Hello again, everyone! Well, time for another chapter! There's more plot-building in this one, but eventually we'll get to a big battle of both knightmares and wits.
I've also gotten strong responses, both positive and negative, about this chapter. I've addressed the negative stuff to one person, but I'll summarize my thoughts on this arc here:
Obviously, a lot of people may interpret this as anti-muslim. While I can understand how some can (sadly) come to that conclusion, this arc is more anti-religion in general. Yes, I know that still may upset some people, but any religion when taken to the extreme is ultimately detrimental to people. Sadly, so many countries in the Middle East fit this image. And yes, there are many other geopolitical factors involved with how those countries turned out the way they are today. In this fic, that will also be explored on how Area 18 became what it was. It's also my goal to show that these people are ultimately…people. How that's going to play out, you'll have to wait and see.
And now, on with the show!
Zero opened the case, showing the gold bars inside to Abbass. Needless to say, everyone swooned at the sight of it. Thank goodness that was only a quarter of what Kaguya's father had hidden away. "I knew the Summeragis were the richest family in Japan, but even this-!" he thought.
"Consider it done." Abbass said. Zero closed the briefcase and handed it to him, and waved for the vans to bring in the scrap metal.
"Actually, I would like to build the knightmares here." Zero said, holding up his hand. "We can safely disassemble them for transport to here."
Abbass gave him a puzzled look. "Why?"
"Part of the plan." Zero explained. "If you allow them in here, we will be able to drive off the Britannians in one fell swoop.
Abbass rubbed his chin. It was odd…but Zero was famous for stunts like this. This could work. "We have been making tunnels around the area. Just in case we needed to make a quick escape." He said. "I'll give you the locations; you won't have to go through the city's checkpoints."
"Excellent." Zero replied. "It seems we're off to a good start." Zero then said "Also, I will be sending my engineer to stay here while she finishes assembling the knightmares."
"She?" Abbass said. "You have no one else?"
"No one else." Zero replied. "I expect that she will be treated with respect. If not, you can kiss our partnership, and your money, goodbye." He warned him.
Abbass only stared at him, the silent conversation between them reaching a boiling point. "Fine." Abbass sighed. "Just do what you need to do and do it quickly." As he walked off, he mumbled "What is happening in the world today?"
Zero looked on as he prepared to make the call back to base. "Now it begins…"
Before colonization, Area 18, with its supply of fossil fuels and Sakuradite, was slated to become an economic powerhouse by the late 20th century. Had things gone according to plan, their people would have been able to enjoy a high standard of living. Today, most of Area 18 suffered in poverty. Some managed to secure a decent living, but the clerisy was top dog on the ladder, answering only to the empire. While Britannia controlled the natural resources, they allowed the clerisy to do and enforce what they pleased. And as was with all governing bodies that answered to no one but themselves, they spent most of their share on living like kings.
One such member, Ramal, sighed as he sipped on his wine, while other members of his clerisy enjoyed food, tobacco and other such riches. Riches that none of their other people would be able to enjoy. Among the clerisy, Ramal stood out. While most of the other clerics were old men who had let their pleasures get the best of them, Ramal couldn't have been no older than 30. He was fit, and despite his long beard, was considered to be quite handsome. However, none of that would probably to their guests; guests that needed to be treated with the utmost respect. Indeed, just as he thought that, they arrived. "Ah, Sir Horst. Madam Kruszsewski." Ramal said, pleasantly, raising his glass to them. "We are so honored that you could join us."
"And I am honored that you acknowledge my title." Monica nodded as she and Daniel took their seats on the pillows provided.
Despite the implication, Ramal only chuckled. "Forgive my men; they are unaccustomed to such concepts. I however, find it fascinating." Ramal smiled. "That a woman can not only be a soldier, but an elite soldier!" The others turned away, not daring to cause a ruckus but refusing to mask their displeasure. "Would you all like anything to drink?" he asked them, hoping to ease the tension.
"Yes please." Daniel replied as he let one of the servants know he'd like some wine.
"I thank you for the offer, but I must decline the wine." Monica followed. "In the homeland, I'm considered too young to drink."
Ramal nodded as a servant girl poured a cup for Daniel, ordering another to bring the female knight water. "I must say, you are rather…polite, for allowing your conquerors to dine with you." Daniel noted.
"Well, we don't have much of a choice." Ramal smirked. The others nervously laughed. "Besides, while His Majesty's methods may have been harsh, we actually thank him. He has allowed us to preserve dignity and tradition with the common people; it gives them comfort."
"I'm sure." Daniel replied, doing his best to mask his sarcasm.
"I'm serious." Ramal smirked. "Much of our culture which you see now was on the verge of becoming extinct before you conquered us. In fact, before Cornelia raised her sword, we were in the midst of a revolution. The people were very much inspired by the personal freedoms of the European Union…and the Empire."
"How so?" Daniel asked.
"Many things. The freedom to not follow god. To create and pass it off as art. And…others." He said, eyeing Monica. "They wanted these freedoms, like all men do carnal sins. While my fellow clerics don't like to admit it, Cornelia in many ways saved us from these dissenters. So, we are more pure now than we have been in quite a few years." He explained.
"And yet, you indulge in quite a few of those pleasures you forbid to everyone else." Daniel said. "You are surrounded by wealth while everyone else is struggling in poverty. You take advantage of all the knowledge the world has to offer while you tell your countrymen they are false because it contradicts the old stories. You entertain yourselves with our media but tell everyone else to study scripture. And while women are covered head to toe in the street…" Daniel eyed the belly dancers and servant girls around them. As opposed to the outdoors, the women here were covered in flimsy silks that showed their curves while covering their privates just enough.
"I'm actually quite glad you asked that!" Ramal exclaimed, never losing his smile. "Exposed women are generally too much for most men! It makes them give into their carnal desires and turns them into beasts!"
Monica's eyes narrowed slightly. "As opposed to here?"
"But we are different! We have complete control over ourselves as God's chosen! Therefore, what is forbidden to others are given to us as special privileges!" he said, still smiling jovially.
Both knights sighed. There was no way they could get a rise out of Ramal. "Well, for what it's worth, I must say I'd rather be here than elsewhere in this desert." Daniel reluctantly conceded.
"I'm glad you feel that way." Ramal smiled, before turning serious. "As much as I enjoy the festivities, we invited you here to discuss much more pressing matters."
"The Sand Hawks." Daniel stated. "In all honesty, in most aspects I find them no better than you. And the only reason His Majesty has sided with you…"
"Prince Schneizel, more specifically." Ramal said. "But yes. Britannia chooses us because we keep the people in line for you. The Sand Hawks, on the other hand, will not have you. They will do everything they can to make the people purge you from these lands…and I fear much blood will be spilt if that were to happen."
Daniel nodded. "I must admit, it is quite impressive what they've accomplished, given their limited resources."
"Their extreme measures have also taken us by surprise." Monica said. "It is expected for soldiers to die in battle, but very few are willing to kill themselves right off the bat just to take out a few enemies."
"Do not mistake their sacrifices for Martyrdom. We have always condemned outright suicide." Ramal corrected her. "If God is great, he will see to it such fools receive no reward until they have spent their sentence and repented with Iblis." Ramal took a break as he sipped more of his wine. "As for their 'results'…yes. They've taken out many of your soldiers. But how many have you known personally? How much have they contributed to your cause? You may refuse to see them this way, but unfortunately, in the grand scheme of things, they are just pawns. If the player focuses too much on the pawns, they will only leave themselves open to the big fish."
"Normally, I would agree." Daniel said, taking another sip of his wine. "But there is a third party involved now."
"Zero." Ramal sighed. "You probably don't want to hear me say this, but I admire him. I cannot say I support his personal beliefs or methods…but you must admit, what he's accomplished in terms of what he's set out to do…it's impressive."
"Indeed." Daniel agreed. "All the more reason why we must kill him now."
"Ah…what do you require?"
"We don't know when or if he'll come here…but I'm not the sole one searching for him. I'm one wolf part of a pack, on the hunt. And pack animals, no matter how unlikely they are to find prey, set traps."
Monica, however, was distracted. She noticed one of the clerics grab a girl by the wrist. She seemed to resist, but he dragged her away anyway. "Excuse me, Mr. Ramal; what is the relation of the girls to the men here?"
"Generally, no blood relation." He answered, clearly not bothered by what she had just saw. "Some come to us seeking shelter, others were sold to us…trust me, if things were that bad for them, their daughters are better off here…once here, they are to serve."
"In every way?" Monica asked, not taking her eyes off the pair.
"Yes."
"Ah." Monica said, sipping her water. "But, as representatives of his majesty…I do believe our command trumps yours."
"Well…yes…" Ramal stuttered.
"That is all I need to know." She said, setting her glass down. "Excuse me." She got up, walking towards where the man dragged the girl.
Ramal sighed. "Schneizel sent her on purpose, didn't he?"
"Well, everything Schneizel does HAS a purpose…" Daniel corrected him.
The clergyman continued to pull the servant girl down the hall. When they reached his chambers, she pulled away harder, in turn causing him to tighten his grip. "Get in!" he demanded.
"While she may be reluctant to say it, no still means no."
The clergyman looked past her to see Monica staring him down. He growled and waved his hand. "Leave! Your emperor cannot protect you here!"
"I am the Knight of Twelve; I do not require protection. Now, please release her." The man simply pulled her wrist and threw her down on the marble floor, reaching the breaking point. Reaching under his robes, he pulled out a scimitar; while he probably only had it as a tradition, it was still deadly sharp. Monica only smirked. "I hate to admit it, but I was kind of hoping you would do that."
