So in this I tried to work the plot and the relationship equally. I especially wanted the boys to reach a certain point before the meeting with the UFN. But well it's really more Lelouch/Gino centric. The next chapters will not have much of them so enjoy it here XD
Even though I said that I wouldn't update this as much, my muse had other ideas...
Warnings:A bit of touching and more kissing, nothing too explicit. And a massage that turns sensual
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Chapter four:
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Gino had woken to the teasing of one immortal witch and that had been more than embarrassing. When Lelouch stepped out of his bedroom, dressed for the day and as calm and collected as ever he didn't quite know how to behave. The Emperor wasn't at all surprised to see his accomplice and had endured her teasing without any response.
Gratefully he had then taken her with him to start his day and Gino was left alone to get himself together before going back to his own rooms to change and make himself ready for the day. He had first gone to the hangar taking his Tristan out for a flight which calmed him down and brought him back to focus.
While Suzaku was still undecided he and CC would continue to take over his duties and guard their Emperor with the occasional help of Gottwald. His refusal to accept the Zero Requiem and the following plan to change Lelouchs mind had finally made the cyborg accept him and they were now on good terms with each other.
It was only two hours later when he arrived at the Emperors office, only to find that Lelouch had not been idle since starting his day and he had quite a bit of work for him. Lelouch had decided to reorganise the military some more. The former numbers at the different bases should chose one person amongst them to speak for them and Lelouch would meet with those trying to find out how to better their lives in the military and searching for a way to let them quit if they so desired, as he knew from his time in Area 11 and through Suzaku that many only joined because it was the only way to be able to provide for their family. He wanted to give them all a new chance should they have another preferred job they would like to take up, that had before been out of their reach.
The ones deciding to stay would see even more change coming as Lelouch would let them try their hand at piloting, knowing that there may as well be hidden talents that had beforehand only served as canon fodder. His experience with Suzaku and Kallen had shown him that hidden talents could be found anywhere and was of the opinion that it was quite an oversight to not use talents where ever they might be found. Gino would then be tasked with overseeing these trainings and also to find instructors that would have no problem in teaching former numbers.
For this purpose he wanted to meet with the different selected leaders amongst the numbers, trying to get their insight and how to help them now that equality was possible. Gino would help sort through whatever they discovered while Lelouch started on his next project.
Lelouch was analysing the former areas more in depth to see which would likely want to leave Britannia as soon as possible and how to manage these things. Some of the first areas were so integrated into the Britannian system that it was quite unlikely that a separation was easy if even wanted. The most recent acquired territories would be the most simple ones and he was already working on a plan to give them back their country while simultaneously he would use some of these plans to get the UFN on his side.
All in all it was quite clear that Lelouch was already giving his all to his new path, working tirelessly every day to ensure that he would continue to show the world that he was changing Britannia for the better in time for the meeting with the UFN as that was still a most important point in their plans. Before, he had only done enough to get the UFN to agree to a meeting as nothing more was needed, now he was working on more than that.
With his new workload Gino was faced with, time alone with the Emperor had been quite short but he had insisted on always being with him at the end of the day and whenever Lelouch finally decided that he had done enough he moved behind him and worked out all the knots he had acquired over a long day in his office, not letting the other refuse and only stopping when he had a relaxed Emperor reclining in his chair and always ending it with a quick kiss either to the cheek or if he was daring capturing these lips for a brief moment that had overtaken his dreams. He had also learned during these days that work would always come first with Lelouch and now that he had to redo so many of his plans he certainly wasn't inclined to do anything else as time was already short.
It was on the third day after the changing in course that Suzaku had finally come to a decision and Gino refused to let Lelouch go alone to meet his friend, knowing that the Japanese still was the one that might be able to turn him around again and if not that, he surely was the one that could hurt him with a few words. For changing his mind, breaking his promise and everything else that Suzaku liked to blame on Lelouch. He would not allow him to destroy all that he and CC had done in the last days but he also knew that the continued silence of the Knight of Zero was eating away at Lelouch. So he would accompany him and would interrupt if needed but he really hoped that by the end of the day everything would not be for naught.
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Gino was walking with Lelouch back to his quarters and he was trying hard to not show his concern. They were coming directly from the confrontation between the former friends and as feared, Suzaku had had quite a few choice words to say to the Emperor but to his relief Lelouch had kept himself in check not raising to the bait and being more friendly and understandable than he would have been in this situation.
