#Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion I - Initiation -

[lelouch]

Code Geass - Collector's Edition - Blu-ray by Crunchyroll, releases on Lelouch's birthday (December 5, 2023)

Includes:

Collector's box

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion R2

Code Geass: Akito the Exiled

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion I -Initiation-

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion II -Transgression-

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion III -Glorification-

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Re;surrection

Code Geass Replica Chess Set + Chess Board (Magnetic Connecting)

Code Geass Replica Lancelot Key USB

Code Geass Necklace - Silver “Geass Symbol”

Instructions on care for Gift Box

[hailarabbit281]

Shirlulu hints from Lelouch of the Rebellion Exhibition Pamphlet Book

I don't know Japanese so it's done by all Google Translate. If anyone knows Japanese and would like to translate these, please feel free to do so

SHIRLEY FENETTE

Pretty and lively. Although she is busy with both the swimming club and the student council, her eyes are always fixed on Lelouch. She notices the dangerous expression he sometimes shows, and no matter what difficulties she faces, her feelings for him always win out in the end.

好きという気持ちは強制されて成立するものではない。分かってはいる。だけどカップル認定してもらえるのなら、誰もが思 いを寄せる人の元へ走るのではないか。ミレイによって開かれた「キューピッドの日」。シャーリーはルルーシュを追った。彼 のいそうな場所へ･･････。そして2人はとても自然に、イベント内でカップルとなった。

Feelings of love cannot be forced. Everyone knows that. But if they could be recognized as a couple, wouldn't everyone run to the person they have a crush on? Milly held "Cupid's Day." Shirley followed Lelouch. To the place where he was likely to be... And the two of them became a couple very naturally during the event.

Personal note: I like how it's obvious to the student body and very natural/expected for them to become a couple. There are always these cases where two people evidently care about each other enough for everyone around to think "It wouldn't be a surprise if they started dating any time soon", and Lelouch and Shirley is one example of such cases, showing that Shirley's feelings were definitely not one-sided at all.

死ぬな、死ぬなっ!

いつもそばにいた。平和な世界の象徴だった。疎 ましく思ったこともある。だけどそれは、本当に心 を許せる相手だったから。ありのままでいられる 相手だった。代わりの存在などどこにもいない。 目の前で消えていくその声を、姿をただ、見てい ることしかできなかった。ギアスは命を奪ってい く。大切な人を奪っていく。

Don't die, don't die!

She was always by his side. She was a symbol of a peaceful world. There were times when he felt lonely, but that was because she was someone he could truly open up to. She was someone he could be himself with. There is no replacement for her. All he could do was to watch her voice and figure disappearing before his eyes. Geass takes away lives. Taking away someone important to you.

ギアスのためにシャーリーを失った悲しみがルルーシュの中で憎悪へ変換さ れ、その矛先がギアス嚮団に向けられた。

Lelouch's grief over losing Shirley to Geass transformed into hatred, and he directed that hatred at the Geass Order.

The script writer direction of the work

Script by Ichiro Okouchi

I had decided to make the main character of my new show a cool hero.

He has supernatural powers, is full of talent, and has a great appearance. A super character who seems to have the whole world in his hands.

But even though he has everything, he can't get the things that are close to him that everyone else can have.

I wrote Lelouch as a boy with such a curse.

He has the absolute power of Geass, and is a great villain who has access to organizations, military power, power, and eventually even the world.

But he can't get small human happiness - friendship, family, or a lover. He has access to everything else.

But in the end, he gets friendship and a family.

In exchange for his life...

That was the character of Lelouch that I had in mind when I first started planning the show.

I worked on the character with the director and many other staff members, and it took the form of an animation.

How did it reach you all?

The trajectory of Lelouch exhibited here exceeded my initial imagination, becoming much more expansive and richer, almost like the life of a single person.

I believe this exhibition will not be complete until all of you who know Lelouch have seen it.

Thank you all for coming to see Lelouch this time.

I hope to be able to repay this gratitude by one day appearing before you all in person.

CODE GEASS Lelouch of the Rebellion

Personal note: In the OG anime series, Shirley is the only one that becomes Lelouch 's girlfriend after the Cupid Day event (if you listen to the outro of R2 Ep12, you will hear Lelouch trying to balance his Zero acitivies and planning out his date with Shirley at the same time). Lelouch has always taken Shirley's feelings seriously, and that's why he erased her love for him in R1 ( to relieve her of the pain he had caused her for killing her father) and then in R2, he didn't want to let Shirley take his hat at first out of fear of getting her involved in his shit again.

I have always taken Lelouch's vehement "NO!" when Shirley accused him of not being serious when he said that he liked her as him admitting that he liked her, just that he was being weighed down by many dangerous things to properly reciprocate her feelings. But Lelouch gave in to Shirley's straightforward sincerity, accepted Shirley's feelings and his own feelings as well at the end of the Cupid Day event.

And guess what, Shirley was taken away from him immediately in the next episode. And it's clearly the intention of the script writer: Lelouch seemed to have the whole world in his hands, seemed to have everything, except for the little normal happiness like friendship, family, or a lover. In the end, he got friendship (Suzaku) and family (Nunally), in exchange for his life. Notice that the "lover" part is still missing? Because Shirley is gone...

[suzalulusource]

Limited Edition Animate Exclusive B5 Art Board by Ishida Kana for the BD/DVD Release of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion I - Initiation

[geassgirls]

Limited Edition Gamers Exclusive B2 Tapestry for the BD/DVD Release of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion I - Initiation

[therosecrest]

[codegeassfacts]

Ichirou Okouchi interview in Animage (November 2008) // Code Geass R2

"Code Geass" is a story about seeking tomorrow

*Upper half of the page*

Lelouch vi Britannia - He understood people's desires through the World of C. That was, the desire for tomorrow. To compensate for continuing to involve the people he used geass on, he decided to carry the burden of fulfilling the wishes of the people. He sought not his own tomorrow, but the tomorrow that the world sought for.

C.C. - Her wish was to die as a human, but after spending time with Lelouch, C.C. also wished for tomorrow. She made up her mind to ensure the tomorrow of the world that Lelouch had left.

Was Lelouch able to achieve happiness in the end?

Okouchi: In my opinion, the show had an Happy Ending, not a Bad one. In episode 7 of season 1, during Lelouch's conversation with C.C., there is this line: "There is no meaning to a life in which you're only just being alive." Lelouch saved his beloved sister and realized his own version of a kind world. His life had not been in vain. This is the reason why Lelouch smiled in the end.

What part of Code Geass did you have to pay close attention to:

Okouchi: I wanted to make of the main character one who would continue to move forward. Of course there were times during which Lelouch would stop, and where revelations would come his way. But he would accept them (everything) and the story would continue to move, e.g., even if Lelouch felt defeat.

Is Taniguchi that sort of person?

Okouchi: Eh?

We heard that Taniguchi is similar to Lelouch.

Okouchi (laughing): I see. At the beginning of he script, I didn't especially use Taniguchi as a model. But it's true that, in trying to do something original, the personality and attitude of the the creator can be reflected in the key character/s. Like in this case, with Lelouch.

Then, Okouchi-san is also reflected in Lelouch's character?

Okouchi: That's certainly the case, and i've also been told that I had some similarities with Schneizel, as well.

I didn't think of myself as this type of scriptwriter, but looking back at my work, I am surprised and also happy that my own person -is- reflected in my work/s.

How did the production of Code geass go despite the many change of plans ?

Okouchi: We wrote the initial Code Geass script with the belief it would keep the same timeslot and would still be aired at night. So, when it was slated for late broadcasting,I had to renew my plans. There was the target audience and trends to consider.

The planning team and other surrounding people felt it was risky to change our plans, since there was not enough time left. But Taniguchi-san felt the same as me, so we had to revise our plans and what you got to see was the result outcome of Code Geass.

At that time, had you already formed the idea of geass?

Okouchi: At the very beginning there was no Geass yet. Neither C.C. nor Zero were created then. The main character was an ace pilot, that was all.

There were pretty big changes. Wasn't that difficult?

Okouchi : Well, while it was difficult, we chose for the better. During the story, Lelouch's next day might be worse than the current day, but his attitude would always be to aim for tomorrow. Maybe I wasn't aware before, but looking back now, this point about the main character was probably one of the things that we never revised.

One of the themes of this work is "Rebellion". Do you think Lelouch succeeded in his rebellion?

Okouchi: I think Lelouch did succeed. Despite having to face the whole world, he was able to go through until the very end.

Which thematics did you considerdepicting in the series:

Okouchi: Thematics like mecha, school, tactics, super powers, and many other things, but the first thing on my mind had to be the character named Lelouch.

The title was "Code Geass Lelouch of the Rebellion" after all. I wrote a script that felt like a biography of the man named Lelouch.

About the script and the feedback it got

Okouchi: I had already decided the outcome of the story from Stage 1. I talked about it with a number of the staff, but he never got their opinions back then. Even after half a year, when he had a more concrete idea of the ending, he still did not have others' opinions.

About the staff's consensus regarding the last scene (epilogue):

Okouchi : We all contemplated about we would like the epilogue to be and had a survey which resulted from us picking the ending/epilogue everyone would like.

How did you felt after completing the script:

Okouchi: I was silent after finishing the script. Because the script of Code Geass was demanding a lot on production, as much as possible, he wanted the production team to finish earlier than scheduled, but consequently, he did not feel the need to make much change.

The production of Code Geass certainly seems to have taken a lot of time, didn't it?

Okouchi : Well a lot of cuts in the story had to be made, and the production team had to work really hard. Even as cuts were made, more (character and story) settings were established and the number of images that had to be drawn also increased. Characters and mecha elements were plentiful, so skillful staff were needed. Code Geass exceeded everyone's imaginations thanks to the work of the staff.

Code Geass is a story that contains many different plot/things, wasn't it very difficult to write this script ?

Okouchi: It was difficult for me, especially with the mecha and school elements. In the first place, when the story was being planned out, I had to work with many things. Compared to the first season, the stage of second season moves from Japan to a wider stage - the world. The amount of information that had to be provided definitely increased.

And at the same time, because R2 was considered a new program, we had to make adjustments for the new followers and those who were already familiar with the series from before. Because I was challenged to take the story to another level, to advance it further, it was difficult. When the outcome was decided, that was only the time were I felt confident.

About the last part offering an opportunity to change the world:

Okouchi : I thought that it was nonsense to think that the world would completely change because of Lelouch's actions. The world can't be changed as easyly than that. But, if we give people a chance, they can find a direction.

Certainly, Lelouch and the others managed to end the war. However, it doesn't mean it will be an ever lasting peace. The constant efforts of the people who remain, like Nunnally, Kallen, and Zero (Suzaku), are very much needed to maintain that peace.**

**This part implies that what those who remains will do to ensure Lelouch's peace is also up to everyone's imagination

***I wasn't sure about posting this interview cause I don't own the magazine and I can't double check (some part of the translations were pretty vague and while, once again it went through trusted translators, I think there a bit fed up by all the work they had to translate back then, so some part or a bit summarized; Maybe i'll try to get this Animage and translate it correctly in the future, even though most of what was said is almost the same as what was told in the Continue interview By Okouchi that you can read there (and which is more complete) )***

[treethymes]

october-november 2021 watchlist

*favorite

the adventures of tintin (2011, dir. steven spielberg) code geass: lelouch of the rebellion i initiation (2017, dir. goro taniguchi) code geass: lelouch of the rebellion ii transgression (2018, dir. goro taniguchi) code geass: lelouch of the rebellion iii glorification (2018, dir. goro taniguchi) code geass: lelouch of the re;surrection (2019, dir. goro taniguchi) dogra magra (1988, dir. toshio matsumoto) war at the age of sixteen (1973, dir. toshio matsumoto) sand (2018, dir. tsai ming-liang) the night (2021, dir. tsai ming-liang)* my brother’s wedding (1983, dir. charles burnett)* chess of the wind (1976, dir. mohammad reza aslani)* barry lyndon (1975, dir. stanley kubrick) the village (2004, dir. m. night shyamalan)

---

i didn’t know aslani thought of barry lyndon for the lighting of chess. just been meaning to watch barry lyndon for a long time.

