Though he had always enjoyed the relative peace and freedom of being a student of Ashford Academy, Lelouch nevertheless found himself currently hating his academic surroundings since it prevented him from expressing the type of emotions that were coursing through his body.
His anger and hatred towards the country of his birth were easily smothered, if only because he had ample opportunity to practise his acting skills.
But thanks to the events of the previous evening, on this morning he had no desire to act the part of a cool and detached member of Ashford's Student Council. Instead he would have vastly preferred to act like his half sibling Carine did whenever things failed to go her way.
Sadly, his current position ensured he could not treat his subordinates like disposable punching bags, though Tamaki came close, which meant that he had to maintain his carefully crafted public mask as he watched one of the deadliest pilots at Cornelia's disposal enjoy tea with his darling sister.
The news that Suzaku had chosen serve the Empire despite the way it treated his people had been…. irritating when they had been finally reunited 7 years after their parting.
A feeling that had only grown after the son of Japan's last Prime Minister had refused his offer of alliance after he had just rescued him from a rather crude attempt to use him as a scapegoat.
But upon learning that his friend was responsible for piloting the machine that had impeded his plans time and time again, the exiled prince had experienced the same sort of disbelieving rage that he had experienced after learning his father's true nature.
Luckily for him however, his paralyzing rage had passed unmarked as the benefits of having competent subordinates quickly proved itself.
Because in those precious few minutes in which he was unable to think rationally, Todoh and his soldiers had managed to not only force the Lancelot to abandon the field, but had also managed to fight a successful withdrawal as another irritating reminder of his past took to the field.
Having to fight his combat oriented, but sadly naïve childhood friend was bad enough.
But to fight against a solider who had been trained by a woman whose combat abilities allowed her to go from commoner to empress? That was worse.
He had no idea why the woman Milly saw as role model had been transferred to Japan. For despite his growing ability to take the fight to the Empire, the Black Knights and their JLF associates were still far too weak to openly challenge the might of Britannia.
The potential for growth was there of course, more so since the Empire hadn't gotten around to using Suzaku as a political tool to divide the loyalties of the Japanese people, but even with the gains of last night's mission, his forces were still not yet ready to directly challenge the Cornelia's army.
Sadly, for the moment he would have to smother such frustrations, for he would never allow his irritation and anger to consume him while he was near the only relative who hadn't betrayed him.
"Oh. Big Brother, I didn't expect to see you until later this evening".
Affectionately patting his gentle sister's hand, Lelouch settled himself into the vacant chair before deciding to answer the unspoken question.
"Sadly, Rivalz was called into work tonight. So I'm afraid that you'll have to put up with me a while longer Nunally".
His attempt at humor earning a light giggle from his paralysed sister, Lelouch found himself smiling as Nunally commented on his decision.
"Its not so bad. Especially considering that Shirley will probably be happier with you. Though I doubt it will be enough to save you the next time you skip school to go out to gamble".
Chuckling at his sister's accurate prediction, though it was accompanied by the slight feeling of regret that had become a normal occurrence whenever the orange haired girl was mentioned, Lelouch quickly sported a smirk as Suzaku acted in surprise to this piece of information.
"You gamble Lelouch? I know you weren't the most dedicated of students, but I would have thought you would have selected a less dangerous habit. You do realize of course that as a agent of the government, I have the power to put an end to such activities".
Fighting the urge to scowl at Suzaku's answer, both because of its less then truthful nature and his continuing naivety, the former prince managed to adopt his usual friendly mask as he replied to his friend's comment with what many would consider to be blackmail.
"Considering that in such an instance our true identities would be revealed, not to mention the punishment that would be dealt to those who we were closely associated with, which includes you I might add, I would prefer if you didn't. Besides, considering that many of my opponents are essentially part of the governing class of this country, one can make the argument that I had legal permission to play".
Feeling bad as he noticed the way Nunally flinched at his words, Lelouch was relieved when Suzaku decided to change the topic to something he had been unaware of.
"Alright fine. Just try not to do it too often. Considering the last night's announcement, I suspect that the Viceroy is going to be a bit more on edge than she's previously been".
Thinking that this perhaps had something to do with Nonette's presence within the country, Lelouch managed to keep his expression coolly interested as he asked his question.
