Chapter 9: Aspect of Normalcy

11 August 2017 a.t.b., 1501 hours

Route 8, Area 11

The quiet was dense.

It wasn't just the awkwardness of unfamiliarity, though that was its significant component. It was the silence of resolution, of a focus on abolving the sins each passenger in that vehicle carried.

Shirou stared contemplatively at his hands. It was all over. His first fight.

Perhaps that was the wrong description for it. He had been in fights before. This was his first war.

That state of nature, that which necessitated the Leviathan. It was odd, but something Lelouch said was called up into Shirou's thoughts. It was the state of war that people always entered as their default. Like machines, fulfilling that base function was-

It was so strange. The feeling of metal warming in his hands, his eyes down the sights. And it was so natural, the alignment. But-

There was no art in it. More than ever, this experience proved what he told the Ashford Academy Rifles Team. Every time he was dragged to practice-

But he was defending someone. No, not just Saber. He had saved lives.

And ended others.

…

Nausea slammed into his gut, his throat. It finally hit him, held back by the previous circumstances. This was the consequence of acting in complete opposition to one's morals, one's basis of existence.

What have I done?

How could I even think about the past, about the "art in it," when I killed?

Before, with Saber, it was so easy to- justify-

He clenched his muscles, horrified that such a noble word could be used to- rationalize, comprehend, make right-

And his horror increased. Those noble words. Here he was, tainting them.

But before he entered the state of shock that had been present once before, on that battlefield-

Think. That's what Lelouch has always said. "Above all, think logically. You may have more of a concern for morals than I do, Shirou, but without reasoning your morals through, you are no better than those who you are trying to bring to your 'justice.' If you want to understand the meaning of your morals, you cannot live in the dark."

I'm as bad as they are. Why- why was it so easy to kill? I took lives, lives I had no right to possess.

It's this gun.

No, I can't escape this burden by putting the blame on a tool. The tool is still immoral, but the user makes the choice.

It was this situation.

That's not right either. Again, I chose to kill. Killing is wrong.

Lelouch would probably say "Under what circumstances?"

Lelouch would die for Nunnally. He'd probably kill for her too.

Shirou shook that thought out of his head. It was terrible, to think that anyone would want to harm Nunnally. Anyone who would-

Would deserve to die.

Lelouch would unreservedly say that. He would be defined by revenge if it happened.

And if it did, I would willingly go with him.

No, that isn't right. I wouldn't go with him to kill.

I would accompany him to protect him, but never to kill.

But that's- is that truly justice? In any court of law, that person would die. It's logical, in some sense. But that power is reserved for-

Again, he shook his head. To think that he wouldn't even kill Nunnally's murderer-

And I killed for even less. I killed for the lives of-

What is wrong with me? Here I am, saying that Nunnally is worth more than the lives of those children.

There is something right with that, though. I still protected the lives of the innocent. Nunnally, who can't see or walk, is far more innocent than any of those children. She could never hurt anyone.

Never.

But could I kill for her?

This startling question was satisfying. It wasn't the end of the logical discourse, but Shirou felt that he discovered something meaningful. Terrible, yet ... meaningful.

So could I kill for the innocent, even if it meant taking more lives than I saved? The right, the absolute right thing to do would be to convince those who would harm Nunnally to stop. There would be no death.

Killing is wrong, so I won't kill. But I could. I wouldn't, but I could.

Is that right? My mind says that it is wrong. It is absolutely wrong to kill. My mind is like steel on that immovable fact.

But my heart says that there is something just in doing wrong for someone right. No, not just right. Someone pure.

But can I trust my heart? Lelouch. Kiritsugu. I understand that I'm obsessed with morals, with justice. Does that make me fit to be a Hero of Justice?

Why am I asking Lelouch in my head? He's here right now.

"Lelouch."

There was a delay in Lelouch's response. Shirou could tell that he had stirred Lelouch out of some complex thought.

"Hm?" Lelouch just kept looking forward in the front seat.

"Do you remember the first time we actually met?"

"Ashford's Rifles? Of course."

Similarly, Shirou paused, hesitant about asking his next question.

"The rifle. Why?"

It was a familiar question, one Shirou had always asked Lelouch. And uncharacteristically, Lelouch always gave a different answer every time. Sometimes, he was whimsical. Sometimes, he was serious.

"I'll admit, I was intrigued to see an archer arguing with a rifleman. But more than that, I thought you deserved a chance to fight for yourself." Lelouch paused. His expression was completely unreadable. "Why are you asking this now, Shirou?"

Again, Shirou didn't immediately answer. Because- I had to use one today. But he didn't say that.

"I miss those days, Lelouch. They were simpler."

Lelouch was surprised, turning in his seat to look at Shirou. "I didn't expect you to say that. I thought you would say that those times were more complex. Those days weren't easy for either of us."

"Yeah." Shirou nodded, and then asked his second question.

"Knowing me now, even if I wasn't your friend … Would you still have done the same thing?"

"To be honest, Shirou …" The reply was reluctant. "Even now, I believe you would have stood up for yourself and used that rifle. You just needed a way to avoid the consequences, and I wanted to provide it."

Shirou became quiet. Lelouch's words disturbed him more than they comforted him.

So, I am a killer. I used a weapon to end lives for a reason as trivial as my honor, my worth. I'm no better than the ones who would kill the innocent.

Shirou held his gaze on the back of Lelouch's seat, frozen in place, unable to notice the worried expression on Saber's countenance. She held it briefly, before returning to her stoicism, trying to hide the pain in her hands.

It was on this note that Shirou single-mindedly, blankly left the vehicle.

