Lelouch's Point of View
Time: 5pm (1700 hours)
Location: Aircraft Hanger, Twentynine Palms Marine Corps Base in San Diego, California
The atmosphere in the hangar was thick with anticipation. All 63 recruits had gathered to review the results of the test. Cornelia li Britannia stood at the front, overseeing the proceedings as the Chief General of the Imperial Army. I stood among my group, feeling a mixture of pride and resolve. We had turned the tide of an 8v1 test into a 7v2 victory, thanks to the crucial support from Miyako's group.
Cornelia's voice cut through the murmur of the crowd. "This test was designed to push you to your limits. To see how you handle overwhelming odds and coordinate under pressure. Lelouch and his group have demonstrated exceptional skill and leadership."
I could see the pride in the eyes of my teammates. The hard work and dedication had paid off.
A few minutes into Cornelia's speech, the hangar doors burst open. Charles zi Britannia, the emperor himself, strode in, dragging a beaten and bloody commander of base security by the back of his uniform. Rage was etched across Charles's face. The room fell silent, all eyes turning to the scene unfolding before us.
"This man," Charles began, his voice dripping with fury, "is the reason we almost lost Recruit Lamperouge and his team. He allowed the united group to use helicopters and Recruit Lamperouge's G-1 Base as a target for a Tomahawk cruise missile when they were testing the systems on the BRN Kentucky."
He threw the man to the floor in front of the recruits, the impact echoing through the hangar. Charles pulled out a Heckler & Koch USP9 Semi-automatic pistol, showing it to us. "Betrayal is immediate grounds for execution."
Charles scanned the faces of the recruits, waiting to see if anyone would step forward to help the bloodied man. No one moved. Satisfied, he called out to me. "Recruit Lamperouge, come forward."
I walked up to him, my heart pounding but my resolve steady. Charles handed me the USP. "Shoot him."
Without hesitation, I aimed and pulled the trigger. The shot rang out, and the man's body slumped to the floor. Part of my family had been in danger because of his actions. I handed the USP9 back to Charles, who nodded approvingly.
"Recruit Lamperouge, You are dismissed," he said.
I turned and walked out of the hangar, making my way back to my G-1 Base. The weight of what had just happened pressed heavily on my shoulders. I needed to see Nunnally, to let her know what had transpired.
When I reached the G-1 Base, I saw Anya with Marianne, my mother, in control. She was setting Nunnally on the couch that had been placed on the G-1 Bridge for her.
"Nunnally," I called softly as I approached. She looked up at me, her eyes filled with concern.
"Lelouch, what happened?" she asked.
I knelt beside her, taking her hand in mine. "There was a betrayal, Nunnally. A man almost cost us everything. But it's over now. You're safe."
Marianne, still in control of Anya, watched us with a somber expression. "Your father dealt with the traitor, but we need to be vigilant, my son as there are always those who will seek to undermine us."
I nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I know, Mother. We'll be ready."
I hugged Nunnally tightly, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. Despite the chaos and danger, we were together. And with the support of my loyal team and family, I knew we could face whatever challenges lay ahead.
3 Days Later
Time left in training: 5 Months, 3 weeks and 4 days
Three days had passed since the intense confrontation in the hangar. It was now 0800 hours, and the first day of our month-long helicopter training was about to begin. The training would cover everything from the basics of helicopter operations to piloting some of the most advanced helicopters in the world, such as the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian. I knew this would be a crucial part of our military education, and I was eager to get started.
As we entered the classroom, I could feel the anticipation in the air. My group and the other recruits took their seats, waiting for the instructor. Sergeant Carson, a seasoned veteran with years of experience in helicopter operations, stood at the front of the room. His presence commanded respect, and I could tell that this was going to be an intense session.
"Today," Sergeant Carson began, "we'll start with the Bell UH-1 Huey, one of the most iconic helicopters in military history. Can anyone tell me about its history and its significance in combat operations?"
