Indomitable
Oof, how long has it been? Here's an extra long chapter to compensate.
Chapter 3: Pendragon
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Port Elizebeth; 2018 ATB
Port Elizabeth was every bit as Britannian as was expected. Serving as the primary source of seabound travel across the Atlantic between the homeland and most of the Britannian settlements across the world. Around nearly a hundred cargo ships were docked at any given time, and dozens moved in and out to carry vital resources that kept the vast empire alive and well. The Marianne was just one of many military ships docked as well, along with her escort ships Invicta and Victoria. The fleet was guided into their own private sub-port owned by the vi Britannia family. It was a luxury afforded only to select few, especially for one that fit more than a simple yacht or two. The Marianne was a monstrous ship, the dock was by no means a tiny strip reserved for a pleasure cruise.
Lelouch disembarked along with everyone else who would be going to Pendragon with him. Nunnally of course, as well as the rest of the first squadron. The royal guard and Gottwald also, as a mandatory precaution. The rest of the soldiers aboard were free to visit friends and family for the time they were to spend in the homeland. As members of the Black Knights they were separate from the ordinary rank and file soldiers. To a lesser degree than his royal guard, the entire division swore oaths to the vi Britannias. That was mostly the reason it was comparably smaller to most other divisions. However, that also meant there wasn't a single squad of infantry either. All the combat oriented members piloted knightmares. The rest were simply officers or other staff. And each one was personally recruited by Lelouch himself, weeding out any pompous nobles or particularly disloyal commoners. He wasn't exactly the most popular individual among the residents of the homeland, but where he was liked, he was loved. Being a 'peasant prince' had it's perks, along with its banes. Even still, there were plenty of all backgrounds that shared all kinds of opinions. That being said, Britannia's very nature tended to contradict his own existence. Many liked to point that out.
He was satisfied with his small army however, picked up over the course of many campaigns and missions. Some of them were veterans of many more while others were pulled straight from the academy. Regardless of their background, they all shared one purpose: his purpose. He took comfort in knowing he had them to rely on. Looking at back the time he first commanded Odair, his own men now could perform that maneuver without even thinking about it. His mother had never taken the time to develop her own group of soldiers, instead she constantly moved from battlefield to battlefield. Her name as Marianne the Flash commanded absolute authority among any that happened to cross paths with her. Many of her flawless strategies were known only to her, not drilled to perfection by a reliable force of her own. It was a testament to her ability that she was able to so consistently lead any unit to victory regardless of those circumstances.
So Lelouch supposed he could say he took the easier road then. Not that he regretted it at all. The Black Knights belonged to him, and nothing could doubt that.
"Oh I can't wait to finally get back home, it's been so long!" Nunnally commented with an eager spring in her step. "I wonder how Euphy has been doing the past couple of months...you'll join us for tea sometime won't you brother?"
Lelouch laughed lightly at the innocent desperation in her question. He did seldom have time for social calls, or rather he made time in an effort to not have time. Anyone he cared to associate with he did so on a regular basis through business ventures. Even between siblings, like Cornelia, it was for a specific purpose. "Well, I do have a few things I need to take care of while we're here." He answered her. "But I do suppose I could afford to spend an afternoon with the two of you."
"That would be wonderful!" His sister's joyful smile was hard to refuse, and Lelouch knew there wasn't any way for him to get out of the deal now.
"Speaking of, Prime Minister Schneizel wished to speak with you upon our arrival at Aries Villa, my prince." Jeremiah informed him.
"Good news, I hope." Lelouch responded as he ducked into the awaiting car that would bring them to the nearby airport, then to pendragon. "I've been meaning to follow up on a few things with Schneizel, there have been some interesting developments he could provide information on."
"He's not gonna make us go on another campaign again is he?" Nunnally pouted from her seat across from him.
The prince smiled at her, shaking his head. "I doubt it, not right after we got back anyway. You don't have to worry."
"Where do you believe the empire intends to strike next, your highness?" Jeremiah asked from beside him, the only other occupant if their vehicle, the rest following behind as a convoy. "Princess Cornelia will remain in the MEF for some time, which means it will be us deployed to the next battlefield."
"There are a few possibilities, but as this stand now with the EU and Chinese Federation, its it's hard to say." Lelouch replied, rubbing his chin in thought. "Most likely I would actually say repacification of Area Eleven."
"Area Eleven? Where Clovis is?" His sister asked.
