A/N: Well, if I have the drive for it, might as well continue with this update streak am I right? Anyhow, I figure I should mention you guys could try and go back to earlier chapters and leave a review on how you feel they are overall. I mean it would be nice to have a review per chapter from at least some folks so I know how each one works both on it's own and as part of a larger whole. Anyways, this chapter is just meant to fill in the day before the Festival. I figure based on how the episodes work, the Festival takes place the day before the SAZ massacre begins, and given how the SAZ is dated to occur on the 8th. Then it means the 6th and 7th are free to be just about anything, and I figure that our cast deserve a bit of a break from the craziness that is their lives for at least 2 days. And as such, the 7th will be the Festival Proper, while the 6th will just be spent mostly seeing how our varied bunch are going about their daily lives. And of course wholesome fluff between the various couples as well, or at least some good old fashioned teasing anyhow! As for the 7th it will be the festival, which I hope I can do an alright job with. Overall though, enjoy it while it lasts. Because things are going to be very rough from here on out. The SAZ alone will be enough that even though I will try not to get too much on the details, it is going to be something our cast are going to have some nightmares about. As to what that will be, well, that would be spoiling now wouldn't it?
Code Geass: Specter of the Rebellion
Chapter 25
A day of calm, before the storm approaches...
Ashford Academy, Tokyo Settlement, September 6th, 2017 a.t.b
Lelouch P.O.V.
I must admit, having Kallen with me in the Gawain was an excellent choice...
'Not to mention how liberating it felt fighting with her along Suzaku in the Lancelot right?'
Indeed, it is rather ironic how the most free I feel when it comes to my various masks is the one that is the result of an actual mask...
'Yeah, hopefully in time we don't have to worry about hiding who we are anymore...'
Yes, if nothing else, we will make sure of it!
'Totally! Although right now...'
We have to deal with classwork the other teachers have put on us...
'It is kind of annoying we have to put up with this, then again at least it's not just us...'
I had known that at some point the other teachers would have taken action on the fact I had been ignoring class for the most part...
Still, I can tell Suzaku is also not happy to be handed remedial classwork as well.
"Is this really necessary? Ohgi-sensei?" I ask to my teacher and also subordinate, it's also clear he isn't all that thrilled to be the one handing us the work as much as we are having to receive it...
"It's not like I had much of a choice, the other teachers were harping me and Headmaster Ashford about this all the time, and they wouldn't shut up unless we did as they demanded..." He tells us with a tired voice and look in his eyes, no doubt recalling the days back when he was just a schoolteacher and nothing else and how that must have exhausted him as well in some ways.
Still, I can tell he really is glad to at least have some semblance of his old life back, even if the school and students and fellow faculty are different from what he was used to, I can tell he doesn't mind, however he also knows how I am far smarter than the rest of the student body and don't really need all of this...
"Did you tell them I can't really afford to have time taken away from my Military duties?" Suzaku whined, and I can't help but empathize with him, knowing he would rather not have to go over material he already went through in a prior lifetime yet again...
Ohgi sighed and said "Yes I told them, and Villeta brought up the fact you are Euphemira's knight. Even still they wouldn't budge."
Ah, if only that sort of stubbornness was used to more helpful matters.
Still, might as well try to do something to make light of the situation, and I have just the perfect idea...
"'Villeta' huh? You already on first name basis with her?" I say with a mischievous grin.
Suzkau P.O.V.
I know that look Lelouch...
And I'm glad you are finding something to help with the mood at least.
The look on Ohgi's face is so worth it on it's own!
Might as well try to join in on the fun as well!
"Hmm, you know Lelouch, the two of them might have even gone father than just first names you know. Imagine what sort of scandal that would cause!" I say with faux shock and suspense. All the while grinning as much as he is...
Seeing Ohgi try to come up with something of a comeback is just so worth everything I am dealing with!
Ohgi P.O.V.
Agh! I should have known those two would try and come up with something. But why did it have to be at MY expense!
Honestly, it's not like I would rather refer to Nu like that, it's just part of me having to follow the rules is all!
...
Even still, seeing the two young men in front of me laugh like they really were just some school boys, it makes me recall the days when it was me and Naoto laughing like we didn't have a care in the world and just enjoying our lives. It saddens me that we live in a world where those two have to fight and kill, just to try and have little moments like this for what little time they can spare.
Not to mention Kallen, that poor girl really shouldn't be left to hide behind a sickly façade, she should be allowed to be herself around people who she feels are actual friends, and spend time with her complete family. It's why Naoto and I began our Resistance cell in the first place, and I can just tell it's what these two young men in front of me are wanting to fight for as well. We might be from different backgrounds and lives, but we all share the same goal...
Even if they can be a bit of a pain at times, it kind of feels like we are all part of a family. And hopefully, one day, the two in front of me can be brothers in word as much as they are in bond...
Lelouch P.O.V.
After Suzaku and I managed to finish up our Laughter and told Ohgi we wouldn't bother him and Nu all that much. I figured it would be best to just head over to the Student Council room to deal with the schoolwork there.
'Not like it really is that hard for you to do anyways...'
Yeah, honestly it isn't even a challenge to finish it up anyhow. Still I suppose there should be something to pass the time with...
"Hey Lelouch!" Milly calls out to me as she walks up beside me, honestly as grateful as I am to her and her Grandfather, she can be rather annoying with her antics at times...
"Yes Milly? What scheme do you have planned for this time?" I ask her, knowing she often has something on her mind in the works...
Normally at the expense of me or one of the others...
Of course, she gives her standard response of sounding offended that I would dare think of such a thing, only for me to flatly reply that everyone knows she has something in the works...
After enjoying the sight of her pouting in annoyance at me calling out her act she say to me "Thank you Lelouch."
I know what she is thanking me for, however I figure I might as well play with her for a bit. "Oh? What for?"
Of course she knows I am just messing around, "I talking about how you got Loyd Asplund to call off our engagement."
I roll my eyes, it wasn't even that hard to begin with, just dangle him with the promise of wealth and a skilled devicer and access to all the data he might want and he'll do just about anything you ask for. Such is how his type of scientist are known to be...
"He probably doesn't care about anything other than his work, so really no one would blame you if you happened to see a guy on the side." I tell her as if it was the most mundane thing in the world.
Milly P.O.V.
LELOUCH! Honestly! I don't get why you can just act so normal about such things!
"Lelouch! You aren't honestly suggesting I would do such a thing are you! And even then who would I possibly do such an act with?" I exclaim, lets see what he tries to come up with a response to that!
"That's easy, you would pick Rivalz as soon as he offered, or just go ahead with him regardless." He says like it isn't even a question for him to think about...
...
That's...
"Now, now Millicent, I doubt you would want anyone to hear anything unbecoming from the Heiress of the Ashford family now would you?" He says with a smug grin, like a cat that ate the canary and didn't even care if he was caught...
You...
YOU SMUG ASS PRINCE!
I can't help but blush as I feel both fuming and also embarrassed at the fact he was not only pushing my buttons like it wasn't anything new, but also the fact he would be insinuating something between me and Rivalz!
Ooh, and here I thought the only thing you got from Lady Marianne was just her hair color and overall good looks that most of the ditzy girls here fall over for!
