"To live is to suffer, to survive is to find some meaning in the suffering."
- Friedrich Nietzsche

Chapter XXX: Sorrow's Tempest

Bering Palace
Saint George Island, Grand Duchy of Sunderland, Area 2 (Canada), Britannian Empire
August 26, 2025

Suzaku let out a sharp hiss as his body tensed again, causing Nunnally to take another fresh towelette and wipe the excess sweat from his forehead. While the princess had not known what exactly had transpired before, she and her palace staff had been quick to act when the Knight of Seven fell. No sooner than when he had become entirely unconscious had he been transferred to the nearest guest bedroom, where he had remained for the last hour or so, while Nunnally remained by his side with a stack of hand towels. And though he was far more sedate than he had been just before, one need only look upon the knight's face to see that he still retained vestiges of his nightmare.

Not that Nunnally had to actually look upon his face to see it. Between certain effects of her blindness and her past care under her elder brother, she actually felt Suzaku's anguish, as though it were a terrible wind, or the coldest of chills. Whatever had transpired had well and truly hurt him. In fact, Nunnally feared that it was still hurting him, despite his dormancy. Yet there was little, if anything, she could do to alleviate the pain, beyond what she had picked up from Lelouch so long ago. That seemed to have some effect – Suzaku seemed to relax whenever she reached out to him – but not nearly as much as she would have wanted.

What on earth could have done this? Nunnally thought as she gently glided the towel over Suzaku's left cheek, causing him to ease that much more. That was one thing she could not fathom, even if she had retained her sight. It had occurred so randomly, and with the most terrible of power. Yet it had not been anything of physical nature; not only had the doctor verified it as such, but Nunnally would have been able to comprehend it otherwise. Nor was it something of psychological nature, as Suzaku had been calm and at real peace when it had occurred; she knew that for a fact firsthand. That left very few other possibilities, all of which were beyond Nunnally's understanding. Yet those possibilities were also the most dangerous, the most afflicting.

She sighed to herself in frustration. Once again she wished Lelouch were with her now; he of all people would have understood what had just occurred, and would have found a means to alleviate it. Unfortunately her wayward brother remained out of reach, for better or worse, as he had for the last eight years. That in itself had caused her much grief, yet Nunnally had understood why Lelouch could not be near for the time being. And yet, here and now, with Suzaku tormented by an unseen yet truly terrible force, she needed him the most. He needed him most.

"Brother…" Nunnally murmured, the desperation carrying through her voice like a bell chime. She couldn't concentrate too much on it however, as her ears suddenly picked up the door to the guest room opening. Followed by two unrecognizable pairs of bootsteps. "Who's there!?"

"Only us Your Highness," Dorothea spoke softly and assuredly as she and Bismarck entered. "Our apologies for the abrupt entrance, but we felt protocol to be inappropriate at this time."

Nunnally visibly relaxed as the Knights of One and Four came by her side. "Dame Dorothea," she exclaimed, ensuring that she recognized them now. "Sir Bismarck."

"Your Highness," Bismarck nodded in acknowledgment, before looking toward Suzaku. "Has he been like this since?"

"Yes," Nunnally confirmed. "He seems to have calmed down, but every now and then…"

Another small gasp as Suzaku's body tightened again. Nunnally brushed the towelette on his cheek once more, soothing him as much as she could. "I really don't know what to make of it."

Both Rounds gazed upon their fellow, their faces having adopted twin frowns. Unlike the princess, they knew exactly what had caused this, and what Suzaku was likely experiencing now because of it. Unfortunately, they also knew that nothing could be done about it, as it was related to a power that few truly understood. One that modern medical science could not begin to administer.

Still, unless they were both misreading the dormant Knight of Seven, he appeared to be in no immediate danger. As bad as the nightmare he was experiencing undoubtedly was, it was only that, a nightmare. Though sympathy did well within Bismarck and Dorothea as they watched Suzaku's continued struggling. "Has he been analyzed medically?" Bismarck inquired.

"My personal physician has looked him over, but he cannot find anything physically wrong with him," Nunnally patted the towelette across Suzaku's forehead again. "Aside from heightened blood pressure and muscle tension, but those are more side effects than the cause."

"I see," Bismarck exclaimed, then turning to Dorothea. Upon receiving her nod, he turned back to Nunnally. "So it's a fair guess to say that he is no immediate danger."

Nunnally paused to consider that. "As far as any of us can tell, Sir Bismarck."

"Of course," Bismarck agreed, resting his hand on Nunnally's shoulder. "With your permission, Your Highness, Dame Dorothea and I would like to summon a medical team from Pendragon to monitor Suzaku's condition more effectively. It will only be a small number of people and equipment."

Nunnally nodded, seeing no other choice. "So long as I can remain by his side," she answered in a tone that left no room for argument.

Not that Bismarck would have given any. After all, he knew Dorothea would have done the same for him, and vice versa. "Of course," he stated with a small, understanding smile, then turning with his wife and fellow Round toward the door.

Before they could exit however, Nunnally noticed something peculiar from his words. "You said a team from Pendragon," she pointed out, causing both Bismarck and Dorothea to halt. "Wouldn't Anchorage have similar medical staff on hand?"

Dorothea shrugged, if only out of reflex. "This particular team is specialized for cases like Suzaku's," the Knight of Four answered. "In which the affliction is specific, but not so easily identifiable by conventional medicine."

Now it was Nunnally's turn to frown. She could tell the two Knights of the Round knew more than they were letting on. Once again however, she saw no other choice, especially if this was the only way to help Suzaku. "Very well then," she nodded. "Please inform me of when they will arrive."

Both Bismarck and Dorothea gave responding nods. "Yes, Your Highness," Dorothea answered for both of them, before they took their leave.

Kamine Island

As dreary as I thought it would be, Rakshata thought as she stepped off the Tamashi transport, the kama of her uniform fluttering from the wind. There was a storm here as well, though unlike the one that was presently over Ryukyu, this one was likely generated from the still burning remnants of nearby Japan, which retained several adverse effects on the surrounding weather. As a result, Rakshata took great care as her boots stepped onto the ground, Neha following after her with similar caution.

No sooner than she took three steps forward did a tactical armored soldier emerge, saluting her as he reported. "Colonel," he addressed, his metallic voice somewhat distorted through the wind. "The site is secure, and your team is set up around the…"

The soldier trailed off, his hesitance and uncertainty apparent even through his facemask. Nodding in understanding, Rakshata tilted her head toward the cavern. "Lead on Sergeant."

The trooper did just that, leading Rakshata and Neha into the cavern. It wasn't a long trip thankfully, though upon seeing the item in question, the commander of the Black Knights' Science Division almost wished it were. Moving through the rows of Romanesque columns, Rakshata's eyes fell upon the immense monolith at the center of the cavern, which was in turn surrounded by personnel, knightmares and equipment. Save for the artificial lighting provided by the nearby lamps, the edifice appeared to be inactive, the intricate lines and symbols on its surface appearing as simple etchings and little more. And yet, knowing the power that it represented, Rakshata felt certain apprehension as she gazed upon the Geass sigil at its center.