Monica reached under her cape to brandish her own sabre. In a blind rage, the man charged at her. He brought his blade down…and Monica expertly parried him, sending him sprawling onto the marble floor. "Were you underestimating me?" she asked, pointing her weapon at him. "Or are you perhaps not that good?"
The man screamed again, attacking once more. She blocked each strike, and twirled around him cutting the seam of his pants, tripping him up and revealing black boxers underneath. Monica yawned. "I was kind of hoping that was a loincloth underneath; all the better to humiliate you with." Awkwardly, he rose, holding up the seam of his pants, and prepared to attack again.
"I've been polite to simply let you know I was superior." Monica warned him, pointing her sword at him. "Next time, I will make you regret it. Stand down." The man charged with his best battlecry, while Monica could only roll her eyes. "Men." He brought his scimitar down again, but Monica side-stepped him and sliced his hand off. A blood-curdling scream echoed down the halls, as guards and Daniel ran down to see what the problem was. "I ordered him to release her." She said as she swung the blood off her sword. "He refused, and I was forced to defend myself." Calmly sheathing her sword, she acted as if nothing happened.
While the other clergymen were boiling with fury, Ramal held up his hand. "Kruszewski and Horst are both our guests and superiors. From now on, you do what they tell you to. Do you understand!?" All reluctantly nodded.
While the man was helped up and taken to seek help, Monica looked to the servant girl, who was huddled into a corner. "I'll be taking her as well." Monica told Ramal. "She will be MY servant." Ramal nodded in agreement. Walking towards her, Monica held out her hand, the girl still huddled with fright. "It's alright." She assured her. "You're safe." Hesitantly, she took her hand, and rose. "What is your name?"
"Zahra."
"Zahra? Flower, right?" Monica then whisked her away. "Come now. I feel like turning in early. I'll let you have the bed tonight until we can arrange something. And we'll need to find you some proper clothes tomorrow."
While the rest of the clergymen dispersed, Ramal stood and watched her with Daniel. "I like her." He nodded. "Strong. Courageous. Compassionate"
"All things you do not wish to see in a woman?" Daniel asked sarcastically.
"Actually, I prefer it if more of our MEN had qualities such as her." Ramal emphasized. "Anyway, no harm will come to Yaghib Kruszewski. You have my word."
Daniel nodded. "See to it." Nodding, he said "Apologies for spoiling your party. I think it's best if we work as partners and not try to pretend to be friends. We're too…different…"
"Sadly, I must agree." Ramal nodded as Daniel turned to leave.
"We're finally getting on track." Zero said to his soldiers during the meeting. "We'll have our knightmares ready soon enough. Now comes everything else."
"It may have been necessary, but we've allied with a dangerous man." Todoh added. "I suggest we break the alliance once we achieve our objectives here."
"Not an option." Zero reprimanded him. "If we double-cross him before the battle begins, word will spread across the other nations. Even if we win, we will lose everywhere else. No matter how bad Abbass may be, no one else will trust us if we stab him in the back."
"I understand we're doing this just to get at Britannia…" Ohgi began "…but it doesn't feel right. We're helping a man who's just as bad as the clerisy…maybe even worse. I'm worried it will tarnish our legacy for generations to come if we leave this place with essentially the same problems."
"Forget Abbass." Tamaki muttered. "I don't want anything to do with these people. They're too into their religion, they freak out over the slightest things, and those suicides…Genbu Kuurugi may have forced some of our men to do the impossible, but at least he chose condemned criminals for those sorts of things."
Zero sighed. "I cannot make you like every group in the world, Tamaki…" If his mask allowed it, Zero would have been staring daggers at him "…but no one is perfect. Not even the Japanese."
"What makes you say that!?" Tamaki exclaimed, showing an uncharacteristic defiance towards Zero.
"You have me, a non-Japanese, as your leader for one." Zero said plainly. "I know even the most loyal of you are a little ashamed of that fact." Tamaki wanted to retort, but had nothing to say. He just looked away, folding his arms.
"Well, since you are trying to have a lesson in tolerance, perhaps I should join in?" Everyone turned to see Fadah in the doorway. This time, she had dressed herself in a Black Knight Uniform. Most of the men were taken aback from seeing her thighs and curves, free from the burka. She added a few touches to the uniform; the vest was open, revealing a white t-shirt tied up in a knot, emphasizing a bust that may have even been a bit larger than Kallen's, along with thigh-high boots that stuck to her like a second-skin.
"Do I even want to know how you got one of our spare uniforms?" Zero groaned.
"Depends." Fadah replied, never losing her smirk. "Does the great Zero prefer the company of men instead?"
"We agreed to become allies. That does not make you a Black Knight, let alone entitled to attend these meetings."
"If you want to pull this off, you'll want to pull this off right." Fadah shot back. "You cannot proceed with this plan without someone who knows the people and the land. You'll need an ally in the future, and for that you cannot allow Abbass to take power. Once you give him what he wants, he will deny ever having agreed to your terms, and life here will continue as is. Stuck in the Middle Ages."
"I cannot force your people to accept a New World." Zero emphasized. "I will find a way to keep Abbass on my side until we defeat Britannia."
"Abbass, the Clerisy…the only difference is the root of their evil."
"Where are you going with this?" Zero asked.
"You are right; you cannot force them to be how you would like to be. But if you can show them…minds will turn." She explained.
"That will take time. Time I doubt I will have."
Fadah walked up to him, staring at him through his tinted glass. "You'd be surprised just how many of the people here, both men and women, wish for a different life."
Zero looked away and sighed. "What would you have me do?"
Fadah walked past him, and walked to his seat, surprising everyone. "I know the reputation my people have around the world." She said, addressing everyone. "Fanatical, barbaric, misogynistic." Taking a seat in Zero's chair (without his permission), she twirled the chair over so she was leaning forward on the back. "Tell me, how many of you learned anything about my country before the Britannians took over? Before they took you over?" The room was met with silence. Fadah sighed. "I remember back how it was when I was a child, before I turned nineteen. I do not deny that we had many shortcomings. But not like it was now. We had our fanatics, but they were very much fringe. We had schools that taught real science and history. We had some of the best doctors, some notable entertainers internationally. While women still had a dress code, we could at least show our faces. Outside of government and military, we were allowed to work in good positions such as lawyers, teachers and doctors. I remember how my brother would skip Mosque to go bowling with his friends, and instead of a beating like most fathers would give their sons today, my father would only roll his eyes, saying boys will be boys. My mother…she was the real head of the household. And today, many married women are not even allowed to speak to their husband unless spoken to. And you know why it so different today? Three years before the invasion, the European Union sought the Sakuradite. Because the previous government refused, they helped fund those that sided with them, and the fanatics, to overthrow the government. Both sides were weakened immensely when Cornelia conquered the country. Seeing it was easier to work with the zealots, the emperor promised them limited power and prosperity in exchange for the Sakuradite. And…here we are now."
Everyone was silent. "You know what I heard about Japan? Back then?" Fadah continued. "I heard a lot of lovely things. Educated, hard working. Pristine. Proud of their tradition and ancestry, not much different from us. But I also heard how your men were overworked. How they were forced to choose their companies and jobs over their own family. How women were discouraged from working once they had children. How the local police got the arrested to confess to any crime via any means necessary. And while this may be more relevant centuries ago, here, when a man forced himself on a woman, she was forced to marry him. Terrible. But you? If such a woman was married, she would be killed." Everyone looked down on the floor, unable to deny their own country's shortcomings. "To be honest, we have much more in common than you would like to admit. Both our people are proud, have a high sense of honor…and can be stubborn to a fault and at times just as cruel." She finished. "The main difference is the way the Britannians treated us. Your people simply wanted peace, and they discriminated against you like everyone else, promising an opportunity to become Honorary Britannians. My people would never have it, to be stripped of our identity. So the most religious enforce total Sharia Law, throwing our most educated under the bus and the rest to follow their orders. It distracts them from the real problem, while bringing us down. Just like Britannia wants."
"Indeed." Zero agreed. "Blind Faith is a powerful weapon."
"One Abbass also realized." Fadah continued. "Even the few smart ones have joined with him, if only to overthrow the clerisy. And even if he dies, another will take his place. If the clerisy is destroyed, someone just as bad can take their place."
Zero stood silent for a moment. Then, he approached her…and bowed like a gentleman. "Forgive me for my ignorance, Fadah. It seems our interests truly align."
"That remains to be seen." Fadah said, standing. "But I believe you have the best chance of making things better. If you think you can manage, I'll help you anyway I can."
Zero nodded. "Well, then, Fadah…what would you have me do?"
"We have to unite with the Sand Hawks against the clerisy. As you said, no way around it now. But once we overthrow the clerisy and Britannia, we will have to take care of them without agitating the people."
"That certainly would be ideal." Zero agreed. "The execution, however, will be difficult."
"We also have to find a way to safe guard the Sakuradite mines once we have them." CC added. "Someone will have to watch over them." CC added.
"Therefore, we must also forge TRUE allies in the region." Zero replied. "And as much help as you've proven to be so far, you alone won't be enough." Zero said.
Fadah rubbed her chin in thought. "What would you need?"
"Someone smart, who understands the needs of the common people, and knows what to do to strike at the heart of his enemy."
Fadah smiled slightly, having an idea. "I know the smart part. Perhaps I could arrange a meeting?"
"Whenever possible." Zero agreed. Zero looked back to the rest of his knights. "I do believe we have covered the broader objectives, as well as the obstacles in our way. I will let you know when the plan all comes together. Dismissed!" The Black Knights rose and exited, wondering how he would accomplish such a miracle.
