Disclaimer: I don't own anything, except for O.C's.
A/N: We are currently in the initial stages of planning a European Arc. In this chapter, you may observe a glimpse of it through Euphie's scenes.
The chauffeur closed the limousine door when the Sub-Viceroy got in safely. Lelouch could see her waving at him, so he waved back.
Euphie looked on from the windshield, as her view of Lelouch became smaller. She sighed.
"Is there something wrong, your Highness?" Asked the female bodyguard. She had almost forgotten that her two security details were sitting next to her and Jenny.
"I fine, thank you."
She had shifted her focus to her maid. "Oh, by the way, Jenny Milly Ashford has accepted your application, so you can enroll in Ashford Academy."
The maid, Jenny, made a blush. "Thank you, Milady."
"No need to thank me; you did want a good education." The Princess smiled. Jenny decided to change the subject before her face became as red as a tomato.
"Anyway, I was informed by Lord Schnelzel on the phone that one of the members of the House of Romanov has arrived here in Area 11 to see you personally."
"The House of Romanov?" The Princess wondered around.
"It's not the Grand Duke, unfortunately, but his two younger daughters, Milania and Maria, have made a surprised visit," Jenny explained.
"I can confirm it, milady," The male bodyguard who is sitting next to Jenny added.
"Milania and Maria? Well, that's wonderful; I haven't seen them in ages," Euphemia exclaimed.
"T-They, the House of Romanov, have not recognized the Special Administrative Zone of Russia since they have been staunchly supportive of the EU. Hearing about Lady Milania and Lady Maria arriving is surprising."
Euphie giggled. "Well, it's not all that bad; they just think supporting the EU is in their best interest."
"Yeah, I could understand, milady; hopefully they change their minds about them," Jenny smiled.
"I am sure that minds will change for the better, and we will have a better and more gentile world. The first thing is the ceasefire, so there's that."
Jenny laughed heartily on that subject; she didn't know how she felt about the Kyushu ceasefire proposal. But her faith in her Holy Monarch is unwavering.
Ashford Academy Club House, Tokyo Settlement, Area 11(Japan), Holy Empire Of Britannia. 8:36 PM
Bianca was looking out the window, watching the raindrops fall from the sky. The white cat senses Lelouch coming through that door. With a sigh, he sat on his bed, reached through his pocket for his cellphone, and saw that Euphie had texted him.
As usual, a lovely message was sent to him. He couldn't help but make a slight laugh, but he was mindful not to catch the ears of the white cat. It is a wonderful feeling to receive a thoughtful and kind message from someone he- Wait, where did she get his phone number?
"Is there something wrong?" Lelouch looked up, his eyes shifting to his left. A young woman with flowing waist-length platinum blond hair, a blue cloak over her white sundress. She still watches the rain from outside the window.
He scoffed at her and said, "Nothing wrong."
"Are you sure? I can sense your sudden concern from your phone message."
"How can you possibly know that, since you don't read minds."
"I can read mortal hearts, you know." Binaca turned to face him and glared at him.
"Mortal heart?"
"You know what I mean."
He simply shrugged it off. "Anyway, that was Princess Euphemia. I've received her message from my private phone."
"I summarized that it was surprising that she was able to send that messaged, whatever that is, directly to you."
"Yeah, but it's probably because of Suzaku," He shrugged.
The Sorceress huffed, and she returned her gaze to the window. Lelouch coughed with one hand as he put his phone in his pocket.
"You know you shouldn't look out the window too long, people might see you in this human form."
"In the dark?" B.B scoffed.
Lelouch grunted as he pinched the bridge of his nose. "Maybe you should have gone with C.C."
"Humph." Bianca turned to face him with a calculating gaze. "You couldn't trust me with C.C. Why the sudden change of mine?"
"Because you're a smart kitty," He remarked as they both heard thundering outside.
She rolled her eyes as she approached him. "Being in this form is the only way I can communicate with you."
"I can see that."
"Then you will be the best to look into my eyes, not my chest." She narrowed her glowing green eyes at him.
"Apologizes. Thanks for not ease-dropping when she was here. Euphie can get flustered when we get spied on."
