"The expert in battle seeks his victory from strategic advantage and does not demand it from his men".
(Sun Tzu)
Though he knew that his hobby of studying his enemy would be met with criticism from those who desired to supplant his position as the Emperor's 'supposed' favorite, Schneizel el Britannia knew that victory could only be obtained if one was able to understand the mental process of said enemy.
Which is why, mere moments before he was scheduled to meet with one of the few citizens of the Reich that was permitted to stand more or less freely on Britannian soil, he was watching one of the first recorded speeches of the man responsible for transforming a nearly defeated nation into a credible threat to the Empire's survival.
We will SMITE the invaders from our skies! Though they sweep over our lands like the snows of winter, never again will we bow before them. Never again endure their oppression. Never again endure their tyranny. We will strike without warning, and without mercy. Fighting as one hand, one heart, one soul. We will shatter their dreams, and haunt their nightmares. Drenching our ancestor's graves with their blood! And as our last breath tears their lungs... as we rise again from the ruins of our cities... they will know, Europe...remains...ours."
Pausing the screen to better capture the impassioned glare of a younger Chancellor Krueger, the 2nd prince of the empire was uncertain if he should be disgusted by the German's display of nationalistic devotion, or impressed at the man's ability to inspire his people to undertake greater efforts in hopes of achieving a still uncertain victory.
But despite the hopes of the Empire, Krueger possessed two things that would unfortunately contribute to his loyalty towards his nation.
Cunning and self restraint.
If Europe's new leader had been more aggressive, Britannia would have been able to profit from the effects of having an adversary whose ambitions grossly exceeded their abilities. But sadly, Krueger recognized that he couldn't achieve all of his goals at once, which ensured Europe retained its power to defend itself while steadily building its strength to pursue more…offensive policies.
And while everyone knew that the Reich was responsible for hindering the Empire's attempts to pacify its new imperial acqusitions, sadly there was little evidence to proove this. Which kept alive the very real fear of having the unaligned nations of the world, few though they were at this point, as well as the sole remaining superpower, join the Reich in a global alliance against Britannia.
Of course that wasn't to say that they still wouldn't join a Reich led coalition even if there was undeniable proof of them breaking international law, but it would be hopefully less in number, and take longer to establish. By which time the Empire would be better prepared to seize what they deemed to be appropriate concesions should the Reich refuse to discuss things in a more…diplomatic manner.
"Excuse me your highness, but Monsieur Layfette has arrived".
Nodding his thanks at his trusted aide-de-camp, Schneziel ensured that his best diplomatic expression was in place as the Reich's ambassador entered the room.
At first glance, the aged Frenchman seemed like a poor choice to serve as the ambassador of a nation that would never be anything but a rival to the Empire. But despite possessing a frame that looked like it could be snapped by a stiff breeze the 73 year old Paris born Frenchman maintained a prodigal level of intellect and cunning that was always directed towards the benefit of his nation.
Which meant that the blond haired prince had to display a slightly less amicable persona when dealing the Reich's chosen representative.
"Thank you for coming Ambassador Layfette. I trust you know why I've summoned you here today"?
Having expected the aged European to respond in a manner than confirmed his opening question, Schneziel was unsurprised by the older man's response.
"I do your highness. However I don't see why we couldn't have conducted this meeting over the phone. Its not easy for a man of my age to expose himself to the afternoon sun. Especially in such a…heated environment as Pendragon".
Steeping his fingers together as he listened to Layfette try and paint himself as a typical senior, though he knew that Layfette knew that such an attempt was halfhearted, Schneizel allowed the tinest bit of reproof to enter his tone as he proceeded to move the discussion along.
"Considering the seriousness of the situation ambassador, I believe that a face to face encounter is more appropriate. Or do you claim that having European supplied weaponry in a Britannian Colony doesn't warrant a more…formal enviorment while holding our discussions".
Though the 2nd prince could detect no shift in the older man's body language, he could tell by the slight narrowing of his eyes that the ambassador was going to be less than pleased with this remark.
"On those grounds your highness, I would have to agree with you. However, as such an occurrence hasn't happened, I'm afraid that I still fail to understand why you demanded my presence".
His eyes widening only slightly at not only the rebuke, but also at the ambassadors decision to deny the allegations, Schneizel allowed his tone to become a touch more frosty as he sought to clarify the Frenchman's position.
