//------------------------------// // Chapter 6: In Search of a Gentle World // Story: Rebel Against The Night // by CrossoverManiac //------------------------------// Rebel Against the Night By CrossoverManiac Code Geass is owned by Sunrise, Inc. My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic is owned by Hasbro and created by Lauren Faust. This is a fan-based work not intended for commercial purposes. Character thoughts are italics. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Chapter 6: In Search of a Gentle World The day of the Battle of the Settlement A horned stallion was slumped over his desk scrutinizing a stack of mouth-written reports. He had copper-colored fur and wore a white regal coat adorned with gold shoulder pads that matched his blonde mane. The tapping of hooves outside was growing louder each second and was accompanied by the rattling of chains. The collective noise halted just outside his office and was followed by a knock at the door. “Prince Schneizel, we brought the prisoner as requested,” said a voice on the other side of the door. The regal horned stallion put away the paper work. “Bring him in.” A guard trotted in ahead of a wild-eyed stallion with jumbled red hair and shackles around his front and back legs. The yellow fur coat he sported was pockmarked with sores and slashes. Despite the grueling torture, he could still smile, albeit with a grin that was a cross between sinister and oblivious. Following behind him were two other guards and a portly bald stallion with moss green fur, a tiny brown mustache, and wings dwarfed by his considerable girth. He wore an oversize blue coat and a monocle over his right eye. “As you requested, your majesty,” said the fat winged stallion, “the cult member that was apprehended during yesterday’s raid.” “Bartley,” Schneizel said with a frown, “I gave specific instructions for the prisoner to not be interrogated.” The fat winged stallion quivered. “By the time I reached the prison, the royal interrogators already started. Please forgive me, your majesty.” “It’s all water under the bridge, Bartley,” said Schneizel. “Thank you, your majesty.” “Now wait outside with the guards.” “Please excuse me, your majesty, but I fear for your safety while left alone with this prisoner? Couldn’t at least one guard stay in the room?” “I appreciate your concern, but our guest is in no position to cause me bodily harm.” “Oh, I’m your guest now?” The prisoner spoke up. “I bet you happen to give that order right after they finished torturing me. Let me guess-good cop/bad cop, right?” Bartley galloped around the prisoner and stared him down. “Are you implying his majesty is putting on an act?” “And what if I did? So what?” “You insolent little...” Bartley yelled. “That’s enough Bartley,” said Schneizel. “Take a moment to calm down.” “Right away, your majesty,” Bartley nodded ardently and went out the door. “Now we can speak in private.” “And what was so important that you have to run your guards and fat flank go-for colt off?” “You’re Jonathan Anderson, am I correct?” “No, my name *was* Jonathan Anderson. It’s now Screwloose Grove.” It took every ounce of disciple that Schneizel had to keep from chuckling. “My how...unique. Is it a part of your religion to change your name?” Screwloose nodded his head in response. “It doesn’t sound like they have much respect for you.” “Actually, I picked it myself,” said Screwloose. “Well, Mr. Grove,” said Schneizel, “I was wondering if you could validate or dispel a rumor that started almost immediately after the night of the transformation.” And that rumor is?” “Our more emotionally delicate citizens have, in their search for meaning in this happenstance, has fallen prey to the lure of a charismatic cult leader. According to the rumors, this cult leader is a female and a hybrid of the winged and horned ponies.” “I believe the term you’re looking for is ‘alicorn’,” Screwloose corrected Schneizel. “Our princess is an alicorn.” “Mr. Screwloose, if you provide accurate information on your *alicorn* princess, you will receive a full pardon for your sedition against the Holy Britannian Empire.” “Why do you need me?” Screwloose yawned. “The Great and Powerful Britannian Empire can’t find one little alicorn.” “To be honest, we’re not so sure if she even exists. There has been reported sighting throughout the Empire, even in the capital city. I find that rather difficult to believe given the current state of technology. Tell us, how much truth is there to the existence of this cult leader? There wouldn’t, by any change, be more than one of these ‘alicorns’?” “You wild ponies are so dense.” “Care to explain.” “It never occurred to you why our princess is able to travel around the globe or...turn hairless apes into ponies.” “You believe your leader changed you.” “I don’t believe. I know she did.” “Give me the location of your princess and not only you’ll be a free man, but you will be a national hero.” Screwloose chuckled. “And what would you do if I brought you to her? You can’t hurt a living goddess, Schneizel el Britannia. Your titles are worthless when compared to a deity.” “Then I have no further need of you. Guards!” A few seconds later, the palace guards heeded Schneizel’s call and entered the room. “Have this man sent to the Pendragon Mental Hospital. There’s nothing more to be gain from interrogating this mentally disturbed individual.” “I’M NOT CRAZY, DAMN YOU!” Screwloose screamed as he was being dragged off. “I’D GIVE MY RIGHT HOOF TO SEE THE LOOK ON YOUR FACE WHEN OUR PRINCESS REVEALS HERSELF TO THE WORLD! YOU WON’T BE SO SMUG THEN!” Screwloose’s frantic laughter slowly died down as the guards carried him off. Moments after the guards left with their prisoner, Bartley crept inside. “Good, I’m glad you’re here, Bartley. Have that prisoner under observation at all times. And send a memo to our intelligence agency to send covert agents into the Pendragon Mental Hospital posing as both staffs and patients.” “I mean no disrespect, your majesty, but isn’t he insane? You said so yourself.” “I have my reasons.” Schneizel reflected on the interrogation. “I understand, your majesty.” No, you don’t understand, Bartley. He maybe insane or he may have had contact with a being powerful enough to alter the physical form of billions and to render our technology useless. Real or not, if this rumor spreads, it will create panic in the Empire, and if real, then we must hunt down and capture their leader or kill her, if such a thing is possible. In either case, it is better to discredit him as a bedlam than to label him as a traitor. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The night after the Battle of the Settlement Inoue beamed with pride. The winged mare trotted with her muzzle held up as she, Sugiyama, Yoshida, Minami, and Kallen made their way through the vast expanse of streets covering the High Ground Level. The Settlement, the monolithic structure that towered over all of Tokyo, the ever present reminder that the Japanese were a downtrodden people, was now under their control. The Viceroy’s Palace was slated to be the Black Knights’ new headquarters. Tomorrow morning, the rising sun would greet a Japan free from the yoke of its foreign oppressors. And tonight would be a night to celebrate, or at least that’s what Tamaki claimed. Inoue had no idea what the brash horned stallion had in store for them except that it would take place in front of the palace gates. The founding members of the Black Knights were greeted by a group of horned and mundane recruits gathered around banquet tables with lit candles set at their four corners. In the center were bottles of wine. Most of the wine was the libations usually consumed by the commoners. However, the table at the very front had the best vintages that money could buy. There wasn’t a bottle that wasn’t worth less than twenty thousand yen, or at least back when a yen was worth anything. The night dazzled from the neon light show beaming from some of the horned ponies in the crowd. One of the spotlights, rather than pointing up into the night sky, was directed at Inoue and the others. “Yo!” Tamaki called out as he pushed his way through the crowd. Shadows passed in and out of the beam as ponies walked through the light emitted from Tamaki’s horn. “Over here, guys.” “Is this what you were planning?” Inoue asked. “Damn straight it was. I’ll finally get to throw that shindig for the recruits I’ve been planning. You like what you see?” Tamaki smiled mischievously. “I reserved this table especially for you guys.” Tamaki pointed to the wine bottles. “I found this in the Viceroy’s cellar. Best wine Britannia has to offer.” Tamaki shined his light on the others again and frowned. “I thought I told you to bring the guys from the airborne divisions.” “We would have,” said Sugiyama, “but we didn’t know what we were bringing them to. You kept it a secret from us.” Tamaki rolled his eyes. “Oh whatever. And how come Ohgi’s a no-show? And where’s Tohdoh and the Four Holy Swords?” “Ohgi’s already in the bed asleep,” Minami scoffed. “You know he’s still in recovery.” “And what about Tohdoh...and the Four Holy Swords?” “They’re making funeral arrangements for Asahina,” said Sugiyama. “He was killed in the attack against the White Knightmare.” Kallen scraped the ground and snorted in angry directed at her “treasonous” classmate Suzaku. “Something wrong, Kōzuki?” Tamaki asked. “No, nothing’s wrong,” Kallen lied. “Then in that case,” said Tamaki. He took hold of a champagne bottle by his teeth and nudged it against Kallen. “I’m underage, Tamaki.” Tamaki put the bottle down. “Oh live a little, Kōzuki. I won’t tell if you won’t,” Tamaki smiled. “I think I’ll turn in early.” Kallen spread her wings and flew off. “Don’t be a stick in the mud!” Tamaki yelled at the sky. “Oh well, more for us.” Tamaki bit the bottle by the top, tilted it up, and gulped down the vintage wine. The others did not share Kallen’s temperance against alcohol consumption and helped themselves to the wine set out before them. Two months as ponies had given them enough time to adjust to handling objects without hands. Though they appear to be out of place amongst the libations, the teacups were a practical necessity. The mundane and winged Black Knights could open their mouths wide enough to hold the teacups between their teeth. They needed only to tilt their muzzle upward and let the wine trickle down their throats. Sugiyama was on his third drink when a mundane stallion with a dark green mane and orange coat said over his shoulder, “nice wings you got there.” Sugiyama was feeling a little self-conscious. He didn’t swing that way, after all. “Yeah, thanks,” he said with as much indifference as he could feign. “I bet you put’em to use flying off to safety while leaving us ground troops to die.” Now Sugiyama was pissed. “Excuse me.” “No, I won’t excuse you. While you were hiding in the clouds, that white Knightmare was mowing us down. My kid brother was cut in two by that Knightmare’s oversize scythe.” “I’m sorry to hear that, but we weren’t responsible...” “Go to hell, flyboy!” “Hey