To say that Nina was a dynamite would not be an exaggeration but a massive understatement – she was a nuclear bomb. Truly, her genius mind birthed a child that Lelouch could only dream about. It was a pity that he had to leave Area 11 but her work was both fascinating and dangerous. So dangerous that he was considering taking her out of Ashford Academy. But there was no safer place than the academy. At least there no one would think they were housing a genius drawing up plans for weapons that could cause mass destruction and death. Scientists came up with some mad weapons. They didn't see the chaos such weapons could bring – they saw the science and hard that came about to develop such weapons. Most of them didn't care about how such weapons were used. Nina wouldn't like her weapon being used for mass murder but she could have no complaints when she was the one to develop such a thing.
Lelouch shook his head. He had thought he would take her weapons to fit them into his frames but he could not. It was apparent that they would have to be left for the Liberator. He would have to make do with the weapon that Lloyd and Cecile developed. It was not to say the weapon was not dangerous. It was but still not something they could mass produce. The energy the weapons demanded a little too much and as such, he currently only had one in his possession. The Foundation was busy modifying the Mark-II to be able to carry such a weapon as well as both Jeremiah's and Viletta's Gloucesters.
"I should hope that all is well," Ruben said as he walked towards Lelouch. The Prince was standing in an empty white room. This was their most secure room they would use to store their most valuable tools.
"Thanks to Clovis, we received a fair couple of hands that have poured enough to keep us going," Lelouch said in a quiet tone. "But we will need to start getting into business soon to be able to keep afloat in the longer run and repay these people."
Well, they needed to be able to fund their own research. Technology was always growing and getting complex by the day. There was no end to innovation. But ideas needed money to make them practical. Some of Nina's ideas were stuck as ideas because they lacked resources. She was especially high maintenance. Ruben hadn't been willing to put everything he had when he didn't even know how things would go in case things failed. He needed a safe net before doing anything. He didn't want to spend it all for all to go into smoke. He would have ruined the family if he did that.
"I still have some old contacts. Our reputation in this Area is not bad even," Ruben said. "But what do you want us to sell?"
This was royal poverty. He wanted to keep the work a secret and the fact the Foundation was back in business hidden for as long as he could but because they needed cash flow, they had to come out. Schneizel didn't have to struggle with this. Now, if he was in charge of an Area, diverting funds would be easy. But he had nothing.
"I don't know… the only business I can bring in is from Military. That will only be possible once the Mark-II has debuted and I can only debut it once I return to Military. It should be soon," Lelouch said in thought. "Only then can we get military contracts… what happened to your old plans in Homeland?"
"Closed… sold off…" Ruben said.
He would have to start playing dirty now. It was all part of the game anyway. "I will market and try to have those closed restored… and those sold, we will see if we cannot get them back. When that happens, we have a fully operational plant… you can use those contacts to get business…"
Ruben didn't want to know what exactly Lelouch would be doing. There were some things he didn't want to know. Was the Prince capable of doing? Anything really. Politics was not even a fair game to play.
"What happens to us if things don't go well? I spoke to Milly yesterday… she seemed rather down and open to the possibility that things might not go according to plan."
"There is nothing to worry about," Lelouch said in a firm tone. "Everything will go according to plan. If I wasn't sure, I wouldn't be wasting my time here. And I would not have taken the risks that I took. You might think I am not gambling but first thing is that I risk the Emperor's wrath… secondly, if all comes to smoke, where do you think I fall? Schneizel will be happy to catch me and from there, there will be no escape, nowhere to go but to run in circles around him. I cannot have that or else I cannot attain my dream."
The 11th Prince shook his head before turning to leave. He then stopped. "How is our supply of Sakuradite?"
"Stable."
"I will try to connect you with the supplier. Once we get busy, we will need more and that means it gets to be exposed…" Lelouch said. "When that happens, we must be sure that is nothing questionable."
"Is there something questionable now?"
Lelouch glanced at Ruben for a second before responding. "No." He said. "If you play your game right, you might even get funding. But I'll send them a message to engage the possibility before they meet you."
Nunnally was sad. She was a bit angry. She felt a wave of emotions inside of her. She had been happy. Her brother was around. Euphy was around and they could talk and go out. While she could not see, she still enjoyed it. But now they were leaving her. She had felt Euphy's grasp leaving her and just thought it was fading. What if she was not able to come back? What if her brother gets dragged to war and disappears for months? Those questions tormented the day before and now, they threatened to break her. But she could not cry. She could not do that to her brother. She didn't want him to leave knowing his sister was in tears – he might do something reckless. She loved her brother too much to allow him to do something like that. Even if it was for her.
After all, she was only happy when he was around. Nothing else satisfied her than knowing that her brother was going to come back at night to kiss her good night.
"I will call you when we arrive, Nunnally."
"Can't I come brother? I have missed home…" Nunnally asked, her closed eyelids focusing on where she heard her brother speak.
He hadn't said a damn thing about her, but Britannia didn't know anything about Nunnally. Lelouch kept her existence hidden and the Emperor hadn't asked anything then. So there was no need for him to say anything. But if she travelled to Aries Villa, possibilities were that she would be discovered and her life out of the public eye would end. It would also make her suspect to being used by the Emperor and the threats to her life would surely increase. He was not yet powerful to do something like that. Not yet but he soon would be.
"I will come back, Nunnally," Euphy reassured. "I'm just going home to sort with things with Cornelia and then I will return to be with you. We can't have people knowing you are alive."
Nunnally was silent for a couple of moments. He felt warm hands over her shoulders – it was Milly. At least she would have her. But she knew – Cornelia could refuse the request saying she wanted her sister to live in a protected safe area.
"I hope it is soon, I've gotten used to having you around, sister…" Nunnally said.
A few more words were said before they all disappeared. Lelouch had promised that Suzaku would come to visit her. It would be nice seeing someone from her childhood again. But still, the sadness within her made her heart heavy. She wanted to cry.
"Come on, Nunnally," Milly said, pushing her wheelchair.
Nunnally realized, Milly's voice was strained. She could pick it up. She could understand with what was happening. Euphy had informed her of the sensitive situation. While also admitting her slight envy of Milly. It was perhaps that the blonde also wanted to say something to Lelouch but had not. She either never got the chance because she had taken it all or that she had been giving her the time to say her goodbyes.
