Chapter 39: Between the Dance Floor and the Ditch
Recap: The invasion of Japan continues...
On the ground, local assistance to the invaders varied widely by region, depending on a multitude of factors which have been analyzed at length but have failed to adequately explain notable events. One common theory is that Elevens are naturally predisposed to rebellion and will take any opportunity to undermine Britannia. Yet under this framework, how does one explain the actions of Haru Watanabe, a regular Eleven, not even an Honorary Britannian, who joined the Blood of the Samurai forces in Chiba? Upon encountering Britannian troops when crossing into Funabashi, he opened fire on his own people. Afterwards, he took his own life, making it near impossible to discern motive. While most notable for the dramatic fashion in which Watanabe helped Britannian forces, he was not the only. The Japanese Liberation Front publicly sided with Britannia to expel the invaders instead of using the situation to their advantage.
The far northern and southern regions had the highest proportion of local assistance. While Northern parts were generally more friendly to the invaders they were significantly less likely to engage in violence. The southern regions though, while less homogenous, were significantly more likely to engage in brutality. In the north, POWs were treated fairly, but in the south, the opposite held true as is documented in the case of the second youngest son of the Lytton family. While he was eventually ransomed back to his family, the men under his command were brutalized and had their bodies returned to Britannia by dumping them in the sea. I suspect the south was radicalized due to the Burning of Kagoshima when Area Eleven was first established...
—Winter Final Essay, Ohdran Calhope, Imperial Academy
Imperial Palace, Pendragon
At the end of the hallway, her precious daughter conversed with her estranged sister, and Marianne rolled to a stop, curiosity overtaking her. Long ago, she would've crept forward on silent feet. Between the slight squeaks of her wheels and her daughter's supernaturally smart hearing, that no longer was possible.
Yet, in this particular instance, Nunnally, too enraptured in her conversation, didn't stiffen and twist her head to focus her ear.
Grief crashed into Marianne. Only with Lelouch was her daughter ever so focused.
"I'm not mad at him, not really," Nunnally said. "I know him, and it's the Emperor's fault. Lelouch was scared, so he hurt us."
"Then you should write to him," Aimee said. "Secrets fester."
Nunnally sniffed, her voice wet. "I can't. He didn't talk to me at all. What if he throws it away. That's what he did to Mother's letters, and I can't—"
Marianne bit her lip. Her children were so foolish. Undoubtedly, Lelouch was laboring under a similar delusion. She knew better, but her children so rarely listened to her. Were they destined to inevitably repeat her mistakes?
Her gaze fell to her phone. This came first.
"Siblings fight." Aimee wrapped one arm around Nunnally and pulled her into a hug. Her daughter didn't resist. "But they always make up. I promise you. Your brother doesn't hate you."
"Then why do you refuse to talk with Mother? She is your sister," Nunnally accused. "You're constantly fighting, and Mother is actually trying. I know it doesn't seem like it, but she only tries that hard with Lelouch."
Marianne's breath stalled. Her conniving daughter... They weren't close, but in a few words, Nunnally had turned Aimee's argument against her for Marianne's benefit.
"I just," Aimee trailed off and withdrew her arm. "I have a son, you know. His eyes are just like yours. He's a little older than you, but I've never seen him honestly smile. I can't stay here. Not if he could get hurt."
Marianne averted her eyes, her geass crackling in the back of her mind. She knew what Aimee desired; yet if she let her sister return to V.V.'s clutches, the situation would worsen. V.V. was childish. He wouldn't listen to Aimee's excuses. If she wanted her sister safe, then she had to find her nephew—an assassin.
"Nunnally!" Marianne called. "Can I have a word?"
Her daughter jerked, and Aimee shot to her feet, meeting her eyes with a hateful glare.
"Mother?" Nunnally asked quietly as she approached. "Did something happen to Lelouch?"
"No," Marianne whispered. "You should reach out to him."
"How much did you hear?"
Marianne rested a hand on her shoulder. "Enough. I didn't mean to eavesdrop." She sighed. "Your cousin... His name is Rolo, but I doubt he even knows she is his mother. I will find him eventually."
"What happened to him?"
Nothing that she could explain without endangering her daughter.
"She's safer here."
"But—" Nunnally protested.
"It's not like that. Even if she will hate me until I die, I will keep her here. I couldn't protect her before, and she got hurt because of me. If it's possible to save her son, I will do it."
"It's not right," Nunnally grumbled.
"Perhaps," Marianne conceded. It was hardly how she wanted their reunion to go. "But it's too late now. Charles would never allow her to return. At least not in the state she is in right now. I highly doubt she would be willing to pay the price he would demand."
"You should give her the option," Nunnally demanded.
"I will consider it." Marianne closed her eyes. "I actually wanted to tell you I'm leaving."
Nunnally stopped. "What? Why?"
"There are rumors of mobilization near Area Eleven. They just spotted a foreign ship on the edge of our waters. It's a long flight and there is a large storm system moving in. They will need support."
"But Lelouch is at the party with Father... Why do you care? It's not like they could hold Area Eleven. And a storm. It's dangerous to fly in."
Marianne looked at her daughter sadly. "Don't you have friends at Ashford Academy?"
"Of course!" Nunnally cried. "But why would you care? You don't even know if there's going to be a fight. Unless it's a full scale invasion, you would be overkill. And I overheard the doctors. They said you were in a coma again! They don't think you should be fighting."
The phantom headache spiked once again. It hadn't been a coma, merely her geass.
"They shouldn't have mentioned that," Marianne said. Her enemies would attempt to take advantage of the situation. "Your concern is sweet, but I will be fine. Your friends too."
"But, why!"
Marianne massaged her temples. "Because you and Lelouch care about those aggravating islands. You have your friends there, and Lelouch has his men, plus whoever he swept under his wing when he goes wandering near the ghettos. I already decided to go."
Nunnally considered her words and slowly asked, "Did the Emperor ask you?"
"No. And I would kindly ask that you refrain from telling him for another hour or so. He is such a worry wart at times. Besides, he is a little preoccupied at the moment."
"With what?"
Marianne grinned. "Toying with the Purists. With Schneizel preoccupied with scheming his way out of his upcoming nuptials, he has apparently gotten a little bored. He has been examining quite a few families' loyalties."
A suspicious number of those files included boys and girls right around Lelouch's age. She wondered how long it would take Lelouch to notice his father's other side project. At least it gave her hope that the Sumeragi brat wouldn't successfully sink her claws into her son.
Still, she wasn't about to let Charles bully him into a match for his own political machinations.
Her son would have the chance to experience love, and Area Eleven contained two girls who had a chance—if they had managed to prove themselves since she last saw them.
Chinese Warship, East China Sea
From the bridge, Li Xingke watched the raging tempest and the towering waves that dwarfed their warship. Whether the storm was a blessing from the heavens or a curse was unclear. A bolt of lighting briefly illuminated the pitch black storm clouds, and he sighed as the radio operator complained once more that it was on the fritz. The storm wasn't supposed to be this bad, but for all of humanity's advancements, the weather continued to be a coy mistress, unwilling to be subdued.
At least, the Britannians hadn't been expecting anything more than light rain either.
"Commander, Fukuoka Base has fallen. The Japanese forces have full control of their airport there," one of his officers informed him.
"Good," he murmured. For now, they would continue to head to Tokyo. They had to arrive there before the E.U. Allowing a valuable hostage such as Prince Clovis to fall in their hands would be disastrous.
Zhou Xianglin stopped at his side, worrying her lip. "Are you sure, sir? This could mean war."
