Hey everyone! Sorry for the delay! Been busy with school and other things. My family got a new puppy in addition to our two other dogs, and all I can say is don't let his cute looks fool you; he's the antichrist!
Don't have much other news for you all, but I would like to wish those of you in America a Happy Belated 4th and thank you all for reading and reviewing this story. For those of you whining about Lelouch being nothing but a pathetic kid and not Zero (well, none of you have to my knowledge, technically speaking, but I can see a few don't like it), that's about to change. So, sit back, and enjoy.
Do not own Code Geass. In the unlikely event that changes, I'll gladly produce a Hentai Kallen spin-off! Depending on the reviews I get for this story.
Lelouch and CC sat down in their make-shift tent as they began to prepare for a potentially suicide plan. One for Lelouch, anyway. "Okay, so my understanding is that Guilford is trying to lure me in to 'rescue' the Black Knights." Lelouch said aloud as CC relayed to him the news.
"As far as I can tell, yes." the witch replied.
Lelouch thought for a minute. "If I were him…my image of Zero would be a dastardly, cowardly figure who wouldn't dare risk his life for his pawns. Something's not right…"
"In fact, it's a wonder they've been allowed to live." CC commented offhandedly.
Lelouch then had a realization. "Someone from higher up is calling the shots."
"Precisely."
"Still, announcing a public execution to get to me…the fact that it's a trap is so obvious it's not even funny."
"It would be a win-win situation for him, whether you came or not." CC explained for him. "If you don't come, he will take it as proof that Zero is dead and finish off the rest of the Black Knights, crushing the hopes of not only the Japanese but of all who are oppressed by Britannia. On the other hand, if you do come…" CC trialed off.
"Let me guess; Zero was a commander, but not a fighter." he finished for her. It was pretty obvious, really; a commander's job was to order his troops, and fight only if absolutely necessary. While he may have had customized knightmares to give him some advantage, Zero would not engage in regular fights. After all, in chess, if the king is taken out, game over.
"Correct." CC answered.
"So, if I do show up to his duel, then he is almost certain to defeat me. And all the Black Knights will be killed either way."
"As I said, a win-win situation for Britannia." CC confirmed.
Lelouch shifted uncomfortably. He had plans formulate in his head, none too outlandish. But none were very realistic either. Everything he thought of still carried a high risk of failure. "I don't even know what I'm doing…"
"We have time; Zero was a brilliant strategist…and so are you." CC reassured him.
Lelouch nodded, uncertain. "I remember studying so much military history as a hobby; but applying it, without formal training…this is madness…"
"Enough." CC sternly silenced him. "Doubting yourself will not do you any good. You are either in this 100%, or you need to go…"
CC stopped herself. She almost forgot that Lelouch didn't have a home to return to anymore. "If I bring that up again, he'll become just like he was before." Recomposing herself, she instead said "As I said, you and I are partners. If I really thought you have no chance of pulling this off…I would never have allowed you to go through with this."
Lelouch nodded. "Well, there's no point in turning back now. Tell me: Do you have any records of what Zero did during the Black Rebellion?"
CC said "I'm afraid I don't have video or print. But we have time; I can tell you…"
"Why don't you see if you can get a notepad and a pen? I feel I have much to learn…" Lelouch asked her.
Guilford spoke into his phone as he took care of an important call he received. "I'm sorry, Sir Kuurugi. While I agree with your assessment, I am under strict orders from the emperor himself. I have to go through with this farce. Even though I may not fully agree with it, he does have a point; this is the best way to determine Zero's status. If he is alive, and does not show up, I have permission to dispose of the rest of the Black Knights. That way, his pawns will no longer be available to him. With our recent policies on the numbers, it will be even harder for him to rally a new force."
For a moment, there was only silence on the other line. Finally, Suzaku replied "In the event Zero does show up…be on guard. Zero will not play fair, and he is more resourceful than you can imagine."
"I understand. Will that be all, Sir Kuurugi?"
"…For now." With that, the Knight of Seven hung up. Guilford took note of the sound of unsatisfaction on the other line.
Suzaku leaned back in his chair, sighing. Apparently, not even Guilford knew about Zero's true identity or the secret service's spy program on Lelouch. "I don't understand. Does the emperor want Lelouch to assemble his forces? Is it just some game to him?" Perhaps the emperor did not consider him a real threat; after all, without his memories as Zero, even if he did become a criminal, Lelouch wouldn't have the means or motivation to be Zero again. And with the stricter laws on the elev-…Japanese, Zero wouldn't be able to gather a force as easily nor as mighty as his previous army. All factors considered, Lelouch could never be the threat he once was again. For a moment, something else caught the Knight of Seven's attention.
"Why did I just think of my own people as numbers?" Suzaku asked himself.
He didn't have a chance to find an answer to that when he heard a knock on his door. He knew who it was, and while the two of them got along fine, this wasn't a good time. Sighing, he answered "Come in."
With that, the Knight of Three entered: Gino Weinberg. "Suzaku! How's everything been!" Gino, despite his title, was one of the most happy-go-lucky individuals Suzaku had ever known. How he made it into knighthood, let alone one of the Knights of the Round, remained a mystery to him. But compared to many of the other knights Suzaku had got to known in his circle, Gino was by far the most normal of them, which was always a plus when dealing with him.
"Complicated." Suzaku answered tiredly.
"With you, what isn't?" Gino asked, taking note of Suzaku's troubled face. "If you don't take a break, you'll go mad."
"Believe me, I've almost been at that point for years, whether I've had anything to do or not." The Knight of Seven thought. He then said "Well, what brings you here, anyway? Knowing you, I assume it's not business."
Gino only chuckled. "You know me too well. Anyway, my uncle is hosting a part for all the nobles to attend. That would include all the knights, including the rounds. And of course, that means you're invited as well."
Whenever the nobles held a party, you had to attend, even if they explicitly said that you were merely invited to come. The only thing that could get you out of it was your job, if it was deemed important. And unfortunately for Suzaku, besides some paperwork, he didn't have anything to do that required the emperor's immediate attention. "When is it?" Suzaku asked tiredly.
"This Friday. You'll love it, my uncle is a swell guy!" The blond knight exclaimed.
"Sure, I'll be there." Suzaku replied unenthusiastically, as he suddenly decided to get back to his paperwork.
Gino caught it, and asked "What's wrong?"
Suzaku felt alone when he joined the Britannian army, except when he was reunited with Lelouch and met Eupheimia. But then she died, and he betrayed him. Suzaku was more recluse than ever, and even if he did eventually achieve his goals of changing Britannia from within, he knew he would always be seen as a traitor to his people, and the Britannians in his lifetime would always view him as a filthy number, no matter what he accomplished for the empire.
But Gino saw past race; he always assumed the best in people when he first met them, even sworn enemies. That was enough to give him hope. "Things are happening back in Japan." Gino didn't mind that Suzaku did not refer to his homeland as an area; he seemed to understand the attachment Suzaku had to his homeland. "It seems they've captured all of the Black Knights."
Gino only quirked his eyebrow. "Okay…isn't that a good thing?"
"I suppose. I just have a bad feeling about how it will turn out…"
Gino nodded. "I understand. But…that's not the real reason you seem reluctant to accept my invitation, is it?"
Suzaku sighed once more; it became so annoying to him that even he feared he would become one of those emo characters Britannia's youth became so fond of. Finally, he let it out. "Gino…are you sure your uncle would want someone like me at his party?"
Gino chuckled and slapped his comrade on the back. "Suzaku, relax. My uncle has been to all kinds of places, met with all kinds of people. He may be a noble, but he believes in judging people by their character, not where they came from."
Suzaku was skeptical. He met people who claimed to be like Gino described, but there was always that one number or non-britannian that would set them off. "I don't know, Gino…"
Refusing to take no for an answer, Gino made a deal with him. "Tell you what; you come. If for any reason you don't have a good time…I won't invite you to such things again, and I'll personally pummel anyone who offends you." Gino added a wink to that last statement.
Suzaku still looked quite conflicted
Resorting to groveling, Gino got in front of him and clasped his hands, begging him. "Please, Suzaku? If you don't go out and mingle with the Britannians…you're won't be doing your people a favor."
Suzaku only leaned back and groaned. "He knows me too well." Clasping his forehead, he finally answered him. "Fine, fine. I'll come; you have my word."
Gino smiled and pumped his fist. "Good! Remember, dress sharp, and should duty not call for once, I'll see you on Friday at 7!"
With that, Gino helped himself out of the office. Suzaku leaned forward on his desk in deep thought . "Well, I guess all I can do is hope for the best…" Whether he was talking about the end of the Black Knights or the Party, he wasn't so sure himself…
"Here you go, you little slut." A guard said as he slid a tray of food under the slot.
