Chapter 17: Tumultuous Mind

All children and orphans of commoners were given the same rights. They were not allowed to enter any contract until the age of fourteen and the Empire required all children to be given free medical attention. Odysseus, the Minister of Welfare at the time, expanded legal and social protections. He established the Office of Social Services to stop incidents of abuse and insure that every child had a bed to sleep in and food. He also directed the office to crack down on the military for knowingly allowing underage children to enlist. In later years, he partnered with the Earl of Ashford to establish child care and primary school.

—Social Classes in Britannia

Fort Necessity, Pennsylvania

Suzaku, ensnared in a white tassel, stared at him from on top a mountain of pink petals, pleading, with desperate green eyes. In front of the glowing cockpit of her knightmare, his mother stood expressionless with a sword in her hands. Lelouch stumbled forward, desperate to save his friend. Suzaku couldn't die. He was Lelouch's friend. And Lelouch's mother was about to execute him; it was all Lelouch's fault. The tip settled on Suzaku's neck. Suzaku shouted, but the wind swept the words away.

The sword began to descend.

"Suzaku!" Lelouch screamed and reached forward in a futile attempt to save his friend from fate. The ground surged beneath his feet and the heavy jewels of the crown bound him to the ground. "No! Not Suzaku, please."

Blood. Suzaku's dead eyes stared at him: accusing. Lelouch should have done more. And the blood continued to drip, turing the petals crimsons and Lelouch stared at his red sticky hands. It was all his fault.

Drenched in red, Nunnally rose from the petals. "Why didn't you save him brother?"

Lelouch's eyes snapped open and his heart hammered within his chest as he desperately tried to fill his lungs. A man in a white coat watched calmly from a chair by his side, talking soothingly and then offered him a warm cup of tea. Lelouch accepted it gratefully, relishing the warmth and the comfort of reality. At a neighboring bed, another patient groaned and the doctor stood up and fiddled with the IV. Suzaku hadn't died. He had to believe that. Suzaku was too strong and stubborn. He would have found a way.

Hot water splashed onto his trembling hands, he took a slow deliberate breath. The steam pressed against his face and the sweet sense of chamomile washed away the bitter phantom smell of blood. Nothing had happened.

The doctor, hair greying despite his youth, reached down and pulled out a clipboard. "You didn't list PTSD as a medical issue."

"I don't have PTSD. I'm fine!" Lelouch snapped back. Weakness was forbidden. Nunnally's blindness already made her a target and if he wanted to protect her, he had to be even stronger.

The doctor's droopy eyebags became more prounounced as he stared at Lelouch pointedly. "You had a panic attack and had to be escorted here. While we're not a hundred percent sure what triggered it, I'm going to guess it was the sword. Should I bring one in?"

Bile rose in Lelouch's throat at the thoughts of his dream and the sword swinging down. Glaring at the doctor, "No."

"You left important information out of your medical file private. You understand that isn't acceptable?"

"It never happened before... and it won't happen again." Lelouch bit his lip. A damning diagnosis on his medical file would cause problems. "I'll get over it. I just... need time."

"You are expected to learn the basics of the sword in case you become a knight. Passing the class is required if you want to be eligible to become a knightmare pilot."

No. Knightmare's only purpose was to spread destruction. They were self serving and useless at protecting anyone's life but the pilots. "I have no desire to pilot one so that will not be a problem sir."

Shaking his head, the doctor set aside the clipboard and quickly glanced at his watch, pursing his lips. "You cannot just skip a class. And aren't you being rather rash? Piloting a knightmare will grant you the greatest amount of prestige."

"I will do my job, but I have no intention of getting into an enormous metal monstrosity. Just please, don't put PTSD in my file. You won't see me again."

The doctor frowned. "Major Maxwell will not be pleased if you do not attend his lessons. There will be consequences. Not just punishments through training, but consequences for your career. He is a noble."

It would be deliberately breaking his promise to Nunnally. There was danger in defying a noble, especially doing it so flagrantly. But ensuring that his... condition never became publicly available information was necessary to keep his sister safe. Lelouch would just have to bear the possible consequences as a commoner would. A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. His older half-brother Schneizel would never put himself in such a position. Perhaps Lelouch would never defeat him at chess, but the Prime Minister would never allow something to be out of his control. That was the one thing constant in all their chess matches. A rigid control over every minute detail from perfectly centering the pieces within each tile to the pastries always arriving exactly twenty minutes into the match.

