Code Geass: Absolute Obediance

by Abhinav11119

Lelouch had lost everything—the Black Rebellion had failed, Nunally was taken, and he knelt in chains before the Emperor, betrayed by his former best friend. Stripped of hope, his identity about to be erased, despair turned to rage. In his darkest moment, Lelouch performed a miracle, rising from insignificance to become the most powerful man in the world.

4. Chapter 4: The Miracles Begin Anew

Code Geass: Absolute Obedience
Chapter 4: The Miracles Begin Anew

Pizza Hut
Tokyo Settlement – Japan

The Tokyo Settlement had returned to what could loosely be called normal—at least as normal as a city could feel after enduring the largest Knightmare battle in history. The scars of destruction were still visible, and the tension lingered in the air, a constant reminder of the chaos that had unfolded.

For CC, however, normalcy was an illusion.

After the catastrophic battle on Kaminejima Island, she had barely managed to escape the wreckage of her Knightmare. The aftermath had been a blur of survival, her mind consumed by worry and uncertainty. By the time she learned what had happened to Lelouch, it was already too late—he had been captured by VV and Suzaku.

The thought of losing yet another contractor had initially filled her with fury. Another failure. Another life entrusted to her that she couldn't protect. Worse, she had been forced to confront the bitter truth of her own selfishness. Lelouch had been her best chance at finally ending her cursed existence, yet his trust in her had turned into another burden of guilt she couldn't shake.

But soon, through the faint link forged by their contract, her fears eased. Lelouch was alive.

He hadn't been executed by Suzaku, as she'd first feared. That knowledge brought a flicker of relief, but the question of why lingered. What plans did VV and Charles have for him? And what role did Lelouch now play in their grand, twisted vision for the world?

Her recent conversation with Marianne had answered some of her questions, but it had also raised others—questions with no rational answers. She knew that Charles harbored a twisted sense of love for Lelouch and Nunnally, possibly the only children he genuinely cared for.

It was why Lelouch's rebellion had been allowed to unfold rather than crushed at its inception. It was why Lelouch had been spared despite defying the Empire. But what CC hadn't anticipated was Charles's decision to make Lelouch the centerpiece of his grand plan.

The Emperor of their new world, CC thought bitterly. The idea unsettled her.

More baffling was the Emperor's decision to let Lelouch retain his memories of his sister and his mother. Such sentiments were liabilities, vulnerabilities that could jeopardize their plans. Yet Charles had allowed it, and now Lelouch was a prince again. Getting in contact with him would be far more difficult.

CC sighed, absently twirling the last slice of her pizza. At least her talk with Marianne hadn't been entirely grim. Sharing stories about the so-called "Ice Prince of Ashford" and his many misadventures with women had been amusing, especially seeing Marianne's reactions.

Still, humor was fleeting. She knew what the logical move was now: find a new contractor. Someone who could fulfill her wish. Perhaps even align herself with Charles and Marianne, helping them bring about Ragnarök and freeing herself from the endless curse of her Code.

But then, memories of Mao resurfaced, haunting her. His broken mind, his descent into madness, and the ruin her choices had wrought were scars she carried deeply.

Not again.

Her resolve hardened. She would not repeat the same mistakes. She wouldn't abandon Lelouch to whatever fate Charles had devised, nor would she allow herself to slip back into self-serving indifference.

Finishing the last piece of her pizza, she muttered under her breath, "Not again," and rose from her seat.

The fast-food restaurant buzzed with mundane chatter, oblivious to the storm brewing in her mind. CC pulled up her hood as she exited, stepping into the Tokyo Settlement's bustling streets.

Totomo Agency
Cambodia

In a dimly lit room overlooking the sprawling construction site of a massive facility, an elegant man clad in immaculate white stood motionless, his eyes fixed on the broadcast of Britannia's newest prince addressing the world. Schneizel el Britannia, the Second Prince of Britannia, watched with a faint smile—a mixture of amusement and curiosity.

"Hmm. Quite interesting, wouldn't you say, Kanon?" Schneizel said, his smooth, measured voice breaking the silence.

Kanon Maldini, standing just a step behind his prince, adjusted his glasses and responded in his usual composed tone. "I fail to see how this changes anything, Your Highness. We were informed of this ceremony days ago, and you had already accounted for how this might affect your Grand Design. Even factoring in your overestimation of your half-brother, you concluded he poses no significant threat. In fact, you speculated he might even serve as a useful ally."

Schneizel's smile deepened as he turned away from the screen, his gaze drifting toward the towering structure under construction within the vast complex. "Yes, Kanon, but at the time, I assumed Father would keep him on a much tighter leash. And I certainly didn't anticipate Lelouch publicly opposing the Empire's guiding principle—Father's guiding principle—on such a stage."

Kanon raised an eyebrow, a faint glimmer of curiosity flickering in his eyes. "It is a bold move, I'll grant you that. But isn't he simply making himself a target? The nobility and the more devout royals, who revere Saint Darwin's philosophy, will not take kindly to such a declaration."

Schneizel chuckled softly, the sound devoid of warmth. "Indeed, it's bold. But what intrigues me is not his audacity—it's the fact that he's still alive. Father is not known for tolerating insubordination, especially when delivered so publicly. He wouldn't hesitate to crush even his own blood if it threatened the Empire's stability. And yet, Lelouch remains. That alone warrants further consideration."

His tone grew quieter, more reflective. "And Lelouch himself… He is no fool. A public confrontation of this magnitude isn't something he would do lightly. He understands the risks, especially after the last time, which means he has accounted for them. The question is: what does he know that we don't?"

Schneizel began to walk toward the massive structure at the heart of the facility, his footsteps echoing in the cavernous space. Kanon followed close behind, holding a report in his hands.

"What are you suggesting, Your Highness?" Kanon asked, his brow furrowing slightly.

Schneizel paused, glancing over his shoulder. "I'm suggesting that there are variables at play here—unknowns that we've yet to uncover. And as you well know, Kanon, I don't like operating in the dark. Uncertainty is dangerous. It threatens the Grand Design."

Kanon nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed. Though, on a more positive note, I have updates regarding our progress." He handed the report to Schneizel. "Thanks to the data obtained by the Camelot division, Damocles is now equipped with full Blaze Luminous shielding. Installation of the float systems has also begun, though they may not be operational for some time."

Schneizel's eyes scanned the report briefly. "And what of the main weapon? Any progress?"

Kanon's expression darkened slightly. "Unfortunately, no. Conventional weapons have already proven ineffective at the required scale and were dismissed early in the process. The VARIS system, while promising in smaller applications, was never designed for something of this magnitude. Sakuradite bombs have proven wasteful and inefficient. As for Hadron cannons…" He trailed off, shaking his head. "The energy demands are simply too great. Incorporating them would destabilize the float and Blaze Luminous systems."

