In this way, the remaining problem was how to make use of these conditions to formulate tactics.
Lelouch retrieved the relevant information from the computer in the room.
It was a map. However, it was not an ordinary two-dimensional map, but a three-dimensional composition.
Up, down, left, right, even the geological conditions and vegetation distribution were written clearly. Most of the necessary information could be obtained from this map.
On top of the undulating surface, there was the word 'NARITA'.
These mountains were the Narita Mountains, which were more than 2000 meters above sea level. As the base camp of the Japanese Liberation Front, this stronghold of the anti-Britanlian forces was in danger in the face of Britannia's attack.
In fact, Lelouch had been using this map to repeatedly refine his tactics for the past few days. This time, he did not intend to take advantage of the fact that Corelia was not around to attack. Instead, he planned to have a head-on confrontation with the Britani army led by her. This battle plan couldn't be too carefully planned.
Lelouch had considered twenty-four battle plans. However, he overturned all of these plans. Of course, the reason was that Kallen's adaptability to the Red Lotus Second Style was surprisingly high, and it could already be calculated into battle prowess. There was no reason not to take advantage of this.
(Yeah…)
First, let's return to the starting point and compare the combat strength of the enemy and ourselves.
According to various reports, the total number of Britania's ruling army stationed in District 11 was about 650,000.
On the other hand, other than the non-combatants who provided information, Lelouch commanded about seven hundred Black Knights.
650,000 against 700.
Just from the numbers, this was simply nonsense.
However, this number did not represent the actual situation. From another perspective.
Even though there were 650,000 Britanians, they were scattered throughout the 11th District. Therefore, we will focus our attention on the main battlefield, the Narita Mountain Range's military control area, East Area A. Because there was the Tokyo concession and City Hall in the center of the 11th district, the number of permanent troops was higher than in other areas. It was estimated to be about 200,000. However, these troops would not all participate in Britania's military operations.
With the lesson learned from Murat's time two days ago, Cornelia must have become more cautious. Other than the defensive forces stationed at the stronghold, there were at most 50,000 mobile troops.
In fact, according to Lelouch's prediction, the actual number of soldiers should be less than this number. However, he gave up on this optimistic estimate in the end. It was foolish to underestimate the enemy. At the very least, it was safe to assume that Cornelia would try to make up the number.
50,000 against 700.
This was still nonsense.
However, as Lelouch stared at the map, he revealed a sarcastic smile behind his mask.
(It would be a miracle if they could win.)）
Although he said so, Lelouch himself did not think so. If it was someone else, they would definitely think so. However, Lelouch himself had never thought of failure.
Even Jesus was only recognized by the world after creating miracles.
In other words, in order for Lelouch and the Black Knights to become the true saviors of District 11, it was necessary to create another miracle here.
This way…
As one of the keys to creating a miracle, the first thing that should have come to mind was the Japanese Liberation Front, which was in direct confrontation with the Britanians. According to the intelligence, they had at most seven thousand soldiers. However, Lelouch basically did not include them in his combat strength. Ever since the incident at Haikou, the relationship between the Black Knights and the Japanese Liberation Front had deteriorated drastically. Even if they proposed to join forces, they would probably be rejected by the other party. Moreover, Lelouch did not have such intentions.
Let them be bait? Yes, it's decided.)
First, even if the other party was the largest faction of the existing anti-Britania forces in District 11, if they were to face off against the Cornelians, it would be a 100% overwhelming victory for the Cornelians. In this battle, Cornelia would invest at least 300 main weapons, Knightmares. On the other hand, the Japanese Liberation Front only had 50 or 60 Knighthood. The difference in the number of Knights was so great that it could be said that the outcome was already decided.
Moreover, there was also the issue of the commander.
As the second princess of the Holy Britania Empire, and also the governor of District 11, Cornelia L. Britania…
Lelouch gave a very high evaluation of this enemy general who could be considered the biggest obstacle in the anti-Britania war. After all, Lelouch had personally challenged Cornelia in the past, only to be utterly defeated. Moreover, he had already considered Geass's ability into his strategy.
That painful lesson prompted Lelouch to conduct an in-depth investigation and analysis of Cornelia.
The analysis results revealed the following points.
Firstly.
The morale of the Britanians under Cornelia's command was unusually high.
Before she came to this region, she had created brilliant achievements all over the world. The soldiers worshiped her as the Goddess of War, and it would not be easy to defeat them. Especially the personal guards. No matter how chaotic the battle was, they would never give up on the governor and run away. However, in addition to the personal guards, there would definitely be the former ruling army of District 11, which was also the former Governor Clovis's subordinates. Although he could start from there, he couldn't have too much hope. It was likely that Cornelia would not deploy those soldiers in any important places.
Secondly.
She did not know if it was because of her personality, but she liked to attack openly from the front. However, her tactics were not rigid. She would often adapt to the circumstances and win by surprise.
Lelouch had personal experience with this. In the past, Lelouch wanted to copy the model of the Shinjuku Incident and use Geass to seize the enemy planes and directly attack the headquarters of Cornelia. However, Cornelia quickly changed her formation and used a trap to disrupt Lelouch's plan, almost killing him. At that time, although Lelouch had barely escaped death, he probably wouldn't be so lucky if he encountered such a situation again. In short, the princess was not a reckless person.
Third.
She also had a lot of talented people under her.