Lelouch's heartbeat a little faster. He was going to relinquish even more control. It was terrifying... exhilarating. Potentially stupid and might end up getting him killed. But it was the only way forward that would allow Lelouch to maintain his position as his sister's protector. When the promised day came that the Emperor forced him to return to court and thrust him into the world of cutthroat politics, a public medical diagnosis would leave him powerless.

With a surprising amount of confidence, Lelouch said, "I will deal with the consequences as they arise. You will not see me again."

The doctor rubbed his forehead. "Very well. I will make an excuse, malnourished with stress or something. But if you suffer from another attack, it will go into your file, regardless of the paperwork. Do you understand?"

Lelouch nodded stiffly. "Perfectly. May I leave?"

"Get out of my sight." The doctor glared at him, obviously displeased.

Standing up, Lelouch bowed slightly to show his thanks and fled. He had an excuse to fabricate to his platoon mates and ample physical punishment to look forward to. Now, he had to determine a way to spin the situation so Nunnally wouldn't be worried. Life kept getting better.

Ashford Academy, Area 11

Nunnally folded the paper firmly and ran her fingernail along the edge to crease it. Then she flipped it over to fold horizontally. Her nimble fingers worked rapidly as Allie grunted behind her and dragged boxes into the ballroom. The party was in the evening and Milly was working them to the bone in preparation. Milly had decided against hiring outside help for decorating to save money, resulting in student council members doing all the decorating by themselves. Nunnally set aside the folded crane in a growing pile.

Rivalz sighed loudly and shook the table as he slumped down beside her. "Do you know how terrifying ladders are? I swear I almost fell to my death five times. Never again."

Chuckling, Nunnally grabbed another paper with her sore fingers. "At least you're done now."

He moaned, "At least until Milly returns. My back is killing me."

Nunnally winced in sympathy. "Can't help you, I'm afraid. Have to finish this."

"Right. You've been doing that for hours. It's amazing. Never seen anything quite like it." The table tilted as he stood up and peered over her shoulder.

Nunnally smiled softly as she pushed the sides inwards of the paper to make a small diamond. "Milly saw me doing it once, and apparently became quite entranced. It's called origami."

"Ori...gami. Where is it from?" He reached out and her pile of cranes rustled.

"Japan..." Nunnally whispered, her throat tight. Suzaku had taught her by guiding her hands and gently correcting her mistakes.

"Oh. It's pretty neat." Rivalz fell into an awkward silence and stad down besides her again. Hesitantly, he asked, "Can you... Can you show me?"

Nunnally nodded and pushed her finished crane into the pile. Grabbing two square pieces of paper, she set one in front of him. Folding her own paper, Nunnally began to instruct, "You need to align all the edges. First we'll fold it diagonally."

"Ah," Rivalz whispered in astonishment as Nunnally finished folding the head down. Nunnally smiled fondly. It was nice to share something that Suzaku had taught her. He would have done the same and it was a wonderful way to honor her old friend.

The door opened and Nunnally could hear Sally and Milly's voice, too far out to hear what they were saying. Milly walked into the room. "Great job everyone! But we got to hand up those cranes. We need more. They're absolutely gorgeous."

Nunnally shook her head. "At this rate, we'll have a thousand."

Milly laughed. "A thousand sounds wonderful. And Rivalz, you need to hang up these lights I brought."

Besides her, the boy groaned. "Yes Lady Ashford."

"It's Milly!" the president whined. More seriously, she said, "Allie, I need you to help me with this banner. We still have some glitter right? You and Nunnally will be in charge of picking up the pudding this evening. It's going to be ready a little bit late, so I'm afraid you're going to have to leave the party a little bit early. But! You have to be back by ten. We can't miss desserts! Meet me in the student council room then. I'll need your help with a big surprise."

Rivalz grunted in the background and Nunnally could hear metal scratching along the floor. "Over here Madame President?"

"Ooh. I do like the sound of that. And no. A little bit to the right." The ladder screeched as Rivalz adjusted. "A little more... No! Too far. Back just a smidge. And Allie, it's slanted."

Nunnally turned back to the cranes. A thousand cranes... A thousand cranes to make a wish come true. She could wish to meet her brother... or for Milly not to tire of her. Or maybe she should cease being selfish. Everyone always helped her and if Milly wanted to be friends with Sally because of their similar social class, then it was none of Nunnally's business. Perhaps she should wish for her brother's safety. The military was dangerous. Nunnally frowned and set aside the crane.

"I need a break Milly."

