14 Chapter Fourteen: Exit Japan, Enter Europe

The weeks since Rivalz had made his impressive debut as the Blue Unicorn had featured a great overhaul for the newly christened Atlas Fleet. As to be true to its name the several warships built by the Geass Order came. Stationed on Kamine Island, near the Thought Elevator, the various ships, each as large as the impressive Olympus stood at the ready.

New uniforms had been made for all previous members of the Black Knights, the Britannian Military, and the Geass Order. In following with the color scheme of their illustrious founder, the uniforms had a purple and gold motif. All bearing the emblem of this new organization on the left side of the chest, a golden silhouette of a featureless man kneeling down with a globe on his shoulders. Inside the globe were the letters A above the symbol of Geass and F below the symbol. The shoulders bore golden fabric tassels, invoking the designs classical military uniforms.

Save for the exception of those in the higher command of the Fleet

"Sweet," said Tamaki, admiring himself in his new uniform, black instead of the standard purple. "We look like a real army now."

"It is impressive I'll say that," said Inoue. "But do the female officers really have to wear these skirts.

She motioned to the skirt she wore as part of her uniform, cut high like a mini-skirt in the front, while flowing long in the back. The uniform was complimented by a standard issue pair of thigh high boots.

"Apparently Lady Marianne designed these," said Chiba, who had fixed her Katana to her uniform, which was of a white color. "I think we should be glad they're not worse than what they are now."

"Of course not all of us get to share in this, great honor," said Viletta, eying Cornelia.

"If Lady Marianne believes I only needed the lightest changes to my uniform I am inclined to trust her," said Cornelia.

Indeed her uniform changed very little. It was sapphire blue and featured the Atlas Fleet's logo proudly on her chest, albeit in an obvious manner. She too bore golden tassels on her shoulders and a slightly redesigned cape and ornate collar.

"At least when people look at you they'll have their eyes closer to your face," said Chiba, noting how Cornelia's uniform seemed to flatter her breasts.

"Especially Sir Guilford," said Viletta.

"Bite me," said Cornelia, despite turning slightly red.

"Play nice my dearies," said Marianne, accompanied by Bismark, as well her daughter Nunnally, the young Chinese Empress Tianzi, Kaguya, and a pink haired girl around the same age as the other three with Marianne.

Nunnally wore a dress similar to her mother's, being somewhat more modest than what her mother wore. It helped her seem to fit in alongside Kaguya and Tianzi. The pink haired girl Anya however wore a standard Atlas Fleet uniform.

"Lady Marianne, did the women's uniforms really have to be so...open?" asked Viletta.

"Well I had a specific person in mind when I was designing the female uniforms," said Marianne. "Believe me my original ideas would have been much more scandalous."

As if on some kind of cue Kallen walked in, dressed in a red version of the uniform, with an embroider gold tiara design on her right side across from the emblem of the Fleet, and below the tiara was a white bordered symbol of Geass.

"I feel so naked," Kallen moaned, trying to bring the front skirt down over her exposed thighs.

"Oh come now it's not that bad," said Marianne. "And I left enough discretion at the back in case Lelouch should ever wish to play with that cute..."

"The uniforms are wonderful Lady Marianne," said Euphemia, entering in wearing a uniform of her own, her long pink hair held in a ponytail.

"Thank you," sighed Kallen.

"How come Kallen's uniform is different?" asked Tamaki.

"Because Kallen is counted among us," said Lelouch, entering the room with Rivalz, Rai, and Suzaku.

Each one bore a different colored uniform, similar to Kallen, and all with specific logos on them.

Lelouch wore black, with a golden king's crown over a crimson Geass symbol, as well as a new cape and collar.

Suzaku wore a white uniform which bore a black hooded skull with a red Geass symbol on the skull's forehead, and a dark cloak and hood.

Rivalz wore blue material over his exposed organic parts pectoral, bearing a white bordered knight chess piece with the crimson mark of Geass taking place half in the horse's eye and the other half sticking out of the horse head outline, giving the appearance of a horn. On his back he bore a blue segmented cape.

Rai wore a silver uniform with a red Geass symbol resting above an upside down top hat.

"Snazzy," said Tamaki.

"Thank you," said Marianne, "and with Kallen they make up the Color Guard."

"Color Guard?" asked Ohgi, also in a black uniform.

"In the Britannian military, head and shoulders above all else were the Knights of the Round," said Bismark. "They were the elite, the best of the best, an inspiration for all other forces in Britannia to aspire to be and emulate. An ideal to strive towards for the whole Empire."

