Of all the enemies that dared to stand in the way of Europe's justified dream of destroying the Holy Britannian Empire, few managed to inspire our beloved Chancellor into experiencing such feelings of disgust as the son of the last Prime Minister of Japan.
While Kururugi's patricidal actions would not become known until some years after his appointment to Emperor Charles's most elite unit, the Knights of Rounds, the Japanese youth still managed to invoke feelings of disgust throughout the Reich.
Choosing to fight for the very nation that conquered his homeland. Slaughtering his patriotic countrymen who refused to become the downtrodden slaves of a corrupt tyrant.
All of these things were more than enough to earn Suzaku Kururugi the title of traitor, but it was his personal philosophy that truly annoyed Chancellor Krueger the most.
A solider accepts that no matter how hard they try, they will never be able to save the lives of everyone on the battlefield. And that the only way to win a war is by inflicting heavier casualties on the enemy than they themselves are able to inflict on your own side.
Kururugi never seemed to get this concept, at least during the initial stages of his advancement in Britannian society.
But even that paled in comparison to the traitor's idiotic beliefs that he could change the Empire from the inside by going through the proper channels.
What he failed to realize was that this philosophy was practically useless in a society that was structured around concept of survival of the fittest. And for a man of Kururugi's…background, he would be doomed to fail as he was held back by the very system he had sworn to serve.
Of course that hadn't prevented the Britannian government for using him as a poster boy for encouraging their conquered subjects to support the activities of the Empire.
But as his actions would soon prove, the son of Genbu Kururugi only had his eyes set on the land known as Area 11.
(Excerpt from the Enemies of the Reich Volume 3. Junior Edition)
…..
Despite his earlier skepticism, and the fact that his initial introduction to the academy had been somewhat less than welcoming, Suzaku found himself enjoying his royally sponsored enrolment.
The student council, while somewhat chaotic in nature thanks to the personal governing style of its blonde president, had nevertheless treated him as one of their own. He was allowed to take a break from the stressful job of being the pilot of a revolutionary knightmare program.
And perhaps the best of all, he got to spend time with the pair of siblings who were his closest friends he had left in this world.
It pained him to keep his true role within the Empire a secret, especially since he suspected that Lelouch still carried a great deal of justified hatred towards the nation of his birth, but in truth all this subterfuge served a higher purpose.
As deceased exile royalty, the only sort of life that the Vi Britannian siblings could hope for was one where they always had to keep looking over their shoulder.
Never truly being themselves, never allowing anyone to get to close to them because they might expose other people to the same danger that had claimed their mother.
It wasn't much of a life, even if he could tell that Nunally seemed to be perfectly happy living the peaceful life with her devoted brother, but if his plan was successful, not only would he be able to give them a chance to live without fear, but he could also help to alleviate the suffering of his fellow countrymen.
"You know, if you continue to frown like that, Milly is gonna go into one of her moods. And believe me, you do NOT want to be the target when she's trying to raise morale".
Chuckling as the amethyst eyed boy shivered in exaggerated fear, the emerald eyed Honorary Britannian couldn't help but tease his childhood friend with a piece of information that had apparently remained unchanged during their years apart.
"Oh I'm sure I'll be fine since I can probably outrun her. Can't say the same for you since your stamina hasn't really increased during the past 7 years. But I'm sure if you put your mind to it, you could probably last 2 minutes of running before you collapse like you usually do".
Receiving a rather pointed glare from the exiled royal, Suzaku began to get worried that he had gone to far, only to sigh in relief as Lelouch finally offered up a smirk.
"I suppose you have a point. Still, I maintain what I said to you all those years ago. The use of ones brain will always trump the use of one's muscles. And considering how we recently got reacquainted, I would say that my view point still trumps yours".
Lightly grimacing at the reminder of that rather eventful day, Suzaku was pulled from his regretful musings by Lelouch's curiosity filled tone.
"Since it's only the two of us here, I was wondering if I could ask you something. That is of course if it doesnt violate your oath to the Empire".
Doing his best to ignore his friend's very clear disgust for his homeland, Suzuaku nevertheless nodded his head.
"Well as long as your not asking me to tell you military secrets, I suppose I can do that. Though as an Honorary Britannian in the Engineering Corps, I don't think I'll be able to tell you anything interesting".
It pained him to lie to his friend about his new position within the Empire, but it was necessary in order to keep in him safe. If word got out that the pilot of the Lancelot was an 11 student, his friend's lives would be placed in danger on the off chance that he told them some classified information.
