15 Chapter Fifteen: New Battlefields.

Among the number of the Black Knights, C.C had come along with them rather than with Marianne, but continued to wear the prisoner suit she had worn since she had been released from the capsule.

This was something Lelouch had always found curious about C.C, that she would continuously wear the clothes of a prisoner. Of course at the moment he was more irritated to find her in his bed than anything else.

"Is there a particular reason you're in me bed C.C?" he asked, his fury contained.

"I'm sleepy," said C.C.

"But why my bed?" asked Lelouch.

"Because it's comfortable," said C.C.

"There are other rooms, other beds on this ship," said Lelouch.

"Yes, but I want to sleep in this one," said C.C. "A gentleman would take the floor. Or perhaps you can share Kallen's bed."

Lelouch was tempted to use his sword on C.C but didn't want to deal with the clean up. He was about to turn and leave but his questions came back to him.

"Why do you choose to still dress like a prisoner?" he asked.

C.C poked her head from under the covers and looked at Lelouch silently for a moment.

"Because I am still a prisoner to this world," said C.C. "As much a slave now as I was as a child."

Lelouch's expression softened in confusion and some sympathy.

"Although I serve no master as I once did as a slave, I am still bound by the obligations of the Order and its goal," said C.C.

"I didn't take you for a true believer in the Geass Civilization," said Lelouch.

"I'm not, not truly," said C.C. "But the Order gave me a home, a purpose, but now that purpose has become a chain. My only freedom is the fulfillment of my wish."

"You want to die," said Lelouch.

"Yes," said C.C. "I hoped Marianne would be the one to free me. She was my favorite student but she still betrayed me."

"Falling in love with my father was a betrayal?" hissed Lelouch, his fists clenching.

"She was to have children with him to suit the needs of the Order, to birth our leader," said C.C. "Love was not a factor. It rarely is for members of the Order. Even if one is bound to another by fate. Like Rai and your sister."

Lelouch still found himself irritated at the mere idea of Nunnally involved with some boy.

"Yes, it would appear Rai is proving himself just as foolish as your mother," said C.C.

"Is that why you forced yourself into her bed?" asked Lelouch. "Is she your slave now?"

"To be fair she did suggest me putting a chain around her neck," said C.C. "More she's a toy to pass time with since apparently she's taken someone else's code. Probably that U.U hack for all I know. He always did have a soft spot for the Lamperouge clan. Especially that fool Dash but that's beside the point."

Lelouch only felt himself get more annoyed and angered and as such barely paid attention to C.C's ramblings after calling his mother her toy. Desperate to find some other conversation topic to hopefully lessen his rage Lelouch recalled how the W-0 commander Leila Malcal was one of C.C's contractors.

"Why wasn't Leila brought into the Order?" asked Lelouch.

"Because that was during the time V.V had broken much of the Order into his Eden Elite," said C.C. "I had enough young charges at the time I didn't need another. Although I am still human enough to take pity on a nearly drowned girl."

"What is her Geass?" asked Lelouch.

"I'm not too sure," said C.C. "Each person's Geass is dependent on their personality. You were raised to seek the throne of Britannia so you command. Suzaku is a warrior so his Geass is primarily combative. Rivalz had a skill for machines and thus his Geass helps operate the machinery in his body. Kallen is a firebrand."

"And what about Naoto?" asked Lelouch.

"That's something else entirely," said C.C. "Now if you'll excuse me I'd like to get some sleep. Unless you're willing to share in your mother's..."

Lelouch left before she could finish that sentence. He walked out of his quarters and perhaps out of C.C's suggestion or perhaps because of his own desires, he found his way to Kallen's room.

He hit the 'doorbell' and soon enough Kallen opened the door, wearing a light pink robe and her hair down. She and Lelouch looked at each other, not saying anything to each other. Kallen stepped back and Lelouch entered, the door closing behind him.

"You're not coming down with a cold are you mother?" asked Nunnally, as Marianne dabbed a tissue to her nose after a few sudden sneezes.

"Oh no dear, I think someone is talking about me," said Marianne.

Mother and daughter rode alongside Tianzi, Kaguya, and Euphemia in a private train for the Chinese Federation en route to Euro Britannia. While Tianzi wore her usual doll-like outfit the other four dressed in white robes complete with hoods and veils as to claim they were the High Eunuchs when they meet with the Grand Duke.

"I hope they're saying nice things," said Tianzi.

"Hopefully," said Marianne.

"Lady Marianne, exactly what do you plan to say to Duke Velaines when you see him?" asked Euphemia. "And how can you be sure Shin Hyuga Shaing won't be there?"

"Shin is soon to be a member of the Eden Elite and his psychological profile suggests he wouldn't deign himself to even bother with the business of the Grand Duke," said Marianne. "And if his arrogance doesn't breed an absence we can only hope his feud with his brother does."

Euphie's face fell slightly at the idea of brother killing brother. It reminded her of how V.V went to war against her father Charles. Or of how Lelouch took it upon himself to execute Clovis.

"But, should anything happen you are all to leave me and retreat to safety," said Marianne. "No protests my little doves. As an immortal there is no physical harm I cannot recover from and Sir Bismark will be more than able to retrieve me should the need come to it."

As Lelouch slept, his arms around Kallen's nude body, his mind began to burn in the same strange sensation as it had not long after he had first gained his power. Or the time when he had covered with what may have been his father's spirit.

In the dream, or vision, whichever it was, Lelouch found himself in burning rubble. He could hear a faint gasping and looked over. He saw Naoto Kozuki, lying fatally injured on the ground, covered in burns, the victim of a botched bombing as he had learned to be the cause of is 'original' death. His eyes were so different from the Beast, Lelouch had known him as. They seemed sad, not for himself but for his people, and the family and friends he was leaving behind.