She didn't linger there however, as one of the present scientists hurried over from a nearby station. "We've completed initial analysis ma'am," the man reported. "Unfortunately however, we've gleamed very little at this time."

Rakshata resisted the urge to snort. Somehow she had expected that. "Tell me what you can," she commanded. Considering the direness back in Naha, as well as the topic at hand, she preferred not to waste time and so remained on point.

The opposite scientist understood that, and so proceeded as they came over to one of the nearby stations. "Well obviously, we can't effectively date it. It seems to precede every known civilization and form of technology on record."

He then adjusted the monitor to show specific readings. "Not only that, but we cannot identify its composition," he explained. "Not even on the basic elemental level."

"Even though it appears to be made of stone?" Neha questioned.

The scientist shrugged. "If it really is stone, then it's not anything modern geology is familiar with. Even Druid scans were inconclusive."

Rakshata looked back toward the etched Geass sigil. "Have we determined anything about it?" she questioned, more pressed for time. "Anything at all?"

"Just one thing," the scientist answered, regaining Rakshata's attention to the console. "This isn't the only such edifice in existence."

He tapped a few keys, displaying a new screen. One that displayed a map of the world with several specific marks. "From what we gathered from the Britannian archives, there are several more of these edifices around the world, as you can see," he pointed out, this time with a small measure of assurance. "A fair number of them are even in territories that the Empire has conquered over the last couple years."

Rakshata looked over the map with renewed interest. "Clearly some kind of network," she observed. "Can you determine its purpose and function?" As well as how it can be accessed?

"I believe so," the scientist concurred, having caught onto his superior's unspoken question. "As said, we're continuing to examine Imperial records, namely from Prince Schneizel's time here, as well as analyze the structure more directly. Progress is slow, much slower than any of us would have wanted, but we're gradually gaining critical data."

"Good," Rakshata nodded as she withdrew her tobacco pipe, which Neha then proceeded to light. At the very least they had that much to work with, though she truly hoped they got what they needed soon. The longer Zero, as well as Kallen and C.C., remained outside their reach, the likelier that the worst would occur to any of them. "Continue your analysis and report when you have any substantial findings."

"Ma'am," the scientist saluted and returned to his work. Rakshata also turned away, with Neha moving beside her.

"I don't like this," Neha whispered to her superior. "It's bad enough that Zero is missing and that we have little if any means to track him and Majors Kouzuki and Cathcart. But if our only clue to their whereabouts is this structure…"

"I agree Neha, but it is what it is," Rakshata answered with uncharacteristic solemnity. "Whatever occurred back in Ryukyu is clearly related, so this remains our only viable option. Outside of deploying every asset we have on a globular search."

"Compared to having them study ancient forms of technology?" Neha countered. "Technology that predates all that we know and understand?"

The chief scientist shrugged. "Well, it was turning out to be slow day," she quipped simply, inhaling more from her pipe as the pair walked on.

"Damn it," Kallen snarled as yet another foot patrol came into view, causing her and C.C. to again duck behind some nearby rubble for cover. They were even more frequent now, which either meant the two women were drawing that much closer to the center or, god help them, someone was now onto their presence there. Kallen didn't dismiss the latter, as there had been no way for them to cover up the remainders of the initial fight, especially in regard to the soldiers she and C.C. had killed. In fact, she was a little surprised that the proverbial alarm hadn't been sounded already. Much less had search-and-destroy units deployed against them.

As luck would have it though, this particular unit was just as oblivious to their presence as the rest, proceeding with their patrol without so much as turning toward the two Black Knights' hiding place. For some reason that in itself bothered Kallen. Didn't those weird helmets possess sensors? If so, shouldn't they have picked up on any nearby heat signatures or the like? To say nothing of any other fanciful technology they could have developed or excavated from this place?

Yet the patrol only continued on, their backs now firmly presented to the women. For a time, Kallen was tempted to reactivate her Geass and see if she could gather more intel, but she reneged. Much like with C.C., her Geass could not penetrate their armor and equipment, though that hadn't stopped it from tracking their movements during the initial encounter. In all likeliness, she wouldn't learn anything that she hadn't already gleamed, and she remained well aware of what would eventually occur upon her Geass gaining further usage. Thus she simply sat back against the rubble, taking a moment to catch her breath as the patrol finally moved out of view.

C.C. seemed to notice her exhaustion and so slumped a little bit more herself. "We'll take a minute," she stated. "It's not like we're in too much of a hurry as it is."

"Right," Kallen quipped, letting out a short laugh. "We're still only deep within enemy territory, in which the opposition is far more numerous and more heavily armed," she nudged her sheathed tanto. "As well as highly specialized toward fighting Geass affiliates like us."

"Perhaps," C.C. conceded. "But running ragged at this point will only make us even more exhausted, and if they catch us in such a state we won't put up much of a fight. So it's best to take a moment, lay low and recompose ourselves."

"No argument here," Kallen shifted into a more comfortable position. The constant motion and running around hadn't done any favors for her legs and lungs, so a good minute or two wouldn't hurt in the least. Though she dared not spend too much time resting, for obvious reasons. "Think we're getting any closer?"

"I think we're going the right direction, at the very least," C.C. answered, looking up toward the darkened air. "Though I am concerned about the lack of opposition to this point."

You too, huh? Kallen thought, feeling her earlier discomforts begin to reemerge. "They had to have found the bodies and blood by now," she muttered. "So why aren't they hounding us?"

"Most likely not to alert us to their knowing we're here," C.C. answered knowingly. "Which means they want us to keep going the way we are."

"Trap?" Kallen posited.

"Trap," C.C. concurred. "Set anywhere from here to the Elevator."

"Great," Kallen sighed, closing her eyes in resignation. It made sense unfortunately, especially given their abrupt transition from Okinawa. Someone had gone well out of their way to bring them there and make it so that they were ensnared. Which makes me even less uncomfortable with Lelouch running around on his own. "Well, we know what they want with you at least."

"Indeed," C.C. replied, remembering the transport tanks from earlier. She had no illusions what V.V. and his lackeys intended for her should she be captured. "Though that still leaves you and Lelouch."

Kallen shrugged at the notion. "Eh, I'm not too worried," she proclaimed. "They might have better tech, but they're little different from run of the mill Britannians. I can beat them easily when it comes down to it."

"And Lelouch?" C.C. inquired, somewhat cautiously.

