Guest`s rooms were designed to serve as the perfect place for high-ranking officials to live in while they are in Area 11. The level of décor and luxury put into it was just below Viceroy`s and Sub-Viceroy`s chambers. These chambers could provide their masters with practically anything they could desire, from refreshments and ending with their own personal resort room. You could say that it was its own small palace inside the palace. And currently only two persons resided in those chambers. First one being Alexander Grayson, Major and Knight of Britannia, commander of now defunct Purist Faction and Princess Cornelia`s unofficial romantic partner. The second one however was a bit… difficult to name.
Ever since that catastrophe at Narita two days ago, the mysterious pilot of that unusual Knightmare was living under the same roof as Grayson and the rest of the government. He was provided with that on behalf of Major and Viceroy herself for their saving at Narita. This was met with no protest, however, as soon as this pilot had revealed himself to the Royal Guard`s eye, several important questions appeared and some confusion was created.
First off all: this Gekka pilot was just a young boy barely over 17 years old, with dark, almost black, purple hair tied up in a short ponytail behind, with indigo shade eyes, almost the same as Her Highness`s, and the face that, quite surprisingly, resembled Grayson`s, but not entirely. His body was covered in multiple scars; doctors concluded that probably 27% of his body is scarred, with finding some more fresh, barely healed up. Whatever this kid has been through, could`ve very much been a living hell. Still, he was physically well-rounded, despite being a bit thin.
Second thing that confused everyone was the fact that he basically had no memory. As if, nothing to remember from the past. He possessed no memory of his life, but, somehow, had quite enough knowledge about Knightmares and appeared to be no slouch in handling one, especially such as Gekka Prototype. He had also basic elementary and high school knowledge. However, nothing that could answer where he was from and even what his name was. Psychiatrists had concluded that this young man had suffered a severe mental trauma, something so horrible and tragic, that it simply… shut down all of his memories about the event and his whole life in the process, wishing not to remember anything of it. Cornelia and Alex couldn`t help, but feel sympathetic towards him, especially after he had saved them. However, they now had to decide what to do with him.
And now the three were in young man`s room, with kid sitting on the sofa and Cornelia and Grayson in the chairs. Kid had a stoic expression, a bit emotionless, side effect of having no memory at all. Before the kid lied a dossier, created by Grayson and Cornelia, in order to provide him with his own legend and safely put him into the Britannian military, or more correctly, into Cornelia`s Royal Guard, to keep a close eye on him. And because he was such a good pilot, Guilford and Darlton had suggested that Grayson could take him under his own wing.
Grayson glanced to Cornelia and back to the kid before starting.
"So, do you except this proposal?" Grayson looked at the kid. "I can understand that you`ve been through a lot and must be really confused with all your memory gone, but I can assure you, you`ll be in full safety here and we`ll try and help in whatever way possible. All we need now is your own agreement."
Nameless kid looked down at the file again and then back to Grayson. He spoke up.
"I`ve got nothing against this." He stated simply. "I would`ve agreed on it anyway. Even with much worse conditions."
"Really?" Grayson`s eyebrow irked up. "Care to elaborate us why? I mean, why would you willingly join up with the unknown people, and even more: why did you safe us there? Those questions have been plaguing me ever since I saw you."
The kid took a few seconds before glancing at the both of them and answering them.
"Because I had to protect you two." He answered bluntly. "This is the main reason. If I didn`t protect you, then both of you wouldn`t be here now."
Grayson glanced a confused look to Cornelia, giving her the initiative.
"You mean, you were ordered by someone to protect us?" She asked him. "You mean me and my sister, along with my Royal Guard?"
"Not quite." Kid objected. "I was ordered by someone, yes, but I was commanded to protect only two persons: Cornelia li Britannia and Alexander Grayson. And before you ask, I don`t know why I need to or who gave me that order. All I can say is that this command is the only reason for me to fight."
That was something both of them didn`t expected to hear. It was… shocking, to say the least. Grayson didn`t knew how to react on this one. Someone had ordered this kid to protect him and Cornelia, like some sort of guardian angel. It didn`t make a lot of sense. Why would someone order a 17-year old to protect Alex, a simple Major and Knight of Honor? Sure, he had showed some great pilot skills and commanding abilities, not to mention his analytic mind, but he was as hell as sure that he was unknown to most of the world, meaning that the possibility of this happening to him was practically zero. And yet, before him seat the kid, with no memory of whatsoever, but with only one purpose: protect him and Cornelia. Even more surprising was the fact that this kid probably had all the necessary skills and strength to do so, showing himself to be on par with Grayson and Kururugi. It was simply… astonishing.
