Cornelia lived for war. Battles. She probably dreamt about fighting and destroying enemies of Britannia. Number system. Discrimination. She didn't care about all that. She didn't even think deeply about it. Her thoughts were on destroying enemies of the Empire. Left and right. Right or wrong was irrelevant. Lelouch wondered when she became such an obedient dog for the military. After all, if the military told her to destroy a country because it was an enemy, she would do so, brutally so. But of course, there was a redline line with her. And that was her sister. For Euphy, Cornelia could probably betray even Britannia. There was no one worth more to her than her beloved sister.

The same was for him. Perhaps this was why Schneizel said this was their weaknesses. Certainly, their brother would not waste time using such attachments against them. The man held no attachments. Nothing at all. He probably would not even mind dying. It made Lelouch seriously question man's ambitions and will to do certain things. His saying that he had no interest in the throne was not false. Although, the same could not be said about him. Lelouch shook his head. And glanced outside, through the small window of the private plane he had leased. He was in a private airstrip within Britannia. Knightmare frames surrounded the area. Sitting in front of him, was Cornelia. Both Jeremiah and Guilford standing by the passage with Villetta sitting on the other side, trying to make it seem as if she is not interested in what was going to happen.

"I expected you to be in battle," Lelouch said, glancing at Cornelia through the corner of his eyes.

"I was… but immediately left when informed you were done in Russia."

He wasn't even supposed to be here. He had made arrangements to head straight to Area 11 but he had flown just across Northern Africa and straight back to Pendragon, because Cornelia had called. He had expected her call. But he hadn't expected for her to say she needed to see him in person.

"I suppose this is about the situation in Area 11… terrorists to be precise."

"We normally don't interfere with Clovis' activities in Area 11. Although a Military General, I don't have the authority to conduct military operations within Area 11. Clovis has control over military operations and that was a role given to him by the Emperor," Cornelia said in a hardened tone.

"Politics," Lelouch said with a shrug. "And the military likes order. Besides, I think the reason military hasn't been taken away from Clovis is because nothing disastrous has yet to occur. The JLF still exists and other groups are still making trouble, but not too much trouble… except for now…"

Cornelia nodded. "Euphy is right there, and I have called Clovis about this case. He needs to go in all-out war with the terrorists to destroy them. Such an action will destabilize things, but it is necessary to eradicate them and make the area safe."

Lelouch stared at his sister. He now understood why she had requested a meet. She was most concerned about Euphy. She could have pulled her already, but she didn't want to do that without talking to him, granted, what happened last time. He smiled. Of course, there was still the issue of Nunnally. Still, Cornelia was looking for war. And anything of that scale would only humiliate Clovis. Hence, she was talking to him. He sighed, he really would have a tough job here. But he could experiment on this.

"I have already agreed that I will help Clovis. We just have to talk about it when I get there… to get into the finer details over how much control I will be given," Lelouch said calmly. "But you want to take out Euphy during this conflict. Certainly, if the terrorists know about her, her life becomes in danger. Although, if she is living in the Viceroy Palace, she will be safe."

"Yes…" Cornelia said with a nod. "But your mother's case has made me realize that anything can happen. Euphy can return with Nunnally. Just until this is over. They can stay at my place. No one will dare go there and Nunnally can be offered the security she needs."

"I'll consider things about Nunnally, but I will talk to Euphy when I get there," Lelouch said. "Anything else?"

"Be careful Lelouch. Be very careful. I like the military, less politics, but the political world is very dangerous. You are not the most favored royalty. These people will not wait to see you fail, they will sabotage you. And Schneizel may not be there to help you," Cornelia warned in a serious tone. "This thing with the Ashford girl… is serious, isn't it?"

It was not like Schneizel would be patiently waiting for him. Besides, he didn't need the Prime Minister to act as his Knight. He was his own Knight. Perhaps all thoughts were just cynical when it came to man but Lelouch would rather struggle, suffer… if at the end of the day he could see victory than willingly accept a help. But there were always strings attached. Strings that he may not be able to shake off. After all, his brother didn't do anyone favors. Not because they were family or that he cared. But perhaps again, he was just being cynical.

"Yes."

"I want to see her when I return," Cornelia said. "I would go with you, but I was also forced to return because Military Command has a meets. No doubt, the EU will be the main subject. Once that is over with, I will go back to suppress some terrorists."

Lelouch nodded. Schneizel sat in the military command along with the Crown Prince. A royal battlefield that was… probably. "I have heard your warning, Cornelia."

It didn't take long before the plane took off, to a long journey to Area 11. At this rate, they were going to arrive there late night. He would simply just get some sleep before seeing what the day held for him. Lelouch leaned back to his chair, and then stared at Jeremiah – who by all means, looked a little giddy. "Don't get too excited, Jeremiah."

"I can't help myself," Jeremiah grinned. "When I saw the Knightmare frames in Russia, I was excited… it made me realize that I flourish in a battle. Staying away from it will only dull my skills. Training sessions don't have the same thrill as a raw battle, filled with all emotions," the man said passionately.

Lelouch shook his head. "Tell me you don't share the same mindset as him," he said, turning to face Villetta.

