By recording your dreams and goals on paper, you set in motion the process of becoming the person you most want to be. Put your future in good hands – your own. – Mark Victor Hansen
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.
Zero's Lady
Chapter 26: Strength to Oppose an Empire
After the ceremony of the Special Administration Zone of Japan ended, Zero and Shade returned back the secret base of the Black Knights.
"You want us to leave our country?"Sugiyama questioned.
"I see."Tohdoh responded."So that's what you both decided."
Rin gives Tohdoh an apologetic smile.
"Actually Sensei, me and Lelouch have thinking about this for sometime."Rin responded."And this is so far the smartest suggestion we've come up with."
"So you two both suggest we leave Japan?"Naoto asked.
"Yes, Naoto. Me and Rin are asking a lot."Lelouch said with a frown."But Euphemia establishing a Special Zone here in Japan, made us realise we can't disarm or go against it. There are people here in Japan that aren't fond with the Black Knights being here. It's just not Suzaku and other Honorary Britannians."
"That is true."Kaguya agreed with a nod.
"Even if Euphemia offers equality to the people of Japan, her Special Zone will still fall as I said before."Rin complemented."Though we can't plan to liberate Japan due to the way things are now, we'll be sure to at least stand by if a certain somebody or another corrupted being plans to sabotage the Special Administration Zone of Japan."
"That is a wise solution."Diethard remarked.
"I get it."Tamahome responded."We can't free Japan at this moment, but we, the Black Knights, can still be there to help those that are threatened."
Lelouch nodded at Tamahome.
"Correct, Tamahome."Lelouch answered and became a bit sad."Japan is a home to all us. Even for me and my little sister since we've made good memories upon living in this foreign land despite it falling to Britannian rule and what happened to us in the past."
"We've spoke to Kirihara and the other Heads of Kyōto House about this. All of them have agreed with our idea."Rin stated."I know it will be hard for all of us to leave, so if some of you don't want to-"
"It will be alright, Lelouch and Rin."Naoto replied with a smile."It's true that we'll have to leave the country that most of us were born and raised and that we loved. But that doesn't mean we won't be back."
"The Black Knights will be doing an international conflict in other countries."Inoue complemented."And in the near future, all them will be free from Britannian rule."
"That's right. It's not just Japan."Kaguya chuckled."If we're going to be freeing the other countries from Britannian occupation, this also means we'll be seeing other places we haven't even seen before."
"That's totally true, Lady Kaguya."Yoshida agreed.
"It will be a hard fight, but we'll be victorious at the end."Rai agreed.
"Yeah."Tamaki sneered."Exactly what soldier boy here said."
"We trust the decision that the two of you made."Tohdoh stated."Even if things don't go as planned, our goals will remain the same."
"Regardless who you both are behind the masks of Zero and Shade, you both shown that you strongly value the lives of your comrades and have earned our trust."Chiba said.
"We've all accomplished so much because of you two."Kallen admitted gratefully."So neither of you don't be so hard on yourselves."
"None of us beside you two would have expected Princess Euphemia establishing a Special Zone."Asahina said with a shrug."No one really can read a person's mind. Regardless, if they're a friend or a foe."
"That's something utterly impossible."Senba commented.
"But-"Lelouch started.
"No matter what happens, we'll never abandoned you two."Urabe assured."We've become a strong organisation that no one in the world could ever imagined."
"In others words, we are on a starting point of an revolution."Rakshata replied with a smug tone.
Relieved smiles appeared on Lelouch and Rin's faces as they looked at their allies.
"Min'na, arigatō."Rin said with a bow.
Rin's Translation: Everyone, thank you.
"We appreciate your support."Lelouch replied.
The Next Morning…
In the kitchen of the Sumeragi Residence, Rin hummed as she spread a spicy fish roe on top of pizza dough, then add mochi and cheese before putting it on the oven to have it baked.
Once the mentaiko pizza was ready, Rin presented it to Kaguya at the table.
"Here's your fourth favourite meal, my imouto. Mentaiko Pizza."Rin praised."The melty cheese and chewy mochi make a great taste, and the nori on top gives the pizza an extra touch of Japanese flavour."
Kaguya smiled in delight at her cousin for making one of her favourite dishes.
"Thanks, Onee-sama."Kaguya thanked gratefully.
Rin and Kaguya then started eating the slices of pizza together.
"You added spice on the pizza, right?"Kaguya assumed.
"Yeah, why do you ask?"Rin questioned.
"I hear women that are sensitive eaters are not attractive at all."Kaguya remarked brightly."If we end up eating spicy food more, we might've end up getting more admirers like our ancestor, Lady Futaba."
Rin sweat dropped at Kaguya's words.
Their ancestor Futaba Sumeragi was a hot-headed individual intent on preserving the Sumeragi name and took pride in being born in a higher class as she looked down upon commoners and was offended when they interfere with her business. Though she seemed quite adept at using swords and also seems to be an experienced thief, having easily stolen a sword without detection.
Despite her hot temper and spoiled attitude, Futaba eventually got married to a good hearted and well-mannered man who was from a noble Japanese family known as the Fujiwaras.
Rin then changed the subject.
"So what do you think, Kaguya?"Rin asked.
"Hmm?"Kaguya murmured.
"For us having to leave Japan…our home."Rin said.
Kaguya finished eating her slice of pizza before talking to her cousin.
