The starry sky covered the night sky, and the bright moon emitted cold moonlight. Only then would the night not exist in darkness forever. At least, it would give the night creatures a glimmer of light.
Under the starry sky, the flames of the bonfire illuminated the surroundings.
On the bonfire, there were a few skewers of cut tree branches. At the front of the branches were fish that were being roasted. This was what the Vermilion Bird had caught from the river and the sea during the day. Not only was it a simple barbecue, but he also took out his internal organs and soaked them in seawater to add a unique flavor. By the way, it was Kallen's knife that handled the food. Although this man's skill of catching fish with a simple branch without props and his handling of the matter could be considered a perfect example of survival skills in the wild, Karin always had too many complaints about a person who tied herself up and lay there comfortably.
[Is there anything like soy sauce?」
Kallen, who had agreed with him to let go of her at least during mealtime, said while holding the grilled fish in one hand. The Vermilion Bird was stunned.
"Although I don't think you mean it, it's a very authentic Japanese way of eating.」
"Humph, what a coincidence. Although I'm also half Britanians, I grew up with a Japanese education. Of course, it had to be soy sauce with grilled fish and seafood.」
"But the school usually uses olive oil.」
[Come on, it should have stopped long ago.]
"But it's impossible to beg for seasoning now.」
Kallen started to eat the grilled fish in a completely different manner from the pitiful young lady in school.
A hint of amazement at the fish's deliciousness flashed in her eyes, but when she saw the Vermilion Bird staring at her, she immediately frowned.
[There are too many bones. Since the internal organs had been cleaned, the bones should be removed as well.」
The Vermilion Bird sighed.
[You're not good at cooking at all, Karin. At least from what you said, I don't think you're good at cooking.」
"It's so noisy! That's right. How can you only have fish and shellfishes in your meal? How can you maintain a balanced diet with only animal protein?」
"If it wasn't for this occasion, I think I could satisfy you. However, I don't have the strength to pick wild vegetables or fruits now.」
Of course, he didn't know that at the same time, in another place on the same island, his princess had already completed her coming-of-age ceremony and was snuggling in the arms of her lover whom she had only reunited with for many years. This young man was Lelouch, her half-brother and the person who loved him to death. Enjoying the quiet night and listening to his powerful heartbeat, because the young man had eaten his marrow, and because the girl had developed a strong attraction for Lelouch, like poison. It wasn't until the third time that the young girl refused to come again because of the pain that she stopped the expedition.
[There's no time today. However, I want to go deeper into the island tomorrow and find something to eat.」
"Haha, that's if you really have the time. Maybe you'll become a captive tomorrow.」
[It's a pity that the captive now is you.]
[Ah ~ So annoying!] You must be as obedient as a cat in school. I didn't expect you to be such an annoying fellow.」
[You speak more like yourself.]
Although she was busy bickering, Kallen continued to eat the food in her hand. The Vermilion Bird was the same.
Not long after, the food was all in their stomachs. The two of them, who never lost their appetite under any circumstances, also proved their tenacious vitality. However, it could also be said that this was only because he was young.
After tying the belt on Kallen's hands, Vermilion Bird returned to the other side of the fire and sat down. Kallen let out a long sigh.
[I'm full, I'm full, but I seem to have eaten too much.]」
The Vermilion Bird also found it strange.
" Your attitude is completely different from when you were in school. Is it because the occasion is different?"
[Yeah, are you unhappy?]
Kallen glared at the Vermilion Bird. The young man shook his head.
[No. I feel that you're more charming now.」
Instantly, Kallen's mouth opened into an O shape. However, the young girl immediately shifted her gaze and muttered unhappily.
"Withdrawn. In short, just like what the president said, you're not that annoying. Perhaps this is your nature. However, if it was intentional, the nature would be different.」
[What do you mean?]
[Nothing. It would be best if you didn't understand for the rest of your life.」
After saying that, Kallen fell silent and looked into the distance. When he noticed the Vermilion Bird looking at him in surprise, he immediately adjusted his expression.
In the darkness, only the bonfire was beating slightly.
After thinking for a while, the Vermilion Bird looked at Kallen seriously again.
[Kallen.]
[What? If you want me to repay you for your dinner…"
[Leave the Black Knights. There's still time."
Kallen's expression instantly changed. In the flames, her eyes were instantly dyed with the glow of a carnivore. Kallen stared at the Vermilion Bird with intense killing intent.
[Ha, it really makes me feel warm.] Are these your true feelings? You want to save your classmates? What a coincidence, I'm ZERO's personal guard captain. I've also piloted the Knightmares to battle with you. Whether it was in Narita or in the Chang's residence.」
「!？Don't tell me you're the red one?"
"That's right. Look carefully. Although I have failed before, I will chop off your head one day.」
The Vermilion Bird closed its eyes. He shook his head gently and said quietly,"
"Your actions have no future.」
"Is that so? What about your future? He was just a dog living under someone else's control! Honorary Britanians? The knight of the third princess? Ha, what a joke. Who exactly did you inherit these titles from?!」
Former Prime Minister of Japan, Xuanwu Shuki. In the seven years after the war, he was evaluated as the last warrior and traitor. But what Kallen was referring to was his previous name.
"I'm different from you! I am proud to be Japanese and not Britanians! And I'm fighting for the same goal as the person who's most important to me! In order to change this wrong world, in order to realize our dreams, in order to win, we will do anything!」
The Vermilion Bird knew that this was also a form of faith. He could imagine what she was fighting for. Her family was probably her reason. But at the same time, something cold was throbbing in his chest.