"In battle, one always risks it all. I prefer to fight when we have to. Lord Jeremiah just enjoys destroying things a little too much."

"Not to mention the explosions…" Lelouch added.

"Explosions are a bit of your thing, Your Highness…" Villetta said, trying to keep herself from grinning, but she failed.

Jeremiah chuckled. Adopting a thoughtful look, he spoke. "Indeed," he said. "As I recall, our last battle, there were a lot of explosions. And I have a feeling that we will see more explosions once we get back into the battlefield," the man said, before turning to Villetta. "You know, you don't have to call me Lord Jeremiah anymore… I am not your superior. We are in the same position…"

Villetta shrugged. "It won't feel right…" she said. "But we are really going to go at it with terrorists? Terrorists are not like the usual enemies that Britannia fights."

"You underestimate the strength of the JLF." Lelouch said in thought. "And for someone who worked with the Purist Faction, you should not. Perhaps it is the mindset of all Britannians to look at Numbers as trash. You think because they are just terrorists, they won't pose a problem. But I have already said, the terrorists in Area 11 are very skilled and they have better Knightmare frames. Facing them won't be simple, but we will have to do…"

The Viceroy's Palace was lit up with bright lights. Clovis was probably snoring by now. So was everyone at the Ashford Academy. After getting off the plane, the guards led them straight to their quarters. Lelouch immediately went to sleep. He needed it. The coming days might prove to be a little difficult. Challenging even. He did have some reservations about having to fight the likes of Todoh. The man had been pleasant when they first met in the days he was a political hostage for Britannia, having been exiled by the Emperor.

"You're in a better shape than the last time we spoke," Lelouch greeted Clovis at his office. It was morning, he was ready to leave the Palace and head to the Ashford Academy. He still needed to speak to Lloyd as well. Whenever he was here, there was truly too much to do. Then again, to him, this country was like home. He felt much more connected to it than he was with Pendragon. He'd spent the better parts of this life, in this land.

"Well, is there no other reason to be happy?" Clovis said, smiling widely.

Lelouch raised an eye brow but said nothing before he sat down in front of Clovis' desk. He relaxed before speaking. "I imagine you are not particularly happy about this, but we have to work out things between you and I. You must know that you can trust me and I have to be assured that I can trust you."

Clovis blinked. "What makes you say that, brother? I thought our relationship was better than most. We go a long way back. You always beat me. Better than me, but I have never held any contempt for it. Even when I came here, my first thought was about to find both you and Nunnally. What could make me untrustworthy?" He seemed to take offense, if his impression was any indication.

But Lelouch knew Clovis too well. "You should save you theatrics for the media, Clovis," he said a bit sharply. "I spoke to Cornelia before coming here. And as you have said, things are not getting better. Explain, and we will discuss how we will deal with it."

"You my brother, will deal with it," Clovis said. "But I don't want to explain anything. I doubt I will give any satisfactory brief with all the little details regarding the enemy strength. I will schedule a briefing, tomorrow… but as for how we can work out, I can discuss that with you then make an announcement with my people."

Lelouch nodded. "What are you giving me to do what I must do?"

"I will give you 23 Knightmare frames. And the back-up when you need it." Clovis said. "I will become the face of this new attack. You won't say anything to the press. You will continue to avoid the media as you usually do."

"You want to keep all the glory and blame me when things go wrong?"

Clovis smiled. "But I know you, brother. I know things are not going to go wrong. You will do this for me, and then I will finally be able to walk in Pendragon without any shame. Of course, I will acknowledge your contributions… I am not that selfish…" he explained lightly. "Just keep me informed when you do things, Lelouch. We don't want to clash."

"When can I expect the delivery?"

"In a few days," Clovis answered nonchalantly. "Why the hurry?"

"I just need to know how long before I must make my first move. When they are ready, deliver them where Lloyd is stationed. I will use his place as my command center." Lelouch said standing up. "We will talk when I return from the academy…"

"Wait, Lelouch," Clovis called. "You didn't tell me Milly was such a delightful person. I spoke to her the last time you brought her here, but she showed me a different side that I found delightful when I had dinner with her…"

Lelouch wasn't pleased to hear that. He hadn't even asked Milly how that had even gone. Clovis had not even spoken anything about having dinner with Milly. He sighed, at least, Clovis won't try to sabotage things with Milly if he likes her. Moral values were hardly of consequence to Clovis. He hardly even listens to what anyone was saying on the imperial court. Anything to get his image a fix and make him smell nice, he would dive in.

"I'm glad you liked her…"

"What is with that look?" Clovis asked. "Jealous are we? I won't take her away from you, brother. But to keep her, you really need to learn how to handle her, and you must make her happy. You should let me give you some lessons…"

"Of course, you'd be expert in that…"

"Naturally."

Lelouch didn't afford Clovis a response, but just walked away. When he stepped outside of the office, he came to an abrupt halt. Jeremiah and Villetta were busy preparing travelling arrangements for him. But what welcomed him was a blonde haired woman, wearing a tight blue dress that showed off her body frame. She had small blue eyes, a clean face that made him nod in agreement with Schneizel's assessment of her beauty. Lelouch didn't usually complement such things but the woman was so enchanting, he felt compelled to comment. He fought it off nevertheless.

