Code Geass and its characters belong to Gorō Taniguchi and Ichirō Ōkouchi.
I only own my OC, Lynn 'Rin' Rossellini (who is not a Mary Sue) and her family.
'The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude' -Oprah Winfrey
Zero's Lady
Chapter 20: Rescuing Colonel Tohdoh
In Zero's Mobile Base...
Lelouch and Rin went to see Naoto, Kallen, Rai, Tamaki, Inoue, Sugiyama, Yoshida and Diethard to tell that Suzaku was the pilot of the Lancelot.
"Suzaku is the one piloting the Lancelot?"Kallen said in disbelief.
"Are you sure it is him?"Rai questioned.
"I was able to hack into finding information on Camelot's Advanced Special Envoy Engineering Corps and Suzaku's name appeared when I was helping Lelouch find information about the Lancelot."Rin exclaimed with a sad frown."And Suzaku did say he would plan to change Britannia from within."
"It is hard to believe, but the evidence are all there."Lelouch commented."Suzaku is our enemy."
Hurtful looks appeared on Kallen and Rai's faces.
Suzaku was their friend and a fellow member of the Student Council.
But upon learning that he was one of the people that they were fighting against was too much.
Diethard looked at Lelouch.
"So what do you intend to do, Lelouch?"Diethard questioned."Does this change anything?"
Lelouch shook his head.
"No."Lelouch answered with a firm yet stern look."We still against Britannia. No matter if Suzaku is in our way."
An irritated groan escaped Tamaki's mouth.
"Well, this stinks."Tamaki scowled."That lousy traitor first betrays his people and his country, now he sells his own soul to work for those Britannian swines."
"Not to mention, he has disgraced his own father as well."Sugiyama retorted.
An uncomfortable look appeared on Rin's face as she looked down at the mention of the late Prime Minister of Japan.
"Believe it or not, I don't blame Suzaku for the path he has taken."Rin admitted and rubbed her arm."Not after what he did."
"What do you mean, Rin?"Inoue asked.
Naoto notice something was bothering Rin.
"If you have to say, it is best to let it out."Naoto insisted.
Rin took a deep breath before she let it out to start speaking to her comrades.
"Alright. I've actually promised Lord Kirihara and the other head members of Kyoto not to tell anyone. But I can't keep hide it anymore."Rin exclaimed, trying to hide her nerve."First things first, Prime Minister Genbu Kururugi didn't commit suicide."
Everyone became surprised at the brunette's declaration.
"Wait, he didn't?"Yoshida questioned.
"No."Rin responded and became a bit nervous as she continued talking."He was murdered by Suzaku."
Shocked looks appeared on Lelouch, Naoto, Kallen, Rai, Tamaki, Inoue, Sugiyama, Yoshida and Diethard's faces.
"Huh?!"Kallen gasped.
"Suzaku killed his own father?!"Rai said in disbelief.
"You've got to be kidding!"Sugiyama scowled.
"But this isn't just a secret that you know alone, isn't Rossellini?"Diethard agreed.
Rin nodded in agreement.
"That's right."Rin agreed sadly."Seven years ago, just before the end of the war between Britannia and Japan, Prime Minister Kururugi called for do-or-die resistance which meant he wanted Japan to fight to the death than having his country surrender to Britannia. Unfortunately, Suzaku didn't take the idea well and got an argument with his father. The argument went out hand, so Suzaku took a knife…and stabbed his father, ending his life."
"But all the reports said Prime Minister Genbu Kururugi's suicide was a protest against the military action."Lelouch commented.
"It was a big fat lie."Rin replied with a regretful tone."All of it was just to protect Suzaku."
"Was Lord Kirihara the one that made up the story that Prime Minister Kururugi committed suicide?"Inoue asked.
"Yes, Inoue."Rin answered."The ones who actually know are the members of the Houses of Kyoto including myself and Kaguya. Including the former sensei of me and Suzaku; Kyoshiro Tohdoh. I didn't like hiding the true fate of Prime Minister Kururugi, but-"
"We get it, Rin."Lelouch commented."It was a necessary secret to save Suzaku's life. Otherwise, he would've been killed."
"And Japan would be more destroyed than it is now."Kallen added.
"You're right."Rin agreed."Also, Nunnally would've been married off for political gain."
"Hold on. I've never heard of that."Lelouch said in surprise."Who was Nunnally to be married to."
"The Prime Minister of Japan."Rin admitted.
Lelouch, Naoto, Kallen, Rai, Tamaki, Inoue, Sugiyama, Yoshida and Diethard were all stunned at Rin's respond.
"Another reason Suzaku killed his father because Prime Minister Kururugi was scheduled to marry Nunnally since a Japanese leader had to marry a britanian of royal blood as a symbol for the two nations."Rin admitted with a hint of dismay."That was decided at that time so that an invasion would not occur which bothered Suzaku greatly."
A scowl escaped from Tamaki's mouth.
"You've got to be kidding me."Tamaki retorted."The Prime Minister of Japan was to marry Zero's kid sister even though he was old enough to be her dad?"
"That's disgusting beyond words."Diethard scowled.
"Ew."Kallen muttered in disgust.
A disgusted yet angry expression appeared on Lelouch's face at the thought of his younger sister almost marrying Suzaku's father.
Naoto, Rai, Inoue, Sugiyama and Yoshida all cringed at the mental image of a very young Nunnally marrying a man who looked to be in his thirties or forties.
"Suzaku actually did offer himself to marry Nunnally, but his father refused."Rin responded.
"Why?"Rai questioned, coming out of his stupor at the recent discovery."Wouldn't it be the most normal thing if it had been Suzaku in the first place that they had put up to marry Nunnally?"
"Yes, but that wouldn't have been possible since me and Suzaku were engaged."Rin admitted.
"You and Suzaku were to be married?"Lelouch said in awe.
"Apparently, yes. But all that ended, when Britannia went war with Japan and Prime Minister Kururugi was killed."Rin answered with a shrug and went back to the main subject."Anyway, Suzaku obviously felt totally guilty deep down, not only for his father's death, but for the consequences that the act brought."
"But how does that explain him joining Britannia?"Yoshida asked.
"Now that I think about it."Diethard spoke up, earning everyone's attention."Mr Kururugi, by killing his father, performed a morally wrong act for a positive result which was to save the lives of the people in the war."
"But even when he did that, millions of people still died."Rin retorted with a sad frown."Such as my mother and the rest of the Sumeragi Clan."
"Suzaku could believe that his act had only made things worse and that may have brought him to his decision to join Britannia in the hopes of changing the system from within."Lelouch suggested."Also, as the only way to justify his actions since he said to me that 'the results don't matter, if the methods are morally wrong' when I offered him to join us."
"That explains his thoughts that results are worthless if the actions to achieve them are deplorable."Sugiyama replied.
Naoto looked at Lelouch.
"I guess it is clear to say that it is unknown if things would've gone worse in Japan, if Prime Minister Kururugi wasn't killed."Naoto stated and looked at Lelouch."Though then again, your sister might've become a pawn of an arranged marriage and lose her freewill which is something you would've never wanted to happen, Lelouch."
"Yes, Naoto."Lelouch answered with a hint of anger."My little sister is her own person and should decide by herself on who she would end up marrying. No one has the right to control her or use her as a doll."
"It's awful what Suzaku did to his father, but it is sad that he had to go through something traumatic as a child."Kallen said sadly.
"Yeah."Rai agreed with a nod."Since he goes school with us, he should've only worry about his grades and friendships. Not something so terrible."
In Ashford Academy, Lelouch was sitting down and thinking about what he and the Black Knights learned from Rin a few days ago.
"Suzaku. I finally why you act the way you do."Lelouch thought with a hint of sadness."I guess I shouldn't be surprised. He's at odds with himself, because he used to be different. He never placed importance on another person. It was tough enough for me to kill my half-brother, yet Suzaku killed his father when he was ten years old. He's been carrying that burden on him all these years?"
Lelouch narrowed his eyes as something came into his mind.
"To think there was a plan formed to have Nunnally marry Suzaku's father."Lelough thought in anger."But I'm glad that didn't happen. Even Rin being engaged to Suzaku."
A soft smile appeared on his face.
"Now I sound jealous."Lelouch thought with a hint of amusement.
"Rin!"A boy's voice called out."Don't move!"
Lelouch snapped out of his thoughts and brought his attention on several students that he was with and were surrounding a large pedestal where Rin stood wearing an elaborate gown of Greek design.