Monica walked down the runway of the area's military base, patrolled by Britannian soldiers. All saluted as she walked down, accompanied by Zahra. Instead of a harem outfit, she was dressed in a business dress, typical of the women in the service who were not in combat, though Monica allowed her to keep on a headscarf. While she was a little bit uncomfortable in the outfit in the presence of so many men, it was without question more dignified and at this moment, she wouldn't have traded it for anything. "Do not worry." Monica told her as they walked down the runway. "I think you look quite lovely in your new clothes, and no one will punish you here for it. Our men are not like that clerisy; they know how to restrain themselves. Plus many of them are married, and if their wives learned about anything inappropriate…" Monica stopped herself. "I'm sorry; we should probably focus on other things…" she smiled at her new servant.
"Yes, m'lady." Zahra replied.
Soon, she and Monica approached an airstrip, and turned their attention above. Two Sutherlands flew in the air engaging another knightmare. This one was covered in black and red. Instead of the flat-footed design of the others, it almost had slight heels, the wheels tucked all the way in. Instead of an airglide system, its flight unit was more compact, giving it the impression that it was hovering all on its own. The slash harkens were located on the upper wrists, as opposed to the shoulders, the entire wrists enlarged as a result. The shoulder plates pointed sharply backwards, while the head closely resembled the Lancelot. However, instead of a backwards fin, it seemed to sprout two devil horns that curved into each other. It fended off the Sutherlands, brandishing what seemed to be a black and gold battle ax. It seemed to be a standard melee fight, the dark knightmare swinging his weapon to keep the others at bay. One however, got cocky and charged quickly with his baton. He brought it down, and the new knightmare blocked. Before anything else could be done, the ax blade spun, destroying the baton. "Good try." Daniel said from inside the knightmare. "But be careful when pressing your own weapon against the enemy. They may have a surprise in store."
The troops below clapped in applause, as Daniel's Knightmare, the Geraint, touched down. Daniel opened his cockpit, and lowered himself down. "A splendid performance, as usual." Monica said, approaching him. "How are you holding up?"
"I'm just glad the mechanics installed an air conditioning system!" Daniel said as he wiped the sweat from his brow.
"So, are we going to go over the defense?" the girl asked.
"Soon enough. I feel you should get suited up too; nothing like a good warm-up to keep on our toes and cool our warriors' blood, right?"
"Yes." Monica turned to Zahra. "Zahra, I would like you to watch. Daniel will take good care of you."
"Yes, m'lady." Zahra would have been skeptical to see another girl fight, until she met Monica the other night.
Minutes later, a new knightmare emerged from one of the warehouses. Unlike the Geraint, this was one was a dark purple with pink highlights. Despite its somewhat girly coloring, it had some fearsome features. Its feet, instead of the boot-like appearance of most knightmares, had three sharp toes, much like a monster. Spikes adorned its shoulders, and its wrist housed machine guns. It carried a shield with what seemed to be a green jewel, embroidered with gold. The head was similar to Gino's Tristan, but its horns resembled the horns of an oriental dragon. "Lamorak, ready for battle!" Monica proudly announced from inside.
"Ready when you are, Ma'am." one of her sparring partners called.
"Begin!"
The knightmares took off into the sky. "Pay close attention." Daniel ordered Zahra. "This is why your mistress became a Knight of the Rounds."
The Sutherlands attacked, one trying to club her with his baton. She blocked with her shield, and used her foot to grab the Sutherlands, throwing it down. It recovered before hitting the ground, firing the slash harkens. The Lamorak dodged, as the other closed in with its blade. The Lamorak reached into its shield, unleashing a sectional broadsword, which it used to parry the attack. Without missing a beat, it blocked another attack with its shield. This exchange went on for a while, but it was clear Monica was in complete control the entire time. "Amazing!" Zahra exclaimed. "How did she achieve those skills!?"
"She'll tell you someday." Daniel answered. "But for now, I think the match is about to end."
The Lamorak fired another slash harken, entwining a Sutherland's wrist and slammed it into the other knightmare. Before they could crash, Monica grabbed hold of them both. "Thanks for the fun." She told them. "But I do believe it is time we got to work."
Soon, Daniel and Monica were back in their standard uniforms, addressing the troops. "His Highness Schneizel summoned us here to improve security and put down the local insurgents!" Daniel began. "As I'm sure you've all surmized, I'm rather disappointed with what I've seen. Apparently, these Sand Hawks have been giving you a bit of trouble!" The troops mumbled, reluctantly agreeing. "If we cannot repel simple native terrorists with nothing but out-of-date firearms and human bombs, I fear what to think what would happen if we are faced against something worse!" Silence filled the area. "I feel it is time for an upgrade. I've called over one of the empire's finest scientists, referred to me by a friend. While the best technology is helpful, it is not a guarantee. How we defend our resources will be up to you! Now, back to work! I will personally oversee your training!"
As the soldiers dispersed, another approached him. "Sir Horst." The soldier saluted. "I'm Sargent Hammond. I believe I may have some intel on the enemy's tactics."
"That is helpful. Alright, let's hear it."
"We managed to catch this." He said, showing off footage from a camera. Horst observed, seeing a completely covered woman sneaking around the base and taking the guards down one by one with hidden knives.
"Interesting." He said. "It's one person. More specifically, one woman."
"I thought women were forbidden to…do just about anything out there." Hammond said.
"Hn." Daniel agreed. "It's actually quite clever. We'd have never thought to look for such a person without this."
"Well, that only cuts the list of people we have to find by half." Hammond sighed
"Not necessarily." Daniel said, handing back the tablet. "Get me all the available records of every member of the original Arabic military available. Cross-reference for men with daughters."
"Yes sir!" he said, jogging off.
Daniel then pulled out his cell-phone, and dialed the home base. "Hello, Master Kanon? This is Sir Horst. Listen, would it be possible to ship some extra nightmares over? Two…maybe in three days' time?"
"Are you sure about this?" Lelouch asked nervously, dressed in his gi.
"No." Kallen sighed. "But it's overdue. You need a sparring session, get something of an idea of a real fight." Kallen got into a defensive position, beckoning him over. "Go."
Lelouch nervously ran forward and struck with a punch. Kallen easily blocked, but did not fight back. Lelouch kept pushing with more punches and kicks, none of which landed on their mark. Soon enough, Kallen grabbed his attacking wrist, pulled him in and kicked him in the stomach. She quickly followed with a back knuckle, knocking him over. Though Lelouch fell over, he forced himself up. Kallen held her hand up before anymore could be done. "Enough." She walked over to a water bottle, tossing it at Lelouch. Surprisingly, he caught it. "Impressive." Kallen noted. "You're actually able to take a hit. It wasn't long ago that you would keel over at the slightest bit of pain."
Lelouch sighed. "Well, I guess that's good if the goal was to make me a human punching bag." Lelouch wiped his hair down, looking rather disappointed. "I'm never going to get this."
"Don't fret." Kallen told him. "Everyone has some trouble as a beginner. And we've still more work to do in the future. I only hope we'll all survive until then."
As Lelouch took a sip, the two heard his phone rang. Walking over, he picked up. "Yes?"
"Zero, it's Rakshata." She said.
"How's the construction going?"
"Other than how some of the people here behaved in the beginning, it's going quite splendidly. However, that's not what I'm calling about."
"Oh?"
"Abbass wants to see you. Apparently, he just got word of a new shipment of knightmares."
Lelouch paused. "Tell him I'll be there soon."
"The Britannians are calling in for new shipments of knightmares." Abbass told him, having him listen in on the conversation from Daniel they recorded.
"How did you get this?" Zero asked.
"One of our technicians. That boy is a mouse of a man, but he can build impressive things. Especially spy equipment." He noted.
"That boy should probably spend more time on his REAL studies, since he can't make it as a military man." One commented.
Abbass waved him off. "Anyway, we are planning to attack the base. I figure it would be good for our alliance to take this as an opportunity to hinder the Britannians."
Zero was silent for a moment, before speaking up. "Don't do it."
"I beg your pardon?"
"That is Daniel Horst, the Knight of Eight."
"Then even better!" Abbass insisted. "We kill him, and send Britannia a message…"
"Do you not get it Abbass!?" Zero shouted, pounding his fist. Though it barely made a sound, he caught their attention. "These are not ordinary captains, these are knights! They are fantastic warriors, with their own customized knightmares! We are not ready!"
"We've done this before…"
"…not against these men." Zero paused for a moment. "Do you know how Daniel Horst became a knight?"
"Is it relevant to what we're doing right now?" Abbass asked irritably.
"Six years ago, there was a rebellion in South America. Though the rebels had inferior knightmares, they knew the terrain, utilized brilliant guerilla tactics. The empire tried to pursue them through the jungle, but they were ambushed and killed each time, even with Glascows and Sutherlands. Daniel, at the time, was a Sargent in the unit. He figured out that they could never take them in their home turf. So, he figured the best way to beat them was to MAKE them come to them, on THEIR terms. He spread word to the locals of new weapons. The rebels attacked, but his men were ready for them. Every space they raided, Daniel planned for it and had his men stationed there, gunning them down. The leader was piloting a knightmare, no doubt stolen from one of his victims; Daniel engaged him, with nothing but a riot shield. And he managed to win, the only damage to his knightmare was the destruction of the slash harkens. That earned him the title of the Knight of Eight."
Abbass seemed to be lost in thought for a moment. "He hasn't dealt with us." He said as he and everyone else prepared to leave.
As they turned their backs, Zero said "Wait! Take at least two of my soldiers with you!"
Abbass stopped, and sighed. "Fine. Just make sure they don't get in our way."
Later that night, Abbass observed the base far from the mountains. "There's something there, alright." The lookout said as he observed a large crate being moved in.
Abbass turned back to see Todoh and Kallen, leaning against the pillars. He growled, turning back his attention to the base. Meanwhile, Kallen and Todoh tried to distract themselves from the current discomfort. "I feel naked, doing this without a knightmare." Kallen whispered.
