Fate's Debt

by fujin of shadows

'I may not regret anything but if fate gave me another chance to redo my revolution, I promised every deity up there in heaven and down in hell, I will do my revolution right this time.' Fate could be cruel, but it doesn't like holding debts. LelouchXKallenXCC

6. Chapter 6

FATE'S DEBT

CHAPTER SIX: POSSIBILITY OF ELIMINATION

Disclaimer: I don't own Code Geass but I own this fiction and any other OC's in this story

ITALIC: THOUGHS

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Lelouch was enjoying the few moments of peace that fate allowed him to have. Lying on his lap was C.C., whom was eating a slice of pizza casually. They were on the roof; both of them were wearing their Ashford Academy uniform, and they were currently watching the sunset, both of the having passive expressions on their respective faces.

Behind them, hidden behind the only entrance and exit of the roof was the student council, with the exception of Nina. They were watching the two with interest.

"Ah, how romantic." Milly whispered excitedly, trying her best not to squeal like a schoolgirl while a cat like grin adorned her face.

"Wow, that girl sure has Lelouch wrapped around her finger." Rivalz commented, jealous at the fact that his best friend could attract such beautiful and exotic woman.

Shirley, on the other hand, was glaring daggers at that new girl. That should have been her, she thought idly. Kallen was in the same boat as Shirley only hers was a bit more controlled, she didn't know why but that sight before her made her stomach curled.

Although, if they heard their conversation; their views on the two would radically change.

"Tomorrow is the debut of the knights of justice, right?" C.C. asked while nibbling on a slice of pizza.

"Yes but I need to change the plot heavily." Lelouch told her as he caressed her hair gently. "Nina created that monstrous weapon and that incident was the catalyst of it. I need her and my sister as far away as possible from each other, for my sake and for the world's." Lelouch commented, contemplating on the plan that he had conjured during his Calculus class. It was risky but it would work to his advantage in the long run.

"You're planning something incredibly stupid again, aren't you?" It was more of a statement than a question.

"Yes Cera, I am." Lelouch admitted with a small smile. "You'll spearhead the operation as Zero while I'll be the Magician, casting my spells from within."

C.C. chuckled lightheartedly, she still can't believe her, and to an extent, his alias. Magician is the name of their group's informant, benefactor, and head general and adviser of Zero, as well as the man that would set traps if necessary. The two of them actually debated on her alias, she wanted her alias to be Witch because she was use to him calling her by that name but Lelouch countered that she will sometimes be Zero and thus they need a name that would not hurt his pride.

So, they settle with Magician, a neutral alias.

"Fine but don't die." C.C. said, her voice filled with amusement and worry. "Your theatrical show is still too short for you to perish." C.C. then sat up, one of her hand on Lelouch's chest, her lips inches away from his.

"I had a sword driven to my heart once and I did not regret it. Having a bullet pierce through my skull just for that weapon to cease to exist is very much worth it." Lelouch said as he felt C.C. hot breath on his lips. "F.L.E.I.J.A must not exist, not after the destruction it caused in my last life time." Lelouch added as C.C. used her free hand to cup his chin.

"Some weapons must never grace the world, for the safety of our forsaken humanity." C.C. whispered as she leaned towards him for a kiss, but sadly a yell ruin their moment.

"LULU," Shirley yelled as she kicked the door down with strength that she did not know she posses. She was unable to stomach the green haired girl stealing another kiss from the one she admired so much. "DON'T ACT SO INDECENT IN SCHOOL GROUNDS." Shirley scolded loudly as Lelouch look a bit petrified at the sight of her and the rest of the student council while C.C. merely spared the girl a drawl look.

"Your disturbing one of my most enjoyed benefits with him, please leave." C.C. told her with a drawl tone as Shirley glared at her, which wasn't that impressive in C.C.'s book.

"Miss Constantine, I know your new here and what not, but please, learn how to act decent in school." Shirley lectured her, trying to maintain her cool.

"I am acting decent." C.C. retorted before giving Lelouch a chaste kiss on the lips, much to Shirley's aggravation. "Giving a friend a kiss is the decent thing to do." C.C. said with a smile that certainly annoys Shirley to no end.

"That is not the proper way to show your appreciation to a friend and it might give people the wrong idea." Shirley stated indignantly. There was a bit of truth in her words. Since C.C. started attending Ashford, a rumor about her and Lelouch dating instantly spread throughout the school, earning her the envy and jealousy of the majority of the female students of Ashford. Sure, Lelouch tried to dispel those rumors but it was to no avail as the two acted more like a couple than friends, due to C.C.'s constant flirting with him, and because Lelouch seems to flirt back or just allowed her to do what she wants with him, it was more of the latter than the former.

"I don't care what other people things." And to prove her point, C.C. pressed her body on Lelouch's, her breast pressing on his chest. Lelouch had the decency to blush like a tomato. "But don't worry; you can marry him, I don't mind, just as long as you share him though." C.C. told her as she gave a lick behind his earlobe in a sexual manner, actually making Lelouch shiver delight.

Shirley blush furiously at the sight of a shuddering Lelouch, the one downside of the sight before her was that she was not the one making him shudder. "Let. Go. Of. Him." Shirley demanded with gritted teeth.

C.C. smiled at her as she conceded to her request but not before licking Lelouch's lips before standing up and looking at her right on the eye. She chuckled at her enrage expression before leaning to her ear. "Don't worry little girl, I share." C.C. whispered as she walked past the blushing Shirley. Lelouch on the other hand was watching her sway her hips as she walks away.

"Lelouch," Rivalz called as he buried his elbow on Lelouch's shoulder. "Why do you always get the hottest girls?"

C.C. let out a small chuckle as she entered the building and stared at Kallen with a small smile. "You're that pilot my brother and Lelouch are so proud off, right?" C.C. greeted as Kallen gave her a nod.

"Yes," Kallen answered as she stared down Zero's younger sister. She didn't know why but she had the urge to slap that smile off her face.

C.C, for the sake of irritating her even further, eyed her from head to toe, unnerving her a bit. "My brother and Lelouch have good taste, you look extremely delicious." C.C. commented with lewd eyes as she slowly approached the startled Kallen.

"What the hell does that mean?" Kallen asked, startled a bit at those words from the sister of their leader.

"Didn't you hear me?" C.C. inquired before seizing both of Kallen's hands and pinning them to her side so fast that she wasn't able to react.

Kallen didn't notice that she had her back on the wall until the strange girl pinned her arms to the wall with incredible force. "You look scrumptious. Can I taste you?" C.C. asked her as she leaned close to capture the Queen's lips.

"Wait, what? Get the hell off me." Kallen demanded but C.C. didn't even listened to her as she seizes her lips with her own, startling Kallen as her face erupted in a blush. Her first kiss was just stolen by a girl and worst, the hold that she had on her arms was so firm that she can't break free from it, and what's even worst is that the tongue of this girl was invading her mouth, and what's even worse than that, is the fact that even if she was being molested by this girl, she was beginning to enjoy the kiss.

As Kallen struggled with C.C.'s hold and kiss, the student council watched this scene with varying expression. Rivalz had a tickle of blood running down his nose, Milly was taking pictures as a disturbing smile graced her lips, Shirley was close to fainting, and Lelouch let out a barely audible chuckle. That chuckle instantly broke the kiss as both C.C., AND the still dazed Kallen stared at the four figures near them; Kallen was instantly petrified and red in embarrassment as she concluded that they saw that extremely embarrassing moment.

"Was that necessary?" Lelouch asked as he broke the silence.

C.C. could only smile as she let go of Kallen. "Like I told the orange hair, I don't care whether they be male or female, they are both open game to me."

(Scene Change)

"That, that, THAT BITCH." Kallen yelled while Lelouch chuckled softly from behind. After C.C. was out of sight, Kallen was so pissed that she threw a punch towards Rivalz, which instantly knocked the blue haired teen out. Well, in Kallen's defense, Rivalz should have kept his mouth shut.

"Join the club Kallen, join the club." Lelouch laughed softly as Kallen's blush had yet to subside. "She's a bit irritating but you'll get used to her soon." Lelouch commented as Kallen shook her head in annoyance.

"Next time I'll see her, I'll throttle her." Kallen muttered in annoyance. She still can't believe that she allowed that green haired witch to steel her first kiss. "How do you know those two anyway?" Kallen asked curiously as she tried to regain her composure.

Lelouch smiled to hide the pain in his heart. He so wanted to give Kallen her memories from the future, her memories from his, and to an extent, her last lifetime. The only thing holding him back was his fear that, once she knew what he did the first time, she might not stand nor fight with him again and that was something that he cannot afford, both personally and professionally.

So with a deep sighed, he told her a lie that both he and C.C. formulated. "When I was twelve, I met Zero and Cecelia in Tokyo Settlement." Lelouch started with a fake yet convincing smile. "Zero and Cecelia, they're both pure-blooded Britannians, but they hate the Britannian system with a passion though they had different ways of dealing with it." Lelouch then frowned at the mention of Social Darwinism.

"Cecelia, she was content of merely living her life and just bowing to the system." Kallen growled at how weak will that woman was after hearing that. "Zero on the other hand, well let's just say he is the typical revolutionary with a vision, a vision that I intend to help him achieve." Lelouch exclaimed with a determine tone.

