A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consult and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88, F-14 Tomcat Lover, and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story I had begun in-between projects since early last year.

Thanks to everyone who has read, reviewed the chapter and added favorites and follows to it.

Now I have to say this chapter probably wasn't too good, a lot of exposition and talking going around, with some talks between Lelouch and someone very important regarding future arrangements. But also revealing something going forward and what will Lelouch be doing for the next five chapters as we approach the battle for Sadogashima, including what Yui and her friends will be doing. So I apologize for this being a boring chapter.

Before the chapter let me take care of some reviews I cannot response to.

Guest: Thank you, that is very much appreciated, and yeah eventually they'll get tried of Yui dodging their need for answers.

Indeed, some backdoor deals and behind the door politics will take place, while Lelouch will be unable to be involved in them (at least until he gains his own influnce and political weight), this chapter will show he does have one strong political ally willing to back him.

Yeah those have stepped in and should help take the pressure of the BETA off of them for a little while.

Samurai Seven: Lelouch will get some training in that for sure, and the end of the chapter reveals who his drill sergeant will be. He may not be a real expert to take down a pro, but he'll at least be capable of defending himself against anyone else. But he needs to get into better shape for that. As for your question about the Demon and the Knights, well I'll need to fix the pacing problems in that story first before I continue with it, but I might continue it in the future.

Samurai Seven 2: Not sure when that will happen, but that could always make a good omake. As for the latter I don't know if that will be needed since nothing from R2 is going to happen and things in CG is obviously going to play out very differently.

Now on with the chapter.

Chapter 5

A Royal Hearing

Lelouch, Yui, Izumi, Aki, Shimako and the three others of their squad and the defenders of the defense line were escorted by Kyoko to a safe location in the rear. There, the various soldiers parted to return their respected units or to enter a unit pool for reassignment. But each would get some rest after lasting the night, and all would be recalled for award ceremonies in the future for their heroic defense, relieving them for a while of the battlefield.

For White Fang, they thankfully had the fuel they collected from the last of the Supply Containers was enough to take them to their ultimate destination. A military base north of Tokyo, a safe distance away from the battle against the BETA. It would give them all a chance to rest and recover. It was the Fukushima Military Base, which also had the Research and Development facilities for the Ministry of Defense's Weapons Technology Development Authority. Yui knew from what her uncle had mentioned that it was here that many of Japan's new technologies and weapons were developed.

Following Kyoko the group landed on the runaway before entering the hangars to disembark their machines.

Lelouch followed the guidance of the hanger crews as they directed him to a hanger rack for his machine. Yui and the others docked as well, and soon began disembarking their machines as crews went to work conducting necessary inspection and maintenance upon them. After Kazusa had left his lap, Lelouch found as he tried to leave his seat, he could feel a heavy weariness hit him, as he struggled to climb out of the Izanami Gundam.

"Here, I'll help you," Kazusa said, managing to slip out of the machine ahead of Lelouch, offering her hand to help Lelouch out.

"Thank you, I can't believe that after an actual battle, I am feeling exhausted," Lelouch now regretted skipping gym class so much to read books.

"Everyone fought an all-night battle." Kazusa helped Lelouch out. "What else would you expect?"

However, Kazusa noticed something at the moment she helped Lelouch out. Although she didn't really look at Lelouch's body before now she realized just how scrawny he was. It was a surprise that Lelouch would be integrated into the Japanese military when they would barely accept that level of physical condition, especially when wearing the Shogun's colors. His slim body also made her suspicious about the man.

How could he have passed the Comprehensive Combat Skill Evaluation with that kind of body? Kasuza questioned. It would make sense for him to be part of the IJA if the UN had some backing, but he is way below their current standards.

The CCSE Kazusa and her friends took was physically demanding, requiring high physical standards to pass, a shared trait to the CCSE used in other nations. As such she knew it was required for cadets to operate a TSFs, and they had to be physically fit due the difficulties beyond even the normal footsoldier forces. What she felt from Lelouch was certainly below that standard, even if he was given special treatment.

Chances are he wouldn't even pass as an Eishi should he actually be in our military, Kasuza was certain. Even we had to undergo similar training like the men from many years ago.

As Lelouch just touched the ground and stood upright, Kasuza was about to open her mouth. However, Yui suddenly came into the scene along with the rest of their squad.

They immediately noticed Lelouch's skinny body type, causing Shimako to be stunned by it. One of a TSF pilot's strictest requirements was physical endurance and strength because of how physically demanding piloting a TSF was. Their training was based on the physical and mental requirements by the military to pilot a fighter jet. Others like Aki and Izumi's jaws dropped at Lelouch's scrawny body, just wondering how he had endurance to last through the night?

Joining them was Sayuri, Kasumi and Ayame who, noticing Lelouch's skinny appearance, was also stunned, questioning how on Earth did he pass basic training. They began talking amongst themselves, speaking too softly for Yui to hear.

Yui could only sigh, having expected these reactions, but it was a testament to the technology behind their machines allowing someone like Lelouch to pilot through the night. However she did work with Lelouch to build up his endurance as best as she could, which was a tall order given how physically inept he was.

I guess those stimulates and injections really helped, Yui mused.

However, Yui was now faced with her friends who were now looking to her for answers, especially Shimako and Kazusa. Lucky for Yui she was saved as a young woman, who appeared to be in her late teens or early twenties, with long green hair, green eyes dressed in a red long tunic-style uniform with purple lines on it, black gloves and boots. She looked at Lelouch's pilot suit and its colors, causing her eyebrow to twitch.

Soon Lelouch and Yui noticed behind the green-haired woman were three other women, wearing identical uniforms. Their uniforms were similar to the green-haired woman's uniform, but were white with yellow and black instead. Their hairstyles, hair color and eyes were different, but their expressions were one of rage when they looked at Lelouch's suit, causing the young man to quickly explain.

"Look I know it's the wrong color, but Claude gave me this pilot suit," Lelouch explained quickly, his exhaustion gone as he went into temporary survival mode. "She seemed to enjoy it given how she was teasing Yui and me mercilessly!"

"Oh," the green-haired woman said before sighing and looking at Lelouch then Yui with pity. "I assume you two were dealing with Claude directly when you received the machines and your pilot suits."

"Yes ma'am," Yui replied, having been wondering when this was going to come up ever since she saw Lelouch step out of the changing room as he was now.

"I see, we'll need to do something about that before any misunderstandings happen," The woman said before providing an introduction. "Allow me to introduce myself, I am First Lieutenant Mana Tsukuyomi of the Imperial Royal Guard. With me are fellow members of the Royal Guard, the one with purple hair and green eyes is Tatsumi Kamiyo, next the one with brown hair and eyes is Yukino Tomoe, and finally Minagi Ebisu."

Minagi Ebisu was around the same age as Lelouch and the others with blonde hair tried into two sphere-like buns and yellow eyes.

