13 Chapter Thirteen: Rise of the Blue Unicorn.

The Olympus finally came to dock and repairs were being made. In that time Marianne had moved herself and the Geass Order into the Viceroy Palace. She had more or less taken over Cornelia's office, which she didn't mind at all.

In fact Cornelia was glad to be a subordinate to Marianne again, just as she had been when she was the head of Marianne's security detail before being sent to fight the Eden Elite.

Although officially she was still the Viceroy of Area 11, she found herself with very little to do as Euphemia had been diligent in operating the various day to day business of running the Area. And Kaguya had returned to the Kyoto House, and through their connections order had been maintained in the Japanese ghettos. Although of course Euphie had given significant effort in improving the lives of the Japanese in the ghettos as a show of faith.

Thus between Marianne helping to organize the birth of Lelouch's brainchild, the Atlas Fleet, and Euphemia and Kaguya, Cornelia was left with a challenge of her own: boredom.

'Perhaps I should check in on Cardemonde,' thought Cornelia, recalling how she had vowed to place him under her care.

She walked on to the room Rivalz had been given in the palace and to her surprise she found Lelouch and Suzaku in there as well, with several monitors set up on a desk where Rivalz stood over as a conductor stands over an orchestra. Lelouch and Suzaku were standing over a wall of photos and charts.

"Should I ask what this is?" asked Cornelia, making her presence known to the three young men.

"An investigation," said Lelouch, matter of factually as if it were a game but with a deadly seriousness that said otherwise.

"What's happened?" asked Cornelia.

"One of my friends, Milly Ashford, might be in trouble," said Lelouch, not taking his eyes off the wall.

"Ashford, as in the Ashford family?" asked Cornelia. "The ones that built Lady Marianne's Ganymede?"

"The same," said Lelouch.

Cornelia looked around and indeed saw a stilled image of a young woman she assumed to be Milly, with a sad expression and a chain around her neck.

"Could she have been kidnapped?" asked Cornelia.

"No record of any announcements or police reports," said Rivalz, from the computers. "There's not even a record of Milly. Birth certificate, social security, enrollment records, all gone."

"As if she were being erased," said Suzaku.

Cornelia began to see the serious implications of this.

"I've heard of such incidents," said Cornelia. "There were rumors of a human trafficking ring in various Areas in the Empire. However there was never any evidence of foul play, or that the supposed victims never existed at all."

"Just like Milly," said Rivalz. "Though...I think I found something."

"What?" asked Lelouch, drawing closer to the computers Rivalz surrounded himself with.

Cornelia and Suzaku did the same and watched as Rivalz brought up financial records.

"A huge deposit was made into the Ashford Family's accounts," said Rivalz. "In fact there have been several large deposits made over the past seven years."

"When the Ashford family lost almost everything," said Cornelia. "When V.V stripped them of their noble ranking."

"You don't think Milly's own parents are apart of this do you?" asked Suzaku.

"Don't underestimate people's greed Suzaku," said Lelouch.

Suzaku clenched his fist, the need to grab his scythe becoming strong.

"Only one way to know for sure," said Rivalz, shutting down the computers with his mind before facing the group.

Lelouch and Suzaku shared the expression on his face and all three went to the doorway, blocked by Cornelia.

"Just what are you three planning to do?" asked Cornelia, although she felt she already knew the answer.

"Nothing you can't stop us from doing sister," said Lelouch.

"This something we have to do," said Suzaku. "She's our friend and this happened right under our noses. Not only to her but to god knows how many other people."

"I realize this must sound crazy princess Cornelia, but you once said it was your duty to protect civilians like me and Milly so that things like...things like what Lovecrest did to me wouldn't happen," said Rivalz. "If anyone here is really serious about standing up for justice or just using it as a word, then the proof of our sincerity has to come from our actions. And show that justice comes to everyone who commits evil and protects everyone from evil, no matter that status or their wealth. Especially for those who are going to get caught in the crossfire."

Cornelia said nothing, merely looking at the three young men and knowing she could say nothing to dissuade them. Their faces and eyes held no doubt in the righteousness of their cause or their determination to see it through. And they were right, this was happening under her watch, it was another failure on her part. One that needed to be corrected.

"Just be careful," she said, stepping aside. "And call if you need help. Especially you Lelouch."

"Of course, big sister," said Lelouch, not hiding a hint of annoyance.

"I'm serious," said Cornelia. "If not I will be sure to let Lady Marianne know about how you've neglected your education."

Rivalz and Suzaku couldn't help but chuckle as Lelouch tensed up slightly at the notion of his mother disciplining him. Even if he was destined to be the messianic leader of the cult his mother was a part of, he knew in his gut that he would still not be safe from his mother's discipline if he were to earn her ire.

"You know, in some cultures of the world the wealthiest and most powerful of their society is the one who weighs the most," said Cyst, gulping down a goblet of wine.

She held out the now empty goblet with her fat paw, and watched as Milly refilled the cup. As Milly sadly did so Cyst watched how the humiliating leather thong and bra looked on Milly's young body. They complimented the chain around her neck well.

"In many ways that makes me one of the most powerful people in the world if not the most powerful," said Cyst.

The fat woman lounged on an impossibly large reinforced bed. Milly's lengthy chain was attached to the headboard. Plenty of from for her to maneuver, or for Cyst to tug on.

"How does that make you feel my dear, servant to the most powerful woman?" asked Cyst, licking her lips towards Milly as she took the goblet from her hands.

"Honored madame," said Milly, forcing a smile onto her face.

"I"m sure," chuckled Cyst, before downing another goblet. "My dear, it appears I have an itch on my buttocks, scratch it for me."

Cyst rolled over onto her belly and rested her chin over he crossed arms, so large they put pillows to shame. Milly had to crawl over Cyst's massive, nude body, to get to her large bottom. Once in position Milly began dragging her nails all along the fat woman's ass, and listened as Cyst chuckled.

"Some should say I should be ashamed of my weight and appearance," said Cyst. "But no, I am proud of it. My fat represents the wealth I've accumulated over my years. And why should I be ashamed of my wealth? Besides would it not be a crime to deny the world my flesh?"

"Of course madame," said Milly, using all her strength to avoid vomiting as she moved her hands across the fat woman's bottom.

Cyst chuckled, knowing full well how the girl was disgusted by her and yet powerless to do anything but obey her. She found it incredibly satisfying to have Milly belong to her, the girl reminded Cyst of herself in her younger days. Of course her blonde hair had dulled a bit and of course there was the triple digit weight gain.

Perhaps that was why she sought to have Millicent in her possession for so long, pure vanity. Perhaps then she wold fatten the girl up, a nice chubby little version of herself to play with for years to come.

Nunnally sat back and listened as Rai continued to play the song he had so diligently practiced over the past several days. He truly appeared to be gifted in music and Nunnally had proven to be a good teacher.

"You could be a musician," said Nunnally. "You can spend your life creating something people can enjoy and can make them happy. You won't have to be fight anyone or kill anyone anymore."

Rai's fingers stopped moving along the piano and Nunnally blinked in worry, hoping she hadn't offended him somehow.

"You don't like the idea of fighting do you?" asked Rai, looking back at Nunnally.