"How I met those two, well to make a long story short, I was gambling with some random noble in the streets of Tokyo one faithful day. It took thirteen moves to beat the creep and it took me thirteen steps from the casino before I got mugged." Lelouch shook his head, giving Kallen the idea that he was reminiscing that day, and it worked.

"That must have been painful for you, I mean look at you; you don't have an ounce of muscle in that body of yours." Kallen mocked with a smirk as she once again eyed him from head to toe. She may like what she sees but still, he would look better with some muscles.

Lelouch scowled at her but regardless, continue with his made-up story. "I got mugged and the money that I won fair and square was about to be stolen from me when Zero appeared out of nowhere." Lelouch stopped at that as he chuckled sadistically. "I still could remember how he saved me. He unveiled his Geass on the men that were beating me up and commanded them all to die and to my surprised; they saluted him before killing themselves." Lelouch told her as Kallen looked at him like he was crazy, she did not believed that part of the story. It was quite farfetched if you asked her.

"Come on now Lelouch, seriously." Lelouch's only answer was removing the contacts on his right eye, revealing his raw violet eyes to Kallen. Kallen was about to question Lelouch's sanity of wearing contacts over an undamaged eye when he close his right eye and unveil his Geass to her.

"The power that this eye could give you is terrifying." Lelouch informed her as he deactivated his second Geass before putting back the contacts on his right eye. "Zero's Geass is the Power of Absolute Obedience, that power allows him to plant commands within a person's mind upon eye contact and the person has no choice but to obey that command to the letter. It means if he tells you to die when his Geass is activated, you have no choice but to kill yourself." Lelouch explained, with a voice so serious that Kallen found it hard to not believe those words. "My Geass on the other hand is the Power of Transcending Time, truth be told, I don't know the full capabilities of my Geass, the only thing I know about my power is that the victim must be unconsciously willing to be put under my Geass." Lelouch lied about his second Geass, the Geass that he received after being thrown back in time.

"You mean he wasn't kidding when he said about that power of his?" Kallen asked with a shudder. With a power like that, he could probably conquer an entire country without even lifting a finger.

"You see Kallen; his mask is made out off Geass canceling glass, the same goes for my contacts. The two of us can activate and deactivate our Geass at will, but we do not like the idea of accidentally Geassing our allies." Lelouch assured her as he patted her on the shoulder. "Once the person is under the effect of Zero's Geass, then the said person is reduced to a mindless drown, which both me and Zero decided to be a bad idea. I mean, if you fight without your mind then all your skills are all but useless." Lelouch stated before ruffling her hair in order to calm her down.

"And those Visor that you gave us are just precautionary method in case we got caught in the crossfire when he is using that power on our enemies, am I right?" Lelouch could only nod. Kallen made a mental note to always wear that Visor when she is in the presence of their mask leader.

"Now, after he saved me, I lose consciousness." Lelouch then continued with his story. "And the last thing I know, I woke up in Cecelia's arm and, as they say, the rest is history. I befriended him and we spend the last five years plotting to destroy Britannia." Lelouch finished as Kallen slowly took everything in.

"I see," Kallen mumbled before looking at Lelouch right on the eye. "If you guys have that kind of power, why do you need us?" Kallen asked curiously as Lelouch gave her a warm smiled.

Lelouch then proceeded to gently pin Kallen to the nearest wall before seizing her lips for a kiss, her second kiss for the day. Unlike C.C.'s kiss, this wasn't force instead it was slow and gentle, and Lelouch did not invade her mouth forcefully. No, this kiss was the kiss a person gives to their lovers and she was enjoying it.

A minute or so later, Lelouch pulled back and stared at her startled eyes with passionate eyes, taking delight at her blush. "I may have all the power in the world but that is useless without a Queen that I could share it with." Lelouch leaned towards her for one chaste kiss before slowly backing away from her. "C.C. is right, you are scrumptious and your lips taste like a fine red wine with slight tint of strawberries." Lelouch commented as he bowed at her respectfully before taking his leave.

Internally, Lelouch was jumping for joy as he finally returned the kiss that she gave him in his last lifetime, and this time around, he actually found it enjoyable.

Kallen was frozen in place, her hands unconsciously touching her lips. That was the most blissful feeling she had ever felt in her life. She wondered what it would fell like if she returned the kiss.

Unknown to her, her mother saw the whole thing and was smiling mirthfully, her daughter finally found someone.

(Scene Change)

A bullet train from Tokyo was currently headed to Lake Kawaguchi; inside the train were three members of the Student Council of Ashford Academy.

"I never left the Tokyo Settlement before, this is my first time." Shirley commented with a small smile and an excited tone. After her little confrontation with that little harlot, she needed a breather.

"I'm sure you wish Lelouch could have come with us, don't you?" Milly asked snidely causing Shirley to flinch comically before nibbling on the treat that was on her hands. "Don't be so shy, tonight, we can stay up all night talking, let's tell each other which boys we like from school." Milly then smile like a chemise cat, sending shivers down both her companion's spine.

"Then you'll probably have a lot to talk about, right?" Shirley commented silently.

"Who can say?" Milly then smile before shifting her gaze on Nina, whom was nervously nibbling on her snack.

As the train entered a tunnel, Nina gasped in fright as both her hands clenched her skirt fearfully. Milly tried to calm her down by holding one of her hands. "Nina, it's alright, there are a lot of Britannians in Lake Kawaguchi, so security is fine." Milly assured her xenophobic friend. "Don't be afraid, it's not the Ghettos."

"Yes, but," Nina struggled with her words as she shiver in fright.

"Will be with you the whole time, we won't leave your sight for a second." Milly added tenderly as Nina calm down a bit.

"Thanks," Nina whispered before a knocked on their compartment door caught their attention.

"Hello, is this compartment taken?" A familiar voiced asked causing both Milly and Shirley's eyes to widen as Milly hurriedly open the door.

"Lulu," Milly greeted in surprised, not expecting to see Lelouch.

"Milly, what a coincidence." Lelouch said with an equally surprised tone, but internally, he was grinning at the sight of Nina. It's time to commence the plan.

"Lulu, what are you doing here? I thought you weren't coming with us." Shirley asked curiously, secretly glad that her crush was with them.

"Initially, yes, but Cecelia's brother asked me to come to Lake Kawaguchi to meet with him." Lelouch informed them as he entered their compartment. "It's about Cecelia's monthly allowance or something similar to that."

"Little Lulu finally have another woman in his life, I'm so jealous." Milly cooed over Lelouch as Shirley resisted the urged to slap the President on the face.

"She's a very close friend." Lelouch corrected her as he pushed their over the top President back to her sit. "Though, she is probably the most beautiful woman I know, aside from Kallen that is." Lelouch whispered to himself so that he was the only who could hear it.

"Are you going to join us then, Vice President?" Nina asked, finally joining the conversation.

"Why of course. My business with him would probably last for only a couple of minutes so I don't see the harm of spoiling myself today." Lelouch mused before smiling at them as the train exited the tunnel.

(Scene Change)

The rebels gasped in shock as they entered a mobile home parked inside of an abandoned parking lot. "What are you waiting for, come in." C.C. dressed as Zero ordered as she sat in a comfortable, U-shape sofa. Her voice modulator was adjusted so that she could sound like Zero "As of right now, this place will be our mobile base… That is until Lelouch could provide us with a more suitable cruiser for warfare."

"So, you think joining up with us is a good idea." Ohgi asked once again, impress with the mobile base that Zero presented to them.

"Like what Lelouch said, loyal comrades are hard to find this days." Zero exclaimed dismissively.

"Holy cow, so what is this, huh?"

"Hey there's a second floor too."

"There's even a TV here."

"This place is huge."

"Do you mind if I ask how you came by this?" Ohgi asked curiously as he looked at their leader.

"Well let's just say that Lelouch collected a large sum of gambling debt a week ago to purchase this vehicle." Zero answered, and the respect that the rebels had for Lelouch sky rocketed after hearing that.

"Wait, where is Lelouch?" Kallen asked curiously as she noticed the absence of her friend.

"Yeah, where is that Brit?" Tamaki asked as he looked down from the second floor. It is to be noted that Tamaki's voice actually had a small amount of respect in it.

"He is on a mission, a mission of outmost importance." Zero informed them before throwing the keys to Ohgi. "Ohgi, there is a map program on the GPS. Follow that map to our next destination." Zero ordered with a commanding tone.

Ohgi look at the keys before looking at Zero with a determine look. "Do we have another operation?" Ohgi asked as the members of his best friends Resistance Group look at their leader expectantly.

Zero nodded as she let her cloak flew behind her. "I, Magician, and the Queen had made their debut in the grand stage." C.C. raised her hand dramatically before waving her arms; the cloak was now wrapped around her body. "It's time for the spotlight to shine on the knights in our command." C.C. stated, trying to quote her own dramatics.

(Scene Change)

Lelouch was sitting on his bed, listening to his iPod as the door in his rented room was kick down.

"You, Britannian dog, get up." The Japanese Liberation Front soldier yelled as he and his partner pointed the barrel of their rifles to Lelouch.