An odd, chaotic spectacle greeted Shirou, as he opened the door of his residence.

A belligerent personality, with a voice brimming with narcissistic self-confidence, could be heard from the entrance. "So you're telling me that the Britannians aren't satisfied enough with their concrete towers, and want to settle in a nice, idyllic Japanese house? Don't make me laugh. You didn't have to invade us for that."

"Hey, we're Shirou's friends! Don't tell us to leave, you- you nitwit!"

"Bastard!"

At this expletive, Shirou ran, bursting into the kitchen. He saw Rivalz and Shinji, face to face, staring each other down. Rivalz was desperately trying to keep up a strong resistance, but it was crumbling quickly. Shinji used the little height he had over Rivalz to intimidate Rivalz into a shrinking, nervous mess. Milly and Shirley stood behind Rivalz, but it was obvious that Shinji's emotional upsurge had prevented them from getting a word in edgewise. Nina cowered in a corner, holding her head in her hands.

Behind Shinji were Issei and Sakura, both attempting to calm Shinji down. Sakura timidly opened and closed her mouth every time it looked like Shinji would stop. Of course, she never got a chance. Issei kept trying to get between the two combatants, but Shinji kept pushing him away.

Saber, C.C., and Lelouch entered just as the scene played itself out.

Shinji escalated the situation. "Get out, now! I'm not going to repeat myself, Britannian filth-!" Rivalz instinctively flinched when Shinji raised his hand-

Rivalz fell, red pouring into his cheek.

That was shameful.

Yeah, he had provoked the guy.

But he made a pass at Milly.

That thought enabled Rivalz to stare back defiantly, almost ready to return the blow.

But he flinched when he saw that hand raised once more.

And Shinji promptly found his hand stopped in its return for another strike, wrenched painfully behind his back, being pushed by a force behind him into the wall.

"What- who?" He turned, and saw Shirou.

"They're my friends, Shinji. And I don't recall inviting you in."

"I'm sorry for that, we couldn't help but enter to chase out trespassers. You can tell the truth, Shirou. You're among friends here. How much did they pay you? Or is it a fad, to have an Eleven hang around like a dog? You never cared much about your pride." Shinji whispered, almost kindly, sympathetically.

Shirou stiffened, and unintentionally twisted Shinji's wrist. Even as Shinji clenched his muscles, Shirou spoke in a much harsher voice than he anticipated.

"They are my friends. I don't care what you say. Even if I'm Japanese, they've been true to me."

Truer than you've ever been. Shirou didn't say it or mean it, but Shinji heard it.

Shinji remained quiet for a few seconds. Then-

"So, you finally betrayed us. I thought so." He raised his voice. "You see, Sakura? Your senpai isn't one of us. Never was. He picked up these imbeciles as soon as he could leave us."

Sakura remained silent, but Shirou could tell that those words hurt her. "Shut up."

"Oh, so this is the new- no, the true Shirou. So high and mighty, asserting his dominance as a Britannian over us poor, idiotic Japanese- whoops, Elevens. Excuse me, sir. I think I'd like to leave." Shinji twisted, expecting to be released. He couldn't escape Shirou's grasp. He growled. "So, maybe you'd like to enslave me, just like this nation was?"

Shirou was frozen. He stared blankly at Shinji, unable to register that this was actually happening-

I'm no better.

I never was any better than a murderer.

How am I better than those that enslaved us?

"Shirou-senpai, please. Please, let my brother go." Those gentle words came from an even gentler girl.

"You bitch. I don't need your help!" Shinji bucked and thrashed as best as he could, but Shirou remained like steel. "Damn you, Shirou! Damn you to hell! Notare jine!"

Shirou's grip tightened at the Japanese curse. Then, Sakura's voice came from behind him.

"Senpai, it's fine." Her hands took Shirou's, the cool touch loosening his grip on Shinji's left arm pinned behind his back, and removing Shirou's arm pressed against Shinji's upper back, which had locked Shinji against the wall. Shinji quickly twisted away from a blank Shirou.

"Thank you, sir." He turned to Sakura. "Come on. We're leaving this place."

Now, it was Sakura's turn to freeze.

She shied away as she spoke. "I- I'm staying here. I want to talk to Shirou-senpai."

Shinji almost lunged forward, but he saw Shirou step forward. "Sakura, you're not staying with this traitor."

She shook her head. "I'm staying."

Shinji snarled. However, he recognized that he couldn't do anything now. He looked at Issei.

"Ryuudou, let's go-"

Issei just narrowed his eyes, and shook his head.

"Fine! Fine, I'll just go! I'll-" Shinji choked on his words, his anger finally catching up to him. He opened and closed his mouth a few times, then turned and stormed out of the room. The opening and slamming of a screen signaled his exit.

The room was preserved in a shocked silence.

Everyone's thoughts were on Shirou, on the person that they had waited for news of so eagerly. They sympathized with his conflict, thought they understood his conflict.

But only the new acquaintances thought differently.

Lelouch's associate was trying to read Shirou, to understand what this new Master was doing.

Shirou's companion in arms was the only one who understood what he was going through.

Shirou … To emerge from one conflict and to enter into another is terrible. But to find the people you were fighting for thinking you are the enemy … Perhaps that is the worst experience a knight can have. This is the first step to becoming disillusioned. My Master needs rest. He cannot take any further disturbances.

Saber's thoughts were interrupted by-

"Hey, Shirou! Why didn't you tell me you were having a party?"

Everyone turned to the new arrival.

Sakura's quiet voice answered her. "Shirou just arrived, Fujimura-sensei."

"Shirou! Geez, coming home at a time like this -!"