This week had become increasingly more interesting with the art week proposed by the late Prince Clovis la Britannia.
It was time for Art Class and everyone were drawing and Rin was posing while everyone else drew her.
Rin wore a Grecian style dress with a loose upper half. The upper half of the dress was white with some gold on the right shoulder, and the lower half was blue, with two darker blue lines at the very bottom. Her shoes were a pair of brown sandals with an intricate strap design. Her chestnut brown hair were loose and curly with part of it was tied up in a bun and had a circular branch of golden olive leaves on it. Around her neck was a golden choker with matching charms dangling off it, a pair of circular, gold earrings. On her right wrist she wore golden bracelets with charms on it. The item she held on her left hand was a fake gold spear and a fake gold shield on her right.
The brunette was dressed as Athena, the Greek Goddess of Wisdom and War.
Deep down, Rin was actually so annoyed that she had allowed Milly to even convince her to take part as an idol for the class next door.
She had to stay perfectly still, and her joints were starting to become rather sore.
"This is so humiliating."Rin thought with an uncomfortable expression."No wonder Milly refused to do it. I hope the bell rings soon."
"Rin, quit moving around, will ya?!"A male student shouted.
Rin sweat dropped. "Sorry, guys."
"No, your sight line was lower."A female student instructed.
"Like this?"Rin assumed, lowering her eyes down a bit.
"No!"Rivalz called out."Too far, a little higher!"
Rin made her eyelids go a bit higher to try and resume the expression she had before.
"Good?"Rin suggested.
"Now your expression's totally different from when we started!"Shirley argued.
"How about this?"Rin assumed.
Rin tried to smile a bit, only to get more refusals.
"That's not how you were!"
"I liked the brave face more!"
"C'mon, everyone!"
"I prefer her looking serious!"
Hearing the other students' complains, Rin twitched her eyebrows in annoyance and yelled at them.
"WOULD ALL OF YOU JUST DRAW ME AND SHUT UP?!"Rin demanded angrily.
Everyone in the room became silent and sweat dropped at Rin's outburst.
Lelouch smiled smugly as everyone immediately started drawing his girlfriend in silence without uttering another word.
"Honestly, how did I end up agreeing to do this?"Rin thought in an irritated tone.
Meanwhile…
A Clovis Memorial Museum of Art has been erected and for the ribbon cutting ceremony, Euphemia will judge which the best painting was.
"We will open Art Week with the dedication of the Clovis Memorial Museum of Art."the Agent explained."You, Princess Euphemia, will select the first place winner from among these submitted works."
Euphemia looked at the one that is called 'The Village' involving two jungle huts similar to those in Vietnam.
"Oh, this one's nice!"Euphemia remarked kindly."I particularly like this painting."
"It's regrettable that our investigation revealed that the artist happens to be one-quarter Eleven."the agent stated.
Euphemia frowned at the agent's respond.
"Perhaps it shouldn't have been displayed here in the first place then."Euphemia retorted.
"Well, it's a delicate balance with our public."the agent said and gestured to a different painting to get the 3rd Princess of Britannia's attention."Anyway, take a look at that painting right there. It was painted by the son of Marquess Nicolai."
The painting showed Emperor Charles at a podium, making what appeared to be one of his speeches.
Euphemia looked at the painting of her father with a sad expression.
The painting, although of good quality, didn't show anything special or what makes it stand out.
Sometime after finishing school, Lelouch and the main members of the Black Knights took a limo to visit the residence of Lord Kirihara.
Lord Kirihara's lavish residence was the example of a Japanese style home.
The walls were of fine wood and the floors were almost even shining spotless.
In an outdoor area of the residence, was a garden comprised of lush green grass, stone monuments, and a small flowing river, where even a bamboo circular system routinely lifted up and down water.
The place almost had a fog that obscured the whole place.
Kirihara spoke with Lelouch as the others stood inside the residence watching them.
"Yes. It is true."Lord Kirihara declared."It was my idea to create the claim that Genbu Kururugi committed suicide."
"I get it, Lord Kirihara."Lelouch assured."You did what you had to and save Suzaku's life. Otherwise, he would've been killed if people found out."
"So what do you intend to do now with the discovery you have learned?"Lord Kirihara questioned.
"Keep it a secret."Lelouch responded."I have no need to use it for anything."
Lord Kirihara nodded in approval.
"Very well."Lord Kirihara answered.
In the Ghettos…
It was night time.
But despite the darkness that clouded the lives of those that lived in the ghettos, there were some light in the damaged homes of the Japanese people, who were actually celebrating having Zero and the Black Knights trying to free Japan.
Rin was bringing food to a group of Japanese orphans living in the ghetto that were being looked after by an old lady that loved them as if they were her own grandchildren.
The brunette wore a midnight blue jacket over a white shirt with a brown bow on the front of its collar, beige trousers, black socks and short brown boots.
"Here you go, Miss Otsuru."Rin declared kindly, handing a grocery bag to the old lady."This is enough food that you will be able to cook for you and all the orphans."
Miss Otsuru bowed at Rin.
"Thank you, Miss Sumeragi."Miss Otsuru answered with a grateful look."You truly are a heart of gold."
"It is the least I can do."Rin responded and looked down."Though I really wish I can help everyone."
Miss Otsuru gives Rin a comforting hand causing the brunette to look up at her.
"Just do what you can, Rin."Miss Otsuru insisted."The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the greatest intention."
A small smile appeared on Rin's face, feeling touched by Miss Otsuru's words.
"I will."Rin answered with a bow."Thank you, Miss Otsuru."
Rin then headed off to join Sugiyama and Inoue, who were waiting for her.
"All done, Rin?"Sugiyama asked.
"Yes."Rin responded firmly."Let's go."
Rin followed Sugiyama and Inoue to another side of the ghetto as she caught sight of a group of Japanese people cheering and drinking beverages.
"Zero is the best!"
"With him and the Black Knights on our side, we can't lose!"
A faint smile appeared on Rin's face as the people in the ghetto began to sing in hope for a better Japan for themselves and their loved ones, completely ignoring the dangers of the ghettos that were likely lurking about.
We dream and talk of the new day
All we want is freedom
A land to round around in freely
Oh clouds, wind, heed our words
Our wish is our friends', our wish is our own
Let's go back to square zero and start over with a clean state
Let's start over with a clean state
The Next Morning…
Lelouch was in a private room of the Zero's Mobile Base, looking through the daily newspaper that talked about the latest news.
He took a sip from his glass of iced expresso before standing up to pick a dart.
"One step after another and one day the Britannian rule will eventually be overthrown by Zero and the Black Knights."Lelouch remarked.
The former Prince of Britannia throws the dart to a nearby dartboard while C.C was in the minibar of the room cutting a pizza into slices.
"You have recently become more popular than your first debut, Lelouch."C.C complemented."Care to explain your decision for helping General Katase and the JLF escape to the Chinese Federation even after what Lieutenant Colonel Kusakabe did?"
"It's simple, C.C."Lelouch replied as he picked up another dart to throw at the dartboard."The Japan Liberation Front is one of the most successful Resistance force in Japan before the rise of the Black Knights. The Liberation Front's military has members from the former Japanese military and resistance soldiers. In addition, it was led by many surviving military Officers from Japan's original Armed forces such as the famous Tohdoh which is probably one of the reason why the JLF's fame uprose in the first place."
"Kyoshiro Tohdoh."C.C murmured as she chewed on her slice of pizza."Your girlfriend and Suzaku's former Sensei?"
"That's him."Lelouch complemented."Despite being a fierce warrior, Tohdoh despises conflict unless he has to be drawn into it. He will only fight to protect those close to him and is like a second father to Rin."
C.C picked up the remote to put on the TV, only for the screen to show the chart of Zero and the Black Knights support from other resistance groups beside the Yamato Alliance.
"You seem very keen on having other resistance groups join you."C.C declared.
"It's all based on building bonds and gaining trust to those around you."Lelouch stated as he picked up a third dart."The Black Knights are 'Heroes of Justice'. In order for us to expand, we'll have to keep showing others that our motives are true and being good examples to those who are too scared to fight against Britannia. Even those that don't even agree with our motives."
A smirk crept on C.C's face.
"How very admirable of you."C.C stated."So the goals of building your rebellion is no longer about getting revenge on the Emperor and making a gentler world for your younger sister?"
Lelouch paused from throwing the third dart to the dartboard.
"Of course not, witch."Lelouch retorted with a frown."I'm focused on ending Britannia's tyranny for good and creating a better world for everyone I care for. Not just for Nunnally."