Lelouch chuckled light as he turned off his iPod before staring at the JLF soldiers that were pointing their guns at him. "Good day, brave soldiers of the Japanese Nation." Lelouch greeted with a respectful nod as he stood up.

The JLF soldier seems to found those words insulting as they removed the safety from their rifles. "Get your hands over your head and follow us, you dog." The soldier ordered with a threatening tone.

"Of course but first." Lelouch dramatically moved his hand over his left eye, removing the contact lens that covered his Geass. "I, Lelouch vi Britannia, commands you do die." Lelouch commanded as his Geass shone brightly while gazing at the eyes of the soldiers in his room.

The soldiers' eyes glowed bright red as they gave Lelouch a salute. "Of course your majesty." The two shouted as they aim their rifles on each other before firing, killing each other in the process.

"It's time." Lelouch mumbled to himself as he heard several screams outside his room. On his feet were two members of the Japanese Liberation Front, a bullet hole on their necks. "I hope C.C. is doing her part." Lelouch mumbled to himself as he peered out of his room. Several arm JLF soldiers were now rallying the Britannian Tourist and other important ambassadors that were supposed to attend the Annual Summit of the Sakuradite Producing Countries, but he didn't care about them, the only person that he cared to save was the creator of the most dangerous weapon in his last lifetime. It was imperative that she and her half-sister should not meet.

"Now, where is she?" Lelouch mumbled to himself as he wore the uniform of the dead JLF soldier, not forgetting to wear the makeshift military-style hat before stepping outside. He holstered the rifle on the ground over his shoulder and check if his pistol and stun gun were in place before walking towards a JLF soldier whom was busy yelling at a poor Britannian civilian.

"Soldier, is there any Britannia dogs in that room?" The Japanese soldier asked as Lelouch gave the soldier a JLF salute.

"Negative sir," Lelouch answered, using their native tongue.

"Then check the other rooms and find any of those damn Britannians." The soldier ordered as he gave Lelouch a salute before walking passed him. Lelouch shook his head at the methods that the JLF were using; they were really obsolete that it was sickening.

"I just need to find Nina and get her out of here." Lelouch whispered as he walked across the corridor, trying to find the xenophobic, bespectacled genius.

Lelouch navigated the hotel passively; careful to not get any attention while ignoring the glares that were given to him by some Britannians that were being push around by the 'Elevens'. Truth be told, he has to contain himself to not Geass the soldiers, he may be a demon but he was demon that does not condone injustice.

'Calm down, calm down, you can kill them later.' Lelouch thought to himself as he turned right. 'Still nothing!' He cursed as he continues on navigating through the corridors.

"Where is their room again?" Lelouch asked himself as he tried to remember his friends' rented hotel room. "Two floors down mine, so the floor beneath me." Lelouch mumbled as he took the stairs down. To his surprise, he found his target. Nina was shivering in a corner but Shirley and Milly was nowhere to be seen. Lelouch, wanting to know what happened to his friend, decided to watch the scene unfold. 'Did this happen last time?' Lelouch wondered as he clearly remembered the hostage drama in his last lifetime.

"If my memory serves me right, I'm at least an hour early from the first broadcast." Lelouch mumbled as he attached the silencer on his handgun. "If anything bad happens to Milly or Shirley, then the end of Japanese Liberation Front will be two months early." Lelouch swore while loading bullets on his handgun.

"COME ON NOW, YOU BRITANNIAN BITCH, GET UP." One out of the two JLF soldier yelled as they glared at the cowering Nina. Nina ignored the yelling 'Eleven' as she shivered uncontrollably. Why did those 'Elevens' took her friends first, why did those 'Elevens' took her friends away from her.

"What the hell is up with this girl?" One of the soldiers inquired as the other merely shrugged his shoulder in irritation.

"I don't know and I don't care, but General Kusakabe said that he needs all Britannians present in the storage room before we release out a statement." The second shoulder grunted in annoyance. "But this Britannian slut is being too difficult, I mean her friends were compliant but this little bitch is just annoying." The soldier complained in annoyance.

"Can we just kill her and be done with it?" The firs soldier commented as he aimed his rifle on Nina's head, causing Nina's eyes to widen in fear as she backed away from them until her back was on the wall.

"Why not," The second soldier agreed as he leveled his rifle on Nina as well. "I mean, she is just another Britannian." The soldier reasoned as they prepared to kill her.

"Yes and you two are just Japanese." A regal voice said from behind, and before they could look at the source of the voice, two silent gunshots echoed in the corridor and instantly, two bodies feel on the ground, a bullet hole on their heads.

Nina's eyes widen in fright as she gazed at the 'Eleven' soldier that killed his own comrades, the droplets of blood of her would-be killers staining her face. The soldier shook his head as he dragged one of his ally's bodies inside the room besides her before doing the same with the other corpse. "Sorry if you have to see that but it's either those two or you, and I choose them." Lelouch said as he locked the door.

"Are…you…going…to…kill…me?" Nina managed to stutter. The soldier standing in front of her shook his head into a negative before kneeling before her.

"Come on now Nina." Nina flinched as she heard the familiar voice, and blush as the soldier wiped the blood off her face with a handkerchief. "How can I kill you, you're a friend after all." The soldier said as he removed his hat causing Nina to gasp at the sight of the vice-president.

"Vice-President," Nina whispered as, for the first time, was relief at the sight of the usually regal Vice-President. "But, how did you?" Nina didn't finish her question when Lelouch put a finger on her lips.

"I was able to ambush a Terrorist solider and I knock him out, stealing his rifle and his uniform in the process. I thought I could use this disguise to find you guys." Lelouch explained and lied as he wiped the blood off her face. "Where's Milly and Shirley?" Lelouch asked with genuine worry.

Nina took a deep breath, secretly taking comfort on Lelouch's touch. "They were taken ten minutes before me." Nina answered in a soft tone.

Lelouch grunted a bit as he stood up. He'll save them later but for now, he has a tragedy to prevent. "Come on now Nina; let's get the hell out of here." Lelouch said as he offered her a hand.

"But, but, but, what about Milly and Shirley?" Nina said in worry.

Lelouch offered her a comforting smile as he took her shivering hand. "The current Viceroy of Area 11 is Cornelia li Britannia, one of our county's greatest military commanders. Zero's victory over her was a fluke at best, and the reason why is because she underestimated him." That was probably the hardest lie that Lelouch had ever told someone. "And she is going to spearhead this rescue mission, which means that Milly and Shirley is as good as save. They just need to wait this out, and they will be saved." Lelouch told her with an assuring tone as he pulled her to her feet.

"You on the other hand, you're a mess because of your xenophobia and that is going to be liability for every Britannian hostage." Lelouch told her gently as he slowly caress her hair so that he will not overwhelm her, as well as to sooth her. "I'm not insulting you but your fear for the locals will be the downfall of the majority, so it'll be wise for me to get you out her before you lose your sanity, which is a bad thing." Lelouch explained to her as he waited for her to reply.

Nina nodded slowly, understanding the situation there in. It was hard enough to stay in the same room with one 'Eleven' she cannot imagine staying in the same room with numerous 'Eleven'. Praying that her friends will get through this, she allowed Lelouch to take her to safety.

'Cera, it's your turn.'

(Scene Change)

The group arrived in their designated destination an hour ago and now; the future Black Knights was watching the news about the hostage drama in their new mobile base.

"As you see, a high ranking member of the JLF has decided to take Lake Kawaguchi Convention hostage, taking countless Britannian captive." Zero said, his voice filled with disapproval. "Kallen, I think you might be particularly interested in this." Zero told her as he pointed at the TV screen.

Kallen looked at him confusedly before gazing back at the TV. When the perpetrators showed the captive civilians, her eyes widen at the sight of two familiar individuals. "From the student council."

"So they made their move."

"They are the biggest anti-Britannian group here in Japan and now their pride is hurt."

"Because of us."

"I don't know whether to feel glad or sorry about this." One of the rebels mumbled loudly. On one hand, they were Britannian and on the other hand, they were just civilians.

"Forget that, they're all going to end up dead."

"We are going to save them." Zero announced, stopping the rambling of his comrades.

"Wait, what?" Tamaki asked, startled at those words.

Zero stood up and approach the TV set. "I found it strange that Cornelia has yet to level the building. After researching about her military records, she is not known to negotiate with terrorist, she flat out kills them." Zero said knowingly. "That said, there is someone in there that is preventing Cornelia from moving decisively and I think I know who." Zero then glanced at his allies. "Now, who is the most important person in your lives?"

The rebels look at him funny at that question. Was he serious? Only Kallen was the one who found the relevance of that question.

"You mean to tell me that the most important person in Cornelia's life is in that building?" Kallen asked, startled at the sudden revelation.

Zero could only nod. "Princess Euphemia li Britannia is amongst the hostages." Zero pointed.

"A PRINCESS," Tamaki gaped loudly, his eyes bulging wide as the whispers broke amongst the others. "Holy crap, Kusakabe hit the jackpot."