Fighting for the dreams of important people…
The Vermilion Bird opened its eyes again. He looked at his hands. This pair of hands that were illuminated by flames. It was the color of blood. No, there was no mistake. He had once killed his father's hand for the sake of an important person, for the dreams of the siblings, and for the sake of the family. Actually, he did not do this for the sake of the siblings. This sin should not be pushed onto them.
However, that was only his one-sided feelings for them. In order to save himself from this feeling, in order to get rid of that feeling, he dyed his hands red with his father's blood.
The Vermilion Bird slowly raised its head.
[Kallen, I killed my father.] Personally? Therefore, I have no right to inherit this name. Of course, I didn't give up just like that.」
The Vermilion Bird said calmly to the speechless Kallen.
"However, I am also well aware of the consequences of doing the wrong thing.」
The emptiness and regret of having nowhere to go. He screamed in despair in his heart. He had no other choice but to face his father, who was covered in blood. He obeyed his feelings, and in order to save himself from this feeling, he pulled out his knife. This was the result. A knife would only respond to the correct way of using it by the correct user. If it was used by someone who should not have it, it would instead tear the person's heart apart. As long as this person still felt guilty for taking the lives of others, then it would never tell you what was right, and how to prove it. You could only endure the pain of being devoured by it.
However, even so, he had no choice but to brandish a sword that had been drawn out of its sheath by mistake…
"I don't want to completely deny your opinions. I don't have the right. I know very well that many people are still suffering because of what the Britania government is doing.」
And this, the person who had previously become his ruler was probably very clear about it.
"However, it is precisely because of this that I cannot agree with what you, ZERO, are doing. His actions would only lead to sacrifice. This is no different from my father. I'm probably no different from before. In order to achieve his goal, he had forgotten what he had lost in the process.」
The moment she heard ZERO's name, Kallen, who was in a daze, finally came back to her senses.
"So you want us to stop here? Do we have to bow down to Britania because we hate sacrifice and fear death? Compared to life, there were more important things!」
[Maybe there is. But that's exactly why I'm saying this. Your actions will not only cause you to lose your lives, but also other things. I don't think this is the right thing to do.」
Kallen couldn't agree. However, she could not refute him directly. So she lay down with her hands tied. However, the Vermilion Bird did not seem to notice.
"If that's the case, then tell me, what would happen if my brother was still alive?」
The Vermilion Bird was stunned. [Brother Naoto, he…]
" Dead, dead on the master of the toes you lick, Britania. No one could say for sure whether something was true or not. Did he lose something? At the same time, there would also be things left behind. I will never abandon them…"
The young girl's words were like a sharp sword that stabbed into the Vermilion Bird's chest.
This time, it was the Vermilion Bird's turn to be speechless.
The starry sky was not only shining above their heads.
In the cave that was warm under the light of the fire, Lelouch listened to the calm sound of the tide while looking up at the starry sky. Beside him, Ufemiya, who had fallen asleep using her cloak as a blanket, was breathing softly. Because the cave was very warm, and the two of them had just done that, they were both naked and only covered with cloaks.
[The stars will never change.]
Before she closed her eyes, she said this.
[Will he never come back? That period of time."
Even though he asked himself this question, Lelouch knew very well.
[Come back…]
Perhaps, in her heart, she and Na Nali were still in Britania. This was also the memory that she shared with Lelouch. Although there were indeed too many annoying things that he did not want to remember, it was not that he did not have good memories. At that time, Na Nali was healthy, and there were people like Eufemia by her side. There was also an irreplaceable light for her. The existence of his mother…the mother he loved so deeply had actually been killed so cruelly. She was so beautiful, but she died like this. I can't forgive you…I'll definitely kill you!
However, Lelouch was different from Eufemia. He had known about it long ago.
'Behind the light is darkness.'
He could not cry or shout. If crying and shouting could drive away the darkness and bring back the light, Lelouch would do it without hesitation. No matter how ugly it was, he would not hesitate. But…
Forgive me…Yuffie.
Yuffie stared at her beautiful sleeping face. Even though she was asleep, she still hugged him tightly, afraid that he would suddenly leave. Lelouch muttered.
In order to live, in order to do what was most important to me, I paid the price of a happy life. For the sake of revenge, I will not give up even if I have to become enemies with everyone in the world…As long as I kill that dog Emperor, everything will be fine.
The rest of his words disappeared into the silent night sky.
Lelouch kissed Yuffie's forehead affectionately and adjusted her posture so that she would be more comfortable hugging him. Yuffie, who was sleeping, seemed to feel Lelouch's embrace. She hugged him back and buried her head in his arms.
Slowly, Lelouch also fell asleep.
***************************************************
The next morning.
[You really saw it? That light?"
Kallen asked as she followed the Vermilion Bird in the grass. The belt that bound her hands loosened a little and she could now move slightly.
[Yeah.]
The Vermilion Bird did not turn around and only nodded.
On the other side, Lelouch and Ufemiya were also walking toward them from the forest in another direction.
"Maybe it's the search team. We'll confirm it first before making any plans.」
[I plan to…]
[Because our two sides are irreconcilable, right?」
[Yeah.]
As if understanding the meaning behind Lelouch's words, Ufemia lowered her head slightly.
In the dark sea, the submarine slowly moved forward.
"The enemy's warship has already passed through.」Everyone heaved a sigh of relief after the intelligence officer reported.
[What the hell! A warship that could stay in the air…What a joke!」Yucheng complained.
" I think it's very dangerous to stay in this sea area. Retreat." Shan wanted to eat a spoonful of curry rice and said.
