Hey guys, just a quick update. Apparently this going to have to be a three-parter. Which is great, as this means making another chapter will be a lot faster. As for the change of the story's rating, I'll go into more detail about it below. Now, onto the show!

Chapter 8: Welcome to the Ashford Academy! Part 2: The Demon comes to Ashford Academy.

"Alright everyone I got just word at the gate that our guests has arrived, I want you all on your best." superintendent Ruben K. Ashford told his two staff members, his vice superintendent and his secretary, and the Student Council members as they waited at the front of the academy. "Milly, where's Lelouch?"

"He's..." Milly was about to answer when Lelouch came running up to them.

"Sorry I'm late! Completely forgot that we had guests coming today." Lelouch said as he managed to catch up with the group, as well as out of breath when he spoke. Before running to catch up with the group, he had just been testing his Geass on a history professor to see how many times he could use his power on someone. From it, he learned that it could only work once on a person, which was why it didn't work for him when he had done it twice on Kallen. After that began heading to meet with the rest of the Student Council.

"You're lucky that you made it just in time, Doctor Arkeville just past the front gate and is almost here." Shirley scolded Lelouch.

"Speaking of which, there he is." said the vice superintendent.

Coming up from the entrance was a tall man in a black suit and tie with a crimson dress shirt. His skin was pale and his short, black hair messy. With one hand he adjusted the sunglasses on his face while holding a briefcase with the other. Walking next to him was a his assistant, Josephine Beller, someone that soon left Lelouch speechless. Unlike the picture, she wasn't blonde. She looked exactly like the girl from Shinjuku, only with different clothes, glasses, and her hair in a ponytail.

"So that's your contractor? Look as though he is out of shape." Soundblaster communicated to C.C. telepathically as he glanced at the young man he would be forced to deal with.

"Don't judge him quite yet, get know him a bit more and you just might at least tolerate him." C.C. responded. Despite yesterdays encounter with Villetta Nu, C.C. decided to not change her hair color, much to Soundblaster's dismay.

"So far I already know quite a lot about him from what you have told, as well from what I've gathered from his friends online messages. While he may be an excellent strategist when it comes to this game you call chess, according to his friends, he's nothing more than a weakling when it comes to physical activities. Unless he has any combat prowess to go along with that brain of his, he'll hardly be worth tolerating." Soundblaster said as they began to meet their welcoming committee.

"Welcome to Ashford Academy Professor Arkeville!" Mr. Ashford said as he went to shake Arkeville's hand. "Great to finally meet you in the flesh."

"Same." "Arkeville" replied as he shook the superintendent's hand.

"Splendid. And a pleasure to meet you Ms. Beller. Though I must say you look different from your photo."

"Thought I work on a new look." "Beller" responded in kind as she shook his hand as well.

"I see. Well allow to me to introduce my two staff members. My vice superintendent, Mr. Reginald Cromwell, and my secretary, Ms. Julie Smith." Mr. Ashford introduced his two staff members.

"Doctor." Cromwell said as he shook hands with the newcomer.

"Sir." Smith said as she was next to shake his hand.

"Now I would like to introduce you to our Student Council." Mr. Ashford said as he introduced the Student Council as they came up to greet their guest. "First is our Student Council President and my granddaughter, Milly Ashford."

"Ah yes, the obnoxious one from the messages." Soundblaster thought to himself.

"Hello and welcome to our Academy!" Milly waved. Her cheeriness unnerved Soundblaster, possibly because something about her reminded him of that one human female who sent him to that accursed dimension.

"Next is Shirley Fenette, one our overachievers. Not only is she a member our swim team and gymnastics club, she's one of few to have the highest grades in our school."

"Nice to meet you Doctor Arkeville, and you too Ms. Beller" Shirley greeted.

"And this must be the somewhat ditzy member of the group. For someone intelligent, her infatuation for C.C.'s contractor makes her a fool."

"And this young man here is Rivalz Cardemonde, the Secretary for the Student Council." Mr. Ashford introduced the next member of the group.

"As well as a waiter/bartender for a local restaurant. Other than having issues with his father, he's one of the most dull humans I have ever come across."

"Well hey there, please to meet you." Rivalz welcomed their guests.

"Next is our is a member of our Science Club. The little genius herself, Nina Einstein."

"Hi." Nina said timidly.

"This one I actually found interesting. Quite a high amount of intelligence, more so than any of the group or her classmates if the equations on her personal computer are any indication. If actually needed, she could be useful."

"And finally our Vice President of the Student Council, Lelouch Lamperouge." Mr. Ashford announced Lelouch last as he wanted to give the young man more time to catch his breath from running.

"A pleasure to meet you, I hope you find the academy to your liking." Lelouch said as he got a good look at the doctor, trying to figure him out as he wondered what connection does he have with the green-haired girl next to him. "Just who are you exactly and what do are doing with her?" he thought.

"I'm sure I will." Soundblaster responded as he too took a moment to get a reading on the other. "So this is who I'm suppose to work with. I can tell he's already he's already to trying to figure me out, as if to predict what I'm about to say or do, like an opponent in this game of "chess" that these humans are so fond of. There's also something familiar about that voice of his, almost reminds me of someone I despise, but who? Oh well, it will come to me later. In any case, might as well get to know him and see if he's actually as useful as C.C. says he is."

"Excellent! Now that we are all acquainted, I would you like to know Dr. Arkeville that after the interview, our Student Council will be giving you the grand tour of beloved school." Mr. Ashford told his guest.

"That would be lovely." Soundblaster said smiling. "A good chance to get more acquainted with the layout of this establishment to be sure."

"Well then I if you would follow us to my office, we can get started. Milly, you and your council are dismissed to your classes for now. I'll let you know when the interview is over so that you and your friends can give our guests the tour."

"Sure thing grandpa! See you later doctor!" Milly said as she and the rest of her friends left to head back to their scheduled courses. As they did, they began talking about their new visitors as well as the game plan for when the interview was over.

"So, first impressions?" Milly asked her friends.

"Seems alright, not very chatty though." Rivalz commented. "I still think there's something off about him."

"Oh please, he seems normal to me. His assistant on the other hand, doesn't come off to me as social and is kind of aloof." Shirley added.

