Chapter 2: The Game of Kings
Holy Empire of Britannia
2016 a.t.b
New York Province
Duke Jeffry Godwin was the heir of considerable land holdings in upstate New York and Southern Canada. His family had held the ancestral land since their flight from Napoleon centuries ago. Opposite of the Duke was Earl Andrew Bastion. The Earl held his own massive estate in Michigan, and that strip of land and lakes separating their dominions had been hotly contested for generations. That is to say, it was contested until Duke Godwin's father, Robert Godwin, secured the land rights by way of the crown. His support of Emperor Charles rise to the Throne rewarded him the lands without question.
That victory for their family was quickly turning to ash in the Duke's mouth. For today he was engaged in a pastime as old as the Britannian Empire itself. When the nobility had the wealth and collateral for it, they engaged in what could only be described as high stakes betting. Land, lucrative business contracts, even titles of nobility, anything beyond the hands of the ordinary citizenry was at stake. For even to a Baron, money was trivial, as tax revenue from their counties kept them wealthy and secure. But to trade that which keeps them in power? That was a gamble worth the risks.
For Duke Godwin, the disputed lands were the stakes. For Earl Bastion, land from his own holdings in Michigan with valuable industrial complexes vital to the Britannian war machine. Stakes any gentleman of noble birth would be considered cowardly for not taking in. The game of choice this time around was chess. The game of kings and landed gentry alike, and though Duke Godwin considered himself a fair player, he overestimated Earl Bastions skill in the game. He was down several pawns, his Knight, and both bishops. His King was being threatened, and he could do little but stave off the inevitable.
"Your time is up, as of now, you will only have twenty seconds to make your move." The officiator, an older gentleman under the employ of the crown, announced.
"Well, that's undoubtedly a shame," Earl Bastion chuckled, looking down on his rival. "I say old chap, how about you forfeit. I promise to be a gentleman and to honor your valiant efforts, I can extend a helping hand." The Earl motioned with his hand, and his assistant, a young page from one of his retainers, came forth with a briefcase. The young man unbuckled the clasps and placed it on the table by the chessboard. He opened it to reveal the legal papers to transfer over the landholdings. "Finish this now, and I can make you one of my vassals. Think of it, you will administer the lands you are about to lose. All you have to do is submit."
A lesser man would have agreed on the spot, but Duke Godwin was a proud man. Not to mention the idea of becoming a vassal of the Earl was infuriating. Worse, how dare an Earl put himself above a Duke. The humiliation would destroy his family, and in the process, only make the Earl's power grow. A 'kindness' that would only work for a lesser noble. Yet losing now would make him the laughing stock of the court. Losing not only to an Earl but also losing the lands his father had worked so hard for. His father surely was rolling in his grave.
The doors to their private lounge opened, and a young man and his companion stepped in. Duke Godwin thanked god, calling his final time out to greet the newcomer and his second in the match. "By Jove, you sure like to call things close Your Highness." Duke Godwin breathed a sigh of relief.
A sixteen-year-old Lelouch Vi Britannia grinned charmingly. "Forgive me, Duke Godwin, I had a meeting that ran a bit long. Now about our agreement?" Lelouch gave the Duke a pointed look.
"All set Sire, once this business is concluded, my friends in Army High Command will receive a favorable call from me." Duke Godwin, among his many connections, had family and friends in the Britannian Military. Thus a valuable acquaintanceship was kept between the young Prince and Duke. The relationship was made possible by the Duke's daughter, who Lelouch charmed into letting him meet her father.
"Very well, how is our schedule, Jeremiah?" Lelouch, dressed in a crisp cadet uniform from the Imperial Clinton Military Academy, walked towards the board and his opponent.
"Given the dire situation," Jeremiah retrieved a pocket watch from his coat. "I believe you will have to secure victory in ten minutes or less. Princess Cornelia would be quite cross with you if you tardy longer than that."
"A bold presumption, if you'll excuse me, Prince Lelouch," Earl Bastion barked a good laugh. "Besides, Godwin has put himself in an unwinnable situation." In all honesty, Lelouch would have liked the Earl of Bastion. His family was considered 'new' nobility with barely a generation. Yet they achieved great heights in such little time. Self made-men were far-and-few in between, but Earl Andrew Bastion had none of the qualities as his father. He was overconfident and condescending of anyone who was not born a noble. He forgot his father wasn't born a noble, hailing from wealthy businessmen who purchased themselves into the nobility. The man had been quite vocal of his disapproval of his mother. So to the young Prince, he was just another stepstone in his quest for power.
"We shall see Earl Bastion," Lelouch took Lord Godwin's seat and examined the board. Flanked on his left, and the Bastions Queen was in play, threatening to buckle his center. Lelouch's King was secured behind a defensive line of pawns and rooks. Duke Godwin had played a masterful delaying action all things considered, but now Lelouch was here. Lelouch Lifted the black King and earned a laugh from Earl Bastion.
"The King! Surely you jest hah!" The man banged his fist on his plush chair.
"If a King does not lead, how does he expect his subordinates to follow?" Lelouch placed his King out of the defensive line vulnerable to attack. Earl Bastion smirked and picked his queen, and Lelouch only smiled.