" Well..." some people said.
[No, we should stay here and look for ZERO!」Diethardt objected.
[This uncle is right, we must find ZERO!」Long Er, who was wearing a black military uniform, had not eaten or drank anything since Lelouch disappeared.
" Indeed..." Shan Yao said in support.
"However, we can't even send out a search team now. It wasn't easy for him to rely on Laksiata to hide here. We can't guarantee that ZERO and Kallen are still alive... One wrong step and the organization's survival will be at stake.」Teng Tang looked at the water in the cup and pondered.
"What are you talking about? It was the exact opposite! ZERO is the reason we exist. With ZERO, the organization is established!」Diethardt said fiercely.
"Only members can form an organization. Your way of thinking is full of Britanian-style!」Teng Tang retorted.
[If it weren't for ZERO, you guys would have died long ago! Wasn't it because the Japanese Liberation Front only had members and not people like ZERO that it was destroyed by Britania?!」When Long Er heard that they seemed to be giving up on looking for Lelouch, although her personality was a little naive and cute, once her bottom line was crossed, no one could change her reality! Moreover, because Fujido and the others were Japanese, Long Er hated them. Presumably, every citizen of the Chinese Federation would never forget the heinous crimes committed by the 11th district against the Chinese Federation! No matter how much time had passed, hatred and humiliation would never be forgotten.
This was the pride that flowed in the blood of the descendants of the dragon in China for 5,000 years. He dared to love and hate! In the face of hatred, no matter how powerful the enemy was, he could still defeat them! It was precisely because of this unyielding and unbreakable bone! The reason why the people of the Chinese Federation could still kill the Japanese with millet and rifles! Whoever dares to invade will be repaid with blood!
[You woman of the Chinese Federation! What right do you have to speak here!」Yu Cheng shouted.
[What qualifications do I have?] Long Er snorted coldly."Let me tell you! Without the aid of the Chinese Federation, how far do you think you can go with your strength?! If it weren't for ZERO, you guys would still be hooligans in the slums! Japanese perverted uncle!」Long Er stood up angrily, her eyes filled with killing intent.
[I support Miss Long Er's words! Then let me ask you, General Fujido, why is it that people with their own views can still work together here? Wasn't it because of the results?! Then who was the one who gave this result?!」
"I agree with this result, but can it be compared to the lives of all the members?」One of the higher-ups slammed the table and looked at Diethardt with hostility.
"Sometimes the life of an individual is more important than the lives of many people. If you were a former soldier, this should be common sense!」
[Are you saying this at a time like this?]
" That…that…" Seeing that the argument was getting more and more intense, Fan wanted to quickly persuade everyone.
[I really have no choice. I'll tell you.]」Seeing them arguing endlessly, C.C., who was sitting next to Snowy, was annoyed. [That guy is still alive.]
[We don't have the time to listen to your wishes...]
" It's true information. I know…"
[You are a prophet! Didn't I tell you to practice your knightmares, you idiot!」
[Even if there were a hundred of you, you wouldn't be a match for C.C.'s sister, you big idiot!]」After saying that, Long Er stuck out her tongue and made a face at Yucheng. Snowy helplessly pulled Long Er's arm, signaling her to stop arguing.
[Idiot? It's been a long time since someone dared to talk to me like this…" C.C. looked at Yucheng with a smile as if he had heard something very funny.
[What are you being so cocky for! Even if the three of you are ZERO's lovers…"
C.C.'s eyes suddenly burst with infinite killing intent, scaring Yucheng into swallowing the rest of his words." I told you I'm not, right? Men who only have cheap delusions..."
When Snowy heard Yucheng's words, she had already pulled out a dagger from her white leather boots and stabbed it into the table. The look in his eyes almost froze everyone in the restaurant. Snowy's personality was cold, and she didn't like to explain too much.
On the other hand, Long 'er's pink oval face was flushed red and looked very cute. Her black eyes were shining like black gems. Some of the male members almost drooled when they saw this. All of them looked like pigs. Everyone was envious of ZERO's luck in love.
"What I want to say is that you actually talked to the officers like this!」
"Shut up! Jade City! One-third of the Black Knights were formed because C.C. helped ZERO!」Long Er slammed the table and looked at him angrily.
[Just her?!] He was only good-looking. What else could he be powerful about?」
[Are you that amazing?!] Wretched uncle!" Long Er scolded loudly.
[Huh?!] I'm only 26 years old and you dare to call me an uncle! "You stinky girl…" Yucheng's veins popped as he scolded Long Er.
"Anyway! If you don't save ZERO! In the future, the Chinese Federation will unconditionally cut off all material assistance to the Black Knights! You can do whatever you want!" At this moment, Long Er was already close to going berserk.
Upon hearing Long Er's words, all the members almost fainted. Shan wanted to stop Yucheng."Yucheng! The topic has gone too far..."he said loudly. "Why don't we do this first? We'll try our best to hold on until tomorrow in the waters outside the encirclement of Britania, where we can barely guarantee safety. How about that?」Shan Yao said gently to Long Er. How could he dare to offend such a big shot? Britania didn't even get any advantage from the Chinese Federation.
[Since a time limit has been set...]
[Alright.] Teng Tang agreed.
[There's no other way...]
[Is there really no problem with this position? This is the opposite direction from Shigen Island…"
After being questioned by the deputy commander of the Black Knights, C.C., who was wearing a black uniform, shrugged.