And suddenly-

Ah! Fuji-nee!

A brutal force started shaking me. Almost as if a tiger had pounced, a force of nature that was unstoppable and infinitely energetic. I was surprised, so surprised that Shinji's words were chased out of my mind.

"Ma'am." Lelouch leaned against the wall, coolly addressing the Japanese lady. "Shirou's been through quite a bit-"

The animated character before them ignored Lelouch's words completely, but they drew her attention. "You-?"

Recognition flashed briefly across the smiling face, and vanished as quickly as it came. "Do- Do I know you?"

Lelouch shook his head. "I don't think so. We're from Ashford-"

The doubt disappeared from newcomer's face. "So you're Shirou's friends from Ashford, right? It's about time we met!" She happily introduced herself and let go of Shirou. "I'm Fujimura Taiga- I mean, Ms. Taiga Fujimura. Please, call me Ms. Fujimura. I'm Shirou's guardian." Her short hair and rambunctious tiger shirt complemented her loud personality. "Hey, you guys! Introduce yourselves as well!"

Issei appeared to be taken aback, but he recovered quickly. "Hm. I suppose it's my turn. I'm Ryuudou Issei, a neighborhood friend of Emiya's." He straightened his glasses and shifted his hair out of his eyes. His hairstyle did look a bit like Lelouch's, but he was evidently an Eleven. Still, a dispassionate, cool expression conveyed a confidence uncommon to Elevens. This was the confidence of being oppressed, not defeated. The Japanese never lost the war, only a few battles and a treaty that ensured a coward's peace. They knew that their time as a free nation was still in their hearts and minds. And their reclamation would come. "A pleasure."

"H-Hi." Sakura bowed respectfully, her purple hair hiding her eyes from the visitors. "I'm Matou Sakura- Oh, I mean, Sakura Matou. It's very nice to meet you."

Taiga looked curiously at Sakura. "Hey, where's Shinji, Sakura-chan?"

An uncomfortable silence filled the room once again, which was interrupted by two voices.

"He went home."

"Guts!"

The shout of an imaginary spell came almost immediately after Sakura finished speaking. Despite being completely nonsensical to half the room, it had the desired effect of drawing everyone's attention to a certain busty, tall blonde.

"We should introduce ourselves as well! I'm Milly! So this is the mysterious side of Shirou's life, isn't it? Huh, I guess we're pretty mysterious as well." She looked pointedly at Rivalz, who coughed out his embarrassment.

"Hey, I'm Rivalz! Nice to meetcha as well!" As soon as Rivalz spoke, the awkward introduction of their president wore off, and the Student Council followed suit.

"Hi, I'm Shirley, Shirley Fenette!"

"Oh, I-I'm Nina."

"Lelouch Lamperouge."

With every introduction of a female from Ashford Academy, Taiga's face fell lower and lower, until she was almost scowling at Shirou. Shirou almost cringed.

Words would not be able to describe what Fuji-nee is thinking. It's a dangerous expression on her face right now.

This went unnoticed as everyone turned to the girls beside Shirou and Lelouch. C.C. and Saber hesitated, until Saber motioned to C.C. to speak first.

"C.C."

"Saber."

The contrast between loneliness and solitude.

They had experienced the wealth of life, one with immortality, the other power and legend.

They found it wanting.

Loneliness is a terrifying word. The implications of illusion, of disguising the pain of being without. It is imposed by the presence of others.

Solitude is absolute glory in absolute independence. It is chosen.

Which of the two did they experience?

Their simple introductions left no room for reply. The silence firmly established their separation from any aspect of normalcy-

"Well, we're glad you were all able to come! Now, as president of the Ashford Academy Student Council, I declare this event to have officially begun! All guests are welcome to participate!"

Somehow, solitude or loneliness seemed preferable to normalcy.

Milly looked around, the passive, expectant gazes on her quickly turning away.

This was the most difficult part to get around, the awkwardness of bringing together two radically different groups together, tied together by only one person. Shirou.

And she had forgotten to mention what the event was.

Lelouch coolly watched Milly's composure slip ever so slowly. Milly seemed impulsive to those who first met her, but Lelouch understood the mechanics of charisma. The first step was going up and baring yourself to the audience. The connection is made by sacrificing some dignity, to reveal a portion of who you are, or to reveal a hesitancy under the mask of human interaction. Then, you hope people sympathize with you. To honor that sacrifice, the baring of a desire for contact. The task is made easier by common interest, yet in all, the fundamental offering is the same.

But there is an alternative. Becoming invulnerable to whatever judgments others may come to have about you. The first way is not to care. The second is ascending your mask to become all that you are, all that you want others to see.

All I want people to see is Nunnally smiling.

Before that … A sacrifice, to show all that I want to show.

Zero.

With that, Lelouch decided to help Milly. After all, if there was someone who deserved sympathy …

"I believe you forgot to mention what this event is, Milly."

Relieved, Milly clapped her hands together. "Right, Lelouch! We're going to cook and feast the night away to celebrate the beginning of the school year!"

At the mention of food, Taiga immediately jumped on board.

"I agree! Food is essential to life! I knew Shirou would become friends with good people!" Apparently, anyone who would cook for Taiga was a good person.

With the two outgoing forces up and ready, an unstoppable vehicle aimed at uniting the two groups was set in motion. And just like that, a common basis was made on Milly's sacrifice, for a firm friendship between the two parties.

"We're agreed, then! To the kitchen!"

She pulled Shirley and Nina up, and grabbed Sakura as well. It was an effective tactic, herding together the girls from the guys to get whatever juicy information Milly could out of Shirou's friends.