[sweet-evie]

what’s your headcanons about the duo? recently i’ve rewatched the resurrection movies and cant help build various scenario in my head.

here’s mine though. Sorry it’ll be super long

• Lelouch found that CC’s hand was always cold so he likes to hold it all the time.

• During their early journey, they’ve decided to bought a trailer. But lelouch cant drive, so CC teach him one.

• CC’s were sensitive to cold but too proud to said it. One night, Lelouch realizes that she’s shaking in their tent and silently takes her in his arm

• He hates when CC talks about the mindless state he was. Not because how useless he is, but because it reminds him of how much a pain she suffers for him. It breaks his heart.

• Lelouch found a woman in desperate need of labor at the forest one day. CC’s expertly help her and deliver the baby successfully. That night, he told her that when CC names that baby girl, he felt like wanted to pick her up and told the entire world of how proud he is for having CC in his side.

• He’s blushed like a pig whenever CC’s mention the word ‘bath’ for he knows she’s seen it all.

• Lelouch good at singing, and CC’s could play ukulele. One day, nunnally visits them in their hideout and found the immortal duo lovingly sang a song together while holding each other close.

• They dont says ‘I love you’ to each other, instead lelouch once declared “If i had to choose one to spent eternity with, I’ll choose you. Not because your loyalty but because i knew life wouldnt be so bored with you”

• Lelouch takes various jobs over the years. He started as a writer for many good years to sponsor their endeavors. Then he learns from Jeremiah to farm. A teacher, doctor, programmer.

• Lelouch found it hard to express his affection towards her so he always opted to talk about their fragment endeavors.

• Until they settle down in a secluded house and found himself the pleasure of sex.

• CC secretly dying for lelouch to kiss her. Not like that she cant, she just want him to be the one who initiate it.

• At one point in their life, CC’s longs for a child they could never have. one day, there’s an orphan baby borns in the hospital he works for and he told her they could adopt him.

• Lelouch would never said it but he could start another rebellion for CC.

• Sometimes during the next movie timeline, CC’s were captured and tortured. She doesnt wakes up for several weeks due to they tamper with her code. When she wakes up, CC found Lelouch kills hundred of them to avenge her.

This is a fanfic all on its own. 🤩 You're tempting me to write things or start stuff I shouldn't because there are other stories that need writing. 🤣 Reading and imagining this made me want to cry because I can totally picture everything in my head.

As a fact, most of yours parallel with mine, mainly these:

He hates when CC talks about the mindless state he was. Not because how useless he is, but because it reminds him of how much a pain she suffers for him. It breaks his heart.

Lelouch takes various jobs over the years. He started as a writer for many good years to sponsor their endeavors. Then he learns from Jeremiah to farm. A teacher, doctor, programmer.

CC secretly dying for lelouch to kiss her. Not like that she cant, she just want him to be the one who initiate it.

Post Re;surrection, here's my headcanons 😉

C.C. is the one making the living during the early days of their Geass hunt, mostly because Lelouch needs to stay hidden.

C.C. is the one who reminds Lelouch to call Shirley or at least see her...

They travel mainly by sea or land. No airfares here, considering the nature of airport security.

As well connected to shady people as I think C.C. is, I doubt she has top-level clearance to even sneak into an airport undetected... They could, but it's too much work for their current circumstance and is more trouble than it's worth. One day, they will. But in the beginning of their search, nah.

Lelouch will make sure to procure fake passports, IDs, and everything else.

Wait... On second thought, Lelouch has a Geass. I almost forgot... 🤣 FUCK! I guess they can travel by plane. (I still think it's impractical). But they can only do it if they successfully tie up loose ends along the way.

Lelouch picks up online ghost writing or proofreading as a career once they settle in Switzerland.

All the online money he earns goes to C.C.'s bank account, because he hasn't established a fake one yet.

It bothers him that C.C. is in-charge of their funding.

Lelouch does a financial audit every month. He used to do it bi-weekly, but C.C. told him that over-obsessing about budget is never a good thing.

On a more serious note, I think C.C. cuts back on her pizza eating for the first few years.

C.C. has a subdued personality for the first few months or the first year together with L.L...

Lelouch spends discreet time trying to coax C.C.'s mischievousness out again. He kind'a misses it.

He asks C.C. about his mindless state once in a while, when it's necessary. But he avoids it because he hates how useless he was, and he hates being reminded that he burdened her so.

It takes a while before they end up actually kissing.

They're open to talking about their deep thoughts, but are still a teeny bit hesitant to cross the line to romance. (Even if they're practically married at this point).

They have matching rings. (Not engagement or wedding rings or promise rings. Just matching jewelry -- according to them anyway).

They're fucking married.

Lelouch caught C.C. singing lullabies to him once, because she thought he was falling asleep.

C.C.'s multi-lingual skills will shine.

Lelouch is beginning to think world history on the internet is unreliable. Mostly because of C.C. (That girl is a walking encyclopedia, literally).

C.C. loves surprising Lelouch with random facts about her involvement in some events during history. She does it at the most random times, but mostly when they're on a Geass hunt.

They mouth "I love you" once in a while. They don't say it out loud. Just mouth it... 😍🥰

Hugging... Lots of hugging.

Lelouch eventually replaces Cheese-kun. 👏 It's his greatest achievement yet.

Lelouch and C.C. will cease to exist one day. Especially when all those spare body parts from C's World run out, because Lelouch broke that place. (CG creators, please explain the lore behind the Code and the Geass).

[simon-newman]

Newman’s Anime Reviews - Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Hello and welcome again to the 2nd of my 2021 anime challenge review.

For February I’ve watched something that my friends were trying to make me watch for years.

It might actually be more than a decade that I’ve been putting this title off and they were quick to add this to my challenge list once the opportunity arised.

Were they right to recommend this title to me? Should I have watched this anime earlier? Those 10 years ago?

Perhaps. Still - I’m coming here with mixed feelings on this show. But… I’ll talk more about it in the review proper.

Today’s title is the 2006’s anime by Sunrise.

  Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

  Now where do I even begin with this show? What even is this? What the hell is happening?

Well…

The Empire of Britannia is one of the 3 major political powers in the world of Code Geass - ruled by the Emperor Charles zi Britannia they invaded the country of Japan 10 years before the start of the plot.

Their absolute military dominance thanks to the use of cool mecha has led to unconditional surrender of Japan which is now known as Area 11.

It is there that our protagonist - Lelouch - the young Britannian student plans to take his revenge on the Emperor himself for what he’s done to him and his wheelchair-bound sister. 

I feel that it is important to put emphasis on this last part here because this is the ultimate motivation for our MC. Something that’ll drive him forward no matter what.

He wants to create a safe world for his sister. That’s it.

Need to protecc.

  The question that remains is: How?

How do a teenage boy banished to one of the colonies is supposed to change the world and cause a major power shift?

We get first glimpse at his supposed skill almost immediately - with Lelouch easily defeating an adult player in the game of chess. Nothing much so far but it’s an indication of his real power “shown” later on.

Lelouch is a genius… Or at least this is what the anime tries to convey to us. He is clearly smart and a gifted strategist with lots of charisma and a penchant for theatrics.

However - this is still not enough. That’s why something happens to push our protagonist forward at this stage. In a weird turn of events, a run in with anti-britannian terrorists and a top secret research subject Lelouch obtains the titular Geass.

What is a Geass? It is a power gifted to an individual which in case of Lelouch allows him to give anyone he establishes an eye contact with a single command that this person must follow.

This is actually one of the tame ones.

  From there on Lelouch joins and reforms the “terrorists” into “Black Knights” - a Rebellion led by his alter-ego the masked man called Zero - and starts executing his plan to take revenge… I mean to make the world a safe place for Nunnally.

From there we follow Lelouch as his Rebellion grows while he himself learns the limits and drawbacks of his power and tries his best to hide his identity as Zero.

Initially the show is quite entertaining - especially when it comes to battle scenes where we get to see Lelouch improbable planning and tactical skills at work. As for the other parts…

Yeah… I should have watched this show those 10 years ago because right now the parts with MC’s school life just don’t do this for me… They really slow down the plot and while they do serve the purpose of establishing various plot-important details it’s just... 

Well the pacing sucks.

Without any breaks and just the action sequences the anime would be very much rushed but the break parts at school just go on forever, developing into trivial stories used to deliver some little bit of exposition or character development. The balance is off and the show doesn’t get better until the mid point…

Speaking of which…

Nice mountain you’ve got there...

  There’s a major shift that happens somewhere in the mid-point of the anime that is bothering me to this day.

Who is the bad guy?

It might seem like a trivial question to many.

Obviously it’s Britannia! With their world conquest, asshole Emperor, warmongering royals, discrimination of conquered nations they call Numbers (in case of Japanese it’s “Elevens”) and engaging in wanton destruction and genocide for no good reason. They’re basically the Nazis.

With the above in mind there’s nothing wrong with Lelouch being willing to use all means at his disposal to achieve his goals… Right?

Monsters need to be stopped.

That was kinda the thing until the Battle of Narita where the Black Knights’ tactics caused the destruction of a town.

Now - this by itself could have been used to drive the point home with the Rebellion losing a lot of PR. After all the town was in the JLF controlled territory, inhabited by the Elevens and stuff…

Well. You see - the creators of the show didn’t think that was enough and/or missed the opportunity.

First of all - there’s no PR backlash for the Black Knights whatsoever. Nobody cares. The Britannian are now leading the rescue and recovery operations in the area and… It’s just weird. Why would they suddenly bother?

Secondly - it suddenly turns out that the people in the enemy-controlled territory were… Britannians? SOMEHOW. This is made to inflict personal level suffering to MC and some other characters as one of the character’s relatives dies in the event.

Third of all - after this very point there’s a major change. We no longer get to see Britannians committing atrocities but do get Lelouch crossing line after a line in the pursuit of his goals.

I think the creators realized that to make it appear more grey vs grey they can’t show Britannians as complete monsters but… It really doesn’t feel to occur naturally here. Were the person in charge of Britannians change again? Yes - I could accept that they are a better person than the previous leader. It isn’t so. And even if it was it wouldn’t undo their previous actions and made the characters that stayed seem really inconsistent.

It’s a major turn off for me when consistency in storytelling takes a back seat for a point to be made.

Because Zero’s not edgy enough without it I guess...

  There’s also another kind of inconsistency here when it comes to battles.

The cool mecha used by the Britannians are… Well. In the early parts they seem indestructible until the plot demands they’re not.

At first it seems that only other mecha have the weapons that can affect them. Then we see that some weapons do work BUT it is only when MC is commanding the battle.

It’s a magic wand that removes the plot armor from Britannians whenever Lelouch is there and often gives them to the allies.

Often - being the key word here.

One good thing is that it doesn’t stick. Plot-important characters don’t die but they are not immune to damage either. The mechas often get wrecked and require fixing. Lelouch himself is subject to this quite often as he’s not an outstanding pilot like others on his side.

It is thanks to that aspect of the action parts that the anime is not becoming one-sided and remains entertaining. You’re drawn to it to see what’s happening because it’s not just another battle.

Yes... Really entertaining battles...

  I think it is becoming apparent what’s the issue here.

There are a lot of things done wrong with this anime. Things that don’t necessarily break it but I can’t just overlook them. Things that are putting me off. Inconsistency, bad pacing, weird editing where some scenes are cut extremely abruptly - as if to reduce time. 

There’s also the usual issue of geniuses written by people who are not geniuses. Lelouch brilliancy is only guaranteed by the fact that people on the other side will do something stupid. Some of his actions are not the brightest and some are just downright stupid and easily could lead to his downfall were his enemies to have half a brain. Or worse - one action is such a poor choice it simply falls apart on it’s own - and you could expect it to the moment “it” happens (is there a point in keeping spoilers on this show? I’m talking about Geasing Shirley).

There’s also the braindead Suzaku - a subject so controversial on the Internet that I’ve hesitated to touch it here and decided to only reduce it to a small paragraph.