"Eight minutes, and thirty seconds," Jeremiah opened the door to the black sedan awaiting them.
"Earl Bastion was overconfident, he lacked any real tactical foresight and could not properly defend himself," Lelouch smirked, the man's face had been precious. Lelouch had learned to enjoy the humiliation of those who thought themselves better and untouchable. "All and all, a productive day, wouldn't you say Jeremiah?" Lelouch shrugged, watching the scenery outside his window.
"Of course, Sire, you managed to secure several alliances in your tenure at the Academy, but just today, Duke Godwin notwithstanding, have you set to receive your own command." Jeremiah beamed proudly and absentmindedly passed his finger over the scar on his face. Lelouch noticed he seemed to do this whenever they accomplished anything of worth. "I'd say your own Division is in the works once you receive your commission." Jeremiah checked his pocket watch, "we are also on schedule, so a very good day indeed." Jeremiah closed the watch with a snap and ran his thumb over the engraving on the cover.
"You are quite fond of the watch I see," Lelouch teased his faithful Knight.
The older man, as if caught in a compromising position, blushed embarrassingly. "Well, I mean, of course, My Lord. It was a gift from Princess Nunnally, I would not be so rude to not treasure it." Jeremiah pocketed the watch and straighten his coat accordingly.
"I'm glad, Nunnally will be happy to hear it," Lelouch chuckled. He still remembered Jeremiah's bashful reaction when Nunnally presented him with a gift on his last birthday. A pocket watch, with the engraving of 'Robuster Verteidiger' or Stalwart Defender in Jeremiah's ancestral German tongue. Lelouch was glad Nunnally had taken a liking to their most faithful defender.
"Well, if you don't mind, I think I'll rest my eyes for a bit. Wake me when we arrive, Jeremiah." Lelouch reclined on his seat and closed his eyes.
Twenty minutes later, Lelouch was stirred by the gentle shaking of his shoulder. Rubbing the sleep from his eyes, Lelouch yawned into his fist and looked out the window. They had just passed the Academy gates, and they were treated by the lovely countryside of New York. Far in the distance, Lelouch saw infantry performing maneuvers, and from Jeremiah's side, Knightmares were tearing down the hillside.
The Academy was named after General Sir Henry Clinton, who led the loyalist forces against Washington's rebels. The Academy, formerly known as Fort West Point during the Rebellion, was located on the west bank of the Hudson River. The Fort was a key location for the rebels providing vital communications and resupply routes. General Clinton knew this and scored a masterful defeat against General Mcdouglas. Using Britannia's naval superiority and their control of the New York Harbor, he ferried several regiments worth of his troops across the river. What followed was a pincer attack on the Fort. In one swift stroke, Clinton had cut the rebels in half, and the rebelling provinces fell to chaos. Cornwallis swept from the south, and Clinton Swept north. Without foreign aid, the Rebellion failed, and Clinton became a hero to the Empire. For his services, His Majesty Emperor George III granted him the title of Duke and renamed the Fort after him, which subsequentially became Britannia's top Military Academy.
It was here that the countries most prestigious people came to study and go into an officer's career. His own sister Cornelia and both her retainers Sir Guilford and General Andreas Darlton graduated from here. Even his brother schneizel had, who Lelouch held up as his measuring stick, done a tenure here. Though his brother preferred the pen over the sword, his military genius was unmistakable and dangerous to his enemies. "Are you ready, My Lord?" Jeremiah roused Lelouch from his thoughts. The car had come to a stop, and Jeremiah was already standing outside, waiting for him to get out.
"Right," Lelouch exited the car and adjusted his uniform. Jeremiah popped the trunk and came back with a dark purple half cape. He draped the cape over Lelouch's right shoulder and clasped it over the left with a silver chain. "Thank you, Jeremiah; let's go make history, shall we?" Lelouch, as the youngest ever to be admitted, was going to graduate as summa cum lade.
"Of course, Sire," Jeremiah nodded, and the two made for the hall of ceremonies. Hundreds of graduating cadets were present and waiting. A special place had been set for those graduating with honors next to their most distinguished alumni. Cornelia was among those alumni, and the two shared a respectful nod as he passed his sister. It would hardly do for them to hug; such a breach of conduct was unbecoming of royalty and fellow officers after all. Lelouch made eye contact and exchange knowing looks with several other high ranking officers as well. All men he had made connections with. Lelouch took a seat with his peers, and out of a class of four hundred, only six of them were graduating with honors.
Seven years, Lelouch had spent every waking day after his mother's death preparing. Cultivating his image, making connections, and keeping relations with the right circles of people. Instrumental in this had been his sister, Cornelia, though weary of his career path, she began his journey into the military life. Her way of helping had come in the form of Andreas Darlton, Cornelia's Knight, and right-hand man. The man was unrelenting and taught Lelouch everything from the basic concepts of military tactics to chivalry and an officer's code of conduct. Darlton taught Lelouch military protocol, history, application of strategy, and the importance of logistics. A lesson Lelouch had been sure to observe when studying the second great war against the EU. When Irwin Rommel stalled Britannia in North Africa long enough to gain reinforcements. Even if an enemy, Lelouch decidedly absorbed every bit of information on the man he could find. With barely any petrol to fuel his tanks, he stalled a much more numerical foe for months.