"Not like I had any other chose, your younger sister and her friends, were adamant that I stay in that dinning room with them." The Sorceress said as she turned to the side of his view with her arms crossed, "Besides, I don't do the spying unless I have to. That is the role of one of my followers."
"Well then, guess that means that I'm still on your good side."
Bianca rolled her bored green eyes, and sat down on the bed beside Lelouch and laid down. He was unfazed as he still sat up.
"By the way, how is Princess Euphemia?" She asked.
"She's doing alright."
"A typical answer," The Platinum bound remarked as she lanced her fingers while she looked up at the ceiling.
"Huh, so that's how C.C was raised," Lelouch thought.
He turned his violet-eyed gaze to the floor, reminiscing about Euphemia as it was the best thing during the evening; he might have forgotten to tell Euphie about her ordeal, not like he wanted to ask her. He really felt like Euphie been through a lot and that she was distressed about him and Nunnally. She was so happy to see them both. It's been years, but for Euphemia it's been like centuries. He thought about her cease-fire proposal, but he was not sure if something like this would work. But he was sure that Marrybell would try something while she was here with Euphie. And if Marrybell does attempt it, he'll be ready for her, fare be it if she tries something stupid.
Viceroy's Palace, Tokyo Settlement, Area 11(Japan), Holy Empire of Britannia 9:04 PM
To state that she was not astonished to encounter her former acquaintance from the Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg would be an exaggeration, as she had been notified in advance of the arrival of a distinguished official from Russia.
She was not expecting to be Milania and her little sister Maria, the daughters of the Grand Duke, to visit her. Of course, she was delighted to see her after all these years since the early days of the war in Europe.
Milania's expression resembles her previous memory: Confident, smart, cheerful and cordial. The Viceroy Palace dining room was where they greeted each other formally.
Maria, the happy child, has greeted Euphemia with a curtsy bow. This is not the first time they have met, as Euphemia visited Moscow for the trade talks last year.
The three girls sat at the table while the butlers serving their meals.
"I understand that your siblings are unavailable at this time."
Euphemia blinked at her friend, "Oh, well..." she lowered her gaze, "Yeah, they have been pretty busy as of late."
"I see..." Milania sipped her tea. The Romanov wouldn't have it either way after the war.
"I'm sure I would be able to run into them soon, as I was brought over here by Cornelia's Knight of Honor."
The Pink Haired Princess sighed, "My sister is in the business of war, sadly."
"Her ways of confrontation opens the door to scrutiny according to international norms." Wait, did Milania say that out loud? In front of her friend.
Euphemia had to agree, "I think she just wants us to survive. She wanted to become stronger to protect me, I guess."
"Forgive me; I didn't mean to probe such a topic. Shall we continue, your highness?"
"Of course!"
Both Euphemia and Milania talked to each other, while Maria started to jump in. They spoke about fun things. Last year, they often discussed topics like fashion, relationships, current events, and general gossip during tea parties and this year it will be no different.
But this time there was Maria, and she asked Euphemia a question about her building a snowman with her at St. Petersburg. Both older girls laughed at the question, which left the little girl in a pout. Euphie gave Maria a sly answer.
The third Princess knows that once she sets foot in the Kremlin, she will be the head of the Special Administrative Zone of Russia and Euro-Britannia as a whole. Of course, she wondered if she would be able to make such a request, as she would be busy with political, social and economic matters.
Euphemia did, however, promised the little girl that she would meet her at the snowy wonderland that was the backyard of the Winter Palace. And they can make as many snowmen as possible.
Maria was thrilled to hear that and promised to be on her best behavior when Euphie arrived.
Milania rolled her eyes at this. She then inquired to Euphemia on her plans for the SAZ. Thankfully, Euphie knows the path forward is the restoration of the classic Russian model. A model that ensured relative peace and prosperity for the motherland.
Another question is about the policy of strategic neutrality, to which Euphie had expressed her determination to uphold it. The reason for the tensions is that Russia, under the previously ruling party, has abandoned the policy of neutrality.
Which brings to the third question, although Russia's cultural history, social and economic norms will be redefined and respected, a far cry from the Workers Party's pro-EU stance. There is still the question of Sovereignty now that the Russian World and its spear of influence is now part of the Britannian Empire.
It was a difficult question for Euphie to answer, but she would rather not lie to her friend. Before the third Princess could give an answer, her elder brother showed up at the dinning room.