"Speaking of which, Lelouch, do you remember her now or don't you?" Milly asked regarding what he had said yesterday when he looked at "Ms. Beller's" photo.

"Still doesn't come to me, and the fact she changed her hair isn't helping." Lelouch lied, not wanting to discuss this further.

"Oh come on Lulu, she's doesn't look that different from the picture. So she changed her hair color. Still looks like the same ponytail she had in it." the red head replied.

"You never know. Sometimes even the tiniest change on someone throws off anyone from recognizing them." Nina spoke as looked through her school briefcase.

"I doubt it." Shirley replied again.

"Either way, I'm sure Lelouch will remember eventually, isn't that right?" Milly said.

"Probably." Lelouch replied.

"Now that that's settled, let's go over the game plan one more time." Milly said, prompting everyone to sigh in frustration on having to go over it again after so many times before. "Now, now you guys! I want to make sure that it is ingrained into your minds so nothing goes wrong." their Student Council President stated.

"And you have done so like a power drill to the skull, and it's giving us headaches." Rivalz remarked.

"Oh hush now. Now, when my grandpa calls for us, Nina and I will be giving Dr. Arkeville and Ms. Beller the tour of the school. Lelouch, Rivalz, you guys are in charge of preparing the food for our guests. And you Shirley will be in charge of bringing Kallen to the clubhouse for her welcome party to our Student Council. You guys got all that?"

"YES!" they all said in unison, well almost everyone. Nina started to become frantic as she looked through her briefcase, as though something was missing.

"Oh no! No, no, no, no!"

"What's wrong Nina?" Rivalz asked.

"The lab data, it's missing! I can't find it in my case!"

"That's terrible. Any idea where it could be beside your briefcase?" Milly asked.

"I don't know, it could be anywhere!" Nina answered.

"It's okay, let's come down. How about this, after our next class, I'll help you retrace your steps and look for it." Shirley said to comfort her friend.

"But what about picking up Kallen for the party?" the shy girl asked.

"I'm sure Lelouch could do that, you two were talking to each other yesterday after all. Which reminds me, what were you guys talking about anyway?" Shirley inquired.

"Nothing important, we were just going over some notes from class." Lelouch said, trying to avoid having to discuss what had happened yesterday.

"Is that all?" Milly teased.

"Oh please, it's nothing like that." Lelouch retorted.

"Yeah, don't be silly Milly. Lulu barely knows her to be going out with her, isn't that right?" Shirley asked.

"Exactly. Now can we get to class before..." before Lelouch could finish the bell rang, signaling the start of class. "...starts."

"Alright everyone, don't forget the plan! See you all later!" the blonde yelled as she ran to class.

"Wait! If Lelouch is picking up Kallen, who's helping me prepare the food?" Rivalz questioned.

"Don't worry about it, I'll have Sayoko help you out with that." Lelouch answered as he and everyone else began running for their classes.


Meanwhile, during all that on a rooftop within the campus, Kallen was checking in with Ohgi as per usual.

"So how's campus life treating ya." Ohgi spoke in the phone.

"Stifling, I was stuck in history class yesterday. Look, maybe I should just head back." Kallen answered.

"The army is on high alert right now. Stay there, let things cool off."

"But what about the voice on the radio?" the girl asked.

"We can't go looking for a voice. Besides, Naoto would be happy to see ya back in school. Forget about Shinjuku for now, I'll be in touch."

"Wait, one more thing."

"Yeah?"

"Any word on what was that mech we saw two days ago, or where it was from?" Kallen asked. It had been in her mind, and it was the reason that the military was even more on high alert.

"Not really, all everyone knows so far is that it showed up out of the blue after that red lightning bolt struck. Same with the flyer, showed up sometime after that weird portal in the sky."

"Weird is an understatement, just what hell was all that about."

"Hell should I know. All I know is that things have gotten real quiet since then, well except the media frenzy of course. Listen I got to get going, and you have classes to attend as well. Keep in touch." Ohgi said as he hung up. As he did, Kallen went back to thinking about Shinjuku.

"Shinjuku. I guess he's right but..." Suddenly she remembered the event from yesterday when that boy told her not to tell anyone about Shinjuku, but more importantly his voice. "No, it couldn't have been his voice..."

As Kallen got up, her thoughts was soon interrupted by the screech of a nearby bird. She looked over to the other side of the rooftop. There, a unique hawk with black and gold feathers was perched on the ledge. It looked at her for a second and then took off. Kallen thought it strange, she had never had seen a hawk like that before, and she wondered how long it had been there. But she didn't get to think too much on it as the school bell rang. Kallen soon quickly began heading to class, slowing down whenever there was someone nearby to maintain her cover as a weak school girl.

As Kallen ran off to her morning class, Buzzsaw began flying around the academy, continuing his constant surveillance of the area. Earlier, he had picked up a transmission from one the student's cellphone to a somewhere in the outskirts of the city. As he listened in on the conversation, he soon found the student calling, a girl with maroon hair called Kallen Stadtfeld according to the school's records. However, it would seem that girl was more than meets the eye. According to the school's records, she's had been supposedly ill and is very frail, prompting her to stay out of her physical education class. However, his diagnostic scans show that she was quite the opposite, and could give the her fellow classmates in those classes a run for their money. And from this transmission, it would seem she has ties to some sort of group, possibly a Japanese resistance cell. It would also seem this group was involved in the conflict at the ghetto two days ago, possibly some of the combatants were them.

As Buzzsaw eased drop on their conversation, two things caught his interest. Their mention about a voice, and their discussion about him and his master. It was no surprise that they were talking about them, almost everyone within this city was. Like the male human said, "media frenzy". While he did not like the fact that the humans were aware of him and his master, Buzzsaw did enjoy the fear that being spread by it through the media. Thinking about it reminded the Minicon flyer about some of the things he and his master had read about themselves by the humans on the global network they call the Internet. A phrase created by some conspiracy theorists posted via BIGLOBE, an Internet service provider, soon came to mind. "Big mech watching" was how it went, and has become a popular meme on the web. It has even made Buzzsaw chuckle quite a bit, only because how true it was. But laughs aside, his mind went back to the other subject, the so called "voice" the two humans mentioned. Just who were they talking about? Perhaps he would have to look back on some of the communications he had recorded while he had been scouting around the battlefield. Either way, surveillance on this campus has become more interesting than Buzzsaw had anticipated, and he's looking forward to reporting his latest discoveries to Soundblaster.


