Code Geass: Lelouch the Rebellion

Immortal Penance

So time for an explanation, well I probably have a few pissed off readers, some readers who forgot about me and others who are probably skipping this and reading the story now. Most of the blame goes to work the rest to reviewer x-EliteAssissin-x who had won my little fan art contest from Step 1. I was not lying about that she gets fan art and it is huge. A full poster at 16x24 Featuring Lelouch and Schneizel locked in a chess match to the death. I've only finished the pencil part which has taken me the better part of my time and now must color it completely. I might do the coloring in Photoshop if I can find a big enough scanner but for now I have to leave it until I can figure out how I want to color it.

Anyways today's chapter was hard to write since it uses mostly poor humor while minor plot is revealed. Consider this a waste of space if anything.

Step 3: Lamperouge vs. Ashford

Pendragon, Britannia Imperial Palace

3 days after the court.

Lelouch's eyes snapped open the second he sensed another in the room with him. Darting his eyes in a panicked manner he finally rested them on the form of Schneizel who was reading an old history book, this one dating back to the times of the Egyptian reign and inevitable downfall. Deciding it would be easier sleeping he closed his eyes but Schneizel's voice interrupted him.

"You need not bother hiding the fact your awake little brother."

Lelouch scowled having been caught by Schneizel, again he might add. His older brother always had the uncanny ability to sense when Lelouch was aware even when they were young. Schneizel could always tell Lelouch was listening or ignoring him and perhaps it had to do with the fact that they were very similar in mindset.

"Tchh, still reading away on ancient wars and kingdoms?" Lelouch asked not directly looking at Schneizel.

"Yes, I find the tactics used in the primitive times to be rather effective and hope to find one involving knightmares one day."

"It didn't help you in your last battle." Lelouch muttered but Schneizel just smiled.

"You've surpassed me then I suppose, but one battle doesn't determine the outcome of war." Schneizel said and pulled out a chess board from his pocket.

"You still carry that thing around?" Lelouch asked and eyes the hand crafted fold out chess board.

The chess board Schneizel held before Lelouch was one of the few memories he treasured from his past, even more so than the old memories of his mother however tainted they turned out to be in the end. Lelouch had seen Schneizel with it one day and asked his older brother what it was for; being slightly kinder back in the day Schneizel calmly explained what Chess was and the basics of the game stating that every member of the house of Britannia was to learn the rules and play the game to the best of their abilities. Lelouch had been immediately fixed upon the game and being a genius already had put his entire being into beating every member of the family starting with Clovis who visited frequently.

"I carry it around everywhere I go as a reminder of the fun times." Schneizel supplemented and opened the board laying the pieces out taking the side of white while Lelouch took black.

Lelouch had soon defeated Cornelia to a match, something very few could do and once again challenged Schneizel being the only one left in the family besides his father that he had yet to beat. His father had told him that he may only be challenged if he was able to best every member of the house and Lelouch was determined to do so.

"I didn't think you considered those days fun." Lelouch replied and took his place across from his brother.

The match against Lelouch had been the most challenging match he had ever played in; his little brother was only seven and was able to calculate complex strategies and moves incorporating all his pieces into the equation. But there was a reason Schneizel was the best in the palace only behind the Emperor who he had yet to challenge.

"You are very good Lelouch."

"I'm going to win and then when I do father will have no choice but to challenge me." Lelouch said as he moved his next piece to take Schneizel's queen.

"I believe you will, but Lelouch how can you challenge our father when you can't even challenges me?"

"Hugh?"

Lelouch moved his next piece taking the bishop and putting Schneizel in check.

"You were the one who taught me that the King should be the one to lead his forces." Lelouch said in a soft tone.

"I remember that day; you were so confused that you made mistake after mistake." Schneizel said moving the queen to block.

"I did, the concept of the King being the strongest piece eluded me when I was young." Lelouch said and moved a pawn forward trapping the queen in its place.

"You see Lelouch, the queen as powerful as it may be, hold nothing to the king." Schneizel said and forgot his own queen and instead moved his king.

"What are you doing, you'll loose!" Lelouch cried out and Schneizel smiled.

"Then you'll be able to challenge the Emperor."

"And now you see its importance, you value its power however limited it may be." Schneizel said and swiftly took out the queen with his rook.

"But you could care less if the King is taken." Lelouch said and moved his knight into striking position.

"I declare check!" Lelouch cheered as he moved his King to block Schneizel's

"Possibly… but what if I did this?" Schneizel moved his King in a position where only Lelouch's King could take it but would be taken in the process.

"That's an illegal move!"

"Is it now, tell me if you were to take my King then my rook would take yours leaving two armies without a ruler who's to say who won and who lost?"

"Well…"

"Neither side would win; both armies would collapse and end up killing each other." Lelouch said removing the second bishop.

"Your right the armies would collapse leaving the pawns to pick up the pieces I'd like my queen back." Schneizel said moving a pawn to the end of the board and Lelouch cursed, as it was a move directly into check.

"You have lost Lelouch."

"How…"

"Your hesitation, you weren't willing to sacrifice yourself to achieve your goals. If you can't sacrifice yourself than those who follow you can't be expected to do the same."

"I want a rematch!"

"Later, one game for now is enough for you to learn and reflect."

"Checkmate Lelouch."

"Damn and I can't take your King in any way."

"You still have much to learn it seems."

Lelouch looked over to Schneizel who was now packing the board away in a calm manner. Having lost Lelouch was now searching through his thoughts and memories to try and figure out where he went wrong when he realized that he did nothing wrong. Schneizel hadn't been attempting win he had been stalling to by his pawns time to become stronger. That was new to Lelouch as he never knew anyone to rely on their pawns experience to benefit in battle.

"Life is about learning I guess." Lelouch whispered a smile on his face despite losing.

"If you understand that then you'll surpass me in the coming years." Schneizel said and stood to leave the room.

"Are you happy with the way things are?" Lelouch asked out loud halting Schneizel in his tracks.

"I am loyal to Zero Lelouch, what do you think?" Schneizel answered and walked out of the room leaving Lelouch with a feeling in chest that was rather familiar.

Cornelia was walking down the hall rather unhappily considering everything that had occurred in the past three days. Fabricating the lies to cover her younger brother's sudden revival was bothersome and without alibi it was become even more troublesome. Had Kururugi Suzaku survived then he could support Lelouch but his body hadn't been recovered and what remained of the Lancelot was smoldering ash. Add to it that someone had tried to kill him added to the mountains of paperwork and conditions upon his release into the world.

"He had to use Geass." Cornelia thought shaking her head.

"Well it is his to use so I would assume he would have used it before the trial was over."

Cornelia looked to see Schneizel walking towards her looking slightly happier than he normally was. It was creepy and sent a shiver down her spine as Schneizel stopped in front of her.

"So is he up yet?" Cornelia asked.

"He is, but I wouldn't kill him just yet." Schneizel answered.

"Kill him, like I could it just means I don't have to use any restraints on my self when I beat him into unconsciousness."

"Cornelia, calm yourself it was someone we were planning to get rid of anyways."

"Despite the fact the man was a nuisance and hated by his own country does not give Lelouch the right to mind control him into a death sentence."

"So that was his punishment?" Schneizel asked.

"Yes, despite everything they deemed him unsafe and he's to be executed in the coming days."

"Then I'll fix it just relax and have a talk with your little brother, it might do you some good." Schneizel

Cornelia looked at Schneizel for a moment wondering if the man before her really was her brother. In the past three months, he was kinder and more open to the views of others despite keeping his higher then thou attitude. Before he was cold and direct making you feel small and insignificant despite sounding sincere.

"You've changed Schneizel."

"Does it bother you?" Schneizel asked and Cornelia smiled.

"No, I like it don't change from it." Cornelia replied and hurried off to Lelouch's room leaving Schneizel with an odd expression on his face.

"Don't change…" He said to himself and walked without a destination in mind.

"You are an idiot."

"Some say I'm a genius."

"Then why did you use Geass?"

"I was shot if that's any consolation."

