A/N: whew, thanks to everyone who has reviewed and a special thanks once again to Jameyofthemegacosmos for his work on this chapter, including editing and beta work.
Anyway, a lot happens in this chapter. Its posting was delayed due to new info about the island of Matoi coming out, including the profile on Liliynanna. Now that her profile has been posted, the proper adjustment to her scenes has been made. This also means we get a scene of Lelouch visiting the Second Island of Count Alf, the Pirate Island of Matoi as I said would following his adventures in Court Alf where I skipped three of the four islands he visited.
Beyond that, we have plenty of revelations to set the stage for events to come in this story.
I didn't quite get that guest review, and I have some of those stories on plans for future crossovers anyway.
So without further delay, let's get on with the show.
Chapter 15
The Past Reborn
In an hour following the end of the Battle of Shinjuku Ghetto, it was chaos. Instead of what should've been a victory for Britannia was instead a complete disaster. What remained of the Britannian Forces surrounding the ghetto to prevent and those sent in to clean it out had gathered near what remained of the G-1. The upper portion of the mobile base was destroyed, with parts of its lower half mostly intact after exploding. With few troops left, their focus was on collecting their injured and assessing their total losses.
Many were not happy with this outcome, especially since it allowed many residents and the resistance fighters to escape. Even now, they remained on the sidelines as the survivors walked away from the destruction as no one dared to pursue them.
A conversation was between Jeremiah and a junior officer. The higher ranked pilot was trying to learn the scope of their losses after being informed of the unknown creature that attacked them.
"The creature has disintegrated into nothingness by now," the officer concluded his report. "The A.S.S.E.C. had a hand, but the terrorists seem to be mostly responsible for stopping it before it left the Ghetto."
"I do appreciate them getting rid of that creature, but," Jeremiah admitted with humiliation before watching the citizens walk away from the soldiers. "I still don't understand why we're letting the Elevens go. What about the poison gas they stole?"
"Sir, we just don't have anyone left to pursue them," The officer replied reluctantly. "Our losses are far too heavy to continue the search. We barely have enough men collecting our wounded and our dead."
"I see," Jeremiah admitted with a sigh.
This operation indeed was a disaster.
"What about His Highness Clovis? Or the General Staff, in that matter?"
The junior officer's face paled before he reluctantly replied.
"We managed to recover General Bartley before the G-1 got destroyed, sir. He's still alive but seems knocked out."
Jeremiah sensed something amiss.
"Then where's His Highness?"
"We found his Staff Officers slain, but we haven't found any sign of Prince Clovis. Our men are still searching the G-1 for signs of him even now."
Jeremiah's eyes widened in horror.
"Are you telling me that Prince Clovis is gone!?"
Around the same time, a safe distance away from the ruined G-1, Lloyd was inside the A.S.S.E.C. trailer reviewing the combat data. Lloyd was alone, but it was not long before someone entered the trailer to visit him while working at a terminal.
"It appears that His Highness had a massive mishap today."
The voice came from another Britannian officer who arrived at the scene. Like Bartley, he was a large, dark-skinned, bald man, though he had goggles covering his eyes instead of a monocle. His goggles twitched around, indicating along with the metal plates around his head that his eyes were cybernetic.
Lloyd turned about to see a familiar face, turning his smile into scorn.
"Well, if it isn't Colonel Madd of the Special Honorary Foreign Legion," the scientist reluctantly greeted the Britannian officer. "If you're willing to help out with clean up, then I regret to inform you it is already too late."
"Oh, I am not here to steal your thunder. Your Lancelot has performed extremely well today, but rest assured, I am here for something else." Madd said before asking what he wanted. "A copy of Lancelot's combat data."
"That is confidential information," Lloyd pestered him. "Unlike your research, which has its fair share in lack of privacy."
Madd seemed disappointed at being denied but deduced something from Lloyd's words.
"It sounds like he never got a chance to use the system," the Colonel remarked.
"If we did use it, it wouldn't look good on our record. Using technology that someone else made is more humiliating than simply watching yours try and fail by itself."
At that moment, Cecile returned just in time to see both men having a less than pleasant exchange.
"Lloyd!" Cecile chastised her superior before turning to Madd. "Please, Colonel, things have become hectic ever since the disaster."
"Which is exactly why my special unit is coming here," Madd ensured. "Once they're finished with their current mission, we shall take control to contain what transpired, including what transpired today."
Madd noticed Suzaku pass by in the middle of the exchange, prompting him to narrow his cybernetic eyes.
"Well, it looks like we're not the only ones using Honorary Britannians for our pilots," Lloyd rubbed onto the Colonel as Suzaku walked away. "It's natural that an effective team is one that uses the best pilots at their disposal."
"So I see," Madd remarked before returning the insult. "The question is, would he and your unit be able to surpass what I have in store for the terrorists in this region?"
"Excuse me," Cecile interjected. "But how long until your unit arrives?"
"Not too long," the Colonel admitted. "I wouldn't be surprised if they're already here."
Around the same time, on the island of Agartha, Clovis was beginning to regain consciousness. His thoughts and vision were blurred, but as time passed, focus returned to his eye. The Viceroy started to recall what happened before realizing he wasn't on the G-1 anymore. Clarity had returned to his mind, and once he had regained his wits, Clovis began making demands.
"Where am I!? Who is holding a Prince of Britannia captive?!"
"I am."
Lelouch stepped into the jail cell as he removed his mask to make it easier to use his newly gained Geass. To protect his identity, he wore a hood that used magic to conceal his identity. The brothers would be working on modifying his helmet to enable Lelouch to use his Geass without removing it. However, the hood and its magic would be a temporary measure with assurances that his Geass would still function.
"Prince Clovis, I have some questions regarding the woman you were keeping in that capsule!"
"The woman, well, I doubt she would be of interest to you," Clovis said, trying to dodge the question.
"No need to be evasive," Lelouch said, acting his Geass. "You shall answer all of my questions."
His Geass reached out, ensuring Clovis before his face lost all expression.
"Ask your questions," Clovis replied.
Lelouch drew a digital recording from his cape before turning it on.
"What is so special about the girl in the capsule the terrorists stole from you?"
Clovis began to answer in an emotionless tone.
"The girl was an immortal who we expect has lived for several centuries. Furthermore, we found that nothing we did could permanently kill her, even destroying her body entirely. Most important, however, is the fact the emblem on her forehead matches a symbol we have found on the ruins of special places the Emperor has a vested interest in."
"The Emperor?" Lelouch said in surprise before asking. "How did you come to that piece of information?"
"From my half-brother Prince Schneizel, he proved indirect assistance in my research and information when asked me of the girl."
Even Schneizel is involved.
Lelouch realized he had stumbled upon something more than he could have imagined, but that only warranted further questions.
"Do you know how Schneizel came across this information?"