Now Lelouch, only at sixteen years of age, stood among the most accomplished officers in the Empire. All and all, he was satisfied with himself, at least for now. The master of ceremonies, Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery, spoke of the graduates. He commended the officers in training, the instructors, and special praises for the students graduating with honors. Lelouch was called forth to give a few words, and overall the ceremony was a rousing success.
"Congratulations, Lelouch," Euphy threw her arms around his neck, placing a kiss on his cheek.
"Euphy!" Cornelia reprimanded Euphy for her breach in conduct.
Lelouch smiled, hugging back his sister, letting out a low chuckle. "Thank you, Euphy," Lelouch disengaged and went to Nunnally.
"I'm so happy for you, Big Brother," Nunnally gave him a warm smile, and Lelouch knelt down to hold her hands.
"I missed you, Nunnally, the company here wasn't as lovely as you, I'm afraid." Lelouch winked at his sister.
"Hey, what about me?" Euphy pouted, puffing her cheek out.
Lelouch grinned, "Of course Euphy, I missed home, though I feel Cornelia might be sick of me at this point."
"Oh shush," Cornelia patted his shoulder. "Darlton got to see more of you than I did; Divisional work kept me busy most of the time." Cornelia looked in the direction of her retainers and Lelouch's. Jeremiah, Darlton, and Guildford stood a respectable distance allowing the family to have its moment.
"Well, how about we celebrate? I got a recommendation from a colleague for an Italian Restaurant." Lelouch squeezed Nunnally's hand and stood up again.
"Sounds lovely, if you do not mind me joining you." Clovis La Britannia made his presence known.
"Big brother Clovis, it's so good to see you again," Nunnally was the first to greet the blonde Prince.
"Ah, and you are as lovely as ever, Nunnally, as are you Euphy, you both grow more beautiful every time I see you." Clovis knelt down and kissed Nunnally's hand and then kissed Euphy's as well.
"You really didn't have to come here, Clovis, it's rather out of the way." Lelouch raised his brow. His brother had sent his congratulations by call yesterday. Flying all the way from Area 11 just to see him seemed excessive.
"You are not taking your duties as governor lightly, are you Clovis?" Cornelia admonished her brother with a frown.
"Nonsense, I was already in Pendragon for business; I figured I'd stop by before heading back tomorrow." Clovis waved away their concerns. "Besides, it has been far too long since we've been together." Lelouch supposed that was right; he hadn't seen Clovis since Christmas of last year. Every visit, however brief, was Nunnally's and Euphy's favorite. Laden with gifts, and tales from Area 11 and its beauty.
"Is everything okay in Area 11, brother?" Euphy clasped her hands together, looking at Clovis with concern.
"Oh, nothing to worry about, dear Euphy, really, everything is okay." Clovis smiled and spread his arms. "Area 11 is peaceful, and I just had a meeting with Schneizel. Everything is on the up and up, of that I assure you." Clovis clapped his hands and shook his head, "now about that celebration?"
The royal siblings took Clovis personal, an extensive limousine to the restaurant. To say the restaurant owners were happy was an understatement. They were quite accommodating, offering the siblings a table overlooking the countryside of New York. "Well, what are your plans now that you're a soldier, Lelouch?" Clovis asked while swirling a glass of wine in his hand.
"My own commission, of course, provided Cornelia doesn't try and draft me under her own command." Lelouch grinned.
"Don't think I'd treat you any differently from my other subordinates," Cornelia cocked an eyebrow. Of that, Lelouch was in agreeance given his sister's strict nature.
"Knowing sister, she'd probably have Lelouch behind a desk all day." Euphy laughed, rolling some spaghetti around her fork.
"I wouldn't mind that, then Lelouch would be safe," Nunnally looked gratefully towards Cornelia.
"That's why I prefer my own commission," Lelouch laughed goodnaturedly. "Cornelia mothers me enough outside of duty."
"I am not motherly!" Cornelia sniffed indignantly.
"I don't know, Cornelia, I can recall you scolding us every time we did something risqué." Clovis shrugged.
"You mean swimming in the lake unsupervised?" Cornelia rolled her eyes, "you two are lucky I was around."
"As I recall, we had everything under control," Clovis countered, crossing his arms.
"Though the duck pecking was not part of the plan," Lelouch remembered that day clearly, his mother had laughed her head off while she cleaned his wounds from duck pecking.
Overall, it was a lovely evening filled with reminiscing of days at Ares Villa and getting an update of what he missed while he was away at Clinton. Nunnally had learned the violin and Euphy the piano. The two promised them a private concert, something Lelouch was looking forward to.
After their meal, Cornelia excused herself; she had to return to base and flew back to Pendragon first. Clovis, before he left, gifted Nunnally a brand new violin with her name engraved on it. While a brand new piano was awaiting Euphy at Ares Villa's music room. For Lelouch, given his apparent appreciation of capes, a brand new dark purple velvet cape, and silver chain. He gave both Nunnally and Euphy a kiss each goodbye, and he excused himself.