"And what announcement would that be"?
Keeping his gaze firmly locked on a now fidgeting Suzaku, the exiled royal found himself unpleasantly surprised as his sister chose to answer the question.
"This is why you shouldn't gamble late at night big brother. You tend to miss the important announcements. Fa...I mean the Emperor was on the television last night, saying that he's arranged a political marriage between one of our sisters and the Chancellor of the Reich".
Grateful at the fact that the news was as surprising as it was horrifying, for it gave him a credible excuse to be horrified at the fact that Britannia would be in a position to spare numerous combat ready divisions for garrison duty, Lelouch managed to hold his tongue as Nunally proceeded to drop another bombshell.
"Fa...I mean the Emperor didn't name who would be marrying Chancellor Krueger, but I think Suzaku has an idea. He seemed even more tired and stressed out than you've been feeling lately Lelouch".
Turning his attention back towards the guilty looking Honorary Britannian, the former royal found his frown deepening as Suzaku proceeded to not only answer Nunally's question, but also reveal the true reason for why the Knight of Nine was in Japan.
"Well, this is just a rumor you understand, which I stress to point out I mainly got from whispered gossiping in the hallways and the outspoken opinions of a man who could very well be called a mad scientist. But I think the Emperor was thinking that he intends to have Cornelia marry the Reich's leader. And since that would mean that Eup...I mean the Sub Viceroy would take up the responsibility of governing Area 11, the Emperor decided to send one of his best warriors to help her get prepared for this role".
Humming as he considered this rather plausible answer, for it would make sense to have Nonette serve as a military advisor to the younger Li Britannia considering the...unorthodox relationship she had with his elder sister, Lelouch did his best to tune out the comments of his younger sister.
For he was already trying to decide how this news would impact his troops.
And whether or not it was time to start expanding his influence beyond the confines of Area 11.
...
Feeling her eyebrow twitch as her self proclaimed best friend interrupted the meeting with a loud yawn, Cornelia fought the urge to snarl as she summed up the information she had just been given by one of her intelligence officers.
"So, not only did Zero manage to escape the combined efforts of both myself and Lady Enneagram, but in the time we were engaged with his numerically inferior forces, the Black Knights have managed to not only make off with Imperial military supplies, but have also destroyed the very facilities in which they were located. Do I have that right Major"?
Narrowing her eyes as the unfortunate officer wordlessly nodded his head, the purple haired princess felt her rage increase ten fold as one of the more stupid members of the military briefing decided to play the blame game.
"We probably would have been more successful if we had a more loyal pilot in the Lancelot's cockpit".
Though once having had a similar opinion in regards to the ability of the Eleven Warrant Officer to fight his own people, such thoughts had largely disappeared due to Kururugi's hard working diligence.
But that of course didn't mean that the boy wouldn't experience some reluctance when ordered to face off against those that had once enjoyed a more amicable relationship with him.
However Nonette, while sharing some of her concerns, nevertheless also understood that the unfortunate officer was trying to repeat the actions of the disgraced Purist Faction.
"Considering that the W.O. was facing odds that would give even most Knights of Rounds difficult time, I think that your being rather unfair to the poor boy. Or has your years without facing a competent opponent lessened your ability to properly analyze a situation? If that's the case, perhaps I should select you as my preferred training partner. You look like the kind of man who wouldn't let something trivial like broken limbs get in the way of self improvement. Or am I wrong"?
Fighting the urge to chuckle at Nonette's ability to put the fear of god in the unfortunate officer, for it was widely rumored that her training techniques surpassed the effectiveness of the most sadistic member of the Knights of Rounds, Cornelia dismissed the nervous looking group with a wave of her hand.
Waiting until the room was empty before she turned a light glare towards lime haired woman.
"While I agree with your arguments Nonette, do try to remember to act your rank. As incompetent and spineless as Colonel Weatherby is, he's no use to me if he soils himself in fear every time you flash him a smile".
As expected, her words failed to have the intended effect on the now grinning Knight of Nine.
"I beg to differ. Considering the sadly increasing capabilities of your opponents, especially since their thieving last night has resulted in them increasing their ability to resist us, you may very well find yourself in the need of some easily disposable cannon fodder. Or would you prefer to trust men like that to watch your rear. Which I must admit is looking rather fet...".
