work.

He still couldn`t face himself in solitude….

It was like an overbearing burden on his soul as his conscience ( which he thought was dead) kept on telling him to face his actions and mistakes and not run away from them. It would continuously pester him. He would imagine all the people he killed accusing him for all the wrongs. It was in these despairing times that he truly cherished the time he spent with Nunnally alone. It was his only thread to keep his sanity. His only way to escape to happier times (except, it wasn`t so). The 'punishment' too was a way to keep going on.

He went wash clean his mind and body from their troubles by having a hot shower. Lately, he has been in a depressing mood, but he couldn`t allow that to come in the way of his work. He finished his shower and sat down to partake of his meal while he read through the list. It contained the profile of all the candidates.

One of the candidates was Fredric Laurus.

The next day, the Council of the People was held. It consisted of 10 members of the parliament, The Empress, Zero as the UFN representative, Schnitzel and Cornelia both who acted as guides. It was the highest decision making body along with the parliament and convened only on serious issues. Today`s issue of selecting a candidate for the zone was actually a non-issue….

….except, it wasn`t.

After 3 hours of brain storming they came down to 3 names

Fredric Laurus: - chief of internal affairs and bureaucracy

Karl Velstatis: - former royalty and sub commander of the Armed forces.( not the paladins.)

Hugo Cullum: - Director of the society of Sciences.

"Please tell us, adviser as to why we should vote for Fredric?" voiced the Prime minister.

"With all due respect, everyone knows what he did to Pendragon when he was Archduke. There is a reason he is 'the viper'." Spoke one of the representatives.

"Gentlemen, please calm down. While we cannot overlook that fact, we cannot ignore that he has an excellent track record now and is the most efficient chief who doesn`t come directly under our purview. " reasoned Schnitzel.

"Also, he is popular among the masses for the measures he has taken in his position to aid the empress`s goal." Added Cornelia.

"Still, I don`t like the feeling of him being in this. He just reeks something fishy."

"What do you say Zero?" the empress asked the masked knight.

"I see that everyone is wary if this man. But it would foolhardy not to consider him for the post for his achievements speak much louder than his past rumours. Therefore, I suggest we send 2 representatives to the zone?"

"Why two?" Asked Cornelia with her eyebrows raised.

"That way, we can keep an eye on him at all times. The second person may not be from this list but someone we can trust. Isn`t that right, Zero."

"It is, Empress. But the question is, who do we send?"

"Why not Schnitzel?" Cornelia suggested. "He is has a good reputation among us and will be better at keeping an eye out for trouble. Plus, he is trustworthy." Though she didn`t mention the basis of this 'trust'

"Also, he will be answerable to us." Supplied the prime minister.

"Although that would be a wonderful idea, it would send a wrong message to our allies. His reputation is still shaky there. " Zero asked in a cautious tone.

"I see your point, Zero." Cornelia conceded "Also, we would lose our greatest asset. The economic condition is still unsteady."

"How about the other candidates from the shortlist?" Schnitzel suggested. He brought out his tab and projected 10 profiles on the screen.

"Here we see are some candidates whom you all had removed. However, some of them are still worth the consideration along with the current two. Loyalty to her highness and my lord, Zero would be the main criteria for this. Also, he should have good relations with Fredric and have a mass appeal. "

"….you know, mass appeal is the least of our concerns, Brother."

"Sorry if that came out in the wrong manner. I was saying that the reputation of our second candidate must be spotless. This way, any negative vibes Fredric may create on arrival there is overshadowed by the confidence that the second person commands."

"I agree with the chief advisor your highness. It would be the most logical solution. May I even suggest sending one of the Paladins?" The prime minister chimed.

"No, nothing more gives the image of trying to take over than sending one of our elites." Cornelia then strode over to the screen and gestured towards 4 names on the screen.

"May I suggest these four, Nunnally? I can vouch for any of them as I have worked with them. They are extremely loyal to our cause."

Schnitzel brought down the list to 2 names citing he had 'trouble' with them, the council members too were wary of them. Hence the candidates were the following

Hugo Cullum: - director of the society of sciences.