Schneizel sighed, his smile fading. "Disappointing. It seems Lloyd is too preoccupied with his precious Lancelot. While that 'shiny toy' may win battles—or even wars—this"—he gestured toward the structure in the distance—"will end them entirely."

Kanon adjusted his glasses. "I agree, Your Highness. However, I came across something that may prove useful." He handed Schneizel a datapad.

Schneizel's eyes scanned the contents of the file labeled Ashford Academy: Ganymede Incident. His gaze lingered on the image of a green-haired girl.

"Interesting," he murmured, his faint smile returning. "This might provide the results we need."

Kanon tilted his head slightly. "Shall I begin preparations, Your Highness?"

Schneizel didn't answer immediately, his eyes still fixed on the datapad. After a moment, he closed it and handed it back. "Yes. Let's see what she's capable of."

Kanon bowed slightly, a subtle smirk playing on his lips. "As you wish, Your Highness."

Camelot Research Center
Pendragon

Lloyd Asplund paced back and forth across the lab floor, his usual energy bordering on manic. His sharp eyes darted between the schematics of a new Knightmare Frame projected on the holo-display. The design bore a resemblance to the Lancelot stationed in the lab, yet key modifications made it distinct—sleeker, faster, and, in Lloyd's mind, revolutionary.

"How could he do this?" Lloyd exclaimed, throwing his arms in the air dramatically. "The Conquista unit will change warfare as we know it! Just like the Ganymede made tanks obsolete, this will render air forces irrelevant!" His tone was an exasperated whine, as though the entire world had conspired to sabotage his genius.

Cecile Croomy, standing nearby with her arms crossed, let out a weary sigh. "Prince Schneizel has cut our budget, Lloyd. Besides, we have a bigger problem: we don't even have a Devicer for the Lancelot as it is. Even if you finish the Conquista, no one outside of the Knights of the Round could pilot it."

Lloyd spun on his heel, gesturing wildly toward the holo-display. "Oh, why does everything have to go so terribly wrong just as I'm nearing perfection? Schneizel had to cut our funding, and Suzaku just had to get himself executed—"

"Stop!" Cecile's voice rang out, sharp and desperate.

Lloyd blinked, startled by her outburst, and tilted his head quizzically.

"We don't know that, Lloyd!" she continued, her voice trembling slightly.

Lloyd's expression turned oddly sympathetic for a brief moment, but his tone remained matter-of-fact. "Oh, come now, Cecile. Suzaku disobeyed the Viceroy's orders, recklessly charged into battle, and was captured. And now, after being summoned to Pendragon, he's gone missing. Do you really think it's a coincidence?"

Cecile faltered, her lips trembling as she struggled to respond. Deep down, she knew Lloyd's assessment wasn't entirely wrong.

Lloyd shrugged, returning his focus to the schematics. "Now, not only do I have to secure a new benefactor, but I also need to find another Devicer capable of handling my masterpiece. This delays everything immeasurably."

Cecile's fists clenched at her sides, and faint tears welled in her eyes. "Lloyd," she muttered, her voice heavy with emotion, "for once, can't you act like a human being?"

Lloyd stopped mid-step, turning to face her. He sighed, rubbing the back of his head as though her request were an impossible burden. "Cecile, you already know I'm a sociopath," he said with a wry smile. "That said, I have tried. I've done everything I can to find out about Suzaku's predicament. I even approached Schneizel himself, and even that cheap bastard did not have any news of Suzaku."

Normally, Cecile would have scolded Lloyd for speaking so flippantly about a prince of the Empire, but she couldn't bring herself to care. Her mind was consumed with worry.

She turned away, staring at the Lancelot standing in the center of the lab. It was pristine and gleaming, a symbol of perfection that had come to define Suzaku's skill as a pilot. But without him, it was nothing more than a hollow shell.

Cecile was jolted from her thoughts by the hurried arrival of a research aide, who stumbled into the lab, panting heavily. "W-We have a visitor!" the aide stammered, his face pale.

Lloyd barely spared him a glance, dismissively waving his hand. "I don't recall having any appointments today. I'm far too busy refining the Conquista's schematics to make it affordable for that cheap bastard Schneizel to fund it," he muttered, pacing back and forth.

"But sir, it's… it's…" the aide began, but his words trailed off as the doors opened again.

A calm, smooth voice interrupted the aide's struggle to explain. "I'm not sure referring to my brother as 'cheap' is the best way to win his favor, Mr. Asplund."

Lelouch vi Britannia entered the room, his expression composed but with a faint smile playing on his lips.

Lloyd turned, his eyebrows shooting up in mild surprise, though his demeanor remained as casual as ever. "Ah, Your Highness! We weren't informed of your visit," he said, scratching his head in a manner that resembled a child caught sneaking sweets rather than a man who had just committed high treason.

Cecile, however, reacted with immediate panic. She hurried forward, bowing deeply. "Your Highness, please forgive my superior's unjustifiable remarks—"

Lelouch raised a hand, silencing her mid-apology. "It's quite all right. It's not my place to be offended on my brother's behalf. Besides, I doubt Schneizel would care," he said lightly, his gaze already drifting toward the Lancelot standing tall in the center of the lab.

Cecile let out a quiet sigh of relief, but her tension remained palpable.

Lelouch approached the Knightmare Frame, his expression unreadable. The Lancelot, the gleaming white machine that had thwarted his plans time and again, stood before him like a specter of his past failures.

"Like what you see, Your Highness?" Lloyd asked, grinning as he noted Lelouch's lingering gaze.

"Yes," Lelouch admitted, his tone measured. "I've read the battle reports from the Black Rebellion. Suffice it to say, this one machine likely caused more damage to the Black Knights than all other Britannian forces combined."

Lloyd's grin widened. "Well, I suppose that's one way to describe it. But don't get too attached! This will soon be nothing more than a relic of the past."

Lelouch arched an eyebrow with intrigue. "Oh? And what exactly do you mean by that, Professor?"

With a flourish, Lloyd activated a nearby holo-display, projecting the schematics of his new design. "Behold: the Lancelot Conquista! This is the future of Knightmares. It features an integrated float system for prolonged flight, full Blaze Luminous coverage, and a handheld Hadron Cannon—all while being faster and more maneuverable than the original Lancelot!" Lloyd's voice brimmed with excitement, his hands gesturing wildly at the display.

Lelouch studied the design intently, his mind racing. The sheer destructive potential of the Conquista was terrifying. Combining the agility of the Lancelot with devastating firepower and sustained aerial combat capabilities could render any battlefield entirely one-sided. In the hands of a skilled pilot like Suzaku—or Kallen—it could decide the outcome of entire wars single-handedly.

"That's… impressive," Lelouch said carefully, masking his unease. "It makes me wonder why my brother would pull funding from such a promising project, especially after the Lancelot's success in Area 11."