Then, Lelouch heard the sound of footsteps. He turned and saw a man in a dark suit with red pinstripes walking towards Naoto.

"Looks like you had a bit of an accident my friend," he said, in a pleasant voice as he knelt down before Naoto. "My how you have suffered. But that's the thing about suffering, we need it if we are to survive. We fall so we can learn to pick ourselves up again. We suffer so we can gain strength, that is how humanity operates. These burns are badges of honor, you have proven your humanity, if you survive. I think I can help you with that. Surviving I mean. Then you can tell all your people how Japan can truly be free. If you're willing to make a contract."

Lelouch motioned himself and got as good a look at the man as he could. In his early to mid-20s, blonde hair kept sort, sunken blue eyes, and at his neck was the symbol of Code.

Lelouch then watched as Naoto weakly raised a hand and gripped the stranger's extended palm. Lelouch then saw the code as his neck shine brightly. Once the glow died down the man smiled.

"There we go, preach your gospel now, and all who would give you their will shall forever be yours to command," said the man. "Sounds, beastly doesn't it. Well, maybe there is a beast in you my friend. Shall we find out."

It was then Lelouch saw the man's blue eyes turn red as Geass symbols filled them, and blood trickled down the man's nose. Naoto's eyes held red rims around the irises and he screamed horribly as the man wiped the blood that had congealed around his mouth. He was sloppy with his attempt to clean himself. It almost made the blood resemble a beard.

Lelouch then awoke, Kallen telling him they were approaching Castle Weisswolf.

The ship which carried the White Samurai, Nirvana had been able to position itself high above the city of Paris. Shielded from radar and the naked eye thanks to advanced cloaking technology accessible only to the Geass Order.

From above Suzaku, Tohdoh, and the Four Holy Swords sat in a bridge similar to the one on the Valhalla and all command gathered around, discussing their assignment.

"General Gene Smilas," said Chiba. "From what I see he seems like almost the ideal commander. Pushing for fair treatments for Japanese, unification of state armies, and protesting the decadence of the Republic government of the E.U."

"Maybe we should approach him," said Urabe. "He'd make a great ally."

"Lady Marianne ordered us to observe him and that is what we will do," said Suzaku.

"Indeed," said Tohdoh.

He opened his own copy of the briefing folder and read a particularly noted entry in the folder.

"A noted admirer of Napoleon, Smilas could potentially begin to lose patience with the government of the E.U and move to seize power if given the opportunity," said Tohdoh.

"Fitting, since apparently he was also a child of the Geass Order," said Suzaku, reading his own copy of the folder.

"But left," said Tohdoh. "Similar to Charles and Bismark."

"If he's one of the Order's lost children then he's sure to have knowledge on how to combat Geass abilities," said Chiba.

"Which would come in handy if the Eden Elite ever decided to take a real interest in the E.U," said Urabe.

"And a potential enemy for the Fleet," said Suzaku.

Suzaku flipped a page and quickly read through the information presented.

"And apparently Sir Bismark felt so as well, he placed a spy in Smilas's ranks," said Suzaku.

"From Peace Mark, code name: OZ," said Tohdoh.

The train came to a screeching halt and Marrybell stepped off of followed by her loyal knight Oldrin Zevron. The two were escorted to Grand Duke Velaines and Marrybell gave a respectful kneel to the Grand Duke.

She then proceeded to gift Shin Hyuga Shaing, who till then stood alongside the other Grand Masters, with the emblem of the Eden Elite and the Imperial Scepter.

"A great honor for the glory of our divine Emperor," he said.

"For the divine Emperor," all in attendance said.

"Lord Shaing, the Emperor has also gifted you with a weapon to use in the war against the E.U," said Marrybell. "He hopes you will use it with pride."

"Indeed I shall," said Shin, a devilish smirk across his face. "I will take possession of it at once. Have it delivered to the Order of Michael's headquarters, I will be continuing to use them and fulfill my previous duties as Grand Master as I establish a true presence in Euro Britannia. And then Duke Velaines, you may enjoy an early retirement."

"I look forward to it Lord Shaing," said Velaines. "Will you also be meeting with Empress Tianzi later to day?"

"I have no need to speak with a little puppet," said Shin. "I have a war to win after all. Carry on."

Shin then left, not bothering to show any grace to Velaines or to Marrybell as he had the power of the Emperor. With him a young woman with short red hair and a serious expression, Shin's second in command Jean Rowe.

Once Shin and Jean were out of the throne room Sir Gaudefroy du Villion cursed loudly at his impudence.

"Peace Gaudefroy," said Andre Farnese. "I share your frustration but he has the power of the Emperor behind him."

"To still call that Demon our Emperor, it sickens me," said Gaudefroy.

"I feel I should warn you such talk can be considered treason Lord Gaudefroy," said Marrybell. "But the Emperor is 'all loving and forgiving', slander means nothing to him."

"Then we should all be thankful for the mercy of Emperor Vincent," said Velaines. "Will you be staying for a while Princess Marrybell? We would be honored to have you as a guest of the Catherine Palace."

"Thank you Grand Duke Velaines, but I and my Glinda Knights have been ordered to return immediately to the Homeland," said Marrybell. "My lords, farewell."

The princess and her knight gave a bow to the Grand Duke and the other three Knights, who returned her respect, and the two women left. Once they were sure they were away from prying eyes Marrybell took Oldrin's hand in hers.

The two had worked out a system of silent communication, the strength and rhythm in which one would squeeze the others hand conveyed whatever message they wished to get across. A sort of Morse code between the two of them.

In this silent language Marrybell had asked if any of her Glinda Knights had been able to inspect the weapon her uncle had them deliver. Oldrin responded no in this language, the weapon had been sealed tightly and was well sealed. Whatever V.V wished Shin to have was a mystery to them.