Still, a part of me can't help but find the idea of being involved with Rivalz in some way, even as something as scandalous as what Lelouch implied, to be, well...
Enticing, to put it mildly...
Lady Marianne, your son really knows how to show he is yours when it counts...
He is as devious as you are!
Lelouch P.O.V.
Ah, it is good to mess around with people sometimes...
'You can be quite the impish little fiend when you want to.'
Guilty as charged, not like I really mind anyhow...
"Regardless, the fact is you are no longer engaged to Earl Asplund, as such you no longer need to deal with the possible consequences that such an issue could arise from. In other words, you are free to court with whoever you wish, Lady Ashford." I tell her in a formal tone, yet also knowing she can see the smugness and mirth in my eyes at knowing she is free to be with the one guy she might actually prefer to be with.
I can tell she is torn between being mad at me while also happy at the fact she can decide for herself who she gets to be with.
"That is a rather good point you bring up, Mister Lamprouge. I suppose I should take that advice to heart and put it to great effect." She tells me in a rather calm voice, before taking a moment to think about something...
And of course I know what she is probably going to say. She can be rather predictable in that aspect.
"So, how have things been with you and Kallen? I understand you went to her family estate correct?" She tells me, of course she knows because Sayoko mentioned it to her after we came there.
Still, I suppose it would be alright to talk to Milly, even if she is an annoying tease to just about everyone she cares for, I know it's partly because she has never really felt much control in her life, as such her antics were an attempt to at least have something of control in it and try to enjoy things even if it was rather fleeting for her.
"Well, if you must know her family estate was about what I expected for someone who's family owns the most major Britannian owned Manufacturing company." I tell her.
"Which is?" She asks, wanting to know my honest thoughts about what it was like.
I put on a smile, to hide just how much anger I held at the state of affairs of the family being what they are.
"Appearing fine and normal, but hiding a great amount of frustration and strife underneath it all by those who would rather sell them out otherwise." I tell her, much to Milly's shock at my anger, even if it is just about contained by my voice. She knew how it only meant my anger was of a sort reserved for few people...
Milly P.O.V.
Oh Lelouch...
And here I thought I was the only Girl who had to deal with family who didn't really care for what their daughter wanted...
Or perhaps in this case, relative...
Poor Kallen, I should make an effort to get closer to her. I have a feeling her being sick is just an act she puts on...
I wonder what she does to deal with all of that stress?
Hmm, might as well and try to tease that out of Lelouch first. Besides I might as well try to poke at them anyhow!
"So, I imagine you spent a good amount of time making sure Kallen was comfortable, correct?" I tell him while letting him know I want the details about what they did.
He looks at me for a bit, before having a slight smile as he says "I can't say I did much, however I did make sure that harlot of a Stepmother she has to put up with had a reason to not cause her any grief, at least for a time."
Hmm, I wonder if he used the mask on her?
"Oh, what exactly did you do to her?" I ask him, honestly I am curious, as I have no doubt that blond bimbo deserved what was coming to her, from what I heard about her from Grandfather. She seemed rather unimpressive and was only really meant to be there to keep the Stradfield family 'pure'...
Yeah, 'pure' my ass!
This really just reaffirms how I should try to be friends with Kallen more, I can tell those girls she normally hangs out with really are just some ditzy bunch who are all hot air and not really much else...
"Are you really sure you want to know what I did?" Lelouch asks me.
"Yeah! I'm not afraid!" Honestly, I really doubt anything he could offer would scare me...
Kallen P.O.V.
Ah, today really has been rather, dull...
'Dull it might be, still it is nice to take a break for once, after everything that's happened so far. It is rather well deserved.'
Yeah, I wonder what I should do now?
'Perhaps try and head to the Student Council clubhouse?'
Hmm, I guess it wouldn't hurt, I might even come across Milly or Shirley, might not be so bad to spend time with the other girls...
'Not Nina?"
Do I even need to explain...
'... No, you don't...'
Yeah, thought so...
Anyhow, I walk along and notice Milly appeared to be walking with Lelouch, so I figured I might as well see what the two of them were talking about.
It is honestly kind of funny and sweet of Lelouch to tease Milly about Rivalz, I wonder if I should get in on that at some point...
'Oh? Did you hear what she said. She wants to see what he used to scare that Bitch!'
Hmm, now I am curious, what exactly did he do?
'Think we should get closer?'
You know what, why not?
"Hey Lelouch, Milly, what are you two up to?" I ask, trying to keep my voice in my 'helpless schoolgirl' tone...
I really am sick and tired of having to hide behind that mask...
Lelouch P.O.V.
I really am getting tired of having to see Kallen hide behind that mask...
'Still, not like we can claim better, Mr. 'I am a prince in exile'...'
I know alright, still it could be worse...
'Well, might as well show them right?'
Fair enough, worst case they just faint and think it was their imaginations being over active.
'Time to put on a show then!'
"Well Kallen, I was just about to show Milly just what it was I did to scare that pathetic excuse of a woman you have for a stepmother. I would rather not make your health worsen, but if you insist on watching. Then I suppose it can not be helped." I tell her. And for what it is worth, she doesn't seem scared in the slightest bit...
'Well, don't say we didn't warn you...'
I smirk as I let myself get into the act.
"That foolish woman, all she desired was to simply take advantage of the position offered to her. All I did was tell her that if she were to cause any further harm to you or your family, then I would unleash the pillager of Twilight, the Demon who steals the twisted desires of those like her. I would have unleashed..." I pause to let the suspense build. While also having my Geass work to channel the image I sought to invoke...
And so did I sense the visage of the one who in another time and life might have been the first of many sides I would have revealed to a world that seemed all intent on going into ruin...
"ARSENE!" I said with a flourish as I let the image of the figure appear behind me, all the while letting myself appear as if enveloped in shadow, as if I had summoned a Demon from the pits of hell unto the world for but a brief moment...
And just as quickly, all of it vanished, as if it was just an act and nothing more.
"So, what do you ladies' think of my performance?" I ask them, a cheeky smirk as I look at their faces.
Milly's was clearly rather shocked by it, however I must applaud her for not appearing to be likely to faint after seeing such a visage. I mean, the sight of a demonic looking figure that almost appeared to wear a suit and tophat with chains around it would terrify most. Yet with Kallen...
Is that...
Recognition?
'How?'
I don't know, but perhaps she wound up getting up for a bit and noticed us?
'I dunno.'
Hmm...
'What do you think?'
It doesn't matter, all I want to do right now is just relax...
Milly P.O.V.
Okay, that was...
Scary, yet also amazing!
I thought he could just have the Hannya Mask appear, but NOPE! He had to be able to bring something like a freaking DEMON as he saw fit!
"W-well, at least I know you have something to use to scare others besides the Mask." I mutter out. Still taking a bit to process the sight of what I saw.
I know well enough a pissed off Lelouch is a Lelouch you NEVER want heading your way...
Because anyone who can get him actually pissed off, well.
Death might be something of a merciful way to put it...
Kallen P.O.V.
Okay, I don't get WHY it looks exactly like it does, however I honestly could care less...
'Is it because you are feeling an urge to just take him somewhere private and show him how you-'
NOT! THE! TIME!
'Okay, okay, geez...'
Still, it is annoying how my body doesn't agree with my head and is making me feel rather heated in a particular place...