"Oh Milly," Nunnally said sadly. "I'm sure things will work out. Brother will fight."
"I know…"
"Oh…" Nunnally realized. It was difficult for Lelouch to even show affection to Milly. He probably never did. It was always Nunnally for him. And now there was also Euphy. Nunnally could not say anything about that.
She didn't want anything taking away her brother's love for her after all.
Lelouch released a long breath as they stepped into Clovis' limousine. It was just him and Villetta and Euphy sitting at the back. Jeremiah sat by the passenger seat next to the driver. Saying goodbye to Nunnally was always emotionally draining.
"You shouldn't have given that promise, Euphy," Lelouch said a bit sternly. "We might not even succeed in convincing your sister otherwise…"
"But now it means that we have to work hard to convince her because we don't want to disappoint Nunnally," Euphy said with a smile.
Lelouch didn't like hearing those words. Euphy was getting a little too smart for her own good. "And who is going to give her the bad news if all else fails? Cornelia is immovable when it comes to you."
"If sister refuses, we can have her face Nunnally and explain why she refuses…" Euphy said. "She'll probably attacks us for it…"
"She will come after me, not you!" Lelouch reminded Euphy. He shook his head. It was best not to overthink this. "Has Major Albert responded to your call?" he asked Villetta.
She nodded. "So has Sergeant Michael. They will come to Aries Villa upon our return. They should already be at Pendragon already by now."
That was at least something sorted out. He needed to deal with other variables and they could handle some things. He was probably going to be busy playing politics with Schneizel over the next couple of days or week. And he needed to work on his health with the people within Pendragon. Not everyone was an enemy after all. There were people he could work with. The only problem was that not everyone could be trusted. But he had to make do. He had to find a way to make things work or else things would remain still.
He had to make things work, no matter what.
He faced Villetta with a stare. She has been truly effective in her duties. There were no doubts that Jeremiah had brought him someone capable. And she worked around a Knightmare frame rather well. She gave many man a run for their money back in Portugal. He had yet to fulfill his promise to her on that he would knight her.
"An announcement on the planned talks with the EU should be made and my name will be there. With Albert around and our other siblings, it will be good to host a social event at Aries Villa." Lelouch said in thought. "The main event of the night will be with me knighting both you and Jeremiah. I want this done before we head to war. And it will give us a chance to meet new people."
Villetta could not hide her smile. She had been waiting for this since they left Portugal. She'd thought perhaps Lelouch had forgotten because he hadn't been saying anything about it. She was finally going to take a step in the social status. It was not much but it was still something.
"Can I come?" Euphy was quick to ask.
Lelouch nodded. "Of course you can come… I'll try to make Clovis stay and your sister. If they are coming, the people we invite should find no reasons to reject the request, no?"
"Don't sell yourself short like that, brother."
Was he selling himself short? No? Lelouch knew his value. He would not overstate things as he did last time. Of course, he would not lower himself like a beggar before anyone, not even the Emperor. There were things Lelouch vi Britannia would not do just go earn favor.
"It will be good in any case. It also gives us the chance to evaluate everyone who will be in attendance. It is quite easy to study people when they are closer than when they are far away from you," Lelouch couldn't help but smile at the thought. It was not so much like keeping his enemies closer. But it was simply creating a field where he could see just who his enemies were.
"Will it not course a problem if you are hosting a social gathering and some prominent people are not invited?" Villetta asked. "Even if they don't like you… but if you don't invite them and you have someone like the Second Prince present, it will surely cause a problem…"
Lelouch raised an eye brow. It was not that Villetta was wrong – he was just surprised that such a thought came from her. But knowing how things worked with the upper class, some would be offended. Then he could offer invites to some and to some, he could simply say they were free to attend.
"I will put that into consideration."
There was no way that Schneizel was not going to come to the party. He would come and no doubt he was going to have him invite some friends of his. His brother would see the long term benefits on having to prepare such a party. And he hoped it would pay dividends.
The Following Day
Albert felt a little giddy as he saw the private plane carrying Prince Lelouch land at a private airstrip meant for the Imperial Family. The guards had been difficult at first in letting them in but he had insisted and they had received a call from the plane, confirming that they were around to pick up the Prince and his company. He was more so excited about seeing the delightful Villetta than Lelouch himself. Since the Prince said he would call, he had waiting for the call, but it never came. He thought the call came a bit too late. It had come nevertheless and he figured they were going to be deployed soon enough – for another battle.
"Try to contain yourself Major," Michael said to Albert, who seemed as if he was ready to explode.
Major Albert glanced at the Sergeant for a moment before looking ahead. There were two black cars behind them, ready to deliver them to Aries Villa, the home of the commander. "I can't help it…" he said.
"You do know that you have competition with Major James," Michael said with a smile. "He was a lot more open than you."
"Not all of us can be carefree as the Major," Albert said with a slight shrug.
"Well, I don't think you need to worry about James that much… your biggest competition is the Prince."
Albert frowned slightly. "His Highness does not act like other men of power and higher social status. Let us be honest, just because is not popular with the upper class doesn't mean he isn't popular with normal Britannians, especially commoners."
"Exactly my point. Villetta is always around him and she has already taken a bullet for him. What are the chances of her eventually growing closer to the Prince?"
Albert thought about it for a moment before shrugging. "Oh, well, might as well just give it up," he said with a sigh. "But it must be nice for Lord Jeremiah and Villetta to be always in the company of the Lt. Colonel."
"Challenging, you mean?"
Albert grunted. They had done their research about the Eleventh Prince. There was not too much to know about him but it was apparent that he didn't have many followers. In fact unlike other Princes and Princesses, Lelouch hadn't inherited anything from his family. His mother had been a commoner and she had ended up being assassinated. Albert always kept his ears open within what was happening in Military and he knew they were talking, some unpleasant things. Many wanted the Prince to fail.
There was still a lot to know about Lelouch, but Albert had come to know a little about him during their time in Portugal. He had learned that Lelouch was not stupid. He was smart and their miraculous victory had not been down to luck or anything, it had been due to strategy and dedication of his men to follow orders. The one thing that the men admired about the Prince was that like Princess Cornelia, he didn't give orders while sitting in the comfort of a G-1 Mobile Base.