'I wish there were something I could do here,' thought Marrybell. 'Whatever the Eden Elite want in Euro Britannia can only be terrible, just like in the Homeland. But I have to return lest 'uncle' get suspicious. Or more suspicious, having me act as courier has to mean something. I has to.'

As the princess and the knight walked along they walked not knowing they were being watched.

The first campaign of the new W-0 Unit had been Leila's first true introduction to combat. It had also oddly enough served to bring the new recruits closer to her, and her to them, and perhaps even brought her closer to Akito.

And there was the issue of his brother. There was a great misery in Akito when he spoke of his brother. A great misery and a great rage as well. One that both frightened and saddened her.

Then when they had been forced into helping the 'grannies' he had been able to open up to her in a way he had never done before. He told her of his fears of losing another family. It made her feel so happy to have him consider her family. She understood what it meant to lose family, having lost her mother and father when she was young. She would have lost her own life had it not been for that witch in the woods.

The Great Granny had even mentioned her, and forced Lelia to recall that day. The day when she had fallen through the eyes and the mysterious woman with green hair pulled her out, offering her 'power'.

She still didn't understand it all and for some reason she couldn't help but dwell on that memory.

Suddenly a soft meow gained her attention, bringing Leila out of her memories. She looked at her cat, Elizabeth, pushing a can of catfood to her.

"Oh, Elizabeth," she said. "I'm so sorry."

As Leila began to open the can her phone began to ring. Leila pressed the answer button and a holographic projection appeared on the screen. The witch in the woods from her childhood.

Lelia gasped and dropped the now open can, its contents spilling onto the rug.

The train carrying Empress Tianzi came into station and just as with Princess Marrybell earlier, she and her party had been escorted to the Grand Duke's throne room. Tianzi and her veiled handmaidens and two masked guards bowed before Velaines, who bowed back in respect to the young Empress.

"You majesty, I am honored that you would personally grace our humble nation with your presence," said Velaines. "I heard that you rarely leave the confines of the Forbidden City."

"In truth Grand Duke Velaines, this is the first time I have been so far from my homeland, outside of the city walls," said Tianzi, softly and somewhat nervously. "Your city and palace are very beautiful."

"You honor us your majesty," said Velaines, smiling warmly at the young monarch.

Tianzi had been somewhat nervous about meeting the man, but his smile was warm and fatherly, and he spoke softly. That, as well as the supporting look she received from the tallest of her handmaidens, gave her the courage to do what must be done.

"Grand Duke Velaines, I know you are expecting a new trade agreement between the Chinese Federation and Euro Britannia," she said. "But I fear I have deceived you, not because I wish ill will but because I sought to secure a meeting between you and one who has done my country a great service and wishes to do so for your country and for all your people."

The Duke's eyes narrowed slightly, not sure what to make of the maiden's words. The three Grand Masters began to touch their swords slightly, out of instinct more than anything.

"And just who is this person your majesty?" asked Velaines.

The tallest handmaiden removed her veil and hood, revealing cascading black hair, and a face that shocked all Euro Britannians in the throne room.

"Grand Duke Velaines," said Marianne. "It is an honor."

"Empress...Marianne?" gasped Velaines, his eyes wide.

The Grand Masters took knee, as did the guards, and even so Velaines. They all knew well the most beloved of the brides of Emperor Charles, ever friend to Euro Britannia and idol to Velaines.

"Oh please do stand Duke Velaines," said Marianne. "If we are to survive the coming days we must all learn to stand together. I speak not merely of Britannia and Euro Britannia, whom my late husband worked to bring together in true brotherhood, but all nations under threat of V.V and the Eden Elite. The Chinese Federation, and the soon to be reborn nation of Japan."

With that Kaguya undid her veil, as did Anya, Euphemia, and Nunnally, further surprising all in attendance.

"Princess Nunnally, you are alive as well, thank goodness," said Velaines. "And of Prince Lelouch?"

"His highness Prince Lelouch has already greatly secured an alliance with the Japanese," said Kaguya, standing forward. "Kaguya Sumeragi, of the Houses of Kyoto from the fallen nation of Japan, your grace."

"My brother, whose rebellion garbed in black has grown under the guidance of our mother, and now works to secure more power and allies for our mission," said Nunnally, standing beside her mother.

"Mission? Surely princess you do not mean..."

"But we do Velaines," said Marianne. "It is my goal to avenge my dishonor and that of my children, and the death of my beloved husband, your rightful emperor Charles Zi Britannia, with the destruction of V.V. A key factor in this will be helping you to do something drastic. Something I fear I must do if I am to avenge my husband, though it goes against his efforts."

"And just what do you seek to do?" asked Velaines.

"I seek to help establish Euro Britannia as an independent nation," said Marianne.

The container delivered by Marrybell had opened before Shin, revealing a dark figure garbed in a black cloak attached to a throne like machine. The figure stood, the cables connecting him to the throne detaching.

Shin's guards drew their weapons only for Shin to raise a hand to halt their action.

"Hail V.V," said Shin, saluting with one arm in the true manner of the Eden Elite.

"Hail V.V," said the figure, in a modulated voice.

It was then Shin noticed several cybernetic tentacle-like appendages coming from beneath the figure's hood. The figure then removed the hood revealing slightly a semi-decomposed half-face and mat of faded brown hair. Most striking however were the crimson bird-like symbols in his eyes.

"Doctor Lovecrest I presume?" asked Shin.

"Indeed," said Lovecrest. "I need escort to Greenland. We have work to do."

"Yes, his majesty has explained his plan to me," said Shin. "I understand everything has been placed accordingly."

"The Emperor's work is unknowable to the common mortal," said Lovecrest. "That will be the doom of this world."

