Everyone had desires. People were always looking at someone who had thoughts that aligned with theirs. In the higher places, someone was using someone. Schneizel used people, and people jumped on his car just to gain something for themselves. But what did he gain from his engagement with Alexandria? Nothing was official as yet, but Lelouch was expecting a call from Schneizel to make things official and he would probably be summoned back to Pendragon to host a huge feast to celebrate the engagement.

But he had no reason to celebrate.

Why was the Emperor even pushing this to him? The grand Duke had treasonous ambitions. What did his father want to achieve? Was he tempting him to align with the man? But Lelouch would never. The grand duke wasn't someone who took orders from anyone – he dished out orders. He was probably the kind of man who thought of him as nothing. But perhaps some motives may align with military topics.

He was not looking for it nevertheless. If anything, he should have been plotting for an escape from this engagement. But the Emperor had him in check.

"Do you always wear such expressions early in the morning?"

Lelouch glanced up from the chess board he had been staring at. Alexandria wore sleeping gowns, her hair was mess, a slightly tired look on her eyes. He smiled. "It is already 8am."

She shrugged, and sat across him on the couch. Her eyes danced around the chess board for a moment before looking at him. "Is it like with everyone in the upper class? Then again, I heard you play Prince Schneizel whenever you get the chance."

"Mental exercise," Lelouch shrugged, stared at his chess board. He really wasn't going to get rid of her so easily, was he? He would just have to put her on the board. But which role could she play? Perhaps he could put her as a pawn. A promotion could await in the near future. He looked at her once more. "You really don't wake early, do you?"

"For what reason?" She asked. "I was a little spoiled as a child. And even now, I abuse my privileges."

"If they are available, you must take advantage of them." But for royalty, it was not always like that. After all, there were rankings. In the future, he could move from being merely the 17th in line to the throne. There was always a battle and for him, he had to work the extra mile – something his competition didn't have to worry about.

"You didn't answer my earlier question."

"Only when there are things I must move," Lelouch replied, once more, taking his eyes to the board. As he added, he didn't look at Alexandria. "Terrorists are a problem in this area and I want to handle it as quickly as I can before I depart. War is calling for me."

"So, you enjoy being in the battlefield."

"It isn't that I enjoy it… it is convenient for me…" but honestly, he did enjoy the thrill of being in battle. He felt much more alive when facing enemy lines. It was the only point where he could destroy things after all. "How long do you have here?"

"I must leave around noon. They called for me at Pendragon."

"It has nothing to do with Clovis' announcement…"

She shook her head. "It appears things have been sorted. I'm actually going to meet with Prince Schneizel and the Crown Prince…" she smiled. "You may not be the most liked royal, at least within Britannia's nobility, but your bond with those in power is envious. I mean, a marriage to the daughter of the grand duke gives you plenty of opportunity, especially when he doesn't have a son. But it would not have been possible if you had no connections with those people."

That was just dangerous – a dangerous line of thought. Lelouch was not going to speak anything candidly. She was no doubt referring to the inheritance of the dukedom if something happened to her father. This was a dangerous woman. What did she have on her father? She didn't seem to hate him. But she had mentioned to being forced into the marriage and now there was this one. Spoiled, yes, but it seems she has often lived her life dictated by her father.

"It is not envious… but maybe to some people…" Lelouch hoped the Emperor would not be asking him anything outrageous when he goes back to Pendragon. But he had a feeling things were going to that angle. "But because I'm not the most liked, I must be early like this."

"Well, you do what you must. I expect better things. If things work well, you will have to go back to Pendragon for the engagement party."

Lelouch nodded. "I'm aware of that."

"I hear Aries Villa is quite lovely… we can hold it there."

Before Lelouch could say anything, Villetta walked in the lounge. "Lady Alexandria…" she greeted pleasantly before turning to face Lelouch. "Your car is waiting for you, Your Highness."

"Off to somewhere?"

Lelouch nodded, standing. "I have to test some knightmare frames on their capabilities for when we must face terrorists." He stopped in front of her and held out his right hand. She glanced at it for a moment before holding out hers. He gently kissed it and then spoke. "I probably won't see you before you leave… a safe journey."

"I would have preferred it here," Alexandria pointed at her lips. "I'm not an innocent lady after all… but I guess you are that kind of person…" she smiled – a rather misleading smile. She glanced at Villetta and then added. "Or maybe not."