"I'm just saying that it's possible. As for whether you want to take my advice or not, that's up to you. Because if that man isn't here, you'll be the one in command here.」
[Hey, this…]
"But at least it's much better than staying motionless at the bottom of the sea. I can only say this. If that man and Kallen did something while escaping, and you guys weren't nearby, then it would be meaningless.」
**************************************
[Aha, I see ~]
Major Lloyd Asplind, who was assigned to the technical department, looked at the thing in front of him and suddenly laughed wildly.
He was staring at the exposed ground beneath his glasses. However, this piece of land was not simply fractured. It was almost cut apart by something. This was not a natural fault. Its central part and two sides formed a huge shape like a door. If one were to explore the depths of the ground where it was located, the power that could form such a fault was almost beyond the limits of common sense that technology could reach. Under the light that shone on it in the middle of the night, countless wonderful markings flashed on this door-like place.
"This is indeed a supernatural phenomenon that has never been seen before.」
Although his voice sounded no different from usual, Lloyd used a rare honorifics. After hearing his words, the tall man beside him could not help but smile.
[Yuffie and Pivot Wood should be nearby. At the very least, it should be on this island with ruins. He could get his subordinates to start searching.」
[Yes, yes, that means…]
A golden light flashed from Lloyd's glasses as he glanced at the man who seemed to be very happy.
"In other words, His Highness must have held a certain level of expectation, which was why he ordered the cannon to be fired at that time? Aiya, wasn't this just a coincidence? So the Knightmares that disappeared from the scene just landed on the edge of Shikane Island?」
[You are too rude!]
The one who reprimanded him was the soldier opposite the man. He was much shorter than the average man. He was a middle-aged man with a beer belly and a round head. He looked more like a priest than a soldier. However, there was a shining general-level badge on his chest.
" What kind of mood did His Highness have when he issued such an order?"
[Lloyd!]
The man stopped the general from roaring. Then, as his smile faded, a haze began to appear on his sculpture-like face.
" I don't want to explain much about this. However, it was indeed a gamble. I'm also very sorry about Pivot Wood."
[Ahh, Your Highness…]
" But I don't think Shozo Shuki is the kind of person who would complain."
Unlike the middle-aged man who was moved, Lloyd still commented in a calm tone.
"The question is, what would the other person think?」
[Yeah, I don't want Yuffie to be frightened again. However, compared to this, her safety was more important. Therefore, the first thing to do was to ensure their safety.」
[I seem to have heard a lot of interesting things.」
As he spoke, Lloyd couldn't help but mutter in his heart. This guy still hadn't changed ~ Even though he was crying, he still had to endure the pain to complete his plan. They would also cry and regret for the people who were sacrificed.
Hugh Nigel E. Britania.
This was the man's name. The second prince and prime minister of the Holy Britania Empire. Although the power of the prime minister was not as great as before, he replaced the rumored mediocre first prince and became the most powerful right-hand man of Emperor Charles. Moreover, the call to become the next emperor was quite high.
After the Shigen Island incident, Lloyd boarded Shuniej's aircraft and came here with him. This island was once called God's Root Island in the military records. This was a name that Lloyd had never heard of before. This was only natural. This was because this small island that was originally an uninhabited island had no official name. The reason why it had a name now was because the ruins under this land were gradually discovered by the military in recent years. Looking at the vast underground cave, Lloyd couldn't help but shake his head and exclaim.
"In other words, in order to investigate this ruin, His Highness left the Tokyo headquarters and came to the nearest Shikane Island, right?」
[Exactly.]
" Yes." Shawnigel regained his usual expression and nodded.
"Father is also very concerned about this place and once told me that if there was a chance, I must develop it.」
[But I still don't understand. This is not my specialty. Ancient civilizations and supernatural phenomena, Cecil was probably more skilled in these.」
[Please don't say that. I'm not here to clarify everything today. I'm just here to investigate, and..."
Shawnigel glanced at the right side. The height of the wall was so high that it was hard to imagine that it was an underground cave. However, there was a huge shadow that almost reached the top of the cave. It looked like a human, but it was much bigger, almost twice the size of a normal Knight. The entire body was black, and there were huge dark red cannons on its shoulders. It had a domineering appearance and an aura like a king. No, it was even darker than a king.
[I'm also here to adjust the system of this thing.」
[Druid system? However, I think that the current theory is not perfect enough.」
"I don't think there's a need to stick to theoretical analysis. Isn't there a precedent for the successful use of an incomplete particle cannon? Although you have been involved in unexpected situations.」
[Aha, I seem to be a little deaf.]」
The cannonball attack that destroyed the Black Knights of Shigen Island.
It was fired from the shoulder of this Knight.
**************************************************
There was a small mountain in the middle of the island.
Lelouch, who was looking for a route to the hinterland, suddenly stopped in his tracks.
The light he saw at dawn was indeed nearby.
As he spoke, Lelouch began to carefully observe the situation around him. Ufemiya, who had been silent all this time, looked at his back. Because the flower bud had just bloomed last night, her walking posture was a little awkward, as if she was in pain. She said,
[Lulu.]
[Hmm?]
[If it's really a search party, then it's over, right? This period of time…"
Lelouch turned around and looked at Eufemia in disbelief.
Then, Lelouch lowered his shoulders.
[There's nothing we can do about it.]
[But…]
"The person who should be guarding the princess shouldn't be such a useless knight.」
Lelouch said in a self-deprecating manner. After Ufemiya made an expression that could not help but laugh, he also laughed.
" But I don't want to be separated from you. It wasn't easy to meet you..." Yuffie threw herself into Lelouch's arms and kissed him playfully.