That earned a frown on Kallen's part. "I'd like to say he knows what he's doing," she admitted. "But…"

"Yes," C.C. concurred, reflecting her frown. And it helps even less that we haven't heard from him in a while. That bothered her more than it should have, such that she dared not let it show to Kallen. While it made sense that Lelouch not contact them until he was in an ideal position to, the fact was a fair amount of time had passed since he broke off. Surely he would have called out to them by now, if only to let them know that his mission, whatever it was, had been completed and that he was en route.

But then it wasn't the first time Lelouch had gone off on his own and remained silent throughout, so C.C. quickly forced the thought aside. They had enough to worry about right now as it was. "Let's get back to it."

Kallen nodded in agreement, both women soon rising back to their feet.

Black Knights High Command
Naha, Okinawa, Ryukyu Republic

It had taken some effort – more than he would have ever thought – but somewhere in the last few minutes Ohgi had managed to wrestle himself out from High Command's CIC and into the cafeteria. He didn't know what time it was, or how long it had been since Prime Minister Sumeragi had departed; all that he knew was he hadn't been so exhausted since the Lake Kawaguchi affair. And compared to what was happening now, storming the Kawaguchi Hotel, subduing a whole company worth of JLF soldiers, freeing their hostages and then making their as the Order of the Black Knights seemed outright simplistic. As well as far less straining.

Ironically, things had slowed down considerably since everything had first begun to move, at least on High Command's end. The Science Division had long setup shop in Kamine and was in the process of deciphering the ruins, while the maritime searches were still continuing. And though Ohgi had no way of knowing firsthand, Diethard had assured him and the rest of High Command that the Order's intelligence assets were now deployed, with multiple agents now on high alert across Britannia, Eurasia and China. Though they were unaware of the exact magnitude of recent events, they were all tasked with looking out for unconventionally suspicious activities, as well as particular movements on the Empire and the Union's part. It wasn't as much as Ohgi and the others would have liked, but he understood Diethard's discretion, as they couldn't just come out and say Zero was missing.

Beyond that, various leftover archives from the former Area 11 Government Bureau – meticulously salvaged over the years – had been reopened and any and all subject matter regarding Geass were being analyzed, from Code R to documentation on Kamine. That in itself wasn't much given the secrecy surrounding the subject matter, as well as the discretion Prince Clovis and the rest had maintained throughout, but it was anything and everything at this point. It helped that there was some documentation on Prince Schneizel's visit to Kamine and the Gawain's Druid System scans there, which would potentially aid Rakshata's team now. Perhaps even more than that, Ohgi hoped to the highest celestial authority.

In any case however, there wasn't anything for him to do now, and the inactivity was killing him on the inside. He wasn't the type to just sit by and do nothing, yet that was exactly what he was trying to do while everyone else worked around him. The anxiety helped even less, which in turn led to some dark lines of thought. If anything should happen to any of those three…

"I take it the search is ongoing?" Chigusa spoke up as she suddenly came into view. Dressed in her own uniform and holding to cups of warm coffee, one of which she placed in front of her husband as she sat down.

"For better or worse," Ohgi exclaimed blandly as he took a sip, savoring the warm beverage. Between the weather outside and all that was going on, the coffee was very soothing at this point. "Though at the rate it's going, we'll probably stumble over Ryūgū-jō before we find them."

"Comments like that won't do you any favors Kaname," Chigusa exclaimed, cautiously taking her own sip. "Nor will you sitting there, sweating through your uniform…"

"What else can I do Chigusa?" Ohgi retorted, somehow managing to keep his voice low despite the anxiety. The knowledge that there were others nearby helped. "The first time had been bad enough when it was Zero and Kallen, but with C.C. also…"

"I know," Chigusa answered sagely. Though she hadn't been present the first time, she understood. "But anticipating the worst at this point will only cause problems. And not just with you, General."

Ohgi frowned, knowing exactly what she was getting at. "Yeah," he admitted, doing well to keep his face neutral around the other present Black Knights. Last thing anyone needed was his anxiety transferring onto them. "Even so," he nearly whispered. "I wish I could do more…"

"We all do, love," Chigusa reassured, placing her hand into Ohgi's, who clenched it in response. "I wish I could just hop into my Gekka and pick them up from wherever they landed. But unfortunately, it's not that easy sometimes."

"I understand that, but it doesn't change the fact," Ohgi stated, frown deepening somewhat. "I don't know. It was a lot easier than this eight years ago."

"Eight years ago you were the replacement leader of a podunk terrorist cell, whose only claim to fame was stealing a supposed chemical weapon from under Prince Clovis' nose," Chigusa reminded.

"Yes yes, I know," Ohgi answered with exasperation. "But at least back then, I could have done a lot more than this."

"Perhaps," Chigusa acceded. "But then, things were a lot simpler then in general. When we Britannians were 'merely' fighting to keep Area 11 and you Numbers were 'just' trying to wrestle it away from us," her gaze deepened. "When I was a Purist to your terrorist."

Realizing he had touched a nerve, Ohgi opened his mouth to speak, but Chigusa went on regardless. "Either way however, that was then and this is now. And for the moment, neither of us can do anything but sit by and wait while those capable continue the search."

Ohgi sighed. "You're right of course," he admitted, though he didn't look much better.

Chigusa smiled in understanding. "Cheer up love. It happens to the best of us," she reassured again. "Besides, they came back the first time, right? So why should this be any different?"

The General raised his mug to her. "Here's hoping that is indeed the case Colonel," he stated before taking another sip.

Kai and Hayato's Pizzeria
Naha, Okinawa, Ryukyu Republic

"Sounds like the storm's getting worse," Ageha said as she looked out the window, watching as the rain continued to fall from the darkened skies. "Maybe we should have stayed in after all."

"Eh, don't let it bother you," Susumu commented as he took another slice of pizza. "Unless that's actually a hurricane out there, we'll all be able to get home all nice and sound. And we're heading into the cooler seasons anyway."

Alfred arched an eyebrow. "You seem to be taking this in stride Lieutenant," he observed.

Susumu shrugged. "A little bit of rain and thunder never hurt anyone, sir," he said as she took a bite of his slice, visibly enjoying it. "In fact, I actually enjoy it every now and then. At least when they don't come in the form of gunfire."

"I don't mind it myself to be honest," Benio exclaimed, just as another bit of thunder sounded from above. "Though I could do without the rain mostly."

Susumu couldn't help but grin at this. "Hard to maintain red hair dye in the rain?"

Benio shrugged. "I just don't like getting damp. But now that you mention it, a downpour doesn't help there…"

"Why do you dye your hair anyway?" Kentaro questioned around a mouthful of pizza. "You hate having black hair or something?"

"Isn't it obvious?" Shunsuke muttered from the side of the table he and Shunsui were at.

"She's imitating the Major," Shunsui added onto where his brother left off.

Benio immediately held up her hands. "It's not like that!" she spoke in sudden denial. "I...!"