This was something that would be immediately understood if one investigated Cornelia's military career. According to Lelouch's investigation, her close minister, Dalton, had long been famous for his bravery and bravery before he joined Cornelia's army. Gilbert was also famous as the ace pilot of Knightmares at a young age. Other than that, there was also Alex, Culliford, Anderwa, Flender, and a large group of people. At least in the Battle of the Knight, there was probably no second Britanian army with such a luxurious lineup. Meanwhile, Cornelia's driving skills were also quite excellent, and she could be considered one of the best in the army. In addition, she was not fighting alone.
The last point.
She knew how to judge the situation and retreat.
Perhaps it was her nature as the Princess of Britania, but she was proud of herself and would never allow the battle to end in defeat. But on the other hand, she was extremely concerned about her subordinates and would do anything to prevent her subordinates from sacrificing themselves in vain. If necessary, they would even order a temporary retreat.
(There really isn't any opportunity to take advantage of--)
Lelouch couldn't help but feel dejected when he saw the merits of the enemy commander.
He had no intention of mocking the Japanese Liberation Front. Even if it was his Black Knights, it would be no different from a mantis trying to stop a chariot if they fought head-on. This was not just the difference in numbers and weapons. In terms of the morale and proficiency of the soldiers, the current Black Knights were mostly made up of new members, and they were far from the Corelia Army. If they fought according to ordinary tactics, not to mention being beaten into a mess, the other party would probably be able to defeat their own army without any effort.
(Yes, this is based on normal combat techniques.）
Since that was the case, it was fine as long as he did not play his cards according to common sense. Lelouch looked at the computer map again.
When dealing with the Japanese Liberation Front hiding in the Narita Mountains, she would most likely use encirclement tactics. With such a huge difference in combat power, she was likely to divide her troops and surround the enemy from all directions. They first laid down an inescapable net that not even an ant could escape from, and then attacked the mountain in one go. In contrast, the Japanese Liberation Front only had one choice, which was to break through and escape. If they wanted to use the terrain of the mountain range to engage in guerrilla warfare with the enemy, the enemy's Knighthood was too many. Moreover, it was foolish to defend the mountain without reinforcements.
(No, it's too early to make such a conclusion.）
Lelouch reconsidered.
Everything that had happened just now was just Lelouch's subjective judgment. Regardless of Cornelia, the Japanese Liberation Front might not necessarily take the expected action. If the commander of the Liberation Front was an idiot, he might choose to defend the city.
(Perhaps they would be scared out of their wits by the enemy army and surrender obediently.）
Lelouch thought with a cold smile. As expected, he couldn't count on the Liberation Front.
(The remaining problem was the organization of the Britania army. Unlike Clovis, Cornelia would not be willing to be a commander and wait in the rear---)
She would probably lead the main force and personally pilot the Knightmares to attack.
(And her position would most likely be here... the reserve team is in the middle, and Dalton's troops are in this area.) Guilford would most likely be guarding her, so it would be Anwar who was in charge of commanding the troops on the other side of the valley to attack. And the soldiers in charge of bringing up the rear would most likely be Clovis's former subordinates…)
As Lelouch moved his mouse, the map on the screen lit up one by one, and the imaginary battlefield gradually took shape.
(In this way, as long as the communication between the main team and the reserve forces and Dalton's forces is cut off, it is very likely that Cornelia's main team will be completely isolated. It will take some time to reorganize the formation…If it works, we should be able to fight the other party…)
However, it was not easy to do this. The enemy would definitely not be fooled by the obvious feint, and most importantly, their own forces were clearly insufficient.
(All the Knights of the Black Knights, including Kallen's Red Lotus II, must be fully engaged when engaging in close combat with Cornelia's team.) In other words, he had to preserve his strength before that. However, even if that situation was created, it would be extremely difficult to defeat Cornelia... but who would be able to suppress the rest of the enemy then?……No, wait. Does someone have to go?
At this time, Lelouch suddenly leaned forward and stared at the map in front of him.
After staring at it for a while, a smile appeared on the face under the mask.
(I see, the idea of suppressing the battle itself is too negative.) Under such circumstances, it was our side that launched the surprise attack, not the other side. It was a bit outdated, but it was worth a try.）
[ZERO, are you there?]
It was a man's voice. Lelouch immediately closed the map screen. If he wasn't a trusted aide, he didn't want to let the battle plan he was working on be seen.
After dealing with everything, Lelouch replied to the person outside the door. [Is it a fan?]
[Yes.] Is it convenient now?"
[Yes.]
The door slowly opened and a young man walked in. He was tall. Whether it was the jacket he had worn for a long time or the jeans, from the outside, this person was no different from an ordinary student. But in reality, he was several years older. It was worth mentioning that he was second only to ZERO in the Black Knights. Although he was a little too nice, it was precisely because of his gentle personality that he had a good reputation among the team members.
"That man has sent in more information.」
After sitting down on the chair in front of Lelouch, Shan wanted to get straight to the point.
" It's that guy called Diethalt. ZERO, to be honest, I don't think we should trust that man too much..."
"I know what to do about this matter.」
Lelouch replied bluntly.
" Then, what is the so-called intelligence?"
[Oh, oh oh...]
Shan Yao said after a slight hesitation.
"Britania's army may move later. According to the previous intelligence, the scheduled time for the operation should be the weekend, but now it seemed that it was very likely to be postponed to the beginning of next week.」
Lelouch couldn't help but frown. [Did something happen?]
[I don't know. That person had no way of knowing about this. But he was certain that the plan had been delayed.」
[Oh…]
It was a little concerning.
Cornelia should have started to formulate a battle plan to suppress the Japanese Liberation Front a long time ago. Since he had decided to put it into practice, he should be quite confident. However, at this point, the plan was disrupted. What was going on?