"Ah, here we are. If you two would take a seat." Mr. Ashford said as they entered his office. It was just him, Dr. Arkeville, and Ms. Beller. Mr. Cromwell had left to check on a few things and Ms. Smith went back to answering calls at her desk. As soon as the two sat down, Mr. Ashford sat behind his desk and began looking over some of the paper that had been sent to him. "So how are you enjoying the Tokyo Settlement?"

"Well. Since coming here, it has been quite hectic. When I first arrived, traffic was terrible due to the whole incident with Shinjuku. And when my assistant and I went to the Omotesando mall, it was just a hassle to do our shopping. So bad, it certainly left someone with a headache." Soundblaster said nonchalantly.

"I'm sorry to hear that. Hopefully your stay here will get better as time goes on. Now onto business, I have read your credentials and I must say your more than qualified for the position. Actually overqualified if any. And while I know it is until you can get a position at the Rosenberg Institute, I can't help but wonder why they haven't hired you on the spot?"

"Well that's because they don't even know me nor have received any resume from me." Soundblaster replied.

"Ah, so you have yet to contact them is what you are saying."

"What I am saying is that there's another reason I chose to come here, and now that your vice superintendent is gone, we can now discuss something private between the two of us."

"What do you mean?" Ruben inquired.

C.C. then picked up the suitcase that Soundblaster brought with him, opened it, and handed the stack of papers to the superintendent. Mr. Ashford began looking through a couple of the pages, and soon his heart almost stopped. He was looking the schematics and blueprints of the Ashford family's prototype knightmares, all in great and accurate detail.

"How? Where the hell did you get this?" Mr. Ashford asked sternly, wondering how it was possible for someone to get access their prototypes' data.

"Nevermind that. Before your company was forced to retire, you had worked with your engineers when designing the knightmare frames. Therefore, you have some idea about how they work, as well as understand the basics on how each part works."

"So? What does that have to do with anything?"

"Continue to look at the rest of the papers and tell me what you see." Soundblaster responded.

Mr. Ashford then proceeded to do so, and as he went on to read the rest of the papers, his eyes soon widen with amazement.

"These are upgrades to the Ganymede and the other prototypes." Ruben said with utter disbelief.

"Indeed, as well as comparisons to the current knightmare frames used today. You see Mr. Ashford, I'm interested in upgrading those prototypes you have in storage below us, and putting the knightmares of today in shame." Soundblaster said as he began to elaborate his deal towards the old man.

"If this is some kind of idea of making us sell our prized prototype knightmares, then I'm sorry to say that we're not interested. And furthermore..." Ruben said as he began to lose his temper.

"Who said anything about buying, or having to even take them from you?" Soundblaster stated, causing the old Ashford to do a double take when he heard it.

"Come again?"

"I said that I'm not interested in buying the prototypes from you or even wanting to try and take them from you and your family. In fact, what I am interested in, is a business deal. One that will beneficially mutual for the both of us."

Mr. Ashford soon sat back down on his chair "Alright, I might as well hear what you have to say."

"Thank you. Now I'm very well aware that the Ashford family is desperate to claim the former glory. One that was lost after the great Empress Marianne vi Britannia, a.k.a "Marianne the Flash" of the Ashford Foundation, assassinated by a unknown group. Who's death alone was the crippling blow to your company's reputation and have your noble title ripped from your family."

"Your point?" Ruben said, unnerved to be reminded of the blow to the Ashford family's name.

"What if I were to tell you that I can help your family regain it, as well as be in a higher standing among the noble families. A position in which I can guarantee cannot be lost by even a death like Marianne's."

"Really? You think you can help us reclaim our former status?"

"I don't think, I know." Soundblaster said with confidence.

"I highly doubt it. Ms. Smith!" Mr. Ashford called out to his secretary, having had enough.

"Very well, we'll just discuss Lelouch and Nunnally to Charles then." Soundblaster said as Julie came through the door.

"Yes sir?" she asked.

"Could you get us some coffee?" Ashford asked, suddenly becoming chipper.

"Of course sir." Julie then left, with Ruben K. Ashford quickly becoming nervous by what the man before him had just spoke.

"How do you know about them?!" He asked in low voice and worried voice.

"I've done my research on your family, as well as Marianne vi Britannia's. Thus, I was able to recognize Marianne's son when I saw him. His sister on the other hand was actually a bluff, didn't suspect she was still alive, so thanks for that interesting tidbit." Soundblaster spoke as he began to weave both truth and lies to reign control on the stubborn old man. C.C., though annoyed that he brought up her contractor into this conversation, soon became intrigued as she watched the spymaster at work.

"Oh god." Ruben said as he began to hold his head, he was starting to have a panic attack.

"However, as much as I like to blackmail a former noble, I rather we work as partners than that of enemies." Soundblaster continued.

"Alright, I give up. What is your plan and what do you want exactly?" Mr. Ashford said as he began to compose himself.

"Excellent, glad to see we're on the same page now. As for the plan, we'll simply do what you did. Only this time our ticket won't be the pilot, but the knightmare itself."

"You're joking. you want us to do the same thing again?" the superintendent was having a hard time taking the man before him seriously.

"Indeed, only this time you will not only create knightmare frames to compete with others, but any made after them. We will create a knightmare so advanced, that there will be none to even rival it. And now with the arrival of that "Soundblaster", a mech that alone can stand against 15 Sutherlands, the military will eventually look towards other knightmare manufacturers, such as the conglomerate "Steiner Konzern" run by the Steiner family. With that said, now is the perfect opportunity to get this plan moving and reestablish the Ashford Foundation."

"Just what makes you think this plan of yours will work? And furthermore, what makes you think the military will do just that? Certainly they have their own divisions that create newer knightmares." Ruben questioned as Ms. Smith came back with some coffee. "Thank you Julie. Also do me a favor, make sure we are not interrupted whatsoever."

"Sir?"

"Dr. Arkeville is not only here for the position, but has brought a business deal of his own. I'm interested in what he has to offer and I don't want to be bothered."

