A/N: I feel some explanations are in order. The geass used in this story, is from the spin off manga Nightmare of Nunnally. In which Lelouch does not get Absolute Obedience, instead he gets Absolute Invulnerability. Though it does not stop with the invulnerability since he has an arsenal of different abilities.
Since you've read the previous chapter, you know some of his abilities include a powerful cape which he uses to fight knightmares head on. His DOM ability which lets him control knightmares. If you think those are crazy and OP wait until you read further, when he truly becomes unstoppable.
I apologize to new readers. I thought only those who've read my previous story would read this. I did not think that others would begin reading, so sorry if the first chapter was vague and/or confusing.
Also Lelouch armor looks like Zero's outfit, but is simply buffed. Google it, and you'll see what I mean. The picture for this story is from Nightmare of Nunnally so use that as a reference.
Lelouch did not attend school the next day, and was gone before Sayoko awoke which surprised her. Lelouch was not one for early risings. Out of curiosity Sayoko "investigated" his room, wondering if he managed to properly pack for his trip, but found all his clothes remained. Seems he was not leaving yet.
Meanwhile said exiled Prince called upon his various contacts within the gambling ring. He was well informed of the dealings of the underworld due to the various nobles he defeated. He continued to gain more and more knowledge of the organized crime which plagued the Tokyo Settlement, but really he could do nothing about it until now. Creating a peaceful world for Nunnally, is not something which will come easy. Even with his newfound, demonic abilities he will not bring about world peace in a handful of days. Besides world peace was too much of an ignorant ideal. The world can never know peace, humans are far too selfish for such a trivial thing.
As it currently stands world peace would benefit no one since countries would not make money from the dealing of arms, and would need to actually pay attention to the prominent problems in their own countries. Something which many blatantly ignore. The world was built on war, humans strive for it; that is a basic fact of human history.
That is why, in order to truly bring about change, he would have to follow in the steps of his ancestors. Only through violence will he truly bring peace. But he must start small, for it is unknown how long it will take to achieve the perfect world for Nunnally to live in. He rather give her something now rather than nothing.
He will start with the Tokyo Concession and work from there, to eventually take all of Area 11. To make it a safe haven for those stuck in between the constant fighting. That was the first step in his grand scheme, and that is why he was going to meet with one of the most notorious gamblers in the city.
The Black King, as he likes to be called, ran the casinos of Tokyo, and was involved with the Mafia. Lelouch was no fool, no matter how much the Britannians believed themselves to live in a Britannia controlled Tokyo, he knew they were not the only one who controlled the settlement. Hell most of the Tokyo Settlement Police force was corrupted beyond belief, and were bribed to ignore the various illegal doings in the city. From the red-light district to the Refrain smuggling, the police let it pass.
As his cab pulled up to his destination, he eyed the very definition of a skyscraper. One of the biggest casinos in the Tokyo Settlement, Babel Tower.
The standard cab he rode in, was dwarfed by the luxurious limos, and sports cars which arrived at the palace like building.
"You sure this is your stop? You don't look old enough to gamble." The cab driver commented as Lelouch exited.
Lelouch didn't reply, and merely walked towards the entrance leaving the cabby to huff in annoyance before driving off. He noticed the weird looks he received, and for good reason since he was not in extravagant clothing like everyone else. He ignored them and headed into the building. As soon as he stepped through the threshold, he was stopped by a hefty man in a suit.
"Stop right there, kid. What do you think you're doing here? Shouldn't you be at school or something?" The man confronted him.
Lelouch merely gave him an impassive look, "I am here to challenge the Black King."
The bouncer stared at him with a bewildered expression, "Alright, enough with the jokes, kid. Just get out of here, and stop wasting my time." The man was growing irritated.
"I did not come here to speak with you. Just lead me to your boss, and you can get back to twiddling your thumbs." Lelouch retorted indifferently. By now more men in suits neared him, taking position behind their friend.
"Why you little punk...you should have left when you had the chance." The bouncer grabbed him by the collar, easily lifted Lelouch's frail frame. Lelouch remained uncaring which seemed to anger the bouncer more.
"Hey boys, what's going on over here." A slick and smooth voice cut through the tense situation causing the bounce to release Lelouch almost instantly. Managing to keep himself standing, Lelouch eyed the newcomer, and knew that this was his target.
With a face akin to a conceded nobleman, the Black King walked up to the guards surrounding the schoolboy. Trailing behind him were four woman, three of which were garbed in revealing clothing topped with bunny ears, while the fourth was dressed in a formal suit. She would pass as a man easily given her androgynous features, but her suit seems to fit a little tighter than it should, which revealed her sex due to her assets. Clearly Mr. King made her dress in a size smaller. "So many of you need to get rid of some brat. What am I paying you for?"
The men grew tense, and stood straight. The initial bouncer stepped up to explain, "Sorry boss, this brat's just running his mouth. He's no problem really."
Lelouch ignored the bouncer's babbling, and stepped out in front of him to face the Black King, "You are the Black King correct."