"The Empress has no interest in marrying Prince Schneizel. We are her loyal subjects, even if the eunuchs have forgotten their place. As for war..." He coughed into his handkerchief and grimaced at the light spatter of blood. He wouldn't be able to keep his illness a secret for much longer at this rate. He needed to ensure His Empress's future before then. "I hope this will prevent a larger war. We have enough Sakuradite, but without oil, our production capabilities have fallen. The eunuchs have been pushing for us to expand west. It would only lead to conflict with the E.U. and Britannia would love nothing less."
"Prince Lelouch's plan." Her eyes hardened. "Do you think he will become a long term threat, even if he is from a polluted line?"
"He was an interesting young man to speak to, rather lacking in apparent ambition. Even if the Emperor favors him and pushes him further into power, there is only so far he can go without a purpose. He reminds me too much of Prince Schneizel for comfort."
"Too bad he is in the Homeland. He would have made a better hostage than Clovis."
"Yes, he would have," Li Xingke agreed.
Another wave rose, slamming into the bow of the ship and sweeping the deck clean.
"Sir! Britannian vessels spotted!" an officer shouted.
"Open fire," Li Xingke commanded. "Leave no witnesses."
Red light filled the night sky and flames erupted between the soaring waves. He turned away from the sight and exited the bridge. His subordinates would be able to handle whatever minor defensive forces were scouting the area. The Britannian forces were wholly unprepared for a large-scale assault, and the bulk of their navy had been sent on a merry chase in the Atlantic Ocean to combat the rise of piracy.
It was time to remind the Britannian Empire that they were not as comfortable in their superiority as they thought.
For all that they were hiding behind the remnants of the previous Japanese regime, their forces drew on every nation. The E.U. had contributed heavily to this scheme and offered their intelligence. The bulk of the forces came from the African countries, either displaced refugees from Area Fifteen or citizens of their neighbors fearing they were next on Britannia's menu.
"Are you going to take to the field?" Zhou Xianglin asked as they entered the lower bay, filed to the brim with their new knightmares.
"Only as a last resort. I would prefer it if Britannian intelligence did not discover that we have such a skilled devicer." He frowned. The units were marvelous though. Supposedly, the E.U. had something in the work as well. "How long do you think such international cooperation will last?"
Zhou Xianglin stepped back. "Not long. United, we could defeat Britannia easily and push it back to the Americas, but as soon as an opportunity presents itself, our allies will betray the cause."
"And because they expect it, everyone seeks to do it first." He closed his eyes. "And so I fear we shall ultimately lose."
"As long as we can rally forces behind the Empress, the opportunity will present itself," Zhou Xinaglin assured. "The eunuchs may have weakened China with their greed, but every year, the Empress grows older, claiming more of the power that is rightfully hers. And the Britannian Emperor is aging. History has shown us time and time again that upon the death of the Emperor, they tear themselves apart."
"And then we strike."
Shinjuku, Area Eleven
Puddles turned into crashing waves and tides as the wind howled through broken alleys. In the distance, Suzaku spotted the soldiers hurrying back, between them, Tohdoh and Ban. He relaxed against the wall, relieved.
Vegas stepped into the train, shouting to be heard, "Everything went well?"
The soldiers shouted something back, their words ripped away by the wind before they could reach Suzaku's ears. Naoto and Ohgi briefly exchanged words, significantly more amiable after Naoto had revealed his plan, and parted ways.
"What did you discuss?" Fumi asked as the soldiers finally departed, having left a radio for easy communication.
In the past hour, the room had become packed with various Japanese residents either seeking refuge from the storm or drawn in by curious rumors. Some were armed, while others huddled with their families. They teemed anxiously, awaiting what Tohdoh would say as their official connection to the JLF.
"Would you like to go first?" Tohdoh asked, turning to Ban.
Undeterred by the hateful gazes, Ban wrung the rain from his coat. "We simply made sure we were on the same page regarding evacuations. We will be collaborating with the local Britannian soldiers to ensure everyone's safety."
"Like we can trust a fucking Honorary!" someone in the crowd screamed.
"Traitor!" another shouted. "I bet he's a Brit spy."
"The JLF has also agreed to this," Tohdoh said, his voice easily sweeping over the crowd.
A burly man pushed his way to the front of the mob and spat on the ground. "I think not! I hear Britannia is being attacked. We should strike now and reform the Empire of Japan!"
Tohdoh scowled. "And which group would you be affiliated with? The Blood of the Samurai? Or are you one of Kusukabe's personal supporters?"
"The JLFs are collaborator trash." He pushed his way forward and jabbed a finger into his chest. "What have you done for us, man? You just roll over, playing Britannian lapdog."
"We protect the people of Japan."
"You oppress the Japanese!" he shouted before facing the crowd, grinning wildly. "And here is your proof. They plan to collaborate with the Britannians. Who was it that destroyed your homes? Who was it that shot your friends and families in their very own apartments? Who is it that still keeps us trapped here, like a bunch of cattle corralled before a slaughter? The Britannians!"
"I have managed to negotiate for your safety. You are allowed to leave, to even seek shelter."
"I say we strike," the man shouted.
"People will die!" Tohdoh barked.
"Anyone who is truly Japanese would happily lay down their life for the cause! It is time for the sun to rise on Japan again. There is one thing that Britannia has taught us. It is the strong that survive! And the JLF is weak! Kusukabe is the true leader of Japan."
Suzaku swallowed nervously, spotting various unknown men in the crowd, each visibly armed.
The man whirled around, pointing a finger at Ban. "And we will especially not listen to a traitorous scumbag such as him. He's an Honorary Britannian. He betrayed his country. I bet he helped plot the attack on Shinjuku. How is it that he was the only one prepared? He only wants to exploit us himself, so he can raise himself and lord it over us. Are you all so stupid to fall for his trap?"
"Don't be ridiculous," Ban snapped, taking a step forward.
The man threw up his arms, leaping away. "You see! He is trying to silence the truth."
Not all of the crowd was convinced, but their eyes were filled with fear. The women accompanied with their children pulled back, moving away from the brimming violence, but for each that stepped away, another stepped forward, finding a weapon among the debris.
"Stand down!" Tohdoh barked. The JLF soldiers accompanying him shifted to a more defensive posture.
"And here we see the oppression of the JLF. You want to change the laws. But the only way they can is because they're with the Kyoto House, enriching themselves at our expense."
"Please," Ban begged. "This is ridiculous. We have all witnessed a tragedy. To co-opt for such falsehoods is—"
"What you were doing!" the man declared. "Search him! He could be in contact with the Britannians right now."
Suzaku covered his mouth, stifling a horrified scream as one of the armed men rushed forward swinging a piece of rebar violently.
Ban ducked beneath the strike, efficiently redirecting it to the side and disarming the man.
"A traitor! The evidence is before us," the man declared. "He fights like a soldier!"
"Enough, Uchida!" Fumi demanded. She forcibly pushed her way through the crowd. "That man is innocent and has devoted himself to helping people, and you would kill him for this?"
Uchida calmed. "Fumi-san. I thought you agreed with our cause, but after claiming you had found a lead, you fell silent? Have you fallen to these traitors' seditious thoughts?"
"No. I am merely loyal to the nation that I have always sworn to serve. You are disparaging the names of two good men. I can vouch for them personally. They are not collaborators."
"Of course you would be so weak as to fall for their lies."
"That man is Tohdoh Kyoshiro," she snapped. "He was one of Prime Minister Kururugi's personal acquaintances. Would you truly go against his will? If anyone is loyal to Japan and the previous regime, it would be him!"