Lloyd's lips pursed in a pout. "I wonder that too," he grumbled, only to receive a sharp elbow to the ribs from Cecile.

"Regardless," Lelouch continued smoothly, "most of my mother's estate has been transferred to me. It would be a disservice to her memory not to invest in a project of this caliber."

Lloyd's eyes lit up with childlike glee. "Splendid! With proper funding, my masterpiece will be back on schedule! Now all I need is a capable Devicer."

Feigning ignorance, Lelouch tilted his head. "What happened to Suzaku?"

Cecile, who had been silently observing, suddenly froze. Her eyes widened as recognition dawned—she had seen Lelouch before. He had been one of Suzaku's classmates at Ashford Academy.

Before she could speak, Lelouch continued, his voice tinged with familiarity. "We went to the same school in Area 11. We were friends long before that, but I haven't been able to contact him since the Black Rebellion. Do you know where he is?"

Lloyd shrugged nonchalantly, but Cecile's face fell, her expression downcast. "We don't know," she admitted quietly. "He was summoned to Pendragon after the rebellion, but… he disobeyed the Viceroy's orders during the battle. And now he's… missing."

Lelouch gave her a warm, charismatic smile. "That's unusual for Suzaku. He's never been one to question authority. But don't worry—I'll see what I can do to find him."

The prince's words brought a flicker of hope to Cecile's face. Direct intervention from a royal could change even the bleakest circumstances.

"Now then," Lelouch said, his tone brightening. "Miss Cecile, would you be so kind as to give me a tour of the facility? It's only fitting that I familiarize myself with what I'm funding."

"Yes… Of course, Your Highness," Cecile said, nodding quickly.

"Villeta," Lelouch added, turning to his subordinate, "arrange the necessary documentation with Mr. Asplund."

As Cecile led Lelouch through the facility's sprawling labs and engineering bays, he slipped a small data stick from his pocket, holding it out toward her.

"What's this for, Your Highness?" she asked politely, glancing at the device.

"Oh, nothing too important," Lelouch replied, his voice calm as he motioned his hands to his eyes revealing a crimson glow in his left eye.

Black Knights Warehouse
Tokyo Settlement

Kallen Kozuki adjusted her black Knights uniform as she approached the entrance of the warehouse. It felt strange wearing it again after three weeks of aimless wandering, despair, and doubt. Despite the lingering bitterness from her conversation with Lelouch, she couldn't deny the sense of purpose it had given her.

Purpose. Hope. Two things she hadn't felt since the rebellion's collapse.

Not that her anger had entirely subsided. She was still furious at Lelouch for his lies and manipulations. Trusting him again would take time—if it ever happened at all. But for now, the tiniest spark of hope for freeing her friends outweighed her lingering resentment.

Reaching the hidden entrance, she punched in her old code. The door remained stubbornly locked, and a gratingly familiar voice crackled over the intercom. "State your name and purpose."

"It's me, Kozuki!" Kallen barked, already annoyed.

"I… I need confirmation. We can't just—"

"Open the damn door before I kick it in!" Kallen snapped, her frustration boiling over.

After a moment's hesitation, the operator relented with a muttered apology, and the door creaked open.

Inside, the base was dimly lit and cramped, a far cry from the bustling hub it had once been. Supplies were scattered haphazardly, and the air was heavy with defeat. Kallen barely had time to take it all in before she was greeted by a familiar voice.

"Kozuki!" Kōsetsu Urabe called out, striding toward her with an uncharacteristically cheerful demeanor. "Glad to see you back. Thought you'd lost the fight in you after the big man went missing."

He gestured toward the back of the warehouse, where a veiled Knightmare stood. "We even saved your ride for you."

Kallen's eyes widened slightly as she approached the Guren Mk-II. "Rakshata and her team were in a hurry to get out. They couldn't take it with them," Urabe explained. "I tried piloting it myself, but… yeah, let's just say I'll stick with my Gekka."

Kallen ran her fingers along the frame of the Guren, a bittersweet sense of familiarity washing over her. She turned back to Urabe, her expression neutral but her tone resolute. "We've received orders. You're to mobilize all remaining Black Knight forces by 4 PM today."

Urabe's smile faded into disbelief. "Orders? From who?"

"From Zero," Kallen said firmly. "We're launching simultaneous assaults on the Viceroy Palace and the prison complex."

Urabe stared at her, slack-jawed. "You've got to be kidding me." He let out a disbelieving laugh. "We've got, what? Twelve Burais, a Gekka, and the Guren? The Knight Police alone could wipe us out, and you're talking about attacking the two most heavily fortified locations in the entire Area?"

Before Kallen could respond, Urabe continued, his tone growing sharper. "And Zero? The man's been MIA since the rebellion fell apart, and now he suddenly shows up with a suicide mission? Come on."

Kallen's fists clenched, but she forced herself to remain calm. She understood his frustration—she felt it too. The only reason she was here was sheer desperation. If they didn't act now, the captured Black Knights—and the Kyoto House—would be executed.

"Yes," she admitted, her voice steady despite her own doubts. "But your forces will only attack the prison. Zero and I will lead the assault on the Viceroy Palace to draw their attention."

Urabe's incredulous laughter returned. "You and Zero? What, has he got a secret army hiding somewhere? Because unless he does, this plan's insane."

Kallen hesitated. He probably does, she thought bitterly, recalling Lelouch's heritage. Out loud, she said, "I wasn't given the specifics. All I know is that it'll be just the two of us at the Palace."

Urabe shook his head, letting out a soft chuckle. "Well, hell. Not like we've got many options. Starvation's not exactly an honorable way to go. At least this way, we'll die fighting for something." He paused, his expression softening. "But, Kozuki… I've got one question for you."

"What is it?"

"What happened to him? At the Battle of Tokyo. He wasn't captured, he wasn't killed—so why did he abandon us?"

Kallen froze. Her mind raced back to her conversation with Lelouch. He had told her the truth—or at least what he claimed was the truth. But now, staring into Urabe's expectant eyes, she found herself hesitating.

"He was injured by the Lancelot," she said finally, the words feeling heavy on her tongue. "His communication systems were damaged, and he was stranded on an island."

It was a lie, and she hated herself for telling it. But why had she? Lelouch had asked her to keep his identity a secret, but that wasn't why she did it. Deep down, she realized the truth: despite everything, she wanted Lelouch to trust her. Maybe then, she could finally learn the whole truth.

Urabe sighed, accepting her answer. "Figures. That damn Lancelot." He straightened up, his resolve hardening. "All right, Kozuki. You've got my support. Let's get to work."

As Kallen watched Urabe walk off to rally the remaining Black Knights, a mix of emotions churned within her. Anger, doubt, and guilt mingled with a flicker of hope she couldn't quite extinguish.