"Well, for me it is a little difficult. I'm not going to hide that."Kaguya admitted."But at the same time, it feels kind of exciting. We're going to see other parts of the world that neither of us saw before."
Rin took a sip from her passion fruit smoothie.
"I feel the same way."Rin agreed."For the rebellion, it will be the starting point for the revolution. Though then again…"
"What is it, Onee-sama?"Kaguya asked.
"I might also be thinking about seeing my father after so long."Rin admitted with a melancholy smile.
"Uncle Istvan?"Kaguya assumed with a smile."I would like to see him again too."
Rin smiled at Kaguya's respond.
Though being only an uncle-in-law, her father was always kind hearted to Kaguya and other members of the Sumeragi Clan. Even though some of them distrusted him because he was a Britannian nobleman. Even if the former Head of the Sumeragi Clan and Kaguya's late father, Hachizou Sumeragi, wasn't fond of Britannians himself, he still allowed Mira to marry Istvan.
However, both she and Kaguya were still sorry that Rai didn't end up having a good father as they did.
"Hey, Onee-sama?"Kaguya spoke up, earning Rin's attention."Do you think we'll end up going back here in Japan and attend Ashford Academy again with our friends?"
"That…is a question I don't have the answer for, my imouto."Rin replied, being careful with her words."But perhaps we might end up returning after all the fighting is done."
Kaguya nodded at Rin.
"Okay."Kaguya answered brightly.
"Any fighting strength we can muster will increase our chances of victory."Rin complemented.
At Ashford Academy…
Sayoko was helping Lelouch and Nunnally pack up their belongings.
Once their luggages were done, Lelouch and Nunnally made their way to the ballroom to give Milly their good-byes.
"Milly, thank you and your family for sheltering at for all this time."Lelouch thanked.
"We'll never forget you."Nunnally said with a small yet gentle smile.
Milly gave a fragile smile at the exiled royal siblings.
"It's the least I can do for you."Milly chuckled weakly."Tell Rin, Kaguya and Alice that I'll miss them too."
"We will, Milly."Lelouch assured."I promise."
Milly then brought her attention to Sayoko, who walked forward holding the luggage that belonged to Nunnally.
"Sayoko, take good care of them."Milly insisted.
Sayoko bowed at the Ashford heiress.
"I will, Lady Milly."Sayoko answered in a firm tone."I will protect Master Lelouch and Miss Nunnally with my life."
Lelouch, Nunnally and Sayoko then made their way out of the Ashford Academy grounds as Milly stood by watching them.
In the Sky…
A bunch of military-like planes with bird-like marks on them were heading towards Japan.
Inside the planes were soldiers dressed with black pads and extensive bulletproofing across their bodies. Each carried an array of weapons, ranging from multiple pistols to the smaller flash bombs clipped to their sides. All wore night gear lenses. Any normal soldier would've collapsed under the sheer weight.
Then V.V's face appeared on each of the screens of the planes.
"You have your orders. Eliminate everyone in Princess Euphemia's fantasy zone."V.V instructed bluntly."Make sure that pink haired pest see with her own eyes the punishment for bringing disgrace in Emperor Charles' name."
"Yes, Director V.V!"the soldiers answered in unison.
At the Ghettos…
Everyone in the Hideout of the Black Knights were packing up and preparing to move out from Japan.
Naoto notice Kallen looking down with a troubled look, making him place a comforting hand on his younger sister's shoulder.
"It will be alright, Kallen."Naoto assured.
"I know, Naoto."Kallen replied with a small yet confident expression."If my mother wants us to be strong, then I'll make sure to do my very best."
"That's the spirit."Naoto chuckled.
In Zero's private headquarters within the Mobile Base, C.C handed Lelouch a small box that contained contact lens that he could use to hide his Geass in case
"Since you are unable to control your Geass, this is for your protection."C.C declared.
"It only has to block optical data, so a normal colour contact lens would work fine."Lelouch complemented.
C.C frowned at Lelouch.
"Don't try to prove for information."C.C retorted."As you've already guessed, you're holding a special lens. Although, should your Geass grow stronger than what you have now…"
"I am aware, witch."Lelouch assured in a slight firm yet stern tone."I won't be able to control it. Just like Mao."
Lelouch places the special lens on his right eye to block his Geass incase it went haywire.
Benio Akagi stood with her parents alongside many others that signed up to take part in the Specially Administrated Zone of Japan.
She was a fourteen year old girl with brown hair tied in two wavy ponytails and deep brown eyes. She wore a white t-shirt, a red skirt and black flats.
Despite secretly being a supporter of Zero and the Black Knights herself, Benio's own parents weren't fond of the knights of justice and volunteered for the three of them to take part in Princess Euphemia's Special Zone.
Though Benio didn't like the idea, she still respected her parents' wishes.
Euphemia kept a small yet bright smile on her face as Suzaku stood on her side.
However, the pinkette was still a bit sad that her favourite half-siblings and childhood friend were leaving because of her actions.
"It will be alright, Princess Euphemia."Suzaku assured with a smile.
"Of course, Suzaku."Euphemia answered.
Nonette suddenly hear a beep on her earpiece causing her to answer her caller.
"Yes?"Nonette asked and became stunned upon the respond she got."What? Are you sure?"
Darlton glanced at Nonette.
"What is it, Lady Enneagram?"Darlton asked.