C.C. and Saber began to follow their charges, but Milly dragged them to the girl's group.

"Come on, you can hang out with the guys later! It's girl time now!"

C.C. shrugged, and simply complied, but Saber hesitated, looking at Shirou. Shirou nodded.

Well, well. She's quite obedient to Shirou. I never expected Shirou to be that sort of guy, or Saber to be that sort of girl. I am going to tease him so much about it. Milly was dying of happiness on the inside. She finally had something on Shirou.

It was traditional for the Student Council to split up by gender when preparing one of their Milly-sanctioned dinners. Originally, it was to prevent Lelouch and Shirou's culinary expertise from overwhelming the girls' attempts at cooking. Now, it was to prevent the guys from hearing all of the gossip that was exchanged about sensitive information that required the utmost attention.

Shirley began checking out her competition. "So, C.C.. That's an unusual name and- ah- hair you have."

"It's natural. And from the homeland, this is a natural hair color."

"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to-"

Yes, you did. "It's not a problem."

Shirley sighed in relief. "So, how'd you meet Lelouch? Did you just meet him? Are you-"

This girl is quite inquisitive. The memory ran through, of a young Lelouch and Suzaku watching the battle unfold over Mount Fuji. "I knew him seven years ago. I ran into Lelouch recently. He made a promise about our future together."

"Wha-!" Shirley couldn't believe it. It- that- "Lelouch wouldn't-"

"I wouldn't what, Shirley?" Lelouch's voice drifted from across the kitchen.

"Lelouch, our promise."

"-!"

Laughs from Rivalz wafted through the divider between the two sides of the kitchen.

"Can't wiggle out of this one, Lelouch!"

Shirley didn't say anything. She seemed like she was in shock.

"C.C., it does seem uncharacteristic for Lelouch." Milly could usually tell when one girl was teasing another. Before, she was uncertain. C.C. was completely unreadable. Now, Milly could tell something was off. It was girls like these that she disliked, girls who were like her in gathering all of those tasty tidbits across campus, but used them the wrong way.

But that didn't make any sense. C.C. didn't even know Shirley. And it would make sense for Lelouch to introduce his girlfriend sometime in a Student Council event, much less awkward than bringing her to class or something. And it was decently high profile, too.

Still, poor Shirley. She had known Lelouch since-

Well, if time was the deciding factor here, C.C. had him by rights. She knew him since they were children, apparently.

And she was wearing his clothes-

Huh?

"Well, the situation required a speedy decision." C.C. became cautious, wording her statements carefully. Milly was a sharp lady. "I-"

"C.C., are those Lelouch's clothes?" Milly went straight to the point.

C.C. inspected herself. "Yes, I suppose so."

Sakura covered her mouth. She found this talk easygoing, carefree, yet … downright indecent.

Shirley's reaction was similarly tame. There wasn't much she could do or say. Lelouch finally made a move on a girl. She had never known he liked that sort of girl.

I guess I'll never know what it's like being liked by him.

I'll put a smile on, then.

"W-Well, I guess we'll be seeing you with Lelouch a lot, huh?"

C.C. realized that she had made a mistake. She took the joke too far. But this … this was a situation she had never handled before.

She specialized in destroying minds. She was transformed into a conduit for transferring the horrors of consciousness. This was out of her expertise.

The Code disqualified her from being a member of humanity.

But …

Curious.

She was willing to try to repair the damage.

"A-Ah, Shirley. I think you have the wrong impression. It's not like Lelouch and I are- are in a relationship. We're just friends. I wanted him to promise that he'd continue that friendship."

The right amount of stuttering. The right words. No lies.

Am I not human because I calculated this? Or am I human because I tried?

Shirley was visibly relieved. "I'm sorry for misunderstanding."

"Well, I'm glad we cleared that all up!" Milly grabbed the ingredients for the side dishes. "C'mon, the guys have a huge head start over us! Let's go!"

"Wonder how the girls are doing, eh, Lelouch?"

"Can't talk, Rivalz. I'm putting the sauce on the seabass."

Shirou sighed. "Lelouch, that's not a difficult task for someone of your skill."

"Ow." Issei sucked on his finger. "I don't think I'm exactly cut out for this cooking thing."

"Well, guys, I'm sure the girls are gossiping amongst themselves, so let's counter them with some of our own guy talk!" Rivalz sat down next Issei and watched to Shirou and Lelouch, who were frantically preparing the main courses.

Shirou quickly checked the main living room, where Fuji-nee was snoozing quietly. She was completely out.

"Rivalz, Fuji-nee would hurt us. Badly."

"So? We'll keep it quiet. So, Shirou …" Rivalz grinned maliciously. "What's up with Saber, hmm? We heard all about Lelouch's love life, now it's time for yours!"

"Rivalz, are you sure you're not gay? Is your affection for Milly just a sham?"

"Oh, come on, Shirou! I'm certainly not as fabulous as our viceroy! You can spill the beans, you're among men here!" Rivalz crossed his arms and continued his grin. "Out of all of us now, your love life is the most mysterious! It isn't everyday our two protagonists of this drama called life have mysterious girls accompany them! So spill! Saber's certainly very pretty, but she's a little young for your age, isn't she?" He suddenly peered at Shirou's face, waiting to catch his reaction.

Shirou had to stop cooking and turned away. His face went completely red. He coughed, trying to hide his face.

"Oooh, man! So she is younger than us! Our epitome of moral character, succumbing to a nubile, cute-"

"It's not like that, Rivalz." Shirou looked nervously at Taiga. Her breathing still was that of one slumbering. "Besides, at the very least, she's-"

14? 13? She could even be 12 years old, if you went by Britannian growth rates. She was easily the shortest girl in the room, and … somewhat underdeveloped.