"He did not share that with me. He only asked in exchange for additional funding and resources that I allow his pet project Camelot to operate in Area 11."
"Did he request anything else?"
"Only that I try to provide as many opportunities as possible for the Lancelot at actual combat for field testing and share with him any discoveries made. In turn, we created a separate division to hide the experiments and conduct field testing to use our discoveries towards military applications."
"I see, and these ruins you mentioned. Are you certain they are related to the girl?"
"We only discovered them recently on Kamine Island, a few miles from Shikine Island. A preliminary inspection reveals the symbol on the temple ruins is an exact match to the mark upon her head," Clovis answered in the same emotionless voice. "We planned an expedition to investigate the ruins, especially since they are the same ones the Emperor is interested in."
Are these ruins somehow tied to the ancient civilization that once dominated this world?
It was a question he would have to ask Havi later.
"What else can you tell me about Code-R?"
"We might've found a way to replicate the girl's powers to a limited degree, but Colonel Madd of the Britannian Special Honorary Foreign Legion is responsible for testing and developing the GX-01."
"What is the GX-01?"
"A seventh generation Knightmare Frame, designed to rival my brother's creation, the Z-01 Lancelot. It implemented many new technologies we researched using the girl. They were supposed to be conducting field testing during a mission elsewhere."
"I see," Lelouch said before asking. "As Viceroy, I assume you have codes for remote access to the databases concerning Code-R and other government facilities?"
Lelouch knew it could be a waste of time to get information regarding these machines' technical details. Therefore, Lelouch believed it would be better to access the data remotely using Clovis's credentials.
If I know Clovis, he has likely created a personal backdoor for himself in the government's network infrastructure.
Aware that Clovis indulges himself, especially while spending time with a woman or painting someplace private and remote. He likely needed a way to access government systems remotely in an emergency. Not something he wanted willingly, but maybe something his advisers encouraged. Probably used this remote access as a way to review documents and updates for Code-R without being in the Viceroy Palace so no one else not involved could accidentally find out.
"Yes, I do," Clovis replied. "A backdoor I had made for myself whenever I had to be away from the Viceroy's Palace."
Lelouch merely grinned.
"Could you tell me the access codes and how to access this backdoor from the outside?"
"I shall," Clovis replied before giving Lelouch detailed instructions on how to use his credentials from any other computer outside the Viceroy's Palace. That included any access codes he would need as well too. According to Clovis would allow him to access his files, government databases, and those related to Code-R.
It doesn't sound like he has access to Camelot's database, but I'll just have to make do with what I have.
"Are there any other projects I should know about?"
"Beyond Code-R and related works, there are none."
"I see, so tell me, what do you know of Lady Marianne's murder? I want to know who killed her?"
"Ask Prince Schneizel or Princess Cornelia. They can tell you."
"Did they mastermind my mother's murder, or did one of them commit the act?"
Clovis didn't respond, which Lelouch took as a sign.
"I see, so you don't know."
Lelouch was hardly surprised by this because out of everyone he potentially suspected of having killed his mother, Clovis was the least likely out of everyone. Recalling the time they spent their younger days playing chess together. Having even painted a portrait featuring him, Marianne, and Nunnally, Lelouch did not see him having much of a motive to kill her. Further proof was how much of an incompetent Viceroy was, making it very doubtful Clovis could have planned out such an assassination.
I suppose it was worth a try.
"Do you have any more questions?"
"Yes, could you give me the names of any noteworthy researchers in Code-R, anyone of note?"
Lelouch decided to collect the researchers' names as a back-up plan if Clovis's remote access became useless. Lelouch could track down the researchers and interrogate them instead.
"I shall," Clovis replied before listing off names.
Once he finished collecting names from Clovis, including one that surprised him, Lelouch asked what his final question might be.
"Do you know the names of the engineers working on the GX-01 machines?"
"Only the lead engineers," Clovis answered.
"Then tell me their names."
Clovis did as he asked, and Lelouch made sure to record that information for later use.
I will need to find a way to acquire something to compete against these seventh-generation models. Otherwise, my rebellion may not get very far if they find a way to mass-produce them.
After Clovis finished answering Lelouch's question by providing the names of those he knew involved with the GX-01.
"Is that all of your questions?"
"One more. Once you return to the Viceroy's Palace, could you make sure your credentials and codes for accessing your systems stay unchanged?"
"I shall," Clovis replied.
I am not sure how well that could work, but it would be a precaution if nothing else.
"You have answered my questions."
With those words, Clovis was free from Lelouch's Geass as he suddenly became aware that he had seemingly lost track of time and what was happening.
"What happened? What did you do to me!?"
"Nothing, you just answered a few questions I had, that's all," Lelouch replied, grinning. "We have nothing further to discuss. But rest assured, I'll return you to your friends in good time."
As Lelouch turned to leave, he stopped near the cell door before realizing something.
"Oh, right, you should," Lelouch said as he turned around, activating his Geass again. "You should probably forget anything you see in this place."
"That isn't something I can do so easily," Clovis offered defiantly to a surprised Lelouch.
I see, so my Geass can only work on a person once.
"Maybe, but we'll see."
With those words, Lelouch left the room, leaving Clovis alone.
Elsewhere on the island, C.C. sat at a table with Luciana and Koyoi with her. The duo was intent on questioning the green-haired witch. Ever since C.C. had given Lelouch's Geass, the former prince had sent her to the island with instructions for the brothers to keep an eye on her.
However, unlike Lelouch, the girls had difficulty in getting a straight answer out of C.C.
"So, my first question is," Luciana began. "Is C.C. your real name?"
"It is my name and the only one I'll use."
Luciana was annoyed by the dismissive gesture, but she allowed it to slide as Koyoi was next to inquire.
"Mind telling us why Clovis kept you, prisoner? Was it your immortality, your ability to grant others special powers, or both?"
"I imagine Lelouch is already getting that answer from Clovis by now, so why don't we wait for him?"
As Koyoi and Luciana grew annoyed with C.C.'s evasion of their questions, Wilmarina updated the others about what happened. The separate meeting was happening in one of the empty chambers within the ruined city to conduct a private discussion.
Wilmarina had just finished explaining what happened at Shinjuku from beginning to end. Now she was allowing everyone a moment to process what had happened and offer up their comments.
"How could anyone slaughter unarmed civilians so causally!?" Olivie exclaimed, appalled by what the Britannians had done.
"Why would they just kill everyone like that over something they weren't involved in," Paula asked on the brink of tears.
"It was likely so that no one would question the false story they planned to feed to everyone," Alameria answered. "Not to mention it would've been suspect if no one in Shinjuku was dead from the release of poison gas."
The unsettled expression on the dhampir's face indicated she was of the mind as others. Alameria was just as much horrified by the mass slaughter the Britannians were attempting.
Primera was generally quiet, with her expression being challenging to read.