"And in that proud tradition we present the Color Guard," said Marianne. "Zero the Black King, Kira the White Reaper, Prince the Blue Unicorn, Smoke the Silver Mage, and Amaterasu the Red Queen."

The listed individuals proceeded to lace certain colored devices into their ears and pressed a button. Within seconds, colored masks began to form over their faces. Suzaku's featured the skull motif. Rivalz's was mostly faceless save for the styled metal patch over his right eye and leaving his hair exposed. Rai's was a silver mask invoking the mask of comedy. And Kallen's was modeled after the queen chess piece, similar to how Lelouch's was inspired by the king.

"Okay, but what's the point?" asked Tamaki.

"Figureheads," said Ohgi. "Iconic personas meant to be the goal of not only soldiers in the fleet but people who want heroes to look up to. The titles can actually be passed down or earned for future generations. Am I getting warm?"

"Pretty much hit the nail on the head," said Marianne. "It creates a legend for everyone to follow, an incentive for soldiers to become the best in hopes of being given whichever legendary title they choose to seek out."

"I'm guessing it also has something to do with how our uniforms tend to be different from those of the rank and file, correct?" asked Tohdoh.

"Indeed," said Zero, standing forward. "As part of the structure of the Atlas Fleet, the Color Guard serve as the elite based on our skill and abilities, both natural and from Geass. Each member of the Color Guard has a sub-order of soldiers under their command bestowed a title of the commander's choosing."

"Represented by the uniforms," said Ohgi. "So those of us in black uniforms would report to you, still effectively remaining as the Black Knights. Despite being the ones at the beginning who started this we're simply now part of a larger movement."

"Correct," said Zero. "Although you should note that I will be sharing my command with the Red Queen."

"But if that's the case shouldn't Princess Cornelia be in charge of the blue faction?" asked Chiba. "No disrespect to Mr. Cardemonde's courage or ability but she is the experienced commander."

"Yes, but the Blue Unicorn is already an icon," said Cornelia. "A symbol, and people respond well to symbols."

"And besides, I'm only in command on paper," said Rivalz, his voice modulated by the mask. "Princess Cornelia would be the real brains behind my faction."

"It should be known that this isn't a set number," said Zero. "If we are lucky our numbers will grow and more people will prove worthy of the standards we've established for the Color Guard and more sub-orders can be established."

"So as Zero, you will both be the leader and face of the Atlas Fleet and the leader of the Black Knights?" asked Kaguya.

"Actually, Zero will merely be presented as one of a great legion of heroes," said Zero. "I have asked my mother, Lady Marianne to be the face of the Atlas Fleet."

"Which I have gladly accepted," said Marianne, smiling brightly. "I shall rise from my banishment as the phoenix rises from the ashes, demanding justice for the death of my beloved Charles and the persecution of my children. And once V.V is dead and his head displayed for the entire world to see I shall step down and make way for the glorious reign of my beloved son, Lelouch. The title of Zero hopefully going to a worthy stand in."

"So as we stand now the Atlas Fleet is comprised as such," said Bismark. "Lady Marianne stands as our leader, at least to the world at large, below her are the masked heroes of the Color Guard, beneath them their respective orders made up of specifically chosen individuals, and the rank and file who answer to all in the above categories."

"Wow, now if that doesn't sound official I don't know what is," said Tamaki.

"Is this how it was in Britannia with the Knights of the Round?" asked Tianzi, innocently.

"Similar, yes," said Marianne, a former Knight of the Round herself. "In truth its somewhat more similar to the Chivalric Orders of Euro Britannia."

"The what?" asked Tamaki.

"The Chivalric Orders of Euro Britannia are very similar to what the Knights of the Round were in the Holy Britannian Empire," said Bismark. "Four elite orders of knights, the Knights of Michael, the Knights of Gabriel, the Knights of Raphael, and the Knights of Uriel. Each under the command of a Grand Master, who in turn is appointed and under the command of the Grand Duke, an Emperor in all but name in Euro Britannia. The Grand Masters, like the old Knights of the Round, held special responsibilities and privileges in their duties. Guarding the Grand Duke, keeping his secrets, and counseling him in times of war. In special cases the House of Lords who aid the Grand Duke may appoint emergency powers to the Grand Master to effectively lead Euro Britannia for a brief time."

"And appearing to model our structure of command similar to the one in Euro Britannia could help to get them on our side and break off from the main empire," said Ohgi.

"Oh that sounds so manipulative and naughty," giggled Marianne innocently.

"Guess that answers that," whispered Tamaki.