'Well, at least you can come up with something to help you cool off, right?'
Please don't say anything right now. I have enough to deal with as is...
"I'm glad to finally see what it is you showed her. To be honest I wish I could have seen the look on her face when you did that..." I tell Lelouch, wait...
DAMN IT! ME AND MY BIG MOUTH!
I look to Milly in a panic, hoping she won't question me or anything like that.
She seems to understand my fears and smiles at me "Don't worry Kallen, I won't tell anyone. In fact. How about we talk about our experiences some time? I'm sure you could use someone to talk about it with."
Huh? What does she...
Oh, yeah, meant to be betrothed to the Earl of Pudding...
At least, she WAS...
Not sure what you told Loyd, but thanks Lelouch!
Still, perhaps I could use this moment to tease Milly!
'Hmm, how about that?'
Oh yes! That will be PREFECT!
Deciding to call upon some of the confidence and charm of being Q-1. I tell Milly "Very well, however might I request you try spending some time with Crademonde some time? I am sure he would be happy to spend some time with you, as I am certain you would be. Right Milly?"
I turn my head to look at Lelouch for his reaction, and he smiles right back at me with that same grin as I have...
Oh, this is so FUN!
Milly P.O.V.
AGH! First Lelouch talks about me spending time with Rivalz, now KALLEN?!
And what was with that confidence she just showed?
Because feel like I would want to see what else she is hiding.
Though, if it's anything serious like what Lelouch and Nunnally have to hide...
...
...
...
I'll see what my prodding of her can allow, and if it comes down to it I'll just tell her I'll keep it secret.
However...
Time to get some PAYBACK!
"I suppose I could do so. However! I request you and Lelouch come along with me as well!" I fire back, let's see how they like it!
The two of them have a fair blush on their faces, ah good to show them I am not going to be easily beaten...
But then Lelouch has a look on his face. "I'm afraid I can't do so for today at least, plus we have to get the paperwork for the Festival done, right Miss President?"
Oh yeah, right...
"Well, we can always do it the day after the Festival, right?" I tell the two of them.
And yet, the looks they have on their faces makes me feel as if I were in Space or something...
Lelouch P.O.V.
She just HAD to bring that up didn't she?
'It's not like she knows what is going to happen...'
True, but even still. I will NOT allow it to end with Euphie dying!
'Unless it were a reflection of her, right?'
If the Lord of Wraiths DARED to send one of her or Nunnally in an attempt to break me mentally...
I am going to make sure that whatever fake that is sent will SUFFER for attempting to act in such a way...
But regardless, might as well not worry about any of that. We have enough to deal with as is...
'Indeed, let us just focus on making today a worthwhile one...'
Rai P.O.V.
Lelouch and Kallen are, strange to say the least...
However, even with that being the case, when I saw the two of them in the Gawain fighting alongside Suzaku, I couldn't help but feel like a warm and comforting light was radiating from them all...
Still, while the battle itself went without incident and more or less as I could recall. It was rather odd how we found Sawasaki dead from a gunshot wound to the head...
I wonder who else was there? I suppose it doesn't really matter right now, the end result was the same. However the odd thing was, apparently Schneizel allowed Cornelia and her forces to keep the Avalon...
That was enough to set off alarm bells in all of our heads as anyone who knew the Prime Minister knew he wouldn't just give away something that was as expensive and important as the Avalon...
No, he had to have something in mind. But what?
As soon as the battle was confirmed over and transfer of the Avalon was confirmed. Cornelia ordered all of her troops to search every last bit of the Air Battleship and scrub through every single last bit of code in it's systems for ANYTHING with even a HINT of suspicion...
If it was just any old version of Schneizel it would be reason to have worry over what he planned to do. But the fact it was the same one Suzaku and Euphie had shared a timeline with...
Thankfully, for what it's worth, being a student at Ashford meant I could talk with Suzaku in relative privacy and have it not seem odd, as it was just fellow students talking right?
"So, have they found anything yet?" I ask Suzaku, if anyone listened in, they might assume I was talking about something more innocent that trying to see if the Second Prince hid a nasty surprise in his Prized Airship...
Suzaku frowned and shook his head. "No, still nothing. Is it wrong for me to be this paranoid?"
I fatly tell him "Look what happened last time when you weren't paranoid enough." And yes it might be a bit of a low blow, but given what happened after Lelouch's plan...
Yeah, there is a really good reason to be paranoid with whatever Schneizel is planning...
Even after seeming having found nothing, Cornelia demanded that the whole Air Ship be taken apart piece by piece and 'scrubbed clean' so as to ensure no hidden surprises were to be found. And when she said the whole ship, she meant ALL OF IT...
Needless to say, it is impressive how quickly they managed to put it all back and make it seem like nothing was done to it...
After having it be done to enough of a point that everyone could be at least SLIGHTLY less paranoid to at least use the Avalon to some degree, though with a careful eye just in case the scrubbing wasn't enough. Did everyone at least try to not think about it much and tried to relax...
Lelouch even made sure to go along the entire ship (in disguise of course) to see if he could 'feel' anything that might have been off. And while if it was anyone else they would have passed off such an idea to be little more than a person thinking they knew better. This was Lelouch...
And everyone knew better than to think Lelouch would say something like this if he didn't believe he could do something about it. Not even Tamaki said anything against it...
Needless to say, everyone was still a bit on edge about the Avalon, however we couldn't focus on it all the time, and we had to simply deal with the fact there might always be an inherit risk with it...
Officially of course, the Air Ship was simply being grounded due to 'maintenance concerns' for such an experimental craft...
Though I'm sure Schneizel knew what the real reason was, he probably didn't care what we did with it...
I can see why Suzaku and Euphie hate him so much. He seems like a real smug asshole of a Prince.
"Oh! There you boys are!" And yet, is also the elder brother of Nunnally...
Well, a version of her at least, though she and I pretty much figure the details aren't really that important anymore...
Suzaku has a warm smile as he sees Nunnally walking up to us.
"Hey Nunnally. How are things for you and Lelouch?" Suzaku asks.
"We're fine! And Jeremiah is alright as well." She tells him, it can be easy to forget Jeremiah Gottwald isn't exactly a part of the Military in any official capacity in this timeline anymore, or rather, at the moment I suppose...
Man, juggling information of different timelines is so confusing!
Still, I'm glad Lelouch came up with an explanation that would be enough to keep Milly from prying all that much. That woman really does not relent when she wants to find out about something. Or at least, for the most part that is...
"Ah, right. Well, as much as I'd like to stay and chat with you two. I've got some catch-up work I need to complete." Ah, right...
Well, at least me and Nunnally don't have to deal with that, since unlike Lelouch and Suzaku we don't skip class nearly enough to cause the teachers to be as demanding...
It is kind of annoying how the rumors can get though...
"Well Princess, would you like me to escort you for today?" I say to Nunnally, offering my hand while trying to make her feel a bit more alright and not be so concerned for today.
Nunnally for her part, giggles and accepts my offer "Of course. Shall we see what the day has in store for us Sir Knight?"
While it might not be much, it's moments like this that help me get by. All to often I recall how things would have ended up...
No matter what pathway I took, it could be said that the end result would be the same, somewhere along the line, I would seal myself away and let the world forget I ever existed...
