Standing at the harbor to welcome them were the officers sent by the island's headquarters. Only Monica came to welcome him. The other two Knights of the Round Table under the Emperor did not come to welcome Schnezer. Because they were only under the Emperor's command, no one could order them around.
What they said was different from the information they received on the ship. Schneizer seemed to be able to arrive at the port on time.
[I heard that the Prime Minister's ship is about to enter the port?」
Ufemiya asked. The leading officer stood at attention and replied.
"Yes, Your Excellency hasn't changed.」
[Really?] Then I'll wait here. I won't go to the headquarters.」
Ufemiya smiled as she turned around and spoke to the Vermilion Bird, Lloyd, and the others. Then, he turned to his good friend whom he had not seen for a long time and happily said to Monica,"Long time no see, Monica. How have you been recently?」
[Yes, everything is fine. What about you?" Monica smiled at Eufemia. However, she didn't have a good impression of the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird, the knight of Ufemia. It could be said that she hated him. Because it was the people from District 11 who killed Lelouch and Na Nali.
It could be said that the two of them had grown up together because of Lelouch. After that, Monica and Anya had been in the army and rarely met. Yuffie didn't mention anything about Lelouch, because in Monica's heart, Lelouch seemed to represent everything. It was time to tell her that Lelouch was still alive.
Just as she was about to speak…
At this moment.
Following the earth-shattering boom, thick black smoke rose from the headquarters in the middle of the island and drifted into the clouds!
[Team, continue to advance! Zero Fan Team, cover the side of First Team!」
In the cockpit of Knight Mare under the moon, Kemoshiro Fujido gave instructions to the front line.
Appearing in front of Moonlight was the island's guards, the enemy Sutherland. It held a baton and was about to attack Tengtang under the moon. However, it was useless. In the blink of an eye, the enemy Knight was cut into two by Teng Tang's Moonlight. After Sutherland was split into two, it exploded, and flames shot into the sky.
Of course, this was only because Knight's performance and Fujido's skill level were much higher than his opponent's. However, his true strength was that he could continue to give orders to his subordinates while fighting.
"Second Division, retreat to the rear, eight o'clock direction! Waiting for the target to be identified. After recognizing it, head to the predetermined location and wait!」
An accurate judgment of the situation at the scene, as well as courage and calmness, these were the qualities that Lelouch needed.
On the other hand, Teng Tang himself was also paying close attention to the battle of his own army. He knew that at this moment, there was another existence in his heart.
How would the situation change?
This time, it was because Britania's princess, Yufemiya, was about to welcome the Empire's Prime Minister, Senezer Al-Britania, on Shigen Island. The leader of the Black Knights, ZERO, only started the war after learning that the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird would be coming with them. Their goal was not to destroy the well-defended interior of the concession or the military base, but to lure out the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird and his white knight and capture him. Of course, if the other party would rather die and resist, then there was no need to let him live! That was ZERO's exact words. Very good. From a strategic point of view, it was not wrong. It wasn't the despicable assassination method that Diethalt had suggested, but rather capturing the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird in a fair and square manner. This was in line with Tengtang's beliefs. However…
Was the entire strategy appropriate?
After the incident at the governor's residence, Fujido's position in the Black Knights was now under ZERO's command, equivalent to the military advisor of the knights. However, he didn't join because he was convinced by the Black Knights 'ideology and ZERO's charisma. The reason why Fujido followed ZERO was because he believed that ZERO's existence was the most effective way to fight Britania. In this aspect, he was different from the other members who had followed ZERO all the way here. He had a third party perspective that could calmly observe ZERO's actions. In addition, because he had the experience of being dominated by someone with absolute power, his way of thinking was no longer like a rigid soldier, but more flexible.
From Teng Tang's point of view, he felt that it was inappropriate to attack the Vermilion Bird and Eufemia. The two of them had never suppressed ZERO and the Black Knights with force. Yufemiya's approach was highly praised by the Japanese, and the Rosefinch was gradually becoming a symbol of the submissive faction in Britania. However, these were all political issues. To be honest, using force to deal with politics was the worst of the worst. If the enemy's thoughts and stance had a bad influence on our side, then we could also use non-military methods to confront the enemy. At the very least, doing so would not go against ZERO and the Black Knights 'idea of saving the weak, and it would not cause the Japanese who had always supported them to be disgusted.
If it was Teng Tang, he would be thinking about it while fighting.