"Calm down Benio. Some of us already guessed that," Alfred nodded in approval. "Not that any of us have a problem with it."

Hearing that approval, a slight tinge of red entered Benio's cheeks as well. "It's not like I'm imitating the Major or anything, it's just…" she stammered. "I always liked her hair color. It's something you don't usually see with Japanese, even half-blooded ones."

"Or Britannians for that matter," Charmelle nodded with an approving smile of her own. Though her own red hair was just a shade lighter than Kallen's. "I'm sure the Major would appreciate the gesture regardless Benio."

"Speakin' of the Major," Kentaro nearly belched after he finished his slice, but then reneged when he too remembered their surroundings. "Anyone know where she and the others are?"

"Not a clue," Ageha shrugged without forward concern. "Probably decided to stay in for the evening or something."

Another peel of thunder sounded before anyone spoke up again. "So, since Akatsuki is over and done with," Benio posited. "Any guesses toward where we're headed next?"

Kentaro shrugged. "Either the ME or the FE," he then laughed. "Anyone want to flip a coin?"

"Not the best of options buta," Ageha exclaimed with some discomfort. "One is going to be frigid as Hell's center, especially in the coming months, and the other is overrun by religious fanatics."

"Well, what other choices are there?" Alfred exclaimed bemusedly. "Africa and Western Eurasia are both too far for the time being, and there's no way we can infiltrate Britannia again…"

"My bet's on the ME," Susumu suggested. "We take that, we have a gateway into the Eurasia without having to cross the Urals."

"In which case we would be sandwiched between the Eurasians to the west and Marrybell's minions to the east," Charmelle pointed out. "Itself not the best of options."

"At least we'd have an easier time with Cesare than Bloody Marry," Kentaro exclaimed, actually shivering at that name. "From what I heard, that bitch is another Princess Massacre."

"Yeah, but with the same smarts as Cornelia mixed in," Susumu agreed. "And then there's the Ceridwren Knights under her, which makes things even worse."

"Eh, you're both chickenshit," Ageha smarted back. "We've taken down Knights of the Round already. How would the 'Knights Who Say Wren' be any worse?"

"You'd think, but the Ceridwren aren't anything to sneeze at," Alfred entered back in. "Their leader and Marrybell's knight, Oldrin Zevon, is especially a demoness in a knightmare."

"Zevon?" Benio noted. "Where have we heard that name before?"

"They're one of the higher ranking noble families," Charmelle answered. "Renowned for their martial prowess, most of their membership either go into the military or become knights to the Imperial Family. Some even became Rounds."

"Oldrin's mother, Olivia, was the Knight of Five for a time," Alfred explained. "In fact, it's been said if Oldrin herself hadn't been Marrybell's knight, she likely would have become a Round as well."

"That's not saying much," Ageha said, looking toward Charmelle.

The former aspiring knight took the hint. "Even so, that would have been one fight I would rather not take part in," Charmelle replied. "Gino was difficult enough."

"I bet," Shunsui added in. "And what about Cesare? Is he some sort of badass too?"

Alfred shrugged. "That one I don't know. Prince Cesare is something of a wild card," he explained. "Some call him a genius in his own right, while others claim he's a coward who tends to soil himself whenever serious opposition appears."

"Though given his position, he likely has some elites of his own," Charmelle added on, then taking a hinting smirk. "On the other hand, he is taking some time defeating Zulfiqar."

"Not that Marrybell is having much headway with the Bear of the Far East and his ilk," Alfred said, before raising his glass. The others did the same with their own glasses. "Well, regardless of where we're going, Zero Squadron will answer the call."

"And raise hell throughout," Ageha gleamed, causing a line of 'hear hears' to sound before everyone took a drink.

Uezu House
Kumejima, Ryukyu Republic

Thunder rumbled from above as he poured himself another cup of tea, the steaming beverage a sharp contrast to the downpour that was occurring outside. As a man who lived his life by many contrasts, he couldn't help but appreciate this one as well, in an artful sort of way, even as he slowly raised the cup to take a slow sip. The warm liquid felt heavenly at this hour, especially when the storm above showed no sign of ceasing any time soon.

Once he drank enough, he lowered the cup back down. And allowed a smile to encroach upon his lips. "I believe I instructed you to return to Urasoe."

"You did," Sayoko confirmed as she moved out of the nearby shadows. Wearing a Black Knight uniform – with the collar tabs of a Major – in place of her usual maid wear, she truly looked like a soldier now. A deadly instrument for the Shinozaki Ryuu, and its leader. "But I felt it prudent to remain somewhat longer, Otou-sama."

Despite the apparent insubordination of his daughter, Colonel Hanzo Shinozaki, 36th Master of the Shinozaki Ryuu and commander of the Order of the Black Knights' Special Forces Group "Iga", adopted a bemused smile. Once upon a time, it would have very much been unlike his daughter to refuse his given order. Now however, it seemed to be happening more and more frequently. "So you have," he observed, placing his cup down on the nearby wooden table before turning to face Sayoko fully. "I trust this will not detract from your mission?"

Sayoko did well to remain expressionless, knowing that the slightest slip could mean a world of pain for her. If not worse. "As I said, I will only be somewhat longer."

"I see," Hanzo answered, feeling a bit of irony as he anticipated his daughter's thoughts. After all, she, and many others with her, had never seen his open eyes. "Well then Sayoko, what is it you wish to know?"

Somehow, Sayoko just managed to resist the urge to swallow. There were few things in the world that she feared more than her father and master. In fact, she could not recall any human being she truly feared more than the one sitting in seiza form before her, his hands placed upon his knees. Appearing all too open and vulnerable, as if he were a simple, if highly dignified man openly conversing with a guest. Not that that form was the only part of her father's appearance that was deceptive.

Somewhat taller than the average Japanese, Hanzo Shinozaki was, to borrow a certain Britannian cliché, a man of much mystery. Though his true age was unknown, Sayoko knew that her father had existed in this world for quite some time, and had witnessed several events that have since been relegated to history. Not that he appeared ancient; quite the contrary, the elder Shinozaki was surprisingly youthful, with a well-structured face that appeared barely older than Sayoko's or her brother's and long black hair that flowed down his back. Presently he was dressed in simple evening attire, but whether dressed in the garb of the Shinozaki Ryuu or the Black Knights, Hanzo easily projected a leader's authority. As well as an iron will that suffered no form of defiance.

His most defining feature however, and subsequently the most mystifying, were his eyes. Once more, Sayoko had never seen them opened; they were always shut, as though her father were as blind as Nunnally or Kaguya. Only Sayoko knew better. Hanzo Shinozaki was anything but blind; in fact, he seemed to be more aware than should have been possible for a single human being. Many had paid the price for underestimating him in that particular manner, and Sayoko was mindful enough to avoid being another.