"You are lucky it wasn't a head shot or else I'd have a hard time explaining how you survived the bullet wound." Cornelia muttered.

"I survived getting run through with a 5 foot long sword how hard can surviving a bullet wound to the head be?" Lelouch asked as a joke and Cornelia shot him a glare that would melt a lesser man.

"Enough out of you; sign these papers now or I'll kill you again to relieve stress." Cornelia said throwing down a stack of papers to which Lelouch just gawked at.

"And what are these?" He asked not taking the risk of angering his volatile sibling.

"One for every country within the UFN, they are the terms to your settlement in Japan."

"Terms?" Lelouch questioned and began reading the list.

Terms…

Cannot leave the nation under any circumstances

Must have accompanying person on them at all times

Cannot have any influential possession in any national government

Must contribute to the community in which he/she will be living on a daily basis

…

The list went on, some ranging on the ridicules to the unlikely. Lelouch speechless as he read the list finally found where he had to sign. Quickly jotting his signature he looked at Cornelia with a smile.

"So Geass is still an option for me then?" Lelouch asked and Cornelia frowned.

"Nobody knows about Geass and I intend to keep it that way." Cornelia stated harshly.

"Nobody, but if nobody knew then how do you know, how does Nunnally, Zero, Schneizel, Ohgi, Viletta…"

"Shut-up and stop being a smart ass or I will kill you again." Cornelia threatened.

"Fine, here are your signed papers now can I leave this room?" Lelouch asked handing the stack of documents to the Princess.

"Thank you and no you are stuck in the room, or rather this wing of the palace until we have made the necessary arrangements with Ashford Academy."

"And how long will that take?" Lelouch asked.

"About 2 weeks."

"A reasonable wait, so who will accompany me?"

"We will be discussing that today."

"I take it I won't be present."

"Lloyd, Rakshata and Nina will be keeping you company."

Lelouch looked indifferent but Cornelia gave him a sadistic smile and exited the room. Nina wasn't bad but Lloyd and Rakshata could be an annoyance after only a few short hours.

The Order of Black Nights

Secondary Meeting Room, Pendragon

"So despite the fact that our mighty immortal turned the court in his favor by Geassing the courts elected voice what do we do with him?" Zero asked standing beside Nunnally calmly.

"He should be punished for that, lock him away for 25 years maybe it will teach him some discipline." Tohdo voiced upset with the decisions Lelouch had made.

"Although I don't agree with his methods, we've been monitoring Mr. Soresi since his coming into office and we were planning to have him removed, Lelouch might have done us a favor." Schneizel put forth and Ohgi spoke up.

"It doesn't matter, he interfered with his own trial and I don't agree with it I believe he should be disciplined for his actions." Ohgi stated.

"He basically shot himself, what do we charge him with attempted suicide?" Xingu asked calmly.

"He's immortal, suicide isn't possible for him." Tohdo stated.

"Okay then self mutilation, all I'm saying is he already paid the price for his actions, despite him surviving getting shot hurts." Xingu replied.

"And since when do you take his side?" Tohdo spat.

"Since the Tianzi made her declaration and forgave him for his actions."

"Blind Loyalty will lead you to your downfall."

"It's not blind, the Tianzi is young but caring; everyone deserves second chances."

"My decision stands." Tohdo muttered and leaned back waiting for everyone else to speak.

"Well then you are standing on the side that's already lost Tohdo, Lelouch has been given his second chance by the world leaders so make due with it." Cornelia declared and laid out a copy of the documents signed by Lelouch.

Tohdo frowned at the declaration and then looked at Cornelia with distaste, "And what if he Geassed you?"

"He already has during the first battle of Tokyo and as we now know he can only use his abilities on someone once."

"Fine do what you will but I don't agree with any of this."

Tohdo remained quiet letting everyone else make the mistakes, he was not going to be responsible for any of it should Lelouch turn on all of them.

"Xingu since this is China's idea I would have to say that a representative from China become Lelouch's primary caretaker." Schneizel explained reading over a few requirements for Lelouch's placement in Japan.

"Yes, we've already decided that and I will be the one to follow Lelouch." Xingu replied earning a few surprised looks.

"You, but in your health and your duty to the Tianzi…" Cornelia asked only to be cut off in mid sentence by Xingu.

"It was the Tianzi's idea; although I am the Tianzi's primary influence she wants to learn things on her own as well and told me that as long as I was around she would evidently end up relying on me. As for my health well…" Xingu quieted after that unable to voice out the answer.

"Anyways, while Xingu has taken on the job as Lelouch's primary charge we also need a personal body guard." Schneizel stated changing the subject and giving Xingu the benefit.

"Yes and I've already chosen the candidate, please enter." Zero said and the office doors opened to reveal Sayoko Schinozaki.

"Sayoko-san!" Nunnally said in surprise and the woman in question smiled back at her.

"It is good to see you again your highness."

"Zero, Sayoko?" Cornelia asked wanting answers considering the woman was a prisoner.

"Yes, despite her actions in the past Lady Sayoko is eternally loyal to Lelouch and will not have any trouble being in proximity of him." Zero explained.

"So you're saying that her record has been… disposed of?" Tohdo asked.

"No, she retains her record and like Lelouch will be atoning for her crimes." Zero explained.

"Umm… can I ask what Sayoko-san did to be imprisoned in the first place?" Nunnally asked confused as she didn't know her previous caretaker was in a dungeon to begin with.

"Sorry Nunnally, but due to her Loyalties to Lelouch the previous Emperor we had to imprison her for her crimes granted it wasn't for life but she would have been released in a year or two." Schneizel explained.

"Why wasn't I informed?" Nunnally asked.

"That would be my fault you're Highness," Sayoko replied bowing respectfully, "I requested imprisonment without your knowledge because I failed to realize what Lelouch was planning."

"Code of the Knight, although why didn't Jeremiah know?" Schneizel asked curious as to the two who claimed themselves knights of the 99th Emperor.

"Jeremiah knew, Lelouch told me the basics but left out his sui… death." Sayoko responded.

"Well no matter you are back on active duty and will be moved to Japan as Lelouch personal body guard. You will report to either Xingu or Prime Minister Ohgi if something goes wrong."

"That is acceptable." Sayoko said and took a seat to listen to the rest of the proceedings.

"Now we know Japan has chosen Lady Kaguya as their representative and she has already been enrolled as a student of Ashford Academy, we are also sending Lloyd, Rakshata and Nina along with them…"

"Why would we send three Knightmare Scientists?" Ohgi asked.

"Simple, they've been monitoring Lelouch for 3 months now and have no problems with him. Lloyd, Nina and Cecile have also served under him without any question."

"What I'm worried about is if Lelouch decides to use them and build an army of Knightmares." Ohgi stated.

"With three people, maybe to design them but with much of the Knightmare factories being shut down and only those in select areas remaining active as to deal with terrorist threats it really doesn't pose a problem. We won't have to worry about Lelouch becoming a super power again." Schneizel explained letting Ohgi's fears come to rest.

"Well is that everything?" Cornelia asked and Zero shook his head.

"Unfortunately no, there are still some who disagree with the ruling on Lelouch and have begun to openly protest threatening to reveal the cover up should their demands not be met." He explained.

"What demands?" Schneizel asked and Zero tilted his head slightly as if to frown although no one could see it.

"They want more power within the court so this won't happen again. They each request a total of 2% voting power taking away from Britannia and China respectively." Zero explained.

"And so begins the political wars," Schneizel sighed but had a smile on his face, "despite being at peace there will always be a conflict of interest especially with those in power."

"We can't give them the voting power they request, it could upset the balance." Cornelia stated.

"Well can we compromise with them?" Nunnally asked.

"We can, but if we do compromise with them, more countries will become involved and evidently it will lead to more than political conflicts no we need to deal with this differently." Tohdo stated and Ohgi turned to him with a questioning glance.

"Do you suggest we silence them?" Ohgi asked to which Tohdo only nodded his face stoic and uncaring.

"Out of the question, we are not the ones to govern the world." Nunnally shouted appalled by the idea.