Schneizel had chimed in explaining rather skillfully and politely that as long as the EU remains a threat to the Britannian Homeland the Sovereignty question remain mute. He further added that Euro-Britannia is acting as a means to keep Europe in cheek.
Milania wasn't particularly please that the Prime Minister would barge in and give an erroneous statement, let alone speaking before introducing themselves to their guest. Euphemia wasn't please about it, either.
"Apologize, but it's a question that cannot be discussed during a time of war." He placed his hand over his heart and bowed his head to the two Romanov's.
Milania closed her eyes while breathing through her nose. She opens her eyes and gave him a stern look.
"Be it as it may, my liege, but that doesn't make me their puppet. All I care about is the safety and well-being of my people."
"Which I have no doubt." He chuckled. Euphie frowned at her brother.
"Let's switch gears and talk about proto-call. It would be wise to report to me at my office, so I can clear things up with his Majesty and his Court."
"Very well, my liege." She rose from her seat and gave Euphie and Maria an apologetic smile before turning to Schneizel.
Milania is the only one who chose not to remain in exile for long after her country has been reestablished into a full colony, known as the SAZ. Her father had backed the EU, while she just wanted the fighting to end and to preserve what little sovereignty they had left. If she had to grovel to their current overlords, then so be it.
The luxurious decor and exquisite furnishings that adorn every corner. A serene and soothing vibe is created by the soft, pastel hue used on the walls. The floor is covered in plush, high-pile carpeting that feels like walking on a cloud.
At night, two old friends sit on the floor, and a fire is lit up in the room. Euphemia looked upon the fire place with a sense of familiarity and foreboding. She holds the fate of others, even though it's challenging to comprehend.
Two young women are sitting by the fire, reminiscing about their time as thirteen year-olds during snow fall in St. Petersburg. The crackling flames cast a warm glow on their faces as they laugh and chat. The memories of their snowy adventures, in and outside the Winter Palace, brought them closer together during the time of peace between the EU and Britannia. They recall the thrill of skiing down the slopes, the taste of hot chocolate by the fire, and the joy of making snow angels.
As they talk, the teen girls share stories of their favorite moments, from building snowmen to having epic snowball fights. They tease each other about who fell the most times on the ice and who was the best at building a snow fort.
The Romanov made remarks about her youngest sister about throwing snowballs at their butler, in which case a humorous episode. The third imperial Britannian Princess inquired more with glee about her friend's younger sibling. The Romanov's expression brighten when talking about her sibling in detail to her close friend.
"They say that friendships are one of the most important aspects of our lives. They provide us with support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. But like any relationship, friendships can face challenges and difficulties that may strain the bond between people. One way to strengthen and nurture friendships is by spending quality time together, and What better place to do so than by the fireplace?"
"So how about you? How have you had been fairing after everything that happen to you?"
She clamped her hands in her lap as the third Princess said, "A lot has happened that I'm still trying to piece together," she eyes turned to the burning amber.
"Forgive me, I didn't mean to pry."
"You don't have to apologize," Euphie turned to her friend with a smile.
"It's just that you're always happy even in the most frigged conditions, no pun intended," Milania made an akwared smile after saying 'no pun intended'.
"Allow me to rephrase that: We go way back since our first meeting at the Alaskan consulate. Two years ago, you seemed to have a natural understanding of international relations. Of course, it is to be expected, but, you're not like your brother who articulate piece but not adverse to conflict."
"Anyone with an admiration for world peace would think long and hard about how to avoid war. Maybe not just for us, perhaps for every living thing on this planet."
"You are different. I know it's me thinking it, but you're not what I expected after the war. When your father, Charles Zi Britannia, had waged a surprised assault on our motherland, that 'hope' that you have given to every citizen of Russia had melted away and evaporated. Even me, your old friend. The European Union, or rather the European Council Commission, have erroneously seized on that opportunity to undermine you further, and I didn't even bait an eye to defend you even after the ceasefire.
But all that changed dramatically when you appointed Suzaku Kururugi as your Knight of Honor, arguably the first ever in the history of your homeland that doesn't inherit the blood of the Anglo-Saxons or the Early Rus. Many People in Europe and in Moscow especially were struck by that, it was basically a top headline around the world. I was intrigued, as I wondered if this was a message you wanted to convey to the EU and China. And my sister, well, she became your biggest fan.