Allie chimed in, "I'll grab lunch with you Nunnally. Good luck everyone."

Milly sighed. "Oh fine. Flee the coop if you must. We're almost done anyway. But be back soon anyway. We can always make it better."

Allie grabbed Nunnally's arm and pulled. Nunnally stumbled to her feet and searched with her hand for her cane. Her fingers closed around it and together they fled from the tyrannical president. They stopped outside in the cool air, appreciating the breeze. Nunnally felt Allie's hand slipped away as she skipped a few steps forward.

"She's such a taskmaster. Thought I'd never escape." Her feet quieted. "I wonder what the cafeteria is serving today."

Nunnally let out an unladylike snort. "Don't expect too much and you won't be disappointed."

In comfortable silence they walked to the cafeteria and Allie served them both. Nunnally's nose twitched as she smelt the appetizing aroma of garlic and the putrid stench of soggy mushrooms. Guessing Allie's directions, she glared, before turning back the food and gingerly discovering the slippery monstrosities and pushing them aside with her fork.

"Mushrooms are delicious," Allie defended herself. "You just need to try. They're so good."

Nunnally pointedly took a bite of the crispy garlic bread. That was delicious. Not... mushrooms. Heels clacked against the floor and the small draft tickling Nunnally's neck ceased as the person stopped behind her. "So what do think of my hair? My father hired someone special to do it this morning... Oh. Right, you do your own hair all the time don't you."

Pushing down the urge to flick a mushroom at the brat, Nunnally forced a charming smile. "Oh. I didn't notice you there Sally. You just have no... presence."

Allie coughed beside her and gasped for air. "Sorry. cough Water went cough down cough the wrong pipe."

Sally humphed. "Of course a country brat like you has no concept of manners." She quieted briefly. "And you, my dear apologies, of course you cannot appreciate my hair. I must pity you. Your world is utterly bleak and colorless. And who would ever want someone as useless as you? You'll always be a burden. Can't even do the finances for your husband... And nobody could ever love a worthless creature like you."

Blinding anger surged through Nunnally. She hadn't chosen to be blinded. Sally dared to mock her for the colors that Nunnally had lost and could no longer remember. The art that Nunnally once drew. The photos she could once enjoy. A family together before Nunnally's blindness had made her a liability. And then she insinuated... "Take that back. My brother loves me!"

Nunnally's fingernails dug into her skin as she clenched her fist. The pain was grounding. Her brother loved her.

"And where is he now? I'm sure he was relieved to no longer see your creepy eyes. It must be miserable, saddled with a sister like you."

Allie rested a hand on Nunnally's shoulder. "He serves in the army. For Nunnally. You aren't welcome here."

The noble girl laughed cruelly. "In the army. Risking death instead of being by his sister's side? There are rumors of another invasion soon... and, well, you heard about Area Two. There have been a bunch of attacks since then. They'll be calling in the army if it goes on much longer. So where will your brother be? At the mercy of savages or terrorists? He chose that over you."

Her brother would be fine. Their mother wouldn't allow him to be put in any real danger. And Lelouch was smart. Smart enough to think his way out of any problem. He would be fine. He had to be. "He joined the army so he could pay for us both."

"Really. Aren't you an optimistic little blind girl. Didn't know you could even look up. It's a beautiful lie for someone as simple minded as you. Even Lady Ashford, Milly, tires of you. I know what the big surprise is."

Nunnally didn't want to know. The confirmation of one of her greatest fears. But already, she was beginning to doubt herself. "What?"

Sally's hand settled on her head, stroking it mockingly. "She's going to make me the Vice President. Everything is planned for the big event. She even helped me pick out an absolutely gorgeous dress... I'll see you at the party."

Tears leaked out of her eyes and Nunnally turned around and threw herself at Allie, burying her head in her best friend's arms. The sobs started small, then growing larger. All the anguish yearning for release. Nunnally was losing. She only ever lost to Lelouch... now he wasn't there. Would he even care for such a weak sister? One that couldn't care for herself... and if, if he got hurt? Would Lelouch ever forgive her for putting him in such a position. Between her sobs, she choked out, "Lulu is, going, to be... fine. Right? She's just lying."

Allie pulled her into a tight hug. "Of course he'll be fine. He'll probably become a medic or so. He's always so calm and collected. Nobody hurts medics." Nunnally gasped for air. Her brother would be fine. "And of course she is lying. You're amazing... And super smart."