But despite handling it beautifully as soon as they left the cells with orders to let the Knight of Zero out he could see that the meeting had left its mark on Lelouch. Despite everything he still just cared way too much about his friend and his refusal to accept him as Emperor without the Zero Requiem in the future clearly hurt him. Suzaku had decided to stay until the unavoidable confrontation with Schneizel as he still wanted to help defeat the man responsible for the FLEJA and would then further decide but had already demanded that Lelouch find a way for him to leave his service without damaging either of them further, just in case.
Gino got further proof that Lelouch was quite clearly not okay when after arriving at his quarters he immediately poured himself something to drink and gulping it down in one go. Before he could refill he took the slender hand in his own, meeting the questioning gaze with a small smile.
"That's not a solution and you know it. Come, you should sleep, tomorrow will look better."
The answer he received showed him that he had been able to gain the trust of the other in the last days. "I don't think I can sleep."
"I will help you, come on."
Despite some small protesting he didn't let go of the hand and pulled the Emperor into his bedroom, directing him to his bed without letting go of him. Getting him to lie down how he needed took a little more persuasion but he finally got Lelouch to lie on his stomach and sat down beside him and immediately got down to work. While he would have preferred to work without clothing between them it was still easier to massage the tension out when he had more room to work with.
Despite his grumblings Lelouch soon relaxed into the ministrations and he couldn't stop himself from smiling down at him while he continued to work out knots at the lower back that had until now been out of reach.
"Should you ever decide to change work I now know what you should do."
"Glad that you think me skilful enough for that, but I prefer doing this only for certain individuals."
"You certainly seem to have quite the experience." It was clear from his voice that Lelouch was already getting sleepy.
"Not as much as you may think, but I like doing it. It's not only soothing for the recipient, it soothes me too."
"Hm… which would probably not be the case if you would do it professional."
"See, one more reason why I should stay a Knight, it's really the only place for me, especially now that I have such a great Emperor."
"Flatterer."
"Of course! Now relax and try to sleep."
It didn't take long before his breathing evened out and became deeper. Despite the fact that his mind had probably been in turmoil, the now familiar motions helped calm him down and settled his thoughts despite everything. Unbeknownst to him, he had managed in a few short days what no one had ever been able to do. Finding a way to help Lelouch shut down his mind for once, enabling him to be better rested for work on the next day.
Gino gazed down at the person he had come to respect so much. Hoping that tomorrow would really look better and vowing to himself to look out for the Emperor now that Suzaku would roam free again. All the changes and plans that he had seen Lelouch come up with in the last days had only further shown him that it had been the right decision in following him and changing his mind. Suzaku had had his own agenda which made it doubly hard for him to accept the change in course but all the others also had an interest in the survival of Britannia and Emperor Lelouch would be the one to bring their country to new glory not build on discrimination and the exploiting of others.
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Reintegrating Suzaku into his life had proven more difficult than anticipated. His friend refused to go back to his position as his right-hand so that Gino, CC and Gottwald stayed with him throughout the day but at the same time Suzaku wanted to be in the know about everything he was doing and every new change he brought to Britannia. All this made for quite a strained working atmosphere that didn't really help matters along.
Lelouch couldn't contain a sigh when he also received word that Suzaku had even changed his behaviour around Lloyd and his assistant, despite Cecile at least trying to make him understand why they had seemingly turned from their favourite pilot. But for now he couldn't change that as it had to come from Suzaku himself.
They were a few plans he had come up with that might suit Suzaku once and if he decided to leave Britannia and himself and a few others should his friend still wish to be in a position that would allow him to keep an eye on Lelouch which he might want to do. And if he wanted a quiet life he was sure he could arrange it that Suzaku could go back to the Kururugi Shrine.
But for now he concentrated on the things he actually could plan and work out, like trying to find people in the former areas that could help him in the rebuilding and that might overtake the governing should they decide to cut ties with Britannia and would actually work for the people and not for themselves. It meant finding the hidden people that worked from the shadows like Kyōto House had done in Japan. These were the people best fitted to oversee the change in ruling and may take over the governing in the beginning.
He also searched for survivors with important names that had weight in the different areas, like Kururugi and Sumeragi were in Japan. His time as Zero helped him greatly in this prerogative as were certain informations the OSI had gathered over the years of people that 'had the potential to become a problem'. But he could not make any further moves on that for the moment as the Black Knights and the UFN would probably have a better chance of getting them out in the open. For now he did what he could to better the lives of the former numbers in the newly christened Special Zones.