Nunnally P.O.V.
Oh Rai. Must you always worry so?
I know how my Brother and everyone else has to deal with so much, and yet you seem to feel like at times it would be better for you to just fade away...
I don't want that to happen...
Even if you no longer have a Geass to demand it. It doesn't mean someone or something won't try to make it so your time on this world is brief...
I know I am not as skilled as the others when it comes to being a Black Knight, however...
That doesn't mean I won't try my hardest to fight for a world where we can all live together!
At first, the memories of other lives was confusing and hard to manage. It saddened me how so many of them were similar in that Father and Mother had a plan that neither me nor Lelouch could accept, and how it ended in them ceasing to be...
Still, that one instance where I managed to have a Knightmare and Geass of my own was interesting...
It would be easy to forget that even as Kind and gentle as I am. I can be just as vicious and hate filled as my Brother...
I am just more often inclined to keep it buried and suppressed to the point I myself don't even notice it, while Lelouch knows his is there, and is willing to embrace it fully whenever he feels the situation calls for it...
I can still recall how after the invasion how after various soldiers would beat on him, how when they never looked towards him. That his eyes would gleam with such rage and fury that if looks could kill, those men would have been so dead, I doubt anything would even be left to notify their existence...
I always knew how Lelouch had such an anger and fury to the world we lived in, that I am not at all surprised how he decided the best way he could deal with such a world was to make it change into something else...
It just so happened that part of his plan meant he had to be the one the world hated and despised, taking all of that hatred for himself, just so I could take over and fill the void with kindness...
But I never wanted that though. All I ever wanted, was to just live with my Brother and have us be happy!
To be honest, I think he knew that was what I wanted all along. And knew I couldn't get that if the world remained as it was...
Really brother, you are something of a one-of-a-kind...
At least, now I have you with me again, and our family, though not exactly in a great state. Is far better than most versions I am aware of.
And it seems you know how I would want to be by your side, so I'm glad you didn't bother trying to keep me out of it anymore...
Not only that, but you know you aren't so alone anymore! There are so many people willing to stand beside you now!
And yet...
Why does it feel like this is only just the prelude to a massive storm?
I can just feel it within me, this sense that once Euphie has the SAZ planned, the day when it is meant to begin will end up like so many other versions...
No, not just like them, worse than they could be...
"Everything alright Nunnally?" Rai asks me, and I can tell from his eyes alone that he is thinking much the same way as me, that this period of calm is just a respite before the real storm begins...
I hold onto him close and tight. I don't say anything, because I don't need words for him to understand me. The two of us just hold onto each other. And somehow, I feel like when I am with him, that we can endure this Strom that threatens to come down around us. I'm not sure why, but I don't really care to question it. I'm just glad to have Rai by my side...
'You wish for him to be more than just a mere Knight, don't you?' I hear a womanly voice whisper, as if it was all around me and within me at the same time...
While part of me wishes to deny that fact, I know deep down in my heart. A part of me does want that, and it wants it so badly...
'Fret not my dear. As long as you hold him dear and close to your heart, nothing will keep you both apart...'
Thank you.
I don't hear anything after that, but I just know my thanks were heard...
After spending a bit of time holding onto each other, we agree to head to the Club House to see if anything needed to be done, I notice Brother along with Milly and Kallen and...
...
...
...
My goodness, and here I thought that Mask was the only thing you would have appear when angry...
Viletta P.O.V.
To think having to act as an assistant instructor for a school would be more exhausting than being a solider...
Still, it is a good cover for me, and not only that. But it helps keep the days interesting at least.
"So, how are you today, Miss Nu?" Kaname Ohig asks, I can tell he is trying to act casual about it. But he is a bit nervous, and why wouldn't he, a Britannian and a Number talking to each other, not exactly the sort of thing most people in society are kind to...
And to think, I would find the use of referring to non-Britannian's as Numbers to be an insult and disgusting to me...
Still, a while back I would have never expected to be working on behalf of an Exiled Prince and his loyal family and allies to take down the very nation I have killed so many for in it's name, all with the hopes of gaining a title of Nobility...
Well, times change Viletta, and people change along with the times...
Besides, I never really was an overt fan of the Numbers system anyhow.
Really, did it matter where one was born or from what lineage?
It's actually ironic in a way, as some of my own family were descendants of those who had been regarded by such standards anyhow...
It was only recently that my family were allowed to be recognized as 'proper' Britannian's, and Emperor George seemed all to willing to abolish the system altogether if it meant the Empire could improve in ways it had not done so before...
But then the Upheaval happened, and with it any hopes of making it so one was granted a title by ability and not solely by blood was all but dashed and nothing more than a faded dream...
But now, with Zero- no, Prince Lelouch. Now it seems like that dream isn't so forgotten afterall.
"Yes Ohgi? What is it?" I ask him, trying to figure out a decent enough tone to address him with, should I try something more stern and military? Or perhaps be a bit more softer?
Why am I even worrying about this anyhow? It's not like we are dating or anything...
"Well, I figured it might be a good idea to take some time to talk, I've got some old friends of mine who might be interested in meeting you, and I'm curious if anyone you know of would be willing to come along?" Hmm, at first glance it might seem not like much, but I didn't get as far as I have without knowing to pick up on certain things...
For one, 'take some time to talk' was often a phrase we have been using whenever we felt it should be good to share intel, 'old friends' meant his fellow Resistance members, and with the last bit, he probably was referring to sir Gottwald. And to be honest I'm sure the former Margrave would be pleased to know the sort of individuals his charges have accompany them outside of school...
I give a bit of a smile, figuring it wouldn't hurt to try and put him at ease. "I'll see if they are free, call me when you got a place to meet up all set." I tell him, and just for a bit of fun, I give him a bit of a wink to go along with it. That should help him calm his nerves right?
Jeremiah P.O.V.
I have had to deal with many things since I was cast out of my position and left to watch over the Prince and Princess...
Still, I took all the insults with pride, as a loyal Knight of the Emperor and Empress, and as godfather to my charges. I would deal with anything...
However, I must admit, it is interesting to hear about what Miss Nu had to say about the idea of a possible meeting with some of the Black Knights.
I am curious as to what sort of people my young Lord and Lady deal with as comrade's-in-arms.
Even still...
"Are you sure it's a good idea for me to bring Miss Shinozaki?" I ask Viletta, it was not as if the maid could not handle herself, however I was a bit worried about leaving my charges to handle things on their own.
"Oh come on Jeremiah. Doesn't it get boring looking after those two all the time." She tells me, before having a look on her face and winces "Actually, don't answer that, sorry I asked."
While I must admit it is kind of her to apologize for what is admittedly a minor insult, both Lelouch and Nunnally have been insisting I take some time off for myself. If only because they feel it isn't good for my health to focus on them all the time...
It is so kind of my lord and lady to show such concern, however I can't help but feel as if I was staring and their parents when they insisted I take some time off. They are more like their parents then I think they realize...
However, I suppose they can handle themselves, as they are no mere children anymore. That and it appears they are simply going to try and to be 'normal' in their lives for today and tomorrow...
...
Well, if the lady agrees to the idea, then there is no harm in asking, right?
"Miss Shinozaki, might I have a word with you for a moment?" I mention to the dutiful Maid/Ninja.