Nunnally shook her head. Her friend was just being polite. Everyone lied... even Lelouch. She wasn't smart. She was just a burden. Useless. Lelouch had to shield her. Big sister Nelly always knew what she wanted with her life: to be a knight. Odysseus always wanted to help people and begged to study medicine. Schneizel had been an academic genius and the youngest Prime Minister in the history of Britannia. Even Clovis knew he wanted to be an artist. Now, he was a master of his craft. And Nunnally... she had no idea.

Time was running out. But there was nothing she was good at. And now, she would be losing her spot on the student council one thing Nunnally had some talent for. That was why Milly was requesting her to get the deserts. So there wouldn't be a scene with the big announcement. She was a fool. What could she do now?

"Hey. It's going to be alright," Allie said soothingly, "Remember. We're going to prank Sally's room and we can do that before fetching desert. Nobody will suspect a thing. And then she's going to be mad and the one crying."

Fort Necessity, Pennsylvania

Like a broken record, Lelouch repeated, "I'm completely fine."

Henry looked up from his English homework with the most expression that Lelouch had ever seen: curious. "You collapsed. Is your life in danger?"

Massaging his nose, Lelouch observed his assembled squad mates. Roy was staring at him with obvious annoyance, but hadn't said anything despite sighing loudly. Alex, hanging from the bunk bed, stared at him with narrowed eyes and his eyes scanned Lelouch's body, looking for a hint. He had been there when Lelouch had collapsed and naturally was suspicious. He was frighteningly observant, but fortunately didn't have Roy's knowledge to draw from. Otherwise, Lelouch was sure he would have discovered his secret.

Lelouch settled on, "My life isn't in danger. It was just an... imbalance of nutrition. I apparently need to eat more and build up some muscle mass."

Poking Lelouch in the shoulder, Edgar said, "Well you are skinny. But that wasn't very strenuous. Do you have an underlying medical condition? You can trust us you know. We will help you."

"Not to my knowledge."

"I'll be monitoring your health then. No need for you to collapse," Edgar ordered, leaving no room for discussion.

Picking up on the thread, Lelouch desperately changed the subject, "Do you want to be a medic?"

"When I treated Victor... I barely knew what to do, but it felt good. Nobody is going to die on my watch and I have a feeling you're the one to take unnecessary risks." Edgar peered into Lelouch's face, their noses almost touching and sternly warned, "You're not risking your health. If you start skimping on meals, I'll have Frederick hold you still and spoon feed you."

Lelouch nodded quickly and backpedaled. There would be absolutely no need for that. He would not collapse again. "Understood sir."

Edgar beamed. "Now, ready to go. It's going to be difficult for you to catch up. Major Maxwell demands a lot."

...Damn it. Lelouch thought he had more time. But luck wasn't on his side. Within the next five minutes, Lelouch needed a way to recuse himself from the class. Skipping would be too audacious and then his entire squad would obviously worry. He needed a plan. Lelouch's eyes settled on the Drill Sergeant in the corner of the room, working with a clipboard. He needed to attract the man's attention. Getting in trouble directly with Major Maxwell was too much like playing with fire. Fire? No. That would cause too much collateral not to mention he lacked a lighter. A fist fight? That would be... incredibly out of character. There had to be something. Lelouch couldn't go back and hold the sword. He wasn't ready.

Alex swung on the bed and Lelouch took a step to the side, out of the hazard zone. Perhaps he could buy time with an urgent bathroom break. He just returned from sick call. It was believable. But that plan relied on running into another Drill Sergeant on the return trip. It was risky. It would be a last resort. Inventory. Bed sheets? He could fashion a rope, streak, throw it at the Drill Sergeant.

Lelouch groaned and Roy's eyes narrowed. All of his plan sucked.

The bed came crashing down, missing Lelouch by a hair. Alex laughed and shrugged guiltily as the entire platoon stared at him. "Oops?"

The Drill Sergeant threw the clipboard to the side. "What in the name of the Emperor was that Private Doe? Do you think this is funny?" The tsunami of rage crashed into the squad as the demon turned his attention to the rest of the squad. "And why did none of you idiots stop him? Huh? Nothing to say for yourselves? Congratulations. You just volunteered for bathroom duty... with a toothbrush. After, you fix this mess of a room... Well? What are you waiting for? Scram! And that bathroom better glisten like the Emperor's crown by the time I get back."

The Emperor's crown did not glisten. It mostly gathered dust and his mother had once joked it was simply too heavy for anyone's head. Lelouch stifled his cry of relief and shouted, "Yes Drill Sergeant!"