Had Kallen not been forced into a strait-jacket and gagged, she would've had a few choice words with him. Or a few hits to the groin. The latter most certainly. Kallen forced herself to try and suck on the slop her jailers tossed her. The gag was to ensure that she couldn't eat whole mouthfuls, effectively starving her and making her too weak to put up a decent fight, but loose enough to keep her alive. It was standard procedure with new prisoners. In her opinion, they may as well not put anything in her cell; the food most likely had as much nutritional value as a vat of trans-fat and would starve her anyway.
"Are you hanging in there, Kallen?" Ohgi called from the other side. Kallen gave out a muffled reply. Ever since she got in prison, Ohgi simply asked her yes or no questions, to which Kallen would reply with whatever noise she could as an affirmative. "I'm so sorry, Kallen. I promised Naoto I would protect you, and look where we've ended up. I'm willing to die for our cause, but you…you were meant to be part of the future generation to watch over the new Japan. All that's happened, though, is just me showing your brother and you just how worthless I am."
Kallen wanted to give a lengthy reply about how wrong he was, but with the gag in her mouth, she didn't waste her breath.
"A true samurai will never give up until the very end. If nothing else, you can offer Naoto that much as repentance." Todoh was never much of a talker, but when it came to his country, he was more than happy to throw his opinion in. "Fearing for the worst will do us no good. We'll just have to hope for help to arrive at the last minute. If that doesn't happen…we will have to accept our fate without regret."
"So long as you don't put your hope in Zero." Chiba commented from her cell.
Tamaki once again screamed at Chiba for what seemed to be the thousandth time. "Shut up! You're always dissing Zero when he was the one who gave us a fighting chance…!"
"And he took it away with him!" Chiba retorted angrily. "Even running away screaming like a child would have been more honorable than what he did!"
"Shut up, you stupid-"
"Alright, knock it off you damn eleven!" The guards proceeded into his cell for another beating. It seemed that Tamaki was still able to speak his mind; no one was too sure, as many of his neighbors worried that he might have incurred brain damage over the long months.
Kallen just sighed. She found herself torn between Chiba and Tamaki; on one hand, they were nothing but an annoyance to the Britannians without Zero. He was the one who gave them all a real fighting chance. And while many would probably debate it now, when he said he would give them back their country, she could tell he meant it. But she couldn't deny the truth that Zero abandoned them. CC spilled the beans, but still…"I could've rescued his sister in his place!" Then again, if she had a chance to save Naoto again, she would do anything, even abandon a mission that was sure to defeat the empire. But emotions shouldn't take precedence on the battlefield…"Damn!" she cursed herself. Her trains of thoughts were getting her nowhere. And no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't help but worry she and the others were slaves this whole time. But even if she could speak, would telling them all about the Geass do any real good? At best, it would make everyone paranoid and gladly let the Britannians kill them.
Kallen all but broke down and cried; she WOULD NOT allow herself to cry. She refused to show weakness in front of the Britannians, even when the threat of death was imminent. But that didn't stop her from praying for a miracle…"Naoto-nichan…we need help…please…tell me what to do…"
Lelouch scribbled his thoughts down on whatever scraps of paper CC could find him. He considered the many tactics of various military leaders. However, the only support Lelouch would have would be CC and whomever he could brainwash, provided he got in direct eye-contact with anyone. The great warriors of the past also didn't have to deal with knightmare frames. On top of that, Lelouch himself was no warrior. He tried to think of this as a chest game, but in chess, the pieces never had free will. Real soldiers, even the dumbest ones, had that. It would take just one realization or one person to break away from the pack, and everything would be ruined. Plus, no one's skill level was the same; something that did not factor in a game. Lelouch then glanced at CC…who had been doing nothing the entire time but eating pizza. "Excuse me…a little help here would be nice!" he stated irritably. "And a slice wouldn't be bad to have either."
"I'd love to, but I'm busy." The witch replied, not even looking at him.
"You can eat and brainstorm at the same time, you know!" the teen protested.
"True, but I don't want to. You never needed my help before…"
"I'm not the person you once knew!" Lelouch screamed. Then, his memories flashed before him. And now, he was not sure if they were real or not. "I still don't know if I even was who I thought at any point in time…"
"You are." CC said. "He may be hidden deep within, but he's there. No matter what happens to your memories, your experiences will make you the person you are. However, you can't rely on your memories this time; only your instinct can guide you. Try as he might, that is one thing the emperor will never be able to take away from you. Just think: if you were the enemy, what would you expect from Zero?"
"Trickery." Lelouch replied. "Guilford knows that he can win in a straight fight with Zero. An underhanded tactic would be the first thing he'd expect…"
"But just because he expects it, doesn't mean he's prepared for it. If your only way to win the duel was to cheat, what would you do?" CC followed up.
Lelouch thought carefully. "Well…I'd forego the expected underhanded tactics. Hidden weapons, having people gang up on him…I'm sure he'd be expecting those…" But then, something occurred to Lelouch. Guilford would expect outside help to aid Zero. But not his own soldiers; he would have thought of it were it not for his Geass. "…actually, that might be something worth considering…"
CC watched silently as Lelouch finally began to devise a plan. "Hidden assault weapons will probably be of little use to me. But something to distract him…yes, that might work…" Lelouch continued writing notes down. CC let him be, finishing most of her pizza and leaving one slice.
She sighed. That was the last of her spending money. "We better get this organization back on the road, and fast!" She could never go long without pizza. "Have you got something figured out yet?" she asked, trying to hide her impatience.
Lelouch put his pen down. "It's more of a rough draft, really. I'm sure there are a lot of things I am missing…"
"Let me have a look." Lelouch passed CC the paper. He watched as she looked over it, seemingly unimpressed. "It's a start. But there is one fatal flaw: too many times, you are risking your own life."
"What other lives do I have to risk?" Lelouch asked, turning away. "Controlling the Britannian soldiers is something I have no qualms about. But even if I turned them into sacrificial pawns, it wouldn't be enough in the long run to protect me. "
"Then it seems you'll have to pick a few to use, and maybe a few others to distract."
Lelouch nodded. "I've thought of that."
"And you've forgotten about me. I was shot in the heart, remember? And yet, I'm still here."
Lelouch just looked at her, remembering their "first" encounter. "How? How is it your immortal?" Even with the existence of his Geass, true immortality was hard for him to swallow.
"Does that really have anything to do with our current dilemma?" CC asked. At first, she sounded neutral as ever. But for a brief second, Lelouch believed he heard her express anger and sadness.
"I guess not." He replied sheepishly. "But, you'll be hurt, right?"
"I've been through worse things than being shot or inside an exploding knightmare. When you live as long as I do, and with nothing to end your life…pain doesn't bother you as much as it used to. You become…apathetic to the very notion."
Lelouch could definitely tell that she was sad on mentioning that. "C2, I'm sorry…but would it be okay if I used you? As a decoy, I mean."
Suzaku took a deep breath as he parked his car. Staring at the mansion at the top of the polished marble stairs, he had a bad feeling that this party wouldn't be what Gino promised. "No turning back now." he muttered as he unbuckled and got out.
Suzaku made his way up the mansion as confidently as he could; if he looked nervous, any chance he had of making it in this party would be ruined. As he walked up, the elderly chaperone looked at him suspiciously. "Your name, please."
Suzaku had a sinking feeling the response would be "Not on the List" either way. Still, he tried. "Suzaku Kuurugi, the Knight of Seven. I believe Mr. Gino Weinberg told me I was invited." He added, showing that he knew the Knight of Three.
The butler barely even glanced at the paper as he addressed him. "I'm sorry. I believe your name is not-"
"Julian." Gino walked up behind the butler, who gave him a flabbergasted look. "It's the guy I told you about. Remember? It's not wise to forget a member of the Round."
The butler looked back and forth between the two, and hastily bowed, giving Suzaku permission to enter. Suzaku couldn't be certain, but he believed he heard the butler whisper under his breath "Inviting numbers into the mansion. What is the young master thinking?"
Before Suzaku could determine if the servant's response was a bad sign, Gino wrapped his arm around his shoulder and led him into the estate. "Suzaku! Glad you could make it!"
"No problem." Suzaku replied sheepishly. "I mean, we did have a deal, right?"
"Well…I suppose." Gino smirked. "Anyway, come on! Let's show you what a good time really is like!"
With that, they made their way into the courtyard. There, hundreds of britannian noblemen gathered. The men dressed up in their finest suits, while the women were in colorful, fancy gowns. Suzaku began to grow uneasy. "I don't belong here." A thought popped into his head. Absurd. He was an honorary Britannian, and the Knight of Seven. There was no reason he should have felt like an outsider. But the glances and contemptful glares he received suggested otherwise. Some were just curious; after all, it wasn't often that they saw a number among them in the homeland, let alone at a large party of the highest class like this. Others clearly looked disgusted by his presence.
"Suzaku."
Suzaku turned around, and was met with surprise. He shouldn't have, though; of COURSE she would be here. Next to Gino, she was the knight Suzaku became most acquainted with. "Miss Anya. How do you do?"
Anya Alstreim was a girl no older than fifteen, yet she had earned a spot as the Knight of Three. Her small stature and pink hair curled in a ponytail would suggest anything but a soldier, let alone a knight. "I am quite alright." She replied unenthusiastically.