"I see."C.C answered."Then I guess it's true what they say, 'People's lives get better, if they get better themselves'."
A surprised look appeared on Lelouch's face at C.C's sudden respond.
"What?"C.C asked with a smug look."Isn't that what Lynn would usually say?"
Before Lelouch could say anything, a knock came from outside the room.
"Hey, Lelouch. It's me."Naoto stated."There's a group from Hiroshima who wants to join us. Are you coming?"
"Yeah."Lelouch answered as he picked up his cape and placed it on before placing back his Zero mask."I'm coming, Naoto."
Zero made his way out of his room, only to see Naoto, Kallen and Minami at the front of the entrance waiting for him.
"Also, Rakshata and Diethard wants to see you."Naoto admitted.
"Did something happen?"Zero questioned.
Kallen shook her head.
"Not at all."Kallen answered and a relieved smile appeared on her face."It's about Rai's blood test. It seems they've found something about him that you should know about."
Zero nodded."Very well."
Kallen frowned when she caught sight of C.C.
"Hey, C.C."Kallen responding, earning the immortal witch's attention."If you're going to be working with the Black Knights, you need to learn how to use a Knightmare Frame-"
"I'm in the middle of brunch."C.C interrupted.
A slight annoyed look grew on Kallen's face as C.C send the red haired girl her signature smirk.
In the Airport…
A Britannian military plane landed in the airport of Area 11.
Two figures emerged out of it with their luggages, revealing themselves to be Gino and Anya.
Gino wore a dark green shirt with long loose-fitting sleeves with long dark blue cuffs at the bottom and a sleeveless dark grey jacket over a dark blue turtleneck shirt. He also wore black pants and brown shoes. He also had a pair of shades on to match his look.
Anya wore a pale pink dress with a corset top adorned by red buttons to match her bolero which had a frilly collar and pink ribbon. Her red low-heeled shoes were worn with pale pink socks.
Gino and Anya walked inside the airport terminal, where they were greeted by Nonette.
Nonette wore a mature long-sleeved white shirt under a black blazer with golden details, a black side slit pencil skirt, black earrings, a black silver wristwatch and black d'orsay heels.
"Hello, Gino and Anya."Nonette greeted."It's been a while."
"Hi, Nonette."Anya responded simply.
"Nonette. Great to see you again."Gino remarked brightly."I guess you know why me and Anya are here since you and Princess Cornelia had failed a bunch of times to wipe out Zero and the Black Knights."
"Don't get cocky, Gino."Nonette retorted in a stern look."Zero and the Black Knights are nothing compared to any resistance group that me or Nelly have ever faced. I would advise you and Anya take this matter serious since both of you trained in the imperial academy back in the homeland."
Nonette, Gino and Anya made their way out of the airport terminal to the private limo that was going to take them to the Government Bureau as the driver placed the luggages at the back of the expensive care.
"You can count on us!"Gino sneered as he opened a sofa can of lemonade."With three Knights of the Round now helping Princess Cornelia, there's no way we can lose!"
Nonette rolled her eyes at Gino's hyper personality while Anya began fidgeting with her phone before the limo took off and headed away from the airport terminal.
In the Secret Base of the Black Knights…
Rai was eating from a bowl of unagi donburi (eel bowl in Japanese) made by Kallen while being near the Gekka Pre-Production Test Type which was parked near Zero's Mobile Base and few other Knightmares.
Then Tamaki walked up to Rai.
"Rai."Tamaki remarked."Just the guy I'm looking for."
"Hey, Tamaki."Rai responded.
"I'll be doing a supply run, so I'll need a reliable guy to help me out on the job."Tamaki declared.
Rai became confused at Tamaki's respond.
"What makes you think I'm reliable?"Rai asked."I don't even have memories of who I am."
"Doesn't matter."Tamaki remarked."You're still a member of the Black Knights and everyone seems to trust you."
"But not everyone."Rai declared as he ate a bit of rice with his chopsticks."Most people seem to keep a distance from me."
"That's because you're mainly quiet."Tamaki admitted."They can't see who you really are."
"They can't see me?"Rai questioned.
"Come on."Tamaki retorted."You must be interested in something."
"You mean like ending the tyranny of Britannia and making a better world for everyone?"Rai assumed.
"No. Not that, soldier boy."Tamaki commented as he sat in a nearby crate."I mean what's your dream? Your wildest dream?"
"Wildest dream?"Rai murmured."I'm not really sure."
Rai continued eating his lunch as Tamaki let out a groan.
"How is someone supposed to trust a guy, if the guy doesn't even know what the heck he wants?"Tamaki whined.
Rai placed a slice of eel on a soya dip before placing it on his mouth causing him to become surprised.
"It's good!"Rai complemented in awe.
Tamaki drank his bottle of beer before speaking to the silver haired boy.
"Hey, why not team up with me?"Tamaki insisted."With your piloting skills, we could end up scoring tons of money."
"You mean another job beside being a Black Knight?"Rai guessed.
"Yeah."Tamaki sneered."That's right."
"But isn't more money too much?"Rai assumed.
Tamaki smirked at Rai's question.
"Trust me, kid. It won't be too much."Tamaki chuckled."Besides, if you make more money, you can eat more tasty things and even get yourself a nice car. Spend it. Learn what you like. Find out what your heart desires."
Rai looked down in thought at Tamaki's declaration.
"What my heart desires."Rai murmured.
Tamaki smiled smugly at Rai's reply, thinking he planted a seed of ambition on his head.
Then Inoue walked up to Rai and Tamaki.
"Not so fast, Tamaki."Inoue remarked."No way you're stealing the kid."
Tamaki frowned. "Stealing what?"
Inoue smiled at Tamaki.
"If Rai is teaming up with anyone, it's going to be me."Inoue declared and looked at Rai."I can train you to become a first class salvager. What do you, Rai?"
"Salvager?"Rai asked."What's that?"
"I'll teach you. It's easy to pick up."Inoue assured."If there's anything you can't do, just ask me and I'll show you how. Or just watch what I do. Piece of cake."
This caused Tamaki to butt in.
"Don't listen to Inoue, kid."Tamaki complemented."Stick with me, you'll get the training to become a great pilot."
"I'll teach you how to ride the tides."Inoue encouraged."You have potential. It'll be easy."
"Team up with me, you'll get to drink all the boozes you want."Tamaki added.
Rai looked at Inoue and Tamaki, not knowing what to say.
"Well, I-"Rai started.
"Booze is nothing compared to learning how to swim."Inoue declared.
"You'll get to fondle girls' asses all day long."Tamaki admitted with a crazed smile.
Rai sweat dropped and cringed at Tamaki's words as Inoue glared at him.
"Tamaki! Quit being such a creep!"Inoue argued."Just what the hell of an example are you trying to give?!"
"Oh shut up, turtle shell ass!"Tamaki snapped.
"Who are you calling turtle shell ass?!"Inoue growled."You can't even swim!"
"Of course I know how to swim!"Tamaki argued."I just don't know how to dive!"
Rai notice Kallen nearby and was gesturing him to come to her.
The silver haired boy quietly yet carefully slipped away from Inoue and Tamaki, who were busy arguing with another.
A sigh of relief escaped Rai's mouth as he followed Kallen out.
"Thanks, Kallen."Rai thanked.
"No problem."Kallen chuckled."What was that all about?"
"Tamaki was offering me to join him in what I think could've been one of his crazy schemes."Rai explained with a sheepish smile."Then Inoue joined in and as you can see…the conversation went out of control."
Kallen let out a light laugh.
"Don't worry much about it."Kallen admitted."They be my older brother's friends, but they mean well."
"Right."Rai responded and then changed the subject."So did Rakshata find anything from my blood test?"
"That's exactly what I was coming to you for, Rai."Kallen declared with a smile."The results have come out."
Various feelings began to grow within Rai at Kallen's respond.
"Alright."Rai answered."Let's go."
Rai and Kallen then stepped inside the lounge of the Zero's Mobile Base, where the duo saw Lelouch (wearing his Zero outfit, but without his mask), Diethard and Rakshata were waiting for them.
"I'm here."Rai stated.
"It's okay, if I stay?"Kallen requested.
"It's fine, Kallen. You were keen on finding about Rai's heritage as all of us were."Lelouch admitted."Are you alright with that, Diethard?"
"If that's what you say, Zero."Diethard responded."The information was bound to come out sooner or later. We might as well reveal it now, so that we can benefit from it."