"If I may interject Lady Marianne," said Cornelia. "How exactly are we planning to approach Euro Britannia?"

Marianne motioned to Tianzi, who looked nervous as so many eyes came down on her. But she looked into Marianne's kind face and her friend Anya's supportive smile and stood up as tall as she could given her tiny size.

"The Chinese Federation has officially approached the Grand Duke Augusta Henry Velaines to discuss a new trade agreements over the Asian continent," said Tianzi. "I myself as Empress will be meeting personally with the Grand Duke, along with my advisors."

"Which will include none other than myself," said Marianne.

"What about V.V?" asked Tohdoh. "You mentioned once that he had begun looking more into the policies of Euro Britannia. Do you know exactly what this entails?"

"My latest information has said V.V's been planning of building a branch of the Eden Elite in Euro Britannia and appointing a member of the Grand Masters as its leader," said Marianne. "Reports heavily indicate the lucky candidate may be Shin Hyuga Shiang, the newly appointed Grand Master of the Order of Michael and the rogue Geass we've been monitoring."

"So this allows us not only a chance to get close to an alliance with Euro Britannia but also deny more power for V.V," said Ohgi. "What about the other one, Leila Malcal and her W-0 Unit?"

"Yes, the one that made up of Japanese people the E.U likes to use as sacrificial pawns," said Tohdoh.

"I have a contact in her camp as well," said Marianne. "They've given us information on many of their recent battles. Including one in which a squad suffered heavy casualties, all but one member surviving, but none the less completing the operation and delivering a decisive blow to the Order of Raphael. He's gained quite the nickname out of this, the Ghost of Hannibal. They've even taken on some new blood, a couple of Japanese youths who have shown some impressive skills of their own. Enough to make your original resistance cell look like a joke if not for sweet Kallen and clever Ohgi being in your ranks."

Tamaki was about to speak up but Inoue slapped him before he could say anything.

"Not to mention there is an incredibly useful resource in the possession of the W-0 Unit that we can make terrific use of," said Marianne.

The room darkened and a holographic screen appeared behind Marianne, detailing the plans and operation details of a long distance rocket deployment system dubbed 'Apollo's Chariot'.

"With something like that you could get behind enemy lines with ease," said Dalton.

"Assuming you survive re-entry," said Guilford.

"It's already been used by W-0," said Marianne. "A successful operation which also resulted in a clash with the Order of Michael. No casualties for W-0 and territories gained by the E.U."

"On that note, what exactly is our strategy for he E.U?" asked Cornelia. "We're essentially discussing robbing from them if our goals include obtaining Apollo's Chariot, so there is a risk of making them our enemies. Even if we break Euro Britannia off from the Britannian Empire and pause their war."

"The E.U is all but close to collapse," said Marianne. "Internal strife between the various joint nations and an over abundance of democracy leaves them internally vulnerable. Were it not for the unifying foe of Euro Britannia the E.U would have dissolved by now. They do not even have a true standing army but rather joint state armies. They do have a great determination to never surrender and are more than willing to fight to the death against the enemies of their respective nations."

"When they're not sending Japanese people to die in their place," said Chiba.

"A political move my dear," said Marianne. "Done by cowardly bureaucrats who do not want to be blamed for the deaths of their young men and women, always the first to die in war."

Under his mask Suzaku scowled in fury, the exact kind of men he wanted to wipe clean from the world.

"From what I am told young Leila has a deep love and respect for the Japanese under her command," said Marianne. "And she's proven quite clever. I'd almost say she's Lelouch's European counterpart. As such I believe it's best if Zero and the Black Knights be the ones to meet with her and the W-0 Unit. There's enough common ground there I'm sure you'll be able to make a good deal and open the way to an alliance with the E.U."

"And what of the rest of us?" asked Chiba.

"Kira and his unit, which he has dubbed the White Samurai if there are no objections, will be keeping an eye on an influential general within the E.U," said Marianne. "Gene Smilas, he's a former warrior of the Geass Order who has...upset the Source and from the information I've been able to gather he has both the means and the ambition to become Emperor of Europe."

"So we're now to be assassins?" asked Tohdoh.

"Assuming Smilas does not learn to play accordingly," said Marianne. "Until then I only ask that you keep him under observation. This leaves Prince and his, Sapphire Crusaders as he's dubbed his order, to join me personally in Euro Britannia, and Nemo, who is still assembling his own order to remain with the rest of the Fleet on standby. Any objections?"

No one spoke in protest to Marianne's plan.

"Very well, then this meeting is adjourned," said Marianne. "I will be departing with Tianzi in three hours. Zero and the Black Knights may take the Olympus to meet up with W-0, all data on their headquarters and personal information will be provided by the time you are ready to depart."