Lelouch, Yui and the others saluted, Mana's red uniform was an obvious sign she was a part of the Royal Guard who reported directly to the Shogun, but everyone had the impression she was taking orders from someone important.

"Now I know all of you are likely very exhausted, but there are some things we need to discuss as well as properly debrief you all. We've prepared a change of clothes for all of you, so that you may change and then after that my subordinates and I will escort you to meet with Lady Kyoko who is representing both the Regnant Houses along with the newly appointed Shogun."

Noticing the expressions from Aki and Izumi, Mana recognized their unease and the source.

"Don't worry the defense is being overseen by Major Takatsugu Ikaruga of the Regent Houses, and we have assembled more than enough personnel, allies, and weapons to hold the BETA back, for now," Mana said, although it didn't dispel their unease completely. "Anyway myself and my subordinates will lead you to get changed before the meeting, especially you for your own sake to avoid any further misunderstandings."

Lelouch nodded in agreement.

"Very well, Minagi, Tatsumi and Yukino, please help these ladies and lead them to the changing rooms," Mana ordered.

"Yes ma'am," The trio said together in unison before saluting, then gesturing to Yui and the other seven girls to follow them.

Mana beckoned for Lelouch to follow her.

After a few minutes of walking out of the hanger, the two entered a changing room for men, Mana directed Lelouch to a duffle bag sitting on a bench.

"I trust you know how to get out of that suit?" Mana said, opening the bag to reveal an instruction manual on how to remove the Fortified Suit. "I hope you'll get changed as quickly as possible Mr. Lelouch vi Britannia."

"What?" Lelouch breathed, shocked with a flash of concern in his eyes.

"Calm yourself," Mana said reassuringly. "There is no need for you to be so on guard here, but did you seriously think we would allow you to fight for us in an advanced machine without us not knowing everything about you?"

"I suppose, but…"

"You have nothing to worry about with your true identity known, but given your history and the country you hail from I can understand why you would be concerned about keeping your true identity secret. However, before going into the meeting I thought it best I warn you in advance you'll be addressed by your true name. But in military operations and such going forward you'll be referred to as Lelouch Lamperouge," Mana explained as she could see the tensionness leave, but the wariness only dimmed to a manageable level.

"I see," Lelouch said, although he wasn't happy about his secret being given out like that even if the reasoning behind it was sound, all things considered.

"I'll leave you to change," Mana said as she turned to leave. "Be sure to shower before getting dressed. You will be thankful later on."

Once Lelouch was certain Mana was gone he began changing. His annoyance over his secret having been shared, no doubt by Claude, irritated him to no end. Afterall, understanding wasn't the same as agreeing.

Meanwhile, Yui was cleaning herself in the shower, but as she did so Kazusa observed her for a moment. She wanted to ask Yui about the real story behind those machines Lelouch and she had been using, and how someone like Lelouch was chosen to pilot such a powerful machine.

Now I'm certain, there is no way he could've passed the CSSE, Kazusa thought, wondering how he survived piloting such a machine.

The only thing stopping Kazusa from questioning Yui was the fact that making a member of the Regent Houses and the Shogun wait would not be good for them. At the same time, Shimako was also wondering about Lelouch and his exact relationship to Yui, along with what else she was hiding from them. In nearby stalls, Sayuri, Kasumi and Ayame were talking amongst themselves.

"Did you see that guy, how did someone so skinny pass basic training? No way someone that scrawny would've been allowed to pilot a TSF," Sayuri remarked, as she added some shampoo to her hands and worked it into her light brown hair.

"Were they using him as some kind of lab rat to test the technology of that machine of his? It's no TSF I've ever seen before," Ayame inquired of her friends as she began rinsing out the shampoo from her long black hair.

"It doesn't seem like something they would've done, especially with a foreigner. Just imagine the political bomb that could have been if he died," Kasumi said, preparing to use the shampoo herself. "Besides, being a new weapon with all kinds of new tech doesn't seem like something they trust to just anyone so easily."

"Right," Sayuri agreed. "Just what is the deal with that guy?"

"Maybe Yui might know something, we just need a chance to ask her."

Alongside Sayuri, Ayame and Kasumi, Izumi and Aki were beginning to take notice.

"Do you think Lelouch even received proper TSF training?" Aki asked quietly so Yui wouldn't hear her.

"I'm not sure. I was quite surprised they let someone like that pilot such a machine so he must have gone through some sort of regime," Izumi admitted after rinsing out her hair.

"No way he went through the same training we did, so what's the story then?"

"Your guess is as good as mine," Izumi said, not really having an answer to give.

But what is Yui hiding from us?

Aki might've just begun noticing the discrepancies in Yui's story, with Lelouch's obvious lack of physical fitness being a very large red flag. Of course, they weren't oblivious to the fact Lelouch and Yui were piloting highly advanced weapons, nothing they had even heard about. Not to mention neither of them could recall a time Yui could've left to have sufficient time to train to pilot such a powerful machine.

Much like Kazusa, the only thing stopping them from questioning Yui was the fact that a member of the Regent Houses and the Shogun was waiting for them.

A short time later, Lelouch, now dressed in a black with orange uniform similar to the one Mana was wearing, was led through the base to a meeting room. Mana opened the door, gesturing for Lelouch to go inside. There he saw Kyoko sitting behind a table wearing a uniform identical to his, but blue with yellow trim. Opposite to her was an older man with a scar on the left side of his face, brown hair combed back and brown eyes wearing a green uniform belonging to an officer of senior rank if his rank tabs were anything to go by.

In-between them was a woman who seemed to be the youngest of the trio, who seemed to be the same age as Lelouch, sat with a dignified and refined pose wearing a white kimono and her purple hair tied up in a topknot ponytail, with matching purple eyes signifying she was someone of importance.

"It seems you are the first to arrive, Prince Lelouch vi Britannia," The purple haired woman said, greeting the young man.

"Yes, uh," Lelouch said, providing a standard Japanese greeting with a polite bow, especially since he could feel Mana glaring at him from behind if he didn't politely greet her.

The girl laughed before providing introductions, "Be ease, I want to take this chance before the others arrive to talk. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Shogun Yuuhi Koubuin, a member of the Regent Families recently chosen as the new Shogun to succeed our previous Shogun. You've met Kyoko Takatsukasa, another member of the Regnant Houses, but this is the first time you are meeting face to face now."

"It's a pleasure to meet you in person, Lelouch, your performance on the battlefield and the directions you provided were impressive despite it being your first time," Kyoko greeted while offering a compliment. "Perhaps you are everything Claude told us you could be."

"Forgive me, I am a little doubtful on that last part, but I appreciate and welcome your compliment," Lelouch said, honest while mindful of his manners.

"And last and not least, this is Colonel Eiji Iwaya, he oversees all research projects in this base and is a leading member of the Ministry of Defense's Weapons Technology Development Authority."

"Welcome to the Fukushima Military Base," Eiji said. "As Yui's uncle I wanted to thank you for helping her and her friends survive Kyoto."