Still, as Grayson had through this, he caught himself thinking that there can be all sorts of strange coincidences happening. Take for an example his whole presence in this world, which was considered physically impossible, and yet… Perhaps, this kid was just like Grayson, but a bit different case with memory loss and only one thing that gives him will to live. Maybe, he also ended up in this world with some sort of mission of sorts, or not. Who knows, maybe the truth could reveal itself sooner or later. A little time and patience is all that might be required. And in the meantime, this kid could try and do the same thing that Alex had done: build his own path in this place.
Grayson took the initiative now.
"I see." Grayson spoke up. "You`ve lived all this time, been in that lab of theirs, with a single purpose in your head. Am I right?"
The kid`s eyes widened a little, realizing that Grayson might`ve been right. No, he was indeed right with this one. The only reason why he didn`t break under those scientists experiments and didn`t go mindless was that singular mission in his head. It was basically the only thing that kept his going. His now entire life hindered on this sole purpose: to protect those two. However, now he started asking himself if it was even necessary to follow that order. Was it so important? It was pretty obvious that those two would be more then capable to handle any kind of a threat, especially together, sensing their strong bond. So, was this mission all that he needed? Was his entire existence and life concentrated around those two? If so, then why was he having some sort of strange feeling that there was more to this command then he could now understand? No, there was something more to it. Or someone…
Suddenly, he had clutched his head in a sudden convulsion, his eyes wide open, but not just because of the pain. No, it was something that he was seeing right now.
One of his lost memories.
A burning estate was falling apart, flames everywhere and bullets fired. Someone was trying to kill the owners of this big estate and was apparently successful. A little boy looked down to see the man, filled with multiple bullet holes and burns. Boy couldn`t see his face, but he knew that this was his own father. This man was trying to reach the little boy, but he couldn`t do it as his legs were too wounded to move again. With his blood spilling from his mouth, he said to the boy.
"Gabriel … Run… F-find Luci a-and…"
The man never had to finish his sentence as the fires had consumed everything. Even the young boy.
As the memory had faded back into the subconscious, young boy had found himself on the floor with Grayson and Cornelia looking at him with worried expressions.
"Are you alright?" Cornelia asked the first. "What happened?"
Young kid took his time to answer, going all through that memory that was now accessible to him. He even had the feeling from that one: fear, confusion, sense of loss and… death of the parent at his very eyes. Yes, that was true. That memory had showed to him his own father`s death and how he compelled him to run and find a girl named Luci. He had no idea whom she was, but at the sole memory of that name he felt a powerful connection with it. An attachment, almost as strong as the physical one. She was very important to him.
However, at this moment, the only thing that stuck out the most… was his real name.
"Gabriel…" Kid let out a sigh, before rising on his feet and standing up before the two. "I`ve remembered my name. Gabriel."
"A good name." Grayson admitted. "It was one of your memories flashing out, right?"
"Yeah. I apologize for worrying you." He calmly apologized. "By the way, your men had checked that place I`ve told you about?"
Grayson knew what Gabriel was talking about. He had told them about the lab where he was kept captive in Narita. Despite the fact that the town was now ultimately buried under tons of mud, Grayson had sent a search team there with Villetta as the commander. Fortunately, the place Gabriel had pointed was outside of the area that was destroyed and Purebloods could safely conduct their research there. The results were laid out before Alex just this morning.
"Yes, I`ve already got the report. Aside from several Sutherlands and trucks, some medical equipment and opened cells, that place was fully abandoned." Grayson said bluntly. "Whoever was there must`ve evacuated right after you`ve broken out, so that they couldn`t be found. I`ve already put our Intel on that and asked them to see into it. If they find anything, I`ll let you know."
"I see." Gabriel let out another sigh. "In any case, I`ll accept your offer. However, I`ve got a few conditions."
"Go ahead." Cornelia said; ready to hear what he had in mind.
"I want to serve under Major Grayson`s direct command. Your forces had suffered a significant blow and I don`t think you would be against me joining you."