"Good grief," muttered the Drill Sergeant as he turned around and shook his head.

Alex brushed by his side. "Now it's a fair trade."

The rest of the squad glared at Alex and trudged to the supply closet to gather their toothbrushes and soap. Lelouch nodded to Alex and passed him a toothbrush in silent thanks. The tiles ground against his knees and his back ached, but it was a good pain. Another lesson missed. A little more time to control his irrational fear. No weakness could be shown.

Henry dutifully continued to work, but slowly drifted over to Lelouch's side. "You are pleased with this?"

"Of course not."

Henry nodded to himself. "You aren't a very good soldier."

Laying the toothbrush down, Lelouch rolled his shoulder and cracked his back. "I'm fourteen. I doubt children can be effective soldiers."

The other youth blinked and tilted his head sideways. "Children can be taught to follow instructions. It's adults who disobey orders. They become misguided. Are you misguided as well? But then, you do make a good leader. And good leaders don't make good soldiers."

Lelouch blinked. That had to be the most Henry had ever said in Lelouch's presence. "Do you have a point?"

"No." He shrugged and the foreign curiosity bled away and the polite, but blank mask returned. "That isn't my job."

Filing the strange behavior away for later reference, Lelouch picked up the toothbrush and returned to work. Three hours later, utterly exhausted and sore to their bones, the teenagers stood up and staggered out of the room. Finally they were done. Lelouch leaned against the wall as he gently massaged his joints.

Roy stopped besides him. "You already know how to use a sword, don't you?"

"Not really."

The silence stretched.

"The last time I used a sword, I was nine. There isn't much you can teach a child."

"You can teach us in the yard. We should be able to find a stick and practice the basics."

A stick. Lelouch could do that. It wasn't a sword. It didn't have a tassel. Small steps. He could do this and conquer his weakness "Alright."

Ashford Academy, Area 11

Nunnally slowly scrubbed under her fingernails. They had ended up picking up dessert first with Milly personally seeing them off. The prank had gone off without a hitch and Nunnally hoped they had avoided the security cameras successfully. But what did it matter. Nunnally wasn't of use to anyone. She could just as well hide out in the palace and let herself be forgotten. She was worthless... But Lelouch would be so disappointed in her.

Resting her forehead against the cool bathroom wall, Nunnally tried to draw the energy to form a happy, cheery smile. She had to smile. For Lelouch. And for Allie washing her own hands in the sink next to hers. They had put their faith in Nunnally's worth... at least she could grant them happiness by making their lives as easy as possible.

"You okay Nunnally?" Allie asked, a hand settling on her shoulder. "Not too tired? We still need to meet up with Milly. I know you're not looking forward to it."

Nunnally pulled back and sought for every happy memory to bring a smile to her face. She would only show happiness. Holding up her hands, she asked, "Are my fingers clean?"

"Missed a speck of paint there," Allie said as she grabbed Nunnally's hands and brought them under the running water. "Here. Let me help you with that."

They finished quickly in the bathroom and Nunnally grabbed a box and smelled the sweet scent of pudding. Enticing, but nauseating. It was a distraction so Milly didn't have to deal with her. Still, she would deal with it like Lelouch would. With a proud, straight back, and the audacity to call out the Emperor on his manipulations. She would look strong even if her heart threatened to chatter into a million pieces. Stopping in the hallway, right before where Nunnally knew the student council room was, she took a deep breath. She could do this.

Allie brushed against her side and set the boxes down on the ground with a gentle plop. The door opened before Allie could approach.

"Ah! Nunnally, you're here. And you've got the pudding!" Milly shouted and rushed forward, snagging a box from the pile in her arms. "Now come in here. Don't dawdle. And Allie. You can help too."

A foreign gait greeted Nunally's ears and she frowned. "Milly, who is that?"

"Oh?" Milly laughed and pushed Nunnally into a chair. "Of course. That's my maid, Matylda. She's absolutely amazing. And Allie. Sit down too. I want you to look your absolute best."

Confused, Nunnally winced as the maid began to run a brush through her hair. "Milly?"

"Oh, just hold still. Just wait and see. I've been dying to tell someone... but nope. Had to keep quiet. Well... except grandfather. But then he told me..." Milly let our an ear splitting squeal. "I can't tell. It's so unfair. I've been dying to let someone know."

Allie, sounding annoyed, suggested, "You could give us a hint?"

"A hint?" Milly jumped and clapped her hands. "Yes. Grandfather said something about that. But you know we have break next week?"