He would wait and see for a period of time. No matter what, Ufemiya did not have much power in District 11, and the Vermilion Bird's supporters were not strong enough. No matter how the two men tried to appease the Japanese, the surrounding environment would not allow them to do so in a short period of time. Especially now that his sister, Governor Cornelia, was above her. Cornelia's thoughts were typical of Britania. Once she touched her own beliefs, no matter how much she loved her sister, she would not easily agree. In other words, it was impossible for Eufemia and Vermilion Bird to respond to the Japanese's expectations in the end. Instead, they would disappoint the Japanese. If he wanted to defeat them, he would have to take advantage of that time. By the way, Teng Tang had completely abandoned his former Vermillion Bird teacher. During the battle at the Chang Mansion, Vermilion Bird and Teng Tang had both chosen their own paths, and Teng Tang had accepted this very rationally. In other words, he had decided that he would not be merciful to the enemy.
"Team Three, head north along the coastline! If the troops of Yufemiya and the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird tried to leave the island, they would stop them together with the submarines! Team Four continued to protect Laksiata, who was setting up the net.」
However, there was no point in commenting on the battle that had already begun. Besides, Teng Tang himself didn't object to this battle. He also believed that capturing the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird was a viable option. But now, this was the problem.
Capturing the Vermilion Bird was not a problem. However, after he was caught, how should he deal with him? To put it bluntly, the Black Knights were in no position to blame him for treason and execute him. Such behavior was no different from an ordinary terrorist organization. Instead, it would cause the Black Knights to lose their cohesion. There were many Japanese who saw Pinnacle Suzaku as a ray of hope. If they killed him without giving any reason, they would be blamed.
To put it simply, he couldn't allow the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird to become a martyr of the Gongshun Sect. If they really killed him, the Submissive Faction and Britania would definitely denounce the Black Knights as inhumane murderers. It was not only the living who were qualified to become a symbol. The dead could also do so. No, perhaps it could be said that the dead Pinnacle Vermilion Bird was more suitable as a symbol than the living him. Unlike living people who could move and speak according to their own will, the dead could be distorted in the hands of others.
[Of course you have a plan, ZERO. Otherwise, regardless of whether this battle succeeds or fails, you will definitely lose.」
Fujido murmured to ZERO, who was observing his every move from a distance.
Unlike Fujido, there were also people in the team who believed that ZERO was right.
[Jade City! I'll leave the back to you."
[Alright!]
In the cockpit of the speeding Red Lotus II, Red Moon Kallen's sharp gaze swept across the dashboard beside the main display. There was no hesitation in her eyes. A few days ago, the Black Knights had been reorganized, and she was appointed as the captain of the Zero Division, which was also the captain of the Black Knights 'leader ZERO's personal guards.
After the decision was made, Kallen had a chat with ZERO.
[The disappearance of the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird is very important to us.」
Through the mask, Lelouch spoke to Kallen in his usual confident tone.
"Because of the Pedestal Vermilion Bird, some people in District 11 are starting to have a good impression of Britania. Some even trust it. Some people are willing to become honorary Britanians. This is not good for us, and I don't think you want to see this happen.」
[But, this kind of thing...]
[After capturing the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird, I will make him make this choice. He will not choose Eufemia, but our Black Knights, and choose to fight Britania. But if he still chose Britania, killing him was the only option. Otherwise, he will become our stumbling block!」
(Believe me, this sentence alone is enough for Kallen.）Yes, he always performed miracles with this sentence. For us, for Japan, this time will not be an exception.
However, Long Er did not agree with Lelouch's opinion. Instead, she puffed up her cheeks and said,"Why should we give him a chance? He must like the Princess of Britania. How could he betray her?"」
"I'm just giving you a chance. Otherwise, I'll seem too heartless.」Lelouch replied with a smile.
[Isn't it just a strange bad taste?] Long Er muttered.
Lelouch seemed to have no way to deal with this beautiful girl who was a little natural. The girl would always act cute. Even if Lelouch was very angry, he could not lose his temper at her. This made him very helpless. He had warned himself countless times that he could not be fooled by her, but he was always fooled by her acting cute.
Unlike when she was in the Chang's Residence, Kallen was already mentally prepared to face the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird, who was also a member of the Student Council and was from the same school. Since he was the enemy, he had to fight. He already had the resolution. But even so, Kallen was relieved when she heard that Lelouch would give her a choice. Moreover, Lelouch had also expressed that he would make him his companion, so there was nothing to mind.
" ZERO will bring miracles. Then, I…"
(My mission is to be ZERO's shield.）
Kallen's Red Lotus II rushed towards the enemy Sutherland who was standing in front of her, waving her radiation wave claw to destroy the enemy. This series of actions was something that even Tengtang's Moonlight couldn't match. Putting strategy and tactics aside, if one were to evaluate their combat strength, she and Red Lotus Second Style were undoubtedly the strongest combination of the Black Knights. Coupled with the recent adjustments and maintenance of the technical director, Laksiata, there was nothing to worry about.