"Shirou, at most, she's 15 years old." Lelouch's dispassionate face barely hid a smoldering mirth.

…

"Crap."

The laughter filled the room. They were, for the most part, at the age of 17. Shirou was almost 17, but for some reason, Rivalz and Lelouch still held him at their age.

"Guys, look. She's just a friend."

"Friend, hm? Well, Shirou, I wonder what you would do with someone you would consider your girlfriend." Lelouch finally smiled at Shirou's astonishment.

"What- what do you mean?"

"Milly gives hints."

"-!" Shirou turned back to his pot and stirred it furiously. Of course, Milly would tell her second in command about any newcomers to campus. She wouldn't tell the "truth" of Saber's "nobility," but she would leave morsels of gossip for others to find. Gossip this sensitive, though, would only go to someone she could trust to be quiet.

Hence, Lelouch probably knew about the state of Saber's perceived arrival in Ashford Academy as-

As a noble girl who "slept" with me?

Shirou flushed once more, to the delight of Rivalz.

"Lelouch! What'd Milly tell you? Awww, I promise I won't tell!"

Shirou grumbled in frustration. "Issei, please back me up here. I'm not-"

"Shirou, she is a bit young for you to be going out with her alone."

"Issei, we haven't been alone together at all! What-"

"Well, you were at Shinjuku with her, right?"

Shinjuku. Right.

"Hey, yeah! What happened in Shinjuku, Shirou?"

Shirou sighed, hesitant to answer Rivalz's question with the full truth. "… I tried to help people."

"Oh, that's cool! So Saber wanted to help? I guess she is interested in you, huh? I mean, I would have taken her somewhere nicer, but-"

The atmosphere of the room grew chilly for a moment. Shirou glared at Rivalz. The hard, gold gleam in his eyes caused Rivalz to quiet down.

"Well, I- I guess those people needed help, too …" Rivalz's apologetic expression turned back to his normal, energetic self quite quickly. "So- Um- How'd you two meet?"

"Well … I ran into her, and she wanted me-"

"Oooh, I see. She asked you out!"

"I- what? No, don't leap to assumptions like that!"

Lelouch could see where this was going. He nudged Issei, and whispered, "Watch a master at work."

Rivalz was back in his field, and perhaps was taking it a bit too far, but he wanted to bring the conversation far from the seriousness that just occurred. "Well, so you asked her out?"

"No-"

"Then was it mutual? Love at first sight?"

"It's nothing like- We're not in a relationship-"

"Oh, I know. She appeared to you like an angel, and you couldn't help but be her hero. She saves you from your forever serious situation, some major malfunction. But you have to repay the debt, because she's a lady. So you sweep her off her feet with your typical 'Hero of Justice' antics. And the bond is formed, you caress her in your arms like the conquering hero! And love blossoms, and you take her to bed, and-" Rivalz stopped. "Um, Shirou?"

Shirou paled. The ladle he was stirring with was still.

Lelouch and Issei watched the subject of the master's ministrations remain motionless.

"Shirou, I was just kidding. It didn't happen like that, right? You're Shirou! You're the one who berates us about being like chivalrous heroes! That didn't happen!" Rivalz couldn't believe it. "Did it?"

Shirou remained silent.

"Shirou, we're going to have a long talk after this dinner."

…

Fuji-nee!

"Saber."

Saber looked up from the carrots she was chopping. She had already gone through two cutting boards, and almost through a third.

"C.C.."

"We should talk."

"… Agreed, False Master."

The sides of C.C.'s mouth turned upwards in a semblance of a smile. "That brings back memories, Ruler-chan."

"Do you wish to test your immortality today?"

"Only if you want to test your sanity."

Saber thudded the knife down, embedding it in the wood of the cutting board. Only the outer edges remained. The splinters were spread across the counter. "Outside?"

"Just in the hall. You'd probably want to get away from that knife. You're certainly no Shiki." The words flew out of C.C.'s mouth, before she could think about them. She realized that she mentioned Shiki. She shook off the melancholy, which surprised her with its strength. Shiki's gone.

Saber looked at the knife and the small pile of cutting-board kindling, somewhat embarrassed. "I will repay Shirou."

"I'm certain you will, tonight." C.C. smirked, as the double entendre completely flew over Saber's head.

They walked past the spectacle with Milly showering Sakura and Shirley with water from the faucet.

"I'm surprised that they didn't inquire about your relationship with your Master."

Saber looked inquiringly at C.C.. "Relationship?"

C.C. shook her head. "… It's not important."

They entered the hall, dark and wooden, illuminated only by the light from the kitchen festivities.

"So, Saber. I supposed we'll be working together soon."

Saber's reaction to this was surprisingly protective. "… Are you offering your contract again? Shirou is not Kiritsugu. He is not a fit candidate for the power of Kings. He would accept it without hesitation, and become like-"

"Mao. Fine."

"Mao?"

C.C. sighed. "Another Immortal repeated the mistake of Berserker's Master."

Saber stayed silent, then she exhaled. "That is a problem."

"I would think so. A lot had happened since the last War. The Fourth War has made Britannia much more prepared for Servants. Even if we work together, I don't think we can win this."

Even in the dark, Saber could tell something was wrong with C.C.. "What did you see?"

The Immortal imitated the darkness, vague and muted. I can't say. I don't think I can. "Call it a hunch."

Saber opened her mouth, about to reply, but Milly's voice pulled their attention.

"Saber! C.C.! Time for dinner!"

"I smell pizza."