"I`ve got no problem with that." Grayson agreed. "I`ll put you in as a lieutenant and get you into my squad. I think I`ll also arrange for you to become a third pilot in Camelot. Lloyd, the main developer there, has been on cloud nine ever since you`ve brought him that Gekka and after seeing your piloting performance is ready set you there as our third test pilot."
"Doesn't Camelot have only 2 Knightmares?" Cornelia asked curiously. "I wasn`t informed about recruitment in there, which is just your kind of a job, Grayson."
"We weren't looking for a new pilot." Grayson said. "However, after you`ve brought us that Gekka, along with its data banks, it would seem that our little side-project might be brought to life sooner than expected. In short terms, there will be a need in a new pilot soon. Plus, if either me or Suzaku are unable to pilot, Gabriel could serve as the replacement. Not that I`m looking to be replaced in any time soon."
"Good to know." Cornelia said lightly. "Alright, then what else do you want?"
"If I understand the situation well enough, you also need my surname to fill in this file?" Gabriel asked, pointing at the dossier.
"Let me guess: you want to pick your own surname?" Grayson crossed his hands.
"No." He objected. "I`ll take your surname. Gabriel Grayson does sound rather well."
Cornelia turned her head to Alex trying to read his thoughts on the matter. It was always rather puzzling to understand his real feelings and thoughts. Princess could swear that he had the better emotional control then Schneizel, which was saying something. Still, after some time and their talks, she was sure to learn a thing or two about his body language and facial expressions while in thoughts. Right now he seemed a little phased, but was currently considering all the factors. She herself was going through this as well and had to agree that this sounded not too bad. After all, considering that Grayson is not from this world, it would be nice to make some insurance in his own legend. Gabriel could just prove himself in that department, providing the living proof that Grayson is from this world. Plus, considering their unnatural resemblance, it would be easier to pass them as brothers. However, the ultimate decision lied with Alex and it was now his call.
After a minute of thinking, Grayson looked at the guy and said straight on.
"It does sound pretty cool." He smiled. "I`m cool with that. Just promise me that you`ll try to find your own path. I don`t want to be the one to enforce you to follow someone`s lead without having them to believe in me. I get that you were commanded to protect me and Cornelia, but that doesn't mean that you can try and find any other reason to live and fight for."
Gabriel looked at Grayson with amaze, finding much wisdom in his words. He was astonished to see him not wishing him to simply follow that order, but try and find his own personal way in the life. He wanted him to live like a normal person, despite the fact of his memory loss and other circumstances. That was simply something. Without any other second to hesitate, Gabriel offered a hand, which Alex accepted gladly.
"Will do, Grayson." He simply said, smiling a bit.
"Glad to hear this, Gabriel." Alex smiled back and released his hand. "All introduce you to my unit tomorrow, as well as to Lloyd. I`ve got some business to take care, so feel free to walk around the place and explore it. I think Euphemia would like to have a word with you."
"I`ll be sure to visit her." Gabriel said.
"By the way, Grayson, just what business do you have to take care of?" Cornelia was curious of what her interest was up to. "I don`t recall giving you any tasks or duties for today."
"I`ve got some revision to make in the library, Your Highness." Grayson replied shrugging. "Don`t worry, I`ll be done before the dinnertime."
Cornelia sighed mentally, knowing what he meant. Ever since the two had accepted each other's feelings and decided to become a couple, she had told him about Euphie`s supposed crush on him. Grayson had also suspected that to be the case, recalling all those times when Euphie acted a bit… odd around him and was blushing just because he was giving her the compliments, the same as usual. He sensed that young pinkette had developed fondness for him, which Cornelia found to be quite… annoying, to say the least. She dearly loved her little sister, but she was a bit stressed, being forced to see Euphemia as the potential rival on the field of love. She and Grayson had agreed to have a little talk with the pinkette about where things stood between the two. Cornelia really depended on Alex in this one.
"Very well." Cornelia dismissed Grayson. "Just be sure to tell about what were you revising."
"Sure thing, Your Highness." With that said, Grayson had left Gabriel`s room, heading towards the lift.