"ENOUGH of that Nonette. I do not know why you continue to tease me in such way".
Her expression sporting the usual flush that only ever appeared when receiving such attention from those she respected, her brother was another example of this, Cornelia took a moment to regain her composure before turning back to the matter at hand.
"Speaking of our opponents, what's your opinion regarding the outcome of our battle last night"?
Relieved to see Nonette adopt a more serious expression, the purple haired royal found herself reluctantly nodding as she was presented with an answer she wished she could refute.
"My opinion is that you should increase your efforts to quickly improve both the quality and quantity of the garrison. Because unless either you or Gilbert have the ability to be everywhere at once, the Black Knights will continue to grow until they have reached numerical parity. And since they've already proven to be difficult opponents at their current strength, I shudder to imagine what Zero will do once he has the equivalent of a corps under his command. Especially since he appears to have added the more talent members of the JLF to his command".
Scowling at the reminder that her efforts to destroy the JLF had been less than successful, Cornelia found her mood souring even further as she mentioned what would have normally been a positive development.
"Considering my father's decision to...revaluate the Empire's relationship with Europe, not to mention my brother's plan to use my present...difficulties as an excuse to test out more of his toys, I suspect that it won't be too difficult in gaining an additional division or two".
Nodding her head to show agreement with her best friend's musings, Nonette found herself smirking as Cornelia decided to finally get around to what she had been expecting to happen ever since last night.
"Speaking of relationships, I trust that the conversation between my sister and the European Chancellor was both diplomatic and correct"?
Chuckling as the purple haired royal's protective nature once again made itself known, the Knight of Nine quickly adopted a manner fair similar to a certain blond high schooler as she listed the high points of their conversation.
"Lets see. Euphie tried to make a good impression by greeting Krueger in German, but sadly while he praised her for her pronunciation, he did correct her grammar. But she took it well enough, and then proceeded to explain her study habits, and the reason for her call. Of course Krueger was a bit curious as to her reasons in contacting him, he made some mention of the Empire's most recent attempt to demonize him, but overall he was polite to her, and didn't seem to overly mind my role as chaperone".
Pinching her forehead as she heard that last part, Cornelia reluctantly asked a question she truly wished she didn't have to ask.
"And what was it that you two talked about"?
Earning a hum of consideration, the purple haired royal released a sigh as Nonette confirmed her suspicions.
"Not much actually. Some insults towards Bradley and the Imperial Family, which I replied in turn by insulting his Blonde Witch. Reminiscing about our mutual exchanges during our time on the Russian Front. And some commentary regarding my role as Euphie's chaperone. Nothing too insidious, I ensured that my words were appropriate while I was in the presence of a sheltered Imperial Princess".
Glaring at that last bit, though she had to admit that Nonette had a point when it came to her relationship with Euphie, Cornelia gave a small nod as she voiced her grudging approval at her friend's conduct.
"Considering your usual flair for flaunting protocol, I suppose that your actions are acceptable. That being said though, for their next conversation, I will be the one to chaperone instead of you".
Earning a shocked expression from the lime haired woman, Cornelia ignored the look as she contemplated the events of the past 24 hours.
And none of them were that pleasing to her.
Eleven terrorists getting away with increasingly serious crimes against the Empire.
Her sister slowly reveling in her new found freedom away from the security that only she could provide.
And her supposed best friend taking advantage of her position as chaperone to flirt with the most powerful enemy Britannia had ever seen.
Yes. Things were not looking to well for her.
...
Fighting the very real urge to smirk, I managed to maintain my interested expression as Speer once again proved his usefulness.
"In conclusion, with the current allocation of resources, and some further expansion of infrastructure in the northern parts of our new Middle Eastern territories, I foresee no problem in not only producing the necessary numbers of aircraft by the appropriate date, but also in having the necessary logistical network to support such a force".
Nodding my head in approval, I turned my attention away from the Armaments Minister and directed it towards my ever faithful right hand.
"Karina, make sure to direct some of your resources to ensure that our new citizens don't majorly disrupt our efforts. If need be, you have my full permission to construct some local facilities to deal with the more...disloyal elements of our southern populations. Understood"?