"Not at all, her knowledge of how events went previous for her was very helpful in planning our survival through the night. We had hoped to ensure everyone in the squad survived, but I regret what happened to Lieutenant Kisaragi."

"Her loss was regrettable," the colonel replied and Lelouch was reminded of a somewhat more laid back version of Kyoshiro Toudoh for some reason. "Tragically as you've learned things like that tend to happen where it's better to be killed, than to be eaten alive."

Lelouch was conflicted, as the act had a lasting impression on him, "It wasn't easy to do."

"No, it never is and I never wish for anyone to be in such a situation. But the fact remains that despite the loss of Lieutenant Kisaragi, everyone else survived. Not just the squad she commanded, a significant number of the base personnel at Arashiyama," the man nods, "Most managed to escape with their lives and badly needed support vehicles and supplies. They escaped to safety, though with losses. The fact that not only did you and Yui survive the entire night against the BETA, but so did everyone else in the squadron. Surpassing the Eight Minutes of Death is hardly an accomplishment anymore as the academies like to make it out, but having the entire unit survive with only one loss? A truly miraculous feat alone," Eiji said. He was astonished by the reports that somehow everyone at the Museum FOB had managed to survive, including civilians that had failed to evacuate in time.

"I think our machines deserve most of the credit for that," Lelouch noted, knowing it was his first battle and he had been, almost literally, flying by the seat of his pants the whole night.

"Very true as their combat effectiveness exceeds our prototype TSFs, let alone our mainstay TSFs. We have already begun production of similar weapons for our forces to use, but it will take time to make enough."

"Indeed Colonel, and the new machine I was given will surely help buy time," Kyoko added as she grasped the understanding of the situation and was thankful that their newfound allies in America would be able to supply them with new equipment, eventually,. "I do agree their survival against the BETA and narrowly holding one of our defensive lines in Kyoto has brought us valuable time to reorganize our defensive lines and reinforce them."

"Yes, even now more BETA has been observed entering Japan from Kyushu, and we know hundreds of thousands more are already making their way across the sea from Asia towards Japan. They'll make landfall near the end of September at Sadogashima, but the entire western coast is at risk," Yuuhi said, her expression grim. "Yet we know just your two machines won't be enough to protect our entire coast."

"So what is your plan if you don't mind me asking?" Lelouch began to inquire.

"The fact is, unless something changes, humanity is slowly losing the war against the BETA. Despite our efforts we have only been able to slow them down," Kyoko said bluntly. "Our soldiers will fight to the last, but we have to acknowledge we'll ultimately run out of people and land to defend. We have lost more than half of the country to the BETA, and with it, approximately thirty percent of our population has been lost."

"That is why Claude's proposal, despite our reservations about the woman herself, was too tempting to ignore," Eiji said with a sigh. It was clear to Lelouch that everyone before him had dealt with Claude at least once. "How events leading into the invasion of Japan played out as she expected, although we did try to take advantage of it to shore up our defenses, but…"

"But?"

"Politics got in the way," Kyoko said with a sigh. "We wanted to place the advanced weapons Claude gave us in Kyushu to slow the advance of the BETA. The politicians and the Prime Minister fought with military leaders wanting to use them to protect our coastline, but we didn't have enough to cover our whole western coast."

"And I assume the political bickering had cost time and lives in the end?" Lelouch asked, earning a nod from Yuuhi.

"Yes, and now half of the country is under BETA control. Having advanced weapons to defend our land won't be enough, we must defeat the BETA," Yuuhi said before looking Lelouch in the eye. "Then Claude suggested we support you, as one of the competing kings. If you win you'll be given access to a storehouse containing highly advanced weapons and technology that made an Empire a galactic superpower before it collapsed upon itself. The technology Claude gave us pales in comparison to what the Holy Ryuvian Empire had."

"Holy Ryuvian Empire?" Lelouch asked, curious.

"According to what Claude told us, it was once a powerful empire that ruled over a whole galaxy. All other alien species besides humans were wiped out, and their technology is unlike anything ever seen surpassing what your and Yui's Gundams possess." Yuuhi said. A word she used caught Lelouch's interest.

"Gundams?"

"That is what Claude called the machines you and Yui use," Kyoko answered.

"I see, but your intent is to see me win this competition and share the technology I win with you," Lelouch said, easily putting together what they wanted.

"Yes and in exchange we'll help you, after all how do you plan to make use of the technology if you managed to somehow obtain it on your own? Furthermore, while we don't know who your competition is, we do know they are in possession of considerable resources, something you lack. Help us and we can help you. It is that simple," Yuuhi said with a smile.

"Respectfully you understand I am doubtful of Claude's prize?"

"Of course, and all things considered I can't blame you for being skeptical. However, the situation does give us something we can both help each other with," Yuuhi said diplomatically. "Regardless of Claude's prize your presence and where you come from provides us with a rare opportunity, and the vessel she has given you for your use."

"A ship?" Lelouch said, quite surprised.

"Yes, as surprising as that may sound. Claude has provided a ship, designed to support your Gundam. It is capable of traveling in the atmosphere, space and underwater. It can travel to other alternate Earths in our galaxy and even travel faster than light," Yuuhi explained, placing both hands on the table. "Should the worst-case scenario happen and humanity begins losing to the BETA, we hope during your travels you'll find a suitable planet for us to colonize. But this is only a worst-case scenario should our conflict with the BETA go badly, however…we are hoping exploration of these different Earths could yield other opportunities."

"Collecting advanced pieces of technology, and mining resources," Lelouch deduced thinking it over and remembered that some of the Americans had been using new weapons and equipment and he quickly deduced that Claude must have made allies for him and the Japanese before in America as well.

How is she doing that so well?

"Correct, since we have lost half of the country, we are in need of resources for weapon production and food. If you could find an Earth not populated by humans, we are hoping not only, could we colonize it as a place for our people to fall back to, we could mine it for resources needed to aid our efforts," Yuuhi answered.

"I assume something similar applies to my world too, if you know my true identity I assume Claude told you of my goals then," Lelouch asked, which Yuuhi confirmed with a nod.

"Yes, but we know you can't speak for the Japan of your world. However, if we do grant you command of some of our soldiers and personnel, perhaps the people of your Japan might be willing to open your doors to us should it be necessary or even just consider a mutually beneficial alliance."

"I see," Lelouch couldn't help but smile at how well Yuuhi was seeking to capitalize on the situation, being impressed with her. "You know my intentions would require me to gather followers, but gaining military trained allies would be a difficult offer to turn down."

"Yes and it would benefit you, would it not?"

"I cannot deny that," Lelouch admitted, although it was questionable how loyal these followers would be.

Military trained followers would be much more useful than whatever resistance fighters he could find, true Lelouch could find a few capable men. How he would obtain his followers without his Britannian heritage becoming an issue was another problem. Even if he concealed his true identity, how would he win their loyalty was another question too. He might've questioned Claude and her intentions, but he couldn't deny Yuuhi was offering a good deal in exchange for his cooperation.