Lelouch didn't offer a response. He knew what she meant by that. He was amused by it. She was indeed not innocent. She had been married before. As he walked away, he glanced at Villetta, and then asked. "What do you suppose she meant by that?"

Villetta was caught off-guard by the question. She just stared straight ahead, not wanting to think, but Lelouch's silence made her think. After a couple of moments, she finally responded. "I think means there might be something happening between us."

"Well, it would not be unusual… the upper class is famous for that," Lelouch responded with nonchalance. "Have you thought about something happening?"

A subordinate always had to explain his actions – any really. Sometimes you didn't even receive the pleasure of 'thanks' or 'well done' for doing too well. Perhaps it was understandable why some people looked at their masters with scorn. Still, in the same thought, Clovis could still not understand anyone who resented royalty. The irony of it all was completely lost to him. Or maybe he just chose to ignore it – for his sanity. Besides, those were trivial matters. It was not like anyone could do anything against the royal family.

He was nevertheless a prominent member of the family, and yet he often had to swallow huge of lumps of his pride in the presence of those superior to him. It was limitlessly frustrating since he knew very well that despite being peers, they didn't hold him in high pedestal. His intelligence was always a source of some harsh battering. At least, he could comfort himself in that in this Area, it was his word that was law.

There were still some technical formalities, but he knew how to work around those.

Clovis released a long breath, expressionlessly staring at the Prime Minister who'd called him. He now had to explain himself. He contemplated on refusing to do so. But the thought was quickly pushed away. Such madness would lead him into hot territories that he would surely fail to swim through. And no doubt, this very man would be waiting to hook him out of the depths of the waters like a fish caught.

More frustrations. Clovis was starting to understand a little bit of Lelouch's struggles. His brother had no one. Everyone looked down on him simply because he was the child of a mother who was a commoner. But there was nothing commoner about Lelouch's intelligence or capability. He always looked at it with envy. Of course, he'd never admit that. But truthfully, if he had some of Lelouch's intelligence, things would be much different for him.

"I suppose you called about the announcement I made," Clovis rested his head on the palm of his right hand.

Schneizel noted with great surprise that Clovis was restrained and seemed to be doing some thinking, if his expression was any indication. Perhaps this was something to smile about. This was not the usual Clovis, but someone else entirely. He smiled; such changes made things very interesting.

"Yes… there was quite the reaction in Pendragon."

"I would imagine so."

Schneizel wanted to raise an eye brow in curiosity but he decided the right reaction in this scenario was to pretend he was not seeing anything unusual – at least for now.

"What is the end goal here? Do you plan on giving them rights? Because if it is going to lead to anything of that nature, Britannia will be forced to step in and you will lose your title."

Clovis snorted. "Which Britannia are you talking about? I am Britannia."

"Indeed, but we do not control everything. There are policies and other people in charge. Ultimately, we only act based on the wishes of our father. We cannot do anything that is contrary to his ideals. Otherwise, it becomes ideology treason."

Clovis laughed. He found this amusing – really. Perhaps much more of the fact that Schneizel was lecturing him when he already had things figured out.

"Come on, brother. Give me some credit here. I have always played by the book. And don't think me as stupid enough not to determine that you have not already computed the end goal of all this and where it came from."

The pot that cooked this controversial meal was apparent. Schneizel knew his brothers. Clovis was not capable of such thoughts, because if he was, he would have done so long ago. And the other was Lelouch. His brother was something else. Of course, there was the general feeling that he really did like the Numbers, and especially the Elevens. He did fear that Lelouch may even sympathize with them. Whether that would lead to any treachery was something that was highly unlikely.

"I have considered that but I must still remind you of you were stand."

"You'd never miss the chance."

"You really need to stop seeing me as a threat, Clovis. I am merely trying to help you… I have always. I don't always agree, but you are my brother. You follow after me in the rankings, we should not try to please those waging war bets on who comes first. We should stick together as brothers."

Clovis knew the fact that they were related by blood meant nothing to most people, even other siblings. He had often ignored it. But since he made the announcement, it has become abundantly clear. He should have seen it long ago with how Lelouch has always been treated, but he had ignored it as an anomaly. Perhaps he never thought he'd have his loyalties questioned.

He could not lay the blame on Lelouch for forcing him into this action. Dangerous situations called for drastic measures. Failures were not tolerated in Britannia, especially for a member of the royal family. If the attitude of his siblings was the same attitude of high ranking nobles in Pendragon, then Clovis was a dead man walking. He'd done his math. He could get recalled if voices at home became louder over what many termed incompetence. It was a little harsh, but he could not argue for himself.