A slight snoring brought him out of his thoughts and made him look at the time, which was already half past midnight and way too late to still be working but he had again lost track of time while he worked. Gino had spent the day working at one of the bases, instructing the former numbers in Knightmare simulators and working them to the bone. He had relieved CC from her guarding duties around dinner time and had gleefully told him how utterly exhausted all these soldiers were when he was done with them.
Seeing the blond so cheerfully happy had made him smile. While it still astounded him how quickly he had opened up to the younger he couldn't bring himself to regret it. CC had shared quite a few secrets with Gino that he normally wouldn't have shared, thus giving the other quite a good understanding of who he was, which made it easier to let his guard down around him. Additionally CC had been quite adamant that he should enjoy life a bit more and seemed to think that doing so with Gino was a good idea.
Seeing her smile much more in the last days had also strengthened his resolve to stay on this new path they wanted and he couldn't find it in him to be angry with her when she seemed to find so much joy in teasing him. Not that he showed these thoughts to her and didn't always make sure that he had an appropriate retort for her.
Another small snore made him realise that he had once again forgotten himself in his own thoughts and he stood up with a groan, stretching his body. He really had become accustomed to his daily massages and as comfortable as his office chair was, sitting in there all day long was still too much.
He walked over to the Knight that had slumped back in the armchair in a position that seemed quite uncomfortable and it only took a slight shake of the shoulder for the other to jump up, looking around for any danger.
Gino was pulled from his perusal of the room by the chuckles of Lelouch and couldn't help but blush slightly. He shouldn't have fallen asleep like that! It had been his duty to guard Lelouch until he retired for the evening and he had slept! That was inexcusable, he should never have allowed himself to get that comfortable.
Lelouch was actually surprised when Gino went down on one knee, apologising profusely for his oversight. The wicked thoughts coming to his mind due to that show of subservience were blamed entirely on CC. Really some of the things she teased him...
As answer he tipped the bowed head back up with his fingers, like he had done in the throne room when he first met with the Knight, it felt like it was already a lifetime ago as so much had happened since then. Contrary to that meeting he smiled down at the younger boy before leaning down at brushing their lips together. "There's nothing to forgive. Now come, it's quite late and if I stay much longer in this office I will just get lost in my own mind again."
With that he turned around already opening the door when the other finally got his bearings back and rushed to meet up with him. The walk to his quarters was spent in companionable silence and by the time they arrived, he was quite aware how tired he was.
"I still owe you your daily massage." Gino seemed to be over his own perceived mistake when he shot him a cocky grin which he met with a calculating one of his own.
"I have a better idea. I will be the one giving one, it's time for me to show you how much I appreciate those and see if I haven't learned a thing or two." The shocked look he got only made him laugh and he motioned the other over to the couch.
"Take off your shirt."
"What?"
"You heard me." He levelled a hard gaze on the other refusing to back down from that. He had an idea and he wanted to go through with that but needed skin for that. The other was clearly hesitant and confused but still did as told. Not reacting to the defined upper body of the Knight that was revealed to him was quite a challenge but thankfully Gino soon lay down, presenting his back to him.
He did hesitate for a few seconds before deciding that there was no reason why he shouldn't treat himself to some fun and with that he settled himself on top of the other gaining a surprised sound but he got right to work before the other could even think about a complaint or anything else.
His years of caring for her and overseeing Nunnallys medical treatment made reducing Gino into a completely relaxed state rather easy. But as he had far more in mind than a simple massage he slowly started to change his motions. He gave the broad shoulders a final squeeze before he let his fingers lightly trail down on either side of the spine before going back to something more along the lines of a massage using his thumps to put pressure at the same place and running them back up. When he reached the neck he splayed his fingers apart and let them run lightly over the shoulders and back down again.
The change had by now clearly registered n the relaxed mind of the other and he smirked at the slight tensing that had overtaken the muscles again but he didn't seem inclined to stop him so he started again with feather light touches that produced a content sigh. At this point it was good that Gino couldn't see the devious smirk that had settled itself onto his face and when he started to lightly run his fingertips down again he suddenly changed course again and brought his nails down a bit more, raking them down a few centimetres before softening the touch up again. It had not been enough to leave any marks but definitely strong enough to be felt.