It was also a question of how she would live up to that bargain and could Lelouch fulfill his own side of the agreement.

To make his goals happen Lelouch would need competent and capable followers, both for the sake of efficiency and given that his enemy controlled a third of the entire world. He could gain followers among the local population, but the likelihood of having the kind of training and experience his agreement with Yuuhi would give him was extremely slim. Furthermore, as the number of followers grows Lelouch would need those who could serve as leaders in his army to accomplish his goals. They would be necessary for the sake of efficiency and tactical flexibility in battle.

My enemy is the Holy Britannian Empire and to bring down that man, Lelouch thought, thinking of the Britannian Emperor, his father. He would need any advantage he could get.

Access to the firepower of his Gundam, the Izanami, and whatever technology he could win by playing Claude's game, and the support of a Japan on another world would greatly accelerate his plans to bring down Britannia. It all made refusing Yuuhi's offer all the more difficult.

Especially when he factors in the possibility he could potentially get American support. The very idea of Britannian having to fight a ghost from its distant past that nearly brought it defeat, would be a prospect that would be daunting to many Imperial knights. Especially if their democracy was a truer democracy of that of the EU. What he could win would, indeed, be too big to pass up.

"I should ask if you are willing to trust me with your people, and would they be willing to follow a foreigner?"

Yuuhi smiled knowingly. "That is why if you help us and prove your capabilities to them, I think they will. I say it's a mutually beneficial agreement."

"Yes I can see little faults with your offer, very well I accept," Lelouch said, while internally complimenting Yuuhi on her negotiation skills.

"Excellent. Now-" Before she could say anything further, a knock came at the door.

Mana was annoyed, but she opened the door. After checking who it was, she stepped aside to allow Yui and her friends to enter, one by one, soon followed by Mana's three subordinates. Yui was wearing a uniform identical to Kyoko's, but hers was yellow. Izumi, Aki, Shimako, Kazusa, Sayuri, Kasumi, and Ayame wore uniforms that were white instead of yellow.

"Ah welcome, you've all finally joined us." Yuuhi greeted Yui and her friends.

"Is that?" Aki asked, recognizing Yuuhi's attire.

"Yes, this is Lady Yuuhi Koubuin, the newly appointed Shogun," Mana answered, causing Yui and her friends to quickly bow in respect.

"Please forgive us, Your Highness," The seven girls spoke together, worried they might have offended the Shogun.

"Please be at ease, it hasn't been officially announced that I am the new Shogun yet. This is a discussion and I would like it if you all were at ease," Yuuhi offered in a calm manner.

"Of course Your Highness," Yui said as she and her friends bellowed before Mana gestured for them to take a seat. Luckily the table was more than large enough to accommodate all of them on one side of the table with Yui and Kazusa sitting next to Lelouch, on his left and right sides respectively.

"We were talking with Lelouch, and we were able to reach an agreement. In fact your timing is perfect," Yuuhi said, pleased the girls had arrived at the right moment.

"An agreement?" Aki muttered.

"Yes and you'll have the details later, but first allow me to congratulate all of you for having not only survived a night of battle against the BETA, but also holding the line at Kyoto. All of you gave us valuable time to muster reinforcements and rescue any survivors, you have my thanks on behalf of Japan for your efforts," Yuuhi said, bowing her head in gratitude.

"You're too kind," Kazusa said humbly while she and the others bowed in return.

Japan and the constant bowing. Lelouch thought with an internal shake of his head, They really need to figure out something more accommodating.

"Since you are here, this will be a good time to mention in light of his accomplishments during Kyoto, the Shogun has decided to grant Third Lieutenant Lelouch Lampouge non-hereditary status and a suitable rank within the Royal Guard," Kyoko mentioned.

"A black and orange uniform," Ayame muttered, noticing Lelouch's new uniform.

"So he's a member of the Royal Guard now," Kasumi whispered to her friend, but the pair stopped talking when they felt Mana's glare fall upon them, silently telling them to be quiet.

No foreigner for decades has received such an honor, Kazusa thought, now wanting to question Lelouch and Yui more than ever.

So he can't be someone on loan from the UN or America, Izumi thought.

"Yes, he'll be under the Kyoko's household, which in turn Yui will be supervising him on her behalf. This should eliminate any potential inconveniences his lack of rank and status would cause," Yuuhi said, while the others across from her minus Lelouch were shocked.

Judging by the reactions of the others, my new rank must be something to cause such a response. It explains why Yuuhi wants, no, needs me to prove myself, Lelouch thought.

If he was going to command members of their army to aid him in bringing down Britannia when the time came, he knew it would be necessary for him to gain their trust so they would be willing to follow him when he eventually calls upon them.

It was important for soldiers to have faith and loyalty to their commander in battle after all.

"This is quite the honor you've given me and I thank you for it," Lelouch said politely. Fortunately, he had some idea of the importance and so it was not merely for show that he spoke.

"No, I should thank you for your accomplishments that have more than proven you've earned it. But, now that we've addressed our agreement with Lelouch, along with other needed details, there is something all of you need to see and be made aware of. If you would all follow me," Yuuhi said as she rose from her chair.

Yuuhi led the way followed by Mana and Eiji while Kyoko followed close behind, Lelouch and Yui walked together while Kazusa, Aki, Izumi and Shimako walked behind them and Minagi, Tatsumi and Yukino took up the rear. The group followed in silence until after ten minutes of walking they entered an elevator that was used for transporting heavy materials. It was more than large enough to accommodate everyone.

Entering an access code above the panel, Eiji pushed the button for the elevator to descend to a lower level, deep underground. The elevator descended for three minutes until they entered what could only be called an underground hangar where Yui, Lelouch, and the others saw to their shock a ship. It looked to be at least three-hundred and fifty meters long, with an aerodynamic design with an arrowhead shaped bow, before extending back where a pair of wings extended outwards with a pair of engines.

Atop the ship leading to what was the bridge, which stood on a smooth, yet ascending command tower, were a pair of triple-barrel guns akin to those on a battleship placed along the top of the vessel before the ascending command tower. Ahead of the guns the body was smoothing out to form the arrowhead-tip of the ship's bow. The girls and Lelouch noticed other weapon placements dotted along its hull, but for all of them the ship was unlike anything they had seen.

"That is our first battleship, created using various advanced technologies that exceeds our own, hence it was created by another party before Miss Claude Triello gave it to us. It is capable of operating not just in the air, but also in space and in the sea. We've named it the Takarabune," Eiji said, introducing the ship to everyone.

Yui recognized the name. "Named for the mythical ship piloted through the heavens by the Seven Lucky Gods, a symbol of the new year in every new year celebration in Japan."

"Yes this will be the ship commanded jointly by Yui Takamura and Lelouch Lamperouge, since the latter was made owner of the ship by Miss Triello."

"Huh!?" Shimako, Izumi, Aki and Kazusa exclaimed before looking to Lelouch for an explanation.