"How do you suppose we do that, brother?"

"Next time you are home, we will talk," Schneizel said. "I have already defended your decision. I just want to confirm if I will not be forced to do something drastic at the end of the day."

Clovis shook his head and responded in a flat tone. "No, everything is under control." He then smiled. "It would be helpful if you could get these people from the court who have been barraging me with accusations and questions since the announcement."

"It has not been easy, hasn't it?"

"No… some media coverage hasn't been pleasant."

"But I trust you have something lined up. You play this game of the media quite better. I dare say no one does it better than you."

"You flatter me."

Schneizel concluded it was the pressure from homeland, and the fact that Clovis hasn't been winning many admires in recent months, that has brought this much calm. Lelouch's emergence also brought out a scenario that was challenging for Clovis.

"You should work well with Lelouch. He can be your greatest ally if you play your cards right."

Of course, for Lelouch, it would simply be using Clovis' status in the social ladder but there was nothing wrong about that – as long as Clovis gained something at the very end.

"That is what I have been doing… unlike with many others, Lelouch and I are brothers… in the sense of the word."

"Of course."

Lelouch settled on the throne like chair within the bridge of the Liberator. In front of him, various controls for information and a small screen, just for him. In front, a large screen displaying that was visible for all within the marriage. It carried all the information for the ship. A duplication of the info on his screen. Controls and working stations for technicians were placed just below. On his right side, a comfortable area with a set of single couches surrounding a small rectangular table, displaying the map of the planet and clearly marked Britannian territories.

He folded his legs, resting his head on the palm of his left hand. He felt a little giddy, but who could blame him? It may have left the Ashford Foundation a little dry of cash, but it was worth the effort. Ruben could be proud. The Foundation had continued on an excellent work. Of course, Lloyd would try to lay claim to it but the Earl had merely improved upon certain situations, brought in his float system as well as the defensive capabilities that the Foundation couldn't work out.

Jeremiah and Villetta stood around him, taking a look at the view in the screen. The former with a splitting grin. Ruben was sitting on the sofas, a comfortable look on his face while Lloyd stood by the controls with Cecile.

"What is missing?"

"We have yet to fit in the weapons system and knightmare launchers. What it does is nothing more than just fly you around," Ruben explained.

"What is the hold-up."

"Funds." Ruben responded. "We spent our budget trying to fit in Lloyd's system and some of the structural changes brought he suggested. And designing the weapons."

"I merely wanted the ship to look the part and not merely just a war ship."

"But it is not a war ship," Lelouch shook his head.

"Not at the moment," Lloyd shrugged. "But if you shake about a hundred million from Prince Schneizel, we can work on the missing parts."

Schneizel did have the money, but Lelouch was not going to ask – at least not now. He had already worked out his proposal to the government to get funding for the Development he wanted to make with the Ashford Foundation's Genymede. Not to mention, he may even have to force their hand by showing them the capabilities of the Lancelot. If he does go into war, he would take the frame with him. It would make things easier for him.

"We will work out a plan," Lelouch said in thought. "But this deserves a celebratory… something…" he turned to face Ruben. "I have placed great pressure on you to create this even with limited funds and the threat of Britannia's nobility.

"Well," Ruben smiled. "I took a gamble. Besides, I have faith in your abilities. We worked with your mother well, and I believed that we could reclaim our fortunes this way." A little selfish, but he had to ride this ticket. He had even taken Lelouch in the first place because he'd believed he'd be useful. In terms of marriage anyway, but things did not end up as planned when the Emperor's intentions became clear.

"Well, let us hope it doesn't end in the same way," Lloyd responded, a little amused that Ruben would back the son of the woman whose demise brought the fall of his family.

"That was unnecessary, Lloyd." Jeremiah rebuked the Earl. That was a tragedy that should not be taken lightly.

"It is fine Jeremiah," Lelouch said. "He does have a point. We must be careful once this thing comes out. There were will be many enemies who are waiting in line to sabotage us and ensure that we fail. Nobody will want to see the Ashford return to the royal court." He smiled. "But, they may well end up receiving praise from the Emperor for managing to survive and come back. It would be merely a symbol that Britannians will always get up no matter what because they are superior. He may as well claim he knew things would turn out like this." His tongue dripped with sarcasm as he spoke.