"No, he is in the process of signing out a Dead Sentence to this country." Zero corrected them as the rebels once again focus their gazed on him. "The reason why Cornelia is so motivated in purging Japan of all things Terrorist is because of the death of three of her siblings in this country, Clovis who I killed and the vi Britannia Siblings who had perishing during the war, the three of them died in this country." Zero stopped as he waited for the shock outburst to die down. "Now, she is already destroying Resistance Cells from left to right at that fact, if another one of her siblings died in this country, her own blood sibling for that matter, the sibling that she loved more than her life, more than the empire itself, what do you think she will do?" Zero asked them, his voice rising with each word.

Seeing that no one answered, he continues. "I will tell you what will happen. Cornelia will be in a warpath, she will tear this country apart, annihilating every terrorist group in the country in the process without the care on who will get caught on the crossfire, which means countless Japanese civilian casualties." Zero then pointed at the General. "This fool is on the process of opening Pandora's Box and he isn't even aware of it." Zero stated with disdain as the rebels eyes widen at realization. If that princess dies, Japan will burn to ashes.

"So when do we move?" Kallen asked, eagerly wanting to save her friends.

"As soon as possible," Zero replied as he looked at them. "Kallen, take someone with you upstairs. In the room in the far right, you will find several boxes. Get them down here and open them up." Zero ordered as she obeyed him wordlessly.

She, Tamaki, and Ishida went down from the second floors, holding several boxes. They open one of the many boxes only to find some clothes. "Clothes?"

"Uniforms provided for us by our friend, Lelouch." Zero corrected them. "We are no longer terrorists; we are now freedom fighters fighting for a just cause. Lelouch found it prudent that we should dress apart." Zero stated as the rebels took the uniforms from the boxes.

"Shit, this crap is custom made." Tamaki noted in approval as he threw the black jacket over him.

"Lelouch made them so maneuverability wouldn't be an issue." Zero assured them, watching the rebels' awed expression. "Kallen," Zero called out, catching the attention of the red hair beauty.

"Follow me; I'll give you your uniform." Zero said as he offered his hand to her.

"You mean I wouldn't be wearing this?" Kallen asked with a confused tone.

"You are our ace and the Queen of the organization. You deserve special treatment." Zero told her and took small enjoyment at her stun expression. "And Lelouch personally knitted your uniform so it will be an insult to him if you won't wear it." Zero added igniting a blush on Kallen as she followed the leader.

"Isn't this a bit too much," Ohgi voiced his awe as Zero stopped from his tracks. "I mean, we're just resistance fighters."

Zero turn to look at them, his hand raise upright. "Don't degrade yourself Ohgi, we are no longer a meager Resistance cell." Zero uncurled his hands and now, the posture of his hand gave him the image of him holding the world in the palm of his hand. "We are… what we are trying to be… what we will become are the Knights of Justice."

(Scene Change)

Cornelia cursed silently, her teeth clenching as she heard the reports that the Sutherlands that she send via supply tunnel were wiped out by makeshift linear cannon that the terrorist stationed down there beforehand. She was unaware that terrorist posses such weapon.

"What do we do know, if we release the Political Hostages like what they demanded…"

"We cannot show weakness to terrorist." Cornelia shouted indignantly, glaring holes at the advisor that dared suggest that.

"But Milady, princess Euphemia," Guilford didn't found it in his heart to continue his statement. He was also worried about the sister of his princess.

"Yes, I know, believe me I know." Cornelia whispered, her regal expression had a bit of discomfort written all over it.

"Thus far it appears that none of them had discovered her identity. If they did, they would surely use her as a bargaining chip." Darlton stated professionally even thought in the inside, he was worried sick.

(Scene Change)

Lelouch and Nina were quietly navigated the hotel corridors, carefully and slowly going down floor by floor. "First we need to get to the security room in the fifteen floor. I could hack the hotels mainframe to find a clear exit." Lelouch told her as they walk around carefully. They were not athletically gifted so the pace that they were in right now was the best that they could do with their current endurance.

"Vice President, have you been in this situation before?" Nina asked curiously, a bit uncomfortable with the deafening silence that surrounds them.

"Yes but I had an army with me last time." Nina giggled at the apparent joke that Lelouch said although, every word of it was true. "I've been worst but I'm more worried about you and about our friends." Lelouch told as he looked at her. "Are you okay?"

"I can manage." Nina replied with a muted tone.

Lelouch shook his head as he spared her a glance. "Nina, I'm no Milly but I am an excellent listener, if it makes you feel better, you can tell me anything." Lelouch offered as he gave her a gentle smile that, in an unknown way, made her heart beat rapidly. "Nina, can you tell me why you're terrified of the 'Elevens', I mean they are not…"

"THEY ARE A BUNCH OF ANIMALS (no offence to the Japanese)." Nina yelled, startling Lelouch a bit. "This Elevens are nothing but primitive, violent beast. They don't give a damn about anything, they just attack and attack, not caring who they hurt or who perish. They are all nothing but ravaged animals." Nina ranted as her face twisted into cold fury that even Lelouch was a bit disturbed, but he was able to remain calm and compose.

'Her xenophobia is this bad already, damn. I underestimated her fears.' Lelouch thought in dread as the two halted their movements and stared at each other's eyes. Lelouch could already see both the loathing and fear in Nina's eyes. 'At this rate, she will create F.L.E.I.J.A just in spite of the 'Elevens'. I need to plant something in Nina and hope that it grows into something productive.' With a sigh, Lelouch clapped a hand on her shoulders.

"Getting you separated away from the hostages and from those 'Elevens' was a good decision. If you said those words in front of them, then we may already have a couple of Britannians dead." Lelouch told her, stunning her a bit. Lelouch then sat her down beside him. "Nina, this may be presumptuous of me, but have you ever lost someone in this country." Lelouch asked, trying to deduce why Nina was so afraid of the Japanese. Losing someone close to you was the first thing that came to his mind.

Nina, not answering and her teary eyes were all the answer that Lelouch needed. "I'm not going to force you to answer me, that's because I already know the answer. But a word of advice, telling someone of your lost will be breath of relief for you." Lelouch advised with a friendly and caring tone. This was a means to manipulate Nina to bare her soul to him. He knew that it was cruel of him to manipulate her like this but this was for the sake of the world so he figured that he could forgive himself later.

After all, he had done worse, much worse.

"I lost my younger brother and he was only four years of age." Nina answered silently, a tear falling from her eyes. Lelouch smiled softly, both because now he has a further understanding of her and because now, he has something on her.

"He died in a terrorist attack, right?" Lelouch asked and Nina could only nod. "I see." Lelouch mumbled, trying to form a speech in his head.

"For starters, your fear is justifiable and, if 'Elevens' killed my sister, trust me, I would personally purged the world of their kind." Those words were true. "But as much as I hate to say this, we Britannians are indirectly at fault at the death of your younger brother." Lelouch told her as Nina looked at him in outraged but Lelouch merely sigh deeply before a far-out look grace his face.

"Britannia, with all its power, has its faults. One of them is our way of colonizing a country." Lelouch said with a frown. "We erase the country's identity, culture, and the like and reduced them to a mere number, degrading and spitting on their dignity." Lelouch stopped at that as he let Nina speak for her country.

"But, but, but, we just want to share the riches and the culture of our country to enrich other counties so that the people there could evolve just like us." Nina reasoned and Lelouch could only stare at her in disbelief.

'This is going to take a while.' Lelouch internally groan, tempted to just Geass Nina but that would be a shallow victory, and he will not settle for that. "You got me there. True, there are some countries that are enjoying their lives while under the control of Britannia. After all, Britannia is a rich country." Lelouch noted and he suddenly felt the urge of throwing up but he sucked it up and continued talking for the sake of the world. "But Nina, there are some countries that are currently suffering because of Britannia, whether they be a part of its many conquered regions or not." Lelouch stated but Nina had already found an excuse for that.

"Vice President, those countries are thankless and unappreciative of what Britannia is trying to do for them." Nina stated with a frown. "They cannot see the benefits of being a Britannia colony, and those countries that are under Britannia but suffering is because they are undeveloped and they refused to let go of their savaged ways." Nina added as she noted Area Eleven as her primary example.

Lelouch had to contain the urged of slapping his forehead. She's good, that much he would concede. 'Geass is only for last resort, Geass is only for last resort, Geass is only for last resort.' Lelouch repeated in his head as he slowly felt frustration rising in him.

"Again, you're looking at this one dimensionally Nina." Lelouch told her as he decided to play the same card that he used against his father and brother. "You see, you have a point and I agree with your logic. People in countries under Britannia should just suck it up and bow their heads to us; it'll make their lives easier." Nina smiled as for once, Lelouch agreed with her. "But…" There was always a but.

"But even if they bow before Britannia, there are still some flaws to the system that would make their lives miserable." Lelouch mused as he thought of his friend Suzaku. "The honorary Britannian System might be good in paper but still, the pure Blooded Britannians will always look down on those Honorary Britannians and if you read the bill of rights and benefits of those Honorary Britannians, you will find that it's just a minor improvement to their past treatment and not to mention the discrimination that they will suffer on the hands of their own countrymen. Our prime example is my old friend Suzaku Kururugi, he is a Honorary Britannian and a soldier for the Holly Britannian Empire but look at his treatment in Britannian society and environment. He is scorn, alienated, rejected, mock, and taunted. He is treated like a pariah because of his born nationality." Lelouch greeted his teeth at that.