[Pinnacle Vermilion Bird.] He's your real knight, right?"
Ufemiya was shocked.
[Lulu, you know about the Vermilion Bird?」
Compared to the surprised Ufemia, Lelouch was even more surprised.
[What are you talking about, Yuffie? You know where Na Nali and I stayed when we were sent to Japan, right?」
[Ah ~]
It was a completely different conversation. Ufemia had never thought about what Lelouch had said. Her knight, Vermillion Bird, had never mentioned it to her. But it was indeed as Lelouch said.
"Is that so? He should know about the Vermilion Bird as well. Maybe he knows about you guys now?」
Hearing this, Lelouch frowned slightly.
[Ah ah.]
[Is that so?]
Why didn't the Vermilion Bird tell me?）
While she was deep in thought, Lelouch seemed to be thinking about the same question. Then, he said to her in a low voice,
[Don't spend too much time with him in the future...]
Eufemia looked at Lelouch's face in surprise. The young man seemed to be a little shy and looked away.
(Ah? Lulu, are you jealous?) Yuffie thought happily. Perhaps every girl liked to see the boy she liked being jealous of her? This meant that the other party cared about him very much.
" Maybe this makes you feel a little unhappy. As your knight, this might not be the right choice, but there are indeed too many things between him and me…"
[That's not right…Doesn't this mean that you care about me, Lelouch?]」
Eufemia regained her calm expression and stared at Lelouch quietly. " Actually, I didn't feel unhappy. I didn't intend to blame him from the beginning. Lulu?"
[What, what's wrong?]
[Nothing. Perhaps I don't have the right to say such words, but you wanted to catch him on Shigen Island, didn't you?」
"That's right. To be more precise, he wanted to kill him.」
" Although I didn't hear much of your conversation through the communicator due to the noise, but..."
However, he still heard a portion of it.
"You want him to become your partner and give up being my knight, right?」
[That's right, but he no longer has the chance...]
[You want to kill him?]
At this moment, Lelouch's expression was even more surprised than the princess's. He understood what she meant. If he really wanted the Vermilion Bird to leave her side, shouldn't he want a rift between them? If Ufemiya didn't trust the Vermilion Bird, wouldn't he be happier?
Lelouch frowned in distress and sighed.
Hearing this, Ufemiya finally smiled sincerely.
[The Vermilion Bird is your friend, right, Lulu?]」
However, Lelouch did not give an unconditional answer to this question.
"Perhaps you can say that. That was only in the past.」
[Lulu, don't tell me…you must kill the Vermilion Bird?」
[Can't bear to?]
"No! No! The Vermilion Bird was your friend in the past, wasn't he? To kill a friend…"
[If you can stop him from hindering my actions, at least I won't kill him.] I even dared to kill Clovis and the other members of the royal family. How could I not kill him?」Lelouch stopped and looked at Yuffie.
"But you can't ignore the lives of innocent people!」Ufemiya seemed a little annoyed. [Lulu, you, do this. Wasn't it just for his own selfishness? For his revenge, he had let so many innocent people die!」
[Listen. I've said it before, I'm just an avenger. Are you trying to stop me?!」Lelouch's eyes instantly turned cold, but Yuffie did not show any fear as she stared at him.
"As long as you promise me not to do that!」
[Then just wait for the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird to die in front of you!]」For some reason, seeing Yuffie plead for the Vermilion Bird made Lelouch very uncomfortable.
[Can't you just give up for me?」Yuffie's eyes were filled with tears, making one feel pity for her.
[Do you think I'll give up just because you slept with me? If you think like this, you're too naive.」
Yuffie stopped in her tracks. Her head was lowered, and her expression could not be seen. She cried and slapped Lelouch, crying and saying,"In your heart, is this the reason why I'm with you?! Am I that kind of woman?!」
"I don't want to discuss these meaningless things with you.」Lelouch touched his face and walked forward. Yuffie could only follow behind him, crying silently.
Something seemed to flash in her mind. This was something that often appeared in her mind and guided her footsteps. At least, that was what she thought.
Were Lelouch and Vermilion Bird friends? They would become friends. Whether it was seven years ago or now when Britania and Japan were so tense. No one forced them. This was all of their own will.
Even the 11th District, where the Japanese fought in Britania, remained unchanged.
In order to let the young man in front of her return to the past…
They trudged through the grass.
However, he didn't find anyone.
"That's strange. I don't think I'm going in the wrong direction.」
[Is it the slope opposite?]
Lelouch shook his head when he heard what Eufemia said. He was not mistaken. The light should have come from nearby.
But there was nothing here. Suddenly, Lelouch heard a strange sound. It was the sound of footsteps. Someone was walking over and talking.
[Who is coming over?]
Lelouch immediately put on his mask and urged Eufemia to hide in the grass with him. He first had to confirm the identity of the person who had come. Was it the Britania Army, the Black Knights, or someone else who had nothing to do with him? No matter what the situation was, Lelouch had already thought of a countermeasure that would not harm Ufemia, who was beside him.
[But…]
Lelouch seemed to be at odds with this island. The people who appeared and the things that happened here were almost beyond his expectations.
There was a huge rock on the other side of the grass, as if it had been artificially placed in the mountain. Just as Lelouch was thinking about this in surprise, two figures appeared.
"You look very tired now, Kallen. It's okay to rest for a while.」
[Cut the crap!]
The curly-haired youth walking in front was the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird. The red-haired girl behind him was undoubtedly Karin Rutherfield. Under the mask, Lelouch was dumbfounded. Why were these two people here? Lelouch had no idea what was going on.