The only one not present for this meeting was Mimil, who was currently with Nunnally and Mizuko, as the topic was not something a child had to know.
"And this monster you encountered," Primera asked, breaking her silence.
"It was unlike anything I had ever seen," Wilmarina said, recalling the unknown monster. "It was way different from the monsters of the ancient times, let alone those of today. It acted more like a wild animal just wanting to destroy everything in its path. I think it could've leveled a city if no one stopped it,"
"How could one like that suddenly appear?" Olivie pointed out. "I doubt the tunnels that run throughout Japan were large enough for it."
"Unless it was born within Shinjuku Ghetto itself," Alameria suggested.
"What about our new friend?" Paula kindly asked, referring to C.C.
"I am not sure if we should call her friend yet," Wilmarina admitted with a sigh, folding her arms. "She avoids answering some of our questions. I am doubtful Koyoi and Luciana are going to have much luck with her."
"Then we'll just have to wait until Lelouch finishes his work with his that half-brother of his," Olivie said, earning a nod of agreement from Wilmarina. "That new power of his will no doubt makes interrogating him a lot easier."
"It's ironic," Primera noted. "For someone who wants everyone to live their own life, he gets a power that allows him to dominate their wills,"
"I know, but something that has proven quite useful, I admit," Alameria acknowledged. "It played a key role in securing the weapons you needed for the resistance fighters to turn the tide, didn't it?"
"Yes, that is very true," Wilmarina admitted. "But…never mind."
Wilmarina did not want to say anything about it yet. The power to control others prompted her to think about the monster's mana, which transformed others into lustful creatures. But with the ability to purify mana, the same one obtained by her other friends, including Lelouch and her sister, she thought there could be a possibility. She only hoped to confirm with Havi that this possibility exists.
Back in Area 11, hours after the end of the Battle of Shinjuku Ghetto, a recovered General Bartley exited an elevator. His injuries were minor, but his sweating face told another story. Considering someone almost killed him, Bartley might have been thankful for surviving if he was not in this predicament.
Although the doctor advised he should rest, Bartley had many things he had to attend to before anything else. He knew it would happen in the next couple of days once word of what happened and Prince Clovis's presumed demise would cause.
Bartley entered a room full of men wearing civilian attire upon entering a hidden room requiring a handprint scanner to gain entry.
"General Bartley, sir," one of the scientists in the room said, noticing the General enter.
"I just got back from a meeting with the Second Prince," Bartley addressed his research staff. "Due to the latest events, there are some things we have to wrap up."
The General swallowed before he continued.
"As you know, this section of the Code R project has turned into a colossal disaster. Therefore, I will shut down this facility."
There was a collective gasp from the group, but no one offered a counter-argument. Many of them, deep down, knew why this was likely happening, given they had learned specific details about events in Shinjuku.
"I want you to move everything to you our facility at Narita; you should have enough time to have everything transferred over before tomorrow," Bartley ordered before sweating on the next issue. "Also, a week from now, you'll be temporarily under Colonel Madd of the Wired Program."
"The commander of the Britannian Special Honorary Foreign Legion?"
The Britannian Special Honorary Foreign Legion was an irregular unit founded by Prince Clovis. Publicly, it was a military unit that existed outside of the standard chain of command. They were a combination of a special forces unit and research team that uses carefully chosen Honorary Britannians and Britannian orphans as test pilots. Unofficially, it was part of the Code R Project, seeking to test out the technologies made by the main program's discoveries.
Furthermore, it acted as an additional cover for Clovis's experiments with C.C., which leaked to the Camelot unit through arrangements made with his half-brother Prince Schneizel.
"I know that it's just an offshoot of the original Code R Project. But it has already produced results, and they'll deploy in this Area once they're ready. Besides, with Clovis gone, there's nothing else I can do."
There a moment of silence from the researchers, all of whom were aware of Clovis's fate.
"The fact remains that I am the only survivor among the Staff Officers before Clovis seemingly died since we haven't found any sign of him," Bartley acknowledged. "That is enough to call me onto the carpet for this back at the Homeland, even with the Second Prince coming to defend me. If His Majesty learns this has...gone on without his...knowledge..."
"Understood, sir," a researcher complied. "We'll start preparing immediately!"
"I thank you," Bartley sighed. However, with everything going on, especially with Colonel Madd in charge, their luck was as good as it could be.
Lilynanna stood before a statue of the island's founder, the Great Pirate Matoi.
Lost in thought, Lilynanna recalled the day she met Zero and brought him to this very spot to talk about the island's history.
"Welcome to the Island of Matoi; I am Lilynanna!" Lilynanna descended from the sky.
She landed in a graceful crouch before Zero, Levin, and Madison departed their gondola. But that was not all; Lilynanna had a display to accompany her greeting, which was far flashier than when Arial greeted them on Al-Mar. Upon landing, colorful confetti was shot into the air around Lilyanna as she spread out her wings.
"I am the newest Diva of Matoi, who has been called the Princess of the Tempest, the Pink Storm, and Typhoon Matoi!"
This time, pink confetti dropped upon where Lelouch, Levin, and Madison noticed harpies and other sirens raining it from high above.
"What a showoff," Levin grumbled.
"That's quite a few nicknames," Lelouch commented, deciding to break the silence.
"Of course, because even before I became a Diva, I was a well-known singing maiden. I suppose it should not be a shock that the people chose me as the next Diva. If you all only arrived a few weeks early, you bunch could've been here for the Music Festival of Joy!"
"Music Festival of Joy?" Lelouch inquired, clearly curious.
"The Music Festival of Joy is an event that happens every three years on Matoi. It is when all of the Singing Maidens on Matoi gather to select the next Diva. There is a vote to choose the Flower of Matori Winds by how often everyone on Matoi has used the Singing Seashell of that Maiden!"
"Singing Seashell?" Levin asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Yes, they are a magical item every Singing Maiden creates and gives out to everyone. Like how you can hear the ocean's sound in a seashell, you can listen to a Singing Maiden's song. Here, have one," Lilynanna said, offering Lelouch a Singing Seashell.
"Hey, are you just carrying those to give to everyone!" Levin snapped with a hint of jealously while Lelouch accepted the seashell before pocketing it into his cape.
"Of course, every singing Maiden on Matoi has made plenty to give to everyone! That way, the more who listen over three years will increase their chances to become the next Diva of Matoi."
"Question," Madison asked, raising her hand, and seeking to prevent any disagreements between Levin and Lilynanna. "The Singing Seashells aren't the only thing that can determine who the next Diva is?"
"That's right," Lilynanna beamed happily. "Aside from Singing Seashells, every Singing Maiden has merchandise to sponsor them!"
"Merchandise?" Lelouch and Levin asked together.
"Yes, it varies from one Maiden to another, but for someone like me, I have my line of fashionable clothes and outfits I make and sell," Lilynanna proclaimed proudly. "I didn't just make only my outfit either. I created every outfit that is worn by my crew! I have always made sure I am up to date on the latest fashion trends among Monster Girls. So I have a new outfit and design every week or so."