"But he doesn't belong with us." Nina countered with a shiver at the thought of her lone Japanese classmate. "Remember what Emperor Charles zi Britannia said; All men are not born equal."

"True, all me are not born equal but we are all created as equals." Lelouch retorted as he stood up. "You see my dear, the Japanese Liberation Front, they are obsolete, and they are fools. They fight to turn the hands of time back and retrogress Japan back to its bygone golden age, forgetting how weak and corrupt their last generation was."

"Britannia, in all of its glory, fights to retain the Present. They want time to stop at their highest glory, to bask on the glory of the empire. By doing that, progress and evolution stopped and we are stuck in a never ending cycle. Britannia will fight to its last man to maintain the current status quo, sacrificing anything in their paths, regardless of the casualties."

Lelouch then smile in determination as he offered Nina a hand. "I on the other hand, I want the future, I want to fight for a future. I want a future that my sister who is blind and cripple can live with a smile, a gentler world where she could open her eyes into a blissful reality, a blissful world where the weak can live together with the strong. I want to create a peaceful world were weapons will be unnecessary, a world where everyone could understand each other regardless of the race, nationality, religion, whether they be Britannians or Japanese. A world where your younger brother would be proud to look upon in heaven" Lelouch proclaimed with a gentle smile, his eyes shining benevolently with determination. He had created that world before, now he will create that world again, and this time, he will do it RIGHT.

Nina was moved as she stared at the Vice-President in awe. She was amaze at the fact that he had understood her fears, rationalize it to the point that he put up a decent argument with her, and, if they continue talking, he may cure her of her xenophobia. The lost of her younger sibling hit her hard but the way Lelouch spoke told her that he understand her pain, to an extent that is.

She was about to reach his hand when they heard a scream causing the two to freeze, mostly Lelouch for he recognized that scream anywhere.

"No, no, no, no, no." Lelouch mumbled to himself as he peaked on the corridor besides them and his eyes widen at the sight of the familiar pink hair. It was his sister, Euphemia li Britannia. "This isn't part of my plans." Lelouch gritted as he witness her sister being manhandled by JLF soldiers and that alone made him tempted to not follow through with his plan.

"Vice President, what are they going to do to her?" Nina asked in frightful whisper as she witnessed the girl being dragged by her pink hair.

"Probably dragged her to where the hostages are." Lelouch answered but his overdeveloped mind conjured another possibility, a possibility that sicken him. "Nina, stay here." Lelouch told her as he handed her a stun gun.

'I don't care if they meet, I'll be damn if those punks hurt my sister.' Lelouch thought as he fingered the handgun hidden in his hip.

"You soldier," One of the soldiers called Lelouch as he stopped in his tracks to give the three soldiers surrounding Euphemia a salute. "Help us separate this girl from this two." The soldier commented as he pointed at the two children that were embracing Euphemia for dear life.

"Please just take me but don't touch the children. They are so young." Euphemia pleaded but the soldier nearest to him merely slapped her, much to the anger of Lelouch.

"Shut it bitch." The soldier yelled as he pointed his rifle at Euphemia whom merely gazed at the terrorist fiercely. "Did Britannians hesitate when they invade our country? Did the Britannians hesitate when they kill our children, huh?" The terrorist yelled indignantly.

"These children have nothing to do with that." Euphemia reasoned, her courage was simply awe-inspiring.

"You Britannian bitch." The soldier snarled and was about to slap Euphemia once again while she brace for impact but the newly arrived soldier caught the offending hand.

"What is the use of a dead hostage?" Lelouch asked as he took pity to the children that were shivering in fright at this traumatizing event. "You children close your eyes and this will be all over." Lelouch instructed kindly. The children, conceded and close their eyes.

"You're too nice to those Brits." One of the soldiers commented as a handgun was leveled to his forehead.

"Of course, I am a Britannian after all." Lelouch replied as he shot a bullet right on the cranium of the man and before his companions could retaliate; he fired another bullet, killing the two with one shot respectively. Three bodies fell on the ground in unison, much to the shock of Euphemia.

"How?" Euphemia asked as she glared, or tried to glare at the man who kill his own allies, and to an extent, saved her. "How could you kill your own countrymen, your own allies?"

"First, I am no Japanese, I'm a Britannian who was able to escape from being taken hostage. Second," The soldier removed his hat to show Euphemia his face. "How in the hell could I stand still as my sister get assaulted by some punks." Lelouch said with an amused smile as Euphemia looked at him in shock.

"LELOUCH, you're supposed to be dead." Euphemia shutter in shocked at the sight of her supposed to be dead brother, her beloved brother that was supposed to be dead seven years. "How can you still be alive?"

"I'm a ghost and if you don't want to join me in the afterlife, then I suggest you follow me." Lelouch said with a humorous tone as he took one of the children and walk towards Nina's hiding place.

(Scene Change)

"Can the special core offer any assistance in the rescue operation?" Suzaku asked his voice lace with worry.

"I've already asked them, but we're in an irregular unit and they don't acknowledge our chain of command." Lloyd said as he threw the rock on the lake. "Besides…"

"It's too risky to entrust the operation to an eleven, is that right?" Suzaku said, finishing the Earl's statement.

"Yet I'm sure you're aware how Princess Cornelia is very discriminating about Britannians and numbers." Lloyd exclaimed with a small grin.

"So the Japanese are still not accepted in your structure." Suzaku exclaimed with a small frown.

"If that were true, then what point would there be of even having an honorary Britannian System." Cecile mumbled with a disappointed tone.

After those words were spoken, Suzaku's phone rang as he took it from his pocket. "Lelouch, what does he want?" Suzaku wondered as he answered the phone. "Hello," Suzaku greeted but he winced when he heard the reply.

"[SUZAKU, WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME THAT YOU KNOW MY BROTHER IS ALIVE!?]" A loud yell from Euphemia echoed in his phone as he fell down on his back.

"[Give me that Euphemia.]" Lelouch's voiced echoed in the other line as Suzaku heard static and rambling. "[Sorry for that Suzaku, though I never would have thought that you would be acquainted with my sister.]" Lelouch commented as Suzaku's eyes widen .

"Wait, you're with Princess Euphemia?" Suzaku asked quietly as he stood up and approach the trailer, leaving the two engineers near the lake.

"[Unfortunately,]" Lelouch muttered before an audible ouch echoed in the other line.

"[That's mean LULU?]" Suzaku heard Euphemia yelled.

"[I'm supposed to be dead, remember.]" Suzaku could already see that scowled on Lelouch's face.

"I don't want to be rude and ruin this reunion but, where the hell are you Lelouch and how did Princess Euphemia discover you're existence?" Suzaku inquired curiously.

"[Suzaku, call me Euphy.]" Suzaku heard Euphemia say before he heard another scrambling in the other land.

"[How she found me is irrelevant but sadly, I have good news, bad news, and worse news.]" Lelouch said in a grim tone. "[The bad news, my dear half-sister Euphy discovered that I still walk among the living….OUCH, EUPHY STOPPING PINCHING ME…]"

"[YOU'RE BEING MEAN AGAIN, LULU.]"

Suzaku would have laughed if his best friend's tone wasn't so grim. "[Worse news,]" Lelouch continued his voice even grimmer. "[We are both in the hotel where the JLF is currently hotel-jacking.]" Lelouch informed him and cause the desire and the most predictable effect on Suzaku.

"WHAT, ARE YOU TWO OKAY? ARE TWO HURT? PLEASE TELL ME THAT NO ONE HAS DIED YET." Suzaku shouted in dread, catching the attention of the two creators of the Lancelot.

"Warrant Officer Kururugi," Cecile called in worry as she clearly saw the worry etched face of their deviser.

"WHAT IS THE SITUATION IN THERE?" Suzaku yelled ignoring the stares that he was getting from his superiors.

"[Don't shout Suzaku, Euphy and me are safe for time being.]" Lelouch answered with an irate tone, clearly annoyed at his friends yelling. "[There is some good news though; I was able to get Nina and two kids to safety before they got taken to where the hostages are. My group and I are separated from the other hostages. We are currently in some room for some rest.]" Lelouch explained to his friend.

Suzaku took a breath of relief before his expression change to utter seriousness. "Lelouch, don't move from where you are hiding, I'll come and save you." Suzaku told him with determine voice.

"[That is no longer an option." Lelouch commented, his tone of voice equally serious. "As of right now, I've killed seven terrorist to save both Euphy and Nina.]" Suzaku and Euphemia, whom was with Lelouch in the other line gasped in shock at that revelation. "[Suzaku, I can't stay still because if they found the bodies that I hid, they will certainly hunt my group down or worse, kill the hostages in retaliation.]"

Suzaku shivered at that. "Why did you have to kill them?"

"[They didn't give me any choice. Two terrorist were about to kill Nina, three terrorist were harassing Euphy and the children, hell I have to kill two terrorist just to escape with my life.]" Lelouch explained his action exasperatedly.

"Damn it, Lelouch," Suzaku sighed as he shook his head in disapproval.

