Though he knew that most would generously praise him for his initial efforts in drawing the attention of the Chinese backed invaders, at least until they discovered the identity of the Lancelot's pilot, Suzaku couldn't help but feel the weight of his failure.
He had already tried venting his frustrations in the base's rather well equipped gymnasium.
But a kind, but no less stern prompting from his more emotionally stable supervisor had put an end to his chosen method by banishing him to the showers.
And as he stood beneath the warm blast of water, his mind remembered every detail of the previous evening's battle.
(Flashback)
"Lancelot! You have a dozen bogey's approaching you from the rear. Do you request support"?
Despite knowing that such an offer was only being made because his wingman, who surprisingly enough was willing to keep his thoughts on his ethnic status to himself, was concerned about the state of his knightmare, Suzaku nevertheless felt relieved that he had somebody watching his back.
"That's a negative Gawain. Appreciate the offer though".
Though truth be told the Honorary Britannian was beginning to feel just a bit guilty at having a wingman for this mission.
For while he had gotten used to the fact that the Lancelot was a far superior machine to those wielded by the opponents of the Empire, with the sole exception being the Black Knight's red monster and at least a platoons worth of Vikings, the level of resistance he was currently facing was a joke.
Yes there was a level of fanaticism that few could deny. And yes his opponents enjoyed a far greater numerically superiority than any opposing force he had yet faced.
But their equipment was, to borrow a phrase from Rivalz, complete shit.
Despite the fact that they had years to copy the initial knightmare designs created by Britannia and Europe, the only positive aspects that he could see about the Gun-Ru was that it was cheap enough to produce quickly, and simply enough to pilot.
But the lack of effective armor? Weak and poorly placed armaments?
One had to wonder as to why the Chinese Federation was still considered to be a world power.
Yes he supposed that the Federation could simply overwhelm their opponents with wave upon wave of these poorly designed machines. But as the Black Knights had sadly convinced him time and again, numerical superiority does not automatically translate into vic...
"Lancelot. Multiple bogies coming from the...".
Though his wingman's message was cut off, the sudden explosion, and the fact that his screen was reporting heavy damage to his flight system, made it clear that he hadn't been as focused as he should have been.
And while he managed to eject his Float systems bare seconds before it exploded, the fact that his energy reserves were now down to slightly over 20%, and the fact that the Chinese only had to worry about 1 air borne combatant, meant that he could no longer afford to under estimate his opponent.
Though surprisingly enough, despite the fact that he had clearly proven that the Lancelot was a much more deadly piece of machinery then the partially incomplete gold and black weapon, the enemy seemed to have decided to ignore him and go after the Gawain.
Which in turn provided him with the ideal opening to take out as many enemy knightmares as he could.
And despite his handicap, and the fact that the taller knightmare's primary weapons systems, such as they were, were designed for less agile opponents, Suzaku still managed to help his comrade fight off the seemingly unending wave of Gun-Rus and helicopters.
But while their actions ensured that the base was covered with dozens upon dozens of flaming wreckage, his luck was quickly running out at the same rate that the Lancelot's battery was.
And while he was prepared to accept that the time had come to finally pay for the sin that his one and only friend probably wished to do, though he suspected that Lelouch wouldn't share the same feelings of guilt that he continued to experience, Suzaku was caught off guard by the voice that was coming over the open channel.
"Britannian pilots. While I admire bravery in the face of such overwhelming odds, your previous good luck has run its course. However, as the sole remaining representative of the pre war Japanese government, I am willing to accept your immediate surrender".
Grimacing at the smug oily tone of the man responsible for leading this invasion, the son of Japan's previous Prime Minister could only nod his head in agreement as his wingman made his answer known.
"A true Britannian soldier does not surrender you Federation puppet. So take your offer and shove it".
These words only served to earn an amused snort from the voice.
"Then by your definition the hundreds of thousands that wisely chose life once their situation became hopeless should no longer be afforded the small mercies that are given to recognized prisoners of war. Though I suppose in the long run that would be better for the host nation. Costs less to bury thousands of corpses than look after thousands of useless mouths after all".
Frowning at the man's disregard for human life, for he truly believed that those that those who chose to put down their arms when they were doomed for failure should be afforded the right to live another day, Suzaku was preventing from dwelling on this further thanks to the attention that was now being directed at him.