His opponent merely sneered, a smile creeping onto his face, "What does a kid like you want with me?"
Lelouch eyed him intensely, "I challenge you to a game of chess."
The Black King stared at him for a few seconds before releasing a loud and gruff laugh, "You got balls kid, but I don't think you realize the situation you're in."
"Are you scared?"
This caught the King's attention, his smile fading, "What?" He asked as if daring Lelouch to speak.
"Are you scared to lose to a kid like me. I understand, gotta keep reputation and all, but I thought you would pose a challenge, I heard you are very good at the game. Guess I was wrong." Lelouch faced many noblemen throughout his gambling career, and they were all proud, and easily swayed.
"You really know how to run your mouth. Fine I'll play you, but you should know I'm a gambler at heart, so you'll have to bet something that I would want." The King wore a face as if he won, but Lelouch expected this.
"If we could go somewhere private to play this game, then I will present my offer." Lelouch said.
The Black King's smile didn't leave his face, "What scared of a little crowd? Can't work well under pressure?"
"No, not that. I just thought you'd like to keep some dignity after I beat you. I doubt losing in front of so many people will be good for the image." Lelouch purposefully made his tone taunting and belittling. He was playing at every one of the Black King's attributes, from ignorant to pride to shady winnings. Rumors around the King's "mastery" of cheese usually involved some of his opponents mysteriously disappearing. One could assume those who beat him went missing.
The King took the bait, and soon Lelouch was led into an elevator surrounded by men in suits. The ride was quiet, but eventually they made it to the top floors. A penthouse for the Black King to relax in, possibly a permanent residence.
He was led into the main foyer where the King sat in a luxurious chair. In front of the blonde man was a table with the chess pieces ready, and another chair for Lelouch to sit in. The King's "bunnies" remained behind the gambler, their heads down with chains around their necks. Like slaves really.
Lelouch silently observed the room as he made his way over to his seat. He noted the guards at the doors, and how many their were. In total there were twelve suited men standing at the various exits, with guns most likely hidden within their blazers.
He sat down, and for the first time noticed how his pieces were white, and not black, "I usually play black." Lelouch commented offhandedly.
"Lets us get down to business shall we. What will you bet in this game." The King said completely ignoring Lelouch's comment.
Lelouch sat cross-legged and across from the older man, "Very well then. I offer myself. If I lose you can have me. Make me a slave, sell my organs, or whatever you choose."
"You mean when you lose...hmm...You don't look like you'll survive an hour in manual labor, and I don't swing that way so you won't be useful there either. I don't really need to sell organs, its more of a hassle really," King placed his hand on his chin in a thinking manner.
He then gave a sideways glance to the women behind him, "What do you think girls? How should I use this kid's body? Any thoughts?" The women remained silent, as per usual.
The King then turned to face Lelouch again, "Sorry kid, you're body isn't going to cut it. You'll have to give me more than that."
Lelouch figured as much. He leaned back in the comfy chair, and eyed the women with false interest, "You have a very interesting taste in women, Mr. King. All Elevens; rather unexpected from a Britannian."
King laughed, "Their an acquired taste. Besides, these Eleven women are easy to sway in terms of money. They'll do anything to leave that shit hole ghetto of theirs."
"I expected a noble of your status to have the finest Britannian women at his side, but given your...interests. I'm not even sure a Britannian escort would take the money...well not willingly anyway." Lelouch commented.
The King saw through the subtle implications, "What are you getting at?"
"Since my body is not enough how about I add another… a friend's." Lelouch gave the man a sly smile. Mimicking that of a traitor in the middle of giving away his ally's deepest secrets. The King was clearly interested as he signaled Lelouch to continue.
"You see, a man of your stature deserves more than mere Elevens. You need the best there is. Pure blooded Britannian, and my friend is just that." Lelouch proceed to reach inside his coat, the suited men went for their weapons, but the King calmed them with the raise of a hand.
Lelouch pulled out various photographs of one of his closes friends, and one of the most beautiful women he's ever met. He handed them to his opponent, seeing the eagerness in the man's smile.
Mr. King held the photos as if they were playing cards, observing the woman displayed. They were not lewd in anyway, and were pictures taken with her knowledge at events and parties, or at the council room among friends.
"She's Milly Ashford, a childhood friend of mine. She'll be turning 19 later this year, and as far as I'm concerned she's a virgin. Her grandfather is the chairman of Ashford Academy, but her parents don't do much as they are fallen nobility. They are more or less living off her grandfather's assets, as he managed to gain success without the need of his noble name, yet that doesn't mean they do not try to marry her to a nobleman to regain their status. Or if you prefer...illegal means, I can give you insight on her daily schedule, so if you wish to kidnap her, it would not be all that difficult. I can help you even, since she trusts me greatly. It would be easy to use me to lure her in, or to trick her. After all if you win, I'm your slave." Lelouch spoke without a single emotion. He sat calmly in his seat, waiting for the King's response. In reality, he didn't need to play the chess game to further his plans, all he need do is kill the King which is easier than this ploy. Yet he needed information on the criminal underground, and he needed his plan to play out to raise his chances of succeeding in his overall plan.