"Should you really be saying such things out loud, my Lord?" Villetta asked, seeing the amusement in Lloyd's face.

"Well, it isn't like I don't know the relationship between his Highness and the Emperor," the Earl shrugged once more. "But more importantly, when is my Lancelot going to face a real battle? I need real data to make further improvements on it."

"Soon… we will be engaging with the JLF in battle."

"I thought with Clovis' announcement, you'd be planning in handling things differently."

Lelouch stared at the man with a smile. "I didn't have such intentions. The JLF are designated as nothing more than terrorist and have been a thorn in Britannia's side. Nothing short of their destruction will make Pendragon happy. However, this way, we give the Elevens a choice."

"Side with the JLF or Britannia who is willing to improve your lives." Lloyd smiled. "You are rather cruel, Your Highness. It won't be much of a choice as the JLF will be shown who is superior. And I assume you are going to force them to act."

"Of course. We don't need more to rise to this scale. Those who will side with JLF are those who would most likely choose to fight Britannia even after everything we do because they desire nothing but the liberation of their country. We must stamp on them."

"Ironic," Ruben replied. "This ship is called the Liberator. That very name is written underneath the ship for anyone to see."

"The question is, what is it liberating?"

Lelouch did not respond to this. He stood up as the ship found a place to land a remote island around Japan. He silently went out of the Liberator and stood outside the massive black ship. It was a bit egg shaped, with two massive wings. The wings were simply for holding weapons and carrying Knightmare frames.

"Shouldn't you be happy?" Jeremiah asked Lelouch. "We finally have our own toy."

He could show it when he goes for the engagement party, if it happens soon anyway. But for now, he would keep it hidden. It still has minor weapons, not its core weapon. He released a long breath, and stared around the place.

"We will secure this island and use it for more secret developments in the future. Once I have secured military funding, we will move the Foundation's operations here. The Academy is small and will attract unnecessary attention. It is a good place to hide but provides danger to the academy. We must avoid this."

"We can get this funds problem solved quickly if you just ask your future in-laws," Lloyd suggested. "I've heard that you are to be engaged to a very wealthy lady. If you ask nicely or just give her what she wants, she will give you the money. That is the only reason you are going to marry her, yes?"

"Like you tried to marry Milly for the technology buried within the Ashford Foundation."

Lloyd shrugged. "I do what I must for science."

Xxxx

Lelouch stared at Ruben who wanted to speak to him. He had no doubt it had something to do with what Lloyd had said. Perhaps he should have taken time to speak to the man about his future with Milly. Ruben would have to worry about the dangers posed by the grand duke.

"You want to talk about my relationship with your granddaughter."

Ruben nodded. He took a couple of moments to gather his thoughts. "I worry that with what is currently happening, you may not be able to do anything. This is an arranged marriage, so you might be tied and not able to move. I just don't want Milly to be hopeful over something that may never happen."

Lelouch shook his head. Nothing had changed as far as he was concerned. In fact, he was certain that the Emperor was happily laughing with pride at how he was able to move his pawn into a tight situation. The man had already said that if the Ashford proved their worth, he would permit the marriage. It was going to happen. He almost laughed at himself at how much he believed in the Emperor's word. But then again, cruel as he was, the Emperor was a man of his word, no matter how sinister the intentions.

"I have already spoken to Milly about this. Nothing has changed. There are some politics involved in the decision by the Emperor. Besides, he had already told me before that he would force me into a marriage for going against him. It is perhaps his choice that complicates things," Lelouch paused, staring up for a moment. "But I should have expected that he would not choose to marry me with someone who would not suit a certain agenda of his…"

"Those intentions are what worry me."

"There is nothing to worry. I will deal with the situation. I might end up working well with Schneizel if things move correctly." The thought made him pause. Schneizel was probably happy with this convenient marriage. He didn't like his choice with Milly after all.

"And the grand duke?"

"You afraid he is going to demand that I step away from you?"

"We don't have allies in Pendragon after all."

It was a possibility but nothing was going to change. Whether the duke liked it or not, the engagement was going to happen. Alexandria had hinted as much. So, he didn't have to worry about the duke threatening to pull away because of the Ashfords. "We will make allies. There is nothing to threaten our relationship. I would rather turn on Schneizel than you. You have been supporting me and Nunnally all this time. I won't forget that."