[Well, after all, the other party has his own reasons...]
[What should I do? Do you want to wait and see?"
[No.]
Lelouch straightened his tilted head and waved away the doubts in his heart.
"Although I do care a little... on the other hand, we have more time to prepare for the surprise attack. Although he had some doubts, he still had to thank the other party.」
[So…]
"Maintain the original plan, Fan Yao.」
Hearing this, Shan Yao's expression turned ugly.
Originally, this young man did not approve of this battle. Although he didn't object to it directly, he obviously felt that this plan lacked consideration.
It was normal for the other party to have such thoughts.
However, it was precisely because of this that Lelouch had to do this. "Compared to this, Fan Yao, go and organize the situation around Narita and give it to me.」
[The situation is…]
Shan Yao's face tensed up. "It goes without saying that the roads are full of Britania checkpoints, and the forest is full of Britania scouts. However, a complete lockdown would still have to be carried out after the army started moving.」
[I know this. What I want is their exact location. It included the specific distribution of the checkpoints and the specific configuration of the scouts.」
[What do you want to do if you know this? Could it be that they wanted to launch a surprise attack from behind while the other party was at war with the Japanese Liberation Front? That would be too reckless.」
"Hehe-a pincer attack is impossible. Don't you know this very well, Shan Yao? Indeed, the so-called pincer attack required precise cooperation between both sides, and the number of troops had to reach a certain level to be effective. For the current Black Knights and the Japanese Liberation Front, they would only be easily defeated by the enemy.」
[Then…]
"I've never considered the option of a pincer attack. What I thought was the exact opposite…yes.」
At this moment, Lelouch spread his hands wide as if he was acting.
After laughing behind the mask for a while-
"Although there are some differences in the meaning, it can also be called 'walking into a trap'. That's why we have to sneak past Britania's surveillance network. Of course, the reconnaissance network of the Japanese Liberation Front was no exception.」
With Geass 'power.
This was the only thing he didn't tell Shan Yao. Lelouch only muttered to himself in his heart.
The atmosphere in the research institute was tense.
"Hurry up, this place will become a battlefield in a few days.」
A bespectacled man in a suit was commanding his subordinates while sweating profusely. In front of him, many researchers were busy running around. Some people were using forks to stack equipment, some were backing up data from huge computers, and some were just running around with cardboard boxes.
At this moment, a young man who looked like a subordinate stopped and said a little dejectedly.
" Deputy Director, this is impossible. They actually have to move so much equipment in a few days..."
[I know.]
The bespectacled man who was giving orders showed a pained expression.
"However, the director did not hesitate to ask the 'lord' to delay the departure of the army for a few days. We must do our best and not let his efforts go to waste.」
[But…]
"If we get close to the terrorists 'sphere of influence, the inspectors won't be able to casually enter. Although we know that this is a double-edged sword, we never expected this moment to come so soon... In any case, if this plan is found out by the current ruling army, everyone here will be finished.」
The young man fell silent.
The bespectacled man looked at him with a gentle expression and said.
"After packing up to a certain extent, you should quickly retreat. Leave the rest to me and the director.」
[…Please don't say that. This is our job. How can we let the chief clean up after us alone?」
[I see…I'm sorry.]
The bespectacled man lowered his head.
The young man smiled happily and turned to leave. However, he suddenly stopped as if he had discovered something.
[Eh? This is…"
[Hmm? This."
Following the other party's gaze, the man in glasses picked up the item from the white table.
Picture frames and photos.
There was a bespectacled man in the photo. Beside him was a high school girl with her arms crossed and a middle-aged woman who looked very similar to her.
[Is this a photo of your family?]
"Well, I don't have much time to pack up the dead people's belongings, so I thought I should at least take this with me.」
[Wow, your daughter is so beautiful. Can she be my girlfriend?]」
[Hey, hey.]
Although she was scolding this young man, she was still secretly happy that he praised her daughter. The bespectacled man revealed his usual smile for the first time.
[Stop being so smug. When she was young, she even said,'I want to be a prostitute.' Such cute words."
[Girls are probably all like this.」
[She probably has a boy she likes in school now.」
[That's why girls are all like this. What's her name?"
The bespectacled man smiled even more happily.
"Ah, it's Charlie. Charley Finette. Isn't this a good name?"
The girl in the wheelchair tilted her head and thought about something.
[Hmm... Arthur brought the A back when he heard the time?] Alright, what time is it now…?"
As usual, she closed her eyes and looked very serious.
After entering the private Ashford Academy from the entrance of the clubhouse, there was a lounge for students.
The spacious room was even equipped with a television. At this moment, cheerful music was playing, but no one was watching.
A voice suddenly sounded beside the young girl.
[I know! It was one point! Because it's the first of the letters."
It was Levar, a member of the student council, who said this proudly. He was described by Millet as a frivolous guy, a fence-sitter, and liked to cause commotion. By the way, he was interested in motorcycles.
In addition, there was a female student in front of him.
She was very cute, a beauty, and her sparkling eyes were still filled with childishness. Although she was still young, her shoulders were not narrow and her figure was quite good. It wasn't hard to tell that she was also a member of the student council and had joined the swimming club. She could be considered a girl from the sports department.
She was Xia Li.
Xia Li smiled brightly and crossed her wrists in front of her chest.
[Beep beep beep, wrong.]
[Ah-?]
Livare exaggeratedly expressed his dissatisfaction, while the girl sitting in the wheelchair beside him was still thinking with her head tilted.