"Well I have to agree with General Tohdo, despite not being the best idea we need to make a point that those in power do not abuse it." Cornelia said.

"I don't like the idea either, is there another way?" Ohgi asked.

"A few but it would involve careful negotiations and manipulation." Tohdo said and Schneizel only nodded in agreement.

"What if we used Lelouch's Geass?" Xingu asked and everyone turned to him silently.

"Did you just…" Ohgi started but cut off from Zero.

"Out of the question, I condone the use of Geass on anyone it is a power that creates evil." Zero stated but Xingu explained himself.

"If we do manage to use Lelouch's Geass we can effectively silence the opposition without resorting to violent means."

"No, I agree with Zero no Geass." Cornelia spat.

"I second that." Schneizel said his Geass requiring him to agree with Zero although he rather liked the idea in the back of his mind.

"It was a suggestion, I don't like the idea any better but it does give us an option." Xingu stated.

"An option but a risk, I'll go with Zero and Schneizel no Geass." Tohdo said and the group was back to square one.

"What are their demands besides the obvious increase in power?" Nunnally asked.

"Yes I did say they had demands, besides that they want to hold the rights to Knightmare factories and construction as well as military presence." Zero explained.

"Sounds to me like they want to start a war." Tohdo commented.

"It does, we'll have to settle this quick, exposing the cover up could be detrimental to the power of the UFN and may split the world's power once more." Schneizel said.

"Correct, we'll have to negotiate with them." Cornelia stated with Nunnally agreeing.

"Yes, we want peace then negotiation is our only option."

Just as everyone was agreeing Zero stood from his chair and walked out of the room receiving questioning glances from everyone in the room. He didn't acknowledge them despite them calling his name loud enough for them to hear but motioned for Sayoko to follow.

"Where is he going?" Tohdo asked.

"He didn't say anything to me, but it must be important." Nunnally replied confused as everyone else.

"It doesn't matter, let Zero do what he needs to we need to discuss what to do in the next few days to ensure nothing happens." Schneizel said turning the discussion back to the threatening countries within the UFN.

Zero and Sayoko walked into Cornelia's private wing where Lelouch was being held. He knew what had to be done, but he needed an alibi to do it and the only way it was going to be done is if Lelouch would help him.

"Agh Zero, you're here it seems and Ms. Shinozaki you were released from your holding I take it." Lloyd said coming out of his own room.

"Yes, is Lelouch awake?" Zero asked and Lloyd nodded.

"He's currently playing a game of Chess with Rakshata."

"Good, agh Cecile nice to see you." Zero said noticing the young assistant exit her own quarters.

"Zero what a surprise isn't there a meeting going on here and Sayoko you're out!" Cecile said happily walking up to the young woman and giving her a hug.

During the time in the holding cell and briefly before the final battle Sayoko and Cecile had gotten along rather well together. Cecile considered her a friend even though Sayoko was somewhat hesitant in the exchanges.

"It is nice to see you two Ms. Croomy."

"Call me Cecile, Ms. Croomy sounds old." Sayoko said with a laugh.

"Ladies if you will follow me." Zero stated and began to head towards Lelouch's room with Lloyd beside him.

They walked into the room just as the match was decided and Rakshata was looking slightly pissed her eye twitching every few seconds. Lelouch had a grin to his look and Nina was off to the side making notes.

"Again!" Rakshata demanded and only got a laugh out of Lelouch.

"So you'd like to lose again?" Lelouch asked.

"You are cheating; it isn't possible to be this good." Rakshata declared.

"You are just predictable." Lelouch replied and Rakshata moved to strangle him.

"Excuse me?"

She stopped in mid lunge and turned her head to see Zero, Lloyd, Cecile and Sayoko standing at the entrance wearing curious glances. Rakshata immediately sat back down and crossed her arms preferring to put than explain herself.

"Well now Zero what a surprise." Lelouch said with a smile that was far too creepy to be polite.

"Lelouch we have a problem." Zero said and immediately his face became serious.

"What's going on?" He asked and everyone in the room except for Sayoko suddenly had a chill run down their spines, the way these two were talking suggested they were going to do something dangerous.

"Some representatives of the UFN are opposing the decision made. They are using it as an excuse to increase their own power and to give them access to Knightmare technology that we are trying to subdue." Zero explained.

"I take it they are trying to negotiate with them?" Lelouch asked and Zero nodded making Lelouch scowl.

"Damn it, even with everything there are still those who seek greater power." Lelouch hissed and Lloyd immediately answered.

"Such is human nature, despite your attempts to bring peace it will never come to be."

Lelouch heaved a sigh, he knew that but he was hoping it would be at least many years down the road before those in power became corrupt enough to try and start rebellion. He looked at Zero and nodded.

"Alright then." Zero replied and unclasped the helmet taking it off.

Most of the occupants in the room knew who was Zero. The only one who was truly surprised was Rakshata not being a part of the 99th Emperors Rule.

"You… your Zero!" She dead panned starring at Kururugi Suzaku.

"Yes."

"But you died, well you supposedly died then you forfeited the match to the Guren?" Rakshata asked.

"Yes it was part of the plan that I die during the battle and then become Zero, Lloyd and Cecile purposely gave the Lancelot three energy wings in order to give the idea that the Guren S.E.I.T.E.N. was more advanced." Suzaku explained.

"You… then everything was a plot even the faking of your own death." Rakshata asked turning to Lelouch.

"Actually that was a surprise for me, I didn't know that I was given the code in order to carry on in my life, I wonder if he did it to curse my existence or he believed that I could truly change the world." Lelouch answered vaguely mentioning his father although only Suzaku knew of it.

"So why are you hear Suzaku?" Nina asked and Suzaku turned to them all.

"I need to take care of some things, but not as Zero."

"So I am to be your scapegoat then?" Lelouch asked.

"Yes, you will act as the role of Zero for a few days in order to give me the time I need to complete my objective."

"You are going to kill those that are causing an uprising." Lelouch deduced and the silence that preceded the statement was enough to tell him the truth.

"I gave up my happiness for the world just as you did, and now I must fulfill your wish and make sure this world remains at peace." Suzaku replied as the four scientists wondered why they were allowed to hear this.

"Alright, I'll take up the mantle of Zero for now, but make sure you are back in a few days time Sayoko you will act in my place while this operation commences." Lelouch stated and Sayoko nodded.

"Not to be a downer or anything, but who's going to take her place while we conduct this little operation?" Rakshata asked.

"I'm supposed to be leaving tonight, I'll 'board' the plane that is to take me to Japan so I can scout out the area as per my job requires." Sayoko explained and ended that problem.

"So I take it we're not supposed to know this?" Cecile asked watching as Lelouch and Suzaku exchanged outfits.

"No I need you four for something else entirely." Suzaku said as Lelouch quickly left the room with Sayoko following.

"Oh and what is it?" Lloyd asked and Suzaku sighed unable to believe he was doing this.

1 week later…

Portraying Zero again was just easy as he remembered. Lelouch had walked into the meeting after leaving Suzaku to explain his own plans and no one thought differently. They asked him what was wrong and he quickly explained about Sayoko being moved to Japan to scout out the area which they accepted without any notion. The days that followed were simple enough and consisted of paper work and a few meetings with contractors and various diplomats concerning Lelouch. Sayoko played her part well despite losing a few chess matches to Schneizel when he came to visit she didn't seem to display any suspicion.

It was now the 10th day of his temporary placement and Nunnally had received a threatening letter from the representatives to meet at a vacant warehouse. Zero had decided to go alone as Nunnally had come down with a cold. Schneizel had asked to go himself but Lelouch told him to take care of Nunnally and he would speak with the men himself. Entering the warehouse he was greeted to 25 odd glares and realized that the men before him were obviously unhappy.

"What are you doing here Zero, we asked for the Empress." One of them shouted.

"Unfortunately the Empress is ill and unable to attend; I will act as her replacement." Lelouch replied.

"Bah fine have you agreed to our demands?" Another asked.

"It is my understanding that as members of the UFN you have no power to issue forth demands."