"No, I don't," said Nunnally, surely. "I despise fighting and I hate war. It's what took my father from me. It's what kept mother away from us. And now my brother is all but throwing his life away for some war."

"He wants to avenge your father's murder," said Rai.

"Killing our uncle won't bring back our father," said Nunnally.

Rai noticed tears beginning to fall from Nunnally's eyes. Earlier he had felt the presence of Marianne, his contractor, she was in Japan. Rai then went to Nunnally on the couch and gently drew her close. His blue eyes met her violet orbs tenderly and affectionately but with a reserved strength.

"I cannot bring you to your father," said Rai. "But I can bring you to your mother."

Nunnally gasped in surprise and her tears began to fall freely. Rai was about to do something to try and apologize when suddenly Nunnally grabbed his face and pressed her lips to his.

At that exact moment Lelouch walked into the room.

Kallen hadn't wanted to speak to anyone. Lelouch had tried once but she refused to allow him entry. She couldn't get over what she had been forced to do. Even though her brother was a monster, threatening to kill Lelouch, there was still a time once when she truly loved her brother. When he was the most trusted person in her life and not the monster she had been forced to help destroy.

Her brother's blood was now on her hands, as well as Lelouch's. Although indeed Naoto's crimes warranted execution, it didn't make things easier.

'Brother...Lelouch,' thought Kallen as she lay huddled in her bed.

Kallen shuffled a bit and then felt something cover her mouth. Kallen tried to resist but soon fell into unconsciousness.

Nunnally was shocked that her friend Rivalz was still alive, despite going to his funeral, and despite his altered appearance. Rai was shocked that indeed that Lady M.M had arrived so soon to Japan. And Lelouch of course was the most shocked to see the mysterious Rai kissing his beloved sister.

Needless to say the most extreme shock was the one that required Suzaku and Rivalz to hold Lelouch back from attacking Rai.

"Leave him alone Lelouch," cried Nunnally. "He was merely...comforting me."

"With his mouth?" Lelouch roared.

"I did not intend to kiss her," said Rai, glancing at Nunnally. "But...I did not refuse her. She and I are...fated."

"What?" asked Lelouch, the surprise taking some of the steam out of his anger.

"Nunnally and I are fated to marry," said Rai. "It is an occurrence within several members of the Order. Some may peer beyond time and behold a significant individual, one whom they are bound by fate to be together with. Nunnally experienced that during her training with Lady C.C and she saw...me."

"So...you have met C.C," said Lelouch.

"That's a nice way to put it," said Nunnally. "I know all about your secrets Lelouch. Or should I call you Zero?"

Lelouch grimaced and merely looked away, unable to stand his sister's furious gaze.

"Is mother truly here?" asked Nunnally.

Lelouch nodded wordlessly.

"And were you ever going to tell me?" asked Nunnally. "Or was that going to be another secret you'd keep from me?"

Lelouch said nothing as Nunnally got to her feet, taking Rai's hand in hers.

"Please Rai, take me to my mother," she said.

"Of course," said Rai, taking Nunnally's hand and giving a light kiss to her knuckles.

The two young lovers left the three behind and exited the manor. Jeremiah and Sayoko came up and bowed before their young master who wordlessly waved them off. The former knight and the ninja maid followed Nunnally and Rai's leave, leaving Lelouch standing alone with Rivalz and Suzaku.

"Lelouch...if you..."

"We don't have time," said Lelouch. "Milly's life might be in danger. We should focus on getting to her parents and extracting information from them. Everything else can wait."

Kallen felt an odd smell come up her nose and she gasped back to the waking world.

"Hello dear," said Marianne, smiling innocently.

"L...lady Marianne?" asked Kallen.

Kallen felt herself lying down on what felt like a mat and she was slightly cold. Adjusting herself and taking in her surroundings Kallen found, to her shock, she was naked. Covering herself in a gasp Kallen looked at the chuckling Marianne, clad in her ornate robes.

"What the hell did you do to me?" yelled Kallen.

"I drugged and stripped you" said Marianne, who undid her robe and removed it in one move. "Now we stand my future daughter-in-law, exposed both physically and emotionally with no barriers of society or reason between us."

Kallen looked away from the naked woman.

'I'm guessing that the real reason she was called the Flash,' thought Kallen.

She looked around and saw that they were in some kind of training dojo. Before Kallen could ask what they were doing in the room, she was almost met with the sole of Marianne's foot. If not for her own quick reflexes she would have been under the heel of the former empress.

Marianne made to bring her foot back and kick Kallen's face with her heel but Kallen quickly managed to knock away Marianne's other foot, getting the former queen off balance. This didn't last long as Marianne caught herself, pressing the floor with both hands and bounding back to her feet. Kallen had taken the time to get to her own feet as well and quickly took up a fighting stance.

Marianne did the same and cut a telling smile. It told Kallen all she needed to know. She couldn't suppress a smirk of her own and she charged at her 'mother-in-law'. Almost simultaneously the two moved to deliver a kick upon the other, their legs clashing in the air.

The Ashford family indeed appeared to have come into a greater degree of wealth. Renovations to the family manor was being done and records of several deals and investments were found.

"The largest and most recent deposit happened only a few days ago," said Rivalz. "About the same time you guys were on your way to the island."

"And there aren't any photos of Milly anywhere in the house," said Suzaku. "They've effectively erased her from their lives as well."

Lelouch then looked at Milly's mother and father with disgust. He focused his desire onto their minds to have them answer what had happened to their daughter.

"She belongs to Madame Marta Cyst," said Mr. Ashford. "Payment for the loans she had offered over the years."

Rivalz clenched his blue artificial hands tightly in anger.

"You sold your own daughter?" he growled. "Just to buy your way back into the nobility?"

His arm began to twitch and his sword popped out of his forearm and extended.

"Calm down Rivalz," said Suzaku, placing a hand on Rivalz's artificial shoulder.

"Where is Cyst?" asked Lelouch, using his Geass again, this time on Mrs. Ashford.

"She owns a penthouse in the Settlement," said Mrs. Ashford. "Babel Tower."

Lelouch released his control and swiftly struck the two unconscious with the flat of his sword.

"What should we do with them?" asked Suzaku, gripping his scythe.

"For right now we'll leave them," said Lelouch. "We need to head to Babel Tower."

"I'm looking through the building's specs as we speak," said Rivalz, returning his sword to its compartment. "I'm also looking for anything regarding Madam Marta Cyst. Officially there's nothing much but I am noticing similar circumstances to what we've got here. All paid from dummy accounts but I should be able to sort through it all."

The three then proceeded to exit the manor, stepping over several of the unconscious bodyguards and servants they had encountered as they forced their way into the mansion. They made their way back to the truck they had taken from the Britannian military base and began the drive to Babel Tower.

In the Viceroy Palace, Bismark had taken over representing the Geass Order while Marianne was tending to the feelings of her desired daughter-in-law. He, the leaders of the Black Knights, as well as Cornelia and her knights and Lady Kaguya, were putting the final touches on the agreement to re-unify their alliance as the Atlas Fleet.

"If we do this we essentially stop becoming a resistance movement against V.V," said Ohgi. "Do we all understand that? What Lelouch has conceived is nothing short of a revolution in and of itself."