He smiled, walking closer to her. He didn't mind the man hovering behind her. Like Milly, she was a bit taller than him. "Lady Alexandria…" he greeted her warmly. Clovis could have warned him. There was no way his brother didn't know about this. She was in his palace. She must have arrived hours before him. He was honestly surprised to see her. He'd thought avoiding Pendragon meant he'd dodged the bullet.

"Your Highness," Alexandria responded, a bit respectfully, holding out her fight hand. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you."

Lelouch took it and kissed it. Though, he noticed, her voice was not that attractive. It was not that it was a mean sounding tone. There was just a bit of steel about it. "The pleasure is all mine," he said, letting go of her hand. "I wasn't expecting to see you… here of all places."

"I was informed that you would be coming here after leaving Russia. I imagined you'd just get busy or maybe get deployed for war… thought I might take advantage of the time to meet you…" Alexandria responded quietly. "We need to talk."

"I'm sure we do… but not now."

"What could be more important? Prince Schneizel is only working on formalities with my father. But everything has been agreed upon with between the Emperor and my father. Again, I ask, what could be more important than getting to know your soon to be wife?"

They were going to rush him in this. His eighteenth birthday was only a month away. This was not a good thing for him. Lelouch didn't need this. Not now. But there was no avoiding it. When the Emperor has spoken, he has spoken. He smiled, he needed to find a suitable way to handle things.

"I really wish I could speak to you now. But you had not warned me beforehand. I made prior arrangements that I cannot postpone. Right now, I have to be at the Ashford Academy before you classes start."

"Then I come along with."

Lelouch shook his head. "I'll contact you later… we will have dinner…" he said, walking past her.

"Prince Lelouch…"

Lelouch turned to face the woman. There was something about her smile that unnerved him a little. "You're not exactly the push-over Britannia's media paints you to be, isn't it?" She asked, smiling.

Lelouch smiled, a flat smile to match hers. "Who knows? But you will eventually find out. We do have a long journey ahead of us."

"Ah yes," she continued smiling. "An eternal journey."

Lelouch raised an index finger. "Misleading… unless you believe in the afterlife…"

"For the rest of your lives, then…"

"That…" he smiled. "My Lady… is indeed the truth."

That woman was going to be a problem. He needed to find out more about her before engaging her. He didn't like her already. But whether he liked her or not, was irrelevant. He would have to tow in line, like everyone else. Lelouch shook his head, and nodded at both Jeremiah and Villetta before stepping inside the back seat of the black sedan. Jeremiah took the steering wheel while Villetta sat beside him. He spoke while staring outside the window. "How many men do we have now, Villetta?"

"About 50…" Villetta answered.

"Issue an order for 20 who you think proved themselves to come to be ready in three days. Arrange for a plane to fetch them from Pendragon and bring them here," Lelouch ordered. "I would rather use my own forces to fight this battle."

"And the Majors?"

"Summon them… Lt. Morris as well. He will work with Lloyd while we are here."

Jeremiah grinned. Finally, there would be battle. There would be some metal clash, and he would test his skills. "This is going to get good. I didn't think you'd sort out the issue with Prince Clovis so quickly."

There was no need to linger around and beat around the bush. He had to consider things and plan to act properly, otherwise, he would only end up humiliating himself in defeat. He could not afford that. He may not even get the gig in Africa if he fails miserably.

"Villetta, I also want all information you can find about the terrorist attacks in the Area in the past three months…"

"Yes, Your Highness."

"Since I will be busy with Ruben, going over our finances and other arrangements, Jeremiah, you will assist Villetta. I will call you when I need you," Lelouch paused, frowning deeply. "I also need to find a place that is secure to have dinner with Lady Alexandria. I suppose we can work out something at the palace, away from the press. I don't need pictures of me and her making rounds in the news anytime soon."

"Lady Alexandria?" Villetta asked. She didn't know anything about this lady.

Lelouch glanced at Villetta for a moment. He hadn't told her but had only spoken to Jeremiah about it, but only that one time. He had expected Jeremiah to tell him. He smiled, perhaps Jeremiah thought it was something she would only need to be told by him. It was indeed very personal and not something he wanted to openly discuss with just anyone.

"I am to be engaged to Lady Alexandria. You will see her… she is going to intrude in our lives…" that was as far as he could see, but only if he allowed it.

"What of Milly?"

"Nothing changes," Lelouch said firmly.

Villetta wanted to ask if Lelouch realized what that meant, but she bit her tongue. Of course, he knew. He was the Black Prince. Was this what came with being royalty? It was certainly not his choice. His decision was to marry Milly Ashford, but royal politics, and of course the Emperor, stood in the way. This was going to be interesting. Perhaps even overwhelming for Lelouch. She wondered how Milly would even react to this news. The blonde was obviously a big personality. And she seemed to have her way with Lelouch.

"Jeremiah, you are much more used to this… I need you to sit with Villetta, tonight, and draw up a proposal to the military and the Prime Minister. This is in terms of HR issues. We still don't have Knightmare frames left in waiting for our unit. I have already written requesting the budget for when we deploy, funds for repairs and maintenance. I need another proposal written for the pay of my men…"

"You want a little independence from the military?"