Rakshata glanced at Diethard.
"You have such a roundabout nature, you know that?"Rakshata commented.
"Is that so?"Diethard questioned with a smirk."Well, I won't try to deny that."
Lelouch brought his attention on Rai.
"Then, let's get to the matter at hand, Rai."Lelouch stated."The results from your blood test have come in. Your blood is half-Japanese."
A look of surprise grew on Rai's face as Kallen smiled happily.
"I knew it!"Kallen remarked."I knew that I was right!"
"Moreover, you're from a distinguished noble family."Rakshata added.
Kallen's eyes widen in surprise.
"Eh?!"Kallen shrieked.
"Huh?!"Rai gasped.
"I tried to investigate into this matter, but no matter how far I looked back."Diethard exclaimed."There are no people in the present, who match up with your genealogy."
"But genetics can't be falsified, right?"Rakshata said."He's a half, but half of his blood comes from a linage of a noble family. The results show that he's definitely a distant relative of one of the Six Houses of Kyoto. The Sumeragi family."
Rai and Kallen's eyes widen in awe.
"I'm…I'm a member of the Sumeragi family."Rai murmured.
"So that makes you also a relative to Rin and Lady Kaguya."Kallen assumed.
"I don't know what the ramifications of this are, but the fact remains you carry the ancient and noble blood of Japan in you."Lelouch explained."It doesn't seem like chance at all that you entered the Black Knights. I feel like it was fate which led you to this battle for Japan's sake."
"I see. So I am half-Japanese."Rai chuckled with a smile before becoming concern."But does that mean half my blood is…"
"Yes. You're also half-Britannian, Rai."Diethard declared."Beside being a Sumeragi, the other half of you're bloodline is from a noble class Britannian family known as the Hodges that were descendants from an illegitimate daughter of the 91st Emperor of Britannia, Emperor Maximilian san Britannia."
Utterly shocked looks appeared on Rai and Kallen's faces.
"I'm…also a relative of the Britannian Imperial Family."Rai said in disbelief.
"No way."Kallen murmured.
Lelouch lightly smiled at the stunned expressions on his friends' faces.
"Furthermore, I expect even more from you in the future."Lelouch remarked.
Overcoming his shock, Rai nodded at his leader and friend.
"Yes. I'll do my best."Rai declared with a bow.
"Also, I'm almost certain that you're body has been tampered with."Rakshata commented.
"What do you mean, Rakshata?"Rai questioned.
"There are traces that your body's abilities have been enhanced with drugs and medicine."Rakshata stated and smiled."I can't determine anything more than that. But…I can't help but wonder who you truly are."
Rai gives a nod at Rakshata before silently heading out of the mobile base with Kallen in tow.
Rai Hodges.
That was his name.
But since he was following the path of the Black Knights, the alias 'Rai Sumeragi' suited him more.
Just as he finally learned something, yet another mystery appeared in his head.
His own memories still seemed to be a huge blank space.
Feeling the need to breath some fresh air, Rai looked up at the sky from among the ruins.
"It's all so shocking."Kallen commented.
"Yeah."Rai answered.
"Were you the one who was most surprised?"Kallen asked.
"I was surprised."Rai responded."But I feel very relieved and refreshed now."
"So you're a half just like me."Kallen suggested.
Rai smiled at Kallen.
"Yes. We're the same, Kallen."Rai answered."The two of us are the same."
Kallen smiled happily and Rai also became somewhat happy.
The two of them laughed and smiled at each other.
"With this, I'll have to become even stronger for the Black Knights from here on."Rai vowed with a determind look.
"Let's fight together from now on."Kallen insisted confidently."For the sake of Japan."
"Yes."Rai replied with a nod."Let's fight together."
The Following Morning…
At the Area 11 Knightmare Train Station, Cornelia decided to depart and leave Euphemia in charge with Darlton and Nonette.
"Today, Kyoshiro Tohdoh will be executed."Guilford declared.
"I won't be present for that."Cornelia commented and frowned."Since the last of the JLF escaped out of mere luck."
"Right."Guilford responded.
Nonette looked at Cornelia.
"Who do you have in mind to execute Colonel Tohdoh, Nellie?"Nonette asked.
"I have chosen."Cornelia responded as she smiled at her old school friend."Let him handle the execution."
Euphemia became shocked upon who her older sister was referring to.
"Viceroy!"Euphemia called out.
The 2nd Princess of Britannia brought her attention to her younger sister, who rushed up to her.
"Sorry to summon you like this."Cornelia apologised."How's everything at the museum?"
"The dedication is later on."Euphemia replied."Of greater importance though, the N.A.C. reported there was unrest in Ishikawa."
"Probably backed by the E.U or the Chinese Federation."Cornelia exclaimed."And there have also been sightings of Gung Ru units. Still, it's our chance to bring Hokuriku under control. I'll leave Darlton and Nonette here while I'm gone. If anything happens, consult them."
Cornelia then took a booklet that Guilford handed her.
"Also, concerning what we spoke of earlier…"Cornelia started.
Cornelia then gives Euphemia a booklet which contained a list of people that can be her Knight, all of whom are noble Britannians.
"You may choose any of them to be your knight."Cornelia stated."They're all excellent soldiers from respected families."
Nonette placed her arm around Euphemia.
"Be sure to choose your knight carefully, Euphie."Nonette insisted smugly."He might end up being your Prince Charming."
"That's not what I meant, Nonette."Cornelia retorted.
Euphemia looked at the list inside the booklet with a sad expression.
At the Secret Base of the Black Knights…
Naoto was working on the last touches of the Samurai, checking that all parts of his Knightmare were clear and in good shape before the next operation.
As the heir to the Stadtfeld Household was busy working on his Knightmare, Miaka secretly watched him from the entrance of the base with a small pink blush on her face.
Miaka then took a deep breath and walked up to Naoto while holding a light green bento box in her hands.
The member of the Yamato Alliance cleared her throat to earn her crush's attention.
"Oh, hey Miaka."Naoto greeted.
"H-Hi, Naoto."Miaka responded shyly and presented the bento box to Naoto."This is for you in case you got hungry."
Miaka handed Naoto the bento box.
"Whoa."Naoto chuckled."You made this for me?"
Miaka nodded as her blush grew bigger.
"Y-Yeah."Miaka answered and became nervous."Enjoy your lunch and have a nice day!"
Miaka giggled heartily and quickly ran out, leaving a confused Naoto by himself.
"Okay?"Naoto responded.
Naoto then sat down near the Samurai and glanced at the bento lunch box that was given to him to open it.
It was a delicious sight to eat considering it had rice, all sorts of vegetables and meat made of Britannian food that was integrated into a Japanese style bento.
"Octopus hot dogs and tamago sando?"Naoto said with a smile and thought affectionally."How very thoughtful."
"Excuse me?"A man's voice spoke up."Are you Naoto Kōzuki?"
"Yes, I am."Naoto replied.
Naoto turned his head to where the voice came from causing him to become shocked at who he saw.
It was the Four Holy Swords; Shogo Asahina, Nagisa Chiba, Kosetsu Urabe and Ryōga Senba.
Naoto gasped at the famous group and quickly stood up to bow at them in respect.
"The Four Holy Swords!"Naoto said in surprise."It's honour to meet you!"
"I'll get straight to the point here."Senba spoke up."We've come to you today to ask for your help."
Naoto rose his head in disbelief while his mouth opening from surprise.
"Excuse me?"Naoto said in disbelief.
"Lieutenant Colonel Kyoshiro Tohdoh has been apprehended."Senba admitted."He sacrificed himself to secure our escape."
In Ashford Academy…
Kaguya sat at the window near the stairs as she told Lelouch and Rin the latest news.
"It seems your old sensei was captured helping his subordinates escape, Onee-sama."Kaguya informed.
"Sensei Tohdoh?"Rin said with a hint of worry.
"We'll help the Four Holy Swords rescue Colonel Tohdoh, Rin."Lelouch assured firmly."The Black Knights stand for justice after all."
"That's what I like to hear."Kaguya giggled joyfully and then got serious."But make sure you both be careful out there. I hear Cornelia is sending back up to try and tear you apart."
"We will, Kaguya."Rin assured with a wink.
Lelouch nodded in agreement as he took out his phone to call Naoto and give him the instructions for the following operation.
Kaguya glanced to look outside, only to become hurt at seeing Suzaku standing at the outside taps, washing his vandalised shirt.
"So have you told the Black Knights about what Suzaku did?"Kaguya asked softly.