"Me too." Todoh agreed. "I understand Zero's reasoning for doing this, but do you think just the two of us can really tip the scale in our favor?"
Kallen sighed. "Hard to say. But he has a reason. And I know one thing; we're not expendable. You can be assured of that." Todoh gave a slight grunt in agreement.
"We're moving out!" Abbass called, waving to everyone.
Kallen and Todoh leaped into a jeep, which sped towards the base. "We're just going to charge in?" Todoh asked.
"No." Kallen assured him. "I think this is where Fadah comes in…"
Soon enough, the base exploded in flames. "She's good." Todoh nodded in approval.
Soon, they reached the base. Kallen got out and shot who she could. Todoh also got out, shooting down some of the soldiers and cutting down others with his katana when they got close.
Abbass also joined the fray, gunning down all the soldiers who got in his way. "Where is that woman!?" Abbass thought as he approached the target. She would usually be waiting for the other soldiers. He finally found the bunker, and looked inside. Lights suddenly came on, blinding him.
"You must be Abbass Sultan." Daniel stepped closer so he could see him. Abbass aimed to fire, but Daniel held up his hand. "Ah-ah." He waved his finger. "I wouldn't do that if I were you." Others stepped forward, brandishing their guns. Another stepped forward, holding Fadah in an armlock with a gun pressed against her head. "I had a feeling you were spying on us somehow; I called home asking for knightmares, while using a separate line of communication to send only the bunkers. Your presence here has confirmed my suspicions. While I admit I have not quite figured out your methods, after we're done with you, we'll be rebuilding our security from scratch." He stopped a moment to listen to the decreasing sounds of the battle as several knightmares emerged. "It seems your men have left you." Abbass held up his hands, though begrudgingly. Daniel stepped forward, patting his body. "Hm. You don't have a bomb strapped to you. I'm quite relieved." He smirked as others came forward. "We'll be able to execute you ourselves."
"I think you'll need to change your plans."
A soldier fell as a bullet tore through his torso. Zero stepped into the light, brandishing his pistol. "The great Zero." Daniel said, narrowing his eyes. "Before we continue, I should remind you are outgunned."
"I know." Zero agreed as he dropped small, metallic objects. "Should my heart rate drop, or should you attempt to touch them, these bombs will go off. They're more powerful than they look."
Daniel ordered them to lower their weapons. "I must say, despite our animosity, I did have some small amount of respect for you. I never imagined you would ally with scum like this."
"I think the feeling is mutual between us." Zero stepped forward. "Likewise, I have studied you. I know you are an honorable man. Though I suspect we'll meet again on the battlefield eventually, I'd like to offer you a chance to walk away, leave this area."
"You know I can't do that." Daniel said. "And do you think what you offer the people is any better?" He turned back to Abbass. "If you usurp the clerisy, nothing will change. Only this man in power, indulging in the fruits of the people's labor while everyone else is oppressed and brainwashed into accepting him." He then turned back to Zero. "A little contradictory to your goal of liberating nations, is it not? At least His Majesty will assimilate them into Britannian society, overtime."
"A fair point." Zero conceded. "You'll see soon enough. However, for tonight, neither of us has anything to gain. I suggest you withdraw, and we'll do the same. No one else has to die tonight."
Daniel conceded, raising his hand. "Well, then you should be on your way." The soldiers released Fadah and Abbass, who sprinted away. Zero walked in the same direction, when Daniel called "Zero!" Zero paused. "I had anticipated it would go down this way. I just wanted to see what kind of man you were. Trust me when I say the next time we meet, you will not make it out alive."
Zero only said "We'll see."
Soon enough, Zero boarded a jeep driven by CC, and they sped off. Quickly, he reached for his phone. "How was it, Kallen?"
"Well, we're fine. We took down a few Britannians. But Abbass lost quite a few of his men. And nothing to show for it."
"I warned him." Zero said. "And now, we can really begin to plan our assault…"
"He played me for a fool!" Abbass screamed as he smacked down several items from his desk.
"You played yourself." Zero said, sitting cross-legged on a chair. "I warned you. I told you exactly what he would do. You didn't listen. Not only did you make a serious blunder tonight, but you have lost the trust of your men." Zero paused for a moment to bring his hands together. "Quite frankly, with how many you've sacrificed, I'm surprised it took this one night to do it."
Abbass paced around, ignoring the last remark. "So, what happens now?"
"We continue as planned." Zero said. "However, you need supervision."
"Supervision!?"
"You are too power hungry. You're belligerent. And will not follow advice when it is given to you." Zero said, inching closer to him. Even though Abbass was quite a bit taller than him, looking down on his mask gave him the chills. "And as I said before, you've also lost the respect of your soldiers wanted to know why this mission was a failure." Zero said. "So my men told them what happened."
Abbass' face scrunched up, and pointed his gun at Zero. "That's quite a way to repay the man who saved your life." Zero commented. "Best case if you pull that trigger, you'll be out of extra hands. Rakshata will destroy the knightmares and my soldiers will leave, eliminating any real chance you have of getting Britannia out of here. You may crush the Black Knights…but we'll take you with us."
Abbass stared at him with pure hatred, but slowly holstered his pistol, realizing he was right. "We will part ways for now." Zero informed him. "I will be studying up on the clerisy and get preparations together."
"And me?"
Zero began walking away, but turned to him, shrugging his shoulders. "Twiddle your thumbs for all I care. Just don't make a move until I tell you too." Zero finally walked out.
"Well, sounds like last night was a waste of time." CC said as she threw a straight punch at Lelouch.
"Can we not talk while we're sparring!?" he shouted, actually managing to guard against it.
"It's good training." Kallen said as she observed, drinking her juice. If nothing else, she got to see a few of CC's techniques. "We may call for your help at any minute; you need to make your mind and instincts sync at one."
CC suddenly brought him down with a kick to the liver. "Well, he needs the instincts part." She said.
Kallen sighed, walking over to grab his arm. "Come on. Up."
Lelouch grunted as he was brought to his feet. "Well, as I was about to say, it wasn't a waste of time. It actually worked in our favor." He smiled.
"You did warn him." Kallen agreed. "And his men are beginning to trust you more now."
Lelouch answered "Not really trust me, for now. But I've shattered that trust in Abbass. No doubt they will rather take my word for it than his."
"And Abbass himself?" CC asked.
"Hard to say. But I imagine he won't make a move, no matter how much it hurts his pride. He realizes he's against a completely different opponent. He will need something more subtle than shock and awe now." Lelouch answered confidently.
"And the knightmares." CC said. "They should be almost ready."
"Rakshata is both a prodigy and a hard worker." Lelouch agreed as he downed more ice-water. "A most handy combination." Satisfied, he asked "Are we finished for today? I would like to move forward with accelerating our plans. It won't help if I'm cringing in pain while addressing the soldiers."
The Shitora possessed many things to not only house the Black Knights, but train them as well. Arguably, the most essential training tool they had was the Knightmare simulator. Using virtual reality and simulated movements, it gave both experienced veterans and novices as accurate an experience as possible piloting a war machine without risking death. One, however, was doing VERY well.
"Whoa!" Tamaki exclaimed. "She's amazing!"
Todoh only quirked an eyebrow. "Some people have all the luck."
Fadah was the current user in the simulator, and she was doing VERY well. She rapidly swerved the controls, firing away at the buttons. Seeing a missile fly towards her, she made a hard left, and fired her gun, obliterating the offender. Another ambushed her from her far left. She went into a hard reverse, just barely avoiding the enemy's blade and stabbing him with her own. Everyone gathered around, amazed by her progress. Others, of course, gathered around to see her breasts shake from the vibrations; for some reason she refused to close the vest that was given to her and have her t-shirt exposed. "Does this ever end!?" she suddenly shouted, as she rapidly fired away at others.
"The simulator does not stop until you are dead." Todoh informed her.
"Ah. Then it seems I'll be here for an eternity." She smirked.
"As entertaining as that would be to see, I'm afraid we can't afford that."
The simulator was suddenly frozen. Fadah continued pressing, hoping for something to happen. "Hey!"
She looked out to see Zero, standing there with a remote. "If you're going to treat the simulator as a toy, then you need to learn to share, and give everyone else their turn." He walked over to look at her score. "Ten Thousand?" he asked. "Impressive. Have you piloted a knightmare before?"
"Can't say I have. Does this make me a prodigy?" she asked, though by her tone she already had a rather strong opinion on the matter.
"Perhaps. But the simulator can only do so much. Kallen!" he called. "What was your highest score on the simulator?"
Kallen seemed to pause, before looking away in irritation. "Nine Thousand, Nine Hundred and Ninety-Nine." Everyone was stunned silent. "That's only because I got tired of it and quit!" Kallen shouted back.
"Jealous, much?" Fadah smirked.
"Before we get too into it, let us converge in the briefing room." The most important Black Knights followed Zero.
Fadah hung back, eyeing one of the female technicians. She looked at her, curious. Fadah winked, and the young lady looked away, blushing.
"Given who's in charge of security, I believe it is safe to say that we should not employ Abass's old guerilla tactics, even with our knightmares." Zero began. "I also think it would be wise to assume there is at least one more round here, so be sure to employ even more caution." Everyone nodded in agreement.
"So, what will be our target?" Ohgi asked.
"That's simple. The clerisy." Zero announced.
"Still won't be easy." Todoh sighed. "Even if they're puppets, they are still well guarded. Britannia needs them. Possibly more than their base here."
"That's true." Zero sighed. "Which is why we need to be invited in."
Everyone looked around in silence. "You think they will demand an audience with you?" Tamaki asked.
"I'd be surprised if they did." Zero said. "But I need to someone to help me infiltrate the inside." He slightly turned his head towards their newest member. "Fadah." He said. "I presume this is where you come in."