"Or maybe he was the one behind the Prime Minister's mysterious suicide." Uchida leered, and Suzaku bit his tongue, old pain welling forth. "He was the one who discovered the body, wasn't he?"
Because he had been protecting Suzaku! Because he had killed his father!
Unfortunately, the crowd didn't hear his silent cries of truth, instead turning to Tohdoh with more hate. The JLF soldiers clustered closer to him, hands on their guns and ready to leap into action if the situation called for it.
"Maybe he was the one who turned the country over to the Brits. A great nation like Japan could have only fallen to sabotage."
"Uchida-san," Ohgi interrupted, his voice carrying clearly. "We all need to calm down. I admit I resent them, but we have more urgent matters than mob justice. Please, let us help these people. If the Brits have informed us of a potential threat, then we would be wise to listen." He paused. "We cannot afford such infighting. Japan is only strong together."
"Mob justice is what we need!" Uchida raised his fist. "Yes. What the Brits said is true. They fear that we shall rise up against them because they know we can crush them. Take up your arms. Today is the day we repel these foreign invaders and the Empire of Japan shall be reborn once again."
"Long live Japan!" the crowd chanted.
"And death to all traitors!" he shouted.
"Death to all traitors!"
"Those who do not fight, they're not Japanese!"
"Kill them. They betrayed Japan!"
Suzaku stared at the crowd in horror, unable to understand what he was witnessing. The women and children backed against the wall, terrified. This was what Fumi had tried to warn them of, but far too cryptically. Ban's leadership only lasted as long as he controlled essential supplies.
Anyone who would oppose this mad man would die. And whatever deal the JLF had negotiated would be for naught. The Brits would only see the JLF breaking their end of the bargain.
Desperate, he pushed forward, squeezing his way to the crowd. He refused to allow more senseless violence, to see his teacher die just after they had been reunited. "Stop!"
"No!" Tohdoh shouted. "Run!"
Suzaku raised his chin defiantly. Enough was enough. He wanted to protect people, to no longer run from his duty and fulfill his obligations.
"Another traitor?" Uchida mocked. "Or do you wish to prove your loyalty to the regime by eliminating these two personally?"
"You said the Empire of Japan," Suzaku said instead. To his ears, his voice trembled, but it carried surprisingly well across the room. "Then you swear loyalty to the Emperor of Japan. Kusukabe does not have the blood of the gods, does he? So who is this new Emperor then?"
"Suzaku Kururugi," Uchida declared. "He is the rightful heir of Japan. The son of the former Prime Minister, and through his mother, the last descendant of the former Emperor of Japan."
"Funny, you never informed me of my new Empire." He narrowed his eyes disdainfully. "And last I checked, my cousin is still alive with an even closer lineage."
The crowd stilled behind him with a soft gasp. It was too late to turn back now. He had run from this so long now; the past had finally caught up with him. Now, he had to make the best of whatever short lease he had on life. A Britannian execution was all but inevitable now in his near future.
"I am Suzaku Kururugi," he said clearly. "The son of Prime Minister Kururugi. My cousin and I are the last of the Fujiwara line, thus distant descendants of the Emperor. You will apologize to Tohdoh-san and Ban-san immediately. They have been instrumental in my safety and hiding me from Britannian assassins.'
Uchida gaped. "You have green eyes..."
"Now!" Suzaku barked. His toes dug into his sandals. If this failed, then violence would be the only option. They had to recognize his authority. It was the only option.
Slowly, Uchida turned to Fumi. "That's why you stopped." At her nod, he fell to his knees and pressed his forehead against the ground. "Forgive me, Kururugi-heika. I was unaware of your presence here. We must make haste to Fukuoka immediately. The people of Japan must be informed of your joyous survival and return."
Tohdoh brought a finger to his temple, his gaze painfully nostalgic with a look that declared him an idiot. Ban meanwhile stared at him in confusion. Suzaku had no idea why he would be surprised. He had already known the truth.
A rumbling beneath his feet had Suzaku turn around and his breath caught in his throat at the sight of his people falling to the ground, forehead pressed against the ground in deference.
Oh, shit.
Suzaku swallowed. "I stand with the JLF. They were the ones to protect me and have the best interests of the Japanese at heart. We will never submit to the Chinese! I am sure Tohdoh-san has managed to negotiate a deal with the Britannians which gives us an advantage."
Desperately, he turned to his sensei, hoping that he would take over and bluff their way out of the situation. Suzaku was an atrocious liar.
Tohdoh raised an unimpressed eyebrow. "We have acquired the use of Sutherlanders and a battleship in hopes that we will use these resources to repel the Chinese invasion."
The crowd murmured in surprise and greed.
"See? As I said," Suzaku said, just as the familiar haunting air sirens turned on. "If you will please listen to the JLF and their allies."
Boston, Homeland
The sudden loss of the Fukuoka base was disturbing, causing murmurs of unrest among the party attendees, but as Lelouch watched his father take charge, coordinating the southern defense of Japan and the reinforcements, he was beset by suspicion. It was too much of a glaring hole in their intelligence network for the invasion to have been missed in its entirety. His father was too at ease, and his calm orders enraptured the crowd.
The Purists had gained significant military support, but here, in their own party, his father was reminding them of exactly how he had acquired his crown: warfare.
It was mildly disconcerting witnessing his father take charge and voice Lelouch's silent predictions which were shortly proven true.
Grudgingly, Lelouch had to admit that his father was a skilled strategist and tactician. He hadn't won the war by relying on his subordinates' talents. In light of that, it was befuddling that he never bothered with the minute military matters of establishing the new Areas. He left such tasks entirely to Cornelia these days.
What else did his father have planned? What had he meant by seeing what Zero could do?
"Impressive, isn't he?" Lord Calhope interrupted, another name on the list his father had provided. He held two glasses of champagne in his hands. "A drink, Your Highness?"
He eyed the glasses warily and forced a smile. He couldn't cause offense... "I'm afraid that I don't drink, my lord."
"Ohdran, please," he said. He set both flutes down. "I apologize. I should have considered that you have no reason to trust me. I hope that one day you will be willing to accept a drink that I offer."
Lelouch stared, unsure how to respond. Normally, he was the one making excuses, but Lord Calhope had instead given him an excuse instead of pressing his breach in social etiquette. Lelouch didn't trust it.
Oblivious to his thoughts, Lord Calhope stepped closer. Quietly, he asked, "Have you had the pleasure of seeing His Majesty at work before?"
"Not in real time," Lelouch admitted. He was the one supposed to be befriending him. Why was Lord Calhope initiating instead? "War games are a staple in the household though."
"I would imagine. Does your experience lend you any insights into the situation?"
Lelouch's mouth dried. Of course he had insights. He was intimately aware of the finer details of the battlefield, but how much was a conventionally taught prince supposed to know?
"Indulge me, please, Your Highness." Lord Calhope smiled gently at him before refocusing his attention. "I can't imagine the Chinese would commit resources to such an endeavor if they did not have something up their sleeves. Perhaps it was how they claimed the base, but I find it more likely that it was old-fashioned infiltration. Some members of our armed forces are unfortunately lacking in loyalty."
"They would have used one of the Japanese resistance cells," Lelouch said dully. "It makes no sense to risk their own forces when plenty are willing to do the work for them."
"Japanese?" he asked. "Not Elevens."
Lelouch reminded himself that he had already upset too many people on his father's stupid list. "If they refuse to acknowledge our sovereignty, we can hardly call them Elevens, suggesting we rule them."
"An interesting perspective, Your Highness," Lord Calhope said. "Now that I consider it, you are probably correct. The base used to belong to the Japanese before they became Elevens. The locals have the advantage of knowing the terrain. What was his name? That local terrorist who has been running all over. Kusakabe. He was a former military man, wasn't he? Perhaps he orchestrated its capture then."