This had gained him quite a surprised gasp and Gino was now trying to look back at him over his shoulder. His hands now lay at the base of his back and he calmly looked the other in the eye, letting him decide what to do. It had been a gamble but he was quite curious how the other would react. Whatever was going through his mind he didn't let it show and settled back down with a slight shake of his head not long after.
With that kind of acceptance Lelouch started up again, always with light touches before he used a bit of nails in irregular intervals and also integrating some massaging motions into it. It soon became clear that the other was tensing up more and apparently was trying to not make a sound which greatly amused Lelouch as he quite enjoyed playing and messing with the other. He was sure that at the end he would win.
It did only take a few minutes more and when he actually brought his nails down hard enough to leave red stripes down the back, Gino finally let out a groan. Containing his chuckles he leaned down, making sure to let the other feel his nails on his neck but without any real pressure before brushing his lips against the shell of the ear. "Sleep well."
With that he quickly got up and left the room to the frustrated grumbling that was coming from the other who had buried his face in the pillow that had before been deposited next to his head. Before he closed his bedroom door he thought he heard something like 'evil creature' and that only made him laugh.
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Gino had actually gone back to his rooms after that attack of Lelouch, thankful for the late hour and the deserted corridors as that meant no one seeing his slight problem that 'massage' had given him. The following shower had been most relieving.
It was during his walk back that he had decided to plan his own revenge on Lelouch. He never had been one to hesitate but had not been comfortable enough to make a bolder move until now. Lelouch was still the Emperor and that had been holding him back but now that the other had teased and played with him for a second time he was quite ready to make a move on his own. He may be in a difficult position, maintaining proper professional behaviour during the day and getting back at Lelouch at the same time was not so easy.
So during the next day he made sure to always brush against the other when in close proximity as inconspicuously as possible and Lelouch soon caught on and would always send him an amused smirk as answer.
While he had other duties to attend to during the day it was by now usual for him to have the evening alone with Lelouch until he retired from his office and the two of them were now working in peace on their respective papers or in case of Lelouch also switching to his laptop now and then.
When it grew closer to ten in the evening Gino was just finished with his latest stack of papers that dealt with the rearranging inside the military and integrating the new-found pilots into other departments. As it was late enough he packed his things up before moving over to Lelouch and stopping behind him.
Normally he would have just laid his hands on the others shoulders to bring him back to reality but today he actually embraced him. Lelouch didn't even react to the change in routine and continued his work until he reached a good stopping point and then settled back into his chair with a sigh. Gino wasn't sure if he should be surprised that Lelouch was acting like he did in the last days and not like he had changed his approach completely. But for now he just settled himself against the Emperor more comfortable, enjoying the close proximity.
"Time to retire, I assume?"
Gino just hummed an affirmative while gently tightening the hug.
"That would require you letting go of me." was Lelouchs reply.
"And if I don't want to?"
"That could be problem, on the other hand I could just order you to."
"You take out all the fun."
They shared a quiet laugh at that before settling into a comfortable silence. At one point Gino withdrew and started the familiar motions of kneading the shoulders of the Emperor.
But he didn't stay in known territory for long before he leaned down and started laying small, barely there kisses onto Lelouchs throat while he let his hands travel down the arms and from there up again before moving them forwards down Lelouchs front before settling them back down on his shoulders.
When the other made no move to stop him he grew bolder in his exploration and even licked the length of his neck before nipping at the ear with his lips which gained him a small gasp. Encouraged by the noise he let his wandering hands brush more firmly against the body underneath.
He had clearly not understood how much self-control the other had as the small gasp was still the only reaction he had gotten despite everything. After another few minutes where Lelouchs breathing got faster but was otherwise silent he admitted defeat and retreated back and then moved around the chair.
Without hesitation he crushed their lips together and immediately invaded the others mouth with his tongue. The instant reciprocation of Lelouch showed him that he had been affected by everything and they enjoyed a dance of giving and taking before separating due to the need to breath. They rested their foreheads together and just stayed like this for some time.
Eventually Gino withdrew completely offering his hand to his Emperor and pulled him out of his chair when it was grasped. He was treated to a rare genuine smile before they started their way to Lelouchs quarters.
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During the next week Gino and Lelouch explored their attraction to one another in the limited time they had. One evening Lelouch even invited the Knight to dinner in his own rooms were they shared stories about themselves, revealing small details about their childhood while both were careful to not stray into the darker parts of their pasts. It was like a date that ended with them settling back onto the couch, leaning against each other and continuing their talking.