Yes. Suzaku is an idealistic foil to Lelouch. He serves his purpose. BUT. His idealism is stupid - not by the virtues he’s holding but by remaining blind to what is happening around him. He wants to end the discrimination without using violence but the Britannians are killing Elevens for no reason whatsoever. Time and time again the side he’s on goes against his principles and he still sticks to them. It is becoming less and less possible to emphasise with him with each incidence.

Still - there was a certain charm to this anime. It was fun to watch and only getting better the farther in I’ve gotten.

Not including the school drama.

All in all the score I was about to give was still going to be pretty low at this point. The anime was decent but far too flawed for my tastes… That was when the last story arc started.

The pizza...

  I must say. The rug was pulled from under my feet.

Those events were really unexpected. Emotionally draining and yet entertaining as nothing before in this show.

So many lines have been crossed in an instant - there was no return. Not anymore. Shit was happening and it was a spectacle to watch. Some men just want to see the world burn. Duh. I watched events unfold and I enjoyed it very much until the very end.

The end of a 1st season that assured I WILL watch the 2nd one when I find the time (I didn’t so that it wouldn’t affect this review).

All in all - the show’s grand finale is the high point that offsets all the problems I’ve talked about earlier. It is simply done perfectly.

And speaking of endings. It is time to finally end this review as well...

 Final Score: 7/10  

Status: Completed Season 1

Sentence: Lelouch vi Britannia commands you: Watch Season 2!

Previous: Kimetsu no Yaiba

[ultraericthered]

Real talk: Code Geass never lived up to it’s potential to be a good anime property following it’s debut season. There was never enough planning put into the series to carry up it’s lofty aspirations to be this anime mangnum opus, but Lelouch of the Rebellion at least followed a solidly structured road map for it’s narrative and there was a sense of people actually trying to service the plot and characters with just enough weight to keep the show afloat rather than let it drown in it’s most shallow and hackneyed qualities like everything afterwards did. R2 lacked even the basic road map for it’s story in addition to having no solid plan for it’s progression, explaining the constant bungling, abusing, and discarding of several plot points and character arcs. Sunrise only had a vision for the final outcome - Lelouch dethrones his father as Emperor of Britannia and then orchestrates his own demise in a bid to unite the world in peace for it’s own reconstruction - but were clearly at a loss on how to reach it for the longest time.

My favored fix for this, where I think they should have gone with Code Geass? Make it an anthology series. End the Lelouch of the Rebellion story exactly where it did in the initial season and then go on to tell different stories from the POV of different characters all set in the same world against the backdrop of the same larger conflict with Britannia, with the biggest constants in all the seasons being C.C and the larger Myth Arc about C’s World and the Geass itself. 

(For the continuation of the story post-Lelouch of the Rebellion, I did like the idea R2 went with in not showing us the how the outcome of that final stand-off between Lelouch and Suzaku went down right off, but otherwise they should have stuck to their initial ideas - Lelouch being the one to “win” and first walk away from that showdown, Suzaku’s “live” Geass activating to save his life there, the Emperor revealing his own Geass, Suzaku possibly gaining a Geass of his own, omitted backstory details for Suzaku and C.C, Kallen’s brother becoming more of a thing, whatever was being originally considered for characters like Schniezel, Cornelia, V.V and possibly even Euphemia, and perspective shifting away from Lelouch, who’d already completed his transformation into a full-blown supervillain.)

With this direction I can imagine Code Geass spanning for at least four series’ total, and my ideas for what they could have been draw influence from what the franchise has given us elsewhere. (As I’ve stated, Code Geass fared better in all avenues that aren’t anime.)

Oz the Reflection - A story told from two perspectives, one centering around Orpheus Zevon, a young terrorist in pursuit of his lover's killer, and the other around Oldrin Zevon, a girl in the Holy Britannian Empire's anti-terrorist unit, the Glinda Knights, who answer to Prince Schniezel, this story’s chief antagonist. The large-scale revolt against Britannia caused by Zero, known now as the “Black Rebellion”, ended in failure, but it’s influence as a sign of opposition against the increasingly powerful superpower was strong enough to endure. In addition to the major powers opposing Britannia like the Chinese Federation and E.U, acts of anti-Britannia terrorism began to occur with greater frequency in the other countries under Britannia’s rule and a new period of resistance arose. The Britannian homeland begins to nip the buds of resistance with its overwhelming military strength. Within that military is the Glinda Knights, who are given the search-and-destroy mission of suppressing acts of terrorism and rebellion. On the other hand, the terrorist-deployment organization “Peace Mark”, which possesses a worldwide network, is connected to terrorists in every country and terrorist-supporting organizations like Kyoto, inducing them to cause terrorism everywhere. In the midst of such a chaotic situation, the boy and girl with the same face and the same name "Oz" encounter each other by chance in a small country in the Middle East. And you can fill in the blanks from there. C.C would play a prominent role and we’d get some other familiar characters too, but Lelouch plays a more minor part this time around.

Akito the Exiled - The setting is in Europe, where the Europia United (E.U.) allied nations are being invaded by the overwhelming forces of the Holy Britannian Empire. On the verge of defeat, the E.U. army forms a special unit known as “W-0″, of which a young pilot named Akito Hyuga is a member. Leila Malcal ,a former Britannian Aristocrat, comes to the E.U for aid, commanding the Wyvern Knightmare corps comprised of Japanese teenagers. They plunge into a battlefield, where the survival rate is extremely low, at about 5% only, to fight for their freedom and for a home to which they can return. The story splinters into a second narrative set further in the past which details the backstory of Geass’ influence in the world and the origins of the Holy Britannian Empire. C.C plays an extra pivotal part in these proceedings, and Lelouch makes a surprise comeback in the present day, operating under the guise of Julius Kingsley as he schemes to regain his lost Geass power. The finale is a massive event that opens the way to C’s World and pits all main protagonists in the series against the evil Emperor Charles zi Britannia himself as he seeks to remake reality and subjugate the free will and consciousness of all living beings to his tyrannical rule.

Suzaku of the Counterattack - Following the end of Emperor Charles, the throne of the Holy Britannian Empire has been seized by Lelouch, who imposes his own reign of despotism and terror upon the world. But other contenders for the throne refuse to let who they see as a treasonous and illegitimate heir have his way, so they plot to undermine his rule and ultimately depose him. When Britannia goes on the offensive, alliances and counterattack forces are forged, with Lelouch’s old friend Suzaku determining to use his newly awakened powers to topple the regime and atone for his own service to the empire. When a broken world stands united even after Emperor Lelouch is no more, it faces a threat unlike any other as the Geass Directorate, the secret society led by the late Emperor Charles’ twisted elder brother V.V, activates the true Ragnarok Connection that dismantles Thought Elevators around the globe and breaks C’s World apart so that it bleeds into the outside world, risking a total collapse of time, space, matter and reality itself should the power of Geass not be renounced entirely and the cosmic balance restored, so Suzaku and his allies must take a last stand to save the future!

See? See what we could have had here!?

[raintranslated]

eep i'm sincerely sorry but if i may ask you another question... (feel free to ignore ask if you want or are busy, i'll understand!!) i'm wondering if you can reccomend any more manga like Lelouch the Tutor and if there are any other translations of other mangas such as those, may you please tell me? Thank you for your time 💝🍀🍀. maybe even if they're not translated...if you know what sites to read them or buy them-? 💜

I mean... no, not manga. CG has had a LOT of manga spinoffs, but LtT is very much the only fluffy high school AU (apart from maybe Code Black), and I think it is probably also the only manga with a canon Lelouch/C.C. pairing (though one presumes that's where Re;surrection will eventually head). For example, in Suzaku of the Counterattack, C.C. actually dies and Suzaku winds up with "her"* Code.

See, you have to understand: almost all CG manga were either plotted out or literally completed before the original anime concluded, and Sunrise's approach to licensed spinoffs (at least with this property) has always been very hands-off. It was Gorou Taniguchi, I believe, who said that they didn't want to hamper the creativity of the people working on spinoff manga, video games, etc.

So, in Lost Colors, the PS2 game released early in 2008, your (male) player character can date a number of the female characters, C.C. included, as well as Lelouch himself (though in a much more subtextual form, as one might expect from a non-BL game of the time period).

In Nightmare of Nunnally, Nunnally is a Knightmare pilot herself and the Knights of the Round are, like, creepy zombies, and Rolo is Lelouch's twin.

And, IIRC, the eponymous manga Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion... just doesn't have any mech in it, and ends very differently from the TV series.

For the more canon-compliant manga, it's either like Renya or Oz or Lancelot & Guren (and therefore not really about Lelouch-and-C.C., much less Lelouch/C.C.), or it's... well, again, the only other thing even slightly like LtT is definitely Code Black: Lelouch of the Shred Guitar, but that's much shorter even than LtT, and it — like the vast majority of these — is just not very 'shippy.

You might like them, you might not, but there are no explicitly romantic kisses in any of them. The Code Geass 'ship wars were, for a long time, firmly undecided, and that's reflected in these manga adaptations. There might be subtext, or unrelated minor character relationships, but that is about it.

A few of these manga did get licensed translations into English — the one just called Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion, Suzaku of the Counterattack, and maybe Nightmare of Nunnally...? But I can only find the first one on Amazon with a quick Google search, and they're all going to be out of print. (Bandai Entertainment was really ambitious with its initial release of CG stuff, but then it... well, went bankrupt.) Your best bet for English copies is going to be eBay, probably.

Now, if you want doujinshi, fan-made amateur comics, I'm sure there have been plenty of cute ones centered around Lelouch and C.C., but I wouldn't really know where to go looking for them, sorry. 😥 😔 😟

*Well, I mean, it wasn't a direct transfer, he sort of just manifests one from sheer will. But again this manga was completed before the original TV show.

ETA: Also gosh, you're not bothering me. I'm just sorry this answer is so very definitely not the one you were hoping for!! Since Sunrise keeps making these spinoffs, there's always the chance something more like LtT will materialize in the future. ❤

[naruwitch]

Code Geass: Paladins of Voltron Chapter 35: The Bloodstained Alliance

"About this Special Administrative Zone of Japan, there are some...unpleasant rumors going around about Princess Euphemia."

"Yes, and about her connection with this Voltron. Some are going as far as to say they brainwashed or blackmailed her into doing this, as a way to get Britannia to surrender."

Ever since Princess Euphemia's announcement of the Special Administrative Zone, Britannia had been buzzing with theories and rumors about the Princess's motivations behind this. Particularly in the high ranking military. Some believed it to be a ploy for Britannia to let its guard down so that Voltron's forces could finally finish them off.

"It could also be the perfect opportunity to finally put an end to this fighting," Lord Guilford spoke up, his tone firm. Like Guilford and Darlton, who were heatedly discussing the announcement with Bartley and several other officers, others saw it as an opportunity to finally put an end to the bloodshed and constant war ravaging the nation for years. Hundreds of thousands of people had already died, both Numbers and Britannians. If the stronger force (yes, their pride was forcing them to admit that this Voltron was indeed stronger than them) was offering a truce, wouldn't it be foolish to not at least humor them?

"As Viceroy Schneizel himself stated, Zero's goal is to cripple Britannia, not destroy it. We've seen time and again that Voltron could easily do that at any moment. We've been lucky that their patience hasn't run out," the bespectacled knight continued.

"Not to mention that Voltron's success has inspired rebellions in almost all other areas of the Empire," Darlton continued, supporting his fellow knight, "Our forces are spread thin enough as it is. With Princess Cornelia, Princess Euphemia, and even Lady Enneagram, a Knight of the Round, being captured and held prisoner, many speculate that the Emperor is losing his grip. If there is a chance for this to be resolved as peacefully as possible, I'll take it!"

"Pardon me for sounding overdramatic," General Bartley interjected, "but need I remind you that Princess Cornelia has been Voltron's hostage for months now? Besides the fact that she's in enemy territory, this is bloody aliens we're talking about! For all we know, Zero is simply a puppet for these interlopers and are threatening harm upon Cornelia unless Euphemia cooperates."