"You sound quite busy," Lelouch commented. "I would hope you are not overwhelming yourself."
The masked man questioned if Lilynanna was arrogant or just overflowing with confidence. So far, he was leaning towards the latter.
"Even after becoming a Diva, I take my duties very seriously, I promise you! But, instead of saying it, how about I show you!"
"Then, by all means, lead on."
Lelouch, Madison, and Levin followed Lilynanna as she energetically began showing them around Matoi.
The group passed through the shopping district where Lelouch saw many shops. There was even a two-story building selling Lilynanna merchandise with some of her fashion designs and outfits on display. Overall, Lelouch compared the architecture of Matoi to one of those 17th-century islands during the Age of Privacy.
Eventually, the group arrived in the city's main square. Lelouch noticed Madison was nowhere to be seen, but he was sure she would catch up. The masked man assumed she might've been distracted by some of the shops.
"And here is a stature of our island's founder!" Lilynanna exclaimed before pointing one of her wings at a statue standing upon a limestone stand with an inscribed golden plate.
In Memory of our Great Founder
The Great Pirate Matori
The Legendary Pirate King
The statue was a middle-aged man wearing a heavy coat and a Tricon possessing short hair, smiling as he held one hand out to reach for the horizon.
"Despite his wealthy origins, he was quite unique."
"How so, he was an aristocrat?" Lelouch asked as Levin stood behind him, clearly bored to tears.
"He was. In fact, he had a younger brother growing up," Lilynanna answered with a smile. "Unlike most, Matoi was not your typical child of nobility, although granted, he was more interested in hunting or horseback riding. Matoi was best known for being a free spirit who didn't want to bend to anyone seeking to make the most of life."
"So a very adventurous type then?"
"Yes, but he was by no means lazy. He just loved being in the thick of things than simply sitting around. Even so, despite his lack of willingness to study, Matoi was a born leader possessing a magnetic charisma, forward-thinking, and an innovative problem solver."
"Sounds like quite the success story," Lelouch said, but he was curious what led him to become a pirate.
"There is a bit more I need to mention, but allow me a chance to elaborate," Lilynanna began. "When he came of age, Matoi became the manager of his family's lands and businesses. Unlike other members of the nobility at the time, he did not seek to overexploit his people. Whenever bandits terrorized those under his care, he rallied everyone to drive them out. When a child was missing, Matori did not rest until they were found. If farming crops failed to grow, Matoi never blamed the farmers. Instead, he researched the problem and found a solution. Matori did not just solve the problem either; he went further, devising new cultivation techniques for producing food. These efforts were the result of Matoi gathering and bringing together talented people to work under him. Even when a thief robbed him, Matoi would re-educate the thief before winning his loyalty."
"That's very impressive and almost sounds too good to be true," Lelouch admitted.
"What can I say? He's considered a legend around here," Lilynanna mused.
While the masked man was impressed, he wondered if she exaggerated some elements of the story. However, he did suspect what likely led to Matoi's life as a pirate.
"That aside, I imagine his popularity with the common folk and successes didn't sit well with the nobility?"
"Nailed it; you are a sharp one!" Lilynanna congratulated Lelouch before telling more of the story. A disgruntled nobleman hired pirates to kidnap Matoi. Instead of being distressed, Matoi blamed his situation on being careless. Unable to sit around, he began performing duties aboard the ship. The pirates were confused at first, but none could deny his courage, flexibility, and willingness to take the initiative. After solving every problem on the ship and among the crew, Matori became the Captain's best friend and his first mate."
"Now I seriously think you are exaggerating," Lelouch remarked.
"Well, then how do you explain all of this!?"
Lelouch got pushed to examine his surroundings as the city. Instead, the island itself was proof of Matori's exploits. Matoi and his followers took a single island transforming it into something more than a haven for pirates, outcasts, and those rejected by society. The island was considered a small but powerful self-sustaining nation. Its shipbuilding capabilities rivaled Queen Diana's Shipbuilding Island, famous for building some of the greatest battleships belonging to the Order of the Chief God.
Lilynanna grinned at Lelouch, who only shrugged his shoulders.
"Ok, I'll concede it's possible, so please continue."
"With pleasure," Lilynanna replied with a satisfied smirk. "As I was saying, the experience opened Matoi's eyes that the world was much bigger than he realized. Furthermore, he learned about how those who became pirates. For some, it was for the money, but some did not have any other place to call home. Matoi would find his true calling to help others, which only solidified after the Captain of the ship died due to sickness along with members of the crew."
Lilynanna was interrupted again by a late arrival as Madison joined the group.
"I'm so sorry! Did I miss it!?" Madison was clearly out of breath as she had been running around looking for them. "I prefer swimming over running on the land."
"You're kinda late, but we're getting to the good part," Lilynanna replied. "Speaking of which, where was I?"
It took Lilynanna a moment to remember before it dawned on her.
"Oh, right! The crew's deaths could have not happened had there been a safe port for them to find a healer. Unfortunately, given how they were all pirates and wanted for crimes in crucial places, this wasn't possible."
"Then what happened?" Madison inquired while Lelouch listened and Levin had fallen asleep behind him.
"Matoi did what he could for the crew, and those he saved elected him became their new Captain. Shortly after that, Matoi would return home, where he transferred everything to his younger brother. Matoi began his new life as a pirate by attacking battleships belonging to the Order of the Chief God, raiding slave ships to liberate their slaves and wealthy vessels owned by members of the nobility. Matoi would give most of his spoils to the poor and needy to help them."
"From that moment on, Matoi would become the legendary pirate he is known for?" Lelouch inquired, as the second Diva nodded.
"Yes, and soon he gathered enough followers to form his pirate fleet. Even then, his followers continued to grow alongside his fame. They even called him the Pirate King Matoi. After that, he and his followers discovered an island where they created their own home. Employing everything Matoi had learned, he made a self-sustaining colony that became a haven for pirates and anyone without a home to call their own!"
"And the Island of Matori grew into a small nation of its own, right?"
"Right again! But I suppose that was an obvious question."
"But Matori passed away, didn't he?"
"Eventually, yes, he did, but he died an extraordinarily successful man all things considered. His followers lived on as did his children," Lilynanna explained. "Many of them continue his dream even as more monsters began to move here and live together with the pirates. Even today, more pirates come here."
"I recall the dozens of ships anchored in the harbors surrounding the island," Lelouch commented. "I think the number of ships outnumbers the number of buildings and homes on the island."
"That's right, and not only are new ships built here on Matoi; we also build ships for other islands," Lilynanna answered.
"I recall some of the gondolas in Al-Mar constructed here," Madison commented.
"I assume nowadays the pirates of Matoi do not engage in plundering ships and similar activities anymore," Lelouch asked.