Lelouch often caught a small happy smile on CC's lips when she watched them.
But good things never lasted long in his life and while Lelouch had done his utmost to flush out his opponents they were still able to make a valiant assassination attempt.
He had been on his way to one of the nearby bases to personally oversee the changes and talk to some of the former numbers and to meet with their selected spokesperson to see if the Britannians behaved after all the changes.
The attack on the car on the route had fortunately not been planned too well but they had still managed to at least turn it upside down and while Suzaku in his Lancelot had instantly pursued the attackers, Gino had moved his Tristan into a guarding position. As soon as Gino had gotten the all clear from the Japanese he had left the Tristan and gotten Lelouch out of the car and brought him back to Pendragon.
While not gaining a real injury he had banged his head quite heavily when the car flipped and had been knocked out, the doctors diagnosed a concussion but beside that he was alright. Now they just had to wait for him to wake up, which the doctors said should be sometime soon.
On CC's insistence they had moved Lelouch from the hospital to his own rooms as she knew that he would prefer waking up there, where only people he trusted could see him. While she had gone to see if there was anything to do and get an update from Suzaku on the attackers, Gino had stayed with Lelouch.
He was sitting beside the bed holding one of the Emperors hands in his own and hoped that he soon woke up. As the last days had been so peaceful he had nearly forgotten that Lelouch had quite a lot of enemies. Not only because of his policies but also because many called him usurper and some nobles had remembered his confrontation with his father eight years ago and spread the information that while the way he had taken the throne was frowned upon it still was legitimate and allowed, but he had given up his right to the throne as a child. With that they tried to reason that he shouldn't be allowed to sit on said throne as attacking his changes had done them no good because many in Britannia liked the new way and worldwide it got only good press. And of course Lelouch had taken a lot of the more influential nobles that were against him out of the picture.
It was at that moment that the door opened and Suzaku stepped through and Gino couldn't help but tense slightly, despite saying he would help for the time being he was more than aware that that would be a perfect opportunity for the other to finish the job the attackers had started.
Suzaku was wearing his blank and emotionless face making it hard to judge his intentions.
"I came to inform you that CC is working on the paperwork and Gottwald is currently interrogating the one attacker we captured. I was asked to see if he has woken and then inform the others."
Despite his collected demeanour Gino thought he could detect a small hint of emotion in the eyes of Suzaku when his gaze fell upon the Emperor. Maybe there still was some positive feelings toward the former friend and seeing him like this may have some effect on the other. He turned back to observing the still figure on the bed. While always having a pale complexion Lelouch certainly was now 'white as a ghost' as the saying went.
There were dark circles underneath his eyes that brought forth his ashen complexion even more and the white bandage that was wrapped around his head wasn't helping matters. If the doctors hadn't insisted that he would be quite fine beside a headache he would worry more than he already was because seeing him looking like that was not easy.
"As you see, no, he is still asleep."
"You're worried."
"Can't help it and someone has to." He threw the other a pointed look.
"You shouldn't worry too much. Despite everything Lelouch is one crafty bastard and knows how to survive the most unlikely odds, it's what made it so hard to defeat him while he was Zero."
"And probably what made him survive the invasion."
They fell silent at that, looking at Lelouch. Now that the opportunity had presented itself he hoped to gain a bit more information about that from the Japanese. It was one thing CC didn't know a lot about and asking Lelouch was out of the question, but that didn't mean he wasn't curious how he was able to survive while also having his disabled sister with him at the age of ten. It was hard to fathom as when he thought back to how he himself was at ten he definitely couldn't see how he was able to survive all on his own.
"What helped him keep his wits together was the fact that Nunnally was there too. He was able to shut out everything else and only concentrate on the goal of getting her out of danger. He seemingly had no problem with everything that we saw, walking through fields surrounded by dead bodies and he wasn't even batting an eyelash.
It's probably his greatest strength while also his greatest weakness. This single-mindedness of reaching his objective without looking left and right."
"Nunnally really seemed to be his reason for everything."
He saw the slight flinch only because he was observing Suzaku closely.
"Yes. But he seems to have found a new one or he wouldn't have stopped the Zero Requiem."
"We had to show him that there are other people that care for him that he should think about. He is still not doing all this for himself."
"I know." And with that the other turned on his heel and left the room and Gino let out a heavy sigh.