"So where exactly did the code name Prince come from?" asked Dalton.

He, Cornelia, and Guilford followed Rivalz to the makeshift base and a lounge designated for the Sapphire Crusaders. Indeed it appeared true to the name of its intended users, decorated in varying shades of blue.

"Milly actually came up with it," said Rivalz, taking a seat and retracting his mask, a nifty trick developed by Rakshata after studying much of the nanotechnology in his own body. "She thought of just calling me Prince at first as it would compliment the Valiant."

"Prince Valiant, of course," chuckled Guilford.

"Not to mention it kind of goes as a dig to Lelouch," said Rivalz. "He was a prince saying he was a commoner. I'm a commoner calling myself a prince."

"Clever," said Cornelia, taking a seat. "And I take it the Sapphire Crusaders is an idea of Ms. Ashford's as well?"

"Yeah," said Rivalz, nervously rubbing the back of his head. "I was never really the most creative person. I honestly still don't feel comfortable being this...Blue Unicorn."

"You've already done good work," said Cornelia. "And indeed I will be here to help you become a more confident commander."

"As will I," said Guilford.

"Myself as well," said Dalton.

Rivalz smiled, glad to have the help and support of such respected commanders. It made the burden easier.

"Thanks, all of you," said Rivalz. "It means a lot. Although I don't know what I'm exactly supposed to do once we get to Euro Britannia."

"All we're really there to do is support Lady Marianne should something go wrong," said Cornelia.

"Do you expect something to go wrong?" asked Rivalz.

"One always should," said Cornelia.

"Well I guess if V.V were to try something that could be worked to our advantage I suppose," said Rivalz.

"A pretty pessimistic point of view don't you think son?" asked Dalton.

"It just makes sense, I mean V.V has pretty much ignored Euro Britannia for years but even they know what he did in the Homeland," said Rivalz. "An example of just what horrors he's capable they'd be angry putty in Lady Marianne's hands."

"Perhaps," said Cornelia. "And if we get Euro Britannia on our side we'll be able to begin a true and proper war against that demon of an uncle of mine."

Rivalz hummed slightly and held out his right forearm and brought up a holographic display of the internet and mentally looked up Euro Britannia. From where they were positioned Cornelia and her men couldn't help but stare at how Rivalz had made the display happen. He looked up from the hologram and noticed their expressions.

"Oh, sorry I was just looking up Euro Britannia," said Rivalz. "I've never actually been so I just wanted to get as much information as I could."

"Oh, that's alright, I'm sorry it's just...still a little strange I suppose," said Cornelia.

"Same here," said Rivalz.

"I'm surprised you're even able to work hologram technology," said Guilford. "I've heard of it being used in the E.U but we've never been able to develop anything like that."

"I actually searched the designs from various E.U databases," said Rivalz. "Benefits of having my brain connected to the internet. And a lot of the tech in my body is based on nanotechnology. It can actually redesign whatever I need when I think about it. I'm a living Swiss Army Knife."

"It's useful to be sure," said Cornelia. "But it still must be difficult to deal with."

"A little, but I'm getting used to it," said Rivalz.

Rivalz then brought up the display of Euro Britannia again, bringing up an image of the flag of the sub-empire. Similar to the flag of the Holy Britannian Empire, only with a smaller shield, the snake minus the lion, and wrapped in chains.

"Have you ever been to Euro Britannia?" asked Rivalz.

"Never had the opportunity," said Cornelia. "I know Euphie's often wanted to go. If anything she should finally be able to. I'm sure Lady Marianne wouldn't mind her doing a little sightseeing or shopping while we're in Saint Petersburg."

Rivalz then thought of something, something he had been pondering to himself for a while.

"Princess Cornelia, what do you think your other siblings will do when we really start the war?" asked Rivalz.

"If they have sense they'll join us," said Cornelia. "Many of my siblings, those whom V.V didn't kill like Odysseus, or bribe into service like Carine and Guinevere, obey my uncle out of fear. Schneizel may choose neutrality, he's been the one handling much of the everyday matters of the Empire. Then there is...Marrybell."

Rivalz's holographic search engine then searched the name Marrybell and the image of a regal looking young woman, bearing a slight resemblance to Euphemia, but with a different shade of pink in her hair and dress.

"That's her," said Cornelia. "Marrybell mel Britannia, the head of the Glinda Knights, Britannia's elite anti-terrorist unit. Marrybell has never once refused an order given to her by our uncle. Destroying anyone he deems a terrorist."