"Such a pity, but I wonder if perhaps if your comrade is in the same state of mind. His knightmare is in a far more miserable state than yours. And while it is true that the Lancelot has played a crucial role in preventing the resurrection of a newly restored Japan, I can see it being used to help realize that dream".
There was only one thing he could say to this.
"I'm afraid that I can't do that. If the Japanese people are to survive, they need to accept that there is no changing the...".
"Now THIS is interesting. I had heard rumors that the Second Prince was more...open minded when it came to choosing his subordinates. But I never would have guessed that he would trust a child of the Rising Sun to help keep the Japanese People in bondage. Tell me boy, did your Britannian masters allow you to keep your name? Or did they rob you of that too"?
Unsurprised that his true identity had been figured out, for despite his fluency in English his accent became more pronounced whenever he was under stress, Suzaku was prevented from giving his answer thanks to the interruption of a voice that caused him to grit his teeth in irritation.
"You will find that despite his current confusion in his loyalties, Suzaku has managed to resist the Empire's efforts to truly separate him from his people".
...
Fighting the urge to punch the shower war as his mind replayed the mechanical voice of his supposed savior, Suzaku settled for frowning in displeasure as he recalled the nature of his so called 'rescue'.
The Lancelot's damaged state had ensured it had been in no position to offer any resistance to Zero or his platoon sized body guard, but his monitor had still allowed him to observe the developing battle between the Black Knights and the Federation backed puppets.
Despite being massively outnumbered, the Burais and the Guren had managed to more than hold their own against the Gun Ru's and their air support. And would have likely carried the day before the arrival of yet another reminder for Britannia's less than gentle approach to colonial rule.
While he suspected that it was only a matter of time before his former teacher subordinated himself to Zero, for the masked terrorist sadly had a prodigal talent for manipulating the emotions of the desperate and prideful, Todoh's actions that day had ensured that the Empire's efforts to wipe them out would be nearly as difficult if they had simply joined forces.
He had no idea how many of Sawaski's Japanese born soldiers chose to abandon their Chinese masters in favor of serving either the JLF or the Black Knights, especially since the military leader of this invasion, Field Marshal Katase, had been 'killed in action' before he could identify which terrorist organization his troops should follow, but he suspected that both Todoh and Zero would increase their ability to threaten the stability of Area 11.
Especially since they had managed to make off with the partially destroyed frame of his wingman.
And while he knew it was not proper to wish his enemies well, Suzaku sincerely hoped that the Gawain had ended up in the hands of the rebuilding Japanese Liberation Front instead of the Black Knights.
If only to deprive Zeo of the chance to combine the properties of the Gawain's hadron cannons with the power of the Guren's primary weapon.
...
"In conclusion your Highness, In addition to the 4,500 civilian casualties, our forces have suffered 3,400 dead, 6,600 wounded, and 200 Sutherlands that are beyond recovery".
Sighing in anger at the cost of the Federation's little stunt, Cornelia was grateful that Nonette had the decency to retain a more serious disposition as she asked a relevant question.
"And what's the estimate on the enemy's losses? Surely we managed to inflict a higher number on the noodle eaters".
Unsure if her former classmate was referring to the Chinese or their Japanese puppets, not that it mattered in the long run since both had killed soldiers of the Empire, the purple haired royal found herself nodding in mild satisfaction as the intelligence officer listed the relevant figures.
"So far our estimates stand at 8,000 dead, 12,000 wounded, and 6,000 prisoners. Added to this our forces have destroyed 790 enemy knightmares, 236 gunships, and at least 30 landing cra..".
"And how many decided to join up with our indigenous adversaries lieutenant? Cause if memory serves, our progress in reclaiming Kyushu became rather swift once Zero and the JLF managed to make an appearance".
Frowning at this reminder, Cornelia found herself wishing for a stiff drink as the understandably nervous intelligence officer all but stuttered out his answer.
"Initial estimates suggest that...over 4,000 members of the Japanese Liberation Army have deserted to either the Black Knights or the JLF. We don't know precisely know which organization has received the lion share of this...reinforcement, but I think its safe to say that...".
"Thank you lieutenant. That will be all".