"When he said he had enemies, I found it hard to believe, but just because I served under him, there have been people who have approached me," Albert shook his head. "The world of the aristocracy is a miserable one."
"You are noble, you would know better…"
Albert smiled – a bitter smile. "Indeed," he said. "When you are a child, you don't see it because you have no responsibilities to anything but your studies. Of course, many even fail at that, but when you start growing, you come to see things. I left my family and dedicated my life to military because of the truth behind many smiles the upper class put while in public places."
"Personal issues aside," Michael said with a wave of his right hand. "His Highness truly does have friends in high places."
"Indeed," Albert said with a nod. "That is what makes following him all the more fun… and seem worthwhile…"
It took a couple of minutes for Lelouch and his company to arrive before the two. Albert noted the pink haired girl walking with them. But his eyes lingered around Villetta for a moment before he saluted while looking at Lelouch.
"Lt. Colonel."
"Lt. Colonel." Sergeant Michael saluted as well.
"Major, Sergeant," Lelouch responded with a small smile. "It is good to see you again."
"I am happy you are in fine, health, Lt. Colonel," Albert said before turning to greet the others.
"Let us not linger around here for too long. We must move," Lelouch said before turning to Euphy. "You'll go with us and Villetta will deliver you home in my car. I want you to arrive home safely. Cornelia should be back for the meeting already, and given her silence, I'm sure she is displeased."
"I hope not," Euphy said.
Aries Villa
The Prince certainly did live like royalty. Aries Villa was huge, and it was difficult to comprehend that he lived here with just five people and the guards who guarded the palace. Albert had never set foot at this place, but seeing how guarded it was, it was clear that this was indeed the home of a Britannian Prince. He marveled at the beauty of the palace as Jeremiah led them into Lelouch's study. It was nicely done and neat. He noticed the all familiar chessboard on the small round table.
"I'll get to it because after today, I probably won't have the time to talk to both of you. My return from Area 11 was forced because there are arrangements that I must partake in," Lelouch stated after settling down.
Michael shook his head. "It is fine… I knew it was work when I received your call…" he said.
"I have come to make the decision that I can trust both of you. I am your commanding officer but I want to trust you to work for me personally, even when we are not deployed for any duty. But such arrangements cannot stand in the way of your military service. If I were to lose you before deployment, things would become difficult for me," Lelouch said, looking between the two, who flanked Jeremiah.
"You can refuse if you do not want to. The reason I walk with his Highness is because I have sworn to protect him with my life…" Jeremiah added. "Our friends are not many but there are many things that we must do. But we do not have hands. My duty is to protect him, so, there are times when something needs to be done, and I cannot do it because I need to stay by his side."
When Lelouch had called to speak to him while they were still in Portugal, Michael had concluded that it was something like this. He didn't have a problem with it. Still, the Prince was not promising them anything. But Michael was not concerned about that, he was only curious about what he would actually be doing.
"What do you want me to do?"
Lelouch tapped his fingers for a moment. The plan was to send Michael towards Cambodia but it was still early days and he could not trust the man. He didn't need the man to think that he was plotting against Britannia. But there was still another mission that he could give the man and test how he would perform in it.
"You are aware that in Area 11 there are terrorists groups. The probably is no other resistance force in all areas controlled by Britannia that is most successful as the Japanese Liberation Front. Britannian forces within the Area have been unable to effectively handle them, which is a problem. In future, since I cannot see my brother dealing with it, I will be forced to handle the issue, but before then, I want to know everything about them. I have already done my homework about their bases and discovered some of the source of resources. Your job is to discover their inner operations. You'll have all the resources you need to set up an operation. I don't expect results now, but when I need them, you must have them."
Michael was silent. This was a huge task and it certainly helped the Prince. But he could understand something from this. He was not going to report to Britannia about this and the resources would not be from the military. The reason Jeremiah had said such tasks would be done for the Prince was because they were for the benefit of the Prince.
"It seems like a challenging mission," Michael said. "But even when I know something, I can only tell you, is that is required of me?"
"Yes," Lelouch said. "You can ask questions if you have them. Though, I do believe that the only question you have is 'why.' You also wonder why I have not mentioned rewards and what I will do for you should you do this for me."
"The thought did come to mind but I figured you didn't mention that because you are not trying to buy our loyalties. You mentioned that you wanted to trust us…"
"Yes, but I also understand that nothing is free."
"As long as my family is taken care of when I die, I can't ask for anything more. I enjoy my work, and if it helps in any way, it is a bonus." Michael wanted to ask about Lelouch's ideals. Everyone had them. But what was obvious was that the Prince hadn't preached the message most in the upper class preach and he didn't seem to look down on anyone. In fact, he hadn't bothered about their noble status. They were not here because the social status but because of their skills.
"Then I hope we will work together well as we did in Portugal…" Lelouch then smiled. "In case you are wondering about my ideals… you'll know eventually if you stick around…but it is my hope that you will not be disappointed…" he said. "Villetta will give you the finer details and arrange for your departure."
Michael nodded. "I'm excused?"
"That is up to you."
Michael didn't know what to do. Lelouch was basically saying that they were done with their business but he could still say if he wanted. Michael didn't want to be seen as the nosy kind of person. "I'll be waiting outside…"
"I'll walk you," Jeremiah said as he stood up.
Lelouch didn't watch the two leave. He turned his eyes towards his chess board. He thought for a couple of moments before speaking without looking at Major Albert. "Shall we have a game, Major?"
"I'm not sure about my skills…"
Lelouch placed everything in order and then glanced at the Major for a moment before turning his focus on the pieces. "Knowing ones limits is fundamental but it should never be the reason you stop from trying to do something. Otherwise, you never amount to anything," the Prince said.
"But it saves your life."
"But is that life worth living? Are you simply content with just being alive? Perhaps for a normal person, that is enough and if you have experienced too much of life that you just want to escape it all. But I don't think you and I are in a position where we simply say it is fine just being alive."
Lelouch was not asking him a question. Albert realized that the Prince probably knew about things that were not in his military file. It didn't surprise him. Lelouch was a Prince, who was connected with the Prime Minister, he surely could get any kind of information he wanted.
"Perhaps."