"Understood sir." the secretary replied before leaving the office.

"Now where were we? Oh yes, certainly our military has it own divisions capable of inventing newer models."

"Indeed, but they not as well funded in my opinion, nor are their latest prototypes capable handling this new mech. For example, the Advance Special Envoy Engineering Corp under "the Camelot" research organization. Recently, according to my sources at least, their prototype called "Lancelot" was one of the many knightmares frames that were active in Shinjuku. And though it didn't get to go face to with Soundblaster, it come into contact with its flying companion, which from what I hear, didn't last long against it. And if that's the best that division can come up with, they have no chance against the big one." Soundblaster answered as he prepared his coffee.

"You seem well informed for a scientist." Mr. Ashford wondered how the man before came to acquire such information as he too began to pour himself some.

"Let's just say that I have some friends in high places and leave it at that. As I was saying, if that's the best military can come up with, then it is only logical that at some point they will towards outside help for a solution to their "Soundblaster problem". As for how I know that this plan will work, well take a look at the plans for the prototypes' upgrades for assurance, as well as a little something I managed to get my hands on." Soundblaster snapped his fingers as C.C. open the briefcase to hand him another stack of papers, which he then proceeded to hand over to the superintendent.

"What's this?" the old man said as he looked over designs of another knightmare he was not familiar with.

"Why the specs for the prototype Lancelot I mentioned. Not exactly easy to get a hold of, my associate went through a lot to get it. With this data, plus my upgrade designs for the prototypes, I can guarantee you the knightmare needed for our plan to work. All I need is your support and funding."

Mr. Ashford puts down the papers and sighs "I don't get it. Why do you need our funding? Hell, one of the reasons we had to shutdown was because it was becoming more and more expensive to work on the prototypes. I doubt we have enough money to begin again! Also, why even help us? From the looks of it, you seem well connected enough that you wouldn't be in need of any. And still you haven't told what you get out of this."

"To answer your first question, I thought you would have enough wealth to begin the project, as surely the need to restore your family's noble title would be more important than having to spend a lot of it on parties and festivals that you seem fond of constantly doing. Which, I hear, was the reason your company went bankrupt." Soundblaster remarked.

"Well excuse me for being extravagant and wanting to have fun at the time! Especially since I needed it to cope after Marianne died and our title was taken from us!"

"If that was the case, you could have done a better job of balancing the budget for both your business and your wild parties. Heck, even I did the research after looking at your company's records, and I found ways that you could have been able to maintain both! Ms. Beller if you would?" C.C. then handed him another set of papers. "Here take a look for yourself."

Mr. Ashford proceeded to take a gander at the papers. "Well I'll be damned, you're right. It wasn't the production costs or the extravagant parties that killed my company, it was poorly done budgeting!"

"Well that and two other things. For one, after doing some more research, I found that you could've cut costs while maintaining the quality of you knightmare projects. As for the second, your primary accountant was embezzling your money, as you can see here." Soundblaster pointed out on the page.

"That son of bitch! I knew I should have fired Larry when I had the chance! No wonder he disappeared shortly before we had to close down the company." Mr. Ashford fumed.

"If you want, I can use the connections I have to find him. But back to business, if you can't provide the funding, I have alternatives of getting it from somewhere else. Plus, we could always look for investors among those you invite to your social events, a reason why I'm willing to overlook your habit of partying often. But I will still need your support, since your family has connections that may prove useful to me. Now as for why I want to help you, well I see you as one of many that has been treated unjustly by an inept king."

"Wait? What did you say?" Ruben did a double take again after hearing that.

"You heard me, I believe our emperor and empire is nothing than hypocrisy itself. While we teach others the lesson of survival of the fittest, I don't really see it practiced among ourselves. If our empire is truly that of the strong over the weak, there wouldn't be any rival nations like that of the E.U. or the Chinese Federation, because Britannia would made up of the strongest and most capable among our peers. Instead, our empire is filled with royals and nobles who lounge around and do nothing, while those who are soldiers, workers, and scientists do the work and maintain Britannia's stability. Same goes for our ruler, while he may have ended the internal infighting within his family, he does nothing but sit on his throne and leave his children to do his work of running our order! And they are much more fitted to rule our beloved Britannia than he is. We are bound to serve those of wealth and blood, not those who are of absolute strength, mind, and will!"

"Your house is one of many I considered to be the opposite of those nobles who live off the backs of others. Your family worked hard to get where you were at. Sure without Marianne, your knightmares wouldn't have gotten much of the attention it got. But she wouldn't have became an empress if not for you and your mechs. Just because she was killed should not have warranted your family of having their title stripped and their usefulness put down. The Ashford Foundation was one of many that were active in expanding Britannia's might and scientific progress through their machines. To let it fall apart was a sin. If our ruler didn't take away your nobility because of your former test pilot's demise, I guarantee that your company would be still active to this day, continuing its usefulness to our kingdom! The is no room for pride or ego in an empire, only logic, reasoning, and will. Everyone in it should have a purpose and a function, no one is idle or useless. Those who are should be the one's that below the food chain, which is also why I despise the Number System our petty excuse of an empire has created."

"The system is a detriment to Britannia's expansion and dominance. All other cultures and its people should not be put down, but added to ours! It should not matter is you're Britannian or not! What should matter is whether or not they are willing to become part of one empire. An empire without stagnation and is completely adaptable, where there is order and stability. An empire whose mind is open to all possibilities and others, and is not completely prejudice and close minded. An empire run by logic and reasoning, as well as absolute physical strength and willpower. An empire made up of everyone, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, etc. An empire where everyone gets what they want as as long as they give their all towards their dominion that is superior among all. This is what I dream for, what mankind should aspire to. And it begins with this plan, the plan that will be the first stepping stone towards spreading my ideals to others, so that one true empire may come to be." As Soundblaster finished his speech, the old Con couldn't help but feel as though he had just been like his former master, when he would spread his ideals of revolution among his fellow gladiators.