[Alright, come on, Pinnacle Vermilion Bird!] For Lelouch, even if we are classmates, I have no choice but to kill you for Lelouch!」
Kallen muttered to herself in the cockpit. At this moment, her side was suddenly disrupted.
*****************************************************************
The White Knight Lancelot's hook cut off the arms of the enemy Knightmares, who were known as scoundrels. The enemy could not move in an instant.
However, the Lancelot pilot, Rosefinch, saw the red figure reflected on the main monitor.
"That red Knight?!」
Although he was not an undefeatable opponent, he was indeed a very troublesome enemy. Especially during the group battle at the Chang's residence, the other party had completely displayed his mobility and combat performance. However, if it was from a long distance, he could use the Varis in his hand to snipe. There was nothing to be afraid of.
It was better to maintain a certain distance like this. However, just as the Vermilion Bird was thinking this, his opponent unexpectedly moved. Even though it did not run away, the moment it recognized Lancelot, the red Knight suddenly flew backward and flew further and further away. The Vermilion Bird couldn't understand this kind of behavior. However, at this moment, Lancelot's main monitor captured another figure. Using the telescope mode, he discovered that the opponent was a black Mech. He was a scoundrel. Someone was sticking out of the cockpit and staring at them. He was wearing a black cloak and a black mask.
「ZERO？！」
As the enemy Knightmares had retreated, there were no more obstacles in front of them. The Vermilion Bird lifted Varis reflexively, but suddenly stopped. The distance was too far. If he could get a little closer, ZERO on the screen would disappear from the cockpit as if she had seen through Vermilion Bird's mind. Scoundrel turned around, and the propeller on his feet kicked up a cloud of dust as he sped away.
The other party was luring the enemy.
The Vermilion Bird knew this very well, but he did not give up on chasing the enemy.
" Please go to the reinforcement command."
Just now, the Vermilion Bird, who had grasped the situation, wanted to stay by her side to protect her, but she shook her head and said so.
[Please don't worry about me. There are still many guards here, so Vermillion Bird, I hope you can show me your strength as a knight. If that was the case, the voices of opposition around them would gradually decrease.」
Therefore, this was the King's order. The Vermilion Bird could not return empty-handed. He had to capture the leader of the anti-Britania forces, ZERO. That was a feat that no one could deny. Even if he saw that the other party had set a trap, he could not retreat. Of course, he couldn't deny that the Vermilion Bird had such thoughts because he was eager for quick success. To put it more clearly, the Vermilion Bird was confused about its own value. He had never expected that ZERO and the Black Knights 'goal was not to kill Yufemiya or Schneizer, but to kill him.
He was getting closer to the scoundrel, ZERO, who was running away with her back exposed. Originally, the mobility of this old-fashioned modified machine could not be compared to Lancelot at all. The Vermilion Bird lifted Varis again. However, at this moment, the scoundrel's back suddenly disappeared from the monitor. Below. It was a sand dune that had been dug into the shape of a bowl. The enemy was approaching the center. There was no cover in the surroundings. Could it be that they wanted to lure him into the sand and shoot at the same time? But that was impossible unless Lancelot just stood there and did nothing. Lancelot wasn't slow enough to take a beating. However, from the distance, ZERO and Scoundrel had no chance of escaping. He pulled the lever and Lancelot jumped up. At the same time, he shot out a grappling hook from his chest. The grappling hook that flew like a bullet brushed past Scoundrel's shoulder and plunged into the sand. The rogue stopped. At this time, Vermilion Bird and Lancelot had already easily circled to the front of the enemy plane and were pointing their guns at the enemy.
「ZERO! Now!"
In the cockpit of Scoundrel.
ZERO laughed. Deep and wild.
Suddenly, an unusual vibration struck Lancelot from the inside.
[What!]
" What's going on!?"
In front of the portable tactical dashboard, Ufemia, who was paying attention to the battle situation, turned around in shock. However, Cecil, who was standing in front of the control panel, did not answer her question. She just widened her eyes and stared at the keyboard beside her. Monica was expressionless. The life and death of this District 11 person had nothing to do with her, even if he was the knight of her good friend, Eufemia. She was also very angry and didn't understand why Eufemia chose a lowly 11th District person as her knight. She clearly knew that it was the people from District 11 who killed Lelouch!
At this moment, the communication device on the control console rang with noise. He was able to contact Lancelot's cockpit, but the voice coming from the cockpit was not from the pilot, Pinnacle Vermilion Bird.
"Pinnacle Vermilion Bird, I want to talk to you.」
Ufemiya instantly stopped breathing. It was ZERO's voice. ZERO was right outside Lancelot's cockpit.