The witch had said she wished to speak to Lelia, and chose and appropriate location, a set of ancient Roman ruins near the castle. She went to meet the witch with Akito and senior officer Clause Warwick in tow. Warwick had explained to her that he had been in contact with an organization called the Geass Order which the Witch had claimed to belong to. Leila knew of Warwick's daughter and her medical needs and Warwick had sworn that the Order were potential allies.

Leila's friend, Anna and the castle's security officer Oscar Hammel had protested her meeting out with this witch, but Leila insisted.

Akito had at least brought his Alexander Knightmare Frame along in case this was a trap.

And unknown to them Yukiya had managed to hack the Alexander's cameras and held a private viewing with Ryo and Ayano. Despite how they had come to meet Akito and Leila, they had managed to become close to them and didn't want them to be hurt.

They watched silently as the Alexander came upon the ruins and saw a crimson Knightmare standing ready, and before it stood the witch as Leila had described her, standing side by side with Zero and an unknown masked woman in red.

"Zero?" asked Ayano.

"What's he doing in Europe?" asked Ryo.

"His suit is different," said Yukiya.

At the actual ruins Leila, Clause, and Akito shared the reactions of the new recruits. The last thing they had expected was to see the infamous freedom fighter Zero standing before them in Europe given his activities in Japan.

"Miss Briesgau," said Zero. "Or do you prefer Malcal? Either way it is a pleasure to meet you."

"P...please, call me Leila," said Leila, slightly nervous to be standing before one who had the audacity to kill a member of the Imperial family.

"Then Leila, we share a mutual acquaintance as you can see," said Zero, motioning to the witch.

"You've grown since that night in the forest," said C.C. "And yet you've still not made use of your power."

"Power?" asked Leila.

Suddenly the witch's green bangs seemed to fly up and a bird-like mark appeared to glow on her forehead, causing Leila's body to tremble as she felt some strange energy run through her. A blue mark similar to the one on C.C's forehead appeared in her left eye.

Clause gasped when he saw the blue mark in Leila's eye, as well the display of the Witch. From inside his Knightmare, Akito trembled as he recalled that symbol, his mind screaming at the memory of his family's death.

From where they watched in both awe and confusion.

It only worsened as Zero removed his mask, revealing the face of a hansom Britannian youth, with a red symbol in his eye.

The woman in red removed her mask as well, using a similar motion to Zero in how the mask retracted to an earpiece, revealing mixed features of Britannian and Japanese, and a crimson symbol in her own eye.

"What...what is this?" asked Leila.

"Geass," said the unmasked Zero, a devilish smile on his face.

A display of power made so by a hidden dagger had shocked the Grand Duke and the three Grand Masters into utter silence.

"A shame I had to dirty such a lovely robe," said Marianne, chuckling as she held up the dagger she had shoved into her own chest.

After making her shocking announcement of making Euro Britannia an independent nation, Marianne had then proceeded to take a hidden dagger to her chest and pulled it out again. Showing all who did not know the true power she held as the wound, which should have been fatal, sealed itself up leaving only the blood stain as there was not even a scratch on Marianne's beautiful flesh.

"By the Holy Spirit," said Velaines, slumped on his throne in shock.

"By the power of Geass, and the Code of Immortality actually," said Marianne. "The source of V.V's power and his youth."

"He truly is a Demon," said Gaudefroy.

"Oh, I hope that doesn't mean I'm one too," said Marianne with an impish smile.

Gaudefroy stuttered in an attempt to apologize for any offense only for Marianne to merely chuckle.

"E...Empress Marianne please understand that this...this is quite a shock," said Velaines, attempting to regain his composure.

"I'm sure," said Marianne. "But not meaning to be insensitive, you may not have time to process all this new information. As you've seen for yourself V.V has taken a deeper interest in the affairs of Euro Britannia. You know the devastation he brought to the Homeland when he declared war on my beloved Charles. You cannot believe he has noble intentions for the subjects under your care."

"Of...of course not Empress Marianne," said Velaines. "Emperor Charles was ever beloved in Euro Britannia. His efforts to help encourage a sense of unity between our lands made us truly feel as if we were of a single people. I greatly admired him and mourned his death. Many of his lessons and philosophies live on in Euro Britannia, despite what V.V might wish. And indeed there is no love for V.V in any of the hearts of all gathered here. But as you said I have subjects that are in my care. I cannot be reckless with their safety and the power and ruthlessness of the Eden Elite are infamous."

"Duke Velaines, I am the last person who needs to be reminded of the power of the Eden Elite," said Marianne, a polite strength behind her voice. "As such I have spent the last seven years gathering the strength to fight the Eden Elite. The other half of the Order which V.V broke to form his army, my dear stepdaughter Cornelia's branch of the military, the Black Knights, and the forces of the Chinese Federation. And even more than military might, I intend to organize an entire new structure of government for the world. One to end the constant conflict between the three superpowers. Not a single nation but a federation of nations all working towards the goals my husband sought to achieve through Britannia. As much as I loved my darling Charles, even he with all his strength, with all the strength he sought to give Britannia, cannot alone uphold the evils of the world. It must be an effort of all peoples of all nations if the human race is to ever become free of our own chaos, if peace is to ever be a true possibility for future generations."

Marianne's words captured the attention of the Duke and the Grand Masters, they soaked in every word she said, just as they once did when Emperor Charles spoke. Although indeed Euro Britannians held a distrust of Homeland Britannians, Charles had always spoken as if there was no difference. As if they were all part of a great family working to make each other better, for themselves and their children.

Marianne then walked up to the throne hand gently took Velaines by the hand.