"Not to mention most of Voltron's forces remain unknown," another officer pointed out, "Yes, Black Knight activity has dwindled to nearly none, but it's clear if Zero's stance is anything to go by, that the group has thrown its batch in with these aliens. None of our spies that we've attempted to incorporate into the group have been successful."

"Isn't that only more reason to end the fighting this way?" Guilford argued, rising from his chair, "With all of these unknowns, it's simply too dangerous to keep fighting them! If we push them hard enough, they'll cut negotiations, and we'll be back where we started! A nation against a power that's only so many encounters away from wiping us out!"

"Voltron and Zero are cowards!" the man by Bartley spat, "If you have such a weapon at your disposal, then use it! You could easily win against any nation!"

"Why you little-"

"Enough!" Bartley barked, silencing Darlton, "While I commemorate you both for your loyalty to the princesses, I think your personal feelings are clouding your judgment. Especially you, Guilford."

"Excuse me?!" the knight exclaimed.

"While you may have answered to your princess originally, there is still one who has the final say in this matter. You may be Cornelia's knight, but the word of the Emperor far trumps her."

Guilford grit his teeth, restraining himself from strangling Bartley in that very moment.

"Speaking of his majesty, is there still no word from him? He's been silent ever since Euphemia's declaration."

"He hasn't spoken to the Viceroy yet either," Bartley muttered, "but with something like this, I doubt he'll stay silent forever."

"Holy quiznack!" Rai gasped as he pulled up a video feed as well as what appeared to be a registration page on his laptop. Suzaku and Euphemia were looking over his shoulder, "Over 200,000 people have applied to join the Japan Special Zone. From the way it looks, that number is only going to grow!"

"That's fantastic!" Euphemia exclaimed happily, "Everyone is rallying because of what Voltron represents."

"It's not just Voltron, Euphie," Suzaku said with a smile, "they're supporting your actions too...I'm glad."

"Suzaku?" Euphemia asked, noticing the Purple Paladin tear up a little.

"Euphie," Suzaku said, "Ever since I became a paladin and seen what the Galra have done, even I couldn't deny the similarities they shared with Britannia. My idea of reforming Britannia from within seemed to grow more and more unrealistic to the point it became just a pipe's dream. But… you may have just proven me wrong."

"Oh Suzaku," Euphie smiled gratefully before her smile faded slightly, "while I appreciate the praise, I fear that they may only be cooperating because there's an even greater threat. The start of this alliance will be shaky at best."

"We can worry about that when the time comes," Suzaku assured her, "I'm sure Lelouch will come up with a plan to keep this peace secure."

"And I hope I can help bring that peace to the rest of the universe as well," Euphemia said sincerely, "Once Zarkon is defeated, I hope all worlds out there can finally be free as well."

"We'll make sure of it," Suzaku promised, "And I'll be right by your side!"

"Shouldn't I be the one saying that? You're a Voltron Paladin after all," Euphemia teased with a giggle. Suzaku chuckled as well.

"And I'm not even here," Rai says aloud, causing the pair to jump. They'd honestly forgotten he was still in the room. However, they could tell from the tone of his voice that he was grinning.

"What's the status on the Knightmare testing, Coran?" Lelouch asked as the male Altean's face appeared on the monitor of the Castle's bridge.

"They're going quite well!" the adviser said with a smile from the castle pod he and Rakshata were occupying within the Solar System's asteroid belt, "Number Seven, my boy, your idea was just the answer we were looking for!"

Rivalz looked down, blushing at the praise. More often than not, the Blue Paladin felt like he didn't contribute much to the team outside of being comic relief and helping out with chores, so it felt nice to know that he made a lasting contribution with his suggestion.

"Is Sayoko okay? In case… you know… something goes wrong?" Shirley asked anxiously. The moment the crystals had entered the lab, Rakshata had insisted that they work them into the Guren Mrk-II first since that was her 'special child.' Since Sayoko had initially been the pilot for it, she had gone along on the test flight, with Sugiyama keeping an eye on Nunnally until they got back. ("It's time for another therapy session anyway," he had said.)

"Not to worry," Coran reassured them, "Miss Sayoko is in very capable hands. Her suit alone will provide her with plenty of protection in open space should she need to eject manually."

"Good," Lelouch nodded, but everyone could hear the warning in his tone. Sayoko had been the closest thing he and Nunnally had had to a mother since their banishment. If something were to happen to her…

"Keep us updated on your progress," Allura ordered, "And we'll be expecting all three of you back here within three Earth hours."

"Understood, Princess!" Coran saluted, but before he could cut the connection, there was a blinding flash through the pod's windows.

Before anyone on the bridge could ask what was wrong, they heard a loud, girly squeal from behind the Altean.

"Splendid! Absolutely marvelous!" Rakshata sang, looking ready to leap out of her seat with a victory dance.

Coran sighed with a shake of his head before cutting the connection.

"Are they going to be okay?" Milly asked, glancing around a little uneasily.

"Well, I mean, Coran did say he wouldn't let Sayoko get hurt, right?" Kallen asked.

"Oh, Coran I trust all right," Milly said, "It's Rakshata I'm worried about. She does tend to go a little… overboard sometimes."

"You say that as if you've never done that yourself, Milly," C.C. pointed out with a smirk.

"Hey!" the Yellow Paladin pouted.

"Either way, I'm sure Coran will alert us if something is amiss," Allura said surely, "Now that it's confirmed that the Balmera crystals are compatible with your Knightmare machines, we still have much to discuss."

"Right," Lelouch nodded before turning to address the rest of the room. Besides himself, and the other four Paladins, C.C., Tohdoh, Kaguya, and Ohgi were also present.

"So it looks like Euphemia's message was fairly well-received," Ohgi observed, "I mean, they're already getting everything set up back on Earth."

"According to Rai, the announcement has gained a great deal of support," Tohdoh said, "Most of it is coming from the Japanese population, but surprisingly we do have several Honorary Britannians backing the project as well. I've heard several members within our own ranks talking about joining the zone as well."

"This is technically a good thing, though, right?" Rivalz asked, "I mean, with so many people joining the zone, that means more support for Voltron, right?"

"Not necessarily," C.C. said, "Just because they choose to support the SAZ doesn't mean that they will support Voltron."

"C.C.'s correct," Lelouch nodded, "There will be those, not just from Britannia, that will never see eye-to-eye with something like this. Unfortunately, there isn't much that can be done about it, even with two royal princesses-"

"Technically, three royal princesses, Lelouch," Shirley pointed.

Lelouch abruptly turned to the Orange Paladin, raising an eyebrow, "I'm sorry?"

"What about Cornelia?" Shirley said, "Nunnally did say that she was willing to help us too, right?"

"Yeah, and we have Nonette too," Milly added, "who, according to Rai, isn't even loyal to Britannia. Plus, Cornelia's likely the most influential member of the royal family right now, since she is, or used to be, the viceroy. I'm sure if we can both of them on board, that could garner even more support, especially from Britannia, which is what we need right now."

Lelouch was silent, face contorted in a frown. While it was true that Nunnally had told him about her conversation with their sister, a part of Lelouch still hesitated to trust Cornelia.

However…

If there was one thing he knew for sure, it was that no matter what, Cornelia would never betray Euphemia. And Euphie was entirely on board with this plan. Even if Cornelia didn't support some of the things Euphemia did, she never actively tried to work against her either. So long as Euphie was on their side, Cornelia would follow.

And if what Rai said about Nonette was true too...

"...We'll talk to them."

"Sire, pardon my rudeness, but are you serious about this?" Bartley asked Schneizel in the viceroy's office back on Earth.

"Quite so, Bartley," Schneizel answered calmly, "You know I wish for the fighting to stop as much as anyone else. If Voltron is willing to offer an olive branch through Euphie's project, I am willing to humor them and receive it."

"This could easily be a trap too, Your Highness," Bartley protested, "They could be waiting for us to let our guard down before striking us."

"Yes, yes, Bartley," Schneizel nodded knowingly, "I have considered that possibility. However, I highly doubt that that would be the case."

"How so?" Bartley asked skeptically.

Schneizel smiled, hands clasped behind his back as he stood, "As we've discussed previously, it's clear that Zero, through Voltron, possesses more than enough resources to raze Britannia to the ground at a snap of his fingers. The fact that he has yet to launch such an attack is our first clue. No, he doesn't want to see Britannia destroyed. At least, not anymore. Instead, he wants something from Britannia."

Bartley sputtered, "What?! What could Zero possibly want from Britannia besides its destruction?!"

Schneizel sighed, "Unfortunately, I have no definitive answer for that. I have theories at best, but there is too little proof to draw any conclusions. This is partially the reason I am supporting this ceasefire. Once we have the facts of the situation at large, and all the pieces are presented on the board, I'm certain we can… determine our next move from there."

Bartley didn't answer, but he made no further comment as he saw Schneizel's line of thinking. He was just like most other Britannian officials and officers. They wanted answers, and each encounter with the gargantuan robot only brought more questions. Even the partial victory on the island backfired in ways they couldn't have imagined.

"By the way," the prince interrupted his thoughts, "There is still no word from the Emperor regarding this?"

"Um, no sir," Bartley shook his head. At least this he could answer, "The Emperor has been silent ever since Princess Euphemia's broadcast, even back in Pendragon."

"I see…" now it was Schneizel who was frowning. The fact that their father hadn't commented about either the broadcast or the SAZ was concerning. Perhaps Charles was thinking along the same lines? Wishing to hear Voltron's explanation before making a move? If there was one thing he and his father shared, it was their dislike of being uninformed. This could be the one chance they had to gain the information they needed.

Schneizel blinked as the image of that strange woman flashed through his mind for a moment. Despite his brother wearing his mask, it was clear that Lelouch didn't merely dislike that woman but was scared of her. Why else would have lashed out (with a lightning blast?!) the way he had and brought Euphemia with him?

In any case, Schneizel hoped that with this ceasefire order, he could finally, finally, get answers.

"And that's the plan we've come up with, should you both agree to assist us," Lelouch said, standing authoritatively in front of Cornelia and Nonette's cell. Behind him, Nunnally was seated in the hover chair with Arthur in her lap, along with Kallen, Allura, and Tohdoh. The ex-prince had just finished explaining the ceasefire that Euphemia ordered, along with the plans for the Special Administrative Zone of Japan back on Earth, and what they hoped to accomplish with this.

This was only the second time Lelouch had spoken to Cornelia since he and the other Paladins captured her. Despite what everyone was telling him when they talked with the older princess, Lelouch simply couldn't bring himself to face her yet. Even though, via his Geass, he learned that Cornelia had nothing to do with Marianne's assassination and had genuinely tried to find him and Nunnally during the war, that didn't fix the trust that had been shattered during that time nor erase the pain of the royal family's betrayal.

"I understand the need for cooperation, Lelouch," Cornelia finally spoke after a few moments of silence, "but surely you see how risky this plan is."

"No quiznack, what gave you that clue?" Kallen commented sarcastically.

"We know that," Lelouch admitted, "and even without your assistance, we still plan to carry it out, but if you two are willing to cooperate, not only can we likely rally more Britannians to our side, but also build some level of trust between the factions. We're going to need that in spades once the Galra arrive since everyone will be focused on one enemy."

"You do realize that will likely mean cooperating with the Emperor as well, correct?" Cornelia reminded her brother.

Lelouch clenched his fists, "If it means Earth's survival, I will force myself to work with the Emperor. Grudges and vengeance become petty in situations like this."

"And afterward?" Nonette asked, "You know that once the Galra are pushed back that His Majesty isn't likely to change. I learned that the hard way after all…"

Along with the plans for the SAZ, Nonette and Cornelia had also learned what happened to Rai, his sister, and his mother. How they were abducted and taken prisoner by Galran scouts, how Rai had been forced into the gladiator pits, and how he'd been forced to become a living test subject for Zarkon's second in command, who they had learned was named Haggar.

Nonette vowed that she ever saw Haggar face-to-face, she would kill that witch herself.

"If all goes according to plan, should your Emperor attempt such an act, we'll have enough support from your planet's other countries and factions to stop him," Allura said, "Hence why we must solidify a united front against the Galra, and put aside all prejudices before that occurs. This will mean nothing if your world reverts back to what it was before we got here."