After the incident at the Japanese Islands with you disappearing from the scene for weeks, people around the world feared the worst. It was a different affair in Moscow, as you may have heard. People from all walks of life, gathered in houses of the Russian Orthodox Church, even in the Church of the Russian Armed Forces, have prayed for your safe return.
While my family remained in Paris, France, I took a plane to the Moscow Airport and prayed with my people as well. I've talked to them, every attendant in the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, to my astonishment, they did not hold ill will towards you as if it were a distant memory. The little ones also spoke highly of you.
Regrettably, the EU leadership sees things differently and has gone as far as calling it 'Disinformation'. Our old government even parroted what they said, and the people are very upset about it."
Milania sighed, "The way they had the courage to write a statement, they cast your name aside like trash. Surely, these Ghouls should show some gratitude to Britannia's White Dove than thinking too much about their masters' hegemony."
"After that, the people revolted. Which helped my brother set everything in motion," Euphie said sadly.
"Which he had helped from the Duma," Milania clutched her knees.
"The Workers Party have been in lock step with the EU Leaders almost as if," Milania took a breath, "They're the once calling all the shot first by dismantling our autonomy, then into a battering ram against your homeland and now tarnishing your goodwill."
"I'm just a teenage girl, I'm not that special," Euphie said sadly.
"You are a unique individual, and it's not because that you're part Russian and have good looks."
Euphie gigged, "I see... thank you." The two friends smiled at each other and then turned their gaze to the fireplace.
It is a decree that when friends gather by the fireplace, it creates a sense of closeness and connection. The crackling of the fire creates a soothing ambiance, allowing of open and honest communication. As friends share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, they can deepen their understanding of each other and strengthen their bond.
Sitting with her knees drawn up, the pink-haired girl sighed.
"Do you ever have a relationship?"
"Hm?" The Romanov glacé at her friend.
"Um, never mind. I just thought about someone."
Milania covered her mouth as she started laughing.
"What's so funny?"
"Nothing! Just recalling a little propaganda piece about your relationships with suitors and ordinary men."
Euphie rolled her eyes and smiled, "I've already chosen a suitor, and he's just an ordinary student from Ashford Academy."
Milania blinked in surprise, "Really?! Who is it? For a moment there I was thinking it may have been Kururugi, but I didn't expect someone else."
"It's a secret," Euphie shushed and winked, "Not even my sisters nor brother know. I've been meaning to marry him for a long time."
"I just hope he's handsome."
"He's just about my age and, yes, he is handsome and brilliant."
"Well, be sure to invite me to your wedding," They both giggled at the thought.
Euphie and Milania have wondered what It's like for normal teen girls to gossip. Having friends and normal relationships while they go out on dates.
Ashford Academy, Tokyo Settlement, Area 11(Japan), Holy Empire of Britannia 07:37 AM
Rio took a breath when she entered. It was just another ordinary day at Ashford Academy when a new student, Rio Salvo, a Knight of Seven, strolled into Ms. Henderson's English Class. With her brown backpack and pink school uniform, she stood out as the only non-Britannian among the students in class. As she plopped down in the only available seat next to the class know-it-all, Sarah, all eyes turned to Rio in curiosity.
Ms. Henderson smiled warmly at Rio and introduced her to the class. "Welcome, Rio! We're so glad to have you join us. Why don't you tell us a little bit about yourself?" she said.
Rio cleared his throat and stood up, looking around at her new classmates. "Greetings. My name is Dame Rio and my mistress gave me a task here. I'm really into collecting vintage yo-yos and have a pet ferret named Dore. Oh, and I'm also really good at soccer and Capoeira," She announced before breaking into an impromptu Capoeira stance and then bowed her head.
"That's nice, Dame Rio. You can take your seat."
Rio sat back down. She was in the same class as Alice and that crippled blind girl, Nunnally, though they were two rows apart. She feels like she didn't make a good first impression, but at least she made a point to tell the rest not to mess with her Capoeira stance. Of course, she would never look for a fight, but she would defend herself. At least, based on the mutters from the class, nobody would mess with her based on her rank.