"Duke Velaines, Augusta, you are a man of honor and chivalry," said Marianne, smiling warmly. "You do not want chaos to come to your shores. But chaos is what awaits us all under V.V. His Eden Elite are nothing but glorified terrorists who have thrived by the wars initiated under V.V's reign. His fingers stretch to every industry of the Empire, crime and corruption run amok in our country, to the point where even children can be sold off to gain the rank of nobility in V.V's empire. Surely you do not trust him to have Euro Britannia's best interests at heart now that he has begun to establish the Eden Elite in your borders."

"I...I do not," said Velaines. "My Empress, you speak the truth and you speak it well, but I must take this under advisement with the Grand Masters. If you will allow me the night at the least. I pray I shall be able to give you an answer in the morning. Until then may I allow you use of the guest chambers of the Catherine Palace?"

"No need," said Marianne, smiling lightly. "I will be staying at the Chinese Consulate as a guest of Empress Tianzi. I hope you will find an answer you believe in your heart to be the right one. But be swift lest fate choose for you."

The ship of the Sapphire Crusaders, the Elysium, Rivalz looked over the impressive capital city of St. Petersburg. It was enough to put the Tokyo Settlement to shame.

"Can't beat the view on these ships can you?" asked Cornelia, walking up next to Rivalz.

"Yeah," said Rivalz.

"Lady Marianne and her party are returning to the Chinese Consulate," said Cornelia.

"So if Euro Britannia or the Eden Elite try anything they'll essentially be declaring war on China," said Rivalz.

"I doubt it'll come to that, at least from Euro Britannia," said Cornelia. "The Euro Brits may consider themselves a separate nation but they were founded on similar ideals as the main Britannia. Honor and chivalry, and the ideals of my father still live."

"That still leaves the Eden Elite," said Rivalz.

"Yes, according to Lady Marianne's information Shin Hyuga Shaing has already been declared commander and has even been gifted the Imperial Scepter," said Cornelia, no small amount of disdain in her voice.

"The Imperial Scepter?" asked Rivalz.

"A ceremonial wand bestowed to anyone of the Emperor's choosing to effectively hold the power of the Emperor," said Cornelia. "Very rarely given, even among members of the Royal Family. I can't imagine why my uncle would bestow such an honor to an Honorary Britannian, considering all he's done to breed a sense of discrimination in the Empire."

Rivalz hummed and turned his attention back at the view of the city below them. He never really went along with V.V's demands for discrimination, and he felt that if he ever allowed his appearance to be seen in public he would be a victim of just such discrimination.

"A weapon was also delivered to Shaing not too long before Lady Marianne arrived," said Cornelia, continuing to relay information. "We may be seeing some action very soon."

"Think he'd attack St. Petersburg?" asked Rivalz.

"According to the information Lady Marianne has been able to get Shaing may very well be approaching a form severe mental instability," said Cornelia. "Not to mention we have no idea what kind of weapon was delivered to him."

"So V.V placed a weapon of unknown power and nigh-supreme authority to a potential madman, is that it?" asked Rivalz.

"Pretty much," said Cornelia. "I've taken the liberty of having the Shaing household under observation. Lady Maria Shaing and her daughter Alice. There's nothing to implicate them in any of the Eden Elite's business but none the less we're keeping an eye on them for any suspicious behavior. Mostly this is due to the Geass Shin is suspected of having."

"I read about that, it's supposed to be like Lelouch's right?" asked Rivalz.

"That's a theory but nothing's been confirmed," said Cornelia. "It would explain why a dedicated soldier such as Sir Michael Manfredi would take his own life."

Rivalz looked back down at the city below and Cornelia this time truly noticed the sad expression on his face.

"If you'd like to go down there you can," said Cornelia. "I can manage things here."

"You know I can't let anyone see me," said Rivalz. "Not like this."

"There's a festival in the city today. People would just think of you as being in costume," said Cornelia, trying to make Rivalz feel better. "You could always say you're a street performer at least until the truth can be revealed."

"And then what, live my life behind the mask of Prince?" asked Rivalz. "Letting everyone believe I'm just wearing a suit of armor when really I am the armor? What would people say if they knew the truth? How would people look at me?"

"Do that hologram thing you did before," said Cornelia.

Rivalz did as she asked and brought up a blank holographic display.

"Now search 'Blue Unicorn' and tell me what you see," said Cornelia.

Rivalz did as she asked and several images of the Valiant appeared. Along with several other images. Child drawings of the Knightmare, street art sprayed on walls, even a few people who seemed to dress like the Valiant.

"That is what people will see when they look at you," said Cornelia. "The one who fought to protect the innocent with no other intention other than the pure drive to protect all he loved and held dear. They won't see the machine, they will see the man."

Rivalz wanted to say he believed her, that Cornelia's well meaning words were true, but in his heart, or what functioned as his heart, he was still unsure.

"Go," Cornelia whispered into his ear.

He turned back and saw Cornelia's light smile of encouragement.

"I really shouldn't," said Rivalz. "What about observation on the Shaing Family?"

"Maria and Alice will be attending," said Cornelia. "A nice mix of work and pleasure."

"But..."

"Cardemonde, either you go have fun or I throw you off the ship," yelled Cornelia, the friendly demeanor gone in an instant.

"Yes ma'am," cried Rivalz, quickly running off the bridge.

From where they stood Guilford and Dalton could only look on in confusion and amusement respectively.

"Uh, Princess, while I of course would never doubt your decisions but..."

"Because we chose the lives we live Guilford, Rivalz didn't choose to become a cyborg," said Cornelia. "He became the Blue Unicorn out of circumstance. His life has been forever changed and abruptly so. He's trying to accept what has happened as best as he can. But remember he's still a young man. He needs to feel as if he can have fun despite what has happened to him. That he can still have a normal life. Right now he believes that he cannot go out into the world as Rivalz Cardemonde. That the only place where he can be himself is among the Fleet. Can you imagine what that must be like for someone his age? To feel as if you can never go out and be yourself in the world? To feel like a prisoner in your own body?"

