Area 11: Britannia
The main castle, where the nobles and the army are located, is in Japan. Two meetings were taking place: one with Cornelia and the other with the nobles. Additionally, Red Skull was holding his own private meeting. The room was not crowded; it included Crossbones checking security points around the perimeter and Viper lounging with dangerous grace, along with some other faces that had just arrived in Japan.
Dr. Arnim Zola
A Britannia scientist and a close ally of Red Skull, he is the one who built the technology that keeps Red Skull alive after his transformation. He is a mastermind in both robotics and genetics, constantly scribbling notes and adjusting his round spectacles while explaining his latest breakthrough. Although he is known to conduct some questionable experiments, he speaks about them with clinical detachment. However, he only tests on criminals whom HYDRA knows the world won't care about, rather than on civilians—not from moral concern but for operational security.
On the huge screen on the wall is the weapon manufacturer who has helped make the Knightmare frames.
Baron von Strucker
Similar to Red Skull, he endured a terrible accident that left him with deformities. His left hand is replaced with the Satan Claw, a metal prosthetic which he often strokes with his right hand when speaking. Standing rigidly with military posture, he commands respect through his aristocratic bearing. Currently, he is in a European country conducting business with Euro Britannia, alongside other high-ranking HYDRA operatives.
As everyone, except for Strucker, appeared on the screen, they all sat down to begin the meeting. Red Skull was the first to speak, clasping his hands behind his back as he addressed the room with perfect posture.
"Gentlemen, Fräulein," he nodded toward Viper with cold formality. "I am pleased that you all could attend this meeting, one way or another." His German accent, though slight, gave his words a sharp edge. He glanced at Strucker's screen and asked, "You are on a secure channel, ja?"
Strucker nodded, straightening his already perfect posture. "Yes, Herr Skull. I assure you I am the only one seeing this meeting. I have my best technicians working to prevent any unwanted hackers from listening," he said with military precision.
"Good, then let us proceed," Red Skull said as he looked at Zola, who stood up holding a piece of paper and coughed into his hand, clearing his throat. His excitement about his work was evident despite his clinical tone.
"I am happy to announce that the experiments we have been conducting on criminal subjects have been going quite well, although we do have some complications," he said, causing Red Skull to sigh as he anticipated what might come next.
"What kind of complications?" he asked, his voice remaining calm though his red fingers tapped the table rhythmically. Zola then grabbed a remote and changed the screen for Strucker, although he could still see and hear the meeting and would be visible on video.
The video shows scientists in a hallway observing a robot as it walks towards them. Everything seems fine until...
It pulled its head off, showing a skull, and was screaming in pain.
Red Skull's eyes narrowed dangerously, and Zola nervously adjusted his glasses. "It seems that the test subjects often committed suicide when we put them through the robotics program. We've been trying to find a way to prevent this," he said, turning the screen back on.
"Couldn't you just make the bots without the human brain?" Viper asked lazily, running a finger across her lower lip, not really bothered by the horrific experiment she saw. She didn't care about it at all.
"Yes, but without a human-like brain, they would just be a form of target practice for the enemy," Zola replied defensively. "With a human mind, they would have the instinct to either dodge attacks or solve complicated tasks. Unfortunately, an AI can only do so much and is not advanced enough to handle such complex tasks."
Red Skull looked at Zola, his red face impassive. "Is there a way to prevent our new robotic troopers from committing suicide?" he asked coldly.
Zola had an idea, his eyes lighting up behind his glasses. "Actually, Herr Skull, we believe we can address this issue. If we wipe the memories of our subjects when we install the cybernetic implants, it should help significantly." He pulled out a small notebook and began sketching a diagram.
"Very well, see to it. If it doesn't work, we will think of something else," Red Skull said as Zola nodded and sat down, still scribbling notes.
Red Skull turned his gaze to Viper, who straightened slightly under his attention. "How goes the mission in the Amazon forest? Have you found the resistance group?" Viper nodded in response, a dangerous smile playing on her lips.
"Not to worry, Herr Skull," she said in her silky voice. "My agents and I are getting close to this rebellion faction, but our only obstacle is the Britannia's asshole; they keep getting in the way, and when we do require help, they throw racial slurs at us." Her smile turned predatory. "Some of the operatives wanted to kill the fuckers, and believe me, I am tempted to let them."
"I understand, and don't worry about it," Red Skull said, his tone remaining measured and calm. "Next time you need support, you can call us instead of Britannia. We'll make sure you get what you need." He then looked at the large screen. "Strucker, how is the shipment supply?"
Strucker absently stroked his Satan Claw as he responded. "Things are going well, Herr Skull. You will have your new supply of weaponry and Knightmare Frames soon." His face hardened. "However, I would like to propose that I personally go to Japan to fix your Knightmare Frames. I don't want Lloyd handling my weaponry." The possessiveness in his voice was unmistakable.