Mr. Ashford was speechless, never did he expect to meet a Britannia radical in his office, let alone hear insults against their emperor. However, a part of him felt drawn to this man's words. Indeed, he and the rest of the Ashford family resented having their nobility taken from them by Charles, and despised how they we humiliated by the other houses. Nonetheless, Arkeville had insulted the royal majesty, a treasonous and disloyal act if any. But despite the man's hatred for their king, he seemed to care deeply for their empire's well-being, wanting it to become more than what it is. The old man had to admit, he had to admire the man's vision for a realm that all would join and serve with pride. Still...

"So what you're saying is that by helping us gain prominence again, you intend to spread your vision of an ideal Britannia when you gain everyone's attention with your knightmare designs? I doubt many would agree with your views, especially about our majesty."

"Maybe or maybe not. But that's for my fellow countrymen to decide. Like or not, unless the man changes his views and becomes less of a fool, someone more suitable is needed for the position."

"Like who? You?" the old man questioned.

"Hardly, I'm more of a follower than a leader. No, what we need is someone who fits the qualifications of one. Some of his children would fit the bill, more specifically two. The military genius that is Cornelia li Britannia, and the cunning, political mind that is Schneizel el Britannia. Cornelia is a brilliant strategist and actively fights on the battlefield, qualities a king needs as a warrior. Schneizel demonstrates great skill in diplomacy and is able to outwit his opponents, whether in the game of chess or in the art of negotiations, the mindset necessary for a ruler to have in dealing with allies and enemies. Unfortunately, both only possess some of the qualities and not all of them, thus I'm having a hard time seeing which would be better fitting for the role of emperor or empress." Soundblaster explained, having done his research on the two.

"I see. Still, I think your views would make it complicated. If we were to rise, our reputation might be put into question once they hear your views." Ruben Ashford said as he finished his coffee.

"If our partnership becomes a problem for your family, then you are welcome to terminate it as you see fit. But before you make your decision, think about your alternatives. How long will it be till you find a noble willing to marry one of your relatives? And if you are also planning to use Marianne's children as a way to reclaim your status, I highly doubt it will work for you in the end. So I suggest you take my offer Mr. Ashford, as you may never come across another like it again." Soundblaster finished and waited for the old man's decision.

Mr. Ashford paused for a moment and then looked at the clock. Time was almost up and the bell would begin to ring soon. With that said, he began to ponder for a moment, and with a sigh, he came to a decision. "After having a moment to think over your proposal, I have decided to accept it. However, before starting anything, I want to consort with some close friends and relatives regarding this plan."

"Then take your time to do so. I'm in no rush to start anything until I have everything else settled, such setting up my living arrangements and gathering all the necessary preparations to begin work on your knightmares." Soundblaster said as he raised his coffee mug. "A toast to the soon reestablished Ashford Foundation. May it rise again like the mighty phoenix rises from its dead ashes." As Soundblaster finishes his drink, the school bell begins ringing.

"And with that, our time is up. I look forward to doing with you Arkeville, I'll make sure to arrange your quarters here at the academy."

"Make sure it's one with plenty of space, I'll be needing room to conduct some research, as well as to work on designs for the prototypes." Soundblaster added as he and C.C. got up and shook the superintendent's hand.

"I'll see what I can do. In the meantime, enjoy the tour of our school, our Student Council looks forward to showing you and Ms. Beller around. Good day to you Dr. Arkeville, and to you madam." Ruben said farewell as they began to leave his office.

"Good day, and until we meet again." Soundblaster replied.

"Farewell Mr. Ashford, and thanks for the coffee." the green-haired girl thanked their host.

"You're most certainly welcome. By the way doctor, with that business deal we have now. I don't suppose you will be taking that teaching position after all?"

"Oh no, I'm definitely still up for it. We can discuss details later, you have my number on file. Until we meet again." And with that, the two soon leave his office. With them gone, Ruben K. Ashford reflects on what had happened. Though he believed he made the right choice, he couldn't help but feel as though he made a deal with the devil. Ruben began to wonder whether or not Arkeville was really who he said he was. After having met the man, it was clear there was more to him than meets the eye. Just how well connected is he? How was he able to accomplish all of that? And is he really who he says he is, or was there something else about the man? Whatever the case, the deal has been made. Eventually, from working with him, he may get to know more about this mysterious doctor. For now, he just hopes the his fellow associates and the rest of his family will approve of it. Ruben decided he needed a moment to relax, and soon helped himself to the brandy he kept inside the drawer of his desk.


"And like that, everything went according to plan. Now that the "interview" is over, I take it you will now use this opportunity to find your contractor while I wait for our tour guide?" Soundblaster asked telepathically, as they waited for one or more members of the Student Council to arrive.

"Indeed. If they ask, tell them I went to use the restroom and that I'll manage to catch up with you all later on my own."

"Very well, you have the map of the school I gave you?" he asked

"Yes, I'll get back when I can, probably with Lelouch. By the way, did you really have to bring him up back there? While I understand that you needed to blackmail the man into listening, I don't want what your planning with him to be a problem for Lelouch." C.C. complained.

"Don't worry, I'll make sure that this will not become an issue for the boy. Now get a move on, the Student Council members will be here soon."

"Thanks, I'll see you later." And with that, the immortal girl took off. Just in time too, as shortly after, the one called Milly began walking down the hall on the opposite end.

"There you are doctor, I take it your interview with my grandfather went well?" the Council President asked.

"Indeed. It turned out to be rather productive, and I think I may have gotten the job." Soundblaster said with a small smile as adjusted his glasses again.

"That's fantastic! You're going to love here, I guarantee it." Milly in her usual cheery demeanor. She then notices his assistant is absent. "Hey, where's Ms. Beller?"

"Oh, her? She's gone to powder her nose. Don't worry, she was given directions to the nearest restroom, and will call me when she needs to catch up with us." Soundblaster explained.

"We can't wait for her if you want."

"No, it's alright. She usually takes a long while, so we might as well get on with the tour. Where's the rest of your council?" Con in human form asked as the two of them began walking down the hall.

"Well originally Nina was going to join me in showing you around, but she just found out that she lost her lab data somewhere within the school. So Shirley is helping her retrace her steps and find it. As for the other two. Rivalz is busy preparing the lunch that will be served at the end of the tour, and I'm having Lelouch run an errand for me." she explained.

"What sort of errand?"

"A small one. Nothing important I assure you, just usual Student Council work."