For better or worse, Zero was back. And this time, she wasn't sure if she was following a leader—or her own delusions.

Aries Villa
Pendragon – 25th September, 8:30 PM PST

Lelouch sat beside Nunnally's bed, gently tucking the blanket around her. The soft glow of the bedside lamp cast a warm light over her serene face. For the past three weeks, this had become his nightly ritual. It was a rare moment of calm amidst the storm that had become his life—a fleeting reprieve from the lies, the schemes, and the weight of the mask he was about to don once more.

Ever since becoming Zero, his time with Nunnally had been painfully scarce.

"Good night, Nunnally," he whispered, brushing a strand of hair from her face.

"Good night, Brother," she replied with a smile, her voice soft and steady. "Thank you for being here."

Her words were a dagger to his heart. He could see the lightness in her demeanor, the glimmers of happiness that had begun to return despite their precarious situation. It was cruel, he thought, to give her this semblance of peace, knowing that he would soon be leaving her side once more. But this was a cruelty he had to bear, for her sake and for the sake of the world he envisioned.

As he rose from her bedside and made his way to the door, his mind churned with the decisions he had made and the ones that lay ahead. With the Emperor now under his Geass, Lelouch had the power to reshape the world from within. He could free Japan, dismantle the Geass Order, and eliminate his enemies—all without dawning the mask of zero.

And yet, it wasn't enough.

Lelouch vi Britannia was a prince, a member of the same imperial family that embodied oppression and tyranny. To the world, he would always be a symbol of Britannia's ideals, no matter what actions he took. Even if he freed Japan, even if he toppled the Geass Order, his name would carry the weight of the empire's sins.

But Zero was different.

Zero was not bound by bloodlines or titles. Zero was a symbol—a mask that could inspire hope, ignite revolutions, and tear down the very foundations of Britannia's ideals. While Lelouch vi Britannia might be seen as a self-serving royal enforcing his own vision on the world, Zero could stand for something greater: justice, freedom, and the will of the people.

This distinction was what drove Lelouch to take up the mask again, despite the risks and the lies it required. He didn't just want to change the world—he wanted to destroy the systems that had made it this way. Britannia's ideals, rooted in social Darwinism and the glorification of power, had to be eradicated for real progress to take root. And for that, Zero had to return.

As he exited Nunnally's room, Lelouch's steps grew heavier with the weight of his resolve. He knew that the battles ahead were no longer life-or-death struggles for survival, as they had been in Area 11. Now, they were calculated performances, designed to uphold Zero's legend and dismantle Britannia's influence piece by piece.

But even as he assured himself of the necessity of this path, a flicker of doubt remained. Was he truly doing this for the world—or for himself? Was Zero's return an act of selflessness, or was it his way of escaping the guilt and shame that Lelouch vi Britannia carried?

He shook the thought away, his resolve hardening.

The world needed Zero.

Lelouch vi Britannia might have been content to wield power from the shadows, but Zero was something far greater. Zero was a beacon for the oppressed, a nightmare for the oppressors, and a force that could reshape history. Lelouch had donned the mask once before to defy his father and avenge his mother. Now, he would wear it again—not just to save his sister, but to give her a world worth living in.

Aries Villa – Outside the Estate

Lelouch approached Villeta, who stood waiting under the dim glow of the villa's ornate lanterns. Her sharp posture reflected her typical discipline, but there was a hint of apprehension in her expression.

"Are the preparations ready, Nu?" Lelouch asked, his tone calm and commanding.

"Yes, they are," Villeta replied curtly. She hesitated for a moment before adding, "But are you sure about this? Squeezing everything into five hours is reckless, especially since two of those hours will be spent in transit."

A faint smirk crossed Lelouch's lips. "Are you really that concerned about my well-being?"

Villeta let out an annoyed grunt, crossing her arms. "Yes, considering every noble in Nevada hates me for being an unworthy commoner granted a title. The only reason I haven't been assassinated by some 'worthy' noble is the Emperor's patronage for my work in Area 11. Who knows what'll happen to that if you die?"

Lelouch chuckled lightly, finding her bluntness amusing. "Don't worry, Villeta. I'm not so foolish as to walk into this without contingencies. The battle has already been won; what I'm doing now is mere theatrics."

Villeta's skeptical expression remained. "If you say so. But just remember, theatrics don't make you bulletproof."

As Lelouch stepped into the undercover car waiting for him, he paused and turned back toward her, a playful glint in his eyes. "Oh, and Nu, you should be thanking me."

"For what?" she asked, narrowing her eyes.

"For going through all this trouble to rescue your boyfriend," Lelouch teased with a sly smile.

Villeta froze, her eyes widening slightly before narrowing into a glare. "I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Don't be shy. Oghi will be grateful to see you again," Lelouch continued, leaning casually against the car door.

Her face flushed with a mix of indignation and embarrassment. "Tch. Focus on your theatrics, Your Highness," she snapped, clearly flustered.

Lelouch laughed softly as he stepped into the car. "Consider this a favor, then. You can thank me later."

Villeta huffed, her irritation evident as she got in the car. Yet, as much as she wanted to dismiss his words, a faint pang of emotion flickered in her chest.

Airstrip – Classified Location

The car pulled up to a secluded airstrip shrouded in darkness, lit only by the occasional flicker of floodlights. The runway was staffed by soldiers who moved with mechanical efficiency—each one carefully Geassed to forget their duties and surroundings as soon as their shift ended. Lelouch stepped out, his polished shoes crunching against the gravel as he approached the centerpiece of the operation.

Before him stood the X-10 rocket jet, its sleek, futuristic design a stark contrast to the gritty, utilitarian airstrip. A relic of the space race between Britannia and the EU, the X-10 had been developed to test rocket engines capable of breaking through the atmosphere. With speeds exceeding Mach 11, it was a technological marvel, and for Lelouch, it was the perfect tool to maintain the dual identities of Zero and Lelouch vi Britannia.

Villeta followed closely behind, her gaze flicking between the plane and Lelouch. "Are you sure this thing is safe?" she asked, her tone laced with skepticism.

"Safe enough," Lelouch replied with a smirk. "It served its purpose during the space race, and the Emperor saw fit to let it gather dust. I doubt it would fail me now."

"Safe enough isn't exactly reassuring," Villeta muttered under her breath.

Lelouch turned to her, his expression softening for a moment. "Villeta," he began, his voice calm but firm, "I understand your reservations, but this is necessary. To unite both sides of the Pacific, to be both Zero and Lelouch vi Britannia, I need to be more than just a man. I need to be an ideal."

Her eyes narrowed, studying him. "You're staking everything on this, aren't you? Even your life."

"Not just my life," Lelouch admitted. "But the lives of everyone who follows me. That's why I can't fail."