Earning a swift nod from the head of the ISD, who as always wore a pleased grin when presented with the opportunity to punish those that failed to recognize the benefits of belonging to the Gross Europa Reich, I turned my attention to the last occupant of the room.
A man who was wearing the expression one would expect from a drowning sailor that had just been thrown a life line.
"General Student. I trust with the resources at your disposal, and the corrections both myself and Director Richter have made towards your previous operation, you will not squander this opportunity to redeem yourself"?
Allowing just a hint of warning to enter my tone as I addressed the recently reinstated officer, I gave a nod of satisfaction as the 56 year old officer gave his reply.
"I assure you that I will not Chancellor. I am grateful for this chance to prove myself, and I will do my utmost to prove to you that your faith in me is rewarded".
Left unsaid of course was that he fully understood what would happen to him should he his plans once again fail to achieve their desired objectives, I dismissed the redemption seeking general with a wave of my hand before turning my attention back towards the man responsible for the Reich's industrial achievements.
"After you finished the necessary preparations to increase production of our aerial transport fleet, I want you to compose a list of what resources and industry we can expect obtain with this...marriage. And which one of the Reich's projects can immediately benefit from such an influx".
Receiving a nod from my balding Armaments Minister, I waited for the door to close behind him before I shot a smug smirk towards the blond haired leader of the ISD.
"Soo Karina, what do you think? If we can make this work, not only do we restore, if not enhance, the Army's ability to seize the initiative in the East, but we can ensure that our attempts to regain Southern Africa proceed ahead of schedule".
Earning a small thoughtful frown from my childhood friend turned lover, I released a small chuckle as she proceeded to act more like a pouting teenager than the woman who had purged Europe of those that had almost led it to ruin.
"I think that its a brilliant plan. And that I'm pissed that it took me some time to figure out what you had in mind when you first had Goering bring you the lamentations of a disgraced officer. Of course some of my anger could be because you agreed to marry a younger woman. But considering your efforts to make up for lost time, I suppose I can be persuaded to forget it. Speaking of your bride to be, how was your little chat last night"?
Choosing to ignore the sickly sweet tone of my sadistic right hand woman, if only because I suspected that she would make me suffer if I made any comment in regards to the age difference between her and the pink haired princess, I gave a slight shrug as I recalled my evening's conversation.
"Truthfully? It went rather well. Even with the presence of the Knight of Nine acting as her chaperone".
...
Though she was devoted to the man who had brought order and respect to the European nation, the blond haired leader of the Reich's secret police fought the very real urge to shoot her lover as he revealed that he had been talking with the lime haired bitch.
"Really? And what did the 3 of you talk about hmmm"?
While her childhood friend was a relative newcomer when it came to trying to decipher the moods of women, Karina could not deny that Friedrich had learned to tread carefully whenever she was in one of her 'moods'.
"Apart from critiquing the princess's rather admirable efforts to learn German, not much of anything really. The conversation was interrupted by an emergency that required the presence of one of the Empire's strongest soldiers. I trust that you wont have any difficulty in determining what happened"?
Scoffing at the simplicity of the challenge that had just been given to her, the sadistic leader of the ISD nevertheless nodded her head.
"Shouldn't be too hard. The fact that the Empire needs to station one of it's best in one of its most valuable colonies kind of indicates that the locals are becoming more unruly. Speaking of which, my agents have managed to acquire next weeks travel itinerary for the blood sucking carrot. Should I direct some of my local agents to ensure that the Empire loses one of its favorite sons"?
Smiling at the cute thoughtful frown that adorned her lover's face as he considered her question, Karina tried her best to contain her disappointment as Friedrich gave his answer.
"Normally I'd say yes. But sadly we'll have to tolerate that monster's existence for a while longer. If the Vampire of Britannia is killed while stationed in the Siberian territories, the Brits will have an excuse to end the agreement. And since we still need time to implement the changes that are required for a successful first blow, as distasteful as it is, we will have to pass up this opportunity".
Forming an expression that was a strange mixture of a snarl and pout, the sadistic German reluctantly nodded her head as she considered the logic of her lover's decision.
While failing to destroy the numerous cells her organization was responsible for arming and coordinating, the Vampire's actions had resulted in unacceptably high causality rates amongst the local population, whose only crime was to try and maintain their dignity while they labored underneath the imperial boot.