Despite her hesitance however, there was just too much at stake for Sayoko to simply return to Urasoe without certain answers. Thus, after a brief moment to reaffirm herself, she asked the question that weighed on her mind. "You know exactly where those three were taken, don't you?"

Hanzo's smile deepened at his daughter's question. "Perhaps I do," he offered. "Perhaps I even know why he and Majors Kouzuki and Cathcart were taken. And what fates have been bestowed upon them…"

"Tell me then," Sayoko demanded, unable, despite her best efforts, to restrain the force from her voice. Or the desperation.

It was then that Hanzo's smile abruptly vanished. "And who are you to demand such a thing from me," he retorted, more out of curiosity than ire. "Have you truly forgotten your place, daughter?"

Again forcing back the hesitation, Sayoko harshly pressed on. "My place has been by Prince Lelouch and Princess Nunnally's side," she declared, refusing to back down. "I have already failed to protect Nunnally. I will not do the same with Lelouch!"

The elder Shinozaki took on a derisive expression toward this exclamation. "So it is as Setsuna has claimed," he spoke with growing indignation. "You have turned your back on your family and your school for this wayward orphan…"

"No," Sayoko contended, much to her father's apparent surprise. "You may not believe me, but I am still loyal to the Shinozaki Ryuu and all that I have sworn to adhere to and follow," her eyes then focused that much more. "Including you, Otou-sama."

Hanzo did not respond to this, though his expression did soften somewhat. Sayoko took that as an invitation to continue. "Having said that, I am also loyal to Prince Lelouch, who you have chosen to accept as well."

"For the time being, yes," Hanzo replied, as though his daughter needed to be reminded of that.

Sayoko tried to go on, only for her hesitance to begin retaking her. "Even so…" she managed to let out despite.

For a long moment, Hanzo seemed to observe his daughter with certain inquisition. "I will say this much for Zero," he then stated after the moment had past, his voice regaining its original bemusement. "He is quite a man to have earned such loyalty."

Sayoko nodded. "He is many things," she admitted.

"Indeed," Hanzo replied, his face narrowing somewhat. As though he were to look into his daughter's eyes. "Though one particular question remains, dear daughter," he pressed further, retaining his inquisitor's visage. "To whom are you most loyal to? Our family and our school, or this prince turned Demon King?"

This time, Sayoko said nothing, nor so much as twitched. She knew she was under her father's gaze, as improbable as it seemed, and that a single wrong word or move could cost her much. Not that she truly had an answer to give, as it was.

Hanzo seemed to understand that, and so retracted. "Well, no matter," he stated at last. "Not that the knowledge you seek will be of much use. I'm afraid those three have been removed from even Iga's reach…"

"Not mine," Sayoko reaffirmed, before taking her own seiza position in the floor, facing her father more directly. "Tell me everything."

"Finally," Kallen muttered as she and C.C. at last came to their destination.

Situated at the center of the complex, the Thought Elevator stood out prominently, seemingly embedded within a great amethyst pillar that extended into the darkened air above. Much like the ruins on Kamine, Kallen noted, there was a walkway placed to the Elevator, lined with steps and several columns and edifices. As though it were all some sort of temple, with the Elevator being an icon of worship.

Cautiously the two women moved away from their cover and onto the central walkway, both keeping their acquired pistol trained for any sign of disturbance. They found none however; short of Kallen using her Geass to scan the vicinity – she had used it extensively to this point and dared not activate it again if she could afford to – there was no sign of enemies present. In fact, the whole area seemed strangely deserted, which naturally irked both women. Hadn't they previously agreed that there would be a trap somewhere down their route?

"Too easy. Way too easy," Kallen finally spoke, lowering her pistol when she finalized the lack of enemies. "I know they wanted us to get here, but I thought they would have more than this."

"Don't drop your guard," C.C. exclaimed, her own pistol remaining raised. Her face then folded into a bland frown. "They're just waiting to make their dramatic entrance."

At that, a round of childish laughter rang from overhead, causing both women to look up. "So we are," an equally childish voice boomed right after.

And then, in an instant, the vicinity became filled with Eildon soldiers, each seemingly teleporting in from around the Elevator. Armed and armored with the rest, they immediately trained their weapon on the Code Bearer and Geass User, who in turn brought their pistols around on them. All followed by a single throne that appeared at the center of the apparent altar, in which sat the figure in question.

Amethyst eyes gazing down upon the women in clear dominance, V.V. allowed a smile to form across his lips. "Greetings C.C.," he spoke in seeming welcome. "It has been a long time."

The frown deepened on the opposite Code Bearer. "Not long enough," she spat, in a tone that would have caught Kallen by surprise if she hadn't been so concentrated in pointing her gun at the "child's" head.

Again V.V. laughed. "As defiant as ever. How fitting for one such as you," he seemingly approved, before turning toward Kallen. "And you must be the Red Dragoness I've been hearing about lately. Zero's knight in shining crimson armor."

"That would be me," Kallen glowered in turn. "And I suppose you're V.V.?"

"That would be me," V.V. repeated with amusement, then tilting his head. "Strange. After witnessing so much of your exploits, I always imagined you to be…more draconian."

"And I always imagined you to have passed puberty," Kallen shot back derisively.

Another laugh. "Do not let this physical form fool you, my dear," V.V. responded without any offense whatsoever. He then raised his right hand, revealing the same embedded Geass sigil that C.C. held on her forehead.

"Infantile it might be, but such is the price for my bearing the Code," he stated, then nodding to his fellow Bearer. "C.C. understands this well. After all, she…"

"We're not here for conversation V.V.," C.C. interrupted, shifting back to the subject at hand. "We want to leave, and you are in our way."

"Indeed," V.V. said, as though noting his position only now. "Well, unfortunately I cannot allow that, at least not for you C.C.," he stated. "We are very much in need of your services. And failing that, we require the Code you have kept from us for so long."

"Oh?" C.C. responded with her characteristic snark. "Still trudging along with the Twilight, are we?"

"That's for me to worry about," V.V. retorted, before turning to address Kallen again. "As for you Major, I'm afraid we are less in need of your services. Thus, you are free to depart."

"What?" Kallen couldn't help but exclaim, confusion taking root.

V.V. nodded in confirmation. "Though you are one bound to the Power of the Queen, and therefore an enemy, I am willing to look the other way on this one occasion. Killing you now will gain nothing," he then gestured toward the Elevator. "You may use this to return to Ryukyu."

The return gaze in Kallen's eyes spoke volumes of belief. As well as defiance. "Sorry, but I'm not going anywhere just yet," she declared, her pistol remaining trained on V.V.'s forehead.

"And why is that?" V.V. inquired, entirely unflinching by the display. "Because you won't leave without C.C.? Or…?"

The Grandmaster's smile deepened. "Perhaps you're still waiting for Lelouch to rejoin you."