"I wouldn't call it that… if I did so, back-up would be difficult. No, it is just control over the affairs of my men. We don't want nasty surprises. Cornelia is given her budget, and handles here own issues…" Lelouch said. "For now, Clovis will foot the bill."

Lelouch could imagine just how Milly was going to react about hearing this news. The fact that she would have to share him. He would not dare marry her in secret, not when the Emperor could find out and then screw him over. He just had to accommodate the circumstances surrounding him and learn to live with it. The good thing was that Ruben was already out. The Foundation was very busy these days. a lot more effort in research and the development of Knightmare frames. But right now, he didn't need to speak to the man, he wanted to speak to Milly. To let her know of the new developments before she hears it from someone else.

The house keeper informed him that she was in her room, getting ready for school. Perhaps he was being daring. But this was sort of something that only Nonette would do. Lelouch asked the woman to lead him there. He'd never felt so nervous before. Really, Lelouch thought of turning back to the sitting room after dismissing the house keeper. He really wasn't accustomed to this sort of thing. He smiled bitterly, staring at Milly's door. When had he become like this? Timid. Afraid to even walk into Milly's room. They have already kissed, what more was he waiting for? Was he that afraid of women?

Steeling himself, Lelouch opened the door. The room was large, the bed on the side by the large windows that were closed, white curtains billowing against the fan hitting them. on the left side, there was a study battle, and a small book shelve. But what made him freeze at the entrance was the sight of Milly, sitting on her bed, knees raised, her hair a little messy. She was fully clothed, but he saw something white. Her expression was also so unguarded, so open he felt like he was not looking at Milly Ashford.

"Hello Milly…"

Milly's eyes snapped towards her door. There was one person in this house who dared open her bedroom door without approval, and that was not Lelouch. Not this person. She was a little shocked to see him. Last time she spoke to him, he was in Russia, and now, there he was, standing at her door, smiling. She smiled. she had known him far too long to see that he was not the usual confident person. He was nervous. Just barely holding himself. It was amusing to watch. She dropped her knees to the floor, and then spoke.

"Ah, dear… you didn't tell me you were coming," she said, in a sly tone, staring straight at him.

"I wanted to surprise you, catch you while you were still in those clothes you might have suggested you were wearing… if you were wearing anything at all…" Lelouch said, closing the door behind him. He then took a single step forward, eyes dancing around, just wondering where he would sit. He shrugged and then walked toward Milly.

"If you are curious," Milly said, standing up, her hands on her skirt. "I can take it off right now…" when a flash of horror passed through Lelouch's face, she burst out laughing, falling to her bed. Well, he was still Lelouch, alright.

Lelouch frowned deeply. A little bit offended. He had tried, hadn't he? He stopped in front of her and stared for a moment before sitting down on the edge of the bed.

"That wasn't very funny."

"You shouldn't start things you can't complete," Milly said, glancing at Lelouch through the corner of her eyes. She smiled. Though, admittedly, she was a little nervous. He was here. Sitting beside her. On her bed, in very different circumstances. She could not help but watch his eyes, his lips, his fingers, but most of all, his eyes. She felt something inside of her falter. Her heart pounded a bit. 'Where are your guts, Milly?!' She exclaimed inwardly, reigning in on her wild thoughts.

"One day…" Lelouch said with a shake of his head. Then then fell silent. Not sure what to say next. He didn't even know how he was going to tell her what he needed to tell her.

"Is this the end to you greeting?" Milly asked with a stare.

Lelouch shrugged. "I hadn't even started yet," he smiled. He really was struggling with this. But he needed to get better. Otherwise, that woman would run him over. He turned around and face her, and then edged inches closer. He held out his hands, and she didn't waste time falling into his embrace. She was warm. He could feel her breathing against him. Measured. Unlike his. Lelouch felt his hands move over her back, and touched her hair. Wild, as it was. It certainly gave her a raw kind of look. After a moment, they separated. And they stared.

Milly was honestly shocked when he leaned closer, and then captured her lips. Her shock of course, only lasted a second, as she responded to the kiss. She could feel his hands moving around her waist. The kisses were not focused, a little cold, but she enjoyed it. She enjoyed being kissed by the person she loved. What made her happy was that Lelouch was the one to initiate this. After a couple of moments, separated.

"Well, someone has been practicing," Milly said with a stare. "Was Princess Cornelia teaching you?"

"No…" He smiled. "I have Villetta for that.

Milly stared, grinning. "Nah, Cornelia teaching you sounds more believable."

"You've certainly not seen Villetta in her glory…"

"I'm sure not one has also seen you in your glory."

Lelouch shrugged, and looked away from Milly. He stared down at the floor, hands held together. "Clovis tells me you made quite the impression."

"I wasn't the only one… Your brother is such quite the talker… I could almost fall for him…" Milly said with a laugh. "But I doubt you came all the way, acting out of character just to act like the jealous boyfriend."

Lelouch glanced at her for a moment. "We call ourselves that now?"

"Why not?"