"She's right Gil," said Dalton. "A little fresh air, interactions with people outside the Fleet, could all do him some good. A nice reminder that he really is human. Of course that girl Milly could help."

"I thought they were just friends," said Guilford.

"If you think that the no wonder her highness has to order you to her bed," laughed Dalton, as Cornelia and Guilford turned red.

The display of Kallen's Geass, Absolute Combustion as it was called, was enough that Leila nearly felt herself die of shock. As well as the shock of Akito and Clause.

"Simply one of a wide variety of abilities allowed by the Geass," said C.C.

"And...and you gave one to me all those years ago?" asked Leila.

"Indeed," said C.C.

"But...but why...what could you possibly want from me?" asked Leila, somewhat frightened at the idea that she had some strange power bestowed to her by the witch.

"Back then it was simply a passing curiosity," said C.C. "But now I stand as a representative of the Geass Order, currently under the command of my former student, Lelouch's mother, the former Empress Marianne Vi Britannia. You're Geass has not been used yet, because you've blocked out much of the memory of our meeting. The trauma of your parent's death and your own near drowning affecting your mind. There is no true confirmation of what power you have. But through the connection we share it is a powerful one. One that has earned the interest of V.V."

"The Emperor...wait you're names...V.V and C.C, is he an immortal as well?" asked Clause.

"Afraid so," said C.C.

"Then...then there is no hope to destroy him if he cannot die," said Leila.

"Not by conventional means no," said Lelouch. "But I'm willing to explore unconventional means. Leila Malcal, I've come to extend to you and W-0 an offer to join my newly christened Atlas Fleet. To become one of the Orders of champions for justice in the world."

"Orders?" asked Leila.

"The Fleet is led by my mother, beneath her are the elite Orders of the Color Guard," said Lelouch. "My own Black Knights among others. You will remain in effective command of W-0, as this offer goes to them as well."

"But...but I am an officer of the military of the Europia Union I cannot..."

"The same government body that conscripts young Japanese into suicide missions?" asked Kallen, speaking up. "You're just like them, throwing away Japanese lives as if they were nothing."

The Alexander moved slightly.

"Watch it," hissed Akito over the speakers.

"Lelia never approved of this arrangement," said Claus. "She even took command of that fool Pierre whose arrogance resulted in the needless deaths of the previous unit."

"Of which only Lt. Hyuga survived," said Lelouch, looking up to the Alexander. "You've made quite a name for yourself, Hannibal's Ghost."

"You're also of some note to the Order," said C.C. "The savage way you fight, it's influenced by a Geass, one that overtakes your will."

From inside his Knightmare, Akito could only sit back as his memory of the death of his family because of his brother Shin came back to the front of his mind. Finally he could recall the bird-like symbol in Shin's eye back then, similar to the symbols in Lelouch, Kallen, and C.C.

"My brother...that was how he killed our family," Akito said to himself.

There was indeed a festival going on in the streets of St. Petersburg. People in festive masks and costumes. No one gave Rivalz more than a second look of admiration of his appearance. They all believed he was in costume just as they were.

And sure enough Lady Maria Shaing and her daughter Alice where there as well. Rivalz kept a safe distance from them, but keeping a close eye on them. They both looked so innocent and happy, he could hardly believe that someone as rumored to be as mad as Shin could have them as family, adopted or otherwise.

He recalled his life with his own mother, although dishonored and disgraced, banished in all but name by his father for Rivalz's illegitimate status and her birthing of him, she was none the less loving to Rivalz. He was happy with her.

But after his 'death' he had been able to find nothing about her. Her work, whatever friends she had made, she was gone. All his searches to find his mother had ended in futility. Princess Cornelia had promised to use her resources to try and find her but nothing had come up.

Rivalz had chosen to throw himself into the work of the Fleet, as the Blue Unicorn, if only to keep his mind busy from the worry. He chose to trust Cornelia's resources and if fate was kind he would find her again.

He looked back to Maria and Alice, and wondered if Shin truly loved them. Did he care for them as they cared for him or was it an act? Can a madman truly love?

His inner musings were interrupted when he picked up the sound of a heavy cart giving way down a steep hill. The heavy wagon, as if guided by fate, ran hard and fast for Maria and Alice. Reacting quickly Rivalz, propelled by his cybernetic enhanced, leaped in front of the two as the cart nearly crashed into them. He gripped hard at the edges of the cart. The force was enough to make Rivalz's metal feet dig into the road but he did not budge until the cart came to a safe halt.

Once he was sure that the wagon was no longer a threat he released it and turned to the two noblewomen, giving a bow.

"Ladies, I hope you're alright," he said.

"Oh...oh yes why thank you sir," said Maria, giving Rivalz a deep curtsy, Alice following her mother's lead. "It came so fast I barely noticed it. We would have been crushed if not for your brave actions sir..."

"Rivalz Cardemonde, milady," said Rivalz, forgetting that he was on a mission.

"Thank you again Mr. Cardemonde," said Maria.

"You were so brave sir, that cart could have crushed you as well," said Alice.

"Oh, I wasn't worried about that," said Rivalz. "I'm...stronger than I look."

"Indeed," said Maria.

Lady Shaing then took note of how Rivalz stood at attention so well.

"Forgive me for be so bold Mr. Cardemonde, but do you happen to be in the military?" she asked.

"I...have come under the apprenticeship of a highly decorated officer," said Rivalz. "Nothing entirely official though."

"You stand like a young officer, you remind of my son really," laughed Maria. "Your hair is even the same lovely shade of blue his is."

"Is he a solider?" asked Rivalz, though he knew the answer already.