There was silence as Lelouch immediately took a piece. "I have always played like this… The King is always the first to move. The Prime Minister, has always questioned this strategy, because if the King moves and gets captured, his subjects lose morale and they will lose. But my response to him has always been, 'if the King does not move, then his subjects won't follow.' To have subjects who are willing to follow you, you must always lead the way on where we are going. Do you disagree with this sentiment, Major?"
Albert shook his head. "But even when the King stays in the same position, the subjects will move as he commands."
Lelouch smiled. "Indeed. Subjects are bound to follow orders of their king. But when you are loyal to someone, not by force or rank, but because of what they represent, you fight for them. You are willing to go the extra mile for them because you know they would do the same for you. Strong bonds between the king and his subjects foster an environment that frees the subjects…" the eleventh Prince paused for a moment before speaking once more. "It looks more likely that in the next month or less, we will go to Northern Africa."
"There is nothing of value there," Major Albert said. "But doesn't Britannia already occupy it? Princess Cornelia subdued it to set up a base of operations of Britannias fleet for when we were fighting the EU in Russia."
"Most of the forces were moved to Russia and others have been lost. While the EU and Britannia are not fighting within the EU member states, the war still continues in its African areas. Someone incompetent was leading the charge and they are apparently losing Knightmare frames…" Lelouch explained lightly.
"Reinforcements could come from Russia," Major Albert said.
"I don't think Military will reduce their presence within Russia. If they do that, they leave a chance for the EU to sense an opportunity and if they take it and take Russia again, Britannia would be back to square one. Most likely, Britannia most forces within Portugal will return to Mainland. By the time we go there, we might find ourselves isolated. And even if we are not isolated, the help might not come easily."
"Military politics?"
"Military Politics," Lelouch agreed with a small nod of his head. "I want you to be in contact with all the men in our platoon. Let them know of the situation and those who cannot take the risk, they should not follow us."
Albert stared at Lelouch for a long minute before responding. "Are you sure about that?"
"Military service is not a choice, I know. When you are called to war, you cannot refuse. But if you force people into danger, when they see that danger, they will flee from battle or will fight in fear. When you are fighting with fear, you cannot be effective. I need soldiers who will follow my orders and will know what they are getting into so that when danger comes, they will face it head on, knowing that I will get them out of it."
"We will most definitely lose some men."
"If it so, then so be it," Lelouch said in a stern tone. He looked up at the Major. "We are in the process of building specialized frames that should outperform the Gloucesters."
Major Albert's eyes met with Lelouch's. He held the stare for a minute before responding. "I'm surprised… You are don't have some rich family backing you up and Vi Britannia does not own any businesses or lands. I doubt this is connected to Britannia's Military, given what I know."
"Military does not speak in one voice. There are factions that serve different purposes," Lelouch said with a slight shrug. "This is indeed a personal venture. This should offset any potential loss of men. But I don't think they will be ready by the time we are deployed… it goes without saying that I am saying this to you in confidence."
"I understand."
"I also need your help with something…" Lelouch started carefully. "The Ashford family's assets were seized by some families when they were stripped of their noble status. I wish to reclaim some of those assets."
"I'm not sure I can be of any help in that. Business interests have never been my strong suit and I'm not familiar with the politics of Pendragon. I do hear it is rather brutal."
Lelouch nodded. "I understand the limitations and perhaps some misgivings around the issue, but this is still a task that you can handle, along with Jeremiah of course. I will handle the most part, you just need to be there. Things could get dangerous, and I do require some eyes and protection. My position may not seem that much, but I assure you, very soon, all of Britannia will be talking about me. And in that position, I may be able to make some of your dreams come to live."
Albert was silent for a couple of minutes. He was losing the game badly. The Prince seemed to be reading his mind. Whatever he did, the Prince outfoxed him and taking his pawns meant losing something of his own. "If I may be bold to say this, before I commit myself, I wish to know what his Highness desires."
Later that day
The look on Cornelia's face clearly spoke volumes about her mood. Lelouch had been expecting it. He had even travelled from his home to speak to his elder sister about the matter that seemed to bother her. He wasn't only here for Euphy but for Nunnally as well. She would be in happiness if she could be with Euphy. The two had always gotten along. In their younger days, it had been to terrorize him and his mother had never helped things as she constantly helped them to make his life miserable. They'd grown up now. But it was still Milly who'd made him suffer the horrors his sisters had made him suffer.
Thinking of this, Lelouch had much more desire to see his sister see again. According to the doctors, there was nothing wrong with her eyes. She could see again. Unless there was some advancement in technology, walking was not possible. But Lelouch just wanted for her to open her eyes and see the world she loves. A world that he would create for her.
Lelouch folded his legs, and looked around the room. Cornelia was sitting across him on a couch, staring. She hadn't said a word since he arrived.
"Cornelia," Lelouch started smoothly. "It is rather rare to see you so quiet and containing yourself in such a manner," he found some amusement in it, which caused him to smile.
Cornelia didn't appreciate it: she tossed him a sharp glance before responding in a hardened tone. "I don't want to end up saying something that might harm our relationship. I am conscious that things are not perfect. But had it not been for Guilford, I would have come to Area 11 and fetch Euphy myself."
Then Lelouch could thank Guilford. "That reaction would seem to be a bit of an overreaction…" He said with his right brow stretched up a bit.
"Euphy is my responsibility. For you to drag her into an Area that is infested by terrorist attacks is simply being irresponsible. But that does not surprise me. You are always taking reckless decisions. I just would appreciate it if you did not gamble with my sister!"
It was now obvious that the woman was pissed. But Lelouch was not happy with her words either. He fixed her a stare, a sharp one and spoke in a flat tone. He hadn't come here to beg Cornelia anyway.
"Gamble with your sister?" He asked in a quiet tone. "So, if I want to gamble, I must gamble with my sister, Nunnally… that is what you are saying, right?"
"I'm not saying that, Lelouch!"
"What are you saying? You seem to think that I would gamble with Euphy's life. And to be honest, I find that offensive. Euphy is my sister and I love her. You of all people should know that…" Lelouch shook his head, not wanting to drag this any further. "Euphy asked if she could go with me and I approved."
"Without talking to me."
"Yes, without talking to you. Now, you don't trust me with Euphy?" Lelouch demanded.
"You should have called me. Or just warn me that you were going to take her away to Area 11. Imagine my shock when I call home and they tell me Euphy isn't around, and disappeared with just a note that she would be going away for a while!"