Villeta let out a slow breath, nodding reluctantly. "Then I hope you're as invincible as you think you are."

With that, Lelouch approached the X-10. A small crew of engineers, also under Geass, moved aside as he climbed into the cockpit. The interior was cramped and filled with instrumentation far more advanced than a standard military craft. Lelouch ran his hands over the controls, his mind already visualizing the hour-long journey that would take him across the Pacific.

He donned the flight helmet, its visor reflecting the faint glow of the console. Through the comms, he heard Villeta's voice one last time.

"Good luck, Your Highness. I hope the theatrics are worth it."

"They always are," Lelouch replied smoothly.

The engines roared to life, a thunderous crescendo breaking the stillness of the night. Flames erupted from the rocket boosters as the X-10 sped down the runway, climbing rapidly into the star-speckled sky. Within seconds, the craft was a streak of light, vanishing into the horizon.

From the ground, Villeta watched until the jet disappeared entirely, her arms crossed and her expression unreadable.

"Just don't get yourself killed," she muttered to no one in particular before turning and heading back toward the car.

Subway Station
Tokyo Settlement, September - 25th , 9:42 PM PST

Kallen arrived at the dimly lit subway station, her footsteps echoing in the empty corridors. She clenched her fists as she approached the designated meeting spot. Despite her usual composure, her heart raced. Was it fear? Anger? She couldn't tell.

Was she afraid that Zero would betray them and eliminate all the loose ends? Or was it the looming reality of the suicide mission they were about to embark on?

Deep down, she knew the truth. While the idea of betrayal lingered in her mind, it wasn't what terrified her most. She had long accepted the possibility of death. What haunted her was the thought of losing the fragile hope she clung to—the hope that her trust in Zero was unfounded.

But that hope was fragile, and Lelouch—Zero—had answers he owed her. He'd given her a reason for his absence during the Black Rebellion, and while she could empathize with his need to protect his sister, there were still so many questions he hadn't answered.

The station was eerily silent. While it was never the busiest place, the complete absence of people unsettled her. The fluorescent lights flickered occasionally, casting fleeting shadows on the tiled walls.

Ahead of her stood the familiar figure of Zero, his imposing silhouette framed by the dim light. The design of his extravagant costume was unmistakable, but Kallen's sharp eyes caught the subtle differences—the materials were different, and craftmanship was different she could clearly see this was not made by the same person that made the original one.

She approached him cautiously, her footsteps measured and deliberate. Her voice rang out, cutting through the oppressive quiet.

"Zero."

The masked figure turned slowly. As he faced her, Kallen raised the gun she had been gripping tightly in her hand, aiming it squarely at his head.

"Why shouldn't I just kill you right here?" she demanded, her voice trembling slightly despite her hardened expression.

Lelouch stepped toward her, his gait steady and unflinching. "Well," he said evenly, "if that's how you feel, let me make it easier for you."

He reached up and removed his helmet. The soft clink of the mask echoed through the station as Lelouch vi Britannia revealed his face. His violet eyes met hers, calm and unwavering.

"It's bulletproof," he continued, his tone quiet but firm. "Now you can end my life with a single shot."

Kallen's grip on the gun tightened, her hands trembling. She stared at him, her emotions in turmoil. He took another step closer, completely exposed, his expression composed yet piercing.

"You realize," he said softly, "that threatening someone with a gun only works if you actually intend to pull the trigger."

Her breath hitched as tears began to pool in her eyes. She wanted to be furious, to demand answers, but all she felt was the crushing weight of her own doubt.

Lelouch reached out slowly, his fingers brushing against the barrel of the gun. He gently pushed it downward, meeting no resistance from Kallen.

"If you really wanted to kill me," he said, his voice softer now, "Wait till I kept my promise—to free your friends, to free Japan. Isn't that what you've been fighting for all this time?"

Kallen lowered her gaze, the gun slipping from her hands and clattering to the ground. She wiped at her eyes hastily, refusing to meet his.

"Damn you," she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper. "Why can't I just hate you?"

Lelouch smiled faintly, though there was no triumph in it. "Because I'm not your enemy, Kallen. I never was. And I won't stop until I've kept my promise—to you, to all of you."

The station fell silent again, save for the distant hum of a train passing through another tunnel. Kallen finally looked up, her tear-streaked face set with determination.

"Don't think for a second that I trust you," she said, her voice steadying. "If you're lying about any of this, I swear I'll be the one to end you."

Lelouch nodded. "Fair enough," he replied. "Now, let's get to work. Where's the Guren?"

"It's in the abandoned tunnels, just like you instructed," Kallen replied, folding her arms. Her tone turned sarcastic, though a soft chuckle escaped her lips. "You know, leading me into a suicide mission with just one Knightmare against the most heavily guarded building in Area 11 doesn't exactly inspire trust."

Lelouch smirked, unfazed by her jab. "Who said we'd be using a Knightmare?"

Kallen blinked, momentarily caught off guard. "Wait—what? Are we just going to walk in there? Well, maybe you can, but why did you even ask me to bring the Guren? Do you know how hard it was to sneak that thing into the tunnels?"

Lelouch raised a hand, signaling her to let him explain. "Yes, we're going to walk in. Well, sort of. The both of us look Britannian enough to pose as soldiers. If the plan goes smoothly, there won't be any biometric checks. And if someone does get suspicious…" He gave her a knowing look. "I'm confident I can convince them to look the other way."

Kallen's expression soured, her fiery personality surfacing. "You can't seriously expect me to go along with this. They're going to recognize me. And I doubt you can just waltz in and pull the 'prince card' without raising eyebrows. And again—what's with the Guren? You still haven't explained why it's here."

Lelouch raised an eyebrow, an amused glint in his eyes. "You know, you asked far fewer questions when I told you to drive Clovis's car straight into a military parade without a weapon and you're not as recognizable as you think, Kallen"

Kallen glared at him, her scowl intensifying.

He relented with a slight shrug. "Most of your sightings were in the Guren. And Suzaku is… well, let's just say he's in no position to reveal your identity."

"As for the Guren," Lelouch continued, his tone turning serious, "we're going to overload its Radiant Wave Surger. There's exposed wiring in the tunnels connected to the city's power grid. The surge will create a wave effect over a three-mile radius—essentially a miniature solar flare. It'll fry most electronics and even disable Knightmares for a few minutes."

Kallen's eyes widened in alarm. "Won't that damage the Guren?"

"No," Lelouch replied. "It'll do far worse. If we're lucky, the Guren won't be completely liquified."

"What?" Kallen exclaimed, her voice rising. "The Guren's our strongest Knightmare! Rakshata's going to lose her mind when she finds out." Lelouch could easily sense that Rakshata wasn't the only one who would be loosing their mind.