"I understand your concern," Red Skull said with a nod, "and as much as he makes my skin crawl, he is good at his job. So for now, he must stay." He stood up, his movements precise and controlled.
"Now, on the next subject," he grabbed a remote and pushed a button, showing an image of Zero on the day he saved Suzaku. "Does anyone have any more information on Zero or Suzaku?"
Viper sighed as she looked at the screen, twirling a strand of hair between her fingers. "Not much, sadly, Herr Skull, other than what Crossbones told you." She pointed at Crossbones, who flipped her off while continuing to scan the room for security threats. "We have nothing on this Zero, and for some damn reason, Suzaku's past is hidden—almost as if someone doesn't want anyone to know."
Red Skull's face remained impassive, but the remote in his hand started to crack under pressure. "However," Viper said with a slight smirk, "you need to stop squeezing the remote."
"I found some information that he is attending a prestigious Britannia school," she added with a seductive purr. "It may not seem significant, but we could use this to our advantage—perhaps promising the boy some girls might entice him to join us."
"Could you please keep your mind out of the gutter, Viper?" Zola asked without looking up from his notes, frowning at her suggestion.
However, everyone noticed that Red Skull was quiet as he looked at the screen, his posture rigid with thought. "Umm, Herr Skull... you okay?" Crossbones asked gruffly, but he didn't get an answer right away.
Red Skull turned to look at Zola. "Doctor, I have a question to ask." This made the doctor look up, raising an eyebrow.
"Is my other suit ready? I want to see the school." His voice was calm but carried unmistakable authority.
Ashford Academy
Ashford Academy is one of the most prestigious schools and is highly sought after by many parents looking to enroll their children. While it appears to be open to all students, it is clear that most, if not all, of the students are citizens of Britannia.
Outside the school, close to the gate, a black limousine was parked. The driver lowered the window and spoke to the com speaker, "We are here; open the gate," the driver ordered.
"I—yes, please enter and tell the prince that we at Ashford Academy welcome—" before the man on the other side of the communication speaker finished his sentence. The speaker was stabbed with a knife.
Slowly, the gate opened, and the drive continued. As he did, he noticed a small crowd hovering around the school's clock tower.
The backseat windows slowly lower for the person in the back, revealing Suzaku being surrounded by students who greet him with smiles.
Soon, some of the students noticed the limousine that was stopped right outside the entrance of the school.
Every student gathered to the side, wondering who it was. They saw a man getting out of the car as the driver, walking to the passenger side, and opening the door.
Crossbones walked out of the car, his skull-patterned combat gear immediately putting him into a combat-ready stance as he scanned the area for threats. The students looked at him with fear, noticing how his hand never strayed far from his sidearm. However, they noticed him mostly looking inside the limo.
"All clear, boss. Just some students here," he said gruffly, and soon the students saw a footstep out of the limo.
When the person stepped out, everyone had a look of fear and respect, as this was
Red Skull
When Red Skull got out of the car, his red, skull-like face immediately commanded attention. He looked around with cold, calculating eyes to see the students staring at him in fear. He didn't respond and kept walking, his posture perfect, hands clasped behind his back.
However, there was one student who caught his eye because, unlike the other students, this one was giving him death glares. Time seemed to slow as they looked at one another.
Red Skull is one character, and the other character is a man named Lelouch.
Crossbones noticed Red Skull looking at something and immediately tensed, his hand moving toward his weapon. He followed Red Skull's gaze and thought he saw a student. Crossbones considered showing off his gun in a threatening manner, but Red Skull stopped him by placing a hand over Crossbones' hand.
"Let go... I don't want to be late," he said calmly but with unmistakable authority. Crossbones nodded as he released the handle of the gun, and he and Red Skull walked into the school, leaving Lelouch behind with a mix of anger and confusion as he wondered why he was there.
As Red Skull and Crossbones walked through the school, they were met by the principal, who bowed his head. "Your Highness, it's an absolute honor that you have come to our school," he said, although Red Skull kept walking with measured steps.
"The honor is mine," Red Skull replied with cold formality. "I wish to have a meeting with one of your students—his name is Suzaku. I would like to speak with him," he ordered, and the principal shook with fear as he recalled the stories he had heard about him.
"Oh, and one more thing," Red Skull added, turning back to see Crossbones aiming his gun at the ceiling. "If anyone eavesdrops on my conversation with him..." Crossbones pulled the trigger, firing the gun and causing some students in the hall to scream and run away. Crossbones smirked with satisfaction at their fear.
They keep walking and head to a private room. All the principal can do is watch him with fear.
Private room
To say that Suzaku was scared would be an understatement. He was well aware of the rumors surrounding Red Skull and how brutal he could be. As he gulped nervously, he entered the room, which contained only a table and two chairs. Seated at the table was Red Skull himself, his posture perfect, with Crossbones standing next to him, constantly scanning the room for threats.