Really, it is rather amusing how most people stereotypical ideas of how Ninja are often portray them as making it clear what they are and do. Those who know their history however recognize that the greatest threats are not the ones that stand out...
It's the ones that don't that are the most deadly...
As such, it is a good thing Miss Sayoko knows how she can let her guard around me somewhat. Though neither of us let it down fully, as we always keep ourselves aware of any potential threats to our wards...
I recall one time how some people thought we were a family at one point due to how close the four of us are. And having spent time around the Prince and Princess and lady Shinozaki...
I am, able to understand why onlookers might assume that to be the case, at least on some level...
'Yes, Mister Lamprouge?" She addresses me in my false familial name, the one our Prince came up with as a clever and impressive way to hide our true identities...
And yet, a part of me wishes she would address me by my actual name...
As Jeri-
No, as Sir Gottwald, that is what I meant, yes!
"Sir?" Lady Shinozaki asks me, a curious look in her eyes.
Her eyes...
AH! GET AHOLD OF YOURSELF GOTTWALD! YOU ARE A TRAINED SOLIDER AND KNIGHT, AND A MARGRAVE AT THAT!
Shaking my head to clear my thoughts, I tell her what I actually came here to say. "Miss Shinozaki, Lady Nu said she was going to spend some time with Mister Ohgi and his friends, and well, the Lady said it would be nice if I were to have you accompany me."
I can tell she is considering the offer rather intensely, wanting to weigh out the opportunity costs that would result from it. I am aware she is fully intent on doing her duties as a maid, however it does not mean that the Prince and Princess have been any less insistent on having her take some time off as well...
She keeps her voice even, but I can tell her from her eyes she is a bit hesitant to leave her duties for a time "I will, graciously accept. If Lelouch-sama and Nunnally-sama are okay with it."
I tell myself the feeling in my chest is simply at achieving something my Lord and Lady have asked of us both and is not indicative of anything else and tell her. "I would be willing to agree that they have been hoping for something like this for quite a while. Now then, shall we get ready to be off?"
She is a bit hesitant at first, but figures that even if it wasn't anything special, Lelouch and Nunnally would have all but demanded of us both to do something of this sort anyhow. And nods in agreement as she goes to get changed.
Thankfully she is quick, as always, and is dressed in a rather simple yet worthwhile outfit that would not stand out much even in some of the worse off parts of the settlement. We are both come across Lady Nu and Mister Ohgi who are both dressed in simple enough commoner clothes, no doubt figuring as well it is better to blend in than to stand out. And as we are about to head out I happen to look to the Clubhouse where Prince Lelouch and Lady Millicent and Miss Kallen are and...
...
...
...
My god...
I am aware of how you often have a Hannya mask when you indicate your anger to someone my Prince, however this...
This is something else...
I can tell Miss Shinozaki and the others are aware, and I also note Princess Nunnally and Rai watching as well out of the corner of my eye. And as quickly as the Visage appears, it vanishes without a trace.
Oddly, despite the fact the visage looked like something akin to a demon, it did not frighten me...
"You guys saw that as well, right?" Viletta asks. To which we all nod.
"What do you suppose that was?" Miss Shinozaki asks.
"Probably something he made while coming up with ideas on how to use his Geass no doubt." Ohgi said, which was no surprise as Lelouch had informed us of what his strange power was and possible ways it could be used.
As well as to inform us the Empire likely had a whole division focused on how to best use such powers for combat and other such related reasons...
Let those fools try all the tricks they want. They will never come close to what my honored Prince can achieve!
Naoto P.O.V.
I'll admit, the place I choose for Ohgi and the rest of us to meet up ain't the greatest, but it is subtle, not to mention Dad said it was the sort of place he preferred to be at if he needed to meet someone 'unnoticed'...
Anyhow, even if the place looks rather run down, it's also the sort of locale that you wouldn't bat an eye if you saw people of different backgrounds at. As far as the owner was concerned, don't cause any fights, don't give the cops a reason to make a ruckus, and just try to enjoy what you have...
Thankfully Ohgi managed to follow the directions easily enough to get here.
Although, the people he brought along with were, interesting.
Aside from Viletta. He also brought along Jeremiah and a lady who wore a Maid's cap on her head. Ah, right, think she called herself Sayoko Shinozaki.
And to think she is a Ninja as well...
Well, just goes to show how you don't really know someone unless they prove to you how you are.
Anyhow, might as well get this over with.
"Glad you guys could make it! Come on over and take a seat." I tell to Ohgi, trying to pass it off as if this was all set up from the start, which in a way it was, just not to this extent.
He and the others with him get the hint and take a seat near by so we can all chat.
"So, what brought this all on?" Ohgi asks, which I'll admit is a valid question.
"What, can't spend some time with me best bud?" I say, trying to make it seem like we really were just old pals who are hanging out and not also just Black Knights...
I really don't get how you can put up with all of this double life crap Sis...
Ohgi isn't really that amused by the act, so I figure I might as well try to be serious. "Listen, I've been trying to talk with the heads of some of the other movements all over. And from what I've been hearing, it's kind of concerning."
That is enough to get all their interest, Ohgi lowers his voice a bit and asks "It is alright to talk here?"
I nod "Yeah, so long as what you talk about doesn't start shit, then anything goes really."
Figuring that what I said would be good enough, Ohgi asks me what exactly I've been hearing...
"Nothing good, it started off small at first, just a few scattered reports of guys thinking they are seeing shadows at first. Then rumors of folks going missing start cropping up, and you want to know what the weird thing is?" I say with a sigh.
"What is it." Jeremiah requests, straight and to the point. Not bad overall...
I grimace as I recall the details. "It doesn't really seem to be a particular pattern, doesn't matter if it's a Brit or not, even heard how a few soldiers just up and vanished every now and then, superiors think they are just drunk or absent minded, so they don't bother looking into it. The thing is, I got a message from someone saying they got away from what was snatching folks up, they said it was black and pointed along it's limbs, not even really human, and the only color you could see was."
"A simple Red line that didn't really suggest anything, right?" Ohgi asks, his expression grim along with Nu and Jeremiah and Shinozaki as they figure out what has been causing these things to occur.
"Yeah, looks like the Wraith's are gathering up bodies. Only question is, for what reason?" I tell them.
They all seem to have a thoughtful look as they try to understand why. "What about the one who got away, how did that happen?" Shinozaki asks.
"I'll give you three guesses, and the first two don't count." I tell them, really the only things that can deal with Wraiths that easily would only be...
They all understand easily enough and Jeremiah smiles "Good to see he is ensuring others are safe even though he can not be with his designated charge."
I give a bit of a smile as well "Yeah, it's good to know even after all of that, those two are still out and about doing what they can to draw off the big threats."
Nu takes a concerned look. "What are they even doing with all of those people?"
"Nothing good no doubt, since no one said anything of them coming back..." I tell them.
Ohgi looks at me, knowing there is probably more to it.
I know I can't really keep it from him, much less the others, so I tell em. "Look, I don't know if any of this is real or not, but I've heard about how someone said they found a few folks who were taken, or rather what was left of them."
"What does that mean?" Nu asks.
I grimace hard at the memory of when I first looked at the images. "Here, they aren't the best quality, but don't blame me if you lose your lunch..."