"And as Lelouch stated before, the more members of the Royal Family we have on our side, the higher chances we have of gaining the support that the Emperor will lose," Tohdoh added.

Cornelia shared a look with Nonette, who was staring back at her expectantly. Nonette had made it clear that no matter what happened, her place she by Zephyr's side (she was still in shock about the fact that he was a member of the Royal Family and half Japanese). From the very second that Lelouch revealed himself to be Zero, and from what Nunnally told her shortly after, the princess had been thinking and pondering on how she could regain her brother's trust. Nunnally had made it clear that she didn't blame her for what happened during the war, which was a relief. Lelouch was a different story. Even as a young boy, Lelouch had shown that he wasn't one to forgive easily.

The fact that he was extending the closest thing to an olive branch was a miracle on its own.

"I failed you and Nunnally once, Lelouch…"

"I know," Lelouch answered bluntly. Nunnally glanced between her brother and sister anxiously.

"...But it won't happen again."

"Oh, here you are."

Chigusa jumped and nearly dropped the sprinkler she'd been using to water the plants in one of the greenhouses.

"Oh, sorry! Didn't mean to scare you!" Ohgi gasped, hands up.

"No, it's all right!" Chigusa gasped out a laugh before turning the sprinkler off, "I wasn't paying attention, is all."

Ohgi a little and looked around at the vegetables growing in the vertical trellises. He had to admit, Milly's idea to apply hydroponics to the ship's greenhouse was not only inventive but saved them resources too. All they needed was water and the nutrients the plants would need from the soil. It not only saved space but made growing food cleaner as well due to the lack of soil.

Tending the greenhouse seemed to quickly be becoming Chigusa's favorite job, and Ohgi was happy to see that she was adapting well.

However, despite this, there was still no sign of her memories returning. Ohgi knew that something like amnesia wasn't something that could be forced. They just needed to be patient. Of course, there was always the possibility that her memories didn't return. He honestly wasn't sure how he felt about that.

Plus, there was the stress about the SAZ. So far, nothing seemed to be going wrong, but he couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong. Sure, they had Euphemia, Nunnally, Lelouch supporting this, but they were only three members (four if Cornelia of all people agreed to support it as well) of the Royal Family vs. the hundreds of other members, plus the Emperor.

"Is everything okay?" Chigusa asked, noticing his frown.

"Hmm? Oh, no, it's nothing important," Ohgi attempted to wave it off, but Chigusa was just as smart as her other identity.

"Are you worried about the zone?" Chigusa asked. It was hard to be in the castle right now and not know about it. It seemed to be the only thing the Black Knights were talking about.

Ohgi paused then sighed, "I-I don't know… I-I just can't shake the feeling that something is wrong. I know we've taken all the possible precautions, but…"

Chigusa frowned in concern, "Have you talked to Zero about it?"

Ohgi shook his head, "I don't have to. I can tell he feels the same way. I know this sounds bad, but when you think about it, the only reason we're doing this is because we don't have any other choice. Zero has always thought all of his plans through. So the fact that he's practically just winging this…"

Chigusa nodded, "Yes, I suppose that would make anyone nervous. But I'm sure once Earth understands what they're up against, they'll be more likely to cooperate. That's the whole point of this zone, right?"

"That's the idea," Ohgi confirmed, "but… there are people that just won't do that! People like-"

Ohgi stopped himself before he could finish.

"You mean people me?" Chigusa asked, looking down.

"Well, yes, but I mean like how you were like before. Not now!" Ohgi gasped.

"It's all right," Chigusa reassured him, "I understand. But… despite all of that, I can't help but be grateful to you."

"Grateful?" Ohgi asked, looking up in surprise.

Chigusa nodded, "I know I wasn't the best person before I came here. I was an enemy. But you still decided to take me in, to make me a part of all of this. It's like I've been given a second chance to be better. And I'll always be grateful for that."

Ohgi's look of surprise soon morphed into a smile. Her response surprised him, but upon hearing it, he felt a weight of his own lift off his shoulders.

"I'm glad to hear that. And if it means anything to you, I'll be more than happy to be there for you, memories or not."

Chigusa smiled back, "Thank you, Kaname."

It took another three days, but it was at last time. The area around the Special Administrative Zone was packed almost shoulder-to-shoulder with both Japanese and Britannians alike. Military personnel, including Guilford, Darlton, and his sons, on guard also stood on guard, Sutherlands, Gloucesters, and several specialized Knightmare units were present as well. High above in the sky, the Le Fey also floated above the zone.

For those who weren't there personally, everyone was tuned into radio, television, or any broadcast available in Japan, watching and listening. The E.U. and Chinese Federation were also watching, waiting with bated breath for the ceremony to start.

"We're bringing you live coverage from the stadium where the inaugural ceremony will be held for the Special Administrative Zone of Japan. The place is already packed full of Elevens… sorry, I mean Japanese. And those unable to get in are gathered outside the stadium."

"The question still remains, though. Will Zero and his forces truly make an appearance? While Princess Euphemia herself was the one to make this announcement, rumor has it that the princess hasn't been publicly seen for several days. Many are concerned that this ceasefire order is another ploy of the Black Knights… wait, what?"

There was a beat of silence as everyone listening to the broadcast held their breath.

"Oh! Okay-well, our satellites just picked activity in the atmosphere and-!"

A thunderous roar suddenly echoed around the stadium as large shadows fell upon the crowd. All chatter stopped as everyone looked to the sky with bated breath.

With a low sweep, the Black Lion whooshed around the stadium, wind picking flying in its wake. The silence was meet with screaming cheers as the six other lions followed, though none flew as low as the Black Lion. After several minutes of circling the sky, almost like hawks circling prey, the Black and Purple Lions finally descended, with the other five staying aloft in the air, directly above the arena, and to the south, east, north, and west.

The Sutherlands tensed as the Black and Purple Lions landed gracefully on the stage, tails lashing and eyes looming over the military units surrounding them, growling in clear warning. Then the Black Lion seemed to chuff before lowering its haunches and head toward the ground, the Purple Lion following suit.

The roars of the crowd only amplified as the 'Savior of Japan' himself, Zero, glided out of the Black Lion's mouth, helmet, cape, and all. From the other Lion, the pilot clad in his purple and white armor, helmet on and face shield darkened, also exited, only to pause and hold his hand out behind him.

To everyone's shock, Princess Euphemia was gently escorted out of the Purple Lion's mouth, and the Knight of Nine, Nonette Enneagram, exited right behind her.

What truly shocked the crowd, though, was the additional passenger that exited with Zero. It was none other than Cornelia li Britannia herself.

"Princess Cornelia!" Guilford gasped from within his Gloucester, nearly leaping from it to rush to her side. It was only Darlton's cautious but also shocked expression that stopped him.

The same shock was reflected on the Japanese citizens, as their cheers morphed into waves of confusion rippled through around.

A single wave of Zero's arm in front of the former viceroy silenced them.

"Enough!" the rebel's voice exclaimed in admonishment, "This day is not a day for violence or anything of the like. This is a day of cooperation and unity between Britannia and Japan that has been delayed for far too long!"

The crowd's cheers returned once again, even the voices of a few Britannians joining them this time.

Back on the Castle of Lions, now just above cloud cover above the planet. The Black Knights were all waiting anxiously in their newly operational Knightmare Frames, appropriately named Seishins. They were ready to soar out and attack at a moment's notice. From the bridge itself, Allura, Coran, and C.C. observed the ceremony from the screens.

"Are you sure letting Cornelia attend this ceremony personally was a wise move?" Allura inquired from her position at the teludav, frowning.

C.C. snorted, "Well, it's not like we didn't all agree to let her out in the first place. I do recall you were there for that."

Allura grimaced, but before she could make a snarky comment back, Coran spoke up.

"Lelouch and Nunnally are willing to trust her, Allura. And you know for a fact that Lelouch wouldn't have agreed to it if he didn't think it would work."

Allura sighed, "I understand. But…" the princess bit her lip, "...I can not help but feel like something is wrong."

Almost impulsively, Allura pulled up the commlinks connected to the Knightmare bay.

"Ohgi, Tohdoh, what's the status of our troops?"

"On standby, Princess," Ohgi answered.

"We're prepared to launch at any time," Tohdoh also confirmed.

Allura blew out a breath. At least they were ready. She just hoped the feeling of foreboding she felt was paranoia and worry for the Paladins down below.

"People of Japan! People of the world! Welcome to the Special Administrative Zone!" Euphemia greeted shortly after Zero's reprimand.

The crowd cheered once again, and Euphemia waited patiently for the noise to die down before continuing.

"Many obstacles have been overcome to bring this project to fruition, and I'd like to dedicate this zone not only to the Japanese people but also to the Paladins of Voltron, who, along with the Black Knights, have helped pave the way for this day to come to pass."

"However…" Euphemia's tone became solemn, which silenced the beginning of any further cheers, being replaced with murmurs of confusion, "...there is another reason I announced the opening of this Special Zone. It was to provide an opportunity to address the entire planet as a whole and deliver a message. A warning, to be exact. A warning that the entire world must heed!"

The crowd was now getting anxious, many gasping and some even inching towards the exits, as if expecting the Britannian soldiers to open fire on them at any moment. However, none of the Knightmares moved as the soldiers looked just as confused as the Japanese.

Euphemia handed the microphone to Zero, who addressed the masses once again.

"What Princess Euphemia speaks is true!" the rebel leader said, "As you all are well aware, Voltron's purpose is to stand against oppression and dominance, not just against Britannia, but any nation that uses their power unjustly. But there is another threat that is looming. A threat that not only you must be aware of, but every nation of this planet!"

The jumbotron at the top of the stage started to flicker.

"The footage you are about to see is real. They are no figment of one's imagination!"

From inside of Zerith, Rai was rapidly typing on a laptop he brought with him. He wasn't only uploading this to the jumbotron, though, but to every screen on planet Earth.

"Here we go," the Green Paladin muttered before pressing the 'enter' button.

On the jumbotron, recorded footage of hundreds of Galra ships invading on the Balmera they had invaded, and footage of Sendak's ship when they stayed on Arus when this whole crazy adventure first happened. There were several other clips that Rai managed to find through the few times he managed to hack into the Galra in some form or another.

"This is the Galra Empire," Zero said, pointing at the jumbotron's screen, "An alien regime hellbent on the domination of the known universe, with Darwinistic beliefs not too different from Britannia. Their technology is far more advanced than anything Earth has ever developed, and with the way the planet stands now, in such a divided state, our world will not stand a chance against such a brutal force."

This time, it wasn't just the Japanese people who were gasping and even screaming in shock. Several members of the Britannian military had similar expressions. Some even dropped their guns in shock.

Even Darlton and Guilford were speechless and pale, the latter looking towards Cornelia, who nodded.

"My god…" Darlton muttered, "That's what they've been up against?" If Voltron, a force that Britannia was lucky to come out of in one piece of, was struggling against this regime, then what chance did Britannia have?

"But that is why Voltron is here," Euphemia spoke again, "to protect all the people of Earth, regardless of their differences. The Paladins of Voltron are no different from any of us."

The screen shifted again, and low and behold, Milly's bright blonde hair filled the screen.

"This thing on…? Yep, the red light means 'on.' Okay, hello everybody or any alien lifeform that finds this video in the future!" the Yellow Paladin grinned, waving at the camera, "This is Milly Ashford, Paladin of the Yellow Lion of Voltron, or Maeraka as I like to call her!"

From the other side of the settlement, Ruben Ashford felt his pen slip from his fingers as his granddaughter's face lit up the screen.

"Anyway, as you can see," Milly grabbed the camera (or whatever the device was). She spun around with it, showing the inside of one of the Castleship's lounges, "I am not at Ashford academy, and it certainly doesn't look like I'm even on Earth. That's because I'm not. Long story short, my friends and I got kidnapped by a magic blue lion and shipped off into this awesome spaceship! With real aliens too! Crazy, right?! Anyway, just letting everyone know that I'm fine and we're hoping to be back home soon once we take care of the Galra Empire. Wish us luck!"