Jeremiah brought the car around, and the three siblings were the last to head home on a private transport plane. Lelouch had been away from the villa for a long time; he was looking forward to sleeping in his own bed again. Not to mention being with Nunnally and Euphy, their bright presence was sorely missed in all the dull classes and social events he attended out of necessity. Once on the plane, Nunnally and Euphy each ended up claiming a shoulder each. While they slept soundly, Lelouch had two files given to him by Jeremiah. He read the tags and thought intensively on the matter. The labels read Kewell Soresi and Villeta Nu, friends of Jeremiah. Both attended the Gloucester Military Academy at California; both graduated with honors and were currently serving within the Britannian Territorial Army. Major Villetta was a capable Knightmare pilot in the 3rd California Division 12th Regiment. While Major Kewell Soresi was stationed in the relatively prestigious 1st Division 1st Royal Cavalry Regiment. Both would be good additional retainers, and useful once Army High Command made its decision on where to station him.
Sighing, Lelouch grabbed the headphones embedded in his seat and put them on. He turned on the private tv that swung down from the ceiling. He switched it to the news, and his eyes widen, watching the scene unfold before him. Lelouch brought his hand up and placed it against his mouth. "Lelouch?" Nunnally stirred awake, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. She looked at the television. "Oh, how terrible, Lelouch, I hope everyone is okay."
"Yes, everything will be okay Nunnally, I'm sure of it." Lelouch squeezed his sister's hand reassuringly. But truth be told, he was not necessarily sad; in fact, he was thrilled, his hand over his mouth served the purpose to cover his smirk. Thanks to this 'tragedy' as the news was already declaring it, Lelouch's time-table had been accelerated. Once they landed at Pendragon, Lelouch had calls to make and favors to cash in immediately. Lelouch disengaged from his sisters and walked further into the transport to talk to Jeremiah.
Nunnally watched her brother go with a heavy heart. When Lelouch squeezed her hand, she felt just how excited he truly was about these events. She felt her heart go out to the people affected, she knew the pain of losing loved ones, and she knew the families of those soldiers would be sorrowful. "Nunnally, are you okay?" Euphy reached over and put her hand on Nunnally's shoulder.
"I'm okay, Euphy, but the families of those poor soldiers, I feel terrible for them." Nunnally put a fist over her heart.
"I know what you mean, I hope they will be okay." Euphy closed her eyes, sending out a silent prayer to those soldier's families.
"Big brother and big Sister Cornelia will have to go away again, won't they?" Nunnally's eyes became downcast; her family would be apart again, as would be so many. "I want to help, I know I can't do much. But both Cornelia and Lelouch will be out there doing their best. I want to help out too; maybe we can do something for the families of those poor soldiers."
Euphemia saw Nunnally in a whole new light at that moment; her little sister wasn't so little anymore. A new sense of determination filled her heart, and Euphemia nodded in her direction. "I will help out too, Nunnally. Together let's bring hope to the families of those poor soldiers."
Egypt
2016 a.t.b
Suez Canal
Garrison Commander Colonel Gregory Straus watched his staff go about their work. He was dressed in the standard Britannian officer's uniform. Unlike a majority of the officers within the army, Straus wasn't of noble blood. He poured years of blood, sweat, and tears into his career to achieve his rank. His efforts granted him a position in a key place in Britannia's territories. Colonel Straus patched into the calms and spoke with an air of authority. " This is Castle to Raven Actual, report."
"Raven actual to Castle, just finishing sweep at point A-1, looks like another quiet night."
"Copy that Raven Actual, finish your patrol and r.t.b." Straus walked over to the rows of monitors where his staff gathered data. A live feed of the terrain tracked another Knightmare lance patrolling south along the canal. Straus switched channels and spoke into his earpiece again. "Raven zero-one, this is Castle, report."
"-pzzt.-" Static was his only response.
"Raven zero-one, this is Castle, its time for your check-in, please respond." Straus frowned, looking at the monitor displaying Raven zero-one's position. The unit was stationary at their designated patrol end route. "Think there's a malfunction with their Knightmares?" Straus asked the soldier manning the terminal before him.
"Negative, pre-patrol checks show everything checked out. There doesn't seem to be any interference…I don't know what to tell you, Colonel." The soldier shrugged, her face scrunched in confusion.
"Castle to Raven Actual, do you copy?"
"Raven Actual here, send your traffic Castle."
"Raven zero-one missed their check-in, and aren't responding. Instruments show their stationary, can you investigate?"
"Acknowledge Castle, moving to investigate, Raven Actual out." The channel closed, and Starus watched Raven Actual move into position on the monitor.
"Raven Actual to Castle, we arrived at point B-4. Raven zero-one is stationary, standby…" there was silence, just the sound of radio static. "Raven Actual here, zero-one is gone, they've left their knightmares, but they aren't anywhere on sight."
"Roger that Raven Actual, I want you to."
"We lost both signals!" The soldier suddenly yelled, and static-filled Straus ear. The Colonel looked over the woman's shoulder, both lances read 'LOST.'
"Raven-" Straus tried reaching the next lance but was quickly interrupted by chaos.
"They're everywhere, multiple foreign Knightmares are advancing on the bridge!" Raven zero-two shouted over Knightmare rifle fire.
"Raven zero-two, what's your situation? Respond!" Straus felt his heartbeat pick up; who in their damn mind would have the gall to attack them?