"Yes, despite how much he insists otherwise, the Area is falling apart. It's no secret Japan is more volatile than any other imperial province, terrorism runs rampant there, consistently difficult to control due to the people's nature. Regardless of that factor, Clovis's own incompetence is an issue only feeding the fire. One that could prove catastrophic to the entire empire if the production in Area Eleven was disrupted." He explained to both Jeremiah and Nunnally. "I've even heard rumors from a few places that there's an even bigger group calling themselves the 'Japan Liberation Front'. Remnants of Japan's old military structure. They might be planning something big in the near future. That kind of situation would be undeniable proof that drastic intervention is required. Normally Cornelia herself would be going, I even requesting she take care of an errand should she do so; but in reality I believe father would prefer we go instead."
"We would have to discredit Clovis then, wouldn't we brother." Nunnally added sullenly.
"I have no reservations about that sister. Clovis isn't the same as he was all those years ago. His treatment of the citizens and numbers is testament to that. He would rather place importance on his art galas and balls then insuring his viceroyship survives. Usurping his authority and stamping out the rebellions he failed to suppress will prove once and for all just who of us superior. For all to see. It just makes us one step closer to realizing our dream, Nunnally."
With a hesitant expression she turned away from him, looking out the window toward the expansive port city. "I know that, it's just…"
"It might be hard, but it's an opportunity we need to take. Clovis stands in our way right now and this is the best way to pass him without any sort of fallout. This is the safest, most effective way."
It was not uncommon for such dangerous topics to be discussed between the two of them, to which the steadfastly loyal Jeremiah was often present. There was nothing kept secret between the siblings, their goals one in the same. While it came to Lelouch to make those difficult decisions, it was Nunnally who made sure he didn't go too far. It had been the two of them against the rest of the entire world almost all their lives, they were far more than just siblings in that regard. It might sound like idealistic daydreams to most, but the path to the throne was a dream they shared, and a vision they alone strived for.
And nothing, not even a once beloved brother, would get in their way.
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Stadfeld Foundation Testing Site One; 2018 ATB
With a mechanical hiss, the hatch opened up to the fresh cool air. Kallen arched her back to loosen her cramped joints from sitting like this for so long.
"The results were incredible, my lady." One engineer told her as he handed a much needed bottle of water. "You peaked at ninety-six percent this time."
She briefly nodded as she accepted the beverage, draining it before speaking. "Those last modifications really did the trick Rakshata." She said to the Indian woman standing below the knightmare attached to various machines and equipment. "I can really tell the difference in performance this time."
"Of course my dear. With you piloting my Guren, I can apply any number of enhancements the average devicer wouldn't be capable of handling at all."
With a victorious smile, the Stadtfeld heiress gracefully leapt from atop the crouching knightmare. Attached to various monitoring systems that comprised the simulator, the fearsome Guren Mk-II stood as the centerpiece of the massive test facility. Constructed only a few years ago under Kallen's instruction. Despite vehement protests from the rest of her family, she took a massive investment into the field of knightmare technology. Though her reasons for doing so were much more personal, her father was far from denying her. And as the only child of the Count Stadtfeld, her choice was hers alone to make. Since then, it was a stroke of incredible fortune to have met Rakshata Chawla in her research on foreign weapons, and yet another upon discovering her aptitude as a devicer. It was as if God himself was granting her one desire, paving the path forward for her.
Her eyes came to rest upon the letter lying on her work station, its incredibly ornate design hinting to the importance of its contents. Or perhaps at least their importance to her. Picking up the paper, she read over it's contents once again. Yes, there had to be a God on her side. The opportunity she was waiting for was presented right in front of her. Briefly, she wondered if he would even attend himself, fearing she wouldn't have the chance to meet him. Frankly she had no other way of contacting him otherwise. As a countess, she held a great deal of power, but even then the difference of their station left simply inviting him to tea completely out of the question. Really Kallen wasn't even sure if that was an option anyway. Sighing, she shook her head. He would be there, he had to be. There were no other options.
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Aries Villa; 2018 ATB
"Welcome home your highness."