I raised my hand, feeling a familiar sense of confidence. When Sergeant Carson nodded at me, I began to speak.
"The Bell UH-1 Huey was introduced in the late 1950s and became the workhorse of the U.S. military during the Vietnam War. Its versatility made it indispensable for a variety of missions, including troop transport, medevac, and close air support. The Huey's legacy continued with variants like the UH-1N Twin Huey and its connection to the AH-1 Cobra series, such as the AH-1W SuperCobra and the AH-1Z Viper."
Sergeant Carson seemed impressed, but I wasn't finished. "During the invasion of Japan, now known as Area 11, the Bell UH-1H Iroquois Gunship was instrumental in taking out entrenched and fortified Japanese military forces. I remember witnessing close air support runs and seeing the UH-1N Twin Huey in action, providing cover and support for ground troops."
The room fell silent as I spoke, and I could see the other recruits staring at me, some with admiration, others with curiosity. Sergeant Carson's expression shifted slightly as he processed what I had said.
"How do you know about that part of the invasion, recruit?" he asked, his tone serious.
Before I could respond, the doors to the classroom opened, and in walked Charles zi Britannia, followed by Cornelia and several other high-ranking military officers. The atmosphere in the room became even more tense as they approached the front of the room.
Charles looked at me with a stern expression. "What I'm about to say will change the lives of Lelouch and those close to him," he began, addressing the entire room. "But it is necessary. From this point until you become soldiers, the invasion of Japan will be a topic that comes up frequently."
He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "Lelouch's real name is Lelouch vi Britannia. He is my son and a rightful heir to the throne. During the invasion of Japan, Lelouch and his sister, Nunnally, were placed in great danger. They were caught in the crossfire multiple times as they crossed Japan, with Lelouch carrying his sister on his back. They witnessed the horrors of war firsthand."
The room was completely silent, all eyes on Charles as he continued. "Lelouch and Nunnally were eventually taken in by the Ashford family when they showed up at their door during the invasion where they lived in hiding until recently. Now, Lelouch is here at Twentynine Palms Marine Corps Base for training. He has chosen to hide his identity until the killers of Marianne vi Britannia, his mother, were found."
I could feel the weight of my past pressing down on me as Charles spoke. The memories of those days in Japan flooded back—days of fear, of running, of fighting to protect Nunnally. But I also felt a sense of resolve. I had chosen this path, and I would see it through.
Charles finished his explanation and looked at me. "Lelouch, your history and experiences will shape your training here. But remember, you are not alone. Your comrades, your family, and your country are behind you."
I nodded, feeling a mix of emotions—relief, determination, and a renewed sense of purpose. As the room slowly came back to life with murmurs and whispers, I knew that this revelation would change how the others saw me. But it didn't matter. What mattered was the future, the battles ahead, and the mission I had set for myself.
Cornelia stepped forward, her gaze softening as she looked at me. "You've come a long way, Lelouch. Use what you've learned and what you've experienced to become the leader you're meant to be."
I met her eyes and nodded again. "I will."
Sergeant Carson cleared his throat, bringing us back to the present. "Well, it seems we have more than just a history lesson today. Let's continue with the training. Recruit Lelouch, your insights on the UH-1 Huey were impressive. Keep that up, and you'll do well in this course."
As the session continued, I focused on absorbing everything I could about helicopter operations. I knew that the path ahead would be difficult, but with each challenge, I grew more determined to succeed. My past was a part of me, but it wouldn't define my future. Instead, I would use it as a foundation to build the life I wanted, for myself, for Nunnally, and for the world I envisioned.
11am (1100 hours)
As I stood with my group, watching the other fifty-six recruits undergo their training on the Huey Gunships, an idea began to form in my mind. My eyes drifted to a BRMC UH-1H Huey parked nearby, where my instructor and several others were deep in conversation. The sight triggered memories of the invasion of Japan—of how different versions of the UH-1 Iroquois would fly together, each with its own role in the battlefield. A thought struck me: Nunnally could meet the other recruits through a training scenario that incorporated both the combat and support roles of these helicopters.