The King eyed him, clearly looking for a lie or sign of regret. He only smiled when he found none, "You are a cold son of a bitch. Betting away your childhood friend, and all to play a simple game of chess, but fine I'll take it, but be ready to have a part in your little friend's kidnapping. I'm not one for consensual means, it just isn't fun. Your little friend here," Mr. King held up one of the pictures, on it Milly dressed as a witch from last year's Halloween party, "I'm sure she'll be a hell of a time!"
Mr. King followed his perverse comments with a loud laughter, "Well then let us get this over with. I'm eager to catch this bunny."
"Before we do...shouldn't you bet something in return?" Lelouch commented.
"What's the point? Unless you really think you'll win." King inquired dangerously.
Lelouch could hear the underlying threat, "Even if by some miracle, I did win, I doubt you'd let me go. So with that that in mind, why don't you humor me?"
King looked him up and down before shrugging, "Fine, I'll humor you. I don't know what a kid like you would want, so name your price."
Lelouch put on a pondering expression, and eyed the room around him, "How about this building? No...how about all of your casinos, I'm sure that would satisfy me."
"All the casinos in Tokyo for two slaves? That is nowhere near fare." King commented.
"Does it really matter? I'm going to lose either way, so let a young schoolboy like me dream, as my last act of freedom." Lelouch feigned innocence.
"I could just take you now. Torture you to get what I want." King pointed out.
"Will your pride as a nobleman and chess player let you?" Lelouch replied.
King's eyes narrowed in annoyance before he placed his hand on one of his pawns, "Let us finish this quickly." He made his first move, it was simple and usual. A move which reflected Mr. King's ignorance.
Lelouch placed his hand on his King, garnering the attention of the man across him.
"Starting with the King?"
Lelouch held said piece in his hand, "You are a firm believer of "survival of the fittest", are you not?" It was rhetorical, so Lelouch continued without hearing an answer, "Chess is no different. A king must lead his forces with sword in hand, to prove himself worthy of their loyalty. Expecting them to follow blindly can only be described as idiocy. I'm sure you are well acquitted with such ideals given your expansive business. Someone of you caliber must hold great loyalty from your little secret service."
"As long as you show them their place, then they'll be the most loyal of dogs." Mr. King continued the game, still believing himself to have already won.
"Then you won't mind if I take them from you." Lelouch replied mysteriously as he nonchalantly continued the game.
It was quick, as the Black King wanted it, but said gambler merely stared at the board in stunned silence. Lelouch beat him, seemingly flawlessly. The exiled prince sat casually in his seat, waiting for his opponent to speak.
He noted the various guards around the room had their hands inside their jacks or at their waists, clearly waiting for the word to gun him down.
It was the King who held him at gun point first before his men followed. He was surrounded by guns, and he was moments from before being shot.
"Well kid, usually I'm a man of my word, but I can't stand cheaters like you." King held no malice, but was clearly speaking in a sarcastic and ignorant tone.
"Since you cheated, its only fair that you forfeit thus I win you and your friend here." King smiled evilly.
"Rather pathetic aren't you?" Lelouch commented, successfully ridding King's face of a smile.
"What did you say?" King asked dangerously.
"This is why most Britannian noblemen are so undeserving of their titles. Merely because they have an "important" name, they believe themselves superior, and you are a great example of one of many whom are nothing but the filth they oppose. Black King you are very unworthy of your power, and even more so, are unworthy to live within the same world as the one I hold dear. Thus I shall start my renovation of this settlement by taking out the trash." Lelouch's tone grew more and more spiteful and venomous. He stood silently from his chair, and remained nonchalant as King's guards stepped forward with their guns still aimed.
Without another word, Lelouch activated his geass. In less than a second his body was covered in his obsidian armor, and he heard the sound of multiple weapons firing. He mentally controlled his cape to extend circularly around him, cutting through the enemies closest to him. Due to the Black King's seated position he was decapitated while his men were cut through horizontally. Those few guards who were out of reach realized their dire situation and attempted to run, but were impaled the moment they stood.
In mere seconds, through various screams, and gory deaths, the room was covered in blood and entrails. The cape reformed and fit tightly around Lelouch's armored form; shrouding him in the black cloth. He looked at his work, noticing how a spot of blood made its way to his helmet, slightly obscuring his view, but otherwise being nothing more than a nuisance. He turned to the other occupants in the room, the four woman managed to duck and clutch their heads in defense from him.
He stepped around the table, and chairs to face them without disruption. The resounding noise of his grieves hitting the floor seemed to bring them out of their protective state, and into one of fear.
"You needn't worry," He spoke, his modulated voice drawing their attention, "I will not hurt you." He attempted to calm the frightened women, and it seemed to work on one of them.
It was the same woman from before who dressed in a three button suit. If Lelouch had to describe her in a single word, it would be elegant. She had a certain beauty to her which can only be described as such, but not in the way only woman can have. She also wore a very princely appearance, akin to his own, and their androgynous features merely added to that. Lelouch could safely say if "she" was a "he", then he'd rival a Britannian prince's beauty.