"To bad for you then, we request our demands be met or do you plan on letting us announce Lelouch Vi Brit… I mean Lelouch Lamperouge survival and cover up?"

"I don't believe you heard me, I told you that you do not have the power to issue forth demands, if you continue to make threats I will take hostile action." Zero replied his position remaining motionless yet commanding.

"Hostile action, Zero you are surrounded by 25 men and…" The man snapped his fingers and instantly several armed guards rushed in with weapons pointed at him.

Zero remained still and unmoving; Lelouch himself was not even afraid and starred at the men who had now openly threatened him. If he had no other choice, he would command them all to die. The man who had ordered for the guards smiled at Lelouch and presented himself.

"My name is Desislav Kendrick and I represent this collective as an opposition to the UFN's ruling and demand the immediate execution of Lelouch Lamperouge for his crimes against the world."

"As I recall, the vote was in favor of him being sentenced to… lesser actions." Zero replied.

"Unfortunately, and it is because of the power and inequality of the nations that allowed for his escape." Desislav replied.

"Then it is also true that the countries all of you represent don't even equal a quarter of the total population within the UFN, the fact that you demand such equal footing means you'll continue until you have control over the UFN."

"You are smart, just like they say you are." Desislav said smiling.

"And you are naive, unfit to rule, caring only for your own political career."

"I care for my people, but I shouldn't sacrifice myself to make them happy."

"Then you don't care for your people at all, a leader needs to put everything before him in order to truly care."

"And what about you, did you make sacrifices because the way I see it all you did was kill a man to achieve your position."

"It wasn't a man I killed, it was myself." Zero replied anger evident in his voice.

"Oh are you saying you are the Demon King then?"

"No, the day I killed the demon King was the same day I gave up my right to live as who I was born; I sacrificed my own happiness and life to live as Zero the Bringer of Justice."

"I don't believe you; I believe you did it to justify your place within the world, to gain power."

"Then you are a fool." Zero said and pressed a button under his cape which initiated a silent alarm.

"I'd say the same to you. Now I have the agreement that you can sign meeting our demands and then we will leave and speak no more of this." Desislav said pushing forward the paper and a pen.

"I'm not signing that, I don't have the right or the power to offer you what you want."

"I know, but we've already gotten others to sign."

"In a more peaceful manner I suppose." Zero replied sarcastically.

Desislav smiled and entered into a starring contest with Zero. Despite not being able to see his eyes Desislav knew Zero was afraid, he knew that Zero would sign just like everyone else. He knew absolutely nothing about Zero.

"I suppose I should tell you that you're under arrest." Zero said suddenly causing Desislav to raise an eyebrow in surprise.

"Me under arrest, if you haven't noticed you are in no position to make any statements."

"I won't sign this, and what you are planning stops here."

"Oh and how do you plan to stop me, in case you haven't noticed you're surrounded?" Desislav asked.

"You are far too overconfident in yourself." Zero stated.

"I'd say the same goes for you." And as the words left his mouth he snapped his fingers and the guards with the guns immediately opened fire.

It wasn't even a nanosecond after that when the side wall completely blew apart and the smoke and dust masked the entire room. The guards stopped as a silent figure dropped from behind them a yellow scarf wrapped around her neck and a white and pink outfit that did not at all hide her presence. The first went down causing the others to turn in panic as the second one fell shortly after.

"Shit, everyone leave and call in Plan B." Desislav said making his way to the back doors.

"Yes Sir." One of the men stated and quickly pulled out a phone making a call, "We've been compromised, send it in."

Meanwhile Zero braced himself for the onslaught of bullets, but was surprised to see a large figure in front of him. It looked familiar even with the smoke clouding his vision and after clearing a bit he recognized the model before him as the Lancelot… or something similar to it.

"So this is what you were planning." Zero said and the machine opened up to reveal a second Zero in the cockpit.

"Despite the time it took to build it's only at 25% capacity."

"I'll be making my way back to the chambers, since Sayoko is here it is obvious that I'm currently missing."

"We have it covered but Cecile is waiting for you out back to take you directly to East Wing which is closest to the private wing where you reside."

"Alright, be careful." Lelouch said and quickly moved through the whole in the wall as Suzaku jumped back into his Knightmare prepared to finish off the rest of the fleeing men when something fell from the ceiling causing the building to crumble.

"Sayoko leave now!" Suzaku shouted and the woman instantly disappeared through the smoking debris as the newest opponent came into view.

It was a Knightmare frame and an unknown model at that. It looked like an Akutsuki model except that it had duel antenna but the body was more inclined to the Vincent proto type having a sitting cockpit opposed to the bike type cockpit used by the Black Knights. On each arm appeared to be a duel barrel machine gun and Slash Harkens under the palms. The chest was mounted with another four Harkens, there was a strange glowing orb on either shoulder, and Suzaku realized that it might be Hadron Cannons. If this machine was anything like he thought it was, his Knightmare wasn't even going to scratch it at its current level.

"Unidentified Knightmare stand down or be killed." A voice resounded and Suzaku snarled.

"No, you have violated the laws of the UFN, your all under arrest by the name of the Empress Nunnally vi Britannia."

"The Empress eh… throw your life away then." Came the reply and the machine launched itself forward firing off both its Harkon from its wrists and tying them around the Lancelot's waist.

"Damn it, it's not responsive enough." Suzaku growled out as he took a direct hit to the chest from the other Knightmare and was knocked through the wall.

The Knightmare quick followed and Suzaku tried to move the machine to block the incoming attacks but it was only operating at 25% capacity, sluggish and unresponsive it was hit by round of bullets before being impacted by four slash harkons and thrown against a building.

"So are you done yet?" The pilot of the unknown Knightmare asked having Suzaku pinned against a building.

"…" Suzaku didn't reply instead rushed his opponent in a suicide strike, he pushed forward launching the right fist which was caught easily by the other pilot and was pulled forward as the frame lost its balance heading straight into the sharpened edges of the fingers.

"This is it for you, I hope you enjoy the afterlife!"

"Tell me about when I get there." Suzaku replied and ejected from his machine after pressing a small red button under his seat.

"What… NOOOO!"

The Knightmare were engulfed in a massive explosion courtesy of an unstable Yugdrassil Drive purposely fitted into the machine for suicide. Suzaku's cockpit landed roughly 200 meters from the combat area and was soon contacted b y reinforcements.

"Lancelot, it's Avalon what's your status?"

"Lancelot here, status is red I think… I blew up both machines though I'm unsure of the other machines condition despite the explosions size."

"Okay I'm sending a pick up and don't try anything until we arrive."

"Okay, Lancelot out."

"Lelouch over here!"

Lelouch turned to see Cecile waving her hand, he quickly picked up his own pace before anyone noticed him. As he arrived Cecile's eyes suddenly deflated.

"Cecile what… damn."

Behind the vehicle was a man with a pistol pointing at Cecil's back. She had a downcast look but it was also showing fear from the situation. Lelouch recognized the man as Desislav and a few of his men also came out of hiding.

"Well now Zero, care to change your mind?" Desislav asked smiling.

"No." Lelouch replied and Desislav frowned in annoyance.

"Excuse me but I believe myself to be in control of this situation."

"Control, the only control you have is how you die; you clearly made your intentions known when you requested our presence here." Lelouch stated.

"What are you talking about?" Desislav asked.

"Simple my friend, you aren't a representative of a country and you easily made yourself known when you made the demands so bluntly." Lelouch began, "My first clue about who you were was the threat statements, you had noted several aspects which were irrelevant to the case I won't get into them to avoid confusion on your end."

"SHUT UP!" Desislav yelled pushing the gun further into Cecil's back causing her to stiffen in fear.

"Second, you requested use and access to Knightmare plans and factories after the fact that all countries voted on disbanding the machines except for those with military super power such as the Black Knights, China, Britannia, Japan and a few other countries which once comprised of the European union. Third mistake was this location, out of the way and enclosed you obviously said 'Hey I'm going to kill you after this come and get me.' Instead of following through like a proper diplomat should which leads me to suspect that you and the others around you are not at all part of a government."