"Unidentified Knightmares are approaching the Special Zone."Nonette stated.
"What?"Darlton snarled.
Suddenly, a booming sound was heard outside the stadium, shocking Euphemia, Suzaku, Darlton and the three Knights of the Round.
Not far from the stadium, Shade's Rosen as well as other Knightmares of the Black Knights were mobilised in all the forest areas, waiting for Zero's word.
"C'mon, how long are we supposed to hang around here?"Tamaki complained.
Inside a cherry red coloured Knightmare with marigold yellow highlights known as the Razor sat Alice, who wore a Black Knight uniform.
"What, it's enough for you that Zero instructed us to wait here?"Alice asked smugly.
"Whatever, newbie."Tamaki scoffed.
Rai took a last sip from his blueberry fizzy soda can as he sat inside the cockpit of his Gekka Pre-Production model.
"We just have to wait a bit longer."Rai instructed."Even if Princess Euphemia's Special Zone was a foolish plan, there are still innocent people within the stadium."
"Even if they are, the Emperor will still try and do something."Tamahome scoffed.
"Shade?"Tohdoh said.
"Yes, Sensei?"Shade questioned.
"If something happens, I would advise you to be extra careful."Tohdoh admitted.
A grateful smile appeared on Shade's face.
"Thank you, Sensei."Shade answered."I will."
Suddenly, the masked brunette then notice an unknown contact contacting the Rosen causing her to disconnect from the other Knightmares around her as the screen in front of her to go fuzzy.
Then V.V's face appeared on the screen, shocking Shade.
"Greetings, Shade. The co-leader of the Black Knights."V.V replied smugly."Or should I say…Lynn Rossellini."
"V.V, I presume?"Shade asked with a sarcastic tone."What gives the honour of the Emperor's older twin brother contacting me out of the blue?"
"So C.C told you and Lelouch everything?"V.V assumed.
"Yeah."Shade answered with a glare."Also that you were the one that killed Lady Marianne out of jealousy because she was stealing your precious twin brother away from you."
An enraged look appeared on V.V's face at the mention of the sister-in-law he despised so much before it suddenly vanished.
"Matters not what C.C said to you."V.V answered."But I would advise you to stay out of our way. If you know what's good for you and Lelouch."
Shade secretly pressed a comlink she held as V.V continued talking to her.
In Zero's Mobile Base…
Lelouch, C.C and the Kōzuki siblings were hearing V.V and Shade's conversation on a laptop that they stood nearby.
"Or what?"Shade mocked."You or the Emperor will try and kill me?"
"Oh, no. Not all."V.V answered evilly."Then I would advise Marianne's spawn and you to come by to Euphemia's Special Zone. Something rather interesting is going to happen. Consider this a little punishment for interfering with royal affairs."
"You coward!"Shade growled in anger.
Shocked looks appeared on Lelouch, C.C, Naoto and Kallen's faces.
At the Specially Administrated Zone of Japan...
Dark Burais and Sutherlands of the Geass Order burst through the stadium, shocking Princess Euphemia and the unarmed audience.
Then a masked armed soldier opened the cockpit of his Knightmare, revealing himself to be the commander of the squad.
Suzaku stood in front of Princess Euphemia to protect her as Darlton, Nonette, Gino and Anya stepped forward.
"What's the meaning of this, soldier?!"Nonette snapped.
"Please, stop this!"Euphemia demanded."There are innocent people are here!"
"Sorry, Puppet Princess."the soldier answered rudely."But you have no power to command us."
"Imbecile!"Darlton growled."This is Princess Euphemia! The 3rd Princess of the Holy Britannian Empire!"
"Princess?"the soldier scoffed."But I was told she renounced her claim to the throne."
Euphemia paled at the soldier's words as Nonette glanced at her silently.
"Euphie, what did you do?"Nonette murmured with a hint of anger.
"Did that guy just said Princess Euphemia is no longer royalty?"Gino said.
"I think so."Anya replied bluntly.
The soldier glanced at the audience.
"Listen up, brainless Elevens! This stadium organised by Euphemia li Britannia is to become a massacre playhouse!"the soldier announced and glanced at his comrades."We have our orders! Kill the Elevens! Kill them all!"
Kirihara stood up from the chair he sat in outrage.
"They're mad!"Kirihara retorted.
"Cut the mikes and cameras now!"Darlton ordered.
The lead soldier looked at the audience.
"It's kind of sad, you know?"the soldier mocked."All of you fools here signed up to this stupid event hosted a worthless little puppet who wanted all of you monkeys to be treated as equals! Well here is a fun fact; Princess Euphemia renounced her own claim to the throne and just have brought you all to a trap!"
Many loud screams of shock and horror erupted throughout the audience in the stadium.
Suzaku rushed toward the soldier.
"That's not true!"Suzaku snapped."Princess Euphemia built this Special Zone to bring peace here in Area 11!"
"You're calling me a liar, Kururugi?"the soldier scoffed."Then let me open your eyes."
The soldier then took out a handgun and fired at a random elderly Japanese man in the front row and he fell to the floor with a bullet in his chest.
There was a long pause of silence as a single woman let a scream of terror that unleash itself unto the stadium.
"We have orders from, Director V.V!"the soldier commanded."Kill them all!"
"No!"Euphemia cried out.
Then sounds of screams and gunfire were heard throughout the stadium.
