Japan, now Area 11, is under Britannian occupation. The world sees Japan as a defeated nation, but deep underground, hidden within bunkers and secret bases, Japan's true military power has been preserved. Introduced as a Japanese high school student, Lelouch is not Britannian but a prince of Japan. His mother, Lady Marianne, who married a Britannian royal, was a beloved figure, and her assassination during Britannia's invasion drives Lelouch's desire for revenge. Lelouch discovers a hidden lab where Japan's secret military is stored. He stumbles upon C.C., who offers him the power of Geass. Lelouch accepts, knowing this power is essential to liberate Japan.