The video fizzled for a few moments before clearing up again. This time it was Rivalz on the screen.

"Hi! It's Rivalz Cardemonde, Paladin of Polaris, the Blue Lion. Hi, Mom, hi, Amelia. Isla. Ava. I'm here in outer space somewhere. I, um, uh, don't really know what to say. Uh, I miss you guys. I miss you guys a lot. I-I know you'll have a lot of questions, but… I'm doing what I think is right, and… yeah, that's about it. Anyway, I hope you're staying safe, and I'll hopefully be back soon. I love you guys."

"...MOM!" a shrill voice rang through the Cardemonde manor.

The next face to appear on the screen was Shirley. The Orange Paladin bit her lip and twirled a piece of her hair.

"Um, hi. I'm Shirley Fenette, the Paladin of the Orange Lion, Zinnia. Mom, Dad, if you ever see this…' the Orange Paladin paused, eyes getting misty, "Just know I love you and I'm thinking about you and I hope I can see you again soon… whenever that is anyway."

Aurora Fenette gasped, her hand flying to her mouth at the sight of her daughter on the screen. Joseph Fenette could only stare in shock before his wife lunged at him, sobbing into his neck.

"...I'm Kallen. Kallen Kozuki," the Red Paladin said bluntly when her video finally popped up, "Paladin of Aka, the Red Lion...what? You know I'm bad at this sort of stuff!" she snapped at someone behind the camera before sighing. "Okay, as everyone can guess from the last name, I'm half-Japanese, surprise, surprise. Anyway… mom, I'm so sorry I left without saying goodbye. I think of you and Naoto every day. I'm here to finish the fight that he helped to start."

As the last recording switched off (Rai didn't make one as he didn't have family on Earth and the Royal Family didn't know about him), the Purple Paladin stepped forward. Most of the crowd was already shocked to see the faces of the Ashford students that went missing months prior, but it was nothing compared to their reaction as Suzaku slowly removed his helmet.

More gasps filled the stadium, and there were even shouts of protest from several people both in the audience and but more so among the Britannian troops. And while they weren't among those protesting, Guilford and Dalton both shared faces of shock as well.

"All of you be silent!" Cornelia suddenly snapped towards the Britannian soldiers. This shut them up immediately. Even the Japanese ceased speaking, though it was clear the order wasn't directed at them. "I will not condone any form of violence here! You just witnessed proof of a formidable threat, and you're concerned about a soldier's blood?"

This admonishment seemed to pacify the Britannians, but the Japanese were staring at the princess in amazement. This woman, who was known as the Goddess of Victory and had shown little mercy or tolerance for 'Elevens' in the past, was now defending them. They weren't sure if this behavior was due to Princess Euphemia's presence or not, but Suzaku took this opportunity to finally speak.

"Yes, I know, I am Suzaku Kurugui, and up until recently, I was also a soldier in their military. An Honorary Britannian like many others here. When I became a soldier, I believed that if I worked hard enough, if I rose high enough in the ranks, I could help change the system, change Britannia from the inside. I hoped to try and use Voltron for the same purpose. But… I can't do it. Not alone, anyway."

Next to him, he felt Euphemia grasp his hand and squeeze it. She then addressed the crowd once again.

"And right now, we need that change more than ever. I know that our empire has committed countless crimes and atrocities, not just to Japan. And I swear to you, we will take full responsibility and do everything we can to make amends. But we can no longer be consumed by our differences."

Zero stepped forward next to the princess, "Now is the time for us to come together. Race, gender, religion, ideology, none of that matters anymore. We must be united under one cause! I implore the people of Earth: Stand alongside Voltron! The Black Knights already stand with us, as do many members of the Royal Family!"

From behind Zero, Zenobia lowered her head again, and from her mouth, another person glided out.

Nunnally, her eyes wide open, rolled up to Zero on her hoverchair and, to the amazement of everyone, stood up, though still wobbling as Zero steadied his sister.

Seeing the lost princess was shocking enough, but seeing the disabled girl now standing on her own two legs nearly sent everyone into a frenzy again.

"Zero and the Paladins helped to restore what was lost to me, and they can do that for everyone on Earth!" she exclaimed.

Next to her, Cornelia walked beside her, grasping her other hand, with Nonette coming up next to the former viceroy. To Zero's left, Euphemia held his open hand, with Suzaku still standing next to her.

"From this day forward... Voltron and Earth... STAND TOGETHER!" Zero proclaimed, raising his hands high, those with him doing the same. This earned cheers from the gathered Japanese, who became encouraged by his words and began to chant.

"VOLTRON!"

"VOLTRON!"

"VOLTRON!"

From above the arena, each of the Paladins was grinning.

"Paladins!" Coran's voice exclaimed over the commlinks.

"What's up, Coran?" Rivalz asked.

"Responses are coming in from all over the planet. They've heard us and are offering support!"

"YES!" Milly cheered, fist-pumping in her seat.

"We did it…!" Shirley exclaimed, tears gathering in her eyes.

Then, the screen on the jumbotron abruptly flickered, drawing the attention of everyone.

"Huh?" Rai gasped from his computer as the system he was working through was swiftly hacked into from another source.

"Rai, what's going on with the signal?" Zero demanded from below.

"I don't know!" the Green Paladin gasped, "Someone's hacking in! They're completely taking me over!"

"What? But who could possibly-" Allura gasped from the castle.

"I don't know!" Rai exclaimed in frustration. Looking closer at the code streaming onto his laptop, he suddenly gasped, "Wherever this signal is coming from, it's not coming from Earth!"

"...But, that could only mean-" Zero's thoughts were interrupted when the screen's image finally cleared. What were once cheers of triumph were transforming into gasps of horror once more as Charles zi Britannia's face glowered on the screen.

"A stirring performance, Zero," the Emperor boomed on the jumbotron.

"Father?!" Euphemia gasped, eyes wide with fear, while Suzaku and Nonette glared angrily at the monarch on screen. Instinctively, Zero pulled Nunnally towards him while Cornelia placed herself in front of the vi Britannia siblings, eyes narrowed at the man whose blood they shared.

"It amuses me how you and my foolish daughter continue to spew these ideals, such as unity. You must think that such counsel is wise. But this is nothing but a folly! Such terms as responsibility and peace are nothing but an illusion. Lies created by a childish and naive fantasy!"

"How dare you!" Nonette gasped, but the Emperor drowned out her voice.

"You wish to truly speak of responsibility? Our beloved Britannia has nothing to be responsible for! Our methods are our divine right! Any talk of change is preposterous!"

Suzaku didn't say anything, but he could tell that jab was likely exclusively targeted at him.

"I am pleased that I can finally put faces and names on you so-called 'Paladins,'" the Emperor then sneered, "Now I know who to mark as true traitors of the empire, along with you and everyone else on that stage with you!"

This declaration was met with shouts of protest and shock. Darlton and Guilford looked the most shell-shocked.

"He can't be serious!" Guilford gasped.

"The Emperor's gone mad!" Darlton added.

"Why must Britannia ally itself with that wretched abomination, Voltron, when we have gained an even greater ally?"

Allura, Coran, and C.C. were also watching and listening to the Emperor's speech from the inside of the castle. The Altean Princess was practically seething. Was this man truly that stubborn and shameless? Why did he refuse to see reason when they were extending a hand for an alliance.

The Emperor's last words, though, did catch them off guard, especially C.C. The immortal was shocked and confused as well at Charles's behavior.

'What the hell are you thinking, Charles?!' she thought, 'Making this proclamation will only turn the whole world against you and Britannia! Why would you make such a move if you still wish for Ragnarok to succeed?'

Red warning lights began to blare all over the bridge and throughout the castle. The Black Knights, still on standby in the launch bay, looked around in bewilderment.

"Princess, what's going on?!" Tohdoh demanded through his radio.

"We're not sure-"

"Allura!" Coran gasped, face paling as he turned to the main scanners, "The castle's picking up multiple vessels entering the atmosphere!"

"Pull it on screen!" the princess commanded.

As the castle pulled up its outer surveillance cameras, Allura's blood ran cold. C.C. and Coran also watched in equal horror.

One after another, Galra warships and fleets closed in, surrounding planet Earth.

"No…"

"No…!" Zero gasped as he looked to the sky and saw the same warships descending from space.

Everyone, Paladin, Japanese, Britannian, every citizen of Earth was frozen in terror as the very threat they had been warned of moments of ago came into visibility.

"From this point onward, Britannia stands not as an ally to Voltron, but as their enemy! And our new Galran allies have graciously offered their support in our crusade!"

"WHAT?!" Suzaku shouted, eyes wide and staring at the Emperor, who he could only think was outright insane!

From within the Viceroy's Palace, Schneizel el Britannia felt himself shaking as he witnessed the events unfold in front of him.

"Father, what madness is this?!"

"He…" Lelouch could barely get the words out of his mouth, "He's actually… joined them…?!"

"If you wish for Earth to stand with you, Zero, then you must fight us for it!" Charles challenged, a broad grin on his face, "Will you and your precious friends save this planet or destroy it?! Time to learn the gambles of war! ALL HAIL BRITANNIA!"

Having heard the final declaration from the nation's monarch, Commander Corza looked over her own forces. Forces that the Emperor had personally requested to oversee this… union.

She sneered at the choice of word, but she was an old Galra, and she knew her emperor well. The only reason he agreed to such an act was because it was more beneficial to proceed down this route. Had Haggar not established contact between this planet's hierarchy and Zarkon, they could have easily rained death and fire upon these lesser lifeforms and took the planet for themselves.

'Oh well,' she shrugged aloofly. The long game was sometimes necessary.

"Commander Corza," a robotic voice rang over the speakers, "all vessels are locked on."

The commander smiled. Let the fun begin.

"Open fire!"

Like wasps swarming from their nests, hundreds of Galra cruisers and fighters shrieked across the sky towards the SAZ. One that appeared to be faster than the rest swooped down and blasted rapidly into the center of the stadium.

Screams of terror and pain erupted as the ground exploded from the blasts.

For a moment, time seemed to stand still. For the Paladins, the Japanese citizens, and several Britannians.

Then all hell broke loose as the Japanese panicked and began to run for the stadium's exits, only for many more to be blown away by more blasts from above.

This seemed to snap Zero from his horrified trance, and he leaped into action.

"Paladins!" he all but screamed into the comm in his helmet, "Defend the zone! Take down any Galran ship that you see! NOW!"

He barely heard the acknowledgment from his teammates as the Orange, Blue, Yellow, Green, and Red all roared in unison and rocketed up into the sky. It didn't take long for blue lasers and balls of fire to mix in with the purple, black, and red of the Galran attacks and debris.

"Lelouch!" Nunnally gasps, eyes large and panicked, clinging to her brother like a lifeline.

"We've got to ge-"

Before Lelouch could finish his sentence, he froze, along with Nunnally, Suzaku, Cornelia, Nonette, and Euphemia. It was like someone had hit the pause button on a movie screen.

Off to the side of the stage, a short, hooded figure crouched down, raising a pistol towards the group.

"Targets sighted," he said almost monotonously, his light violet eyes barely showing emotion at all.

His finger pulled down on the trigger.

BANG!

Blood spurted from Princess Euphemia's chest, but she made no move fall from the bullet's impact.

"First target eliminated…" the assassin confirmed before pointed his gun at his second victim, "and second tar-"

Yoru's eyes suddenly sparked to life, and the Purple Lion's head whipped towards the boy's direct, a malicious growl verberating from his maw. With a livid sounding roar, the lion lifted its paw and slammed down mere inches away from the boy's body.

With a grunt, the assassin landed with a gasp on his back, hood flying off his head, revealing light brunette locks and honey peach skin, the wind rushing from his lungs from the impact. He had managed to move out of the way in time before the paw crushed him, but his shock at the lion's sudden movement nearly cost him his life!

Despite this setback, though, he still had a mission, and he attempted to re-aim his gun at Nunnally's vulnerable head.

Then with a mighty leap that shook the ground, the Black Lion leaped into the air and landed directly in front of the adolescent gunman.