Nunnally shrugged and the maid yanked her hair a little too harshly. It wasn't like Lelouch could come. He was still busy with training.

"Ugh. I want to tell. Both things..." Milly paused and her voice became calmer as she spoke to the maid. "Is she ready then? And you have the dress?"

"Dress?" Nunnally asked.

Milly yanked her out of the chair and tugged on her shirt. "Come on. Yes. Why do you think I need your measurements." Her voice became sharper. "Allie. Sit down. Let Matylda do her job. No fidgeting. And Nunnally, out of those clothes... No need to be shy."

A blush rising on her cheeks, Nunnally turned around. Why did Milly have to sound so suggestive when she said that. It was... weird. Wiggling out of her modest linen dress, Nunnally tried to understand Milly's intentions. Was she lying? Or had there been a big misunderstanding? But what were all those comments about Sally for then?

Milly seized her wrists and guided the dress over her head. It snagged on her nose and Nunnally tried to endure it with dignity as Milly helped dress her, worse than any servant had ever done. Nunnally was capable of dressing herself, but it seemed nobody in nobility thought she could. It was... aggravating. She tried to console herself with the fact that Milly didn't think she was an invalid, but just a helpless noble... or it was because Milly had no patience. If there was a big secret surprise, it was mind boggling that Milly hadn't spilled the beans yet.

Milly smoothed out the soft fabric and stepped back. "Give it a twirl."

"You look stunning!" Allie whispered in astonishment.

"Don't close your eyes Nunnally. Everyone needs to see your stunning purple eyes. And Matylda. The hairpiece please."

Nunnally shook her head slightly, feeling the braids dangling against her head. The fabric felt felt breezy... and expensive, but she had no idea how it looked. If Milly was abandoning her, surely she wouldn't go through all this trouble. The maid's nimble fingers moved through her hair and something heavy settled on her brow. The maid stepped back.

Feeling self conscious, Nunnally did a small twirl. "How do I look?"

"Like a goddess," Allie professed, while Milly bragged, "You look absolutely gorgeous as befitting of someone on the student council."

"Really?" Nunnally asked and her hands reached upwards to the strange thing resting on her brow.

"Don't touch that," snapped Milly. "And come on. It's time to go. Allie's got her hair and make up done. You're in an absolutely stunning dress that'll steal the spotlight the moment you enter the ballroom and we can make the announcement."

Announcement? Then Sally hadn't been lying. Nunnally closed her eyes and pasted a bright smile on her face. Her nervousness and fear were tucked into a box and she brought the happy memories close to the surface. Milly didn't have to go through all this trouble. Perhaps it was to humiliate her, but that didn't seem like Milly's style. Whatever the announcement was, Nunnally would smile serenely in thanks for the effort that Milly put in.

The large ball room doors opened with a small grunt, but otherwise, no sound. A trumpet played briefly and as she stepped passed the player, he whispered, "Good luck Nunnally." It was Rivalz.

Milly guided Nunnally to the banister and Nunnally could hear various students murmuring below as they rustled and quieted. Milly cleared her throat and her voice echoed through the speakers. "Welcome everyone to the first ball of Ashford Academy!"

Polite applause followed and Allie inched closer to Nunnally to grab her hand.

"I hope everyone has been enjoying the food and drinks. In just a few minutes, there will be pudding for dessert. But first, let us thank the members of the wonderful student council for making this ball possible!" Loud applause followed. "It's been a wonderful time at Ashford Academy and in the last half year, the school has grown rapidly. Which means more teachers. More classes. And more organization. Which brings me to the first big announcement of tonight. "There will now be two groups of students: The middle school group at the mid campus for those fourteen and below, while at the high campus, there will be the high school group. For select students, they may advance a year depending on their course credit. Your instructors will explain this more in detail."

A small smattering of applause followed along with hushed, but thunderous whispering.

"Which brings me to more exciting news. After the break, we will begin hosting clubs. You'll find a forms by the door. Just fill one out with an idea and the student council will review it and assign you a budget. We've already got an Equestrian Club, a gardening club for our wonderful new greenhouse, and a Knightmare Club set to begin after the break. But we need more, so if you want to make a Fantasy Game Club, Alternate History Club, or Fall-Down-Seven-Times Club, fill out those applications!"

The room was deafening and Nunnally could hear students chatter excitedly while others calling out potential club ideas. It was pandemonium, but Milly's clear voice cut through and easily silenced the crowd. "And now to my favorite news! Because of the increased workload and having two school groups, we'll be having two student councils! Please everyone, welcome Nunnally Lamperouge, your new Junior Student Council President!"