"So potential enemy?" asked Rivalz.

"Potentially," said Cornelia. "Marrybell is an effective soldier and commander. She looks about as sweet and gentle as Euphie, but she's every bit the soldier I am."

"Scary," said Rivalz.

"I just wish I knew a way to convince her to join us," said Cornelia. "Marrybell lost her mother and younger sister in the Usurper's war. I have no idea why she would then join his regime."

"You think Marianne's looking for a new man?" asked Tamaki.

"Why on Earth would you even ask that?" asked Ohgi.

"I'm just saying she's been widowed for seven years, she's a beautiful woman, one that's never going to age, she's bound to be lonely," said Tamaki.

"You have noticed C.C hanging around her a lot right?" asked Inoue.

"So she swings both ways, that just makes her hotter," said Tamaki.

The three of them, as well as several others who had been the original Black Knights, sat in their own lounge, decorated in black and red. Ohgi and Inoue had been reading detailed folders with information on the W-0 Unit, in particular the newest members. Indeed Ohgi had to acknowledge their skill and ability, despite their small numbers. They had come close to actually kidnapping Gene Smilas, something not to be laughed at.

Their then leader Ryo, seemed just as cunning and ambitious as Naoto has been before he became a monster. The girl Ayano seemed about as skilled a fighter as Kallen. And the other boy Yukiya had shown impressive skill as a hacker and a bomb maker.

Then suddenly Tamaki brought up the idea of Marianne searching of for a new husband out of the blue.

"I really hope you're not suggesting you could possibly a potential husband," said Inoue.

"I'm just as good as the next man," said Tamaki.

"Except the last man she had was the absolute monarch of an empire that ruled one third of the entire planet," said Ohgi.

"A man can still dream," said Tamaki.

"Not when he's serving under the son of the woman you're dreaming about," said Ohgi. "Ever thought of what Lelouch, a confirmed killer, would do if he found out you were even thinking about his mother in such a way?"

"How can you not think about her like that when she wears a dress like the one she wears?" said Tamaki. "I mean you can see just how stacked the woman is and they bounce when she walks. And she's immortal, they'll always be perfect. Two big perfect melons for all eternity. How can a man not think about that?"

"By looking at her son who is standing right behind you," said Ohgi.

Tamaki shrieked and leaped up only to find Lelouch wasn't there.

"May the terror and the inevitable humiliation of that girlish shriek remind you to keep your mouth shut lest it go off when the wrong person's listening," said Ohgi. "Now sit down and focus on your work."

"I'd like to say you used to be fun but that would be a lie," said Tamaki.

"Damn it, we are about to break one of the three superpowers of the world in half and start a genuine world war," said Ohgi. "We're not just a minor resistance cell anymore. We're a true army now. It's time to behave as such."

"Alright, alright," said Tamaki.

Inoue, while glad to see Tamaki taken down a peg, felt he at least had somewhat of a point.

"Actually, that is something I couldn't help but think of," said Inoue. "Do you think Marianne will propose some kind of marriage between herself and the Grand Duke. As far as I've been able to look into he's unmarried and Marianne was the Empress of Britannia."

"That's up to Marianne," said Ohgi. "Also I have a feeling if there even was a possibility of his mother remarrying Lelouch would have some kind of reaction. Most likely a very violent reaction."

From behind the doorway, Lelouch actually did stand, ducking out of sight once Ohgi had given him a silent message. It actually made Lelouch think of what if his mother became involved with other men. It wasn't that big of an issue, after all he had over one hundred step-mothers so a possible step-father in the future wasn't something Lelouch would be entirely opposed to. His only issue was that he doubted there was any man who would truly make his mother happy like his father had. Any potential consort or would be step-father would at best be used to secure alliance or...other reasons he should not give mental energy to.

Although Ohgi was partially right, if any would be suitor to his mother had ill intentions to her then Lelouch's reaction would be violent indeed

The White Samurai indeed had a white lounge, in traditional Japanese design furniture and Suzaku sat before his white clad comrades.

"Exactly what makes you think we are willing to agree to serve under you Kururugi?" asked Chiba.

"She's right, you're still the one who cost Japan the war seven years ago," said Senba.

"A war that would have ended in the needless loss of Japanese lives," said Suzaku. "Your preferences don't matter to me. If you choose to obey only Tohdoh-sensei's orders then so be it. I have no intention of leading nor do I have the required skills for it. Like Rivalz, think of me as a figure head for the rest of the Fleet and the world at large. My skill is in combat and that is what I intend to focus on. However, I intend to be fully autonomous from the rest of this unit. Effectively a one man army. I've made this clear with Zero and with Lady Marianne. Any actions I myself take will not reflect on this unit. Any dishonor I commit will only fall on my shoulders, none of yours."