In the end.
[I can't do it anymore, Charlie.] I admit defeat."
Hearing this, Xia Li squatted down in front of Na Nali and placed the young girl's hand in her own.
She used her fingers to write on her fair palm.
[Uh…D, A, Y--day. A day?"
[Where is A?]
"The middle of the day-ah, noon!」
[Correct.]
Na Nali sighed and let out a sigh of relief, but Levar muttered,[This is nothing.]
At this moment, the student council president, Miley, appeared. She was a different type of beauty from Xia Li. Well, how should I put it? Compared to a high school student, she was more like a university student. No matter how mature she sounded, it wouldn't feel wrong.
" Charlie, can you help me?"
" Alright-but."
Xia Li answered cheerfully and stood up in front of Na Nali.
[What happened?]
[Emergency situation. I guess I'll need to use your loud voice and athletic ability.」
"... Hmm, I have a bad feeling.」
" Ah, then I'll also..."
Livare leaned out, and at this moment, Millay immediately put on a stern face and acted like an adult.
[Rival, no!]
[Ah?]
"Now we're going to chase away the sparrows that are disturbing the girls 'locker room. Do you want to harass a girl who is changing?」
It was true that he shouldn't have appeared at this time.
" If I can harass them, I'll make a profit." Charly turned to the girl in the wheelchair and said, throwing Levar, who was daydreaming, aside.
[Sorry, Nunnally, the guessing game has to end.]」
"It's okay. I've already had a lot of fun. Thank you, Charley."
Na Nali smiled and Xia Li smiled back.
Then, Charley left the lounge.
It was lunch break.
Mi Lei was waiting for her in the corridor. After seeing her come out, for some reason, his face suddenly changed into a strange expression that was different from before.
Xia Li tilted her head and asked in confusion.
"What's wrong? Your expression is so strange.」
[No…]
With that, the two of them walked side by side. Mi Lei said with interest. "What a surprise. You look like a good sister.」
[Huh?]
[Yes, yes.] I think it's not a bad thing to be able to confirm the future.」
Xia Li was stunned. However, she immediately understood what Miley meant. Her face, which was usually full of energy, suddenly flushed red. " You, what are you talking about? It's because Na Nali is too lonely..."
[Ahaha, but isn't it good? What was the saying? Shoot the horse first.」
[I said, it's not like that, really…]
In fact, what she said was the truth. She was a young girl who did not have any schemes. Mi Lei also understood this very well.
This girl liked another black-haired youth who also belonged to the Student Union.
Mi Lei smiled again.
[By the way, what happened to your husband today? I haven't seen him since this morning."
[Old... old, old...!]
[Yeah, I'm just saying. Don't be nervous, don't be nervous…Are you angry again?] She really couldn't do anything about him. He actually threw his most important sister aside.」
Miley said in a troubled tone, but she did not show much worry. Xia Li, who was beside her, raised her head and looked at the sky through the corridor.
The weather had been sunny until yesterday, but it had obviously turned bad today.
The sky was filled with dark clouds.
In the end.
Xia Li didn't say it out loud, but muttered in her heart.
Where are you? What are you doing, Lulu?
A cold wind suddenly blew through the corridor.
The air in the mountains was even colder.
It was not time yet, but the surrounding rocks were covered in snow. The sky above them was covered in dark clouds. It was probably going to snow. It was the kind of snow that could not only freeze the world, but also freeze people's hearts.
Under the sky that seemed like it would collapse at any moment, C.C. slowly walked on the mountain road.
Her waist-length hair was blown by the wind and scattered behind her head.
He did not feel anything.
He just felt that he should go.
It was not a prediction. It was a motive that would inevitably arise from within her body. She knew this very well.
He didn't have the ability to predict, but he was sure that there was an absolution that was close to fate.
I can't help it, because I'm a witch.
She had been abandoned far away, and she had once cried like a child somewhere.
This was indeed a very convenient power.
However, this power was not obtained through his own hard work. Every time he thought about it, he felt a little unhappy. Every time he used it, he would feel like he owed a favor. It was really uncomfortable.
However...
「ZERO！？」
The moment the door opened, the men stood up and assumed a battle stance. Lelouch said calmly.
No, it was an order.
"Relax, I'm just here to negotiate. You can just ignore it. Ignore all the abnormalities.」
In that case, the men who were supposed to be guards were useless. In a sense, they could no longer be called sentries.
Geass, if you look at the other party's glasses and give an order, you can only make anyone obey your absolute power once!
Very useful, indeed.
The men sat back down as if nothing had happened. In the small guard's hut, the table game that was used to kill time started again. They no longer cared about Lelouch. Because they were ordered to ignore all abnormalities, even if these men died, they should not have noticed anything unusual.
By the way, they were not Britani soldiers. On the contrary, they were members of the Japanese Liberation Front. They were already halfway up the mountain. It belonged to their sphere of influence. Of course, they had to keep an eye on their enemies. However, this was not a threat to Lelouch at all. He had been using the same method to deceive the surveillance of Britania and the Japanese Liberation Front. No matter who the other party was, if it was a person to person, no one could become Lelouch's enemy. Of course, he had to be able to see the other party's eyes because this was a limitation of his ability. If there were too many people, it would be very inconvenient.
The limit was about ten people.
[Next…]
After throwing the men who were chatting and playing games aside, Lelouch sent a signal to the foot of the mountain through the mirror reflection from the window of the hut, indicating that Shan, Kallen, and the other members of the Black Knights could come up. They would take a different route from Lelouch, which was the blind spot of Lelouch's Geass manufacturing. It was the only road that was not guarded. Then, he picked up the water bottle on the table and poured some water into the blanket. After drinking the hot water, he felt much better.