"You are King's assistant?" He assumed as much given her appearance and attire, but again King probably had more fetishes than he should know.
"More like secretary. Mr. King worked me nonstop with his scheduling, and at times with his accounting." She said exasperated yet respectful.
Lelouch grew curious at her tone, "I would expect you to be spitting on his corpse from what he's done to you. Then again, I am assuming, given your ethnicity."
"Don't get me wrong," She started as she pulled out a set of keys, and headed to the three bunny girls, "He was a son of a bitch in every meaning, and I was lucky. I started like them," She motioned to the three woman, "As one of his gimmicks, his toy, but one day he found out I was good with numbers, and thought he'd test me. It was an attempt to humiliate me really, to prove to no one but himself that Elevens are all idiots, especially the woman. Little did he know I was an accountant before the war. He then threw a tight suit on me, and decided to work me to death. Probably pay back for proving him wrong." She finished releasing the three chained girls who could only look at her in reverence.
"Then why speak with such respect?" Lelouch questioned.
"Force of habit? Maybe I share some gratefulness for his unsavory behavior. In a weird and twisted way, he kept me from death, and I guess I'm inwardly thankful, even if a little." She explained.
"You don't seem fazed by me." Lelouch commented. The three other women eyed him warily, but were to afraid to question his unnatural appearance.
She eyed his armored form up and down before shrugging, "There is no point in being scared of you, since it would do nothing. Besides if you wanted to kill us, we would be dead already. As to how you managed to make armor appear out of thin air, I rather refrain from thinking too much. Somethings should remain a mystery. Though that does raise the question of why you went through this little show. Why bother waste your time with the chess game if you could kill him at any time?"
Lelouch pondered before speaking, "Honestly, I was going to dig for information. I know King is not the head of the criminal underground, so I wished to probe him for information of the other leaders. After witnessing his arrogant attitude firsthand, I grew annoyed and let my emotions get to me. I thought humiliating him would be best before killing him, and completely forgot about asking him questions. Thus we arrive at our next question, if you were his assistant, is it safe to assume you are informed of his criminal dealings."
She stared at him, weighing her options, and as she viewed her own reflection on his indigo visor she moved some stray locks away from her eyes before she facing him confidently, "You seem like a fair guy, so I'll tell you what I know if you help us." She finished, and to herself and the other three.
Behind his helmet, Lelouch raised a brow but pressed on, "What do you want? Money?"
She shook her head, "Money can only last so long. What I want, not for myself really since I have the fortune of being an Honorary Britannian, but for these three. Since you just killed their only employment, and I doubt they want to go back to the ghettos."
He looked over the three who flinched under his emotionless gaze, "With you it would be easy, but it would be difficult to find any work other than maids, and that is putting it mildly. I may have connections, but even they are burdened with Britannia's expectations."
"I'm sure even that is better than living in slums. We don't have family anymore, so we only care for ourselves." One of the bunny girls spoke up.
"Very well then. After the police shut this place down, go to Ashford Academy, I'll be sure to talk with the headmaster." He explained.
He received nods, and then refocused his attention on the silently elected leader of the four, "We'll meet then. I hope my identity shall remain a secret."
She shrugged, "Not my place to stop your little charade. As long as our end of the deal is met then I'll tell you what you want."
"Good, then forgive me, but I must ask for a favor. The surveillance cameras of Babel Tower, I need their memory to be erased, and I hope you know how to do so." Lelouch questioned, waiting for confirmation or denial.
She nodded calmly, "I'll see what I can do."
With a confirming nod from both parties, their new "partnership" was made, and Lelouch exited the penthouse via a private elevator. He walked out of the tower without a care in the world.
Vermilion Forbidden City, Chinese Federation.
Within the grand palace of the Chinese Empress, inside a designated council room sat nine men, eight of which were dressed in identical attire.
The eight were the High Eunuchs, the true rulers of China who through corruption and manipulation lived like gods while their people suffered, and all while using the true Tianzi, The Empress, as a puppet for their selfish doings.
The ninth member of the group was of Japanese decent, a sharply dressed man who was balding. The former chief cabinet secretary of Prime Minister's Kururugi's administration, Atsushi Sawazaki sat among the Eunuchs with a serious expression. He heard them talk back and forth growing more excited as they thought of their plans.
"Gao Hai, there is no way to prove what you say is true!" One of the Eunuchs, a bigger man named Zhao Hao argued.
"I assure all of you, the spies within Area 11 were never wrong. Clovis La Britannia is dead, and the government is in shambles trying to appoint someone to lead until a new viceroy is announced. Now is the time to strike." Gao Hai stated calmly his features almost resembling a fox.
"That could work, and with Sawazaki's men inside already, we can use them for a distraction. Originally we planned to take Kyushu, but now we'd be idiots not to attack Tokyo." The bespectacled Eunuch Xia Wang agreed.
They all turned to the suited man, "Sawazaki, can your men get into the settlement for a distraction."