guys, save it for the Brits,” said Tamaki. “We took care of the Brits, no thanks to you winged ponies.” There were a few nods of agreement in the crowd. “Don’t you dare talk to him that way,” said Yoshida. The irate mundane stallion directed his anger at Yoshida too. “Just who side are you on, anyway?” “Sugiyama and I fought against the Britannians long before you came around. A recruit has no right to talk to his sempai that way.” “You can both go to hell for all I care.” “Say one more word against any of us and I’ll...” “Let me handle this, Yoshida,” said Sugiyama. Against his better judgment, Yoshida cautiously backed away to let his friend ‘handle’ it himself. “Yeah, I wanna see you handle it without any help from your babysitter, flyboy,” the mundane stallion said mockingly. “You better think this through because the last thing you should want is a piece of me.” Tamaki jumped between the mundane stallion and Sugiyama. “Hold your horses, will ya? We’re all Black Knights.” “Those good-for-nothing flyboys don’t deserve to be called Black Knights,” said the mundane stallion. “I’m no deserter.” Come on, guy, don’t be that way. Let’s just put all that behind us and have some drinks.” The mundane stallion sidestepped Tamaki and slammed a hoof against Sugiyama. Then Yoshida mule kicked the mundane stallion. Then some of the other recruits jumped in the fight. They pounced on Yoshida and Sugiyama. It was about to break out in the full blown street fight when Tohdoh and three remaining Holy Swords pulled the pile of recruits off Yoshida and Sugiyama. “Just what the hell has gotten into you?” Tohdoh yelled. His authoritative tone, homed by nearly two decades in the military, was intimidating enough to take the fight out of the recruits. “We came here looking for Kōzuki and, instead, found you having a street brawl. A day hasn’t gone by since the Britannians were defeated, and we’re already fighting each other. You’re all a disgrace to your nation.” “But those flyb...” “You’ve said enough already soldier. Now go back to your barracks.” With that order, Tamaki’s little get together ended in shambles. “And you two,” Tohdoh scolded Yoshida and Sugiyama, “I expected more from Zero’s top lieutenants.” “They kinda got jumped,” said Inoue. “They can speak for themselves.” “It’s true,” said Yoshida. “That guy had something against the air divisions and took it out on Sugiyama,” he said pointing the mundane stallion that started the fight. The mundane stallion was at the banquet table and about to get another drink when Tamaki crushed the teacup under hoof. “Lips off my booze!” Tamaki yelled. “This is why we can’t have a nice little get together. If you held your liquor, this won’t have happened.” “I’m not drunk.” “Yes you are. You’re an angry drunk, and you got all pissed and picked a fight with my friends.” “You there!” Tohdoh stared down the mundane stallion. “You’re coming with me before you pick another fight.” The mundane stallion shook his head emphatically. “You’re not locking me up are you?” “Yes, we’re locking you up. Now do you want to make it harder than they already are?” Tohdoh looked at Tamaki. “And what do you have to say for yourself?” Tamaki backed away. “Don’t look at me like that. I tried to keep a fight from breaking out.” Tohdoh looked back at Inoue. “Is that true?” Inoue nodded. “Clean this mess up and go back to the barracks.” Tohdoh and his Holy Swords escorted the mundane stallion to a holding cell. Tamaki sighed and took some few more gulps from the champagne bottle. “Man, I’m depressed.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Four days after the Battle of the Settlement Lelouch was in his office going over the casualty reports with Diethard and Ohgi when there was a knock at the door. “Yes, who is it?” Ohgi asked. “It’s me-Kōzuki,” Kallen replied. “We’re kind of busy right now. What do you need?” “Our Britannian liaison is demanding to speak with Zero and being a royal pain in the ass about it too.” “Let her in,” said Zero. Kallen trotted into the room with Princess Euphemia. The former sub-viceroy of the former territory of Britannia bowed her head as an offering of respect to Lelouch. “Princess Euphemia,” said Lelouch. “Are you here about the Britannians’ food rations?” Princess Euphemia shook her head. “You’ve been more than generous with the food rations. I wish to have a private conference with you, Zero.” “Whatever you have to say to Zero, you can say it in front of us,” Kallen said forcefully. “Kōzuki,” said Lelouch, “I will grant Euphemia’s request for a private audience.” “But why...” Kallen gasped. “You’re can’t trust...” “You worry too much.” Lelouch said reassuringly. “The princess wouldn’t be so foolish as to harm me in our own headquarters.” “Zero said he’ll be okay,” said Ohgi as he placed a comforting hoof on Kallen’s shoulder. “Come on, we have to do inventory checks on the equipment we confiscated from the Settlement.” “Yeah, I guess,” Kallen sighed. Lelouch peeked out the door and watched Kallen, Ohgi, and Diethard disappear around the corner of the hallway. “Have they left?” Lelouch nodded. “We’re alone now." Lelouch locked the door. "What was it that you wanted to speak to me about?” “Lelouch, it’s you, isn’t it?” Lelouch pulled down his face mask. “I had a feeling that was the reason why you came, Euphie.” Euphemia ran over to Lelouch and nuzzled against him. “Oh Lelouch, I’m so glad to finally see you face to face.” Euphemia ran her hoof over Lelouch’s mane. “Your hair hasn’t changed.” “Nor has yours, dear sister. Tell me, do you feel any ill-will towards me?” Euphemia lowered her head. “That’s why I waited so long to speak to you as your sister. Lelouch, tell me the truth-how did my sister die?” Euphemia was trembling. Her eyes were tearing up. “What do you mean?” “Did you...kill her in cold blood?” Lelouch shook his head. “Cornelia died in the heat of battle.” Lelouch shivered as Euphemia rested her cold, tear-drenched cheeks on his back. “Oh thank God,” Euphemia cried. “I don’t think I could bear the thought that you’d...” “...maliciously take her life? As I did Clovis’s?” Euphemia nodded. “I know this sounds selfish, but you, Nunnally, and Suzaku are all the family I have left in Japan. I don’t know if I could confide in you if you did.” Euphemia wiped her face and sniffed. “Oh dear, I got your back all wet.” “It’s nothing to worry about, Euphie.” Lelouch levitated some tissue paper off his desk and wiped off. “Have you been to see Nunnally, Lelouch?” “Not as much as I wish. Every now and then, I manage to slip away from my men long enough to speak with her briefly. I’ve been seen partially unmasked. If I go back as Lelouch, I risk my true identity being discovered.” Euphemia then turned her attention to Lelouch’s eyepatch. “Your eye? How bad is it?” Lelouch immediately pulled away from Euphemia and shielded his left eye. “You can’t look at it. The doctors told me to keep it covered at all times.” “I wasn’t going to pull it off, Lelouch,” said Euphemia. Lelouch eased his front leg away from his eye. “Is it permanent?” Lelouch nodded. “The doctors said there was a small chance my eye would return to normal but not to count on it.” Lelouch looked to the side for a moment to collect his thoughts. “Euphie, there’s something I’ve been meaning to ask.” “Yes, Lelouch?” “Since Japan lost all of its sakuradite, we’ve been without power and...” Euphemia sighed as she listened to Lelouch. “If this is about the alternative power source we used in the Lancelot, the answer is ‘no’. I can’t give you that information.” “It would make life easier for both the Japanese and Britannians.” “...or it can be used as weapon. I’m sorry Lelouch, but I can’t risk you having that technology.” “I understand.” “I know people are suffering with the loss of technology, but the new power source is too easily abused to permit either you or father to have it.” Then the oddest thing happened. Out of the corner of Euphemia’s eye, the minute hand on the wind up clock setting on Lelouch’s desk shifted angles instantly. She could have sworn it was twenty minutes after two, but instead, now it was twenty-five minutes till three. Euphemia rubbed her eyes. "Did you get something in your eyes?" Lelouch asked. "No, but I could have sworn it was twenty after two." “Time seems to fly doesn’t it, Euphie?” Euphemia giggled. “I guess that means we had fun right?” “Oh one more thing, Euphie,” said Lelouch. “My classmates from Ashford Academy will probably be under your care. Please, do your best to keep them safe.” “I’ll do my best to keep an eye on them.” Lelouch smiled. “Thank you, my dear sister. You are my only link between them and me.” Euphemia embraced her half-brother one last time before departing. About a minute later, Diethard, Ohgi, and Kallen walked back inside Lelouch’s office. “Has Euphemia left?” “We saw her passing by,” said Ohgi. “Why did you ask?” “I have discovered the identity of the Britannian scientists that created the white Knightmare’s alternative power source.” All three of Lelouch’s subordinates were in shock. “How did you find out?” Diethard asked. “I have an informant working inside the viceroy’s palace. It is of the utmost importance that we find them and do so without Euphemia’s knowledge. Their names are Earl Lloyd Asplund, Cecile Croomy, and Nina Einstein. Kallen was aghast. “Did you just say, ‘Nina Einstein’?!?” “Do you know her?” Kallen had to sit down just to take the shock that her timid classmate was one of the technical geniuses that nearly gave Britannia victory in the battle for the Tokyo Settlement. “Nina’s a classmate of mine. She’s on the student council with me.” “Excellent. We can use that to our advantage. Get in touch with the other members of the student council and see if they know of Miss Einstein’s whereabouts.” Beneath his mask, Lelouch had a smile a mile wide. I never would have imagined that our little Nina Einstein was capable of such brilliance. Thank you, Euphie, for not only giving me the keys to a new energy source but also a weapon of unprecedented power. With this ‘atomic bomb’ in my hands, crushing Britannia will be child’s play. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Three weeks after the Battle for the Settlement Sorato was emotional drained. Princess Euphemia assured him that they have accomplished much but the mass graves that he kept visiting out of some need for self-mortification said otherwise. There were more bodies in those shallow pits than there were ponies in the hometown he grew up in. The last few nights have been one staring at the ceiling contemplating on what he could have done differently to save those lost ponies. Sorato was glad Meadow Prancer didn’t get wind of his little incursion. She would have pitched a fit and accused him of being morbid and trying to guilt himself into a suicidal depression. Since the Black Rebellion, it was Meadow Prancer’s sworn duty to get him out of his funk. “Quit dragging your hooves, Sorato,” said Meadow Prancer as she shoved Sorato from behind. “Ouch!” Sorato jolted forward. “Watch the horn will ya?” Meadow Prancer grinned sheepishly. “Sorry.” “Don’t be sorry. Just stop poking me.” “I can’t help it. You’re dragging your hooves. The local watering hole will be closed before I get a chance to wow all the stallions with my fancy new outfit.” Meadow Prancer’s komodo had roses of various colored etched on the white fabric. “Yeah, nice robe...ouch!” Sorato yelped again, but this time Meadow Prancer bit his tail and yanked on it. “What did you do that for?” Meadow Prancer pointed a hoof at a bar with a hastily put up sign written in kanji. “We’re here.” The two trotted in and was greeted by the stench of alcohol. Japanese ponies sat around elegantly carved oak wood tables sipping their drinks while conversing among each others. Meadow Prancer and Sorato were greeted by an earth pony stallion that was tending to the bar. “Welcome to the Tenshi Lounge,” said the bartender. “Is there anything you’d like to drink?” “Got any salt lick?” Meadow Prancer asked. The bartender had a confused look on his face. “If you mean a Lick Sip and Suck, I can’t help you. We don’t have Tequila. All we have is homebrewed sake.” Sorato leaned over and whispered into Meadow Prancer’s ear. “These ponies still think like apes, remember.” “I guess I can try that.” “And what about your boyfriend?” The bartender asked. “He’s not my boyfriend,” Meadow Prancer objected. “He’s a just a friend, that’s all” “The same as her,” Sorato grumbled. The bartender poured the sake into two saucers. “That’ll be 900 yen.” Meadow Prancer placed a 1000-yen bill on the counter. “Keep the change.” She then turned her attention to Sorato who was staring into his cup. “Having fun watching your drink?” “I’m not in the mood right now.” “Well, you need to get into it. You’ve been a real buzz kill since the Black Knights took over.” “Well, excuse me for letting a little thing like a half-million dead ponies get me down!” Meadow Prancer averted her eyes away from Sorato and sighed. “I didn’t mean it like that. It’s just that I’m worried about you.” She then leaned over and whispered into Sorato’s ear, “I can ask the princess to assign some other pony...” “No, I have to see this all the way through. I can’t just trot away from this mission, and you know it.” Meadow Prancer tapped Sorato on the shoulder and pointed to a corner of the bar where everypony was gravitating towards. “Wanna see what’s going on over there?” “I guess,” Sorato shrugged. He downed his sake in one gulp before he and Meadow Prancer left the bar. In the center of the crowd was a voice that was somewhat familiar. “...when I finally found Zero, that Britannian bitch Cornelia was choking him to death,” said Tamaki. He made choking noses while pressing his fore hooves up to his neck. “So, I was like ‘let go of Zero you Britannian bitch’. Cornelia was practically throwing everything but the kitchen sink. Knives were flying at me from all directions, but yours truly was too quick for her. I weaved around her attack, closed the distance, and,” Tamaki then tapped on his horn, “ran her right through the heart.” The young mares nuzzled up to the big war hero who had a lecherous smile on his face. “Don’t be shy, ladies. There’s plenty of Tamaki to go around.” “His ego’s as inflated as that unicorn from...” Meadow Prancer whispered into Sorato’s ear before noticing the death glare he was giving Tamaki. “Umm...Sorato?” “He’s quite the character isn’t he?” The earth pony bartender was standing beside Meadow Prancer and with an amused expression on his face. “Is he the guy that killed the viceroy?” The bartender nodded. “He’s kind of a celebrity-been here everyday since we opened and never had to buy his own drink.” “Can we leave, Meadow Prancer?” Sorato fumed. Normally, Sorato’s partner would have rebuked him for blurting out her pony name, but in his state of mind, Meadow Prancer decided to let it slide and get him out of there before... “What’s with your friend?” An indignant mare asked. All eyes were focused on Sorato, including Tamaki’s. “I remember you.” Tamaki said pointing to Meadow Prancer. “You’re the bimbo that was looking for Zero.” Tamaki pulled away from the table and got in Sorato’s face. “And you? You’re Euphemia’s messenger boy.” Meadow Prancer nudged Sorato to the side. “Yeah, and we got our message to Zero despite your best efforts to stop us, genius.” “Well, it didn’t matter because the Black Knights took over the Settlement anyway.” “Didn’t Zero surrender to Euphemia, and you only won because she didn’t let the Britannians finish you off.” Tamaki gritted his teeth. “Who asked you, punk?” He then turned his attention on Sorato. “And you, I don’t like the way you’re looking at me. You got a problem or something?” “I got a problem with anypony that brags about hurting others ponies.” “‘Hurting other ponies’?!? What the hell are you talking about?” “He means Viceroy Cornelia,” one of the other Japanese ponies spat. “You people-how can you celebrate another pony’s death?” Then Sorato said to Tamaki, “and you-was the free booze worth killing for?” “My wife is dead because of the Britannians,” said another Japanese pony. “How dare you get holier-than-thou with us? Who the hell do you think you are? “I’m sorry that your wife was murdered but celebrating somepony’s death only makes finding peace harder.” “I don’t get a damn about them!” The angry stallion had to be held back by his drinking buddies. “I’m hope Cornelia is burning in hell.” Meadow Prancer tapped on Sorato’s shoulder. “How about we call it a night?” “How about you don’t?” Tamaki sneered as he shoved Sorato. “Are you a Britannian or some honorary race-traitor?” “For the last time,” Sorato said as he spun around and mule-kick Tamaki across the room. “I AM A PONY!” Meadow Prancer teleported to a safe distance away just before the room broke out in an all out brawl. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Sorato was alone with his thoughts in his holding cell. The future for these ponies looked so bleak-so much death, so much bloodshed. Worst of all, the ponies here revel in it, though these feelings did not come about in a vacuum but, instead, fostered under a decade of brutal oppression. He knew why the Japanese hated the Britannians, but the hatred begets more hatred. In the end, the Japanese ponies were being harmed by their own cold, unforgiving hearts. He yearned for the princess to sail through the globe on her alicorn wings and put a stop to this insanity once and for all. Sorato’s meditation was broken by the sound of keys jingling as a prison guard attempted to fit one key through the lock after another until coming across the right one. “Your Britannian master wants you?” The jailer said in a disparaging tone. Sorato followed his jailer through the cellblock and through a pair of double-doors where they greeted by Lelouch, Meadow Prancer, Euphemia, and Suzaku. “Sorato!” Euphemia yelled out. She and Meadow Prancer gave Sorato a group hug. “When I heard you were in jail, I came here as soon as I could.” “You’re certainly a sight for sore eyes.” “Sorato,” said Lelouch, “is it customary for pacifists to pick fights?” “I’m sorry I kicked your Black Knight.” “Only my Black Knight?!? For one who has such a disdain for conflict, you are quite the fighter. You were the only one left standing despite being outnumbered eight-to-one. Tell me, how did learn to handle yourself in a scuffle?” “I just do.” Lelouch then addressed Meadow Prancer. “And you-Aida Akeno, isn’t it?” “Yep, that’s my name- Aida Akeno,” said Meadow Prancer. “Don’t wear it out.” “Your ability to teleport is impressive. Perhaps you should consider serving the USJ as a Black Knight.” Meadow Prancer titled her muzzle as though the very offer was an insult. “Not interested in joining you bozos. Besides, I think we did more than enough for you anyway. If it wasn’t for Sorato and me freeing Euphemia from that General Darlton guy, the Britannian army would have slaughtered you.” Meadow Prancer smirked as she watched Lelouch focus on her with a hateful glare. “And don’t think I am ungrateful for your help. In fact, it’s the only reason why I don’t leave your friend here to rot. Just don’t push your luck and get into any more barroom brawls.” Lelouch brooded as he trotted pass Meadow Prancer. “I have other business to attend to.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Lelouch telekinetically opened the lock to Tamaki’s cell, which stirred the Black Knight from his peaceful slumber on the dirty mattress scrawled across the floor. Tamaki immediately stood up on all fours and galloped to Lelouch’s side. “Oh man,” said Tamaki with admiration for Zero in his eyes, “you don’t know how happy I am to see you.” “I have a feeling you won’t happy with me for very long. What’s this I’m hearing about you reading messages meant for me and then destroying them?” Tamaki looked like the proverbial child caught with his hand in the cookie jaw. “I was worried the Brits would make you change your mind about taking over the Settlement...” “I don’t need you making decisions for me!” Lelouch yelled. “Furthermore, since I formed the Black Knights, have I ever given any indication that my resolve for liberating Japan was wavering? Well Tamaki?” “No,” Tamaki mumbled. “Yet you thought I might if had I read the letter from Euphemia. Since I can’t trust you to hand over vital information to me, I’m demoting you to platoon sergeant.” “Aw come on! How about cutting me some slack?” “I am ‘cutting you some slack’ in light of the fact that you did save me from Cornelia. Otherwise, I would have booted you out of the Black Knights for that little stunt. Instead, you can spend some time learning how a platoon commander is supposed to act.” Tamaki held his head down. “Oh, alright. You win. So, who’s taking my place?” “Katsuragi Keima.” Tamaki’s ears went limp. “Not that snob Katsuragi.” “Yes that snob Katsuragi...unless you want to quit the Black Knights.” Tamaki sighed. “No, I don’t.” “Then it’s settled. You’ll report to Katsuragi tomorrow morning as his chief NCO. If you ever hope to regain your old position, then you’ll give Katsuragi your full cooperation.