Once he had reached the lift, Alex pressed the number of the flour where library was placed. In the midst of this entire mess with Zero, Purebloods defunct, Gabriel and his new relations with Cornelia, Alex almost forgot about his own new personal project that he wished to take care of ass soon as possible. It was just the kind of a job that he enjoyed to do. It was one of his own playfields, where physical strength wasn`t required at all, but smarts, imagination and logic were the best companions in it. In a way, Alex began to feel himself like he had to head back in the past, when he was a student, preparing for the exams. Because back then he had learnt the value of history and knowledge. And if you wanted to get the true knowledge, be ready to do some real research.
Grayson was going to some research, just like the old times. His subject of investigations: Lelouch Lamprouge, Ashford`s Academy`s top student and vice-president of Student Council. The reason for investigating him: his uncanny resemblance to presumably deceased Lelouch vi Britannia, 11th Prince of Britannia. Grayson could say with full certainty, but there were several similarities to point to that. And Alex was going to find out if his theory was correct or wrong.
First off all, he needed to gather information. All researches were built around already established knowledge and known facts. The library and archives here held presumably the most knowledge then the any other place in Area 11. It was overflowing with knowledge and, if you knew how and where to look, you could learn practically everything you wanted. Right now, it was just the thing for Grayson as he needed to have a reliable source on all sorts of information. He needed to get solid proof to his theories or a solid objection to that.
Finally reaching the needed level, Grayson went straight to the archive section, where he, by now, had practically unlimited access to all sorts of information there, save for some top secret info, of course. Grayson only hoped that he wouldn`t have to dive into that territory, but you can never know for sure. The archive was filled to fullest with a lot of books, looking a lot like Jedi Temple archive. And, fortunately for Grayson, librarians had catalogued all of those books and even more. All that was needed is a computer and after finding one Grayson now officially started out his investigation.
To start off, Alex had decided to learn more about the Ashford family first. He recalled that he had read something about them, but he couldn`t recall anything important form it. After typing the name of the family, all needed info had appeared before Grayson`s eyes. Young major dived right into reading it, being very through about it, wishing not to overlook any important detail. And he was quite right to do so. According to the records, Ashford family used to be the members of high ranking nobility in Pendragon, the major supporters of late Empress Marianne vi Britannia and her children, Lelouch and Nunnally. After her assassination and banishment of Prince and Princess, they were also considered outcastes and they fled to Japan, setting up here an Academy soon after the war. Now, this was already something truly interesting. It would seem that main supporters of Prince Lelouch just so happened to be in Japan right after the war, meaning that if Lelouch and Nunnally needed a sanctuary Ashfords were the only one possible choice, having enough influence and still being overlooked by Imperial Family. They had enough power to conceal their existence. For now, Grayson had considered this to be a success.
Now, Alex had decided to see the records of the Ashford itself. Archives had access to them as well, meaning that Grayson could use them to his own heart contempt. What he needed to look at was the list of student in this academy, who had enrolled seven years ago or not far from it. After narrowing down the list, Grayson had found the names of Lamperouge members, Lelouch and Nunnally, who was indeed identified as crippled girl and also had the photo picture, revealing a nice looking girl with closed eyes and in a wheelchair. Her files stated that she was crippled after a car crush, which took lives of their parents and left her blinded. How interesting that her look and description had so many similarities to Princess: crippled, blind, older brother. And, what a coincidence, she and Lelouch are exactly the same age as would vi Britannias would be right now and have the same age difference. Not to mention her uncanny resemblance to Princess, absolutely identical. Another proof, another success.
Now, put those two points to the fact that Prince Lelouch was banished from his home right after his mother was dead and sister only had him left to rely on, being crippled and blind. If the boy survived, he would do anything to secure his sister from anyone. And considering that he was practically kicked out from the house, he would be hating Imperial Family, especially considering the fact of his mother`s strange assassination and the way Nunnally was kicked out as well. No, Lelouch wouldn`t go to Britannia for help. He would go to those whom he trusted the most, Ashfords. His mother`s allies and his personal friends, the only ones who didn`t turn their backs on him. However, unbeknownst to those two, they actually still had friends in Imperial Family. Cornelia, who had told Grayson about her little brother and sister, how she was ready to go in war-torn Japan and find them alive or dead. Euphie, who had cried several days because of her siblings` death and mourned their death. They were ready to do anything for them. Grayson knew that better than anyone.