Stepping through the doors of his family's home, Lelouch was greeted with the a chorus of assembled servants in his employ. None of the men and women bowed before him previously worked in the villa since it came into his care, one of the first things he did with that authority was flush the staff completely, leaving no room for any other potential sources of deceit in the household. What followed was months of rigorous background checks and interviews in order to properly fill the void left in their dismissal. Loyalties to his mother, or perhaps long disguised sleepers, even a traitor or two it did not matter. As far as Lelouch was concerned Gottwald was the only man loyal to the vi Britannia line itself, testament to that no others came forward during that time pledging any such loyalties save that man. If they were worth keeping around they would have in the least asked as much.
"There are several matters awaiting your attention, my lord." Stepping forward was the house caretaker and secretary Amelia Wright, a brilliant young Britannian commoner Lelouch procured from the Saint Edward Academy in New Orleans. A prestigious background with limitless potential hampered only by her bloodline. After watching far less qualified nobles steal positions meant for her the blonde jumped at the opportunity to serve directly under an imperial prince. It was one of the many times he used to his advantage was many would call his greatest weakness. His unique ability to sympathize with commoners put him above all his other siblings save perhaps Schneizel, whose own power and charisma alone was enough to steal away desirable individuals. Like that Einstein girl whose paper made headlines last year.
"Most importantly, the Prime Minister is on call in your office." Amelia continued. "He says the matter is not urgent, and awaits at your leisure."
Lelouch raised an eyebrow. "Not urgent he says?" Sighing he turned his attention to his sister beside him. "Apologies Nunnally but we'll have to do tea another time."
Shaking her head, the princess gave an understanding smile. "It's fine brother, I'll see you later then."
Breaking off with a cheerful wave, Nunnally left to her own room, Alice and her entourage of guards following behind her.
"One other thing, your highness." Amelia added as the prince departed himself. "Lord Ashford has requested your input on the collaboration project with the Zevon family. They cannot begin to make progress without a few things."
"I thought they already had what they wanted from me." Lelouch frowned. "The base operating system and druid system were the reason I initiated the project, my desire for its integration should have been enough."
"Lord Ashford specifically said that making a personal knightmare frame should involve the direction of its intended user throughout the entire process and such should not be ignored." The secretary added.
Tilting his head, Lelouch asked "Is that chastisement?"
"I believe so, my prince."
"Pah, that old man knows how busy I am. I don't have time to babysit his work." The prince complained.
"Perhaps there is wisdom is his request my prince." Jeremiah offered. "You won't be satisfied with the result if you did not take part in its completion."
"Then I'll be sure give him very specific details." He growled.
His footsteps faltered a moment as he passed by that room, the open doors revealing a sight long since vanished in his mind's eye. Hesitating, the atmosphere noticeably shifting to silence, and everyone knew exactly why. Really, he should have put more thought into the layout of his office routine. Or perhaps, that's exactly what he did, making himself to pass by this place each time. Shaking such thoughts from his head, he took another step, forcing his way forward until he came to the entrance of his private sanctuary. Jeremiah opened it for him, as Amelia handed him a folder to review after speaking with Schneizel.
"Shall I have tea brought for you your highness, or perhaps coffee?" the woman asked.
"Coffee would be better, thank you." Lelouch answered, briefly glancing at the folder's contents. In truth, he hadn't slept well in a long time. Insomnia set in after countless late work nights in an effort to avoid encroaching nightmares. It didn't start happening until recently however, premonitions of deaths he couldn't avoid, and faceless corpses of those he could only assume. He was no stranger to death, his own hand had taken the lives of many already. And though he tried to avoid it, his sent off more than a few good men to their eternal rest. Yet still there were things he feared, and his own mind refused to let him forget them.
Silently, he dropped the folder onto his desk, falling into the comfortable chair that offered him a view of the still immaculately maintained gardens. Clearing all traces of emotion from his face, he replaced his mask before pressing the blinking button on the desk phone. The computer monitor beside it came to life, revealing the older blonde man reading something off camera. Noticing his presence, the prime minister set down his material before turning his attention to the monitor of his own that displayed Lelouch on his end. "Ah, Lelouch, there you are." His brother greeted with a practiced smile.
"Apologies, I hope you weren't waiting long." Lelouch began, offering a smile of his own.
"Not at all, I can always make time for you. You're doing well I hope?" The prime minister asked.
He answered with a modest shrug. "Well enough, and yourself?"
"There's never an end to the list of troubles, I'm sure you've had your share." Schneizel said, allowing a hint of exhaustion through to prove his point.
"Indeed. Unfortunately I was busy wasting my time in Area Eight." He agreed.
"How was that by the way, you sound displeased."