In all the time Suzaku had known her, Anya never showed any emotion, not even anger. He supposed that in the military that might be seen as an asset, but he could only pity her for that. Remembering Euphiemia, he reminded himself that he also envied her for that; even though he would never forget the joy from knowing Euphemia, the grief of her passing and supposed massacre was at times for him almost too much to bear. "I see you came to Gino's party. How do you find it?"
"They're all the same." Anya replied as she pulled out her mobile and snapped a photo of Suzaku.
"You're going to post all this on your blog?" he asked in surprise. Despite acting like some mindless automaton, Anya seemed to have an interest in keeping her "fans" updated on whatever her activities were.
"I figured a noble party would interest the commoners." Anya said, explaining the use of her mobile tonight. "Now, if you'll excuse me." Anya bowed the way a noble woman in a dress was trained to, and walked to another part of the celebration.
"Suzaku!" Suzaku turned around to see Gino approaching him. "What do you think?" he asked as he handed him a small glass of champagne.
"Well…"
"Of course." Gino interrupted, nearly smacking himself. "You've only been here a minute. Come on; let me introduce you to some people." Suzaku reluctantly followed the Knight of Three, hoping that these people would be as good as Gino said.
Soon, he was brought to a group of britannian noblemen, who seemed to have been more important than the rest; he got similar reactions from what he had seen of the other guests of the party. "Suzaku…" Gino began. "…I'd like to introduce you to family and some others."
First up was a man who fit the stereotypical image of a nobleman, complete with a monocle, pointy mustache, and bald head. "This is Sir Lucius Wolf, a family friend. He was knighted by the emperor himself before he ascended the throne. As you can see, he's retired now, but he was quite the warrior in his prime." Lucius quirked his eyebrow over the word "prime". "Uh…I'm sorry…still IS quite the warrior." Gino laughed at his attempt to save face.
Next, Gino directed Suzaku to a man with a wig similar to what the emperor wore, though not as regal looking. He was tall and intimidating, but Suzaku could take him on easily (not that he was even thinking of assaulting the man in the first place). "This is Judge Von Serogei. He was famous for sending many knights to prison for crimes against the emperor… something that has typically been blocked by the bureaucracy and royalty in order to keep a spitting image of the higher ups."
"…of course, many of those were numbers." The Judge corrected him. "Sadly, some members of the royal family are too naïve to see them for what they really were."
Gino laughed nervously, unaware of the dirty look Suzaku was giving him. "Of course. Must've slipped my mind to mention that."
Suzaku was introduced to more people whom he did not care to remember, and most of them would have probably forgotten about him by later tonight as well. Those that did remember him, he had a feeling those memories would not be fond ones.
"And this…" Suzaku was brought out of his thoughts as Gino introduced him to another nobleman. Suzaku could tell who it was just by the family resemblance. "…Is my Uncle Benjamin. Uncle, this is Suzaku Kuurugi, the Knight of Seven."
The resemblance was uncanny. He was pretty much what Suzaku imagined Gino would look like at fifty, and had chosen to grow a beard. Unlike the others who held him in contempt, Benjamin Weinberg actually smiled greatly upon meeting him. "Sir Kuurugi! Gino has told me so much about you! It's an honor to finally meet you at last!" He stuck his hand out, which Suzaku clasped and shook.
For the first time since he arrived here, he actually smiled. "A pleasure to meet you, Mr. Weinberg."
"Now, no need to be formal with me. Just call me Ben. Or, since you and my nephew are practically brothers in arms, you can just call me uncle!"
The man let out a howl of laughter while Gino just gave both of them an embarrassed look that perhaps even the emperor himself would have pity on. Suzaku, surprisingly out of character, chuckled slightly. "I think I'll have to go with Ben. I don't think your nephew approves otherwise."
Benjamin gave his nephew a slap on the back. "Even more reason to embarrass him! It's just too fun!" All three of them laughed. "Well, I'd imagine we'll get along splendidly. I do believe it's almost time for the main course. Sir Kuurugi, do you have anyone you need to dine with? If not, why don't you join us?"
"It would be my pleasure, sir…and there is no need to be formal with me either. Just call me Suzaku."
In no time, Suzaku, Gino, and Benjamin were seated at a table. Some of the people Gino introduced him to reluctantly sat with them; others said that business had come up. Suzaku sighed. "Some things never really do change." He thought. Discussions at the table were pleasant enough. Thanks to the two Weinbergs, the three of them would often roar in laughter together. Later, Gino was asked to dance by a young woman. Being a ladies' man and trained gentlemen, Gino happily accepted the invitation. When it was just Suzaku and Benjamin alone at the table, the old man asked the knight a question about his career.
"So, Suzaku. I hear even before you earned your title, you were an active combatant against Zero and the Black Knights."
Suzaku wasn't too eager to discuss his past career, but he knew Benjamin meant no harm. In fact, he had a feeling that Benjamin was trying to help him; perhaps telling stories of the Black Knights would overall help his goal. "That is correct." Suzaku took the last bite of his salmon; good, but still nothing compared to salmon sashimi, one of his favorites as a kid. The waiters immediately cleared the table for them. When asked for desert, both declined. "It was mainly because of Earl Floyd's Lancelot that I was considered the logical choice for fighting the Black Knights; I was the only one who could bring out the machine's full potential. I'm sure there were many other capable warriors, but I was the only one available at the time."
"It must have been hard on you; to fight your own brethren, especially when you made such great strides for them with your accomplishments. And the special administrative zone…" Benjamin then caught himself. "I'm sorry; I didn't mean to bring up such painful memories."
"It's alright." Suzaku smiled sadly. "Nothing can change the fact that it happened; and no matter how painful it is, I'm still glad I met her…"
Benjamin intercepted his train of thought. "I've met with Princess Euphemia a couple of times; a lovely and compassionate woman. In a way, as an heir to the throne, those traits were her downfall." Almost as if anticipating a response from Suzaku, he quickly explained. "The path towards emperor is a journey wrought with tragedy and betrayal. Every emperor had hundreds of children, and despite already having been bestowed great power, every child would ultimately want more."
"Euphemia would never have accepted the crown under those conditions." Suzaku replied, trying to remain as calm as possible. "In fact, when she prepared the Special Administrative Zone, she was prepared to throw away her right to the crown. I think the intention behind the SAZ was not only an attempt to change the empire's foreign policy, but the royal family as well."
"Perhaps." Benjamin concurred. "But only her closest siblings would have known that. Those who were not close to her, or worse, probably saw an opportunity…or, perhaps in paying lip-service to the purist faction, deemed her actions a disgrace and sought a way to remove the 'taint' from their bloodline." Suzaku fingered his tea cup nervously, which Benjamin noticed. "I'm so sorry to bring up Euphemia in such a manner. It's just…it's just that her death saddened me greatly. If anyone could have changed our empire for the better, it was her. That and combined with the already deadly sibling rivalry within the royal family…" He took a sip of his tea to calm himself. "Tell me, Suzaku: if Euphemia resorted to the same tactics as many of her siblings and ancestors did to ascend the throne, do you think she could have changed everything?"
Suzaku hesitated for a moment. Suzaku could easily picture his beloved as empress. But to do what many other previous emperors have done, it was unthinkable. "If she were empress…yes. She would have changed everything. But doing it the way you ask…my answer remains the same. She would have never resorted to that, no matter how rotten her siblings were."
"Then, all I've done is asked a foolish question." Benjamin said sadly.
"You think it's impossible?" Suzaku asked.
"History hasn't been very kind to the pure of heart." Benjamin sighed.
"No matter the ends, any attempts to achieve them by contemptible means will never change anything…" Suzaku leaned back. "At least, when meeting Euphie I truly believed that."
"Did you ever find out how Zero did it? How he made her kill the ele-excuse me, Japanese?" Benjamin asked.
After getting to know him so well, Suzaku wanted to tell him the truth, but he was forbidden from releasing such classified information, even to Britannians in as high standing as Benjamin. Besides, Suzaku would worry most anyone would think him mad. After all, a form of sorcery that bent people to their wills? It sounded like something from a bad manga, and Suzaku wished that were the case. "Long-term hypnosis, threats…I and the royal family have considered many possibilities. But we haven't found any conclusive evidence as to the cause. The only thing we know for certain…is that Euphemia was not herself."
Benjamin sighed. "Well, I'm relieved to hear at least that." He then asked "If you don't mind, may I ask you another serious question? About you?"
Suzaku thought for a moment. "Of course. So long as I don't have to relive recent tragic events…if you don't mind me saying so."
"I don't; if what I ask next is too uncomfortable for you to answer, you don't have to." He assured him. After a sip of tea, he asked it. "Why did you choose to become an Honorary Britannian and join the military, Suzaku?"
Suzaku seemed to have frozen that moment. "What other way was there to live?" he replied nonchalantly.