Princess Cornelia threw off her cloak as she headed for her Gloucester knightmare as Guilford followed her from behind.
"Princess Cornelia!"Guilford protested."Wait!"
Cornelia payed no attention to her knight.
The 2nd Princess of Britannia's attention was just to get to the Special Administrative Zone of Japan and save her younger sister.
"Don't follow me unless you want to come along!"Cornelia snapped.
At the Ghettos…
Inside Zero's Mobile Base, Lelouch gave Nunnally a hug.
"Nunnally, you shall stay here with Sayoko."Lelouch instructed.
"Okay, big brother."Nunnally replied with a nod."But please be careful."
Lelouch gives Nunnally before he and C.C headed out of the mobile base.
Naoto, Kallen and the rest of the Zero Squad headed to their Knightmares to go aid their allies while Lelouch and C.C made their way to the Gawain.
"This is all the Emperor's doing."Lelouch growled in frustration as he took his seat inside the Gawain."He and V.V must've expected me to try and sabotage Euphie's Special Zone. But I didn't, so they decided to arrange a damn massacre for their selfish desires."
"Or maybe it's because of Rossellini."C.C admitted.
Lelouch looked down at C.C, who pressed a few controls.
"Rin."Lelouch questioned.
C.C glanced at Lelouch with a small smile.
"Since Lynn learned you were Zero, she never left your side and helped you built your rebellion in a way that Charles or V.V didn't expect to see as a potential threat."C.C complemented."Look around, Lelouch. You have friends as well as allies that trust you. Even if they learned you're a former Prince of the Empire."
Lelouch stared at C.C in suspicion.
The raven haired boy still didn't really trust the immortal witch after learning she was working for the Emperor and learned the truth behind his mother's death.
But Rin gave C.C a second chance despite what she did.
However, it was true that his girlfriend really did change him for the better.
Beside being his girlfriend and one of his childhood friend, Rin was actually his guardian angel.
The Gawain then took off in the sky to head to the stadium near Mount Fuji.
The Special Administrative Zone of Japan have become a river of blood.
Various bodies of men, women and children were laying around everywhere in the stadium.
The Knightmare Frames of the Geass Order were shooting indiscriminately at all of them.
Euphemia watched in utter shock at seeing the fleeing crowds being shot in front of her.
"I've caused this to happen."Euphemia thought, her voice mixed with guilt and sadness."I'm such a fool…"
"Euphie!"Suzaku shouted."We have to leave here!"
Suzaku grabbed the stunned princess' hand to lead her away from the awful scene.
The G1 Mobile Base started its engines and began moving with Euphemia, Darlton, Suzaku and the Kyoto leaders on board.
Nonette, Gino and Anya headed inside the Osenain, the Tristan and the Mordred to attack the Geass Order's Knightmare Frames.
"You monsters."Anya retorted with a frown."You'll regret doing this."
"Who the hell do you think you are coming here?!"Gino scoffed.
The Tristan activated its sword to cut down several enemy frames.
At the Sword of Akasha…
Emperor Charles smirked in amusement upon what was occurring at Euphemia's Special Zone.
"Euphemia, you were never worthy to be my child from the beginning and crossed the line when you renounced your birthright to form a plan that never would've shown any sign of success."Emperor Charles complemented bluntly."Lelouch and Lynn must've figured that out as soon as you announced it. Those two and their rebellion indeed have become formidable opponents."
Zero contacted Shade and her companions from their hiding place.
"This is Zero!"Zero announced."The Special Administrative Zone of Japan has become a massacre host from a secret organisation of the Emperor that attempt to damage Euphemia's name!"
Shade gritted her teeth in anger while Rai and Alice looked equally horrified.
Tohdoh and the Four Holy Swords all looked simply calm instead of tensed.
"Special Armoured Combat Battalion, advance on the ceremony grounds and launch a direct attack!"Zero ordered."Save Euphemia and the civilians! Hurry!"
From where the Black Knights stands position in their hideouts, they are all shaken with the announcement that was called by Zero.
A massacre of various innocent people.
"All units descend upon the stadium!"Zero demanded."Grind the Emperor's forces to dust!"
As soon as the order was given, Shade's Rosen and the Knightmares of her group rose from their hiding place and storms across the fields to eradicate the ones responsible for the massacre.
When Shade caught sight of several Knightmares of the Geass Order coming from the direction that her and her allies were heading, she wasted no time on making the Rosen's claw-like left arm grab a enemy frame by the head.
"V.V!"Shade scowled in a hateful tone."I'll crush your skull if I see your scrawny bratty face!"
As soon as Shade pressed the button to activate the Rosen's radiant surger, it fuelled the enemy frame with radioactive energy before it exploded.
Rai's Gekka fired down an incoming enemy frame with his gun.
One enemy Sutherland spat charged for Colonel Tohdoh's Zangetsu.
"Damn Elevens!"the pilot snarled.
"You shouldn't have tried messing with us!"Tohdoh retorted.
Tohdoh's Zangetsu swung its mechanic sword through the enemy knightmare, creating another explosion.
The Rosen and her Knightmare Squad swiftly rolled down the streets, catching the Knightmares of the Geass Order off guard.
They pursue every soldier that had to do with the SAZ massacre.
The group continued their pursuit towards the stadium as they pass multiple Japanese, all cheering for them.