"Colonel, it's chaos out there, we just lost all Raven units!" another of his soldiers shouted.
"Sound the alarm, alert the fleet!" Straus ordered and hunched over to look at one of the monitors. An explosion outside made him snap his head up. Their communications array just blew to pieces.
"Long-range communications are down, what do we do, Colonel?" The soldier sounded panicked, and it was starting to spread among his staff. Straus moved over to another terminal and picked a phone receiver. He flipped a switch and barked into the receiver. "All units this is Colonel Straus, the base is under attack, all personnel move to combat alert status. Deploy all Knightmare compliments!" Whoever the attackers were, they were about to have a taste of Britannian might. Another explosion rocked the base; the barracks east of the control tower just went up in flames. Most of his pilots just went up with the buildings. The enemy was already inside the base.
"Colonel, look!" Straus looked back up; on the eastern horizon, a dust storm was heading their way. Except the weather didn't warrant it.
"Oh god, it's the enemy," Straus removed his cap in sheer bewilderment.
"Missiles!" An alarm blared inside the tower as someone shouted the warning. Straus moved to the window and saw several vapor trails behind bright lights heading his way.
"Get out, everyone move come on!" Straus swept his arm out, and his staff bolted towards the stairs. Barely two minutes later, two missiles impacted the tower, turning it into a ball of flames.
Straus was forced on to his knees, as were several of his men, all lined up before their captors. His uniform was charred, just barely survived that missile strike. All around him, soldiers moved to take over the base. Standing by Straus was a Knightmare he had never seen before. Two massive guns for arms and a heavy machinegun on its torso. It was heavily armored, easily a full meter taller than a Sutherland. "Impressive, isn't it?" Somebody with a thick German accent approached him.
"What is it?" Straus grunted. The man that walked over to Straus was tall and blonde, clearly not a native by any means. His uniform was that of the Middle Eastern Federation.
"The EU's Panzer Hummel, designed to be a Knightmare killer." The blonde man laughed.
Figures, Feds were probably the only ones crazy enough to attack Britannia. That said, the German accent was dubious. "Are you from the EU?"
"I'm not an EU soldier if that's what you're asking." The young man chuckled. "No, I'm simply a soldier of fortune come to make his riches." The man with striking blue eyes smiled at Straus.
"What's your name," the man looked at Straus shoulders, "Colonel?"
"Gregory Straus, Colonel, serial number 004952," Straus recited by verbatim the response trained into every Britannian soldier.
"Straus?" the man laughed, "distant kinsmen aren't we?" The blonde man shrugged goodnaturedly. "I'm not here to interrogate you, Colonel, I'll leave that to whoever you're handed over to. With that said," The blonde man cleared his throat, "You are all now prisoners of the Federation and will be treated with the accordance of the POW regulations set by the Geneva Convention. Cooperate, and you will not be treated harshly." The man sighed, and a Federation soldier came over to whisper in his ear. The blonde man nodded and bid the Britannian Colonel his regards.
The blonde Colonel left Straus's immediate presence before he was intercepted again. "Colonel, we just received word, the Canal is ours, Brits never knew what hit em." Another German soldier reported giving the Colonel the wrong salute.
"Wrong salute, Corporal, don't give away our identities," The blonde Colonel glared at the soldier.
"Sorry, Colonel, a force of habit." The soldier apologized bashfully.
"It's fine, how goes the attack?" The blonde Colonel began walking, making his way to the temporary headquarters set up in one of the hangars.
"Everything is going as planned, our Pincer attack on Egypt has the Brits reeling, and the Feds have already begun to push into Morocco. Command has also begun operation Iron Curtain and is blockading access to the Mediterranean." The report was just as the Colonel expected; he was the mastermind planning this attack after all.
"Excellent, once they have the Brits bruised, tell them to push onward, we need to show these Feds how Germans wage Blitzkrieg." The blonde Colonel smirked at his subordinate.
"Yavol, Colonel Rommel," He snapped to attention, giving the proper Federation salute this time and left to relay his commander's orders.
Colonel Adolfo Guderian Rommel crossed his arms behind his back and looked on at his work. He wondered if his grandfather would be proud of him? Adolfo snorted a mirthless laugh, probably not. His father never approved of pursuing an aggressive war. So whatever Parliament was thinking back home better work, their hopes relied on the Brits not declaring war on them once they found the Hummel roving the battlefield smashing their knightmares. Well, it didn't matter, he supposed, the war proper would come soon, for now, it was just mopping up work. The Brits here were beaten, Rommel's plan ensured it; they just didn't know it yet. Once Egypt was firmly back in Federation hands, The push on Morocco could begin in earnest.
Holy Empire of Britannia
2016 a.t.b
Pendragon
"Sire, is this really happening?" Jeremiah's face was split open with a Cheshire grin. Their plans were finally coming into play. Lelouch's forecast of Britannia's actions on the geopolitical scale had him predicting war with the EU two years from now. He never thought somebody would attack the Empire. What was there to gain? Britannia's grip on most Areas was absolute. But Lelouch had forgotten the curiosity that was the situation in North Africa. The results of the previous war with the EU that ended in a Pyrrhic victory for the Europeans. Despite their best efforts, Britannia still ended up with spheres of influence right below their doorstep.