"Either the 'large knightmare armed insurgency group' transformed themselves into dust or were nothing more than dust in the first place." Lelouch explained with clear irritation. "Frankly I believe more in the latter."
"I see, how disappointing. I'm sure you would much rather occupy yourself with more meaningful work." The older prince commented, shaking his head.
"Well, it was somewhat of a vacation actually. Eight is a rather nice place."
Schneizel lightly laughed. "Fair enough. Though if I receive any requests for defense funding from the viceroy I'll be sure to deny them."
"Do that. I'm certain the Viceroy will have found my efforts inadequate."
Nodding, Schneizel continued. "Speaking of which, I heard you assisted Cornelia in the middle east. How is she doing over there?"
"Well enough I suppose, I imagine by now she's simply rooting out the last of the resistance over there. The main body of military power collapsed along with that fortress I'm told." Lelouch explained what cornelia had mentioned to him back in what would soon be Area Eighteen.
"That's good, in afraid I haven't had the time to check in on her recently, but I had no doubts she was in no need of my direction. Unfortunately with both you and soon Cornelia returning to the homeland I can't say for certain where his Majesty intends to strike next." The Prime Minister mused, a hand on his chin. "Talks with the EU have gone nowhere, unsurprisingly. Though as you know peace is hardly an option we intend to pursue in the long run, I may actually switch targets in the near future."
"You believe the High Eunuchs would be easier to work with?" Lelouch confirmed.
"For one thing their ambitions are easily manipulated. I've debated marrying Odysseus off to their empress as some means of securing a temporary alliance. We are still in a rather fragile stalemate between the three powers, and frankly everyone knows peace is simply not an option. Not in the way that an alliance truly means anything that is."
"It can be assumed without a doubt the Eunuchs would stab us in the back the moment we stand over the corpse of the EU. The same can be said should we go about it the other way." Lelouch finished. "The best option would be to ally yourself not with the Federation itself, but just the Eunuchs who control it. Offer them something like Britannian nobility in exchange for selling out their people. As you said, it's hardly something they would refuse out of integrity or honorability."
"That's the same line of thinking I've considered. Without a doubt should we engage in a full on war with Europe and The Federation combined the result would be catastrophic. Victory would not be certain but financial collapse definitely would. We need several years between the campaigns to recover. And both our enemies know this." Sighing, Schneizel shook his head. "And don't get me started on the problems coming from within our own borders."
"Area Eleven never seems to calm down does it?" The younger prince commented.
He snorted at that with an irritated look. "Clovis assures me there is nothing to worry about. He's been in control of the area for six years now and as far as I can tell the situation had only gotten worse. Really, we should have done a better job of stamping out resistance before it ever began."
"I mentioned it when I was speaking with Cornelia, it's quite likely one of us will be sent to correct our dear brother's wrongdoings." Lelouch added. "If we actually were to lose Area Eleven, that would be the end of it."
"I don't know what his majesty was thinking entrusting such a critical area to someone who cares more about the arrangement of his next social event than the well being of his own domain." Showing unique frustration, the Prime Minister ran a hand through his hair. "Really, our family has enough dolls as it is. Ironic isn't it? That our 'superior' bloodline has produced so many useless individuals."
"Indeed." Lelouch agreed.
It was a unique connection the two of them had, more than just the effective relationship they shared. It was with Schneizel that Lelouch was able to act his most genuine, where all his ideas could be displayed and given fair thought. His older brother who taught him how to play chess was more like a father to him than anyone. Between the two of them, they were far more honest in their displeasure of the world around them.
Really, it was a shame.
They both knew full well that it was a race they were running, and only one of them could win. There was only one throne to sit upon, and only one world to change. One vision for the future.
"Well, I do have some other news to share with you, much more appealing." Schneizel began after a moment.
"Oh? I wasn't aware it was your job to give more than bad news." He replied lightheartedly.
"Asplund has finished work on the heavy float system for the Marianne." The blonde prince revealed.
Lelouch raised an eyebrow. "That is good news."
"There were a few snags with getting something so large off the ground, but Lloyd is a tenacious one." Schneizel explained. "Tell him something he wants is impossible and he will do everything in his power to prove you wrong."
"Camelot would be nothing without him."
"It should be outfitted in the next couple of weeks, while it's docked in Elizabeth. In the least, before your next deployment." he told Lelouch. "Consider it an apology for Area Eight."