"Apologizes Ambassador, but I'm afraid that is indeed what has happened. During a recent skirmish with terrorists in Area 11, Imperial troops were confronted with not only European knightmares, but other weapons of European manufacture. Which means that your government is not only responsible for the deaths of hundreds of Britannian soldiers, but is also responsible for supporting acts of terrorism in lands that has been recognized as belonging to the Britannian Empire. All of which goes against the terms of the peace agreements between our two countries".
Though expecting the Reich's ambassador to deny the charges, for only a fool would confirm the truthfulness of such an accusation, the 2nd prince of the Empire was shocked at the nature of said denial.
"All of which is unfortunate your highness. But to expand on my earlier statements, the Gross Europa Reich is not responsible for supplying the terrorists of Area 11 with the weapons they used to try and reclaim their nation. Manufacturing them perhaps. But placing them in the hands who refuse to accept that they are now residents in what was once their own country That I assure you is not the case".
His slight frown being the only sign of his displeasure, for he now suspected that the Reich had been preparing for such an event to happen, Schneizel managed to keep his tone, albeit barely, polite as he asked what was a rather obvious question.
"Is that so? Then how may I ask is it possible that European arms ended up not only in Britannian territory, but also in the hands of the Empire's enemies"?
And as expected, Layfette had an answer.
"My guess would be through corruption or greed. As you may already be aware, the Reich has a trading arrangement with the Chinese Federation. In exchange for the natural resources that their country possesses, the Reich supplies them with technology and modern equipment. Which includes, albeit in limited numbers, military supplies. It is highly possible that some underpaid officer saw a change to make a quick profit by having these supplies go 'missing'. Or do you not think that the Japanese Liberation Front, or the Japanese Government in Exile, lack the foresight to establish connections with the Chinese"?
Though he hated to accept it, the Reich's ambassador had nevertheless presented an excuse that was, though likely untrue, nevertheless logical.
He still knew that the Reich was guility of the crimes they were being charged with. And he knew that they knew that he knew they were guilty. But unless new information arose that could prove that the Reich was guilty, any attempt to use force, which sadly was his father's preferred method of achieving things these days, would end with less than pleasing results.
Allowing his features to morph back into the pleasant mask that had allowed him to disarm both ally and enemy alike, Schneizel answered the Frenchman's question with a shake of his head.
"Though ill equipped, and foolish in their attempts to reverse the fate of their nation, the groups you mentioned possess enough intelligence to recognize that they cannot do so by themselves. And considering the fact that Europe no longer possesses a Pacific port, it is more likely that any support they receive would be from the more...persudable members of the Chinese government. Don't you agree Ambassador"?
Taking minor pleasure at how Layfette's eyes narrowed at the reminder that his nation's territory wasn't what it once was, the 2nd prince of the Empire fought the urge to scowl at the ambassador's parting words.
"You are correct your highness. However, as Chancellor Krueger has proven countless times, notably at the Battle of Kursk, and the actions taken during the Night of Long Knives, the Britannia Empire is far from invincible".
…...
Though she is perhaps the only person who enjoys my complete confidence, for Karina had proven her competence and loyalty time and time again, I was still forced to consider that perhaps the stress of her position had finally gotten to her.
And judging by the challenging glare that was currently being directed at me by the black uniformed leader of the ISD, I could tell that she was fully aware of my skepticism.
"I know that its hard to believe. Hell even I was skeptical when my subordinates first drew it to my attention. But the reports don't lie. This...child, has the ability to consciously mess with our perception of time within a range of at least 30 meters".
Turning my attention towards the heavily laden file that contained all of Karina's findings about this...Rolo character, I had to confess that perhaps I was the one being foolish in my attempts to disregard my childhood friend's concern.
"Then it's a good thing that you took the necessary precautions to not only contain this threat, but monitor it as well. Though I must confess I am rather surprised by the assassin's weakness. Anytime he uses his...power, his heart stops beating for as long as its active. A rather critical design flaw. Don't you think"?
Her expression relaxing in the face of my acceptance, Karina nodded her head in agreement with my observation.
"True. Useless as a common solider since his...condition makes it all but impossible to survive long periods of strenuous activity. But otherwise the ideal assassin. And considering his continuing...reluctance to share anything of value, its clear that he's not exactly lacking when it comes to training".
Raising an eyebrow at this admission, I allowed an almost teasing smirk to cross my features as I regarded by scowling right hand.