"[Lecture me later, now I need you to get me something so my sister and I can have a proper reunion with Nunnally in the near future.]" Lelouch exclaimed with a tired tone.

"[Nunnally is alive too, where is she?]"

Suzaku decided to ignore the beautiful princess as he tried to regain his composure. "What do you need Lelouch?" Suzaku asked worriedly.

"[The map of the building send to my phone as soon as possible. Originally, I intend to go the main Security Office but I am now moving in a group of five so that is no longer an option.]" Lelouch informed his friend as Suzaku nodded in his end.

"You plan to escape with your group, huh." Suzaku concluded with sad smile. "I'll try to get a raft. I don't want to be the one to informed Nunnally that his brother died while I have the ability to save him."

"[I never would have asked for a better friend.]" With that, Lelouch hanged up.

Suzaku grunted loudly as he pocketed his phone.

Cecile noticing Suzaku's dejected expression approached him. "Is something wrong, Suzaku?" Cecile asked with a worried tone.

"Lady Cecile, Earl Aspund, could you two arrange a boat for me?" Suzaku pleaded as he looked at the two with pleading eyes. "A friend of mine is about to do something incredibly stupid and I'm not going to be the one to tell his sister that he died without me trying to save him." Suzaku explained with burning eyes.

(Scene Change)

Lelouch let out a frustrated breath as he hung-up before gazing at the bed on the room that they were resting in. Nina and the children were asleep in the bed, resting, for the ordeal had taken a lot out of them. In front of him on the other hand was his second favorite sibling, alive and breathing much to his relief. Lelouch had a hard time looking at her for the last time the two was in the same vicinity with each other; he buried a bullet on her heart, an act that still haunted him to this day.

"Lelouch, is that really you?" Euphemia asked her voice a bit shaky and her eyes teary as she touched the cheeks of his long lost brother.

Lelouch took a deep breath as a thoughtful look grace his face. "The first time we met was when I was five, there was a ball in Aries Villa and my mother told me to have dance with someone for courtesy sake. I shyly asked you to dance with me and when you agreed, I ended up twirling you around the ballroom. When Cornelia saw you and me dancing for the first time, she almost choked the life out of me." Lelouch noted with a small, sentimental smile.

That was all Euphemia needed, that was all the proof and evidence she needed to know that the person before her was her long, lost brother. She flung herself on Lelouch, enveloping him in a tight embraced.

"You're alive, you're actually alive." Euphemia exclaimed in pure happiness as tears of joy rolled down from her eyes.

Lelouch sighed sadly as he resisted the urged to embrace her. For god sakes, he killed her in his last lifetime and because of that, he still did not found the courage to actually look at her beautiful face.

"Don't tell anyone, not even Cornelia that Nunnally and I are still alive." Lelouch told her as Euphemia broke the embraced and stared at Lelouch in surprised.

"But why?" Euphemia asked, startled at Lelouch's request. "Sister Cornelia was greatly affected when she learned of your and Nunnally's death, she will be thrilled knowing that you two are still alive." Euphemia reasoned but Lelouch could only shake his head to a negative.

"Euphemia, there is a good reason why me and Nunnally have been in hiding for the past seven years." Lelouch told her before bringing his phone to his view. "But let's have a proper reunion after eliminating the threat of having several rifles pointed at us, shall we?" Lelouch invited as the map of the building appeared on his phone.

"Euphy," Lelouch called as he looked at the map with interest.

"Yes, Lulu?"

"Have you ever tried parachuting before?" Lelouch asked with a smile so demented that Euphemia shivered in fright.

(Scene Change)

Suzaku was currently sailing on a raft, using the setting sun as cover to avoid being detected. He was accompanied by Lloyd and Cecile who had insisted of coming with him, Cecile because she was worried about the young Warrant Officer and Lloyd just tagged along because he was bored.

"So your friend was able to save four hostages, what an impressive boy that guy must be." Lloyd commented as Suzaku was busy fidgeting.

"If something bad happens to him, I can never show my face in front of her sister for as long as I live." Suzaku muttered nervously, praying to every God known to man that his childhood friend lived through this unscratched.

"Don't worry Suzaku, we'll save them." Cecile assured him as she tried to comfort the young pilot.

"And if he dies, don't worry. I'll take care of the funeral and everything related to it." Lloyd offered with a voice and smile that made Cecile look at her partner with a disapproving expression.

"Lloyd tried to be sensitive for once. We are dealing with human lives here." Cecile lectured as Suzaku's phone rang once again. Suzaku instantly answered it.

"Talk to me, what's the situation there?" Suzaku asked nervously.

"[That boat is big enough, thanks Suzaku.]" Lelouch said in the other line.

"What floor are you guys in right now?" Suzaku asked as he gazed at the large building in front of him.

"[Twelve Stories from the ground.]" Lelouch answered with a certain edge in his voice. "[Bring the boat closer; at least be fifteen feet from the hotel.]" Lelouch instructed as Suzaku's eyes widen in confusion but nevertheless, followed the instruction of his friend.

"[Okay, is this close enough?]" Suzaku asked as Lloyd threw the anchor so that the raft will not be doing any unnecessary movements.

"Yes," Lelouch answered as he hung-up.

"What is your friend planning, Suzaku?" Lloyd asked curiously as he gazed at the hotel in front of them.

Suzaku shrugged as he wiped a nervous sweat. "I don't know but I hope it isn't too elaborated." Suzaku hoped but knowing Lelouch, it was highly unlikely.

His phone rang again before Lelouch's voice echoed in the raft. "[Suzaku how much weight could that raft sustain?]" Lelouch asked causing the three people aboard the raft to look at Suzaku's phone funny.

With a sigh, Suzaku spoke. "I'm almost afraid to ask but, why do you need to know that?"

"[Because I just threw two children and Euphemia off the balcony to your raft with only a makeshift parachute supporting them.]" Lelouch answered and Cecile instantly froze at the mention of the Third Princess of the Holly Britannian Empire.

"He threw WHO off WHAT?" Cecile shouted in fright as Suzaku looked up to see a pink blurred descending on to their raft in a control speed.

"What a resourceful guy he is, creating a parachute with just blankets." Lloyd complimented as they heard the princess shout.

"LOOK OUT BELOW." Euphemia yelled as the children in her arms scream in joy as Suzaku moved the raft a couple of inches forward. He then stood up, open his arms and welcome the Princess and the kids to his waiting arms.

"Again, again, again, again, let's do that again." The kids yelled as they clapped their hands in bliss.

Euphemia chuckled, feeling oddly calm as Suzaku's arms pulled her to the raft. "Maybe next time." Euphemia told thembreathlessly as Cecile rush to the princess's aid.

"You're Highness, are you okay? Are you injured" Cecile asked as she help Suzaku pulled the three to the raft.

"I'm fine, Lady Cecile." Euphemia assured her as she shifted her gazed on Suzaku, whom was still holding her in the form of an embrace. "Warrant Officer Suzaku, we meet again, similar to the way we first met." Euphemia greeted with a curt nod and gentle smile.

Suzaku smiled as well, unconsciously tightening his grip on her. "I'm honored that her highness remembered my name."

"Nonsense Suzaku, we do have two things in common now." Euphemia told him and Suzaku swore that his life had just gotten a lot more complicated. Their conversation was cut short when his phone rang again. Suzaku let go of the princess before answering the phone.

"[YOU IDIOT, THE PRINCESS COULD HAVE DIED?]" Suzaku yelled at his phone causing the children and Euphemia to flinch at the volume of his voice.

"[You think I will risk the princess with a half-ass plan, come on now, you know me better than that.]" Lelouch said, gleeful that his plan was success. "[I'm going to send Nina down so be prepare.]" Lelouch exclaimed as he hung-up.

(With Lelouch)

"Okay Nina," Lelouch was looking over the makeshift parachute that he made for their escape, checking it for any faults. "There is a Britannian rescue raft twelve stories down. This homemade Parachute would probably provide you with seven feet control fall before plunging into the water. That would give our rescuer enough time to prepare to catch you." Lelouch told her as he check for the stability of the parachute.

"Vice president," Nina mumbled as she looked at the twelve stories high drop. "I don't thing I can do this." Nina said in a fearful tone as she gazed at Lelouch with a frighten expression.

Lelouch shook his head as he gently caresses Nina's cheeks, slowly calming her down as her breathing slowed down considerably. "Be strong Nina, be strong, you can get through this, I know you can." Lelouch said as he slowly walk her out the balcony. "Just remember, jumped and pull the Parachute when you reach the tenth story." Lelouch instructed as Nina look petrified at how long the drop is going to be.

"Vice President, I can't." Nina whispered doubtfully as she felt a cold breeze went pass them.

Lelouch sighed in frustration as he cupped her chin and gently guided her head so that she was staring at him right on the eye. "Listen here Nina, you are going to jump and you are going to get rescued. We are not doing this because it's the fastest way out of this place but because we don't have a choice. Princess Cornelia will not make a move, not because she can't, but because her Sister is near ground zero." Lelouch explained to her calmly. "You need to get Princess Euphemia to safety in order for the rest of the hostages to live through this, do you understand me?"

"But President why me? Why are you trusting me with this?" Nina asked desperately as she shiver uncontrollably. "I'm weak." Nina added.