"The Middle Eastern Federation is the smallest of the economic blocks." Lelouch sat behind his desk, fingers laced together. He was waiting for the chaos of the past few days to die down. All reports coming in from North Africa had Britannia up in arms. The news was having a field day with bold headlines making the Federation out to be monsters. The tabloids, in particular, had posted inflammatory images of Federation forces taking Egypt flying their flag over the Government building. How they got those pictures was a mystery, but the reporter who first had news on the television was Diethard Reid. Lelouch quickly decided to keep an eye on the man for future endeavors.
"So, this is about regaining lost territory?" Jeremiah poured himself some fine scotch on a glass. "This hardly makes sense; everyone knows the Federation is lagging behind Knightmare Frame development." Jeremiah sipped from his glass and then gave the drink an appreciative hum. "Good stuff, Sire," Jeremiah raised the glass towards his master.
"Hah, my mother's private vintage, feel free to enjoy it. I personally don't like the swill." Lelouch shrugged.
"Come now, Sire any good Brit enjoys a good saucing," Jeremiah grinned.
"I suppose that makes me a bad Britannian then," Lelouch chuckled.
"Sire, if you win this war, you will be the new standard for a proper Brit, I'd say." Jeremiah stroked his chin and looked out one of the massive windows in the room.
The phone rang, Lelouch and Jeremiah exchanged looks, and Lelouch picked up the phone. "Yes?" There was a long pause as Lelouch listened to the caller. For a moment, the Prince was pleased, but his expression quickly soured. "I understand, and will move to take command immediately." Lelouch pinched the bridge of his nose and shook his head. "Of course, thank you, General, all hail Britannia." Lelouch finished the call and scowled, placing the receiver back with stoic grace.
"Sire?" Jeremiah leaned on the desk, looking at Lelouch with concern.
"It seems due to the sudden hostilities, and the shortage in available positions, Army High Command has seen fit to grant me the rank of Colonel and a single Regiment." Lelouch's favors should have landed him with his own Division. The excuses given to him sounded like the standard response to complainers.
"Forgive me, Sire, but that sounds like bullocks," Jeremiah put his drink down with a little more force than necessary.
"Agreed," Lelouch pushed back the chair and stood up. "But, this opportunity is too good to pass up." Lelouch opened a drawer next to him and grabbed some files. "Here, the dossiers you gave me of your friends. Contact them immediately," Lelouch walked around the desk, hands clasped behind his back. "We leave in three days, Army High Command will supply us with the details of the Regiment soon enough." He made for the door, passing Jeremiah on the way.
"Yes, My Lord!" Jeremiah put his fist across his chest, and Lelouch nodded, leaving his Knight to begin his work.
Lelouch, in the meantime, went to look for Nunnally. He wished to spend as much time with her as possible before his departure. He found his sister in the gardens, her chair was beneath a gazebo, and she was playing her new violin. Lelouch smiled to himself and stood a bit away, letting his sister play the beautiful sounds. The way Nunnally's face lit up when she played was one of Lelouch's favorite things in the world. He was a bit disappointed he would not get the promised concert from his two sisters. But he at least treasured being able to hear his sister play before he was off to war.
"La Stravaganza Concerto no.2, Antonio Vivaldi, yes?" Lelouch walked over to Nunnally, and his sister giggled behind her hand.
"I didn't picture you for having such a musical ear, big brother," Nunnally, turned her chair to look at him. "Have you come to say goodbye?" Nunnally could not help the pout that came over her lips.
Lelouch knelt down by his sister and took her hand in his own, "I still have a few days, I just wanted to see what you were doing. I regret interrupting you if you were going to play more." Lelouch rubbed his thumb gently over her knuckles.
"I wish you wouldn't have to leave big brother, but I understand it's something you have to do." Nunnally put her violin next to her chair and then brought his hand up to her cheek.
"I know, it won't be forever, Nunnally, and I promise to come back to you, okay?" Lelouch stroked his sister's cheek.
"I know, big brother, you always come back to me," Nunnally leaned into his touch, savoring her last moments with her brother. "Will you go see Euphy too?"
"Actually, before I leave, how about we have a sleepover, like when we were children?" Lelouch pulled his hand back and grabbed Nunnally's violin.
"Wow, you mean it?" Nunnally's eyes brighten up at the prospect.
"Of course, I'll call Euphy over, but first," Lelouch held the violin flat on his hands up to Nunnally. "Will you play for me another song, maestro?"
Nunnally giggled and took back her violin, resting it on her shoulder, "any requests, brother?"
Lelouch thought it over for a moment, then nodded, "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik," Lelouch winked at his sister.
"Oh, you devil you," Nunnally smiled knowingly at her brother. All the same, Nunnally played the piece, showing her incredible skill that she was so humble off.
Lelouch looked himself over on the mirror. He was dressed in a black frock with silver trimming, he wore an equally black vest with silver buttons. Lelouch also wore black pants tucked into cavalry boots. He adjusted his carvat and then tugged on his gloves. "Arthur?" Lelouch turned, and his butler placed his half cape on him. "Thank you," Lelouch nodded to his butler.