"Give him time." The small voice, not really more than a whisper startled him thoroughly. He whipped his head up and was looking at tired amethyst eyes.
"You're awake!"
"Keep it down. My head feels like there is a Knightmare battle happening inside."
Gino choked on his laugh and grabbed the hand again, squeezing it as tightly as he dared. He got a small smile from the other and answered it with his own. When the other tried to sit up he jumped from the chair and helped him, carefully arranging him into an upright position before reaching over to the bedside table and picking up the glass of water waiting there which Lelouch gratefully took. He sat down on the edge of the bed, facing Lelouch, not wanting to go back to the chair.
"Suzaku will come around most likely. He too has to re-evaluate his life and motivation and that takes time."
Gino could only shake his head. Finally awake and he was already thinking more about others than himself.
"How are you feeling, beside the headache? The doctors left something for that here if you want."
He watched as a thoughtful expression came over Lelouchs face.
"Tired mostly but beside my head I feel alright. Now, tell me, how long have I been out and how does it look out there."
He proceeded to tell him everything and made sure to emphasize that everything was handled, understanding Lelouch enough by now to know that he would jump out of that bed instantly if he thought his plans were in danger
"Then no to the painkillers, I will try to sleep some more."
He nodded at that and couldn't stop himself from leaning forward and brushing his lips against the bandages before taking the glass back and helping Lelouch lie down again. Before he could stop himself and think his action through he settled himself down next to him, leaning back against the headboard and wrapping his arms around the Emperor.
He held his breath not sure if Lelouch would be comfortable with that arrangement but the other just settled down and closed his eyes. Gino couldn't contain his happy smile and started to comb his fingers through the fine black hair getting an appreciative humming.
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They had quite a battle with Lelouch when he woke the next morning as he wanted to get back to work as if nothing had happened and saying that he was fine. CC had been able to stop him, raising her voice which made the injured man flinch due to his headache, proving her point this way. They then argued out a compromise. Lelouch would stay in his rooms at least for another day but could work on some things but had to take his medicine, to which he demanded less stronger ones that would actually still enable him to think.
They relocated him to the couch where he stayed for the rest of the day, delegating more than usual while still managing to work on the most pressing matters himself. When they insisted that he take a nap after lunch it showed that while not openly admitting his weakness he didn't protest too much and settled down fairly easily.
The next day he refused to stay in his rooms and was back in his office even though he did promise to still take it easy. It was after lunch when CC came to him to discuss the most pressing matter.
"What do you plan to do against your opposition now that it's been proven that they are quite adamant about removing you from the throne."
"There's not really much to do, there will always be the ones who can't accept the new direction Britannia is taking and as showed by the badly performed attack we know that we have at least found most of the more dangerous opponents."
"The rumour that you're not a legitimate heir anymore is spreading more and more, while the press is under control that doesn't mean that it doesn't reach the people. It's their main argument."
"Yes, I know. Imagine my surprise while searching through the archives where I discovered that I never lost my claim?"
"What do you mean? I thought you announced it during your confrontation with your father and he acknowledged it."
"Yes, that's all true and there were enough witnesses to make it legal. But it was never written down and never officially announced like it must be. Meaning I never lost my right to the throne. I'm not sure if it was an oversight or if they didn't want to announce it while I was a political hostage thus reducing my worth. When I was announced dead it didn't matter anymore so they most likely just forgot or didn't want to cause an uproar by announcing my refusal to the throne. The death of two royal children was motivation to my father's cause so he most likely wanted to use it to it's full capacity."
That analysis seemed quite fitting and they all thought it over. It was Gino that picked the conversation up again.
"Maybe we should use this. Show the world why you did what you did and at the same time tell them that you never lost your right and are in fact a legitimate heir."
"What exactly do you have in mind?"
"Well you obviously can't tell the whole truth but by now I know how good you are at tweaking it. You can't change the mindset of Britannia over night, the strong over the weak philosophy is heavily integrated into the society. Tell them that you were strong enough already at ten to survive the invasion and cunning enough to hide while you plotted. You were strong enough to outwit your father. This way you might be able to show that you are indeed strong enough to rule this empire. Like this you may actually get some of them on your side despite their dislike for your policies or at least they would stop working against you."
Gino wasn't sure if Lelouch would even contemplate the idea as he knew by now how guarded he was about his past and sharing his story and secrets certainly wasn't something he wanted to do. If not for CC he wouldn't know half of the things he did about the other. But by the silence that now reigned and the contemplative look of Lelouch he seemed to at least think it through.