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Six weeks after the Battle of the Settlement The Black Knights comb the streets looking for Britannian flags, pictures of the Emperor and of other members of the royal family An hour later, Britannian citizens filled the streets of the High Ground Level of the Tokyo Settlement with the Black Knights were performing crowd control. Unfortunately, for the students of Ashford Academy, the gymnasium was made into one of the processing centers which placed them first in line for being on the receiving end of Zero’s plans. The students were mixed in teachers and their families members. And just outside the gate were thousands of Britannians full of trepidation of what the future will hold for them. Lelouch trotted up to the podium with a megaphone floating beside him. As he took the stage, the Black Knights pulled a trough full of mud to Lelouch’s left. One Black Knight carried a paint stand. Another one trailed behind with a picture of the Emperor Charles zi Britannia in human form. Two more carried a map of Japan tacked to a board, and the remaining Black Knight carried a rolled-up flag in his mouth, which he unfurled and placed on the stage. Lelouch levitated the megaphone up to his mouth. “Citizens of the Holy Britannian Empire, I, Zero, have come here to make you an offer.” Lelouch pointed to a small island between the two lower main islands on the map. “A refugee camp has been set aside for you on Shikoku Island until transportation back to your homeland can be arranged. Because you have oppressed the Japanese, it is only fair that you’ll receive a taste of the hardship you forced them to endure. However, if you wish not to be confined to the refugee camps and remain in Tokyo, albeit in the ghettos, you must denounce your Britannian citizenship and become a citizen of the United States of Japan. To show that you are no longer loyal to Britannia,” said Lelouch as he pointed to the mud trough, “you must soil your hooves, walk on the Britannian flag, and spit on this portrait of the Britannian’s tyrannical emperor.” There were gasps throughout the room. “I’ll die before disrespecting the crown,” said a mundane mare. A horned stallion in the front row screamed out, “Go to hell, Zero!” Tamaki leaped off stage and got in the winged stallion’s face. “You better watch your mouth.” Tamaki said as he revved up on his hind legs and shoved the stallion with his front hooves. “That’s enough!” Lelouch ordered. The tension between the Britannians and Black Knights gradually simmered down. “You are free to choose, but my advice to you is to swallow your pride and embrace this new brotherhood of man that I am offering to you. And if you should change your minds later, we will have a facility set up on Shikoku Island where you can take your loyalty test to the USJ, but if you wish to avoid being sent to the refugee camp, you will denounce your Britannian citizenship right away. You won’t have another chance to take the loyalty test in Tokyo.” Slowly some of the Britannian ponies began making their way out of the crowd. “Gretchen, please don’t do it.” A young mundane stallion cried out to the winged mare who was heading on stage. “Give it a rest, Alex,” said the winged mare, “no one from the homeland is coming for us.” “Wait a moment,” Zero ordered the Britannian mare. His hooves clattered as he jumped off stage and landed on the floor; the noise reverberated unimpeded through the dead silence of the room. In the far back, Nunnally raised a hoof. “Yes, young lady, you have something to say.” Nunnally nodded. “I want to be a part of the gentle world that you’re creating in Japan.” Suddenly, Milly busted into the gym and hastily galloped over to Nunnally. “Wait!” Shirley and Rivalz followed Milly inside. Dammit! What the hell are they doing here? “May I help you, young lady?” Lelouch asked while pretending to be a mature adult talking down to a teenager. Milly completely ignored Lelouch and focused her attention on Nunnally. “You don’t want to do this. Are you doing this because you think Lelouch is still somewhere in Tokyo?” “Milly,” said Nunnally, “I’ve made up my mind, and you can’t stop me.” “Were you not with the first group that was given the choice between being a part of the USJ or staying loyal to Britannia?” Lelouch reminded Milly. “As I recalled, you chose to remain with that worthless dominion.” “I’m not leaving my friend alone to fend for herself in the ghettos. That’s where you’ll send her isn’t it?” “Milly,” said Nunnally, “I’ll be staying with Sayoko.” “But she’s an Ele...Japanese. What makes you think she’d want to...” “Kallen?” Kallen stepped forward. “Yes, Zero?” “You will be staying at the compound we’ve set up in the Viceroy’s palace. Is that correct?” “Yes sir, it is.” Lelouch then pointed to Nunnally. “Are you familiar with this young lady? Were you not were a former student of this school?” “Yeah,” Kallen said nervously. “I know her.” “Would you mind sharing a room with Sayoko and this young lady?” “Sure, why not?” There were whispers among the Britannians and Black Knights, much of it was distain over Zero making an exception for this crippled Britannian and allowing her to stay in the Settlement. “If that is your only concern,” Lelouch said to Milly, “then you need to make preparations to go to the refugee camps.” “Then I changed my mind.” “Is that so?” “You said it yourself, Zero-we can change our minds at anytime and join the USJ.” “I also said that choice only goes one-way. Once you denounce your country, you would never be accepted as a Britannian. Also, I believe it is this young lady’s choice whether or not to associate with you.” Lelouch leaned over Nunnally’s wheelchair and turned it around until his back was turned from the audience. “Do you want anything to do with these so-called friends of yours?” Lelouch then tapped Nunnally. Nunnally tilted her head down and away from Milly and the others and frowned. “No, I don’t. In fact, I’m never speaking to you again. So don’t renounce your citizenship on my account.” “If your friend was the only reason why you’re choosing to become part of the USJ, then you might as well remain a Britannian. And because she doesn’t wish any contact with you, I would not permit you to go near her.” Milly closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “You’re right. Rivalz, Shirley, we’re leaving.” “Without Nunnally?” Rivalz objected. “I know why Nunnally is going with Zero,” Milly whispered just loud enough by her two classmates, but I have to tell you and Shirley in private.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Both the Britannians that remained loyal to the homeland and those that chose to throw their lot in with the newly christened United States of Japan, were required to vacate the Settlement and to make room for the Japanese who would be moving in. Rivalz and Milly were in Shirley’s room helping her pack. A string of suitcases were tied together by single cord threading the handles. Milly telekinetically wrapped the remaining length of cord around Shirley’s waist and tried in vain to tie the cord in a knot only to have it come apart on her. “Dammit!” Milly snapped. “Whoever said telekinesis is better than using hands was an idiot.” “Let me try,” said Rivalz who somehow managed to finish the knot Milly started with just his lips and teeth. “How did you...” Milly asked in utter bewilderment. Rivalz held his muzzle up. “It’s because I’m awesome.” “Beginners luck,” Milly retorted. “Don’t you think it’s kinda weird that Zero is letting Nunnally stay with him?” Shirley asked. “No, it isn’t,” said Milly in a solemn voice. “It makes perfect sense.” “So, you know about Lelouch, too?” Shirley asked. Rivalz looked back and forth between Shirley and Milly. “What are you two talking about?” Milly took a deep breath and said, “I think Zero pressured Nunnally into denouncing her citizenship. Zero has Princess Euphemia under his thumb and I think he’s also keeping Lelouch as a prisoner in order to force Nunnally to stay in Tokyo.” “Hold it!” Shirley interrupted. “Let me get this straight: Zero is keeping Lelouch imprisoned?” Milly nodded. “The truth is-Lelouch and Nunnally’s last name isn’t Lamperouge. It’s Britannia. Lelouch and Nunnally are the children of the Emperor and the late Lady Marianne, and Zero’s keeping them as hostages.” Rivalz shook his head in disbelief. “You gotta be kidding?!?” “That’s not possible!” Shirley objected. “Hush!” Milly hissed. “I waited for your roommate to pack up and leave before I told you for a reason. Please, I know it’s hard to believe Lulu is royalty but it’s true. After the invasion, Lelouch and Nunnally came to my family and we took them in the hopes that someday they’ll be reinstated back into the royal family and, as a result, the Ashford family would regain its noble status.” “No, you don’t understand Milly.” Shirley trotted over to her nightstand while dragging her luggage along with her. She took out a piece of paper and laid it in front of Milly and Rivalz. “What’s this?” Milly asked. “I found it behind the dresser. I think I wrote it.” Rivalz raised an eyebrow. “‘You think you wrote it’?!? How did you manage to write a letter and not remember it?” “I don’t know, but it’s in my handwriting.” “You couldn’t have written this,” Milly objected. “I did write that.” “Without hands?!?” “What’s in the letter?” “Read it yourself, Rivalz.” “LELOUCH IS ZERO!” Milly press a hoof against Rivalz’ muzzle. “I told you to keep it down.” “Now, what’s this about Lelouch being Zero?” Rivalz asked. “The royalty thing is hard enough to swallow.” “All I know is that I have a note in my handwriting telling me that Lelouch is Zero and that,” Shirley then held her head down, “he’s responsible for my father’s death.” “Shirley, you’ve known Lelouch for years. He wouldn’t get involved with the Black Knights.” “Just like Kallen?” Shirley retorted. “Kallen is half-Japanese,” said Rivalz. “That sort of makes sense that she would be a Black Knight, but not Lelouch, and it makes even less sense that Lelouch is their leader.” “And another thing-I don’t remember Lelouch. You were asking me why I was playing strangers with him. Well, I wasn’t. I really don’t remember anything about him. Even my memories of Nunnally don’t have Lelouch in it, and he lives with her. I think he did something to me to make me forget and I wrote that note before it happened.” “And how would Lelouch do that?” Milly asked. “It would have make more sense if he erased your memories *after* the transformation when he became a horned-type. Plus, you still haven’t learned how to write with your mouth, Shirley.” “So, this has to be written before the transformation.” “Which begs the question-how Lelouch erased your memories of him?” “Oh none of this makes sense,” Rivalz grumbled. “Actually, now that I think about it, Lelouch being Zero does. The few times we spoke about his father, he never had a kind word to say about him. No, that’s an understatement. Lelouch always hated his father. At least his motives make sense.” Just then, there was a knock on the door. “It’s me, Kallen. Can I come in?” “Why not,” said Milly with a disgusted look on her face. “It’s not like we have any choice.” As Kallen was opening the door, Shirley realized the note was left out in the open. She snatched it up and disposed of it in the waste basket. Kallen, as far as Shirley could tell, didn’t take interest in the discharged paper, which was a relief for her. Kallen glared at Milly and said in a spiteful voice, “so that’s how it’s going to be-treating me like the bad guy?!? Well, I won’t apologize for being a Black Knight.” “Don’t mind Milly. She’s just upset over Nunnally, that’s all. We’re glad you came over to check on us,” said Shirley trying to reassure their former classmate. She then winked at Rivalz. “Oh absolutely; glad you drop by.” “You need help packing?” Kallen asked. “I packed everything I’m taking with me to Shikoku. Maybe Milly and Rivalz could use some help.” “So, where’s Nina?” Kallen said while scanning the room. “So, that’s why you’re here,” said Milly. “What’s that suppose to mean?” Kallen asked. “We heard the rumors about the Knightmare Frame that you Black Knights fought against and that it used some new power source that a high school student came up with. I doubt it’s a coincidence that our little Nina was ordered to the Viceroy’s palace about that time.” “Are you saying I’m only here because...” “As a matter of fact, yes, I am. You only care about your friends when they’re of use to Zero?” “I knew it was a mistake coming back here,” Kallen grumbled as she stormed out of Shirley’s room. “Good riddance! We don’t want you around anyway!” “Milly, why?” Shirley asked in a confused tone of voice. “Why would you say such a thing?” Tears rolled down Milly’s eyes. “Lelouch, he doesn’t care about us. He was using us for cover until he took over and now he’s tossing us to the side.” “I hope you’re happy, Shirley.” “Me?!?” Shirley objected. “What did I do?” “That note can’t be for real. You fell for someone’s prank and now you got Milly...” “It’s not a prank. I know for a fact I don’t remember Lelouch. He had to have done something to me.” “Rivalz, don’t be stupid.” Milly said while wiping away her tears. “Shirley has to be telling the truth, just like I was when I told you Lelouch is a part of the royal family. It doesn’t matter one way or another who Zero really is and if Lulu has anything to do with him or is Zero. Let’s just put it behind us now and move on.