Lelouch groaned softly as he did the one thing that shock even himself. He reached the back of her head with his free hand before gently pulling her to a chaste kiss on the lips, something that caught Nina by surprised. That instantly stopped her shivering.

The kiss only lasted for a second as Lelouch pulled back and gazed at the dazed expression Nina had adorning her face. "Be strong and don't forget to use the Parachute." Lelouch advised as he gently pushed her off the balcony to the waiting arms of their rescuer.

Lelouch walked back inside the room before contacting his army. "C.C. are you guys in position?" Lelouch asked as he sat down to the lone bed in the room.

"Yes," C.C. answered, her voice sounding like the heavily modulated voice of Zero. "Do we leave that fool to you?"

"Of course, just let me put some finishing touches." Lelouch then took the phone that he has been using to contact Suzaku and dialed his number. "Suzaku, is Nina safe?" Lelouch asked, trying his best to sound concern. In the background, he was preparing his rifle.

"[She's fine Lelouch,]" Suzaku said with an assuring voice.

"That's good to hear, get her, the children, and the princess to safety. It seems that my escape route has been cut off." Lelouch said with a convincing bitter tone.

"[What are you talking about Lelouch?]" Suzaku asked confusedly. Lelouch answered by removing the phone from his ear and putting it near the rifle before firing several shots. He then put the phone back to its last position.

"They've found me." Lelouch answered, breathing heavily for added effect.

That cause Suzaku to react in a way that Lelouch expected. "[WHAT, LELOUCH GET THE HELL OUT OF THERE.]"

"I can't, the objects that I found only allowed me to make two Parachutes. It'll be suicide for me to jump at this height." Lelouch then let loose another barraged of gunshots. "Take Princess Euphemia and the rest to a safe location, I'll try to stay alive until rescue arrives." This time Lelouch was panting for breath as he tried to make it sound that he was shot.

"[Lelouch, are you okay? Oh my God, please tell me you didn't get shot.]" Suzuka was openly panicking now, evident to his tone of voice.

Lelouch almost chuckled, he was to naïve. "I'm fine, just get them to safety." Lelouch stated with a low tone.

"[I WON'T LEAVE YOU DAMN IT. HOW COULD I FACE NUNNALLY IF YOU DIE?]" Suzaku yelled frantically.

"LISTEN TO ME." Lelouch yelled as he fired another barrage of bullets. "Cornelia won't make a move until Euphemia is safe, that means if Euphemia is out of harm's way, then the rescue could finally take place. Her safety will result to the rescue of the hostages and mine." Lelouch fired another round of gunshot before hanging up.

Lelouch threw his head and laughed. "I should have been actor."

(With Suzaku)

"LELOUCH, LELOUCH, LEOUCH." Suzaku yelled repeatedly as the occupants in the raft froze when they heard the gun fire in the other line. The children that Lelouch save were crying in the arms of Cecile while she desperately tried to calm the two down. Euphemia was in the verged of tears, fearing that her brother would die for sure this time. Nina was almost in shock. Lloyd on the other shook his head.

"You heard the boy, let's get out of here." Lloyd said to them in a calm tone.

Suzaku and Nina spared the earl a glare at that. "You expect me to abandon my friend?" Suzaku asked in a dangerous subtle tone.

Lloyd shook his head as he smile. "The guy has a point; her highness won't make a move until the safety of her sister is ensure. So let's get her to safety before we jumped the gun." Lloyd said, being the voice of knowledge of the group, which was new to him. "And Princess, permission to launch my Lancelot." Lloyd asked earning him a whack across the head.

(Scene Change)

"Our demands have yet to be fulfilled." Kusakabe announced as he glared at all the Britannians present. "It seems that your Viceroy did not take me seriously. I'll have to remedy that." Kusakabe then motion the soldier to his right. The soldier nodded as he dragged the man nearest to him to his feet.

The man was dragged out of the room by three JLF soldiers while Kusakabe smirked sadistically. "Remember, you can only blame Princess Cornelia for this." Kusakabe said before a gunshot echoed in the corridor, startling the hostages in the process although Kusakabe frowned.

"Gunshot, I told those guys to throw the hostage off the roof." Kusakabe grunted as another gunshot echoed in the hallways, but this time, the bullet sailed through the room and connected to the guard stationed on the back, instantly killing him. That instantly caused the rest of the soldiers to ready their weapons while the hostages dived to floor, praying to God that they won't get shot.

"How did those damn Britannians get through our security?" Kusakabe wondered frantically as he drew his Katana. The soldiers that were surrounding the hostages then moved in front of the General, waiting for their attackers to make a move.

(With Lelouch)

"Kallen, are you sure you could do this?" Lelouch asked, now in his Magician outfit. In his hand was a sniper rifle.

Kallen smirked as she held her Katana, which Lelouch provided for her with her unique uniform, tightly. "Just cover me and I'll do the rest." Kallen assured him with a determine look in her eyes.

Lelouch nodded before smirking mischievously. "On a lighter note, you look good in that uniform." Lelouch complimented causing Kallen to blush. Kallen's uniform was a black, makeshift Kimono that embraced her in the right areas, showing off her curves. The kimono was large enough to cover the upper part of her body and her torso. The lower part of her uniform was a simple black boy shorts to not hinder her mobility, though it showed off her legs. A red stash was wrapped around the kimono on her stomach to in close the kimono. Over her uniform was a beautifully sewn red jacket. She was also wearing a red Visor.

(Kallen's uniform look similar to the outfit of Lacus Clyne when she Captained the Eternal in Gundam Seed.)

"I never thought you could sew." Kallen whispered, not even bothering to ask how he knew her three sizes as she charged towards the JLF soldiers and the hostages with incredible speed.

Lelouch shook his head as he gazed at the group behind him. "Will give her cover, remember. Aim your rifles high and avoid hitting the hostages." Lelouch instructed as the five men behind him nodded before taking aim.

(With Kusakabe)

The sight of a charging figure instantly causes the JLF soldiers to unload a barrage of bullets towards the charging figure. Kallen, with an amazing display of speed, agility, and grace was able to dodge every shot that was meant to kill her. Her allies behind her, then returned fire with their sniper rifle and thanks to the scope of the rifle, they were able to land a clear shot on the head of their targets. The ensuing chaos gave Kallen enough time to close the distance between her and the terrorist.

Kallen was not a novice when it comes to handling a sword; truth be told, she was quite proficient with a blade. With a quick draw, she was able to cut down the soldier in front of her and with a fluid motion; she began to systematically cut down the soldiers around her with ease. With a flicker of a wrist, she beheaded a soldier on her right and with a simple spin; she was able to deliver a heavy slash on the stomach on the charging soldier. A simple step, a sword thrust penetrated one of the soldiers heart, a simple side step, a diagonal slash cause the soldier to fall on his back, and with another spin, the head of the last soldier fell to the ground.

Kusakabe stared in fear as he gazed at the woman who had systematically killed seven armed soldiers with ease, with a katana off all things. He was about to take a hostage as a bargaining chip before he felt the barrel of a gun touching the back of his head. "General Kusakabe, I suggest you don't move." The voice of Zero echoed in the compact room as every hostage their look in awe and in fright at the man who killed Prince Clovis. Although, one question was prominent in their minds; Where the hell did he come from? He just appeared out of nowhere in the middle of the room, a pistol pointed at one of JLF's high ranking officer.

"Zero, where the hell did you come from?" Kusakabe asked as several men wearing black uniforms and a man wearing a white uniform entered the room, their weapons pointed at him. "Why are you doing this?" Kusakabe demanded as he whipped around, now looking at the vigilante with a glare even as the groans of his men filled the air, "You're an enemy of Britannia! Your face is plastered on every wanted board in the nation! You're just like us!"

Zero leaned in, his helmet's visor like a hawks as Kusakabe stared into its reflective black surface, the weight of the revolutionary's hidden, piercing gaze, freezing the man on his feet.

"I am nothing like you." Zero stated as he pulled the trigger of the pistol, blowing Kusakabe's cranium, his blood painting the floor red. After the deed was done, Zero walk off together with the figure who killed their captors with ease and the white robed figure who led the charge of the men that gave the three a salute.

"Move it people!" Ishida shouted at the hostages, the black clad rebel rushing into the room, gesturing with his free hand towards the exit of the room, while the other grasped at the sight of the assault rifle.

"If I may ask, who are you people?" Milly attempted to ask, hoping to get some answer, though she was a bit shaken at the sight of the aftermath of the slaughter that the woman left just moments ago.

"We are the Black Knights, under our leader, Zero. We are here to rescue you. Now please follow us." Inoue said in a professional voice. She didn't like the idea of risking their lives to free the Britannians here, but quite like her leader, she didn't either agree with attacking civilians either. She had a family of her own, Kallen and Lelouch had friends among the Britannians from Ashford Academy and according to them, most of them were rather decent people once you got to know them a bit.

"Wait," Shirley shouted as she wiped the tears off her eyes. "We got two of our friends that got separated from us, what about them?" Shirley asked with a worried expression.