"If it was him, I suspect we will soon get a transmission proclaiming his victory and political stance. He is a staunch nationalist, so probably something idiotic like claiming the rebirth of Japan."
"Or the Empire of Japan," Kaguya interrupted. The color had returned to her skin and she handed him a wine glass. "This will be such a mess. Our mines are going to be dealing with countless military inspections, even when the majority of Elevens disavow his violent sentiments."
Lord Calhope inclined his head. "We are fortunate to hear your insights, especially from someone who His Highness trusts to handle his beverages."
Lelouch's face burned, and he took a large sip. He should have accepted that drink. Then if he died, he could escape this embarrassment.
Tilting her head, Kaguya took a delicate sip. "You seem to be remarkably informed of military affairs, Lord..."
"Calhope. But really, call me Ohdran. A fair maiden such as yourself should have the pleasure of using it." He politely leaned forward, kissing her proffered hand. "I applied for the accelerated track at the academy last winter. Unfortunately, some family affairs have delayed my attendance. I'm looking forward to rejoining the classes soon, and, as to not lag behind my classmates, I strive to keep myself informed of our nation's affairs."
Lelouch watched him out of the corner of his eyes. "And what brings someone of your temperament to a Purist gathering?"
"It is the event of the season. My father is only a Viscount. We would never have been able to acquire an invitation to one of Princess Guinevere's esteemed gatherings. My sister recently married the eldest son of Margrave Neensik, granting us the opportunity to attend this wonderful event."
A Viscount? His name rang no bells and his rank was of no importance. Margrave Neensik meanwhile was a noble from Area Four with a failing estate whose only asset was his rank. Lelouch couldn't possibly imagine why his father considered it imperative to earn this man's favor.
Had he read the name wrong?
Lord Calhope sighed. "That and my mother wants me to marry. She hitched off all my older brothers and sisters, and now it's my turn."
"You have my sincere condolences." He frowned. "Someone might consider you impudent for approaching me without even an introduction. It is quite a breach in etiquette."
"Oh, Lelouch," Kaguya reprimanded. "Don't be such a stickler; otherwise, we'll never have someone of interest approach us. I am sure Lord Calhope has absolutely no ulterior motives."
Lord Calhope rubbed the back of his head. "My mother wouldn't dare to approach. I apologize, Your Highness, but I had wished to speak with you. All the nobles are looking upon the invasion as entertainment. I was... intrigued that you actually cared."
In the distance, a woman with strikingly similar light brown hair anxiously twisted her hands as she watched them. Her gaze immediately lowered when Lelouch met her eyes.
One of the screens flickered and Kusukabe's face gazed down at them as he formally declared the Empire of Japan. Lelouch really wished he had managed to track him down before. This would only lead to tragedy, especially for the Japanese.
"You were right," Lord Calhope murmured with grudging respect.
"Unfortunately."
"The storm is going to make things difficult, neither side is going to be able to fully deploy air power. With most of the fleet patrolling the European borders, that puts our troops at a great disadvantage." Lord Calhope sighed. "I hope Prince Clovis urges them to evacuate to the shelters. A city is no place for a war."
Hojo Beach, Tateyama, Chiba, Area Eleven
Haru had carved out a simple life for his family after the invasion, running a simple fast food stand near the coast. As the first light cracked across the mountains, he cast his gaze out at Tokyo Bay. The ever present lights reflected off the stormy waters. At night, they drowned out all hopes of seeing the stars.
Today would be a slow business day. He would have to work hard to ensure his family could afford dinner this evening. Britannians rarely went outside when the great storms rolled in.
Suddenly, the lights shut off and he paused, staring at the unusual sight. The Viceroy's Palace was always lit.
"Haru!" his wife shouted, leaning against the heavy winds as she pushed her way forward.
He rushed over to her, shedding his paperthin jacket and offering it to shield her against the cold. "Chiasa. You shouldn't be out yet. You'll catch a cold, and then we won't be able to work—"
"You haven't heard?" she asked. "On the radio. They've captured Kyushu!"
"Who?" The Chinese?
"The Empire of Japan!" Her eyes lit up eagerly. "We'll finally be free. Now is our chance."
A bolt of lightning illuminated the sky, and his stomach twisted as an ominous shadow loomed in the distance. As the air sirens turned on, he turned to his wife. "The children. We need to find shelter!"
"Where?" she demanded. "The Brits won't help us. Now is the time to fight! It's the only way to survive. You know what'll happen to us afterwards, if Japan loses once more."
Silently, he cursed Kusukabe for having forced this decision upon them. The only way to survive was to fight. His hand curled around his wife's.
A loud whine cut through the roaring tempest. Red light flashed across the sky and the ground rumbled beneath their feet as distant flames reached for the sky, unhindered by the rain.
More explosions ripped through the air, and he met his wife's terrified eyes. Desperately, he pulled her forward, breaking into a run. He had no destination in mind, simply anything but here.
His wife suddenly tugged him to the side, hurrying them down a tight alleyway.
He stumbled, his feet slipping on the wet concrete. His wife caught him, but he could stare across the street, at the apartment buildings, the dress shop where his wife bloodied her fingers fixing Britannian clothes, and the marketplace where his children could at least find a modicum of happiness.
Nothing.
Only rubble and flickering flames remained.
His shoulders shook. It was the invasion of Japan once again. Death's hands reached in, squeezing his lungs. Not again. Not again.
"Asuga!" his wife suddenly screamed, abandoning him as she hurtled to their still standing apartment building.
An unknown strength rushed to his legs, and he chased after. His home loomed before him; his wife had already disappeared inside. She reappeared, their precious daughter under one arm and their son clinging to her back. Their eyes met. Another whine pierced the air, and he leapt forward.
Her eyes widened in understanding and she threw her daughter forward as a blast of vivid yellow flames knocked them to the ground.
He woke to rain in his eyes and his daughter crying in his shirt. His ribs screamed in pain.
"Chiasa?" he asked quietly.
His daughter sobbed harder. Rolling over, he stared at the remnants of their home. The ground had stopped rumbling, but the sirens continued to wail. His wife's charred corpse stared at him. Beneath her, was the still and broken form of their son.
"Long live Japan!" someone shouted in the distance.
"They have food," his daughter whispered.
He staggered to his wife and collapsed at her side, cradling her head. What now?
Marching boots passed him by, and he glared as one of the soldiers stopped beside him, not caring whether they were Britannian or not.
"Will you fight for the Empire of Japan?" the man demanded.
His eyes rose, and he swallowed nervously at the gun aimed at his chest. His daughter hid behind him, her trembling hands digging painfully into his back and aggravating his bruised ribs. In the distance, soldiers chattered in French and Mandarin, apathetic to the plight they had caused.
"Well?" the soldier demanded, his eyes narrowing in displeasure. "Or are you a traitor? Content to wallow beneath Brit boots?"
"I will fight," he said hollowly. Decades ago, as a young man, he had enlisted in the Japanese army. Now, he called on that memory as he pushed through the pain and stood upright, saluting sharply.
Another passing soldier tossed him two rifles, and he stared at in confusion.
"For your daughter," the soldier said.
"But she's a child!" Haru protested desperately.
"If you can stand, you can fight! This is not a mere battle between nations and oligarchs, but for our very survival."
Tokyo, Area Eleven
"K-2, local guerrillas are moving in on Ashford Academy. Move to engage."