Not bothering to watch the grateful officer all but run for the door, Cornelia could only release a slightly defeated sigh as Nonette chose to ask a question that she really didn't want to think about.
"Soooo...how did Schneizel react to the news that you lost one of his newest toys"?
But sadly, the purple haired royal was forced to do so.
"Surprisingly he was actually pretty calm about it, claiming that the Gawain had merely been a prototype, and a largely ineffective one at that. He showed a bit more concern in regards to the damage the Lancelot sustained, but since Kururugi managed to prevent his frame from falling into the hands of the enemy, albeit barely, he didn't seem willing to press the issue".
Of course her brother had also made some comment about how in future he should consider adopting a more 'hands on' approach when it came to the combat deployment of his 'projects', but for the moment there was little fear of having her authority subverted.
At least from that family member.
And while she would normally consider such information to be a low priority, if only because she was unconvinced of the loyalty of the Area's indigenous population, Cornelia knew she had to ask this question in order to placate her more kind hearted sibling.
"Tell me, we're the...civilians merely caught in the cross fire? Or were they.."?
"From what the reports suggest, it seems like more than half of them were killed by the very forces that were there to...liberate them. Of course friendly fire and collateral damage incurred their own share of losses, but not enough to hide the fact that some of the Japanese Liberation Army, at least the parts that weren't under the direct command of the former leader of the JLF, were just as happy to hang or execute those they deemed to be traitors to Japan as much as a Britannian solider".
Sighing in disgust at this level of barbarity, though a small part of her recognized that the Empire would have done the same thing, Cornelia was prevented from commenting further thanks to the appearance of a nervous looking Euphie.
"What is it Euphie"?
Regretting the slight harshness of her words as she saw her beloved sister flinch the Viceroy of Area 11 felt her frown deepen as the pinkette reminded her of yet another irritant in her life.
"You told me to let you know when I was about to have my conversation with Fri...I mean Chancellor Krueger. Though since I can see that both you and Non..I mean Lady Enneagram are busy, I could postpone our conversation to another time".
Agreeing with that option, partly because she hated having her sister converse with a man who undoubtedly cheered when Sawaski attempted to turn back the clock, Cornelia found her already dark mood souring further as Nonette answered for her.
"Oh now there's no reason to do that? As long as your accompanied by a trusted chaperone, preferably one that would lay down their life for you should you or Nellie request it, I see no reason why your scheduled chat cant proceed as planned".
Opening her mouth to protest this decision, the purple haired royal's response was forced to change her response as soon as she saw the hopeful look that was currently shining in her sister's eyes.
"I...suppose that would acceptable considering the current circumstances. But...".
Of course as soon as she gave her permission, Euphie had been quick to vacate the room before she give her detailed instructions on who she would consider to be appropriate chaperons for her video meeting.
But since she still had work to do following her army's 'victory', and the fact that most, if not all, of her most trusted subordinates were busy with their own post battle routines, Cornelia decided to do nothing.
Which was for the best since her 'best friend' was currently wearing a small smirk that would have caused her no end of stress if she discovered the latest meaning behind.
But since she didn't ask, she didn't have to listen to Nonette explain how she might have encouraged a certain blue haired scientist to make sure that a certain Eleven pilot was at a certain place at a certain time.
Not because she wanted the pink haired princess to form a romantic interest with the Lancelot's pilot. Though she had to admit that the pair of them made a cute, it slightly nauseating couple.
But because she suspected that the upcoming conversation would be the most amusing yet.
For on one hand, there was an idiot who believed that he could obtain a brighter future for his people by bringing about change in a system that could only be changed by the type of brutality that he was determined to fight against.
While on the other hand there was a man who had gained power through methods that KURURGI would consider to be violent and 'criminal' methods, and who had made no secret of his hatred towards those that fell under his definition of traitors.
It was a shame that she couldn't be there in person to witness the inevitable argument.
But then again, that's what recording devices were for.
...
Though she was beyond exhausted, her sick girl cover actually providing her with a good excuse whenever her teachers or classmates noticed her less than energetic state, Kallen could nevertheless truly feel that the time for realizing her brother's dream was closer than it had ever been.