And while such suffering could, and had been used to inspire greater hatred for the Reich's adversary, Karina had to admit that maintaining the loyalty of a downtrodden population was easier to do when said population continued to exist in the land of the living.
Which was why she tended to view the blood thirsty carrot as a complete idiot. For while she enjoyed the sadistic art of punishing those that were either disloyal or incompetent, the Director of the Reich's Internal Security Division recognized that brutality for brutalities sake was counter productive when trying to rule a nation.
Though, that didn't mean that she couldn't find ways to irritate her enemy when her preferred methods of violence where denied to her.
"I suppose we shall. However, I don't suppose you would mind if I leaked news of his atrocities to a more...squeamish audience? I'm sure the rest of the non Britannian world would like to know what could happen to them if they fail to ask us for protection".
Receiving a gesture of approval from her childhood friend, who boringly enough had returned to the more mundane duties of ruling a global superpower, Karina left the room with a growing grin on her face.
For while her duties in securing the integrity of the Reich consumed much of her time, her competent underlings had managed to secure for her a most welcome outlet for her more violent impulses.
Cause after all, while the agreements between the Reich and Britannia prevented her from 'playing' with those who were recognized to be in active service with their country's armed forces, that rule did not extend to those that were either spies, traitors.
Or in the case of General Andreas Darlton, those that were believed to be already dead.
...
Though his latest project was only a prototype, and an incomplete prototype at that, Schneziel took a moment to admire his latest attempt to re-establish the Britannian Empire's position as the world's unchallengeable military power.
With its impressive defensive features, not to mention its revolutionary flight systems, the Gawain and the mass produced frames that would succeed it, would forever change the history of warfare until the completion of the Damocles ensured that such a unhappy state of affairs would never again afflict the peoples of the world.
Unfortunately, his most trusted subordinate, and perhaps the only man who he could call a friend, was there to keep him grounded in the present instead of the future.
"A most impressive machine your highness. I'm sure that will only become more true once you've sorted out the issues with it's primary weapons system".
Sighing at Kanon's sadly accurate observation, Schneizel turned away from the digital image of his black and yellow creation and back to the smiling visage of his ever competent aide.
"I'm sure it will Kanon. But considering Asplund's recent success in finding an adequate pilot to drive his pride and joy, I suspect that the man will be able to perform similar miracles for the Gawain".
Softly smiling as his trusted advisor nodded his head in agreement, the 2nd prince of the empire lightly chuckled as his aide once again showed his reluctance to fully trust the words of an eccentric genius.
"True. However I hope that this time the man is able to keep to a more...acceptable time frame. Spending nearly 1 Billion pounds to have a revolutionary knightmare frame sitting inactive for 2-3 YEARS before he finds a suitable pilot? I swear if you weren't such a softy when it came to your toys, the man would have been fired, if not stripped of his title long ago".
Acknowledging the point with a chuckle, Schneizel moved to defend the Lancelot's creator.
"True. However since Asplund has recently acquired the data that will allow the Homeland to produce frames that are not only high quality, but also pilot friendly, I believe that he has earned the right to keep his position for the time being. Though I suppose it would be prudent not to inform him of this immunity. A desperate worker after all is a productive worker".His words causing Kanon to release an amused, almost indulgent sigh, the blond prince quickly sported a frown as his aide posed a question that never failed to ruin his mood.
"And how far along do you think the Reich is with their knightmare research? You and I both know that for every resistance movement that uses European weaponry, there's always one agent reporting on how effective it is against our soliders. And considering that they've now had ample time to study the capabilities of the Lancelot, I think it would be wise to consider that we might not enjoy as large a lead as we would prefer".
Though he wish he could do otherwise, Schneizel was forced to concede that his aide had a point.
The Lancelot had already been fought to a standstill by a squad of older knightmares, albeit ones that were piloted by highly trained combat veterans. And considering that the Reich's ability to challenge Britannia was far greater than the growing resistance movement of Area 11, it wasn't too hard to see that Asplund's creation needed further enhancements if it was to be more than a purely tactical weapon.