Infuriated by this atrocity, they mercifully shoot down the Knightmares of the Geass Order.
From inside his dark Knightmare frame, the command soldier got a contact from V.V.
"We're eliminating the civilians as you ordered, Director V.V."the soldier informed.
"Good."V.V said simply."Be sure to fall back your remaining troops as soon as the media gives their report."
"Yes, sir."the soldier answered.
In Pendragon…
From her own bedroom in Empress Victoria's residence known Scorpio Villa, Adeline was shocked upon seeing a sudden massacre happen in Euphemia's Special Administration Zone of Japan.
"What is this?!"Adeline murmured with a horrified look.
The Guren Mk-II, the Samurai and the other Knightmares of the Zero Squad made their way to the other side of the Special Zone.
From inside the Samurai, Naoto was disturbed to see many dead bodies of innocent laying down everywhere in the stadium.
The red haired young man shut his eyes upon seeing this awful scene that let a familiar yet painful feeling grow inside him.
"It's just like before, Ohgi."Naoto said with a regretful tone.
Then an angry yet determined look grew on Naoto's face as he opened his eyes and looked up bravely.
"No time for grieving."Naoto scowled bitterly."I vow that our enemies will suffer for trampling over us like ants!"
As soon as he said that, Naoto made the Samurai take out its katana and attack the enemy units in front of him.
The Guren Mk-II blasted the head of a enemy Knightmare frame with her radiant wave surger causing it to evaporate before exploding in flames.
From the corner of her eye, Kallen caught sight of Benio standing on the floor in terror and looking at a big boulder that was splattered in blood.
Reacting quickly, the Guren Mk-II grabbed Benio with its other hand before the younger girl could become like the rest of the victims.
The Gawain arrived above the ruins that was once the Special Administration Zone of Japan.
Including various corpses of the young and the old that were gunned down like they were scrapegoats.
Lelouch couldn't help his anger and disgust at the repulsive sight he was seeing.
However as the former prince looked at the destroyed Knightmare frames hired by the Emperor, he saw a familiar red bird-like mark on them.
"That mark-"Lelouch started.
"Yes."C.C answered."These soldiers were from the Geass Order."
A hateful look appeared on Lelouch's look.
"V.V."Lelouch muttered in a cold tone.
Suddenly, a bunch of military gunships appeared with all cannons and gun turrets aimed at the Gawain.
"Listen well, Zero!"A soldier retorted."You're riding on a unit that doesn't belong to you! Surrender now or-"
Lelouch simply shot the hadron cannon of the Gawain to obliterate the entire squadron of gunships.
After meeting up with Cécile and Lloyd on the Avalon, Suzaku took off inside the Lancelot to go help the three Knights of the Round.
"I can't believe that a group of soldiers caused the slaughter of so many innocent people when Euphie only built to bring peace."Suzaku scowled with a hint of anger and then became confused."But what is true what that soldier said? Euphie renounced her claim to the throne? So if she's not a princess anymore, what does that mean for me? For us?"
Cornelia's Gloucester impaled her Jousting Lance on a enemy frame.
The purple haired princess' fury was no longer on Euphemia renouncing her claim to the throne to form the SAZ, but on the ones that sabotaged her younger sister's plans.
"Euphie, I'm angry at you for doing these without my permission."Cornelia thought with a disappointed look."But what matters to me now is that your safe."
Not far from the damaged stadium, Alice let out a battle cry while using her Geass to bashed against another Knightmare of the Geass Order to disarm it from using its gun.
In quick speed, Alice made the Razor fire its gun at her opponent, only for him to meet his death when his Knightmare Frame exploded.
"These are definitely people from the Geass Order hired by the Emperor and V.V."Alice retorted in a bitter tone."No doubt those two have already made a cover up to hide their despicable actions."
Rai destroyed the enemy Knightmare Frame in front of him as he notice several units of the Geass Order beginning to retreat.
"Where are you going, you cowards?!"Rai snapped with a glare."Get back here!"
Suddenly, Tohdoh's Zangetsu appeared next to Rai's Gekka.
"Let them go, Rai."Tohdoh declared.
Rai glanced at Tohdoh with an outraged look.
"But they-"Rai started.
"A victory gained through cowardice and cheating is no victory at all."Tohdoh commented in a firm tone."Let them go."
Rai glared at the enemy units that were fleeing, but obeyed Tohdoh's order.
In Florence…
"We are live a few kilometres from the Special Administrative Zone or…rather what was left of it."the reporter announced."It has become a massacre event by strange black coloured Knightmares that appeared out of no where. From resources, it seems the incident was an attack caused by the Black Knights themselves to further their own personal gains and attempt to ruin Princess Euphemia's reputation. There their rumours questioning Princess Euphemia's loyalty upon giving up her claim to the throne…"
Istvan scowled as he simply puts off the small radio he was listening to inside the office of his family's villa.
Viscount Istvan Rossellini was a handsome man in his mid 40s with caramel brown hair, deep orange eyes and fair skin. He wore a white collared shirt and a thick maroon red ribbon tied in a bow attached to the collar underneath a beige waistcoat with golden buttons and scribble designs on it and a dark-grey jacket with pockets on the waist gold buttons, bright brown trousers and black shoes.
He was the father of Adeline and Lynn Rossellini.