Thanks to Zero's efforts in exposing the true nature of Sawaski's 'Liberation Army', and as usual proving that he was more skilful than the leadership of the opposing side, the Black Knights had added 3,000 trained recruits into it's ranks, with another 1,300 choosing to once again serve under the leadership of General Todoh.
There had been some rather heated discussions between certain members of both factions, specifically Tamaki and the only female member of the Holy Swords, about whether or not these reinforcements should be divided between the two organizations. But since both Zero and General Todoh agreed to Lady Kaguya's suggestion that they allow the former members of Sawaski's army to determine their own fate, the Black Knights were the choice for those that had either been too young to fight during the Britannian Invasion. While the Japanese Liberation Front added to their ranks soldiers that had managed to escape the downfall of their nation and continue the fight abroad.
Which meant, as a certain green haired annoyance pointed out, that while the Black Knights got the larger share of soldiers, the JLF got the ones that were not only trained, but had years of combat experience under their belt.
However, considering Lady Kaguya had supported Zero's claim towards the damaged wreckage of the Gawain, Kallen supposed that she couldn't complain too much.
Even if the masked leader had forbidden her from taking out a very real threat to their plans.
However, since she was in no state to grant him a traitor's reward, orders or no, the tired red head settled for shooting him the odd venomous glare as their current leader rambled on about something that managed to hold the attention of her less gullible classmates.
"So in conclusion, with Lelouch's prodigal cooking talents, and my superior managerial skills, we should be able to finally realize my dream. Any thoughts or questions before I assign you all your roles"?
Keeping her hands firmly rested beneath her head, Kallen fought the urge to roll her eyes as she heard the expected energetic response f a certain carrot top.
"No questions at all Madam President. We're all willing to chip in and do our bit".
She liked Shirley. Even if the girl's taste in romantic partnership was, to nicely put it, lacking. But her friend's continued inability to avoid danger ensured that she felt no sympathy when Milly decided to mess with her.
"I'm glad to hear it Shirley. So which job do you want to be assigned to? Maid café? Kissing booth? Or perhaps something that involves you expressing your love to a certain bo...".
Lightly chuckling at the sight of Shirley trying to force the vulgar blond to stop revealing her so called secret, Kallen found her attention drawn elsewhere thanks to the less than enthused tone of their vice president.
"Are you sure that this is a good idea Milly? While I admire you for wanting the academy to host a festival in light of current events, I still think we shoud...".
"That's EXACTLY why were going to hold a festival. We need something to take our minds off of recent events. And this is the best way to do it".
Her words earning a sigh from the near anorexic boy, Milly soon sported a smirk as Lelouch accepted the inevitable.
"Alright fine. However we really should wait until Suzaku is back before we assign roles. Its unfair to make all these decisions when the entire council isn't here to vote on it".
For his stalling efforts, the former royal merely received an amused smirk.
"And what makes you think I haven't already discussed this with him before I brought it up at today's meeting. Of course he said he would give his answer after he had to attend a...conference with his superior, but knowing what a sap he is for anything heartwarming and uplifting, I think its safe to say that he will be on board".
Knowing when he was beaten, Lelouch released another tired sigh before shooting the smirking blond a nod.
If only because it provided him more time to come to terms with the fact that his best friend had been thwarting his attempts to make Britannia pay for their crimes.
But since he had sadly gotten used to things not going his way, a mindset that had been aided by C.C.'s constant nagging, and the continued existence of the JLF as an independent organization despite his desire to be the sole leader of Japan's resistance movement, the truth of Suzaku's position hadn't been as shocking as it could have been.
Though if he knew just who his supposed best friend was with at that very moment, he might be less willing to indulge in his rational side.
...
Though she had expected her fiancé to be surprised at the fact that she had a new chaperon for their 'conversation', Euphie was caught off guard by the amount of venom that could clearly be heard in the European leader's voice as he stared at her equally displeased escort.
"I must say that this is rather surprising move on your part Euphemia. I had understood that you possessed some rather...liberal ideas regarding the structure of your society. But I didn't expect they went this far as to allow a traitor to remain amongst the living".
Her eyes narrowing in a manner that left no doubt who she was related to, the pinkette allowed more than a hint of warning to enter her tone as she defended the Japanese teen.
"You have an issue with allowing a defeated people to regain their pride"?