However, the people around Lelouch did not have any doubts.
[Vermilion Bird!]
She didn't care about any possible traps, and of course, there didn't seem to be any. Ufemiya shouted and rushed out.
[Lady Eufemia!]
The Vermilion Bird exclaimed. Lelouch also followed behind Ufemia without saying a word. He grabbed the princess's hand and pressed the gun he took out from his pocket against her neck.
"Don't move! If you dare to move, I'll blow her head off.」
[Eh?]
「ZERO？!」Kallen shouted happily. He almost called out Lelouch's name…
Lelouch said in a voice that only Ufemia could hear.
[Cooperate with me.]
Ufemiya seemed to want to say something, but she didn't. After confirming this, Lelouch shouted at the Vermilion Bird,"
"In exchange for the hostages, you have to release my subordinates beside you.」
「ZERO! It's you again!"
Just as the Vermilion Bird roared and was about to step forward, Lelouch shouted and stopped him.
[I told you!!!] Don't move!"
"Hehe, even you can't avoid the terrorists 'method of not sacrificing in exchange for victory? Have you given up on your own ideas?」
After hearing the other party's teasing words, Lelouch's voice became low.
[I don't have that kind of restraint anymore.」
The Vermilion Bird's serious face was filled with suspicion. However, at this moment, the person behind him had already untied himself and attacked the young man.
「! Kallen!"
「ZERO! Now!"
In fact, Lelouch did not expect such a sudden situation. Before the change, he had only planned to pretend to hold Ufemiya hostage so that the Vermilion Bird would let go of Kallen. Of course, the Vermilion Bird would not listen to Lelouch so easily. He knew this very well. However, in this situation, there was a way to make the Vermilion Bird act according to his wishes.
This was, of course, an order from Eufemia. After she gave the order, the Vermilion Bird could not resist. This was also his own rule. After the Vermilion Bird released Kallen, Lelouch would also release Eufemia. He didn't plan to do anything to her. If he wanted to use despicable methods to deceive his opponent, he was not sure what the Vermilion Bird would do. Therefore, he would definitely let go of her. During this time, he would make a suggestion, not to the Vermilion Bird, but to Ufemia. He would make a suggestion that they would never betray or attack on this island, which was a truce.
With her personality, she knew that he was Lelouch, so she naturally wouldn't reject his suggestion. And he didn't want any unnecessary disputes to happen here. No matter how unwilling the Vermilion Bird was, he would not act rashly because it was Felicia's order. He would also convince Kallen to leave the island without causing any trouble.
Given the situation at that time, this was undoubtedly the best solution. There was no need to cause unnecessary fights. However, just as he was about to carry out his plan step by step, Kallen made the first move.
Then, this became the fuse for the second incident.
[Stop!]
The moment she saw the Vermilion Bird being attacked, Ufemiya, who had been obediently under Lelouch's control, suddenly shouted nervously. Everything was fine until now, but Kallen said something else.
[Shut up, you puppet princess. You can't do anything by yourself!] There was more! ZERO, why do you look so intimate with this princess? Since you have a gun, stay away from her! Don't be fooled by her appearance!」Kallen saw that the princess did not seem to be afraid of Lelouch at all. Instead, she was sticking close to him! This made her very unhappy!
[What?!] Yuffie glared at Kallen angrily. Lulu and I are clearly a match made in heaven! This girl must like Lulu!
Crack! Lelouch had indeed heard the sound of something breaking in Eufemia's body.
[I'm fine, Vermillion Bird!] Don't worry about me, fight for me!"
[Your Highness!]
Under such circumstances, Lelouch was at his wit's end. [Huh?!] Yuffie, what are you shouting for!" Lelouch gritted his teeth and said in a low voice.
There was no way to stop it. On the other side, Kallen shouted back without showing any weakness.
[Haha. Stop bluffing. That gun is real. We don't have time to scare you. You should know where you stand first.」
And Ufemiya refused to admit defeat.
[What a great insult! As the princess of Britania, would she let her lovely knight fall into such a crisis? Don't compare me to a terrorist like you who doesn't care about the lives of others!」
"You Britanians are the ones who don't care about the lives of others! You still have the face to say that! You invader!"
"No matter what, I'm much better than you! You are the ones who should reflect on what you have done!」
"Shut up! Don't put on a noble face in this situation!」
[Who is the person who is putting on such a great face!」
Lelouch was thinking about the situation in front of him.
When he saw the Vermilion Bird and Kallen, he wondered why the two of them were together while he met Ufemiya. It would be much simpler if it was a combination of him, Kallen, and the Vermilion Bird. Although it was only by chance that he had more or less mocked himself, he might have been wrong.
What if the first person they met was not their companion, but him and the Vermilion Bird? It would definitely be a very tragic situation. No matter what, the two of them probably didn't get along. Although neither of them was a bad person, they were both extremely self-centered and didn't know what compromise was. So what should we do now?
However, there seemed to be no time for Lelouch to worry now.
[Seriously, they're so noisy that my ears are going deaf.]」
[Who's the one making a ruckus!]
While the two were arguing, the Vermilion Bird in Kallen's hand suddenly sank.
[Hey!]
After twisting Kallen's hand away, Vermilion Bird pounced towards ZERO and Ufemiya.
「ZERO！」
[Damn it!]
In an instant, countless thoughts flashed through Lelouch's mind. He subconsciously tightened his grip on the gun in his hand. However, he also understood that it was too late. No one understood the Vermilion Bird's physical abilities better than Lelouch. He had no intention of really hurting Eufemia, so the moment the Vermilion Bird rushed over without hesitation, Lelouch took action!