Lelouch met her gaze, his tone soft but firm. "Kallen, equipment can be replaced. People cannot. To avoid another full-scale battle in the Tokyo Settlement, this is a necessary sacrifice."

Her glare softened slightly, though the tension in her shoulders didn't entirely ease. She studied him for a moment before tilting her head, her expression shifting to one of curiosity. "You know, this feels so weird. Hearing you talk as Zero, but seeing your face and knowing who you are—it doesn't feel real."

Lelouch said nothing in response, but a faint smile tugged at his lips. He reached into his coat and handed her a briefcase.

"What's this?" Kallen asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Our disguise," Lelouch replied. "Inside, you'll find a Britannian military uniform tailored to your size. It also has the clearance badges you'll need to get us through the checkpoints."

Kallen took the briefcase reluctantly, glancing at Lelouch with a mixture of doubt and resignation. "This plan of yours better work," she muttered.

Viceroy Palace
Tokyo Settlement, September 25th , 10:07 PM PST

After the disappearance of Princess Cornelia li Britannia following the Black Rebellion and the death of her sister Euphemia, Duke Calares was appointed as the interim Viceroy while the area underwent reconstruction.

Calares was the embodiment of everything wrong with Britannia's aristocracy. His position stemmed solely from his birthright, not from any semblance of skill or competence. To him, anyone of lower standing was barely human, and conquered numbers were even less.

Though he would have preferred to personally lead military forces into every ghetto to crush the remnants of Eleven "resistance," the severe losses Britannia suffered during the Black Rebellion had made that impossible. With resources stretched thin, the best he could do was enforce a blockade, slowly starving out the ghettos and letting despair take its toll.

Lounging in the Viceroy's throne—once a seat of authority for two royals—Calares exuded smug superiority. He leaned back lazily, swirling a glass of wine in one hand.

"Have there been any Eleven movements this week?" he asked, his tone laced with boredom.

One of his aides stepped forward, standing rigidly at attention. "No, my lord. The ghettos remain blockaded. Our intelligence suggests that in another two months, the remaining Eleven population will be thoroughly demoralized."

Calares chuckled, the sound as grating as his arrogance. "Figures. Those cowardly Elevens lost the will to fight the moment their so-called 'messiah' and his pathetic rebellion were humiliated. Let them rot."

The aide hesitated before speaking again, his tone more cautious. "However, my lord, there is growing opposition to the blockade among the honorary Britannians. Some pure-blooded Britannians sympathetic to their cause have also voiced their discontent."

Calares's expression soured, and he slammed the glass down on the armrest, his voice rising in irritation. "Sympathizers? Any terrorist sympathizers in the military or administration will be executed—"

Before he could finish, a deafening crack echoed through the room, followed by a bright yellow flash that briefly lit the space. Calares flinched, shielding his eyes as the flash was quickly followed by an ominous silence.

"What the hell was that?" he barked, his voice tinged with confusion and anger.

The palace plunged into darkness. The steady hum of the air conditioning units fell silent, leaving the room oppressively still. The flickering lights overhead died completely, and muffled shouts began to echo through the corridors outside.

One of the aides hurried to a console, his hands trembling as he attempted to reactivate the systems. "My lord, it appears we've experienced a power surge," he stammered. "All communications and Knightmare systems are down."

"What do you mean down?" Calares bellowed, his face turning red with frustration. "This palace is supposed to be impenetrable! I want those systems back online—now!"

The aide fumbled with the controls, his voice growing more desperate. "My lord, the auxiliary power systems aren't responding. The pilots are reporting that their Knightmares have shut down completely… and they can't even open the cockpits without power."

Calares's face twisted in fury. "Incompetent fools! Find out what's going on and restore order immediately!"

Outside the Viceroy Palace
Tokyo Settlement, September 25th, 10:09 PM PST

Lelouch and Kallen, now dressed in standard-issue Britannian uniforms, walked briskly toward the inner perimeter of the palace. Each carried a suitcase, blending in seamlessly with the chaos surrounding them. To Kallen, the ease of their infiltration was unsettling.

She glanced at Lelouch as they passed yet another distracted group of soldiers. "That was easier than I expected," she muttered under her breath.

Lelouch smirked, his tone calm and composed. "The garrison is in disarray. Britannia's overreliance on electronic communication has left them vulnerable. Chaos breeds complacency."

As they ventured further inside, the scene only grew more chaotic. Soldiers darted through the halls, some shouting orders, others desperately trying to assist Knightmare pilots trapped in their disabled frames. Sparks flew from exposed wiring, and the air was filled with the hum of malfunctioning equipment.

Eventually, they arrived at one of the main entrances to the palace's interior. This section was guarded by a more disciplined company of soldiers, their commander barking orders as a team tried to pry open the cockpit of a Knightmare.

Lelouch approached the company commander, his movements confident and deliberate. "The perimeter has been compromised," he said sharply, his tone leaving no room for argument. He tilted his head slightly and motioned his had toward his face, allowing the faint glow of his Geass sigil to become visible. "You will let us pass and secure this entrance. No one—not even Britannian soldiers—is to enter. Use lethal force if necessary. Allow only those exiting to pass."

Kallen watched the exchange in disbelief. There's no way that'll work. They'll at least ask him for his rank or credentials… right?

But the commander stiffened, his expression going blank. "Yes, my lord," he said mechanically before relaying Lelouch's orders to his men.

The soldiers parted, allowing Lelouch and Kallen entry.

Inside, the palace was pitch black, its design intentionally devoid of windows for security reasons. Kallen retrieved a flashlight from her uniform, the narrow beam illuminating the oppressive darkness.

"Now what?" she asked, her voice echoing faintly in the cavernous hallway.

Behind her, Lelouch's voice responded, distorted by the mask he now wore. "We will execute Viceroy Calares for his crimes against the people of Japan."

Kallen turned to see him now fully clad in his Zero outfit, his transformation unnervingly swift. "You change fast," she remarked dryly.

"A necessity for someone hiding a secret identity," Lelouch replied, stepping past her.

As they moved deeper into the palace, Lelouch issued calm orders to the maids, servants, and guards they encountered. Each command was met with instant compliance, the staff and soldiers retreating without question.

He's not even threatening them, Kallen thought. Are they really that terrified of Zero? Even the soldiers?

Finally, they reached the massive double doors of the throne room. Lelouch paused, contacting Urabe and the remaining Black Knight forces. "Begin the assault," he instructed, ensuring the attack would go without much resistance as most forces would be converging to protect the viceroy.

Stepping forward, Lelouch approached the guards stationed outside the throne room. He opened his eye slot, preparing to use his Geass—but before he could activate it, one of the guards slammed the butt of his rifle into Lelouch's face. The blow sent him stumbling backward.

The second guard immediately raised his weapon and fired. The bullet ricocheted off Lelouch's helmet, knocking him to the ground but leaving him unharmed.