"The Grand Master of the Holy Order of Michael," said Maria, with no small amount of pride. "Oh, oh how absolutely rude of me not to introduce myself after you were so polite to do so after your gallant rescue. I am Lady Maria Shaing and this is my daughter Alice."

"A pleasure my ladies," said Rivalz.

"Oh the pleasure is all ours Mr. Cardemonde," said Maria. "Now, as I was saying, my son Shin is the Grand Master of the Holy Order of Michael, if you're interested in a career in the military perhaps I could introduce you to him."

"I would hate to impose," said Rivalz. "Besides I'm...not fit for the company of lords and ladies."

"Oh but surely big brother would want to meet you when he hears of our day," said Alice. "He'll want to thank you himself."

"He sounds like a good man," said Rivalz, despite knowing the truth. "But I'm sure a man of his status would be more inclined to consider more...noble people for his. You see I am...illegitimate."

"And my son Shin is an Eleven by birth," said Maria. "Despite the times we live in my household still holds true to the ideals of our late Emperor Charles. That nobility starts in the soul. Please, at least do me the kindness of offering you tea, I believe Alice and I have had enough excitement for the day. Unless you have other business sir."

"No, milady," said Rivalz. "I have no other business."

While Shin had been made aware of Lovecrest, there was one who was never told would be coming. He was one who could go wherever he pleased in V.V's empire, anywhere in the Eden Elite. He was someone whispered about in rumor. He was one who understood the minds of people. It was a natural idea to break Euro Britannia off from the main empire. It would spark revolution throughout the Empire and be a considerable headache for V.V.

It was a classic sort of strategy, one that he had seen before.

In truth he had no real care for V.V's goals, he understood, but his desires were more his own. They worked together well enough. He was considered something of a consultant in the Eden Elite, one always to be listened to as if he were V.V himself. He had even earned a nickname that was used in the whispers that spoke about him. The Demon's Detective they called him, because he could always find those who were considered criminals V.V.

He liked it really, it gave him an air of elegance and authority. He certainly liked it better than the other name they called him.

But now was not the time to dwell on nicknames. His investigation had turned up something unexpected. Something he was eager to take full advantage of.

The ride back to Lady Shaing's mansion was pleasant. Rivalz talked at length with the lady and her daughter. He spoke about growing up in an Area and how different it was from living in Euro Britannia.

"Oh, dear me I seem to be continuing to forget my manners today," said Maria. "Mr. Cardemonde, would you like us to stop at your residence to change out of your costume?"

"Oh...well," Rivalz was the suddenly left with a choice.

Either to do what Lelouch would have done, come up with some clever lie or go for honesty. The latter would be seen as the more foolish by his compatriots in the Fleet.

'Well I'm not clever like Lelouch so I've kind of got no other chose but to be foolish,' thought Rivalz.

"Lady Shaing, Alice, I'm afraid I have not been entirely truthful," said Rivalz. "You see this isn't really a costume. I am a cyborg."

Rivalz brought up both his hands and mentally commanded the fingers to extend, revealing their mechanical nature to the surprise of the two women. Alice, for her part seemed almost frightened, which hurt Rivalz in a way he thought he could no longer be harmed.

"I was injured and left for dead when I got caught up in a battle staged by the Eden Elite," said Rivalz. "They're the ones that did this to me. To me and several Britannian soldiers whose bodies they had stolen. I was the only one to survive. And in a way you were right Lady Shaing, I am something of a soldier. In the service of Empress Marianne who had a hand in rescuing me."

"The Empress lives?" gasped Maria.

"Yes and as we speak is working to have Euro Britannia break ties with the Homeland," said Rivalz. "To wage war against V.V."

"My son...Shin, he's been scouted for the Eden Elite," said Maria.

She looked over Rivalz's body and imagined the horrors he must have endured.

"I know," said Rivalz. "I'm sorry but it wasn't just a coincidence I was there when the cart gave way. I wasn't really supposed to meet with you, our organization has been keeping observation on anything related to Shin Hyuga Shaing because of V.V's interests."

"Are you...going to kill him?" asked Maria fearfully.

"No...no, god no," said Rivalz, not technically lying. "It's just that...given what the Eden Elite is capable of, as you can see, we may be able to save Shin before he gets into serious danger either for himself or for others. Here, let me get in contact with Princess Cornelia, I'm sure she can explain it better than I can."

Rivalz brought up his holographic display, to the surprise of the two noblewomen, and he requested communication with the ship. Soon enough Cornelia's face appeared and when Rivalz showed her that he had not only made contact with Maria and Alice he could see the contained fury in her eyes.

However none the less she talked softly in front of Maria and Alice.

"Lady Shaing, I understand that despite the sense of discrimination V.V has sought to breed in the Empire you have none the less taken Shin in and loved him as your own," said Cornelia. "Please understand that we are only suspicious of V.V and if we can we will help him from any trouble that might come to him. Until then don't worry, Cardemonde is more than capable of providing protection for you and your daughter. He is the Blue Unicorn after all."

With that Cornelia cut communications, Rivalz just knowing he was in for it when he next met with her, but his attentions were then focused on the tears that came from Maria's eyes.

"Oh, I was so worried when I heard that the Usurper was taking an interest in my son," cried Maria. "I've heard the rumors of the Eden Elite. I hoped they would never come to Euro Britannia."

"They won't be staying," said Rivalz, pulling out a handkerchief from his cape pocket and handing it to Maria. "We'll make sure of that."

Maria accepted his handkerchief and began to wipe away her tears. She then noted what Cornelia had said and of the news of recent days.

"Princess Cornelia, said you were the Blue Unicorn," said Maria. "Of course, your...appearance is just like that of the blue Knightmare that protected that school from attack."