'Are you saying that for the past 5 days he's managed to resist you? The most sadis...I mean determined woman in Europe? I gotta say, I am impressed with the boy's tenacity".
Earning a scowl that I knew had caused countless individuals to believe that their life was about to meet a grisly end, I instantly dropped my amused expression as Karina refused to allow my comment to distract her.
"That's true, but only to a point. For despite withholding the origin of his 'magical stop watch', I have managed to discover other useful things. Like say... who he works for, and why he was trying to kill me".
Silently gesturing for her to continue, I listened with growing interest as my childhood friend revealed to me what she had discovered.
"His reason for targeting me were both sensible, and in some ways insulting if you think about it. If he had been seeking to kill me because his superiors knew how dangerous I was, then I could respect it. But it seems that the ONLY reason why I was targeted was because with me in the way, its all but impossible for any assassin, even one gifted with magic powers, to get to you. Which tells me my death would only be the 1st stage of some larger operation".
Shooting the irritated woman an apologetic smile in hopes of soothing her irritation, though I suspected that such efforts were largely futile, I found myself growing intrigued with the second piece of information she had to share.
"At least the second piece of information is more...soothing to my pride. Still don't know who this V.V. character is, but its clear that he's somehow connected with some secret organization controlled by Britannia, and that Rollo fears him to a great extent. Hell, it took me 4 days of extended shock therapy to get him to admit even that much. Though I suppose I'm being unfair. The human body, let alone one with a heart condition, just can't handle constant round the clock torture. Especially when some of the primary torture instruments are hooked up to his fun bits".
Wincing in sympathy for the assassin, something which caused an amused grin to cross Karina's face, I took a moment to consider the information I had been given before directing another question at my faithful subordinate.
"You said that you suspected his actions to be part of some larger operation. Which is rather odd since he simply could have used his...abilities to find the perfect place to take a shot at me".
Earning a nod from a no longer smirking Karina, I could tell that such a thought had also occurred to her.
"Your right. If they wanted me permanently out the way, that would tend to indicate that they having something else in mind for you. I imagine that the Empire would love the chance to put you on trial for all the 'crimes' you've done".
Grunting in acknowledgement at that rather...unpleasant thought, I was prevented from commenting further by the buzzing of my intercom.
Motioning for Karina to remain silent, I pushed the intercom to allow the voice of my secretary to fill the office.
"Excuse me for the interruption Chancellor, but Ambassador Layfette is on the line".
Knowing full well what the topic of conversation would be, though I could only hope that the news the aged Frenchman brought was satisfactory, I motioned for Karina to make herself comfortable as I opened the secure line between my office and the Reich's embassy in Britannia.
"Jean, I trust that thanks to your efforts, relations between the Reich and Britannia have not undergone a sudden change"?
"Your are correct Chancellor. While the Prime Minister was…skeptical about the validity of our claims, he nevertheless accepted that there was insufficient evidence to cause him to act without consequence".
Allowing a vicious grin to spread across my features, for it always did feel good to score a victory over an opponent who believed that they were infallible, despite rather obvious evidence that such was not the case, I allowed more than a touch of approval to enter my tone as I congratulated the veteran diplomat.
"Thank you Ambassador. Your efforts in placating Britannia are not only appreciated, but also essential to the future of the Reich".
Canceling the call after hearing the old Frenchman's words of thanks, I turned towards my female companion with a slightly teasing grin upon my face.
"You see Karina. Sometimes there are benefits of keeping the members of the old guard in a place of power. Or at least those who weren't tarnished by the touch of treason".
My words earning a scowl from my fellow German, I was largely unsurprised by the less than happy tone of her rebuttal.
"I still say we should have, if not shot him, then at least retired him with the rest of the fools who almost lost us the war".
In truth, at one point in time I would have agreed with Karina's opinion. But since at the time of my seizure of power I couldn't replace every member of the previous government with those who were firmly loyal to me, I was forced to accept that I would have to leave them were they were unless they showed signs of treason, or worse, incompetence.
Something which had resulted in retaining the services of a man who had been a member of the diplomatic corps since before Emperor Chuck was old enough to be interested in the opposite sex.
"Perhaps. But you have to admit that the Ambassador has continued to serve with distinction despite the…political changes we've brought to the country. But enough about Layfette. Have you had any contact with our agent in Area 11"?