Though she had expected Krueger to be less than subtle with his answer, his words still managed to catch her off guard.
"If they are willingly offering their support to help the conqueror's of their nation oppress their people, then I suppose the answer is yes. While some of my subordinates disagree, there is a clear difference between those that work in the factories of the enemy, and those that put on their uniform".
While surprised by his reasoning, for she knew many of her countryman, her sister included, would not be as flexible when it came to differentiating the reasons why an individual would choose to serve the enemy of their nation, Euphie was surprised at Suzaku's answer to this statement.
"And what if someone has no choice but to serve in the armed forces of the country that defeated their own"?
Feeling her eyes water as she sadly beheld the image of a boy who had been forced to grow up too quickly, not unlike the last days she had seen her beloved half brother transform from a cheerful child to something that had become broken, the Third Princess of Britannia felt her eyes widen in shock at the European leader's answer.
"Then they should follow the example set by their father when it comes to redeeming their mistakes".
Though she was rendered speechless at the cruelty of Krueger's words, Suzaku was not.
Even if she could tell that he was clearly unsettled by this insult.
"My...my father did the right thing. He knew he was wrong at challenging a more powerful opponent. And rather than letting our people suffer, he..."
"He ensured that enough of his people would get the chance to survive and experience the joys of being slaves in their own country? I must admit that I had expected a more...lengthy struggle when he decided to take advantage of what I managed to accomplish on the fields of Prokhorovka. But considering the amount of effort and resources the Empire has wasted in trying to retain control over a less than devastated Japan, I suppose I should be grateful for his inability to fight to the end".
His words causing Suzaku to clench his fists in anger, an act that brought a smirk to the German's face, Krueger was prevented from continuing his tirade of insults thanks to the intervention of his furious looking fiancé.
"I will not have you insulting this man Chancellor. While I understand that you might have differentiating opinions regarding his...status, I will not stand by and...".
"Euphemia. Let me make this perfectly clear to you. Having been sheltered all your life by your sister, you know nothing of the way the world truly works. During the course of the Great War, some of our politicians sought to betray the EU because they believed that we were only delaying our inevitable defeat. Luckily however the victory at Kursk, and my superiors decision to paint me as a hero instead of a simple solider doing his duty, ensured that there was enough time and strength left to force the Empire to treat us as a credible threat".
"Not to mention causing other people to take up hopeless causes".
Shocked though she had been at her fiancé's interruption, Euphie had been more shocked at his passionate explanation of his actions, as well as Suzaku's lack of sympathy for his reasoning.
And she was quite glad that they were not holding this conversation in person. Otherwise she strongly suspected that the Japanese teenager would have been shot given the look he was receiving as he proceeded to explain his beliefs.
"Because of you, hundreds, if not thousands of people have died for helpless causes. Because of you, rather than loosening the shackles, the Empire continues to punish entire colonies in order to contain the chaos that the Reich's existence continues to cause. Because of you, few of my countrymen have faith that they can achieve a peaceful life by working with the system that governs their lives".
Though surprised by Suzaku's grievances, if only because they were a near perfect image of what was said by the Empire's propaganda machine, Euphie was brought to tears as she learned what motivated her future husband.
"It amazes me that you have managed to remain that blind while wearing the Britannian uniform Kururugi. Because of me, the heroic sacrifices of hundreds of thousands of men and women were given purpose. Because of me, I ensured that most of Europe, and half of Africa, were spared the horrific fate that befalls anyone unfortunate enough to find the flag of Britannia flying above what used to be their home. And it is because of me that Britannia's newest subjects have the chance to believe that they may someday escape the fate of being viewed as nothing more than playthings for a bunch of entitled inbred swine".
Seeing that this conversation was steadily getting out of hand, Euphie once again tried to bring a semblance of peace to this conversation. Only to have her hopes dashed by a defiant Suzaku.
"That still doesn't mean you couldn't have found a peaceful solution to these problems. By working with the system rather than against it, you can...".