And considering that Area 11 was proving to be a valuable testing ground for the future of knightmare development, he was certain that the Empire could gather the necessary data to once again acquire the unbeatable edge it once enjoyed.
His current flagship was proof that Britannia could still out build its chief enemy, even if the Avalon lacked the prestige of being the first aerial warship in history.
And even then, the day was coming when nations would no longer have to waste countless men and material in a childish attempt to seize what they deemed to be theirs.
It was a day that couldn't come soon enough.
...
ANNNNND that's another chapter down XD.
Once again I appreciate the support from those who read and enjoy this story :D Helps me to keep motivated XD.
Anyway now to recap what has happened.
Lelouch segment: His reaction to Suzaku's position is more or less the same from what it was in the series, but since the reveal was not broadcast live, their are minor differences. Also, the fact that he believes Suzauku's guess that his father is marrying off Cornelia instead of Euphie in my mind should have him act this way. I.e. more concerned for the military implications. Of course I do intend to have the truth revealed to him eventually.
Cornelia and Nonette segment: This one was pretty straightforward. Cornelia discussing the course of the previous nights battle, with Nonette being her usual supportive and teasing self when it comes to what happened both on and off the battlefield. Also have the potential for her to chat with her future brother and law, though unsure how I will go about that.
Krueger/Karina segment: More military planning and scheming by the Reich's leadership. Think I managed to share my vision rather well XD
Schneziel segment: And of course the introduction of Schneizel and the Gawain in Area 11. Think I managed to capture the pragmatism of Schneizel rather well here when it comes to his plans for the future. His floating fortress is his trump card, but that doesn't mean he wont try other means to secure/expand the power of the Empire.
And now to answer the questions/respond to some of the comments of my faithful readers.
Fortitude501
Your ideas on who should lead the Waffen ISD Nippon regiment once its deployed to Japan are very useful. Can't really see it going over well with the more conservative natives if their liberators are being led by non Japanese officers. Zero can get away with it since he's the leader of a resistance movement (though once they find out he's a prince, tends to no longer work), but for members of a professional military force, don't think that would fly. Of course this means I have to find a new role for Britannian Refugee who continues the Code Geass tradition of looking great a pilot suit, but it should be too hard to figure out XD.
ChancellorZVE
Question What makes you think that the Six Houses of Kyoto would even accept a European expeditionary force in the first place, Japanese soldiers or not, when they were already split on the decision of accepting Reich weapons and resources? That runaway politician, Sawasaki I believe, tried doing that with the Chinese Federation and the invasion of Kyushu, and we all know how that ended.
Answer: One word, desperation. The cannon series shows that the black knights can no longer maintain a presence in Japan once the Empire sends in 3 knights of rounds. And while the black knights at this point in time are trying to rebuild from a failed rebellion, they are still hard pressed. Also, would think that the success of Japanese troops using European weaponry would increase the power of the pro Reich faction, and thus would allow them to convince their fellow members to accept the idea of a European expeditionary force if its ONLY comprised of Japanese soliders. Unsure of just how much of Sawasaki's force was actually Japanese, and add to the fact that he didn't interact with other Japanese groups, to my mind explains his failire.
Question: While you are still deciding on the issue of the population of the reclaimed provinces that Euphemia will govern, will the Euro-Britannians try any sort of scorched earth tactics should they be forcefully expelled from said provinces? The provinces are in our reality's Russian territories and Russia has been known to use scorched earth tactics in their history to deny invaders any infrastructure, so is there the possibility of the Euro-Britannians doing this to spite the Reich and even Euphemia?
Answer: Slight possibility. The example I have in mind stems from another Alternate History scenario, one where the Soviets advance farther west in world war 2. They eventually fall back to the agreed upon demarcation line, but they stripped that area of much of its industry, tech, and population before they gave it back to the allies. Of course I still have some time to change my mind, and figure out Euphie's role, but so far, that's the image I'm going for in the eastern most portions of the lands the Euro Brits will give up (harder to do in the areas where the Reich has greater surveailance/ability to interfere.