"Yes, my imouto."Rin replied."It's fair that they know. Even Lord Kirihara told them why he did what he to do."
"Right."Kaguya responded sadly.
At the Clubhouse…
After finishing class, Suzaku was having tea with Lelouch, Rin and Nunnally as well as spending time with them like they used to seven years before Japan was invaded.
The Honorary Britannian talked about how he would fish for crawfish or zarigani in Japanese, in his pond.
"Yes, the pond does freeze solid in the winter."Nunnally exclaimed."Although Big Brother scolded me once when he caught me skating on it."
"We had a pond too at the Kururugi Shrine."Suzaku remarked."It was small, but I used to catch zarigani."
"Zarigani?"Nunnally asked.
"It means crawfish in Japanese, Nunna."Rin explained.
Nunnally glanced at Suzaku.
"You would catch crawfish?"Nunnally said in curiosity."How?"
"It's simple."Suzaku responded."You just tie a string to a frog's back leg."
"Huh? Frog?"Nunnally assumed."As in those things that sit on lily pads and go croak?"
"Yeah, but in Japanese they go 'kero-kero and kero-kero'."Suzaku explained, making a frog sound.
"Kero?"Nunnally giggled in delight.
"Yup."Suzaku agreed, repeating the frog voice."Kero-kero."
Rin smiled at the memory which reminded her of the time when she, Lelouch, Nunnally and Suzaku were together as small children.
Though it saddened her that they weren't able to make more of those precious memories when Japan went war with Britannia.
Rin quietly took a sip from her cranberry tea as Lelouch secretly glanced at Suzaku as his best friend spoke to his younger sister.
"Suzaku, I was really expecting you to be the one to look after Nunnally and make her happy."Lelouch thought with a frown."But that's not going to be possible anymore since you have already chosen the path you wanted."
Unaware to the four friends, C.C was carefully watching them from the nearby building.
Suzaku notice Lelouch looking at him.
"What's wrong, Lelouch?"Suzaku asked.
"Nothing."Lelouch answered simply.
A confused look appeared on Suzaku's face as someone called out his name.
"Suzaku!"
Suzaku, Nunnally, Lelouch and Rin looked and saw Cécile as she rushed over to them.
"Lloyd says it's urgent!"Cécile declared.
"Who's that?"Lelouch asked.
"She's a soldier."Suzaku responded.
Cécile notice Rin, Lelouch and Nunnally.
"Friends of yours?"Cécile assumed.
"Yes."Suzaku answered with a smile.
"I'm sorry, but I need to pull Suzaku away from you for a while."Cécile admitted.
"Uh, but I'm…"Suzaku started.
"Don't worry."Lelouch assured."You can continue hanging out with us later."
Suzaku nodded. "Right. See you then."
"Please come again, Suzaku."Nunnally insisted brightly.
"I will."Suzaku replied.
"And don't exhaust yourself."Rin joked in amusement.
"I got it."Suzaku chuckled.
Suzaku left with Cécile as Lelouch and Rin looked on.
Then slight frowns appeared on Lelouch and Rin's faces since the couple knew their best friend was going back to work for the Advanced Special Envoy Engineering Corps.
"Well, it seems that Suzaku's really important to them."Nunnally declared kindly."I'm glad."
"You're glad, Nunna?"Rin said.
"Yes, Lynn."Nunnally remarked."It seems Suzaku is working hard in the engineering corps and everyone seems to like him now."
"It does seem that way."Lelouch agreed with a fake smile and remembered when Suzaku got shot in Shinjuku trying to protect him."But that's not really what's going on…"
In the Clovis Memorial Museum of Art…
Euphemia and Darlton go to a press conference which had reporters asking the pink haired princess many questions.
"Sub-Viceroy."the first reporter spoke up."Is it true that no Eleven companies were used in the construction of this museum?"
"W–well, with regard to that question, I–"Euphemia started.
Darlton quickly reached for his own microphone.
"We're looking into it right now, so we have no answer at this time."Darlton responded.
The reporter sat down as a female reporter glared at him.
"Idiot!"the second reporter scowled."Why bother asking Princess Euphemia about politics?!"
Then another reporter asked Euphemia a question.
"Keriman from Interstate."the third reporter said."Your Highness, there have been rumours lately that you're close to choosing your knight."
"Uh, um, a knight."Euphemia responded, not knowing what to say."Yes, well, you see, I'm–"
"Ladies and gentlemen, we ask that you please limit your questions to those concerning the museum only."the agent insisted.
Euphemia looked down in sadness, feeling upset that people were talking for her instead of using her voice to say what she wanted.
Underneath the Tokyo Settlement Freeway…
The Black Knights were making preparations as they were getting ready to commence the operation.
Rai, Naoto, Kallen and Rin were preparing their Knightmares while the rest packed up the last supplies for their comrades to use in battle.
The Four Holy Swords waited and waited anxiously for the operation.
It seemed like hours had passed since arriving at the headquarters and quickly being caught up in an operation.
"Are you sure it's a good idea to throw in with the Black Knights?"Asahina asked.
Chiba frowned. "Can you think of any other way to rescue Colonel Tohdoh?"
"There's also what Kyoto said that they'd lend us the new models."Urabe admitted.
"Still, their principles seem to be somewhat off."Asahina stated.
"We're not ethnocentric, but after all, you already know that."Chiba commented.
"We can worry about the details after we've rescued the Colonel."Senba suggested.
"I understand."Asahina agreed."But no matter where Tohdoh may be, it's the place I belong."
Yoshida glared at Minami.
"I told you not to pile up the hydraulic lines in one place!"Yoshida reminded.
"That's why I said it's different from a Burai!"Minami argued.
Rakshata looked at the two members of the Black Knights working on the Guren Mk-II with two of her scientists accompanying her.
"Take your time and treat it with the utmost care!"Rakshata ordered sternly."It was far more fragile than any of you when I gave birth to it!"
Rai stood near the Gekka Pre-Production Test Type and was wearing an ocean blue pilot suit with the Black Knights symbols on its shoulders.
"So what do you guys think?"Rai asked.
"You look great, Rai."Shade praised.
"The new suits seem to look well."Zero complemented.
"Of course, they are."Rakshata remarked."They're gifts from Kyoto."
Kallen walked forward wearing her new donned red pilot suit.
The pilot of the Guren Mk-II looked uncertainly anxious due to her new uniform being too tight, but also revealing too much features of her body including her chest and bottom.
Rai's cheeks turned a bit pink and seeing how attractive Kallen looked in her new suit.
"Excuse me."Kallen spoke up nervously."Is this really going to improve the interfacing system?"
"No."Rakshata answered."Of course not."
"Huh?!"Kallen gasped.
Rakshata held up her kiseru pipe while smirking amusingly.
"It's going to improve your life expectancy."Rakshata sneered.
In the Britannian Prison…
Colonel Tohdoh was being held in one of the prison cells.
A soldier walked through the corridors and finally stopped in front of Tohdoh's cell.
"I just heard they changed your executioner."the soldier sneered."It's going to be Warrant Officer Suzaku Kururugi. You ought to be glad it's someone you know."
Tohdoh opened his eyes when he heard the name that belonged to one of his former students.
In an office near the Britannian Prison, Lloyd, Cécile and Suzaku were sitting in front of a member of the government.
Lloyd signed one paper, but was quickly handed another to sign.
"What?"Lloyd asked in annoyance."You mean my signature again?"
"Even though Princess Cornelia ordered this, there are still some formalities to be followed."the warden explained."A change of executioner is the most exceptional circumstances."
Cécile looked worriedly at Suzaku, whose face seemed to spasm several times.
Suzaku was horrified to know that Princess Cornelia appointed him to execute the man, who taught him and Rin in combat.
Rin would become sad and never forgive him for killing their own mentor.
How can he get out of it?
Suzaku's eyes suddenly widen as he heard a loud explosion, snapping him out of his thoughts.
"What was that?!"the warden member snapped in confusion."What happened?!"
Suzaku, Cécile and Lloyd see from the window that there was a large cloud of smoke coming from inside the prison cells.
"Good."Lloyd remarked in relief."Now we're free of hellish paperwork."
At the Exterior Area of the Prison…
Several Britannian Sutherlands rush towards the wall where the fire was coming from, but several were quickly destroyed by various shots.
Out of the flames, members of the Holy Swords appeared, riding their Gekkas.
The Holy Swords quickly destroyed more Sutherlands, who barely did anything.