The Japanese man pondered for a moment, "Kusakabe is willing to give his life for the liberation of Japan, but even he would refuse such a suicidal mission." He reasoned.
Gao Hai smiled, "That is why I propose a different idea," He drew the attention of his peers, "We send a third party, someone who would easily take on such a mission...for a price that is."
Sawazaki's eyes narrowed, "You aren't referring to that..."
Gao Hai merely nodded, "I'm sure this mission would be perfect for Peace Mark. As long as we pay them a good enough sum and have just intentions they'll help us. This is the liberation of Japan, so it falls into their jurisdiction."
"Even if we get Peace Mark to send in men, a simple terrorist attack will not be enough to distract the Britannian forces. Even without leadership, they still have a powerful defense. Not to mention their automatic radar and artillery. The second those systems spot our forces, all of Area 11 will be aware." Cheng Zhong argued.
"That makes it easier for us. The thing about the modern era is the use of automatic systems. Nothing is controlled by man anymore, thus these computer controlled radars and artillery canons can easily be overwritten by the right man. Hell, even an EMP could shut them down momentarily. These weapons are a great asset to those who wield them, but the problem rises when the enemy gets the key." Gao Hai explained. His fellow Eunuchs thought over the plan, trying to find faults.
"Where would we launch from? Eliminating Area 11's defense is one thing, but actually getting to Tokyo Bay is another." Another member Cai Lishi questioned.
"We'll depart from Taipei, and keep a distance from Area 11 until we get word. Then we'll charge straight into Tokyo Bay. If all goes well, and we time it correctly then we should be near Tokyo when the systems go down. The time is now, we must strike before another Viceroy arrives." Gao answered flawlessly.
The other occupants saw no reason to argue.
St. Gallen, Switzerland
In a calm park within St. Gallen, sat two men back to back on adjacent benches. One casually looked through his phone while the other enjoyed the nature around him.
"Wizard's got a mission for you." The capped man spoke first. His face was hidden behind his rimmed hat, and collared trench coat.
"A specific mission for me? Must be something important." The other replied. He was younger than his acquaintance, and was dressed casually, not trying to hide his features.
"He got a request from the Japanese Liberation Front. Apparently they plan to take back Tokyo. They asked for someone to get inside and take down the automated defense systems, and want several bombs to be planted throughout the city to act as a distraction."
The younger of the two leaned forward, and rested his arms on his lap, "That is not going to be easy, and Wizard knows this. Why would he ask a single man to do it alone?"
The coated man grumbled, "Stop being a smart ass, you know why he's asking you, and don't worry about the explosives you'll receive them once you get to Area 11." The coated man then pulled a folder from his coat, and held it up behind him.
"Here is more info, along with a passport and plane ticket, and the hotel you're staying in. Your plane leaves from Gallen-Altenrhein Airport, tonight, so try not to be late. Catch ya later, Oz." With that the man stood and walked away, leaving Oz to scan over the information.
His green eyes looked over the additional information, "A Colonel with an addiction to the Red Light district. Wizard makes this too easy."
Two Days Later
After his game against the The Black King, Lelouch returned home to face Nunnally's wrath. It took a bit of reasoning, but he managed to calm her down eventually. So he returned to school the day after, and received several smacks to the head by Milly's rolled up magazine. Not to mention the angry lecture he received from both Shirley and Milly and to an extent Rivalz who was mad Lelouch didn't tell him about his plans to ditch school.
Other than the usual banter, the council continued life as usual, but Lelouch had a deal to uphold, so he met with Milly's grandfather, Ruben K. Ashford, the headmaster of Ashford Academy. Through some lies and vague explanations, he convinced the headmaster to give the four Elevens employment. The day went on without much happening, and the government had yet to announce Clovis's death which meant they were covering it up for a reason. That reason most likely being him.
The next day he heard of a new hire among the staff, and smiled, "Mr. Ashford sure works fast." He thought as he continued about his day.
It was his lunch break, so he decided to head to the roof for some peace and quiet. Luckily he was met with a familiar face.
"You know Ashford is a tobacco free zone." He caught her red handed. She glanced back, and spotted him.
"I had a feeling I would run into you here. Strange to think a student like you took out Mr. King." She commented as she released a plume of smoke before crushing her cigarette.
"So come for that information already?" She asked.
He walked to the edge where she was, and casually leaned on the railing like her, "The lunch hour is too short for an in dept discussion of Tokyo's organized crime, so I'll settle with your name, and the names of the other mafia leaders."
She didn't even spare him a glance, "Jun Hirabayashi, at your service," She gave a mock salute, "Also shouldn't call it a "mafia". Tokyo's organized crime is nothing more than five people with a little power. Well four now that King is dead."
"You seem rather different from when we first met. I assume this is the real you?" Lelouch commented on her laid back attitude.
"An aftereffect of being King's slave for six years. It was only yesterday I realized I didn't have to be the "Yes, Mr. King" type anymore." Jun replied.
"Makes sense, as for the leaders?" Lelouch asked.