Through his marriage to his first late wife Countess Feodora Bryce, the mother of Adeline and younger sister of Empress Victoria li Britannia, he was an uncle-in-law to Cornelia and Euphemia.
To his second marriage to Mira Sumeragi, the mother of Lynn and younger sister to Lord Hachizou Sumeragi, he was an uncle-in-law to Kaguya Sumeragi.
Since being rescued during the invasion of Japan, the Viscount had been living a bit of a sheltered life upon losing his second wife and the only child he had with her.
Istvan placed a cigarette in his mouth as he made his way to his desk that showed small photos of various yet happy moments he had with his two wives and their daughters. Though only the difference was Lynn had her own mother in each moment and Adeline didn't.
The Viscount Rossellini had been hearing various reports of former Japan since Prince Clovis' murder, Princess Corneli becoming the new Viceroy of Area 11 and the rise of the Black Knights' popularity.
Now he was hearing Euphemia's own reputation stained by the exact terrorist group who claimed to be the 'Knights of Justice'.
Though deep down, the viscount didn't really buy the report one bit.
If the Black Knights claimed to be those who fight for the weak, why would they suddenly change their statics?
Istvan then crushed his cigarette in the ashtray that was next to him.
"A small yet utterly corrupted world we live in."Istvan muttered deeply.
Back in Area 11…
The news from the aftermath of the Special Administrative Zone turning into a massacre spread like a wildfire.
Not just in former Japan, but various other places in the world.
What's worse the Black Knights were being framed by the event.
But more than that, the SAZ massacre.
The death of countless civilians.
Euphemia, on the other hand, blamed herself for what transpired on this day.
The pink haired princess took herself as a fool for trying to set up the SAZ without thinking about the possible consequences and for underestimating the extent of Britannia's treachery.
On the other hand, civilians throughout Mount Fuji were outraged beside confused at the event that occurred and were protesting to know who was really responsible for the massacre that killed their loved ones and the people they knew.
Was it Princess Euphemia or the Black Knights?
Zero quietly walked in the hallway that was part of a standing building which wad used as a temporary headquarters.
The moment the former prince arrived inside one of the rooms, the doors closed behind before he took off his mask.
There Lelouch saw Rin staring out at the window which showed the sunset setting down.
"Lelouch, we need to give a speech to the people before we head off to China."Rin stated."The Geass Order's actions have made them question if we are indeed their allies or foes?"
"Yes, Rin. I'm aware of that."Lelouch answered as he took off his mask."We need to make sure they know we're fighting for them."
Lelouch then fell silent and looked to his right, making Rin glance at him.
"What is it, Lelouch?"Rin asked.
Lelouch went to sit on the sofa in the room.
"You know what Rin?"Lelouch said with a small smile."C.C told me something rather interesting before we left to help the survivors."
"Which is?"Rin questioned.
"The reason because the Emperor and V.V planned this massacre was because of you."Lelouch admitted.
A surprised look appeared on Rin's face.
"Because of me?"Rin said in disbelief.
"Yes. It's because of you that I changed in a better way that I could've ever imagined, Rin."Lelouch declared."You are a shining star that lit my way as I roamed this chaotic world."
A pink blush crept up on Rin's face at hearing Lelouch's words.
"Lelouch, come on."Rin answered with a hint of embarrassment."You're overreacting."
Rin was cut off when Lelouch suddenly stood up to grab her and pull her against him.
One arm wrapped around her back while Lelouch's other hand cupped her cheek and Rin barely had time to gasp before he bent down and kissed her.
The brunette's eyes widen in surprise and she reflexively tensed to push him away.
But as Lelouch's warmth spread through her, Rin relaxed and leaned into him.
It was fierce and hungry, but also gentle and assuring.
"I'm not and there's nothing trivial about it."Lelouch asked as he pulled away."Rin, before I told you that I was Zero, I never put much careful thoughts in the rebellion against the Empire. There was my revenge and nothing else. But now, I've got something more. For the first time in years, I have something to aim for. I don't know what the future holds for me. All I do know is...I don't want it if you're not with me."
Hearing her boyfriend's respond, Rin couldn't help smiling as tears of joy ran down her face.
"Lelouch...you dork."Rin chuckled."If I can be by your side, I can endure any hardship."
Wrapping her arms around his neck, Rin pulled herself up to kiss Lelouch again as his arms went back around her.
Their friends could be wondering where they were and the couple wouldn't have cared.
Not in this moment.
Naoto was in the foulest of moods as he sat in Zero's Mobile Base with Rai, Sugiyama, Minami, Tamaki, Inoue and Yoshida.
"Aw, man."Naoto muttered as he rubbed his forehead."I can't believe this happened."
"Ugh!"Tamaki scowled in annoyance."The damn Emperor causes a massacre and we're taking the blame for his dirty work!"
"What's worse so many people lost their lives today."Inoue said, her voice mixed with a hint of sadness."Just like seven years ago."
"Regardless what happened, we have to keep going."Rai insisted with a glare."Our fight is not just to free Japan."
"But let's hope everyone will hear Zero and Shade's speech."Minami commented.
"You said it."Sugiyama agreed with a nod.
Yoshida nodded. "Yeah."
Then Kallen came into the base with Benio accompanying her, earning her friends' attention.
"Hey, Kallen."Naoto responded, feeling relieved to see his younger sister."You've made it."
"Who's the kid?"Tamaki questioned.