Viceroy Palace

Clovis frowned, staring at the chessboard. He was never going to get this good at this game. Perhaps he was just never going to think in a strategic way as his brothers – but at least he was better than others. Either way, he would still sit on the same table as them. He was the Third Prince after all.

He glanced at Lelouch – a slight look of boredom. "At least look like you enjoy humiliating me." He had lost, even when Lelouch was playing with a handicap.

The Eleventh Prince shrugged, leaning back to his chair. "There is nothing to enjoy. But perhaps you are merely not just suited for this kind of thinking," he paused, staring back at the board. "You spoke to Schneizel."

Clovis nodded, putting on an expressionless mask. "Not the most pleasant talk. I hate being questioned about my actions. But I should have expected that he would call."

They were going to question him. The terrorist problem has always been a major talking point between him and Pendragon. But at least he did have something he could do that would move him into better places. He just had to make sure that things worked out well. With Lelouch occupied with terrorists, he could move things secretly.

"He was going to call. You merely had to play your cards right. Or you could have shifted things to me." He paused, staring. "But you would not have done that."

"I don't want to look stupid."

"It's not like he didn't already know this was not my plan," Clovis said a bit sternly. "What is the way forward now?"

"What do you have on the JLF?"

"Nothing."

Lelouch stared at his brother for a long minute. "Be serious."

"They were not much of a bother. I only handled it when they made trouble. It isn't like they are the only terrorists we have here. There are other cells that cause problems," Clovis said with nonchalance.

Lelouch could see why things were this bad. This incompetent fool just really never focused on removing terrorists. Perhaps because there was no happy spotlight from doing that and there was a chance of humiliation. He would not risk doing anything he thought would end with his name being dragged through the mud. After all, Clovis was self-serving. But who was not?

"I will look for the information myself. You don't have to concern yourself with it… but just release money because I will be using my forces."

"Money doesn't just grow from trees you know."

"You are the Viceroy… just make calls and money will come. My men need to eat and their equipment need to maintained and repaired while fighting against your problem. I have already sent a request to the military and attached the government as well. You need to send a recommendation in support of this request to make things run smoothly."

"I will get it done before the day ends," Clovis paused, smiling. "Your future bride went to visit the Ashford academy before she left the Area."

That was not something to laugh about. And there was no other reason she would go there aside from trying to visit Milly. What did she know about him that she would visit the academy? She had no interest in where he studied or his past life, unless there was some sinister plot.

"Why?"

"I may have slipped something about Milly."

"What exactly did you slip?"

"Nothing harmful." Clovis shrugged. "Maybe it was not a bad thing. We don't want anything to embarrass both the royal family and her family. How do you think the media will play things once it becomes known that you are having a secret affair with Milly while engaged to Alexandria?"

"It isn't like there haven't been rumors before. In fact, I'm actually surprised she didn't ask me about it as the media made a big deal about it," Lelouch paused, thinking. "I'm not as careless as to do anything stupid. However, you will not dictate how I handle my personal affairs, Clovis."

"Well, I wasn't doing it for you, but for the family."

"I will make myself clear, Clovis. Don't butt in. Leave things as they are. I will handle it. I don't care for your personal life, nor that of Schneizel… that is why I will never ask him about his rather questionable tastes," Lelouch stated in a stern tone.

"No need to be like that. I won't get involved. Just be careful about things, Lelouch. The grand duke is a very powerful man and you don't want to do anything that will sully his family name."

"I'm well aware of where I stand," Lelouch said as he stood up. "Anything else I should know?"

"Please let me help you pick your attire for the engagement party."

"That hasn't even been made official as yet."

"Only a matter of time. I had the sense that everything was finalized when I spoke to Alexandria before she departed."

James stared at the Liberator, surprised. There were 22 knightmare pilots behind him who stared as he did. The huge ship was just outside of a hangar. This was supposed to be their base – he didn't think that their commanding officer had something this big in his arsenal.

"Is that ours?" Elizabeth was the first to ask.

"I think it is," Major Albert replied, putting a hand on James' shoulder. "You don't have to gawk like that."

The man shook his head. "This is a major upgrade from the usual G1-Mobile base."

Albert would not disagree with that. But their commanding officer was a Prince of Britannia, such things had to happen, right? Lelouch may not be the most favored royal to the upper class, but to normal people, he was a glorious prince of Britannia.

"A flagship."

"Indeed," Jeremiah said to the two Majors, grinning wildly. "This is our flagship. It is not yet complete."