"You said it yourself kid, this lunch hour is not long enough for the information, but I will give you a name. Florenza Eide, if you wanna take out the crime in Tokyo, start with her. She leads the smuggling of illegal weapons, and is the one who pays off the police. She's the most vital among the four, since she's the one they get their weapons from. Take her out, and Tokyo's crime will take a severe hit." Jun casually explained.
"Would it be too much to expect you to know where in Tokyo she is?" Lelouch tested his luck.
Jun shook her head, "I only know what Mr. King knew, and I assure you none of the five trusted each other enough to reveal their hideouts."
Lelouch cursed his luck before pushing himself off the railing, "Well would there be someone who knows where Florenza Eide is hiding?"
Jun fell silent for a few seconds, "Jeremy Rye, the leader of the drug circle. I remember King talking about a rumor that they were in a secret relationship. He oversees Refrain shipments at Yokosuka, and that's all I know."
Lelouch nodded, content with the information, "It's a lead." He walked away from the roof's edge, and went on with his day.
He entered the council meeting room, and saw Milly, Shirley, and as always the quiet Nina. He grabbed his school bag, placing all his council papers inside. Obviously this did not go unnoticed by Milly and Shirley.
"Going somewhere Lulu?" Milly asked. Her smile never leaving her face.
Lelouch finished putting away his various papers, and held his satchel in one hand before facing her, "I've things to do today, so I'll be skipping club activities. I'll finish up the reports, so you needn't nag me."
"Before you go, Shirley seems to have something to ask you." Milly stated bluntly causing said girl to scream out in embarrassment.
"President!" Shirley shouted.
"What? I just thought he'd like to know is all." Milly replied innocently.
Lelouch turned to Shirley who, after turning to face his gaze, grew red. She quickly averted her gaze, and shifted nervously in her seat. Her face was clearly very red, but she still attempted to hide her embarrassment.
"Shirley, is something wrong?"
Lelouch's voice startled her, but she focused her gaze on him again, but quickly looked down again.
"Umm, well...my father gave me two tickets for a concert today. I was just wondering, if you...you know...wanted to go...with me that is. You don't have to! I just though you might like it." Shirley never stopped poking her index fingers together as she expressed her desire.
Lelouch stared at the flustered girl silently, and planned to reject the offer. Not that he held anything against her, in fact Shirley was nothing but kind to him, yet he was not one for sudden acts of romantic advancement. Well at least not now, especially not now. Believing his mind was made up he began formulating the best words of rejection when his eyes caught sight of the girl behind Shirley.
The president was always one to get what she wanted, and men seemed to easily fall for her tricks, but he thought himself immune to her charming ways. Now do not misunderstand Lelouch, for he knew the beauty that was Milly Ashford, and could appreciate her clever use of her natural skill set. Yet now as he looked passed the flustered girl to meet eyes with the council president, he found that none of her usual tactics were used. Milly knew the kinder of her "particular set of skills" was lost on him after so many years of facing them, so she drew upon the another skill she has mastered. Something which his sister used against him rather frequently, and always stopped him in his tracks.
The utter look of disappointment. Something which no person ever wanted, to be the target of another human's disappointment, especially someone held dear. Milly mastered this skill to the very letter, and he soon found himself rethinking his initial answer.
Releasing a small, but audible sigh, he refocused his view on the flustered girl in front of him. Clearly this took great courage for her to do, and he could respect the effort. So he decided now was the time to do the decent thing.
Putting on the best smile he had, he accepted Shirley's request which surprised her more than anything.
"Are you sure? You don't have to go, if you don't want to. I know your a busy person, and I wouldn't want to take you away from Nunnally." Shirley found her self oddly giving reasons for him not to go which flattered him in an odd way.
"It's fine Shirley, I've made up my mind. I'm sure Nunnally would understand." Lelouch tried his best to reassure the nervous girl.
Hearing his defense, Shirley tried her best to hide her growing smile, "If you are absolutely sure then...I guess we'll meet up at the concert hall," She pulled one ticket from the envelope they were stored.
He took it, looking over the ticket idly, seems the concert was from 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., "Very well then it's a date." He commented without a second thought. Seems he made Shirley realize what was happening.
With a blush across her face, she hurriedly dismissed herself, and ran out of the room.
Milly sighed rather audibly, "You had to say the D-word."
Lelouch looked at her incredulously, "Please don't make this lewd."
Oz sat in the back seat of a cab as he quietly though over his mission. He arrived in Area 11 yesterday, and found his room filled with the equipment he'd need. Various pieces of C4, a suppressed pistol, map of Tokyo implanted in an untraceable cellphone, and a credit card under his fake name Oscar Zachery. He spent the entire night yesterday placing the various explosives throughout the Settlement. He placed them in random places, but made sure to hit specific landmarks, such as the Britannian Victory Memorial Center, the concert hall, and Ashford Academy.
Given he also made sure each explosive was placed somewhere vacant at the time of detonation. His orders were cause a distraction, not to massacre innocent people. Although he belonged to a terrorist organization, Peace Mark had a goal, and that was liberating the oppressed. Yet he knew not all Britannians were the oppressors, so he rather keep himself from becoming a mass murderer.