"You are correct, but that doesn't mean we still don't have the fighting spirit of a pirate," Lilynanna explained before a smile appeared on her face. "Instead, we redirect it to something else."
"What do you mean?"
"Here I'll show you," Lilynanna answered, gesturing for Lelouch to follow her.
"Hey, wake up," Madison said lightly, elbowing Levin. "Wake up, or you'll be left behind!"
"Hey, no need to fucking rib me!" the thunderbird snapped annoyingly.
Lilynanna led Lelouch, Madison, and Levin to one of the harbors where two ships were pulling into port.
One of the vessels was a red hull painted galleon sailing ship with a full-rigged sail configuration. Its sails were blood red, and a gold female Salamander grasps a sword decorating the ship's bow. The flag of the approaching pirate vessel was of a skull with flames around it with two curved blades on the blood-red flag.
"Arriving for the day is the Red Lizard Pirates' ship, led by Captain Mary Salamander, an unmarried Salamander," Lilynanna announced. "Their vessel, called the Crimson Beauty, is one of Matoi's best restaurants."
"Restaurants," Levin and Lelouch both said, clearly confused.
"Yes, most of the ships docked in Matoi are either homes for families who love to travel or shops. Here in Matoi, just about anyone can get their ship for themselves and be a pirate to use as a home for their family or use it as a mobile shop of shorts. Those who turn their ships into shops on the sea will compete against other pirate gangs who run their shops from their vessels to net the most customers!"
Lelouch soon spotted another pirate ship approaching. It soon ran alongside the Crimson Beauty. The vessel was black-hulled, a hybrid between a 17th-century galleon and a fluty. Its full-rigging sails were dark blue, and the front was akin to those of a shark's jaws, giving it an intimidating appearance.
"And before you are the Red Lizard Pirates' rivals, the Pirates of the Shark Jaw, by Captain Charlotte Mershark, one of our newest and youngest captains next to Captain Mary!" Lilynanna explained.
As the ships drew closer, Lelouch caught a glimpse at one of the captains, a Salamander with a tanned complexion with red scales and flames glowing upon her tail. She wore a red coat over a white top with a white cravat and black pants and leather boots. Captain Mary possessed long blonde hair and blue eyes with a big grin on her face. Like a typical pirate, naturally, she wore a black pirate hat with her pirate gang's emblem upon it.
Raising a sword high into the sky, Captain Mary declared.
"Come one and come all to the Crimson Beauty! Today we have a special with our Demonic Lizard Meat dishes. Bring your family and crew for seaside lunch and ask about our dinner cruise specials!"
Across the water from her, Captain Charlotte made her appearance.
Like most of her crew, Charlotte was a Mershark, the ferocious and bold cousin of the mermaid family. Unlike mermaids and their other cousins, the Merrows, a Mershark possessed a more fearsome appearance. Their upper body was humanoid in appearance, but their skin was white, with her forearms and parts of her upper torso dark blue. She has long fins attached to her forearms, long black hair with blue highlights, and yellow eyes with black sclera.
The Mershark's razor-sharp teeth could be seen, stated to be strong enough to bite through iron chains.
Usually, the lower half of a Mershark's body would be identical to that of a shark than a traditional mermaid tail. However, Charlotte was using a human transformation spell to turn her lower half into a pair of legs to walk upon her ship's deck.
Charlotte wore a black wrap-around skirt and a sleeveless white top with a pirate hat upon her head.
"Attention, everyone!" Charlotte declared. "As of today, we offer a new kid's menu and specials for couples with our seasoned lobster and fish cakes. We now include a free toy for children along with kid meal orders! Newlywed couples can enjoy a twenty percent off on any meal or nighttime cruise!"
"Hey!" Mary snapped. "Are you trying to bribe the kids of your customers to win them over!?"
"Oh, you are just mad you didn't think of the idea first," Charlotte countered with a grin.
"I'll show you!"
"Have those two been always like this?" Lelouch asked as Charlotte and Mary continued arguing with one another.
"They are arguing like a bunch of fucking children," Levin commented while Madison merely shook her head.
Lilynanna sighed before answering. "Well, they have been rivals since they were children. Everything from who has better sex appeal, singing, outfits, and cooking they have constantly competed against the other."
"Was this something that came from the parents?" Lelouch inquired.
"No, their parents are good friends with each other. They just stepped down from leadership over their respective gangs. They each passed the mantle of Captain to their daughters so they could run the family business in their place. Both of their parents are presently vacationing to spend more time with their husband," Lilynanna answered before folding her wings under her chest. "I will say, in terms of cooking, Charlotte is the better of the two. Mersharks have extremely keen senses, such as they can pick up a human's blood in the water from miles away. Charlotte has learned how to take advantage of her senses to drastically improve her cooking skills, knowing just how to prepare any dish she makes."
"Right," Madison said before remembering something. "Mersharks are usually at the scene whenever a human ship sank. Whenever they pick up a wounded human in the ocean, they rush to their aid to save them. They sometimes arrive ahead of us Sea Bishops to save humans in trouble."
"Yeah, but unmarried ones might decide to court the human they rescue to be their husband," Levin mentioned off-hand.
"Maybe, but even the married ones will try to help if they can." Madison offered as a counter-argument. "The problem they have is their appearances tend to scare humans, so they are a very self-conscious lot. Even with their husbands, they tend to be timid and gentle with them, which is because of how their skin is like sharkskin that can shave off humans' essence, allowing them to consume it. Their claws and jaws will not hurt you, and neither will their skin, but if your essence spills out before an unmarried Mershark, it will drive them into a frenzy for that man. Resisting is near impossible for them, which is why they always try to handle the humans they save as gently as possible."
"It's usually why when a ship transporting humans to Court Alf runs into trouble, the islands always have married Mersharks on hand to handle any rescues. We just don't want them to have any more of a bad experience when coming to our islands," Madison pointed out. "After all, a Monster Girl who is married and has a husband will never cheat on them nor even be tempted by another no matter what."
"I see that is certainly problematic," Lelouch admitted, uncertain if he should feel sorry for them. "On the other hand, I will say it's quite impressive of Charlotte to make use of her senses like that. It sounds like it must take considerable skill to have accomplished that."
"If you are curious, I made reservations for us to have lunch there later," Lilynanna revealed with a wink.
"I look forward to it," Lelouch replied.
"But let me show you all the centerpiece of Matoi Island!" Lilynanna exclaimed before instructing everyone to board a longboat with a siren ready to use magic to help tow the boat along. "Just as Al Mar has the Cathedral of Blessing as their tourist hotspot, we have the Matori Ship-Concert Hall!"
As the siren led the boat past the other ships floating in the harbor as shops or homes, the largest ship of all came into view. It was a vessel that easily dwarfed the others surrounding it with what looked like a theater hall built onto the top of the ship in the center. It had a Full-rigged set of sails despite the ship's unusual design.