"Indeed," said Bismark. "The young Black King shall usher in a new age for this world. Perhaps a better one if all here are willing to help him in this cause."

"There will of course be more discussion of just what kind of world he plans to build," said Tohdoh. "However for now, for the good of Japan, I believe this...Atlas Fleet is the best course of action for myself and my men."

"Thank you," said Bismark. "We will also soon begin bringing in the Peace Mark organization into the fold."

"Peace Mark? The terrorists for hire?" asked Guilford.

"In some views yes," said Bismark.

"They've helped fund several operations for the JLF in the past," said Chiba.

"Not to mention they're known for going for the highest bidder," said Dalton. "How can we be sure they're trustworthy?"

"Because the Order holds controlling interest in their organization," said Bismark. "Peace Mark has both been a valuable recruiting device and proving method for warriors of the Order."

"And a good diversion for V.V's forces I'm sure," said Cornelia. "Sacrificial lambs to keep him distracted in his hunt for Lady Marianne.'

"At times," said Bismark.

"Hey, tough choices got to be made," said Tamaki. "At least with these Peace Mark guys that's more of us to screw V.V straight up the..."

"There is an agent of Peace Mark en route to Japan," said Bismark. "He should be here soon. Then, once Lelouch has settled all personal business in Japan, and we've fully restructured our forces and unite under the banner of the Atlas Fleet, we can carry on to pressing issues that have been brewing in Europe."

"C.C. and Rai seemed oddly disturbed when Europe was mentioned a while back," said Ohgi. "What exactly has the Order so worried about what's happening in Europe?"

"It could be the E.U," said Dalton. "The war for them is not boding well. They could be getting desperate and found some remnant of that old Geass Civilization that should have stayed buried."

"Sounds like something from an iconic adventure movie," said Tamaki.

"If my face winds up melting at some point I'm blaming you," said Guilford, looking at Dalton who laughed loudly.

"Nothing quite like that," said Bismark, laughing as well. "Rather there are a few surprising anomalies in the E.U and Euro Britannia. They've managed to earn V.V's interests, which alone is suspicious as he rarely involves himself in the running of his own empire. Let alone the operations of Euro Britannia."

"I doubt that'll help relations with the Euro Brits any," said Viletta.

Across the table from her Ohgi noticed her tone and posture and became somewhat suspicious.

"I'm guessing Euro Britannia isn't entirely like the rest of the empire?" asked Ohgi.

"While they are part of the Empire, unlike any of the Areas, Euro Britannia has a significant amount of independence in its operations," said Cornelia. "They can pass their own laws and largely have their own government. They still have to report to the main Empire but largely are a nation unto themselves."

"But I'm guessing that breeds a sense of distrust concerning their cousins in the homeland," said Tohdoh.

"A long running one at that," said Guilford. "The risk of Euro Britannia rebelling has always been present. Even when Emperor Charles had the throne."

"Many of the ruling lords of Euro Britannia are the descendants of the aristocrats who fled the European Revolution," said Dalton. "The ones that joined with the British Royal family in fleeing to the Americas and eventually helped build what is now the Holy Britannian Empire."

"And now that their descendants have regained their ancestor's former lands they tend to find displeasure in owing allegiance to what is essentially a foreign power," said Tohdoh.

"In a sense yes," said Euphie. "Even though we're all Britannians many in the Homeland and in Euro Britannia regard the others as 'foreigners'."

"Although after the advent of the Usurper's war many who were able to fled to Euro Britannia to avoid V.V's reign even more effectively than fleeing to the various Areas of conquest," said Guilford. "Needless to say the distrust hasn't been helped since V.V took the throne. Their only grace is that so far he hasn't shown an interest in them. Until recently apparently."

"Maybe we can use that," said Ohgi., "If Euro Britannia were to declare independence from the Britannian Empire that would send a message. Not only to V.V but to the rest of the world."

"Breaking up the Empire, I'm not sure how to feel about that," said Cornelia.

"If Euro Britannia is acting as a safe haven for those trying to flee from the main Empire, then Euro Britannia is already all but split from the main Britannian Empire," said Ohgi. "Declaring itself independent of V.V would make that message clear to the rest of the Empire that his rule is unjust and unwanted. It could be the rallying cry to start full uprisings over the entire Empire."

"While I agree, it none the less feels discomforting," said Cornelia. "My father had made great efforts in seeking to improve our relations with Euro Britannia."

"I'm pretty sure V.V has already ruined almost everything Emperor Charles ever tried to do," said Tohdoh.

"Yeah, let that immortal bastard get bitten in the ass by his own f..."

"What about the E.U?" asked Chiba, stuffing a biscuit in Tamaki's mouth to halt his profanity. "If we were to effectively have Euro Britannia break off ties with the Britannian Empire what should we expect from them?"

"The E.U is facing significant internal discord," said Bismark. "They don't have a unified national army but rather several state armies of their member nations. And even then at times there is evidence of not even using their own soldiers. Rather they've conscripted several young Japanese refugees into service."

"Let me guess, to die in the place of E.U soldiers," said Tohdoh, disgusted by the notion.

"I fear so," said Bismark. "One such unite, W-0 especially has caught the Lady's attention, particularly a young woman named Leila Malcal, born Leila Breisgau, and her Japanese subordinate Akito Hyuga."

"What's so special about them?" asked Ohgi.

"Apparently she's one of C.C's contractors," said Bismark.

"But she's not part of the order?" asked Cornelia.

"No," said Bismark. "Apparently C.C encountered the girl when she was a child. She saved her life after the assassination of her birth father Bradow von Breisgau and the death of her mother."

"Bradow von Breisgau?" asked Cornelia.

"I take it that's a significant name?" asked Kaguya.

"Duke von Breisgau was a defector to the E.U not long after V.V came to power," said Dalton. "He was a great believer in the ideals of Emperor Charles and it was often suspected that the Eden Elite were the true culprits behind his assassination. He was a great man, although I suppose I should be calling him a traitor. Then again I guess I am too now."

"We're not betraying Britannia, Dalton," said Cornelia. "We are liberating out nation from that vile demon of an uncle of mine. Duke von Breisgau stood up for the true Britannia. At least his daughter managed to survive."

"Yes, she was adopted into the influential Malcal family," said Bismark.

"Jeez, between this Leila girl and Lelouch, V.V sucks at killing kids," laughed Tamaki.

"Will you learn some tact," yelled Chiba, slapping Tamaki upside the head.

"Anyway, what's so special about Leila?" asked Ohgi, hoping to get back on track. "Does it have to do with her Geass?"

"That's just the thing," said Bismark, "we know very little of her Geass. Even C.C barely has an idea of what her power can truly do. All we know is that she can 'undo', whatever that means."

"Okay, a mysterious Geass is interesting but does that warrant a full intervention?" asked Guilford.

"That's not all," said Bismark. "There is a knight of Euro Britannia whom we believe is a rogue Geass User."

"Like Naoto," said Ohgi, recalling his friend's fate.

"I'm afraid so," said Bismark. "It is rare, but there are instances in which a contract is established without the use of an immortal. When a Geass is bestowed to a mortal straight from...the Source."

"The Source?" asked Ohgi. "You mean where Geass truly comes from."

"Come to think of it Lord Bismark, Lady Marianne never truly explained where Geass comes from," said Kaguya.