"With the rest of your people, for one." Benjamin replied. "I know, it's probably not the best way to live, but…" He took a moment to gather his thoughts. "Suppose the shoe were on the other foot: let's say, hypothetically of course, Japan conquered Britannia and discriminated against the natives. They have a program where anyone not from your homeland can become 'Honorary Japanese'. Of course, any conquered race for the most part would refuse such a gesture. Such a thing would require them to give up their traditions and pride as a nation. And, even if they receive the privileges of being an honorary citizen, they would still have to put up with discrimination. Now, let's say one of the former princes or princesses signed up. How do you think the people would react?"
Suzaku looked down at his cup. He knew the answer, but he pretended he didn't. "How?"
Benjamin sighed. "It may be different for your people, but here, there would be outrage. Such a person would be called a traitor, a deserter, you name it. Even in the most optimistic outcome, where the people gain back their rights and independence, such a person would never be accepted as one of them again."
Suzaku calmly sipped on his tea. "I take it you know of my…relations." Why else would Benjamin be specifying the actions of a member of royalty.
"Well, even if the empire continues to conquer every nation, it will remember those who stood against him." Benjamin replied. "But, as you surmised, it is because you are his son that I ask you this. In your position, growing up as the son of a nation's leader…I'd imagine if anything were to happen against my country, I would have an intense hatred for those responsible."
"My father and I were never close." Suzaku replied hastily. "In answer to your question though, it is through my efforts that I hope to prove to all Britannians that we are people just like them. Even if we never get our country back, if we can be accepted as equals and live as human beings, that's all that matters. Rebellion and terrorism will only enforce their perceptions of us…and me."
"As savages, you mean."
"Precisely. If I can prove to them that I have honor and integrity, they'll realize how wrong they've been." Suzaku answered him firmly.
"And how has that worked out?"
Suzaku smirked. "Well, I was the first number to be knighted, and I'm in the same circle as your nephew. I think that says a lot."
"I'm not asking about you. I'm asking about your people." Benjamin clarified.
Suzaku took a moment to gather a response. "What's going on in Area 11…it will pass with time. Even if the rules have become stricter, it is simply reactionary policy; those don't last forever. Only terrorists have been imprisoned and executed, and as long as the people obey, they will not be harmed. And as long as I serve His Majesty faithfully, everyone will begin to look at the Japanese differently. It will take time, but I know it will happen."
"Do you, now?" Benjamin asked skeptically. "Britannia's belief of Manifest Destiny is not prevalent in just the nobility and military you know. It's been ingrained into our society for generations, ever since we wiped out the American Indians from the continent. The empire uses it to give the lower class a sense of power over others and thus maintain order within their society; to stop this now would mean to take away that little bit of power from the populace, and as long as people believe they have power by divine right…they will never give it up without a fight."
Suzaku seemed to have been taken aback by Benjamin's words. "Excuse me for asking, but weren't you in the military? It sounds like you're almost…well, opposed to what the empire is planning."
Benjamin stopped drinking his tea, and looked at Suzaku with a firm gaze. "I can see where this is going. Why don't you follow me inside? I think it's best that we take this conversation somewhere a bit more…private."
Suzaku silently followed Benjamin into the mansion, eventually relocating them to the library. In addition to the dozen bookshelves that stood 3 times their height and filled, a large window offered a view of the party below. Everyone seemed to be having a grand time as the musicians played their tunes. A part of Suzaku wished he could easily join them now…
"What I'm about to tell you is something I don't wish for others to hear." Benjamin finally said, breaking their silence.
"You may be making a mistake." Suzaku warned him. "I am the Knight of Seven, first and foremost; if you have plans to conspire against the emperor, I will arrest you. And before you think about any underhanded tactics, I can take you on and anything you throw at me."
Benjamin just stared and the window, and smirked. Then, he exploded into jovial laughter. "HOHOHOHO! Conspiring against the empire and confessing to a knight of the round! Tell me, what backwards strategy would that be, IF I were a rebel?" He continued to howl with laughter at the accusation.
Suzaku relaxed his posture. However, for some reason, he wasn't fully convinced by Benjamin's statement, but he had no evidence to suggest otherwise. At least he wasn't planning on some kind of ambush. "I guess I'll have to hear him out either way…"
"Do not worry, Suzaku. Even for a man in my position, going up against the empire is beyond foolishness. Besides, I've retired from fighting, ever since…"
Benjamin suddenly silenced himself, and Suzaku could see through his faint reflection that whatever he was thinking of brought him great pain. "Benjamin? Mr. Weinberg?" he asked, trying to snap him out of it.
"I'm sorry, Suzaku. It's just…remembering it is hard on me. I haven't told anyone this…I do not wish for Gino to know, and the others would not understand…even shame me…"
He took a deep breath, and began. "It was a long time ago…25 years to be exact. I was already a commanding officer in the military, and we were expanding our empire to the other continents. Our first stop was Africa; the nobles wanted cheap…if not free…labor. Knightmares were only beginning to be conceived back then, and most of our battles were fought with mere guns on foot. Like everyone else, I was brought up believing my people were the best, and the conquest was our way of sharing our greatness with the world. We landed in the Heart of Africa…I believe the natives called it Zaire before it was fully conquered and renamed Area 20 last year…and carried out our mission. We had to fight the military first, of course. We just did what we were trained to do: shoot to kill. It was pretty difficult, mind you; at the time, we were untrained for jungle warfare, and knowledge of their homeland gave the Africans a huge advantage at first. But those of us who survived learned from our mistakes. Eventually, we defeated their king and took control of the land's mineral resources. A few rebel groups remained, but they were quickly expunged." Benjamin took a moment to collect himself. "Despite the prejudice I shared with my brothers in arms, I had a sense of honor; by my standards at least…and little did I know it would soon be tested."
Suzaku allowed Benjamin another moment to collect himself before he continued. "Me and my company were patrolling a ghetto. The usual, none of us expected anything exciting to happen. Noticing that my second-in-command was gone on latrine break for a while, I asked around for him. The rest of my men didn't know, but the locals directed me to a shoddy apartment complex. It was there when I discovered how foolish I was to believe the propaganda we were fed."
"What happened to your man?" Suzaku asked.
"You should be asking that about the poor woman I found him raping in her own bedroom." Benjamin said.
He allowed a minute for it to sink into Suzaku. He could clearly see Suzaku's eyes widen in horror at his tale. When he believed Suzaku was ready to hear more, he continued. "When I found what I assumed to be her husband and children shot executioner style in the same bedroom they were in, my world shattered before me. Everything I believed…gone. All that was left was a void to this day. As for my lieutenant, I would have expected him to have behaved like a common criminal caught, desperately trying to explain the situation. But instead, when he saw me, he smiled. He asked 'Hey commander! Almost finished here! Then I'll let you have a go! I didn't respond at first, and his smile only widened. Come on, now! Don't be shy! This is what God wants from all of us, his gift to us." Benjamin gritted his teeth remembering it. "That was when I put a bullet in his head."
Suzaku allowed him another moment of silence. This story was gut-wrenching as it was; he almost didn't want to hear the rest, but he knew he had to.
"Hearing the shot, the rest of my company found me. I was frozen there, in shock of not only what I did, but what I witnessed him doing. Still under shock and being unable to explain myself, my company assumed I killed him in cold blood. I was naturally court-martialed, but it turned out the soldier I shot was taking bribes from one our rival countries, the Western European Union I believe, who were planning to take over the base from us. The attorney my family provided used that evidence to convince the judge I was a hero, and I was returned to duty. However, after that episode, I had no wish to partake in Britannia's conquest. I tried the best I could to keep my men in line without disobeying direct commands, and as soon as I was able, I resigned, living my life in the homeland quietly." He finally turned to face Suzaku with a saddened look on his face.
"Did you report what you saw?" Suzaku asked. "What became of the woman?"
Benjamin replied "I didn't bother reporting; the military police would have thrown the case out. Not only are such atrocities allowed; I later found out they are often encouraged. Back then so-called Britannian 'biologists' said that all other races were not the even the same species as us. After witnessing the expanding conquest, I've only seen it grown worse." He sighed heavily. "As for the woman, she ran out as soon as she was able. I do not know what became of her; sometimes I fear I helped her out of the frying pan and threw her into the fire."
Suzaku walked up and grasped the elder's shoulder. "I know the soldiers of Britannia are cruel; I've witnessed that too many times to deny it…" He then gave him a small smile. "But there is hope." Suzaku interjected. "Back in Area 11, before I became a knight, I was enrolled at the Ashford Academy School. I did experience some racism there…but the student council, if no one else, always treated me like one of them. Even though they benefitted from the caste system, they never held that over anyone, and would rather treat me as an equal. If there is anything in this world that can change Britannia from within in case I fail, it's them. The younger generation will always strive for a better world."
"IF they are raised right." Benjamin corrected him with skepticism. "Plus, we have a strict tradition of pleasing our parents, much like your people had. Only those who have a free-spirit and strong heart would be able to make the changes necessary…and those kinds of people come few and far between."