Now, after gathering all this knowledge, he needed to decide what to do. All of that was pretty much enough for him to present to Cornelia and convince her to come to Ashford. However, there was also one more thing to consider: wishes of Lelouch and Nunnally, children of war and despair. All this time, they had more than enough time to contact Cornelia and Euphie, but they didn`t. Perhaps, they didn`t wanted to be found. Maybe they were just happy the way they were right now, without Empire and Emperor. They had witnessed the darkest side of their family and it sure as hell was enough to make them decide to abandon their family name and choose this life.
However, the final verdict still had to be drawn and the only way to do so was for Grayson to actually confront Lelouch. Only that way, he could be dead sure. He still had more than enough time before facing Euphie and Cornelia.
Ashford Academy. One hour later.
Soon enough, Grayson was making his way towards the Student Council room, hoping that he wouldn`t have to face off the entire club, not wanting to explain the entire situation to them. The only one he needed to talk to was Lelouch, no one else.
After some walking, he had finally reached to all so needed room and Grayson opened it up. After stepping inside, major discovered that the room wasn`t empty at all, with Suzaku and Lelouch talking about the stuff. Both boys seemingly were surprised to see Grayson, who decided to break the ice first.
"Hey there." Alex waved. "How are the things?"
"Major." Suzaku tensed up and sprung up in full attention.
"At ease. Seriously, Suzaku, every time I try to say hello you just have to get up and act like Guilford before Cornelia." Grayson sighed before turning to Lelouch. "You`ve known him longer than me, is there any way to fix this?"
"Not to my knowledge." Lelouch replied. "By the way, what brings you to Ashford this time around?"
"Does Miss Cecile requests my presence, sir?" Kururugi asked as a soldier.
"For the love of… Suzaku, if don`t loosen up a bit, I`ll arrange for you to have a break from duties. For three months straight." Grayson threatened. "And if you are worried about your engines, we just received a new recruit in our corp."
Suzaku gulped at this threat. Despite the seemingly joking nature, if Grayson said that he`ll make it happen, the he meant it. And Suzaku wasn`t looking for this unwanted vacation.
"A-alright, Alex." He loosened up. "Still, you shouldn`t do such threats. You are aware that we have to deal with Zero, don`t you?"
Now Grayson casted a deadly glare towards Suzaku, one whose effects could be felt even by Lelouch, who, as Zero, had a pretty good idea why Grayson responded to Suzaku`s comment that way. In Narita, Black Knights had inflicted catastrophic damage to Britannian forces, especially bad were losses among Purebloods, who, as Zero had discovered, were led all this time by Alex Grayson operating that Black Knightmare. Lelouch himself didn`t felt any remorse for killing them, but he understood that Grayson might want to get Zero for killing his men. Still, even he had to admit that Suzaku`s last comment was out of place.
"Suzaku, I'm sure that major knows that better than anyone." Lelouch commented. "By the way, there have been some rumors that Dark Crusader was there as well."
"That`s how they call him?" Grayson raised the brow. "I`ve got to say, it sounds pretty cool. Yeah, that bad boy was there alright. Saw him with my own two eyes." Grayson sighed, turning to Suzaku. "Oh, Suzaku, could you give me and Lelouch some space for a time. I`ve got a few questions I would like to settle down as quickly as possible."
"Um, may I ask if Lelouch is any kind of trouble?" Suzaku asked, glancing worryingly at Lelouch.
"Why would you ask that?" Grayson raised a brow. "Probably just a friendly concern, but no he isn`t. My little brother had just recently got transferred here from homeland. I was thinking that he could attend here and I wanted to settle down some things before he enrolls."
"You`ve never told me that you had a little brother, Grayson." Suzaku sounded surprised. "I thought that you were a single child in family."
"Do I have to tell you everything, Warrant?" Grayson raised a brow. "Make it first to the Major, then I`ll tell you all about myself. Now, if you don`t mind?"
Suzaku was going to comment again, but after a little thinking, decided to leave the two alone. He knew better than to start an argument with Grayson. Seriously, in philosophy and strategy he could school even Lelouch, which was saying something. With Suzaku out of picture, Grayson took a seat next to Lelouch. He knew what he wanted and wasn`t going to play games with the smart teen. Suzaku had told him that this kid is quite smart, so trying to word play him was pointless. No, direct confrontation was in order. If he was wrong, he would simply apologize and if he was who he believed him to be, well…
"So, what was that you…" Lelouch started before being interrupted by Grayson.