"Some secrets are too great for mortals to comprehend," said Bismark. "Some secrets that the Order must keep secret."

"Fine," said Cornelia. "So what's so special about this knight. What's his name?"

"Shin Hyuga Shaing," said Bismark.

Kallen slid into the hot bath, sighing contently as the warm water soothed her various bruises. The massage on her shoulders given to her by Marianne helped as well. Marianne's skill as a warrior were just as great as legends had said. It was all Kallen could do to try and hold her own with her. Indeed her speed was incredible, as were the strength of her blows upon Kallen's body. While Kallen had fought fiercely she could only barely keep up defenses. In the end Kallen felt Marianne was merely toying with her. Of course now, after more than a fair amount of tosses to the ground and blows to the body, she was now bathing her.

"I can't believe you have a hot spring on your ship," said Kallen.

"What can I say I have a weakness for hot baths," said Marianne. "How the water cleans away the sweat and pain of the day. How the heat melts away the stress of duty if only for a brief while. Not to mention joy of simply being able to shed your physical and metaphorical armor and simply let yourself be bare and warm."

"Is that why you stripped me before deciding to beat me?" asked Kallen.

"Oh dear, I wasn't trying to beat you," said Marianne in a sickly sweet voice as she began applying shampoo to Kallen's hair. "You are a warrior woman Kallen. As the ancient brides of Sparta were, made wise and fit and skilled in the arts of combat. You are not meant to daintily wilt in misery like a flower deprived of sunlight. You are meant to sweat and bleed in glorious battle either at the side of your king or in the defense of your home and your family. You cannot afford to simply cry in bed like a child. It was demeaning of you and even worse it was demeaning of my son. I forced you into that little sparring match to bring out the warrior spirit that dwells within your breast. Thankfully you seemed to have gotten the message and put up a decent fight."

"And if I didn't?" asked Kallen.

"I would have killed you," said Marianne.

The way she said it with the same calm and sweet voice only made such a statement even more frightening to Kallen.

"I will not have my son wed an unworthy woman," said Marianne. "If you break over so small a thing as the destruction of your brother then you have no business with my son, destined to become the warrior king who will save this world. He deserves a woman of strength and wisdom able to stand at his side. To guard him from his enemies. To advice him in times of war and peace. And to offer him love and happiness when the misery of the world weighs down upon him. Do you understand me girl? You are the support that he will need. You cannot be the one to break under despair. You are to be the blazing fire in his heart that gives him the power and courage to triumph over the evils of the world. And should he fall you are the one who must lead and ensure the succession of his legacy. That is the power and the responsibility of the Queen."

Kallen looked down into the water, feeling notably chastised. Marianne chuckled and placed a hand on Kallen's shoulder.

"Kallen, you are a queen in the making," said Marianne. "The responsibilities and the powers you will wield will be great. Should misery threaten these responsibilities the best thing you can do is to draw strength from Lelouch. Just as he will draw strength from you. You should have invited him to your chambers earlier. Talk with him about your pain, as you would hope he would share his pain with you. Recall he has the blood of his brother on his hands, forced to kill Clovis for the sake of justice just as you had to for Naoto."

Kallen recalled how Lelouch had to deal with the pain of being forced to kill his own beloved brother Clovis.

"I just...I've never had someone who I...care about like I do Lelouch," said Kallen. "I don't know...what I should do. Is this all just too sudden."

"All is fair in love and war and this war is only beginning," said Marianne. "As is your love. The trials Lelouch will face, the ones you will face by his side, will test all that has already been planted between the two of you. War and Love, so very similar and yet people say they should make the latter and never the former. They forget that love is indeed a battlefield."

Before Kallen could respond the soft padding of bare feet against the wet floor earned the attentions of the two. They looked and saw Nunnally walk into the spring room with a towel draped over her body.

Lelouch, Rivalz, and Suzaku had Babel Tower in sight. Rivalz had managed to hack into the the tower's security feed, as well as the blueprints for the building.

"No sign of Milly," said Rivalz. "I'm looking through both the hotel and casino. There are plans for a large penthouse area at the top of the building in the blueprints but no security videos."

"So no real way to know if Milly and Cyst are here," said Suzaku.

"Hold on, I'm still going through related data," said Rivalz. "Remember those dummy accounts I mentioned earlier?"

"The ones Milly's parents got their payments from," said Lelouch.

"The same, apparently amounts are made into one such similar account by an individual known as the Black King," said Rivalz, showing them an image of the man. "You could sue,Lelouch."

"Not my style," said Lelouch.

"Anyway he's a mafia boss who has been active in the Area for years," said Rivalz. "In fact more than a few mafia heads have both taken loans and made payments to the same accounts that Milly's parents had deals with."

"And I'm guessing they all are regular customers of the casino?" asked Suzaku.

"Yup," said Rivalz. "I can see it all on the live feed."

"So if Milly is in there we'd have to fight through the entire mafia to get to her," said Suzaku. "Between the three of us those are good odds."

"We are not risking Milly getting caught in the crossfire," Rivalz yelled.

"He's right," said Lelouch. "We need to think this through. Money is their strength and their weakness. We can use this to our advantage."

"Hack into their accounts and leverage them to give up Cyst?" asked Suzaku. "The Fleet could use their funds better than these guys ever could."

"True but that's what I had in mind," said Lelouch.

"I think I have an idea," said Rivalz.

He brought up the tablet he had taken with him from the base and connected to it, showing Suzaku and Lelouch an old feed of security film. It showed several gangsters dragging a young woman, bound in leather and chains to an elevator. One gangster opened up a hidden portion of the wall near the elevator. His body hid whatever he had been working with. The elevator then opened up and the gangsters dragged the girl in. The video then switched to the elevator security camera and the same group and their hostage seemed to walk through the elevator.

"Secret elevator?" asked Lelouch.

"Not on any of the blue prints," said Rivalz. "But if I were a betting man, and I am, that's a straight line to Cyst."

"So if we get into that elevator then we get to Cyst and Milly," said Suzaku.

"Is there a set limit on the people you can use your Geass on?" asked Rivalz to Lelouch.

"I don't believe so but we don't need to get to use that many people," said Lelouch. "Just the Black King, I need to secure my title."

"I just don't know if I can possibly trust Lelouch again," said Nunnally, as her mother shampooed her hair. "Not only has he refused to confide in me but he is instigating a war. Just like the kind that too father away."

"My sweet daughter," said Marianne. "Surely you don't believe your uncle has peaceful intentions with his power do you?"

"Of course not but I...mother I despise the horror, and the violence," said Nunnally. "During the invasion Lelouch, Suzaku, and I got separated from Jeremiah and we were forced to walk through fields of corpses. The smell...the sight...all those bodies. I can't see such things again mother."

Nunnally cried terribly and Marianne held her daughter close in a tight hug, her own tears falling onto her daughter's hair. Kallen looked on and felt oddly out of place, as if this was a moment to be shared only with mother and daughter. But a look from Marianne told Kallen that she was not to move.

"I can't stand the idea of brother dying, becoming a body to rot in the sun," cried Nunnally. "Not Lelouch, not Suzaku, not...not..."

"Not Rai," said Marianne, finishing Nunnally's sentence.