"…"

Milly was all over the room, inspecting each dish in awe. "Wow, guys! You sure outdid yourselves!"

"Woooooaaaah!" Taiga's jaw dropped, before she picked it up and started clapping happily.

The table was filled with Japanese and Britannian cuisine, and quite a few in between. Shirou and Lelouch looked weary, with their aprons besmirched and besoiled, but they were satisfied with how the meal turned out.

Shirou glanced at Saber. Her expression appeared stoic as usual, but there was a gleam in her verdant eyes that he had never saw before. She was excited.

She's happy.

Shirou quickly tore his eyes away from Saber, hoping that Rivalz didn't notice. Unfortunately, Milly was nodding at him, smiling.

"Well, what're we waiting for? Let's eat!" Shirley grabbed a seat next to Lelouch. "C'mon, Lelouch! Sit down!"

Bemused, Lelouch obliged. Shirley was unusually blissful today, even more than her standard outgoing self.

Somehow, as Shirou finished running back and forth to and from the kitchen, the last seat open was next to Saber.

Milly and Rivalz smiled at each other, then at Shirou.

Honestly, I don't mind sitting next to Saber. But Milly and Rivalz are probably going to ask Saber certain questions, and she won't know how to answer them. What can I come up with? If I speak for Saber, they'll think- No, I won't even go there! She's way too young for that! It's a Master and Servant relationship, not- Oh, great.

It is that sort of relationship.

Then they better not find out.

What sort of screwed up War is this?

I'll let Saber do the talking. If they see how innocent she is, they're sure to-

"Shirou, you should eat."

Shirou blinked. Saber had tapped him on the shoulder, looking somewhat concerned. In her hands were a pair of chopsticks, and the other a small bowl of rice.

In a small bite, she munched on a clump of rice, chewing quietly.

Ah. She doesn't eat much.

That's adorable.

Wait.

Shirou looked around the table. Around Saber was a swath of cleaned plates and empty dishes.

"Saber, where did the food go?"

She looked curiously at Shirou.

"I ate my share at the table."

Usually, the Student Council's dinners were extravagant affairs, and this was no exception. Usually, the leftovers lasted them for two days straight.

A clean portion of each dish was taken, and the plates in front of Saber clean.

Food was evidently gone, but the consumer was still going strong with that small bowl of rice.

"This food is quite excellent, Shirou."

"… I'm glad you enjoyed it, Saber."

Shirou quickly grabbed his portion of the dishes. The Britannian food contrasted sharply with the Japanese cuisine, but the dishes were made to accommodate everyone. Besides, he enjoyed both.

He observed that nobody had noticed the vanished food. Everyone was trying to consume the prodigious amounts in front of them.

Saber was watching them.

"Saber, are you still hungry?"

She nodded. The look on her face … Shirou couldn't quite place it, but it was like a child asking for the most serious thing in the world to them, solemn and innocent. Food.

"Here." Shirou handed her a bowl of udon. Hopefully, the long noodles would occupy her until the others finished. Then, it would be fair for her to eat whatever was left, if she could.

Saber took it appreciatively. "Thank you."

"So, Saber!"

Saber turned her gaze from Shirou to Milly. "Yes, Milly?"

Strangely, Milly was in the same position as Rivalz, leaning forwards eagerly. Over her plate of Sunday roast, Milly's chest hovered precariously. "How do you like Area Eleven? It must be different from the homeland,"

"I have been here before, but every visit in Japan is a worthy experience." Saber looked at the udon. The steam was reducing in volume. She used her chopsticks to lift a strand up, but was interrupted.

"Yeah, I know! It's really nice here! We were wondering how you came here, and how you met Shirou!"

"Ah." Saber consumed the strand gracefully, and chewed thoughtfully.

I do not know what Shirou has told them, but I doubt he said much.

Milly knows the "truth." I believe that she's asking this to firmly establish my standing as a Kenway.

C.C.'s words echoed in her head. "I'm surprised that they didn't inquire about your relationship with your Master."

They are simply children.

The youth I never had. Though … I was once like this. Those days were full of bliss and dreams. Weren't they, Kay?

But now … What matters is bringing Shirou through to the next day. I will let him have this one last moment of innocence, before I draw him into the lonely battlefield.

"I wanted to escape the proceedings of my father's estate. Father's advisors are all squabbling over his assets, and I want nothing to do with it. My father conducted some business with Kiritsugu- ah, Shirou's father- some time before, and I simply enquired into the possibility of staying here." Simple, vague, and believable. Shirou gave me this opportunity to enjoy a part of his life. I will not inconvenience him because of that generosity.

"So you decided to stay with Shirou anyway, after hearing that Kiritsugu wasn't here? Why would you? You didn't even know Shirou!" Taiga burst out, spraying chicken bits about her plate.

"I trust Shirou."

With that, she closed her eyes for a moment and let herself smile gently, bowing her head slightly.

She was content. She had done something right by her master.

She had succeeded in creating a defense for her presence and her master's honor.

All of her movements were light, conveying nobility and grace.

I have protected my master's life, and have repaid him for this kindness.

That simple statement caused Shirou to stop eating and flush, Milly and Rivalz to almost fall into their food, and Shirley to quietly say "Awww …"

Sakura remained silent, as she did throughout the dinner.

Even Taiga was stunned. Then, her mouth opened and closed, like a fish's.

Then-

"You lived in the palace?"

Lelouch saw his opportunity. He would uncover this false noble's intentions. Even if she was far nobler than any noble he had ever seen.

"Yes." Saber instantly drew her guard. From her previous discussion with the tall boy, she knew he would be a threat to the story Milly cooked up for her.