Lelouch internally sighed. Trying to explain that to the group would be difficult.

"How does he own THAT!?" Aki exclaimed, pointing to the ship that was roughly as big as an American Nimtiz-class Carrier!

Aki's outburst was just as quickly silenced as she recoiled instinctively under Mana's cold and stern gaze.

The newly made Shogun had been expecting their outbursts. "Well your surprise is only natural," Yuuhi acknowledged. "But, this is part of an agreement with Miss Treillo, so that Lelouch can compete in her game."

"Game?" Shimako inquired, while mindful to be respectful, especially as she began shivering under Mana's glare for speaking out of turn.

"Ah yes, that is something else we must discuss," Yuuhi sighed as she began to massage her temples trying to determine how best to discuss the topic.

"While we have had some theories in that regard," she chose to begin, "We haven't seriously thought it possible. It was one of the more insane ideas put forth in this war, to try and find a method to defeat the BETA. Other worlds like our Earth, some are mostly identical to ours with some small or big differences, exist in this galaxy," Yuuhi laughed harshly in thought, "And yet it is true," the young Shogun still couldn't quite wrap her mind around it, "A woman approached us and told us of a 'game' she had in mind. One we could hardly believe, but she left us in both disbelief and sober when she proved it."

Eiji decided to pick up for the moment and let the young woman not bear all the weight in this.

"We ran the full battery and tests of what we could," the Imperial Army colonel swallowed thickly, "We were able to prove what she said. It was… not easily swallowed to say the least, but swallowed that pill we did."

The man looked thoughtful.

"Though, not all of us."

Yuuhi nodded, quietly thankful for the moment to get some of her composure back.

"Lelouch Lamperouge has been chosen to take part in a competition of sorts spanning different Earths against six other competitors. Should he emerge victorious over all of them, Lelouch will gain access to a large storehouse of powerful technology that once belonged to a galactic superpower that has long since fallen. Of course, that means he'll be chosen to lead an army against a threat bigger than the BETA, hence the need for that storehouse of technology and Claude wanting such a force to be led by the best leader possible."

"If Lelouch wins Claude's game then our country," the colonel took over once more, drawing himself up as an army officer and superior in rank to their girls before him, "along with our new allies and friends that will support us in other nations and therefore by default their own nations, will gain the technology and resources needed not just to force the BETA from Earth, but also in time force them out of the solar system and hunt them down and end them to the last," he saw them all letting that sink in, "And the shortest route will be the creators of the BETA and a system they have in place to just end the BETA," Eiji added causing the girls to be stunned.

"Forgive me honorable Shogun, but that is all a little hard to take in," Kazusa said after a few actual minutes of contemplation, while still being as respectful as possible despite her shock and confusion.

"I understand completely, in fact many in our government were skeptical of Claude's offer and asking for our support for Lelouch. Even if she was arming us with advanced weapons and warned us of the BETA's invasion of Japan, which happened exactly as she said it would," Yuuhi said, causing Izumi to become curious in that form of trepidation as a terrifying truth dawned on her.

"Did… Did they know Kyushu would be overrun then?" Izumi said softly, remembering her beloved boyfriend was among those stationed in Kyushu when it was overrun, losing his life in its defense.

"Yes, they did regrettably, too many in the military and in the government didn't want to believe it could happen despite evidence to the contrary and the weapons Claude offered," Yuuhi said, overhearing Izumi. "That is why a dozen ministers and others," she paused for a moment, "resigned in shame afterwards."

Izumi was shaken, but Aki was there to help steady her.

Lelouch, on the other hand, merely shrugged. He had known what the pause meant. There had been a quiet coup behind the scenes. Likely a few of the most powerful had realized they had royally screwed up and killed themselves, either through seppuku or having 'accidents'.

How does 'He fell out of the window' still hold up so well? Lelouch wondered. It said a lot for when and how that trend had started as it seemed too stupid to last long.

Among other things, it was something that was actually the norm in Britannia every so often with sharp uptakes.

Especially the closer one got to Pendragon.

"I am truly sorry for your loss," Yuuhi said, knowing that Izumi had lost someone dear to her in Kyushu. She had read the reports on all of them, to know who she was going to be dealing with and deciding how best to deal with them. And this was not the easiest of them, "I am also sorry I can offer no more than my condolences and assurances that he did his duty to the very end."

Izumi struggled to keep her composure, but ultimately began to quietly weep as Aki and Yui were there to comfort her as the elevator continued down. Lelouch remained quiet, but he did sympathize with her loss and understood her grief at hearing how the government didn't take Claude's warnings seriously.

A short time later, the group proceeded across a bridge to board the enormous ship. Once aboard they were saluted by a pair of guards patrolling the ship while various technicians and engineers were working on inspecting and studying the ship.

"This ship is quite the marvel of technology. Much of it is at least more than two centuries ahead of our most advanced tech," Eiji said, breaking the silence at the unseen command gesture of Yuuhi. "The medical bay has a cylinder filled with nanomachines to provide emergency care for pilots in critical condition. The ship has a fusion reactor as a main source of power with material and methodology we have yet to begin to find a path to, let alone find a surface to start scraping at. It is capable of amphibious operations, including subsurface travel, flight in space with even Faster than Light Travel, and somehow has the ability to cross over to other, alternative Earths which we are still trying to grasp even the basics of the basics to just quantify into our understanding, let alone learn."

"Wow," Shimako breathed as she heard all of that, "That means this is quite the ship. Impossibly so. I can see why they are investigating it so thoroughly," Shimako remarks only drew some looks of incredulity from her friends as she sounded forced and she had the decency to blush, because… She felt someone had to say something!

"Yes," Eiji said in agreement, saving the poor girl, while everyone continued through the ship. "Although it will be some time before we can even reproduce and develop our own technology based on it. But we do have a few ships like this one in production thanks to the materials being provided by Claude. Trying to find a crew, in light of our heavy losses, will be difficult, especially given the training they'll need to run these ships."

Eventually the group reached what was the hangar of the ship, where to everyone's surprise were four more Gundams, identical to the ones used by Yui and Lelouch. The hangar itself was large enough to accommodate at least six more similar sized machines, but as they approached one of the four new Gundams they were met by a man wearing a white suit with a blue collared shirt and a white tie. He wasn't Japanese as his tanned complexion and white hair made him stand out.

"So this must be Lelouch Lamperouge, and it's a pleasure to meet you too Lady Yuuhi," the man said before bowing politely to Yuuhi.

"This is Cumpa Rusita, an ally of Claude who has been helping us understand the ship and the Gundams, since it was he who designed them," Eiji said, providing introductions.

"Thank you for your kind words, but some thanks should go to Claude for providing the necessary technology and materials for me to combine using what knowledge and resources I had on hand already," Cumpa said modestly. "She has well compensated me for my services and time spent in helping design and create the ship and Gundams along with other machines."