[This stubborn fellow!]
As he spoke, Lelouch let go of Eufemia's hand and rushed towards the Vermilion Bird! The Vermilion Bird's fist came flying over, but it was suppressed by Lelouch's palm and the force was completely neutralized! His left foot stepped out and his knee slammed into the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird's stomach. Taking advantage of the Vermilion Bird's pain, he quickly grabbed the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird's shoulder with both hands and kneed his head. Knock him to the ground! The Vermilion Bird rolled on the ground and stood up. Its hands formed a claw as it clawed at Lelouch's throat. Suddenly, a cold light flashed! Blood splattered everywhere! Lelouch drew his tactical dagger from his waist!
[Ah!!!!!!!!!!!]!!!!!!!」The Pinnacle Vermilion Bird suddenly screamed in pain. A third of his left hand's ring finger and pinky had been cut off by Lelouch! Blood gushed out from the neat cut on his palm!
[Ah!!!!!!!!!!!]!!!」Yuffie covered her mouth and screamed in fear.
Kallen looked at Lelouch in disbelief. She didn't expect him to really make up his mind to kill the Vermilion Bird!
Suddenly, the ground beneath their feet shook violently.
[Wow!]
Someone exclaimed first. But at this moment, Lelouch felt an unusual pressure from his left eye.
[What? Ah!!!!!!」Lelouch suddenly shouted in pain. The burning pain in his left eye was like being burned by a branding iron!
The image of a geass appeared in that eye, ignoring Lelouch's will. No, the pattern did not only appear in his eyes, but also under his feet. A blood-red and bewitching light appeared on the rocks on the ground, and a picture of a phoenix spreading its wings that could not appear in reality appeared.
「ZERO？!」Seeing Lelouch suddenly scream in pain, Kallen rushed to his side worriedly.
(Lelouch!!!!!) Yuffie ignored her status and rushed to Lelouch's side.
[What, what is this…]
The moment Lelouch opened his mouth, the rocks began to slowly sink in with the earthquake.
[Eh?!] What is this?"
Lloyd could not help but let out a rare cry of surprise. Although he didn't pay much attention to it at first, when he combined the black Knight's body named Gawain with the material in his hand and began to analyze the body, the changes began to appear on the monitor. The entire chart began to fluctuate violently.
[It shouldn't be my problem, right?]」
As if to prove his words, the entire underground cave shook. A huge rock suddenly appeared at the top of the cave at the exit and slowly fell towards the site where work was being done. Four figures appeared on it.
[Shosuke Shuki? And ZERO!"
In addition, there was the third princess, Ufemiya, and another person he had never seen before.
Even though it was sudden, when the soldiers noticed ZERO's mask, they all pulled out their guns. Only a soldier named Bartley shouted to stop him.
[Bastard! Her Highness Ufemiya is up there! Put away your guns! First, ensure His Highness 'safety!"
The soldiers listened to Bartley's instructions and temporarily put down their guns as they walked towards the rock. Of course, Lelouch and Kallen, who were in chaos, also quickly regained their senses.!
「ZERO！」
As Kallen shouted, Lelouch quickly observed his surroundings. What was that huge black thing kneeling on the ground? Knightmare？However, it seemed too big. Now was not the time to consider this. It seemed to be starting up now, and there was no one in the open cockpit!
[Kallen! Cover me!"
[I understand!]
The soldiers gradually approached the rock. In order to force them to retreat temporarily, Kallen took out something from her bosom and threw it down. In an instant, a blinding light burst out from the surroundings. It was a super-small flash bomb. It instantly disrupted the vision of the soldiers who were wearing the illumination glasses used for underground work.
[Woah!]
Kallen, on the other hand, slammed into the chest of the first soldier who climbed up, snatched the gun from his body, and kicked the person below. The moment she held the gun, she did not hesitate to shoot at the soldiers who were chasing after her.
[What are you doing! Quick, cover Lady Ufemiya!」
The Pinnacle Vermilion Bird ignored the pain from the intense blow and charged at Lelouch. Lelouch's two hidden blades instantly shot out. He attacked the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird fiercely! He jumped up and dodged a fierce sweeping kick from the Pinnacle Vermilion Bird. Taking advantage of the moment he landed, he stabbed his hidden blade into the soil. The Vermilion Bird was not hurt. He had dodged it! He took two steps forward and kicked his chest. He kicked him a few meters away.
When Bartley roared, Lelouch had already boarded the black Knight and entered the cockpit. However, they widened their eyes in surprise at the unexpected scene in front of them.
"What? This Knightmares is Gawain?!」
[That person…Senezer!!]!!」Lelouch looked at the noble young master outside the screen and looked at him with hatred.
It wasn't an ordinary Knight. Moreover, it was completely different from the main aircraft commonly used by the Britanians, Sutherland, and the old-fashioned Moscow. Frankly speaking, even Lelouch could not fully understand its functions under such circumstances. However, he was very clear about one thing.
This was the latest model. The Knight Mare was the most advanced product in Britania. It could be seen at a glance from its display. Lelouch controlled the controller in his hand and started to activate it. Although this was based on his past experience, most of the Knightmares were roughly the same. The navigation system was ready. Activate. Its operation method was also very different from the ordinary Knighthood. However, this was not bad. All the complicated procedures were automatically completed by the computer. If he relied on its instructions, not only would his reaction be slower, but he might also be unable to complete some complicated operations. But even under such unfavorable conditions, its weapons and functions were still…
Hahaha!" Lelouch couldn't help but smile. [I really picked up a treasure this time.] It seemed that living on an uninhabited island was not that unlucky after all.」
After pulling out the external cable, Lelouch closed the entrance and gripped the control stick according to the instructions on the monitor. He did not get up immediately. Instead, he had Knight reach out his right hand.