Nunnally felt the heat of the spotlight and heard Sally scream indecipherably as Allie clung to her hand like a lifeline. This hadn't been what she expected... nothing like this. Why would... Why would Milly trust a blind useless girl with such an important task? How could Milly think that Nunnally was up to the task? Regardless of her confusion and misgivings, Nunnally smiled and waved with her free left hand. Afterwards, she would tell Milly that she was expecting too much of Nunnally.

Heels struck the grand stairs until they abruptly came to a stop before Milly and a heavy object fell to the ground. "You made a fool of me!" Sally sucked in air through her nose. "What was all that? Those little hints you were dropping? Do you think this is funny?"

"Yes. It was hilarious." Milly replied, her voice sickly sweet. Allie's hand tightened around Nunnally's, almost cutting off the blood flow. "Nunnally is my friend... and you insulted her. You should know I protect my own, and really? What could you possibly offer me? Your personality is horrendous, your grades are only passing because the instructor is lenient, your family has no prestige, and unlike Allie and Nunnally here, you have no class."

"No class!" Sally shrieked. "I bought this dress new because of you. That handbag. These shoes. I told my parents! And instead, you publicly humiliate me with some cretin!"

Milly took a step towards Sally. "I would watch how you speak regarding my friend. And aren't you projecting quite a bit. Worthless. Useless. A burden. That's what you are. You have nothing to your own name. Just your father's money. Nunnally, Allie, and Rivalz helped organize the festivities you so graciously partook in. But yet, the only person who you thanked was me. You seem to think the others are beneath your notice... and for that, you have proven yourself grossly unqualified for the student council."

"But their commoners!"

"Technically," Rivalz interrupted, "I'm a noble, a minor one, but then so are you. You just assumed."

Milly continued on, "Because you're shallow."

"This isn't fair! Nobles don't hang out with commoner trash. Their stupid and backstabbers! You were supposed to be my friend."

Laughing, Milly asked, "Do you truly think the world is fair? That only nobles backstab? Have you ever opened a history textbook? Court will eat you alive if you think like that. And why should I trust you? You have everything to gain by being friends with me, but you offer nothing of value to me. And nothing prevents, you, from stabbing me in the back when a better opportunity arises. Nunnally and Allie, on the other hand, have barely anything to gain and I trust their intentions."

"You're lying! I guess you're a filthy dirty number lover like your grandfather. The apple didn't fall far from the tree. Are you without honor too?"

Milly took a deep breath and gently hooked Nunnally's arm. "If you can't handle some simple truths, then perhaps you should find a different institution. And do remember that the filthy dirty number lover without honor has the ear of the viceroy... Let's go. I tire of this conversation and want pudding."

"Thank you Milly." Nunnally said as she let Milly lead her and Allie continued to hold her hand.

Allie hissed, "Don't you dare to ever do that to Nunnally again. She was worried sick because of your lies."

"I'm sorry Nunnally. I should have been more thoughtful, but next time, please include me when planning your own revenge. What you did to her room was amazing. I almost feel sorry."

"What!" Allie hissed. "How did you know that?"

Milly laughed. "Don't worry. I erased the footage for you, but those buckets of paint sure looked fun." Gently guiding Nunnally through the crowd of congratulations and gossipers, Milly continued, "But I promise you're going to love this. Just wait a moment... and... just a little bit further."

Nunnaly, keeping track of their path, frowned. They had passed the desert table and were rapidly approaching the entrance. "Milly?"

"Oh, hush. Just have a little patience." Milly pushed her forward and Allie's hand slipped away. "Congratulations!"

Nunnally tilted her head in confusion, wondering if there would be an auditory cue, when a painfully familiar voice said, "Oh Nunnally dear. You look absolutely amazing."

"Mother?" Nunnally choked out. Her mother was there; she couldn't be. But that was her voice and wheels rolled across the ground. It was her. Nunnally took a step forward, and then ran forward, wrapping her arms around her mother's familiar form. The familiar scent of grease and machinery greeted her, comforting. "Mother!"

"Nunnally, I've missed you. And you've grown so much."

There was something strange in the smell. Bleach? Nunnally reached out and let her mother's hair pool in her hands. It was bleach, which explained why no one was freaking out about an Empress being there. The relief and happiness faded, and Nunnally stepped back. Much more composed, she asked, "Why are you here?"