"What is outstanding from it?"

"Weapons… this is built to be a fortress with defensive abilities and weapons that win wars…" Jeremiah whispered to the two. "But that is just our little secret."

"But it can fly."

"Sure…" Jeremiah responded. "Majors… it is good to see you in good health."

"Well, there is a call for duty. We must be healthy to lead the men to war. Though, this does not appear to be the usual war," Albert responded, shaking Jeremiah's hand. "We don't even have all our numbers."

"His Highness didn't want everyone and some chose not to continue with us. We will have everyone if we have to go to Africa."

"That may be sooner," Albert shook his head. He would not say it out loud but Prince Victor was not a good military commander. "Unless they send in some help."

"They've already done that. If not, we would have been ready to go there. For now, His Highness is focused on eliminating the terrorists in this Area. Our time might not be that long though… so, we would have to work fast. That is why only the best were brought here," Jeremiah explained.

"I do hear that the terrorists in this Area are quite good."

"They are," Jeremiah nodded. "Come on… his Highness is waiting for us at the hangar."

Everyone moved to the hangar. The Lancelot, four Ganymede Mk-2 were lined up beside Sutherlands.

"Lt. Colonel." The men saluted Lelouch, who was standing with Lloyd, Cecile, Villetta and Suzaku.

"At ease soldiers," Lelouch smiled, looking at everyone. The real test was now. He was going back to his favorite playground. The kind of place that would make him grin like a mad man. "Welcome to Area 11. This Earl Lloyd, and his assistant, Cecile. And, this is Suzaku. He is the pilot of the knightmare frame behind me. This is a seventh generation frame that is capable of competing with the frames of the knights of rounds."

"Your Highness," Lloyd intervened. "Not just compete but better them."

Lelouch rolled his eyes but did not respond to the Earl. "You are here because Britannia wants to get rid of terrorists who terrorize this Area day and night. As you might already know, this Area has the most established terrorists than in any other place. That is why you are here. To make this place safe for everyone living within it, Britannian, Honorary Britannians, and Numbers. Our mission will not be simple, but there is only thing that is expected of us. And that is to crush Britannia's enemies. And that at the end of this mission, we shall exclaim…"

"All Hail Britannia."

He clapped his hands. "Good… we will not make that cry of victory if you do not get out of your vacation spirits and prepare for war. Villetta will show you around our flagship, the Liberator. We have already assigned rooms to all of you within the ship…" He then turned to Villetta and nodded his head. "Majors, please stay behind."

After Villetta was gone, Lelouch turned faced the Majors and then motioned for them to get closer as he took several steps toward the knightmare frames.

"These are experimental frames, all five of them. But the Lancelot has developed a bit. However, they all need major battle tests to be completed. These four, they are the Ganymede Mk-2; a redeveloped version of the original Ganymede. It still looks quite like the old thing. They have yet to gain any battle data on them. We will be testing this frames in our battle against the terrorists."

Only Prince Lelouch would tell them that their enemy was dangerous and then tell them they were taking experimental tools to fight this enemy. What if their weapons malfunctioned? But Albert didn't have a problem with it. Who didn't like using a knightmare frame that was new?

"Are they better than the Sutherland? The original Ganymede was just a 3rd generation frame."

"They are supposed to be better than the Gloucester. But we don't know that yet. Hence the need test them before we head out for real war."

"Capabilities?" James asked, already standing in front of a Ganymede.

The frame's legs were designed like that of the Lancelot, to make it a lot more mobile. It was the usual Landspinner Propulsion System. The Cockpit was standardized, and its large horns had small hadron cannon in each horn. They had two slash harkens mounted on the chest; an assault rifle and two Maser Vibration Swords – these were all standard for the Mk-2.

"You will test them with Jeremiah and Suzaku to be familiar with them. We will talk more tomorrow," Lelouch said, as he started walking away.

Suzaku followed him to his car.

"Who is he?"

"His Highness' childhood friend."

"That is rather rare for a Prince of Britannia to make friends with Numbers… but then again, the Lt. Colonel doesn't seem to care about status," Major Albert shrugged.

"He may be an Honorary Britannian but he is skilled with a knightmare frame. He'd best you in a battle. He only won against me because he had a better knightmare."

Albert and James stared at each other bursting out in laughter. "Are you sure he is that skilled?"

"We are going on a sparring session. But make sure you don't destroy the frames. You will see how skilled he is," Jeremiah said.