Fortunately, Lelouch's question had nothing to do with military matters, at least not directly.
"Was merely wondering how you managed to get enrolled in Ashford Academy. The Principal is rather liberal when it comes to enrolment, but I rather doubt he would risk the wrath of the Area's nobles by allowing a number in, Honorary Britannian though he may be".
Rubbing his head in embarrassment, for he was uncertain if his answer would result in the appearance of 'Protective Lulu' despite the years separation, the green eyed pilot of Britannia's most advanced knightmare told him.
"Funny story. You see, I was coming from my trial when out of no where..."
…..
The end of the Empire draws near.It's time has come to an eeeennnnd.
The end of an era is here.
It's time, too atttaaaaack.
Despite having a somewhat lax attitude towards her subordinates chosen recreational activities, so long as they didn't do anything to tarnish the reputation of the Nippon Regiment, Standartenfuhrer Lelia Malcal found herself growing increasingly annoyed with the impromptu concert that was blaring throughout the camp. Into the Motherland, the Britannian Army marched. Comrades, stand side by side, to stop the British charge.Knighmares on Europe's soil, a thunder in the east.
1 million men at war, the Chancellor's wrath unleashed.
Slamming the folder shut as the music continued to interfere with her work, the black uniformed officer of the Waffen ISD vainly tried to keep her temper in check as she proceeded to leave the relative comforts of her command tent to dispel some discipline on the obvious perpetrator for this disturbance.
Onward comrades. Armies of the European Reich. Charrrrge.
Ooooh Mother Euurrrrope. Union of laaannds.
Will of the peeeoople. Strong innn commmaaaanddd.
Oooooh Mother Euuuurrrrope. Union of laaaannnnds.
Once more victoooorrrrious. The Wehrmacht staaaannnnds.
Hearing the enthusiastic cheers of not only her own troops, but also those of their allies, the blonde woman's anger was somewhat lessened, for it appeared that Sturmman Sayama was capable of utilizing his more outspoken nature for something beneficial.
And considering the initial reaction their allies had to their presence, any thing that could be done to help foster improved cooperation between the two sides was to be encouraged.
"It seems that Ryo has finally found his true calling in life. Such a shame that he has little interest in anything but a military career. Otherwise I'm sure he would do well at the Propaganda Ministry. Even if they would only keep him behind the scenes.
Though somewhat surprised by the sudden appearance of her usually stoic second in command, Lelia nevertheless allowed a smile to cross her face as she found herself nodding in agreement.
"Probably for the best really. He always seems happier when he gets the chance to blow something up with his own 2 hands. And as much fun as he's currently having with his hijacked sound system, I'm sure that his mind will soon move to other more violent actions. Speaking of which, have you taken the time to observe the recuperating efforts of our ally's"?
Receiving a nod from her trusted second in command, Lelia fought the urge to frown as the blue haired Sturmbannfuhrer gave his rather blunt assessment.
"I have. And I have to say that if it wasnt for the fact that the Brits had to take some time to lick their wounds, this army would find it hard pressed to hold back a Division, let alone an entire army group".
Letting out a frustrated sigh at Akito's report, the blond Standartenfuhrer tried to find the silver lining for their situation.
"I suppose its fortunate then that we've been assigned to this country's premier formation. Depleted though their ranks maybe, the soldiers of the 5th army are at least well trained, and possess a great deal of enthusiasm for fighting the Britannian Army. Only problem is that our supply lines are tenuous, despite being closer to our source of supply, which means that the 5th Army will only be built to half strength by the time our enemies return to the offensive".
Having come to the same conclusion himself, the blue haired Sturmbannfuherer was prevented from voicing his support with his superior's assessment thanks to the interruption of their temporary superior.
"Ah Colonel Malcal. I must say that my men greatly enjoy your unit's efforts to cheer them up. Who would have thought that you European's could manage to successfully combine entertainment with government propaganda".
Allowing a small scowl to form over her features before she schooled her expression back into the mask of a well disciplined military officer, Lelia turned her head so she was staring into the face of the man who was technically her superior.
"Glad to be of service General Inam. I assure you that my regiment will do whatever it takes to improve the efficiency of your valiant soldiers. I trust that you are quite pleased with how much progress we have been able to make in the time we've had"?