For now, she suspects. She snapped out of her thoughts when a Britannian male student caught her attention, who was in the same row. He waved and smiled politely at her. Rio awkwardly smiled back. Sarah looked at them with disgust.
"I'm Zach by the way," He whispered. Rio nodded before turning their focus back to the teacher. Zach was known as the class clown, always ready with a joke or a funny anecdote to liven up the often dull classroom atmosphere.
An hour and a Half in during a particularly boring lecture on Shakespeare, Zach raised his hand and asked, "Hey, Ms. Henderson, do you think Shakespeare would have been a fan of reality TV shows if he were alive today?" The class erupted into laughter, and even Ms. Henderson couldn't help but chuckle at the absurdity of the question.
Rio suppressed her laughter, while Sarah and her friends did not. Nunnally giggled, while Alice rolled her eyes with her arms crossed.
"Okay, students, that's enough." Ms. Henderson smiled. "I'll let this slide for now; just remember the consequences."
"Of course, Ms. Henderson!"
...
After class was dismissed, Rio waited for Nunnally and Alice to take their leave of the classroom. And she was about to get up with her bookbag-
"Hey!" Zach waved at Rio as he stood up next to her.
"Um, hey," Rio waved back.
"You know, it's pretty cool to meet a member of the Knights of the Round," Zach exclaimed.
Rio felt the need to frown at this.
"Not like it's a bad thing or anything," He said with a sheepish smile. "I'm just a huge fan, that's all..."
"Oh, um, sorry about that. I may have looked at it in the wrong light, it's incredibly rare for an honorary to be a member," she said, making an apologetic smile as she got up with her bookbag.
"Yea..." Zach said, "But you aren't that bad- I mean, not bad like the rest, I can tell."
"Not bad like the rest, huh? I see how it is..." Rio teased.
"Hey, I don't use the R-Card that often anymore since that other guy came to this school," He laughed.
"R-Card, huh. Is that like new slang?"
"Yup! It's been invented by me, the new William Shakespeare!"
She couldn't help but laugh, "Right. So, how can I help you?"
"Do you want to have lunch with me?"
"Um, don't you have friends?"
"Nah, nobody likes to hang out with the class clown." He shrugged his shoulders.
"Hmmm, I can relate. Um, sure, why not?"
Viceroy's Palace, Tokyo Settlement, Area 11(Japan), Holy Empire of Britannia
Viceroy's Office
The meeting between the Prime Minister and the Australian deputy Foreign Minister has been long. An official from the Chinese Federation, Yun Ping, had attended the meeting as an observer. The room was tastefully decorated, with contemporary art adorning the wall and a large window offering a view of the city skyline.
Dania Eilister with a straight face, "You want us to rejoin the Empire?" she pushed up her glasses.
Prime Minister Schneizel gave a charming smile, "I hope you understand my position on this matter."
"It's easier said than done, my lord. I want to remind you that Australia was once part of the old Empire and is now considered a sovereign state. You're suggesting that we return to the common wealth that has long become a fated memory."
"It's true that the old Empire is dead. We, the former colonies, are the sole remnants of the past, and it is imperative that we unite together under the banner of our Holy Empire. Now that the EU is almost finished, leaving the world into a power vacuum."
Dania frowned, "I should point out that Queen Victoria is the last hair of the old Empire, of the common wealth. She passed away along with it. We Australians have the right of self-determination and besides, this new Empire is nothing like the old."
"Indeed, our first Emperor and Lady Victoria had learned a lot from the mistakes of the past and created the foundations to make the new Empire strong and powerful. Their dream is also to bring the common wealth territories into the Holy Empire."
"So the true hair of Rome wants to lay clam to the territories that were rightfully theirs," She spoke ever so nicely as she could. This is so brazen that it outrages. For him to spell it out so openly to her face is unbelievable, all this time during the one-hundred plus years, the Holy Empire still expresses their desire to absorb the former common wealth nations. She recalled once during her studies that the Holy Empire demanded that the EU recognize the former common wealth nations as part of their homeland, they refused. The Holy Empire countered by accusing the European Union of appropriating their former territories, which are affluent considering their ownership of one third of the globe. Plus their rapid expansion in the Baltics and central Asian states.