"The idea has merit. I could certainly work it at an angle that would stop most protest against my position."
"Would you be alright in revealing so much about yourself?" Of course CC had no qualms to ask the question.
"Not really but when has that ever stopped me from doing what's best to reach my goal?" The two accomplices shared quite a scary smirk, reminding Gino that the two of them had fought against Britannia and showed them that they weren't as invincible as they had thought.
"The timing would be most important. The meeting with the UFN is in 5 days and we should reveal it shortly before that. Schneizel is most likely also waiting to come out of hiding until that day as he is likely waiting to see what I will do so that he knows how to best attack me. I still have not done enough to reveal what my overall intentions are now that I rule Britannia. He might make his move after the meeting depending on what is decided but as he will most likely not be privy to what is spoken I can use that time to at least make sure he doesn't get the Black Knights on his side again, which will force him to use his own hidden resources that he surely has build over the last years."
As Lelouch had refused to move the meeting with the UFN back a few days due to his injury they were now a bit tight for time. Fortunately most of the plans that were dealing with Schneizel had long been worked out and a lot of it depended on his first move, it was only the matters of the UFN and the Black Knights that had to be rearranged.
What followed was a planning session were Lelouch put down the most important aspects that he should talk about and what matters to evade and putting down which topics were not allowed to be touched. They scheduled the airing of the interview a day before the meeting, enough time for the UFN to analyse the new facts but hopefully not enough for Schneizel to adjust his plans.
CC of course had no problem pointing out additional facts and argued their value when Lelouch refused. Gino just settled back enjoying the show.
They managed to get through and then forced Lelouch out of his office to rest for the last hours of the day and despite his protests he complied fairly quickly. CC settled herself behind the desk as soon as the Emperor left his chair and easily ignored the glare send her way as she started on the paperwork. Just because Lelouch was injured and they were preparing themselves for a major battle didn't mean that the changing of Britannia took a holiday, it needed to be overseen and adjusted where needed and problems that occurred had to be solved. While CC most definitely hated working she would do it if it meant protecting Lelouch from a collapse because he overworked himself.
Back in Lelouchs quarters Gino had refused to play chess with him or to even let him near one, knowing that the other would just plot to his heart content if he did. He had great fun depositing him on the couch again and handing him the book that was lying on the table. And while Lelouch made himself comfortable he started on his own share of work that needed to be done before the meeting with the UFN.
Sometime later he noticed Lelouch putting the book back down and rubbing his temples with a slight frown.
"Do you need your painkillers?"
"No, I will not be awake much longer and sleep will probably cure it."
"Dinner will arrive shortly and after that it's probably a good idea to end the day."
Lelouch hummed an affirmative before settling back and watching him.
"You know, I should probably officially re-knight you before the battle."
"What?"
"You heard me. You have no actual position at the moment but you deserve a position as a Knight of Rounds. And now that I will likely stay Emperor I should probably try and fill the empty places. How does Knight of One Gino Weinberg sound to you?"
"Oh no! Thank you, but no. I'm quite happy with Three for the moment if you wish to reinstate me and if you give anyone the position of One at this point in time Suzaku would most likely throw a fit."
"Probable."
"All in all it's a good idea, it will show the people that you're not throwing out all traditions."
"Do you want a grand ceremony? I'm not sure if that would be manageable at this point in time."
"No, I would be quite happy with just a small one. You, me and the needed witness would be enough for me."
"Do you have a preference who should act as witness? No? Then Jeremiah would be the best idea as we can't use CC's name for the archives. Are you comfortable with that?"
"Sure."
Gino got up and moved over to him, kneeling down he used the position to steal a kiss before giving the other a grateful smile.
"Thank you."
"You deserve it." Gino leaned into the hand that was now cupping his cheek but before he could lean forward for another kiss they were interrupted by a knock.
"Seems like dinner is here."
Lelouch surprised him when he refused to let him leave after dinner. Instead the Emperor took his hand and led him through the door of his bedroom and proceeded to push him towards the bathroom where he found, much to his shock, a set of his own sleeping clothes and a new set of his uniform for the next day but additionally there was a new green cape too, with Lelouchs symbol instead of the Britannian insignia again.
Seemed like Lelouch knew his answer before he even asked.
When he was finished in the bathroom he took the cape with him and before Lelouch could brush past him he asked him. "Why still green?"