"Then you designed the Izanami and Izanagi Gundams?" Yui inquired, which Cumpa confirmed with a nod.

"I did, after studying the unique technologies Claude wanted incorporated into them," Cumpa said before looking at the four girls behind Lelouch and Yui. "Judging by the photos I was shown it seems you four are going to be the intended pilots for these Gundams."

"What?!" Aki, Izumi, Kazusa and Shimako exclaimed, as even Lelouch and Yui were stunned.

"I guess no one told you," Cumpa noticed, seemingly annoyed, but quickly brushed it off. "Allow me to introduce these new marvels of technology that I helped create. This one, the third of the same series of Gundams from which the Izanami and the Izanagi come from is called the Tsuna."

The Tsuna had the same general frame as the Izanagi and Izanami, but the armaments and its overall design was very different, it lacked the wings as the Izanami and its sister unit. In their place were holders for a large greatsword and opposite of it stored on the larger than normal backpack was a staff-like weapon with a rocket thruster on one side. Its overall color was black with white trim with some red lining for style.

It had large skirt armor around its waist, which was very noticeable making it stand out.

"Miss Izumi Noto I am told will be the pilot for this machine," Cumpa said, surprising the young woman.

"Me!?" the girl in question yelped as she responded.

"Yes, and this machine was chosen for you based on your aggressive style of combat you demonstrated in Kyoto. It has a quantum communication control for controlling the Tsuna's remote weapons, ten small dagger-like remote weapons called GN Fangs, thanks to the GN particles providing an anti-gravity effect enabling them to fly through the air. They each fire a single beam of energy, or due to their sharpened dagger design, can impale and run through targets at high speeds, using a combination of GN particles and an energy integrated into the blade for greater cutting power and penetration."

"GN particles?" Lelouch questioned.

"Unlike the power sources the Izanagi and the Izanami use, the GN Drive can still provide the same nearly unlimited source of power and therefore a much longer operation time than any Tactical Surface Fighter, as long as the pilot is still capable of fighting that is." Cumpa explained before getting into further details. "Think of the GN Drive as akin to a solar furnace, which also produces a unique and useful particle that grants a number of benefits. One of them is enhancements to the Gundam's frame allowing for faster movements and increased durability. Another is that it enables flight and a greater amount of maneuverability in the air no other machine can possess, giving greater agility to where it could float and move through the air flawlessly. Lastly and most importantly, it allows remote weapons like the GN fangs to function in the atmosphere without gravity or wind resistance to impede them. Yours is unique in that it has two integrated GN Drives, which can provide enormous amounts of power."

"I see," Izumi said, awed by her machine's capabilities. "I can control such weapons, these GN fangs?"

"Yes the cockpits of this series of Gundams use Psychoframe Technology, though I'm told this is a particularly diluted and yet upgraded form for normal people,whatever that means exactly. It's able to read the pilot's brainwaves to allow for greater ease of control. Quantum Communication uses this same principle to control the remote weapons as you direct them by thought," Cumpa explained. "Of course you have a pair of melee weapons, a GN Buster Sword with a built in rifle that combines GN particles infused in a physical blade and a beam blade, able to cut through just about anything, even if that something can shrug off energy-based attacks. Then you have a GN beam scythe with a rocket attached to the opposite end of the blade for more powerful swings."

"Wow, that's some crazy melee power," Aki commented. She guessed that Tsuna would be close to perhaps a Sweeper configured TSF in design, but she wasn't quite sure due to all the new technology in it.

"Like the units used by your friends, it has beam sabers, but you can use a pair of heavy beam pistols, based on a particular type called a Beam Spray Gun, for more urban engagements, but of course your machine can use a Beam Magnum as well as an optional weapon," Cumpa added before moving onto the next machine.

"Quick question," Yui inquired. "Claude never told us the details about the power source of my and Lelouch's Gundams, could you maybe tell us in summary what they are?"

The shocked look on Cumpa's face was potentially the most terrifying thing that Yui had ever seen. Followed, quickly, by the rage the man showed, before he forcibly calmed himself. It became rather abruptly clear that he was counting numbers in an effort to control his anger before speaking again.

"That irresponsible woman!" the scientist growled harshly before coughing into one hand and steadying his voice, "Giving such young people such powerful weapons without at least giving them the manual," Cumpa said, exasperated with the pink-haired woman. "Your machines use a power source called a DHGCP, which is short for Discontinuous Hyperoscillation Gauge Collapsing Pile. To put it simply, it's a self-contained artificial black hole."

"WHAT?!" Everyone except for Mana, Yuuhi and Eiji, exclaimed while Yuuhi stood back, seemingly amused by their reactions.

"Your reactions are understandable, even I was taken aback when Claude told me of the technology. That being said, like the GN Drives they can provide an unlimited amount of power as long as both the pilot is capable of fighting and the machine hasn't suffered any crippling damage. However, such power sources are extremely difficult to produce, as even myself, modestly speaking, was able and could only make a limited number and only thanks to the resources Claude provided," Cumpa said. No one had any further questions, or rather they didn't know how to respond to that.

Simply smiling and assured he likely wouldn't get many more questions for now, he gestured to the next Gundam in the hanger.

"Next is the Suetake," Cumpa began.

The Suetake was identical in general frame design, but other than its head design, this one had wings that were notably larger and bulkier and it had hip-mounted weapons, a pair of blades. On its back it had cannons designed to flip over the shoulders kept between the wings. Like the Tsuna it was generally black and white in color, but had some blue lining to set it apart from the other machines.

"Similar to the Izanagi, the Suetake is built more towards melee combat, equipped with blades on its hip armor and beam sabers, but with the addition of hardened knuckles that could be turned around to become claws. However, unlike the Izanagi it has a more balanced armament possessing railguns mounted on its back. Further it has hard points for beam rifles akin to the ones used by the Izanami, and what is called a Mega Beam Rifle stored on the rear hip armor. It can fold up for ease of storage."

"Who is the pilot of that one?" Lelouch inquired.

"Kazusa Yamashiro," Cumpa answered, causing Kazusa to be left stunned by the announcement. "Observing past mock battles and her performance during Kyoto, she was deemed to be the best choice to be its pilot."

"Then these last two," Yui said looking at the third machine, surprised herself, but knowing that it would be a good match.

The same humanoid frame, but this one forgoes wings altogether for three arms, each of them is attached to a rectangular shield, seen on the left, right and behind the machine. At a glance it didn't seem to have beam sabers, but it carried a weapon on its rear skirt armor. The shields attached to the end of the larger arms sticking from its back had a dual-barrel range weapon attached on the left and right shields. Like the Izanami it had a mounted cannon built into the torso but it was lower on the abdomen instead. The rear shield, unseen by the others, mounted a rocket propelled anchor. Color wise it was the same as the other machines, but had some pink lines decorating it to set it apart.