"You can ensure that your opponent doesn't have to exert themselves while raping and pillaging those they deem to be lesser than themselves. Your continued ignorance is almost sad Kururugi. You truly believe that by bowing your head in submission, you will be influencing Britannia's ruling class to adopt a gentler approach to colonial rule? You seem to forget that in the empire created by Charles Di Britannia, the only way to make your views heard is if you possess the necessary strength to make others take you seriously. And even then, you run the risk of being killed if you fail to take into account that your goals stand in opposition to those that rely on the maintenance of the status quo for their power. To put it simply KURUGI, in today's world, your views count for nothing".
Fists clenched in anger, Euphemia was pleased to see that her words were being taken seriously by the leader of the Gross Europa Reich.
"And I suppose our...arrangement wasn't caused by a desire to promote a more peaceful relationship between our two nations Chancellor"?
Slightly smiling at the look of appreciation that Suzaku was currently shooting her, the pinkette's expression became slightly more downcast as she heard Krueger's answer.
"On the contrary, the fact our 'arrangement' was proposed in the first place merely proves my theory correct. Because of my efforts to build upon the victories gained in the Great War, Britannia is forced to treat my nation as an equal. And while I confess that I wouldn't hesitate to follow the Empire's example when it comes to initiating open hostilities, my desire to restore my nation by any means necessary ensures that I will accept any genuine offer that allows me to do so peacefully".
While somewhat heartened by the knowledge that her fiancé would accept peaceful alternatives to restoring Europe's prewar borders, his next statement was enough to make it plain that while he kept it firmly under control, the leader of the Gross Europa Reich had a bloodthirsty side to him.
"Of course my willingness to entertain such an idea would be rather...limited if certain members of Britannian society were still amongst the living. But since most of them are currently beyond the reach of my loyal agents, I am more than willing to use the art of peaceful negotiation to get what I want. Even if the act of ordering my forces to level a military base, or assassinate a sadistic nobleman is more...appealing".
Doing her best not to shiver as Krueger wore an expression that left no doubt that he meant his words, Euphemia didn't bother to fight the scowl that was forming on her face as her fiancé decided to end their conversation with a warning.
"Seeing as I have several things to do for the day, I will be cutting this meeting short. In the future, kindly refrain from being accompanied by those who are too idiotic to realize that their beliefs will never work while serving a system that thrives on racism and the maintenance of class divisions".
...
Uncaring of the shocked expression that was currently being worn by my fiancé, though I enjoyed the look of hatred that was currently being worn by the son of Japan's last indigenous leader, I closed the connection before staring at the amused countenance of my sadistic right hand.
"You find something funny Karina"?
As usual, the clear signs of my irritation only caused my fellow German to smirk as she provided me an outlet for my current volatile feelings.
"No more than usual. Though I have to ask if you want me to order the executions of those sentenced to the Gulag because they were guilty of treason? Or if you want some of my agents to take out some of the more...eager collaborators in the occupied territories"?
As much as I would like to pick the second option, I nevertheless chose the former one in order to avoid suspicion.
"Pick 20, no 30 traitors and dispose of them. Considering we're ahead of schedule, we can afford to have a few dozen removed from the work gangs".
Receiving a nod from the blood thirsty blond, I wordlessly motioned her to begin her report.
"Despite some reluctance on the part of their allies, the JLF was able to get a full copy of the Black Knights' examination of the Gawain. Preliminary analysis suggests that while it will take a few months of testing before we can duplicate the results, we will be able to field float systems that are small enough to be attached to our current knightmares. However, we will need at least a year before we move past the prototype stage when it comes to laser cannons. But the good news is that our shielding technology will be able to withstand this with only a few minor modifications".
Nodding my head in approval with this information, even if I was slightly disappointed that the Gotterdammerung would be operational before the Reich had gotten to the point where it could easily mass produce energy weapons, I felt an eager smirk form upon my face as Karina proved she had saved the best for last.
"And Skorzeny has forwarded me his plan to kick start Operation Reclamation. It needs some fine tuning considering we lack detailed information for each of these sights, and the required amount of aircraft...but I'm confident that we can resolve these issues by the appropriate time".
Though pleased with this information, I nevertheless frowned in consideration as I opened my mouth to request a minor alteration to this plan.
Luckily however, Karina had already anticipated my designs.
"And yes I told him to take into account that his final targets might be closer to our present borders. Which if you think of it isn't such a bad when one considers the speed of the Euro-Brits withdrawal".