"A lonely path Suzaku," said Tohdoh. "Counter-intuitive to the spirit of the Atlas Fleet."

"I would think that fits perfectly with the Fleet's namesake," said Suzaku.

"That would suggest in your heart you consider your ambition to be a punishment, holding up the sky was for Atlas," said Tohdoh. "You still have much to learn Suzaku. If you still consider me your Sensei then permit me this last lesson. Share command of the White Samurai with me and perhaps you will understand what I say."

Suzaku was silent, his face unreadable, in fact an almost identical scowl to the near constant expression of Tohdoh as the Holy Swords noticed.

Then, still silent, Suzaku bowed respectively to his former master.

It had taken so much for Tianzi to speak up earlier. All her life she had been hushed and babied, so afraid of the outside world and of speaking her mind. But when Marianne had entered the Forbidden City she had changed all of that. The mean Eunuchs who treated her as nothing but a doll were now puppets themselves. She didn't like the idea of manipulating people like that but it had gotten her the freedom she always desired. Now she was out of the walls of her palace. In another land and about to go to more places int he outside world with the wonderful woman who made it all possible.

And she was such a kind woman too. So warm and loving, truly motherly. And she had introduced her to new friends like Anya and Kaguya and Miss Marianne's own daughter Nunnally, and they were all so nice to her.

She asked Miss Marianne if they could come with them to Saint Petersburg. Miss Marianne smiled and said yes and even promised to take them all sightseeing through Euro Britannia once their business was done.

She had even taken time to teach the four girls a little about the history of Euro Britannia, especially the great massive territory that had once been the nation of Russia. She talked about the histories of the Tsars, the kings of Russia who had been overthrown in the early 20th century by invading Britannian forces. Thus beginning the establishment of what was now Euro Britannia, which indeed held most of the European continent.

"But why do Britannians and Euro Britannians have to distrust each other if they both belong to the same country?" asked Tianzi.

"Alas my sweet people seem to have difficulty understanding each other," said Marianne. "Even if they are of the same nation. And given their distance and their great amount of independence from the Homeland, Euro Britannia in truth often does not consider themselves entirely part of the Britannian empire. Threat of a war has always been there. When he was alive, my beloved Charles sought to try and strengthen the bonds between Britannia and Euro Britannia. He was quite popular with Euro Britannians. Grand Duke Velaines has even modeled his reign after Charles."

"He must have been a great man," said Kaguya, noticing the sad look in Marianne's eye.

"He was," said Marianne, her eyes shimmering with potential tears.

"He was a great father too," said Nunnally, tears threatening to fall form her eyes as well.

Tianzi looked at both of them and felt sad at their sadness and feared she would cry as well. But before a tear could fall from anyone a cat wandered into the room and immediately leaped into Nunnally's arms.

"Arthur," she said, surprised. "I didn't know you were here too."

"Oh, there he is," said a girl with long orange hair as she entered the room.

She was dressed in a pink colored uniform that held a small white cross on it, symbolizing the medical corps. Upon realizing whom she was in the presence of the girl quickly bowed before Marianne.

"Oh my dear now that's not necessary," giggled Marianne. "I'm hardly Empress anymore."

"I'm sorry for the disturbance though, " she said.

"Oh nonsense," said Marianne, opening her arms and allowing the cat to leap into them. "This little fellow was a delightful distraction. Oh, you're Shirley aren't you?"

"Yes ma'am," said Shirley.

"I hope you're not too mad at Lelouch," said Marianne. "He only lied because he was scared."

"Oh, of course not," Shirley sputtered, turning a little red, still processing her crush was a prince.

"Oh that's right, I believe you told me about her right Nunnally," said Marianne. "It seems my son captured the eyes of many women while I was away."

Shirley only became brighter with embarrassment.

"I suppose you'll be a sister too then," said Kaguya.

"What?" gasped Shirley.

"Kaguya wants to form a harem for Lelouch," said Anya, bluntly and with a fairly vacant expression.

Shirley froze in surprise and Marianne could only laugh in enjoyment.

"Even if we're not the favorites, Kallen Kozuki taking that role, we shall surely none the less hold a place in his heart," Kaguya continued. "As would the children we'd bare him."

Shirley made more noises of protest and Marianne only continued to giggle hysterically.

'So many girls lusting after my sweet son. But alas the poor boy is to dense to truly realize it. Still fumbling with the idea of love,' thought Marianne. 'Just like his father.'