[Condition completed... Corelia, the day has finally come, Royal Sister!]」However, just as he was smiling and talking to himself.
Lelouch was suddenly stunned.
There was someone outside the house. At first, he thought that he had missed a guard outside the house.
But he was wrong. Lelouch, who was hiding behind the curtain and peeping outside, could not help but open his mouth in a daze.
There was a young girl.
A long-haired girl was casually walking around, looking at the foot of the mountain as if she was taking a stroll. It might even make people feel that she would just shout "Yohoo~~~" without any nervousness.
Lelouch hurriedly ran out of the small wooden house.
「C.C.，What are you doing? Why are you here?"
he said, but the girl did not even turn her head. However, Lelouch knew that she had heard it.
The girl was still looking at the scenery in the mountains and said calmly as usual.
" I'm just borrowing the 'path' you created. But it's quite open here."
Lulu Xiu was very unhappy.
" Hey, I don't remember allowing you to come to such a place..."
[I'm not under your control, remember?」
This time, Lelouch was speechless. Indeed, only this girl would not listen to his orders. Geass was ineffective against her.
After calming down, Lelouch sighed softly and said to C.C. again.
"So, I'm asking you what you're doing here. You're not going to tell me you're here because you're bored, are you?」
The girl did not intend to answer.
As if nothing had happened, she would touch the weeds growing between the rocks, kick the small stones on the ground, and sometimes look up at the sky casually.
Just as Lelouch was about to ask again, C.C. finally opened his mouth.
However, the words that came out of her mouth were not an answer to the question just now, but a question with an unknown meaning.
[Lelouch, why are you Lelouch?」
[Huh?]
He was a little confused, but he immediately answered impatiently.
"I don't have time for philosophy. At a time like this? Listen, I just asked you…"
[You changed your surname to Lamperouge.」
C.C. ignored him.
" However, he retained the name Lelouch. Was it because he was naive? You haven't completely abandoned yourself."
" Let me ask you-"
[How naive. I haven't completely broken off with the past." She directly asserted. Lelouch fell silent.
Then, he snorted. "But your name is too special. C.C. was not a human name at all.」
At this moment-
C.C. finally turned around. She stared at him.
The moment he noticed her gaze, Lelouch gasped.
Extremely sad.
Extremely lonely.
At some point, it started snowing.
White snowflakes fell silently from the gray sky. The cold wind blew their hair, but no one cared. C.C. was still looking at Lelouch silently. For some reason, he actually wanted to hug this woman and let her rely on him?
[Lulu Xiu.]
He raised his head and looked at the sky that was filled with white crystals. C.C. asked in his usual calm tone.
Do you know why snow is white?」
「……」
"This is because it has forgotten its former color.」
That was all.
The remaining silence dominated the cold air in the mountains.
The clouds were moving, and the gloomy sky changed into meaningless patterns. The clouds slowly covered the entire mountain in a meaningless form.
Finally, Lelouch coughed lightly. "Anyway…" He was careful not to add any emotion to his tone. "From now on, you will follow me. The Black Knights don't know of your existence. It'll be difficult for me if they see me.」
[In other words, I'm not your companion.」
Lelouch was speechless. But after a moment, he still answered calmly. [I have no companions.]
" Yes, you don't have anyone around you that can be called a companion. As long as you wear this mask, the Black Knights are just chess pieces to you. That's why you can say it so easily."
Lelouch, who turned around and was about to leave, clicked his tongue and stopped in his tracks.
What was wrong with this guy today? He was so annoying.
This was clearly a critical moment.
[Hey, you-]
"Since you can't abandon the name, it means that you can't abandon the meaning behind the name.」
The girl continued to talk to herself.
" Especially the meaning of the name when others call it, and not the meaning of it to you, right? Your sister? Or your mother? Or-"
C.C. suddenly laughed.
[Is it the man named Pinnacle Vermilion Bird? I remember that he's a friend you've known since you were young.」
Lelouch's expression instantly stiffened.
To be honest, this was the last name he wanted to hear.
Especially now that he was already at war with Britania.
[How stupid. Sister, mother, and that man will definitely not agree with what you want to do now. 'He probably won't agree with you. No, that man is already in a position where he can't agree with you. He's your enemy.'」
There was silence again.
The snow continued to fall.
Then, Lelouch said in a slightly murderous tone. "He's from the technical department. He won't appear on the battlefield. Of course, it would be best if it didn't threaten my interests. Otherwise, I would still kill him.」
"Then, what about Cornelia and Eufemia?」
"... If they are a threat..." He said this, meaning that even if the people closest to him were to get in his way, he would still kill them.
[This is your pardon? What a joke. It was completely useless in solving the fundamental problem.」
"…I'm just an avenger. Enough is enough, C.C. Even if it's you, I won't allow you to say another word.」
"You can't give up your name. No, rather than saying that you can't give up your name, it's better to say that you can't give up those who call your name, and you can't give up the emotions contained in those voices when they call out the name of Lelouch. Unable to give up the past that was not only painful, but also unable to give up the present and future…too naive, really too naive. One day, you will pay the price for your naivety, Lelouch.」
He was really angry.
But even so, he still had a reason to restrain himself from saying anything else.
Because of his gaze. He turned his head to look at the young girl on the hill. Contrary to her calm tone, there was sadness hidden in her eyes.