I exchanged a look with my group. They could see I had something in mind, and I could feel their curiosity as I made my way over to the instructors. As I approached, they paused their conversation and turned to face me. My instructor, the one who had guided me through my training earlier, seemed to sense my intent before I even spoke.
"Recruit Lelouch," she began, "do you have a question about the BRMC UH-1H Huey?"
I shook my head slightly, though my gaze remained fixed on the Huey. "Not quite. I have a request. I'd like to use that Huey to pick up my little sister from my G-1 Base. But more than that, I believe we could incorporate this into the training for the other recruits."
The instructors exchanged glances, clearly intrigued but uncertain. My instructor narrowed her eyes, studying me closely. "What exactly are you proposing?"
I took a breath, steadying my thoughts. "During the invasion of Japan, the Bell UH-1H Iroquois Gunships often escorted non-combat UH-1's like it transport version of itself. It was a critical part of operations, protecting high-value individuals, evacuating wounded soldiers, or safeguarding essential supplies. We could simulate a similar mission here."
I could see I had their attention now, so I pressed on. "The BRMC UH-1H Huey would act as a transport, with the callsign 'Safe Light.' My group and I would be onboard, with Naomi and me as pilots, Ayame and Ichijiku as door gunners, Mutsuki and Kagari as the ground security team when we land, and Kallen handling the extraction. The other recruits would be in the gunships, protecting us from simulated enemy forces as we fly to my G-1 Base to retrieve Nunnally."
One of the other instructors raised an eyebrow. "And who is this 'high-value individual' we're retrieving?"
I smiled slightly. "They won't know until they meet her face-to-face, but she is a member of the royal family… she is my sister, Princess Nunnally vi Britannia of the royal family."
My instructor's eyes widened in shock at the news of here being and more so the reason of the execution as she is in the G-1 Base, and I could see the realization dawning on the others. They had understood this would be more than just another training exercise…it would be a scenario with real stakes and a genuine lesson in the importance of protection and responsibility.
"I also suggest using simunition rounds for the exercise," I added. "Both our team and the 'enemy' forces can use them to create a realistic combat scenario without actual harm. It will give the recruits a true sense of the importance of their role in safeguarding non-combat helicopters and high-value individuals."
The instructors murmured among themselves, considering my proposal. Finally, my instructor nodded, a determined look in her eyes. "I think it's a sound plan…wow she is here as well… ok Recruit Lelouch, we'll proceed with the exercise."
Simulation Mission: Operation Safe Light
The mission began with a flurry of activity as we boarded the BRMC UH-1H Huey. Naomi and I took our positions in the cockpit, while Ayame and Ichijiku manned the door guns. Mutsuki and Kagari were on edge, ready to disembark and secure the landing zone, while Kallen prepared herself to retrieve Nunnally.
The other recruits were in their gunships, armed and ready to provide protection. The atmosphere was tense, filled with the hum of engines and the anticipation of what was to come.
"All units, this is Safe Light. We're en route to the G-1 Base," I called over the radio, my voice steady. "Stay alert and maintain formation."
As we lifted off, I could feel the weight of responsibility on my shoulders. This wasn't just a drill—it was a test of our abilities to work as a team, to protect what mattered most.
"Enemy contacts approaching from the north!" one of the recruits radioed in. "Engaging now!"
The sound of gunfire erupted as the gunships moved into position, laying down suppressive fire to keep the simulated enemies at bay. Naomi and I guided the Huey through the air, weaving through the skies as the other recruits provided cover.
"Ayame, Ichijiku, watch our flanks!" I ordered, focusing on the controls.
"Copy that, Lelouch!" Ayame responded, her voice filled with determination as she opened fire on the advancing enemy forces.