He was brought from his thoughts after hearing the driver grunt in annoyance, facing forward he noticed how dense traffic suddenly caught. He'd hope to beat rush hour, but his calculation were wrong. Then he saw the various police vehicles passing with a single black car in the center, "A police escort? To go to the Red Light District? What an asshole." Oz thought as he opened the cab's door.
"Hey! We aren't there yet!" The driver shouted.
Oz looked through the window, "It's alright, I'll get off here, keep the change for the rest."
"Wait kid! Isn't this the Red Light District?" The driver questioned.
Oz merely smiled, and walked onto the sidewalk.
The driver watched him walk away, and mumbled something like, "Kids these days...first the kid at Babel Tower, now this!" He stated exasperated.
Oz made his way through the Red Light District which was several streets of love hotels, strip clubs, pornography stores, and brothels. He had three hours until the designated detonation time, which was 11:00 p.m. on the dot. So he made his way to his target's favorite brothel.
The police convoy departed a few streets away, and Colonel Alan Spencer stepped out of his luxurious car, his sights set on his favorite brothel. Even with a transport, traffic was hell, so he arrived a little later than usual, so he was eager to see his favorite girl.
The moment he stepped through the door, he was greeted by the various women. After all he frequently came here as a pass time.
"Colonel Spencer, Jessie is waiting in your usual room." The "receptionist" told him. He gave a two fingered salute and headed towards his usual room.
When he entered he saw his favorite whore, in all her glory, so he closed the door, and locked it behind him, "Sorry, I'm late dear." He stated as he removed his uniform, and headed to the bathroom to ready himself. Opening the door he was shocked to see a tied up, unconscious woman. What shocked him most was that the tied up woman was Jessie, his usual escort. He turned around to face the impostor, but faced the barrel of a gun instead. His life ended when the impostor pulled the trigger.
As soon as Spencer hit the ground, the impostor's disguise faded, revealing Oz. His left eye glowed bright red with a familiar bird-like symbol. The blond knelt down, and begun digging through Spencer's coat. He found the Colonel's ID and car keys.
"No matter the addiction, it will always ruin you in the end." Oz commented as he stood and glanced at his watch.
"8:37. I've got time, but I should start heading to the palace. Then I'll wait for my geass to reactivate." Oz put the keys and ID inside his pants pocket, and hid his gun within his jacket. He casually walked out of the room, making sure to place the "do not disturb" sign before walking out of the brothel. With the Colonel's keys he found the car, and entered it.
He checked his watch again, "8:49. Damn, maybe I shouldn't have used my geass back there." He then shook his hid to rid himself of doubt. He turned on the car, and began driving towards the Palace. It should be at least a 30 minute drive, and that is not including traffic.
The drive to the palace was relaxing to say the least, and due to traffic took longer than expected, but he was okay with that since he need his geass to get passed the entrance checkpoint.
It was now 9:30. Seven more minutes and his geass would be active again, so he waited patiently inside the parked car, the palace entrance in clear view from where he sat.
The time came, and he took a deep breath. He turned on the car once again, and headed to the entrance. He needed to maximize his geass duration, so he crept up on the entrance, waiting for the guards to step up, luckily Spencer's car had tinted windows, and it was nighttime so it made it harder for them to see him. He was at the gates, and the guard noticed the car.
He came out to greet him, so Oz lowered the window just as he activated his geass.
5:00 minutes, counting down.
"Colonel Spencer," The guard gave a salute, "It is rare for you come back after departing for your... activities. Is something wrong?"
"Does there need to be something wrong? I just wanted to come back to the Palace for reasons that are my own. Open the gate Lieutenant." Oz skillfully mimicked Alan Spencer's speech and mannerisms. Such was the power of his geass, the Absolute Transformation.
4:24
"Of course sir, sorry for assuming." The Lieutenant gave another solute, and went to his booth to open the gate. With the gates opened "Alan Spencer" drove through and headed to the fortress that was the Viceroy Palace.
3:11
The road leading to the actual palace was a long stretch, and led directly to the main entrance, but there was a parting when nearing the building. The VIP entrance was down the second road, and was usually where only the Viceroy entered, but there was no Viceroy thus the security would be far less than the main entrance.
2:03
He could see the entrance down the road, and knew his geass would not last, so he readied his suppressed gun, and the new device given to him by Wizard.
0:00. Geass deactivated. 9:42 p.m.
He pulled up at the entrance, and grew relieved that only two guards were standing outside the doors. As they noticed his car pull up, he activated the new gadget, and hoped it worked as Wizard stated. Luckily it did. A short range EMP grenade which managed to take out nearby cameras and radios. Though it had a duration, so he needed to act quickly.
Without a second thought, Oz parked the car, and rushed out. The guards were caught off guard by the sudden action. Oz killed the closest with a shot through the head while the other managed to fire of a few shots. They missed, and Oz didn't hesitate to put a bullet in the guard's head. Peaking inside the entrance, he saw no other guards, and no one seemed to hear the guard's weapon go off, so he quickly acted.