Fadah smirked. "I thought you'd never ask." She put her legs back on the floor, and stood. "I have one idea on what to do. I'll need to get some things to help out with that."
"Whatever you deem necessary." Zero agreed. "And I still need help finding allies. REAL allies. Has anything come up?"
"Yes; I'll be seeing him soon. I still owe him a favor. I'll be sure to set up a meeting between you two. And make sure you bring a chessboard."
If he didn't have a mask, everyone would have seen Lelouch quirk an eyebrow. "I see…" Zero composed himself. "I presume there are no objections to the outline of this plan?" he asked.
Everyone was silent, not out of concern, but confidence. "The basics sound solid." Todoh agreed. "We need to work out the details."
"Indeed. I will let you know when the time comes. Fadah, can I trust you to get going with your part?"
"You can count on me." Fadah winked.
"Very well. Dismissed!"
As everyone dispersed, Kallen saw that Fadah seemed to be…inspecting her. Judging by the grin on her face, she seemed to like what she saw. She simply winked at Kallen, and took off. "Is something the matter, Kallen?"
Kallen said nothing until they were alone. "That woman…something's off about her…"
"We need her." Zero said. "We're looking for allies, not friends."
Kallen sighed. "I know."
Fadah smooched Maynum, who returned the kiss. "You're getting better." She sighed huskily.
"I'd like to think I would eventually." He answered back. Fadah's method of returning favors were often sexual; however, she would only go all the way with someone when she genuinely liked them. Heavy emphasis on the "liked". Feeling they both had enough, Fadah got off of him. Though he was spent, Maynum still admired her nude body in his bedroom as she went to get some cigarettes on the shelf. "I feel like there's something you want to ask me." He sighed.
"Sharp as ever." Fadah answered as she lit a cigarette and sat back on his bed. "You remember when I asked you to bug Zero?"
"Yeah." Maynum smirked. "That's why we're here now, remember?"
"Right." Fadah smirked. "Anyway, Zero is looking for some friends here. Someone who he can count on."
"Does he seem to have anyone in mind?" Maynum sighed.
"He doesn't. But I do."
"Who?"
"I'm looking at him right now." Fadah answered.
Maynum's eyes widened. "WHAT!?"
"Make sure you don't cross the wires on that one!" Rakshata shouted as she oversaw the repair/completion of the Guren. "One mistake, and the whole arm will blow off if the canon is used!" The welders and "technicians" (more like forced labor/interns) nodded as they continued to work. "And you! The controls are delayed. Check the wiring again!" she called to a worker in the open cockpit of a Kitsuokami.
Abbass sighed as he let a cigar burn in his hand, taking a drink of his whiskey as he observed from his office. "I was under the impression such vices were forbidden."
Abbass turned around to see Zero approach him. "Discouraged; not forbidden. There's a difference." He sighed as he looked back at Rakshata.
"Is there anything I can do to ameliorate this situation?" Zero asked, knowing what was bothering him.
"Unless you have a man who can do just as good a job, I'll manage. I need your knightmares. After you get what you want, I will not have to put up with these blasphemies again."
"You seem to put up with Fadah." Zero reminded him.
"As I said, a means to an end." Abbass said. "Once it's done, never again." He repeated himself. "And besides, she was only in it for the money to begin with."
"We can go back and forth on this for all eternity. But actually, I was hoping to meet another one of your men."
Abbass stopped. "Who?"
"One of your techs. Maymun, I believe his name was."
Abbass sighed. "What do you need from him?"
"I heard he's quite the engineer. I was hoping he could build something for me."
"He's also quite the wimp. If I could find someone better, I'd have rather not have him involved." Abbass then directed him towards the right cavern. "Third one down. But whatever you get, inform me. I will confirm with him."
"Of course." Zero said, nodding. As he walked away, Abbass noted he was carrying some kind of box. Abbass decided to wave it off, figuring it was some kind of gift for Maymun.
Maymun sighed as he tinkered with some new microchips. He couldn't stop thinking about what Fadah told him the other night. Could it be true? "Maymun, I presume?"
Maymun looked up. "Zero!" he jumped up in surprise. Zero was unreadable as ever, not only because of his mask, but his body language as well, his cape masking his movements. "Fadah wasn't kidding…" he huffed.
"It seems you are friends. Perhaps more?" Zero asked.
"I believe in Britannia and Europe, you add 'With Benefits' to describe our relationship." Maymun sighed. "She's impossible to tame."
"Ah." Zero said. "Well, enough of that. I was actually interested in meeting you…on Fadah's recommendation."
Maymun sighed as he took a seat. "I don't know what she sees, thinking I could help you. But I'm not what you're looking for."
"I'll be the judge of that." Zero said, as he opened his box, revealing a chess board. "Why don't we play a game?"
Maymun sighed. "We don't have that kind of time…"
"We'll time it. Fifteen minutes for as much time as we need. Afterwards, we will have twenty seconds a turn." Zero offered.
Maymun thought about it, and shrugged his shoulders. "Sure. My project is not going anywhere."
They lay the pieces. Zero was white, Maymun was black. "It is quite impressive, what you do." Zero said as he moved a pawn forward to D4, opening up his Queen and Bishop. "This area's education system was shot down to hell when the Britannians took over. And it looks like you'll never get it back while the clerisy stays."
"True." Maymun said as he moved a knight to F6. "I was smart growing up. Makes you a target for bullies."
"A tragedy of human nature." Zero said as he moved forward another pawn to H3.
"Anyway, took an interest in computers. Learned all I could about them. Then other machines…" he continued on as he moved a pawn himself to A5. "...I looked all kinds of technical manuals, meant for experts. We didn't have much to work with, given our religious affairs. We at least had cars and aircraft vehicles. Even labor-type knightmares." Zero moved a rook forward to H2 as he listened. "So I experimented and built upon on what I did find on my own, eventually becoming on par with most other engineers in the world. At least, I assume. Anyway, that lead to my father ridiculing me for playing and not taking my upcoming adulthood seriously." He sighed, pushing forward his pawn to A4.
"Fathers can be tough. Too tough at times." Zero agreed, moving his knight to F3.
"My family has always been very traditional. It got worse when the Britannians helped install the clerisy. My parents forbade me to do anything science-related and wanted me to become a holy man." He then moved his second knight to C6, Zero's pawn in danger if he neglected it.
"Doesn't seem like a good fit for you."
"You think?" he asked sarcastically. "Anyway, one day walking in the streets, I overheard some men whispering, talking about fighting back against the Britannians."
"The Sand Hawks." Zero said, moving his other knight to C3. "You joined them that day."
"Not immediately." Maymun said as he moved a his knight to claim the pawn. "They didn't want nerds, as you could imagine. But I kept tabs on them. I showed them what I could do, and they eventually realized they needed me." Maymun took a break to look Zero directly in the mask. "I know they are not good people. But the clerisy…the Britannians..." Maymun took a deep breath. Zero could see he had a lot of anger buried. "This country always valued religion and superstition more than science and reality. As much as I want Britannia to leave…I can't help but think we are our own worst enemy. I worry that in helping them, I will change nothing."
Zero nodded. "In all honesty, I have come to the same conclusion, even before I forged the alliance. But it is just as wrong to enforce our beliefs on them. Still, you're right not to trust them." Zero finally countered, claiming Maymun's knight with his own.
"They wouldn't let you criticize their way of life anyway; you've seen what the Britannians do to keep control here. They needed the clerisy to give the people the impression that they still had individuals who represented them." Maymun replied back, bringing out his rook to A5. "If only they knew…" he growled.
Finally, the timer went off. "My, how the time flies." Zero said. "Twenty seconds to make a move now." Zero moved his queen to D2. "What if I told you the solution was to inspire them?"
"Like I could do that." Maymun sighed, moving a pawn to E5, also opening up his queen. "You certainly couldn't do that; a self-proclaimed devil."
"You could." Zero said, moving a pawn to B4. "Think about it. You know your people better than me; you may dislike how they are. But you understand them. You could show them a better path. They turn to their religion for safety, peace of mind. At least, that was my conclusion. But you need to show them a better way. Just like I had shown my people the right way to take back their country." Zero decided it best not to let him know his true ethnicity for now.
Maymun said nothing, moving his rook to D5, out of harm's way.
Abbass continued watching the construction, only to break his attention when he saw Zero approach him. "Well?"
"I have asked your technician to make us mini-drones. For surveillance." Zero said, handing him some blueprints. "With what I'm planning, we will need them. You will find them handy yourself in the future, I am sure."
Abbass looked them over. "I see…" He tossed them back to Zero. "Fine. Is there anything else?"
"For now, no." Zero answered.
"Then let me ask you this." Abbass said. "When will we be ready to strike? I have been gracious in letting you tow the line; I won't be for much longer if we only continue to sit on our asses."
Zero looked to the knightmares. Whatever was left was mostly internal it seemed. It wouldn't be much longer now… "Soon." Zero replied. "Be patient." With that, he walked away.
Maymun stared at the chessboard. Despite having few pieces left, Zero had successfully put him in check-mate, cornered by his last rook and knight. "As the victor, I urge you to consider my offer." Maymun reflected on his words…
Fadah sighed as she washed her hair. Her slum didn't have much in the way of a bath or shower, so she settled for washing herself with her crappy sink, sitting in the buff in her tiny space. Still, in this heat, many were better off without clothes. Her attention turned back to Zero and his operation. Without a doubt, Zero would be getting ready to strike soon. She had long thought about infiltrating the clerisy herself, dissuaded only by the fact that alone it would be suicide. Things were different now, and she knew just what to do. Eyeing the duffle bag on the floor, she stifled a giggle as she thought about it. "This is going to be fun."