I show them a few photos I brought along, and needless to say I'm impressed they managed to not vomit, though I can tell Nu and Shinozaki look like they want to gag.
"At least you guys did better than me. But yeah, not sure if it's for real or just some twisted prank or what. Point is something is going down, and I'm not sure if we can do anything about it..." I tell them, and they sadly know I am right, for one thing we don't even know where to begin to look in the first place. Much less how to deal with it all.
"What are we going to do? Can we tell anyone?" Ohgi asks, and I know he means Lelouch in paticular.
"For now, not really, not like we can do much anyhow. But apparently the person who sent the photos had some words of advice." I say.
"Which is?" Ohgi and the others ask.
I simply give them the paper which had it, all it said was...
'Shoot where the pod sticks out from, then burn or blast apart the body as soon as you can. Don't get into physical contact if you can help it. And whatever you do, don't get caught off guard.'
"Any idea who sent it?" Jeremiah asks.
I shake my head. "No clue, but whoever it is. They must know whatever this must be."
"Assuming it's even real, though to be honest, I'm not sure what is anymore these days." Nu says.
After just sitting a bit and letting us just be with our own thoughts on whatever this might be. It's only then do Tamaki and the others from the old cell show up.
"Hey guys! How's it going!" Tamaki loudly boasts.
Ohgi looks at me. "And why are they here?"
I smile. "Well I also wanted us all to hang out as well, like old times, right?"
He returns the smile "Yeah, like old times."
Good thing the place serves good alcohol, I need a decent drink after the stuff I've had to deal with...
Jeremiah P.O.V.
I must admit, the images Naoto showed us were, disturbing. To put it midly...
However, even if the Wraiths are behind it, I am certain Lelouch and his forces alongside that of Princess Cornelia and her own will be enough to deal with such vile things...
Even still, it is good to know Naoto had the thought to also have this meeting also serve as a way to meet with his comrades from when they were but a minor group trying to do anything to strike back against the usurpers!
That, and also it was decent of him to offer to pay for the drinks as well.
While I have never really been one to drink much, I do feel that the victories my Prince has achieved are enough to be a cause for celebration!
Shinozaki is a bit hesitant to partake in the festivities, but I understand, as I myself have been keeping the amount I drink rather minor if only to ensure I can escort her back properly as a gentleman should...
Wait, what am I thinking?
I mean, it is only befitting a proper Knight to act in a honest and chivalrous manner to a lady, no matter what her standing in society!
Or at least, that is how it should be...
Damn fools like Kewell do nothing more but bring shame to the concept!
Ooh, that loathsome bastard, if only I could deal with him myself!
No matter, I should try to feel some levity in my life, it wouldn't be right for Miss Sayoko!
"Mister Lamprouge?" She asks me, honestly what would it give for her to call me Gottwald for once!
Ah, right, those damn cowards who forced me out of my old post!
If only I found out which pathetic excuse for a solider was the one who let that bastard free reign over the Palace, I would-
"Mister Lamprouge!" Oh, right.
"Sorry, what is it Miss Sayoko." Agh! Idiot, that isn't how you address her!
And yet, she either doesn't seem to notice or really mind. "I feel like we should take our leave, I'm sure the others are going to be rather busy for the rest of the night." And indeed, it seems like Tamaki is loudly boasting how he claimed to take on a wraith and beat it single handed, of course we all know he is just being a silly drunk. But everyone laughs anyhow...
Hmm, perhaps I have had a bit more to drink than I normally allow myself...
Eh, I doubt the Prince and Princess would mind.
"Very well my lady, I suppose we should be off." I tell her, letting Naoto know how we are leaving now, as Ohgi seems rather caught up telling Viletta old stories of his life before the invasion.
Ah, good to see it isn't just the younger members who are finding worthwhile companions...
Not like I am likely to have such luck. Who would want a pathetic excuse for a Knight like me...
Couldn't protect his Emperor and Empress...
Couldn't protect his Kingdom...
Couldn't even-
"Lamprouge-sama!" Huh, was I talking aloud? Or is she just that good at reading me she knows what is making me feel down?
"Sorry, I just feel rather worthless these days..." I admit to her, and honestly could you really blame me?
"Why are you saying that?" Sayoko asks me, concern evident in her light brown eyes...
I sigh and tell her. "It's just, Lelouch is so capable and adept at defending himself, not to mention Nunnally herself has done well with your training. I can't help but feel like I am not even needed anymore by anyone. Granted I will always serve them both as their guardian and godfather, whether they choose to live out their lives as normal or end up upon the throne. And yet..." My hands curl up as I feel a sense of anger and resentment build up. "I feel as if I am useless to them! Like I barely have any value to them at all!" I shout out. I know it isn't healthy to feel this way, and that neither they, nor their parents and loyal and beloved siblings would agree with such a mindset, and no doubt would tell me I am worthy and of value, the the simple fact is, Lelouch has the power of Geass at his side, as well as skills that would make him an excellent Emperor, be it on or off the battlefield. And Nunnally has learned well from Sayoko on how to defend herself, not to mention each of them both have loyal protectors who would be besides them no matter what!
And what's more, at least they have someone who would love them for who they are, I am aware Lady Kallen and Sir Rai would try to deny such feelings, but I can tell they care for their respective Prince and Princess much like how Lord George and Lady Marianne do for one another. Suzaku Kururgi has love in Princess Euphemira, though for reasons that are understandable they have no choice but to hide it knowing how many would look at them with shame if it ever got out...
Even Princess Cornelia and her Knight Guliford, two who very much so in many ways define what it means to be 'Dense' in a romantic sense, seem to be entertaining the thoughts of being in a relationship in their minds!
As for me, I'm nothing more but just a mere lowly guard, brought to the status of Knighthood simply because no one else was around that was skilled or at least showed any loyalty to indicate being granted the position...
Even then, that Guardian Ranger of his would do far better in protecting the Prince and Princess then I ever could...
They all have a future, whereas I might as well be left in the past...
I feel her hands hold onto my own fists and see her look into my eyes.
I can't help but feel the urge to turn away, I am not worthy of her compassion, she has done far more to help them than I ever have...
"Oi! Will you two damn losers get out of my way!" I hear the voice of an annoying drunk yell, I turn my eyes to look at what sort of pathetic excuse of a man thinks he can stand to the might of Jeremiah Gottwald!
...
...
Wait, is that...
"Kewell?!" I exclaim in surprise and shock. I hope the fool is drunk enough to not realize it's me...
"Huh, I remember that voice... Jeremiah? Is that you 'Orange Boy'?" He says, unfortunate that he knows it's me, all the more calling me by that insulting nickname of his he gave me back when we were in basic training...
He laughs, a sound that is bothersome to my ears. "Hahaha! It is you! And what's this? Off spending some time with a worthless Eleven tramp? Probably sells herself out to a lot of men with looks like hers. I wonder if she would be willing to spend some of her time with me..." He says in such a disgusting tone of voice...
I can't help it, I can't hold back my anger any longer...
I just let myself see red, and walk right up to that worthless excuse of a man.
"Huh? What's the matter 'Orange Boy'? Cat got your tongue? Or were you spending so much time with that whore that you-URK!" I cut him off as I punch him in the gut, a bit of a low move. However I don't care...