Lelouch glanced at Suzaku and looked ahead, knowing just what Suzaku wanted to talk to him about. He stopped by his car and stepped in, but Suzaku did not step in. Lelouch looked at the time, wondering how long Villetta would take before coming back here because he needed to make a trip he had been avoiding to make.

"State your mind, Suzaku."

"Are you still the same person who swore he'd destroy Britannia?"

Lelouch smiled; how things changed. Back then, he had sworn vengeance. He had said it so firmly that he had truly believed that he would accomplish it. But destroying Britannia could happen in many ways. Lelouch wasn't thinking about that at the moment.

"Why did you become an Honorary Britannian?"

"I want to advance in the ranks and change Britannia from within. If I can become a Knight of Round, maybe things will change."

"Change what? You think you will be made responsible for this Area?" Just how naïve was Suzaku? Lelouch didn't want to think about it. This was not time to be caught up in old memories. He had a mission he had to accomplish and he did not need luggage from other people. "I'm a Prince of Britannia. I do nothing but serve the interests of the Emperor."

"You have changed, Lelouch."

"And you haven't changed, Suzaku," Lelouch shook his head. Perhaps he was worried because of his talk in eliminating terrorists. "We are not going to have problems, are we? I demand nothing but absolute obedience when in battle."

"I am at your service, Your Highness," Suzaku bowed slightly. "The JLF and any other terrorists have chosen their paths. They should know that they cannot change anything."

"Good…" Lelouch smiled.

"Brother!" Nunally's sweet and warm voice greeted him when he entered the place he called home.

"I thought I was being sneaky," Lelouch smiled. Villetta behind, he walked over to the girl and knelt beside her. He took her hand, holding it gently before speaking once more. "You're getting better at this."

"Sayoko told me you were coming, silly," she smiled. Her eye lids shifting slightly. "You came alone."

"With Villetta."

"Oh…"

"What is with that expression?"

"It is just that you're always with her. Milly says you might not be faithful to her."

Lelouch's eyes snapped toward Euphy, who was sitting on the couch, looking the other way. He then turned his eyes toward Sayoko who merely gave him the look that clearly stated 'you know her.'

He sighed and shook his head. "It is nothing like that," he stood and fell on a couch. "Villetta is my knight. And Jeremiah is busy with other Military duties. Besides, Villetta is a lot more useful around than Jeremiah. All he does is fight."

He smiled, thinking that Milly would probably ask him just how useful Villetta was. That perverted woman. He was going to have to deal with her sooner or later.

"I was thinking you were avoiding us."

The last time he was here, there was the talk of going back to Pendragon. Euphy had to go back because Cornelia would not have her sister here when a war against terrorists was being waged. And Nunnally wanted to follow her sister. They were now inseparable, using blackmail to get what they wanted – almost like the days of the old. He did have a problem with sending his beloved sister to that cruel place. But as long as she was in Cornelia's place, he could rest easy. But there was the Emperor and she would no doubt want to visit Aries Villa. It was at times nice to be young and naïve. She didn't have to face just how cruel the world she desired to see was.

"There were many things I had to do," Lelouch stared at the empty space around him. "You can leave tomorrow with Euphy. But you will follow Cornelia's instructions."

"You mean it brother?"

Her face was all lit up. If she could walk, she would have probably jumped up to hug and kiss him. "Yes." He said, trying not to voice his displeasure over the choice he was being forced to make.

Euphemia was already in front of him. "I knew you'd come around," she kissed him on the right cheek before dancing away from him. "Let us go pack things Nunnally."

Lelouch turned to Sayoko. "You are going with them."

"Of course." She said before walking away.

"How long are you going to remain standing?" He asked Villetta. The woman then walked over and sat across him. "You can rest if you please. I'm not going to leave this place and I need time to think about things."

At least on the bright side of things, Alexandria did not come to this place. She must have made her stop with Milly. He worried not about the Ashford – she could handle herself far better than anyone in this kind of situation.

"You really do know how to keep someone waiting," Lelouch said through the video link, staring at Schneizel. It was late night, he was in his room, sitting behind his study desk.

"Well, there were things I needed to sort out," Schneizel responded, smiling. "I heard a report about a black flagship seen flying the skies of Area 11 secretly."