Kallen sniffed at the attempted intimidation. "Don't worry, he'll be along any minute," she retorted, a smirk of her own soon appearing. "And when he does, immortal or not, you'll be in for a world of hurt. He knows you were the one who took Nunnally eight years ago."

"You mean," V.V. corrected. "He did know."

At that, something cold began to grip Kallen's heart as she immediately took note of the past tense. C.C. also noticed, and though she was better at keeping it off her face, that same hand reached into her as well. "What do you mean?" Kallen demanded, suddenly unsure.

V.V. gleamed at the Dragoness' newfound discomposure. "I'm saying you need not worry about your prince, for he will not be coming," he stated, allowing the realization to fall upon Kallen like the greatest of hammers. "He is dead."

Hearing that, Kallen felt something begin to give inside her. Could that be true? Had what she feared actually…?

"You're lying," C.C. spoke up again, this time with a tinge of defensiveness. "Lelouch is not dull enough to ever fall for your traps."

"Perhaps," V.V. acquiesced, before taking on a more knowing grin. "But if faced with one of his own intellect, he could very well succumb."

This time C.C. couldn't keep the astonishment off of her face, as she immediately realized what the opposite immortal meant. All the while Kallen felt her heart become increasingly cold, the pistol starting to shake in her hand.

"If you don't believe me," V.V. offered in mock beneficence. "Then please, use your Geass and see for yourself."

Kallen shivered at the suggestion, now entirely unsure. She only stood frozen, her pistol remaining on the immortal grandmaster while all eyes now focused upon her. Even C.C. appeared more apprehensive now; though she kept her gaze and her own weapon forward, Kallen didn't need her Geass to tell that she was fearing the same thing. Fearing that V.V. indeed spoke the truth.

And yet, in order to verify such a claim, it all came down to a single action on Kallen's part. Did she really dare? What if their adversary wasn't bluffing? What if what she had come to dread for eight long years had now come to pass? How…how would she…?

Before she could complete that thought, Kallen felt her left eye light up, the Sigil appearing at its center. She would never know whether she had activated it, or if it had somehow activated on its own. All she knew, much to her sudden gasping horror, was what she saw.

Eyes widening and her breath sharply caught, such that C.C. abruptly turned in her own shock and realization, Kallen could only tremble as she "saw" it. Lelouch fallen across the ground. A gaping wound, obviously caused by impalement, through his back and chest. A pool of blood spread around him. His eyes firmly closed and no breath being taken.

No matter where she looked, no matter where she turned her eye, Kallen found nothing. Nothing but utter stillness. Nothing but the one who mattered most dead. And gone.

"Move…" she whispered, pleadingly, feeling the tears begin to weigh in her eyes as the pistol shook more violently in her grip. "Please…move…"

Yet nothing remained, save for the pool of blood expanding ever so slightly. Now the tears were flowing, the first coming down her cheeks as her grip fluctuated around the pistol. The coldness in her body now overtaking her as she pleaded that much more.

"Move…" she called ever so softly, unable to raise her voice even when she wanted to cry out.

"Move...!" Now she was looking over every inch of Lelouch's body – the exterior and interior, skin to lungs to heart – trying to find a single movement, any movement. But one movement to indicate that he was still alive. And still with her. "Move!"

There was but only one movement she beheld however. And that was the smile on V.V.'s lips increasing by a great fraction.

Suddenly overcome with fury, Kallen found herself shifting back to the immortal. "YOU BASTARD!" she bellowed, firing a shot directly between V.V.'s eyes. The Grandmaster slumped in his throne, just as his guards opened fire.

Bursting into emotion, Kallen drew her short sword, charging through the fire and at the nearest soldier. The man desperately tried to shoot her down, but she was faster, able to track the aim of the gun and trigger pull, thereby drawing close in. A single slash through a critical gap in his armor finished him at once, allowing Kallen to turn and move toward another soldier, dispatching her just as fast. A third attempted to throw a grenade at her, but again she was faster, cutting him down and then swatting the grenade into a fourth man as it exploded. His armor held through the explosion, but it didn't matter as Kallen simply eviscerated him too.

All throughout she screamed, her fury and sorrow mixing together as one. Even as she cut and shot down soldier after soldier, her Geass remained fixed upon the still Lelouch, desperately trying to find something, anything, that was alive. Tears ran down her frenzied eyes, while the blood continued to spill.

C.C. herself remained in the background, her own body frozen as the violence erupted, eyes shielded by her hair. Only the tightened, trembling fist at her side indicated any kind of motion on her part, while her partner – her remaining partner – continued her rampage.

After several minutes of gunfire, screams and blood, only one soldier remained. The hapless man never stood a chance, as Kallen was on him within seconds. She dropped down and swept her leg, knocking him onto his back. Right before raising her blade up and over, then striking downward into the man's head.

A brief silence then intervened, at which point V.V. finally recovered. Frowning as he looked over his dead bodyguards, and the bloodied Kallen Kouzuki, he then posited but a simple question. "Are you quite done?"

Hearing those words, Kallen turned her eyes toward him, appearing ready to kill him once more. However, before she could so much as reach back for her blade, the realization dawned upon her. Realization that nothing she did would change what she continued to see through her Geass. That attacking V.V., or anyone else, no longer mattered. That nothing mattered anymore.

Rage and Geass dissipating from her like clouds in the wind, only sorrow remained to overtake her. She stood but a few seconds longer, her face tightening as the tears flowed that much more, unable to stifle her sobbing.

And then she collapsed to her knees, her previous screams of rage now firmly replaced with cries of anguish. All while V.V. sat by, observing her.

"The power of Geass is truly absolute," V.V. proclaimed as he watched over the woman's suffering. "To think that it could keep one such as you enslaved, even after the User has perished."

Kallen said nothing, could say nothing. She only cried more and more as the world darkened around her. Never again to see the light.

"Or," V.V. considered. "Perhaps you are in fact too weak to resist such power."

Then, without cause or warning, C.C. moved again, walking silently over to where Kallen remained. Crouching and then reaching out, the "witch" grasped the hilt of the still embedded tanto and drew it, its blade now reddened with blood. Flicking much of it off with a single slash – while careful not to strike Kallen – C.C. then moved to the center of the walkway. Where she stood directly facing V.V., though with her eyes were still shrouded by her hair.

"Now that that's out of the way," V.V. spoke again as he settled back into his throne. Despite that however, a part of him felt uncertainty toward the woman in front of him. As though he were now treading dangerous ground. "I'm afraid your initial contract is now null and void. Which means you no longer have any reason not to join us."

C.C. said nothing to this. Which unnerved V.V. that much more, though he managed to keep such feeling at bay.

"We need not remain enemies," V.V. stated. "We need your Code, and you retain your wish. We can help each other in these matters C.C."

Still nothing. C.C. didn't even so much as glance up at him.