Sounding annoyed, "Do I need a reason to see my daughter?"

"Yes." When Nunnally and Lelouch had been in Japan, they had never called. And then her mother had been there only for a brief moment to collect them, before vanishing to fight in the war. Why was now any different?

The warm hand reached out and stroked her cheek. "I missed you. You and Lelouch, but things were so busy. I'm sorry. But I read your letter and your wish to see your brother. Let me make it up to you? You have a break from school and Lelouch has leave the week after next. We can spend some quality time together like a family... like we used to."

Nunnally's mouth dried as various emotions coursed through her. She could see Lelouch again! And her mother was apologetic, wanted to improve. It was a chance... but family time had never been a real thing. It had always been Nunnally and Lelouch. When she fell and scraped her knee, it had been her brother who tended to her. When Nunnally climbed a tree and was too scared to come down her brother had fetched Cornelia. It was never her mother: too busy to have time for them. But there was a chance... and it hurt.

Allowing herself to be pulled into another again, Nunnally smiled painfully, "I would love to."

"That is wonderful. Who was that girl that confronted you and Milly on the banister?"

"Sally, she was," Nunnally trailed off. Her mother could be displeased with the girl's actions... and had the ability to retaliate more effectively than Nunnally or even Milly could. She had been willing to condemn Suzaku for being their friend... "Just jealous of Milly."

"Oh. Do you want to introduce me to your friends? I already know Milly but I don't think I've met the young gentleman and lady yet."

This... This was what mothers were supposed to do. Right?

Rivalz, sounding incredibly nervous, stumbled a step forward. "Nice to meet you ma'am. I'm Rivalz... Cardemonde. Nunnally is quite incredible."

"Allie Morgan, miss... I mean, ma'am. It's wonderful, to, meet you!"

Her mother hummed noncommittally and grabbed Nunnally's hand. "Is there anything you need to pick up from your dorm?"

It seemed her mother was eager to leave and Nunnally bowed her head. "Mother? I would like to stay until the end of the party? Please?"

Her mother sighed. "Oh, very well. Milly, you will escort my daughter at the end?"

Milly squeaked. "Of course, yo—ma'am."

"Have fun Nunnally. I'll see you in a couple of hours." Her mother patted her hand and Nunnally could hear the wheels rolling over the tiles.

The din of the festivities washed over them and Nunnally walked back to her friends, smiling, but her heart pounding within her chest. Gratefully, Allie's hand slipped within hers. Allie breathed, "Your mother is absolutely terrifying."

"I think I died," added Rivalz.

Milly chuckled nervously and softly, almost too quiet to hear, said, "good."

Worldbuilding Thoughts:

- Curiously, I can't find any images of Charles wearing a crown. Just his ridiculous wig. And then Lelouch wears a hat? Perhaps the Crown Jewels were lost when Napoleon invaded, but nothing prevents the Empress/Emperor from fashioning a new one. Considering the amount of gold found in California and the various other gem stones available to mine within North and South America, there is no reason not to make one. And then Lelouch has huge precious stones in his costume? The more I think about this, the stranger it becomes.

- Sometimes, have references to little gems in the wiki. Another club listed for Ashford: Landmine Club (disbanded)... I wonder why? /s

- Gino Weinberg is a tad strange math wise. Apparently he joined the military at 16, then less than a year later, he becomes a Knight of the Round. Doing a bit of math since he's knighted 5 months before Suzaku, that would mean Aprilish of 2017. He turned 16 in November, so he was in the army for five/six months? I find this very dubious.

Author's Note:

A Happy New Year and welcome to the next decade. It's the 20s now. :p

Someone commented that the pacing is too slow (thoughts?) and they feel like I will abandon it. Rest assured, that won't happen, and I still am working on my other works although they require some revisions because my writing style has heavily evolved since I started them as a freshman in high school. This story has an end planned even if I'm sort of smushing three books into one. Oops. Based on my current pacing and update schedule, I'll probably be finished sometime late 2021 or early 2022. This includes breaks.

Apologies for missing the update last week. Finals + Holidays meant I ran through my entire buffer and couldn't find enough time to refill it. The fortunate news is that the next chapter is ready, but it will be posted next Wednesday so my beta has a chance to look it over. I will be doing a makeup chapter soon, and on FFN we're 3 favorites short of 100. So do you guys want an extra update or a one-shot or something else?

Who is everyone's favorite and least favorite character so far?

Thank you x1tears1X on FFN for your help with this chapter. If anyone else wants to beta, just ask? :)