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Seven weeks after the Battle of the Settlement Two caravans of ponies stretched as far as the eyes could see. Each caravan walked parallel to the old Shinkansen rail line but in opposite directions-one heading to Tokyo, the other away from it. Between them were a smaller group of ponies donning leg bands with the emblem of the Black Knights imprinted on them. Ponies from both groups carried their belongings on their backs or hitched to makeshift wagons, grocery carts, and wheel barrels. A little foal on the edge of the caravan heading to Tokyo rubbed his nose on her mother’s leg. “Mommy,” he said in Japanese, “why can’t we go back home? Modoka said we were never going back home.” “Tatsuya, you don’t want to go live in the Settlement?” The little foal shook his head. “Tatsuya, the Settlement will be so much nicer than that shack we lived in. Our new home won’t have holes in the roof and we won’t be cold during the winter and...” “Hold it one damn minute!” A young Britannian stallion yelled. “Don’t think I don’t understand your Eleven gibberish.” He ran across the divide between the Japanese and Britannian ponies. “We built the Settlement. Your worthless mud race wouldn’t have anything if it wasn’t for us.” The mare snatched up her foal and pushed her way deeper into the caravan. As the mare was fleeing, a mob of Japanese ponies split off from the caravan. A mundane stallion ran ahead of the mob. “You built your Settlement on land stolen from the Japanese,” he said. “Every brick in that settlement came from Japanese soil. We’re only taking back what’s rightfully ours.” Suddenly a flock of winged Black Knights descended upon the rioting ponies and began to push them back toward their respective caravans. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Two months after the Battle for the Settlement The exodus of Britannian ponies stopped to rest near the shore of the Japanese city of Kobe. About a mile away from the encampment was the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge. Once they crossed the two-kilometer long suspension bridge, they would go on to Awaji Island, which was linked by a bridge to the larger Shikoku Island. Suzaku combed through the crowd of sleeping ponies forced to lie on the wet grass. The journey wore the Britannian refugees enough that even the discomfort of the cold, moist dew-covered grass couldn’t keep them awake. However, there were a few early bird that awoke to greet the rising sun. Suzaku couldn’t help but to notice that the Britannians no longer eyed him with suspicion. As a pony, so long as he didn’t speak and reveal his Japanese heritage with his accent, he could blend in with the Britannians. Suzaku walked for about an hour until he was on the outskirts of the encampment where he caught sight of a horned mare standing on a rocky hill staring eastward. As the first rays of morning illuminated the coast, the silhouette faded away and, in its place, was Princess Euphemia. Her long flowing pink mane danced in the wind. “Euphie,” said Suzaku called out as he galloped to her side, “what are you doing out here?” “Watching the sun rise out of the ocean or at least that I was planning on doing, but the sun is coming up over land.” “That’s because the Seto Inland Sea is south of us. We would have to be on the eastside of Japan to see the sun rising over the ocean.” “I know that now, Kururugi Suzaku,” Euphemia pouted. Suzaku couldn’t help to giggle at the princess. “I can’t help it. I’m not familiar with this part of Japan.” Euphemia turned her muzzle away from Suzaku and brooded for a few second before getting over her initial embarrassment. “So, what are you doing up so early?” “Lord Guilford was worried. He woke me up and asked me to look for you.” “Forgive me,” Euphemia apologized, “but I needed some quiet time to think things over.” Euphemia gazed at the top of the sun peeking just above the horizon. Euphemia gazed “It’s still a pretty sky even the sun isn’t rising over the ocean.” “It is nice to look at. Euphie, I know this isn’t the best time to bring this up, but I...probably shouldn’t be your knight.” “But why? This isn’t because you’re Japanese, is it?” Suzaku shook his head. “Not all. It’s because I assaulted Cornelia’s soliders. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Flashback The guard that winked at Cecile shook his head. “Not to worry. Once we kill these three,” he said pointing to Lloyd, Cecile, and Nina, “there’ll be plenty of room for us.” Nina hid behind Cecile quivering in fear. “What do you mean ‘kill these three’?!?” Suzaku said in disbelief. “Haven’t you figured it out yet, Suzaku?” Lloyd asked rhetorically. “They’re not our guards; they’re our executioners.” “We have orders from the Viceroy herself to kill these three just in case the Settlement defenses are breech,” the guard gloated. “We were just waiting for the earl to finish working on the Knightmare.” “But I can get you all to safety.” Suzaku objected. “It’s unnecessary.” “And let the Viceroy find out that we didn’t carry her orders out right away? Now step aside and let us do our job.” “But we won’t be able to get the Knightmares working if you kill them.” “And if the Elevens get their hands on them, they could destroy the empire with that new power source of theirs...unless that’s what you want them to do, Eleven.” “I’m a loyal soldier of Britannia. I would never...” “Then let us do our duty. We can’t waste time arguing over three Britannians. Think of the millions that will die because you insisted on letting them live.” The guard took a perverse gratification from the mind game he was playing on Suzaku. “If their deaths upset a soft-hearted Number like you, then imagine how you’d feel if the terrorists got their hands on this top secret technology.” Suzaku was at a crossroads-friends or duty; protect innocent life at the risk of the safety of the Empire. He looked back and forth between the closest thing he had to family and the soldiers. His eyes finally rested on Lloyd. “Well, Suzaku,” said Lloyd solemnly, “will you follow orders and leave us to die?” Nina gripped Cecile around the waist and quaked with fear while Cecile stroked Nina’s cheek in order to comfort her. Lloyd seemed more stoic as he knew this day was coming. He closed his eyes expecting the worse. “Okay, Eleven, step aside so we can hurry up and get out of here,” the guard ordered. Suzaku did not respond. “Don’t tell you lost your ner...” The sadist horned guard’s command was cut short by a spinning round kick. Suzaku then grabbed the horned guard by the mane and slung him at the other horned guards. They were taken off their hooves and left dazed. Cecile, then pushed Nina to the side, and used her telekinesis to tie two of the guards to an adjacent Knightmare. Suzaku made short work of the remaining guards. Lloyd breathed a sigh of relief. “Remind me to never make fun of you for saving lives in a middle of a battle again.” “Help me get them inside the containment module,” said Suzaku who were too busy to respond to Lloyd’s banter. “We’re not leaving anyone behind.” “But they’ll try to kill us if we do,” Nina cried. “Not if you tie them up,” said Suzaku. “I...I...don’t know...” Suzaku stamped his foot. “Nina, I can’t just leave them here. Look, I put you out in separate locations. Now help me get them to safety.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ End of Flashback “So, now you know why I shouldn’t be your knight. Not only did I disobey orders, but I assaulted Cornelia’s guards and helped scientists working on a top secret project escape and potentially fall into Zero’s hands.” “You thought I wouldn’t accept you as my knight because of that?” “But I disobeyed orders.” “And I’m glad you did,” Euphemia smiled. “One of the scientists was a classmate of yours and Lelouch’s. I don’t want to even think about you doing otherwise. Suzaku, this may not be a part of Britannian military protocol, but don’t ever take part in any order that causes harm to innocent people. In fact, I insist that my personal champion be willing to disobey orders to protect the innocent. I, Princess Euphemia le Britannia, command you to protect the innocent even when it goes against any futures orders you may receive.” Then Euphemia chuckled. “That was a bit over the top wasn’t it? I almost sound like Zero that time.” “Oh please,” Suzaku snickered, “don’t make the comparison. Zero’s such a ham. He’d be a laughing stock if he wasn’t a threat.” “Suzaku, I hereby command you to love me.” “Yes, you maj...wut!” Suzaku was caught off guard by the abrupt change in subject. “I love everything about you, Suzaku. I love your stubbornness, your kindness, your strength, your sad eyes, your way with cats. I’m commanding you to love me, and in return, I will love you forever.” “You don’t have to command me to love you. I already do.” Suzaku stroked Euphemia’s mane. “You’re all I care about.” Then, out of the blue, Euphemia reached over and kissed Suzaku on the lips. “Euphie!” “But you said you would love me, didn’t you?” Suzaku rubbed his hoof against his lips, which still tingled and had the taste of Euphemia’s lips on it. “It was just that you caught me off guard.” “Oh,” said Euphemia looking down. “I didn’t mean to impose on...” Euphemia’s apology was interrupted by Suzaku’s lips pressed against hers. “There’s nothing to be sorry about.” Sunlight flowed around Suzaku and Euphemia as they nuzzled against each. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ohgi thought being an arbitrator for the civilians would be an easy task compared to fighting for dear life against the Britannian occupation forces, but that’s like saying Chinese water torture isn’t torture. The short terrifying moments of dodging enemy fire was replaced with the mind-numbing drudgery of bureaucracy and dealing with a frustrated public. It wasn't life-threatening, but the job was tedious and frustrating. Ohgi’s task for today included settling a discrimination case. A complaint was made against Sakura Trail Apartments in one of the Old Tokyo ghettos. The woman who was filed the complaint was supposed to meet him in front of the twelve-story apartment complex. There, standing beside a billboard with the words “BRITANNIANS WELCOMED INSIDE” was a mundane mare with a bright orange coat. She wore her long brown mane in a beehive and sported oversize glasses with a red frame and round lenses. “Excuse me, ma’am, are you Sakurai Ryoko?” Ohgi asked. The mare nodded. “I’m so glad you’re finally here. I thought bigotry was behind us in the new Japan.” “Well don’t worry, ma’am. The USJ has no tolerance for prejudice. By the way, my name is Ohgi Kaname, Black Knight civilian liaison.” Ryoko smiled. “Please to meet you, Mr. Ohgi.” “Just lead the way.” Ohgi followed Ryoko through the lobby and then stopped at the administrator office. A gray, portly horned stallion with a brown mane and mustache slung the door open and stared down Ryoko. The mundane mare backed against the lobby wall; her legs trembled. “Just what the hell are you doing back here?” The portly horned stallion pointed at Ohgi and then back at her. "Did you bring your boyfriend too?” Ohgi was impressed by how fluent this Britannian was in Japanese. “My name is Ohgi Kaname, and I’m the Black Knight civilian liaison. I’m here on behalf of Sakurai Ryoko. She claims that you discriminated against her because she’s Japanese. You Britannians never learn, do you?” Both the horned stallion and Sakurai Ryoko looked cockeyed at Ohgi. “Did I say anything wrong?” “I don’t take kindly to false allegations.” “I’m sure Ms. Sakurai has something to say to the contrary.” “But I’m not being discriminated for being Japanese.” “Mr. Ohgi,” said the horned stallion, “I’m Japanese.” He then pointed to an office desk plate with the name ‘DEMEGAWA HITOSHI’ written in kanji. “Your complaint said you were being discriminated against over your race,” Ohgi said to Ryoko. “I am. Mr. Demegawa only wants to hire horned-types.” “It’s not racial discrimination. I need someone who can write.” Ohgi then looked to Ryoko who said, “I can write. Let me show you.” She first took a notepad out of her backpack and then a pin that she held between her teeth. She then wrote her name down, first in kanji, then in hiragana, and the finally in romanji. Her penmanship was superb. “I don’t see a problem with how she writes. Most people are still re-learning.” “She’s using her mouth! It's disgusting!” “Mr. Demegawa, most people have to use their mouths.” “Well not here they don’t.” “That’s not your decision to make. When the USJ was started, we vowed to stamp out all prejudices.” Demegawa stamped his hoof. “It’s not prejudice not to hire someone for their disgusting habits.” “I’m sorry sir, but you’ll have to get used to it. If you don’t hire this woman, the provisional government will have no choice but to levy fines against your business. Is that understood?” “Fine, I’ll hire the nasty woman,” Demegawa said as he stormed out of the apartment complex. “I’ll be back tomorrow to check up on her,” Ohgi called out. Demegawa was in an alley sulking. “I wasn’t picking on her because she didn’t have a horn. I just don’t want to work with someone slobbering on everything.” “Oh you poor dear, I know what you’re going through,” said a mysterious feminine voice. Demegawa looked around the alley. “Who said that? I don’t take kindly to people mocking me, especially Britannians. Don’t think that I give a damn about your kind just because I let you people rent.” “Why would you think I was mocking you?” She said in a sultry voice. It was then a horned mare with a white coat, blonde hair, and three gold bars on her hindquarter slink her way into the alley. “And I’m no Britannian either.” “Oh right, the loyalty tests, I almost forgot.” “You and I have a lot in common,” said the horned mare. She tapped her horn and then ran her hoof down Demegawa’s. For someone so hung up on drool, Demegawa had it running down his chin as he was captivated by the special attention the horned mare gave him. “We have powers that the other two races don’t. Why should we have to hold ourselves back? To spare their feelings? To shelter them from facing the fact that not all ponies are created equal? They shouldn’t be barking orders to their betters, just like that mundane from the Black Knight. And you know the only reason why he made you hire that nasty woman was because he’s just like her.” “Who are you?” Demegawa asked. “I'm Odessa Stadtfeld.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Four months after the Battle for the Settlement “Diethard,” said Lelouch as he flipped through the stack of reports, “I would like to go over a few things with you.” “I thought you would,” Diethard replied. “That’s why I’ve been loitering around HQ.” “I noticed some discrepancies. For one, the projected crop yields are rather optimistic. In fact, they’re actually slightly higher than what would be expected with modern farming techniques.” “I was skeptical as well, but then I investigated it myself. Crops are actually growing at an accelerated rate. But interesting enough, this phenomenon only occurs on land farmed by the mundane-types. Crops yields from land cultivated by winged and horned-types are those expected from subsistence, pre-industrial age farming. We should seriously consider assigning all agricultural duties to the mundanes.” Lelouch frowned underneath his mask and huffed. “Mundane-types grow the crops, winged-types control the weather, and I suppose us horned-types are the artisans of the three. I wonder if we’ve been turned into ponies or members of an insect hive. Do we still have free will or are we just merely cogs in the machine?” “The latter,” said Diethard, “though it’s been that way long before our transformation. Human society has always had specialized roles.” “But not on a biological level; not like this,” Lelouch countered. "Not to mention the hindquarter symbols. It typifies our social status.” Lelouch said in a frustrated tone. “I don’t want to talk about this anymore. We have more important matters to deal with, specifically, returning power back to the Tokyo Settlement.” “The horned Japanese are working around the clock to replace the sakuradite high capacity grid with copper wiring. We’ll lose much of the power from the solar collectors in waste heat now that we don’t have electricity distributed through a superconducting grid, so only a fraction of the Settlement’s power will be restored until extra capacity can be built into the system.” “That’ll be sufficient so long as we have power available to vital functions like the water reclamation system for the *Japanese* moving into the Settlement.” Lelouch placed emphasis on ‘Japanese’. “The Britannian population won’t be too happy about it.” “They’ll have to make due with the ghettos.” “They’re already opposition against your plan to only allow Japanese to live in the Settlement.” “Let them whine. It’s not like they can do anything about it.” “We should give an explanation why a nation founded on ending discrimination is discriminating against former Britannians.” “The Settlement is on land stolen from the Japanese, and they have first priority over the available living space. Tell them it’s penance for their past transgressions.” “And speaking of Britannians, how did your talks over shortwave with the Empire go?” “All I’ve gotten from them is saber-rattling. They don’t recognize the USJ and that I and the rest of the treasonous Numbers will be executed for our sedition against the Empire. We should make plans to create a naval defense force just in case Britannia go through with its threats. Also, our air divisions should scour the clouds just in case the Empire attempts an aerial sneak attack.” “I’ll get right on it.” “Oh, by the way, there is one other thing I wish to discuss with you. Diethard took a deep breath and readied himself for a tongue lashing. “Is it about the population initiative?” “Give the people time to adjust before pushing them to resume marital relations. They’ve spent only a few months in their current form. It’s too soon to ask people to give up their physical revulsion to...that sort of union.” “The morality of *that* sort of union has changed when our forms were altered.” “I know that Diethard, but knowing it as a fact and accepting it on an emotional level are two different things.” “I’m not a sexual deviant. I don't revel in the concept, but there are societal ramifications to take into consideration. There’s also been a 50% increase in the divorce rates among Britannian and Japanese couples. Societies can not survive a breakdown of the family unit.” “You can start an initiative encouraging couples to stay together, but nothing more. Let’s wait and see if there is a long-term drop in the birth rate before we go further. The end of next year should be enough time.” “Yes sir, I understand.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The dilapidated buildings of Shikoku Island were packed with refugees huddled together for warmth in the chilly autumn nights. Hundreds of shivering Britannian ponies laying side by side. Some of the piles of dried leaves were empty of a pony body. The bleak prospect of being abandoned by the homeland drove the ponies back to the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge from which they walked into the waiting arms of the Japanese sentries. There, all they need to do is disrespect the crowd, trample on the Britannian flag and swear their allegiance to the United States of Japan. The desertions were met with both outrage over their treason and relief that there were less Britannians to feed and shelter. A hoof nudged Rivalz and stirred him from his sleep. “What gives, Chief?” Rivalz yawned. “It’s not morning yet.” “I have to use the restroom.” Rivalz waved his hoof dismissively at Milly. “You have my permission to go.” “I’m not going by myself, not after what happened to that girl last night.” “Something happened last night?” Rivalz asked. “A girl was raped and murdered. Her parents said she went out in the woods to use the restroom. They found her body the next day.” “Man, you need to do this stuff before going to bed.” Rivalz got up and brushed off the strands of grass caught in his fur. “I can’t help it Rivalz.” Milly said in a flustered voice. “I have to go when I have to go.” "One or two?" "One." "Oh good, it's only number one. Let's go." The two crept out outside and stopped in front of a back alley. “I think I see a storm drain in there. Stand guard for me *and* no peeking.” “Yeah, yeah, yeah, whatever-just hurry up, will ya?” Milly disappeared into the alley while Rivalz waited in the front. While Milly relieved herself, several stallions came out of hiding. Rivalz partially opened his wings before he remembered Milly was still in the alley. Also, there were a few winged ponies with them. “Whatcha doing out so late, kid,” a mundane stallion said mockingly. They were close enough that Rivalz could see the predatory expression his face. “Oh it was getting stuffy so I came out here to get some fresh air.” “All by yourself?” The mundane stallion asked. Rivalz nodded. “Yeah, sure I did.” “Don’t lie to us. We saw your little girlfriend go into that alley.” The mundane stallion called out to Milly. “Come on out or else your little boyfriend’ll get hurt.” Milly slinked out of the shadows one hoof at a time. “Good,” the mundane stallion sneered, “we won’t have to come after you.” As the other stallions seized Milly, the mundane stallion kicked Rivalz in the head. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Kallen flew through the Black Knight headquarters with a piece of paper clutched between her front hooves. A look of desperation was on her face as she darted from doorway to doorway calling for Zero. While she was looking in a supply room, a familiar voice called out from behind. “Where’s the emergency?” Kallen looked behind and saw Sugiyama flying behind her. “I need to talk to Zero, immediately.” “What for? Is it that serious?” “It is for me.” “What is it?” “It’s personal, Sugiyama.” “I saw Zero going into your room.” “What is he doing in there? Does he know?” “Know what?” “I can’t explain. Gotta go.” Kallen flew out a window and headed for what used to be the servant quarters for the Viceroy’s Palace but was now the barracks for the high-ranking members of the Black Knights. She landed on the steps and ran the rest of the way since the barracks didn’t have the high ceilings of the Viceroy’s Palace/Black Knights headquarters. In the front of the door was her roommate Sayoko. She was a mundane pony with cyan fur, brown mane, and three kunai, Japanese throwing knives, on her hindquarter. “Sayoko, where’s Zero? I need to speak to him.” “One moment, please,” Sayoko peeked in the door for a second. “He’ll be out in a minute.” “What the hell is Zero doing in our room?” “I’m sworn to secrecy.” “That’s our room, Sayoko. What goes on in there is my business.” “I’m sorry, Miss Kōzuki, I will not tell nor will I permit you to enter.” Kallen hoof-palmed. “Of all the insufferable...either tell me why Zero is in our room or...” Kallen paused for a second when she remembered that she had a second roommate. “Is Zero talking to Nunnally?” “I already told you that I’m sworn to secrecy. Please do not ask me again.” As Sayoko was speaking, Lelouch walked out of the room. “This has better be important, Kōzuki.” Kallen was shocked to hear that tone of voice coming from Zero. “Why were you in my room?” “That’s none of your concern. Now tell me why you’re bothering me.” Had it been some other stallion snooping in her sleeping quarters, Kallen would have taught them not to invade her privacy the hard way, especially if he acted as though he was the offended party. Then again, Zero was not just any stallion. “I would like to ask for emergency leave.” “What for? Was there a death in your family?” “Not my family, but two friends of mine.” When Kallen said that, Lelouch tensed up for a moment before he steadied his nerves. “Two of my classmates were attacked last night.” “What were their names?” “Rivalz Cardemonde and Milly Ashford.” Lelouch felt his heart jumping out of his chest. He turned his back on Kallen long enough to regain his composure. No, they were supposed to be safe at Shikoku Island. Euphemia promised me that she would keep them safe. No, don’t blame her. This is my fault. I pressured them to go into exile until the tension between the Britannians and Japanese simmered down. Had I only kept them from leaving Tokyo... “Zero,” Kallen asked, “are you okay?” Yes, I am. Now tell me what happened to your classmates?” Tears began rolling down Kallen’s muzzle. “Milly was raped and Rivalz is in a coma.” “They’re Britannians. Are they in the Tokyo ghettos or Shikoku Island?” “Shikoku Island. Another classmate of mine sent the message.” “Emergency leave won’t be necessary. I have business that I have to attend to on Shikoku Island, and you can accompany me there. Arrange to have three of your squads to be mine and C.C.’s escort. Also, have the airlift equipment ready. Sayoko, bring Diethard here, immediately. I don’t care what he’s doing.” “We’re flying you all the way to Shikoku?” Kallen asked. “Do you not wish to be by your friends’ side as soon as possible, Kōzuki?” Kallen nodded in earnest. “Absolutely.” She galloped off heading for the barracks. A minute later, Sayoko was back and was accompanied by Diethard. “Diethard, I’m making a last minute change in my schedule. Tohdoh is meeting with the northern resistance factions in Hokkaido. So, I’m leaving Ohgi in charge. You will assist him in all civilian matters.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ “The answer is ‘no’.” Ohgi gave Diethard a crossed look. It was the first morning that Zero was gone since the Night of the Transformation, and Ohgi was feeling loss without him. He had forgotten what it used to be like during the old days when Zero would abruptly appear and disappear. That lost feeling was worse because now Diethard wanted him to act on his own without orders from Zero. “It isn’t discrimination,” Diethard objected. “Well, what am I suppose to call an order replacing the horned and winged farmers with mundanes?” “It’s called playing to the strengths of your subordinates.” “They’re not subordinates. They’re civilians.” “They’re civilians clamoring for jobs, and now they’ll have it.” “What about the horned and winged farmers?” “They can live off of rations, which will have in surplus if the farm work is taken care of by the mundane-types. Look, we have to make up for the loss in crop yields caused the loss of technology and we’re late in the growing season. Mundane-types have a synergistic effect on crops that rival 21st century agricultural technology.” “But Zero said we’ll have enough for everyone, both Britannians and Japanese.” “Barely enough”, Diethard replied. “What if people panic and horde food? Or there’s another disruption? A high margin for error insures that no one will go hungry, and you want that don’t you, Ohgi?” Ohgi was full of contradictions. Diethard was right. Rice production has just reached the pre-transformation night levels after months of dismal yields. If more mundane ponies could increase yields, then a famine could be adverted. But it would also mean setting up a caste system based on their pony form. It wasn’t fair to the Japanese who didn’t ask to be transformed into ponies let alone their particular form. But would it be right for them to starve? No, it wouldn’t. Millions wasting away in the cold of winter with bare cupboards was the worse of the two evils. They would just have to put up with it for now. “I suppose this one season wouldn’t hurt. Once we get enough food, then things can go back to normal.” “Yes, I suppose,” said Diethard. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Matsuyama was the largest city on Shikoku Island and was the capital city of the Ehime Prefecture which covered the southern most portion of the island. Since the relocation, it has become the home for the Britannian Self-Governance Administration, the ruling body and bureaucratic entity that presides over the refugee camp on Shikoku Island. Zero, C.C. and their escort of winged Black Knights glided above Matsuyama and observing how time and neglect had left the city in shambles despite being relatively unscathed by the invasion. As they were flying over head, they passed by a castle that dated back to the feudal era. The Black Knights began to make their descent when Zero pulled on the reigns. “Don’t land yet,” said Lelouch. “We’re taking a bit of a detour.” “But why?” Kallen, who was flying next to Lelouch, asked. “That’s where the Britannian princess isn’t it?” “It is, but we were making better time than I thought. We’re a few hours early, so we’ll stop and check on your friends.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Kallen peeked inside the room where Milly was staying during her recovery. Milly was lying in bed and was staring at the ceiling. Her face was swollen. Stitched up cuts pockmarked her body. There were bald patches in her mane where her attackers grabbed her and yanked too hard. At her side were Shirley and Suzaku. “May I come in?” Kallen asked. “Of course you can, Kallen,” said Shirley. “That's why I sent the message.” “Milly, it’s me-Kallen. I came to check on you.” Milly did not reply. In fact, she did not respond at all. “Who did this to you? Tell me so I can...I can…” “She won’t respond. The doctors say Milly is in a catatonic state. She doesn’t speak or move...except at night.” Shirley choked back the urge to break down in front of Kallen. “She’s screams at night. Milly is screaming for them to stop.” “What about Rivalz?” “Rivalz passed away while you were on your way,” said Shirley. Kallen rested her head on the back of Shirley’s neck while Shirley stroked Kallen’s mane. “Is this the gentle world you and Zero were fighting for, Kōzuki Kallen?” “Not now, Suzaku,” Shirley mumbled to herself. Kallen lifted her head up and focused her eyes on Suzaku. “That’s a cheap shot.” “Well, tell me. Where is that gentle world Zero killed all those people for?” “Don’t blame us. There’s no one here but Britannians and their honorary lapdogs. This world is Britannia’s.” “You don’t know, do you?” “Know what!” “They were attacked by Black Knights-the very Black Knights guarding the bridge to Shikoku Island.” “That’s a lie!” “We caught them in the very act. They already beat Rivalz into a coma and were in the middle of gang-raping Milly. We even have one in holding and we’re not letting him go without...” “WILL YOU TWO PLEASE STOP IT!” Shirley screamed. “Stop your bickering, both of you! Just because Milly isn’t responding doesn’t mean she can’t hear you. She has to know we still care for her.” Shirley began to weep. “But she won’t if you two are too busy tearing each other apart over politics. Please, please just stop already. Milly needs you both.” Unbeknown to Shirley and the others, Lelouch was outside their door listening in on them. He ducked into an empty room to mourn for his lost classmates, but it wasn’t long before grief gave in to rage. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Lelouch and C.C. were escorted to the holding cell by Guilford, Darlton, and a guard. “...while I am more than willing to hand down a harsh punishment for these terrible deed,” said Lelouch, “there must first be due process.” “There are more than a dozen eyewitnesses, the ones that saved Ms. Ashford, who saw your Black Knights sexually assaulting the young lady,” Guilford pointed out. “It’s not much of a trial.” “It is in the world I created. I’m negotiating with the princess to have this alleged Black Knight released into my custody and to be put on trial in Tokyo.” They stopped at the holding cell on the far end of the building. “Like hell you will!” Darlton swore. “You think we’ll trust any court ran by the likes of you?” “You have the gall to question my integrity after the war crimes committed in the name of Britannia? You forfeited your right to judge us with your mistreatment of the Japanese. And despite this, we have given you rations to live off of until you can become self-sufficient.” Darlton and Guilford was silenced. “As I thought...now open the celldoor.” In the center of the room was a mundane Black Knight tied to a chair that was in front of a table that had a notepad and a cup of cold coffee left there by the last interrogator. After C.C. and the guard entered the interrogation room, Lelouch closed the door behind them and spoke to the guard as he peeled the eyepatch away from his Geass eye. “Guard,” Lelouch ordered, “you will stand in place and not react in anyway to what happens in this room for the duration of this interrogation. You will forget what you saw. If anyone asks, the only answer you will give is one that collaborates with my testimony. Is that understood?” “Yes, of course,” the guard replied. The mundane stallion looked at Zero and the guard in bewilderment, not knowing how to make sense of their conversation. He then felt tingles running along his four legs. The ropes that bound him to the chair were telekinetically being undone. “What is your name soldier?” Lelouch asked. “Corporal Sawanaga Taisuke,” the mundane stallion replied. “Corporal Taisuke, the Britannians claim you are a rapist and murderer. Is that true?” “Absolute not, sir!” Taisuke said forcefully. “These Britannians will say anything to smear our reputations.” Lelouch then let out a malevolent chuckle. “Cut the act, Corporal. You’re amongst allies. There’s no need to carry on this façade.” Taisuke twiddled his hooves nervously and looked around the room. “But I’m telling you the truth. I didn’t do those horrible things they’re accusing...” He then focused on the guard and C.C. “What about them?” “The girl is with me.” “And the guard?” “People can’t tell the difference between Japanese and Britannians anymore. He won’t talk because he’s one of my spies. I have to keep tabs on the Brits somehow.” It was then the veil of innocence was dropped revealing the sadistic beast hiding within Corporal Taisuke. “That Brit bitch and her boyfriend got what was coming to them,” Taisuke boasted as grinned with self-satisfaction. “My buddy Makoto remembered them from the loyalty tests we gave at that school. When he saw them on one of his aerial patrols, he told me and I knew we had to teach her and her boyfriend a lesson for talking back to you. So, when it was my turn to guard the bridge, me, Makoto, and my buds trotted into town and put that Brit couple in their place. Though, to be honest, those two weren’t my first.” Then Taisuke chuckled and said with a sense of pride, “most of the Brits we killed took the loyalty test thinking we would let them roam around Japan. Boy, were they in for a surprise.” It was at that moment the table and chair began to shake. Taisuke looked at Zero and saw a hateful stare burning through him. No you bastard! They weren’t supposed to be harmed. Then the shaking stopped as abruptly as it started. “Just joshing you, Corporal,” Lelouch said jovially. Taisuke took a deep breath and let his tensed up body relax. “You almost gave me a heart attack.” “You thought I was going to kill you, didn’t you?” Taisuke nodded and laughed at himself for being scared by Zero’s ‘joke’. “You had me going for a second. I can’t believe I fell for it. I always knew that talk about being knights for justice was a crock. I mean, why you would care if we had fun with the Brits?” “It’s not like those two Britannians you assaulted were my closest friends or anything, right?” Taisuke stared at Zero with a perplexed look for a moment and then broke out laughing. “That’s a good one, sir.” Taisuke’s laughter came to an abrupt end when Lelouch ripped his cape and splashed himself with the cold coffee. “Actually,” Lelouch said with a voice quivering with rage, “they were my friends, you bastard.” Taisuke jumped out of his seat and backed away, but that would do him no good. Lelouch peeled away his eyepatch and said, “Lelouch vi Britannia has for you the following command.” “What are your orders, sir?” Taisuke said under the sway of Geass. “You will write a signed confession to the rapes and murders you committed as well as the names of your cohorts. You will also write down the name of the commanding officers, if any, who had knowledge of your criminal activities. When you are done writing, bust out of this interrogation room and run behind the building. There, a jug filled with kerosene and a butane candle lighter will be waiting for you. Douse yourself with the kerosene and ignite it, and then your task will be completed.” “Yes, I understand.” As Taisuke was writing down the confession, Lelouch shattered the cup and levitated a shard up to his forehead. The shard cut a gash just below Lelouch’s horn. Lelouch backed up to the wall and as Taisuke finished writing his confession and made his dash out the door, Lelouch levitated the table and smashed it against the wall. A few seconds later, Darlton ran into the interrogation room. “What the hell is going on!” Darlton yelled. “I...I...was attacked...by Taisuke,” Lelouch said in a sickly voice that he faked as a part of the ruse of being physically assaulted by his Black Knight. “How did he get loose?” Darlton demanded an answer from the guard. “I...I...don’t...” “I let Taisuke loose,” Lelouch interrupted. “What were you thinking?” “I wanted to gain his trust. I managed to get him to confess to his crime and to name his accomplices. But then he turned on me and attacked. Must have been a last second change of heart.” As Lelouch was speaking, another guard stuck his head through the doorway. “General Darlton, we found the prisoner.” “Where is he?” “He ran to the back of the building and...set him on fire.” “I’ll deal with you later, Zero,” said Darlton before he galloped off with the two guards. “Lelouch,” said C.C., “by telling that man his Geass command ended the moment he set himself on fire, he’ll be fully conscious while being burned alive.” “That’s exactly what I wanted.” “An execution wasn’t good enough, Lelouch?” Lelouch raised an eyebrow at the outrage from the otherwise stoic girl. “No, it wasn’t. It’s my insurance policy.” “Your ‘insurance policy’?!?” C.C. repeated Zero’s cryptic answer. “In case there is no god to condemn him to Hell. I was making sure he’ll at least burn in this life.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Lelouch was exiting Milly’s room when a mundane mare with strawberry blonde mane and an apple-green coat stepped in his path. “Zero, what were you doing in that room?” Lelouch recognized the mare’s voice as Shirley’s. A bit of happiness crept inside Lelouch’s heart. He was glad that at least Shirley didn’t fall victim to those thugs. “This young lady was harmed by rogue elements within the Black Knights. I came to check on her.” “Is this what it takes for you to check on your closest friends?” Shirley’s rhetorical question dripped with venom. No, it’s not possible. I used Geass on Shirley. She shouldn’t remember me or that I’m Zero. “Wait!” Lelouch cried out as Shirley went down the hall. Shirley stopped and glanced back. “I know it’s you Lelouch.” She then went her way down the hall before an unseen force shoved her into an adjacent room. Lelouch shut the door behind him and locked it. “How? How did you...” “...remember who you really are? I don’t remember, but I did write a note to myself before you brainwashed me. I found it while packing my belongings.” Lelouch slipped off his mask and took a deep breath. “Shirley, I can explain...” “You don’t have to.” Shirley pointed a hoof at Lelouch. “Milly told me everything about your past-that you and your sister are members of the royal family. Tell me, is all of this to get back at your father, the Emperor, or is this some plot to take over Britannia for yourself?” “I’m doing this to avenge my mother and to make a gentle world for Nunnally.” “You call this a ‘gentle world’! What was so gentle about Rivalz being kicked to death? Where was your gentle world when Milly was being raped? Well?” Lelouch hung his head down. “I thought they would safe here with the other Britannians.” “And yet you let Nunnally stay with you in the Settlement? If it was so dangerous for us, why didn’t you leave Nunnally here?” “I...I...” “...‘don’t care what happens to my friends so long as my precious little sister is safe’, right Lelouch?” “That’s not true, Shirley.” “As if I’d believe your lies.” “Are you going to tell?” “That was the first thing I did. I went to Princess Euphemia, but she’s covering for you. She warned me that if the Japanese found out who you were they would turn on you and then we would have no one protecting us from them. So, your little secret is safe. I’m done talking with you, Lelouch.” As Shirley was leaving, she looked back at Lelouch who was still wallowing in shame over his failure to keep his closest friends safe. “Milly also told me I was in love with you. Thanks for erasing that from my memories. I don’t know how I could have fallen in love with a selfish bastard like you.” She slammed the door behind her. Having said her peace, Shirley went back to check on her friend, but just as she turned the corner, Milly had gotten out of bed and had taken a few unsteady steps out in the hallway on wobbly legs. “Shirley, what I am doing here?” Milly asked. Her strives were becoming more steady with each step. Her body was becoming accustomed to standing on four legs again. Shirley ran to Milly’s side just in case she fell over. “Why is it daytime now?” Milly asked while looking outside the window at the afternoon sky. “You don’t remember, Milly?” Milly shook her head. “Rivalz was escorting me outside to find a place to use the bathroom and then...I was here. Wait, where’s Rivalz? Is he here, too? Shirley?!? Why are you crying? Shirley???” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Things are falling apart for Lelouch. One by one, he had lost his best friends from high school as consequences for his actions. And as Lelouch is struggling with his personal ordeals, there are forces at work both within and from outside seeking to destroy the world he’s creating for his sister Nunnally. Does Lelouch have the fortitude to endure his dream becoming a nightmare? Will he be able to stand on his own without his life long friends? And what of the bigotry festering in the souls of ponies? Will humanity’s old prejudices give way to new ones birthed by the transformation? Stay tuned for the next chapter of Rebel Against The Night. Author’s note: I know I keep saying this fic will be on hiatus only to go back and to publish another chapter. And who knows, it may happen again. Nonetheless, I am *planning* on putting Rebel Against The Night on the back burner and work on my other Code Geass crossover Zero vs. Kira. Hopefully, I can get enough of Zero vs. Kira done that I feel like I can go back working on this fic without being neglectful toward my other stories.