For a brief moment, Kallen froze as she registered the name of the school before her hands moved, a long distant part of her. The sky flickered green and red as Tokyo continued to defend its air superiority. The opposition was desperate to gain some control before the bulk of the storm front hit them, but Gino's presence in the skies was keeping the tide in their favor. Still, as she raced to the school, she passed freshly bombed buildings from the few missiles which had managed to slip through their defenses.
The school shone in the early light and Kallen spotted the tiny figures darting around the school's defenses, barely being kept at bay by a combination of Imperial Forces and Lord Ashford's personal forces. She dove forward without hesitation. Her friends would not die under her watch.
The enemy scattered upon witnessing the arrival of the Horus.
Her radio crackled, and a woman, slightly out of breath, said, "This is 12-8-Tango Beta. Thank you for the assist. There are more on the south side of the school."
"Acknowledged."
A shadow blotted out the sun. She whirled around, rifle rising, and claws extended. A Burai slammed into her outstretched hands, and she tore through the fragile plating on the lower hips. A cloud of steam erupted, white fluid oozing down.
"Damn you, Britannian!" the pilot snarled in heavily accented English as he retreated.
She steeled herself. Now was not the time for regrets or doubts. Empress Marianne had shown her the folly of holding back. It only took a moment to end a life.
Darting beneath the rifle, she slammed her hand into the shoulder, and flipped the Burai to the ground. Her sensors beeped, warning her of another approaching knightmare. It flashed yellow on the screen, not an established ally, nor an enemy.
"Identification code?" she barked.
The ejection boosters burst to life, and she sneered. The pilot would not escape her so easily.
A quick strike to the side cut power from the boosters, locking the pilot into his knightmare unable to fight.
The other knightmare, a Gloucester, charged forward with a large predictable swing, and she met it head on, The Horus's hand spun, blasting towards the cockpit in a deadly blow. The pilot jerked to the side, managing to save his life for a brief second.
"Surrender now," Kallen demanded. "You can't eject and a Gloucester has no chance anyway."
"Tennōheika Banzai!" the man declared.
Long live the Emperor? Wasn't she clearly marked as a Britannian unit?
Her console beeped, warning her of a sudden increase in high frequency signals.
"It's going to blow!" Kallen screamed, throwing her knightmare before the ground troops as they fell to the ground, covering the ears.
Two bright flashes of pink declared the end of their skirmish and their lives.
"Thank you, ma'am." The woman sounded shaky, unsure. On the ground, a woman waved hesitantly. "You saved us."
Wait... That had been Japanese. But the Emperor?
"This is 7-12-K2. Who were they?"
"Eleven terrorists. They have been emboldened by the attack."
"Understood," Kallen said weakly. She had killed her own people. There was no room for hesitation.
Not bothering to say anything else, she activated her boosts and shot to the south end, easily spotting three knightmares trying to hammer their way through the school gates. Ashford Academy contained one of the largest emergency shelters. If the Japanese terrorist broke through, it would be a massacre. Her friends—even if they hated her for assisting Prince Lelouch in that OSI cell—would die.
If only they could have an end to the eternal fight, unite in peace.
Hiroshima, Area Eleven
Private Ian Hilbert rubbed his sore arm and stared down the street from inside an abandoned storefront. "I think we're going to drown if we go out there."
His other squad mates nodded in agreement. They could hardly see ten paces ahead through the torrential downpour.
Their sergeant, Sir Lytton, stood on the opposite side of the room, fiddling with the radio in disgust. Sometimes, their orders were crisp and clear. Other times, it was nothing but silence.
"Hold your fire," their sergeant ordered as a small huddle of people braved the winds and crossed the street.
Private Patrickson growled. "They're Elevens."
"Be glad they're fleeing to safety instead of reinforcing the invaders or harrying us. They're locals. It took us ten twenty minutes to figure out where we are." Shaking his head, he retreated back inside and busied himself again with the radio.
A giant bolt of lightning flashed through the sky.
"Guys," Private Jenson whispered. "Are we supposed to have knightmares coming in from the south?"
Their sergeant cursed and kicked the radio across the ground. "I can't get through to command, but if the Elevens have declared themselves an Empire, there are certain rules they must follow."
"Sir, what are you saying?"
"We will do nothing." Their sergeant leaned against the wall, staring out into the rain. "We can't do anything against knightmares, and I won't throw your lives away on something so foolish."
"We were ordered to fight!" Private Patrickson shot to his feet, a dangerous glint in his eyes. "If the Elevens are at fault, we should just remove the problem."
"Do you want to drown?" Ian asked, wrestling with a strange sense of unease at the suggestion.
"We will do no such thing," their sergeant ordered. "And if the Elevens find us here, we will surrender. We will hold our position and avoid contact at all costs."
"But sir, our orders are to fight!"
"The Elevens are traitors and infiltrators."
"We cannot surrender to those savages. We're Britannians!"
Their sergeant leveled them with a cool gaze. "What did they teach you in Basic?"
"Obey orders—"
"So I am ordering you that if we are left with no other option, you will surrender. Or do I have to write you all up for insubordination!"
Ian swallowed. Perhaps the radio hadn't gone out due to the storm. "Sir. If we do that, you will be executed for treason."
"So be it. Until then, you will follow orders and leave to me the task of weighing how to best fulfill the ones from command. I have a duty to my men as well. "
Viceroy Palace, Area Eleven
At last, the command center was abuzz with activity, and Leila found herself in the center, somehow the conductor of this chaotic symphony. Technically, General Bartley was in charge, but he had soon disappeared after Prince Clovis to attend to some urgent military matter. What could possibly be more urgent than an invasion was beyond her.
For now, Tokyo continued to stand, mostly untouched by the madness that had descended upon the rest of Area Eleven. Nothing had prepared her for the countless reports of losses and the ever shifting battlefield. Her training simulations at home were always concerned with a Britannian invasion, a slow and predictable roll in as the Britannians loudly declared their presence.
Here, every sector seemed to light up with sudden military activity, but by the time reinforcements arrived, the interlopers were gone, leaving broken equipment in their wake.
After the fifth incident, she had dared to voice her opinion, and to her surprise, her superior officer had deferred to her judgment. That time, they had actually eliminated part of the so-called Japanese Imperial Army.
Kusukabe's declaration of an Empire was entirely ridiculous. Japan had been a democracy and had prospered as such. He wanted to take it back to the dark ages.
Colonel Vaughan returned from the bathroom and offered her a coffee. "We should be thankful Zero is here to hold the city. It's like he can read the savages' minds."
"Indeed," she said dully.
Another one of the Emperor's orders came through, working to some unknown plan and the room jumped to react. She hadn't known that the Emperor concerned himself with military matters on a personal level, but while she lacked the larger picture, his orders seemed to be effective. The enemy's push from the south had stalled in Okayama.
"The storm's almost on us. The locals call them typhoons. I thought I left the damn hurricanes behind on the East coast."
"We don't have them at home," she said. It was a terrifying sight, especially the short glimpses of footage from their runways as pilots descended to refuel, only to be thrown back into the air violently.
"You were brave going to Prince Clovis like that. Foolish too. Had anyone else tried, they would have been arrested for treason. It wouldn't be the first time that a royal has executed someone for the crime of being annoying."
"I simply did my job, sir," she said.
"If you say so." He scoffed. "You are a strange one. Never thought I would be grateful to a Frenchie of all people. Go take charge."
"Excuse me, sir?"
He raised an eyebrow. "I'm blindly whacking at whatever problem props up, but you're actually anticipating their moves. I will be here, watching. I would be a poor officer if I refused to employ my subordinates to their full talents."
So he could claim the victory afterward.