"Let`s drop the act." Alex said mysteriously. "Shall we, Lelouch Lamperouge, formerly Lelouch vi Britannia, 11th Prince of Britannia, son of late 5th Empress Marianne vi Britannia, brother to Nunnally vi Britannia, casted out by Emperor Charles zi Britannia soon after your mother`s assassination. Am I correct, Your Highness?"
All people have what they fear the most. For Lelouch, the greatest fear came in form of being found out by Britannians and dragged before his own father back. Seven years this fear had plagued his mind and now, it was happening in real life. Alexander Grayson, Major of Cornelia`s Royal Guard, pilot of that Dark Crusader, the only Britannian officer whom Lelouch had actually feared and respected at the same time, has just named him by his full name, one that was given to him by birth. The only man, who in reality had understood Zero and was sympathetic with his ideals, had confronted him with the revelation of his true heritage. What was the first thought on Lelouch`s mind at this thought? It was the thought that he would be separated from Nunnaly and would be forced to return back in that living hell. His mind was working faster than ever trying to find a way form it, but failing. Grayson was immune to Geass, period, and, according to C.C., he had the absolute immunity from her as well and any other Geass on Earth. She didn`t specify why was he immune, but he understood that Grayson was just the worst type of enemy for him to face: smart, analytic, open-minded and understanding his opponent`s motives and reasons. He was now officially cornered by that man.
"H-how?" Lelouch asked simply.
Grayson knew that his was his answer on the question he has been asking himself.
"Firstly, I`ve found some interesting similarities between you and Prince." Grayson began answering. "I`ve done some digging and found out about Ashfords` fall from grace, your sister`s identity and many more. Combine that with the fact that you and your little sister were kicked out by your douchbag of a father right after your mother was killed and Nunnally crippled, and I was able to pinpoint who you are, where you are and why you haven't revealed yourself throughout seven years being in hiding. And, before you start panicking, I haven't told anyone and if I did, you would be facing not me, but Her Highness Cornelia in person."
"Then why you are here?" Lelouch spoke in low voice. "What do you want form me, Major?"
"You would be quite surprised, but I actually came here to do three things." Grayson admitted to Lelouch. "First, confirm my suspensions, which I did right about now. I was only sure in 50%, to be honest."
"What are another two?"
"To give you a message from your sisters, Lelouch. " Now that took Lelouch by surprise. "As you know, I serve in a Royal Guard and happen to be in quite friendly relations with both of them. And they told me about you and Nunnally, your little sister. They told me of times you two were playing in the gardens and about the times you`ve played with them and won most of the times. And both of them told me how they miss you both. I`m a pretty good judge of character, so to speak, and I can assure you that both Cornelia and Euphemia miss you and Nunnally and wish to have you back to them."
"Then why don`t you just report about me to them?" Lelouch asked coldly. "I`m sure that my father would gladly make you a baron or even a Knight of the Round."
Grayson looked at the boy with accusing glare.
"Hey, if you haven`t noticed, I`m not a big fan of your big daddy. I can understand that because of royal decree, he can have multiple wives, but 108 is already far too much and that is simply gross. Also, when a man throws away his children, right after losing their mother, while not giving a damn, having his own daughter crippled and blinded, makes me want to punch that son of a bitch in his own manliness." Grayson stated before completely amazed Lelouch. "Looks like now you understand that I`m not looking forward to becoming a Round anytime soon. I`m here to tell you that you don`t have to worry about me exposing your identity. I get it why you and your sister are hiding and I don`t have anything against it. I`m just saying that if you ever consider the possibility of returning, you should know that Cornelia and Euphie will be there for you two."
Lelouch was completely blown away by that statement from Grayson. He though that he understood this man, but again he was proven wrong. Grayson understood him and was really sympathetic, coming here only to say that Cornelia and Euphie are still missing them both and that they would be glad to have them glad. He just openly criticized his father in the vilest and rudest manner, that even he was amazed that someone had the guts to say something like this. Still, Grayson seemed to be absolutely honest right now. Even though he considered him his worst enemy, Zero knew that this man would keep his word. Surprisingly, this actually the first time that Lelouch had thought of Grayson as a friend and not an enemy. He was just thinking about how much more powerful Black Knights could be if Grayson was among them. Lelouch wasn`t lying, saying that he considered him to be equal to himself.