"It sounds playful…"

"I'm okay with playfulness…" Milly said with a wide grin. "Besides, we still need to work out some issues. As things are hard for you, they are also a little difficult for me."

Lelouch nodded and then fell silent. "I'm going to be married soon."

Milly took only a couple of seconds to respond. "I see," she said, before releasing a long breath. "I thought you had something bad to say to me. But if you came here like this, you are not breaking things off with me… are you?"

"Of course, not!" He said a little loudly. He then sighed. "It is just that this is something unexpected. And I don't know how this will make you feel. I don't want to take you through unnecessary hardships…"

"I can handle myself…" Milly said, shrugging indifferently. "Besides, my grandfather informed me that something like this would happen. I was kinda of hoping it wouldn't, but it has happened. And I know that it is the decision of the Emperor and there is nothing we can do about it. If things are meant to happen, they will work out. It just give both of us a test. Like I said, I don't want to be married to you because you feel obligated to do so. If you like me enough, you will marry me, even with all these. Still, there is one condition… whoever this woman is, she must know that Aries Villa is not her home, but mine… got that?"

"Affirmative…"

Lelouch stared at Milly. She was trying, but he could tell, something had changed. It was this news. It was bound to affect her one way or the other. He could only afford her the time to think about it. Nonette had mentioned that no woman liked sharing. But, she said, she didn't mind. Of course, she was just being flirtatious, but there was some truth in her statement.

Lelouch melted, inwardly, seeing Nunnally. How he missed his beloved sister. He'd always had the pleasure of tucking her in. giving her a good night kiss. And now, they didn't talk as usual. He didn't see her as often. He didn't hear her sweet innocent voice. It was sad. Truly sad. But he was working for her. And he would make this sacrifice mean something.

"Lelouch, you look like you're staring at your crush…" Euphy said, with sweet smile.

Nunnally's ears perked up hearing's Lelouch's eyes. Her eyes squinted towards the entrance. "Brother?"

Lelouch didn't let her wait in suspense. He quickly responded while walking toward her. "Nunnally," he said, kneeling in front of her. He took her hand, smiling happily. "I have missed you."

Nunnally shared his smile. "Me too, brother," she said. "You don't call as much…" she said with a slight frown.

"I'm not always in a position to do so," Lelouch said, standing up. He wheeled her toward the sitting room before slouching on a sofa. Euphy sat beside him. He glanced at her, smiled. She looked happy. And that was the important thing. "At least you have Euphy with you."

Nunnally nodded. "But you are not here…"

Lelouch sighed. He didn't want to go through this emotional trip. "Things will change," he said. Eventually. "I expected to see you at the Viceroy Palace…" he said to Euphy.

She shrugged. "I sneaked out," she said. "But Clovis has me followed here. IN any case, what is there to worry since you are here?"

Cornelia would beg to differ, and he was not going to fight her on this regard. He didn't want to be put in a dangerous position. For the peace of mind, he would send her away. That was what Cornelia wanted. And he thought it was alright. He could do things freely without having to worry about.

"You have to go back to Pendragon, Euphy. I will have Jeremiah drag you into a plane, if I have to." He said firmly.

"But I have gotten used to live here. Being normal. Having friends and laughing. Besides, if I leave, Nunnally will be alone. You won't be here. Who is she going to spend her nights with? You know Sayako doesn't talk much. And Milly has her own things to deal with," Euphy said, she was pleading.

He turned to Nunnally. She was nodding, agreeing with her sister. It was like blackmail. Lelouch was not going to send his sister to Pendragon, not when those vultures could do anything. it was indeed true if she went to Cornelia's place, she could stay there in secret without anyone knowing she is there, but anything could still happen.

"If I am going, temporary as it is, I have to go with Nunnally. Cornelia has already explained the situation to me… but I can't leave Nunnally alone at this place…"

"I called elder sister, she said she should be done in about a week in her current mission. She could return home to make sure we behave. She said you might have a problem with sending me there," Nunnally added in a sad tone. "I really miss home, brother. I want to feel the air there."

Lelouch frowned. This song has been sung before, and he was so far managed to ignore its pleadings.

Poverty was a cruel thing. Movements, the purchase, and access to certain things. You could not have that when poor. Lelouch had been doing just fine before the Emperor rolled him into the high stakes game. He needed billions here. The development of Knightmare frames required an abundance of resources. Lloyd was not truly careful with the spending of money. It was no wonder Schneizel had been lagging behind in making some payments. If he had left the development of the Liberator to the Earl, he would have run him completely dry.

Lelouch looked up from the financial reports he was reading, looking at Ruben. "You are looking a little thin…"

"It can't be helped… I am working for the future of my family. We fell once, I don't wish to fall again. I must admit though, this is taking almost everything that I have."

Lelouch watched the man sit down, and glanced at the books. There were holes. Deep holes. Surely, Ruben was already eating away the lifeboat of the Ashford family. And if things failed to yield any results, the family would be doomed. There was no doubt there. Perhaps that was what made things a little worrisome. This was indeed a major risk. A serious risk that risked all. But Lelouch knew it would pay off. There was no doubt there.