Suddenly, she heard footsteps at her door…faint, but there…and immediately reached into her drawer to retrieve her pistol. No one ever visited her, let alone a group of people! Without warning, her door was kicked down, Britannian soldiers in full tactical gear and assault rifles trying to swarm in the narrow space. Fadah shot first, managing to target a weak spot around the neck of the first one, causing him to fall over. As the other soldiers stumbled behind him, Fadah retrieved her bourka top and duffle bag, and jumped through her window. "This is so NOT going to be fun." While the bourka was enough to cover her down to her knees, she had nothing underneath. Plus, her face was completely exposed; this was going to lead to a lot of trouble until she found a safe haven. She touched down, making a break for it as machine gun fire rained down on her, heading for the main city. A soldier tried to ambush her from the shadows of an alley, jamming a gun in her face. However, Fadah was too quick, moving her head out of the way as she kicked his leg and grabbed his gun, tossing him away. She quickly fired back at her other pursuers. Knowing she would have eventually meet her end on the street, she quickly scaled the wall next to her.
"She's up there! Fire!" A bullet broke the ceramic, but missed her entirely.
She continued running, jumping between buildings as the soldiers pursued her. She tried to fire back, but this time the soldiers were more successful, shooting the pistol out of her hands. Quickly, she banked a hard left as she dived through an open window. The family inside balked in surprise as she ran across the dining room and dived out of the window at the far right corner. As she continued, she saw more soldiers climb up in front of her. Realizing there was nowhere else above to run, she took a jump down onto the street below. The pedestrians around her stopped in shock, many covering the eyes of their children; it seemed she may have flashed quite a few of them. "Great." Fadah growled as she made a break for it. "No doubt the morality volunteers will be on my heels at any moment."
Indeed, some of the men began chasing her, brandishing their clubs. "Better get back up there!"
Another soldier cut her off. Using a similar defensive maneuver from before, she tossed him into one of the morality volunteers before she sprinted a hard right at the intersection, where another one of the volunteers was. "How dare you expose yourself-!" Fadah shut him up with a hard right cross, knocking him over like a Tennga block tower. As another charged at her with a club, she quickly jumped on top of him, using him as a pad to jump higher onto the wall. She quickly climbed back up, jumping across and somersaulting upon landing.
However, another soldier was waiting for her, popping out from the door to the building. "THIS IS BULLSHIT!" Fadah ducked under their fire, and swept him off his feet. Getting inside, she kicked the next soldier down. "They know where I am at every moment! That's impossible! How-" She then thought back to the failed raid that evening. Though they saw her face, it was unlikely they found her that way; in public she wore her bourka. Abbass? Abbass may have been an arrogant pig, but he wasn't stupid enough to turn on a valuable asset on a whim. "A tracking device!" she realized. "They planted a tracking device inside my bourka!"
She'd have no time to fish for it, as the soldiers were ascending the stairs. She leaped across to a pipe-lining, and slid down faster than the soldiers could aim. However, one hit the pipes, and it fell back, taking Fadah with it. "Shit!" Fadah slammed her arms down on the hard floor upon landing; she felt like a train wreck, but at least she survived without any broken bones. She quickly got up, and reached into her bag. She tossed a grenade down as she escaped. Immediately, the entire indoor space was covered in a thick, black smoke.
Though the soldiers were disoriented, they pressed forward. One spoke into his communicator. "Suspect has left the building! Cut her off!"
"I got a lock!" a technician said as he looked at the GPS screen. "She's stopped! On Phoenix and Ishmar!"
Several soldiers jumped out of the van, ready to take her down. As they closed in on the location, they found she wasn't there. "Target is not present. Repeat, target is not present." The leader of the unit spoke into his communicator.
"Impossible!" the technician called back. "Target has not moved! Look again!"
As the soldiers fanned the area, the sergeant looked to the corner, finding a large piece of black cloth hung on a stick. He walked towards it, picking it up. Searching it, he found the small tracking device in the collar. "Target is lost." He spoke, sighing. "I repeat, target is lost."
Ohgi, disguised to look like he belonged in the region, cautiously drove the van around the block. They had received a distress call from Fadah an hour ago; Zero ordered them to go after her. "She's around here." Todoh, also in disguise, told him as he observed his GPS.
"You sure?" Ohgi asked skeptically. He imagined the army would be all over the place looking for her if she were close by. At this hour, the street was mostly vacant.
"Unless she dropped her communicator, I'm certain." Todoh replied. Rakshata designed their communicators to come with homing devices as well, should anyone need help and couldn't call for it.
"Psst! Hey!" the radio chimed with a feminine voice.
Ohgi quickly picked up the speaker. "Fadah-san! What the hell happened!?"
"The army found my home. I had to leave most everything behind, but I still have the things I need for the mission!"
"Are you close?"
"You're in my sights." She said. "Is anyone out on the street?"
Ohgi looked around. "On this block? None that we can see."
"Good. Pull forward." They did so, coming towards a place where several woven baskets were on display. "Stop." They did so, looking around.
Todoh snatched the radio from Ohgi. "Fadah, where are you exactly?"
Their answer came to them when they heard a knock on the passenger window. Fadah was right there, nothing but her duffle bag covering her chest and standing inside a basket which she was apparently hiding in. She quickly motioned for them to open the door. Failing miserably to conceal their shock, they quickly did so. "'Bout time." She huffed as she helped herself in, using the basket cover to cover her crotch, giving Todoh a good view of something else as she crawled in. "That basket was getting sweaty."
"What's wrong with you!?" Ohgi hissed. "Are you trying to get yourself killed out here!?"
"Long story." She said, seating herself precariously between them. "Better to expose myself to you two than anyone else on the street, no?" They rolled their eyes, trying to stay focused on the road. Ohgi quickly shifted gears, bumping into something rather frightening. "Ah!" Fadah moaned as the stick touched her.
"SORRY!" Ohgi shouted, raising his hand.
"It's alright…" she sighed. "…in fact, it felt rather nice…" she smiled.
"DRIVE!" Todoh yelled, turning red. Ohgi did so, thankful the windows were tinted.
"Good work Kyoshiro, Kaname." Leouch said into his phone. "Bring her here at once."
"There's a slight…problem, Zero." Ohgi answered.
"What is that?"
"I lost all of my clothes." Fadah spoke into the radio.
Lelouch sighed. "Fadah, while aboard you will be wearing a uniform most of the time, and we will provide you with reasonable…"
"You don't understand. I lost ALL my clothes." She emphasized.
Lelouch's face immediately turned red at the realization. "I'll send Kallen into the docking bay to provide you with your uniform. And for you two gentlemen, I'd recommend some cold showers immediately afterwards."
"Yes sir!" they said.
Lelouch shut off his laptop as he walked away, sighing exasperatedly. "What is this world coming to?"
It seemed things were ready to begin. Rakshata was finally done with the knightmares; she sounded exhausted over the phone, but he could hear how proud she was on the other line. Despite Fadah's unique…trouble, she secured the items she promised she would. One piece of his strategy was still in question, but they could not afford to wait any longer. Then there was the matter of explaining another part of the plan…to one person in particular. "I hope it goes better than I'm thinking I will." Walking down the hall, he entered the briefing room. The top knights were there, along with Fadah (thankfully fully clothed, though with her knotted t-shirt Zero was convinced she was happier naked). "I know many of you have been impatient; I have too. But soon, it's about to pay off. C2, if you would." As the projector came down, CC began the slides. The first one was of the palace. "This is where the clerisy resides. As you can imagine, security is quite tight."
"They don't have knightmares there, do they?" Tamaki asked. "We could just do a siege on them."
"No. But the base is close by; an airborne knightmare, especially those of the rounds, will arrive quickly at the first sign of trouble. The empire obviously planned it that way."
"So, we need a distraction at the clerisy where they won't or are unable to call for help, and unload an assault on the base at the same time." Todoh said.
"Precisely." Zero confirmed. The next slide brought up a map. It triangulated the positions of the Sand Hawks base, the Britannian occupation base, and the Clerisy Palace. "A full out assault is possible, but not without heavy casualties. We're on the cusp of regaining our former strength, and I will not risk losing that again. So, we will be digging a tunnel. A tunnel that will open up behind the base."
"That will take time." Ohgi said.
"Not necessarily." Zero said. "The knightmares will be doing the digging. Especially the Guren." Kallen lit up for a moment. As if anticipating her reaction, Zero said "You will not be piloting the Guren on this mission. Not at first, at least." Kallen looked both puzzled and disappointed. "The knightmares will cripple the base. However, we cannot destroy the Sakuradite. If we are to maintain a presence there, the people will need an opportunity to empower themselves."
"You sure we can trust them?" Tamaki asked skeptically.
"We have to." Zero said. "Let me worry about it when the time comes."
"Even so, once we attack, the clerisy will be alerted, one way or another." Todoh said. "They'll hear it if nothing else. They will evacuate, and we'll lose leverage."
"And that's where the distraction comes in." Zero said.
"With what?" Kallen asked.
Zero just seemed to freeze up for a moment. "Fadah…would you like to explain this part?"
Fadah smirked. Patting Kallen's hand, she whispered "You're going to love this part." Kallen's eyes widened in hesitation. For some reason, that didn't sound good… "You've probably heard all about how my people prefer to have their women covered. The clerisy, however, does the exact opposite. They live in all manners of carnal sin, as the populace would say if they knew. I actually considered living there, until I realized I'd be surrendering my freedom as well."
"You should see Las Vegas sometime." Zero thought. "You'd fit right in."
"The 'distractions' will be me…" Fadah smiled. "And her." She said, pointing to Kallen.
"What!?" the red-head shouted.