The Huey shuddered slightly as the Miniguns roared to life, the simunition rounds lighting up the sky. Ichijiku joined in, her gun sending a barrage of rounds towards the simulated targets below.
"Lelouch, we're nearing the G-1 Base," Naomi informed me. "Get ready for the extraction."
I could see the base coming into view, the familiar sight of our stronghold bringing a sense of relief. But we couldn't let our guard down yet. The other recruits continued to engage the enemy, keeping the skies clear as we descended.
"This is Safe Light to all units, cover us as we land be ready for any," I ordered. "Mutsuki, Kagari, be ready to secure the area."
As we touched down, the ramp lowered, and Mutsuki and Kagari rushed out, weapons at the ready. They quickly established a perimeter, their eyes scanning for any threats.
"Kallen, it's your turn," I said, turning to her.
She nodded, determination in her eyes, and sprinted towards the base. Within moments, she emerged with Nunnally in her arms, carefully carrying her to the Huey. The sight of Kallen gently placing Nunnally inside the helicopter was a reminder of why we were doing this…for the people we cared about, for those who couldn't protect themselves.
"Nunnally secured," Kallen announced as she climbed back aboard. "Let's get her out of here."
With everyone back in the helicopter, Naomi and I powered up the engines once more, lifting off into the air. The other recruits continued to engage the enemy as we made our way back to the training area, the gunships forming a protective barrier around us.
"Safe Light to all units, we are now clear of the G-1…we're heading back," I radioed. "Maintain formation and keep the skies clear."
As we flew, I glanced back at Nunnally. She was calm, trusting in the protection we were providing. It was a moment of clarity, a realization that this was more than just training…this was preparation for the responsibilities we would carry in the future.
The exercise ended as we safely landed back at the base, the simulated threats neutralized. As we disembarked, I saw the looks of respect and understanding on the faces of the other recruits. They might not have known who Nunnally was at first, but they had learned the importance of their role in protecting those who needed it most.
Cornelia and Charles were waiting for us as we exited the Huey. Charles stepped forward, his gaze sweeping over the recruits. "You have done well," he said, his voice carrying authority. "Today, you protected someone of great importance, someone who is a member of our family."
Cornelia took a step closer, her voice softer but no less commanding. "This is Princess Nunnally vi Britannia, who is my mine and Lelouch's little sister. You have proven today that you can be trusted with the safety of those who matter most. Carry this lesson with you as you continue your training."
I stood by Nunnally's side, feeling a sense of pride in what we had accomplished. This was only the beginning, but it was a strong start. We were ready for whatever came next.
12PM (1200 Hours)
It was noon, and the atmosphere in the G-1 Base was relaxed yet buzzing with conversation. We were all gathered in the dining area, my lovers, my family, and the base staff included. The table was laden with a feast that was both comforting and energizing: rice balls, baked potatoes with melted butter, French fries, fried eggs over-medium, sirloin steak, honey garlic glazed salmon, and chicken breast. Green tea and milk were served as our beverages, and the food had been expertly prepared by the G-1 Base's kitchen using ingredients typically used for the meals on base. Special protein-rich ingredients had been added to the dishes served to Kallen, the other recruits, and me to help increase muscle mass as we continued our training.
We sat together, eating and reflecting on the day's events. Kallen, Naomi, Ayame, Ichijiku, Mutsuki, Kagari, and I were joined by my family….Nunnally, Cornelia, and Charles…and Elaine's group, who had been instrumental in today's success. The base staff, including some of the instructors, were also present, sharing their thoughts on the simulation mission we had carried out earlier.
"That mission you came up with was brilliant, Lelouch," Cornelia said, cutting into her sirloin steak. "It really highlighted the importance of protecting non-combat personnel in a combat zone."
Kallen nodded in agreement, her eyes bright with excitement. "And it was incredible to see everyone working together. The other recruits really stepped up their game when they realized what was at stake."