Suzaku looked down at the floor, seemingly in defeat. "Why are you telling me this?"
Benjamin smiled sadly and patted him on the shoulder. "I sincerely hope your actions do change Britannia from within. But you are naive to think that loyalty alone is enough to change the hearts of a people who've known nothing but conquest. I have no intention of telling you how to reach your goal…but consider this a warning of what kind of adversity you will face."
Suzaku nodded slightly. While he couldn't deny the truth of Benjamin's conclusions, he couldn't bring himself to do what he implied. "I will consider your advice. But know this: I have seen the actions of outright rebellion. No matter the intentions, the goal becomes distorted, and those who participate in such things will become twisted parodies of themselves."
Benjamin sighed. "I have said what I wanted to say, and nothing more."
Before Benjamin could suggest returning to the party, something outside caught his eye, and he motioned Suzaku towards the window. Suzaku, naturally curious, stepped next to him. "Take a look down there. You'll see a young lady in a pink gown."
Suzaku looked down at the courtyard, and saw the person Benjamin was talking about. The young lady in question seemed to be accosted by a young man. Though neither could hear what they were saying, it was obvious the woman wanted nothing to do with the young man. "Who are they?" Suzaku asked.
"I'm unfamiliar with the young lady, but I know the young chap down there. That is Elroy Achilles. He comes from a proud military family, and he's one of the top picks to be the knight of 19th Princess Kristina. As you can see, he's let that all gone to his head, and believes he's entitled to whatever he wants."
"I see." Suzaku replied nonchalantly.
The two only continued to stare at the courtyard in silence. "Well?" Benjamin finally asked.
"Excuse me, Benjamin?"
"Aren't you going to do something? I would, but in my old age, I'm afraid I won't be of much help. I would get Gino, but he's probably off with some girl in one of the guest rooms now, not wishing to be disturbed…and if he's doing what I think he is, I believe the feeling is mutual. Either way, by then he will have his way. So, the logical conclusion is that the one who must come to the lady's rescue is you. After all, what kind of knight, let alone Honorary Britannian, would you be if you just stood by and watched?"
Suzaku stared at him long and hard, then said "Excuse me." He briskly walked out of the library.
Once he was out of earshot Benjamin sighed. "Forgive me, Suzaku; I really do like you. But we have to see what happens when the facts of reality bite you in the face."
"Let go of me!" the young lady cried as Elroy squeezed her wrist harder.
"I don't believe you heard me; when I say let's dance…we dance." The woman looked to her relatives and friends for help. But they only looked on in fear; her family wasn't known for courage, and she was asking them to stand up to a young prodigy in the military. "I said, come on!" The young man jerked her wrist roughly, causing her to yelp in pain. "I'm only going to tell you one more time…"
"Excuse me, but I do believe the lady said no."
Elroy turned around to find out who dared to speak up to him. He and everyone else did a double-take as he found out. It was an unassuming eleven! The aggressor just chuckled and shooed him away. "Ain't none of your business, servant! In fact, why don't you make yourself useful and get me some wine?"
"Even if I was who you think I am, I cannot stand by and let you take a woman against her will as you please!" Suzaku said defiantly. He could smell that the young man had a little too much to drink, and was obviously a violent-drunk type. "I do not wish for unnecessary fighting. If you leave her alone, and promise not to bother anyone else here, I'll forget any of this ever happened."
Elroy, snarling at an "inferior's" defiance, roughly shoved his previous prey down. "What's this? A number? Talking back to his superiors!" he exclaimed in mock amusement. He then clenched his fist, and stretched his neck. "These wars are your fault, you know! If all you numbers didn't exist in the first place, everyone would be at peace! The empire says that as long as any numbers submit, they are 'honorary britannians…'" He then spat at the ground, near Suzaku's feet. "…But I beg to differ! I'll show the emperor, I'll show the whole family there's no place in this world for anyone but real britannians!"
"A part of the purist faction…" Suzaku did his best not to show any anger. "You are entitled to your opinion." He said. "But I must insist that you conduct yourself properly. Will you stand aside?"
The drunkard only growled like a dog and raised his fists. "I'm going to make you scream like a little bitch, and have you crawl on a leash like the rest of your kind deserves!"
Suzaku's training kicked in, as he analyzed the opponent in less than a second. He was large, probably around a whole 100 lbs. heavier than Suzaku (the system grew on him). Judging by the way he carried himself, he was trained in boxing. And, even though he was drunk, he was still in good enough to shape to put up a good fight. However, judging by the way he was getting ready to throw a punch, he would heavily commit to it, putting all of his body weight into it. In other words, he was a perfect victim of Japanese martial arts. Suzaku quickly side-stepped him, grabbed his wrist as he punched, and pushed it down. Elroy practically cartwheeled in the air, and landed on his back. Unable to believe that he was thrown so easily, he scrambled back up and yelled like an animal. He tried to entrap the knight in a bear hug, but that was also a foolish attack against Suzaku. He grabbed his lapel, and placing his leg at his opponent's center, threw him off balance and over Suzaku. The force of the throw was enough to knock the wind out of him; he really struggled to get up. "Stop it; you should know that you cannot win." Suzaku warned him.
"Shut up! You damn dirty….fight me like a man!" He forced himself back up, and charged.
"Karate, then." Suzaku thought with a sigh. It seemed the "gentler" arts weren't going to cut it against this guy; not if he was going to get his point across anyway. Elroy punched, which Suzaku then blocked and immediately followed through with a punch to the ribs. The crunch he heard told him he had just ended the fight. Elroy fell to his knees, clutching his chest. The trickle of blood from his mouth suggested that he would have to visit the hospital soon.
Feeling there was no longer any need to say anything, Suzaku turned and walked over to the woman he had saved. She was still on the ground, in too much shock to move. "Are you alright, miss?" he asked as he extended his hand. However, instead of even mild gratitude, her eyes widened in fear and she turned the other way, hastily scrambling to her feet and running into the crowd, out of his sight.
"Who..who the hell are you?" Elroy wheezed out as a couple of his friends helped him up.
Suzaku turned to face the drunkard. "I am the Knight of Seven, Suzaku Kuurugi." That announcement drew gasps and whispers from everyone around watching them. And unfortunately, it seemed no one was on Suzaku's side.
"A knight of the round? That…thing?"
"Impossible! The emperor would never…"
"So, it would seem the rumors are true, then…"
"This guy's a fake! I know the highest ranking number! He only made sergeant!"
Each whisper of disbelief and contempt that reached Suzaku's ears felt like a knife dragged against his skin. "Bastards." He didn't want to think like that, but he did. And it wasn't the first time. "I've abided by their customs, saved them…and this!" Before it got any worse, Suzaku left the scene. "I'm thinking that maybe coming here was a mistake." Before he could help himself to the exit, he bumped into a couple of young Britannians. "Friends of him, I presume?" he asked, a part of him itching to blow off steam.
The two of them only chuckled. "No, no. To be honest, we hated his guts." One assured him.
"You don't have to thank me; I regret the situation got out of hand as it did." That was not true actually; truth be told, Suzaku enjoyed trouncing that buffoon.
"Good. Because there is one problem…" The other said.
"And what is that?"
Without warning, the two pushed him into the tables behind him, the treats and drinks spilling all over him. "In this world, the only ones allowed to make a fool out of Britannians are other Britannians themselves." The aggressor sneered.
"If a number does it, it makes ALL of us look bad." The other said.
The two then proceeded to kick him while he was down. Suzaku, being too stunned to counter, was at their mercy. One of the two hoodlums then noticed a turning fork on the floor. "I don't think these kicks will do. I mean, after all, bruises and superficial cuts heal overtime…"
His friend nodded in agreement. "I see your point. Let's cut it into him, so he'll remember his place! Make sure to go deep!"
Some in the crowd were even cheering in the background. "Bastards...lousy noble bastards!" Suzaku thought in anger.
As one of them grabbed the knight by the neck and prepared to carve his message on his face, a hand grabbed his wrist and stopped him. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."
The man turned around with a venomous look on his face. "Piss off! Do you have any idea…" His face suddenly turned white as a ghost. And who could blame him? After all, it was Gino Weinberg himself who stopped him.
"I think I should ask DO YOU have any idea who you are talking to." Gino smirked as the punk trembled in fear. "You can think of numbers however you want, but you do realize assaulting a knight of the round is punishable by death?" He threw him aside as he prepared for a confrontation. "Of course, I think both of us will be willing to let this go if you get down on your knees and beg for forgiveness. Better yet, do it Japanese style; I think that will make my friend feel better, and engrave a lesson in shame you'll never forget." As Suzaku got up to wipe all the food and condiments off him, he tried to say something. But Gino silenced him, raising his hand. "A good beating would also suffice, but, as I'm sure you saw, my friend here abhors violence. I don't have any problem with it, but I'd rather not upset him any further. It's your call pal."
The young noble gritted his teeth in anger. "He's a foreigner! A goddamn number! He shouldn't even be allowed in the homeland!"