Kallen reacted instantly, her body moving on instinct. She lunged at the nearest guard, striking the rifle from his hands with a sharp kick before pivoting and delivering a powerful roundhouse to the second guard's head. Both men crumpled to the floor.

Breathing heavily, she turned to Lelouch, who was already getting back to his feet. "Leave," he commanded sharply, his Geass glowing.

The downed guards staggered to their feet; their movements robotic. "Yes, your Highness," they intoned before retreating.

Kallen's eyes widened in disbelief. "What the hell was that?" she demanded. "Do they know who you are? And how are you this reckless? You almost got yourself killed!"

Lelouch adjusted his helmet, his tone calm despite the ordeal. "I anticipated something like this might happen. That's why I brought you along."

Kallen glared at him, her frustration mounting. "You're unbelievable," she muttered.

Suddenly, the lights flickered back on, illuminating the hallway in a harsh glow. Lelouch glanced at the restored electricity and smirked. "Right on time," he remarked before pushing open the doors to the throne room.

Inside, Duke Calares sat on the ornate throne, his posture betraying his fear. His hands gripped the armrests tightly, his face pale and slick with sweat. Around him, soldiers stood at the ready, their weapons raised, their eyes darting between the masked figure and the female soldier entering the room.

"Z-Zero…" Calares stammered, his voice trembling. His attempt to assert himself failed miserably, the name escaping his lips as little more than a whisper.

Before Calares could utter another word, Lelouch's voice rang out, cold and commanding. "Everybody except the Viceroy, leave."

The slot in his helmet slid open, revealing the unmistakable glow of his Geass. The soldiers froze for a moment before their expressions went blank. Their rifles lowered in unison as they responded in hollow, robotic voices.

"Yes, Your Highness."

Without hesitation, the guards turned and began to leave, their boots echoing against the marble floor as they filed out of the room.

"W-What is happening?" Calares muttered, his voice barely audible, his fear growing as he watched his protectors disappear through the doors.

The last soldier exited, and the heavy doors closed behind them with a resonant thud. Calares now sat alone in the vast throne room, his terror magnified as he faced Zero and the silent soldier accompanying him.

Lelouch drew a concealed pistol from his outfit, handing Kallen the suitcase which contained his Zero costume and the necessary broadcasting equipment. She set up the gear with practiced efficiency, and once the transmission began, Lelouch stepped into frame.

"I am Zero," he declared, his voice distorted by the mask's voice modulator, as he aimed the gun directly at the trembling Viceroy Calares.

Black Knights Hideout
Chinese Federation September 25th, 10:16 PM PST

The remnants of the Black Knights who had managed to escape to the Chinese Federation through Lelouch's contingency plans were gathered in a dimly lit room, tension heavy in the air.

"Were you aware that the two students you were serving were part of the royal family, Miss Shinozaki?" Diethard demanded, glaring at the former maid.

"Yes," Sayako replied flatly, her tone devoid of emotion.

"Then why didn't you inform the Black Knights?" Diethard pressed further.

Sayako met his gaze, calm and unflinching. "I didn't see the necessity. They were exiled and disinherited."

Diethard's composure slipped for a moment. "What do you mean? Even if they were disinherited, they would have been valuable hostages! Viceroy Cornelia is one of the few royals who cares about her half-siblings. If we'd known, maybe we could've used that leverage to save Zero. And now, without him, the world stays the same—stagnant and suffocating!" His voice rose in frustration.

Before anyone could respond, the room was bathed in light as all the screens flickered to life.

"I am Zero," proclaimed the unmistakable voice of their leader.

The occupants froze in shock, their eyes widening as they took in the image of Zero on the screens.

"Is that—" Diethard began, his voice trailing off.

"I have returned," Zero's voice continued. "Hear me, Britannia. All of you who hold power, heed my words carefully. I am burdened by sorrow, war, and discrimination—the oppression of the weak by the strong. The same abhorrent interplay of tragedy and comedy continues, unchanged. People still suffer, and that is why I cannot give up. So long as the strong oppress the weak, my rebellion will continue to grow."

Diethard's shock gave way to elation. "The omega signal… Only he could—Zero is alive!" he exclaimed, his fervor palpable.

Kaguya Sumeragi and Rakshata Chawla exchanged smiles, while Sayako's typically stoic expression softened ever so slightly.

Ashford Academy
Tokyo Settlement - September 25th, 10:16 PM PST
The mood among the student council had been somewhat lighter since news of Lelouch and Nunnally's survival. Nina's release from psychiatric care had also been a relief, though her absence from the academy was still felt.

Milly lounged on a couch, glancing at Shirley with a mischievous grin. "Still mad about your 'Lulu,' Shirley? Half the girls at school are making up stories about how they were secretly his girlfriend. Yet you, of all people, were probably the closest to him, and you barely talk about him."

Shirley shot Milly an uncharacteristically sharp glare but remained silent. Before she could respond, the clubhouse TV crackled to life, interrupting their banter.

"I am Zero," the voice declared.

The room fell silent as the council members turned their attention to the screen.

…

"It begins with the punishment I bring upon the corrupt and inept Viceroy Calares," Zero stated, his gun trained on the visibly trembling man. "He blockaded the ghettos, causing mass starvation and killing thousands, including children. But this is only the beginning. Just as I bring down Calares today, I will bring down Britannia itself!"

Without hesitation, he pulled the trigger. Calares's life ended instantly, the broadcast cutting to static a moment later.

The council members collectively winced, the rawness of the execution leaving a heavy weight in the room.

Rivalz, attempting to lighten the atmosphere, ventured, "Prez, I guess your theory about Zero and Cornelia finding true love wasn't true after all."

He was met with silence. Both Milly and Shirley remained fixated on the screen, their expressions unreadable.

Is that Lelouch vi Britannia? Shirley thought, her mind racing as she pieced together the fragments of memories and suspicions.

Prison Complex – Tokyo Settlement
September 25th, 10:13 PM PSTThe captured Black Knights were held together with civilian collaborators, including several members of the Kyoto House—save for Kaguya Sumeragi. The atmosphere in the cells was tense, a volatile mix of anger, despair, and flickers of stubborn hope.

"We never should have trusted Zero," Chiba spat, her bitterness laced with frustration. "Of course, a coward who doesn't even show his own face would abandon us."

"Hey, don't talk about my bro like that!" Tamaki shouted from another cell, his voice booming with indignation.

Arguments like this had become commonplace among the prisoners. Some still clung to faith in Zero, while others felt his betrayal cut too deeply to forgive.

"Silence," Todoh commanded, his calm but firm tone cutting through the noise. "What has happened has happened. Zero undoubtedly led us to many victories, and I may even owe him my life. But it's also undeniable that he abandoned us at the moment we needed him most. Until we know why, we reserve judgment."