Receiving a nod from the aging head of the Federation's slowly rebuilding 5th army, the blonde leader of the Nippon Regiment fought the urge to scowl as she was forced to listen to Inam's dismissive agreement.
"Well, your pet 11's might have been too weak to prevent the fall of their homeland, but they are certainly doing an adequate job of turning new recruits into proper soldiers. I'm certain that they will be instrumental in driving the enemy invader from our lands".
Sensing Akito stiffen at the rather crass reminder of what his people had lost since the Britannian conquest of Japan, but trusting in her subordinate's ability to refrain from showing any of his justified temper in a setting that could have negative consequences for their mission, Lelia chose to ignore the first part of the Turkish General's statement and focus on the latter part of it.
"I'm pleased that you think so General Inam. Though I hesitate to say that despite our best efforts, it will be some time before the 5th Army can undertake offensive military operations. Unless of course you've managed to convince your leaders to increase the volume of supplies and reinforcements".
Having expected the older officer to either scowl at the subtle reminder of his nation's ineffective infrastructure, or the more angry ranting that other fronts were receiving more attention than he was, the blonde Standartenfuhrer was surprised by the rather jovial response she received.
"Not only have I managed to do precisely that my dear Colonel, but I have also been informed that our common enemy will soon begin to withdraw substantial forces from this theatre of war. Which means that our chances of driving these invaders from our sacred soil will only be increased".
Shocked by the new found confidence of her technical superior, Lelia was prevented from asking for further details by the dismissive attitude of the now smiling General.
"I will brief you with the details later this evening. But for now, I suggest that you enjoy your unit's rather enjoyable attempts to improve the moral of my men. It's a shame that there aren't more women in the Nippon Regiment, but I suppose beggars can't be choosers when it comes to allies".
Fighting the urge to make a scathing retort to the older man, for she was certain that such an action would result in a rather unpleasant reprimand from not only Director Richter but also the Chancellor himself, Lelia nodded her head in compliance as she and Akito took their leave.
Waiting until they were out of earshot of their nominal ally, and sensing that his superior was in one of her rare black moods, Akito decided to break the silence with a casual observation of his own.
"I know you don't want to hear this right now, but the general is right in at least one thing regarding the abilities of our regiment".
Offering up a skeptical glare towards her expressionless 2nd officer, the black uniformed leader of the Nippon Regiment gestured for the blue haired officer to continue.
"Sturmman Sayama does have a gift for inspiring the troops".
Chuckling in agreement with the Japanese born Sturmbannfuhrer, Lelia allowed some of her earlier annoyance to disappear as she heard her hard headed subordinate respond to his audience's demand to repeat the most latest piece of culture that had come out of the Reich's Propaganda Ministry.
"Into the Motherland the Britannian army march!
In the European Union. Summer two hundred and twenty
Tanks line up in thousands, as far the eye can see
Ready for the onslaught, ready for the fight
Waiting for Britannia, to march into the trap
Mines are placed in darkness in the cover of the night
Waiting to be triggered when the time is right
Imminent invasion, imminent attack
Once the battle's started there's no turning back
The end of the Empire draws near
Its time has come to an end
The end of an era is near
It's time to attack
Into the Motherland the Britannian Army marched
Comrades, stand side by side, to stop the British charge
Knighmares on Europe's soil a thunder in the east
One million men at war, the Chancellor's wrath unleashed
Fields of Prokhorovka, the heat of battle burned
Suffered heavy losses, the tide of war has turned
Driving back Britannia, fighting on four fronts
Hunt them out of Russia, out of European land
Reinforce the frontline, force the Britannians to retreat
Send in all the reserves, securing their defeat
Soldiers of the Union broke the Citadel
"Ruins of an Army, Bastards rest in hell"
The end of the Empire draws near
Its time has come to an end
The end of an era is near
It's time to attack
Into the Motherland the Britannian Army marched!
Comrades, stand side by side, to stop the British charge
Knightmares on Europe's soil. A Thunder in the east
One million men at war, the Chancellor's wrath unleashed
Onward Comrades! Armies of the European Reich, Charge!
Ooooh, Mother Eurrrooope, Uuuuunion of laaaands
Will of the peeeeeople, strong in commaaaand
Oaaaah, Mother Eurooooope, Uuuunion of laaaaaands
Once more victorious, the Wehrmacht stands
The end of the Empire draws near
Its time has come to an end
The end of an era is near
It's time to attack
Into the Motherland the Britannian Army marched!