"So it seems… but at least things are looking a little brighter… in terms of development at least. Not with finances."

"I didn't think we'd dry out the funds Prince Clovis has transferred but with Nina's research and Lloyd's careless spending, we ran out quickly…" Ruben said with a slight shake of his head. "He doesn't understand anything about resources. He thinks there is a well of money somewhere we just go and dig up."

"We will have to talk to the Earl going forward," Lelouch said. It was going to be another thing with Lloyd trying to think of ways of develop the Liberator further. As it stood now, it was just like any normal airship. Its weapon's system were normal. It didn't have any defenses. Well, at least he wasn't going to take it to battle. "But are we ready to go?"

"Yes… We have finished assembling it…" Ruben said. "Lloyd has been heavily involved. He seems to think it is his invention…"

Lelouch smiled. The Earl does value his work more than anything. "I have the perfect location that can give us the privacy… But we can't possibly move it during day light without people seeing it. We'll have to move it at night…" Lelouch said. "How soon can we begin development of other projects?"

Ruben shook his head. "We don't have enough expertise to work on different fronts. Even if we had, we don't have the resources. We had to completely divert all our efforts to the Liberator. However, since the Mk-2 was already in development, we managed to keep it going. But it is still lacking a few things," he said. "We can't continue… not until we get a cash injection."

Lelouch leaned back to the chair, looking thoughtful. "I have already written to the government, requesting a grant for development. Schneizel should not have a problem approving it. Of course, I used the Lancelot. Nothing about the Liberator. I still don't know when that will get approved. If they approve it, they should also approve my budget for my forces," he said, pausing for a moment. "Nothing on your part?"

"Well…" the man started in a slow tone, his eyes carefully watching him. "I received a call from General Baker. He offered some millions. A good number. But he was at pains to state that it is not gift but a 'loan' of some sort. He says he expects it to be fully repaid, with interest of course."

Lelouch had expected the man's interest to cool down. He shouldn't be doing this, not when he was no longer going to take any interest in his daughter. Schneizel had nothing to do this. If he did, he would have hinted at it. What was the duke playing at?

"I will talk to him about the terms… but we can accept the money. We don't actually have any other option here…"

"Indeed," Ruben said. "You don't need to be overly concerned though. The General is not sinister man."

"I gathered as much when I spoke to him," Lelouch said. "Anything else, I should know?"

Ruben shook his head. "Nothing…" he said. "Just the usual problems with some members of the royal court, but nothing disastrous I cannot handle."

Lelouch nodded. "We have taken some of your former properties in Pendragon. If things go well, we may be able to use them. And if the Liberator becomes a success and our frames come out with excellent productivity, the Emperor has already stated your titles will be restored. I am hopeful that things will work out." He smiled bitterly. "It's ridiculous that I am trusting on his word…"

"Well, despite everything, the Emperor is quite true to his word."

"Indeed," Lelouch said, smiling. "Well, that at least gives us reason to celebrate, don't you think?"

Viceroy Palace

Clovis stared at Lelouch, just wondering how this was going to go. He had no problem in accepting the help. It would just do him no good getting overshadowed in his Area. But at least, Lelouch was not Schneizel. He could trust his brother, couldn't he? He still did have a problem with the fact that Lelouch appeared to be much more trusted by their brother than him. He sighed, admittedly, not many have held many great opinions about him.

It didn't help his cause since Lelouch lived in this area, with the Ashfords and he hadn't even suspected it. Not even once.

"I was hoping you'd be away for the rest of the day, avoiding Lady Alexandria…" Clovis said, watching his brother carefully.

Lelouch shrugged. "It makes no sense to do so…" he said. "Unless there is something I should be afraid of…"

"No," Clovis said, waving his right hand dismissively. "She is just smart… maybe a little too smart for my liking. But not that much of a problem. She is a little demanding and likes to dominate."

Lelouch raised an eye brow. "You sound like you speak from experience."

"Not at all… she is not my type…"

Lelouch rolled his eyes. "Of course, you like them stupid," He said, with a slight shake of his head. "You could have warned me she was coming."

"I didn't know either. She just appeared," He said, frowning slightly. "Well, at least she has more standing than Milly. A pity, I was starting to like her. But when you are royalty, you don't always get what you like."

That was the hard truth. Many didn't think this was the case, but it was so. It was no fun and games. Well, at least for him. Clovis certainly had his fun. But probably because he didn't have a horde of enemies out to see him in ruins.

"This may be a little challenging, but can't be avoided… it is nevertheless not the reason I called you."

Clovis frowned. "You only arrived Lelouch. This is why you are stiff and are always miserable. You must learn to relax brother. Enjoy the view, the pleasures of life. Learn to loosen up a little."

While enemies arm against him? Not a fat chance in this world. There was no time for pointless parties. He hadn't even come here for vacation. He came to work. He came to handle things.

"I have drawn up a rough proposal that needs to be undertaken before I begin my military purges of terrorists in the area."

Clovis stared, tapped his fingers on the table before speaking. "What proposal? I thought you were only focusing on military not interfere with how I do things…"

Lelouch shrugged. And then brought out a map. "Why do people fight and join these terrorists groups, Clovis?"