"And you have proven that you actually care about protecting our people." His hands clenched. "My family is out there. I have no interest in being responsible for their deaths because of my hubris."
"I'm honored, sir." She saluted crisply and stepped up to the technical readout, the two officers before it immediately stepping away respectfully upon noticing her.
It was easy to claim a government ruled by the consent of the people, and thus that the people were complicit in their government's crime. She knew without a doubt that the Emperor was cruel, the closest thing to evil walking upon this Earth she had ever had the misfortune to meet, but knowing the people... She could not attribute his crimes to them.
She had joined the military to protect her people.
"Major!" an officer shouted. "We have new knightmares spotted in sector twelve. They're coming out of the bay!"
What the hell... Since when could knightmares swim? Was this what the Chinese had been working on?
On screen, she watched a Purist charge forward, only for the strange knightmares to quickly retreat back into the water and to safety. They jumped in and out of the water, and if they weren't engaged in warfare, she would liken them to dolphins.
"Sir. Sector thirty-six! New knightmares coming from down South. They're too fast! We just lost the Seventh Knightmare Cavalry. We got a visual!"
She studied the picture, her hands digging into her uniform.
"Major?" Colonel Vaughan asked. "Do you recognize them?"
Yes. She did. They had been in development for years. One of her friends from the academy had taken an early graduation to enter the engineering branch, and when they visited with General Smilas, she had jumped on Leila's increased clearance to gush about them.
The Alexander.
They specialized in long distance attacks, but their speed and low profile made them a perfect counter for the Gloucester and Sutherland. Zero had lied. This wasn't a Chinese invasion.
"Major Breisgau?"
Were the amphibious knightmares then also the work of the E.U? Had she been fighting her own country?
"Have the troops fall back into the city," she said through the roaring in the ears. Her objective hadn't changed. There were still people to protect. "The units are from the E.U. They're specialized for long distances."
Every day she spent here, she became more Britannian. The invasion was a waste of human life.
Or was she merely destroying a nation's last bid for independence?
Tokyo, Area Eleven
"You're a fool," Tohdoh said as Suzaku approached his knightmare.
He looked up at his sensei, smiling sadly. "Thank you for always looking out for me."
"You shouldn't have to do this. You never asked for this."
"You would have died," Suzaku whispered. "I can't lose you, not you too."
Tohdoh wrapped his arms around him, pulling him into a tight hug. "For once, I wish you would put yourself first. You always get into trouble helping others. Suzaku"—he leaned back, both hands firmly on his shoulder—"I have not said this anyway near enough. But you're a son to me. I tried to deny it at first, but you always were. When Ko was born, I hoped that he would grow to become a fine man like you. I know this is something you feel you must do, but I will always be there for you. I swear. You are a credit to your family."
"But I—"
"Shhh. Your father didn't deserve you, Suzaku. You are everything he could only hope to be, and I have no doubt that you will surpass him. Look around. How many of these people do you know?"
There was the baker, who Suzaku often assisted in the mornings. On the other end of the room was an old student of his who had, at his begging, left the drug ring he had initially been in. Near him, shooting him a sad smile, was the mother of one of his students. And just as the cockpit of the Sutherland closed, he recognized an old man that he saved from a pair of thugs a few months ago.
A lump lodged in his throat.
"If people hadn't believed in you in the first place, they would have never listened. Your identity would've been meaningless. You would have been declared a brainwashed pawn who needed to be saved. These people are here for you because you inspire others. And your father could never have compared. Just promise me, you will come back."
Suzaku nodded, not trusting himself to speak. He threw his arms around his teacher... the man who had raised him.
Kururugi. How strange that when he reclaimed the name of the family he was born into, he finally realized that he always had a father. He had simply gone by another name.
"You can't die," Suzaku begged. "And I'll be back. I'll be the best son you could ever want."
"I want you to be you."
Suzaku stared at the knightmare skeptically.
"I know you have to fight for appearance sake, but are you sure about this? I am sure you could prove yourself on the ground."
"It's not just that. I want to protect my people. I wish to be the leader they need, for their faith in me to not be misplaced." Suzaku bit his lips. "It's weird. Lelouch often talked about duty. He would say a leader was for the people. Their blood flows in harmony with their people. When the people are strong, so is the leader. And if the leader is weak then so are the people. These people have decided I shall lead Japan, so I must become who they think I can be."
"Lelouch read too much philosophy," Tohdoh grumbled.
Suzaku smiled with a confidence he didn't feel. "Ban said I might be an ace. I have a chance to prove myself, my strength. We'll be strong."
Tohdoh grimaced. "Come back. We'll talk more then."
Okayama, Empire of Japan
Ryo Harada cheered as they pushed forward into the next town. The carcasses of the Britannian knightmares lay scattered around them. The E.U. guys had really pulled through, finally delivering the aid they had promised for so long. It felt appropriate that they would help restore the Imperial dynasty when they had been the ones to dismantle it.
Had it not been for that pivotal blunder, Ryo was sure Japan would have never fallen to Britannian forces.
"Take that, pigs!" Matsuda shouted, firing his gun into the air. "Long live Japan!"
The Britannians, chained to stakes in the ground, flinched. Ryo sneered at their weakness. They talked of strength endlessly, but now that they had lost, they were quivering like a bunch of cowards.
The rain was even clearing up, the mid-day sun peeking out from behind the clouds. The eye of the storm was near. He held up a finger, marking the direction of the faint breeze. During the first part of the storm, the wind would come from the south, but afterwards, the gales would reverse, tearing into them. Already, their forces were making preparations, shifting their supplies so they would be protected.
"I never thought I would see it," Ryo whispered to Matsuda. "We're finally home. Can you believe it?"
Matsuda grinned wildly. "We'll eat like kings. The E.U. tried to help, but there's no life for our kind there behind fences."
"Nor in China," Ryo said. The refugee camps were desolate, but the Japanese Liberation Army was the only way out. Sawasaki had done well to regroup after their tragic losses, and General Kusukabe had given them the opportunity after he had broken away from the traitorous JLF. "Do you really think we'll find him?"
"Tennō Heika?" Matsuda pulled out a cigarette, cupping his hand to light it. "Kururugi-shushou's son, right? Everyone always says they have him. The E.U. claims so too. But for General Kusukabe to declare the rightful return of Imperial Dynasty, he must believe it's true."
"I can't believe the JLF would hold him prisoner," Ryo said. "Even if they do not support the return of the Imperial Dynasty, he was still the Prime Minister's son. It is quite disrespectful to shun him like such."
"What can you expect from a bunch of bootlickers?' Matsuda held out his cigarette. "Want a light?"
"That's the E.U. shit. It's cheap."
"Oh, come on. It's the good stuff I swear." Matsuda leered. "Would I lie to you?"
Reluctantly, he took a cigarette and leaned forward to let the tip burst into flames. The sun finally revealed herself fully, shining brightly in good omen. He inhaled slowly, enjoying the sense of ease.
"Hey, you two! Stop dawdling! We have work to do."
"Yes, sir!" they shouted.
They turned to the truck, hurriedly unloading its content. They did not have long before the rain would return. Up ahead, the local noble's mansion stood proudly. On the pristine white step, the lord bled out slowly. His wife and children had been chained to one of the pillars, hurling endless insults.
"Think she likes me?" Matsuda joked. "She is even doing me the honor of speaking to me in French!"
"I'm just glad I never bothered to learn their filthy language, so it cannot bother me," Ryo said.
Having finished emptying the last truck, they approached the town. The Britannians had all been rounded up, and in the distance, their commanders argued about what should be done with them. The Japanese had been left alone, and his heart broke as he witnessed their half starven faces peeking between wooden panels at them.