"Hey, he was knighted by royalty himself…" Gino began to explain half-heartedly.
"Screw the emperor and his family!" That certainly got a huge gasp from the crowd. "We Britannians are the only pure race of man! It is our DESTINY to cleanse this world of lesser beings! And if the empire loses sight of that…then we have no need of the royal family anymore!"
Gino sighed. "Well, do you want to be taken away in cuffs, or dragged away kicking and screaming?" The punk responded with a right cross…which Gino easily intercepted with his hand and punched him in the gut with his other. The offender tossed his cookies as he collapsed on the ground. His friend tried to back him up, but he was met with an elbow to the nose, and the blond knight swept him to the floor. "Is there anyone else? Someone who shares these fools' views and plans?" Another rushed him, but Gino spun and planted the tip of his boot into the attacker's liver. A third tried to bash him with his a cane he picked up, but Gino grabbed it, twisted it out of his grip and pelted him across the face. The crowd was jeering, some on Gino's side (or pretended to be), and others on the random attackers. Suzaku finally recovered, and used his trademark spinning kick to dispatch another attacker. The two watched each other's backs, as more approached them…
Suddenly, a gunshot was heard. The crowd panicked, dispersing in hopes of not getting shot. However, soon they found out it was only a warning; Anya Alstreim had fired a gun into the air, the smoke from the pistol still seaming from the barrel. "Enough." Anya said, still as monotone as ever.
A few hoodlums only laughed at the sight. "Bah! Knight of the Round or not, what can a little girl like you do without a knight-"
Another bang sounded as a bullet lodged into his kneecap. Anya flipped in the air like a champion gymnast, despite the confinement of her gown, and landed a hair's breadth away from the offender's head. Shoving the pistol into his skull, she repeated herself. "Enough."
Suzaku sighed as he sat on the steps, wiping his face and pressing an icepack against his head.
"Wow. That really went south, didn't it?" Gino asked as he took a seat next to him, looking as depressed as he did.
The police had come and rounded all the trouble makers up earlier. The servants were doing their best to clean up the mess, and those who did not participate in the insanity beforehand quickly departed. Even though they were Knights of the Round, the 3 of them, including Anya, were still questioned. The police were about to cuff Suzaku, until Gino told them he was a Knight of the Round like he was, and he expected them to treat Suzaku accordingly.
After the questions were asked, they asked Suzaku if he would like them shot. Taken aback by the policeman's statement, Gino answered for him. "A week of hard labor should do. And make sure you take good pictures of them with the rest of the other commoners; I'm sure their peers will never let them live that down." he told them.
And that was that. Suzaku was still in too much shock of how badly this night went to even start up small talk. And the police…when they asked him if he wanted them shot…"How can they even think like that? As inexcusable as their behavior was, nothing they did deserved such a steep penalty…"
"You probably don't need me to tell you, but I'd imagine you'd like to go home now." Gino muttered. Suzaku nodded slightly. He got off the steps and made his way towards the exit. Though he wasn't asked to, Gino followed him. After all, he wasn't done talking. "Suzaku…"
"Yeah, Gino?" Suzaku asked, seemingly uninterested.
"I'm sorry…for everything. I…I knew there would be something like this, but I didn't imagine it would escalate out of control like this…"
"Is that why you invited me here?" Suzaku asked, all the energy gone for him to be angry or otherwise.
Gino, somewhat sheepishly, replied "In a way. I do share somewhat similar goals as you…"
"Oh?"
Gino sighed, embarrassed now that it was out. "Yeah, I know. Not typical for someone of my ranking. Make no mistake; I want my country to thrive. But I do think those we conquer…if we must…should be given the same rights as any normal Britannian would. I mean, look at you!" he exclaimed, emphasizing Suzaku. "You should be proof enough that no one race is inferior to another, and that they can show loyalty!" Gino looked at the ground, remembering the disaster from earlier tonight. "I was hoping to show everyone here. But I guess it's too soon to convince the majority of nobility…"
Suzaku sighed. "I appreciate the support, Gino. But, after tonight…"
Gino squeezed his shoulder. "Another day, my friend. There will always be another day. We'll just have to be more selective of our audience…"
Suzaku looked back and smiled slightly at him. "I'm glad to have at least one friend in this world." He thought.
As they reached the parking lot, they made their way towards Suzaku's car. Suzaku decided he should say something to Gino to indicate the party wasn't a total loss. "Well, for whatever its worth, I'm glad to have met your uncle. We had a few…interesting conversations."
"He's always been quite a character." Gino commented, smiling. "He also wanted me to send you his apologies, and…" Gino stopped to think for a minute.
"What?" Suzaku asked.
"Nothing. I just didn't understand the last part. I guess it's just something between you and him. He said 'Obedience and loyalty are the most admirable traits of humans. However, humans always have a right to choose their own master. Those that mindlessly go with the program are no better than ants. '"
Suzaku just thought about it in silence. Gino, thinking Suzaku was confused as he was, assured him not to worry about it too much. "Again, I didn't get it. But those were the words he wanted me to convey to you."
"Thanks Gino; I'm not sure I understand it myself. But I'll remember those words." That wasn't true, though; Suzaku knew just what he meant. He couldn't disagree with that saying, and yet…
"Well, I guess it's time to put this night behind us and move on." Gino yawned.
"I agree, Gino. I'll see you to-"Suzaku stopped speaking when he and his fellow knight saw the shape his car was in.
Lots of dents decorated the sides, the windows were broken, and the tires were slashed. But what got to both of them was the graffiti spray-painted on the windshield: DIE 11. Both knights slumped their shoulders in shock.
"Who brings spray paint to a formal party filled with nobles?" Gino asked in disbelief.
Suzaku already knew, but chose not to answer Gino's rhetorical question. His experiences as an Honorary Britannian showed him much about the nobility; and they did a lot of things that the lower classes were discouraged from doing, whether it be by law or tradition. But their being at the top of the food chain caused them to act like they were untouchable.
"We'll have that towed out of here tomorrow morning; bill's on me." Gino assured him. "I'll give you a ride home tonight." Wordlessly, the two knights got inside Gino's car, and drove.
CC peeked around the corner as she watched out for any suspicious people in the ghetto. The coast looked clear, but that didn't guarantee she wasn't being watched. Still, she couldn't wait; she and Lelouch had to act now. The duel was today. Quickly, and quietly, she rushed into their makeshift tent.
Lelouch was curled over, still jotting down notes on the pad for their plan. Though she couldn't blame him, the outcome would not be good if he was nervous.
"Lelouch; it is time." CC told him.
Lelouch sighed as he put the pad down. "So many things could go wrong…"
"Yes. Things could, and have gone wrong before. But a real leader is determined not by the strategy they make beforehand; rather, it's how they adapt in the face of surprise and still come out on top." Lelouch hung his head low, not at all encouraged by what CC told him. He wasn't so sure he was that kind of guy. "Anyway, here."
She tossed the bewildered teen a duffle bag. "Is this-?" he wondered, imagining himself dressed up as Zero.
"No. But it was all I could gather for a disguise. This may actually work in our favor once we rescue the Black Knights."
Lelouch unzipped the bag, and upon seeing the contents, cringed. "Really? This is the best you could do?"
"I'm sorry, the mall has a right to refuse service to terrorists." CC replied curtly. "Besides, it will be a bit suspicious to your men if Zero, despite missing for a whole year, was quite clean and appropriately dressed after all this time. It'll boost their morale to see you've been through hard times as well."
Lelouch sighed, and pulled the clothes out, preparing to suit up.
Milly looked out the window, sighing. The teacher was droning on something about their history, and for once in a while, Milly was paying attention and jotting down notes. She got out of her depression, slightly anyway. She still didn't care much for her day-to-day activities, but she would try to go out and do something constructive to help her forget the pain of losing her best friend instead of staying in bed all day. It certainly did make life more bearable; although she supposed that it was due to Rivalz constant badgering that she managed to swallow her despair and continue on with her life. Shirley would have surely wanted nothing less for her best friend. For some reason, that brought a slight blush to her cheeks. "He must have been really worried about me." She thought. No, scratch that, he WAS worried. Rivalz unwittingly showed her a side to him she had never seen before. And she couldn't figure out why, but it affected her deeply. She glanced at him at the other side of the classroom, apparently struggling to stay awake. Rivalz had his faults, but turning his back on friends was not one of them; in fact, it seemed being there for them was his greatest strength. She smiled slightly at the sight of him. "I should probably thank him sometime soon. And apologize…"
Suddenly, the teacher's lecture was interrupted by one of the faculty members. He whispered in his ear, and the teacher seemed to nod in understanding. "Attention class." The teacher announced. "We have just gotten word that the Black Knights' Public Execution is starting. It will be displayed on live television, so we shall end class for now…" A brief cheer from the students interrupted him. "…however, we will be gathering in the amphitheater to witness it. Let me warn you, it will be gruesome, but as high school students, who had the option of enlisting in the military, I believe you are all mature enough to handle it. However, I understand if any of you will feel disturbed by what you will see; so, anyone who feels that way may excuse themselves from the library until all are dismissed." He then gathered his things. "I will see you all there, students."