[Hold on tight, Kallen!]
[Yes!]
On the other hand.
Compared to the two who had fought a beautiful battle, the other two who had spent the night on the island looked completely different. No, it should be said that in such a situation, even if she wasn't a fighter, she could do nothing. The problem was another person.
[Vermilion Bird? What's wrong, Vermillion Bird? A military doctor! Call the military doctor over!"
The Vermilion Bird still hadn't come back to its senses even after Ufemiya's desperate cries. His shocked expression and unfocused eyes were all pointing at one point. He did not care about his left hand, which only had his thumb, index finger, and middle finger left. Blood dripped into the soil.
His gaze was fixed on the opposite side of the rock where he was.
He stared blankly at the huge door that seemed to have opened from the ground. It was as if there was something strange there.
[Why?]
Ufemiya clearly saw the Vermilion Bird ask silently.
Everything happened in the blink of an eye. Lelouch and Kallen, who were both holding onto the Knight, had already started to jump towards the cave entrance.
"ZERO, there's an enemy Sutherland ahead!」
Of course, in the cockpit, Lelouch had already confirmed the opponent's situation through the monitor. This was the main force of the Britanians, the Knighthood. There were three of them.
"Calm down, Kallen. Be careful when I launch.」
After reminding Kallen to pay attention through the loudspeaker, Lelouch held the switch of the control stick. subsequently
[Aiya!]
The black Knight's shoulders emitted a fiery red light. High heat rays. Although this could unleash great power against opponents with heavy armor, it would be meaningless if the accuracy was not enough. This attack only penetrated the underground rock wall.
[Tsk! Is the weapon not fully formed yet?"
The shattered ceiling of the cave began to fall rock fragments. Kallen, who was outside the Mech, could only curl up her body desperately. However, this attack had given the enemy a certain degree of deterrence. Sutherland's formation, which was blocking the exit, began to fall into chaos. Seizing this opportunity, the black Knight broke out of the encirclement.
In an instant, the speed of this Knight was so fast that it was almost invisible. With a punch, it shattered the head of a Sutherland, and the rope pierced through the energy furnace of another one. A strong explosion occurred, affecting the three Knighthood beside it. Taking advantage of the opening, Lelouch drove Gawain and rushed out.
[Don't worry! Just a little more!"
Outside the underground cave, Sutherland was already waiting under the sunlight. But at this moment, Lelouch pulled the control stick up, and the black Knight that was originally sprinting on the ground suddenly stood up. After passing through the enemy's shooting range, it flew into the air without slowing down, as if it had completely escaped gravity.
[It flew! Knight actually…"
[Heheheahahahaha! I didn't expect to get Gawain under such circumstances. Hahahahaha!!!!」
Amid Kallen's astonishment and Lelouch's unbridled laughter, the black Knight disappeared into the air.
******************************************************
[Ah, Gawain! Our Gawain!"
Bartley, who was rolling and crawling out of the cave, let out a desperate cry. However, there was another person behind him who was as steady as Mount Tai.
[This is the so-called 'good things take more time', Bartley. This is not your responsibility."
" But, but, Your Highness…"
"Under those circumstances, no one could say anything. Is he ZERO? She didn't expect to meet him here.」
Following Bartley out of the cave was, of course, the Imperial Prime Minister, Nigel E. Britania. He looked up at the sky where ZERO had left and squinted his eyes as if he was thinking about something. However, it only took a short time for Shawnigel to collect his thoughts and turn around with a smile.
[But it's already very fortunate that those two are safe. This was a great thing. Compared to this, losing a Knightmares was nothing.」
Shugel looked at the figures of Ufemiya and the Vermilion Bird gently. Ufemiya also left the Vermilion Bird's side and walked toward her half-brother.
" Brother Shunigel."
[Yuffie, I'm sorry I'm late.」
Facing the gentle smile of Nigel, Ufemiya also smiled back.
"I'm very sorry for making you worry.」
[No, this incident is my responsibility. I don't think I can make up for it no matter what I do.」
[Where, brother…]
But just as she was about to say something, an officer suddenly came to stand behind Shawnigel.
"Your Highness Shunigel, please follow the plan.」
For some reason, a slightly troubled expression appeared on Nigel's face. Ufemiya was also surprised.
During this time, the officer had already passed by Eufemia and Shonigel and arrived in front of a certain someone.
Pinnacle Vermilion Bird. He only had three fingers left on his left hand…His face was pale due to excessive blood loss.
"The Vermilion Bird of the Tree of Pivot." Please come with me. Now we suspect you of violating the second military rule.」
「！」
[Eh?!]
Ufemiya turned around in shock, and her expression instantly changed.
[Wait a minute! He is my knight! You have no right…"
But Shawnigel grabbed her wrist and whispered in her ear,"
" Even if you stop it now, it will be the same in the future, so why don't you just..."
[Then, then, what exactly is going on!」
Ufemiya, who didn't know what to do, cast a pleading gaze at Lloyd beside her.
The technical assistant in white only shook his head slightly.
(Lelouch…Why did you become like this…)
Yuffie's heart was bleeding. Had he really changed?
(Ah…worship me.) 1W5. Today is the end. Book friend group: **)
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