He said to Lancelot, who was standing motionless in the sand, and Vermilion Bird, who was in the cockpit.
"Get out! Other than the first drive system, nothing else could be moved. I will abide by international law regarding the treatment of prisoners. Of course, if you refuse to negotiate, my army will shoot from all directions and turn your Mech into a hornet's nest!」
This time, Ufemiya felt a chill run down her spine. She left the tactical dashboard and walked straight to Cecil's side.
[Don't worry about anything else. Tell the Vermilion Bird to listen to him!] Also, why isn't Lancelot moving?」
Yes, that was the problem. ZERO's Rascal was clearly within Lancelot's shooting range, but Lancelot stopped right in front of the enemy. No, perhaps this was not enough to describe the situation at that time. What stopped was
"The part where the sakuraditeYggdrasil operating system used by the Knight drive system is integrated with it has been interfered with!」
Cecil finally spoke. She didn't seem to believe her own words. At this moment, a low tone that was different from usual added to her words.
[Power System Interferential Device.]
It was Lloyd. Cecil turned around.
[How could that be!]
" However, some interference waves are still detected, and the transmission particles in the operating system have completely stopped..."
The words that Lloyd said next sounded like he was talking to himself.
" I was too careless when I thought that it would only work in theory. Is it really you who gave the ideal of Knight Mare a head-on blow, Laksiata..."
The slender eyes behind the lenses were covered in a haze.
[Mmm ~~~]
A woman in white stood by the sand. She was Laksiata Chara. She came from India and had shiny wheat-colored skin. She looked very healthy. Her tall and sexy figure made some of the men from the Black Knights swallow their saliva. At this moment, she was leisurely smoking a pipe and said casually.
[The range and duration of the effect are not ideal enough ~]
Laksiata looked down and saw the motionless White Knight standing there. In fact, the scoundrel standing face to face with it had also lost the ability to move because of the interference of the same position, but this was not a problem at all. There were 12 field generators buried in the ground in a circle. The Black Knights 'Knighthood was guarding outside the field, aiming their guns at the White Knighthood.
" It would be great if we could interfere with the entire island. Now, she looked like a toy that no one wanted. If this technique was used in actual combat, it would be subject to many restrictions. For example, just like today. Originally, this technology was not designed for war, but a product derived from research in certain medical fields." But when he thought of this, Laksiata's face turned slightly stern and he shrugged.
[Forget it, forget it. Let's not talk about the past.]」
After muttering to himself, Lakiata took the pipe from his mouth and turned around.
[I'll leave the rest to you ~ZERO.]」Laksiata said charmingly.
ZERO stood guard outside Scoundrel with her gleaming M1911A1.
The Vermilion Bird walked out of Lancelot and faced the muzzle fearlessly, staring straight at Mask.
" Finally, you're willing to come out..." Lelouch laughed disdainfully.
The chirping of seagulls could be heard from afar.
The cloudless blue sky above her head made the Vermilion Bird find it ironic. The sky and the sea surrounding the island were so calm. Why were the humans still fighting? No, it should be said that as one of the parties involved, he would think about such a question. Perhaps he should be smiling coldly. If there really was a god who could look down at this scene from above, he would have a different feeling. but now
[Pinnacle Vermilion Bird.]
ZERO, the man who was pointing a gun at her, spoke the name of Vermilion Bird in a calm tone.
"Let's get straight to the point. I hope you can become my subordinate.」
The Vermilion Bird felt that this was getting more and more ironic. Was this man mocking her on purpose? He pointed a gun at me and was surrounded by enemies. Under such circumstances, he actually made me his subordinate?
Are you threatening me? Even if it was, I would reject it. As I said before, using the wrong method to obtain results is worthless.」
The Vermilion Bird puffed out his chest and answered firmly. By the way, the Vermilion Bird had already given up hope of living. Originally, he did not intend to follow ZERO's order to leave Lancelot. The reason why he did that in the end was because of the order from his Lord, Eufemia, through the communicator. Considering the Vermilion Bird's safety, Ufemiya chose to comply. Although this concern was rare, it was meaningless to the Vermilion Bird. Lancelot and himself had obstructed the Black Knights many times. To them, Lancelot was still useful as a weapon, but Vermilion Bird couldn't find any reason to let him, the pilot, live.
[No.]
Although it's not completely meaningless
If the island's headquarters could resume operations while he, ZERO, and the Black Knights were wasting their time, and if Eufemia, Lloyd, and the others could escape safely,
While he was thinking about these questions, ZERO suddenly smiled.
"Is the result obtained by using the wrong method worthless?」
The Vermilion Bird raised an eyebrow.
"Then let me ask you, Pinnacle Vermilion Bird. According to your twisted logic, is the current peace worthless?？？」
Just as Vermilion Bird was wondering what the man meant, ZERO continued.