Despicable. Utterly despicable.
Britannia would rue the day they forced such an indignity upon them.
A soldier threw them a meal packet, and Ryo looked around for a place to eat. One of the children ran forward and pointed at the crackers he had withdrawn.
"Are you hungry?" Ryo asked.
The child's brow furrowed, and he babbled something incomprehensible. Children could talk at her age? She looked to be at least five. Her lower lip quivered.
"Sophie!" a woman shouted. She rushed forward, ignoring the aggravated shouts from the soldiers and ripped her daughter backwards. Again, indecipherable words sprang from her lips.
"Have they all gone stupid?" he asked.
The woman flushed. When she spoke, her words were stilted and accented. "I'm sorry. It's been so long. Forgive me, please. My daughter meant no harm. Please, excuse us."
"Why didn't she understand me?" Ryo asked, confused.
The woman flinched. "We are not allowed to speak Japanese. I'm sorry. Sophie, let's go."
Matsuda dropped his rifle. "Seriously? Does she have no honor? Of course we were expected to learn French, but we never forgot our roots. Well, most of us. This is ridiculous."
"Come on," Ryo said quietly. It hadn't been until he had joined up with the JLA that he had the opportunity to speak his mother tongue. The Chinese hadn't forbidden it, but speaking his native tongue had carried the risk of a beating, for not being grateful enough. Maybe he should have tried to learn Britannian as well, even if it was a disgusting language filled with sounds he could not pronounce.
They wandered to the edge of the encampment where the European troops and their strange quadrupedal knightmares. They were highly effective at least.
He blinked in surprise as the pilots turned around—Japanese.
"Hey!" Matsuda shouted. "Thanks for clearing the way!"
Calm and composed, the tallest observed them. Not even a hint of a smile flashed across the teenager's face. Dead cold. Ryo shivered.
"We were doing our job," the teenager said.
"Oh come on. We're all Japanese here. I should have known better than to think they would risk some of their own precious European cryboys on this mission."
"Hyuga," the teen said and sat down, pulling out a sandwich. He lazily looked up at the sunny sky and scowled. "You're mistaken. I'm European."
"Don't make a scene," Ryo hissed.
"I'm not making a scene. He is." Matsuda shook his head in disgust. "Come on. We've all been so careful to play by the E.U.'s precious rules. Should we just accept that one of our own is spying on us?"
"I am not here to spy on you." Hyuga rolled his eyes and leaned back. "I am here to ensure none of our units fall into the enemy's hands."
"So they decided to sacrifice you because you're Japanese, and you're still going to serve them?"
"I volunteered."
Ryo set a hand on his friend's shoulder. "To help the Japanese. We thank you."
"No. It's not like you will win anyway."
"Excuse you!" Matsuda shouted.
"Please be quiet. You're making a scene," Ryo hissed.
"Not going to win? We're crushing the damn bastards. We are the land of the rising sun, and we will become an Empire again. Or is the E.U. planning on betraying us? Is that why you are here? They offered you countless glory."
Hygua sighed. "No. I am here to help a friend."
"A friend?" Matsuda threw down his wrapper in disgust. "See! This is what has become of the younger generation. They are missing discipline. They never learned the value of duty and honor."
"At least I don't kill innocent civilians," Hyuga shouted after them.
Matsuda whirled around. "Take that back! We are here to protect the Japanese, something the Europeans never even bothered to attempt. We are in this mess because of them! We're liberating Japan!"
"Your commander just executed the wife and children. I should be glad they are afraid to make an enemy of the EU and therefore don't take more extreme actions in our presence."
"They don't count! They're Britannians!"
What... The children were dead too? He hadn't heard the gunshot.
Twisting around, he glanced back at the house. Morbid curiosity had him pulling out his binoculars. The pillar was now bare. The lord continued to stain his pristine steps red. Down the road, closer to the entrance of the town, the wife swayed in the wind, hanging from a tree. Her three children lay below her in a dark red lump.
"Then tell me why the Japanese cower in your presence?" Hyuga challenged.
It was war, Ryo justified. Britannian had never held back, and they couldn't afford to either.
"Because they're cowards and traitors," Matsuda declared.
Ryo pulled him back and bowed in apology. "We fight for Japan. Of course they are scared. They do not know when Britannia will return. They have not yet had the opportunity to believe in us. When peace comes, we will be a better, stronger Japan. Perhaps then, you will see worth fighting for. I intend to prove that to you. I promise, one day you will feel proud to call yourself Japanese."
Hyuga bowed hesitantly. "I hope you can keep that promise."
Ryo smiled. "Perhaps, your mind would be convinced then? You should come home."
Hyuga jerked at the word. For all that he pretended to not be, he was undoubtedly a refugee, just like the rest of them. Much like there would never be a place for the Japanese in China, there would never be a place for them in the E.U. It was only a matter of time until their generosity ended and they were treated even worse than the Numbers in Britannia.
A homeless, powerless population was the easiest victim.
"Maybe," Hyuga finally said, his eyes pained.
Boston, Homeland
As abstract symbols moved across the blown up maps, Kaguya averted her gaze. This had to be some new type of fortune. Halfway around the world, unable to help, she could only watch and listen to the nobles laughing and callously disregarding the situation.
The Emperor taking command himself, sending in reinforcements and handing down orders to the fragmented command staff on the ground, was about as subtle as a sledgehammer in reminding all attendees of his prowess. Normally, the Emperor didn't bother. From what she knew of the conquest of Japan, he had left most of the details to Empress Marianne.
Why now?
Had he known? Was that why he had come?
Lelouch's hand drifted closer to hers, squeezing it reassuringly as he continued his discussion with Lord Calhope, perhaps the only other person in this room who was treating the situation seriously. She eyed him distrustfully but kept silent, preferring to listen to Lelouch's insights. He was being far too amenable, and Lelouch was irksomely indulging him, even if it was with his customary wariness.
The Emperor might have declared that Zero was in Japan, but only a fool wouldn't recognize that Lelouch spoke with experience. He was far too accurate, both at what the enemy would do and how his father would react. It was unnerving, watching him sink into Britannian philosophy, abstracting away from the lives on the ground and discussing expected—acceptable—casualties.
"They're going East," Lord Calhope said, surprised. "You said it would be better to keep following the road, breaking West before the bridge."
Lelouch frowned and titled his head.
She glanced back at the map and the orange triangle branching off to the right, away from the main road. Various small settlements glowed in light purple, a somber reminder of who was bearing the brunt of the cost of this brief skirmish between nations. Unsurprisingly, the E.U. had decided to meddle as well. They hardly agreed with the JLF's slower and more methodical approach.
"Oh," Lelouch whispered. "There are more noble lands that way. It would leave the town unprotected."
Lord Calhope narrowed his eyes. "It's a rural town. There would be few Britannians there."
"It appears I still have much to learn." Lelouch slowly withdrew his hand from her grasp. "If you will excuse me for a moment. Nature calls."
Stiffly, he made his escape, and she winced as one of the Emperor's guards peeled away shortly after, following Lelouch outside. He would be back soon, watching as the division which he commanded faced the enemy—unable to help.
It couldn't be easy for him either.
Yes, the Emperor was undoubtedly cruel. Undoubtedly, if she tried to excuse herself, a guard would pressure her back. She wasn't foolish enough to cry. Enough nobles were already disparaging the "Elevens." Whispers of her being a collaborator, an infiltrator, were not far behind.
"You have been remarkably silent," Lord Calhope noted, turning to her.
She glared at the irritant that Lelouch had neglected to dismiss like he should have. Nobody could possibly be that socially oblivious... except Lelouch. He, unlike this minor noble, had the rank which afforded him such a luxury.