"I see." he replied. "Primus, you are a terrible liar. Just what are you up to?" Using his telepathy, he begins to read the girl's mind and finds out that she sent Lelouch to pick up a student by the name of Kallen Stadtfeld. Apparently they want to induct her into into their Council, since the girl has yet to choose a club due to being home a lot because of poor health. As he finishes, Milly starts to have a headache. "Something wrong?"

"It's nothing, for a moment my head started to hurt. But I think it's going away now. Let's get going." the blonde said as she began the tour. After showing Arkeville around the main buidling, they soon went outside. Milly then started to show the doctor the different playing fields within the academy. As they did, a football was soon flying towards them. With quick reflex, Soundblaster soon caught the ball, surprising the young Council President who didn't see it coming.

"Sorry about that sir!" yelled one of the student football players on the field nearby. "Great catch by the way!" yelled another.

"I'll say, you got some damn good instincts if you can detect the ball without seeing it. Where did you get reflexes like that?" their coach said as he approached the two.

"That? Well, I took a lot of physical education classes when growing up." Soundblaster lied.

"Hey Coach Beckett, how are you today?" Milly greeted the gym teacher.

"Doing great as usual, and my team is improving. Again, sorry about that, we didn't mean to scare ya. Johnny's aim still needs a bit of improvement, and Mikey needs to keep a better eye on the ball."

"That's okay, I'm just lucky that Dr. Arkeville caught it just in time before it hit us." the girl said as she looked at her guest.

"Wait, you're Dr. Arkeville? The one I heard that will possibly be replacing the science professor, Mr Simmons?" Mr. Beckett asked the man in front of him.

"Not possibly, will be." Soundblaster corrected.

"Huh, not what I was expecting. Thought you'd be another old geezer. Shows what I know. You must be one hell of an overachiever to get where you are at."

"Indeed I am, spent most of my time studying subjects and working on projects." Soundblaster added as he continued to weave his false identity.

"I see. And I take it that keeps you inside most of the time? Because you look like you don't get out much, no offense." Beckett said.

"None taken, most of my work does indeed keep me inside. Though when I do take a break, I usually go on walks or do some jogging, as well as a few exercises here and there. I do like to keep myself fit after all."

"Ha, and to think I thought you would be another slouch like Simmons, that man could use a work out. I think I'm going to like you kid, play any sports?" the man said heartily, becoming impressed by the newcomer.

"Not really. I use to play a few sports as I grew up, but I soon lost interest in them when they started to become less challenging to me. That, and the fact my gym teachers and coaches were concerned that if I were to join any of the sports team, my teammates would become envious of me. Not that they weren't already, I didn't exactly make a lot of friends, but a lot of rivals."

"Aw, I'm sorry hear that." Milly said sympathetically.

"Oh it's quite alright Ms. Ashford. I'm not exactly the kind of person that is social, most of the time I prefer to keep myself from being idle, which is why I keep myself constantly busy."

"Now that's what I like to hear in man, never stops working and keeps himself from being a couch potato." Beckett laughed heartily as he turned to his students. "You all could learn a thing or two from this man, especially you Porkins!"

"Well we better be off, need to show the doctor around the rest of the academy before lunch time." Milly said.

"Sure thing, but first..." the coach then tossed the ball to Soundblaster, who caught it, and began heading down the field. "Alright, throw it!" he yelled.

"Are you sure? My throws are pretty hard and pack quite a punch." Soundblaster said as he recalled how they threw it from watching them earlier.

"Oh please, I can handle whatever you got. I want to see if you are as good as you say, or if all of that was just talk. Now come on and give me your best shot!"

"Very well, if you insist." he sighed as he then threw the ball back to the coach... like a cannonball being fired at high speed. The ball soon hit the man as he caught it, knocking him off his feet and tumbling a few feet across the ground.

"Nice... throw..." Beckett said weakly as he coughed from the impact. "I can see why your gym coaches were concerned... Oh boy..." the man then fainted, leaving everyone else dumbstruck and speechless as to what they just saw. For a moment, they looked at the coach, and then turned to look at the newcomer.

"Well, I did warn him." Soundblaster shrugged.


After the bell rang, Shirley and Nina went out to retrace their steps and find the missing lab data, while Lelouch and Rivalz went off to do their assigned tasks. As Rivalz headed to the kitchen, Lelouch went inside the Student Clubhouse to get Sayoko to help Rivalz with the preparations. Afterwards, he would go and bring Kallen to the Clubhouse for her initiation, which made it the perfect opportunity to solve the issue about "Shinjuku". As Lelouch entered his home, he was soon greeted by Nunnally.

"Hey Lelouch. your back early."

"Hello Nunnally, I'm just stopping by to find Sayako. I'll be needing her help with preparing lunch for our guests." Lelouch responded, surprised that his sister was back so soon.

"Well how lovely, I am a bit famished." another voice replied, a familiar voice which stunned the young man. He soon walked towards the dining room, where he found both C.C. and Nunnally making origami. "Well hello Lelouch." C.C. said.

"Why hello Ms. Beller. May I ask why you are here and not with the good doctor?" he asked.

"We got separated when I went to the ladies room, and then I got lost when I tried to catch up with him. Eventually I found myself here and met your sister, we began working on some origami together." she answered.

"She told me that she and Dr. Arkeville are going to be new teachers here at the academy. Isn't that great?" his younger sister spoke.

"Indeed. I take it your interview, as well as Dr. Arkeville's, went well?"

"Very well, and we'll begin teaching soon, after the living arrangements are finished of course." C.C. answered again as Sayako entered the room.

"There you are Sayako. I need you to help Rivalz with preparing lunch for our guests while I'm off to pick up a student for her initiation into the Student Council."

"Guests?" the maid inquired.

"Ms. Beller here, and another by the name of Dr. Arkeville are going to be replacing one of the science professors at the academy."

"Oh really? Congratulations on getting the job madam!" Sayako complimented on C.C.'s success.

"Thanks, but I owe it to Henry for getting us the position." green-haired girl replied.

"Henry?" the maid asked.

"That's Arkeville's first name, speaking of which, let's find him so you can catch up with our tour of the school." Lelouch said as C.C. got up and began walking with him. "By the way, why aren't you at school Nunnally?"