"We may not know," Oghi interjected, "but he does." He gestured toward an elderly bald man who appeared to be meditating quietly in one corner of the cell. "He saw Zero's face and recognized him."

This caused a ripple of chatter among the captured Black Knights. All eyes turned toward the elder, Taizo Kirihara, head of one of the Kyoto Houses.

"All of you, listen," Taizo said, his voice calm but resolute. "You lose faith too quickly. Zero is the only man who can destroy Britannia, and he is closer to doing so than you realize." He had obviously learnt of prince Lelouch's return though other back knights saw it as meaningless royal family drama he knew what it meant.

The room erupted into more murmurs of speculation and disbelief. Chiba frowned, unconvinced. "And what makes you so sure? He abandoned us! What reason do we have to trust him now?"

Taizo remained steady, his expression betraying no doubt. "Trust in his vision. He has not abandoned the cause."

Before anyone could respond further, the ground began to shake violently, sending dust and loose debris raining down from above. The lights flickered as guards rushed into the holding area. But instead of maintaining order, they moved in eerie unison, unlocking the cell doors with robotic precision.

"What the hell is going on?" Tamaki demanded, his voice echoing through the chaos.

Before anyone could answer, the ceiling of the prison was ripped open with a deafening crash. light streamed in, blinding the prisoners for a moment as a Gekka loomed overhead, its pilot unmistakable.

"Urabe?" Todoh muttered in confusion, his voice barely audible over the commotion.

"Now, now, Todoh-sensei," Urabe's voice came through the Gekka's loudspeaker, laced with a mix of humor and determination. "You didn't think we'd just let you rot in here, did you?"

With a single precise motion, the Gekka's arm broke through another wall, revealing a line of trucks waiting to transport the prisoners.

"Quickly now!" Urabe urged. "Head for the trucks!"

The freed Black Knights wasted no time, scrambling toward the waiting vehicles. As they ran, they caught glimpses of Burais and Sutherlands locked in combat outside, explosions punctuating the chaos.

"There should be way more troops guarding this place," Ashaina, one of the Holy Swords, remarked with suspicion as she moved toward the trucks.

"Who cares? I'm getting the hell out of here!" Tamaki shouted, overtaking several of his comrades as he sprinted toward safety.

When all the prisoners had boarded, the trucks roared to life, retreating as the Burais provided cover against the pursuing Sutherlands.

Inside the trucks, the radios crackled to life, and a familiar voice filled the air.

"I am Zero," the voice began.

The prisoners sat in stunned silence as their leader continued his broadcast.

…

"I shall fight against all those who abuse their power. Therefore, once again, here and now, I declare the establishment of the United States of Japan. Land, resources, military—those are not what make a nation. It's the people who make a nation. And with the will of all the people who have suffered under Britannia, I declare this: race, religion, or wealth will not matter. To be a citizen will have but one requirement—to do what is right."

The atmosphere inside the trucks shifted instantly. Cheers erupted among the freed Black Knights.

"I knew my buddy would do it!" Tamaki proclaimed with a triumphant grin.

Chiba, however, frowned. "He still has to answer us, and if anything, he's just made us an even bigger target by pulling a stunt like this when we're barely equipped to fight back."

Taizo Kirihara sat back with a knowing smile. Lelouch, I knew you were up to something, but this… this is bold even for you.

Around The World

"Terrorists forming a nation ?"
"Doing it at the viceroy palace were the leader of Area 11 rules from he really is serious about this"
"A nation of equals what Engelist nonsense is that"
"I don't care what the empire says—Zero gives people like us hope"
"He killed a viceroy on live television. Britannia can't let this stand."

Minor Port – Outskirts of Tokyo Settlement
Lelouch and Kallen arrived at the small, secluded port Lelouch had marked on their map, piloting the Sutherlands that he had somehow convinced a Britannian general to provide. The hum of their Knightmares filled the otherwise silent dock, the moon casting its pale glow over the water.

As Lelouch dismounted from his Sutherland, his modulated voice broke the stillness. "Still doubt my plans?" he asked, his tone as composed as ever.

Kallen climbed out of her own machine, her face a mix of frustration and contemplation. She said nothing, following Lelouch toward the bay. After a few steps, her voice, softer than usual, broke the silence.

"Why?"

Lelouch slowed his pace, turning slightly to glance at her. "Why what?"

"Why do you fight Britannia?" she asked, her voice gaining strength. "You saved us, but why? You're a prince. You could probably live your entire life in luxury without a care in the world."

Stopping under the shadow of a rusted crane, Lelouch removed his mask, his amethyst eyes glinting in the faint light. An amused smirk crossed his face. "You're the one to ask that, Ms. Stadtfeld?"

Kallen's expression hardened at the mention of her Britannian surname. "You know it's not the same. I'm Japanese."

"The Japanese aren't the only ones who've suffered under Britannia," Lelouch remarked evenly, his gaze now fixed on the rippling water ahead.

"You still haven't answered my question," Kallen pressed, her tone sharp but less fiery than usual.

Lelouch sighed, his smirk fading. "When I was ten, my mother was assassinated. That same attack left my sister crippled."

Kallen's hardened demeanor softened slightly as she listened.

"I was told terrorists were behind it," Lelouch continued, his voice lower now, "but it was obvious that someone within Britannia orchestrated it. When I demanded justice for my mother and sister from my father, I was exiled—punished for daring to question him." He paused, his hands curling into fists. "We were sent to Japan with nothing, and it became more of a home to me in one year than Britannia ever was."

Lelouch's eyes darkened as he continued. "But then my father took everything from me again. He invaded Japan. I had to carry my sister through battlefields to survive. That was when I made my decision—I would destroy Britannia for everything it had stolen from us."

Kallen's expression flickered with uncertainty. "So… you fight for revenge?" she asked. Despite her initial anger, she couldn't muster the outrage she'd expected from learning she and the black knights were used for a Prince's personal wishes. After all, wasn't she doing the same? She had fought to follow her brother's dream, but after his death, revenge had become her driving force.

"At first, yes," Lelouch admitted, his tone steady. "I wanted to find out who killed my mother. I wanted to know why my father abandoned us."

Kallen caught onto his phrasing. "Wanted? Past tense?"

Lelouch nodded, his gaze still fixed on the water. "After I beat Suzaku and escaped… circumstances changed."

Before she could press him further, the surface of the bay churned, and a Britannian-made submarine emerged from the depths with a hiss of steam and water. Lelouch replaced his mask in one fluid motion.

"Come," he instructed, his voice once again distorted by the modulator. "We don't have much time."

Kallen hesitated for a moment, staring at the masked figure who had once been her classmate and now her enigmatic leader. With a deep breath, she followed him toward the waiting vessel, her mind a storm of unanswered questions and unspoken doubts.