"Uh…I think I see where this is going." Chiba interrupted. "With all due respect, I don't think you've got anything they haven't seen already…"
"Doubt it." Fadah said. "I'm a cut above the average woman in my region. Trust me, I've been around to get that kind of feedback." She flashed a very coy smile as everyone else squirmed uncomfortably. "And not only does Kallen fit that, she would also be considered exotic, with her light skin and red hair. We'll put on a show unlike any other they've seen before!" She then reached into her duffle bag. "And we'll do it…with these!"
She pulled out a costume, if it could be called that; the lack of clothing put that that word into question. It was clearly a belly-dancing outfit; to Kallen it may as well have been a revealing set of lingerie. The silk looked very see through, and instead of a normal bikini bottom, it had to be a thong under the hip veils. "Uh-huh! No way!" Kallen protested, standing up and throwing her arms out. "I am NOT putting that on!"
"Kallen- "Zero began.
"Is this all I am to you!?" Kallen snapped. "I've fought for you, I had your back, but the first thing that comes to your mind is a good pair of tits to get the bad guys! Well, no more of that! I put on a bunny suit, and that's it! You want to go through with this, fine! You're doing it without me!" She stormed out of the room.
"Kallen!" Zero called, only for the door to slam.
"Nice going, Zero!" Chiba said. "I understand sometimes there's a need for seduction tactics, but let Fadah handle that! She would actually enjoy it!"
"I can't do it on my own. It's a two woman job at least." Fadah said defensively. "Zero recommended CC, and she agreed, but I fear she's too small. She may catch the attention of a few, but we need ALL of them to have their eyes on us." CC's eyes narrowed as her cheeks puffed, trying to hold in a shout of frustration. "Even if someone in the clerisy is not into is, they'll at least be amazed at our assets."
Zero, meanwhile, only looked down. "I really blew it."
Kallen grunted as she kicked the bag, satisfied with the sound her shin made against it. Overall, she still didn't feel better though. She had discarded her normal uniform in exchange for a yellow jersey and black shorts, and athletic tape on her hands and feet. Thinking back on the events from earlier today, she wished she had baggier shorts and a larger shirt; something that wouldn't look like her body would stretch to the limit. She continued on, punching, kicking, and all sorts of strikes against the bag, doing her best to hit it across the room. After a long time, she finally felt exhaustion kick in, and leaned against the bag, supporting herself. "Feeling better?"
Kallen looked to see Fadah walk into the gym. "I will once you go." She muttered, flapping the towel against her shoulder.
"I thought you were angry at Zero." Fadah said. "Though I suppose I can understand anger directed at me too."
"All the more reason for you to get lost." Kallen warned her, wiping herself with the towel as she walked over to the bar bell, sliding under it.
Fadah took note as she began to bench. "115 kilos. And in spite of all that, you look very supple and curvy. Impressive." Fadah noted.
"So, what are you here for?" Kallen asked between lifts. "An apology? A sales pitch to debase myself?"
Fadah sighed as she pulled out a cigarette, taking a seat on the bench next to her. "Depending on your view, kind of both." Taking a puff, she said "You know, my father was pretty relaxed when it came to women. He still would have ordered me to cover up the essentials and scared the pants off any boy I brought home, even just as a friend, but other than that, he was pretty ahead of his time."
"What happened to him?" Kallen asked.
"Britannia happened." Fadah said. "Died in the resistance." Kallen said nothing, continuing to sweat bullets. "How 'bout you?" Fadah asked. "What was your parents' attitudes towards sex? And your assets?"
Kallen stopped. "My father moved to the homeland around my early teens. He still visited, but he was out on business most of the time. He didn't seem to notice."
"Your father was Britannian?"
"Yes. And my mother was Japanese. I'd rather not get into it."
"Fair enough. Then would you please answer my original question?"
Kallen placed the bar bell back in place; as irritated as she was, this woman was not going away. Sitting up, he obliged her. "My mother, my real mother, worked as a maid for him and my stepmother. So no one really freaked out when I developed more and faster than most girls in my region. Except, maybe…my brother."
"Ah." Fadah nodded, giving what looked to be a nostalgic smile. "Brothers can be a lot like fathers in some ways."
"He chased away a lot of other kids who tried to hit on me. At first, I brushed them off on my own; I've always been bit of a tomboy." She breathed deep. "Then, there was this one kid. Okusa."
"Good looking?"
"He was cute." Kallen said, smiling slightly and blushing. "We were about 13. The attraction was mutual. Naoto got furious. But we snuck off to do what horny teenagers did."
"So…you did it?"
"NO!" Kallen shouted, her entire head matching her hair. Her nostalgic joy then turned to shame. "It did get serious. It probably would have progressed to that level, but for the most part we kept our clothes on; hands certainly went places though. But one day, when I was running over to one of our dates, I caught him with his friends, bragging about how he was…going to 'do' me and the stuff he had to put up with to get me to that point. It didn't help with the other things he said about my body. Words that…showed me I meant nothing to him."
Fadah sighed, rolling her eyes. "Yup. I've met my fair share of kids like that. It seems to be something we all have to go through, almost like a cruel rite of passage." Taking another puff, she suddenly asked "So, you hate men?"
"Of course I don't!" Kallen sighed, her patience running thin. "I'm friends with Ohgi and Tamaki! I respect and trust Todoh! They may drive me crazy at times, but they're good people! I'm just…cautious." She finally calmed down. "I just don't want to go through that again."
"Smart." Fadah said. "You should probably know that I've seen women manipulate their partners too. Usually for different reasons. But not always" Kallen sighed in reluctant agreement, sitting up and taking a sip of water. "So tell me one other thing; do you hate your body?" Fadah asked, genuinely curious.
Kallen spat out her water at the question. "WHAT!?"
"You did not seem to like the idea of showing off some skin." Fadah put it.
Kallen seemed to be at a loss for words. "I…I haven't thought about it." She reluctantly answered.
"I'd imagine others did." Fadah shot back.
"Remember that boy I mentioned?" Kallen said. "He kept going on about my 'rack'…since then, I didn't like showing off when I could help it." Kallen fell back. "And back then I was only a C cup. I sometimes thought about finding him again to show him how I've changed…" Fadah raised an eyebrow. "And clock him where the sun doesn't shine." She growled.
Fadah laughed. "Brilliant!" Calming down, she said "I'd imagine you covered yourself head to toe in long coats and what not since then."
"No, not that extreme! I had to wear practical clothing as a rebel! I just didn't want to look…slutty."
"Ah." Fadah nodded in understanding. "My stance on such a term might be a bit skewed. In fact, by most standards, with the way I lived my life, I've probably blown that word out the water." She paused to take another puff. "Puberty was a difficult time in my life, just discovering who I was. Wasn't easy to explore sex outside of marriage then, and it's downright dangerous now. Even as girls, we were taught to be decent, avoid shaming the family's honor, all that. Of course, certain materials from other corners of the globe leaked in; my brother got some of them from friends."
"Oh god…" Kallen lowered her face into her palms. "PORN!"
Fadah laughed, knowing Kallen put two and two together. "Yes. I discovered the world of bikinis and lingerie…among other things."
"I can only imagine." Kallen muttered.
"The contradiction seems…odd. Here, my people shame each other for showing off their bodies like that to strangers, and as such make no such things in our limited entertainment industry. Elsewhere, you make them…and yet you shame those who participate in such things."
Kallen chuckled. "I hate to admit it, but you've got a point. I guess women elsewhere just want to be seen as something more than objects, used for something more than breeding." Kallen shrugged. "I guess Free Markets wouldn't hesitate to capitalize on the desire to see women who would otherwise turn them down."
"Well, here we have none of those legally and we're still viewed as cattle. More so than other parts of the globe." Fadah growled. "So I don't see the correlation."
"So, when you saw it…you just up and wanted to do it?" Kallen asked skeptically.
"I got curious." Fadah chuckled, though Kallen could hear the regret in her voice. "Found some boys, and here before you is the woman I am today." Fadah said, lying on her own bench. "I learned the hard way they took advantage of me back then. But I enjoyed the physical aspect of it at least, despite some rough starts. So, I learned who to trust and who not to overtime…"
"Did you ever find someone?" Kallen interrupted, her curiosity getting the better of her.
"Oh no." Fadah cackled. "I'm not into commitment. I like the idea of experiencing a new person every chance I get. And I started to like showing off…in safe places, of course."
"Did anyone find out?"
"A friend of mine, very conservative." Fadah said, her sly smile finally disappearing to a sad frown. "I tried to get her into it, and she was so frightened and disgusted with me. She broke off our friendship after that. I tried to mend things, but her parents' belief was too deeply ingrained in her." Fadah quickly took another puff of her almost-gone cigarette. "I'll thank her for this much though. She didn't tell anybody, at least."
"So, what's your point?" Kallen sighed. "We've been going on about sexuality and what I guess you think passes for feminism, but I still don't understand where all of this is leading."
"You're beautiful, Kallen." Fadah said. "And it scares you. You just want to be seen as one of the crew that you're a soldier first and foremost, just like them. But they already do. Whatever glances they snuck at you or things that go on in their head, they see you as NOTHING but a soldier. Have they ever suggested you become the crew's sex slave?"
"NO!" Kallen yelled, hurt that she would even suggest they were those kinds of people.
"Then what's the big deal?" Fadah asked, finally blowing out her used cigarette. "You wore a bunny suit to rescue Zero, didn't you?"
"It's…" Kallen stuttered, ignoring the fact that someone had to tell her.