As the students began to pack their notes, Milly couldn't help but have a bad feeling about all this. "If they've captured all the Black Knights…" Milly covered her mouth in shock. "…Kallen!"
"This is it?" Rolo asked, looking at the shabby little tent on the screen.
He was in a large SWAT van, along with a Britannian SWAT team; Rolo was dressed with the same protective gear they were, only customized to fit his size. Needless to say, the others were a little unnerved that a child was leading the operation. "We believe so." The lieutenant answered. "The witnesses we've interrogated confirmed a green-haired woman has been seen wandering these parts. They also said she seems to be residing in a make-shift tent...and so far, this is the only thing that we can find to match the place's description. "
Rolo looked closer at the screen. "Certainly looks like something a fugitive on the run would use." Rolo turned away from the screen and gave a command. "I want four men with me. We're going in."
With that, the soldiers followed him to the tent. Quickly, he ordered them to halt. They observed the tent for movement; there was none. "Fire." Rolo ordered.
"But…uh…sir…" one of the soldiers began to ask. After all, wasn't it standard procedure to get the targets to surrender?
"I SAID FIRE, DAMN IT!" Rolo suddenly yelled.
Taken aback by the youth's harsh words, he raised his rifle, and the troops fired. Machine gun fire punctured the tent until it looked like a giant thin slice of Swiss cheese. "Cease fire!" Their young commander ordered.
As soon as the gunfire stopped, Rolo ran over to check the tent. Peeling back the cover, he realized it was empty. Tearing it apart in frustration, he muttered "We're too late."
As the others followed him back to the van, he said "Our target has relocated; they won't be coming back here."
"You have any idea where they could have gone to, commander?" The lieutenant asked.
"Yes." Rolo replied. "We'll be heading out immediately."
"Yes, but under my command." The lieutenant suddenly proclaimed.
Rolo didn't say anything at first; he just turned his head slowly. Though on the outside he appeared as emotionless as ever, anyone who worked with him for long could tell that inside he was seething. "What?" he finally asked, concealing his rage.
"We agreed for you to be the leader on THIS mission, only because OSI decreed it. However, since this mission was a failure, and we're starting a new mission, we'll take things from here. I still find it suspicious the government is ordering us to track down a mere murderer instead of terrorists; let alone have some punk order us around. But if we have to…we'll do it on our terms." The soldiers cheered him in agreement. "Hit the showers boy; tell us where to find this Lelouch and we'll send you home. If you'd like, we'll take a photo together after this is all over." Everyone chuckled at their real commander treating the young soldier as a child on a field trip.
Rolo clenched his fists. "So, you want to do this without me?" He activated his geass, and declared "So be it!" His geass froze them all in place. Rolo then casually walked up to one soldier, and popped the pins from a couple of grenades fastened to his utility belt.
Exiting the van, he made a phone call to Villeta. "Hello, Ms. Nu? They're not there anymore. There's only one other place they could have gone…that's right. Get my Vincent ready." The van then exploded, jumping 6 feet into the air. It didn't look like its occupants were coming out anytime soon. "Don't worry. I can handle this by myself. Yes, yes. I'll be sure to interfere only if it looks as though Guilford is in trouble. Make no mistake though; be he Zero or Lelouch, he won't play fair. No matter what happens…I will kill Zero."
A couple of Britannian soldiers were torn between watching the spectator sport and keeping guard like they were supposed to in a certain part of town. "This sucks." One of them said. "Those Black Knights are going to be executed, and we can't even watch."
"Someone has to do it." His partner said. "Besides, it's not much fun when the targets are bound to a post. Might as well fire at a body chart; it's the same thing really, except one shows blood when hit. Only the Vampire of Britannia could enjoy something like that to the fullest."
"I guess." His partner conceded. "I just wish I had something else to look at besides…" his attention turned to a cloaked figure rummaging through a waste basket. "…some stupid bum polluting our streets."
The two rushed over to him and butted him away with his rifle. "Move it, scum! Your kind aren't welcome in these parts!"
The bum only got on his knees and held out his hands. "Please. I only need food. Anything you can spare…"
"Piss off!" The other kicked him in the side.
"How can you turn down a poor face like this?" the poor man sobbed.
One of the officers peeled back the hood to answer his question…
Guilford stood atop his knightmare frame, waiting patiently as he could. Britannians and Elevens alike had come to see the execution. One group would be shouting with joy at their demise, the other with despair. Though Guilford often felt sorry for many of the groups they conquered, it was the will of his majesty and he was bound by oath to uphold the royal families' wishes. Besides, rebellion would only destroy the order established. And it was what got Cornelia…
"No." Guilford reminded himself. "I mustn't allow myself to think like that. She's still alive, I know it!" In an effort to help him focus on the matters at hand, Gilford checked his watch. "5 minutes to noon; if he's coming, he's cutting it close."
He then looked behind the Black Knights, staring at the Chinese Embassy. The High Eunuch, Gao Hai, and his body guard, Xing Ke he believed, watched from the top balcony. The diplomat to Area 11 insisted on watching the execution himself, but did not want to leave the embassy. Politically, he supposed it made sense; leaving the safety of his embassy would leave him vulnerable to assassination. However, what unnerved Guilford was that the Eunuch seemed particularly interested in Zero, judging from what Carlares told him. But why would he offer help to the Japanese? The two countries were practically natural enemies. Granted, it was possible they put aside their differences to oppose the empire, but with Prince Odysseus's planned wedding to the Empress, that seemed unlikely at this point. Perhaps the Eunuch instead was watching for the pleasure of his country's enemies die? Likely, but due to Britannia's occupation, they haven't been at war for a long time; any feelings of revenge or joy at seeing the elevens killed would have disappeared except in the most nationalist of the Chinese, and nowadays, it didn't make much sense politically to hold that grudge. Guilford looked back at his watch. "2 minutes. Focus, Guilford."
Meanwhile, the Black Knights prepared themselves for death the best they could. Most resigned themselves to their fate, staying silent and refusing to look at the gunmen in front of them. Tamaki, of course, struggled to get out of his straight jacket and shackles, providing amusement to the Britannians, much to Kallen's disgust but not surprise. "Well, Kallen…" Ohgi, placed next to her, said. "…I guess this is it." He then said "For whatever it's worth, Kallen…your brother would be very proud of you."
Kallen held back a tear, as she replied "As he would be you." Kallen turned to face him. "And Ohgi, thank you. For looking out for me all these years, I mean. You're like family to me, and I wouldn't have become who I am now if it weren't for you."
Ohgi sighed. "As great as you are now, you could have become so much more still, if only we were given enough time."
Kallen looked straight ahead to the arena where Guilford and "Zero" would be fighting. "I'd like to tell him there's still hope…" Kallen thought as she looked around at her friends and comrades for what might be the last time. "…but there is none; Zero might as well be dead." Kallen thought about Lelouch, how she first saw him as the lazy high school student, then as the face behind the Mask of Zero, and now…no thanks to her and CC…Lelouch was a broken man. After what happened, she no longer knew if showing him the truth about his "life" was the right thing to do. Even if it was a lie, at least Lelouch was happy and safe. If only they hadn't contacted him. "Lelouch…" she thought silently. "Wherever you are, I'm so sorry. I wish there was some way I could make it up to you. But it seems all I can do now…is hope you'll grow strong from this experience and create a new life for yourself."
A technician from down below the surface level sipped his coffee as he watched the event unfold. Several angles of it, anyway; being part of security was maddening. You had to watch as many locations as possible and spot something out of the ordinary when 99% of the time nothing would happen. A tiring job, but someone had to do it, he supposed. "I almost wish Zero would show up, though…" Just then, two soldiers he was good friends with passed by along with a woman with short blond hair. The red regal outfit she wore suggested nobility. "Hey! Aren't you two supposed to be doing guard duty!" he called to them.
One of the soldiers addressed him. "We were ordered to show Madam Cheshire a few knightmares to test out; she's a new knight, and it shouldn't be a problem. We promise we won't interrupt Lord Guilford's duel."
The security man looked at the young knight suspiciously. "Madam Cheshire." She bowed as she introduced herself. "I do apologize for the inconvenience and short notice, but 1st Prince Odysseus insisted I be stationed here. And now that I'm here, I need to do some training in the knightmares. I only need a couple of Sutherlands and a Gloucester; they'll be returned to you in due time."
The officer stared at her, but concluding she was indeed a knight, got up from his chair and bowed respectfully. "Of course; I apologize for my rude behavior. Go on; take what you need." With that, the officers and the knight went about their way.
The students of Ashford Academy gathered up in the auditorium. The principal got out the projector, and the students were all able to see the news like they were at a feature film. "With less than 2 minutes to go, it is unlikely that Zero will show up…" the reporter spoke. "Which would only confirm the emperor's official story, and extinguish rumors of Zero having survived the Black Rebellion."