"Of course, Sire," The butler bowed before going over Lelouch with a lint roller.
Satisfied with his appearance, Lelouch left the villa getting into his private car. He was taken to the Michael Seebach concert hall on Primrose Hill. The concert hall was one of the biggest performing arts centers in The Homeland. It lived off the donations of several of the nobility, among them Lelouch's own half brother Clovis. A generous two million pounds a year, his brother was ever the patron of the arts. His visit, however, wasn't due to Clovis; instead, he arrived to meet with schneizel. His older brother reached out to him and invited him to the concert almost out of nowhere.
Lelouch had always kept a courteous relationship with his elder brother. Schneizel was an enigma to Lelouch, and the only man he could call an equal intellectually. For that reason alone, Lelouch could only place a certain amount of trust in his brother. He never opposed Lelouch; in fact, he helped him with a letter of recommendation for Clinton Academy. Schneizel also visited the villa on occasion and proved a sort of mentor to Lelouch. With all that said, he really couldn't phantom the invitation.
"Ah, Prince Lelouch, welcome!" Schneizel's aid greeted Lelouch in the concert hall.
"Afternoon, Earl Kanon Maldini, I presume?" Lelouch shook hands with the man before him.
"Please, just Kanon will do," Kanon bowed and gestured for Lelouch to follow him. He led them to a private booth overlooking the stage.
Taking his seat by his brother, both men simply sat in silence, watching the performance begin. Lelouch closed his eyes and leaned back, a smile tugging at his lips ever so slightly. "Introitus Requiem Aeternam, I didn't think you such a music lover Schneizel." Lelouch finally broke the silence as a beautiful woman sang the solo.
"Mozart, I always enjoyed this symphony," Schneizel shrugged and leaned back on his own chair. "Drink?" Schneizel gestured to Kanon behind the two.
"No, thank you," Lelouch put his hand up.
"Some water for me, Kanon," Schneizel gestured with his hand, and Kanon bowed before leaving.
"So, why the sudden invitation?" Lelouch waited for kanon to closed the door behind him to speak.
"I wanted to ask your opinion on a matter," Schneizel laced his fingers together. "Given the recent declaration of war by the Federation, the EU has shut down access to Gibraltar. I will be leaving for Paris soon to meet with the EU Parliament. What do you suggest we do about that?"
Lelouch raised a brow; this was an odd request, more so coming from a statesman of Schneizel's quality. "I don't believe I have all the facts to weigh in on the matter." Lelouch put on a mask of cool aloofness.
"In any other case, I would agree, but humor me, what would you do in my position?" Schneizel shrugged.
"Then I would remind the Europeans about the Treaty of Versai allowing free access to the Medeterannian. Should that not work, subtle threats of closing Suez once it's retaken could help." Lelouch pinched his chin in deep thought. "The Europeans aren't stupid, even if we are engaged in North Africa, they won't dare risk us opening a second front." Lelouch's eyes widen in realization. "Unless that's the plan."
Schneizel smiled and gave Lelouch a sidelong glance, "Indeed, it's only a theory at the moment, but blockading Gibraltar, along with rumors of them providing logistical support to the Federation, seems to support this action."
"Am I to assume the Federation is also blocking access to the Mediterranean with their fleet?" Lelouch felt the pieces begin to fall in place.
"I suppose you don't have access to field reports yet, but yes, a Federation fleet is harassing our shores at Morocco, while another fleet engages our North Atlantic Fleet." Schneizel's lips pulled down in a frown.
"Any word from the Emperor on this matter?" Seldom did the Emperor's children called him father in a public setting. For calling him, 'father' would be indicative of closeness to the Emperor. No, the Emperor did not favor any of his children; such attachment would break the visage of the aloof god.
"The Emperor tasked me to resolve the matter, I believe his words were, 'Schneizel, solve this or I will.'" Schneizel stared down at the orchestra, his expression unreadable to Lelouch.
"So he wishes it," Lelouch grunted.
"So it shall be," Schneizel chuckled lightly, "but enough of such dreary matters, how have things been?" The second Prince dropped all airs of formality and visibly relaxed.
Lelouch, for his own part, relaxed into his seat more, "good, I suppose, after the Academy, I didn't expect things to escalate so quickly." Lelouch hummed in thought, "doesn't matter, I suppose, we all do what we must."
"True, but I have confidence in your abilities, and if I do my part, you'll be home before Christmas." Schneizel looked back, as Kanon came and handed Schneizel a glass of chilled water. A second glass of water for Lelouch was placed on a silver tray, just in case.
"A terribly short war then," Lelouch chortled.
"No war at all is preferable," Schneizel drank, wetting his lips.
"That world would be a sight to behold," Lelouch thought on it, a world where Nunnally would never know suffering or hatred.
"In what world such as that would our Empire exist?" Schneizel, ever the enigma, posed the question to Lelouch, "no Emperor could possibly take all that power and not desire more."
"A man's character is revealed when his given power is it not?" Lelouch gestured carelessly into the air, "then I would choose our brother Odysseus to succeed us, a gentle soul like his would do wonders in such a gentle world."
"What of yourself?" Schneizel asked.
"Me?" Lelouch looked at him.
"Yes."