The young couldn't stop the scream of fright as Zenobia roared in his face, nearly shattering his eardrums. The lion then raised her tail, the end lighting up with intense blue light.

Any further coherent thoughts vanished as all, but primal instinct replaced the boy's mind as he immediately turned and ran for his life, his Geass flashing reactively as he felt himself be thrown backward from the force of Zenobia's tail laser obliterating the ground where he had been not two seconds previously.

Scrambling to his feet, the Geass assassin disappeared into the crowd of panicking Japanese citizens.

With a stumble, Lelouch regained his senses, Zenobia's roar still ringing in his ears, both mentally and literally.

"Wha-"

"EUPHIE!" The raw, anguished cry of his older sister caused Lelouch to whip around and gasp terror as he saw the princess lying in a pool of blood beneath her.

"NO!" Suzaku screamed, dropping to his knees and skidding to her side.

From the amount of blood already there, Lelouch could tell that Euphemia didn't have long.

Unless…

"Suzaku, get her back to the castle now!" Lelouch ordered desperately.

The Purple Paladins seemed to have the same idea, as he was already scooping Euphemia into his arms and sprinting towards Yoru's open mouth. The lion swallowed her Paladin and his injured cargo up before he was even inside her mouth and shot up into the sky.

"Nelly!" Nonette cried out before tackling the former viceroy to the ground as a round of bullets suddenly rained down on the stage. Lelouch did the same for Nunnally, shielding his sister, his armored back taking the brunt of several bullets.

But just as quickly, the quartet heard the sound of bullets again, but this time being fired away from them.

Looking up, Cornelia gasped to see several Gloucesters, her unit's Gloucesters, firing rapidly back at both Sutherlands and Galra fighters that flew close enough to the ground.

"Princess Cornelia! You must flee now!" Guilford's voice shouted from the cockpit of his Knightmare.

The princess in question stared in shock for a moment before speaking. "Why are you helping me?! You heard your emperor! I'm a traitor!"

"No!" the knight argued back, fervently, "The Emperor's the traitor here! Not you!"

"Our loyalty is to you, and you alone, Princess! Whoever that madman was, he was not the Emperor that leads our people!" Darlton added from his own Knightmare. Close by, the group noticed the specialized Knightmares of the Glaston Knights close by, also firing towards the sky and surrounding their father and the stage.

"...I thank you," Cornelia said softly, "All of you!"

"Lelouch!" Nonette exclaimed, "Get Nunnally out of here! We'll rally the troops down here and form a front here on the ground!"

The sky suddenly flashed with two large laser blasts, melting away several Galran fighters at once. As the smoke cleared, the Le Fey emerged, cannons and other artillery at the ready.

"Hm, an alien invasion," Lloyd Asplund said casually as if he was strolling through a peaceful park, "I'd say I'm surprised, but I'd be lying."

"What Lloyd means to say," Cecile's more frantic voice interrupted from the vessel's speakers, "is that we're in this fight too! We'll provide air support where we can!"

"But… you'll be slaughtered!" Lelouch exclaimed.

The Black Paladin then gasped as Cornelia approached and grasped his shoulders. At that moment, he didn't see the Goddess of Victory, the Witch of Britannia, not even the Second Princess of Britannia. He just saw Cornelia. His sister. His beloved older sibling, he once thought was gone forever.

"I'll be fine, Lelouch. Go, help your friends. Get Nunnally away from here," she said calmly but firmly, meeting his eye through his mask.

Lelouch finally nodded after a few seconds.

"Be careful," was all he said before turning to Nunnally.

"Let's go Nunnally!" he said urgently, gently grasping her forearm and running towards Zen.

"R-Right!" his younger sister gasped, nearly tripping over her feet. With a squeak, she soon found herself scooped into her brother's arms, one of his hands shielding her head as he darted into the Black Lion's mouth. After gently placing her back in the hover chair, now connected to the floor of the cockpit, Lelouch flung himself into his seat.

"Zen, let's go!" he shouted, and with a furious roar, the Black Lion pounced and shot into the sky.

Kallen screamed out a battle cry as Aka flung her jaw blade out. It ripped through several fighters, which exploded seconds later.

Corkscrewing around each other, Polaris with her sonic cannon active, and Maeraka's light bombs flashing, several Galrans suddenly either lost control of their vessels or were blinded enough that they ended up running head-on into other ships.

"This can't be happening… There's just no way!" Shirley muttered as she rammed into a cluster of v-formation ships.

"Well, I mean, I knew there was always the risk of this scenario, but…" Rivalz exclaimed almost hysterically.

"Guys, focus!" Rai snapped, Zerith blocking a barrage of lasers heading for Aka just in time, "If we get distracted, more people are going to die!"

Before anyone could respond, a large form shrieked past them, beelining towards the castle.

"What the-was that Yoru?!" Milly gasped.

"What's Suzaku doing?!" Rivalz gasped.

"Don't worry about him!" Lelouch ordered as Zenobia sliced through multiple ships, fires illuminating the lion's form behind her, "Rai's right! Focus on the enemy in front of you if you want to survive!"

"Lelouch, is Nunnally with you?" Kallen asked urgently.

"Yes, she's fine. We both are. Euphemia though… Suzaku's rushing her to the infirmary."

"What?!" Shirley gasped, "What happened?!"

Lelouch grit his teeth, "Someone-no, the Emperor tried to kill her…"

Seeing the Purple Lion returning to the castle, Allura, Coran, and C.C. raced to the lion's hanger. Shortly after the Emperor's announcement ended, the castle's link was cut. They only had access to the lion's commlinks but had no clue about the specifics that just transpired.

Nearly crashing onto the platform, Yoru screeched to a halt, not even stopping fully before lowering her mouth.

What came out had Allura gasping, hands flying to mouth. C.C. also froze.

"Oh, Alaaran…" Coran whispered as Suzaku held a blood-soaked Euphemia in his arms, his pristine white armor smeared crimson.

"Please! You have to save Euphie!" Suzaku gasped, his eyes wild, "Do something! You mustn't let her die!"

"Coran, prep a cryopod, now!" Allura frantically.

"Right away!" the advisor yelped before sprinting out of the hangar towards the infirmary.

With assistance from Guilford and Darlton, both Nonette and Cornelia managed to procure Gloucesters, both of which had float systems, for themselves. As they soared through the sky, staying close to the Le Fey, the princess saw that not only were the Galra fighters firing at the Japanese and other humans in their path, but several Sutherlands were also firing upon the people.

"What?!" she gasped. That couldn't be right! Euphemia had ordered those soldiers not to attack the Japanese.

Unless…

"You!" she shouted, accessing an open channel to the Sutherlands, "What the hell are you doing?!"

"I don't see why a traitor should be concerned with these matters any longer!" came the response from the commanding officer of the units below.

Gritting her teeth, Cornelia didn't back down. "You were given strict orders before we were announced as traitors not to harm these people!"

"Apologies, Cornelia," the officer sneered, "But any orders from the Emperor trump those of any lowly princess!"

Now, everyone knew that Cornelia li Britannia had a temper, so if you wished to survive around her, it was best you didn't provoke it. However, if there was one thing that would instantly earn you her wrath, it was speaking ill in any way towards her sister.

Cornelia dove towards the massacre with a roar of challenge, Nonette and the rest of her faithful knights right behind her.

"No!" Rai gasped as he and the rest of the Paladins also witnessed a large number of Britannian forces turning on the Japanese. Bodies of men, women, and children were strewn everywhere, and neither the Britannians nor the Galra showed any signs of stopping.

"Why…?" Shirley cried, tears running down her cheeks.

"Even our own home?!" Rivalz uttered, eyes shaking.

Milly could only bow her head, feeling absolutely helpless.

"Lelouch, we need help!" Kallen shouted. Aka's head turned towards their leader.

"Yes…" Lelouch nodded, barely containing his own emotions of grief and anger. He promptly contacted the castle, accessing the channel that would speak from every point and room on the Castle of Lions.

"This is my order to all Black Knights!" he exclaimed, "Charles zi Britannia is now officially our enemy! The coward has sided with the Galra and openly declared anyone who sides with us as traitors, even fellow Britannians! All Black Knights and Paladins, wage an attack now! Wipe out all Galra and Britannian forces! Save the people! Hurry!"

[mononoke-no-ko]

[Trans] Director Taniguchi interview from Resurrection pamphlet

By the request of the pamphlet’s owner, I won’t post the full look of the pamphlet. Just contact me if you want to see the Japanese text on some section, but please be moderate and don’t ask for the whole thing.

--After the movie trilogy, now it’s “Lelouch of the Resurrection”. Since when did you come up with the concept of this work production?

Taniguchi: Since quite a while ago. In retrospect, at early stage of the TV series planning, this work's concept already existed. At the beginning of the TV series planning, naturally I thought about in what kind of ‘form’ the conclusion would take shape. Then as this series welcoming its 10th anniversary, and its world has expanded, I thought “this time, let’s put them together into a ‘form’”.

--At that time, what kind of ending was it going to be?  

Taniguchi: It was something similar to this “Resurrection”. However, because a production is something that's perfected as you're making it, I do believe that TV is TV's one answer.

--So this work is created to draw that ending concept?

Taniguchi: For me, “to make something that fans would enjoy” is all there is. While affirming TV series as TV series, this time I wanted to expand the world of “Code Geass” in a broader sense. The feeling that I wanted to present this as one possibility is really strong. Because a work is a living thing, this work won’t be able to survive without the support of the fans. First of all we would like to express our gratitude to the fans who have given their support. At the same time, we also would like to welcome those who experienced “Code Geass” for the first time. With this work, we're considerably mindful of the first time viewers so that they'll also be able to enjoy it.

--When you're formulating the detailed story, what did you decide on as the axis?

Taniguchi: In the making of this work, the first thing I talked about with Okouchi Ichiro-san is "Let's make a fan movie that would make fans happy. However, with only that new viewers won't be able enter, so let's make the story easy to understand". Eventually we had a prolonged discussion on which points that would need to be compromised.

--In the end, the KMF is renewed, a new enemy also comes out, and it became a showcase of all-star.

Taniguchi: Since we're going to do it anyway, I didn't want to do it half-bakedly. Since the very beginning, we created "Lelouch of the Rebellion" by taking on board every elements that make up the work and elements that please the fans as much as we could. We're scraping things off not for the sake of narrowing the scale. Even though this time it's somewhat unreasonable because we're making it as an extension of "Lelouch of the Rebellion" trilogy, we take everything on board anyway. Well looking from another perspective, nowadays it's impossible to do this kind of work in a TV series. First the production site won't be able to handle it, then viewers also don't want to see this kind of dark works in TV anime. However if we lighten it, it won't be "Lelouch" anymore, so we decided that there's no other choice but to do it in a theatrical movie. If there's something I want to add, is that I think if it's for "Code Geass", there is an opening to do dark work in TV anime. However I think it would be difficult to do "Lelouch arc" within that 'opening'.

--How did you come up with the newly appearing country, Zilkstan?

Taniguchi: We already used Asia with Chinese Federations, and aristrocatic elements have been left to Britannia. Regarding E.U., "Akito the Exiled" already touched on it. In the world power map that was in my initial draft, I turned Antarctica into a country named "Penguin Empire", but we can't have an empire of penguin as the enemy (laugh). Narrowing down to the areas that we haven't done before, then around Arab or Africa. However, it seems the audience will be confused as to how to cut out certain ethnic or religion, then we might as well create a country. When the world was roughly divided into Britannia and UFN in "Imperial Road", there were still areas that don't belong to anywhere yet, so I figured to solidify that setting more firmly. Even though it's a new country, I want it to have persuasive power, and the foothold have to be solid so that the fantasy element "geass" can be supported, so I built it with discussing with each staff, while consulting with concept designer Teraoka-san, Hishinuma-san from art department, and researcher Shirado-san...

--A mercenary country that sends out mercenaries to other countries as an exchange of not having resources. Within the country itself there seems to be disparity as well.