"The Sadamitsu, designed for support and defense, its shields have a unique technology, not just capable of withstanding attacks, but they can repel most ranged energy-based attacks. The two shields on the left and right mount a powerful pair of railguns, and it has a Plasma Cannon which thanks to its magnetic field generator can bend and direct where the plasma beam will go," Cumpa explained.

"Wow, so the beam can be bent?" Aki asked, left sack jawed by such a weapon.

"Yes," Cumpa nodded, "Most people forget that plasma needs to be a continuous beam to be useful as a weapon and therefore, with such an ability, it will be good for catching an enemy off guard. It has a melee weapon stored on the rear skirt armor, a Beam Gravie, which is basically a naginata that you should be accustomed to, but it's made out of the same material as the Gundam making it an effective hard-hitting weapon even without a beam blade."

"Who is the pilot," Aki said, clearly hopeful, though she was slightly annoyed at being told that they should be accustomed to naginatas just because they were young samurai girls, which ironically they had learned to use every day they could in training.

Lelouch only shook his head.

He recalled Suzaku telling him about that. How the wives and daughters of samurai had learned to wield naginatas as it was seen as ideal for them to use from a philosophical standpoint. He couldn't remember all the details, and he was certain Suzaku, a boy, had made a few mistakes here and there, but it would appear this version of Japan also kept the tradition of using the 'feminine' naginata.

If only they had met his mother, big sister Cornelia, or Sayako. And most especially Nonnette!

"That machine will be piloted by Shimako Kai," Cumpa answered before mollifying Aki. "As for the last one, the Kintoki will be piloted by Aki Iwami."

The Kintoki was identical to the Izanami, but instead of beam rifles stored in its wings, the cannons within looked stronger. On its hip were another pair of cannons folded up for convenient storage. However the forearms looked bulkier and the backpack in-between the wings looked larger as well too, likely storing another weapon system within. On each arm was a pair of shields, each one mounting a beam saber and a cannon.

"This one is a little different, its forearms are bulkier to accommodate a pair of thrusters because the hands can detach and grab onto targets acting according to the will of the pilot. As such the hands have built in beam guns and can deliver painful electric shocks to those seized. The backpack unit houses a pair of discs, each one equipped with a beam gun, that functions in a similar manner. The wings house a pair of plasma cannons that fold over the shoulders of the Gundam when in use, and are used in conjunction with the hip-mounted railguns. It has four beam vulcans on its chest for close quarters, and the shields have a beam saber built in along with a mega particle cannon, one each per shield. Finally the most interesting aspect of the Kintoki Gundam is the Multi-purpose Assault Weapon, codenamed Kujaku, it can transform into different weapons such as a large beam sword, a crossbow-like configuration, and a few others," Cumpa explained leaving Aki in awe of the machine before her.

"As impressive as these machines are, why us?" Kazusa said, before remembering the Shogun is present. "Not that we don't appreciate the offer to pilot such machines, but surely there are better skilled pilots more suited for them?"

"True, and you aren't wrong, but worry not. These aren't the only Gundams Cumpa created, both Lady Kyoko and Ikaruga Takatsugu of the Regnant Houses have been given one. Kyoko has in fact partly come here to pick up her machine, the Raikou. The Miyamoto Gundam is already in the hands of Major Ikaruga," Yuuhi said reassuringly.

Eiji stepped back in, continuing their previous discussion. "Other machines with similar armaments are being made, but some of the technology behind these Gundams are difficult to produce and training pilots on how to use them can be difficult. Even veterans and seasoned pilots would need considerable time to adapt to them, but that might be difficult given how they've spent their lives in a TSF, and they may not adapt well to the differences in weapons and handling of the machines."

"Even if Claude provided Cumpa and us with all of the materials and resources required and more for production, our capabilities are still limited. Further given our ongoing conflict with the BETA it would be easier and less risky to train new pilots especially for these machines, some veterans can adapt well but I feared others may not. Lest not we forget we would need to pull these pilots from the frontlines where their skills and experience are sorely needed at this time."

"But why us?" Aki inquired.

"You are probably wondering why we aren't assigning veterans to these machines instead of you four?" Eiji said, prompting Kazusa, Izumi, Aki and Shimako to nod. "The reason is simple, we have suffered enormous losses to the BETA, some of which was caused by poor tactical decisions made by fools who were dismissed or arrested for not alerting our forces of the collapse of our defense lines."

"As such we need every experienced TSF pilot on the frontlines to keep the BETA from advancing further. Even if we wanted our intended pilots, they would be off the battlefield for at least a couple weeks or a month, training to use their new machines, which would be unexpected since the new defense line is barely holding against the BETA onslaught," Yuuhi added.

"Therefore it's more convenient and less of a risk to our efforts to hold the frontline by having you four trained exclusively to use them," Eiji noted. "Furthermore because of the fact we are still reeling from our losses we don't know the full extent of our losses yet, which includes the loss of leaders which combined with those arrested for their poor decisions and those who resigned our chain of command is in shambles, making it difficult and risky for us to pull any veterans from the front who are holding it together."

" I see, but…" Kazusa said, unable to think of a counter argument.

It wasn't mentioned, but I wouldn't be surprised if some abandoned the fight to save their own skins, Lelouch thought, knowing that likely added to the current woes facing the Japanese Army.

Their forces were so badly battered by heavy losses, bad decisions and likely dissertations from their own ranks left the Japanese Military in a weakened state. So much so that Lelouch recognized no one wanted to risk a potential collapse if they pulled anyone willing to keep up the fight at the front line, likely just holding on by a thread.

Lelouch imagined some of the military leadership might've also fled as well, out of cowardice and to likely save their own skins too for their stupid decisions, facing criminal charges for staggering incompetence in Japan's defense.

Assuming some fled before the invasion fearing the BETA couldn't be stopped, that probably just made things worse for the defense of Japan as a whole as the sudden loss of personnel likely further hindered any efforts of holding back the BETA, Lelouch thought, but he decided to push those thoughts aside for now.

"Uh, what about us," Kasumi said, while Sayuri and Ayame stood with her.

"You three will pilot special test models that use the same Coupling and Pyschoframe technology, but scaled for mass-production. We have spare machines for extensive field testing, so we are seeking pilots for them right now," Yuuhi offered reassuringly to the trio. "We have already gathered newly recruited pilots to begin training in their use."

"That's enough questions," Mana said, shutting down further discussion. "You'll begin training with these machines tomorrow once you have rested. Lady Kyoko will return to Kyoto with the Raikou to oversee our defense and try to push back the BETA while we begin creating a new defense line with the new advanced weapons provided by Claude."

"I should have some time to meet with you before I go, Yui, since some work on the Raikou needs to be done before its combat ready," Kyoko offered reassuringly. "Your friends are welcome to join."

"Except for you," Mana said, putting a firm hand on Lelouch's shoulder. "You are going to meet your own instructor."

"An instructor?" Lelouch inquired and suddenly had a sinking feeling.