Regan Jackson: - Director of the employment exchange and member of the court of worker`s rights

After still further deliberations, it was decided that Hugo Cullum would be going along with Fredric Laurus to represent Britannia. Hugo`s knowledge on science and worldwide fame for his unbiased views and works nudged him ahead of his counterpart.

"It is settled then. I shall pass the decree at around 6.00pm. Lunch has been prepared for you all. Thank you all for your hard work. It was nice meeting you all."

As she was retiring to her chamber, Nunnally couldn`t help but feel a bit apprehensive. Seeing this, Suzaku directed her towards the gardens. It was built during the refurbishment of the palace under Lelouch`s and Sayako`s guidance. It questioned the need for the elaborate garden then. Now, it was a private retreat for the two of them and among the only place other than his room where he could remove that mask. The gardens never ceased to calmed the young girl`s nerves.

"Suzaku?"

"Do you think Oni-sama would be happy at how things are going?"

He knelt in front of Nunnally and took her hands in his. 'Just like before'

"I am pretty sure, wherever he is, he is preening like a peacock and boasting to everyone what his little sister is doing."

She smacked his head lightly and he gave a mock hurt expression, earning a giggle from both.

"You speak to highly of me. I wonder if Oni-sama tells you to say such things in your dreams to me."

"Maybe he does. Not that we can help it."

"Suzaku!"

"Okay, I give up"

Then as they sat under a tree in silence there, Nunnally fell asleep with her head on Suzaku`s lap. Tears welling at the thought of good old days, he gently tapped her head and spoke to no one in particular.

"I know he would be so proud of you. It`s my only prayer that our common dream and his sacrifice is not in vain."

A particularly hard gust of wind hit his face

"Okay…Okay! I won`t be so melancholic anymore."

A gentle breeze blew forth playing with his longish hair and brushing Nunnally`s hair of her face.

'that`s better.'

At the league`s headquarters.

Fredric was in the ballroom celebrating his 'appointment' by the empress along with his subordinates. The atmosphere was one of joy and hope. At last, they could now put their plan in motion. As the merriment was going on, Bismarck entered and bowed before Fredric.

"I congratulate you, your majesty for the fulfillment of the phase 1 of our plan."

"Rise my knight, you give me too much credit for a paltry task. The Empress is a little naïve girl who believes in all. It doesn`t take much to fool her. Also, zero doesn`t seem to fit his legendary description. He seems a bit off…"

"I don`t see how that is a problem." Said Hugo as he joined the conversation.

"You are right, Hugo. Maybe we are overthinking these matters."

"If Zero is as oblivious as he is, we may be able to advance our schedule."

"I don`t see you complaining about that now, Hugo. How has the mobilization of the people going?"

"All things are going as they must. Almost the entire former knightmare pilots are in with us. It is the citizens who are difficult to recruit. They need concrete reason as to why they must bring down the current regime."

"If your majesties excuse my interruption but may I ask about the frames that are being developed?"

"There is nothing to worry Bismarck." Hugo said turning toward him. "Our scientist and engineers have gathered the necessary parts and have made….quite a robust army."

"Don`t worry, my knight. Even the custom frames for the Rounds are nearing completion."

"Of course. My apologies, your highness." As he said this, he took a cup of fine red wine from a butler nearby.

"Let us now raise a toast for the fruitful completion to seize our destiny. All hail Britannia!"

"Ever the dramatist. All Hail Britannia!"

"All hail Britannia"

"All hail Britannia"

As the chants filled the ecstatic crowd, Bismarck moved away with a knowing smile on his face.

As the arrow of time marches forward, it gets caught in the new written destiny to come. As a slumbering force awakens, the fools that it, will regret their actions. All the world can do is enjoy the illusion of peace for now…

Hey there everyone. Sorry for the late update. It was just that I was having too many ideas to put down. Hope you like the story so far. I will try to update 2 chapters per month.

Hope you enjoy it!

Also….constructive criticism and reviews are welcome.