Comrades, stand side by side, to stop the British charge
Knightmares on Europe's soil. A thunder in the east
One million men at war, the Chancellor's wrath unleashed".
...
Though I shook my head in amusement at the excited expression that was currently adorning Karina's face, I had to admit that I too was eagerly looking forward to the upcoming demonstration, although my reasons were probably somewhat different than my fellow German's.
Knowing her, I'm sure she was probably looking forward to obtaining a new weapon that if properly wielding, would lay waste to any enemy foolish enough to get in her way. And having read the specs of the Brunhilde, I'm certain that she will have a great time doing so.
For me however, while I appreciated having a weapon that few, if any opponent could match, the reasons for ordering the construction of my own personal knightmare had more to do with the fact that I wanted a legitimate excuse to escape the tedious responsibilities of paperwork.
If it wasn't due to my past experience of going through similar circumstances, albeit far less complicated, during my tenor as a military officer on the Eastern Front, I am almost certain that I would consider to pass on the reigns of power to a born and raised desk jockey.
Sadly, if I wanted to ensure that Europe developed along the lines that would secure its place as a world power, let alone my dream of transforming it into the sole super power, such a plan was only wishful thinking on my part.
Nonetheless, the unveiling of the Loki presented me with the reminder that there were numerous perks to my current position, even if it meant having to endure some light hearted teasing from my childhood friend.
"You know, if you keep acting like a eager child on Christmas morning, I sincerely doubt that even the threat of the Gulag will be sufficient enough to get people to treat you seriously. However, I suppose if you wait long enough to let Speer explain the specifics of your little toy, I guess I can find enough time to help you test it out".
Snorting at Karina's rather unsubtle attempts in goading me to accept her as my sparring partner, and deciding not to comment that she was probably just as execited to get into the cockpit of these machines as I was, I decided to voice my agreement with her plan before turning my attention to the Reich's Minister of Armaments.
"I suppose I can muster the patience to do that Karina. So tell us Speer, what kind of tricks does the Loki have to offer? Cause as I recall, I merely provided you with a general list of what I wanted, so I'm eager to know what it, and the Brunhilde, can do should we ever need to lead our troops on the front line".
Receiving an amused look from perhaps one of the few competent minsters from the old European Government, I accepted the offered multi page document that I contained all the detailed specs of my personalized knightmare, and listened with genuine interest as the German minister went over the features of Karina's knightmare.
"Well Chancellor, given the specifications provided to us by Director Richter, the Brunhilde was designed as a mobile artillery platform, though it does possess a rather high capability for close quarters fighting as well. With 1 rapid firing cannon on each arm, along with an 30 mile ranged extendable linear cannon on the back, and 2 machines located at the hips, the Brunhilde possesses more firepower then any current knightmare. We also include 5 slash harkens, located in the wrists and shoulders of the frame, and 2 retractable swords that are even more durable than those possessed by the Viking frame".
Seeing Karina's face light up as she understood just how much fire power had been placed in her skilled, if rather destructive hands, I fought the urge to comment on her own childlike excitement as Speer provided a more in depth explanation of her custom frame.
"The frame itself is built almost entirely of Sakuradite, though over 50% of it is synthetic, meaning that it is far more agile and energy efficient than any model currently being fielded. In addition to equipping the Brumhilde with a prototype energy shield, which has proven to be effective against even the largest artillery shell fielded by the enemy, we have also installed it with a state of the art pilot interface system that is far superior to anything that is fielded by any nation".
Not bothering to hide my amusement as Karina began to behave in a manner that was more akin to an 8 year old child rather than the deadliest woman in Europe, I flashed my Armaments Minister an apologetic smile as my right hand woman became a tad more serious on my behalf.
"And what sort of specs have you given the Chancellor's knightmare Director Speer? I hope that you spent a substantial amount of time constructing the Loki as you did with my lovely Brunhilde . Otherwise I'm sure that we will be speaking in my more...professional capacity than we are now".
Though he knew that I would never allow that to happen to him, for I had made it rather plain when I appointed my subordinates that they enjoyed my full endorsement so long as they remained competent and loyal, Speer nevertheless still managed to briefly shiver in fear before developing the necessary backbone to continue his explanation.
"I assure you Madame Director that we have taken great care in constructing the Chancellor's personal frame. In fact, if you would allow our test pilots 5 minutes to get ready, I can demonstrate to you how much time and effort as gone into constructing the Loki".