Having expected to receive a scowling shake of the head, I was somewhat caught off guard by the grin that was currently spreading across Karina's face.
And after hearing her answer to my question, I soon sported a similar expression.
…..
Though she knew that she should be proud of her achievements, for it wasn't everyday that the Britannian occupation of her country suffered such heavy losses, Kallen, for the first time, found herself experiencing feelings of shame for her actions.
Not because she failed to successfully fulfil the orders that Zero had set before her. For she vowed that the next time her Guren came across that white armored monstrosity, or even the blood thirsty royal, she would ensure nothing was left but a melted pile of steel.
Nor was it because of the pride she had felt at having inflicted thousands of causalities on an enemy that barely recognized her people as human.
No.
It was because, for the first time since she had decided to pursue her brother's dream of a liberated Japan, her actions had a negative impact on someone she had come to know on a personal level.
Yes her taste in men was….questionable to say the least. For only a fool would ever believe that Lelouch Lamperouge was anything more than a lazy slacker. Though she had to admit that at least he didn't display such traits when carrying for his crippled sister. And yes her constant naivety ensured that she constantly walked into each and every one of the traps set forth by the perverted old man that wore the body of a more than generously curved heiress.
But despite that, apart from a brief misunderstanding regarding a certain anorexic teenager, Shirley Fenette had welcomed her with nothing but friendly sincerity.
Which is why she was currently feeling as if someone had just knifed her in the gut.
For in addition to the Britannian, and regrettably JLF soldiers that had been caught in the landslide, dozens if not hundreds of civilians had also been forced to experience the horror of being buried alive. One of whom had been the father to the carrot haired girl that had done nothing to deserve the loss of a family member.
Since she herself had also lost a family member to her people's war to reclaim their nation for themselves, Kallen knew full well the emotions Shirley was experiencing at this very moment.
Denial. Rage. And crushing depression.
If it hadn't been for Oghi and the rest of her brother's cell, even Tamaki, the red-haired half-blood knew that she would have sunk into a vicious cycle of depression that could have ended up having her killed.
She could only imagine what her mother, whose love she had only recently come to realize had been directed at her rather than the man she had at one time called father, had gone through after Naoto's death. For she knew that she would have received no support from either the other servants of the Stadfield Estate, or her bitch of a stepmother.
Luckily however, Shirley's support system was far greater than the one her mother had endured. Which meant that with time, and probably more than a little encouragement from the girl whose hands were more akin to an octopus, the carrot haired girl would be back to more or less her usual self in a short amount of time.
Sadly however, she didn't have much time to consider the effects of her actions on those who she enjoyed a friendly, if somewhat distant relationship with.
For after letting his followers take a few days to recuperate from the Battle of Narita, the masked leader of the Black Knights had called for a private meeting between himself and those who were rapidly becoming his chief lieutenants in the movement he was trying to build.
And considering that each mission she undertook seemed to be building towards the day when they could finally free Japan from the clutches of the Empire, she had no intention of missing it.
…..
Though normally composed to the point where his more talkative underlings believed that he had had his emotions purged after receiving the gift of immortality, at the moment V.V. was enjoying the rather therapeutic action of releasing his pent-up emotions in a way that would rightfully terrify any proper psychiatrist.
Yes such methods would result in the permanent loss of some assets. Though only 3 of them had been bestowed the gift of a Geass. And yes he would have to put up with the irritating flinches of his subordinates every time he passed by.
But the childlike immortal felt that he was completely justified with his violent actions considering the set backs of the previous few days.
The first one was understandable if one knew of his less than friendly link with the only member of his brother's harem who wasn't treated like she was little better than a baby factory.
But considering that he had no active agents in the area to take care of the child that resembled his brother, at least in terms of intelligence and will, the forever 10 year old boy could concede that he was being unfair. It still didn't stop him from literally shooting the messenger, but since he couldn't risk inserting an agent into Area 11 while Charles was watching his cast off offspring with amusement, he was forced to accept that directly ordering the death of Marianne's children was off the table.
Which is why he was considerably displeased at the results of his efforts to bring about their deaths in a more indirect manner.
For not only did Rolo fail in removing the most formidable barrier to Chancellor Krueger, but the damn fool had managed to get himself caught.
If he had been killed in the attempt, he would have known courtesy of the link that existed between contractor and contractee. And the boy was too loyal, or at least afraid of him to ever consider abandoning his position within the Geass Order to pursue a more…independent life style.