" Let's make a hypothesis. Seven years ago, when Japan faced the invasion of Britania, they only resisted for a month before surrendering unconditionally. But if Japan hadn't surrendered at that time and continued to resist, what do you think would have happened now?
As Japan could not fight Britania alone, it could only rely on the two powerful countries that were comparable to Britania, namely the European Union and the Chinese Federation. In fact, these two countries and Britania were just jackals of the same feather. Even if they agreed to Japan's request for reinforcements, their goal was not to help Japan, but to occupy the rich sakuradite resources and divide Japan.
This…
In other words, if Japan did not choose to surrender at that time, it would only become a puppet of a big country like Britania or the Chinese Federation. It might become a battlefield for small wars between countries. The flames of war would continue. Your father, Xuanwu, who had already died, committed suicide to silence the Army, which had been clamoring for complete resistance. That was why Japan surrendered. What a waste, your father.」
These words indeed pierced the Vermilion Bird's heart. The young man, who had been arrogant just a moment ago, suddenly felt his legs go weak, and his forehead was covered in sweat. This was not due to reason or emotion. It was something that was similar to instinct that warned the Vermilion Bird's brain. Oh no, oh no. If she continued to talk to this man, something bad would happen. He would let her see things that she shouldn't see.
Although he had such thoughts, the Vermillion Bird had no choice but to answer.
[Yes.] That's why I fought so that I wouldn't destroy the peace in my father's building. Even if the country of Japan disappeared, it was better than meaningless casualties in the war!」
ZERO sneered again. Her laughter made the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird feel uncomfortable. It was a laugh that could see through everything.
"I won't be stingy with giving you a proper evaluation of your humanitarianism. When I think about the current situation of the Japanese in District 11 and the unfair treatment of other citizens in Britania, I still feel that your vision is a little short-sighted. However, what I am asking now is not your humanity, but your justice.」
[What did you say…]
"Pinnacle Vermilion Bird, you said before that using the wrong method to obtain results is worthless. Then let me ask you, seven years ago, Japan chose to surrender. Do you think that was the result of using the right method?!」
[Wrong, you're wrong, Pinnacle Vermilion Bird!] The decision to surrender was not made by the elected Xuanwu. It was the murderer who had changed his decision!」
The Vermilion Bird felt like the sky was falling. But ZERO continued without mercy.
" I don't know what Xuanwu's true intentions were at that time, but I do know one thing. No matter what he thought, he could have exercised his right, but he didn't use it. I mean, the murderer used the illusion of suicide to cover up the fact that he was murdered, understand? One person killed the Prime Minister who represented the will of the entire country and all the people, and decided the future path for the country and the people. He took away the will of others. He didn't use the correct method. He was just a criminal who broke the rules! You changed everything without permission!"
The Vermilion Bird's body seemed to have been struck by lightning as it began to stagger.
[Ah?!] This, this…this man…"
He knew everything. He knew everything. What happened seven years ago, what role he played, what actions he had taken. But why? How did he know? That matter had clearly been completely buried by the darkness!
[Why…Why do you know!」
The ice-cold mask didn't seem to be affected by the young man's trembling voice.
After an unknown amount of time.
By the time he came back to his senses, ZERO was already standing beside Vermilion Bird. His masked face was not facing the Vermilion Bird, and he put down the gun in his hand.
ZERO whispered into Vermilion Bird's ear.
"There is only one way to atone for your sins. Use your actions to remind the Japanese of the answer they could not choose at the beginning. He chose to fight Britania, who had stolen Japan seven years ago.」
These words made the Vermilion Bird, who had completely relaxed, nervous again.
[Battle? Do you want to fight again?"
"This is also a method. Do you want so many people to be forced into a hopeless situation because of their own choices? In that case, wouldn't you be denying the justice you've revealed?」
The Vermilion Bird fell silent. Other than silence, he didn't know what to say or do.
Come to me, Pinnacle Vermilion Bird. As long as you stay in Britania, you will not be able to resolve your own contradictions. But if you are by my side, I can point out the way to resolve the contradiction.」
ZERO's confident words
[But at this moment.]
Suddenly, an unrelated electronic voice entered their ears. It came from the communicator in Vermilion Bird's ear. The signal came from the island command center, and the other party asked for Vermilion Bird's response. Vermilion Bird glanced at ZERO and asked in a low voice.
[Can I?]
It's up to you, but don't forget your current position.
Hiding the contents of the phone call shouldn't be allowed. Vermilion Bird set her voice to open mode and accepted the conversation request.
[Roger.]
Major Suzaku, this is Lieutenant Colonel Fayir of the command center of the Britania Shigen Island base.