Acknowledging the point with a nod, I decided to change the topic of our conversation to other more pressing matters.
Though once again I was interrupted by my less than happy subordinate.
"And before you ask the answer is no. None of my agents have managed to verify the true identity of Zero. Though they did discover something rather...interesting. Apparently the Black Knight's best pilot goes to the same school as your future wife's side piece. Who as the reports suggest was allowed to remain unharmed during the Black Knights intervention at FUKOSHA BASE because Zero ordered him to be spared. And funnily enough, not only did the deluded pilot once play host to a pair of royal cast offs before the conquest of his country, but the school he attends is owned by the family that had rather close ties with the Bitch Empress".
Humming in consideration, I gave the necessary order to ascertain if perhaps I had been presented with the opportunity to bring an end to one of the more evil branches of the Britannian Royal Family.
Of course it wouldn't be easy since the royal brats have had 7 years to prepare for the eventuality that someone would seek to reunite them with their mother.
But nothing in life worth having was easy to attain.
...
ANNNNND think this is a good place to end the chapter.
After all this time...have FINALLY gotten to the scene where Krueger gives the 'reason why you suck' speech to Suzaku. Originally I had envisioned it being delivered in person, perhaps during the first time Euphie meets Krueger in person, but I think this works out well.
Hopefully Suzaku's shower reminiscing makes up for the lack of battle scenes in the last chapter. Promise that there will be a JLF perspective on that battle next time.
And now to address the questions that have been made lol. Always appreciate those that provide thoughtful and favorable reviews to my stories :D
Kegila: If Chen Li end up pardoned in ten years does it mean that the chinese federation will have a political shift by then?
Answer: That was the general idea. Though as to the form this will take, still up in the air.
Imperial Warlord: When will Euphemia go to Goss Europa Reich to get married?
Answer: Depends on the direction I want to take. Playing with the idea of Krueger actually going to Area 11 as apart of a diplomatic gesture, or having the marriage take place in neutral territory, but again, undecided.
Fortitude501: Since Krueger mentioned Zero stop the invasion and saying that all the effort to help the JLF was wasted. Does that mean that he knows that Zero actions at Kyushu meant that Britannia still has plenty of manpower to prevent any hopes of an independent Japan.
Answer: More like Krueger knows that Britannia will waste no time in restoring the garrison's strength to previous levels. Though he does know that because of Zero, Britannia suffered fewer causalities in their attempts to kick out the federation and their puppets.
Chancellor ZVE: So, if the Gawain was in the possession of Britannia at this point, then there is no way for Lelouch to get the chance to claim it?
And speaking of the Gawain, since I know for sure that the Reich has to have witnessed the entire course of the Kyushu Campaign, then they must have gathered valuable intelligence on the Gawain's capabilities when it was deployed, right? I know that Schneizel relishes the chance to test out his pet projects, and Area 11's volatile situation makes it perfect for field tests, but he has to understand that he is making Britannia be forced to reveal some of their advanced assets early on while having little to no information on the Reich's own military research and development. Information is a key asset in any conflict, after all.
Answer: Believe I have answered MOST of this question in the chapter lol. As to the Brit's revealing their advanced tech early on, think its a combination of Schneziel not caring since he has other projects in the works (I.e. Damacoles and MAYBE Freya [I realise that a certain insane/xenophobic, table humping stalker has to make a more worthwhile appearance in this story lol]) and the Empire needing to prove to the world that they are still a force to be feared. And as to their knowledge on the Reich's military research, they know about their aerial warships, but nothing about Heisenberg OR the Gotterdammerung)
Question: Now that the whole Kyushu invasion is over and done with, when is Euphemia set to get married and take up her duties in the former Euro-Britannian provinces? I ask because, since there is no indication of Euphemia knowing Zero's identity for sure without the whole Kamine Island incident even happening, then there is no need for the SAZ, and the ensuing disaster, taking up her time.
Answer: Answered this earlier on in the authors comments lol. But you are right, at THIS point, Euphemia has some suspicion's regarding Zero's identity (I.. the Hotel hijacking), but has yet to discover if they are true or not. HOWEVER, I do have a method that involves a sibling reunion. Will expand on that in future chapters.
Anyways, hope you all enjoyed this chapter.
Plz review. No flames.
Til next time.