But since Rolo had failed to check in at the agreed upon time, or cross over to join the presence that he and his brother were trying to destroy, V.V. was forced to concede that his defective agent had been captured by the only nation that possessed the strength and willpower to resist his brother's more…mundane resources.
He had no idea how the agents of the Reich had managed to overcome the fail safe that also served as Rolo's most glaring defect, but such thoughts mattered little since the assassin's survival ensured that the knowledge of Geass might very well become known to those who existed beyond the easy reach of the Empire.
Which in turn would force the siblings to advance their plans long before they were ready to be fool proof.
For without the code of that lazy pizza loving immortal, Charles would not only remain vulnerable to the passage of time, but also the ambitions of his less than loyal progeny.
Which is why, after immolating yet another messenger, V.V. hardened himself to doing something he continued to detest doing despite the decades it had been since he had been forced to adopt a more active lifestyle.
But since he couldn't trust his subordinates to complete the tasks he had set for them, the immortal resigned himself to doing his own dirty work.
Even if it was something as simple as writing a letter, and making sure that it got into the right hands.
…
Though he knew that his superior couldn't see his face, one of the many benefits of using audio only devices to securely communicate with the enemy of the nation that controlled his homeland, Sturmbanfuhrer Akito Hyuga knew that his voice easily gave away his frustration as he gave his report.
"I apologize blond eagle, but I'm afraid that the current nature of my hosts makes it difficult to not only determine the fate of the package, but also their plans for the future. The chief is in favor of outsourcing his company, but has yet to decide which country possesses the best quality of service. And his direct subordinates are split between continuing the business locally, or advocating for a change in scenery".
The answer he received did not do much to alleviate his concern that he was perhaps only a hairs width away from getting a bullet in the head. For while the reply was in code, there was no mistaken the less than pleased tone of his ultimate superior.
"That is most troubling. Since our initial investment seems to have failed, the boss wants at least something to show that he hasn't been wasting his money. If you can't get the company to accept the transfer of the package, or have them decide to transfer their management staff to a more…friendly environment, you might need to employ some business practises that are…unethical to say the least".
Having reached a similar conclusion, the blue haired Sturmbanfuhrer gave the only response that would ensure his ability to return back to his adopted country without the fear of visiting its less….comforting facilities.
"Understood. It will take me a few days, but I'll get it done".
Ending the conversation with a click of a switch, Akito resigned himself to trying to figure out if perhaps he still had the option of peacefully obtaining his objective.
If the JLF had suffered greater casualties at the Battle of Narita, or at the very least had been forced to abandon their frames, then the task of convincing them to give up their prisoner and vacate their homeland would have been simpler.
Yes there would have been grumbling from the more militant members of Japan's longest surviving resistance movement, but the more intellgient members of the organization would have recognized that they lacked the power to not only rebuild their power within a short time frame, but also the means to properly benefit from having such a high ranking prisoner in their midst.
But since they had survived the battle with enough strength to provide a credible chance of recovering, not only was the desire to remain in the nation stronger, but their willingness to transfer their prisoner to an agent of the Reich was severely lacking.
Sadly however, since the Katase was waiting to hear from the organization that served as the link between the Reich's resources and the JLF, Akito was unable to present the position of his superiors until the aging general summoned him.
He could only hope that Kyoto's orders would make his mission easier.
But considering the rumors that surrounded its most…impressionable member, the Japanese born Sturmbanfuhrer doubted that he would be returning to Europe with his prize anytime soon.
…..
Though he knew that his superior was capable of hiding her more sadistic tendency's behind what many, at least initially, assumed to be a welcoming smile, the scarred Standartenführer knew that he was one of the few members of the ISD who had nothing to fear from such an expression.
For not only had he proved his loyalty to the Reich time and time again, with his most famous exploits occurring during the years immediately preceding and following the victory at Kursk, but he had also shown a degree of competence that could impress even the demanding leader of Europe's Internal Security Division.
"Otto. Come in, come in. I trust that you've found the past few months to be..enjoyable"?
Knowing full well that such a question was a formality, for there was no way that the Director of the ISD would fail to keep tabs on her more useful subordinates, the SS Colonel nevertheless sported a smile as he answered the already known question.