She then noticed sweet Tianzi's hand raise and with a raise of her own palm she effectively drew Kaguya and Shirley to silence so that Tianzi could speak.

"Am I going to have to marry Lelouch too?" she asked innocently.

"I thought you were in love with Li Xingke," said Anya, once more bluntly and vacantly.

"Oh he's perfect for you," said Kaguya, rushing to Tianzi's side.

Shirley sighed, glad the attention was no longer on her.

"Don't mind them," said Marianne whispered. "Young maidens always think of loving great heroes. And my Lelouch has made himself appear quite the hero. Alas I fear Lelouch has found someone whom he connects with and his focus always tended to be fairly narrow. I don't think he'll truly follow his father in that regard. Even Charles had chosen to fully wed me out of all his other concubines. Fret not though, young heroes will be rising by the numbers in the following days. One will come to rescue you from despair as well. Have faith."

Marianne's kind expression made the slight heartbreak Shirley was feeling lessen and she smiled as well. Arthur then leaped into her arms and she departed, bowing once more before she left.

Marianne's mind then drifted a bit. Thinking once more about her beloved Charles. She also couldn't help but think of Bismark. Some time ago C.C. had insulted Bismark's honor while she was having her way with Marianne.

Bismark, he had been Charles's closest friend in life. The knight who served at his side while he brought order to a torn Britannia. His great strength and skill, as well as his use of his Geass were the proof of his right to bear the title of Knight of One, the strongest knight of the now defunct Knights of the Round. Of course he hadn't been able to best her when she went up against him, proving herself when she became the Knight of Six. And he did not hold back due to her gender, he would never insult her in such a way. He fought with all his skill and had even been forced to use his Geass. But Marianne had been trained well and she was determined to fulfill her task and become the concubine of Charles, and bested Bismark.

She believed that was when Charles had truly begun to notice her. And so did Bismark, but not as just another knight. She was not a fool, she knew when men looked at her in desire and longing, she had been trained to notice such things, and to manipulate the wants of men.

But despite her training she had fallen in love with Charles, and suddenly the looks she would get from Bismark made her feel odd. She knew he respected and admired Charles too much to dare make a move to a woman his friend was obviously in love with.

Even after Charles's death Bismark had never dared to reveal his feelings to Marianne. He had merely fulfilled his duty as a true knight and stood guard over her, serving her dutifully, and obeying her whims as she paved the way for her son's rise to power.

But he had of course also been a source of encouragement for Marianne. When the loss of her beloved Charles was so fresh in her mind it was Bismark who encouraged her to steel her resolve and take command of the Geass Order. He was curtial in helping her get control and training the young warriors such as Rai and another young man, Orpheus.

And all that time Bismark stood vigil over her, giving no hint of desire, but Marianne could tell his affections for her were still there. There but clad in armor like a true knight.

In the throne room of the Emperor, V.V sat proudly, dark purple armor glimmering in the light. He smiled as his niece Marrybell mel Britannia knelt before him along with her Glinda Knights.

"You summoned us Emperor Vincent?" asked Marrybell.

"Indeed I did my pretty niece," said V.V., his voice like a snake's hiss. "How would you like to do a big job for your uncle Vincent?"

"I am honored for any task you give me your majesty," said Marrybell.

"Of course you would," said V.V. "You'd gladly take whatever I give you. That is what whores do now isn't it?"

Vincent's laugh resonated throughout court, though the nobles only laughed because they knew the price of defying the Emperor. Marrybell remained unaffected by her uncle's crude remarks. Though her knights hid scowls in their bowed faces at the insult to their princess.

"I'm delivering an important resource to my newest commander of the Eden Elite, Shin Hyuga Shaing in Euro Britannia," said V.V. "You are to deliver it to him. Along with this."

V.V revealed the Imperial Scepter, a ceremonial object signifying the power of the Emperor. Whoever held it effectively was an extension of the Emperor's will.

V.V placed the scepter in an armored case held by an Eden Elite soldier who then placed it before Marrybell.

"Once you have delivered these things to Lord Shaing you are to return and resume your rat catching," said V.V. "Do so quickly and I might reconsider your request."

"Thank you your majesty," said Marrybell.

She rose to her feet, picked up the case, and departed with her knights.

The ship carrying the Black Knights, the Valhalla, launched on towards its destination in Europe. Castle Weisswolf, the headquarters of the W-0 Unit.

"So exactly how are we going to convince the W-0 to join us if they're part of the E.U?" asked Ohgi.