Euphy could have done better. But Lelouch was not going to take the heat for it. "You should clear that with Euphy."
"You are the older one!" Cornelia hurled those words at Lelouch with such force that he sat still for a moment.
Lelouch sighed. He could get into an argument with Cornelia right here and it would not achieve anything. He would end up walking away without ever getting what he wanted. He did know his sister pretty well.
"I am the older one and I should have made sure that you were told, but I find it offensive that you do not trust me with Euphy's care when you expect me to trust you in everything," Lelouch said in a sharp tone. "There isn't anyone else I can trust to look out for me without any ulterior motives. It is only you, Cornelia. Only you."
Cornelia didn't offer an immediate response. She calmed down and considered her thoughts for a couple of moments before responding in a subdued tone.
"It isn't that I don't trust you, Lelouch. I just worry about Euphy."
"So do I… she is my sister. We may not share the same mother she is still my sister."
"I know," Cornelia said. "She told me that she wants to go to Area 11 with Nunnally and live like a normal girl before she is forced to come out in the public. I told her it was not going to happen. She is not going to live in an Area that has the most successful terrorist group in all of Britannia. And you will get those thoughts out of her!" She was staring at him furiously.
"But it is okay for Nunnally to live there." Lelouch said in a calm tone. He didn't say anything but just stood up and walked away.
"Lelouch!"
Cornelia called, trying to bring him back. But he didn't respond – he just walked away without saying another word.
The Following Day
Lelouch had dressed in a royal white and gold attire that would make Schneizel proud. With his image now going over to the public, his brother had insisted that he dress accordingly. Lelouch would have preferred his Ashford uniform. He still found himself wearing it at some occasions. But he did realize he needed to put it away – at least for such occasions.
"I am proud of you, Lelouch," Clovis said as he nudged Lelouch over his shoulder. They both stepped into the meeting room. The chairs were blue, along with some blue couches spread around the room. But this was certainly not enough for all of Charles' children. Only those close in line to the throne and those holding government positions would present themselves.
"I'm sure you are," Lelouch said. He glanced at his brother through the corner of his eyes before looking around. Some of his siblings were already present. "You've awfully been silent since you came here."
"It has not been a good stay," Clovis responded with a frown. He didn't explain why as his frown disappeared, replaced by a smile. "But you've been busy."
"I do have some catching up to do," Lelouch said. "There are a number of years I missed after all." Lelouch ducked a heated glare from one of his sisters and sat down on a chair around the rectangular table.
"You didn't miss much," Clovis said with indifference. He then looked around and smiled. "Guinevere, lovely seeing you again…"
"Likewise," Guinevere said before turning to Lelouch. "Lelouch… you don't greet?"
The Eleventh Prince smiled warmly. "It isn't anything like that, sister. I'm still a little overwhelmed by everything. I've spent the last couple of years with people who will literally faint if they stood in this room… but I cannot say it is a displeasure seeing you in good health. Perhaps we can make up by dinner some time."
"You can just go back if you are overwhelmed…" Carine said.
Lelouch merely smiled – a flat smile. "Our father has called for me to return, sister. I'm afraid I cannot disobey him…" he said.
Carine glared but before she could say anything, Guinevere cautioned her. "Be still Carine. Even if Lelouch is born of a commoner mother, he is still a Britannian Prince. And I find it offensive when someone disrespects that because it is a disrespect to all of us."
"I could not have said it better," Schneizel said as he walked into the room with the First Prince and the Second Princess. The Prime Minister decided to sit next to Lelouch, sandwiching him along with Clovis.
Lelouch knew that Carine would not say anything in response. When Schneizel spoke, they all listened. The Prime minister practically dictated what occurred here. Of course, he was subtle about it and would give anyone the chance to have their input. But surely, there was never an outcome that went against his wishes. Who would think he could say something wrong? When has he ever been wrong?
His eyes met with Cornelia and the smile on his lips did not disappear. It just made Cornelia frown but she didn't say a damn word to him.
"It is nice that everyone is here," Odysseus started in a light tone. "But I must first congratulate our brother Lelouch for his efforts in Portugal. I was impressed with what he did. It was his efforts along with those of Cornelia that forced the EU to return to the negotiating table. We should applaud this…"
"Indeed, you did bring honor to the Imperial Family," Guinevere said with a nod, but there was still no emotion in her tone.
"Since there is no press around, can't you admit that you helped him, brother?" Alfred asked, staring at Schneizel. "I refuse to believe that the commoner did that on his own."
Schneizel smiled. "Do you mean to say that I am a liar, Alfred? I stood before the masses and confirmed that I did not help Lelouch at all, and neither did Cornelia, despite her insistence on going to help him..."
"I'm still displeased that you allowed him to face such a situation in his first engagement. He even nearly died in that situation," Cornelia said in a hardened tone before Alfred could respond. "But I must still admit, those efforts deserve appreciation. You still showed recklessness nevertheless."
"Alfred, I hope me saying it again to you in this room clears any misgivings you might have about the situation. I did not help Lelouch in any way. And since I have said it to you, I hope you will defend my word when people out there put this in a different way that would paint me as a liar," Schneizel said.
Lelouch almost laughed. Of course he would make it direct to him. This was just so they knew that if they continued to badmouth him and even say that he had been helped, they were calling Schneizel a liar. The Prime Minister had even said it in a fine way by not even suggesting that some of them were spreading the word. They were doing it, but his brother was too smart and diplomatic to even state it in their face.
"The main issue is the EU and the negotiations Lelouch and I are busy with," Schneizel started with the main topic. "I alone cannot make a decision on whether we go to war if they come up with something we do not like… and the limits to what we do not like. They could demand that we give up Portugal and maybe even Russia… they could also that we remove all our forces within Portugal and trim down the Forces within Russia."
"We should just be going to war with them… before you stepped in, we were losing to them… while it has not been reported, we know it and it does not sit well with me," Guinevere stated in a hardened tone.
"I have already cautioned that an all-out war with them will only lead to massive casualties and it will weaken us," Schneizel reminded the First Princess.
Guinevere stared at Odysseus. "What happens when we do enter into an agreement with it and along the line, they renegade and attack us? Will you order for a declaration of war to be made? We should have such counter-measures in place."