"I'm not going to play this game with you. Just tell me the reason."

Why did he even bother? This kind of attitude is the reason Clovis failed to get things done. He did not understand mindset of the Japanese. He decided against answering his own question.

"We going to launch development programs in two areas. Shinjuki Ghetto and the Saitama Ghetto. Redevelop the areas, make roads, repair the buildings. Build schools, shopping centers."

"For the numbers? Like hell we are going to do that!"

"You will… and to get this done, you will have the Kyoto houses help you fund and come with development ideas. Tonight, you will issue an invitation to them. Telling the whole area that you want everyone to feel free, Number or Honorary Britannians. Tell them that you could no longer bear to see the sight of poverty in the Ghettos. I'm sure you can pull it off…"

Clovis stared at his brother. There was going to be a pushback against something like this. But certainly, such false words were something he could convincingly utter before cameras. But for what reason did they have to do something like this?

"Reason?"

"The only way to kill the support of the terrorists is to make their people happy. We give them shelter, jobs, and they won't have a reason to fight us. We disarm the JLF and other groups without fighting them. Of course we will fight, but we don't become the bad guys to Elevens. We become the good guys. I will even go as far as to provoke these people to attack these areas. To protect the live hood, we destroy them."

Clovis smiled. "You are quite the villain brother…" he said. "But this is something that is going to take long."

"Military action won't bring any lasting solution. As long as there is reason to fight, more terrorist groups will raise. I'm not saying some won't rise up. They still have their pride, but at least this way, it won't be in the same scale as now," Lelouch explained lightly. "If you don't make the announcement, I will leak this to media."

"Even if you don't have the resources to get it done?"

"It will get people talking and put me in a position to listen to who is talking?" Lelouch said, standing up. "We have a deal?"

"Of course. Anything to make this problem go away."

Alexandria stared at Lelouch with unblinking eyes for a moment. He was young. Just in age. But definitely not in the mind. He was a curious person. Maybe a little secretive. She was most interested in his life in this Area. What had happened when he confronted the Emperor over the death of his mother? The story told by the Emperor would stick and no one would say anything – at least publicly. Still, public opinions about him ranged from bad to worse. But the general consensus was that he was intelligent. No wonder Prince Schneizel had him around.

She looked around, glancing at the atmosphere set. She would have preferred a fancy restaurant. This was still the Viceroy's Palace. Atop of it. The scene was set for something romantic. The view was pleasant. Probably had the hand of Prince Clovis. This person liked his personal life to be secret. He didn't share things. He avoided the media like it was a plague.

"Why did you choose to come here immediately? I would have no doubt reached out to you."

At his time. Alexandria thought. There was something about his tome that made her realize that Lelouch knew he had no choice in this matter. She had no choice either. Her father had made it clear that even his hand was being forced. The Emperor had made a decision, and even her father had to abide by it or risk being put on the tip of the Emperor's double edged sword.

She sighed, smiling, a little sadly. "I don't want to be here. No offence, Your Highness, but I was not even that interested. However, I may be a little interested now. In any case, I came because I know I can't avoid this. If I am going to spend the rest of my life with you, I don't want to be miserable at it. Getting to know the person you are will help me in that regard."

"There is news about me…" Lelouch couldn't help but chuckle at the coverage he does receive.

"It's all nonsense… at least I have gathered as much…" Alexandria said with a slight shrug. She then frowned. "But it still doesn't make this a simple thing. I would have preferred to marry someone of my choice. But no helping it."

"Indeed…" Lelouch said. "So, what do you want to know?"

"Asking questions doesn't make you get to know someone. You might lie, hide things. I prefer to learn the truth by my own eyes…" Alexandria said in a firm tone. "We can talk about anything. I just want to observe you."

Lelouch didn't like this, not because he had intentions of outright lying when she asked questions but because she would probably be following him, to do her observation. "I hope you are not going to have me followed," he said.

She smiled. "I'm not that paranoid. I have been taught respect. See, I have shown you respect as my future husband despite being 5 years younger than me, a little to no experience in this environment."

Lelouch stared for a moment before nodding. "So, tell me about your first marriage. I'm told you were once married…"

Her expression became flat. Her silence lasted for a full minute. Lelouch had even thought she was not going to even respond by the time she opened her mouth. Her tone was just as flat as her face. "A political marriage. An Earl my father forced me to marry because he wanted something."

That was all she said, and apparently what she was willing to say. However, it did look like her father was forcing her into marriages a lot. If it was so, shouldn't she resent him? If anything, she didn't speak of her father with cold indifference. He would have to be careful when he speaks about the Emperor. The grand duke was a treasonous person. But then again, so was he. Did the Emperor set this up knowing both their thoughts? It just made this union very dangerous. Surely, her father may grow a little more interested once he knows what he thinks of the Emperor. Was this part of the man's plan to drive a wedge between him and Schneizel and give him an ally powerful enough to push through things for him?

There was something missing here. This conversation lacked the emotion. It felt like business. This was no conversation with Milly. He surely had much to think about when dealing with Milly. And with Nonette there was also a bit of emotions but mainly because she lacked any boundaries. It was fine nevertheless.