"Point is, you were already willing to do that. I don't see this as any different. Maybe the enemy did see you as a pair of tits and nice legs. But so what? They're the enemy; if they see you as nothing but an object, they won't consider you as a threat. They let their guard down, and that's when you strike." Fadah then gave a smirk. "I imagine though, there's one other thing holding you back. Something most other girls hope for, though the tough ones like you never admit it." Kallen started to blush, knowing where she was going with this. "True love. I'm not sure if I'll find that, but I do wonder at times. Anyway, you're worried that if people see you dressed skimpy, even for a good purpose, they will not want a relationship with you."
"I don't have time for a boyfriend." Kallen tried to insist.
"Not now. But I can see by the look in your eyes you're hoping for it someday." Kallen said nothing. "Look, you aren't doing this for money. You aren't doing this for some stranger to take you to bed, which was NOT part of the plan. And no one is going to see this. You're doing it for the rebellion. You're not the first woman in war to use seduction as a tool; many of them got married later in life and got respectable careers and positions. Whatever your fear, let it go. I consider fear of fighting and fear of sex the same; to do it, you simply have to let go of the fear and push on ahead, no matter what." She got up and walked on out of the gym. "By the way, the whole thing was my idea." She said before she left. "You really should apologize to your commander soon." Kallen's eyes widened, and looked down on the floor.
Later, Kallen sat in the cafeteria, staring at a good dish of beef teriyaki. She wanted to eat, but her conversation with Fadah echoed in her mind. "Feeling any better?"
Kallen looked up to see Ohgi sit across from her, bringing his own meal. "A little, I guess." Ohgi nodded, saying no more. After a moment, Kallen decided to ask what was nagging her. 'Ohgi?"
"Yes?"
"Do you think I was wrong in refusing the mission?"
Ohgi chuckled, to her surprise. "Not necessarily. Granted, I don't think you should have blown up like that. But we all understood where you were coming from. Zero probably could have presented it better too."
Kallen fooled with her chopsticks. "Sex has been…difficult for me to tackle, you know?"
"I'd imagine by 'difficult' you mean you just ignored the topic altogether since you became a rebel." Ohgi stated plainly. "And now that you're becoming aware of how you look and what's out there, it frightens you."
"Pretty much." Kallen sighed.
"You know, Naoto was worried about you growing up." He said. "We all noticed how you were…growing." He finished awkwardly. "He worried that you'd run into a bad situation, or use your body in the 'wrong way'." He clarified.
"He thought I would?"
"He was just being a paranoid brother." Ohgi said, waving it off. "You always had a lot of respect for yourself; we all admired that about you. We felt nothing would go wrong in that regard, even him deep down. I figured one way or another, you would figure out what to do. If we got Britannia out, anyway."
Kallen tapped her fingers. "Ohgi, when I went to retrieve Zero…"
"Yes, the Bunny suit." Ohgi sighed. "CC told us."
"Of course it was her." Kallen rolled her eyes. "What would you think…if I did that for real? Being a Bunny Girl?"
Ohgi coughed, the question taking him by surprise. "Well, Naoto wouldn't be happy. No helping that. But in the end, a Bunny Girl is just a certain type of waitress, nothing more."
"On paper, anyway." Kallen said. "I've seen things go down…"
"Let's stick with what's supposed to be and ignore what is for the moment." Ohgi interrupted. "As long as you didn't stop your aspirations there, I would've supported you. Now, if you were aiming to become a stripper or a prostitute, that would be a different matter altogether. But, I'd like to think somehow we could remain friends." Kallen took his words into consideration. "I can see you're conflicted about the plan. But, if you don't mind me saying so, I do see the practicality in it. I'm sure Zero-sama tried to find other ways. The only advice I can give you…if you feel you cannot pull it off, don't do it. Your head needs to be in the game. And even though we're soldiers, I think we have the right to at least speak out about how we're used."
Kallen's mouth turned to a slight smile. "Thanks, Ohgi. You really know what to say."
Ohgi laughed nervously, scratching the back of his head. "I'm just giving you my honest thoughts on the matter. You can take the advice or leave it."
Kallen quickly gulped down the rest of her food, and put the tray away. "I've made my decision."
"Perhaps you should focus more on the plan, and less on getting Kallen back." CC said, clutching her cheese-kun doll as she lay on the bed.
Lelouch, staring at his laptop, blushed in surprise. "You can't get back what you never had." Lelouch sighed. "Besides, I AM thinking of ways to alter the plan."
"And?" CC asked.
"Well, Fadah seemed to disagree, but we may have to use you…if that's okay with you, of course."
"I've done it before, on one of my many travels back in the past."
Lelouch would pry about it later. "Okay then. You're experienced, so…"
"Zero-sama." Kallen's voice called over the intercom. "I need to talk to you."
Lelouch hesitated. Then, he called "Come in."
Kallen entered, and Lelouch swiveled up. The two tried to say something, but had trouble with the words, and looked away. Reluctantly, Kallen began. "Look, Lelouch, I…"
"You don't have to apologize for anything." Lelouch said, holding up his hand. "I was afraid that would happen…"
"Fadah told me she was the one who came up with the idea."
"She was also more enthused about the idea as well." Lelouch shrugged. "I suggested other methods, but she was right about the clerisy; they have a very high demand for beautiful women."
"And I was the first choice." Kallen sighed, irritated again.
"Hers anyway." Lelouch said.
Kallen blinked in surprise. "Who was your first choice?" Kallen asked.
"I didn't really have one." He shrugged sheepishly. "I suggested CC, but Fadah wasn't too confident in her being to the clerisy's liking." CC held in a growl as she was listening in on the conversation. "She was most insistent on you."
"I see…" Kallen took a second to gather her words. "I'm sorry I blew up like that. I…" She stuttered. "…I just get uncomfortable about using my body like that."
"I know." Lelouch answered. "That's…that's why I decided to let Fadah explain that part of the plan."
"What?"
"I felt the situation would have been a little bit less chaotic if you heard the plan from her." He clarified. "I guess I should have just been courageous enough to say it myself to your face." He looked away, scratching his hair.
Kallen smiled slightly. "It wasn't cowardly; it was smart. It would have been most awkward if you just said that to my face in front of everyone."
Lelouch finally began to smile and chuckled a bit. "Yes. I'd imagine Zero does not need to add 'pervert' to his reputation." His face turned serious again. "Look, Kallen. We just needed an answer from you. If you don't want to do it, it's fine. We'll find…"
"I'll do it." Kallen said, with no hesitation. "Fadah and I talked about it. I yelled out of fear of how everyone HERE would see me…but I realize I have nothing to fear from any of you. You all KNOW that's not me."
Lelouch seemed to be genuinely happy about this. "I see…but now that your conscious is clear, I think it wise to think about it and consider alternatives…"
"Lelouch." She held up her hand. "I appreciate you trying to find a more agreeable role for me, treating me with respect and allowing me to have a say. But we don't have the luxury to conduct modesty evaluations. I understand why I was chosen, and I'll do it."
Lelouch sighed, and grasped Kallen's hands. "Kallen, thanks." No more needed to be said.
"Well, that matter may have been resolved, but I'm still going."
The two looked to see CC, standing up giving off her best game pose, lying on her side with one hand on her face and the other on her hips. "Seems like you're trying to prove something." Kallen muttered.
Daniel and Monica waited as the air craft slowly descended onto the concrete runway below, only a few feet away from them. "So, is this engineer good?" Monica asked. They were expecting the famous Lloyd Asplund, but he cancelled at the last minute and sent someone else in his place
"She was recommended by Lloyd. As it turns out, she needs Sakuradite for her own project as well, so our interests are intertwined." He answered.
As it descended, the doors opened. A rather demure girl in glasses descended. "Miss Einstein." Daniel called. "I am Sir Daniel Horst, the Knight of Eight; this is my partner, Madam Monica Kruszweski, the Knight of Twelve."
"Hello." She said cheerily.
"Nice to meet you both." Nina responded politely. "I'm sorry Lloyd could not make it; he is busy with his other work. However, we have brought some prototype knightmares ready for field testing."
"Good." Daniel said as he looked at the screen of his tablet, looking at their specs. "Your timing couldn't have been more impeccable. Zero is here; we've tried tracking one of his allies, but she escaped. So, now we're preparing for them to come to us." Nina's eyes widened in surprise. "We'll begin field testing of the new models soon; I have a few pilots in mind."
"Very well then." Nina agreed. "Though, I was hoping soldiers of your caliber would be willing to try them out…"
"Please wheel them into hangar bay 12; now, let us convene in my office. We'll talk about it inside." He finally smiled. "We should hurry; I can see that you are about to pass out at any second from this damned heat."
Nina panted as she wiped her face down with a handkerchief; her brown dress certainly wasn't suited for this weather. "Thank you, kind sir." All prepared to steel their minds for the coming storm; whoever won this conflict would still suffer.
Well, there you have it! If the chess game looks a bit dumb…you're not wrong. I simply went online, played with both sides of the board, and that was what I came up with. And I am an absolutely TERRIBLE chess player.
I do understand if some of my readers will be rolling their eyes at Kallen's and Fadah's conversation. It was meant to be a conversation on fanservice and women objectification in general, but I'm hoping it gets the reader thinking instead of drawing a specific conclusion from it. While fanservice, if used wrong, can be detrimental to a story, few can deny the enjoyment fans may get out of it, including me.
And of course, there's the issue of unrealistically curvy women, which CG and many, many more anime are full of. I guess I'm trying to say that I can understand how some people can be bothered by that, but we should critique characters as characters, first and foremost. Not to mention that across other media, many MEN have also been drawn with ridiculous proportions, so take that as you will. I guess I'm saying not to rule the character out if she/he has ridiculous proportions or shows a lot of skin. I'm guessing that viewpoint is what led to this.
But hey, your opinion may be different from mine, and that's fine. Make of it what you will; I'm not going to beat you over the head with these things. And whatever "fanservice" I do will generally have a larger purpose.
Next time: The operation begins!