"Indeed Madame Director. In addition to spending more time with the family, which as you probably know Emmi is always trying to get me to do, I took the opportunity to provide some guidance to our more…promising recruits, and can safely say that they will not disappoint".
His answer bringing a slightly more teasing smile to the black uniformed blonde, the Austrian born officer allowed a mild look of disgust to cross his face as he once again heard a proposition he never intended to accept.
"Well you know if you ever get tired of field work, I'll be more than happy to give you that promotion to ensure your methods are shared by those who wish to emulate your example. I mean, its great that you've helped your niece out in her final year of training, but you possess the potential to help a..larger audience".
Feeling it would be unwise to state that he'd rather face a firing squad then spend the rest of his life behind a desk, Standartenfuhrer shook his head in what he hoped was a respectful manner.
"Apologies Madame Director, but I feel that I can be of better service to the Reich if I remain in the field. Which is probably the reason why you summoned here today. Or am I wrong"?
Earning a brief smirk that told him that she knew what he had truly thought about the offer, Otto was grateful when Director Richter decided to change topics.
"No I suppose your not. Your niece shows promise, and your direct subordinates are by no means incapable, but sadly you are the best field operative I have. Which is why I decided to see how you can help the Reich with its current…situation".
Adopting a more serious expression, one befitting of a man who had rightfully earned a capture or kill order if he ever set foot on Britannian , or Euro-Britannian soil, the Standartenführer remained silent as his blond haired superior explained what was required of him.
"The first mission I have for you, while relatively simple, is somewhat time sensitive. So I want you to draft a plan within 24 hours using the available intel we have".
Frowning as he nodded his head, for such a task, while difficult was not impossible, Otto allowed a look of surprise to spread across his face as he heard the details of this operation.
"Essentially, it's a standard retrieve mission from a hostile area. I already have an agent in the area, but he lacks the tools and resources to get the package out of the area. Not to mention, and I want to make this perfectly clear, ensuring that his package remains alive and..mostly well during the extraction attempt. You can expect resistance from not only local enemy forces, but also from those who are technically our allies".
Humming in consideration as his mind went over the various plans and resources he would require to accomplish such a task, the scarred Standartenführer was forced to put that out of his mind as the Director of the ISD explained the basic parameters of the 2nd operation.
"As for the second mission, you'll be given more time to prepare for it, but I'll have you know that it must be ready to execute within 4 months. The Chancellor has authorized me to provide you with anything you may require to complete this task, but he stresses that it must be done within the time limit".
Remaining silent as he nodded his head to show that he understood the importance of what was being asked of him, Otto Skorzeny listened with growing eagerness as he learned what role he would play in the upcoming campaign to restore the national integrity of the Greater Europa Reich.
…
AUTHORS NOTES
Annnnnnnnd that's enough for now XD
Both pleased and surprised at how quickly I managed to write this chapter. But hey…not gonna complain.
Especially since it helps end the 1st segement of the first season (more or less anyway lol)
Now, to cover what has happened.
Hopefully you all enjoyed the first part of this chapter….been meaning to not only have another Schneziel scene, but also another speech from the Kill Zone universe XD. Also, just to clarify, chose the name of the French Ambassador at random/remember their being a Layfette in history but couldn't recall who/what they did lol. Anyway, managed to make a plausible excuse for European weaponry in JLF hands. Got the idea from watching Lord of War, where the main character avoids the law by loopholes.
For the second segment, basically pretty straight forward what with more awareness of Geass (albeit not the name/knowing of other types at the moment), V.V. and the secret organization he leads. And of course, speculations as to the overall objective of Rollo's mission. Not mention some back ground info about the Reich's methods of dealing with the 'old guard'.
The Kallen segment. This is the first time when I start to make changes in the canon timeline. I believe in canon that Shirley doesn't learn about her fathers death til AFTER the meeting with Kyoto. But in this story, it happens before. Will be explained in next chapter. But anyway, think I managed to portray Kallens feelings rather well.
The VV. Segment. Though the canon doesn't make us aware of his presence til later, I believe that his reaction to Lelouch surviving the battle would accurate. As well as his annoyance at Rollo's failure and capture. Will expand in later chapters.
Needed a sequence to portray the JLF, albeit in an indirect manner. As well as reveal that General Darlton is still alive, but a prisoner. Told you I had plans for him XD. And right not, he's helping to highlight the more fractured nature of a JLF that hasn't had its strength completely destroyed at Narita.