"Nothing truly remains hidden," Lelouch shrugged. He had already seen the article. But he would not comment on it. Not now, not ever. They would just see him flying in it and write their stories. Perhaps he did need a PR person to better handle such issues. Public perception was heavily influenced how one was portrayed in the media. "But that is not important. There are far more important issues to discuss."

Schneizel nodded. "I won't ask how you plan on handling the terrorists because I believe you will be successful and there will not be any reason to doubt you," he added. "But some people beg to differ. They think this is because you're sympathetic to the elevens because you grew up there."

Lelouch snorted. Sympathizers were not welcomed in Britannia. They were scorned and prosecuted. They were seen as nothing more than traitors to everything that Britannia stood for and tended to finance terrorist activities.

"They have nothing to talk about."

"But you'll prove them wrong with your actions. I know that. You even brought in your own men to do this job. Which shows how seriously you are taking this and gives you more experience. Once you are done, you will be looked upon proudly," Schneizel stated.

"We will see," Lelouch grunted. "How did it go with the engagement?"

"Everything has been finalized. However, there are certain conditions that are on the arrangement. You will be officially engaged on the night of your birthday. You have until you are 20 to marry her on your own. If you pass that age without the marriage date being set, father said he will not permit anything with the Ashford. Of course, the grand duke doesn't know about this… the Ashford deal at least. But he expects you to marry his daughter soon. Any run around will not be permitted."

That was not that he expected but nothing he could not handle. However, the marriage with Alexandria was not on the agenda.

After the call, Lelouch turned to the bed, sitting on the edge before lying on his back, eyes closed. After a couple of moments, there was a knock on the door.

"Come in."

Milly opened the door, and took a single step inside. Lelouch raised his head, seeing her in her night gowns. His heart raced, he left flustered as he allowed his thoughts to race. But quickly erased the look before resting his head on the bed on once more, staring at the ceiling, but he could not calm his heart.

"I can hear your heart from here," Milly closed the door behind her. And walked over to him. She placed a hand on his chest. "Wow… am I that frightening or is your mind racing over naughty thoughts, Lelouch?" She asked, smiling slyly.

Lelouch tried to calm his heart and erase the thought he was having. After a moment, he released a long breath and then glanced at the blonde. Even at night, she still looked like Milly.

"I was hoping I'd see you tomorrow."

"I got a little lonely… and couldn't sleep." Milly responded, turning away from him, she settled on his right side, on the edge of the bed, and stared at the floor.

"Alexandria?"

"Yeah… she came to me."

"What did she say?"

"Told me to stay away and that she would not permit my presence at your engagement party."

"I see." Lelouch had nothing better he could utter to make her feel comfortable or even better. "What did you say to her?"

"She found me here and I would not be leaving. And that you and I have an agreement…" Milly smiled. "Her response was, 'is that so?' She shook my hand and said it was a pleasure meeting me. I fear there is some assault that is going to come."

"I will talk to her."

"No…" Milly shook her head. "I will handle her. Who do you think I am anyway?"

"This is rather complicated."

Milly responded by turning over to him. She sat on him, staring deep into his eyes. Lelouch stared motionless for a moment, wrestling with his chaotic heart. She was willing to show him the way, but not force him to take it. He held out his right hand, placed it on her shoulder, and pulled her. It was awkward and sloppy she ended up head butting him. He smiled graciously, lifting his left hand as well. Both hands wrapped around her, hugging her a little more tightly.

After a moment, he pushed her up a bit and they stared at each other.

He made the first move, capturing her lips, eyes closed. Her breath was warm, a sweet taste in her mouth. Her lips smooth. Deeper and deeper their lips brushed, the tongue a sloppy maneuver that was quickly abandoned on second try.

"Someone is a little excited." Milly said after pulling away, a sly smile on her lips. But it was the most beautiful smile Lelouch had seen on her.

Realizing what she meant, he nearly pushed her off him, but stopped when he realized she'd fall. She was sitting on him, the thing there was jolting ever so strongly and it was bumping onto her. He flushed, embarrassed.

His embarrassment only amused her.

"Cute…" she smiled, getting off him. "You're getting all excited for nothing." She stood up, blew him a kiss. "Good night, Lelouch." She turned around, walking away.

"Milly…"

Lelouch wondered, if he should say 'good night' or ask her to stay.

End of chapter

Okay, I had a bit of a laugh doing the last scene. I'd planned on making a little 'hot' with Lelouch saying something like 'I'm under age, you know.' But it didn't seem to fit in.

The Omnipresent Sage