Nunnally drew from her mother and as she looked up with teary eyes Marianne looked down with a light smile.

"You do not want your brother, your friend, or your lover to die and leave you mourning," said Marianne. "You do not want to lose the ones you love. I know that pain all to well. When I lost your father...I nearly died myself from the grief. Having to separate myself from you and your brother was just as terrible. Oh my beautiful daughter, with your sweet heart so pure, it cannot help but break at the notion of your loved ones being taken from you. But alas I'm afraid your loved ones are destined for great things. To be great men and take upon great risks. Lelouch, your brother is the king who will overthrow V.V and his evil to restore peace to the world. Suzaku, your friend is the sworn knight and true warrior who seeks to destroy corruption in this world. And Rai, the young man who has captured your heart, he is a loyal warrior of the Order but I hear you have sought to offer him a new life, a life of peace and happiness, with you no doubt."

Her mother's voice and her knowing looks made Nunnally blush violently, to which Kallen could only giggle.

"My sweet, fret not," said Marianne, holding her daughter close. "You will come to understand the duties we all must face in the coming days. But fear not you won't be alone. Your new sister Kallen is also learning of her new duties."

"Kallen? Sister?" asked Nunnally, blinking in confusion before her eyes landed on Kallen.

Kallen only blushed and was thus helpless when Marianne caught her and dragged her into her grip where she hugged both girls to her chest.

"Yes, your new sister, once she fulfills her promise to me and marries your brother of course," said Marianne. "And hopefully soon after she'll make you an auntie. Auntie Nunnally, doesn't that sound wonderful?"

Neither Kallen or Nunnally could exhale a word in response, Marianne's tight hold to their bosom depriving them of oxygen.

Rivalz indeed stood out however Lelouch and Suzaku, both dressed now in suits and holding briefcases standing at his side, Rivalz himself had been draped in a blue cape to give off the flare of an eccentric noble. And indeed it appeared to be catching the interests of several of the casino patrons, the shine of his artificial parts helping with the illusion that indeed he was a man of great wealth.

"I must say Duke...Lir was it? Is there anything in which a man of your obvious stature would find appealing?" asked the manager, sucking up to Rivalz.

He had to hold back the laughter he wanted give out in order to pull off the aloof and uninterested facade Lelouch had told him to master.

"Duke Lir would not deign himself to speak to the likes of you," said Lelouch. "If you wish to have words with the Duke you will speak to me and I will relay them to the Duke."

"Oh, of course," said the manager. "Please do tell the Duke I apologize if I've offended him."

Lelouch walked up to Rivalz's ear and pretended to whisper into it. Rivalz then gave a nod and Lelouch turned his attentions back to the manager.

"Duke Lir has decided to forgive your impudence," said Lelouch. "But let this not happen again."

"Of course," said the manager.

"And to answer your question the Duke has...interests," said Lelouch. "He hears you have a collection of bunnies? Is this true?"

"Oh yes of course we have quite the collection of 'bunnies' that I'm sure will please the Duke," said the manager.

"I can attest to the quality," another man said, approaching the three.

A tall black man in a fine suit, behind him were three young women in bunny suits, their hands bound and leashes on their necks held behind them by several brutish looking men. This was the man they were looking for. The Black King.

"However, I would suggest the Duke hunt elsewhere," said the Black King.

"You dare address the Duke without the proper respect," yelled Lelouch.

Rivalz snapped and rose his hand, palm up.

"Be glad my master is merciful and has not ordered your life to be taken you commoner scum," said Lelouch.

This seemed to aggravate the Black King greatly. Lelouch smirked, everything was going according to plan.

"Indeed, you are in luck for the great Duke Lir will be glad to accept your tribute to his magnificence," said Lelouch. "For he knows, you will do anything to please him."

In that sentence Lelouch had activated his Geass and focused his will into the minds of the Black King and his men. As soon as the faint red glow appeared around the crime lord's eyes Lelouch knew he and his friends had one.

The Black King and his men all then got on one knee and bowed before Rivalz and his friends.

"Of course, anything for the Duke," said the Black King.

Going along with the illusion Rivalz drew close to Lelouch and pretended to whisper into his ear.

"The Duke would like you to first release the young women, he prefers to hunt alone," said Lelouch. "Then you will take us to the true master of this establishment."

"Of course," said the Black King.

His men did as commanded and as soon as the women were free the three of them were being led to the elevator they had seen in the video. The Black King undid the secret panel, revealing an analogue control pad, and pressed the necessary commands. The elevator then opened and the hidden door in its back opened as well. The group got in and once the secret elevator closed and began to rise, Suzaku drew a hidden knife and quickly finished off the Black King and his men. He and Lelouch the opened their respective briefcases and drew their respective suits.

Rivalz looked down at the dead bodies before him with an uncomfortable face. Lelouch noticed this and grimaced slightly as he put on his own mask. He had forgotten that Rivalz was not a killer. What he had done on the Olympus was an act against already dead corpses, this was different. His friend was not a killer and he had to respect that.

"From here on out Rivalz you're leading the play," said Lelouch, fully donning the garb of Zero.

"I just want to get Milly out of here," said Rivalz. "You guys do what you want."

Even from beneath their respective masks Lelouch and Suzaku were able to give a nod to one another. Under their protection Milly would be safe, at least from a mere crime boss, intimidation would suffice for now. Zero's alliance with Cornelia was still a secret to the world, they could hide from her with ease.

The elevator finally came to a halt and the three silently exited the elevator. But as they did they heard a boisterous voice call out.

"This had better be good King," the voice said.

The three followed the voice across the decadent penthouse into what appeared to be a bath. And to their shock, awe, and disgust they saw the owner of the voice, an enormously fat woman sitting in a deep round pool with a nude Milly shampooing the woman with a chain around her neck connected to the wall.

"What the..." the fat woman, Cyst cried when she saw Zero and two other mystery men appear before her when she opened her eyes.

For Milly's part she could only look in disbelief as she recognized Rivalz, changed but appearing indeed alive.

"What is the meaning of this?" yelled Cyst.

Zero drew his sword and pointed it as Cyst, the fat woman freezing with a jiggle of her fat.

"You will not move till we leave," he said, his Geass focusing into her will.

The faint red glow appeared around her eyes and Rival proceeded to go to Milly.

"Rivalz?" she asked. "Is...is that you?"

Rivalz drew his own sword and cut Milly's chain, vibrations along the chain from the sword's blow then appeared to shatter it entirely, fully freeing Milly's neck. He then wordlessly took the cape from around his shoulders and wrapped it around Milly.

"It is," he said. "I'll explain everything once we get out of here."

He led her out of the room and towards the elevator, Zero and Reaper following suit. Once they had left the command on Cyst had warn out. And when she saw that her prize was no longer attached to her chain she roared in anger.

"Activate tracking software," she yelled.

Above the wall a monitor lit up and a map of the building appeared, a red dot flickering in the secret elevator shaft.

"Contact Midas," Cyst growled. "Tell them to tract target."

Nunnally and Kallen, both tuckered out from the bath, rested peacefully on Marianne's bed, covered in violet and red bathrobes respectively. Marianne chuckled as she looked down at her sleeping daughters.

"My sweet girls," she sighed from her seated position at the edge of the bed, her legs poking out from the blue bathrobe she wore.