He insulted Sayoko, a woman who has proven herself to be far better than a worthless coward than him!
"Ugh, that was a good hit Orange, still, you sure that it's such a good idea to do that." He says with a smug grin, like he has any power in the situation.
It's only then I notice the other men in uniform he has with him, all in pureblood colors, and they all seem about as drunk as he is...
"After all that Zero did, us Purebloods are little more than a laughing stock among the military! Sure those cowards who tried to take me out got demoted, but we managed to work things out. After all they realized I wasn't the one at fault, it was ZERO!" He says with rising anger, as he punches me in the chest.
It hurts, however he is sloppy, he isn't fighting like I know he would, he is just a drunk...
A drunk who happens to have some back up that is...
Two of the men hold me by my arms, and Kewell just takes his time punching me along the torso...
He does it hard enough I start to feel like my Ribs will bruise...
Even still, I won't give this worthless man any sort of satisfaction. My lord Lelouch said that any who would seek to have him and those beside him beg would be disappointed, so I will not beg!
Kewell notices I am not giving the sort of reaction he wants, so instead he grins and turns his gaze to Sayoko...
"Say-oko, just run. Please... Don't worry about me." I tell her, coughing from the injuries the punches have caused me, even if he is sloppy, Kerwell can still give a hard punch.
She knows what the men around her plan to do, so she decides to fight back.
A few of the men get knocked down and out before the others realize what is going on and try to hold her down.
"Hmm, you sure have a feisty one Jerry, still. I can't wait to see you break as I deal with her." LIKE HELL I WILL!
I feel a rush of strength come about me as I somehow find it in me to break the hold his accomplices have on me, and begin to knock out the various cowards and tratiors before me.
Only to feel it all stop as a Gunshot goes off...
I freeze, worried for the sake of Sayoko, thankfully Kerwell only had it in the air, but even still, I see him point it right next to her head...
THAT COWARD! THAT WORTHLESS INSUFFERABLE COWARD! HOW DARE HE!
"Ah, ah, ah. I wouldn't try anything if I were you Orange Boy. Afterall, who knows what sort of accident could happen?" He says in a taunting tone.
He is trying to goad me, wanting me to do something drastic, only to have it backfire in my face. And leave me with a dead Sayoko Shinozaki...
"Do you think you can get away with this?" I tell him, my voice low and angry. Letting him know I will not cower in front of him, as I was among the royal guard for the Emperor and Empress, and that I would prove just WHY I was picked as such!
"Heh, you want to know something funny, my Sister said she and the rest of her worthless band of play-knights were going to arrive soon, be it tonight or tomorrow, I can't recall. And that of course meant that Princess she serves would be among them. I wonder how she'll feel, knowing what sort of pathetic slump you are in now?" He says, wait, that means...
"Lady Marrybell and her knights are coming here?!" I exclaim in shock, if that is the case. Then that means...
I see, seems like Cornelia knows it will soon be time before we will have to begin in earnest.
I must inform Prince Lelouch, but even still. Sayoko...
It seems Kerwell suddenly realizes something as well. "Hold on, last I recall, you were supposed to be dead along with that commoner whore and her brats. If you are alive, then that must mean..." Before he starts laughing, as if he is just now starting to put the pieces together...
"And here I thought, I wouldn't be able to do anything of use after what Zero did to me... But to know that Whore's spawn are still alive, I'm sure someone at the homeland will find use for that sort of information. Actually, now that I think about it... OF COURSE! THAT BOY. THAT INSSUFRABLE KNOWING BRAT! HE IS THE ONE BEHIND IT ISN'T HE?! HE'S THE ONE BEHIND ZERO!" This is bad, Kerwell has managed to figure out the truth, we need to get rid of him now. But how?
...
...
...
Wait...
Yes, that could work...
My Prince, I am certain you planned to use it for a different time, however I hope you understand why I am doing this...
"Kerwell, before you end me, can I tell you something." I say to him, let him think he has the advantage.
"Hmph, fine, go right ahead Orange Boy. What is it?" Good, the fool has fallen right into the trap...
"I am glad you survived Nemesis." Was all I said, six simple words, and yet...
The effect is instant. He let's go of Sayoko, has the pistol right against his head, and says.
"You are not glad, let me fix that for you." And those are the last words of Kewell Soresi, before he pulls the trigger. And ends his own life.
I hold onto Sayoko tightly, and we don't bother saying anything as we walk back to the Academy.
It seems Lelouch had an idea something might have happened, that or he really wanted to make sure we are alright, because we see him standing near the gates.
His eyes widen with surprise, and he helps us in without issue.
I leave Sayoko to get changed while I let Lelouch tend to my injuries.
"Forgive me, Lelouch." I say to him.
"For what?" He asks me.
Oh my Prince, you are far to forgiving to one such as myself.
"I, used the secondary command you placed on Kewell. The one which would ensure no one would find a use for him." I admit, and I feel a sense of shame using something my Prince had no doubt planned to use to his advantage later on...
He looks at me for a moment, then, he laughs?
"M-my prince?" I ask him, why is he laughing?
"Why should I be mad for my loyal Knight of Orange for doing what I expected him to do?" He says.
"What do you mean? I used the command you placed on him, didn't you plan on using it yourself?" I ask.
"I'll admit, I had a few ideas on what situations having that occur would be useful in. However I can't say I really intended on using it as a main feature, more as a failsafe switch in case things around him took a turn that would be problematic for my plans later on. However, I can guess the situation you had to rely on it was justified?" Oh, why bother hiding what happened from you my Prince, I have no doubt you will find out about it later on anyhow...
So I told him what happened, omitting the part about the information Naoto told me, Ohgi, Nu, and Sayoko, if only because I felt he would be as perplexed as we were.
He looks at me, royal purple eyes that looked so much like his mothers when she looked at me for whatever information I was omitting.
"I take it that is not all?" Damn it. What could I give him that would satisfy his curiosity!
Sigh, if I have to, then I suppose it will suffice...
"The truth is my Prince, I feel... I feel like I am simply useless." I admit, and honestly, it hurts having to tell my Prince I feel like I am of no use to him, but it is the truth...
He looks at me with sad eyes, now he reminds me of both his parents, upset at seeing someone they know feel so awful about themselves.
"Jeremiah. You are not useless." He tells me in a stern voice, as if to make sure I get it through my head that I understand what he is saying...
I laugh, a sad laugh that holds a fair bit of regret in it. "I understand what you are trying to do. In fact I expected it from you and the others to say that. But even still, what can I do that you or anyone else can't already do if not better?"
He takes his time to look at me, and for a brief instant, his eyes appear to have an age to them far more than they should have to them...
"For a time, a long time one could say. I had felt much the same as you do Jeremiah. I always felt like everyone else around me was better skilled in some way shape or form. And I let myself wallow in such feelings of inadequacy and self-loathing for a fair few years, I tried to improve, and yet. Part of me wondered if I would ever be able to do enough, and then, one day. I realized something, why should I care how I stack up to others? Why should I care if there is someone who is smarter, stronger, or more capable than me in any way? It doesn't matter how strong I am, or how fast, or smart, or skilled with any real thing. What matters is not the power I hold, but how I use it." He tells me, a strength to his voice that I can't help but be focused on. "I know you think that because of my Geass, I can do more than anyone else. But really, I barely use it at all in combat or strategy. Everything I do, everything I have done since the start of all of this. It was done by my own skills and talents. I didn't have Geass when I planned out our reclaiming of the throne, I didn't have it when we planned out how to ensure the People of Japan could rise up when the time would come. And I did not have it when I made sure we could live as comfortable of a life in exile for seven years. So really, what can you say is the force behind Zero? His Geass? Or the man he is behind the mask?" I can't help but feel a sort of realization as he talked. All this time I was thinking I was lesser because of what my Charge has, when really it is what he has done which is the sort of standard I should hold myself to!