"I'm grateful, truly. Nunnally loved the float simulation, she'll be overjoyed to hear the real thing is coming." The younger prince replied.
"There are currently enough to outfit your first squadron along with the Angelus. The technology is still in a prototype phase after all, but as promised, you get first pick." Schneizel finished.
"How long do you imagine before it becomes common place?" he asked.
"Lloyd tells me the theory was shared between him and another engineer he once studied with. The two had different methods of achieving flight but apparently Lloyd admits his colleague is also capable of creating them. After some digging I found out this Rakshata Chawla ended up working for the Stadtfeld Family. You know the heiress don't you?"
"Kallen has a knightmare engineer?" Admittedly, it had been some time since he last spoke to her, but this was the first he ever heard of it.
"There was a period of time the woman spent in India during which any number of technologies could have been developed for the Federation. For whatever reason, Lady Stadtfeld was able to convince Chawla to abandon her homeland and whatever projects she had over there. Scientists are a strange lot, with simple yet incomprehensible priorities." Schneizel explained.
"I'll have to find out what Kallen knows the next time I see her." Lelouch assured him.
"You may get a chance tonight actually. She was invited to your welcome ball after all."
"My...welcome ball?" He slowly asked.
"I arranged with your assistant to have your close colleagues and confidantes attend tonight. You will be going." He pulled the authority card, telling Lelouch in a tone that allowed no refusal.
"Alright then, I'll go." the raven haired prince relented.
"Don't make this so difficult. It's for your own betterment, you know that full well. Both re-establishing your power base and building stronger connections." Schneizel berated. "Don't make the same mistake Cornelia did."
"It's not the same. You know the reason I prefer not to." he countered.
"Which is why I went through the trouble of insuring more tolerable individuals would be in attendance. " Looking away from the screen a moment, the prime minister appeared to be listening to someone else in the room. "It appears my appointment with President Myers crept up too soon."
"Is he the second or the third?" Lelouch asked.
"The second. Oswald is the third. And he refuses to speak with me." The blonde answered.
"Then he might actually have a shred of common sense." He joked.
"Indeed he may. But one more thing before I go. This might not come as a surprise, but you should expect a summons from the emperor within a few days."
"Yes, I was aware." Lelouch replied.
The prime minister nodded. "Good. It's remarkable that his majesty calls upon you as often as he does. Most of our siblings haven't actually ever spoken to him before."
"Can't exactly speak to dolls, right?"
Schneizel chuckled a bit. "Precisely. I hope to return from Europe before you leave, I would love to sit down for a game of chess."
"As would I. Best of luck over there." Lelouch agreed.
"You as well."
The screen shut off, leaving him in silence. Sighing, he called out to the one he knew was waiting beyond the door. "Amelia!"
Promptly, the woman entered his office, carrying a tray with the drink he requested. She set it on the desk before bowing slightly. "Is there anything else I can do for you your highness?"
"You can tell me when this ball is taking place for one." He told her.
"At eight my prince, my apologies for not informing sooner. The Prime Minister wished to tell you himself. Particularly, he said you wouldn't be able to come up with an excuse on the spot." The assistant explained.
"Did he now..." The prince sighed in defeat. "The guest list?"
"In your folder there, your highness." She answered.
He flipped various reports and letters before finding the desired list, finding a few interesting names. Including one Countess Stadtfeld. "Marrybell will be there?"
"She was invited, but it's unlikely she will be there, my prince."
That didn't really surprise him. She enjoyed such events even less than he did. In the least, he was effective in handling them. Marrybell was one of the few siblings he could tolerate, and her (admittedly forced) disinterest in the throne made her an invaluable ally more so than Schneizel or Cornelia. Her Glaston Knights had various times in the past conducted joint operations with his own unit multiple times. Her desires were easily read, and for the most part, aligned with his own. Though he had no such beliefs that he could control her. Not that he wanted to anyway. He shook his head, he could worry about her later.
"Have Jeanne prepare my wardrobe. Let's just get this over with."
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Gemini Imperial Villa; 2018 ATB
"Area Eight sounds lovely!" The pink haired princess bubbled in response to the recounting of what was supposed to be a military operation
"It really was." The younger princess agreed. "I would have much liked to visit some of the places personally though. Lelouch allowed all the knights a short leave when we discovered the area wasn't in danger, but he wouldn't let me outside the settlement area."