FuhrerofEurope
Comment: Charles' penchant for turning his speech for about every occasion into a chance to spread his Social Darwinist philosophy and Britannian superiority must feel repetitive for him in private. He even managed to seamlessly mix his supposed respect for the other superpowers, the Reich more than the Chinese Federation, with basically saying that said rivals prove that "strength equals survival" and are following Britannia's example. At least, that's what I believe. As for his speech possibly getting Lelouch to panic and overall mess with him as if it's a parent's prerogative, I refuse to believe that he can do this with any other child that isn't Marianne's children.
Reply: I believe you are correct. In all accounts. The series does seem to indicate that the only children he cared about where the ones he had with Marianne. Though he does respect Schneizel as a credible threat I believe.
Comment: On the Reich's affairs, I am squirming in anticipation for what Student could possibly offer from his failed career that could tip the balance back into Europe's favor. Krueger appears to already understand how Student's defeat can lay the foundations for a great victory in Operation Reclamation, but Richter seems to fall short this time around and she REALLY looks like she doesn't like falling behind her 'boy-toy'. And don't get me started on the marriage itself. Cornelia was worried about Nonette corrupting Euphie when it comes to interacting with Krueger, but adding Richter into the mix when she tries to assert her dominance in the relationship with Krueger, and I worry for what will Euphie become down the line. Just put that image into your mind: Nonette and Richter, hated rivals with regards to Krueger, trying to send their own message about how the marital relationship should look like to sweet, innocent, Euphie! Euphie may be Britannian, but she doesn't deserve getting caught between two femme fatale!
Reply: For the role of Student...if you've ever read a specific chapter from the alternate history book 'The Moscow Option', or a chapter in the book Hitler Victorious: Chapter Wings over the Caucasus, you might be able to get an idea. As for Richter's inability to predict Krueger's scheme, at least right away, always envisoned the character, when she's in a military role, as a warrior and political strategist rather than a strategic thinker. As for the bit about the marriage, your right, but the dynamic between Nonette and Richter will play an important role in letting Euphie develop more of a spine/effective personality. I promise I will expand on this later.
Comement: Now let's move on to the rising Area 11 rebellion. Firstly, Kallen is undoubtedly a loyal and skilled Knightmare pilot of the Black Knights, but she really should not have made that bet against Tamake, especially with regards to certain rebel royals. Leave the gambling to Lelouch, and just stick to Knightmare combat. Secondly, Lelouch is making some progress in dealing with sharing power in the resistance movement, but he still needs to improve his tolerance and give more appreciation to the fact that he has competent allies, pespecially since his own soldiers still pale in comparison to the JLF remnants. Lastly, for Suzaku, I hope he struggles even harder in the battles to come. He can barely stand up to the latest European Knightmare even with the revolutionary 7th Generation Lancelot, so just imagine even more advanced European Knightmares that the Empire has no idea about. The thought brings a smile to my face along with the upcoming news of Euphie's marriage to the man Suzaku possibly detests more than Zero, and while I'm talking about the upcoming marriage, the first video call and first impressions were adequate to say the least. The Chancellor has a good impression of the Britannian Princess and some light banter with the lime-haired Knight of Round, since the blonde Director wasn't nearby thankfully, so first meeting between the bride and groom is deemed a success in my book.
Reply: The Kallen aspect, you are right, but since at this point in time she doesn't know who the man behind the mask is, her loyalty to the masked man is still based on gratitude and hero worship. So she is still somewhat naïve. And the Tamaki bit was my way of paving the way for further humiliation of the most useless character in the series. We all remember his score on Lelouch's ranking screen XD. As for Lelouch, believe around this point in the series he had matured somewhat as a military commander. And since his circumstances are different from what they were in canon, wanted to reflect that. As for Suzaku's struggles, just some minor correction. The European knightmares provide him with a challenge not only because they are being led/directed by high quality pilots, but because the frames themseleves are of higher quality than refurbished Glasglows. Think same generation as Sutherland and Glouscters. Think Suzuaku's initial success in the canon series would be less impressive if he had been first deployed against the EU rather than a barely surviving resistance movement, or mass produced Chinese crap. As for his reaction to the marriage, I actually have something quite fun planned for the future, though still working out how I can get to that scene.
Anyways, hope that cleared some things up.
Next chapter I plan to address not only the idea of more…concrete European aid to Japan, but also the long awaited conversation between the blond immortal and the German war hero.
Plz review, no flames.
Til next time.
Heil Europa.