The Black Knights, at least those founding members sat on a platform above the operators who handled the controls of the ship on the bridge, sat around a circle where Lelouch sat on a black throne, the mask of Zero on his lap.

"We're essentially bypassing the E.U all together," said Lelouch. "The E.U is nigh on the verge of internal collapse, their republic lacking true unity suffering an excess of democracy. They've given the people too much power and thus the reason for the W-0 unite was made. Now I'm assuming you've all read the psychological profiles of the new Japanese recruits."

"Yes," said Inoue. "Ryo Sayama, oldest out of the three, leader of a group ironically originally consisting of eleven Japanese youths from the Amsterdam Internment Ghettos. Rudimentary skill as a Knightmare pilot but effective at strategy and leadership skills. Described as a rebel without a cause he has no concerns for the needs of other Japanese people outside his circle of friends. Only desiring to find a home for the himself and the two that remain. Conscripted into W-0 after a failed attempt to kidnap General Gene Smilas. Expected to be planning an escape and possible betrayal of the unit commanders."

"He could be trouble," said Ohgi.

"Not for long," said Lelouch, his eye shining with Geass.

"Yeah...well, then there's the girl Ayano Kosaka," said Inoue. "Supposed descendant from Japanese samurai. Skilled in martial arts and sword play. Owned a kodachi dagger which is now in the possession of Lt. Akito Hyuga, confiscated during the failed kidnapping of General Gene Smilas. Essentially follows along with Ryo's lead and appears to fear separation from her friends, most likely due to some family tragedy. Other than that nothing appears to be known about her."

"Kid's just looking to belong, I can dig that," said Tamaki, leaning back in his chair.

"Then there's Yukiya Naruse," said Inoue. "Skilled in hacking and bomb making, shows signs of a potential sociopath. One of his first bombs was used to kill other Japanese people in the internment ghetto he lived, claiming it was to kill the Japanese who had abused him. Scar tissue on his body suggests there may be truth to this but so far it is undetermined if indeed he was abused by other Japanese."

"It wouldn't be uncommon," said Ohgi. "All that anger and frustration packed into an uncomfortable space. All that anger has to go somewhere. Doesn't excuse what he did thought. You might want to actually keep him under a command."

"Well according to his profile he does seem to care for his two friends," said Inoue. "You don't have to use...that on any of them. All you have to do is promise them a place they can call home, that's all they want."

"I'll take both suggestions under consideration," said Lelouch. "Now what about Shin Hyuga Shaing, Akito's brother in the Order of Michael?"

"From what information we've been able to gather Shin Hyuga Shaing was found as a wandering juvenile by the former Grand Master of the Order and Knight of Two, Sir Michael Manfredi," said Inoue. "Adopted by the Shaing family and sponsored by Sir Manfredi throughout his training and rise through the ranks. Became Grand Master after Sir Manfredi commits suicide."

"I remember a bit of Sir Manfredi," said Lelouch. "He hardly seemed the type for suicide. Unless he had been commanded to by a Geass similar to mine."

"If that's the case how can we expect to deal with him if he has a Geass similar to yours?" asked Ohgi.

"Let me deal with Shin," said Lelouch. "Geass vs. Geass, and if all is right we will have denied V.V a hold in Euro Britannia, and then all of Euro Britannia itself. With the empire effectively broken in half we can then begin building something I've been thinking about for a while. The Atlas Fleet is just the beginning of my ideal. It is a sword and shield for what I hope to be the new power in the world, not a single nation, but a union of nations. A federation of nations you might say."

Shin Hyuga Shaing knelt before a video screen which beheld the Emperor of all of Britannia. Called to a private video meeting with the Emperor, the Grand Master and future Eden Elite commander smiled in dark delight.

Similar to the one on the face of the Emperor.

"Shin Hyuga Shaing, do you know why I have chosen you to be of my Eden Elite?" asked V.V

"I'm sure I do not know my Emperor," said Shin, a sly presence in his voice.

"Because you are in truth nothing but a wild dog," said V.V. "You dress as a true knight but there is no virtue in your heart. Because you know there is no virtue in this world. Ideals are meaningless and humankind are naught but animals. Do not insult me by pretending to disagree. I know my own kind when I see them. In truth you would like nothing more than to see this world burn, wouldn't you?"

Shin looked up at the smiling face of the emperor, with a smile of his own.

"Perfect," said V.V. "You shall have the chance to make such a dream a reality. It is my gift to you my boy, do as you please, and by all means have fun."

V.V then ended the call and Shin smiled, the glow of Geass in his left eye the only light in the room.