"Don't concern yourself with them." Magician said as Lelouch gazed at Shirley. "A person named Lelouch Lamperouge was able to save four individuals right before we arrived, two women and two unnamed children. He is currently with some of our members as they treat his shoulder wound. He is unconscious." Lelouch, as Magician said as the three continue on their walk, missing the sight of a fainting Shirley.

(Scene Change)

"What the hell is happening there?" Cornelia wondered as she gazed at the hotel on top of her Gloucester. She might not show it but she was worried about her sister's faith. They were already past the deadline to fulfill the demands of the Terrorist but the said terrorist have yet to contact them. "What the hell is going on up there?"

"PRINCESS," Guilford yelled as he run towards her.

"Guilford, do we have news?" Cornelia inquired as she level the man with her regal stare.

Guilford took a second to regain his breath before a relieve smile adorned his face. "Milady, Princess Euphemia, she was able to escape, she is now safe." Guilford reported and instantly, Cornelia's eyes widen as she went down her Gloucester. She was about to approach her knight when Euphemia came to her view.

"Sister!" Euphemia yelled as Darlton escorted her to Cornelia. Cornelia instantly enveloped her into an embrace. For once in her life, Cornelia lost herself, for a moment that is.

"Euphemia," Cornelia spoke, finally regaining herself. "How did you escape?"

Euphemia, remembering the promised that she gave Lelouch that she will not tell Cornelia who saved her, took a deep breath. "A Britannian friend of Warrant Officer Kururugi was among the hostages. He was able to contact Warrant Officer Kururugi and arrange a subtle rescue for me and three others." Euphemia explained, trying her best to lie to her sister. "He knew who I am and he also knew that you won't make a move to save the hostages as long as I am present there." Euphemia added as a frown cross Cornelia's regal features.

"So Warrant Office Kururugi was able to save you." Cornelia's frown deepened at the mention of the honorary Britannian that was accused on the murder of her half-brother. "I appreciate his efforts but he should have contacted me. I could have saved the rest of the hostages if I know the way."

"Sister, our escape actually involved jumping off a twelve stories high balcony with only a makeshift parachute to guide us down and a rescue raft with three people manning it." Euphemia informed her and Guilford was fast enough to cover his ears as Cornelia yelled in outrage.

"YOU WHAT? YOU JUMPED OFF A TWELVE STORIES HIGH BLACONY, WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU THINKING?" Cornelia then whipped her attention and Guilford and Darlton. "GET ME THAT ELEVEN, NOW!" Cornelia roared and before the two could move, Euphemia stop them.

"Sister pleases, that was the only and fastest way out of there." Euphemia reasoned as she frowned at her sister. "Please don't punish Suzaku and his friend; they were just trying to save me." Euphemia pleaded with her sister with eyes that made Cornelia groaned. She can never resist those eyes.

"Fine, I won't kill them." Euphemia continue starring at her sister with narrow eyes. "Or maim them… or cripple them…or throw them to a prison cell…or throw them off a mountain…OKAY YOU WIN, I won't harm them." Cornelia muttered in defeat as a smile graced Euphemia's face.

'Now, I just need to convince her to send Suzaku to save Lelouch, and have him explain to me how he is still alive.' Euphemia thought but her pondering was cut off when several floors of the building exploded. The building collapsed and Euphemia's world went black as she could only stare in fear as the building where she last saw her brother crumbled to the ground.

"No," Euphemia whispered as she collapsed to her knees, a tear falling from her eyes.

(With Suzaku)

Suzaku almost collapsed as he witness the building crumbling to the ground. The men preparing of the Lancelot was halted as Suzaku dented concrete steel that was Lancelot's feet with a punch. "Lelouch, I failed you." He then collapsed to his knees, ignoring the screeching of Lloyd in the background

"Lelouch, Nunnally, I failed you both." Tears then fell from his eyes to the ground as Cecile approached him and tried to comfort him.

(Scene Change)

Behind the smoke that the rubble of the building was generating, a yacht and several life rafts were sailing across the lake. "So, who is going to deliver the speech, you or me?" C.C. asked as he gazed at Lelouch whom was wearing the Magician disguised.

"You of course," Lelouch told her in a whisper. "I may be the real Zero but for tonight, I will be Magician." Lelouch said as C.C. smiled before wearing the Mask of Zero.

"Very well then, is everything in place?"

"Yes,"

"Shall we begin?"

"Of course Cera," Lelouch whispered as C.C. took the stage.

As the smoke slowly clear, a yacht was shown in clear view and beside it were several rafts that were floating besides it. Cameras from different news casting station were now pointing their cameras at the rafts, revealing each and every one of the Britannians that the terrorist took as hostages, something that confused the Britannian Soldiers as they did not save them.

Suddenly, much of the confusion of every one watching their Television nationwide, including those present in the scene, there TV screen suddenly lost its reception before the face of Britannia's most wanted appeared on every Television in Japan, much to shock of everyone.

"Zero," Diethard mumbled in amazement as he glued his eyes on the screen.

"HOW IN THE HELL DID ZERO GET PASS OUR SECURITY?" Cornelia roared as her officials all cower.

"Zero, what is he doing here?" Suzaku wondered as he stared at the vigilante, temporarily forgetting the demised of his friend.

"My dear Britannians, have no fear. All of the hostages from the hotel are safe and sound. I, Zero return them to you unharmed." Zero proclaimed as the television screens worldwide saw the hostages onboard the life rafts that surround the yacht.

"There fine," Suzaku whispered as he tried to detect his friend.

"Of all the brazen audacity." Cornelia hissed as she shivered in anger. "If we attack you those people will quickly become your hostages, won't they?" Cornelia asked practically no one as she still wondered why Zero bothered in saving some Britannian Civilians.

"My dear Britannians, I come before you today as a man that took action against a scum that could be described as the personification of evil, a scum that endangered innocent lives for the sake of his worthless pride." Zero stated as the people around him listened to every word he say, hanging in every letter as they felt drawn to his charisma. "As I witness the hesitation of our Viceroy to act, I took matters in my own hands as I could not stomach the thought of innocent blood being spilled today, regardless if the Blood spilled will be a Britannian." Zero stopped there as he let the crowd drink every word he was uttering.

"So that's you game Zero." Cornelia snarled as she tried to control anger. "You're trying to discredit me in front of my subjects, how cowardly."

"Kill the video."

"I can't, it won't take my access code."

With a snap of Zero's fingers, the spotlight behind him erupted, revealing several men and women in black uniforms, each of them wearing a visor to hide their identities. Besides Zero were two figures with much more elegant clothing, a woman wearing a red jacket and a crimson visor mask and a figure wearing white, expensive robes while a white scarf covered half of his face and veil covering his hair.

"People, fear us, or rally behind us as you see fit. We are the Black Knights" Zero announced as the crowd and all over Japan began murmuring to themselves. It was quite ironic, enemy of the Empire calling themselves as knights.

"We of the Black Knights stand with all those who have no weapons to wield, regardless of whether they be Japanese, or Britannians." Zero emphasized the true name of the locals of the country for added effect, that and to endear the public.

"The Japan Liberation Front cowardly took innocent Britannian civilians hostage, to endear their pride. It was a wanton and meaningless act; therefore my knights and I have personally punished them." Zero voiced echoed in the country as most people watching the broadcast was now glued to their sit. "Just as Viceroy Clovis died in my hands for ordering the slaughter of countless unarmed Japanese." That proclamation instantly cause murmurs in the assembled crowd.

"We cannot and we refuse to standby and allow such cruelty to be carried out, and so we made Viceroy Clovis and General Kusakabe pay for their foolish actions. I will not repudiate battle on a fair and level field, but neither will I tolerate a one-sided massacre of the weak by the strong. The only ones who should kill are those who are prepared to be killed!" Zero emphasized the last words of his statement and even Cornelia agreed to those words, although begrudgingly.

"Wherever oppressors use their power to attack those who are powerless, we shall appear again, no matter how mighty, how formidable our foe may be. We shall continue to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves." Black smoke was then slowly rising from the yacht and was slowly covering the large boat, adding some dramatic and cinematic effects on his speach.

At the same time, the same thoughts went through the minds of all of his knights. They now understood what he meant when he call them the Knights of Justice. Most of the doubts they had had were dispelled as they understood just what Zero had meant. Their doubts on Zero and Lelouch had now vanish as they wordlessly agreed to trust the two with their lives at that moment.

"Those of you with power, fear us." He announced, his cloak blowing with the wind as hif left armd suddenly spread gesturing to one side.

"Those of you without it, rally behind us." Zero continued, his right hand mimicking the left one.

"We, the Black Knights, shall be the ones who stand in judgment of this world!" His final words echoed in the entire country as the white figure walk forwards, a staff in his/her hand.

"We shall be the one to break the never-ending cycle of hatred and pain." Magician proclaimed as with a benevolent voice.

Queen then walked besides him, her sword drawn as she impaled the grown beneath her. "And we shall bring the new age of peace in this war torn world." Queen finished as the black smoked enveloped them and the yacht.

And when the wind blew the smoke away, Zero and his companions were no longer to be seen as the yacht was now floating above water, the Japanese flag and the symbol of the Black Knights were the only things left. That stunt left everyone watching in awe and amazement.