"I have to agree with Guinevere on this. We can't allow ourselves to be caught off-guard by them. We must always be ready for any given situation. And if they do turn away from our agreement, it is all the more reason we should go to war with them. They would have shown that they cannot be trusted." Cornelia said.
Odysseus didn't appreciate being on the spotlight. If he agreed to this, he would be giving consent to any future chaos within the EU. A part of him wanted to say that such a thing could not occur but there was no saying. Schneizel had warned him already.
"We've trusted the issue with Schneizel and he has been dealing with it best… if such a scenario occurs, he will be better placed to make the correct decision and take command."
Again, passing the buck to Schneizel.
"I hope it does not come to war," Schneizel said. "We meet with them in a week… in Russia. Lelouch and I will depart for the talks any from today."
"I still don't get why you are taking him off all people."
"He is inexperienced in politics," Guinevere, pointing out a fact. "We mustn't do anything that will bring shame to the Imperial Family."
"You don't trust my judgment, Guinevere?" Schneizel asked calmly. "My political appointments have never disappointed. And I don't think I have ever stepped in the wrong lane in my dealings with the EU. I believe that my decision was correct and Lelouch demonstrated that I was not wrong during the meeting. But if you think that I am wrong in this scenario, and making a huge mistake, I am willing to reconsider."
Guinevere was silent, she held a stare. Schneizel just gave her one of those flat smiles of his. He was daring her and she knew for certain that he had no intentions on dropping Lelouch. She could not afford to say that the Prime Minister was making a blunder.
"You have already discussed it with the EU and he was present in the first meeting… we would not have any good excuse to give as to why he is not present, not unless he gets called into war."
"There are no engagements planned for him but Military command has freed him to the situation in Africa. Should it get any worse, he will be sent there," Schneizel explained lightly. "That clears that issue, no?"
"It does," Odysseus said with a nod.
Guinevere turned her attention to Clovis. The Third Prince seemed to know what was coming as he seemed to shrink slightly under her intense stare.
"You bring shame to all of us, Clovis. Area 11 is doing well economically, but it has always been like that due to is resources. However, your handling of terrorists in your Area is lacking. How can you stand proud in knowing that you house an Area that has the most notorious and successful terrorist force?!"
Lelouch received praise, and he got a tongue lashing. Clovis didn't appreciate this situation. How fortunes changed quickly. But what could he do to change the situation?
"Fighting terrorists is not as easy as it looks," Clovis could only offer a meek response.
"They are just numbers, how hard can it be?"
"To be fair, the JLF are made of former military personnel of Area 11… they have a strong presence since they quickly surrendered before losing many more men when it was announced that the Prime Minister had died. That makes their force big and since they are well financed, fighting them cannot be easy." Lelouch said in defense of Clovis.
"You seem to know some things about this."
"You don't need to be a genius to know… they have been fighting for long and they have advanced Knightmare Frames," Lelouch said with an air of indifference.
"In any case, the situation has to change and if Clovis cannot solve it, he has to say so. I'm not sure how long before His Majesty will remain patient over this lack of progress. Because instead of decreasing, their activities seem to be growing bolder with each day, and new groups just keep forming."
"Let us give Clovis a chance to work this issue… and I am sure he will bring good results…" Schneizel said in a measured tone.
A couple of more issues were debated including the Chinese Federation. After that, the issue turned to Lelouch's party while the people were walking away from the room.
"I did not receive invitation," Alfred said to Lelouch. "It dishonors my name when I have to answer why I am not going to a party which the likes of the Prime Minister, The First Prince, and the first and Second Princesses are attending…"
It was not a matter of whether he wanted to go or not, but defending his pride. He most certainly didn't want people to think that he had been snubbed to what was the main event in a long and boring week of politics within Britannia. Lelouch would not be that petty and allow his brother to only increase his contempt for him by denying him the invite.
"I meant to inform you about that since I do not have your fixed address. But I didn't think it would cause any issues since we are not friends… I'm afraid of having people who can only glare at me in front of friends. We also don't want the media running stories about an Imperial Feud."
"Just send the invitation… and I wouldn't go as low as to try to humiliate myself at such a grand stage," Alfred said before sneaking past Lelouch.
It gave Clovis some comfort knowing that not everyone loved Lelouch. He had little friends and that meant that he was always going to be around, no matter what. Had their father agreed to his request, Lelouch would have even been the one to take the heat of this. It was cold, but he was the one who was smart. It hurt just admitting that.
"I'll see you tomorrow night, brother. I must go sort out some issues," Clovis said, waving away from Lelouch.
Schneizel loomed large over him. "We must talk," he said.
"Where?"
"Somewhere private where we can have a game," Schneizel said. "Will you follow me?"
"In my car."
"Of course."
Lelouch stared at the chessboard for a long minute. The game had already started and he really wanted to win this one. He was not satisfied with knowing that he was playing simply to avoid defeat. For now, he was playing to win. It meant taking some risks, but as long as they did not leave him that exposed, he would play his game. Schneizel needed to know that he was not going to be losing all the time. The last time he had forced his brother to play for a draw had been something that had made him sleep like an innocent child.
"Your Queen is moving a little too much today," Schneizel observed. This was not going to be a long game. No, it was going to be far shorter than how they usually played. He didn't want it to be that way, but Lelouch's strategy was forcing him to play in his level. He could try to wrestle the pace out of him, but there was no need – at least for now. He was curious about how this would end.
"I'm simply taking advantage of her flexibility. She can play any role. She can be the knight, a pawn, and stand on my side as a Queen…" Lelouch responded calmly. "Every piece has its use. But the one that is flexible is able to wear a mask that can fool your opponents. You can play it as a pawn to make your opponent, underestimate her."
"I find it that a piece fulfilling its specialized duty is much more effective."
"That is not entirely false, but it works depending on your strategy," Lelouch said. He glanced at Schneizel for a second before looking at the board. "At Clovis' party, I met some people. I don't think that he arranged it all. You're trying to set me up for something. Are you that against the thought of my union with the Ashfords?"
It had been unpleasant afternoon but he had labored and walked through it. Some calls were coming over when he would talk to some people. Some women were telling him that they would come to Pendragon and would like to see him again. He had made his mind clear to them. But some women were amazing in their views of things. They were so narrow minded that they ignored everything he said and only heard themselves speak. It was ridiculous speaking to someone who wasn't listening to you at all.