"I'm surprised you came to Japan. You seem like a person who's capable of taking care of Lord Kenway's inheritance and responsibilities."

"I did not like handling his finances. The stresses of a noble's life, alone, were daunting as well."

"Of course." Lelouch went straight to the target. "I meant his responsibility to the Emperor's court. He was a trusted advisor of the Emperor, and despite his age, he served admirably until he died.

"I have great respect for your father. I'm just wondering why you didn't try to continue his duties, as is customary of a noble's heir." I still remember those days in Aries Villa, Lord Kenway discussing politics with my mother and father.

Saber, to her credit, did not pause in hesitation. "I did not find myself fit to attempt to fill so great a role. Perhaps in the future, but I believe only those fit to rule should."

"Fit. That's a … fitting word for the qualification, but I think you think too little of your skill." Lelouch crossed his hands. "There are too many nobles who try to hold the emperor's ear close for their interests. I think you're far more capable than the vast majority of them. I won't go into criticism, but I'll ask this: What would you think qualifies as fit?"

Saber took a moment to consider that question. "I believe the will to surrender your life for the nation is, first and foremost, among the qualities necessary to occupy a position of power. After this is courage, valor, and honor. To serve, one must be able to understand and respect the value of his fellow servants to the nation."

Lelouch raised an eyebrow. "You give these virtues much credit, Saber. I would say that intellect and power would be the qualifications to be fit first, followed by these virtues. Even an intelligent ruler without such values would serve his nation better than a ruler with only these values, because it still serves the intelligent ruler to protect his subjects. Good intentions without guidance pave a dangerous road to oppression."

For a moment, Saber felt a sliver of regret and anger in her, but dismissed it. "Good intentions may pave the road to such a hell, but it is better to build a kingdom on these than to have a kingdom stand on intellect and might alone. A kingdom is built on the ideals that its leaders stand for. If the leader is good and just, then the nation's people will be motivated by such good sentiments.

She spread her hands wide. "What ideals could be the basis for good service to the kingdom, if the leader holds the opposite ideals for such service? I believe what you qualify as fit comes with the will to serve."

She sighed, and took the plunge. "These morals are not something acquired when convenient, or disposed of when they do not lead to the most intelligent course of action. Instead, I believe that a ruler must remain forever faithful to these morals, and let the blessings and curses come as they may. Seek the Kingdom righteously above all else, and all of these talents will be given as well." [1]

Lelouch's surprise appeared, and vanished. "That's from the Christian Bible, right? Well, I suppose it applies, if you believe in a 'higher power.' I have to disagree, though. People who are capable by my definition-"

Here, Lelouch gestured towards himself. "-would have no reason to listen to those fit by yours. They would take what they want. If you believe in a guiding force for these morals, so be it. But I haven't seen that force.

At all.

"I just have two more questions. If you define fit as such, then why do you think you're unfit? And do you think our emperor is fit, then?"

Saber, after following Lelouch's argument, was briefly taken aback. "I …

I am unfit.

"I am unfit to take my father's position because I am not willing enough to part with my life. Right now, I have other concerns to safeguard. My obligation to my duties as-

A Servant.

"-a-"

A fallen king.

She ceased midsentence. "I apologize. I am not ready to answer that question yet. But as to your question about the emperor, he will be judged when it is his time to be judged. I am in no position to say."

"I see. I'm sorry for putting you in such an uncomfortable situation, Saber." Lelouch found himself actually … admiring this young lady. It was a long time since he had experienced that feeling.

"No, thank you. I appreciated this conversation, Lelouch." Saber looked around the room, and found everyone transfixed.

Alas, the udon is cool now.

11 August 2017 a.t.b., 2008 hours

The rest of the dinner had passed quickly.

The last conversations were subdued, simple queries on "How was your day?" or "What do you think of so-and-so?" It was simple, it was normal.

Shirou stood at the door, playing the gracious host as much as he could with Fujimura Taiga over his shoulder.

"Goodbye, and thank you for coming over." He bowed formally, before-

That force again.

Taiga clapped him on the back, almost making him stumble.

"Yes, please do come again! Thank you, thank you! Have a good night!" She guided the two parties outside, smiling gleefully. "Yes, it certainly was fun! Goodbye!"

"Yes, Ms. Fuji-

Taiga slammed the door of the Emiya residence before Milly could finish.

"-mura."

Milly was somewhat off-put, but she recovered quickly.

"Well, guys! The Student Council Dinner is officially over! Time to go home!"

Taiga locked the door, muffling Milly's fading voice of exclamations and plans for the next dinner.

A growl rumbled through the tiger's throat. "Shirou …"

Shirou gulped. This was bad.

At least Saber was here to protect him.

Taiga turned to follow Shirou's gaze.

"Eeehhhhhhh! What are you still doing here? I thought I sent you home with those Ashford students!"

Saber returned Taiga's confrontation coolly.

"I am staying with Shirou."

…

The tiger roared. She pivoted and grabbed Shirou's arms, trying to rattle his body and shake some sense into the girl-crazed boy.

"When did you become like this? I knew that it was a mistake to allow you into a Britannian school!"

"Fuji-nee-"

"I should have dragged you to high school! There, I would've been able to watch your indecent impulses! What was with that blonde- that Milly? It- Those were enormous! You- you letch!"

"But-"

"No buts! And that other girl, Shirley! And those skirts, those look like something you'd find on the- the- the red light district! Those Britannians have no sense of modesty. And this girl, Saber! She's staying here! With you! This is unbelievable!" Taiga took a deep breath before continuing her tirade.

"What's going on? So, what do you have to say for yourself- Eh?" Fujimura Taiga found her arms encased in the grip of Saber's hands.