Lonely gaze. It was as if…he was complaining about something.
Lelouch wordlessly turned around and walked towards the meeting point with Shan Yao and the others.
C.C. did not follow. Feeling her gaze on his back, Lelouch suddenly thought of something.
Was that…her advice just now? One day, her words would become reality, so she had to think about it carefully.
Or…It was something that she had learned from her own experience after abandoning her name. The only thing she knew was…
On the simple tactical dashboard in the control room, the logo of the main force that had gradually unfolded was shining like stars in the night sky.
They were the messengers of judgment who were surrounding the mountain.
Suddenly, an orange light flashed on the top of the wall, and it was behind their troops.
There was no dissatisfaction. This situation was already set in stone.
Therefore, he said something else.
[Aren't we going to…persuade them to surrender?]
Sitting in Lancelot's control seat, Vermilion Bird muttered to himself. Outside the open entrance of the control room, Lloyd asked,"」It seemed that he had heard it.
[Yeah.] With his usual frivolous tone, Lloyd replied to the Vermilion Bird.
[Because it's meaningless.]
[What do you mean by meaningless…]
"Think about it from the other side's point of view. Although they are forced into a desperate situation, if the leader surrenders and the information is obtained by the enemy, they will still end up being publicly hanged or shot. At best, it would be life imprisonment. Because they did not want to die, they would not surrender. In that case, we don't have to persuade them to surrender.」
[How could--]
Looking at the dashboard, Vermilion Bird's lips trembled slightly.
No.
He knew. He understood this situation, so clearly that it made him afraid. This fear forced him to recognize this point.
However, he still felt that…Even so…
Even so, could he not do something for the death and pain of those who were involved in the war?
[Yes, but there's nothing we can do about it…Ah, right, isn't Cecil back yet?] Did she go to the toilet? Ah, ah, she's a girl after all, so…"
"... I'm here. Can I take those words as sexual harassment?」
[Eh? Ah, no, no, that's..."
As he listened to the conversation without any tension, Vermilion Bird silently stared at the tactical dashboard. This dashboard was much bigger than the one Vermilion Bird was familiar with.
However, this was only natural. This was the encampment of the Britani army, G1 Camp.
It looked like the bridge of a large aircraft carrier, with a huge instrument panel on it. No, it was not appropriate to describe it as just like this. In fact, this was an aircraft carrier. However, this was not an aircraft carrier at sea, but a land-based ship. From the outside, it looked like a huge spider crawling on the ground. Being able to easily accommodate 20 Knightmares was the symbol of the Britanians who were proud of being the strongest. Everyone knew that a mobile fortress was the key to the entire war.
And now, it was not Commander Cornelia who was commanding it. She had already driven her Knight Mare and led the troops to the front line. Therefore, compared to the camp, G1 was more like a base supporting the front line.
The girl standing in front of the dashboard looked like she was only in her teens.
However, her position was commander, but she had to add the word deputy in front of it.
She was the Third Princess of the Holy Britania Empire, the Deputy Governor of District 11, Eufemia L. Britania.
Her childish face was tense. It was no wonder. Although she was not an ordinary person who had never been trained, it was her first time on the battlefield. She was not nervous. Of course, she knew very well that her position was just a title. The ones who listened to her sister on the front line were the staff officers around her.
[Aren't you going to persuade them to surrender?]
Ufemia asked the staff officers, who respectfully lowered their heads and replied.
"I'm terrified because there's no need for that.」
[But now that there is such a huge disparity in strength…the other party should have grasped the situation, right? Did they not understand that they would not win?」
"They understand, but they still refuse to obey us. It was useless to say anything to them now.」
Ufemiya fell silent.
Her serious face was filled with pain as she turned her gaze to the dashboard again.
Suddenly, she discovered something.
Behind the troops that had gradually spread out, an orange light spot flickered slightly further away.
Eufemia slightly tilted her head. " That troop... what is it?"
The staff officer standing beside her followed her gaze, and then a trace of disgust appeared on his expressionless face. "It's a backup team with the pilots from District 11.」
" Ah!" Ufemia gasped.
[Could it be Lancelot?」
"Knightmares are actually being controlled by non-Britanians. This was originally not allowed.」
Although his tone was very respectful, the advisor did not hide his displeasure. At this moment, another staff officer added. " That troop is under the jurisdiction of the Second Prince, His Highness Xiu Naijie. We have no right to interfere with personnel matters. Her Highness, Cornelia, is also having a headache about this..."
The advisors continued to speak in the same dissatisfied tone, but Ufemia didn't listen to them. She just stared at the light spot.
That youth was also here. Now, he was watching the scene in front of him. He watched everything that was about to happen.
Vermilion Bird.
Ufemiya suddenly murmured in her heart.
What are you thinking?
The people of your country and the people of my country will soon continue to fight and bleed. What do you think?
Of course, she would not show such sadness.
As long as she came to the battlefield, her heart would become a god of war. There was no good or evil, no sympathy. All that was left was to destroy all the enemies in front of him. Of course, this was not because she was the older sister and the young girl was the younger sister. This had nothing to do with age and experience. It was a matter of aptitude. Perhaps it was just as his sister thought, they were born with different personalities.
However, this did not mean that there was a difference between the two. In some situations, a younger sister's aptitude could bring stability and happiness to the world around her.
In other words, if the two sisters could really work together, they might be able to quickly break the chaotic situation in District 11. Unfortunately, their opponents were the people they loved the most. A man who defined himself as an avenger.