"Our father has not married just one but many wives. For us royalty, having multiple wives is not a problem. I have two engagements. I have no intentions of getting married but I simply keep it up because it aligns with my interests. You should see the value of marriages…"
"You mean, having an eternal fiancée."
Schneizel just smiled. "You get the point and if you look at it positively, you will see that the arrangements are truly beneficial…"
Lelouch knew that full well. Lloyds interest in the Ashford showed him that much. You married into a family, you gained its wealth. Many husbands married their wives simply for the wealth of their families. Lelouch was poor. He only had his social status going for him. And Schneizel was trying to get him to go the same path as he did.
"I cannot handle that."
"You get used to it. You just have to smile and be nice. It disarms them of arguments in that you don't love them," Schneizel said. "Besides, you're still young. You can hold an engagement for five to eight years without actually getting married. And by then, you will have gained enough political strength to call of the engagement without suffering any reputational damage."
"That is your strategy, not mine. I thought we were clear that you would not try to dictate how I handle my things. My personal life is something that I wish to remain personal…" Lelouch said in a hardened tone. He frowned when Schneizel disrupted his flow of the game.
"I'm merely trying to help. You should know that politics dictates so many things within the Empire. We may be royalty but we don't control everything and I urge you to see that. You need people with status and in power to support you."
Lelouch smiled. It sounded like a challenge to him. He could take it on. "I am of the belief that I can make myself big without the need of any noble backing me up, politically at least. Let us make this arrangement, you'll let me do my thing and if you see that I am failing, you can introduce me to a young lady of your choice, whom I shall agree to marry. But in the meantime, you won't try anything and if you try, our agreement becomes mute."
Schneizel stayed silent for two minutes. He was focused on the game. It was a rather challenging game. This is why he enjoyed playing with his brother. He had to think hard and he could not even afford to slip, because if he did, it would be check.
"You sound confident."
"Any reason I should not be?"
"Well, if you are that confident, it makes entering into the agreement not that fair because you probably know you will succeed. And knowing you, that may well be a reality." Schneizel said, with a smile. "So, the purpose of the agreement would be simply to keep me out of your business."
"And you should not have a problem with that."
Schneizel shook his head. "I am your partner. The people you associate yourself with also affect me as well. If we are going to make this arrangement, I should at least know what you are bringing in the table. The Ashfords are out in the open. I should at least have some contact with the family. I'm not saying you should tell me everything, but at least I should have some contact with them."
Lelouch didn't like that, but if he didn't agree to this, Schneizel wasn't going to stay away. And he couldn't bring up the Toromo Institute because all he had were suspicions and it would be dangerous to bring that kind of talk before his brother.
"Fine," he relented.
"You will let me know," Schneizel said. "I was speaking to father yesterday."
"He is around?"
"Yes, surprisingly." Schneizel said. "He was rather impressed that you seem to be doing well. But did warn me against giving too much of a helping hand. He is of the view that you must be allowed to stand on your feet to fend for yourself as you have grown and have demonstrated a mind that shows you are indeed his son."
Praise from the Emperor didn't do Lelouch any justice. He felt sickened by it. It was because of this man that he was even in this position.
"Of course he would cite his blood as the outstanding factor," Lelouch said. "Anything else?"
Schneizel shook his head. "I was giving him a report on the EU situation. He seemed disinterested in it though."
"I hear that a lot," Lelouch said. "The question then is, what keeps our father busy? What has him so focused that he barely has time for the Empire?"
"That is a question I ask but I cannot find any answers. His movements are always secretive. Though I do find he goes around Area 11 on a couple of occasions. It is rather unsettling that even at such times that he calls even the thought of war mundane. And he clearly means it. It just means that there is something which he prioritizes. I'm sure the Knight of One knows, since he moves around with him, but he is loyal and any attempt would be dangerous."
Lelouch only nodded. "He is the Emperor, what can we do?"
"Nothing we can do, as long as father is Emperor."
"Indeed," Lelouch smiled. It was best to leave the issue there than saying something dangerous. "You would not have issues if Lloyd worked for me?"
"Not at all," Schneizel said. "But I must request that he deliver on some technology that he was developing for me. He has already given me prototypes for the Float System and Blame Luminous…"
"I'm sure he will give you anything else that is outstanding," Lelouch said. "The Lancelot is a remarkable frame. It will serve me well when I return to the battlefield. I won't immediately take it. I would rather not have my accomplishments overshadowed by the fact that I have a superior Knightmare frame."
"So, you'll keep it on standby." Schneizel stated. "Not a bad move. At this stage, you'll need all the accomplishments you can gain. But as I have said, in military, my hands will be tied. Not unless it is within the EU where I control all the forces."
"Keep me far away from it," Lelouch said. "But if an opportunity for war comes, take me there. I won't mind battling there."
"I'll keep that in mind," Schneizel said. "Tensions with Cornelia?"
"Nothing of concern. It will clear eventually."
"I see… I hope…"
Schneizel trailed off when he saw something. When was the last time he was in a position where Lelouch had him in this position? Within 9 moves, Lelouch would have him on check. The way out was using his Queen. But it would leave it exposed and in less than five moves, he would lose it. But there was no other way, was there? He stared at the board for a long minute, studying it. There was no other way. If he sacrificed his queen, it would end in a draw. He looked up at Lelouch without picking up any piece.
"Draw?"
"Dissatisfying, I'd planned on leaving your Queen without any room to move," Lelouch said as he leaned back to his seat. "Yes, draw." He stared at the Prime Minister.
Schneizel took out a small envelope and handed it to Lelouch. "This is everything I know about what happened the night your mother was killed and what happened afterwards. I must warn you that it will only leave you with questions… and I caution you not to do anything wreckless."
From what Schneizel shared, or at least what he was willing to share, everything pointed back to the Emperor. There were still many questions that needed to be answered and this was still something he could not ask the Emperor directly – at least not now. Truly, this information just intensified his contempt for the man. And it also brought up many questions on who his mother had been meeting that day. Cornelia had said she dismissed all guards. Meaning she was meeting someone she knew and didn't want even Cornelia to know. It probably meant Cornelia could recognize the person. The Emperor surely had no hand in it. Or maybe he did. But the fact that when it immediately occurred, he was the one to have things cleaned up in the way he did, it led Lelouch to conclude as Schneizel did: the Emperor had all the answers. But if he was hiding it, then he too knew who his mother was meeting that night. But it had to be something that he was willing to hide, even if it meant looking weak that terrorists would kill his wife… and someone he was rumored to favor.