Taniguchi: When the country is hiring out soldiers to other countries, people who have money will come along because they'll have a chance to build relationship with other countries. On one side, there's an area where rich people from abroad live, while on the other side, there are also local religious facilities. People who work for those religious facilities live in poor neighborhoods. It's a country with such structure. Because the capital is the entrance for the customers from abroad who come to buy the country's military power, there are railways and highways there. Behind the flowery part of the city, there's an exact opposite area. However, as identity as a country is necessary, the more I think about the foundation of the country, the more it becomes plain pictorially, so I was intentionally careful in how to capture the parts that aren't so.

--The character from Zilkhstan that you particularly emphasize?

Taniguchi: It's Chalio. Thinking about a character that holds his own against Suzaku, it has to be a character who has already given up on tomorrow. Should I call him a character that will be acceptable as Suzaku's opponent? While for Kallen and the others' enemies, I balanced it by introducing super modern weapons and ridiculously large stuffs. Although Suzaku and Chalio both have special machines, I wanted him to be a balanced pilot in a different way from Suzaku. His body doesn't move the way he wants it to, but he still charges ahead with obsession alone. That's the part we did thoroughly.

--Chamna and Chalio as siblings, are they supposed to be a contrast to Lelouch and Nunnally?

Taniguchi: Well, there’s awareness of it. But country-wise there's not much connection, after all the older sister is the religious leader, and the younger brother Chalio is the king. Although there's actually an idea to put Forgner on the side as a political counselor, but if Chamna controls both politics and religion, it will end up becoming a religious state. As you may have understood by seeing it, Chamna can use her geass multiple times, conversely, it's a contrast to Lelouch who risked his life just once. Because for Chamna, the direction she's facing has already completed since the beginning, she's almost completely free of doubts and hesitations.

--How about the highlights on the production side?

Taniguchi: The production was fully improved. The outfits, the hair presentations, even the filming processing, we renewed everything. I did things I couldn't do enough in TV series, like putting gradation on certain characters' hairs. On the action side, first I increased the amount of true-to-life hand-to-hand actions. Starting from there, old-type KMF gradually became the latest model. As I imagined the sensation of the whole thing heating up, I think it's good that this kind of flow came out.

--Your thoughts on the casts, such as Fukuyama-san?

Taniguchi: Because they're the people I've had the privilege to work with for a long time, the feelings are deep indeed. It's difficult to control everyone individually when you're building the characters. Even with the power of our animators, eventually we need to have logic to run through the voice play too. It's something only voice actors can do, so I trust and respect them. That's why there are times I gave them instructions like "At minimum you should do this much work" or "Everyone should already understand the balance there" (laugh). The balance there is achieved while consulting the sound director, but unlike during TV start, this time everyone has already understood that. All the actors who newly joined in this time have individuality so each of them is interesting, if I was to say it then Chalio-kun's voice actor, Murase Ayumu's peculiar sense of distance is very good. I first met him a few years ago, but he hasn't changed at all. Whereas Fukuyama-kun is a real bother (laugh), he's truly similar to Lelouch. But that's a good thing, so this is a compliment.

--While "Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion" is also a picaresque romance, as you have been depicting the character named Lelouch for 10 years, what do you feel?

Taniguchi: Though he appears to be  "dark", Lelouch is actually an honest person. The things he wants to do and his goals appear to be wholesome for some people, while for others they might seem "dark". If you make a character of justice deliberately do something that goes against the justice that character upholds, at that moment that character will become a lie. The things that Lelouch do, looking at the result, can only be seen as something dark from outsiders' point of view. Since he's only acting according to the goal he sets himself, he's totally unshakable. From the start, with this series, I thought of making it about the building process of the 'enemy' organization. Actually, that was also the underlying theme of "Code Geass".

--What do you feel now about "Lelouch of the Rebellion" series?  

Taniguchi: I feel grateful that "Code Geass" became a series, and that it has become something that's possible to aim for diversified expansion. "Lelouch of the Resurrection" is a reply for those who have supported "Lelouch of the Rebellion". I'm also very grateful for the privilege of being given such opportunity. I've been thinking about it, but this series is blessed. Various people helped and came to join us, and good things came out in unexpected shape. A work that includes all of those aspects, I'm really grateful to be able to get involved in such work.

--At last, please tell us your favorite scene in this movie.

Taniguchi: What I thought as something that came out better than expected, it’s the Zilkhstan animals. Like the birds in the wilderness and the chickens at the village. Also somewhere in the middle, ferrets appear in just one cut. This scene has been pointed out since the storyboard that "This is ferret". Please try to look for where it comes out by all means.

[suzalulusource]

CODE GEASS Lelouch of the Rebellion I - Initiation x THE KISS x BANDAI ring set

[animeloveworld]

A Review on Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Note: This review is not mine.I have posted this review here because I feel it summarizes the anime Code Geass very well.

However I will be posting my reviews in the future once I get more experience.

This review is taken myanimelist from the reviewer kiriska.

Overall Rating 9

I was incredibly skeptical about Code Geass at first, but I'm very pleased to say that I was greatly surprised.

STORY - Before I saw this series, it was described to me on multiple occasions as "Death Note with mechas." After seeing it, however, I am inclined to disagree. The similarities between the two series are superficial at best, and though I can see why people would draw the comparison, I don't really think that dis/liking one means that you'll dis/like the other. But anyway, unlike Death Note, I wouldn't say that the story in Code Geass is particularly notable or unique. It's actually rather straightforward and even a little cliche, but that's exactly why this is such a well done series -- the barebones storyline is handled in a refreshing and new way that grabs the viewer's attention. There are enough twists and turns involved to keep you on the edge of your seat. The pacing is excellent and nothing feels rushed or drawn out. Indeed, the progression up to the conclusion is especially brilliant. (It's a cliffhanger "ending," but oh, it's just a fantastic cliffhanger.)

The series is also appealing in its uncanny ability to mix genres. Yes, this is a mecha series, but it really doesn't have to be. Yes, CLAMP did the character designs and there are some very shoujo elements (read: homolust), but there are very shounen rivalries and some pretty epic battle scenes too. Everybody wins! Additionally, because of the number of characters, the story allows for a number of small subplots. I was very happy with how this was handled in particular because all of the subplots relate and affect the main plot directly, whether by revealing some bit of information to both the characters and the viewer or by pushing forward interesting character development. Everything is well thought out and wonderfully executed, so despite the fact that "strong-willed person with plans to change the world receives mysterious power that helps facilitate his goals" isn't a very unique storyline... Code Geass makes it work.

Also. Code Geass utilizes the "best friends trying to kill each other" plotline, and I'm a sucker for that plotline.

CHARACTER - The characters in this series are rather varied. Some are very plain and one-dimensional, while others have an amazing complexity to them that makes them very life-like. I'll be honest. I've become somewhat infatuated with Lelouch as a character (and am rather biased as a result). To me, he is very much a human character -- he has emotions, opinions, a unique point of view, and some very serious flaws, all of which make him incredibly easy to relate to and to sympathize with. He is easily the most complex character in the series, and he feels real to me, even with his supernatural powers and his genius-level intellect. This ability to make the audience relate to him is also probably the series' greatest strength and the main reason why the story is able to remain relevant and interesting despite the fact that there aren't too many new ideas plotwise.

Suzaku would probably be second in line for complexity after Lelouch, though his sense of justice might be called cliche at first (along with Nunnally's and Euphemia's), and his hax-level physical prowess is somehow harder to accept than Lelouch's genius-level intelligence. It's harder to appreciate Suzaku's depth at first, partially because he is presented as Lelouch's main obstacle and the audience's sympathies are with Lelouch, but a great deal is revealed about his character throughout the course of the series, and he becomes an amazing foil to his rival. Their conflicting ideologies and philosophies are fascinating if you really look into it, and gay as it sounds, they really do compliment each other very well.

Much of the rest of the cast seems to fall into typical archetypes -- there's your adorable little sister, your mad scientist and his assistant, your cheerful schoolgirls, your best friend, your most loyal soldier, your second-in-command, your village idiot, your... really creepy lesbian girl? Despite the generic-sounding descriptions, most of the characters are actually pretty fun, or at the very least, interesting. C.C. provides snarky commentary. Shirley spreads innocent schoolgirl love. Nunnally is so moe you'll die. Jeremiah is a good butt of all jokes. Little bits of backstory are tossed in here and there to separate them from the crowd, but it's never enough to actually intrude, and the wide range of characters lets you settle into the world pretty well too; after all, what universe is complete without an animal mascot that shows up now and again?

ARTWORK & ANIMATION - I wasn't too impressed with CLAMP's character designs at first (noodleboys!), but as always seems to be the case, they gradually grew on me, and I remembered just how pretty X was. CLAMP just knows how to make everyone look amazingly sexy, male or female. I really loved how they did all of the facial expressions in the series though, especially for Lelouch. Seriously, that guy had some of the most awesome crazy expressions, some of the most amazingly touching sadface expressions, and of course, some of the most amusing WTF expressions. The mecha designs for the Knightmare Frames were also pretty awesome. I dig the whole rollar blade thing, and some of the technologies they come up with are neat, if a little over-the-top. The animation is fluid and smooth for the most part and very few things stood out as being bad.

MUSIC - Initially, I wasn't particularly fond of any of the OP/EDs for Code Geass except the first ending by ALI PROJECT because 1) they're awesome, and 2) Yuki Kajiura's style seemed to suit the series very well. The screaming violins both convey the high status of Britannia and the intensity of the emotions in the series. The rest of the themes seemed lackluster in comparison, but though I was never a huge fan of FLOW, "COLORS" kind of grew on me after a while. The final insert song, "Innocent Days" by Hitomi is pretty nice as well. Very thoughtful, very poignant, very fitting. The background music during the series was negligible for the most part; there is some pretty generic battle build-up type music and other appropriate, but rather typical, themes. Still, there's some neat classical/opera stuff, and the "All hail Brittania!" theme is definitely awesome.

VOICE ACTING - I've seen all of Code Geass subbed and most of it dubbed. Although I was incredibly turned off by Johnny Yong Bosch's role as Lelouch initially, it kind of grew on me, and now I think it fits well enough, though I do wish he'd change his voice a little more when Lelouch is Zero (make it a little deeper?). Suzaku's dub voice surprised me with how appropriate it was too. One of the things I really wish we could replicate in English though, is the subtle differences in manners between characters, between Lelouch and Suzaku at various stages of their lives, and between Lelouch and Zero. In Japanese, when Lelouch and Suzaku are children, they refer to themselves with "boku" and "ore" respectively. As teenagers, the pronouns are swapped, with Lelouch using "ore" (Zero uses "watashi") and Suzaku using "boku." Euphemia uses "watakushi." I'll skip the grammar lesson (go wiki "Japanese pronouns"), but suffice to say that these differences provide a lot of very interesting insight into each of the characters. It's really too bad English isn't nearly as interesting.

The rest of the voices in the dub are pretty average, perhaps the low end of average, with a stereotypically high-pitched girly voice for Nunnally that is amazingly annoying, and very forgettable voices for virtually all the female characters (Milly, Shirley, and Kallen all kind of sound the same). I was very impressed with Lloyd's dub voice though, even if nothing will ever amount to his amazing original voice, which is uh, amazing! Seriously. One of the most amusing voices I've ever heard. Jun Fukuyama's voice for Lelouch I found to be a bit too deep/old sounding initially, but that grew on me as well, and I really love the badassity of his voice for Zero. Suzaku's original voice sounds a little generic at first, but it grows with his character. There's a good bit of Engrish in the Japanese version as well, which is always fun. I don't think you can ever get tired of their "Yes, my lord(o)!" or their "All hail Britannia!"

Overall, I'd say the original is damn awesome, and the dub is pretty watchable -- always a plus, right?

OVERALL - I really love this series, and I definitely did not see that happening. Honestly, I found the first episode incredibly underwhelming: the opening sequence made it look like a series I wouldn't be interested in watching at all, and all of the expository really turned me off...but the second episode? That was so much more epic than I could have ever predicted, and I was pretty much won over after that. I'm just a sucker for chess analogies, I guess! Seriously though, good story, good characters, good animation, and good music! Mechas, politics, rivalry and comradery, strained friendships, love and hate, complex ideologies, and blowing shit up! What more could you want? :D

[therosecrest]