The communication noise was very loud, due to the surrounding force field generator.
[This is the young master of the Vermilion Bird.] Lieutenant Colonel Fayel."
"Young Master Suzaku, I have an important task for you. Immediately, our army will use ground-to-air missiles to destroy the terrorist gathering point! Please stay where you are and stall ZERO!」
[What!]
[Looks like you've been abandoned.]」Lelouch said coldly.
The Vermilion Bird was also stunned.
No.
Perhaps it was not appropriate to use the word stunned at this time.
His mind went blank.
That was an order, and ZERO admitted that it was an order!
「Yes，mylord！」
Rosefinch answered in a low and mechanical voice. She then took the gun out of ZERO's hand and charged at Lelouch!
" Humph…" Lelouch seemed to have understood the Vermilion Bird's intentions and began to fight with him. After dodging the Vermilion Bird's fist, the Vermilion Bird quickly used his knee to push against Lelouch. However, Lelouch was one step ahead of him and kicked his knee. The powerful force caused the Vermilion Bird to kneel on one knee. Lelouch and his heavy fists flew out. The Vermilion Bird felt as if the bridge of his nose had been broken!
Immediately, he felt sour, salty, spicy, and bitter. He fell to the ground in pain and almost fainted. Lelouch walked forward, but his ankle was kicked by the Vermilion Bird. He lost his balance and quickly rolled on the ground.
He saw that Vermilion Bird had already taken advantage of the gap to pick up the gun that had just been knocked out of Lelouch's hand and point it at him.
Enduring the pain of her broken nose and the intense feeling of fainting, Rosefinch pointed her gun at Lelouch and said,"I'm sorry, but I still can't agree with you!」
[That guy!]
Kallen shouted indignantly while guarding Red Lotus Second Style. Just as she was about to move her hand that was holding the control stick, she was stopped by Fujido, who was commanding the battlefield, through radio waves.
"Don't move! Once you enter the range of the force field, your body will also be affected!」
[But! If this continued, ZERO would be dead!」
The rapid change in the situation naturally reached the ears of the enemy.
A few uniformed soldiers stood in front of her. They were the officers of the island's garrison who had specially rushed over to protect the princess. However, after listening to their report of the battle, Ufemiya's face immediately turned pale. Then, her entire face turned red with anger.
"Who gave this order! The Pinnacle Vermilion Bird is my knight! At the very least, he and his Knightmares are under my command!」
However, the other party was unmoved. The captain, who was standing at the front, replied coldly.
"This is a quasi-level order from the Empire. Of course, you know that to issue such an order in the colonial area, you must at least be the governor or have the permission of more than three senior generals.」
" So I'm asking you!"
Ufemiya's tone hardened.
[Who gave the order?] I want to get in touch with him immediately!"
"This is a quasi-level order, Deputy Governor Eufemia!」
Ufemiya bit her lip, but her temper didn't allow her to admit defeat. If she could accept this, then she would not go against her sister's wishes and choose a knight.
[Please move aside!]
Before she could stop him, she pulled up her long dress and ran away. She walked past the guard captain and ran behind him. There was a Knight parked there. Of course, it was specially placed to protect the guards of Ufemia. At this moment, the pilot was about to enter the cockpit. Ufemiya rushed over and pushed the pilot away. She stepped on the automatic elevator that was connected to the cockpit.
"What... Your Highness Eufemia!?"」
[What exactly are you doing!]
[Send the order to the command center!]
As she shouted, she had already ascended and was about to enter the cockpit.
[I'm rushing over there now! If you are willing to involve me, you can give the order to fire at any time!!」
「？？There should be a limit to your willfulness!"
With a roar, the captain of the guards ran towards Knightmares. However, the Mech in front of him had already activated.
Rosefinch held the gun in his right hand and stuffed ZERO into Lancelot's cockpit with his left hand.
"If you continue like this, you will die! That doesn't matter, Pinnacle Vermilion Bird!」
The Vermilion Bird remained silent. ZERO was answered by Lancelot's internal communicator.
"Shosuke Shuki, your sacrifice was worth it.」
This voice from the command center was the same as the one from before. It made Vermilion Bird's shoulders tremble.
[Now, you can bury ZERO, the great criminal who rebelled against the country. Your achievements will be remembered for centuries!]」
[Shut up, shut up!!」
As if the order was directed at her, ZERO clenched her black gloved fist and slammed it into the communicator. It was purely out of anger. His voice was also full of curses.
Vermilion Bird looked exhausted, but he quickly shook his head and pointed his gun at ZERO again.
[Behave yourself, ZERO.]
[You!] Lelouch's eyes were filled with killing intent! He was regretting showing mercy to him just now!
ZERO's words brushed past the Vermilion Bird weakly.