Milly only looked around the student body as they were chatting amongst themselves about the imminent execution. "So, they're finally gonna do it?"
"Good riddance! I think the empire's being too nice by punishing only the Black Knights!"
"Yeah! All the damn elevens should be either killed or run out of here!"
"I kind of wished they would wait a little longer; I wanted to join the military just to be on the firing squad that erased them!"
Milly could only wince at the words of nationalism and hate the student body were spouting. Yes, the Black Knights were terrorists…but once captured as prisoners, Milly didn't believe any soldiers, whether they be Britannian or a foreign nation deserved execution. Not to mention the fact that, whatever their motives, they once saved their lives (and ironically, took them all as hostages later). And to cheer someone's death, even if necessary…"They should be ashamed of themselves for shouting such things! This shouldn't have even been made public." she thought. She could tell other students felt very much the same way; however, none were brave enough to speak up. She couldn't blame them; she was one of them. Speaking up for the enemy of the empire…that was never a wise thing. "This…this isn't right! This is going too far!"
She was snapped out of her thoughts when a hand grasped her shoulder. Rivalz stood beside her, giving her a comforting smile. And like her, was not happy with what he was seeing. Though Milly didn't say it out loud, she was grateful for his comfort. Something told her that he could sense that. A movement suddenly caught her attention. Turning to face the entrance, she noticed Villeta walking out of the auditorium, quite briskly. "What's up with her? I didn't think she could be squeamish over anything. I guess she's a kinder and gentler person than she lets on."
Villeta slammed the door shut to her office and locked up. She couldn't let anyone see her in the state she was in. "Why! Why am I feeling this way!" Villeta removed her hand from her tear-stained eyes, willing in vain for them to stop flowing. "This is unforgivable! I…I can't love an eleven! I could never face my superiors if I let this out! Besides, we are natural enemies! It's not meant to be, it will never work out!" Villeta walked to her seat and tried to get herself together.
She tried reasoning with herself how stupid it was just to feel for that man. She would be shamed. She would be dishonorably discharged. But, that Ohgi…he was very kind. Surely he knew that she was a Britannian officer. Yet, he saved her and allowed her to recuperate. He could have taken advantage of her in her amnesiac state. And yet he treated her with gentleness and compassion, like a Britannian gentleman her mother would tell her stories about. And…as Chizuka…she loved him deeply. And she realized that she didn't care about the consequences of being with him.
"That was Chizuka." She reminded herself. "I am Villeta Nu, an entirely different person…" She then thought about Lelouch. "Even though his memories were suppressed, he still had all the traits from his previous life." She suddenly felt herself tremble, and she hastily brought her hands to her chest. "Could it be that the weak helpless woman I was during that time...was really a part of me?"
Without thinking up an answer for herself, she hastily set up her portable tv. The reception was lousy, but in her emotional and vulnerable state, she would take what she could get. So long as she could be alone. "Only one minute remains…if Zero plans to make it, he's cutting it close!" the reporter said.
"Is it ready?" Rolo asked an officer as he dismounted his motorcycle.
"It's ready, sir." One of the Britannian officers acknowledged. "I doubt you'll have any use of it today, though. Zero won't come, and even in the event I am proven wrong, it will be a duel between him and Sir Guilford. We won't interfere, and I have no doubt of Sir Guilford's ability."
Rolo, thankful to encounter a competent adult for once, made his way to the Vincent. "It's not him I doubt…" Rolo said as the rope carried him up to the cockpit. "…it's Zero's honesty. He was never known to play fair." Rolo got his machine running. "And he's working with C2 again." He thought to himself. "That alone is cause for concern."
He then stared at the arena ahead. "But even if he does come, what difference will it make? He's not who he used to be; even with C2, he will be nothing more than a mere man."
"There sure are a lot of knightmares coming out." A sniper, piloting a custom-made Sutherland, spoke into his radio. "You know what this is about? I know we're supposed to stand by in case Sir Guilford gets in trouble, but too many Sutherlands may tip off Zero that he's not getting away even in the unlikely event that he wins."
"A new knight wanted to test some knightmares for an exercise." came a reply from a friend of his. "She promised the exercise wouldn't interfere. Still, to do it here and now…it's a bit strange. She even took that new prototype…"
"Well, if this knight commands it, we have no choice but to obey." The sniper once more looked through his scope. He still had a clear shot at the arena from all angles, and the multiple knightmares appearing were staying clear. "So far, so good…"
"Xing Ke." Gao said as he watched the events unfold from the balcony of the embassy.
"Is there something you need?" the famous general asked politely.
"Yes. When Zero rescues his army, open the embassy. We'll provide sanctuary for the Black Knights once they are inside."
Had any other soldier refused, he would have been shot for treason, given the cruel nature of the dynasty. But because Xing Ke's strength and cunning were legendary among the federation's soldiers, he could get away with minor acts of insubordination, as he was doing now. After all, it was wasteful to kill such a magnificent soldier. "With all due my respect my lord, it's unlikely, if not impossible, for Zero to come. And even if he does, his chances of success are slim at best."
"Then, there is no problem with my command, is there?" The eunuch asked him, slightly annoyed.
Xing Ke didn't respond at first. "Assuming he does come, and does free his army…is that wise?" The high eunuch said nothing, but let him continue. "Is this some kind of alliance you are planning? Against Britannia?"
"Of course." The High Eunuch replied. "While our two nations are at a cease-fire in the name of peace, it can only last so long. When Britannia senses weakness, they will attack."
"We have the advantage in sheer numbers." Xing Ke said, knowing it would not convince him otherwise.
"And they have the advantage of advanced knightmare frames and better trained generals. An army of ants cannot hope to bring the Dragon that is Britannia to its knees." His superior replied.
Xing Ke nodded slightly. "However, our country and Japan have not been exactly the best of friends. Who's to say he won't turn on us should we show weakness to him? Or let us take the fall for him should he lose again?"
The High Eunuch only smiled in great anticipation. "Because he is Zero."
Xing Ke clenched his jian tightly. All of the High Eunuchs were known for their eccentrics, but Gao especially had been acting most unusual lately.
An alliance with the Black Knights was a risky move, and the payoff wasn't that much greater than the Chinese going on their own. If anything, the risk of Britannia retaliating for aligning themselves with their most dangerous enemy would only increase substantially. And somehow, Xing knew Gao did not decide this on his own.
"They've met before."
Guilford sighed as he looked as far as his eyes could take him. "He's not coming." He looked at his watch, with only seconds remaining, the only thing preventing him from giving the order now was his honor. It looked like it wouldn't matter now, however, as the second hand had reached high noon. "A shame." The knight thought. "I was looking forward to avenging Princess Cornelia. I suppose I should know better than to hope."
He turned his knightmare around and addressed his soldiers. "Take aim." The soldiers pointed their rifles at the Black Knights. While many were said and showed fear, not one of them begged for their life. Except for Sota, which didn't surprise the knight. Other than him, Guilford respected their conviction. At least they would die with honor now. "Ready…" Everyone anticipated the next command to fire.
"STOP THE COUNT!" A voice suddenly shouted.
Everyone looked around in confusion. Judging by the electronic sound behind it, it seemed to have come from a knightmare pilot. Whoever defied Lord Gilford would pay dearly. "Who dares to oppose the command of an officer!" Guilford shouted in rage. "Speak up, cur!" A Sutherland broke formation on the road and approached the arena. Guilford didn't bother with asking questions. "Men! Remove this man from his knightmare! After we're done with these rebels, I believe some discipline is in order!"
"Now, is that the way to treat your guest of honor?" The person in the Sutherland replied. "And after all the trouble you went through to set up a duel, just for me. I suppose this is a sign of Britannia's knights showing their true colors."
Gilford looked at the unit addressing him in skepticism. "Zero?"
Finally, the Knightmare's cockpit opened, and its pilot stepped into view. The first thing that came to everyone's mind upon seeing the pilot was "grungy". The most notable feature was the torn cloak the figure wore. While it gave off an intimidating presence, it lacked the charisma of Zero's old cloak. Whatever other clothes he had on couldn't be seen in detail; Gilford doubted that it was as classy as Zero's usual attire. But what caught everyone's attention the most was the mask. The stranger's face was covered by a gas mask. Even if anyone was able to get a close up look, the dark lenses on the eyepieces prevented anyone from seeing inside. Strands of long hair flow outside the hood, not that it would help anyone decipher his true identity.
Guilford, despite his skepticism, asked once more "Zero?"
"Yes." The stranger said. Flapping his cloak, he proclaimed "I AM ZERO! AND I HAVE RETURNED!"
It's finally here! Zero has returned! Well…sort of. He'll get his traditional clothing (or some variant of it) soon enough, but let me warn you, he won't be the same Zero you all know and love. It's going to be quite a ride for Lelouch and those close to him. Thanks again, and I'll catch you all on the flip side!