"Please let go of Shirou." Saber took a sharp intake of air. Her hands complained with an electric coursing through her nerves. The only indication of pain was the subtle clenching of her jaw. She pulled despite it, and removed Taiga's hands forcefully.

A brutal urge burst into Saber's hands, and it took all of Saber's mental fortitude to suppress it.

Still, her hands were like vices. Taiga flinched.

"Saber, it's alright." Shirou gently pulled at Saber's wrists, and she released Fuji-nee. Fuji-nee looked alarmed.

"Shirou, who is this girl? First, I hear that you're running around in Shinjuku, and now you've brought a girl back! Sakura-chan was so worried-"

"Fuji-nee, Saber told you who she was. Her father knew Kiritsugu."

"I don't buy that! Somehow, you bring a girl home after you just met her? You know what sort of girl does that! And how old is she anyway? She doesn't even look like she hit puberty yet! Nope, she's not staying here!"

"Fuji-nee, you're overreacting."

"No, I'm not! Shirou, I'm your guardian! I won't let you engage in irresponsible behavior!"

Saber stepped forward, looking up at Taiga squarely in the eye. "Ms. Fujimura, is there any way I can convince you of my honor?"

"Nope." Taiga raised her head in a superior fashion, crossing her arms and looking down on Saber.

She tried to hold Saber's regard, but Taiga could only sustain the king's eyes for a few seconds.

For a moment, Taiga felt fear. Who is this girl?

Suddenly, Taiga beamed. "A duel! We'll have a duel!

The dojo was host to the hostilities between the teacher and the Servant.

The eyes of the combatants were locked on each other.

Taiga held her guard low, smiling. She was taller than her opponent, and she was Japanese. A Britannian would have no idea how to wield a shinai. [8] She would send Shirou's object of lust to the pavement outside, with a few bruises to boot.

She was going to enjoy this.

And afterwards, she would teach Shirou how to properly pick a girl. With her shinai, a replica of her tournament sword, if she could help it. The warm wood in her hands fired up her confidence above her natural levels. The wooden length was her instrument of instruction.

"Are you ready to face Fujimura Taiga, the-"

"The Tiger of Fuyuki, Fuji-nee? I'm telling you, this is a bad idea!" Shirou shouted from the sidelines.

"Don't call me Tiger! Prepare yourself, Saber!"

She charged, even before Saber lifted her own weapon.

Too slow!

After her first step, she had already raised her shinai above her head.

Her second step brought her within striking range.

"Kyaaaaa!"

That girl still hasn't drawn her weapon! All she did was shift her-

Taiga struck in an arc at air.

Eeehhhh?

Tap.

She felt the other shinai touch her head.

She spun around, her guard up once again.

Saber was standing in front of her.

"Haa!"

Taiga swung at Saber, and she was able to see her step back, just enough to avoid the tip of Taiga's shinai.

Tap.

Saber's shinai touched Taiga's stomach.

And Saber had disappeared.

What?

Taiga looked to her left. Saber was nowhere to be seen.

How?

To her right, there was nothing.

Behind-!

She spun around, her shinai outstretched in a backwards stroke.

Tap. Tap. Tap.

Wham.

Tap.

B-but, how?

Shirou had never seen Saber's grace in combat. However, here she was in full splendor.

She was holding herself back, and Shirou could watch her defend herself at a natural speed.

She sidestepped the first two blows, which wasn't anything special.

Her counterattack was an example of technical art with the shinai.

She swung forward right as Taiga turned, touching her leg.

She twisted under the backstroke, stabbing lightly at Taiga's stomach again.

As the backstroke continued, a quick upward blow hit Taiga's left arm.

The sword changed directions, and came down on Taiga's shinai hard. Taiga's shinai flew out of her hand.

A final strike rapped Taiga on the head.

Fuji-nee wobbled, then fell to the ground, clutching the top of her head. "Owww."

Saber's shinai followed Taiga. The tip hovered before her face, the handle grasped by both of Saber's hands.

"Do you wish to continue?"

Taiga looked up, her eyes wide and tearful. She rapidly brought her head down, trembling.

Saber turned away and began walking towards Shirou.

Shirou didn't know what to say. Except-

"Saber!"

His alarmed voice caused her to pause.

"Kyaaaaa!"

Taiga had picked her shinai again and charged.

For a moment, he thought he saw Saber shiver.

She bowed her head. Then, she pivoted quickly.

An imperious, cold, clear voice rang out across the dojo.

"Coward."

Something was wrong. Shirou began running forward.

The full circle cut made by Saber was not of the grace she possessed just before. It was a brutal, murderous slash that was whipped into complete contact with Taiga's shinai.

The impact lifted Taiga off the ground for a full half second, before she landed on her feet, stumbling backwards until she was able to get steady again. She was now half the dojo's span away from Saber.

Taiga charged yet again.

Her feet pattered on the wooden floor, her shinai once more over her head, directed at the girl with a downcast head in front of her.

Saber's guard as completely lowered, her shinai touching the ground. Her eyes were shielded by the front of her hair as she stared at the floor.

The air changed, and the sound of the charge grew louder.

Striking distance achieved, Taiga brought her shinai down.

That was a strong hit, but I'm fighting for Shirou! I'll hit her for sure!

But she didn't. Her sword was stopped inches away from Saber's head.

In front of Saber, faintly to her side, was Shirou.

She looked at the length of her shinai. It was blocked by Shirou's forearm.

Saber was motionless, her shinai on the ground. Her hands were clenched in fists, shaking at her sides.

AN: Split up into two chapters, for ease of reading. May be edited sometime.