"It suits you."
And with that he was left alone and he suddenly felt very out of place. Sure after the attack he had spent the night, holding his Emperor close after the scare and realising that the young man had come to mean quite a lot to him in such a short time but that didn't mean he knew how to proceed now. When Lelouch rejoined him a few moments later in pair of black baggy pants and a loose fitting white shirt he was still standing in the middle of the room.
Lelouch seemed quite unfazed by his frozen state, took the cape from his hands and folded it back up before putting it on his dresser.
"You sure you want me to stay the night?" Lelouch shot him a look that quite clearly told him what he thought of that question before answering.
"If you don't want to you can leave of course."
"No, that's not what I meant..."
Lelouch sighed before moving in front of him. "If I have to spell it out for you I can do that. Despite my planning there is the possibility that we will all soon die. I want you with me until then."
"Aw… that's so sweet!" He couldn't help but tease.
Lelouch turned around and moved towards the bed. "If you behave like that I will relocate you to the couch."
Before the other could move farther he caught him in his arms from behind.
"Sorry. I too don't want to sleep alone."
"Then get into bed already my knight" It was said with so much faked haughtiness that he couldn't help but bury his head in Lelouchs shoulder trying to contain his chuckles before he finally got an answer out.
"Yes, your majesty."
"Cheeky brat."
They settled down side by side, facing each other and Gino wrapped his arms around him.
It was Lelouch that initiated the kiss, keeping it soft and light while his hand started to run up and down Gino's side which made the other tighten his embrace before he started to draw small circles on Lelouchs back. After some time they ended the kiss and made themselves comfortable.
Edited Scene
Lelouch was already half way to sleep when Gino kissed his forehead. "Sleep well."
"Hmmm…. You too." was the sleepy reply.
Telling the Emperor of his nation that he was adorable would probably be a bad move, so Gino just settled down and closed his eyes.
.
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CC ambushed him the next day when he went to meet with Lelouch for lunch in his office.
"So, you seem quite happy today. Care to share?" The suggestive look she threw him made him blush instantly. This woman was way too observant.
"I… don't know what you mean." He tried to brush past her but she quickly caught his elbow.
"Come on. Tell me. You already revealed that something happened, not that I didn't already know. While Lelouch was certainly much better at hiding it, the smirk certainly didn't hide the blush. But I have to say yours is much darker." Gino was certain that her chuckles increased the redness of his face even more but before he could come up with something the door to the office opened.
"CC stop teasing him and go down to the hangar, Lloyd has your machine nearly ready and wants to talk to you." The glare he sent her way didn't leave much room for arguments.
"Fine, take all my fun away. You owe me a pizza for that." But she did let the Knight go and turned around and walked away.
She could hear him mumble something along the lines of 'damn witch' and was satisfied with that.
Arriving at the hangar she was immediately accosted by the mad scientist declaring that while not as good as his beloved Lancelot it still was a work of art. They then proceeded further inside where her new Knightmare was hidden underneath a canvas, Lelouch wasn't the only one with a flare for the dramatics.
Lloyd talked some more about some details but she only listened half-heartedly. She already knew everything that had been installed as they had talked it through before. When he was finally done, her new machine was finally revealed. It wasn't pink, sadly.
She had found the thought of a pink Knightmare greatly amusing but much to her displeasure Lloyd had found the idea awful. Complaining that he couldn't paint an offspring of his Lancelot in something as horrible as pink. She just decided that he lacked the right kind of humour.
He had gotten his wish because he had decided to badger Lelouch about it and Lelouch had lost his nerve, asking her if there was any other colour she would prefer. She had pouted but Lelouch had been at the end of his patience and as all this happened while they were still trying to change his mind she had concluded it would be better to not antagonise him further. So she had left the decision to Lelouch.
She had to admit, Lelouch had great taste and he had probably enjoyed painting a Lancelot nearly entirely black, the exact opposite of Suzakus machine which suited her too. It had some golden highlights making it look a bit like the Shinkiro but what really made it stand out were the green highlights that were a stark contrast to the black, they were nearly the same colour as her hair but seemed to glow when the light hit them. All in all, she liked it. It wasn't as entertaining as a pink one would have been but it would do. Now she just had to make Lloyd agree to install something else and then she would be ready for the upcoming battle. Well, that and another talk with Orange-boy and lover-boy was also needed.
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Hope you enjoyed! Until next time XD