"Yes, we have granted you non-hereditary status within the Royal Guard, hence your black uniform, which should make it easier for you to work with us. But your lack of endurance and physical ability is concerning, so at the recommendation of Claude we have asked for someone suited for the task of training you from the Imperial Army to be brought in. She will also oversee training for those intending to pilot the new mass-production models, since we are planning on adding more pilots and some of the experimental machines to this ship's complement," Yuuhi explained. "However, if you expect to command anyone you are going to need to prove not just to us, but to them that you are worthy of it."

Yuuhi noticed someone approaching them from the corner of her eye.

"Ah, excellent timing, allow me to introduce Eishi and Sergeant from the Fuji Instructional Group, Marimo Jinguuji," Yuuhi said, introducing Lelouch to his instructor.

Marimo was a young woman of twenty-four with long brown hair, brown eyes, and wearing a military uniform appropriate for one of her rank. She stopped before the group and saluted the Shogun.

"Eishi and Staff Sergeant Marimo Jinguuji of the Fuji Instructional Group have arrived as requested," Marimo announced, greeting the Shogun.

"Here is your new student Staff Sergeant, he has survived an all-night battle against the BETA, but he still needs some work as it were." Yuuhi said, realizing there might be some understatement there as she began gesturing to Lelouch. "You'll be working with my subordinate Mana, so if you have any questions consult her."

"Him," Marimo said, surprised that her ward was a young man of sixteen, a foreigner at that and one that looked like a stiff breeze would blow him over.

"I'm not that bad," Lelouch decried. "I just happen to be a better swimmer than runner."

The look on the Staff Sergeant's face said it all.

Lelouch is in for a rough time, Yui said, knowing what kind of training he would be put through given the Fuji Instructional Group's reputation.

A/N: Yes and for those of who familiar with Marimo Jinguuji from Muv Luv Alterative and Muv-Luv Alternative Chronicles Confessions should know how much of a drill sergeant nasty she can be, and this is a big cause of "cruel to be kind" trope in play for her. So Yui's words at the end are an understatement.

But this is where Lelouch will meet those will become members of his personal squad, with the first member being met in the next chapter.

And Lelouch has the backing of the new Shogun, Yuuhi Koubuin, who she and her twin sister are among the biggest contenders for Lelouch who may become romantically involved with him following Lelouch and Yui becoming a couple. But that will depend on how things play out. Still regardless she has made Lelouch a member of the Royal Guard, giving him a non-heredity samurai rank, but as she said if she wants Imperial Japan backing Lelouch in the future he must earn it, and the loyalty of those who will be his personal squad under his command, they would be the starting blocks for what will be the Black Knights later on.

And now Kazusa, Shimako, Izumi and Aki will be given Gundams of their own, thanks to being conveniently available to train to excessively pilot them, and given their relationship with Yui who has experience piloting such machine, will help train them. So that is what Yui will be doing while Marimo puts Lelouch through hellish training and later a mock battle in the new machines that are a hybrid of a TSF and a mobile suit to put him through his paces as a leader.

But all of that aside chapter sixteen is the chapter Lelouch is leaving the world of Muv Luv for the time being to go exploring, but me and the betas have reached a impasse on who else should be assigned aboard his new ship, which I will say while its nice...he's going to end up with something else later due to events beyond his control XD. Just the same it will be good for him to have a second squad aboard to help protect the ship and provide support when needed.

Unfortunately there have been debates on how nationalistic some choices are, if they might pull some shady stuff which could get Lelouch killed, or may not be around at this point. Complicating the matter is the majority of known TSF pilots are women, and I feel I should very careful on how many women I surround Lelouch with, so the new poll on my profile page has a few male candidates. I would rather see a PM or a review on why I should go with some choices over others than to use a poll, but either someone offering such suggestions or the results of the poll I hope can break the deadlock on our discussions on the matter, so anything can be helpful.

Anyway here are the specs for one of the new Gundams to be piloted by Kazusa.

And I'll see you guys next chapter, thanks in advance for any feedback, reviews, favorites and follows, they are always appreciated.

Model number: TMP-04X

Code name: Suetake

Unit type: Prototype Psycho-Frame Heavy Assault Mobile Suit

Pilot: Kazusa Yamashiro

Manufacturer: Unknown

Operator: Order of the Black Knights, Empire of Japan ("sponsors" of the Black Knights)

First deployment: August 2016 A.T.B

Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso

Dimensions: head height 19.5 meters

Weight: 58.4 metric tons

Powerplant: Minovsky Ultracompact Fusion Reactor

Armor: Lunar Titanium Alloy Ver Gamma

Sensors: 23,700

Equipment/Features

Psycho-Frame

Targeting Sensor Eyepatch: An optional Targeting Visor in the shape of an eyepatch, it is used to give Suetake clear range and view of whoever the machine choose to fire upon.

Coupling System

Minovsky Drive System: A new propulsion system and the most prominent feature of the Suetake. it generates a force field and gains propulsion from the resulting repulsive force. It has a disadvantage where massive amounts of mega particles are emitted when creating the force field, but the propulsion generated by the system exceeded conventional systems. The system also places less strain on the mobile suit's generators, allowing it to use its vast array of Beam Weapons. The Minovsky Drive can also be used for both offensive and defensive purposes, sometimes simultaneously. The system's high-energy exhaust plumes manifested as a giant pair of wings ("Wings of Light").

Fixed Armaments

2 X 60mm Vulcan Guns

2 X VSBRs: A pair of Variable-Speed Beam Rifles (VSBRs) are mounted on the hardpoints on the suit's side armor and powered by the suit's reactor. They can fire either low-speed beams with high destructive power, or high-speed beams with high penetrating power, sufficient to destroy two MS with one shot or pierce a beam shield.

2 X Railguns: A pair of back-mounted electromagnetic launchers for super long range shooting, they pivot over the shoulders to fire in mobile suit mode. In Siege Mode, the output of the two Minovsky Ultracompact Fusion Reactors are concentrated on the railguns, allowing them to fire bullets at explosive speed.

2 X Rare Metal Blades: Stored on the blade holder mounted on the rear skirt armor, the pair of Rare Metal Blades are forged from rare metal, just like the V08-1228 Grimgerde's Valkyrja Blades.

2 X Knuckle Guard/Claws: The armor on the back of the forearms can be used as striking weapons and their designs allow them to turn around and be used like claws.

1 X Mega Beam Rifle: A high output beam cannon with an open mega particle compression-accelerator device. It is an enhanced, lighter version of the Beam Smart Gun. Can be folded for ease of storage and mounted on the back rear skirt armor.

Wings of Light: The unofficial final weapon of the Suetake, The Minovksy Drive System's high Energy Exhaust Plums as a pair of giant wing. Which could be used as either gigantic beam sabers or as massive beam shields to shield both the Gundam itself and other targets. The defensive ability of the Wings of Light could even block the ZMT-S29S Zanneck's beam cannon, which could hit targets on Earth from high in the atmosphere.

Optional Armaments: Beam Magnum, Beam Smart Gun