"Your brand of motherhood always amuses me Marianne," said C.C, sitting at a small table eating pizza.

"All mothers practice different methods but should always have the same reason, love," said Marianne. "I hope you're not here for more of your payback from me. I'd like the girls to get some rest. Also I should hope you're not planning to have any further dalliances with Nunnally now that she's with Rai."

"Fear not, mother shall fill the role daughter once held in my bed, although I do believe she should continue training," said C.C. "Her potential is great."

"Of course it is, she's my daughter from Charles," said Marianne. "Both of our children are great."

The three young Geass Users had driven to Ashford Academy, wanting to try and get Milly comfortable before going onto base. They also called out to Nina and Shirley on the way, Rivalz being the one to make the call. The two girls had managed to sneak out and met up with the rescue party at the clubhouse.

As Rivalz had asked when he called Shirley, she brought a change of clothes for Milly.

And while the two were glad to see their friend was alright and unharmed, they were shocked to know that not only was Lelouch the outlaw Zero, but that Rivalz was alive and altered.

"Incredible," said Nina, her normally shy and timid personality seeming to give way to her natural scientific curiosity. "An actual working cyborg and one I know personally."

As Nina straightened her glasses so she could see better she couldn't quite seem to notice how uncomfortable Rivalz was with Nina being so close to his face.

"What's the horn for?" she asked.

"It's a long story," said Rivalz. "One we'll tell you once we get back to base."

"You mean, the Black Knight base?" asked Shirley, sitting at her usual seat.

"The Viceroy Palace, my sister Cornelia has pledged her service to my cause," said Lelouch. "The destruction of my uncle and the liberation of both Britannia and Japan, as well as the rest of the world from his tyranny."

It was still so much to take in for Shirley that the boy whom she had a crush on was in reality a prince in exile. And Rivalz's apparent resurrection wasn't easy to digest either.

"And Suzaku, you're apart of this too?" asked Shirley.

"Yes, although technically I'm still a part of the Britannian military as a Honorary Britannian my goal was to work up to the Eden Elite with the hopes of getting close to V.V and kill him," said Suzaku. "Then I plan to destroy all forms of corruption in world governments."

"Rivalz don't tell me you're willing to be a part of this?" asked Shirley.

"Right now all I want is to make sure you guys are safe," said Rivalz.

Milly entered the room now dressed in her school uniform, feeling comfortable for the first time in what felt like forever. It was then that Rivalz finally began to notice a pinging sensation running through his mind. He got up and walked to Milly, who still looked like she was trying to process just what had happened to him.

"Milly, hold still," he said. "I think there's something wrong."

Milly said nothing as Rivalz looked over her. While she was used to him fruitlessly attempting to gain her attentions this was different, he was different. He looked at her like he was a machine processing data. Which in some respects he was.

"Oh no," he said.

"What is it?" asked Lelouch.

"Cyst put a tracker in Milly," said Rivalz. "They're...damn it."

"What?" yelled Lelouch, quickly becoming annoyed at how Rivalz was privy to information he wasn't.

"There's twenty Knightmare Frames heading towards the school," said Rivalz.

The girls gasped in shock while Lelouch and Suzaku inwardly swore.

"Cyst?" asked Suzaku.

Rivalz delved into his connection to technology and recovered records of communication coming from Cyst's penthouse. He quickly began to hack into the information of whom she contacted. A mercenary group called Midas, known for their high prices, their skills often reflecting the justification of the price, who were known for covering their Knightmares with actual gold over their armor.

Records had shown they'd been stationed secretly in Area 11 ever since Zero had appeared.

"And since Zero just showed up and stole from her she's finally using her mercenaries," said Rivalz.

"Shit, how long do we have?" asked Suzaku.

Rivalz tapped into security and traffic footage from the streets and estimated the distance form Babel Tower to the school.

"Not long, enough to get out before damage is done to the school," said Rivalz. "And the other students."

"We need to contact the others," said Suzaku.

"They're not going to be able to get here in time," said Rivalz. "But the Valiant can make it here in no time."

Everyone looked at Rivalz, struck silent by what he was suggesting.

"No," said Milly. "Rivalz you can't...you can't fight of those people."

"I don't have a choice," said Rivalz. "If I don't at least hold them off until our allies get here innocent people are going to get hurt, even if we escape. If that happens then I'm condemning others to the same fate I suffered. Collateral in a war they didn't choose. I can't allow that to happen. Not to you, not to our friends, if this is why I was the only one to really survive what happened to me...then so be it."

Rivalz left the room, despite Milly tearful protests. She then looked to Lelouch angrily.

"Lelouch, why aren't you stopping him?" she cried.

Lelouch said nothing, because as he did the math in his head, he knew Rivalz was right. While he didn't know the full power of the Valiant he chose to do something risky, and have faith in his friend.

In the Knightmare Hanger where the Valiant had been moved to, situated between the Lancelot and the Guren, the crimson eyes of the blue Knightmare began to glow and the machine began to stir.

"Well that cannot be a good sign," said Rakshata, who along with Lloyd and Cecile were overlooking the blue machine. "Everyone move!"

As the blue Knightmare began to move the ground crew scattered as the machine began to walk on its own four legs. The impromptu departure did cause some damage but thankfully everyone had made sure to get out of the way of the machine. Once it stood out of the hanger and into the night air, the Valiant stood on its hind legs and moved the front in the similar fashion of a horse before running off at top speed. Once it was at the edge of the base the machine leaped into the air and from its haunches rocket boosters sprung forth, propelling the Valiant high into the air and at a great distance before landing and repeating the same motion.

"What the hell happened?" yelled Cornelia, running into the hanger after hearing the commotion.

"The Valiant just left," said Lloyd, as if it were nothing unusual.

On the top of the clubhouse Rivalz stood awaiting his machine. The forces of the Midas Company were soon to be bearing down on them but his readings of the Valiant told him indeed the machine would be arriving soon.

"Rivalz, please don't do this," Milly cried, having followed him to the roof.

"You should get back inside," said Rivalz, still facing the open campus, which was soon to become a battlefield. "It's going to get very dangerous here."

"Damn it Rivalz, don't you realize how insane this is?" Milly asked, moving in front of Rivalz. "You're not a fighter, you'll be...you'll be killed."

"Already died, didn't like it," joked Rivalz.

"Damn it," Milly cried, slapping Rivalz's cheek.

The pain in her hand greater than an expected slap would, it only served to remind Milly how much Rivalz had changed.

"I'm something else now Milly," said Rivalz. "I can't imagine what this must be like for you. You were there at my funeral, you were enslaved, and now here I come half metal and going into a freaking war zone. But we don't have the time or the luxury to even pretend none of this is happening. I'm a cyborg and we're under attack. The best we can do is accept the situation and try and make the best of it. I admit I'm not an experienced soldier but I should at least be able to buy time for the real soldiers to get here, and keep those guys off of you and the other students till then."

"So you're using yourself as a human shield?" cried Milly.

"I'm not entirely human anymore," said Rivalz.

"Rivalz...please," Milly said, tears falling from her eyes. "I...I can't loose you again. Don't go."