The look of Schneizel is of amusement, "Why don't you think it over, my lady? I am confident that my proposal will be viewed as an opportunity by your Parliament."
"Of course, my lord," Dania nodded.
Dania sat in the limousine with Daitherd and Yun Ping while the driver took them to the Embassy.
"The audacity of that man!"
"The Empire is getting bold if his Highness is making demands," Deithard remarked.
"Schneizel should recognize the sovereignty and independence of Australia. This goes beyond international norms," Said Yun Ping.
"Agreed," The blonde woman said. "However, the EU is having its hands full of the emerging Euro-Britannia and Marrybell's bravo." She closes her eyes.
"How much time do you think you have supporting Master Zero and Lady Kagaya," Deithard inquired with his arms crossed.
"In secret? As long as it takes," She opens her eyes to sharpen her gaze at Daithard, "But if word come that we have aided the Black Knights before the eventual liberation of Japan, Austrailia might face a fallout with the Empire."
"Everything is in place for us," Daithard assured. Dania simply nodded. The last thing the deputy foreign minister wants is for Australia to fall into the same crisis as the former Euro-Russia.
Ashford Academy, Tokyo Settlement, Area 11(Japan), Holy Empire of Britannia 1:45 PM
After hours filled with lectures, discussions, and assignments, the bustling energy of the campus transforms into a more tranquil and serene atmosphere. As students shuffle out of classrooms, libraries, and laboratories, the campus takes on a new sense of calm and quietude that is distinctly different from the vibrant and bustling energy of the daytime.
The once crowded hallways and common areas become sparsely populated, with only a few students lingering behind to study, chat with friends, or simply enjoy the solitude of the campus after class. As the sun begins to set, the golden light bathes the buildings and greenery in a warm glow, casting long shadows that stretch across the campus grounds.
The once-crowded hallways and common areas of the Academy have become sparsely populated, with only a few students lingering behind to study, chat with friends, or simply enjoy the solitude of the campus after class. The sounds of footsteps echo softly on the pathways, accompanied by the gentle rustling of the hedges & tall shrubs and the occasional chirping of birds. In the quad, a group of friends sits on the grass, sharing stories and laughter as they unwind from a long day of classes. The soft glow of lampposts casts a warm light on their faces, creating a cozy ambiance that is a stark contrast to the harsh fluorescent lights of the lecture halls.
Lelouch walked past a group of gossiping girl students sitting on the grass, sharing stories and laughter as they unwind from long hours of classes. He then spots Rio Salvo, seemingly making new friends with the other students. He then looked from behind and saw a small group of those girls leaving the area for lunch and then back to Rio.
Rio waved goodbye to Zach and his friend while she was sitting on a bench. As they left the view she sighed.
"I don't think I'll ever get used to this," The Brazilian brunette girl muttered. She turned to her right to see someone approaching her. At first, she thought it was some stranger, but it turned out to be...
"E-Euphemia's betrothed." She stood up with her bookbag and made a crusty bow.
"You can skip the formalities the next time we meet," Lelouch said. He recalled Euphie helping the Brazilian girl back up on her feet. It is puzzling that Rio was able to join higher ranks in Charles Zi Britannia's army. Euphie said she would look into why that girl ended up to where she was. He has grown wiser on his abilities, it would be pointless to Geass, but Euphie had admitted that she may not have all the relevant information.
"Of course, sir," Rio knows she might not honor such a thing, given the nature of Britannia society. On the other hand, Euphie would want her to do the formalities' thing as well.
"So, what can I help you with?"
"I just have a couple of questions," Lelouch activated his Geass on command. Rio gave a slight gasp as the color of her eyes disappeared and was replaced with a glowing light pink.
"What do you want to ask me?" Rio asked in a trance.
"How did you end up in the Knights of the Round?"
"I was originally conscripted into the Imperial Army. The ruthless general commanded the campaign in West Africa, and I was to serve as cannon fodder. Gino Windberg saved me when I was certen to die in that battle.
I became his squire, and he taught me everything I know. He supported me every step of the way. As the nature of why I was giving that role...I don't know..."
"What did you mean by that?" He inquired.
"I..." She clutched her head with her right hand. "All I know is that I wanted to serve in the Imperial Army because of Euphemia saving my life when I was little. My dream is to become a Knight under her highness. But more importantly, to get revenge...