"Hello, I'm Benio Akagi."Benio declared shyly and gave a bow."I was one of the many people that attended the Special Zone. But with my parents gone, I…I would like to join the Black Knights."
Surprised looks appeared Naoto, Rai, Sugiyama, Minami, Tamaki, Inoue and Yoshida's faces.
At the Government Bureau…
Alone and humiliated, Euphemia sat in her office, feeling deeply hurt and guilty that the Special Administration Zone of Japan had ended with a massacre that cost the lives of countless civilians.
Both Lelouch and Lynn were right that there would be consequences because of her naive plan, but the pink haired girl didn't even thought of that.
Not even Suzaku, Nonette or Darlton.
Finally, the door opened and Euphemia looked up as Cornelia entered the room.
The Viceroy of Area 11 glared at her with eyes as cold as stone and an expression of barely contained fury.
It was a way Euphemia had never seen her older sister look at her.
"Sister-"Euphemia started.
"On your feet!"Cornelia snapped.
Euphemia immediately stood up from her feet as Cornelia stepped forward.
"What were you thinking?"Cornelia retorted."Do you have any idea of what you've done?"
Euphemia felt as small as a frightened child, but somehow managed to work up the strength to speak.
"I just wanted to bring peace here in Japan, so that all the fighting can stop."Euphemia answered.
Cornelia grunted as she touched her head in irritation.
"So that all the fighting can stop?! Are you that blind, Euphie?!"Cornelia argued, making Euphemia flinch at her older sister's strict tone."When are you ever going to ever understand? As royalty, our priority is bring Britannian rule to all the lands we conquer and discriminate as our number one priority. Father taught us and many of other siblings that."
"Stop saying that!"Euphemia demanded.
Cornelia paused at her younger sister's angry outburst before she notice tears coming out from her eyes.
"At the end of the day, we're all human beings! Why do we have to discriminate?!"Euphemia demanded angrily."If you wanted a Sub-Viceroy that followed our father's example so badly, why didn't you choose Carine, Pollux or Castor instead?! As Sub-Viceroy, I don't really have the power to do anything! I just sit around and do nothing while you go out killing those that can't even defend themselves! You used Saitama Ghetto to repeat what Clovis did just to lure out Zero!"
A scoff escaped from Cornelia's face.
"What occurred in Saitama Ghetto was necessary."Cornelia replied."There were terrorists in Saitama ghetto and the Elevens didn't bother reporting it to the authorities."
"And you just went on with that plan?!"Euphemia scowled.
"I was just fulfilling the job as Viceroy of Area 11."Cornelia commented with a glare."Then answer my question. Why did you want Zero and Shade to join your Special Zone? Zero is the one, who killed Clovis and Shade is a dangerous criminal as he is."
"Clovis caused a massacre to cover the things that he was doing with General Bartley and didn't care if he had so many people killed!"Euphemia argued.
"No matter what Clovis did, he still shared our family blood! Our father's blood!"Cornelia snapped furiously."You just think this world is a fairytale that things can turn out well with forming a delusional plan that can end all of us holding hands together!"
"That's the problem there, Cornelia!"Euphemia admitted as more tears gushed out from her eyes."I can't tell you anything because you never listen to me! You treat me as the same little girl that enjoyed only having tea parties and dressing up back in the homeland! Wake up! I'm turning 17 in a few weeks!"
"Yes, Euphie. I know you're growing up, but you don't really act your age."Cornelia stated."I told you once that you can't do what you can't do because you don't follow our father's idelogy. And if you still can't understand that then you have no place here now that you renounced your claim to the throne!"
Each word cut into Euphemia's heart like a knife and she felt as if the entire world was about to collapse around her.
"I thought I can make you understand, Euphie."Cornelia said with a frown."But it seems that I actually can't and just wasted my time in doing so."
Cornelia then left and Euphemia was once more left alone.
Setting back into her chair, Euphemia's eyes finally overflowed and the bitter tears fell into her lap.
"I'm glad I don't understand your ideals, sister."Euphemia muttered."Because I really see now that there was never a place for me to be here to begin with."
In a lab, General Bartley was shouting at the scientists that were preparing an experiment for Prince Schneizel.
The scientists of Code-R were carrying files and various other equipment that they could save.
"Hurry!"General Bartley demanded."We have to get this experimental subject back to the homeland!"
General Bartley then heard a shout come from the one of the rooms which showed Jeremiah suspended in an orange liquid.
"Sir, the pressure!"A scientist shouted."Sir, the pressure is rising!"
Jeremiah yelled out and his scream echoed around the room causing the enormous tank he was in to break and the liquid spilled onto the floor like a small wave.
The former Leader of the Purist Faction fell the the ground, revealing the various wires connected him by the machines that kept him alive.
"Why now of all times?"General Bartley murmured in fear.
Half of Jeremiah's hair fell over his face as he accepted his now half-cyborg body and his eyes connected with General Bartley.
"Good morning to you, it was."Jeremiah declared in a bitter tone.
Diethard was adjusting the last parts on the camera he will use to broadcast Zero and Shade's speeches that will be shown throughout the world.
Lelouch and Rin stood together in a clear area of their base while behind them showed the flag that held the symbol of the Black Knights.
"You two are ready now?"Diethard asked.
Both Lelouch and Rin nodded at Diethard before placing on there masks.