Rivalz looked at Milly sadly, but he could feel the technology of the oncoming Knightmare Frames creeping closer to them. But before the Valiant was now coming into view, galloping up to the building Rivalz and Milly stood on.

Being the granddaughter of a Knightmare developer Milly could not help but admire the beauty of the Valiant. Its quadrupedal design, its shimmering blue armor, and even the oddly shaped red horn on its head, similar to the one on Rivalz's head.

The Knightmare drew it's back legs and straightened to a bipedal position, standing an incredible height.

"Rivalz, please don't do this," Milly begged.

"Relax Milly," Rivalz said before leaping onto the shoulder of the Knightmare.

He turned back and gave her his usual bright smile and a shiny blue thumbs up.

"You can always count on me," he said as he entered the cockpit.

The Knightmare returned to its centaur-like form. From its foreleg a handle-like devise flew forth to be caught by the Knightmare's hand. Within moments it appeared to expand into the form of a medieval style jousting lance. The Valiant then rode out to meet the Midas Company, leaving Milly alone on the roof, her hands clasped in silent prayer.

Suzaku and Lelouch watched from the inside as the Valiant raced off. Lelouch had just received a call from Cornelia and he brought her up to speed with the situation.

"Do you think Rivalz can hold them off long enough for the others to get here?" asked Suzaku.

"We don't know what the Valiant is fully capable of so it's an unknown variable," said Lelouch. "And even if the Valiant is actually able to upload combat data into Rivalz's body it isn't quite the same as pure instinct. But that's where the Geass Coordinator comes into play. If what we're right then Rivalz should be able to use to actually connect to our minds, and our abilities."

"He gets access to my fighting skill," said Suzaku. "Possibly even your abilities of mind control."

"Working theory yes," said Lelouch. "I guess now is the time to really put it to the test."

"A damn rogue mercenary faction under my own nose," cursed Cornelia. "Damn it all to hell. I want every available Knightmare ready to rendezvous with the Valiant."

"Belay that order," said Bismark, walking up to Cornelia.

"Lord Bismark, with all due respect you cannot expect me to stand aside and allow an untested boy to fight off against hardened mercenaries ready to kill," said Cornelia.

"Fear not, I will be going out with my Galahad," said Bismark. "If it appears our young Black King and his allies may not win the day on their own power I will intercede. But I believe there is great potential in those three young men and it must allowed to be tested. The valor of great men is forged in fire, we must allow the lighting of the flame."

Rivalz stood in the roomy cockpit, feeling that his hands should be sweating even though that was now physically impossible. This was different than before with the corpses. These people were actual people and he was going to either have to kill or be killed. He had never truly killed anyone before. But if he didn't kill the men who were bearing down on him then they would kill him and possibly kill all of his friends.

'If I don't kill them they will kill my friends,' thought Rivalz. 'I can't think like I'm just a person. I have to be a weapon.'

The battalion of gold covered Knightmares soon came into view and Rivalz steeled himself for the upcoming battle. They appeared to be made primarily of Sutherlands as well as a missile launching drone.

One of those drones locked on to him and as a missile launched Rivalz drew up his left arm and just as it was on his own arm, the Knightmare's arm displayed an energy shield that protected him from the damage of the blast.

'I've got to deal with the drone,' thought Rivalz.

He focused his Geass onto the drone and easily enough mentally rewrote its targeting programming and indeed it began to fire upon the Midas Company Knightmare Frames, destroying one. This caused a significant degree of confusion in the enemy ranks. Rivalz took advantage of this and quickly charged, quickly impaling the closest Knightmare on his lance.

'These people work for that woman, they are going to hurt Milly and the others if I don't kill them now,' thought Rivalz.

He detected another Knightmare attempt to fire from behind him and Rivalz quickly three off the frame from his lance into the frame that threatened to fire at his back.

'I'm not killing these men because I like killing, I...I hate this,' thought Rivalz.

Several of the golden Knightmares had managed to lock their weapons onto him and fired. However the armor of the Valiant wasn't even scratched by them. This served only one purpose, to enrage Rivalz further.

'These men...these men are murderers...killers...rapists...monsters,' he thought, his mind. 'Just like...just like the men who did this to me.'

The memory of the rock slide at Narita flooded through his mind. The fear and terror he felt at the possibility of dying. The misery he felt upon seeing his transformation. The idea that he, an absolute nobody had survived and been granted so much power while so many noble soldiers had been needlessly killed and mutilated, made him sick.

No one was there, not for him, not for them, there had been no one to help them and they had suffered. All of Zero's talk about being a Knight of Justice meant nothing to them at that time.

'It's not enough to just say you stand for justice,' thought Rivalz, his fury working through the Knightmare as it galloped over one of his enemy frames, allowing him to strike from behind. 'You have to prove that justice is more than a word. You have to define your justice with action. More than just overthrowing and punishing evil.'

Rivalz held the lance aloft and the great blue lance opened up to reveal a long read sword, similar to the one Rivalz held. Much like the smaller sword, this one let out a song that shook the enemy to their core.

'To stand for justice, means more than just punishing the guilty,' thought Rivalz.

On both his own forehead, and the forehead of the Valiant, the crimson horn parted into his true form as the symbol of Geass.

'It means, more than anything else, one must strive to protect the innocent!' Rivalz roared in his mind.

And just as before, his blue artificial eye opened up, revealing the artificial blue shine of the Geass Coordinator. He could feel the brilliant strategic mind of Lelouch, the pure warrior's fury of Suzaku, and another sensation that Rivalz hadn't felt before, the noble will of...Bismark Waldstein. However there was no time in his mind to acknowledge the strange new sensation, he merely focused on the remaining forces, attempting to reorganize after the disruption of the drone's friendly fire and Rivalz's own erratic fighting.

Opening both his eyes, Rivalz could now see the movements they'd make before they would even make them. A sadistic, Lelouch-like grin appeared on his face as he charged out. And faster than any of the mercenaries could respond, Rivalz landed devastating slashes following along their moves he had predicted. The narrowness of the road had worked to Rivalz's advantage. And while it appeared as if the slashes of Rivalz's sword had only done fair damage, the golden Knightmares began to tremble from the vibrations of the blows. Within seconds they exploded in several loud booms.

Whatever Knightmares were left standing shut down and their pilots exited their machines quickly, presenting themselves as surrendering and hoping that their opponent was merciful.

Several civilians had gathered and had recorded the events of the evenings actions and were quickly posting on social media what they had seen. Above all of this the Galahad hovered and watched with advanced recording equipment of its own. And from within the cockpit, Bismark Waldstein could not help but smile. This had gone exactly as Lady Marianne had predicted.

"A young prince seeking to reclaim his throne from an evil usurper for the good of his kingdom, the honor of his family, and the love of a princess is a classic hero story," said Marianne. "A young Ronin frustrated with the corruption of his nation, takes justice into his own hands and swears to punish and overthrow all unworthy rulers, also a classic. And a young commoner who becomes beset by tragedy and finds himself soon bestowed with fantastic power, guided by the purity of his heart to make up for his lack of experience, destined to rise to greatness despite the stigma society places on his status, earning the love of noble maidens and the scorn of evil sorcerers, yet another classic hero story. The Prince, the Outlaw, and the Everyman."

"You make it sound as if you're the one writing the story," said C.C, seated next to Marianne's legs, her arm around one while the other kicked gently.