"I was impressed with the coordination between the gunships," one of the instructors added. "Your group, along with Elaine's, executed the mission flawlessly. The protection detail was on point, and the simulated enemy forces were neutralized with precision."
As we continued to eat, Cecile approached the table, holding two sleek, white iPads. She handed one to me and the other to Nunnally. "Lelouch, Nunnally, these are for you," she said with a smile. "They contain detailed schematics and data for your personal Knightmare Frames."
I looked down at the iPad in my hands, curiosity piqued. Cecile continued, "Lelouch, your Knightmare Frame is the RPI-248 War Machine. It's armed to the teeth, designed for both offense and defense, and it will be ready by the time you and the others complete your training here at Twentynine Palms Marine Corps Base in five Months, three weeks and four days, the kicker is that you'll be piloting it during the military graduation ceremony were it will be making its dayve were highranking members of the military will be at."
My heart raced with anticipation as I unlocked the iPad, revealing the intricate blueprints and technical specifications of the War Machine. The sheer firepower and versatility of the Knightmare Frame were astonishing, and I could already imagine myself in the cockpit, commanding it in battle.
Nunnally, who had been quietly eating her food, looked up at Cecile. "And mine?" she asked softly.
Cecile smiled warmly at her. "Your Knightmare Frame is the RIP-249 Celestial Mary. She's a multi-role support and diplomacy model, designed specifically to fit your needs. It's still being worked on in Area 11, under Ashford Academy, where only a select few know about its existence. We're making sure it's perfect for you, Nunnally, so that you can use it on the day Lelouch meets C.C."
Nunnally's eyes widened in awe as she tapped the screen of her iPad, bringing up the data for the Celestial Mary. The Knightmare Frame was sleek and elegant, with a design that reflected both strength and grace. It was clear that this machine was built not just for combat, but for something far more significant…Nunnally's role in the future.
Charles, who had been quietly observing the conversation, leaned forward to examine the plans and data displayed on the iPads. Several high-ranking military officers gathered around him, discussing the capabilities and potential of these new Knightmare Frames.
"Impressive," Charles said, his voice carrying the weight of authority and family love as. "These machines will be vital assets to the empire, and to you both. Lelouch, Nunnally, you must understand the responsibility that comes with piloting these Knightmare Frames. They are not just weapons..they are extensions of your will and your power to protect thouses around you."
I met my father's gaze, feeling the full gravity of his words. "I understand, Father. I'll use the War Machine to protect what's important to me…and to create the future we've all been fighting for."
Nunnally nodded beside me, her expression determined. "And I'll use the Celestial Mary to help build a world where everyone can live in peace, a world where no one has to suffer the way we did."
Cornelia placed a hand on Nunnally's shoulder, a proud smile on her face. "You've both come so far. The empire will be stronger with you leading it into the future."
As we continued our meal, the conversation shifted to lighter topics, but the significance of what had been discussed lingered in the air. The training we had undergone, the missions we had completed, and the Knightmare Frames that awaited us were all steps on the path toward our destiny. We were no longer just recruits; we were becoming leaders, ready to shape the world in our image.
And as I looked around the table at the people I cared about…my family, my lovers, my comrades…I knew that together, we could achieve anything. The future was ours to seize, and we were more than ready for the challenges that lay ahead.
4 Days Later (Time left in training: 5 Months, 3 weeks and 0 days)
Four days had passed since the intense discussions surrounding our personal Knightmare Frames and the plans for the future. Now, we found ourselves back in the thick of training, but this time, it was with something even bigger—literally. We were training on the Boeing CH-47F Chinook, a heavy-lift and transport helicopter that was essential for moving troops, vehicles, and equipment. The size and power of the machine were almost overwhelming, but I knew that mastering it was just as important as the combat training we'd been through before.