"Colonel, we're coming to save you!"Chiba declared.
Asahina's Gekka slashed two more Sutherlands down.
"These Gekkas are awesome!"Asahina sneered."Way superior to the Burais!"
"Yeah!"Urabe agreed."You got that right!"
In the Black Knights Mobile Base…
Several members of the Black Knights including Tamaki, Diethard and Rakshata were viewing and analysing the information.
Rakshata glanced at her fellow scientists.
"Hmm, you think the sub-weaponry's linkage isn't tight enough?"Rakshata questioned.
"No, however I suspect it might be the line."the first scientist said.
"I'm reading a 0.7 variance to specs."the second scientist responded.
"Obviously those old codgers in Kyoto need to supply us with better parts."Rakshata complemented.
Inoue stopped typing on her laptop to glance at Rakshata.
In the Britannian Prison…
The soldier points a gun at Tohdoh as he waited for the cell door to open.
"My superiors have just ordered that you be unofficially executed before you're busted out of here."the soldier declared."Any last words?"
"It's a life I gave up once before."Tohdoh stated."It's worth nothing."
"In that case, I'll claim your life for myself!"Zero's voice called out.
The soldier looks behind his back as he also heard Zero's voice.
"What the?!"the soldier shouted.
Suddenly, the wall behind the soldier was shattered causing him to be completely buried.
Tohdoh can only see through the hole in the wall as the Guren, Zero's Burai and the Samurai were noticed.
"Zero."Tohdoh responded.
"Kyoshiro Tohdoh, the only man who, seven years ago, brought the mighty Britannian forces to their knees in defeat."Zero exclaimed.
"You mean Itsukushima?"Tohdoh assumed."You want me to perform a miracle for you as well?"
"That was no miracle."Zero declared."It ended in victory because it was based on excellent intelligence work. That's why I want you to join me and the Black Knights."
"I pledged my loyalty to General Katase."Tohdoh stated."However, I owe you and a former student of mine a thank you since you two were the ones that came up with the strategy that helped General Katase and the others to escape to the Chinese Federation. Since that happen, there's now no need for me anymore."
"You mustn't say such things!"Zero protested.
"Huh?"Tohdoh said in confusion.
Outside the Prison…
Shade's Rosen and Rai's Gekka were helping the four Holy Swords take down the Britannian Sutherlands.
Rai's Gekka drove down past the road with five Sutherlands pursuing him.
The Rosen does a quick flip before slashing three Sutherlands with her bronze claw and took down two more with her rifle gun.
"That was a sick move, Rin!"Rai chuckled.
Shade nodded at Rai's praise.
"I learned from the best."Shade sneered.
The smile on Shade vanished when she notice an approaching enemy unit on her screen.
But the masked brunette knew already who it was.
"She's here."Shade retorted sourly.
Rai's Gekka destroyed a Sutherland and glanced at the Rosen from the corner of his eye.
"Should me and the rest of the unit go stop the Sutherlands?"Rai suggested.
"Please do, Rai."Shade insisted with a frown."I have unfinished business with the Knight of Nine."
In the Britannian Prison…
Zero continued speaking to Tohdoh.
"The resistance movement of Japan is more intense than that of any other nation that has been conquered because Japan surrendered before exhausting all of its military strength."Zero informed."It is unfortunate that the Miracle of Itsukushima didn't continue on."
"You're right."Tohdoh responded."Despite our own military forces and training, Japan lost everything. Including its own name, freedom and rights."
"Yes. Japan became a dominion of the Empire. In other words, rechristened with a mere number and the people."Zero admitted in a grim tone."But despite all the corruption and humiliation that the people of Japan had suffered, it is time now for you to fight for a better Japan."
"Just what are you saying, Zero?"Tohdoh questioned.
"I believe Japan has a better future, but without being under Britannian Control."Zero admitted."I vow to let that happen and so does the Black Knights. Lynn Rossellini or rather Rin Sumeragi believes in you, Kyoshiro Tohdoh. She would want you to fight alongside us. I'm sure if you join forces with us, we can make miracles happen."
Tohdoh looked down, not knowing what to say.
In the Clovis Memorial Museum of Art…
Euphemia stood on a podium in front of a large crowd.
"And now for the highlight of today's events, Princess Euphemia will select the grand prize winner."the agent declared as he hands the flower to the pink haired princess. "The work upon which you place this flower will be deemed the winner, Your Highness."
Euphemia, accepting the flower, turned around to look at the paintings with a sad expression.
Though the painting in front of the 3rd Princess of Britannia was that of Emperor Charles making a speech.
Outside the Britannian Prison…
The battle continued with the Four Holy Swords managing to destroy any Sutherland that got in their way with the help from Shade's Rosen and Rai's Gekka.
Then a huge truck broke through the wall with the Samurai and the Guren Mk-II accompanying the truck.
Once the truck parked, its rear opened revealing a black customised Gekka Knightmare Frame with red hair sticking out of the sides of its head.
Zero's Burai stopped just in front of the custom Gekka, far enough away for Tohdoh to open the cockpit and stand on it.
The other Holy Swords approached where their leader was as Shade smiled inside her Knightmare of seeing her old master safe.
"Tohdoh Sensei."Shade thought in relief.
"Colonel!"Chiba remarked.
"Welcome back, Colonel Tohdoh!"Asahina stated.
"Thank you."Tohdoh answered."You've all worked so hard for this."
Senba smiled. "No effort at all, sir."
"Cooperate with Zero!"Tohdoh ordered as he went inside his Gekka."Eliminate the remaining forces here!"
"Roger!"Chiba, Asahina, Urabe and Senba answered in unison.
The Rosen quickly smacked away the Jousting Lance that was going to hit Zero's Burai, revealing the weapon to be long to the Osenain.
"The Knight of Nine."Shade retorted sarcastically."How nice for you to come out and play."
"We knew you and your people would come and rescue Kyoshiro Tohdoh, Shade."Nonette said smugly."But I'll assure you that none of you will be leaving here in one peace."
Shade scowled as she made the Rosen go into its fighting position.
"Zero?"Shade asked.
"Go for it, Shade."Zero insisted.
The Rosen took out its blade and started having a sword fight against the Osenain.
Zero contacted his other allies from inside his Burai as he removed his mask.
"Don't underestimate the Knight of Nine."Lelouch warned."She is a skilled and dangerous woman."
"She really thinks she can take us out by herself?"Chiba scoffed.
"Appearances can be deceiving."Asahina informed.
The Guren suddenly saw an opponent coming and quickly jumped to knock the Slash Harken of the Lancelot away as the white seventh generation Knightmare Frame arrived to the scene.
From inside the cockpit of the Guren Mk-II, Kallen frowned at seeing the Lancelot.
"It's you again, Suzaku."Kallen retorted bitterly.
A frown appeared on Lelouch's face at seeing his best friend arrive to stop him.
"So you've come too, Suzaku."Lelouch muttered."Sorry, but you and Nonette won't stop any of us."
In the Clovis Memorial Museum of Art…
Euphemia was still looking at Emperor Charles' painting.
"Please, Your Highness."the agent instructed."It's time for you to decide. We can't wait any longer."
"I know, but I…"Euphemia started uncomfortably and holds the flower close to her chest."But I…"
Suddenly, the sound of a phone ringing was heard and this was quickly followed by the sound of many other phones.
All the phone rings were from the members of the press which confused Euphemia and the others.
A soldier quickly stepped up next to Darlton and whispered something in his ear.
"Escaped?"Darlton questioned."Has Lady Enneagram arrived to aid Kururugi?"
"Yes, sir."the soldier answered.
At the Britannian Prison…
The Rosen kept the Osenain distracted as the Lancelot faced against the Gekkas of the Four Holy Swords.
The Lancelot tried to fight hit one of the four Gekkas, but so far wasn't able to land a single hit against any of them.
"They're skilled fighters."Suzaku murmured with a frown.
Lloyd and Cécile watched the fight from the lounge they were in.
"Oh, my."Lloyd sneered, looking out the window with binoculars."Aren't those new enemy models amazing? However, Ms. Cécile…"
"Yes?"Cécile asked.
"In hindsight, it's certainly quite fortunate that the Lancelot's trailer is our primary means of transport."Lloyd remarked.
"No, it's because you spent our entire budget on the Lancelot itself."Cécile responded. "That's hindsight."
In the Black Knights Mobile Base…
Rakshata looked at the Lancelot through the big screen.
"That's it?"Rakshata questioned."The white Knightmare that's given such trouble to Zero?"