"Military matters are not really the affair of a young lady." She glanced back at the projected map. "Do you have a sponsor for the Imperial Academy, or is that the reason for your leave of absence? So are you hoping that your wife's dowry will pay your way? Or a young prince's investment?"
"How do people think you're nothing but his whore?" he asked, frowning.
She inhaled stiffly. "Do you have something you wish to say?"
"I have watched all day His Highness discarding anyone who disparaged you. I would be quite foolish to repeat their mistakes. But you do not have to worry. My exams scores have secured me a spot and a sponsor. There is no need for me to be a social leech. This is only idle curiosity."
"I think you should leave," Kaguya said coldly.
He smirked. "We both know that if His Highness wanted me to, I would already be gone. We should be friends, Miss Sumeragi. There is no need for strife between us."
"Until you're honest, I'm inclined to disagree."
He leaned in, his voice dropping to a whisper. "You would do well to remember you're entirely dependent on His Highness's favor. You don't even have a title to your name. One misstep, and everything you love is lost. Now, my father is nowhere near important enough for me to act with impunity, but my power is the norm, not the exception like yours. Rumor has it that His Highness denies your every marriage proposal. How much does he actually care for you instead of what you represent to him?"
"You're a minor son," she spat. "You have no power, no title of nobility. The Academy is the only way for you to have a chance to gain a title, and bypass the tedium of a Second Lieutenant. Their fatalities are rather high too. Until you graduate, your rank is nothing but a promise. Some whispers in the right places and it'll be rescinded. And afterwards, well, it would be a shame to end in a posting without advancement due to a few generous donations."
She smiled sweetly and leaned in. "That all assumes Lelouch doesn't uncover your machinations first. I hope your sisters enjoy cleaning bloody remains. He didn't even hesitate to retaliate against his own."
"You're really nothing like an Eleven," he breathed. His eyes cleared and the infuriating smirk returned. "Or even a lady. I thought they were supposed to be a rose, but all I find are thorns. I am almost tempted. Alas, neither roses nor thorns are to my liking. Still, I think we shall either be the most bitter of enemies or wonderful friends."
Her retort died on her lips as she spotted the crowd parting for Lelouch. He looked possibly even more annoyed than before, shooting a poisonous look at his father. On screen, the Zeroth division continued to hold Tokyo, even as the Chinese forces swarmed the bay. From the reports they had received, the knightmares could apparently swim.
She wasn't sure if she was ready for this next stage of warfare. It made her wonder what Britannia had up its sleeves. The JLF had only just managed to begin working on a sixth generation knightmare frame.
From the South, the European marked forces threatened to flank them. And the insurgent cells, marked in a bloody red, swarmed closer to Ashford Academy where many would have evacuated too.
Like before, the Emperor made no move to intervene. "I am sure Zero will prevail."
Lelouch's head snapped to the side, his nostrils flaring before his mask rose, leaving a face carved from ice.
"What do you think?" Lord Calhope asked loudly, stumbling forward drunkenly.
Lelouch caught him and paused to stare at the map. "The battle is almost over. Tokyo will take a little longer."
Raised eyebrows from the surrounding nobles greeted his statement. Lord Calhope righted himself, clinging to Lelouch's arm far longer than appropriate and smirked as he met her eyes.
"I hope you have been enjoying yourself," Lelouch said, his eyes flicking to their boorish companion in concern.
"I would prefer more quiet company," she said.
His lips pressed together, and he met her gaze, eyes wide, begging her to play along a little longer. She couldn't understand it!
"I am afraid I chatted her ears off," Lord Calhope apologized. "I really do hope that we all will have the opportunity to converse again."
Some of the tension drained from Lelouch's shoulders. Her eyes narrowed at the blonde's way-too-satisfied smirk. She was going to ruin the upstart brat.
"Lelouch!" the Emperor interrupted, calling from in front. "Come here."
The room quieted again, and Lelouch turned to his father desperately. The Emperor raised an impatient eyebrow. He hung his head and clasped her shoulder gently.
Hanging his head, he stepped away, his entire posture screaming reluctance, much like those dramas where parents tried to rouse their children from bed. Her hand rose, covering her amused grin. The Emperor cleared his throat, and the similarities disappeared, replaced with the rigid posture befitting of a prince.
"What would you do, Lelouch?" the Emperor asked, gesturing to the screen.
"The forces in Tokyo—"
"I am sure Zero has it under control," the Emperor cut in sternly.
Lelouch's shoulders tensed, and Kaguya glared at some of the nobles nearby, whispering dismissively. To her side, Lord Calhope leaned forward, his eyes alight with anticipation. He clearly believed Lelouch to have merit, but then again, he had spent the past few hours listening to Lelouch drone on about military affairs. He would be a fool to think this was just the Emperor attempting to humiliate his son.
No. It was the opposite.
Kaguya would have preferred the former.
"Is he touched in the head?" one of the lords, his military stripes proudly on display, asked. "Moving our forces back? They're going to be flanked."
"Even a child could see that," another lord said.
"It's the inferior blood. And His Majesty had been clearing the board so well."
"What a disappointment. I heard he was smart."
"This is ridiculous. At least now he should see it." The lord threw up his arms. "Why isn't he moving! They're going to be slaughtered!"
The Emperor slowly turned, narrowing his eyes at the various outspoken nobles. "Perhaps it is best that you have retired from military service given that you are unable to ascertain the true purpose of such a move. Continue, Lelouch."
Lady Ghallagar craned her neck, pushing her way closer. "Did His Highness say anything?"
"No, does His Majesty understand already?"
"But how can he be sure? He is just a boy. And to take such an apparent disadvantage has to be a huge gamble at the least."
Lord Calhope sighed, meeting her eyes. He bit his lip and glanced back at the map. "His Highness does understand what he is doing. He must have worked with His Majesty before on this."
Biting the inside of her cheek, lest her face reveal something, she nodded. The other nobles hearing the remark began to whisper again. Where before, they had barely paid attention to the unfolding battle, it now held their undivided attention. Lelouch really was a master of working a crowd.
"But I cannot put my finger on it." He crossed his arms and tapped his finger against his well-pronounced biceps. "He's outnumbered. There are Chinese, Japanese, and EU troops all gaining on his position."
"That's the point," Kaguya said tiredly. "The French and Chinese know that holding Area Eleven would be prohibitively expensive, nor did they send a force large enough to do so. They can't be caught either. They have been destroying any downed equipment so they can hold onto their veneer of plausible deniability."
Lord Calhope nodded. "They don't trust each other. They won't coordinate, especially with the tide turning against them." His finger stilled. "I was expecting something grander, a strategy of some sort. Not a mind game."
"All warfare is based on deception," Kaguya quoted. "Supreme excellence consists of breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting."
"Perhaps you have a point, yet with such tactics, one can hardly distinguish oneself on the field of battle."
She rolled her eyes. Typical Britannian. That was all they cared for: themselves.
Author's Note:
Yeah that was a delay for which I have no excuse for. I was literally sitting on this chapter for over two weeks but couldn't find the energy to actually edit it. I had it opened on multiple occasions but kept getting distracted.
Part of it is I'm a tad busy, but the bigger reason seems to be that I've entered one of my "everything I write is shit" phases. This doesn't impact my writing so much as it impacts my willingness to edit, read, or actually share my writing. (Or talk about writing or read my reviews... On the bright side, I've actually been talking to people more irl lol).
I'm going to say an update in about 3 weeks because I have a big paper and another project due soon. Maybe it will be sooner but I make no promises.