I stood in front of the Chinook assigned to me, its massive dual rotors spinning above like the blades of a giant, mechanical beast. The air hummed with the sound of engines revving up as the other recruits, including Kallen, Naomi, Ayame, Ichijiku, Mutsuki, and Kagari, prepared their own helicopters for flight. Each of us was taking on the responsibility of piloting our own Chinook, and while I had faced many challenges before, the sheer scale of this machine made me feel… small. But I knew I couldn't let that stop me.
"This is different from anything we've flown before," Kallen said through the comms, her voice tinged with both excitement and a hint of nervousness. "But I think I'm ready."
"Yeah," Naomi chimed in, sounding equally eager. "Once we get the hang of it, we'll be lifting entire battalions."
I smiled to myself as I powered up the systems in my own Chinook. I could feel the familiar mix of anticipation and responsibility building inside me. We were handling a crucial part of the empire's logistics and warfare, and I couldn't afford to make mistakes.
"Alright," I muttered, focusing on the controls. "Let's get this bird in the air."
I went through the startup procedures carefully, listening to the low hum of the rotors growing louder as the Chinook came to life. It felt different than the smaller helicopters we'd trained on before…the power was immense, and the controls required far more precision. But I was ready. I had to be.
Once I had everything set, I lifted the Chinook off the ground. It felt almost sluggish at first, the weight of the helicopter noticeable in every movement, but once we were in the air, I felt that familiar rush of freedom.
"Looks like we've got lift-off," Ayame called out, her voice full of pride.
"Alright, everyone," the instructor said over the comms, guiding us through the next phase. "Now that you're airborne, we'll move on to maneuvers. Let's start with the pinnacle maneuver. Approach the landing zone from an incline and hover before descending. Precision is key here."
I took a deep breath, feeling the tension in my chest as I focused on the task. The pinnacle maneuver required us to approach a landing zone from a steep incline, hover in place, and then lower the Chinook gently. It sounded simple enough, but in a machine this big, it was far from easy.
I brought the Chinook forward, keeping an eye on my altitude as I neared the designated landing area. The ground below was uneven, rising toward us as I approached the zone. My hands were steady on the controls, but I could feel every slight shift of the helicopter as it responded to the air currents and the weight distribution.
"Steady," I whispered to myself, focusing entirely on the task at hand.
The Chinook hovered over the landing zone for a moment, and then I began to descend, feeling the weight of the machine pushing down against the ground. The landing was rougher than I would have liked, but we made it.
"Not bad, Lelouch," the instructor's voice came through the comms. "Could've been smoother, but you've got the basics down. Let's move on to troop and cargo loading."
I exhaled, relieved to have passed that first test. As we moved on to the next phase, I could feel the pressure building again. This time, we would be practicing loading troops and cargo—something critical in actual combat situations.
"Alright, recruits," the instructor said. "You'll each be loading 33 ground troops into your Chinooks—first as regular troops, then as parachutists. After that, we'll be moving onto cargo transport."
I landed the Chinook and prepared for the next phase, feeling a mix of nerves and determination. The back of the helicopter opened, and the first set of troops began to load in. Watching them enter the Chinook, I couldn't help but think back to the days in Japan, when I had been on the other side of this—watching troops load into helicopters to invade my homeland. Now, I was the one in control. The one protecting and transporting them.
Once the ground troops were loaded, I lifted the Chinook again and made a wide circle in the air before coming back to drop them off. The procedure was repeated for the parachutists, and watching them leap from the helicopter one by one filled me with a strange sense of pride. I was responsible for their safety, for getting them where they needed to go.
Next came the cargo phase. We were tasked with transporting two M1097A2 heavy variant cargo/ troop carriers…one to be sling-loaded from the rear, and the other to be loaded in the middle of the helicopter. I had never done anything like this before, and the weight of the vehicles made it even more challenging.