"This is where the next Diva makes her first performance to all of Matori, but of course, it has seen many different concerts since its creation."
"That's probably the biggest ship I have seen," Lelouch commented.
"How about I show you all what the ship is like on the inside. Then you'll get a special concert featuring me!"
"Lady Lilynanna," a voice said, shaking the siren from her thoughts.
Approaching her was Captain Charlotte, but walking alongside her is a harpy around Lilynanna's age.
She possessed bright red wings with long red hair to match styled into a pair of long pigtails with red ribbon. She wore the same black bodysuit that left her arms and legs as exposed as Lilynanna's. The siren also had a fair skin complexion with bright blue eyes as well.
"Captain Charlotte and I have news from the Great Songstress," Elody reported.
"Really? What's going on?"
Charlotte glanced around, noticing plenty of people still about despite it being late at night.
"We need to move this discussion to somewhere more private."
The group relocated to Lilynanna's private ship, a Galleon with bright pink sails, a full-rigging set, and a purple hull. It was called the Ocean's Melody, and it was the ship belonging to the Siren Pirate Gang.
Naturally, Lilynanna was their leader, being the Diva of Matori as the Siren Pirates were among the oldest of the Matoi Pirates' monster allies. Despite their early history being tense due to the sirens kidnapping some of Matoi's followers before the two came to a peaceful end to hostilities.
Sitting behind her red and gold-trimmed desk, Lilynanna reclined in her cushioned chair.
"Ok, what's this about Elody?"
"Queen Difina has asked that you and Miss Dil take part in a special diplomatic mission to Zero's world," Elody said before handing Lilynanna a rolled-up piece of parchment.
"WHAT?!"
Lilynanna was surprised, for the lack of a better word, to the point she nearly fell out of her chair. Her mind was scrambling, wondering if they had discovered what she and Levin knew. In response, Lilynanna quickly snatched the parchment before examining its contents in due haste.
"The following personnel shall be called for a review by Hey Majesty Difina and Seventh Diva Asura Mythra. Those qualified shall partake in a special envoy mission to Earth, the homeworld of Zero, to pursue negotiations and re-establish contact."
The siren's jaw left hanging in shock, but she regained her composure after processing the information before her.
"Of course, I should've known Lady Asura would've been looking into this matter," Lilynanna said before asking. "Has Levin been told of this?"
"Not yet, but it's believed that maybe you should be the one to break the news to her, given that you two are best friends."
"I understand, but I don't know how it would be any different," Lilynanna said with a sigh. "So Charlotte is going to help with overseeing transport and logistics?"
"That's correct," Elody nodded. "The Great Songstress suggests you choose someone to act as your representative since your duties as a Diva will demand you return to Matoi from time to time."
"Which also means Levin will likely have to do the same," Lilynanna acknowledged. "I doubt she'll be willing to leave Zero's side. Once those two are reunited, I doubt she will let Zero out of her sight."
"True," Elody remarked. "Still, there is a lot of time before the missing Priestess of Poseidon will come through the portal giving us our window to Earth."
"So basically, we do not need to rush our preparations," Lilynanna said, noticing the real meaning behind that comment.
"Exactly, because I have another task the Great Songstress has asked me," Elody shared. "I am to head to Dragonia to meet with its leader as part of our preparations. The plan is for those who go to Earth to have it consist of those most familiar with Zero."
"Is that a good idea? Aren't we spreading the word of this a little too far?"
"Lady Asura is confident it will work."
Lilynanna remained doubtful, but it did not seem she could do much to argue against it.
"I don't exactly feel certain of it, but I'll trust in Lady Asura's divination for the time being."
"While she flies off to Dragonia, I'll making preparations by gathering essential supplies and looking for others to fill essential roles," Charlotte added. "My ship will be able to carry out that role."
"I see, so that means your mother and father are taking over your pirate gang for the time being," Lilynanna said. "I guess that also means you'll be quite busy for a while."
"It seems the Great Songstress believes I am ideally suited for this task and for helping maintain secrecy," Charlotte replied humbly. However, less than a second later, a grin appeared on her face. "Besides, if I can help our kind in any way and play a part in establishing peaceful relations with another world, that will make me a hero, am I right? That also means it will be the ultimate way to one-up Mary."
I should've seen that one coming, Lilynanna remarked internally.
Still, beyond that, Lilynanna wasn't sure how she was going to explain this to Levin.
Despite her calm expression, Lilynanna was still reeling internally from the sudden revelation. She had some doubts and concerns about the mission, but she hoped it would work out in the end.
I am worried about how Levin might react. How would I even approach her with this?
The following morning Lelouch, Wilmarina, Luciana, and Koyoi sat around a wooden table with Havi joining them. Lelouch and Wilmarina had finished taking turns filling in the man regarding events in Shinjuku yesterday, on top of sharing Lelouch's findings from interrogating Clovis.
At the same time, Mizuko and Nunnally were just outside the room. In contrast, others like Paula, Olivie, Primera, and Alameria were present as well.
"What you have told me is most troubling," Havi remarked with a sigh. "To think Britannia would be dabbling in such things."
"Do you know anything about these ruins Clovis mentioned?" Lelouch inquired, "are they part of the ancient civilization of Agartha somehow?"
Havi shaking his head, "I am not sure. Without seeing them and inspecting the ruins myself, I can't tell you much right now."
Lelouch wondered if Havi knew more than he was letting on, but the former prince decided not to press him for now.
"What could Britannia want with those ruins?" Koyoi asked.
"Hard to say. But considering how far they went to cover up for the girl in Shinjuku Ghetto, then it does not bode well for us," Havi said with a firm resolve. "Even if the Emperor's conquest of the world is motivated by the desire to obtain these ruins, their importance might be considerable. Therefore, we must stop Britannia must at all costs."
"Easier said than done," Lelouch out. "We'll need an army to pull that off."
"Begin with those resistance fighters you aided," Havi advised Lelouch. "At least they can be a starting point."
"Ok, but what about the creature we encountered yesterday?" Wilmarina asked. "There is no way something like that could've appeared in the middle of Shinjuku like that."
Havi's expression looked grim, but he calmly asked.
"This creature you saw, its black body dissolved everything it touched, correct?"
"Yes, it did," Wilmarina replied with a nod.
"And its body was composed out of whatever metal and stone it could collect?"
"I would assume so considering parts of its body were made out of concrete from buildings and metal from military vehicles," Lelouch replied, folding his arms.
"And the weapon it fired vaporized everything it touched?"
"That is also correct," Wilmarina said with a confirming nod. "Does that mean you know what we faced?"
"Yes, I suspected it. But I had hoped I would be wrong," Havi sighed with distress. "I had truly hoped they were gone, but it seems a conflict with them is inevitable. If only this would happen a little later than this."