"So you figured it out, but I'm not telling you much if you know everything."

"So you are not the one pulling the strings." Lelouch stated and Desislav smiled.

"I think you've questioned us enough, say farewell Zero."

Lelouch smiled and opened up the side of his helmet revealing his eyes for the entire group to see. Cecile closed her eyes and turned away as Desislav made to fire at Zero and Lelouch shouted out a single command.

"DIE!"

"Yes, Zero!" all the men stated and took their guns to their heads and pulled the trigger.

Cecile screamed at the sounds of 12 pistols going off. She opened her eyes a bit and found herself starring at the blankness of Desislav lifeless face starring back. She jumped in surprise colliding with Lelouch who held her steady albeit off balance himself.

"You… you…"

"It was them or us and although I would have survived you would not." Lelouch said and Cecile nodded before moving to the driver's side of the car.

"T…thank you Lelouch." Cecile said as she turned on the ignition.

"You're welcome Cecile, now I believe I'm missing." He said with a smirk trying to keep the humor despite what had happened.

"Yes, the palace is probably in an uproar despite having me as an alibi."

"So we were shopping correct?" Lelouch asked.

"All the clothes are in the back don't worry they don't look to horrendous."

Lelouch turned his head to look back at the clothes then noticed something pink… he feared for what she may have gotten him.

Orangee-Orange Farms

1 Month Later.

"Am I done Orangee-kun?" Lelouch asked setting down his 20th basket of oranges.

"Yes, your finished for the morning, when you get back you'll be put on juice duty." Jeremiah replied with a smile and Lelouch grumbled a bit, juice duty meant a good hour in the shower trying to rid himself of the sticky liquid.

"Fine I'm off to school then." Lelouch said and cut through the Orange Grove instead of walking around the building. He was soon accompanied by Anya who was surprising considering she normally went to school in the afternoons.

"Anya what are you coming earlier for?" Lelouch asked.

"Rivalz asked me to because we need to plan for tomorrows events."

"Plan, why haven't I heard of any planning?" Lelouch asked and Anya only smiled.

"Apparently only myself and Rivalz knows about it, somehow Milly seems to have manipulated him into something."

'That explains it.' Lelouch thought, the Student council had yet to actually plan for anything regarding the festivities that were supposed to carry on tomorrow. He was actually dreading it ever since Kallen noted that Milly was involved, the woman had always made his days difficult.

School had evidently become boring; the morning classes for Lelouch were spent sleeping despite there being a test. He finished it within ten minutes and snoozed through the remainder of the class while everyone struggled with the questions. He couldn't fathom how they were having trouble, it was just Sakuradite Physics after all. When lunch rolled around he was hoping for something to happen, anything that would get him out of his afternoon schedule. He had been eating his prepared lunch, which Anya had given him since he didn't bother going back inside to retrieve, when someone suddenly pushed him over.

"Excuse me but that was rude." Lelouch stated as a path of red hair sat down beside him.

"Rude, I figured it be easier than trying to ask." Kallen replied with a smirk.

"I'm sure," Lelouch sarcastically replied, "so you know what our esteemed president has planned tomorrow?"

"Rivalz actually has something planned?" Kallen asked in shock.

"Apparently, Anya mentioned him getting whipped by Milly this morning."

"So he did cave into her wishes, that poor guy has it bad." Kallen laughed.

"Who has it bad?"

Lelouch and Kallen looked up to see Rivalz, Anya and Kaguya on the opposite side of the table looking at the pair questioningly. They were both about to reply no one when C.C. appeared from absolutely nowhere and cut them off.

"Apparently he does."

"Who does?" Anya asked not knowing who he refers to.

"No one does." Lelouch replied.

"But you do." C.C. said.

"Lelouch does?" Kaguya asked confused.

"I thought you did." Kallen stated looking at Lelouch.

"So who does Lelouch do what to?"

Everyone looked at Rivalz who blushed from the confusing question that made no sense. Silence was there for a few moments before Kaguya burst into laughter followed by Lelouch and Kallen then Rivalz. C.C. said nothing instead chewing on another piece of Pizza and Anya just smiled.

"So Lelouch we have another challenge." Rivalz said with a smile.

"Ho, who is it this time?" Lelouch asked.

"Lelouch, are you skipping class again?" Kallen asked and Lelouch smiled in reply.

"It is not skipping class; it is using my time in a much more efficient manner."

"He's skipping class." Everyone responded at the same time.

"LELOUCH!" Kallen shouted smacking him over the head with a container lid causing the poor boy to cower.

"Kallen calm down, it's not like I fail my classes."

"If I have to suffer in class then so do you!" Kallen stated.

"Oh is the crimson lotus jealous of her black prince?" C.C. asked and received a deadly glare from both Lelouch and Kallen which had absolutely no effect on her as she just chewed on another piece of pizza.

"I'm going to kill you." Kallen hissed and C.C. smiled.

"I hope you do try because it is harder than you think."

Lelouch shook his head the double indendo lost on Kallen and stood up quickly motioning for Rivalz to follow.

"Come on let's get out of here before class starts."

"Coming Lelouch." Rivalz called and bid the women farewell as the two boys exited the student council room.

Kallen gave a scowl before turning back to her lunch. Anya took a picture of her in her morbid state which actually shocked her as the flash went off.

"Anya don't do that." She chastised and Anya smiled.

"It was a good picture, natural anger." Anya replied.

"I'm not angry." Kallen said.

"Well then how about disappointed?" Kaguya asked.

"Disappointed with what?"

"That he didn't invite you; you looked like you wanted to go." Kaguya responded and it earned her a slight blush before Kallen started yelling.

"That's not true!"

"No it's not, she jealous because Rivalz is off by his side instead of her." C.C. stated and Kallen's blush deepened slightly.

"I'm leaving!" She said and quickly packed her things before exiting the cafeteria.

"Well that settles that, time for class." Anya stated and followed suit with Kaguya right behind her.

"Well that was fun neh Lelouch?" C.C. asked and the boy himself reappeared from the door grumbling about forgetting his chess case.

"C.C. have you ever heard of a case of Geass affecting someone who bares the code?"

"You left that here on purpose didn't you?" C.C. mocked and Lelouch rolled his eyes.

"Answer the question."

"Fine, considering everything then no I haven't heard or seen a case of Geass affecting a code bearer, but I have also never heard of a code bearer retaining their Geass."

"Even if the code was from a different source?"

"The code is the code; it's the same for all individuals."

"Hmm… has the code ever been known to evolve?"

"The code is the final evolution of Geass, there is nothing higher."

"Code Geass then."

"Excuse me?"

"I'll refer to myself as Code Geass until I can figure out the situation."

"So her Geass affects you?" C.C. asked as Lelouch moved to exit the room.

"It does, what was the reason behind giving it to her?" Lelouch asked.

"How would you comfort someone who lost a loved one?"

"Stay with them, watch over them." Lelouch replied.

"I gave it to her as an excuse to stay with her then." C.C. answered and Lelouch nodded accepting it, but not believing it.

When he was out of site C.C. sighed.

"I gave it to her because it was her only chance for you."

Ashford Academy…

The Next Day…

"Hello Tokyo Japan, Millay Ashford here on Tokyo television reporting live from Ashford Academy, my former school. Today marks the Ashford Academy Festival, it's always a fun event where students can take part in crazy activities and enjoy the awesome food cooked by Ashford students. As a special treat this year, we a graced by her highness Nunnally vi Britannia former Governor of Area 11 now Japan and 100th Empress of Britannia as well as her guardian Zero Ally of Justice and her brother Prince Schneizel ni Britannia. Prime Minister Ohgi is also with us and his lovely wife Viletta and if you've been catching the rumors about a previous Emperor they are all true. Thought to have been killed just 5 months ago 99th Emperor Lelouch vi Britannia now going by the name Lelouch Lamperouge is also present actually a student of Ashford Academy. We have an exclusive interview with the man right now."

The Camera zooms in on Lelouch who is busy directing traffic control of the student papules who were volunteered to be working.