Schneizel would also have an agenda with giving him this information. It was probably over the fact that he wanted him to focus on who their enemy was. There was no doubt, one day, they would have to fight the Emperor. However, their opinions differed, so Lelouch was likely to end up fighting with his brother as well. It was something for the future, he had to deal with the now.
Lelouch looked up when Villetta walked into his study. She sat down across him and spoke.
"Everything is set up for tomorrow." She said.
The Eleventh Prince nodded. "What of Jeremiah?"
"He went to check on the asset once owned by the Ashford. It is one that isn't operational but abandoned. They said if they have time, they would visit one that is working and have a word with the owner," Villetta answered. She tilted her head to the side, seeing the look on Lelouch's face. "Is everything okay?"
Was he that easy to read? Or maybe it was because Villetta has been hanging out him a bit too much than Jeremiah did. She was always the one sitting next to him.
"I received information about what happened the night my mother was killed and afterwards. Cornelia and Schneizel had already given me some details, but there were gaps."
"Oh," Villetta didn't know what to say. It was not an issue that was spoken willingly. The matter was discussed in detail with Jeremiah. It had always been a sensitive issue to him. "What are you going to do?"
"Nothing for now," Lelouch said. He then smiled – a bitter smile. "There is really nothing that I can do now. When you have little influence and power, certain things are beyond you. But I don't wish to ask people of favors. You end up selling even your choices without knowing it. In any case, I must see the Emperor tomorrow afternoon."
The Emperor of Britannia. Hardcore Britannians who loved their empire and its ideals worshiped the man. They loved his speeches. And it was likely that many wanted to be like him. The Prime Minister did not preach the same gospel as the Emperor, at least publicly but he never preached any gospel. It was always what the Emperor said. As far as Villetta was concerned, Lelouch loathed the man. Hell, his facial expression twitched in many ways when he spoke about the man. It was obvious he didn't even consider him a father. He was more of a curse than anything.
But why would Lelouch want to see the Emperor when he has said be would rather avoid the man?
"Does it have anything to do the Ashfords?"
Lelouch nodded. "Before I make any promises, I must see what he says. He is the one who stripped them of everything and forced them to pack away. I need to hear what he thinks to avoid a situation where I am hauled to the Imperial Court for going against his wishes," he said.
The court would no doubt cry foul over the issue. How could he try to have the Ashfords regain their noble status when he was a Prince? It was a direct declaration of war to the Emperor. Lelouch didn't want such a narrative to be forwarded because it could destroy everything. It could even make the Emperor make some decisions simply because people have talked in a way that leaves him without much choice.
So, Lelouch was indeed serious about Milly, Villetta thought. There was no reason to marry Milly. His relationship with the Ashfords was something that could not be broken down so easily.
"Do you think it will work out?"
"I don't know…" Lelouch said. "But I had promised Milly I would do something about her situation. It is also convenient for me: marrying her means I won't be dragged into another marriage with someone I do not know. I know Milly and I trust her."
The greatest symbol of trust with Lelouch was when you were allowed to get closer to Nunnally. To his younger sister, Lelouch didn't want just anyone around. Milly was around. She even took care of the blind girl. But from what Villetta knew, Milly has known Lelouch since they were children. And apparently, the blonde did love Lelouch. She could not say the same about the Prince. He didn't seem to love anyone but his younger sisters.
The Following Day
Lelouch's felt like his footsteps were making unnecessary noises and on purpose as he walked within the Imperial hall. The Emperor was sitting on his throne, eyes watching him like a God. Perhaps it was what made him nervous and angry. He may as well be dung before the Emperor. If not him, there was another pawn on the chess board that he could use. Lelouch held his intestines from burning and soothed his soul from raging against his flesh an attempt to flee from his body to have a word with the Emperor.
"Your Majesty."
"What do you want?" the Emperor demanded with impatience.
"The Ashfords have been taking care of me and Nunnally since Britannia invaded Area 11. And now they are helping me with some developments… I want to thank their commitment by marrying Milly Ashford… in the near future, they should have an image that makes them worthy and attractive."
"You do know that I reversed their noble status… are you trying to undermine, Lelouch?"
"No, Your Majesty. I came to ask your permission because I did not want you or anyone to think that I was undermining you," Lelouch said.
A massive political mistake that would have him screwed over and potentially have the Emperor bringing in Nunally into the public picture. She could be used well as a hostage. Lelouch didn't want that. He had to do everything that pleased this man, no matter how he hated it – just so Nunnally could be saved. He'd said he would not grovel before any men, but if it had to save Nunnally, he would do it. Even if it hurt his pride. There was not a damn thing he was not willing to do to save his sister.
"Permission for what? You are already working with them and have made plans to marry that Ashford girl. If it is about undermining me, you've already done so," The Emperor said in a cold tone.
That glare: it had Lelouch still for a couple of moments. He didn't think things would go to this point. He'd only been looking at the future not present consequences.
"My answer is no: you cannot marry the Ashford girl, at least not now. But you can continue working with them. However, for this indiscretion, tell me why I should not marry you off to someone else?"
"If I had not done so, I would have been forced to lean on Schneizel and that would have turned me into his puppet. You warned me against this…" Lelouch said through gritted teeth. He was getting angry now – much more than how he had been when he came into the throne room.
"I won't argue with you. My decision remains unchanged and since you are looking after your health, I won't punish you," the Emperor then smiled. "I had anticipated this would happen in the future… that is why the Ashford title has not been given anyone. Should you make me proud, you will have it as a reward. But if you fail, the Ashfords will pay for thinking they can go against me. Nunnally will also have to return to Pendragon. She can receive her studies while at Aries Villa.
"Although I anticipated your transgression, I must still punish you for letting me find out without having informed me first. You'll still be engaged to someone of my choice."
He was being punished because he got caught not because he did something wrong? Lelouch laughed – a hollow laughter.
"That is rather cruel." He said emotionlessly.
"You'll hide your secrets better next time."
End of chapter
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The Omnipresent Sage