"Alright, Lelouch, you've got this," I muttered, guiding the Chinook into position for the sling load. I could feel the tension in the cables as the vehicle was lifted off the ground, the Chinook swaying slightly as it adjusted to the weight. "Nice and easy."
The process took longer than I had anticipated, but eventually, both vehicles were secured. I took off, carrying them to their designated drop-off points, and though it was nerve-wracking, I managed to land and unload them safely.
The final test was moving an M119A3 Lightweight Towed Howitzer and supplies like weapons and ammunition into and out of a simulated combat zone. By now, I was getting the hang of it—feeling more confident in the Chinook's capabilities and my own.
When the last of the cargo was unloaded, I brought the Chinook back to base and shut down the systems, stepping out of the helicopter with a sense of accomplishment. My hands were shaking from the intensity of it all, but I couldn't help but smile.
"Good work, everyone," the instructor said. "You've all handled the Chinook well. With more practice, you'll be ready for full-scale operations."
As I joined the others, I could see the pride in their faces. We had been pushed to our limits, but we had come out stronger. We were more than just recruits—we were becoming a unit, a team that could take on anything.
Kallen gave me a smirk as she walked over. "Not bad for a day's work, huh?"
I chuckled, still catching my breath. "Not bad at all."
Naomi, Ayame, Ichijiku, Mutsuki, and Kagari joined us, all looking just as exhausted but equally proud. This was more than just another day of training—it was another step toward the future we were building together. And as I looked at my team, I knew that whatever challenges came next, we would face them head-on.
Two Weeks Later
Time left in training: 5 Months, 1 weeks and 0 days
Two weeks had passed, and our training had only grown more intense. We had spent the previous week mastering the Boeing AH-64D Longbow attack helicopter, which served as our introduction to attack helicopters. Today, we were stepping into something even more advanced—the AH-1Z Viper, a symbol of the deadly precision required in close air support.
Standing in front of the sleek, lethal machines, I felt a deep sense of connection to the history behind these helicopters. I had already told the instructors and my fellow recruits about how the Viper was linked to the Huey. "The first generation of Britannian-made attack helicopters, the Bell AH-1 Cobra, was designed to provide close air support and escort troop transports like the UH-1H Huey during Vietnam," I had explained, feeling a bit of pride in my knowledge.
Now, I was about to pilot one of these war machines, not just to learn but to prove what we had been preparing for all this time. Each of us was assigned a single Viper, complete with an instructor. The Vipers were loaded with a serious arsenal: the 20mm M197 three-barreled rotary cannon, two AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles, 19 Hydra 70 unguided rockets, and eight AGM-114K Hellfire II missiles. We had tested the weaponry earlier, feeling the raw power of the Hellfire missiles as they obliterated the targets below, and the satisfying sound of the M197 cannon roaring to life.
Kallen's voice broke through my concentration as we prepped for the next part of the exercise. "Lelouch, this thing feels like it's made for destruction."
I couldn't help but agree. The sheer firepower at our disposal was enough to level a battlefield in minutes. But there was more to this than just raw power. Today was about something more practical—armed escort training.
After the weapons test, our instructors gathered us and explained the next phase. "You'll be escorting a convoy of five MaxxPro Dash MRAPs. Inside one of them is a VIP," the lead instructor said. "Your job is to ensure the convoy reaches its destination safely. This exercise has been specially requested by the Chief General of the Imperial Army."
I raised an eyebrow. Cornelia? I wondered why she had asked for my group specifically, but there was no time to dwell on it. The mission was clear.
"We'll be going from the base's runway to the G-1 Base, where the escort test will end," the instructor continued. "Now, rearm and refuel. You're going to need it."
I nodded, feeling a familiar surge of responsibility. Leading a group like this wasn't just about flying the Viper or destroying targets—it was about safeguarding those who depended on us. This mission had the potential to go wrong in countless ways, and I had to make sure my team was ready for anything.