"Wait, are you suggesting her followers are behind this?" Lelouch said with growing horror.
The former prince realized what Havi was implying, although he had known. But, like Havi, he had hoped they were all gone.
"What are you talking about?" Wilmarina eyed the older man. The other heroes were just as confused as she was, and Mizuko was nervous about what will become of this meeting. However, Nunnally rubbed her shell to make sure she'd remain out during the lecture.
"I believe I should now tell you what you're eventually going to be up against," Havi signaled the youngest members, including the young monster. "Nunnally, Mizuko, you need to hear this, too."
All of the heroes gathered around Lelouch and Havi. Mizuko soon followed after Nunnally walked forward, sitting by Mimil. Once they were sure that everyone participated, Havi began to share everyone the news.
Before speaking, Havi clapped his hands to conjure the shards that formed his magic mirror.
"Now, to start, we can share the beast you just encountered that's more likely to go public." the old man showed in the mirror the black silhouette monster that attacked during the battle at Shinjuku Ghetto. "Now, I'm sure that a number of you have already seen this just by fighting it."
"Are you sure these creatures are the same ones you told me about?" Lelouch asked; although he knew the answer, he wanted to be wrong.
"They are the same," Havi answered grimly.
"What is he talking about, Lelouch?" Olivie asked.
Lelouch took a deep breath before explaining.
"Havi educated me about the war between the gods, including the different forces that made up their armies. What you see is what mostly made up Kalika's armies during Ragnarök," Lelouch introduced. "As you already know, when Kalika waged war on the other Gods during Ragnarök, she had many other Gods on her side who had incredible power. But as Wilmarina and Luciana seem to learn by now, that wasn't enough for her. She did not have many humans or other beings by her side who would follow her. No one wanted to give up the life they had. And so she created something, one of which corrupted people, bent them to her will, and desired nothing more than destruction."
"That sounds just like demonic energy!" Mimil exclaimed.
"Almost, but not quite," Havi partly agreed. "Demonic energy doesn't completely take away one's will and especially doesn't rob them of their mind and intelligence. Nonetheless, you can call it a prototype for said energy."
"And that," Luciana paused, not sure what to call the monster. "That thing is the result."
"I'm afraid so," Havi said with despair in his voice. "What you see here is someone, or rather something that once lived but has now been fully corrupted by Kalika's energy. They had many names during Ragnarök: Heartless, Soulless, creatures of the night, and nightmares. But the most common one, especially used by Kalika and her follower, is the Zenkor."
"Zenkor," Paula repeated, pronouncing it as "zen-core," the same way Havi said it.
"That said," Havi then turned to their only monster friend. "You should also be fortunate that demonic energy has changed to the point where you have emotions and feelings like a normal person."
"Why would you say that, Master Havi?" Nunnally asked for her Umi Osho friend.
"I assume it's due to how warped people become when they are a Zenkor," Lelouch answered for her sister. "Just from the name and what Havi describes, they are mindless creatures that follow Kalika and her followers. No, it's more than that. Besides losing their minds, they lose any natural desires and emotions. You could call it a black hole, where no number of emotions will be able to fill it. The only thing that's on their mind is the same purpose the Goddess gave them, the absolute destruction of everything."
"Hold on," Olivie went back to Lelouch said. "You said that these creatures are capable of destruction yet mindless?"
"That's correct."
"Then how did one appear in the first place? On Earth, no less?"
"That there is another story," Havi interjected to fill in for them. "While the Zenkor's energy is infectious, as Lelouch mentioned, they lack the intelligence that their former hosts had. Therefore, they aren't smart enough to spread their mana to create more. At least, not usually."
"Are you saying there were those who created these things?" Wilmarina asked.
"What kind of idiot would do that!?" Mimil snapped. "You help Kalika, and you'll die with everyone else!"
"You see," Havi began. "While people from the ancient civilizations did not follow Kalika, there were some who did. They had their reasons, whether it be for fighting for the sake of it, revenge for some wrong done to them, the desire to change the world, or simple apathy and despair. Regardless of what race they were, they would receive blessings from the Goddess to become her primary enforcers."
"They are called the Apostles," Lelouch continued. "From what I understand, they have no limiters, probably because of their unusual blessings."
"They have no limiters," Koyoi recalled their previous conversation about them. "Meaning they are completely free to develop their abilities?"
"Exactly. I would not be surprised if each were as strong as the Demon Lord and her daughters.
"You mean they're as powerful as Druella!?" Luciana exclaimed, recalling how they were unable to lay a scratch on her.
"No, but they can be with enough time and development," Lelouch noticed Mizuko shaking with the news. He sighed as he continued onward. "Though a few times, during Ragnarök, they would be powerful to slay a God on their own if they wanted."
"And with Kailka's energy, they're that much harder to deal with," Alameria assumed.
"Not exactly," Havi objected. "While they possess Kalika's energy, wielding powers no ordinary person would have, she restricted her limit to have no more than twelve of them."
"Don't think numbers mean much to them," Lelouch warned. "They wield powers much more akin to demonic energy, with the ability to not only make Zenkor but other weapons and soldiers as well."
"Other weapons and soldiers?" Primera repeated, confused by what he meant.
"While creating Zenkor is part of their power, they can also turn other people and objects to carry out Kalika's will," Havi explained. "Just like how a Lilim creates Succubi or blesses people with the right conditions to create rare yet powerful monsters, Apostles can have subordinates known as Servants. And like how demonic energy can twist the form and purpose of items and weapons, the Apostles can do the same by turning them into Replicas."
Wilmarina began thinking back to the vision she saw and the dagger.
"Wait a moment, could these Replicas be any weapon?"
"Yes, any weapon."
"Even a dagger?"
"Do you know something, Wilmarina?" Lelouch inquired.
"This might sound crazy, but," Wilmarina began, clearly reluctant.
"Go ahead," Havi encouraged with a gesture.
"When C.C. formed her contract with me, I saw a vision of some kind of temple. I saw two men talking; one of them I recognized was an important figure from Eden Vital, Chancellor Endra Vendt. They spoke, and I learned they had a hand in causing the downfall of Lescatie."
"How did that happen!?" Mimil demanded.
"I don't know if C.C. showed you that vision to compel you into accepting, or some other power was involved," Havi explained. "Either way, if your vision was indeed accurate, then that reveals some troubling details,"
"Continue," Lelouch said, clearly interested in details while silently asking no one else interrupts.
"The Chancellor's superior, the Cardinal of Eden Vital, had a dagger they mentioned, which they used to summon a Succubus version of myself. That weapon also killed Priest Noscrim, so could that dagger be one of those weapons?"
"It is," Havi answered. "Summoning an alternate version of yourself from another universe could've only been done by a weapon of an Apostle."
"So that dagger I saw was a Replica," Wilmarina guessed, based on what she found. "The Cardinal's a servant of these Apostles then."