"Yes, Diethard."Zero replied."We're ready."
"The world needs to hear what we have to say."Shade commented.
Diethard smirked and gave a thumbs up to the couple before putting on his camera.
The video screen of Zero and Shade appeared throughout every TV and device that were in every building and area in each part of the world. Including HiTV Studio, Pendragon, the secret meeting place of Kyōto House and Area 11's own Government Bureau.
There were reporters that attempted to disconnect the video from people having to watch it, but Diethard hacked their systems and made sure no one was able to do that.
Zero swung his cape a bit as he and Shade gave their message to the whole world.
"People of the World and all who are oppressed by the Empire of Britannia!"Zero declared."We, the Black Knights, are now in anger and grief. The Special Administration Zone of Japan designed by Princess Euphemia was supposed to bring a chance of equality and peace to this foreign land. However, it ended in an act of genocide that cost the lives of both Japanese and Britannians. The ones responsible are not either her or us, the Black Knights. But those in power, who clearly believe that the strong have the right to reign or devour the weak! A Britannian Agency, who attempted to tarnish Euphemia's name and others to lose faith on the Black Knights!"
"We are the Knights of Justice, fighting for the people, fighting for you. I'm not that old, but I remember a time when things were better on Japan. Maybe not great, but never like this."Shade admitted in a firm yet strict tone."See what the Holy Britannian Empire has done to your lives, your families and your freedom? It's only gonna get worse, unless we stand up and fight back. It won't be easy. There will be loss and sacrifice. But we can't back down just because we're afraid. That's when we need to stand the tallest. That's what my own parents taught me. That's what my new family helped me remember. Stand up together. Because that's when we're strongest…as one!"
In a fortified castle of Weisswolf that was within Euro Britannian, Leila listened to Zero and Shade's message as she stood near the window of her bedroom glancing at the dark night sky.
Leila Malcal was a very beautiful girl of average height. Her light blonde hair was very long, had bangs which reached her light purple eyes with two locks framing her face and had two egg shaped buns that were held up with gold-coloured braces. She wore a wZERO uniform.
"We are on the mission to free the world of injustices and tyranny caused by an Empire that controls 1/3 of the world!"Zero continued."Fighting for a world that will accept all peoples, histories and ideologies, where the strong shall not reign over the weak!"
Shade pushed away a bit of her hair streaks as she and Zero made their speech to the world.
"For too long, we've all watched the heavy hand of the Empire strangle our liberties, stifling our freedoms in the name of ensuring order and safety! No more!"Shade announced."Despite the threats, despite the Emperor himself, both me or Zero have no fear as we take new action! For we are not alone! Beginning today, we stand together as allies! We will not rest until we officially bring an end to the Holy Britannian Empire, so all of us can finally be free! Now the question is…do you believe in us?"
The moment Zero and Shade finished giving their speech, Diethard then placed off his camera.
There was a brief silent for a moment which was soon replaced by cheers.
Huge amount of cheers.
Zero and Shade made their way out of the Black Knights' base, only to see their allies and various civilians from the ghettos cheering for them.
It seems everyone had indeed heard their message.
But hopefully that could be said the same to those who lived outside of Japan.
Standing close to Rakshata and Alice, Nunnally couldn't help but smile proudly upon her older brother and childhood friend's speeches that have spread throughout the world.
"Big brother and Rin did it."Nunnally said kindly."They made the world know that they are fighting to bring peace everywhere."
Alice gives a smirk to her best friend.
"You know that also means a big break from school work, right Nunnally?"Alice joked.
"I'll miss our times in Ashford Academy and our friends there, Alice."Nunnally answered and then became confident."But I'm happy to know that I'll be helping Lelouch and Rin the best way I can on their mission as you and many others here will."
Alice nodded in approval as Rakshata smoked on her kiseru pipe.
"Liberating one Area after another."Rakshata said in amusement."Never thought of that Zero and Shade wanted everyone in the world to know their main goal."
C.C stood in abandon building by herself looking at the night sky.
"On the contrary, for the first time in a while I'm glad."C.C said with a relieved smile."There is actually real hope in this world."
Inside the Government Bureau…
Suzaku stood near the Lancelot and couldn't help but be utterly upset upon hearing Zero and Shade's speeches.
"Everything is now clear."Suzaku retorted with a glare."This was their game all along."
In Ashford Academy, Anya struggled to get some sleep and opened her eyes which showed strange red ringlets covering them.
"Charles, I'm glad that another cave has been discovered."Anya declared in a different voice."But if Lelouch and Lynn are planning a nationwide fiasco, it could bring damage to our plan."
"Yes. I'm aware of that, darling."Emperor Charles retorted."Since they are in the way, they have to be eliminated."
Anya covered her mouth to chuckle lightly.
"You're so evil, Charles."Anya praised mischievously."You definitely sound that you're not interested in getting any grandchildren."
"Those things won't matter once the Ragnarök Connection is done."Emperor Charles scoffed.
"As you wish, Charles."Anya giggled.
Anya then snapped out from her strange behaviour in a cold sweat.
The Knight of Six held her head in agony as she tried to comprehend what just happened.
"Crap."Anya muttered in despair while touching her head."It happened again."
Zero and Shade have spread their message to the world. The Black Knights aren't trying to free Japan, but every Area controlled by Britannian rule. But what will happen next? See you all later!