He smiles at me, as if he knows what my answer will be. "Jeremiah Gottwald, my parents had you as mine and Nunnally's Knight not just because you were the only one they could trust, but it was because you hold a loyalty that few if any could compare to. You are willing to do whatever is asked of you, no matter how hard or dangerous to your own person it might be, simply because you are willing to endure anything for your loyalty to the ones who you are sworn to."
...
Yes...
My Prince is right...
I would do anything to prove how loyal I am to him and his Sister...
I let myself be bound to my oath. Not because I am ordered to...
But because I CARE for who and WHAT said Oath is made for!
"I am your loyal Knight of Orange, Prince Lelouch. I will forever guard and protect you and your family, so long as I breath, and even if I am unable to, I will do whatever I can to ensure I will always protect you." I tell him, my heart strengthened, my resolve firm!
Once, I felt 'Orange Boy to be an insult.' But ever since I met the young Prince and his sister...
I consider it to be a badge of honor!
And the young man that is my Prince smiles at me, happy to see me in better spirits than I have been in years now.
"I am glad Jeremiah. However, don't think your oath means you can't find a way to enjoy life, nor should you not be allowed to enjoy the time you spend with the people in it." He tells me, with a knowing wink as he looks to where Sayoko and Nunnally are.
I look at them, yet I can feel my Vision focusing on Miss Shinozaki. Seeing how her short brown hair matches her eyes so well. How her maid outfit has her look so innocent, yet also knowing just what she is capable of should anyone dare to threaten those she serves...
In a way, she and I are both alike. Both of us are loyal to a fault. And are willing to do whatever it takes to ensure our lord and lady are kept safe...
Perhaps...
Perhaps it would not be so bad to get closer to the Ninja maid...
And once this is all over and she is willing, I would not be opposed to the idea of seeing what an actual family between the two of us would be like...
For we can not look over our charges forever, and they will need loyal individuals to take our place...
Be it to watch over them, or their own children should the time come of it.
And as I look into her eyes, I can tell...
I can tell she is thinking the exact same thing...
Ranger P.O.V.
It is good to see those who are loyal and driven be rewarded properly for their service...
'Indeed, and it is good to take care of that worthless disgrace to the Soresi legacy.'
I doubt the girl will mind much, as from what I recall, the two of them never got along anyhow...
'Indeed, however. I do believe it is best we focus on cleaning all of this up...'
Right, only one problem, where is Kewell's body?
'You did take his soul right?'
I did, so it's not really an issue of him telling those cowards, however...
'I know, I am afraid Jeremiah might see his foe's body once more...'
Just twisted into something that should never have been allowed to exist in this universe...
A/N: And that is it for this chapter! I'll admit it wasn't as much as I could have gone into, and if anyone feels like some scenes were getting a bit much, well. I understand your issues, but as I said before and will say so once more. If you can't handle seeing something like that, you need to learn how to get past it. Otherwise you will never heal from whatever trauma affected you in the past. I don't mean to sound rude when I am saying this. I am just pointing it out to those of you who might not yet have the courage to address it, even still, I hope you all enjoyed this chapter. I hope you liked the slight drop that Marrybell and her Glinda Knights will be showing up soon! And yeah they will be around in time for the festival, I figure it might make for a few wholesome scenes and all. And what about that last bit with the Wraiths taking people and their bodies hmm? I'm sure some of you who will be reading this will have a few ideas as to what sort of unwanted 'guests' will be showing up at the SAZ. However please do keep such comments to yourself, and if it helps. It isn't quite the things you might be thinking exactly, more like very well done copies that take the most notable direct aspects and not so much the smaller stuff, at least where it might be difficult or pose a potential problem for the Lord of Wraiths to deal with. And don't think that will be the ONLY thing in the works...
As for what that is, you will just have to wait and see! Also the thing with Kewell is something I had a few ideas for, but this one just sort of came on it's own and it works for what I have intended, I could have planned something more clever later on, however that might cheapen the impact such a scene has because Lelouch would just pull out an old card he had set up a while back. So having Jeremiah use it in the situation he did seemed a bit more interesting. Also I hope you guys don't mind the whole JeremiahxSayoko thing going on. I mean I have heard of other pairings, however the reasons Jeremiah listed are sort of the reasons why I feel those two work well together as a couple, yeah I know it's a bit of a meme with how loyal Jeremiah is to Lelouch after he realizes who he is. However I wanted to point out that even a man like him can have doubts about himself and his place in the world. As such, having him feel so lacking compared to Lelouch and Nunnally to an extent can be somewhat natural given how both of them are rathe skilled and capable when they are allowed to be. I mean Nightmare of Nunnally from what I understand shows how Lelouch's little sister can be a force unto herself when the fact she is blind and crippled is no longer a factor, yeah I know she has a Geass in that one that lets her pretty much see all futures, however even still I feel she would be able to function on a level close to or just bellow Lelouch by a good amount. I mean he is her Brother, and we all know how much above Lelouch is to most people...
Anyhow, the point is. When faced with all of those facts, Jeremiah's feeling of being little more than a formality or simply being outdated compared to others is something that is rather understandable given what we know of him. Yes Jeremiah can be a badass in his own right. However even then most of said moments were after he became a cyborg. Not that I figure he wouldn't have awesome moments as a normal human, but even still. The fact is when compared to the likes of the rest of the main cast. People like him and Sayoko kind of seem a bit meh by comparasion. And while I didn't really write anything from Sayoko's point of view, I'd imagine she has similar feelings every now and then at least on some level, probably not as much as Jeremiah, but she might still have her moments. At least even if Lelouch and Nunnally didn't really need her anymore, she still has her duties as being Maid to the Ashford's to fall back on, where as Jeremiah might not really have that much else, in fact him being on an Orange Farm is one of the better things a man like him would probably get if the military no longer had a major use for him, at least not when most High Value people already have decent bodyguards to rely on. While I doubt cyborg Jerry would really be discharged, simply because of the tech he has in him, Geass canceler among them. He would be really used for rather niche roles which more often than not are somewhat few and far between in all likely hood. As for my Jerry and Sayoko, they will no doubt ensure the loyalty they hold to the Lux Britannia's will remain for generations to come. Also I hope you guys don't mind the extra fluff for Nunnally and Rai, I kind of realized they haven't had as much focus as some of the others, so I figured why not give a bit of the spotlight to them. And I hope you guys found my little scene of Lelouch showing Milly and Kallen what he used to scare that Blond Bitch of a stepmother for Kallen was nice, I figured to include the other groups seeing it just cause I figured it would be a funny little bit. Anyways, next chapter will be the School Festival! I hope you all will enjoy it as much as I will writing it!
Till next time!