"No," Havi countered. "What you saw, Lady Noscrim, was the symbol of an Apostle, showing his or her status as one of Kalika's chosen followers."
"I don't understand," Wilmarina commented, confused by what he meant.
Havi showed in the mirror a silhouette showing twelve different weapons. All of them had a similar color scheme. A very dark gray metal made up the handle. Most of them, or rather their base, were made of a middle gray metal that mostly had a unique gem. The blades and ends of the weapons were of a light battleship gray color. Only some were partial exceptions to the standard design.
"As you can see, Kalika's followers are not only blessed with her power but given one of twelve weapons that symbolize her trust in them. They are as they follow."
"The Apostle Gauntlet," Lelouch began as it showed a clawed gauntlet. It had a dark-colored insert, medium gray armor, and light battleship-gray claws. The gem, a garnet, was held in a seat on the dorsal of the hand.
"The Apostle Chainwhip," Havi went next is the whip came to view, which had an amethyst on the pommel.
"Apostle Blunt," the round ball and handle were next with a bloodstone on the side of the sphere.
"The Apostle Rod," a long pole showed a diamond on the handle.
"The Apostle Cleaver," a scythe shone light from a pearl at the end of the rod housed near its blade.
"Apostle Ringblade," a large chakram had an emerald by the handle in its inner diameter.
"Apostle Shield," a mostly dark, small kite shield had a ruby on the center.
"Apostle Polearm," a naginata had a peridot gem by its blade.
"Apostle Blade," a broadsword held a sapphire on its guard.
"Apostle Dagger, the one you saw, Lady Noscrim," Havi turned to the heroine, showing the knife with a tourmaline on its guard. Likewise, Lelouch turned to the weapon that was next on the list.
"Apostle Bow," a middle gray longbow had a light gray bowstring and a citrine in the center of its dark gray grip and arrow rest.
"And finally, the most powerful of them all," Havi concluded with a futuristic gun. The dark metal formed the trigger and the action. It also held a blue topaz on both sides of the stock. The barrel was middle gray, and it had a light gray bayonet at the end. "The Apostle Deringer."
"And we have to fight all twelve of them!?" Primera exclaimed.
"Not precisely," Lelouch objected. "From what I understand, they more like the Knights of the Round within Britannia."
"The Emperor's twelve greatest warriors," Olivie recalled from the books.
"While the Rounds are supposed to be composed of twelve members as well, they can go for years and even decades without filling in every position."
"Why would they do that?" Paula questioned. "Wouldn't it be better always to have every seat filled?"
"Filling in the ranks is a lesser priority for them. Each member is supposed to have some kind of skill vital to the Empire or the Emperor himself. What matters to them the most is purpose."
"And that's how the Apostles operated," Havi followed up on Lelouch's lecture. "Not only did fewer numbers make it easier for them to move around. They also had more power and were capable of doing things more efficiently. Sometimes, they filled less than half of their positions. Sometimes, they had only one. Sometimes, there were even none."
"How could there be none?" Mimil asked spontaneously. "Aside from the gods and all."
"That's because Kalika is the only one capable of turning those worthy enough to be Apostles," Lelouch answered. "Existing Apostles play a role in selecting candidates, especially when it comes to their Servants. But in the end, Kalika alone chose her top enforcers, even if she had to scour around find them herself."
During the conversation, Lelouch noticed the strongest Order Heroes deep in her thoughts, thinking about everything said to her.
"I assume you know what this means," Lelouch assumed, also having the feeling.
"First came the unusual characteristics of demonic energy. Then, we have that succubus who imitates me. Now, there are the Apostles and the Zenkor, which were supposed to have gone extinct long ago," Wilmarina went over everything that wasn't like the world she once knew. She could see her audience worry about what she'd say, but Lelouch gave no expression like she expected her next words. "This could mean only one thing."
"That's right," Havi said with anger and regret in his voice. "Kalika...is still alive."
Those words shrouded everyone in a dark atmosphere. This ancient deity, which no one knew until now, suddenly made an appearance again. It made sense for those educated enough on Midgard, but the terror of her existence overwhelmed them.
"Havi," Lelouch went to the older man. "Is this the reason you brought me to Midgard to look for allies? Not just to destroy Britannia, but to take her down as well?"
"It is," Havi confirmed. "Not just for Midgard's sake, but for your own as well."
"Then, that means," Mizuko shook.
"I'm afraid so. Not even Poseidon, not even the Demon Lord herself, can stop her. Not alone at least, but not even the combined strength of Midgard either."
"Tsch," Wilmarina clicked her teeth as she was correct about the worst happening. "And I thought being the hero for humanity was already over."
"As a Hero for the Order of the Chief God, yes," Havi corrected. "Your real fight, everyone's fight over the world's survival, however…is just beginning."
The entire group lamented over the words Havi declared to them. They all came to the same conclusion, even the Umi Osho, who had no choice but to agree. Violence between humans and monsters on Midgard may be getting closer to a thing of the past, and humans continued to wage war against one another on Earth. But as Havi said, their real fight, their destiny in saving the world, was not over.
No, it has only begun.
A/N: there you have it, folks; the final boss of this story could be a showdown with a dangerous goddess. The conflict against her left several worlds devastated, a few likely beyond recovery.
I tried very hard to avoid to be very expedition heavy with some of the things in this chapter, but it's a tad hard when you have new places and monster girls to introduce.
The next chapter will cover many preparations behind the scenes and how some parties in Area 11 might react to Clovis being gone.
As for what happens to Eristia and Yuiry, you shall see in chapter seventeen. Due to the time I had to wait for Lilynanna's profile to come out, I had plenty of extra time to get chapter sixteen done already. I'll likely post it after a week or so, but I hope I'll get ahead enough with my chapters I could tend to one of my other stories.
In the meantime, I have posted a poll to finally decide on an issue that has bugged me. It's regarding Eristia, and while I am more than content to pair her with Yuriy. Some want to see her have a shot for Lelouch, so I decided to let a poll settle the matter once and for all.
However, I do have a plan in place for Yuriy to still be paired with Eristia, and Lelouch can be as well. No, it's not summoning another alternate version of her. In fact, it came up in a conversation I had with some of the sages of the MGE forum, which I might do to address something no one has talked about as a possible scenario.
It's a potentially intriguing situation I might try. Still, since I know how people feel about both sides of this matter, I decided to give you a chance and let the majority rule on the subject.
But it would still remain if Eristia would win a place in the harem or not. After all, as a reminder, beyond Koyoi, Wilmarina, and Levin, I haven't fully decided on the harem's final line up. I am content to see how things play out and go from there. Any polls I hold are merely determining who wins more time in the spotlight to get more chances to join.
It won't drastically alter things that would demand many changes, so I will gauge what you guys think with a poll to lay the matter to rest once and for all.
Anyway, thank you all for reading, and I look forward to your reviews.