"Nigel, Britney, Catherin you are to report to the Haunted house, Michael, Jane, Anthony the plinko boards, Judith, Christian, Robert please help with the food services, they are swamped and need assistance…"

"Lelouch Lamperouge over here!" Milly shouted out and Lelouch looked up to see the blonde waving at him and he froze realizing he was one TV

"Hey Lelouch what do we do?" A student asked and Lelouch quick snapped himself back into his role.

"You three go to the gym and monitor the doors, some people may wonder into the school, the rest of you are to cater to anyone who may be lost, have questions or just need information and help any of the stands that require assistance your lunch break is at 1, 2 and 3 o'clock respective dismissed."

The students scattered at his commands and Lelouch sighed before turning to the camera which was still on him.

"So the rest of the world or perhaps just Japan is wondering what happened five months ago when Zero rammed that sword through your chest." Milly asked although not the actual question she asked anyways for her own curiosity.

"5 months ago I died Ms. Ashford."

"Oh if you died how are you standing here?"

"Simple, Lelouch vi Britannia died, the burden of being Emperor was not his to command I stand before you as Lelouch Lamperouge academy student working for a degree in child psychology."

"A Teacher, my that's an interesting choice in career."

"A surprise to some possibly, I'll probably be the target of many parents anger but I don't mind any of it. I'm not the same man as I was before; my rule as Emperor is over and I don't want to look back on it."

"So forget the past and move on eh?" Milly asked.

"No, never forget the past, to forget the past is to deny a future instead learn from your past and carve out a mold you want for yourself that is the lesson I learned."

"Inspiring words Mr. Lamperouge anything else that you might want to say?"

"I'd say I'm sorry but then I'd be lying. The choices I made were a part of the plan I designed and if you look at the world today then everything worked as I vision."

"Bold statement, but most would agree it was thanks to Zero."

"Zero is just a part of the solution, a piece to a puzzle so complex only the man who designed it would ever understand. Excuse me." Lelouch bowed respectfully and moved on through the crowed leaving both the camera man and Milly stunned.

"Did you understand any of that?" Milly asked.

"We're still live." The Camera guy responded and Milly shrugged.

"We can be national for all I care I still wouldn't be able to clarify what he was talking about."

"Okay they want you to wrap up."

"Okay Japan Milly pole time, if you agree with Mr. Lamperouge dial 1-800-879-0099 and if you disagree dial 1-800-879-0100 and if you don't understand dial 1-800-879-9831. This is Milly signing off."

"They're going to fire you one day." The Camera man said.

"Let them try it, I'll laugh when the fan mail floods the studio." Milly responded throwing the microphone and running off leaving the Camera Guy with all the equipment.

"Man this sucks."

Lelouch let out a sigh of relief as he sat down on one of the school benches for a break. Despite all his knowledge and experience, dealing with the rambunctious schoolmates was easily ten times harder than the pawns of war he commanded during war. He also had the thoughts of the interview that Milly decided to spring on him having seen her for the first time since his arrival. Looking around he noticed Nunnally, Zero and Schneizel relaxing in the courtyard talking with some of the students who had been brave enough to approach them. They arrived last night due to matters within the capital but it was long enough for Lelouch to converse with his sister and catch up on the goings of their daily lives. It was going well, far better than he would have thought considering who he was, however he still needed to discuss things with 'Zero' especially about the developments before his timely return to Ashford Academy.

"Hey, you have a little explaining to do don't you think?"

Lelouch looked to the source of the voice and found Milly standing there arms crossed and eyes fixated upon him. Another problem he now faced and knowing her; she was going to give him the worst experience of his life.

"Explain… I thought I answered all your questions." Lelouch replied innocently.

"Not all, only the ones I figured would be allowed to air."

"Agh so you want those answers." Lelouch sighed

"Those and more, I've figured most of it out on my own."

"Have you now?"Lelouch asked forcing her to tell him what she thought she knew.

"I would have to say it started the Shinjuku Incident, from there you somehow got yourself involved with the Black Knights which would explain yours and Kallen's absences during the various battles conducted with them during the year."

"Well thought out, but you're not finished."

"Of course not, a year lapse after the Black Rebellion and the return of Zero suddenly corresponded with your odd change in behavior. I may not have realized it at first but your action defiantly confirmed my suspicions after reviewing them."

"So you believe I was Zero?" Lelouch asked.

"Believe, ha I know you were Zero but you did a wonderful job in hiding it then you had to screw it all up. I know your hatred for the Empire but I figured you overtaking the throne was going to change the world, not make it worse."

"I did change the world."

"Like hell it did, you held the world at gun point with a giant flying fortress."

"But in turn I united the people under a common goal." Lelouch said as he stood up and readied himself for the next of the festivities, in his mind ten minutes wasn't enough to rest.

"And what common goal was that?" Milly asked.

"Freedom of the world by my death." Lelouch answered and began to walk away hoping Rivalz was ready for the making of the giant pizza.

"You didn't have to, you could have ruled the world and brought about a better future like her Highness Nunnally is doing." Milly countered.

"My sister is far better a figure to rule this world, my hands are stained with the blood of those I loved making me unfit to rule."

"Sister?" Milly asked confused by Lelouch wording.

"Nunnally, the Queen of Britannia is my sister."

"I see… then you planned to die then to forgive yourself."

Lelouch smiled; despite her nature, Milly was actually very intelligent able to match him in wits and planning although winning against him had not been accomplished despite her many efforts.

"Unfortunately I have things to attend to Milly; it was nice talking to you again."

"Oh don't worry Lelouch, we'll talk again and believe me it will be very soon." Milly replied having the very scary grin on her face that signaled whatever she planned with Rivalz was about to be unleashed.

"Good luck." Lelouch said and made his was to the courtyard where the giant cooking pan was placed every year for the event, although the last two years ended in failures due to outside circumstances.

"I don't need luck Lelouch, but I'll take what I can get." Milly said with a laugh and pranced towards her unwilling partner in the event she planned.

Nunnally was happy to be back at Ashford again, although this time she was able to see the beauty of the campus grounds. Schneizel and Zero were standing on either side of her while various guards and patrols walked around keeping the perimeter secure. She was able to recognize many of the voices that were wondering around the campus and being able to put a face to them brought a smile to her face.

"Lady Nunnally your highness it is a pleasure to meet you again."

Nunnally turned her head to the speaker of the voice only to be greeted with a flash from a camera, which had frightened her slightly as she flinched back.

"Anya please don't surprise her." The man beside her said with a smile.

"But it was a pleasant picture, so natural." Anya replied.

"I'm sure it was, but please refrain from taking pictures without peoples consent."

"Fine."

"Agh, Jeremiah Gottwald, pleasure to meet you again." Zero said holding out his hand as a gesture of good will.

"I would say the same of you Zero, I trust you are doing well?" Jeremiah asked knowing it was Suzaku under the mask.

"I'm fine despite the burden I bear." Zero answered.

"It isn't a burden but an honor."

"A man with no face has no honor, I am a figure." Zero replied to which Jeremiah nodded.

"You are, but let's not speak philosophy in front of her highness."

Jeremiah approached Nunnally to which a few of the guards took noticed and moved to intercept. Schneizel raised a hand signaling it was safe and the man behind the Orange-kun Orchard kneeled before Nunnally.

"I know you may not know me all that well, but I've come to ask your forgiveness."

Nunnally cocked her head slightly confused to Jeremiah's words. She had never met this man before and had only known a few things about him from Cornelia and Gilford.

"I… I'm sorry but why would you need my forgiveness?" Nunnally asked.

"For being unable to protect you, and you brother from the tragedies that had befallen you."

"Protect us?" Nunnally asked.

"I was one of the guards assigned to guard the mansion the night of your mother's assassination, I failed her and you in the ensuing chaos then I failed to protect your brother allowing him to carry out a plan that resulted in his 'death'."

"You don't need my forgiveness Jeremiah, I don't blame you for anything that had happened, but if you feel the need to make up for it then please follow my decree to you." Nunnally said as Jeremiah looked up to meet Nunnally's violet orbs.