He hid the bodies inside the car before stripping one, and disguising himself in the guard uniform. Hiding his pistol and spare EMP grenades in his coat, he made his way inside. His destination being the main command center for radar and automatic defenses.
The palace was like a maze, he determined, and if it wasn't for signs indicating his location he would have surely gotten lost. So far he was quietly making his way to the communication room. He went up several elevators, casually passed by other Britannians, but otherwise slipped through the hallways without much worry. It took him nearly 40 minutes, but he made it eventually. As he stood a few feet away from the door, he activated an EMP grenade and took out the cameras within the vicinity.
Pulling out his pistol, he used the security card he took from Spencer, and opened the door. Inside he was met with five soldiers, all who sat at various monitors and displays. Rushing inside before they realized he wasn't one of them. He quickly disposed of the five before they grabbed their weapons.
Locking the door behind him, he rushed to the various computers, and displays. Looking for the right one.
"First I need to shut down all military communications." Oz thought as he went through the various systems, and found what he needed. Shutting off Tokyo's communications with the outside world before proceeding with the rest.
"Radar...automatic defense weaponry…alarms...what else…?" Oz took down the various systems one by one, going through the imaginary check list inside his head.
"Palace defense systems...done. Alright now to get out of here before the cameras come back." Having finished his mission, Oz ran towards the door, and quickly opened it. He froze as he came face to face with another soldier. They both stared at each other momentarily waiting for the other to make a move. Akin to a quick draw, Oz and the soldier went for their weapons, and Oz came out victorious. A precise shot to the gut, forced the man down.
He jumped over the corpse, and ran as fast as he could. As he ran he looked down at his watch. It was 10:24. He needed to get back to the car, and detonate the bombs. Although he found himself sprinting, his momentum had to come to a halt whenever he came across other soldiers. He constantly kept an eye on his watch, and grew nervous.
He was still a ways away, and only had 12 minutes left. If it came to it, he would need to detonate while still inside the palace which would hinder him as he would be stuck due to the city chaos.
He entered one final elevator which should take him down to street level, but he glanced at the clock. 10:55, there was no way he would make it to the car by 11. Hell this elevator ride was taking a long enough time, so he waited calmly in the elevator. His hand brushed over the detonator hidden in his pocket. The ding of the elevator stopping, and the door opened. He looked at his watch once more, 10:59. He waited, and then the number changed.
11:00 p.m.
He pulled out the detonator flipped the cap, and pressed the button.
Tokyo Concert Hall, 10:40 p.m.
The concert hall entrance was flooded with various people. Among those people walked Shirley and Lelouch.
"I enjoyed it. Shame it was late though." Shirley commented as they continued walking.
"Listening to classical music live is quite the experience. Though having the conductor be late to his own concert is rather unprofessional." Lelouch replied.
"It wasn't his fault, you heard his explanation. Some sort of police escort held up traffic. I wonder if it was Prince Clovis." Shirley suggested.
Lelouch inwardly scoffed at that, "I highly doubt that. It still doesn't excuse the concert running an hour longer than it should.
Shirley grew quiet at his complaint, and said nothing as they continued walking. Lelouch pulled out his phone, having needing to silent it during the concert, he had yet to check if Sayoko called him to question his tardiness.
It was a few minutes until 11, and he received no missed calls so he put away his phone once again. They reached the road, and Lelouch hailed a cab, "Do you want to ride with me Shirley?" He asked.
She silently shook her head, "No thanks, my dad told me he'll pick me up, so I can wait. Thank you for coming, Lulu, it means a lot." She gave him a vibrant smile.
He smiled back, "I know I was complaining, but I did have a good time. It was relaxing for a change." After a second of awkward silence, Shirley turned and walked in the opposite direction. Lelouch couldn't help but watch her go for a few seconds.
Honestly he did have a swell time. Shirley was quite possibly one of the kindest people he knew (next to his sister, of course), and spending time with her was nothing short of enjoyable. Though he knew he could not return her feelings, especially not now. She deserved a lot better than he what he could offer.
A loud ding sounded off, signaling the new hour. It came from the large clock atop the concert hall. Though that was not the only sound he heard. He focused on the girl in front of him, and could see something blinking in the bushes beside her.
He didn't know what it was that made him realize it was a bomb, but he didn't hesitate. The world slowed to a near stop, and he activated his geass. Hos hand extended forward as if reaching for Shirley.
"Shirley!" He shouted as he extended his cape towards her. It reached her, but did not completely cover her. Even with his power he knew he could not cover her entirely, but his mind was only focused on saving the girl a few feet away. His geass followed his very will, so when he though to save the girl, his cape extended to cover her, but even such an illogical ability could not do the impossible. Time was something he could not defeat, and his cape will not make to cover her entirely. He wished to save Shirley with everything he had, and his geass heard his pleas to grant his wish.
A/N: Oz is a real character, and his geass allows him to take on the form of anyone he chooses. Though it is burdened with its 5 minute duration, and 1 hour buffer period between usages.
Thanks for reading.