Revenge? His eyes widen in surprise. Rio continued.
"I don't know why his Majesty gave me the title of Knight of Seven after Gino and I defeated the Spanish army, but I think I'm... could be one of the test subjects."
Test subjects? Like Suzaku? He thought. Lelouch recalled Suzaku's speed and agility when he helped him find Nunnally when she was captured by Mao. It's no doubt that Rio has the same attributes. It seems typical that Britannia would conduct experiments on Non-Britannians in the Empire. But that doesn't seem to satisfy him about the motivation behind Rio's appointment; most, if not all, experiments are made to benefit full-blooded Britannians. So far, in his view, Suzaku and Rio are the exceptions.
Whelp, Rio isn't hiding anything, but something has happened to her. Is it something to do with Charles? This would not bode well for some interrogators if Rio were ever captured.
He was about to ask her about her Revenge until Milly showed up.
"Lelouch, Rio, there you are!"
Lelouch deactivated his Geass, and Rio's eye color returned to normal. The Brazilian girl snapped out of her trance.
Milly Ashford ran up to them, her hands on her hips.
"I've been looking for you two. Its time for our student body council meeting."
"And you came all this way to tell us that?" He wandered around. Rio looked at her surroundings.
"Um.." Rio Salvo rubbed that back of her neck, "Did I doused off our something?"
Milly raised her brow at Rio, "Huh, are you okay, Rio?"
Rio stood in attention, "I'm fine ma am!"
"Rio, you can relax. You're not in the military," Milly laugh.
"I know it's just a force of habit."
"So I see you got to know the Third Princess's betroth!"
"Yeah... well, he was about to ask me something before you showed up," Rio said.
"Oh really," Milly looked at Lelouch with a sly smile. "I hope you're not trying to pry classified info out of Dame Rio, are ya?"
"Euphie wanted me to get to know her," He said.
"As far as hobbies are concern, right?" Rio sweat drop.
"And let us not forget about your beloved pet ferret."
"Oh, right, Dorie." Rio and Milly both laughed. Lelouch watched as they chattered, and he promised Euphie that he would gather information about Rio Salvo and her role as Knight of Seven. He got everything from the Brazilian Knight, except for her revenge and the motives of Charles. Lelouch is starting to think that man really did have something to do with her mother's death. Nonetheless, it was good info for him and probably for Euphie.
The Student Body Council meeting was in full swing, Milly looked at everyone in the room. Lelouch sat down, looking bored. Shirley felt calm and relaxed, accounted at the fact that Lelouch is Euphemia's Betroth. Kallen sat down, good at acting like she was about to past out. Rivals, Alice, Rio, and Nina were doing their thing. Alice and Rio have talked a lot about their time in military matters. With it the president, a charismatic and confident, stood at the front of the room, ready to lead the discussion. As she called the meeting to order, the rest of the council members took their seats, eager to discuss the important issues facing their school.
"The first item on the agenda is about the upcoming school dance," Milly said, "I've just scored big in having the Sub-Viceroy to attend the clubhouse ball."
Everyone in the room was surprised by this, except for Alice and RIo.
Shirley's eyes widen, "W-what?! Madam President a-are you sure about this?"
"About the Dance?" Rivals asked.
"N-no about inviting Princess Euphemia to the clubhouse ball!"
"Yea, and I'm pretty hype about it, maybe the Hero Princess would come along, pervided that she stays here longer."
"Well, you never know but asked." Milly remarked.
"P-Princess Euphemia is coming here soon," Nina whispered in surprised. Now she has to think of something to where.
Lelouch sighed, "Madam President, it is wise to invite a Holy Monarch to the Clubhouse ball?"
"Yes. And besides, I'm doing you a little favor."
"A favor?" He raised his brow.
"Yes. To keep you two out of trouble in going into these supermarkets and public fast food restaurants."
This is the most dump Idea ever. It true that Euphie had gotten into trouble three times because of her curiosity and determination. But that is not what concerned him it's this arrangement, it will not be privatized. School dances will have photos and cameras, but only this time there will be full on imperial press, and he is not very keen on another fiasco. Nevermind Cornelia, what if Marrybell could catch wind of his face on the pitcher.
"I'd rather not be my name in the newspaper the day after the ball."