"How terrible, really he needs to learn to lighten up." Euphemia frowned, setting down the beautifully crafted teacup.
"I hate to be the stick in the mud Nunna, but Prince Lelouch does have good reason to be cautious." Alice brought up, the third sitting at the balcony table that overlooked the rest of the grand capital of Pendragon.
"I know it can be dangerous, but he's the one without a knight. It's not like we were in some foreign country either. Area Eight has been part of the empire for decades." Nunnally continued to complain.
"Hey, I'm just saying there isn't any shortage of threats at any given time. Believe me, its had me stressed out more than you know." The young knight shook her head. "I bet the prince hasn't told you...but he's dealt with nine assassination attempts since the beginning of the year."
"Nine?!" Nunnally exclaimed. "He hasn't said a word of that to me."
"That's part of the reason he doesn't have a personal knight I think, to make himself look more vulnerable than you." Euphy wondered. "That does sound like him.
"Well, from what Jeremiah told me-only to hell me with my own job he says-was that prince Lelouch would sooner risk his own life than Nunnally's in a heartbeat" Alice explained.
"Yes that certainly is Lelouch." Euphy tilted her head. "But what does that have to do with you?"
"Implying that I better do my job to any consequence. Not that I don't know that."
"Come now Alice, I believe in you." Nunnally gave
a smile that quickly faded. "But I do wish Lelouch would take his own safety more seriously. He worries so much about everyone else."
"There isn't much you could say to convince him otherwise, I'm sure. But you know how paranoid he is, you really shouldn't fret over it Nunna." The pinkette reassured her.
"That's true enough." Alice agreed. "I get wrapped up with more than enough procedures and policies just to get you over here. I couldn't imagine being in Jeremiah's shoes. Though somehow I picture he thrives in that sort of organized chaos."
"I'm just afraid he'll overlook himself one of these days. I do my best to help him but he would rather deal with so many things himself." Nunnally sighed, toying with an empty cup.
"Maybe you should just demand he gets a knight." the older princess suggested. "If he would listen to anyone it would be you."
"I do, quite often in fact. Even Schneizel has pestered him over it and no one can bend his arm better than Schneizel can."
The two princesses fell into silence as Nunnally refilled her own tea. There were no servants present to perform such menial tasks, or overhear them either. And it wasn't something she would make Alice do. "Will you be attending the welcome ball tonight?"
"Yes of course." Euphy responded. "Schneizel even assured me that he would convince Lelouch to attend this time."
"It would have been nice to know ahead of time, but this way he can't squirm his way out." Nunnally said with a grin.
"Speaking of which, we might want to go soon to prepare for that." Alice added. "Considering how long it took the last time that is."
"Hey, it wasn't that long!" Nunnally protested, before glancing at an expensive grandfather clock "But you're right, it is getting pretty late"
"Well I'll see you there tonight then Nunna."
The younger princess rose from the table. "Sorry to leave so abruptly, I wasn't watching the time. But I'll see you again soon!"
She departed from the balcony, waving goodbye as she traversed the long familiar hallways toward the grand entrance of the palace. Gemini Villa was one of the largest imperial palaces, save the pisces Villa belonging to first consort Anticlea. In comparison, Aries was rather small. Despite that, it's gardens were still far more famous than any other. Due largely to princess Euphemia, the Gemini Palace still boasted an impressive garden of it's own. But due to lelouch's militaristic minimalism, Aries was far less extravagant in every other way. Despite that, he refused to allow the gardens to wither away.
Through the massive front gate was a car awaiting their return, parked in front of a large fountain. From here they could see the gigantic Pendragon Imperial Palace, standing out from sheer size alone. Behind it was the Aries Villa, only twenty minutes away when utilizing the exclusive sub level roadways for the imperial family. The two traveled along the road unimpeded, sitting in a comfortable silence along the dimly lit road.
"Is something the matter Nunnally?" Her knight asked, quick to catch on despite her best efforts to hide her thoughts.
"I was just thinking about something my brother said earlier." Her expression turned sour. "All this time he has tirelessly pursued our mother's murderer. He thinks he's close, but I feel like anything he finds at this point won't be worth it. It's not like I don't want the clarity of knowing what happened, but nothing adds up the more I think about it."
The princess frowned, looking out the window as the car exited the tunnel, reaching a bridge that crossed over the industrial district of the city and to the other side where Aries stood. "He is obsessed with unraveling some deep conspiracy, the more he digs, the more i fear what it is he's going to find."