"Yes, milady," said Rivalz, a light smile on his face. "I may have been marred and rebuilt by the Eden Elite but I stand against them, and all injustices in this world that threaten the lives and virtue of the innocent. I'll do everything I can to protect both you and your daughter if worst should come to worst. And I promise to help Shin in any way I can."

Shin Hyuga Shaing looked over the machine delivered to him by Lovecrest. While Lovecrest took the machine's brother to the E.U, Shin had been told to simply command this device to 'have fun' and it would launch itself. This would leave Shin free to pursue a personal mission.

He looked down at the scepter in his hand. A trinket that would soon lose all meaning.

"Dagon," said Shin, addressing the machine by its designation. "Have fun in Euro Britannia."

The machine gave an almost animal-like roar and flew off to 'have fun'.

Shin looked at the flying figure and smiled even as gunshots rang out. Apparently there were some in the Order of Michael who did not take kindly to this operation. Regardless, he would leave soon, let them die or attempt to escape it didn't matter. Between the Dagon and its brother there would be nowhere safe to run, and no where to hide.

In the E.U, the city of lights had suddenly gone dark.

"A blackout?" asked Urabe, looking over the city from the bridge of the Nirvana with the others.

"I doubt it," said Suzaku.

The communications officer of the bridge called to Suzaku and Tohdoh who followed suit.

"We're getting reports from social media about an attack on the E.U's central power station," said the officer. "As well as a video claiming responsibility."

A screen bearing the image of a man draped in a dark coat, attached to wires, with a tentacle like face, stood against the flag bearing the mark of the Eden Elite appeared.

"They've made their move," said Suzaku.

"By order of Emperor Vincent Zi Britannia, the E.U is sentenced to a fate worse than death," said the man. "Behold the Cthulhu."

The video then showed the power plant as well as a huge, squid-like machine hovering above it. In an instant a bomb descended from the machine and destroyed the plant.

"In darkness you will stumble," the man continued. "And in my fog you will choke."

The video continued and a purple fog cloud came from the rubble of the plant.

"What is that?" asked Chiba. "Some kind of gas weapon?"

"Pause the video feed," said Suzaku as soon as the video returned to the man with the tentacle face.

The officer did as ordered and Suzaku looked at the eyes and hair of the man. They were matted and decayed but none the less Suzaku could recognize the partial face.

"That's Lovecrest," he said.

"What? But he's dead," said Senba.

"He could raise the dead remember," said Urabe.

"But we buried him at sea," said Chiba.

"These are issues to be addressed later," said Tohdoh. "This is going to breed panic. Not just the darkness but the fear of the gas. It'll tear the E.U apart from the inside. The soldiers are going to want to leave the front to defend their homes from the Cthulhu. Assuming that Lady Marianne hasn't secured Euro Britannia this would be an ideal opportunity to gain land from the E.U."

"Actually sir, we're receiving reports from Euro Britannia as well," said the communications officer. "Something about a...robot dragon."

"We should take up Lady Marianne's offer, execute Shin and send his head back to that demon," yelled Gaudefroy.

"Let us not be hasty Gaudefroy," said Raymond du Saint-Gilles, head of the Knights of Uriel and the oldest gathered. "While I too share no love for the Usurper, we cannot simply go to war on the request of Empress Marianne, respect her though I do. As his highness said, we must consider the needs of our citizens. Bringing the horror of a war with the Eden Elite upon them is not a risk to be taken lightly. We must also question why the Usurper would now take interest in Euro Britannia. For years now he has been more than willing to leave us to our own devices, save for encouraging war with the E.U."

"We know why, it is because of this power Shin Hyuga Shaing wields," said Gaudefroy. "No doubt it answers the questions of Lord Manfredi's death and with it he could easily take over our minds and effectively rule Euro Britannia unquestioned."

"He could do that before easily, he's had more than enough time to meet with us all privately and use his Geass on us," said Farnese. "And now he has the Imperial Scepter, authority from the Usurper on top of his appointment to the Eden Elite. Yet he is not here where he can seize power. Then there is the suspicious delivery from Princess Marrybell. All of this raises many questions."

"Questions I fear my lords we will not find answer to in debate," said Velaines. "If there is anything I believe we can agree on now though, it is that Shin Hyuga Shaing must be taken into custody if for no other reason than to secure justice for the late Lord Manfredi. But if that is the case, then I believe we in truth have already agreed to war, as to go against the Eden Elite is to go against V.V."

The three Grand Masters nodded in agreement. At that moment the air raid sirens of St. Petersburg began to ring. Outside the city, the sky darkened with a monstrous shape.

"Dear God in heaven," said Velaines, looking from the palace window.

In the Chinese Consulate, Marianne and the girls looked out the window at the terrible shape. As Tianzi held onto her Marianne did her best to comfort the young empress, although she herself was terrified.

The machine which cast the shadow was a rumored legend among the Order. One of the ancient weapons of the old Geass Civilization that played a part in its destruction. It had been reassembled and made new but it was still one of the ancients.

'Vincent, are you truly so mad that you would awaken the ancients,' thought Marianne.

Tianzi gripping tightly at her side brought Marianne back to her senses. She needed to get the girls to safety. She, Bismark, and Rivalz's Sapphire Crusaders would have to deal with the ancient if their alliance was to be secured.

"Come my dears, we need to move quickly," said Marianne.

She took Nunnally and Tianzi by their hands and turned to the doorway. But when Marianne and the girls turned they saw a man in black suit with red pinstripes and hat standing in their way. He removed his hat and his face was fully revealed. He was a handsome young man in his 20s with buzz cut blonde hair and sunken blue eyes. He had a pleasant smile on his face.

"Empress Marianne," he said in a pleasant voice. "It's a pleasure to meet your acquaintance. I am...Amadeus Bludbierd."