"Milly thought I could join you guys later at Kallen's induction to the Student Council, even though I'm in the middle school group and can't be on the Council yet." the young sibling replied.

"Well you're always an honorary member in our book Nunnally." Rivalz said as he came in from the other doorway.

"Kallen?" C.C. inquired.

"Oh crap, you weren't suppose to know that yet." Rivalz said as he facepalmed.

"I'm sorry, I didn't know it was a surprise." Nunnally apologized.

"It's okay Nunnally, they were going to know about anyway, so it's nothing to worry about. Anyway, Kallen is one of the students here at the academy. She's been absent for a while do to being ill. After having comeback this semester, Mr. Ashford noticed she had yet to pick a club. So he thought of putting Kallen on the Student Council so she wouldn't be left out. The superintendent also thought it would be a good idea that you two would be there to see it, as a way of showing fellowship among student. Hence why I am preparing lunch while Lelouch goes and gets Kallen for the party." Rivalz explained.

"Originally Shirley was suppose to pick her up, but she's currently helping Nina retrace her steps and find her group's missing lab data. Anyway we must be off, any idea where Milly and Dr. Arkeville would be?" Lelouch asked the Council Secretary.

"Actually I do, just recently received a text from Milly, as well as several others. Apparently they were just at the football field, and according to texts, the doctor just threw one hell of a throw which knocked Coach Beckett off his feet from a distance! Right now they're at the building where the clubs are, while the football club is taking the coach to the Nurse's office. You've got to be kidding me! Just how strong was that throw?!" Rivalz said incredulously, the information adding more to his suspicion on the guy.

"Is the coach alright?" Nunnally asked.

"Yeah, just knocked. But still, I'm telling you guys, there's something up with this guy!"

"Relax Rivalz, I'm sure it was just a lucky throw." Lelouch told Rivalz, trying to calm him down. Meanwhile C.C. was getting annoyed by how Soundblaster attracting too much attention. She wished the Decepticon could just act like a human with some weaknesses. "Anyway, I'll meet you and the others back here later."

"Alright, see ya later." Rivalz said as Lelouch and C.C. left the Student Clubhouse. As they did, Lelouch began to speak up after making sure there was no one else to hear them.

"Alright, now that the charade is over. You can start answering my questions." Lelouch told the witch.

"Well that's rude, is that anyway to treat a guest?" C.C. replied.

"Cut the act, I know you're not who you say you are, especially since you've just escaped from the Britannian military. Just who are you really? And how did you survive after having been killed by a bullet to the head?" the boy questioned her.

"I just can. As for who I am, my name is C.C." the immortal answered.

"C.C.?"

"Indeed. So how's the power I've given you? Is it satisfactory?"

"More so, it has helped speed up my schedule tremendously, which is a big help." the young man replied to her as they continue to walk towards Milly's location.

"Your schedule being?"

"My schedule to obliterate Britannia." he said simply. "I would have waited much longer before I could make the initial move."

"And you intend to use that power to do so?"

"I believed that I could destroy it without that power."

"I just knew you would turn out to be a fascinating guy." she remarked as they continued walking.

"You still haven't really answered my question on how you survived."

"Yes I did." she said back.

"Just saying you can doesn't cut it. Furthermore, you still have yet to explain who you are fully. Just what is exactly is this power? And who is that man that you came with?" Lelouch continued his interrogation.

"You will know more in due time, we can always discuss this later. As for the one called "Arkeville", he too isn't who he says he is. He's another one of my contractors, whom I have made a deal with to help you in your endeavors."

"Is that a fact? Does that mean he has his own power? And even so, what does he want with it?"

"I'm not at liberty to say, he would rather tell you that himself. However, he will do so when he is willing to trust you with his plans."

"Plans? What plans?" He asked.

"Again, not at liberty to say. Suffice it to say, it is one that is mutually beneficial to all of us." C.C. answered when she noticed Buzzsaw on top of a nearby building. Obviously monitoring them no doubt, much to C.C.'s annoyance. Buzzsaw soon flew off after he was spotted by not only C.C., but the exiled prince as well.

"It's that bird again. The one from last night." he muttered.

"You've seen him before?" she asked.

"Yeah, wait? How do you know it is a "he"?"

"That bird belongs to my contractor, you could say he serves as his master's eyes and ears." C.C. elaborated.

"What, like he's wearing a camera on him?"

"Sort of, he records anything he hears and sees, and then reports it to my contractor."

"Show the flash from last night was from a camera. He was perched on a nearby tree outside Nunnally's room, must have been spying on us." Lelouch said angrily.

"Not surprised, he always wants to be in control and wants a constant eye on everything. However, while I don't mind him keeping an eye you, the fact he didn't tell me that he's been using his pet bird to monitor you irritates me."

"Then why bother working with him?" the young man asked, Lelouch was already beginning to dislike this so-called "Dr. Arkeville".

"Because it's imperative that we work with him. Why I can't say until you meet him in private, and when he's ready to explain it to you. Besides, if were to tell you anyway, you wouldn't believe me. It would better if he were here to explain it." C.C. explained.

"So you're telling me that I'll have to wait until he's willing to trust me? I'm not willing to wait that long! I wonder, can my Geass can work on someone else that has it as well?" Lelouch asked, wanting to know if he could use his new power to make this other contractor reveal himself and what he's up to.

"Other than myself, it should work anyone else, regardless if they possess the power of Geass or not. But I wouldn't recommend using it on him, you really wouldn't want to be on his bad side."

"I'll take my chances."

"There's another way to get him to speak." C.C. said as she remember what Soundblaster had said last night.

"And what, pray tell, is that?"

"Other than trust, you can always try to make yourself worthy of his attention." she explained.

"Just how, exactly, am I suppose to do that?"

"I don't know, you figure it out. This is between you and him after all."

Lelouch started thinking, and soon enough, a devious plan began to hatch inside his mind. "Question, does he possess any weaknesses or flaws?"

"Well, other than being "Mr. Superior", he's not exactly great with being social. I take it you have a plan in mind already?"

"Indeed I do, but I'll require your assistance for it to work." Lelouch said as he began wearing a smug grin on his face.


Inside the building where the clubs were held, Milly began introducing Soundblaster to each one.