" The Japanese Liberation Front... the people who have been eliminated by the times, the people who have forgotten their love..." In the driver's seat of the speeding Glouchester, Cornelia muttered to herself.
The battlefield was right in front of them.
The Demon Encounter Abyss, which could magnify death, terror, and chaos several times and give her excitement, was right before her eyes. "Now... together with the illusory dream, decay and disappear!」
In an instant, the murderous aura of war filled the quiet mountains.
Dancing.
The Battle of Knightmar, piloted by a skilled pilot, was appropriately described by this word. It traveled through the battlefield at a speed that was faster than any weapon on land. No matter what terrain it was in, it could easily occupy it with its superior movement performance and weapon, as well as the " Slash Harken " that could be used concurrently. They could wield swords and spears like ancient knights. They could also use assault rifles to attack enemies from afar.
Of course, this weapon was not omnipotent. In fact, it was helpless against missiles that flew from a very long distance, so the number of battlefields it could be sent to was quite limited.
However, it was precisely because of this that when it was able to fight, this weapon would become an incomparably powerful ghost. Because it was special, it was absolute. The lifeless mechanical puppets were actively galloping on the battlefield. This was one of the reasons why the Britania Army, which had the latest, strongest, and largest Knightmares, could report so many victories around the world.
And this scene was about to repeat itself.
For the suppression of the Japanese Liberation Front, Cornelia did not formulate any surprise strategy.
She had simply surrounded their base and fought a tough battle head-on. However, this strategy seemed too direct, but it was the correct answer for the commander in this situation. Since they had an overwhelming advantage in military strength, there was no need to think of any other countermeasures. As long as they used their own strength to defeat the other party, it would be fine.
The Knights galloping in the mountains gradually broke through the enemy's defense lines. Of course, there were also heavy armored mechanical infantry troops behind them. They were protected by Knighthood and were used to blow up the ammunition depots of terrorists hidden in the mountains and to suppress and annihilate residential areas. This was the most basic form of suppression in a stronghold with Knightmar as the center.
[Humph…]
Waving the lightsaber in her hand, Cornelia slashed at Knightmar who was blocking in front of her. The heavy and sharp blow hit the enemy's abdomen heavily, and the Knight, modified from an old Britanian-style plane, crashed heavily into the rocks. Cornelia raised her lightsaber and stabbed it from the front.
Before the other party could even escape in time, the body exploded.
"I was looking forward to it, but I didn't expect it to be so simple.」
Returning to her Glouchester posture, Cornelia smiled like a warrior.
It was just as she had thought and her intentions were.
The only regret was that the route of their troops had deviated slightly from the enemy's base camp.
Although he had made such a small mistake, it did not affect the overall situation. It did not matter. The army she commanded would only advance in the direction of victory.
At the same time, on the other side of the hill, the Knightmares led by Dalton had successfully broken through the enemy's last exposed line of defense.
Pass down the order to the infantry troops at the back. The entrance to the enemy's warehouse is in that villa.
[Yes.]
"Once we've eliminated the people outside of Moscow, we'll break in immediately.」
"Aren't we going to meet up with the Governor's troops?」
Dalton laughed boldly as he fired with his assault rifle. "It seems that I'll be the first to break into the enemy's base camp. It's really a pleasure to serve a magnanimous monarch, don't you think so?」
[Indeed. See you later." The other party who was communicating with him also replied with a smile. Most importantly, they completely possessed this calmness.
Generally speaking, the battle was progressing according to the predetermined direction, and Britania had an absolute advantage.
Therefore, although it was still too early, it was not unreasonable for Dalton and Cornelia to say such things.
" The anti-government forces in the Lower 11th District..." Dalton muttered to himself as he drove his Glouchester forward. [It's almost over.]
On the slope where there were no more enemies, Cornelia smiled.
However…
At this moment, someone lit up a counter-attack smoke above their heads.
To the other party, this was a desperate battle.
They did not attack Britania from behind the Japanese Liberation Front. Instead, they abandoned their position and jumped into the middle of the encirclement. The Britania army was gradually approaching the center point, the top of the mountain.
With nowhere to run, the situation was not only at an absolute disadvantage, but even his life was hanging by a thread. If he wanted to live, he had no choice but to repel the enemy in front of him. This was a dying struggle.
Of course, doing so was very dangerous, and it was the wrong tactic in itself. Soldiers who gave up on themselves and did not listen to their commanders 'orders could no longer play their role as soldiers. They had no fighting spirit at all, and there might also be people who ignored the instructions of their superiors and surrendered. In essence, a sneak attack was suicidal, the worst of the worst.
Therefore, this tactic would not succeed. Although there were very few examples of success, the probability was almost one in ten thousand. That was why it was left as a special case in the history of war.
However, just because there was a one in ten thousand chance of success, it could not be attributed to an accidental product.
There must be a reason for success, a calculation, and a clear rationality. In that case, it could be said that they had one thing in common-they were all reasonable and had been completely calculated.
Everyone's spirit was on the verge of collapse. The fear and despair of death began to turn into an extreme desire for life.
He just needed to direct their will towards other elements.
In the face of the abyss of despair, as long as they were painted with a bit of dazzling hope, their fear would instantly turn into courage and awareness, and their high fighting spirit would surge to the greatest extent. This was the so-called extreme things would reverse. When people thought that it was impossible, they would become excited and go all out.
But what was needed to make them think that way?
Two points.
First, it was the trust in the commander.
This commander should be able to do something for us. Although this kind of thinking sometimes brought about the danger of over-reliance, it was still an absolute and indispensable factor on the battlefield.