"Yeah."Sugiyama answered."The one piloted by Suzaku Kururugi."
"Hmm…"Rakshata hummed.
The head of the Black Knights' research and development team smoked on her kiseru pipe as she studied the Lancelot.
In the Clovis Memorial Museum of Art…
Everyone managed to watch through a screen the battle occurring between the Lancelot and Zero's forces causing the reporters to start cheering for the Lancelot.
Euphemia just watched the scene with a concerned look on face.
"Lady Nonette is incredible!"
"But that Lancelot Knightmare is amazing as well!"
"Whoa, it dodged it!"
"Wow and again!"
"You show them!"
Euphemia remained quiet, but was beginning to become worried as she held on tight on the flower she was holding.
Darlton then was contacted by one of the subordinates that was in the Britannian Prison.
"Listen, send in everything we've got."Darlton ordered in his earphone."Then support Lady Enneagram and Warrant Officer Kururugi. After that make a report that they've wiped out the terrorists."
At the Britannian Prison…
The Osenain thrust its Jousting Lance towards the Rosen causing the dark pink Knightmare Frame to move out of the way.
Then the Rosen used its rifle gun to attack, only for the Osenain to activate its shield from being hit.
"You've improved since we last fought, Shade."Nonette complemented."But it will takes years for you to ever beat me!"
In the cockpit of the Lancelot, Suzaku glanced at Nonette's Osenain, who fought Shade's Rosen.
"Shade is fighting Lady Nonette."Suzaku responded."But it doesn't seem she is willing to be defeated."
From inside the Samurai, Naoto contacted Tohdoh's Gekka.
"Colonel Tohdoh."Naoto responded."The pilot of the Lancelot is-"
"I know, Naoto Kōzuki. I've had my suspicions since Narita."Tohdoh declared and then spoke with Zero."Zero, do you have any data available on this unit?"
"Yes. But I have a plan."Lelouch answered."Thought for it to work, you'll have to follow my instructions."
"Very well."Tohdoh answered."I'll defer to you in this."
Tohdoh then brought his attention on the Four Holy Swords.
The Gekkas of the Four Holy Swords moved back and left with the truck.
Then Tohdoh piloted the customised Gekka and aligned with the Samurai and the Guren.
Tohdoh's Gekka, the Samurai and the Guren Mk-II then moved to give the Lancelot distance while moving around him.
The Gekkas of the Four Holy Sword stood in a circle, ready to attack the Lancelot.
Suzaku glared at Tohdoh's Gekka, the Samurai and the Guren Mk-II as the three Knightmares circled him.
"What are they up to?"Suzaku scowled.
From inside Zero's Burai, Lelouch smirked at seeing the Lancelot in a clueless state.
"As the pilot of the Lancelot, your speed and manoeuvrability are truly astonishing, Suzaku."Zero thought smugly."Nevertheless, we are one step ahead of you."
It is revealed in a flashback that Lelouch was viewing information from the Lancelot in his room with Rin, Kallen and Rai.
"Its movements follow a predictable pattern!"Zero exclaimed as the Lancelot dodged Senba's Gekka."Its initial attack is always straight on! It never feints that first move! Once you dodge that attack, he immediately moves to avoid your offensive! Check the data I'm sending you! S-5-7!"
Suzaku turned away from Tohdoh's Gekka, the Guren Mk-II and the Samurai for a moment, only for Asahina's Gekka to appear from around a corner to his surprise.
"Hey."Asahina sneered."He's really doing it."
The Lancelot tried to shoot Asahina's Gekka with his VARIS rifle.
However, Asahina's Gekka quickly swiped at at the Lancelot, sending his VARIS rifle flying through the air.
"Right! So now the next move he makes will be…falling back to the rear!"Zero stated. "Coordinates: X-2-3!"
The Lancelot's actions followed Zero's instructions causing him to be in a position where Tohdoh's Gekka was about to attack him from behind, making Lelouch smile at the result.
"And with that…check!"Lelouch thought.
The Lancelot immediately tried to avoid the attacks of Tohdoh's Gekka.
As a result, this caused one of the blows to hit right in the piloting hatch of the Lancelot and almost hitting Suzaku too.
Suzaku's eyes widen, immediately recognising this style of attack from someone he knew too well.
"I know this!"Suzaku said in surprise.
"He anticipated my moves."Tohdoh muttered."No matter."
Tohdoh continued his attack, getting his sword to cut completely through the top of the Lancelot's hatch.
From the lounge, Lloyd began to panic at seeing the Lancelot's hatch damaged.
"Damn it!"Lloyd panicked. "He doesn't have an ejection block on it!"
Cécile glanced at Lloyd in shock.
"What?"Cécile gasped."You mean we didn't install one?!"
In the Britannian Prison…
Suzaku stood up from where he sat, revealing himself to everyone that he was the one piloting the Lancelot.
Lelouch's frown deepened at seeing his best friend while Tohdoh's eyes narrowed at seeing his opponent was none other than one of his former pupils.
Chiba, Asahina, Senba and Urabe were surprised to see Suzaku the one piloting the Lancelot.
"So it is true."Urabe retorted.
"To think one of Colonel Tohdoh's students would sell his own life to worship Britannia."Senba scoffed.
From inside the Osenain, Nonette glanced at the situation that Suzaku was in.
"Kururugi is in trouble?"Nonette said bluntly."That's a problem."
The Rosen unleashed its Slash Harkens causing the Osenain to move out of the way.
"Then why don't you go help hum instead of encouraging me to finish you off?"Shade threatened.
Nonette just smirked at Shade's respond.
"I'm not actually planning to come to Kururugi's aid since backup is on its way."Nonette admitted.
"Huh?"Shade scoffed in suspicion.
In the Clovis Memorial Museum of Art…
The reporters could only express their disbelief at who the person piloting the Lancelot was while Euphemia could only look from side to side at the people around her.
"Hey, isn't that?!"
"That's Suzaku Kururugi!"
"The one accused of killing Prince Clovis?!"
"That's enough!"Darlton ordered."Turn off the monitor, now!"
"Wait, please!"Euphemia ordered.
Darlton glanced at Euphemia, surprised by her sudden order.
"What?"Darlton questioned.
"I'd like to watch it to the end!"Euphemia declared.
At the Britannian Prison…
Inside the Lancelot, Suzaku tests the controls and saw he can still pilot his Knightmare.
"Good!"Suzaku complemented."I can still pilot!"
Suzaku relieved to see that he can still fight, he then focused on trying to attack Tohdoh's Gekka.
Tohdoh's Gekka fights back causing them both to stalemate.
This caused Tohdoh takes the opportunity to open his hatch and show his face to Suzaku.
"Don't do this, Suzaku!"Tohdoh demanded.
"Colonel Tohdoh!"Suzaku said in surprise and glared at his former master."So then you wanna live more than you wanna follow your own principles?!"
"Do I disappoint you?"Tohdoh asked and smirked."Very well, then keep to your schedule and execute me!"
Suzaku frowned, not responding to his former mentor's sentence.
"I…"Suzaku started.
The Lancelot and Tohdoh's Gekka continued fighting each other.
"What's wrong?! That's the reason you're here, isn't it?!"Tohdoh retorted."You have become a cowardly boy who's afraid of altering the status quo!"
"Denying everything in our society is pointless!"Suzaku declared."Once I make them trust me, I'll have the power to change it!"
An outraged look appeared on Tohdoh's face at the reply from Suzaku.
"You are serious?!"Tohdoh scowled.
"I'm dead serious!"Suzaku answered.
"Then continue that path of illusion like all the slaves of Britannia!"Tohdoh insisted of disappointment."Regardless whether you win or lose, you will achieve nothing unless you're prepared to sacrifice everything! And that goes for countries as well as individuals!"
The cockpit of Tohdoh's Gekka finally closed and the leader of the Four Holy Swords went back inside his hatch.
"Right!"Suzaku said with a nod.
The Lancelot and Tohdoh's Gekka circle around each other, looking for the right moment to continue the attack.
Suddenly, two Slash Harkens were launched into the sky causing Naoto to quickly make the Samurai use his sword to smack them back.
The Slash Harkens belonged to a white Seventh Generation Knightmate Frame with red and blue designs known as the Tristan which was piloted by Gino; the Knight of Three.
"What the?!"Naoto said in disbelief.
"Greetings, Nonette."Gino greeted smugly."Did I come late to the party?"
"No, Gino."Nonette answered, trying to slash the Rosen."You came just in time."