V.V. barely resisted the urge to swallow. "Really, must you remain so obstinate? Especially over one partner?" he pressed further, even as his ancient instincts told him to back off quickly. "Come now, you've had so many come and go over the years, each one falling before he or she could fulfill their contract. Whose aims I can fulfill immediately."

Ever daring, V.V. continued on without regard. "Why should Lelouch be any different those before?" he proclaimed. "What is but one mo…?"

"You really don't get it, do you?"

V.V. silenced and Kallen looked up, both wearing twin expressions of shock. For neither of them had heard such a rancorous tone before, not especially from C.C. Their shock only amplified as C.C. at last raised her head, her eyes fixing upon V.V.'s, who suddenly felt his own blood run cold. For within those narrowed, amber colored eyes, C.C. projected an emotion that none had ever seen from her. An emotion – a sin – called Wrath.

Twirling the tanto about, C.C. charged up the walkway, moving faster than Kallen had ever thought possible for a human being. Within barely a second she was before V.V., where she impaled the dagger directly through the minuscule immortal's chest. Caught firmly off guard, the Grandmaster of the Eildons was just able cough a single glob of blood before C.C.'s hand reach out and grasped him by the throat, as though choke him. Thereby causing a surge of energy to erupt, lightning flickering erratically while their hair flew upward. In turn revealing the Code on C.C.'s forehead.

It has been a long time since I felt rage, C.C. proclaimed through their link, alongside her distinct pleasure in seeing V.V. writhe under her grasp. In fact, I never thought I would feel it again, as I have gone whole centuries without so much as a semblance of anger.

Her infuriated eyes bore directly through her victim's widened pair. As strange as it may sound, I'm actually grateful for this advent V.V. Though that won't change my seeing you dead.

…Wha…what…? V.V. managed to stammer through their link, his body and soul struggling for release. …are you doing?

A derisive laugh soon followed. Isn't it obvious? C.C. mockingly questioned. I'm about to rip the Code from your presently immortal form. After which, your newfound mortality will then take its course. She twisted the embedded tanto slightly to emphasize.

Eyes widening further as he realized it, V.V. struggled that much more. You…you can't…!

C.C. simply thrust the tanto deeper, causing the opposite immortal to cry out in the surging pain. By all means, try and stop me!

Still on her knees before the throne, Kallen could only witness through her teared eyes as the two immortals struggled, each attempting to draw away from one another. C.C. attempting to draw way her opponent's Code while V.V. fought to retain it. A sordid tug of war between two Code Bearers, one that was not only fought for dominance, but for vengeance and survival respectively.

It soon became apparent that it would not last however. Though V.V. put up a valiant struggle, he could feel C.C. gradually overtake him. His Code beginning to drain away, while his body became heavier from the strain. Death beginning its encroachment as his immortality began to slip, much to his horror.

Why so surprised? The victor of this fight was clear from the beginning, C.C. proclaimed, impaling the tanto even deeper to cause another outcry. After all, between the two of us, which has obtained the stronger will?

By now V.V. was barely able to comprehend his adversary's words, let alone reply to them.

I have seen nations and dynasties rise and fall. Wars erupt and end. History made and forgotten. C.C. stuck the blade in that much deeper. I marched under the banner of Charles the Affable into Italy and fought against Imagawa Yoshimoto at Okehazama. I was there beside Washington through his rebellion, just as I was beside Bonaparte as he reshaped Eurasia. I charged with the original sturmtruppen through No Man's Land against the Habsburgs, only to ride a Tiger tank into Russia decades later.

Her eyes bore even more intensely as she went on. These are but a few of the trials I have endured since I first received this Code. For I have seen many, oh so many. Some retained through the passages of Time, and others long abandoned.

Little by little, V.V.'s Code slipped away that much further. He no longer had the strength to retain it, but only to delay the inevitable.

C.C. savored his despair, alongside his flickering life force. Throughout these events, these struggles, I could not die. No matter how much I suffered, no matter what I was inflicted with, I always persevered.

Another twist, another scream. And through that perseverance, my mind and body continuously grew stronger, and my soul unyielding.

She then brought her face directly into V.V.'s. All while you remained hidden away. Removed from all that you claim to be laboring to save.

The last of his strength now draining away slowly, V.V. just managed to glare back hatefully into C.C.'s eyes.

Suffice to say, you were never my match V.V.! C.C. at last declared. And you will die, here and now, for that presumption! That arrogance!

Damn…you…! V.V. managed to hiss as the last of his Code began to slip away. …Maid of Orleans!

C.C. smiled coldly at that name – one she had not heard refer to her in so long. Ironic that she should hear it now as her enemy's last gasp. She would be sure to remember it, alongside the image of V.V. at last giving way to mortality…

The sound of a gunshot was then heard, alongside the sight of the bullet flying through the side of C.C.'s temple. Taken by complete surprise, the immortal's body was flung to the side, causing both her contact with V.V. and the result surge of energy to break abruptly.

"I'm sorry C.C.," a new voice spoke up as a single pair of boot steps entered into the chamber, their owner casually reholstering her pistol. "But I'm afraid I can't let you go through with that."

Very much recognizing that voice - or more specifically that tone - V.V. glared as the form of Anya Alstreim came before him. The Knight of Six's magenta eyes aglow with the Power of Geass. "You…" he spat in pure hatred.

"Yes, me," Marianne proclaimed as she reached out and drew the short sword out from the Grandmaster. To his credit, he didn't quite fall from his throne upon its removal, but his body did nearly collapse into a coughing heap.

Smiling as she watched V.V. hack additional blood, the possessed Knight of Six reached into her coat pocket and removed a cloth, reverently cleaning the blade. "You've really overstepped your bounds this time Master," she stated, her voice now taking on a firm edge. "The Eildons were supposed to leave Lelouch and C.C. alone, and what do I find you doing instead?"

Her smile only deepened against V.V.'s own deepening glare. "Going against Charles' plan," she spoke in clear disapproval. "And exposing the Eildons at the same time."

V.V. glowered that much more with hate. "I'm only cleaning up the mess Charles is refusing to do. Lelouch's continued existence is too much of a risk for our purposes..."

A single flash, and the severing of vocal chords, silenced the immortal. "Charles believes Lelouch's continued existence is necessary for our purposes, and so do I," Marianne stated further as V.V. rasped. "Killing him will only slow our progress further, something even you cannot make up for."

She then took on another smile – one of cruelty – as she watched the Code Bearer struggle with his body yet again. "You already crossed Charles once before," she reminded. "Do you really think killing Lelouch will endear you to him?"

Impotent rage now firmly upon him, it was all V.V. could manage to glare one final time at the other object of his animus. Then, with an unseen command, the Elevator behind him activated, causing the Grandmaster and his throne to both vanish before Marianne's borrowed eyes.