"Suzaku, come and sit; we have much to discuss," Red Skull said, his accent giving the words an ominous edge. Suzaku did as he was told and sat in the other chair.
As they look at one another, Red Skull speaks, his voice calm and analytical. "You know, Suzaku, I have to say... You are a puzzle."
"I'm... sorry, sir. What do you mean?" Suzaku asked, wondering what Red Skull meant by that. Then, Red Skull grabbed a folder and placed it on the table in front of Suzaku with precise movements.
"You are the son of Genbu Kururugi, a general of Japan, are you not?" he asked, and once again, Suzaku was scared and beginning to sweat bullets.
"Yes, sir, he was my father," he responded.
"And tell me, why don't you hate us?" he asked, opening the folder to reveal old photos from the invasion of Japan. "I mean, we attacked your homeland and took away your freedom, even the name of your country and nationality. Yet you chose to join our army. Why did you do that?" Red Skull's eyes never left Suzaku's face, studying his every reaction.
"While I hold no ill will against Britannia, what happened was horrible. However, I believe the nation can be changed if—"
Before he could finish, he noticed that Red Skull was laughing at his ideas, which shocked him. It wasn't a warm laugh, but a cold, calculating one. "My, you are an optimist," Red Skull said, leaning forward slightly. "I understand, but I have to admit, I find it hard to believe that the country will change."
"In the hands of a soldier struggling with suicidal thoughts."
His eyes opened in shock as he looked at Red Skull. "I... I... Sir, what—"
"Lancelot, the Knightmare you pilot, is indeed powerful, but it has some drawbacks," Red Skull continued, his voice precise and methodical. "The cockpit ejection system isn't perfect and hasn't been fully tested. Most soldiers are not allowed to pilot it unless it is deemed safe... and yet you did."
Red Skull stood and walked around the table with his hands behind his back, looking at Suzaku, who just stared at the ground, not knowing what to say. His footsteps were measured, deliberate.
"Then, when you are falsely accused of my brother's death and no one comes to save you, you head back to them. Did you know you wouldn't be executed if you didn't do it?" Red Skull asked, but Suzaku remained silent. "Your silence speaks volumes," he said, his German accent becoming slightly more pronounced.
Red Skull keeps walking around the table, his movements precise. "In all the situations, you move ahead first, knowing the probability of dying, yet you still wish to change the country."
He stopped and looked at Suzaku, who hadn't said anything as he was shaking with fear and a little anger. Red Skull noticed this and kept speaking, his tone becoming almost academic.
"Your father was a great general, but he was stubborn and refused to surrender to us." Red Skull stood behind Suzaku and placed a hand on his shoulder, the touch firm but not painful.
"That's why I don't believe he killed himself. If he did, why would he use a kitchen knife and then a Wakizashi?" As he said this, Suzaku's eyes widened even more, and he was in shock at the fact that Red Skull knew about it.
"H-how do you know what a Wakizashi is?" Suzaku asked, now losing his composure and not even addressing him as sir.
"If you want to beat your enemy, you must learn not only their battle tactics but also their history, art, beliefs, and traditions," he said quietly, his voice carrying the weight of someone who had studied warfare for decades. "This is something I understand better than most."
"Seppuku is a traditional samurai suicide that upholds the code of honor. Your father was a traditional man and likely believed in the samurai code, even if he chose to end his life with a simple kitchen knife. However, where was his kaishakunin?" Red Skull said, pausing to look at Suzaku with calculating eyes. "I think he was murdered, and I suspect you might be responsible."
Suzaku didn't know what to say as tears formed in his eyes. He broke down, saying, "I... I had to... he... he was going to..." He couldn't finish the sentence as he held his head.
"I don't blame you," Red Skull said calmly, not a hint of empathy in his voice. "His plan would have killed millions of Japanese. You might have saved this country, but if I'm honest, you subjected the people of Japan to a fate far worse than death. However, I'm not here to place blame. You will be working with my organization, and I don't want any suicidal soldiers, so get your act together," Red Skull said as he looked at Crossbones, who nodded with grim understanding.
"That's all for now. See you at work! Oh, and I don't know why Zero saved you, but I should thank him for it," he said with cold calculation. Suzaku didn't respond as they left. He sat there in the dark, unsure of how Red Skull knew his darkest secret.
Outside of the school
As Red Skull and Crossbones walked out of the building, Red Skull stopped suddenly, his posture alert. He looked at the top of the school clock tower. Crossbones immediately tensed, scanning for threats. "Something wrong, boss?"
Red Skull didn't say anything as he kept looking and noticed a boy standing at the tower looking at him. His red eyes narrowed slightly, analyzing, calculating. After a long moment, he spoke. "No, it's nothing," he said as he walked back to the limousine with measured steps.
As he drove off, the boy, Lelouch, held a black king chess piece in his hand and looked at the limo. "It seems my revenge is going to be a bit more difficult than I hoped," he said, placing the chess piece on the edge. "We have a new player in the game."