"To the end of my days you majesty."

"I ask of you, despite my brothers abilities, he is vulnerable still blaming himself for everything that had happened; he carries the hatred of the entire world upon his shoulders and many would use this against him in order to make his life a very unhappy one."

"I will protect him."

"No… I do not want you to become my brother's protector." Nunnally stated shocking Jeremiah.

"But, then what are you asking me?" Jeremiah questioned.

"Like Lelouch you are immortal are you not?" Schneizel asked.

"N… I mean…"

"We know, having done some extensive information from Rakshata during your time in the Black Knights as well as some rather limited knowledge recovered we've determined that you now have an infinite lifespan so long as the Sakuradite core that had replaced your heart remains." Zero explained.

"I see… what do you ask of me your highness?"

"Stay with him, be his friend, his companion someone he can trust and live his life in confidence of not as one of his subjects but as his equal." Nunnally explained.

"I… I don't know if I can ever get that close to him your majesty."

"Then try, his best friend is dead his family no longer is able to protect him fully and everyone around him distrusts him except for those who know him truly."

"I accept this task your majesty, I will… befriend Lelouch Lamperouge and be with him always."

"Thank you."

Nunnally smiled at Jeremiah while Anya cocked her head slightly confused. Schneizel had a smirk on his face looking happy at the turn of events while Suzaku under the mask of Zero broke out in a full grin.

'Lelouch, you may think yourself to be alone but maybe a friend will help you through these troubled times.'

"Agh Zero, Jeremiah and your Highnesses pleasure to see you again."

The group turned to see Lee Xingu approaching with Rakshata and Lloyd by his side. Cecile was also with them but she was quite a few paces behind her eyes wondering to the various events with curiosity.

"Yes it is good to see you are well Xingu, I'm happy you had the chance to stop by." Zero said turning to face them with his hand extended.

"As am I, these two however wouldn't even leave the house." Xingu said pointing to the two scientists dressed in common attire rather than their robes of science.

"Yet here we are neh." Lloyd said with a smile.

"Only by force."

"Don't forget the threat of Cecile's cooking." Rakshata added and Cecile turned her head hearing her name.

"Yes, do you need me for something?" She asked and everyone quickly shook his or her heads avoiding a potential disaster.

"So how had everything been with Lelouch, we arrived late in the night so we couldn't really communicate as you were all asleep." Nunnally asked having a good majority of the participants involved with Lelouch's stay in Japan present.

"It is going well, so far Sayoko has reported that the student body has fallen back into its regular regime of attempting to either; woo the young man or surpass him in every regard."

"I noticed that you didn't subjugate weather the two incidents were male or female." Schneizel noted and Xingu smiled.

"Well let's just say those who want to woo him aren't always of the female gender." Jeremiah stated remembering the previous week with a laugh.

"I see." Nunnally said blushing at the obvious implications.

"Well what do they have planned today, it always seems they have some crazy scheme going on besides the giant pizza routine?" Zero asked causing some members to look at him.

"You know about the day to day activities here Zero?" Xingu asked.

"One can't be too careful, I've done some research." Zero replied quickly earning him a pass but not without repercussions.

"He probably attended the school in the past." Jeremiah said and Zero stiffened while the others laughed.

"Yes, Ashford does produce some… interesting characters doesn't it." Nunnally giggled smiling as an announcement suddenly went off.

"Hello Ashford Academy, Milly Ashford here to grace you with my beautiful famous body!"

Cheers were heard throughout the school grounds as a picture of Milly suddenly appeared on the large broadcast monitor, a new addition to the building.

"Today marks a very special day, first I'd like to thank the Prime Minister himself for gracing us with his presence."

The crowd cheered again whistling loudly as Ohgi raised his hand a waved it to everyone.

"Yes and not only that we also have her Royal Highness Nunnally Vi Britannia with her entourage, but please don't bother them to much as the next round of activities planned by yours truly should get your attention."

The crowd suddenly went silent as Rivalz came onto the stage carrying what appeared to be a small whit collar with a tag attached to it. Milly smiled as Rivalz nervously handed it to her and started to walk away.

"No where do you think your going, get back here Mr. President!"

The student body laughed as Rivalz was dragged back and forced to take a seat beside Milly.

"Now in about five minutes, all booths will be shut down, that means this event takes full priority, the only person excluded from the event is Her Royal Highness so don't even bother going after her. Now as you can see here, I'm holding a white collar, this collar is something I'd like to call a 'Slave Collar'. This collar has no markings white represents female collars there are also black variants of the 'Slave Collar' for the boys. To make things go smoothly I'll use the first 'Slave Collar' like so."

"Umm Milly this wasn't part of the plan." Rivalz said as the blonde-haired woman gave him an innocent smile that was laced with cruel intention.

"Relax Rivalz let me have some fun."

The collar was clipped onto Rivalz without much protest and instantly a map appeared on the screen, indicating what was assumed to be a map of the campus and a spot representing an M indicating Rivalz was Milly's.

"Oh, a contest to gather slaves?" Schneizel asked.

"Maybe, but I fear for my brother now." Nunnally said knowing what was coming next.

On the other side of the campus, Lelouch watched in horror as to what Milly was planning and quickly made plans. The entire student body however was confused as Milly's smirk grew.

"The rules are simple, each of you hold one collar in your hand, and you should have received it prior to entering the campus. With this collar, you must tag one person, the person you tag becomes your slave and their collar belongs to you or the slaves they may have captured. Your collars each and have been programmed to your student I.D.'s. You can not tag a collard person only those who are not collard."

It took about three seconds but the closeness between friends suddenly dissipated and instantly everyone was eyeing the other not wanting to be tagged. Lelouch himself was on the school balcony having deduced the furthest possible position in order to watch the ensuing madness.

"The objective is simple, the man or woman who is able to make everyone his slave wins the game and in doing so wins the right to increase their club funds via private donation from yours truly."

The incentive was lade out and a number appeared on the top of the screen indicating there was 3200 people in the area meaning 3199 were to become slaves. Zero, Schneizel, Xingu and the rest of the party standing by the Empress quickly looked at each other before realizing they were also a part of that number. Ms. Ashford was taking no prisoners.

"Also for my Final request… HE WHO BRINGS ME THE CAPTURED LELOUCH LAMPEROUGE WILL RECEIVE A CLUB BONUS INTERVIEW ON NATIONAL TELEVISION!"

Thus started Milly's instant chaos, just add Lelouch Lamperouge as an object of desire. Students instantly turned on each other trying to vie for the rights to there club while others instantly set their sites on the larger prize, Lelouch Lamperouge. Lelouch watched as the students began to search for him but he smiled until the door behind him opened. Twisting around he saw Kallen standing there looking confused but he already knew what was going to happen.

"Hey Lelouch what's going on?" Kallen asked holding her collar looking very confident as she activated her Geass and Lelouch smiled.

'This makes it almost too easy.'

It had already been an hour and the screen was reading 12 remaining free participants. The explosion of smoke on the school balcony was enough to cause a mass panic resulting in 50% of the schools capture. Many of the blips on the map had been covered in an M as Milly had tactfully conned the slave drivers left into becoming her minions however right now her sights were set on the 10 individuals who were huddled around the Empress.

"Go, capture them!" She ordered and instantly her horde of unwilling slave began advancing on Zero, Xingu, Lloyd, Rakshata, Anya, Jeremiah, Schneizel, Ohgi, Viletta and Cecile.

"So what should we do?" Zero asked.

"We could play along and avoid capture." Jeremiah suggested.

"Ill advised, that's over 3000 students walking towards us." Anya said.

"Well any other ideas?" Ohgi asked.

They watched as the group swiftly surrounded them, that a few held their collars waiting to strike and lock the poor group under Milly's control. Said blonde-haired woman was smiling triumphantly on the podium as she now had everyone in her grasp except Lelouch who had disappeared through some means.

"Take them!" She ordered and before a single student could move Kallen Kozuki jumped from somewhere in the crowd onto the stage and fitted a collar around Zero's neck shocking the entire student body.