Casting a questioning look in my direction, and turning my attention away from the pair to stare into the currently unglowing eyes of my silver fanged knightmare, I nodded my head in confirmation.
"I think that would be a splendid idea Speer. A splendid idea indeed".
...
Despite the fact that he could have easily climbed used his vast charms and skills to climb the power ladder that was the Reich's Foreign Ministry, Colonel Hans Landa had long since decided that he could best serve his reforged nation by acting as a non-official emissary of the Chancellor.
Yes it prevented him from enjoying the exalted status of a more decorated diplomat or career officer, but he preferred to show off his talents in the realm of the clandestine rather than in a more public setting.
Aided by some rather generous support from Director Richter's ISD, the middle aged Austrian had managed to establish secure and secret lines of supply to nearly every credible resistance group that had refused to accept the conquest of their countries by the Britannian Juggernaut.
Only the Japanese had refused Europe's efforts to aid in their liberation, preferring to deal with the Chinese Federation than the Reich But considering the fact that the Kyoto Group was mostly, if not entirely comprised of members of the government that had lost the 2nd Pacific War, their rejection of reality was to be expected.
But apart from aiding the strengthening of his beloved Europe by ensuring that Britannia's attentions were focused elsewhere, the multi lingual Austrian also served as Chancellor Krueger's contact with those who had been publicly declared as the enemies of the Reich.
Backdoor negotiations was an art that required skill, charm, and discretion, and Hans Landa possessed those in abundance. So it was merely with a raised eyebrow that he looked over the latest envelop that had come across his desk.
For upon the top right corner of the still sealed letter was a symbol that would have resulted in deportation to the Gulag, or even execution if it had fallen across anyone else's desk but his, and Chancellor Krueger himself.
And since he had survived this long by knowing when to keep potentially dangerous questions to himself, Landa could only wonder what sort of mission the Chancellor would have for him once he concluded this requested meeting with the highest authorities within the Imperial Government.
One thing he was certain of, he would perform it with his usual brilliance.
…..
Annnnd I think I'll stop it here for now XD.
Glad to have finally uploaded a chapter with MY version of the song that inspired me to finally write this fanfic XD. Song is Panzerkampf by Sabaton in case anyone wants to listen to it lol. Yes I changed some lyrics to fit the story…but it works XD
To clear some things up from the last chapter before I go on about THIS chapter.
The Akito the Exiled Characters (at least the EU ones) are part of the Waffen ISD Nippon Regiment. Due the different Europe, those characters get a different position.
There will be non European views on the formation of the Reich, as well as future Reich representation in Area 11/Japan. Already have a good idea of how to achieve this, so don't worry.
The Georgian ISD at the Moscow Military parade….can't believe I have to say this rly XD. I mean come on. Mustached Georgian…..physically unfit for the military…..pockmarked face…..violent viewpoint when it comes to so collaborators in conquered areas. (i.e. those who dont actively support the Reich)…first name is Joseph…. That's right everybody….its THIS world's Stalin XD
Zhukov controls the Reich's military in the east.
Already working towards European specific development of the knightmare frame. NO they will not be called something different as everyone in the cannon universe (i.e. EU, Chinese Federation, Resistance Groups) uses the term knightmare for their machines. Different classes of course, but its still a knightmare.
And now to this chapter.
Got some Suzaku Lelouch interaction going on. Tried to portray him as accurately a I could without getting into the bashing bit. Though hopefully you all enjoyed that piece of propaganda at the beginning of the chapter XD.
Lelia and Akito during their stint in the middle east. Think that their presence would be looked down upon by the Middle East Federation due to a pride issue.
The introduction of personalized knightmares for my ocs. The Brunhilde for the Esdeatheqse leader of this universe's SS, and the Loki for the military dictator (i.e. Chancellor) of Europe.
Still working on overall appearance of the Brunhilde…but for the Loki…I know the movie series has gone down hill…but you gotta admit…Last Knight Megatron is still awesome in appearance XD.
And of course, Hans Landa. I don't own anything, but I admit I like having HIM as a sort of underhanded diplomat for the Reich. From establishing supply networks for resitance groups in the areas, to secret negotiations XD
Unsure of when I'll next post, but will begin once inspiration again strikes lol
As always, hope you enjoyed this chapter, Reviews are always welcome.
Til next time.
Heil Europa.