[This bastard!]
At this moment, through the open cockpit, they could already see the group of black shadows gradually approaching in the sky.
[Missiles confirmed to be approaching!]
Hearing his subordinate's urgent report, Tengtang couldn't help but click his tongue under the moonlight.
" All Knightmares, open up a barrage for the incoming missiles! It didn't matter if he used up all his bullets! No one is allowed to get close!"
But Teng Tang also understood that this order was too forced. Air-to-ground missiles were the most effective way to bury the most powerful weapon of land warfare, the Knightmares. Since the attack was launched from a long distance outside the range of Knightmares, if there were only one or two shots, they could still be shot down with the firearms or anti-air cannons owned by Knightmares. However, the number of missiles displayed on the tactical dashboard was shocking. If they wanted to face the supersonic missiles head-on, they would have to use specialized weapons.
"All planes, maintain the bombardment and gradually spread out! Don't be too concentrated, or you'll be wiped out in one strike!」
[I don't have time to worry about the Vermilion Bird and Lancelot who are standing in the middle of the sand. However, their leader, ZERO, was also there. Should he ask Laksiata to stop the interference device and rescue ZERO with Knight? Fujido immediately rejected the idea. Once the device stopped working, the white Knight would be resurrected. At that time, ZERO would be kidnapped. If you want to save him?"
At that time, Fujido saw a scene on the main monitor. A girl walked out from the red knight beside her and ran towards the white knight standing in the middle of the sand.
[Vermilion Bird! Let go of ZERO! I'm Karin Sutherfield from the Student Union!!」
Kallen took off her mask and shouted.
[Look at me!]
But just as Fujino was about to stop him, the tactical dashboard beside him suddenly changed. It showed countless missiles, but suddenly, most of the missiles changed their original route and flew in other directions as if they had lost their way. Teng Tang immediately understood the reason. It was a submarine. The submarines of the Black Knights, which were secretly sailing in the nearby waters, detected the launch of the missile in advance and then shot out a signal wave that could disrupt the automatic navigation device of the missile.
"Alright! If that's the case!"
On the other end of the communication device, Fujino's subordinate shouted excitedly at Hina, but Fujino didn't agree. There was no way to explain it with theory. It was just pure intuition. The ominous premonition still hadn't disappeared from Teng Tang's mind. The moment it became stronger, Teng Tang sensed the enemy's intentions for no reason.
" All aircraft, alert the rear!"
[Huh???!!!]
[The frontal missile is a trap! It's going to be real soon!"
As if to prove Teng Tang's words, a huge black shadow suddenly appeared above everyone's heads.
Yufemiya drove the Knightmares along the coastline.
She was riding on an airship called the boatman. This was not a body suitable for land battles. Moreover, Ufemia's control skills were not that good. Logically speaking, her actions were very dangerous. However, the chaos between the enemy and herself gave her an opportunity. The enemy's Black Knights should not have the time to care about him now, and our troops, who know what happened, would not be able to snipe Ufemia's Knight. In fact, there were no difficult obstacles. Yufemiya was getting closer and closer to her knight, the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird.
She already knew…ZERO's true identity.
Lelouch…you can't die! You can't die!
Following the light on the tactical dashboard, Ufemia parked the boatman on a forest road near the coastline. Her body trembled uncontrollably. It turned out that the cockpit environment of the Knight was so harsh. However, to Ufemia, it was just a tool for her to travel. Who was the one who made the Vermilion Bird sit on this kind of knight and ordered him to fight the enemy and save his comrades? Wasn't it him? Should he let that Vermilion Bird die under the muzzle of his comrade's gun? No, this was definitely not allowed.
The shadows of the trees gradually thinned, and the field of vision gradually widened. Finally, they reached the finish line. In front of him was the sand that had been dug into the shape of a bowl.
(I see it!)
The enemy was also there. However, she had no intention of stopping the enemy. In short, she had to rush to the Vermilion Bird's side as the Princess of Britania. That way, the Britani army would not attack her casually, right?
However, just as she gripped the control stick and was about to increase the speed of the boatman, she noticed it.
The main monitor above him dimmed. It wasn't because there was a problem with the machinery, but because something was blocking the sunlight above them. Ufemiya turned on the sensor of Knightmares and looked up.
At first, she thought it was a city floating in the air.
Of course, that was just an illusion. What was floating was not a city, but a ship. It was not a ship that could sail on the sea, but a ship owned by the ruling army of District 11. It was a ship that could fly in the air, just like how G1 Camp could sail on the ground. The bottom of the ship was protected by thick armor and a special magnetic field. Everyone who saw it would be impressed by this sky fortress.
[That is…]
Ufemiya recognized it.