Zero, Kallen, Naoto and Shade became stunned at seeing the Knight of Three.
"Another Knight of the Round?!"Kallen gasped.
"That's correct, Black Knights."Gino remarked."I'm the Knight of Three, who had come to wipe out the very terrorists that has given Princess Cornelia such a hard time."
From the cockpit of the Samurai, Naoto gritted his teeth.
"Then I shall handle you."Naoto declared.
Gino smirked at Naoto's reply.
"That's what I like to hear."Gino sneered."You shall be the very first Black Knight to feel my wrath."
The Samurai then launched himself to fight the Tristan.
Kallen looked at her older brother in worry as Rai suddenly contacted her from his Gekka.
"Kallen!"Rai shouted."Another Knight of the Round has appeared!"
"We know, Rai!"Kallen assured."It's the Knight of Three!"
"What?!"Rai retorted."There's a third one?!"
This earned the attention of Lelouch.
"Rai, what are-"Lelouch started.
"The Knight of Six just showed up from where I am!"Rai scowled."She took out five of our Burais!"
A shocked look appeared on Lelouch's face upon realising two new dangerous enemies had arrived to aid the Britannin Military.
"Damn it! The Emperor has send two more Knights of the Round to do his dirty work!"Lelouch thought in slight anger."No way we can handle them now!"
The Leader of the Black Knights then gave his friend the next order.
"Then make your escape with the remains of your unit!"Lelouch insisted."Do not continue fighting the Knight of Six!"
"Okay!"Rai answered.
Rai ended his contact with Kallen and Zero.
Suzaku's eyes narrowed at seeing the Four Holy Swords' Gekkas preparing to attack him.
The Honorary Britannian then got contacted by Lloyd.
"Major Kururugi, release the harken booster quickly!"Lloyd declared from inside the communicator"The password's my favorite food!"
Suzaku immediately followed Lloyd's instructions, managing to disarm Tohdoh and all the Four Holy Swords' Gekkas.
Meanwhile, Shade let out a growl as she made the Rosen launch forward to use its left claw-like hand to use its Radiant Wave Surger to hit the Osenain's head.
The Osenain immediately lifted up its blade causing its weapon to get caught by the claw of the Rosen.
As a result, the sword of the Osenain was destroyed by the Rosen's Radiant Wave Surger along with the arm that held it.
Nonette gritted her teeth upon her Knightmare losing its sword alongside one of its arms.
"I'm unarmed!"Nonette muttered in shock.
Shade then used one of its Slash Harkens to send the Osenain off balance and hitting the ground near the wall.
"Quick note for you, Nonette."Shade informed in a firm yet grim tone."My enemies always fall before me."
Outside the Britannian Prison…
Anya blocked the attacks of Rai's Gekka and the Black Knights' Burais with the Blaze Luminous shield of her Mordred.
The Knight of Six watched with a blunt look as her enemy units suddenly began to flee from where she stood as her Mordred was surrounded by flames caused from the destruction of her Knightmare.
"Fleeing already?"Anya questioned with a unfazed tone."I guess they misjudged me."
Inside the Britannian Prison…
The Samurai was smacked back by the Tristan causing Naoto to grunt as he held the controls of his Knightmare.
"You fight well, Samurai guy."Gino praised."But whatever you received you're still no match against me."
Naoto glared at the Tristan.
"I hate to admit that you're right."Naoto scoffed.
Zero then contacted his comrades and the members of the Japan Liberation Front.
"We've done enough fighting for now! We've achieved our objective here!"Zero declared."Use escape route 3! We need to leave now!"
Tohdoh turned around and several Britannian air units approaching the prison which made him smile.
"A victory today can mean more victories for another."Tohdoh said with a smirk."You seem to be very aware of that, Zero."
Quickly Tohdoh's Gekka started to move away from the Lancelot, much to Suzaku's surprise.
"Wait!"Suzaku protested.
The Lancelot started chasing Tohdoh's Gekka.
However, a bullet from the Rosen's gun hits the Lancelot's leg, making Suzaku lose control over his Knightmare.
"Huh?!"Suzaku gasped in surprise.
"Hey!"Gino shouted."Come back here!"
The Tristan attempted to chase the Black Knights, only to get hit by the Guren Mk-II's Slash Harkens.
"You'll die if you try."Kallen threatened.
Zero's Burai, the Rosen, the Samurai and the Guren Mk-II quickly went out of the Britannian Prison as Tohdoh gave one more order to his companions.
"Now releasing chaff smoke!"Tohdoh announced.
The Gekkas of the Four Holy Swords obeyed and began to flee while releasing smokes causing the Lancelot to get caught in smoky mist.
In the Clovis Memorial Museum of Art…
Reporters at the museum note that the battle appeared to be nearing an end.
"Look, they're running!"
"He fought them off?! The Black Knights?!"
"Suzaku…well done."Euphemia thought with a smile.
"Damned traitor! Why won't he follow them?!"
"'Cuz they're Elevens like him."
Euphemia, hearing the insults, could only press the flower she was holding to her chest.
Darlton noticed the look on the pink haired princess' face.
"Princess Euphemia?"Darlton asked.
"All of you!"Euphemia spoke up, earning the reporters' attention."I'll now answer the question you asked me earlier! You had inquired as to whom I would select to serve as my knight, correct?"
The reporters murmur among themselves, all confused by Euphemia's sudden declaration.
"The knight I had chosen will be the young man you see before you."Euphemia proclaimed as she extends her arm towards the screen, which showed Suzaku standing on top of the Lancelot, making everyone look at her."Warrant Officer Suzaku Kururugi!"
Immediately, all the reporters express their confusion and disbelief at what Euphemia has just said.
Outside the Prison…
Suzaku sees on the Lancelot that all of Zero's forces had left the place.
"Tohdoh, I'm am your foe!"Suzaku declared firmly.
Gino smirked from where the Guren Mk-II fled with the rest of its comrades.
"What a woman."Gino chuckled in amusement."I liked that."
The Tristan then went over to the Osenain to check on the Knight of Nine.
"Are you alright, Nonette?"Gino asked.
Nonette came out of the Osenain, revealing no injuries despite the damage on her Knightmare Frame.
"I'm fine, Gino."Nonette answered simply and thought suspiciously as she glanced at where her enemies fled from."It seems Shade has grown stronger. But why do I have the feeling that I know her from somewhere?"
Gino brought his attention on Suzaku.
"So you're the pilot of the Lancelot, Suzaku Kururugi?"Gino remarked."Not bad for a rookie. Glad we'll be working together."
Suzaku looked at Gino, feeling surprised that the Knight of Three was speaking to him in a friendly manner.
"Um…thanks?"Suzaku replied.
Then the Mordred came into the prison before its cockpit opened, revealing Anya.
"You are-"Suzaku started.
"I'm Anya Alstreim, the Knight of Six."Anya responded simply."It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Warrant Officer Suzaku Kururugi."
Suzaku looked at Anya in awe since he was amazed that the Knight of Six was a girl around Nunnally's age.
"The pleasure is all mine, Lady Anya."Suzaku answered with a small smile.
Nonette then got a contact on her earpiece.
"Yes?"Nonette asked and a surprised look appeared on her face when she got a respond."Euphie, are you sure?"
Underneath the Tokyo Settlement…
Zero, Shade and their comrades along with the members of the JLF returned to their secret base.
As the members of the Black Knights celebrated the success of their operation, Zero and Shade went to speak with their new allies.
Lelouch and Rin took off their masks to reveal their faces, surprising Tohdoh and the Four Holy Swords.
"You two."Tohdoh murmured.
"Hi, Tohdoh-Sensei."Rin answered kindly.
"Hello, Kyoshiro Tohdoh."Lelouch responded with a smile."It's been a while."
"Zero, you really are-"Asahina started.
"Yes."Lelouch said with a nod."My name is Lelouch vi Britannia, formerly 11th prince and renounced 17th heir to the throne of the Holy Britannian Empire."
A slight frown appeared on Chiba's face.
"So Zero is really a Britannian and an offspring of the Emperor?"Chiba questioned.
"Please, Miss Nagisa."Rin instructed."Hear him out before you say anything."
With that, Lelouch went on and explained things to Tohdoh and the Four Holy Swords.
And that's our chapter. Zero, Shade and the Black Knights have saved Tohdoh, also Rai learned his Half-Britannian and Half-Japanese. But now Gino and Anya have entered the battle, so things are going to be getting more tricky. See you all in the next chapter and have a nice day:)