After some thinking, Lelouch rose up and looked at the major.
"Major, you amaze me." Lelouch admitted. "May I ask you: what is it that you wish to achieve? You don`t seek the influence or titles, then what?"
"Honestly, I`ve never had any major plan or idea in my mind." Grayson smirked. "I just live on and follow my own code. Right now, I`m pretty happy where I`m right now."
"I see." Lelouch said. "Can I trust you that you won`t reveal this secret to anyone?"
"What kind of a secret?" Grayson suddenly changed the tone of his voice into confused one. "I`m here to see if it`s possible for my brother to enroll in here, but, due to the fact that we have a tight work in Royal Guard, I don`t think that`s the option for now."
Lelouch chuckle at how this man was able to change masks so quickly. Grayson had stood up and was already headed to the exit, until he remembered the real reason why he came.
"Almost forgot." He turned to Lelouch once again. "Can you talk to that girl, Nina Einstein, if I recall right. That girl has practically invaded my e-mail with her letters and confessions. Seriously, I`ve changed my e-mail twice already, but she keeps invading it. Last time she sent me a photo of herself in a… compromising position."
Lelouch was quite surprised to hear that coming from Alex. He knew that Nina was head over her heels about her "savior", but to learn that this supposed hero has come to him just to ask him to make her stop. Now, this has topped Lelouch`s list on things he didn`t expected to hear from Grayson.
"I`ll see what I can do."
"I`ll really appreciate that. It would be difficult to explain to Her Highness all those letters with… questionable choices of words." With that said Grayson left Lelouch alone.
Now, to the most difficult task at hand...
Three hours and one serious talk later. Viceroy`s palace.
Once Grayson had returned to the palace, he went back into his room for a little while, resting up a bit. He was soon, however visited by Cornelia, who, not surprising anymore, was actually visiting because she just wanted to see how he was doing and spend some free time together. After their kiss at Narita, things had changed for them. They now saw each other not like subordinate and superior, but like equals, in love of course. They`ve spent the remaining hour just talking and preparing themselves to what was to come: talk with Euphie. Both were a bit worried, not wanting to traumatize her and not to ruin their relations with Euphie.
They`ve settled on simply telling her the whole thing and live on with consciences. So, when the named pinkette had come in and received the whole explanation, both Grayson and Cornelia were expecting to see her crying or pouting, but defiantly not… laughing.
Cornelia and Grayson had exchanged confused looks to one another before glancing back to Euphie who calmed down a little. Grayson was the first one to speak up.
"Euphie, does that mean that you are not mad at me?" He asked carefully.
"My, of course not." Euphie said with the smile. "I actually think that you would make one wonderful couple together. Especially, considering how you`ve kissed the other day." She smiled mischievously.
Both Cornelia and Grayson were now red like Guren after hearing that one. Now it was Cornelia`s turn.
"W-when did you see?" She asked, blush not coming down. "And you are not angry, because I thought that you also…"
"Oh, I actually did like Grayson in that way too." Euphie said carefree. "I mean, after everything he has done for my sake and being such a wonderful friend, I think I did have a crush on him, but I`ve decided to not to interfere with you two, knowing how you, dear sister, felt for him. As of when, you should check the doors of your cabinet, sis." Euphie said to Cornelia. "Well, I think I`m going to retire for today. Oh, I`ve almost forgot. Sister, there is something you might want to know?"
Cornelia looked more confused than before.
"What is it, Euphie?"
"While you were absent, I`ve received a letter from the Homeland, from an old friend of yours."
Cornelia thought about this for a moment, before her eyes went wide as she recalled the only person who would actually send her those. And if they were sent, then…
"Euphie, please don`t tell me that…"
"I`m sorry, but yes." Euphie casted an apologetic look. "Nonette has decided to visit us"
Well, one of the most affectionate and charming gales is coming to Area 11… And that`s also the only person who scares the shit out of Cornelia. Hopefully, Grayson can survive her.
Also, news on the next chapter, it will not be following Grayson or Gabriel. It will be focused on someone else, another OC, someone who`ll balance the scales in Zero`s favor.
For now, keep guessing who this Gabriel is and what Geass he has.
See ya!