[My brother's Avalon!]
" W-What is that thing?!"
[Warship? It can fly!"
Teng Tang roared at the communication device.
"Don't become a target! Quickly hide behind the surrounding trees. We can't let the enemy aim at us! Attack from the shadows!"
This was obviously an order, but the question was whether anyone would accept it. The Black Knights were a well-trained anti-Britania organization, but they were not a regular army after all. No, even if it was a regular army, it would be difficult to guarantee that they would completely listen to the commander's orders in a critical situation. Furthermore, the sudden appearance of an aerial warship was completely against the common sense of the past wars.
All the side machine guns of the aerial warship were aimed at the ground. Then, bullets rained down. The two rascals who didn't listen to Teng Tang's orders were completely destroyed in the blink of an eye. The bullets were also aimed at the force field generator buried in the sand. The generator exploded and the force field disappeared.
" Float System..." The golden-haired Laksiata put down the pipe in his hand in surprise and looked at the huge creature in the sky. [I've been schemed against…]
[Tsk!]
Fujido was about to use his moonlight to release a hook at the enemy machine gun, but at this moment, the situation changed. The front hatch of the warship slowly opened.
[W-what?]
In the dark cabin, two huge eyes shone with a chilling light.
[Soldiers must obey orders!]
Rosefinch roared in Lancelot's cockpit, but ZERO roared back.
[Ha! That would be so easy! Obey others!"
[Where is your own will?!] Don't you have your own will?!"
"No! This is my decision, my own rules!」
Before he could finish speaking, they also sensed the changes in the outside world. It was dark outside, and gunshots could be heard.
The Vermilion Bird suddenly exclaimed and looked behind him. ZERO shouted again.
"You traitor! A bastard who killed his own father!" Lelouch cursed with a murderous aura.
[Better than breaking the rules!!] The Vermilion Bird's head rumbled!
[Why don't you understand anything!]
ZERO pressed her hand on the side of the mask and opened the visor in front of one of her eyes.
What?
In an instant, the Vermilion Bird was attracted by his eyes. There was a wonderful red mark floating on it, like a bird flapping its wings and flying into the sky.
Then, ZERO said angrily, her voice filled with killing intent.
[Go!!!] Before he could finish the word 'death', a violent tremor instantly devoured everything here! He had fainted…His vision was covered by darkness…His consciousness was lost at this moment.
A man standing on the warship in the air put down his hand holding the baton, and his face was filled with grief.
Then, a huge cannon shot out from the inside of the opened hatch of the warship and engulfed the entire ground. Fierce artillery fire devoured everything greedily, and rows of forests were completely destroyed! From the dark red electronic energy, one could vaguely see a tall figure with a pitch-black body and red eyes. The artillery fire was fired from its shoulder.
[Lulu Xiu!!!] Ufemiya screamed out the man's voice in a heart-wrenching manner. Could it be that…
However, far away in the Tokyo concession, in the Empire Office Building, Cornelia sat on a desk made of sandalwood and looked at the documents in her hand. The pen in her hand slid across the documents from time to time.
Knock, knock, knock…Someone knocked on the door.
[Come in.] She did not even look up, her eyes still fixed on the document.
[Your Highness.] The bespectacled Guilford placed his right hand on his left chest and said respectfully.
" What is it, Guilford?" She looked up at him.
"The latest news from Shikone Island is that the Pinnacle Rosefinch was holding ZERO back, causing ZERO to be killed by gunfire.」Guilford reported.
「……」
The entire world fell silent. The hand holding the gold-rimmed pen trembled violently and fell on the desk with a sound. His face turned extremely pale, and he was in a daze.
" Your Highness, what's wrong?" Guilford asked with concern when he saw that Cornelia's expression was not good.
[Check the authenticity of the information immediately! Immediately! Prepare the troops immediately and head to Shigen Island!」Cornelia immediately pulled herself together and said sternly to Guilford.
[Yes!] Your Highness!"
After Guilford left, Cornelia's spiritual world could no longer hold on and she collapsed on the office chair. He took a deep breath, feeling as if his heart had been stabbed hundreds of times.
After so many years of reunion, he didn't even say his feelings and left him again?!
Once again, Cornelia's inner world collapsed.
She clenched her fists tightly and swore.
I swear, if Lelouch really dies, Pinnacle Vermillion Bird, I'll make sure you bastard from District 11 die with Lelouch! No, I want all of District 11 to die with him! If Ufemiya helps you, then I will destroy you all together!!!
At this moment, Cornelia's face had become ferocious. Her eyes were bloodshot and she was angry. Her heart had been blinded by hatred. Once the person he loved madly passed away, all he would get in return was the collapse of his heart and endless hatred.
This book comes from：m.funovel.com。