"Well I think you're a little too obsessed with your big brother." Alice replied. "No offense Nunna but the only thing you've talked about is Prince Lelouch."
"Ah-well he's been on my mind a lot I suppose." Nunnally admitted. "You know he's important to me Alice."
"Better than other boys to me I guess." The knight muttered under her breath.
"Besides that Mother has been a big issue a lot to me too. I just...thought it time to move on." She sighed deeply, returning her gaze again to the beautiful cityscape. "I don't think this is what she would want us spending our lives on."
"Well you have others goals don't you?" Alice reminded her. "A better world and all."
Holding a slight frown, Nunnally replied. "Yes, but I feel Lelouch has centered his entire mind around vengeance. That's why we want to do this sure, but it needs to be done the right way."
"And you think he won't do it the right way?" She asked. "What exactly are you worried about?"
"It's a dangerous line to walk Alice. There's half a dozen cliche sayings that prove what could happen if he doesn't let it go."
Once again they were plunged into artificial lighting as the car reached the next sub level tunnel that would take them directly under the Aries Villa. If he doesn't do it himself, it's up to me to knock some sense into him before it's too late."
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Pendragon Imperial Palace; 2018 ATB
He really had to go and hold the event here.
Frankly he would have been far more comfortable in the Aries Villa ballroom. And given the relatively small group of guests it was more than accommodating. Lelouch never felt right being here, as if the walls themselves were giving him the same look the nobles within always did. He always felt out of place here, despite his constant efforts to perfect the mask he wore in these picturesque hallways. Still, he slipped that mask on, holding his image in the perfect example of imperial privilege. Even among allies and confidantes he had to maintain his authority as their superior, as a prince of the empire.
He took a step forward, tugging slightly at the cravat that hugged his neck. The silver trimmed black cape swayed gently across the masterfully crafted marble stone as he reached the the doors flanked by two palace guards. They saluted crisply as the doors were opened inward, allowing him entry. He felt a distressed pull on his occupied arm, prompting his attention to the young woman holding it.
"Is it really alright for me to be here your highness?" Amelia asked, her blonde hair done up and donning a stunning dress fit to accompany him.
"We've already been over this." He insisted. "You know yourself there isn't anyone present to protest your presence. Besides, more than that no one is willing to bring up the matter with me personally. You'll be fine, just stay by my side."
Reluctantly, the secretary let the issue drop. It wasn't exactly her own status Amelia was worried about. But the place she held beside the prince was one meant for his personal knight, or more preferably wife. Just because he had neither of those didn't mean it was alright for her to take their place. Those were the kinds of things she had to quickly pick up when dealing with aristocracy. However, she also quickly had to pick up her prince's tendency to ignore such intricacies. Or rather his utter disregard for them. Steeling her own expression, she strode beside the prince as they entered the ballroom.
"Announcing his highness Prince Lelouch vi Britannia, sixth in line to the imperial throne." the herald shouted as they passed through the doors and to the top of the steps that overlooked the rest of the party. The collective room bowed before the darkly clad prince, easily allowing him to spot where his sisters stood together, as well as another interesting attendee. He rose a hand in greeting, prompting them to rise and resume their individual conversations.
At the bottom of the stairs he was greeted by the aged Lord Ashford along with the current knight of two, Olivia Zevon. "Well your highness you've been rather busy haven't you?" The older woman remarked with teasing grin. "Working your way up I see."
"Only that his majesty has seen fit to reward the efforts I have long put in for the empire." Lelouch replied diplomatically. Olivia was a knight of the round after all, though one who was closely tied to his mother. He knew the head of the Zevon family since his was a young boy. Though through her daughter Oldrin the families allegiance was somewhat torn between his own and the mel Britannias after the obligations Olivia held to the throne. It was unseemly of the emperor's knights to play favorites, yet Olivia didn't like to follow the rules that much either. Another reason the two got along. Luckily however, there was little love lost between himself and Maribelle, and they were often able to work together just fine. Hence their cooperation in the development of his latest project. However Olivia's involvement as the head of Pluton was another matter entirely. One Lelouch was powerless against the emperor in terms of such loyalties.
"But of course, I'd expect nothing less of you." The knight said with a smile.
"You look well my prince, I trust your recent operations have gone well?" Ruben added.
"Indeed, it was a very simple matter hardly worth the attention." He replied.