"Well, I should hope this one becomes much better than the last and lasts longer…"

She smiled. "Oh, it will. Like I said… the marriage is for life."

This made Lelouch a little uncomfortable. What had her father told her? What did they want from him? She was unlikely to tell him anything. At least not now. He was going to meet her father soon. Before he could say anything, Jeremiah walked appeared, looking all apologetic, with a phone on hand.

"I'm sorry to intrude, Your Highness, Lady Alexandria," Jeremiah said, walking over to Lelouch. He handed the phone and whispered. "Prince Clovis is about to go live."

Lelouch nodded, and dismissed the man. He glanced at Alexandria. She was looking at him with a bit of displeasure. He smiled. "The Viceroy is about to make an important announcement. It pertains to the reason I was brought here. This dinner is a little flat anyway… some news will make it at least interesting," Lelouch said, a bit calmly, but with some steel in his tone.

She stared, and motioned for him to move closer to her. After a moment of hesitation, Lelouch nodded and dragged his chair. What was peeking on a woman's chest? Lelouch really didn't even do as much as spare a glance. Even though her sizeable cleavage compelled all to stare. She smelled very pleasant. It was a sweet fragrance that he did not hate.

"Ah, someone has manners," she said, smiling. "Or maybe it is just the lack of interest…" She said, placing a hand on his left thigh, moving up. Lelouch froze. He cursed himself for doing so. His reaction although momentarily, she noticed and burst into laughter. He was saved when Clovis appeared, in all his glory, looking displeased about something.

"Fellow Britannians… Honorary Britannians and Elevens, tonight, I come before you pained and burdened by what I have seen…" he closed his eyes, shaking his head slightly. "Over the past weeks, I have checked to see the lives of the citizens of this Area. I have been blind, not been able to see that just outside of this settlement, people were suffering immensely. The Shinjuku Ghetto is still haunted by the demons of the war. Its people still suffer even today. Nothing has been done to alleviate them from their poverty. It is unacceptable, for the Viceroy to look at this needy and ignore them. Their pleas to be looked after. We as Britannians, we are in a position of power, a position of privilege.

"I want to assure the poor that you have cried enough. Prince Clovis la Britannia, has heard your cries. I have decided that Shinjuku will be developed. We will return it to once it once was…" he paused, and a video played. It was a rebuilt Shinjuku. The flag of Britannia hovering over it. The streets paved, the roads rebuilt. Children playing in the grounds, children in a class at a school. An amusement park. Shopping centers. The frame returned to Clovis. "This is my vision for you. Honorary Britannians and Elevens. I want to build this, for you. For the future of this nation. I make a call, will you not land me you help to make this a reality? Will you not mobilize in your numbers to make this dream a reality? I call upon the Kyoto House, to support the dream. The dream I have for you people…" he paused, now smiling. "I have appointed my brother, Lelouch vi Britannia to oversee this development. I call upon everyone to give him the support he needs, to make the dream of your Viceroy a reality."

Lelouch couldn't help but laugh. Oh, it was brilliant from Clovis all the critical questions. But just the last part. Appointing him to oversee this process. It was a move of brilliance. He would get the glory is things work out well. If things go bad, he gets the blame. He would be hailed as a visionary by the Britannians once they learn the true meaning of this move.

He moved away from Alexandria, still amused. She was staring at him. "What the hell is happening?"

"Stage one of disarming the terrorists in this Area, My Lady."

"Milly man," She shook her head. "Not my field of interest… nor politics really…" she paused staring. "But I suppose I must familiarize myself with it since it is what is going to occupy your head."

"You need not."

"I must… I would rather not grow bored listening to you talk about your victory in battles because I refuse to listen…" she said. "My father is also a military commander. Although, these days, he is focused a bit more on politics."

"He is a grand Duke… doesn't need to get involved in those details… people do that for him."

"My father says having people willingly do things for is a symbol of your strength and influence… but I think it is a laziness. I am a bit hands on," she smiled. "A bit like you. I heard you prefer to lead from the front."

"Yes," Lelouch stared at her. She was smiling but there was something about her tone that made him pause. he stared at the food. Cold. He no longer had any interest it. He glanced back at the woman before him.

"So, who's strategy was this? I don't think Prince Clovis suddenly started feeling for numbers. He has been Viceroy for years."

"What do you think?"

"I think I am going to stay in this Area a little longer. I am the daughter of a grand duke… I need to have something better to say about you on the day we are engaged." She said. "Besides, observing how you do things will help me understand you a bit better."

"It would make me a little uncomfortable knowing there is someone behind my shoulder."

"Nonsense," she shrugged. "Not unless you just don't want me around… or," she stared, with narrowed eyes. "There is something you don't want me to see."

Lelouch smiled. "Lady Alexandria, everybody has secrets. You do have your secrets, yes?"

She shared his smile. Taking her glass of wine. She looked at him through it. "Indeed."

I must admit, this whole thing with Milly is proving difficult.

Umm, I know Lelouch's plan is something you have read before. I read that as well. But as stated in the pervious chapter, Lelouch is not here to stay long. So, Military engagements will occur even with those processes.

The Omnipresent Sage