Armed Escort Simulation: Lelouch's Point of View
As we lifted off in our Vipers, the weight of the mission settled on my shoulders. Naomi, Kallen, Ayame, Ichijiku, Mutsuki, and Kagari were all in their own Vipers, and we moved in formation above the convoy. The MaxxPro MRAPs rumbled below, sturdy and imposing, their heavy armor designed to protect the VIP inside. But it was our job to ensure that armor wouldn't be tested today.
"Alright, everyone, stay sharp," I said over the comms, my voice firm but calm. "We're covering this convoy all the way to the G-1 Base. Keep an eye on the flanks, and make sure nothing gets close."
"Copy that, Lelouch," Ayame responded, her tone full of focus. "We're ready for anything."
The convoy moved slowly, making its way from the runway toward the base. My eyes constantly scanned the terrain below, watching for any simulated threats. The training was realistic enough to get my heart racing. I could see how easy it would be to become complacent, but I had learned long ago that complacency led to failure.
Kallen's voice crackled through the comms. "We've got movement on the left. Engaging."
I quickly maneuvered my Viper, scanning the area. Sure enough, there was simulated enemy fire directed at the convoy. Kallen fired her Hydra 70 rockets, expertly taking out the threat. The convoy continued, undeterred.
"Well handled," I said, feeling a swell of pride in my team's abilities. "Everyone, let's keep this tight. Don't let them get close."
As we approached the G-1 Base, the tension began to ease. We had maintained formation, dealt with the threats, and the convoy was nearly at its destination.
"Almost there," Naomi reported. "No more signs of enemy activity."
"Good," I replied. "Once the convoy reaches the base, we'll land and meet the VIP."
Lelouch's Point of View: The Landing
As we touched down at the G-1 Base, my heart was still racing from the adrenaline of the escort mission. I could feel the weight of the Viper under me as it settled on the ground, the rotors slowly winding down. We had made it.
I climbed out of the Viper, the ground feeling solid beneath my feet again, and I turned to see the convoy pulling in. The door of the lead MaxxPro Dash MRAP opened, and my heart nearly stopped when I saw the VIPs step out.
It was Guinevere de Britannia and Marrybell Mel Britannia—my older sisters. My mind was racing as I tried to process why they were here. Before I could fully gather my thoughts, Marrybell's eyes met mine, and she broke into a run.
"Lelouch!" she cried, her voice filled with emotion as she threw her arms around me.
I was stunned for a moment, feeling the warmth of her embrace. "Marry… Guinevere… what are you doing here?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
"We remember everything, Lelouch," Marrybell said, her voice trembling as she held me tighter. "The first time around, what happened… we've come to make up for it. We didn't protect you and Nunnally the way we should have. But we're here now. We're here to make things right."
Hearing those words from Marrybell hit me harder than I expected. I looked over her shoulder at Guinevere, who nodded softly, her expression full of the same regret and determination.
"We came to see you and Nunnally," Guinevere added. "We've missed you both."
I swallowed hard, trying to push down the flood of emotions rising within me. I had been so focused on the mission, on the future, that I hadn't allowed myself to think much about the past. But here they were—my sisters, my lovers—telling me that they hadn't forgotten. That they were here to set things right.
I gently pulled away from Marrybell, my hands resting on her shoulders. "You've both changed," I said quietly, my voice filled with a mix of gratitude and pain. "I didn't expect this…"
Marrybell smiled softly, tears welling in her eyes. "We didn't either. But we're here now, and that's what matters."
I glanced back at the others, who had witnessed the emotional reunion. Kallen, Naomi, Ayame, Ichijiku, Mutsuki, and Kagari stood nearby, their expressions a mix of surprise and understanding. This moment wasn't just about the mission anymore—it was about family.
I turned back to Marrybell and Guinevere, my heart feeling lighter than it had in a long time. "Let's go see Nunnally."
We walked toward the base, ready to face whatever came next, but for the first time in a long while, I didn't feel like I was walking into battle alone.