He thought of the black pit of emotions his heart had become. "Such a gentle world would ill need of me." Lelouch's answer was almost whimsical, if not sad in nature. He no longer felt he could be comforted by such a world. No, this world was for Nunnally and Euphy; men like him would just be a reminder of the ugliness of mankind. A better person might forgive, or maybe find strength in the sorrow to move on. Lelouch found only the dogged conviction to punish those who wronged him.
"Such a doomsayer," Schneizel laughed.
"You asked," Lelouch offered his own sheepish smile.
"So I did," Schneizel shifted his gaze back towards the performance. "Then I must double my efforts and make a world where men like us can find peace too."
Lelouch blinked, surprised by his brother's response. Once again, he was left to wonder just what Schneizel el Britannia wanted. With that thought, the two settled into silence and watched the rest of the performance. Lelouch closed his eyes and let the rendition of 'Lux Aeterna' ease some of his burdens, if only just for today.
WAR
On January 23rd, 2016, a.t.b, the Middle Eastern Federation launched a devastating two-pronged attack on Area 19 and Area 20, Morocco, and Egypt, respectively. It is believed elements of the Mediterranean Royal Army are on a desperate backfoot retreat across the desert. While a defensive line has been established in Morocco, all reliable information out of Egypt has ceased.
Remnants of the 23rd and 24th Divisions are putting up sparse resistance across Egypt. Though earlier in the evening, footage of the Federation's flag hoisted over the Britannian government building on Cairo was leaked to the public. In Morocco, it is believed the local numbers populace have defected to the invaders in droves and have sabotaged Britannian efforts to counterattack against the aggressors.
All diplomatic routes have been effectively shut down, as Britannian representatives were forcefully expulsed from the Middle Eastern Federation's capital of Babylon. The crisis of these events has also caused friction with Europia United, as the Europeans have declared themselves as neutral and are blockading access to the Mediterranean Sea. The Federations fleet has set up a Naval Blockade keeping the Atlantic fleet from entering and aiding the defense of Morocco.
A dire situation indeed for our glorious Empire. All our best wishes and support goes out to the men and women serving in the frontlines to defend our Empire. Our hope lies now with the X Corps currently preparing to reinforce Morocco. It is with some relief to all Britannians that with X Corps goes Major General Cornelia Li Britannia, our Goddess of Victory. Though it is not confirmed, under the command of Prince Joffery We Britannia, rumors stated that Prince Lelouch Vi Britannia will be making his first public debut since the late Queen Marianne's assassination.
All eyes of the world are set in North Africa, and we here at Britannian News Network will endeavor to bring you the latest news as the war develops. This is Gregory Philips; please stay tuned for the weather.
The War on North Africa BNN News report 2016 a.t.b
Oh boy, this one was a hard one to write; I have also introduced a secondary character. The name and references to history will probably reveal who his grandfather was, hah. But, I figured a European point of view was necessary as the EU will have its own vital role to play. Though this is a first and foremost a Lelouch story, so I promise you Adolfo will not be taking over the story.
The next chapter will have us meet the Regiment, which I'll spoil by saying they are the contemporaries of Brtiannian's favorites from Lelouch of Britannia. I can't help myself; the choice by the author was simply brilliant, and I had to use it as well. I also added a little something at the end of the news report. A reminder that despite being from the Empire's point of view, Britannia is still a cruel Empire. Stay tuned for the next installment; things are about to get intense!
To namey5357: I think Your Majesty (in my interpretation of it) is just another title as his highness. But I could be wrong. Still, it serves is purpose either way, as Jeremiah's loyalty is absolute to Lelouch. So to him, Lelouch might as well be his Emperor already. Regarding shipping, well, as I said, I have my own preference, but I will explore Lelouch's relationship with the fairer sex, hah. Zero is a long way coming, but his role is as of yet, undefined. He will, however, make an appearance. Now, who's behind the mask? I'll leave that up for debate when we get there.
To Lord Halcyon: Lelouch's ambitions are grand, I can assure you he will not settle for anything but the top. What the top is, I will keep to myself for now. But needless to say, Lelouch will use anything at his disposal for his ideals. The Throne of an Empire expanding ¼ of the world would be quite the asset. While this won't be a harem, I will explore Lelouch's relationships with the ladies in his life. I have a pairing in mind, however, and I'm sticking to it. That said, thank you for the recommendations, sad they remain unfinished.
To ThatindieReviewer: I can guess who your favorite character is by that description, hah. She will be here, I assure you. She will have her role to play in all this.
To Vegito is King: The scene of the commoners honoring Marianne was incredibly fun for me to write. She is pretty much the role model for a government based on a meritocracy after all. Through her own skills, she raised herself from a mere commoner to a queen. That is the kind of achievement that made her the queen of the people. I'll handle pairings with care, don't you worry about that! Regarding Lelouch's male friends, don't worry, I have something in mind there as well.
To Mr.Q: Odysseus won't be a significant character, but he will have his moments here and there. I have a soft spot for him. He might not be the sharpest crayon, but he's a nice man at heart. With a family like the Imperial family, that in itself is a miracle.
To John137: This chapter should hit the spot then! Lelouch does his thing, and the pieces start to assemble!