The old man turned his head to the last one present. "And Miss Wright, it's a pleasure to see you."
Amelia answered with a dignified curtsey. "You as well, Lord Ashford."
"You should be ashamed, making your assistant accompany you to such an event." Olivia remarked. "He isn't treating you badly is he dear?"
The younger woman shook her head. "Of course not Lady Zevon. Though there weren't any other women he could find to bring along save princess Nunnally."
"Well isn't that a shame." Olivia commented with a wry smile.
"You know perfectly well the reasons why." The prince growled with mild irritation.
"Yes yes, much too busy for a little wife aren't you Colonel?" She continued to tease him. Though in reality she did understand why. Many would call it paranoia but to him most every potential suitor would actively attempt to tear apart the vi Britannia house. Yet another result of his lineage.
"You heard that your project has need of your input your highness?" Ruben butted in to derail a line of conversation he knew the prince was not in favor of.
"Oh, yes Amelia just informed me today." He answered, his gratitude masking the earlier irritation he had at the idea. "What exactly did you need?"
"Well you wanted a frame with the druid system and experimental operating system we developed but other than that you were kinda vague." Olivia added.
"Perhaps we'll have to sit down and discuss it later." He answered, suddenly remembering he had no desire to go over knightmare specifications.
"Indeed. Now if you'll excuse me, I had something to speak to Lord Carrion about."
As Ruben left, the prince was free to mill about the ballroom floor, catching up with with his many various acquaintances. Over the years he had attempted to gather allies in all fields across the empire. Though for the most part it was more picking the scraps left behind by Schneizel and Guinevere. Not leaders but runner ups in various industries. It was enough to get by, though his connections to people such as Ruben and Olivia were certainly beneficial. Except those ties went back to his mother, and he was only fortunate enough to have inherited their allegiance.
Stopping at a table to pick up a drink, he was surprised to run into the one he thought he spotted hiding in the corner earlier. "Marrybell." He greeted. "I'm delighted to see you've joined tonight."
"I guess I could same the same." his half sister replied. "Wouldn't have been worth it if you didn't come. Oldrin insisted I show support and all."
"Well I thank you for that. So how was your mission down in twelve? More exciting then my own I imagine." He started conversing, offering her a glass.
The princess took it, swirling it absentmindedly. "It was a good way to break in those modifications. Thanks for that by the way, those gravitational panels feel like you're flying."
"Rumor has it you may soon actually be flying." He offered.
"I heard about that. Schneizel got your float panels ready. Maybe he might actually get my Grandberry completed now. Must be nice being the favorite." Marrybell said, downing most of the wine at once.
Lelouch snorted at that. "That's hardly accurate you know."
"Yeah maybe. But you got Schneizel's ear, and even Cornelia's, that's all that really matters." She replied, now staring at a beautifully empty glass. "But hey, as far as I'm concerned it's all the same. We're accomplices right Lulu?"
Watching gaze longingly at where the wine once was promoted him to offer her a second, which she took with a shrug. "God I hate places like this. I know these are all your people but that doesn't change the atmosphere in the slightest."
"We are accomplices Marrybell, so I suppose you can just leave all the posturing to me in the future."
The princess took a more lenient sip from the second cup. "I knew there had to be some reason to throw in with you. I think that may just be it."
Laughing lightly Lelouch rose his own glass to hers. "To a promising future then."
"What a bunch of misfits we are. The royal family would sooner see us removed wouldn't they? Too bad I don't plan on going anywhere."
"Good, I'll be needing you soon." The prince nodded. "We'll make sure it's them that don't fit in."
"I can get behind that." She agreed setting down the glass without finishing it. "Sorry but that's it for me. Good seeing you, let me know when you know where you're going next."
"I will. And I'll make sure to commission you before you get assigned elsewhere." Lelouch assured her.
"Right, hope it's somewhere good."
He watched her head straight for the door, not entirely in a straight line. He began to wonder how many glasses she had before running into him. Though he couldn't exactly blame her. Shaking his head he made to resume his rounds before abruptly stopping before someone else who had approached him. Her crimson hair was done in a way he never saw it before, and her brilliant blue eyes stared directly at him, totally capturing his attention.
"Your highness, I've been meaning to talk to you."
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
And next time we'll go over how Lelouch and Kallen first met, as well as some other stuff that happened in the past.
It won't be another six months I promise.