"We all write the story C.C," said Marianne. "You know that, we are all connected, our stories are all one story. That was among the first lessons you taught me if I recall."

"I taught you many lessons," said C.C, dragging her tongue up Marianne's leg.

"Now now, not in front of the girls," said Marianne, throwing a glance at the still sleeping forms of Kallen and Nunnally.

The latter of whom had her arms wrapped around the older girl's waist from behind.

"Sister," she mumbled sleepily, having dreams no doubt.

Marianne smiled warmly as that word came from her sweet daughter's lips. It brought her back to the times when Cornelia and Euphemia would come to visit them when the were children. Like then Marianne would watch as the three sisters held each other when they were asleep.

Those nights had been stolen from them, like with most everything else, by V.V.

For their sake, and the sake of the grandchildren she was determined to get, Marianne swore she would see those peaceful nights again.

Diethard threw down the newspaper that detailed the events of the previous night onto the conference table. There all the core members of what was now the Atlas Fleet had gathered, with Lelouch, Suzaku, and Rivalz standing at the head of the table.

"The Blue Unicorn?" asked Tamaki, reading the newspaper.

"That's what everyone online and the media is calling the Valiant," said Diethard. "I've been able to use all my connections and with the information young Mr. Cardemonde gathered, the public considers the Blue Unicorn a hero, defending the youth of Britannia from violent criminals and exposing a ring of human trafficking among former nobles."

"I still can't believe that parents would actually be willing to sell their own children just to regain some status," said Chiba. "It's revolting."

"Indeed," said Cornelia. "Your friend, is she alright?"

"She's getting that tracker removed as we speak," said Lelouch. "I've also brought the rest of my friends from school into our organization. Shirley Fennet has offered to begin training as a nurse, Nina Einstein can work with Lloyd and Rakshata, and Diethard I believe you will find Milly to be a worthy apprentice if your interested."

"I believe I shall," said Diethard. "And this brings me to a new point. Now that we've seen what Mr. Cardemonde can do I believe we should discuss his role in future operations. Needless to say having someone who has already become such a lauded hero would bring great support to the newly reorganized Atlas Fleet once we make our debut. Even V.V's censors and propaganda masters cannot attempt to make the defense of school children sound negative. It would prove that indeed we are no terrorist organization."

"Yeah, not to mention you were just freaking badass kid," yelled Tamaki.

For once he was not forcibly silenced as all were in agreement. Rivalz, for his part, looked down bashfully, a slight blush on his face. He suddenly felt a touch on his fleshy shoulder and looked up to see Lelouch with a light smile on his face.

"They're right Rivalz," said Lelouch. "I could feel your thoughts when you activated the Geass Coordinator. You were right, it's not enough to just say we fight for justice. We need to prove it with our actions. More than just toppling V.V and others like him, we need to protect the ones who are harmed by the actions of evil men. And perhaps even our own good intentions."

"Lelouch...I...I...I wouldn't have been able to do any of that if it wasn't for all these enhancements," said Rivalz. "I..."

"That technology didn't choose to take on the odds to ensure the safety of civilian lives," said Cornelia. "I don't care what type of Frankenstein-like horrors those bastards put in you. Courage isn't something that can be installed or programmed. Don't give the credit to the machines attached to you. Those are just tools, you're the one who chose how to use them and for what purpose."

"The princess is correct," said Tohdoh. "If you had questioned your humanity before let that question be answered. Only a human is capable of honor and bravery. And last night you displayed both."

"Well...thank you sir but...but I'm not like any of you," said Rivalz, looking down as if in shame. "I'm...no one, just a bastard child who got sent away with his dishonored mother. Just getting into school was a miracle for me. I'm not the kind of person who was ever born into greatness or destined for it."

"Kid that is the greatest load of bullshit I have ever heard," yelled Tamaki.

"For once I actually agree with the idiot," said Chiba.

"Thanks," said Tamaki, not recognizing the insult. "Kid, half of the bastards here are straight bottom of the barrel, out of the ghetto losers who weren't worth the shit we tried to fling at the assholes we blamed for putting us there. We're not a bunch of powdered fops like some of the others here but we're here none the less. So don't try blowing smoke up our asses buddy, we're about as noble as a mule's..."

"As vulgar as he is, Tamaki is right," said Ohgi. "About half the people here were nothing more than just average people, just like you Rivalz. And just like you we were changed by the horrors V.V inflicted on us, and have come to stand beside those of higher birth and status than us. You'll fit right in."

"Well said Ohgi," said Lelouch. "Rivalz, you may have always thought you measured less than me even before knowing I was a prince, but I never once thought of you as anything less than my equal. You're my friend Rivalz, that was never a lie. And I want to ask you to join us because I believe you have something we will desperately need in the wars to come."

"Yeah, the Geass Coordinator," said Rivalz.

"No, perspective," said Lelouch. "We need to be reminded of the little guy on the field even as we're trying to decide the fate of nations. We can't do that without consideration for the people who live in those nations. That's where you come in Rivalz. I think no matter what you will always consider yourself one of the little people, you'll never lose that mindset. You'll understand how they'll feel and think and be a constant reminder to us of the true reasons why we fight. To ensure that all people regardless of their status or their birth are allowed to live in peace, and that their protection must always be a priority for us. You my friend will be the soul of the Atlas Fleet. The Symbol of Virtue for us to look to should we stray. Please, say yes."

Rivalz was at a loss for words as Lelouch extended his hand to him. He looked out to try and find someone who would take his side and tell Lelouch how unworthy he truly was for such responsibility. But everywhere he looked in this sea of strangers he only saw smiles and nods of approval. From the Japanese resistance fighters, to Suzaku, to a young Japanese girl, to a Chinese soldier, to Cornelia and her knights, Rakshata and Lloyd, Marianne and Bismark, Princess Euphemia and Miss Croomey, to Diethard.

He looked over again hoping to find one face of protest but as he did the door opened revealing Nunnally bringing along the rest of their friends. Once his eyes settled on Milly, and hers on his, and he saw her relieved face and the fading bruises on her neck from where Cyst's chain had once been, he realized that he could not refuse Lelouch.

His reluctance be damned, he would take on this duty, if only to work to ensure her continued freedom and happiness. To make sure there was a world where she could always have fun and smile every day. To be the guardian of her virtue, he would be Lelouch's Symbol of Virtue.

His blue hand took Lelouch's black gloved hand and shook. And not long after that both their hands were covered by Suzaku's white gloved hands.

"The drone managed to find him despite some difficulty," said a lowly servant to his master.

"Burial at sea, how nice," said V.V following along.

"Fishing him out was easy, however there had already been damage to the body," said the servant.

"Nothing his research cannot work with," said V.V.

The emperor came to his destination, a laboratory ready to replicate the experiments done on the island. Before him a team of scientists had gathered before a cart that held a body bag. The scientists bowed to their lord and master who waved them away, allowing him to walk to the body.

He leaned down and observed the decaying and water damaged face, what little face was left given the gunshot wound, of Lovecrest and smiled.

"Time to wake up Lovecrest, there is work to be done," he whispered.

The body's eyelids shot open, the symbols of Geass burning bright. If the face were whole enough, one could have made out a smile.