And for the final chapter….another example of introducing historical characters in a world where history took a different course. The history buffs will probably know who I'm talking about, but to those who don't, Otto Skorzeny was a German SS colonel in WW2, who preformed various commando missions, of which rescuing a captured Mussolni was one of them. I confess that including him in this story came after finishing another Alternate History series (i.e. Harry Turtledoves WW2 with aliens series), but I digress.
Now to answer/responde to some of the questions/statements that have been left by my faithful readers.
TheOnlyKing.
Statement: Man who are all these people in your comments that can't take a torture scene? Honestly it's kind of disappointing that these people are even reading the fic...Anyway thanks for the chapter and Kurorugi just makes himself more and more unlikable as the story goes on.
Response: There is a reason why this story is rated T XD. If it was M, would be faaaarrrr more graphic in terms of torture violence. And as for my development of the 11 traitor...that was my intent XD.
Fortitude501
Question: Will Europe be able to create an adaptable combat doctrine to counter Britannia's own doctrine?
Meaning will they be able to adapt a new form of strategy once their enemy started to churn out new knightmare frames that is design to combat the panzers? But once Britannia rolls out their mass produce their 7th generation knightmare frames, What kind of countermeasures do the Europeans have once they face those new models in the battlefields?
Answer: That was the general idea. Sadly wont see any large scale combat between Europe and Britannia for a bit, but I intend address this issue in a more direct manner later. I.e. having BOTH sides learned from their experiences during the Great War. As for countermeasures, already hinted at in earlier chapters. PLUS...some as yet un implemented ideas.
Fuhrer of Europe
Question: Now for Cornelia and her current staff, I understand that demanding concessions against the nation that shattered the myth of Britannian invincibility is relishing, but don't you think that moment seemed a bit petty of them instead of professional? Yes, the Empire should SUPPOSEDLY have enough proof to demand concessions and should be somewhat of a blow against the Reich, but that basically sounds like trading valuable machines and experienced personnel for mere material gain, and it's likely not going to be much since the enmity of the two superpowers is no secret unless you have been living on an island or under a rock. That's not taking into account the secret deal between the Chancellor and the Emperor, though I don't know if that is relevant to this situation or not, as well as any contingencies the Reich will have for the exact scenario of being called out on supplying rebels such as the Reich's Foreign Ministry as mentioned in Krueger's segment.
Answer: For the pettyness...yes it is. However keep in mind that this is a nation that does not tolerate, at least willingly, percieved slights to their honor. So any way they can get back at those that did it...they enjoy it. As for the rest, believed that I covered this somewhat in the chapter as I revealed the Foregin Ministry's plan should such an occurrence arise.
Question: Are you going to include anymore historical excerpts in future chapters or just occasionally if the chapter's plot and your muse allows it?
Answer: Yup.
Undead3
Comment: But one of my in canon complaints about the Europeans was the general idiocy of their designs. Like the Gun-Ru for being crap is the T-34 to the Europeans Panzer-Hummel being a Panzer-4. The Panzer-Hummel from a aesthetic looks nice, but it wasn't until the manga introduced wipse variant that hit had a short barrel weapon of any kind that could allow the machine to engage in that mid to short range combat that the Britannian machines seem typically armed for.
Meanwhile the Gun-ru was cheap but it was also just as survivable as half the european machines we're ever shown, and it could engage at ranges that a knightmare's speed allowed them to come into...that said the Chinese still fail spectacularly since that's the Canonical ONLY design they have as anything else we see is made by the Indian rebels.
Which i'll post this more as a prompt, since the Europeans are passing so many machines near the Chinese borders and will in the future pass more advanced designs by will the chinese try new variants of the Gun-Ru. A missile platform or anything along that line
Reply: Keep in mind that at this point in time, a high quality close quartered frame (I.e. Lancelot) is still in the prototype testing stages. So the Panzers are still a viable counter against the Sutherlands, vulernable to Glousters, which in turn are checked by Vikings. Of course the Britannians can field greater numbers of knightmares against those fielded by the Reich, but the ratio is (at least what I'm envisioning) is that the Empire has nearly 3 times the number of frames Europe possesses, but can't deploy them all due to global commitments. So the odds on the battlefield are more even. Espeically since the Reich has more in its arsenal than just knightmares.
Anyways that's enough for now.
Hope you all enjoyed this.
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And heil Europa.