"Your mine Zero." She said with a smile as Milly suddenly tried to figure out where Lelouch was if Kallen was the last remaining participant.

"So I am Ms. Kozuki." Zero replied and swiftly tagged Xingu who then tagged Ohgi and it went in a swift circle as everyone tagged the other until the ten who were free became the eleven against Milly.

"No fair Kallen, did you get Lelouch to!" Milly cried out.

"Checkmate Milly."

Milly whirled around as Lelouch clasped his lock around the blonde-haired woman's neck effectively subduing her. Within seconds, the entire screen of M's turned to K's and Lelouch grinned having bested the former student council President.

"But how… you control Kallen?" Milly asked so confused at the turn of events.

"No, Kallen is a free agent still and soon…"

Kallen yelped as Schneizel clipped his collar around her neck and she whirled around confused as to how she was captured when she noticed the collar on Zero's neck was labeled L instead of her own K. The entire screen filled with L's instantly and Lelouch was announced the winner.

"WHAT!" Kallen and Milly screamed at the same time.

Flashback…

"Lelouch what's going?" Kallen asked feigning confusion in order to tag him with her collar, Milly's prize was perfect for everyone else, but the satisfaction of controlling Lelouch for a day was more than enough to get her interested.

Her Geass activated she saw flashes of Lelouch's movement, multiple flashes predicting outcomes that could or could not happen. She moved on instinct as Lelouch took a step forward and selected her actions based on his thoughts.

"An event, now come Kallen we have work to…" Lelouch moved as Kallen lunged for him collar outstretched and intended for his neck.

"No Lelouch you have work to do, today you're my pawn." Kallen said with a laugh and moved to tag him again but Lelouch dropped a small container and instantly smoke surrounded the balcony.

"Lelouch, that's not fair!" Kallen said chocking on the make shift tear gas and dropping her collar.

"Sorry Q1 but the King needs his men." Lelouch said with such arrogance that Kallen picked up the dropped collar and turned to the hidden Lelouch who dropped to the floor to get away. Kallen being faster and predicting his movements followed moving in such a fashion that Lelouch had to resort to a very painful escape as he leaned back and dropped out of the window behind him which Kallen shouted in horror not believing he would do that

"LELOUCH, Get back here you coward!" Kallen yelled looking out of the window and searching for the sneaky mastermind. Her Geass was deactivated knowing that Lelouch could overload her in seconds and even faster with so many other thoughts around her.

Lelouch himself was safe in the arms of his bodyguard Sayoko who was always tailing her charge.

"Thanks Sayoko, now everything is set in motion."

"Do you require my help?" Sayoko asked with a smile.

Shaking his head Lelouch walked away smiling at the events that had been planned far in advanced. Kallen was right to plan her course of attack but in the concealed smoke, he had switched out his collar with hers when she dropped it allowing her to tag him. He now carried Kallen's collar while she carried his and it was in this that he would best everyone after him in one fell swoop.

"Sorry Kallen, but you're the pawn this round." Lelouch said with a smile and proceeded to sneak up on Milly using the School's underground system which had surprising remained intact despite the F.L.I.E.J.A. reducing half the school grounds to dust just months prior.

The school quickly calmed down after the event had passed. Lelouch had released all the students to do as they wish and had been given a the rest of the day to relax as his required for defeating the odds (as if it wasn't done before). He took up his own position with Nunnally and the others as he watched the school carry on in their events.

"You doing well Nii-sama." Nunnally said with a smile reverting to Japanese.

"I suppose I am its easier here than at the helm of a rebellion or a national superpower." Lelouch said with a laugh.

"I would agree, Cornelia was very angry we left her in charge of the capital." Zero said a slight chuckle escaping his voice.

"You left her in charge?" Lelouch asked.

"Yes, she agreed after a bit of persuasion from Nunnally but not without some repercussions." Schneizel sighed and Nunnally laughed aloud.

"It's okay Schneizel, it won't be that bad."

"Your highness, I do believe you pushed the work onto me."

"Yes, I can't do the writing as neatly or as fast you can." Nunnally countered.

"Well, it will keep me busy."

"Paperwork, I remember giving it away to those under my rule as well, I couldn't be bothered with such things because of everything that was happening." Lelouch said gazing to the sky.

The three royal members of Britannia stood in silence watching the happenings around them, the school was alive with people of many nations interacting with each other. Xingu had become one of the more popular attractions when Tohdo had arrived as the two were engaged in a display of Chinese vs. Japanese swordsmanship. Kallen was operating the Knightmare at the massive pizza gathering as hundreds gathered around to see the first completed pizza of Ashford since the introduction of the Black Knights. Jeremiah was selling oranges with Anya and Rivalz was being dragged around by Millay and Nina in an attempt to bring back the joys of the past.

"It's such a wonderful atmosphere, everyone is truly enjoying themselves." Nunnally commented after a short silence.

"Yes, the fact that these children can show that race doesn't matter when brought together shows that the future is in good hands." Zero stated.

"True, but eventually there will be those who want the role of leadership for themselves, who believe themselves to be far superior to those around them." Schneizel stated and Lelouch nodded.

"I agree, every heart contains a desire for power some being more violent than others," Lelouch explained, "I only hope that those we leave in charge can think clearly enough to keep the peace we have obtained."

"This is an announcement; would Vice President Lelouch Lampourage please make his way to the Pizza platter, we are waiting for you to continue with the rest of the evening."

"Looks like your work isn't over yet." Nunnally said smiling at the crowd already parting for her brother.

"They wouldn't have events like this without me." Lelouch replied making his way towards the rest of the student council who were busy trying to figure out how to cut the pizza.

"He's grown." Schneizel commented watching the exiled Prince mingle with the crowd.

"Perhaps, but he still has a long road ahead of him." Zero said and Nunnally grimaced.

"The Eastern countries are getting more violent with their demands." She said.

"They won't rest until they control the UFN, and if they figure everything out then we may as well prepare for worst case scenario." Schneizel said and Nunnally looked at her brother.

"Worst case scenario?" Nunnally asked.

"Civil War within the UFN." Zero stated calmly.

Transmission received…

Downloading…

Knight of One, Gino Weinberg

This is K-1 to WK, mission has been compromised, and all data I've gathered has been sent however, I am unable to escape… (Explosion goes off) The Governments have been… (Bullets ricochet) executed and most countries are under the control of an unknown faction… shit I've been found… They have developed a new Knightmare model superior to that of the 7th Generation Frame… No… Damn it… Back off… WAR, They want WAR!

Transmission terminated.

Preview for Step 4

"Zero who will you send for recon?"

"Gino."

"Gino, the Knight of One?"

"Yes, he can do this."

"Despite all attempts, the transmission clearly states that the governments are no longer accepting policies presented and wish for a total take over."

"It doesn't matter anymore, they've made their intentions clear."

"Zero I'm making a mandatory order, Rescue Gino Weinberg."

"Yes your majesty."

"Zero… what brings you here?"

"I'm in need of your help."

"What's going on?"

"War."

There the third step, a little plot and a little humor, story really picks up in the next chapter as I have gotten everything set up finally.

In addition, contest #2 is about to commence and here it is…

Objective - Create an original character for use in my story with the following criteria:

Geass User - The character is a Geass user, the type of Geass is at your discretion however, you are limited to the abilities displayed by that in the anime, and in other words, Geass must effect the mind and must have a weakness or limitation.

Gender - Male/Female not limited to anything.

Attitude - Try to keep it realistic, but do make them interesting.

History - Unfortunately, most of the character history is in development by me, however I'm giving you the freedom to make up a history and I'll see what I can fill in my already basic outline of the history.

Description – Here's the fun part, I need a description or a drawing of the character, something that will tell me that the character must be used. Make them beautiful, ugly or whatever but make them unique and completely worthy of being introduced in Geass.

In addition, that's it. Please bare in mind that the character won't be introduced until I get to that point in the story. The character will play an important role in the story so make them a believable character within the Geass universe (hard to do with immortals and chainsaw wielding psychos also present.)

My Geass commands you… REVIEW!