"Hmph, typical," Marianne let out in apparent disappointment before turning around, this time toward the still kneeling Kallen. By now C.C. had recovered and got herself back standing, but as opposed to her earlier actions, the remaining Code Bearer merely stood by as the former Empress walked down the steps, coming before the distraught Dragoness.

Blurry eyes now coming upon black boots, Kallen dared herself to look up toward the Knight of Six. Taking note that she was still holding the tanto. "You're…" she managed to speak. "…going to kill me…?"

Marianne said nothing to this, only looking upon the Black Knight impassively.

Kallen took that as all the answer she needed. "Get it over with then," she said, her head lowering yet again. "I won't stop you."

An expression of pity soon came upon Anya Alstreim's face. "You really shouldn't throw your life away so easily," she offered as C.C. moved down to join them. "Not when you have so much to live for…"

Suddenly feeling her rage return, Kallen seethed back up at the Round. "You bastards took everything I had to live for!" she bellowed with her remaining fury. "My home, my father, my mother, my brother...!"

The tears soon returned. "And now...!" her voice degenerated into a whimper. "...now you took him...!"

Her head fell once more, the sobs returning in earnest. While off to the side, C.C. could only watch, tears of her own beginning to appear.

"Please…!" Kallen pleaded through the cries, now entirely consumed with despair. "At least let me die with him!"

Sighing, Marianne simply knelt down and took another cloth from her pocket. Then, in her usual motherly fashion, she lifted up Kallen's face and began to wipe the tears and blood away.

She smiled reassuringly once she was finished. "I'm afraid that is impossible, child," she spoke softly. "Because Lelouch is not yet dead."

A flicker of light now emerging from the darkness, Kallen looked up in astonishment and emerging hope. No, it was impossible. She just saw Lelouch dead. And yet, somehow, she dared…

Marianne nodded with additional reassurance. "See for yourself."

This time Kallen didn't hesitate in activating her Geass and showing it upon where she had originally found him. Only now, Lelouch's body no longer laid there unattended. Instead, it had been placed within some kind of sarcophagus-like device, with four soldiers – likely Geassed – standing by around it, protecting it.

Within that device however, Kallen indeed found movement. That of Lelouch's now beating heart and flowing blood. Breathe being drawn in and out of his lungs. His previous wounds, while still present, healing at an accelerated rate.

"Indeed," Marianne continued as she brought Kallen back onto her feet. "It is far too soon for Lelouch vi Britannia to die."

She then presented Kallen her tanto. "Especially when he has so much more to accomplish."

Taking her short sword back out of reflex, Kallen suddenly found her gaze turning onto the Knight of Six. Where, rather than simply seeing diminutive Round's form alone, she saw something else. A kind of aura, which held the vague form of a gentle eyed woman with long flowing hair. A form that Kallen thought she recalled from long ago, yet could not place.

Either way though, one thing was quite clear. "You…" Kallen stammered. "You're not the Knight of Six…!"

Marianne smiled, this time in understanding. "You are correct."

Now remembering her place, Kallen assumed a defensive posture. "Who are you!?" she demanded, ready to strike – despite everything – within a single wrong move.

The former Empress merely took it in stride. "A fan of Lelouch's," she claimed, just as the Elevator began to power up again. "And more importantly, one of his benefactors."

Knowing precisely what was about to happen, Kallen slashed her tanto about. Only to strike thin air as Anya Alstreim, and whatever had taken hold of her, disappeared from sight.

"On that note, I'm also a fan of you Kallen Kouzuki," the Knight of Six's "borrowed" voice chimed hauntingly. "Please continue to look after Lelouch as his Knight of Zero."

Momentarily gritting her teeth at the escape, Kallen ultimately decided that it was of no importance. Not compared to her new tasks at hand.

Kamine Island

"What the-!?" one of the operators let out as his display began to light up. "I'm getting something!"

Hearing that, Rakshata and Neha rushed over, looking over the digital screen. "What's happening?" the Colonel demanded.

"I don't know exactly ma'am," the scientist answered. "But if I had to guess, I would say…!"

He had no need to finish that sentence, as it soon became apparent. The Thought Elevator had activated, the Sigil and intricate lining now firmly aglow.

And then, before anyone could do anything, it was over. Within a matter of seconds, three forms materialized before those gathered. Three very recognizable forms, all of whom appeared to have experienced much.

"My god," Rakshata heard somebody whisper from beside her, just as the tobacco pipe fell from her loose grip.

Recognizing their present location, Kallen and C.C. both gently laid Lelouch across the ground. His uniform bloodied, and his face concealed with a helmet that only the two women could identify.

"Major Kouzuki?" Neha called out to the pair. "Major Cathcart?"

C.C. wasted no more time. "Get a medical transport!" she urgently ordered. "Now!"

Upon that command, the whole of Kamine seemed to burst into motion. People scrambled and calls were made, just as Rakshata and several other Black Knights began to march up to the platform.

Recoiling from their approach, Kallen immediately drew her Luger and tanto and took a defensive posture. "Stay back!"

"Major…?" one of the soldiers questioned.

"I mean it!" Kallen bellowed even further, her voice and form both of potential virulence. "Stay back!"

Seeing her bloodied form, as well as the fact she was standing directly in front of Zero's also bloodied form, Rakshata easily understood. She then glanced dismissively at the soldiers. "Leave us," she commanded, her voice leaving absolutely no room for argument.

Though very much confused, the other Black Knights did as they were commanded and departed. Only Neha remained at Rakshata's side as she came forward.

Kallen became even more defensive upon their approach, but Rakshata raised her hand. "It's alright Kallen," she spoke calmly.

Kallen flinched, but only somewhat, still maintaining her gun and blade. Rakshata found herself imagining a dragoness, a real dragoness, protecting her master.

No, Rakshata corrected to herself, her mate.

Even so, the Indian woman persisted. "Whatever happened, nothing else will hurt him," she promised. "We'll take him straight back to Urasoe and get Doctor Tezuka to examine him there."

Rakshata drew closer, ignoring Neha's attempt to stop her. "You can go with him," she continued, watching as Kallen begin to soften. "Stay with him."

Though Kallen continued to hold out, it was clear that Rakshata was getting through to her. Her body began to loosen up accordingly.

"I promise," Rakshata said, reaching out and taking hold of Kallen's shoulder. "No one will take him away from you."

Though the Dragoness remained for a few moments longer, both Rakshata's words and her touch assured her enough. Slowly, but not without maintaining some guard, Kallen lowered - but did not resheathe - her gun and dagger, then assuming a more passive stance. Her eyes became somewhat human again, yet still firm and unyielding. Not at all daring to drop their guard for even a moment.

It turned out to be at the best time though, as the sound of the Tamashi's engines firing up outside the cave was soon heard. Within minutes Lelouch's body, still flanked by Kallen and C.C., was placed inside. From which the VTOL immediately lifted off for Okinawa.