And the second point…was a clear strategy to point out hope for them, as well as a result.
"Very good! All preparations were complete! Black Knights, attack!"
Sitting in the cockpit of the modified body of the Jiuge, the Knightmares, Lelouch rang the opening bell.
The members responded with shouts and roars.
" Now, we will launch a surprise attack on the Britanians at the top of the mountain. Listen to my command and rush to the third location in one breath. The purpose of the battle was to capture the second princess of Britania, Cornelia! Red Lotus Second Style will be the vanguard!"
On the main surveillance screen of Rascal, the crimson body of the Red Lotus II was reflected.
Its head was covered with a mask similar to a human's sunglasses, covering its face. This was prepared to protect the sensor lens detector that was similar to a pair of glasses. In addition, there was also a Pile-Bunker that was deeply embedded in the ground.
" Kallen, use the No. 3 penetrating pole. Can it be solved in one strike?"
[Yes!]
Kallen's nervous voice came through the radio. At the same time, Red Lotus II also began to move. Its right arm, which looked like the hand of a fantasy killer, hit the obstacle in front of it with its silver claws.
[Activation confirmed!]
Kallen's voice came from the public channel.
[Radiation wave mechanism, standby mode maintained!]」
Suddenly, a light flashed.
It was the radiance that appeared on the chest of Red Lotus Second Style.
Kallen took a deep breath.
[Activate!]
In an instant, at a speed invisible to the naked eye, the light turned into sparks and flew out.
No matter what kind of enemy appeared, the Britanians under Cornelia would not waver.
Whether it was the Japanese Liberation Front, the Black Knights, or even the sudden appearance of the Chinese Federation's Knighthood, the Britania Army would calmly fight. The commander's foresight and ability to command, the courage and calmness of the knights under him, and the high morale of the soldiers, this was an excellent army no matter how one looked at it. Not only in the 11th District, but it was also difficult to find such an army in the Britania Army all over the world. (The only exception was when the former Acting Consul, Gereelia Gotthbard, joined the army. In order not to affect the war, he was transferred to the rear by Cornelia.）
However, that was only within the scope of common sense.
What if something unexpected happened?
Yes, people called it a miracle.
Therefore, what appeared in front of them was not an enemy. Dalton was the first to notice the tremors. A tremor came from underground.
" Uh... earthquake?"
By the way, the maximum amplitude at this time was only 2 to 3.
To put it simply, there was no need to worry at all. Earthquakes often occurred in this island country. However, if 'it' was seen as man-made, then it was a very serious situation. Although humans could cause minor earthquakes, it would be terrifying if they could trigger the power that shook the entire earth. (After a long time, according to the investigation, this place was obviously a weak earthquake zone.）
The real threat had arrived.
Beep!
The electronic sound was an alarm from the automatic balancing mechanism of Knightmares.
Suddenly, the vibration intensified, but it was no longer an earthquake. Earthquakes caused a certain phenomenon--vibrations near the surface of the earth, causing this result.
[What…]
Nightmare's body began to slide down.
No, it wasn't Knight who had slipped.
It was the ground itself!
" Landslide?!"
The moment Dalton roared, the collapse accelerated.
[This is…!]
In front of the tactical dashboard of G1 Base, Ufemia was stunned. The staff officers around them also shouted in a tone that could not be heard if they were cursing or lamenting.
[How is that possible? Such a large-scale landslide…!"
[Send, send out an evasion notice!] If this continued, Alex and Dalton would be swallowed up!!」
However, this fear was coming at them at a speed that humans could not escape.
The blue dots on the dashboard that indicated that their troops were safe immediately turned red. Lost, LOST, LOST…The huge screen in front of him was instantly filled with information that conveyed this fact, almost making people faint.
Ufemiya, who was standing in front of the screen in a daze, suddenly came back to her senses and screamed.
[Royal Sister!!!]
[What's the situation!?]
In the cockpit of Glouchester, Cornelia roared into the radio. Fortunately, she was not involved in this disaster.
However, her subordinates who were in formation on her right…
[Still confirming.]
[Your Highness! Please leave. It's very dangerous there!"
Guilford's voice, still safe and sound, came from another line.
But Cornelia roared at him.
"Don't worry about me! Where's Alex? Go and find out about Dalton!"
Of course, the news of the sudden change in the battle situation had also reached them.
[Aiyaya ~ Looks like I have to retreat to the foot of the mountain.]」Looking at the map displayed on the control panel of the leading tractor, Lloyd helplessly muttered to himself.
The collapsed sand had turned into a mudslide, spreading from the top of the mountain to the foot of the mountain in a fan shape.
Cecil, who was desperately operating the touch screen, said in astonishment. "Abnormal thermal response! Could it be that someone was trying to cause a steam explosion?？」
[How could that be?] That's because there seems to be sufficient underground water at the foot of this mountain ~"Unlike Cecil, Lloyd's tone was as leisurely as usual. Of course, the troops they belonged to were the same as the G1 base in Ufemiya, so they didn't have to worry about being involved in the mudslide.
[How can we prepare such a large amount of instantaneous heat energy?」
[But…!]
" It's probably caused by an active volcano eruption nearby. It could also be a combination of multiple reaction rods and an extremely powerful laser weapon..."
Suddenly, Lloyd paused.
His frivolous expression was slightly restrained, and he narrowed his eyes behind his glasses. [Wait. Weapon…?"
Cecil also immediately revealed an expression of realization. [Could it be…]
(The second chapter, 10,000 words)
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