"Hey, don't seat it you have to come to the ball. Think of it as an opportunity to mingle with your girlfriend."
"Well, since you put it that way," He shrugged. At least he feels confident about how to manage this upcoming situation.
"Gooddie, now let's talk about the decorations."
Rivals have already come with the Idea of a decoration. However, his ideas are based on Milly Ashford's favorite colors. Rio had chimed in with her own idea for the decorations, which is really artistic, like you're in a fairy tale.
Milly has approved of Rio's idea, to which Rivals sighed in defeat. Though, Milly had added her idea which goes hand in hand with RIo's idea. She listened intently, her sharp wit and quick-thinking guiding the conversation towards a consensus. With her clever remarks and clever ideas, she managed to steer the group towards a decision that satisfied everyone.
After the meeting has concluded, Lelouch has decided to call Nunnally on the phone and head out. He explained to his friends that he had to deliver the news that Princess Euphemia was visiting the clubhouse during the dance party.
Kallen and Rio were playing with Kitten Arthur and the ferret Dorie while the rest of the Student Body Council stayed in the room talking about silly stuff.
Shirley, "I hear Felicia didn't want to come out and play."
"Yea, but I think she would rather spend time with Nunnally than us right about now," Alice said with her arms crossed.
"What is that? Do I sense jealousy over there?" Milly asked with a sly smile.
"I'm not jealous of a cat. I'm just saying that's all," Alice said, rolling her eyes.
"Speaking of cats, hey Kallen did you hear about that cat that was causing all the commotion during our festival outside?" Rivals asked.
"Huh? Oh, yea. Milly had sent me a pitcher of the Cat about a week ago," Kallen said, as she used a cat toy to grab the attention of Arthur and the ferret.
"Oh, yea that's true," Milly remarked. "It's a pretty amazing-looking cat, don't you agree?"
"Yea," Kallen said, surprised to see the same cat she saw at the Ikaruga Submarine with C.C. She would have written it off as a mere spur of the moment, but after her early hour conversation with Silvia the Killer Harlot... Supposedly, the Cat is there because of the twins that will be enrolling in Ashord, they were to look after the cat when C.C is too lazy to look.
After spending some time playing in the Student Council room with her friends, Kallen head on outside, only to get a message from Silva about meeting her at the warehouse.
"Princess Euphemia is going to have her little ball." Silvia wore a tan trench coat, a hat, and sunglasses.
Kallen huffed. The Killer Harlot blinked, "Oh, is there something the matter, Hun?"
"Nothing..." Kallen dismissed.
"Really? Don't you have plans?" The woman asked.
"What are those Astro Twins even doing here, enrolling into this academy? It's bad enough to learn about the white cat."
"As I've already notified you, they're here for education and spying. As for the white cat, how do you know if it's the same one that Mrs. C.C owns."
"Are you seriously trying to gaslight me on that last question?"
"Yes, did it work?"
"No."
Silvia laughed as she put her hand on her hip, "Well, in that case, I'll tell you about C.C's cat."
Kallen listened in on what Silvia knows about the white cat. The Q-1 pilot narrowed her eyes and crossed her arms.
"Highly intelligent, huh?"
"Don't take my word for it; I don't know anything about C.C apart from being Master Zero's mistress. The point is that the cat is self-anointed, not like a stray cat. I can't say anything more about their history, as this has nothing to do with us as an organization. But if you are keen to know more, you can always beat it out of the future Prince and Princess of Britannia, or you can ask Master Zero if you prefer."
Kallen closed her eyes. Should she really confront Lelouch about it, or Nunnally? No, she would not. The Q-1 Pilot has grown to like them a lot, but she hates the fact that they had to get caught up in this mess.
"Anyone who deserves a royal beat down is the royal puppet herself," the redhead said, glaring at Silvia.
"Good answer, darling. But please be careful not to step on any toes."
"With her coming to the dance, no promises."
"Try to retain yourself when her Highness arrives. Ram and Sam, unquestionably, are coming to the ball with excitement in their eyes. I hope you can do better than them for both of us."
"Whatever, I'm heading out. You should too," Kallen turned to exit the Ashford academy warehouse.
"See you at the ball~"
Kallen is definitely not looking forward to this.