"Here we have the homerooms for the Clubs of the Ashford Academy. There's the one the Movie Club, over there is the Horticulture Club, and down the hall is the Science club. I'm sure you're eager to meet them!" Milly said cheerily.

"Oh definitely." Soundblaster replied. "If they're as smart as Ms. Einstein, they too may very well be useful should I require them." He then noticed a sign in front of the door to one of the Club homerooms. On it was "F.S.C.". What Club is this room?"

"Why don't you go in and find out." she said with a wink and a smile. Soundblaster only raised his eyebrow at her and then proceeded to open the door, after which Milly pushed him in. As he stumbled into the room, he soon bumped into one of the female students.

"Terribly sorry..."

"Well hello there hot stuff." she replied.

"Huh?" Soundblaster did a doubletake when he notices the girl he bumped into was wearing nothing more than a Brazilian swimsuit. "What the frag?!" Soundblaster started walking back when he then bumped into another.

"Well hey there gorgeous." Another one greeted in a sultry kimono, adding more confusion towards the already perturbed Decepticon.

"What in the name of-" Soundblaster backed away again, and soon stumbled into another, only this one was wearing a dominatrix outfit.

"Watch where you're going, or do you need some... discipline." she said as she straiten the whip in her hands.

"Maybe he's here for his check-up." another girl in a nurse outfit spoke up.

"Why are you all wearing provocative outfits?! You all students for crying out loud! Just wait till I report this to the superintendent, or better yet your parents!" Soundblaster scolded the girls.

"Please don't mister!" a girl dressed as a lolita yelled as she tackled the distressed Soundblaster.

"Get off me!" Soundblaster said as he tried to pry the student off him.

"Never!"

"Oh please, we're not going to get in trouble. We're of legal age, Mr. Ashford approved our club, and our parents' are fine about this." the dominatrix girl spoke in a dismissive tone.

"I doubt your fathers would be proud of this!"

"Maybe, but they sure changed their minds when our mothers encouraged our decision." the one in the swim suit replied.

"You know, I'm surprised. Usually a lot of the guys are usually seduced easily by our charm." the one in the kimono added.

"WHAT?! WHAT KIND OF CLUB IS THIS?!" Soundblaster roared as he finally had the strength to pull the girl off.

"Why the Fantasy Seduction Club of course! It's a club that studies fetishes and sub-culture." Milly answered. "You should really relax Dr. Arkeville, it's not everyday a guy gets surrounded by some lovely ladies."

"Well I'm not that kind of guy. I'm a gentleman, not a degenerate! Just how can Mr. Ashford allow such a "club" to exist?" Soundblaster said as he regained his composure.

"Well he was hesitant at first, but I manage to convince him otherwise."

"You did what?! Actually, nevermind. Somehow I have a feeling this shouldn't come as a surprise." he said as he facepalmed.

"Wait a minute. He's Dr. Arkeville? The new science professor that supposedly will be replacing Mr. Simmons?" kimono girl spoke up.

"Not suposedly, will be!" Soundblaster corrected her.

"OMG! You're hot!" swimsuit girl shrieked in joy.

"Wow here I thought you would be another boring old man like Simmons!" the lolita girl exclaimed.

"Is it true that your throws are inhumanly powerful!" the dominatrix girl asked.

"I guess, how did you hear about it?"

"Everyone is already texting to each other about it. There's nothing that goes unnoticed here at the academy." the kimono girl then held up her phone showing the texts she had been receiving.

"Of course, ask a stupid question." Soundblaster sighed.

"C'mon girls, let's give our new handsome professor a welcome hug!" the nurse girl declared as they soon began closing in on their new teacher.

"No, no, no. There's really no need! Gaack!" the girl hugged Soundblaster tightly, some pressing their chest against him, adding more to the Con's discomfort.

"Isn't this great, already the students love you being here!" Milly commented.

"Frag me." Soundblaster thought as his eye twitched while giving a fake smile. "These humans are more repulsive than the ones in my realm."

"Alright girls, the doctor and I need to mosey on out of here. I still need to introduce him to the Science Club." Milly told the rest of the girls.

"Aw, alright." the girls then let go of the human Decepticon.

"C'mon, don't be sad. You'll be will see him again when have your science classes." Milly assured them.

"Oh yeah! Later Dr. Arkeville!" they said as they waved goodbye to Soundblaster.

"Farewell, and I expect you all to dress decent when you're in my class!" Soundblaster replied as he and Milly soon walked out the door, and then onwards toward the Science Club.

"Sorry about that, didn't mean to make you uncomfortable." Milly apologized.

"It's quite alright, just not what I'm use to."

"That I can tell." the young Student Council President said as they arrived at the door of the Science Club. "Well, here we are! Oh and by the way, you will not only be taking over Professor Simmons's classes, but taking charge of the Science Club as well!"

"Is that so? Well I look forward to what these bright minds have to offer." Soundblaster said as he opened the door and entered the classroom, which then exploded into a cloud of smoke.

It was going to be a long day for the Decepticon spymaster, and the insanity has only just begun.

And thus concludes Chapter 8 of Silent Metal Ronin.

As you have noticed, I've changed the ratings from "T" to "M". The reason for the change is just in case the scene above with the Fantasy Seduction Club is not fit for a "T" rating. And I already stated before that the shower scene with Kallen will be in the coming chapters, and I will be fitting in a bath scene with the female members of the Student Council from the Code Geass picture drama 3.25, or the second one of the series. Not exactly sexual, they're just naked. But considering Milly is in it, well, you get what I mean. If not, just watch the said picture drama to understand what I'm getting at. And while you're at, take a look at the other picture dramas, as well as the audio ones. I'll be including quite a few of them into the story, though with some alterations based on what happens in SMR's storyline.

As always, critique and review when possible. I would like to know if I'm using good grammer and spelling, as well as portraying the characters well. Also, would like to hear your opinions if there were certain parts in the chapter that could've been done better.

Next time on Silent Metal Ronin. Soundblaster's trip through the insane asylum that is the Ashford Academy has only begun as he meets the members of the Science Club! Then later, he reunites with C.C. and the others at the Student Clubhouse, where Lelouch has something in store waiting for him. Just what diabolical scheme does he have for our Decepticon protagonist! Tune in next time for SILENT METAL RONIN!